bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Bright Future of Liberal Democracy Explained through Revisited Modernization Theory
Authors: Danilenko Denis
Published: September 2024

Many think that liberal democracy is currently under attack. This view leads to considering modernization theory as a fallacy because economic development indicators show that authoritarian economies continue to grow. This study challenges this idea and attempts to update modernization theory. We argue that not mere economic development is a requirement of liberal democracy, as initially advanced, but economic liberalization is. Economic development induces democratization only if it is accompanied by economic liberalization. This phenomenon occurs because economic development in free-market terms, accompanied by economic liberalization, not only produces socioeconomic consequences, as shown by classic modernization theory, but also institutional outcomes, such as legal restraints on political power. To update modernization theory, we propose revisiting other prerequisites. Social modernization supposes that education levels will increase, and secularization will change attitudes toward political power and sociocentered (non-liberal) values, which will serve as a prerequisite for democratization. The modernization of communication technologies makes people more independent of the government, which gives them more influence over the state. Thus, it plays a democratizing role. Finally, ecological modernization, particularly energy market modernization, will have a significant democratizing role because it will directly affect rentiers’ authoritarianism. These prerequisites not only demonstrate positive trends but also suggest that they continue to progress, which makes it possible to conclude that democracy has a bright future.
‘Parents Unknown’. Separation and Loss in a Context of Repeated Work-Led Mobility (Tuareg iklan 1970–2021)
Authors: Oxby Clare
Published: September 2024

This article explores the Sahelian practice of separating young children from their birth parents for work-related purposes. This occurred in the 1970s in certain elite Tuareg contexts, when alternative livelihood options were scarce; its impact was still being felt in 2010. The practice involves mostly those born into the lowest status group (iklan), especially women. This research seeks to explain what the practice of child separation from parents is, how it is expressed, and how it has changed. With this aim, it analyses the link between this practice, ideas and assumptions about the family and close relationships through women, and collective female dance and music rituals. The article is based on qualitative research conducted in Niger between 1973–2010, a 2002 anti-slavery report, and court proceedings concerning separated children between 2003–2021.
Exile, Humanitarian Governmentality, and Gender Relations Among the ‘Black Kel Tamasheq’ from Mali in Niger
Authors: Diallo Souleymane
Published: September 2024

This article discusses the ways in which forceful migration and humanitarian regulations in exile, have prompted redefinitions of gender roles and relations in Bellah families in the refugee camp of Abala, Niger. These include transformations in relations between the Bellah and their former masters, relations between Bellah men and women, and intergenerational relations between Bellah elders and children. The article proposes to view this development as a new sequence in the reformulations of the Bellah’s family structures, relations, and household economy that began under colonial rule. By probing these complex processes of changes in Bellah family relations, this article places, simultaneously, the empirical focus of a study of gender relations on men and women and elders and youth. It departs from and supplements accounts in gender studies that focus either only on women or men, or else on intergenerational tensions among elderly men and youth. The analysis draws its influence from studies that conceive of gender as the very process of structuring subjectivities and social positionalities through the performances of certain roles.
Humans at Last, Emotions at Least. Enslavement and Freedom Struggles of Four Iconic Haratin Women of Mauritania
Authors: Ould Brahim Elhadj
Published: September 2024

Using an ethnographic method, this article goes into the enslavement and liberation struggles of four iconic Haratin women in Mauritania, exploring the intricate dynamics of slavery, gender, sexuality, migration and emotional norms. By examining these women’s experiences, the research sheds light on enduring social, legal, and personal practices in modern Mauritania where slavery and post-slavery categorisation is difficult to distinguish. The article examines emotional norms linked to institutional slavery, contrasting these with the transformative experiences of freedom encountered by these women. Ultimately, the aim is to illuminate the interconnected narratives of enslavement, migration and emotional experiences, offering insights into the struggles and triumphs of Haratin women in their pursuit of liberation in Mauritania.
Perceptions of Scientific College Students about Using AI Applications in Education
Authors: Almeqdadi Farouq , Al Shadifat Kawthar
Published: September 2024

As artificial intelligence (ai) continues to permeate various sectors, its potential impact on education has garnered significant attention. This study delved into the perceptions of scientific college students regarding the integration of ai applications in education The sample of the current study was 204 university students from Scientific Colleges of Al al-Bayt University (aabu) in Jordan The study took place in that university during the 1st semester of the academic year 2023/ 2024. Employing both qualitative and quantitative approaches, the study utilized a survey comprising seven items and four interview questions. The research anticipated a spectrum of perceptions among scientific college students regarding ai applications in education. While some expressed enthusiasm for benefits such as personalized learning and innovative resources, others harbored concerns about issues like data privacy and algorithmic biases. The analysis revealed a diverse spectrum of viewpoints among participants, ranging from enthusiastic endorsement of ai’s potential benefits, such as personalized learning and resource innovation, to apprehensions surrounding issues like data privacy and algorithmic biases. Through rigorous analysis, this study aimed to identify prevalent themes in students’ perceptions of ai applications in education. The findings promise to enrich our understanding of how scientific college students envision ai’s role in higher education, guiding stakeholders in effectively integrating ai technologies to enhance teaching and learning environments.
Stalling North Atlantic Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Trepanier Jill C. , Nielsen-Gammon John , Brown Vincent M. , Thompson Derek T. , Keim Barry D.
Published: September 2024

