bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of medications for osteoporosis in kidney transplant recipients or patients with chronic kidney disease: A meta-analysis
Authors: Leng Yunji , Yu Xian , Yang Yi , Xia Yifan
Published: June 2023

This study conducted a meta-analysis to analyze the efficacy and safety of osteoporosis medications in kidney transplant recipients and patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from the date of their inception through October 21, 2022. We performed a meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of osteoporosis medications in adult patients with stage 3–5 CKD or kidney transplant recipients enrolled in randomized clinical trials (RCTs). We calculated the standard mean deviations with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for bone mineral density (BMD) and T scores after 6 and 12 months treatment, pooled odds ratio and 95% CI for fracture risk, and summarized adverse events. The inclusion criteria were met by 27 studies. Out of this, 19 studies were included for the meta-analysis. In stage 3–4 CKD patients, alendronate increased lumbar spine BMD. In patients at stage 5 CKD and undergoing hemodialysis, alendronate and raloxifene increased lumbar spine BMD. After 6 months, the BMD of kidney transplant recipients was seen to be significantly increased; however, there was no difference after 12 months, and the risk of fracture did not reduce. Thus, there is no evidence that these medications reduce the risk of fracture, and their effect on BMD and fracture remains unproven. These medications may increase the incidence of adverse events and their safety needs to be further evaluated. Therefore, we cannot draw a definitive conclusion about the efficacy and safety of osteoporosis medications in the above group of patients.
Parallel multithreaded deduplication of data sequences in nuclear structure calculations
Authors: Langr Daniel , Dytrych Tomáš
Published: June 2023

High performance computing (HPC) applications that work with redundant sequences of data can benefit from their deduplication. We study this problem on the symmetry-adapted no-core shell model (SA-NCSM), where redundant sequences of different kinds naturally emerge in the data of the basis of the Hilbert space physically relevant to a modeled nucleus. For a fast solution of this problem on multicore architectures, we propose and present three multithreaded algorithms, which employ either concurrent hash tables or parallel sorting methods. Furthermore, we present evaluation and comparison of these algorithms based on experiments performed with real-world SA-NCSM calculations. The results indicate that the fastest option is to use a concurrent hash table, provided that it supports sequences of data as a type of table keys. If such a hash table is not available, the algorithm based on parallel sorting is a viable alternative.
Should We Feed the Trolls? Using Marketer-Generated Content to Explain Average Toxicity and Product Usage
Authors: Nepomuceno Marcelo Vinhal , Rahemi Hooman , Cenesizoglu Tolga , Charlin Laurent
Published: June 2023

Marketers and researchers recognize the importance and impact on consumer behavior of marketer-generated content (MGC) in social media channels. In this study, the authors present a method to classify MGC using a combination of unsupervised and supervised machine learning. They gather a large data set of posts from Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and use a time-series model (panel-data vector autoregression) to demonstrate how MGC can be used to explain average toxicity on the part of users. They contribute to the field by examining what types of MGC lead to toxic comments and how these toxic comments impact product usage. The authors find that MGC that demonstrates the quality of products and MGC that is aimed at creating a sense of belonging to a group are more likely to increase average toxicity. Furthermore, the authors find that higher average toxicity in social media communities leads to an increase in usage of the focal product. Finally, the results contribute to the literature by providing insights on the impact of MGC on product usage.
Metagenomics Reveals the Microbiome Multifunctionalities of Environmental Importance From Termite Mound Soils
Authors: Enagbonma Ben Jesuorsemwen , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti
Published: June 2023

The ecological deterioration caused by the continuous and excessive use of synthetic inputs in agriculture has prompted the search for environmentally favorable resources for crop production. Many have advocated for the use of soils from termite mounds to improve soil and plant health; therefore, the purpose of this study was to characterize the microbiome multifunctionalities that are important for plant health and growth in termite mound soil. The metagenomics of soil from termite mounds revealed taxonomic groups with functional potentials associated with promoting the growth and health of plants in nutrient-poor, virtually dry environments. Analysis of microorganisms revealed that Proteobacteria dominated the soil of termite colonies, while Actinobacteria ranked second. The predominance of Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria, the well-known antibiotic-producing populations, indicates that the termite mound soil microbiome possesses metabolic resistance to biotic stresses. Functions recognized for diverse proteins and genes unveiled that a multi-functional microbiome carry out numerous metabolic functions including virulence, disease, defense, aromatic compound and iron metabolism, secondary metabolite synthesis, and stress response. The abundance of genes in termite mound soils associated with these prominent functions could unquestionably validate the enhancement of plants in abiotic and biotically stressed environments. This study reveals opportunities to revisit the multifunctionalities of termite mound soils in order to establish a connection between taxonomic diversity, targeted functions, and genes that could improve plant yield and health in unfavorable soil conditions.
Is it all just melancholic pedagogy? Accelerationism and the future of critical management education
Authors: Hietanen Joel , Mohammed Sideeq
Published: June 2023