Tropical cyclone (TC) translation speed influences rainfall accumulation, storm surge, and exposure to high winds. These effects are greatest when storms stall. Here, we provide a definition and climatology of slow-moving or stalling TCs in the North Atlantic from 1900 to 2020. A stall is defined as a TC with a track contained in a circular area (“corral”) with a radius of ≤200 km for 72 h. Of the 1274 North Atlantic TCs, 191 storms met this definition (15%). Ten are multistalling storms or those that experienced more than one stall period. Hurricane Ginger in 1971 stalled the most with four separate stalls. Stalling TC locations are clustered in the western Caribbean, the central Gulf Coast, the Bay of Campeche, and near Florida and the Carolinas. Stalling was most common in October TCs (17.3% of October total) and least common in August (8.2%). The estimated annual frequency of stalls significantly increased over the satellite era (1966–2020) by 1.5% yr−1, and the cumulative frequency in the number of stalls compared to all storms also increased. Stalling storms have a significantly higher frequency of major hurricane status than nonstalling storms. Storms are also more likely to stall near the coast (≤200 km). Approximately 40% (n = 77) of the stalling TCs experienced a period of rapid intensification, and five did so within 200 km of a coastal zone. These results will aid emergency managers in regions that experience frequent stalls by providing information they can use to better prepare for the future.

Significance Statement

The forward movement of a tropical cyclone can influence rainfall, storm surge height, and exposure time to high wind speeds. Storms that slow down or stall can increase total damage by prolonging the exposure time to intense conditions. This study aims to define a stalling storm and then provide a geographic snapshot into our historical experience with these storms. There have been a consistent number of stalling storms over time, with a modest increase starting in the satellite era, likely as a product of increased observational capabilities. Stalls tend to occur in similar places over time and happen more frequently later in the hurricane season (October) when compared to the middle (August). Emergency managers can use this information to identify the likely location and timing for stalls throughout the North Atlantic tropical cyclone season.
Efficiency Measurement of State Transport Undertakings in India: An Application of DEA Methodologies
Authors: Datta Kanchan
Published: September 2024

This article measures the technical efficiency of public transport sector in India. The study makes an attempt to provide an overview of the general status of the state transport undertakings (STUs) in terms of their productive efficiency. Data have been collected for 29 STUs for the year 2019–20. Technical efficiency of the STUs is measured by applying data envelopment analysis (DEA) technique with the use of five input and four output variables. Fleet size, total staff, fuel consumption breakdown and accident per lakh kilometre are considered as inputs and bus utilisation, passenger kilometres, load factor and passenger lead as outputs. On the basis of the status of technical efficiency, it is concluded that the performance of the STUs is good but still very far from the optimal level. The mean Charnes–Cooper–Rhodes (CCR) technical efficiency is 89.5 per cent and Banker, Charnes and Cooper (BCC) technical efficiency is 92.9 per cent. The CCR mean score implies STUs have the scope of producing the same output with the inputs 10.5 per cent lesser than their existing level, whereas that of BCC mean score implies 7.1 per cent.

JEL Codes: 61, R41
Making Sense of Teacher Turnover: A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Why Teachers Leave
Authors: Doughty Michelle
Published: September 2024

Background/Context:

High teacher turnover has directed a great deal of scholarly attention toward the connection between teacher retention and teacher working conditions. Prior work has identified a set of key working conditions associated with teacher retention, including supportive school leadership, school safety, a collaborative professional community, a manageable workload, and autonomy. These working conditions are often identified using Likert-based surveys, which allow for the analysis of large and representative samples but cannot fully show the nuance of teachers’ experiences.

Purpose/Objective/Research Question/Focus of Study:

This study examines why teachers leave their positions and how these reasons for leaving appear differently in Likert-style fixed-response questions and free-response questions. This comparison can reveal important distinctions in teachers’ understanding of how their working conditions can contribute to their turnover that may be hidden in simpler surveys.

Research Design:

This study takes advantage of teacher exit surveys administered by a large urban district that included both fixed- and free-response questions about why teachers left their positions. I use a convergent mixed-methods design to examine how reasons for leaving converged and diverged across question types across the entire sample and within individual teachers.

Conclusions or Recommendations:

I find confirmatory evidence that, when given the opportunity to describe their reasons for leaving in their own words, many teachers identify the same general categories of reasons as identified in Likert questions: school leadership, evaluations, workload, personal reasons, pay, and student behavior. Additionally, teacher free responses add new shades of meaning to our understanding of working conditions. The outsized importance of school leadership, already well established in prior literature, was strongly tied to the influence of school leadership on other aspects of teacher work that are generally considered as separate working conditions. Teachers who left because of student behavior concerns had diverse and often contradictory proposed policy solutions to increase student safety, and teachers who left for personal reasons like retirement or having children were still responsive to more malleable aspects of their work. Finally, many teachers were concerned about their workload, specifically unnecessary work added by school and district policy.
Successful management of pulmonary hemorrhage from lung carcinoid, in a patient on VenoArterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support
Authors: Koliopoulou Antigoni , Antonopoulos Michael , Theodoropoulos Fotios , Efremidis Michael , Letsas Konstantinos , Gouziouta Aggeliki , Adamopoulos Stamatis , Chamogeorgakis Themistocles , Dimopoulos Stavros
Published: September 2024

Introduction

A young man was referred to our Center for refractory cardiogenic shock, accompanied with uncontrolled atrial flutter of unknown duration. The patient was supported with VenoArterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA ECMO) and Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP) as a bridge to decision.

Case Report

His course was complicated by pulmonary hemorrhage due to an unknown endobronchial mass. A low-grade typical carcinoid without metastases was revealed during work up. He was treated successfully with bronchoscopy-guided interventional therapies and cavo-tricuspid isthmus ablation. Mechanical support was successfully weaned off and 3 months after discharge, he was asymptomatic with no sign of residual tumor.

Discussion

Endobronchial treatment is a parenchyma-preserving alternative to surgery, with a comparable recurrence rate, especially in patients with typical carcinoid.

Conclusion

This is the first case report describing the successful management of pulmonary hemorrhage due to lung carcinoid, in a patient supported with VA ECMO for cardiogenic shock.
The Role of Parents in Early Adolescent Substance Use: A Longitudinal Investigation
Authors: Fisher Sycarah , Hsu Wei-Wen , Zapolski Tamika C. B. , Malone Celeste , Caldwell Brianna , Barnes-Najor Jessica
Published: September 2024

Adolescent substance use is a top national public health concern with approximately 50% of youth having tried an illicit substance by the end of high school. The transition to high school is a critical point for substance use initiation. Despite this fact, there is relatively limited research looking at factors that can protect students from substance use initiation during this transition. The present study examines the protective effect of parental factors on the substance use initiation of youth. Participants included 1554 participants (57% female) who were predominately White (80%). The results indicated that parental support and involvement reduced the likelihood of substance use initiation during the transition from eighth to ninth grade. More frequent conversations regarding parental disapproval about drugs, however, was associated with substance use initiation or maintenance of substance use across time. Findings contribute to our understanding of protective factors for substance use initiation.
Evaluation of SOX-10 immunohistochemical expression in canine melanoma and non-melanocytic tumors by tissue microarray
Authors: King Emily , Cook Matthew , Wittorff Hannah , Dirksen Wessel , Kisseberth William C. , Jennings Ryan N.
Published: September 2024

Melanoma is the most common malignant oral tumor in dogs. It frequently presents a diagnostic challenge as many melanomas lack or contain scant melanin and may have a variable microscopic phenotype. Previous studies evaluating immunohistochemical markers for diagnosing melanoma have shown limited sensitivity and/or specificity for S-100, PNL2, melan A, TRP-1, TRP-2, and HMB-45. Sry-related HMG-box gene 10 (SOX-10) is a transcription factor associated with melanocytic, peripheral neural crest, and peripheral nervous system development. In humans, SOX-10 expression has been demonstrated in melanoma, breast carcinoma, glioma, and schwannoma, but has only recently been explored in veterinary species. In this study, 198 tumors comprised of 147 melanocytic neoplasms and 51 non-melanocytic neoplasms were evaluated by immunohistochemistry using a tissue microarray for SOX-10, PNL2, melan A, TRP-1, and TRP-2 expressions. The SOX-10 had the highest diagnostic sensitivity (96.7%) in melanomas. In addition, SOX-10 had the highest percentage (91.5%; 130/142) of melanomas label at least 75% of neoplastic cells. Of the 51 selected non-melanocytic tumors examined, SOX-10 labeling was observed in mammary carcinomas (6/6), gliomas (4/4), and oral soft tissue sarcomas (4/18). Of the 41 non-melanocytic oral neoplasms evaluated, SOX-10 had a specificity of 92.7%. Therefore, SOX-10 represents a useful immunohistochemical screening marker for the diagnosis of canine melanoma given its extremely high sensitivity and robust labeling intensity. The SOX-10 may have utility in diagnosing some non-melanocytic neoplasms in the dog, although this requires further investigation.
Yaw stability control of tractor vehicle based on nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode
Authors: Wang Hongbo , Zheng Siyi , Xu Shihan
Published: September 2024