This essay is a personal reflection on the double-bind that we as critical management studies academics feel we face in our pedagogic practice. We want to bring about more ethical and responsible management through teaching our students critiques of the excesses of capitalism, but we are all too aware of capitalism’s extraordinary resilience as a mode of social, political and economic organization. We know how its tendencies readily co-opt even the most ardent criticism into its own ever-mutating paradigm. We thus feel torn between wanting our students to think and act critically, and the fear that critique is simply a part of the process itself. Rather than calling for raising awareness, relationality and the creation of difference, we present an accelerationist provocation. We invite critical management studies educators to struggle with us through upsetting considerations – that perhaps the most effective tactics for resistance might be to encourage and exacerbate capitalism’s excesses. We conclude with a note on melancholy pedagogy and the powers of hopelessness.
Study design of National Surveillance of the Work Environment of Employees in Denmark (NASWEED): Prospective cohort with register follow-up
Authors: Andersen Lars Louis , Bay Hans , Rugulies Reiner
Published: June 2023

Aim:

The aim is to report the design and baseline data of the ‘National Surveillance of the Work Environment of Employees in Denmark’ study (NASWEED).

Methods:

NASWEED consist of (a) bi-annual cross-sectional samples, based on probability samples of wage earners of the general working population in Denmark from 2021 onwards (surveillance), (b) a prospective cohort of all previous respondents every two years (epidemiology, questionnaire follow-up) and (c) longitudinal follow-up in Danish registers about work and health (epidemiology, register follow-up). Between February and May 2021, a stratified (38 occupational industries) probability sample of 63,391 Danish residents aged 15–69 years who were employed for at least 34 hours per month received an invitation to participate, of whom 30,099 (47.5%) completed the questionnaire, 897 (1.4%) partially completed the questionnaire and 32,395 (51.1%) did not respond. Baseline was completed in June 2021. NASWEED covers various topics about the work environment (psychosocial, ergonomic, chemical, biological, safety, accidents, working from home, etc), health behaviours and somatic and mental health-related conditions. Statistical analyses will mainly build on survey procedures with model-assisted weights to ensure that the sample will yield representative estimates of the general working population.

Discussion:

NASWEED will monitor the development of the work environment and health in Denmark until 2030. The survey data will be included in epidemiological studies with repeated measurement of the work environment, health variables and covariates, and follow-ups in national registers to investigate the prospective association in the years and decades to come between the work environment and workers’ health and labour market participation.
Insides, outsides and the labyrinth: Knossos, palatial space and environmental perception in Minoan Crete
Authors: Herva Vesa-Pekka , Rapakko Jonas
Published: June 2023

This article employs the labyrinth as an analytical and interpretive tool for thinking about Minoan architectural and especially palatial space with a particular focus on Knossos. Whether or not Minoan ruins inspired later Greek mythical narratives, Knossos can be examined as a kind of a labyrinth towards developing new perspectives on Knossos as an experienced environment and how it was entangled with broader cultural and cosmological ideas. A labyrinth perspective enables bringing together multiple spatial, material and cultural forms for the heuristic purposes of exploring palatial space in relation to how the environment and world were perceived in Minoan Crete. Knossos afforded participants a mystical experience that provided glimpses of, or openings into, different dimensions of a layered reality—the richness of the world extending beyond the readily perceivable surface of reality—in a literally and figuratively labyrinthine experienced palatial environment.
Development of textile printing ink using expanded polystyrene waste as a binder
Authors: Obele Chizoba M , Ugwu Shadrack C , Chukwuneke Jeremiah L
Published: June 2023

This research produced textile pigment printing paste using expanded polystyrene (EPS) as a binder, sodium alginate as a thickener, and ultramarine pigment. The printing paste production was optimized through response surface methodology, using central composite design (CCD). The dynamic viscosity of the produced printing paste samples ranges from 5200 to 5550.50 cP (Centi Poise). The Fourier infrared transform (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed the functional groups present in the printing paste.