Yaw stability is very important for commercial traction vehicles, the yaw stability control of traction vehicle based on nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode is studied in this paper. Firstly, the sliding mode control with high robustness is selected for the yaw moment controller, and the traditional sliding mode, fast terminal sliding mode, and nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode (NFTSM) are derived. The rear axle side deflection angle is monitored, and the traditional yaw stability control strategy is improved. When computing actuator response value, the calculation of the target slip rate and the target engine torque are added on the basis of the traditional calculation of the target braking pressure, and the variable parameter PID method is introduced in the torque calculation part to improve the effect of torque control. A simulation and a real vehicle test are carried out, and the results show that the effect of the developed nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode controller is significantly better than the fast terminal sliding mode method and has strong vehicle directional stability.
The use of Hub Devices to reduce catheter-related infections in dialysis patients: A narrative review
Authors: Fiorina Elisabetta , Giustivi Davide , Gotti Federica , Akyüz Elif , Privitera Daniele
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Catheter-related bloodstream infections are among the most critical issues associated with central venous catheters used for dialysis treatment. To reduce the incidence of this life-threatening complication, various strategies have been developed. Among these, Hub Devices have been introduced in clinical practice to prevent microbial growth at the hub of the catheter.

Methods:

A review was conducted to assess the effectiveness of Hub Devices in reducing bloodstream infections in central venous catheters for dialysis, compared to solid caps. The review analyzed existing literature from three bibliographic databases (PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL) to provide evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice.

Results:

After a thorough review of the available data, it was found that out of the 873 records screened, only six trials met the inclusion criteria. Albeit the number of patients observed in these trials was more than 25,000, due to the differences in the mechanism of action of different Hub Devices and the lack of a standardized criterion to identify and measure the outcomes, it is difficult to draw a firm conclusion. It is worth noting, however, that in five out of six trials examined, the Hub Devices exhibited a protective effect when compared to solid caps.

Conclusions:

The use of Hub Devices appears to be associated with a reduction in catheter-related bloodstream infections in the central venous catheter dialysis population. However, the Hub Devices show interesting results that should be investigated with further well-designed prospective studies.
Sharp recanalization with transseptal needle for unsuccessful standard recanalization of chronic thoracic central vein occlusion in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Hongsakul Keerati , Janjindamai Phurich , Akkakisee Surasit , Rookkapan Sorracha , Bannangkoon Kittipitch , Nisityotakul Panat , Boonsrirat Ussanee , Duangpakdee Pongsanae , Premprabha Dhanakom
Published: September 2024

Background:

Many cases of chronic thoracic central vein occlusion (CVO) fail to recanalize using the standard conventional guidewire technique. This study aims to present the outcomes of sharp recanalization with a transseptal needle in chronic thoracic CVO.

Methods:

This retrospective study involved 22 hemodialysis patients who developed clinical signs and symptoms of CVO, had unsuccessful conventional endovascular treatment using guidewire, and underwent sharp recanalization with a transseptal needle from January 2018 to December 2021. Demographic information of patients, technical success rate, and complications were kept. Post-intervention primary patency rate was examined using survival regression.

Results:

Thirteen men and nine women were enrolled with a median age of 50 years (range: 30–83 years). The most common site of thoracic CVO was the right brachiocephalic vein (21 patients). The average length of occlusion was 2.5 cm (range: 1–4.4 cm). Technical success rate was 90.9% (20 patients). Major complications occurred in three instances, including severe hemothorax and pulmonary edema. The median post-intervention primary patency between balloon angioplasty alone and primary stenting was 2.1 and 8.0 months ( p = 0.015). Post-intervention primary patency rates at 6 and 12 months in the group receiving balloon angioplasty alone versus primary stenting were 33.3% and 0% versus 70.6% and 29.4% ( p = 0.013).

Conclusion:

Sharp recanalization with a transseptal needle is successful in chronic thoracic CVO cases that fail with conventional recanalization. Primary stenting in this CVO lesion shows a greater primary patency compared to balloon angioplasty alone.
Medicaid Adapts to Extreme Heat: Evolving State-Based Coverage of Home Air Conditioning
Authors: Keroack Jenny L. , Kennedy-Hendricks Alene , Winch Peter J.
Published: September 2024