The result of the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) conducted shows a first step decomposition of 94.14% that occurred at the range of 30.96°C–127.75°C. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed an endothermic transition at 119.44°C due to the absorption of energy during the breaking of printing paste bonds. Textile characterization such as wash fastness, croak fastness, and light fastness was carried out to determine the suitability of the print paste on cotton and polyester fabrics. The results of the fastness tests range from 4 to 5 for wash fastness, 3 to 4/5 for croak fastness, and 4 to 6 for light fastness. The optimum values of the model variables are thickener (50%), binder (40%), and pigment (5%). The performance of the printing paste as revealed from the results is moderate and comparable with textile printing paste suitable for commercial application.
Phytic acid regulates proliferation of colorectal cancer cells by downregulating NF-kB and β-catenin signalling
Authors: Feng Jianyu , Liu Yandong , Zhang Chunnan , Ji Menglin , Li Cuiyun
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Phytic acid (PYT) also known as inositol hexakisphosphate or inositol polyphosphate has shown a broad range of biological effects including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer effects in several preclinical studies. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PYT in vitro on HCT116 and HT-29 cell lines and to analyse the intricate mechanism of NF-κB-β-catenin signalling pathways.

Material and methods

Both cell lines were treated with PYT, and analysed for cell viability, apoptosis, progression of cell cycle, and DNA fragmentation. Gene and protein expression analysis was performed to assess the molecular mechanism.

Results

PYT suppressed the proliferation of colorectal cancer cell lines in a dose- and time-dependent manner with an estimated IC50 value of 2.96 and 3.35 mm, respectively. PYT caused cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase in both CRC cell lines and induced mitochondrial intrinsic apoptosis via activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3 cascade. PYT suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory markers especially COX-2 and iNOS, and IL-lβ, IL-6, and IL-10. Analysing the mechanism behind the effects of PYT showed that it suppressed the levels of NF-κB and β-catenin and inhibited the levels of cyclin Dl and c-Myc (its downstream targets) and COX-2.

Conclusion

The results collectively indicate the potent anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects of PYT in CRC cell lines that were mediated by downregulating the β-catenin and NF-κB signalling pathways. Results advocate that natural supplementation of PYT can be an effective preventive approach in controlling cancer of colorectal region.
Multiple Memory Subsystems: Reconsidering Memory in the Mind and Brain
Authors: Sherman Brynn E. , Turk-Browne Nicholas B. , Goldfarb Elizabeth V.
Published: June 2023

The multiple-memory-systems framework—that distinct types of memory are supported by distinct brain systems—has guided learning and memory research for decades. However, recent work challenges the one-to-one mapping between brain structures and memory types central to this taxonomy, with key memory-related structures supporting multiple functions across substructures. Here we integrate cross-species findings in the hippocampus, striatum, and amygdala to propose an updated framework of multiple memory subsystems (MMSS). We provide evidence for two organizational principles of the MMSS theory: First, opposing memory representations are colocated in the same brain structures; second, parallel memory representations are supported by distinct structures. We discuss why this burgeoning framework has the potential to provide a useful revision of classic theories of long-term memory, what evidence is needed to further validate the framework, and how this novel perspective on memory organization may guide future research.
Guest Editors’ Introduction: Cultural Politics and Production Practices of the Turkish TV Industry
Authors: Kaptan Yeşim , Algan Ece
Published: June 2023

The transnationalization of the Turkish television industry, which began in the late 1990s, has been continuing with enormous success with Turkish TV series now being exported to more than 150 countries. In both introductions to the double special issue, we contextualize television in Turkey as a significant cultural field of production within its historical background and trace the transnational trajectory of Turkish dramas in Turkey and abroad. By focusing on the tensions and transformations spurred by the global presence of Turkish television, we critically examine what it means both for global audiences to consume and for the industry to produce Turkish dramas in the contemporary global televisual landscape. In the first volume (Issue 3) of this double special issue, the contributors reflect on the reception of Turkish TV series as well as their global and local consumption networks. In the second volume (Issue 4), the manuscripts explore the consequences of the industry practices and perceptions around what travels well along with nation-states' interventions and influences.
Bringing injustice back in: Secondary victimization as epistemic injustice
Authors: Pemberton Antony , Mulder Eva
Published: June 2023

Secondary victimization is a key concept in research into the experiences of victims of crime, related policies and legislation, and practices of support and care. However, the current conceptualization of secondary victimization suffers from a number of shortcomings. These include conceptual confusion, such that negative but varied emotional and psychological experiences are lumped together. Moreover, the current conceptualization of secondary victimization is too narrow, in that it tends to neglect the absence of actions and more covert structural biases of the criminal justice system, and too broad, in that it makes no distinction between voluntary and involuntary modes of victim participation. We argue that these shortcomings can be overcome by articulating the injustice in secondary victimization by reference to Miranda Fricker’s notion of epistemic injustice. Secondary victimization wrongs victims in their capacity as knowers. To develop this idea, the article highlights the connections between the literature on epistemic injustice and victimology.
Complete remission following pembrolizumab therapy for a patient with nephroureterectomy positive-margin carcinoma in situ and bladder cancer unresponsive to Bacille Calmette–Guérin therapy
Authors: Nakamura Ryohta , Hasegawa Go , Ikeda Yohei , Hara Noboru , Nishiyama Tsutomu
Published: June 2023

An 82-year-old man was diagnosed with synchronous non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer and left lower ureteral carcinoma. He underwent transurethral resection of the bladder tumor, followed by total left nephroureterectomy after preoperative chemotherapy with four courses of gemcitabine and carboplatin. Histopathological findings showed positive-margin carcinoma in situ. In addition, since recurrence of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer was observed in the bladder, Bacille Calmette–Guérin intravesical infusion therapy was performed, but the cancer persisted due to treatment resistance. After that, pembrolizumab therapy was performed, and complete remission was achieved.
Usability evaluation of a self-management mobile application for individuals with a mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Bonn Marquise M. , Graham Laura J , Marrocco Stephanie , Jeske Samantha , Moran Becky , Wolfe Dalton L.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs) are common and may result in persisting symptoms. Mobile health (mHealth) applications enhance treatment access and rehabilitation. However, there is limited evidence to support mHealth applications for individuals with an mTBI. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate user experiences and perceptions of the Parkwood Pacing and Planning™ application, an mHealth application developed to help individuals manage their symptoms following an mTBI. The secondary purpose of this study was to identify strategies to improve the application. This study was conducted as part of the development process for this application.

Methods

A mixed methods co-design encompassing an interactive focus group and a follow-up survey was conducted with patient and clinician-participants (n = 8, four per group). Each group participated in a focus group consisting of an interactive scenario-based review of the application. Additionally, participants completed the Internet Evaluation and Utility Questionnaire (UQ). Qualitative analysis on the interactive focus group recordings and notes was performed using phenomenological reflection through thematic analyses. Quantitative analysis included descriptive statistics of demographic information and UQ responses.

Results

On average, clinician and patient-participants positively rated the application on the UQ (4.0 ± .3, 3.8 ± .2, respectively). User experiences and recommendations for improving the application were categorized into four themes: simplicity, adaptability, conciseness, and familiarity.

Conclusion

Preliminary analyses indicates patients and clinicians have a positive experience when using the Parkwood Pacing and Planning™ application. However, modifications that improve simplicity, adaptability, conciseness, and familiarity may further improve the user's experience.
Need assessment for history-taking instruction program using chatbot for nursing students: A qualitative study using focus group interviews
Authors: Chen Yanya , Lin Qingran , Chen Xiaohan , Liu Taoran , Ke Qiqi , Yang Qiaohong , Guan Bingsheng , Ming Wai-kit
Published: June 2023

Purpose

A comprehensive health history contributes to identifying the most appropriate interventions and care priorities. However, history-taking is challenging to learn and develop for most nursing students. Chatbot was suggested by students to be used in history-taking training. Still, there is a lack of clarity regarding the needs of nursing students in these programs. This study aimed to explore nursing students’ needs and essential components of chatbot-based history-taking instruction program.

Methods

This was a qualitative study. Four focus groups, with a total of 22 nursing students, were recruited. Colaizzi's phenomenological methodology was used to analyze the qualitative data generated from the focus group discussions.

Results

Three main themes and 12 subthemes emerged. The main themes included limitations of clinical practice for history-taking, perceptions of chatbot used in history-taking instruction programs, and the need for history-taking instruction programs using chatbot. Students had limitations in clinical practice for history-taking. When developing chatbot-based history-taking instruction programs, the development should reflect students’ needs, including feedback from the chatbot system, diverse clinical situations, chances to practice nontechnical skills, a form of chatbot (i.e., humanoid robots or cyborgs), the role of teachers (i.e., sharing experience and providing advice) and training before the clinical practice.

Conclusion

Nursing students had limitations in clinical practice for history-taking and high expectations for chatbot-based history-taking instruction programs.
Exploring the use of digital technology to deliver healthcare services with explicit consideration of health inequalities in UK settings: A scoping review
Authors: Farre Albert , Fang Mei , Hannah Beth , Makita Meiko , McFadden Alison , Menezes Deborah , Rodriguez Andrea , Sixsmith Judith , M Gray Nicola
Published: June 2023

Objective

To map and explore existing evidence on the use of digital technology to deliver healthcare services with explicit consideration of health inequalities in UK settings.