Anthropogenic climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme heat events, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Many of the populations at greatest risk from the health threats of extreme heat are also more likely to receive health insurance coverage from the Medicaid program. While Medicaid has not historically covered air conditioners, an increasing number of states are offering coverage. Of the Medicaid programs administered by the 50 states and Washington DC, 13 currently offer an air conditioner coverage benefit and 2 have applied to offer coverage to the federal government. Most of these states have obtained various types of waivers under the Social Security Act to cover air conditioners. Section 1115 waivers tend to offer more flexible and holistic coverage. The states offering coverage vary in the types of air conditioners covered, the approximate frequency with which air conditioners have been furnished, and the billing codes utilized. The lack of a specific billing code or procedure modifier code for air conditioners is a barrier to tracking the effectiveness, reach, and implementation of air conditioner coverage policies within and across states.
Trends in direct healthcare utilization observed for persons with MS among teleneurology users and diverse populations
Authors: Palmer Kaitlyn N , Ontaneda Daniel , Harvey Tucker , Mearns Elizabeth S , Patel Anisha M , Win Nikki , Cobb Bryan R , Roush Stephen , McGinley Marisa P
Published: September 2024

Background:

The impact of teleneurology on healthcare utilization (HCU) in MS is unknown.

Objective:

Evaluate the association between teleneurology and HCU.

Methods:

A retrospective longitudinal analysis of HCU among adult MS and clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) patients residing in the Cleveland/Akron area from July 2020 to July 2022. Negative binomial regression models evaluated the association between number of laboratory and MRI orders per visit and number of emergency visits per patient across patient groups with variable proportions of teleneurology visits.

Results:

A total of 3208 patients completed 15,795 visits. Patients using teleneurology had more visits (rate ratio (RR) 1.707–1.719, p < 0.001). Teleneurology visits had fewer laboratory (RR 0.571) and MRI orders (RR 0.693, p < 0.001). There was no difference in emergency care utilization for teleneurology patients ( p ⩾ 0.05). More emergency visits were observed in Black (RR 1.414) and Medicaid (RR 1.893) patients, regardless of visit type ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Teleneurology visits were associated with fewer orders, suggesting teleneurology may be incorporated into healthcare models without increasing utilization related to the visit. Teleneurology was also associated with increased visit volumes but no difference in emergency HCU. More studies are needed to clarify the ultimate impact of teleneurology on overall HCU. More emergency visits, regardless of visit type, were observed among at-risk populations, warranting further investigation.
Experimental and numerical study on mechanical properties of PC shear wall bolted connection joints
Authors: Gong Yindong , Chu Yunpeng , Liu Yanhui , Zhai Zhipeng
Published: September 2024

Steel-bolt connection joint with embedded steel is increasingly utilized for prefabricated concrete (PC) shear walls and plays an indispensable role in the shear force transmission process. To enhance the mechanical performance of the connection joint in PC walls, a new pre-embedded steel bolt connection is proposed in this paper. The new connection can quickly connect prefabricated shear walls, with a simple construction process and short construction period. The present study respectively designed and fabricated four specimens with different connection configurations to conduct shear performance tests on the steel connectors and hysteresis performance tests on the connection joint. A numerical model for the joint was then established based on the shear test data of the steel connectors, to further analyze the mechanical performance of the proposed connection joint. The results indicate that depending on the different steel connection configurations, shear failure modes can be categorized into bolt shear failure and embedded steel pullout failure. The shear studs have minimal impact on the shear performance of the steel connectors. The flanges on both sides of the joint effectively enhance the hysteresis performance of the connection joint. Among the tested specimens, the one with a steel configuration at the connection joint featuring ribbed channel steel exhibits superior hysteresis performance, with higher load-bearing capacity, gradual stiffness degradation, and excellent energy dissipation capability. It is recommended to use these connection details for embedded steel connections at the joint during the design.
The cardioprotective effects of adenosine-induced cardioplegic arrest versus saline in aortic valve replacement patients: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mattila Mikko S. , Järvelä Kati M. , Rantanen Markku J. , Tuohinen Suvi , Nikus Kjell C. , Laurikka Jari O.
Published: September 2024

Background and aims:

Adenosine is a widely used potent cardioprotective drug, but the effect of an adenosine bolus in initial cardioplegia on cardioprotection in aortic valve replacement (AVR) patients has not been demonstrated. The aim of this double-blind randomized clinical trial was to compare intra-aortic adenosine bolus with saline on the postoperative myocardial function in patients undergoing AVR.

Methods:

Aortic valve stenosis patients scheduled for elective or urgent AVR surgery were randomized to receive either a 20 mg (4 mL) single dose of adenosine or a saline into the ascending aorta during the first cardioplegia infusion. The primary outcome was cardiac index (CI (L/min/m2) at four timepoints (before incision, after weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), at 7 p.m. on the operation day, and at 6 a.m. the next morning). Secondary outcomes included left ventricular stroke work index, right ventricular stroke work index, and myocardial biomarkers at the same timepoints.