Methods

We searched six bibliographic databases, and the National Health Service (NHS) websites of each UK nation (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland). Restrictions were applied on publication date (2013–2021) and publication language (English). Records were independently screened against eligibility criteria by pairs of reviewers from the team. Articles reporting relevant qualitative and/or quantitative research were included. Data were synthesised narratively.

Results

Eleven articles, reporting data from nine interventions, were included. Articles reported findings from quantitative (n = 5), qualitative (n = 5), and mixed-methods (n = 1) studies. Study settings were mainly community based, with only one hospital based. Two interventions targeted service users, and seven interventions targeted healthcare providers. Two studies were explicitly and directly aimed at (and designed for) addressing health inequalities, with the remaining studies addressing them indirectly (e.g. study population can be classed as disadvantaged). Seven articles reported data on implementation outcomes (acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility) and four articles reported data on effectiveness outcomes, with only one intervention demonstrating cost-effectiveness.

Conclusions

It is not yet clear if digital health interventions/services in the UK work for those most at risk of health inequalities. The current evidence base is significantly underdeveloped, and research/intervention efforts have been largely driven by healthcare provider/system needs, rather than those of service users. Digital health interventions can help address health inequalities, but a range of barriers persist, alongside a potential for exacerbation of health inequalities.
Improving accessibility of scientific research by artificial intelligence—An example for lay abstract generation
Authors: Schmitz Boris
Published: June 2023

The role of scientific research in modern society is essential for driving innovation, informing policy decisions, and shaping public opinion. However, communicating scientific findings to the general public can be challenging due to the technical and complex nature of scientific research. Lay abstracts are written summaries of scientific research that are designed to be easily understandable and provide a concise and clear overview of key findings and implications. Artificial intelligence language models have the potential to generate lay abstracts that are consistent and accurate while reducing the potential for misinterpretation or bias. This study presents examples of artificial intelligence-generated lay abstracts of recently published articles, which were produced using different currently available artificial intelligence tools. The generated abstracts were of high linguistic quality and accurately represented the findings of the original articles. Adopting lay summaries can increase the visibility, impact, and transparency of scientific research, and enhance scientists’ reputation among peers, while currently, available artificial intelligence models offer solutions to produce lay abstracts. However, the coherence and accuracy of artificial intelligence language models must be validated before they can be used for this purpose without restrictions.
Making Sense of Responsibility: A Semio-Ethic Perspective on TikTok’s Algorithmic Pluralism
Authors: Scalvini Marco
Published: June 2023

Utilizing the data collected from 40 in-depth interviews, this study explores: How do users perceive social media platforms’ responsibility in designing algorithms? What do users perceive as diverse or similar in the content generated by algorithmic recommendation systems? The analysis discusses and evaluates the tension between (a) how the platform’s algorithm feeds users similar videos that they highly appreciate and, inversely, (b) how the recommendation of similar videos might limit the diversity of content to which the user is exposed. The analysis adopts a semio-ethic framework to understand why algorithmic platforms like TikTok are perceived to be so efficient in promoting an apparent perception of inclusivity while deliberately erasing alterity and promoting universal sameness. Although videos recommended by TikTok might appear to satisfy computational criteria of diversity, the outcome masks the absence of algorithmic pluralism. The algorithm generates socially desirable videos to allow users to feel comfortable in their in-group. In other words, recommended videos perpetuate a digital form of conformism in a conscious attempt to create the illusion of a more plural community. Advancing the study of algorithmic pluralism is therefore crucial to evaluate the extent to which plurality is understood by users, and what assumptions and ethics underpin the cultures that foster algorithmic recommendation design.
Southeast Asian leaders’ political orientation towards the environmental policy outcome
Authors: Sasmi Dini Tiara , Shi Moyan
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we present an analysis of the leaders’ backgrounds shaping their decisions towards environmental policy outcomes of nascent democracies such as countries in Southeast Asia, with a specific focus on leaders’ traits and socio-economic conditions. Drawing on factors that influence a leader's decision-making process, including external factors such as social and economic and internal factors (cognitive or traits), this study explores the variation of quality of environmental policy outcomes in Southeast Asian countries. Our findings suggest that the level of development negatively affects environmental policy outcomes, while democratic conditions do not play a significant role. We also find that leaders’ age and level of education negatively affect environmental policy outcomes, whereas gender is not correlated with the quality of the environment. This research provides valuable insights into the environmental policy landscape of Southeast Asia and offers recommendations for policymakers seeking to enhance environmental policy outcomes in the region.
Financial Planning for Retirement: The Moderating Role of Government Policy
Authors: Ghadwan Ahmad Saleh , Wan Ahmad Wan Marhaini , Hisham Hanifa Mohamed
Published: June 2023