Results:

Between November 2015 and March 2018, 45 patients were recruited, 23 in the adenosine group and 22 in the placebo group. The last follow-up date was 17 March 2018. There were no statistically significant differences in CI (mean differences with 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.09 L/min/m2 at baseline (−0.20 to 0.38), −1.39 L/min/m2 (−3.47 to 0.70) at post-CPB, −0.39 L/min/m2 (−0.78 to 0.004) at 7 p.m., and −0.32 L/min/m2 (−0.68 to 0.05) at 6 a.m., ( p = 0.066)), right ventricular stroke work index, ( p = 0.24), or cardiac biomarkers between the groups. Left ventricular stroke work index was lower in the adenosine group (−3.66 gm/m2 (−11.13 to 3.81) at baseline, −17.42 gm/m2 (−37.81 to 2.98) at post-CPB, −3.36 gm/m2 (−11.10 to 4.38) at 7 p.m., and −3.77 gm/m2 (−10.19 to 2.66) at 6 a.m. ( p = 0.021)).

Conclusions:

There were no differences between 20 mg adenosine bolus and saline in the first cardioplegia infusion in CI improvement in AVR surgery for aortic valve stenosis. EudraCT number: 2014-001382-26.
Perspectives on cities of the global south
Authors: Qadeer Mohammad A.
Published: September 2024

This article offers a critical assessment of the present state of discourse on cities of global south. It identifies and examines five major themes found in the literature and shows both their cope and limitations, i.e. northern bias in the literature, informality, precarity and social disprity, fractured spatial organization, and inadequacies of planning in those cities. The article argues that there is some convergence in cities of north and south on account of globalization, large scale migration and digital revolution. With the example of Lahore, a mega city of the south, it argues that global south is too braod a category. Cities of global south differ by income levels, culture and social organization. The search for common bases of these cities should be focussed on generalizing by regions, economic conditions and cultural/religious uniformities.
Toward a creative and imaginative research approach: Collage as a method of inquiry in social work
Authors: Hosseini Mostafa
Published: September 2024

Qualitative research in social work employs various scientific approaches to explore the diversity and depth of human life, with interviews and observations being commonly used. Situated within an arts-based research (ABR) framework, this study explores participants’ experiences of collage-making, and how collage can be used as a methodological approach for collecting empirical data. Four themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Collage: a dynamic visual language in art and communication; (2) Collage: a method for reflecting, sharing, and bonding; (3) Collage: the ethics of associative creation; (4) Collage: the prerequisites of time, space, and place. Working with collage can be highly participatory and exploratory, developing meaningfulness, imagination, and new insights for both researcher and participant. It promotes an egalitarian and holistic approach to listening to people, enabling them to convey their experiences using visual, verbal, and metaphorical language. Nevertheless, the process is time-consuming given that collage-making lacks a distinct endpoint or limitation. Using this method requires time, participant commitment, researcher involvement, and a trustworthy workgroup. Moreover, the free and associative nature of creating collage, alongside the act of cutting pieces from one’s life and assembling them into a new whole, raises ethical questions. In conclusion, collage as a method of inquiry for collecting empirical data creates promising conditions for capturing stories of people’s lives, aspirations, struggles, and experiences of social processes and political concepts. With appropriate conditions in place, the process can be a meaningful experience for all involved.
Rapid cleavage of IL-1β in DRG neurons produces tissue injury-induced pain hypersensitivity
Authors: Fujita Daisuke , Matsuoka Yutaka , Yamakita Shunsuke , Horii Yasuhiko , Ishikawa Daiki , Kushimoto Kohsuke , Amino Hiroaki , Amaya Fumimasa
Published: September 2024

Background: IL-1β plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of neuroinflammation. The presence of cleaved IL-1β (cIL-1β) in the neurons of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) implicates its function in biological signaling arising from the sensory neuron. This study was conducted to analyze the role of IL-1β in nociceptive transduction after tissue injury. Methods: A plantar incision was made in C57BL/6 mice, following which immunohistochemistry and RNA scope in situ hybridization were performed at various time points to analyze cIL-1β, caspase-1, and IL-1 receptor 1 (IL-1R1) expression in the DRG. The effect of intrathecal administration of a caspase-1 inhibitor or regional anesthesia using local anesthetics on cIL-1β expression and pain hypersensitivity was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and behavioral analysis. ERK phosphorylation was also analyzed to investigate the effect of IL-1β on the activity of spinal dorsal horn neurons. Results: cIL-1β expression was significantly increased in caspase-1-positive DRG neurons 5 min after the plantar incision. Intrathecal caspase-1 inhibitor treatment inhibited IL-1β cleavage and pain hypersensitivity after the plantar incision. IL-1R1 was also detected in the DRG neurons, although the majority of IL-1R1-expressing neurons lacked cIL-1β expression. Regional anesthesia using local anesthetics prevented cIL-1β processing. Plantar incision-induced phosphorylation of ERK was inhibited by the caspase-1 inhibitor. Conclusion: IL-1β in the DRG neuron undergoes rapid cleavage in response to tissue injury in an activity-dependent manner. Cleaved IL-1β causes injury-induced functional activation of sensory neurons and pain hypersensitivity. IL-1β in the primary afferent neurons is involved in physiological nociceptive signal transduction.
Protective effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells on the survival zone of the perforator flaps in rats
Authors: Bazgir Fatemeh , Karimi Rouzbahani Arian , Birjandi Mehdi , Chehelcheraghi Farzaneh
Published: September 2024