The objective of this study is to examine the role of financial self-efficacy (FSE), retirement goal clarity (RGC), and government policy (GP) on financial planning for the retirement (FPR) behavior of public university employees based on the CWO model for retirement. Also, to examine the moderating role of GP on the relationship between FSE, RGC, and FPR. Primary data was gathered during the COVID-19 pandemic from mid-July 2020 until the end of January 2021 using a non-probability convenience sampling approach involving 525 respondents. The data were analyzed using the Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) technique. The Confirmatory Tetrad Analysis method (CTA-PLS) is used to determine the formative/reflective type of study variables. The results directly show the significant impact of the FSE, RGC, and GP on FPR. Indirectly, for those with a clear retirement goal, the perceived GP moderates its relationship with FPR. Previous research has examined FSE and RGC in FPR without considering the effect of GP.
Critical Analysis of the Portrayal of Environmental Issues in Chinese Language Textbooks for Ethnic Koreans
Authors: Lee Dong Bae
Published: June 2023

This article examines how Chinese language textbooks, produced for ethnic Koreans by ethnic Koreans in China, portray environmental issues in China. Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and Visual Image Analysis (VIA) are used to investigate what environmental content is integrated and what ideologies these textbooks construct. Chinese language textbooks published in 2012 and 2022 were chosen as they are the most recently published versions for primary school students of Korean ethnic background. The analytical findings show that the textbooks defer responsibility for environmental problems to the global community rather than portraying them as China’s problem and responsibility to solve. The causes and nature of these problems are simplified—only dumping and deforestation are addressed. It is found that the textbooks analyzed in this paper serve the interests of the owners of domestic and multinational companies and of the government officials and agents who collaborate with them, while ignoring the needs of the citizens and students who are suffering the effects of serious pollution. Thus, educators using these textbooks should strongly consider introducing more real and specific Chinese pollution data to raise awareness of the reality of global environmental problems, and introduce critical perspectives, in order to develop environmentally-aware students.
Impact of the Paradoxical Leadership on Employee Creativity: Testing a Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Younis Shumaila , Bashir Sajid , Irshad Muhammad , Javed Basharat
Published: June 2023

This study was conducted to investigate (a) impact of Paradoxical Leadership Behavior (PLB) on employee creativity, (b) the mediating roles of employee exploration and exploitation in the above mentioned relationship, and (c) the moderating role of employee mindfulness in influencing the mediation effects. Data were collected from 262 respondents using a questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was used and the results indicate that employees working under a paradoxical leadership show more creativity by engaging in explorative and exploitative work activities. However, employee’s mindfulness does not moderate the proposed relationship. Implications and limitation of the study have been discussed.
Patterns of Cognitive, Metacognitive, and Affective Dimensions in Learning Orientations: A Preliminary Validation of a Self-Report Questionnaire for Middle School Students
Authors: Claudio Vezzani , Giulia Vettori , Lucia Bigozzi , Oriana Incognito , Giuliana Pinto
Published: June 2023

This two-study research built and validated the new questionnaire “LO-COMPASS: Learning Orientation-Cognition Metacognition Participation Assessment” aimed at capturing the interplay between cognitive, metacognitive, and affective-motivational learning attributes in middle school students’ learning orientations proved to be significant predictors of middle school students’ achievements. In Study 1 ( N = 212) an Exploratory Factorial Analysis (EFA) was carried out to investigate the factorial latent structure of the questionnaire, while in Study 2 ( N = 233) this structure was checked by a Confirmatory Factorial Analysis (CFA). The goodness of fit indices resulting from the CFA were sufficiently good overall: CFI = 0.89, TLI = 0.92, RMSEA = 0.04, SRMR = 0.06. Furthermore, in Study 2 the convergent/discriminant validity of the latent factors of the questionnaire and their association with school achievement were verified. LO-COMPASS factors including an interplay of cognitive, metacognitive, and affective-motivational attributes of learning orientations are discussed within the framework of the existing literature and the practical implications are delineated.
Building Equity Into Transition Practice and Service Delivery: A Call for Systemic Changes in the Field of Transition
Authors: Sinclair James , Jez Rebekka , Banks Joy , Kucharczyk Suzanne
Published: June 2023