Background:

Perforator flaps have recently been used in the field of plastic surgery. Skin defects can be reconstructed to reach functional and cosmetic goals. With the development of reconstructive approaches, utilizing stem cells is a hopeful approach to enhance wound healing and tissue recovery. In this study, we assessed the effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells on the perforator flap’s survival in rats.

Methods:

Perforator flaps (2.5 × 11 cm) were transplanted into rats and focused on the thoracodorsal, intercostal, and deep circumflex arteries, which were randomly divided into three groups: control, saline, and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (7 × 106 ml). Seven days after the surgery, tissue edema, inflammation, and discharge were observed and photographed. Histological analyses were performed to determine flap survival. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to assess levels of microvascular density determined in skin flaps.

Results:

Rats in the bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells group exhibited higher average flap survival area, and higher microvascular density levels at the dynamical regions of the flaps compared with the other two groups. Subdermal injection of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells significantly increased ischemic perforator flap survival due to stimulated neovascularization in rats.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest the potential usefulness of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in preventing skin flap perforator tissue necrosis.
Do Foreign Ownership and Economic Performance Influence Corporate Environmental Reporting Practices? An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Ghosh Suchismita , Sahu Tarak Nath
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study is to look into the potential effects of ownership structure, such as foreign ownership, and market-based economic performance, such as Tobin’s Q, on nonfinancial corporations’ environmental reporting practices in the context of India’s developing economy, using a sample size of 404 corporations listed in the National Stock Exchange (NSE) 500 index from 2010 to 2022. The relationship between research parameters has been ascertained through the application of the panel data analysis technique. The study reports that ownership structure, expressed in terms of foreign ownership, is creating a positive and significant impact, which ultimately encourages corporations to carry out environmental doings and disclosure practices. Besides, market-based economic performance, which is expressed in terms of Tobin’s Q, is also found to increase the ecological reporting practices of corporations. These results provide new insight to related parties and executives on how to enhance the corporations’ environmental reporting practices in order to bring advantage for the corporations and the investors by rational choices about the factors that influence reporting environmental-related information. Further, the rising trend of environmental reporting specifies that the organizations were disclosing environmental information to upsurge credibility and community trust, also during the critical pandemic period. As a result, the study suggests that regulators create suitable guidelines to encourage Indian corporations to report more ecologically.
Atherosclerosis in patients with cervical artery dissection
Authors: Brunner Eveline , Kaufmann Josefin E , Fischer Sandro , Gensicke Henrik , Zietz Annaelle , Polymeris Alexandros A , Altersberger Valerian L , Lyrer Philippe A , Traenka Christopher , Engelter Stefan T
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Cervical artery dissection (CeAD) is considered a non-atherosclerotic arteriopathy, but atherosclerosis of the cervical arteries may co-exist. We explored the frequency and clinical importance of co-existent atherosclerosis in patients with CeAD.

Patients and methods:

Single-center exploratory study from the Stroke Center Basel, Switzerland. We re-reviewed duplex ultrasound images at (i) baseline and (ii) last follow-up visit for the presence versus absence of the following atherosclerotic manifestations in the carotid arteries: (i) abnormal carotid intima-media thickness, (ii) plaques, and (iii) atherosclerotic stenosis. We investigated whether CeAD patients with versus without co-existing atherosclerosis differ regarding (a) recurrence of CeAD and (b) occurrence of vascular events (myocardial infarction, peripheral artery disease, or ischemic stroke) using logistic regression with adjustment for age and follow-up time.

Results:

Among 294 CeAD patients (median age 46 [IQR 37–53], 41.8% women), 35 (12%) had any atherosclerotic signs at baseline. Among 196 patients with available follow-up, another 21/196 (11%) patients developed atherosclerosis during a median follow-up of 55.7 months. Patients with atherosclerosis had decreased odds of recurrent CeADs when compared to patients without atherosclerosis (OR 0.03, 95% CI = 0.00-0.30). During follow-up, 6 (15%) vascular events occurred among 40 CeAD patients with atherosclerosis and 13 (8.5%) among 153 patients without atherosclerosis (OR 1.38, 95% CI = 0.39-4.55, data for 3 patients were missing).

Discussion and conclusion:

Signs of atherosclerosis in the carotid artery were detectable in 12% of CeAD patient at baseline. Additionally, 11% of CeAD patients developed new signs of atherosclerosis within the following 5 years. The presence of atherosclerosis may suggest a lower risk for recurrent CeAD. Whether it might indicate an increased risk for late clinical vascular events deserves further studies.
The small steps that lead to big impact: translating therapeutics from idea to reality for the CDKL5 deficiency disorder community
Authors: Jaksha Amanda , Bishop Marissa , Utley Karen , Grabenstatter Heidi L.
Published: September 2024

Despite the unmet needs of patients living with cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) deficiency disorder (CDD) and the challenges facing a rare population with small patient numbers, now is a time of unprecedented opportunities to turn scientific breakthroughs into safe and effective treatments for families of CDD patients. New data collected for over a decade and an evolution in genetics technologies have resulted in transformational new treatments currently in development for CDD. This progress is in great part due to the patient advocacy efforts early on to drive development of stakeholder research tools necessary to de-risk industry entry into the CDD space, family participation in longitudinal natural history studies, and a robust caregiver-reported database. Cumulatively, these efforts offered new insights into CDD, specifically patterns in disease progression, helped identify the most burdensome symptoms to patients and caregivers, improved clinical trial design, and reduced financial barriers for therapeutic development for potential industry partners. This paper documents the growth of a small patient community through relationship building and collaboration. The International Foundation for CDKL5 Research is mindful of ongoing challenges namely the long research timelines, high development and production costs, and inequitable access to approved therapies. Therefore, sustaining strong early resources while recognizing opportunities that engagement, advocacy, and funding can accelerate progress remains at the heart of the agile foundation strategy.
Key subdomains of mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor attenuate myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury by JAK1/STAT1/NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: Dong Haibin , Jia Wenjuan , Wang Chunxiao , Teng Da , Xu Bowen , Ding Xiaoning , Yang Jun , Zhong Lin , Gong Lei
Published: September 2024

Background

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a common pathological process in clinical practice. Developing effective therapeutic strategies to reduce or prevent this injury is crucial. The article aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor (MANF) and its key subdomains in modulating myocardial I/R-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis.

Methods

MANF stable knockout cell line and MANF mutant overexpression plasmids were constructed. The effects of MANF and mutants on apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress related proteins were evaluated in hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced HL-1 cardiomyocytes by western blot, immunofluorescence, Tunel and flow cytometry. Echocardiography, ELISA, TTC and Masson were used to observe the effects of recombinant MANF protein (rMANF) on cardiac function in myocardial I/R mice.

Results

This study observed increased expression of MANF in both myocardial infarction patients and I/R mice. MANF overexpression in cardiomyocytes decreased ER stress-induced apoptosis, while MANF knockout exacerbated it. rMANF improved cardiac function in I/R mice by reducing injury and inflammation. This study specifically demonstrates that mutations in the α-helix of MANF were more effective in reducing ER stress and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Mechanistically, MANF and the α-helix mutant attenuated I/R injury by inhibiting the JAK1/STAT1/NF-κB signaling pathway in addition to reducing ER stress-induced apoptosis.

Conclusion

These findings highlight MANF and its subdomains as critical regulators of myocardial I/R injury, offering promising therapeutic targets with significant clinical implications for I/R-related diseases.
Spermatic cord liposarcoma presented as scrotal swelling: a case report
Authors: Ayyad Mohamed Salah , Elgaml Ibrahim , Mohammad Alrawy Ali , Rizq Amr Mohamed , Ebrahim Samira
Published: September 2024

Background

Liposarcoma is considered the most common among spermatic cord sarcomas. It usually presents as a progressively enlarging inguinoscrotal mass. The resemblance between the spermatic cord liposarcoma and the inguinal hernia allows the swelling to be tolerated for a long duration giving time for hematogenous dissemination. In this article, we share the experience of a unique case of metastatic liposarcoma of the spermatic cord that showed a stationary course of the lower abdominal satellite lesions on follow-up following palliative resection.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 53-year-old male with progressively enlarging painless scrotal swelling over 1-year duration. A heterogeneous lesion of the right hemiscrotum and spermatic cord with non-specific radiological features was described by imaging. Two lower abdominal skip lesions were also discovered synchronously in addition to the primary one and were designated inoperable as they were adherent to the nearby bowel loops. The patient underwent cytoreductive surgery of the primary tumour which was proven to be an undifferentiated liposarcoma with free safety margins based on histopathology. Finally, the patient was referred for adjuvant chemotherapy and sequential follow-up.

Conclusions

Despite being a rare tumour, the radiologist should always consider the liposarcoma of the spermatic cord in the differential diagnosis of inguinoscrotal lesions even in the absence of typical imaging features. The diagnosis and management of spermatic cord liposarcoma remain a challenge with no clear accepted guidelines.