There is a common narrative in the field of transition: students with disabilities continue to experience poorer post-school outcomes compared with their peers without disabilities. After decades of research and practice, scholars and practitioners have impacted countless numbers of students. However, disparate outcomes for diverse youth still exist. The Division on Career Development and Transition takes the position that if we are to begin reducing persistent differential outcomes for diverse youth, we must examine our current practices and apply anti-oppressive practices to transition planning to ensure we do not continue to perpetuate White cultural norms and ableist approaches to transition. We applied four equity frameworks to transition planning and provided recommendations for transition practice and service delivery.
Book review: Sarita Sundar, From the Frugal to the Ornate: Stories of the Seat in India
Authors: Chowdhury Indira
Published: June 2023

Sarita Sundar, From the Frugal to the Ornate: Stories of the Seat in India (Mumbai: Godrej & Boyce, 2022), 361 pp., ₹1,930, ISBN: 978-81-932740-1-9 (Hardbound).
SARS-CoV-2 Covid-19 Infection During Pregnancy and Differential DNA Methylation in Human Cord Blood Cells From Term Neonates
Authors: Urday Pedro , Gayen nee’ Betal Suhita , Sequeira Gomes Rochelle , Al-Kouatly Huda B , Solarin Kolawole , Chan Joanna SY , Li Dongmei , Rahman Irfan , Addya Sankar , Boelig Rupsa C , Aghai Zubair H
Published: June 2023

Background:

The global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). About 18.4% of total Covid-19 cases were reported in children. Even though vertical transmission from mother to infant is likely to occur at a low rate, exposure to COVID-19 during fetal life may alter DNA methylation patterns with potential long-term effects.

Objective:

To determine if COVID-19 infection during pregnancy alters the DNA methylation patterns in umbilical cord blood cells from term infants and to identify potential pathways and genes affected by exposure to COVID-19 infection.

Methods:

Umbilical cord blood was collected from 8 infants exposed to COVID-19 during pregnancy and 8 control infants with no COVID-19 exposure. Genomic DNA was isolated from umbilical cord blood cells and genome-wide DNA methylation was performed using Illumina Methylation EPIC Array.

Results:

119 differentially methylated loci were identified at the FDR level of 0.20 (64 hypermethylated loci and 55 hypomethylated loci) in umbilical cord blood cells of COVID-19 exposed neonates compared to the control group. Important canonical pathways identified by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) were related to stress response (corticotropin releasing hormone signaling, glucocorticoid receptor signaling, and oxytocin in brain signaling pathway), and cardiovascular disease and development (nitric oxide signaling in the cardiovascular system, apelin cardiomyocyte signaling pathways, factors promoting cardiogenesis, and renin-angiotensin signaling). The genes affected by the differential methylations were associated with cardiac, renal, hepatic, neurological diseases, developmental and immunological disorders.

Conclusions:

COVID-19 induces differential DNA methylation in umbilical cord blood cells. The differentially methylated genes may contribute to hepatic, renal, cardiac, developmental and immunological disorders in offspring born to mothers with COVID-19 infection during pregnancy, and their developmental regulation.
Dominant Optic Atrophy With Varied Phenotype in a Family of Eastern India: A Case Report of a Rare Mutation
Authors: Porey Camelia , Jaiswal Binaya Kumar
Published: June 2023

Background:

Autosomal dominant optic atrophy (ADOA) can present with a varied phenotype in the form of pure ADOA, ADOA with sensorineural hearing loss, or the extended spectrum of DOA plus syndrome. Multiple genes have been identified over the years and majority of the cases are attributed to OPA1 gene mutation. Here we present an index case of DOA plus syndrome with affection of multiple family members across 2 generations with a rare mutation detection.

Case Presentation:

A middle-aged female presented with onset of bilateral progressive visual blurring in the first decade followed by progressive sensorineural hearing loss since the second decade and onset of lower limb predominant cerebellar ataxia since the third decade. Routine parameters, imaging and electrophysiological studies were negative. Next generation clinical exome sequencing (NGCES) revealed an unique OPA1 gene mutation with worldwide evidence of only 3 such cases in database.

Conclusion:

DOA suspicion should be made in early onset visual defects with multiaxial involvement with a significant family history.
Solid-state blending for the preparation of porous eco-friendly PCL membranes: Potential for filtration applications
Authors: Allaf Rula M , Futian Mohammad
Published: June 2023

Cryomilling is a promising method for fabricating polymeric blend and composite powder raw materials for various subsequent manufacturing processes. In this study, biodegradable porous membranes were fabricated from poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL) using the cryomilling/hot pressing/porogen leaching approach. Powder mixtures of six different model compositions were compounded by cryomilling; thereafter, films were fabricated by hot-pressing. Poly (ethylene-oxide) (PEO) and salt were utilized as eco-friendly porogens in these mixtures, which were dissolved in water to introduce porosity in the films. Wood sawdust (WSD) and alum were investigated as fillers potentially capable of manipulating the hydrophilicity, mechanical and antimicrobial properties of the membranes. The morphological, hydrophilicity, mechanical, and filtration efficiency properties were explored and compared to those of commercial laboratory microfiltration (MF) membranes. SEM analysis revealed dense membrane skins for all compositions, along with lamellar porous structures. Mean pore radius ranged from 0.15 to 0.21 μm, which is within the MF pore size range. Water contact angle measurements averaged 70° and decreased with the addition of WSD and alum, indicating increased hydrophilicity. Tensile test results showed a decrease in mechanical properties, with higher porosities and with the addition of WSD. Adding alum (≥10 wt%) resulted in embrittled membranes. Filtration performance was evaluated in terms of pure water flux and turbidity reduction for textile wastewater, and it compared favorably to commercial membranes. In conclusion, this study has successfully introduced a new facile and versatile membrane fabrication approach.
Toward a Deeper Understanding of Optimism Bias and Transport Project Cost Overrun
Authors: Chen Yizi , Ahiaga-Dagbui Dominic D. , Thaheem Muhammad Jamaluddin , Shrestha Asheem
Published: June 2023

There is a growing face-value acceptance of optimism bias as the primary cause of transport cost overruns. This article provides a timely review of literature on optimism bias and transport infrastructure project cost overruns. The article identifies significant gaps and unanswered questions about the relationship between optimism bias in project cost appraisal and cases of transport infrastructure cost overruns. The presence and nature of optimism bias in the complex institutional environment of project cost appraisal are largely understudied and not well understood. Consequently, this has significant implications for the development of effective mitigation strategies for improving transport project cost performance.
TRPA1 activation and Hsp90 inhibition synergistically downregulate macrophage activation and inflammatory responses in vitro
Authors: Radhakrishnan Anukrishna , Mukherjee Tathagata , Mahish Chandan , Kumar P Sanjai , Goswami Chandan , Chattopadhyay Subhasis
Published: June 2023

Background

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channels are known to be actively involved in various pathophysiological conditions, including neuronal inflammation, neuropathic pain, and various immunological responses. Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), a cytoplasmic molecular chaperone, is well-reported for various cellular and physiological processes. Hsp90 inhibition by various molecules has garnered importance for its therapeutic significance in the downregulation of inflammation and are proposed as anti-cancer drugs. However, the possible role of TRPA1 in the Hsp90-associated modulation of immune responses remains scanty.

Results

Here, we have investigated the role of TRPA1 in regulating the anti-inflammatory effect of Hsp90 inhibition via 17-(allylamino)-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-AAG) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) stimulation in RAW 264.7, a mouse macrophage cell lines and PMA differentiated THP-1, a human monocytic cell line similar to macrophages. Activation of TRPA1 with Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) is observed to execute an anti-inflammatory role via augmenting Hsp90 inhibition-mediated anti-inflammatory responses towards LPS or PMA stimulation in macrophages, whereas inhibition of TRPA1 by 1,2,3,6-Tetrahydro-1,3-dimethyl-N-[4-(1-methylethyl)phenyl]-2,6-dioxo-7 H-purine-7-acetamide,2-(1,3-Dimethyl-2,6-dioxo-1,2,3,6-tetrahydro-7 H-purin-7-yl)-N-(4-isopropylphenyl)acetamide (HC-030031) downregulates these developments. LPS or PMA-induced macrophage activation was found to be regulated by TRPA1. The same was confirmed by studying the levels of activation markers (major histocompatibility complex II (MHCII), cluster of differentiation (CD) 80 (CD80), and CD86, pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin 6 (IL-6)), NO (nitric oxide) production, differential expression of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways (p-p38 MAPK, phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (p-ERK 1/2), and phosphor-stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-SAPK/JNK)), and induction of apoptosis. Additionally, TRPA1 has been found to be an important contributor to intracellular calcium levels toward Hsp90 inhibition in LPS or PMA-stimulated macrophages.

Conclusion

This study indicates a significant role of TRPA1 in Hsp90 inhibition-mediated anti-inflammatory developments in LPS or PMA-stimulated macrophages. Activation of TRPA1 and inhibition of Hsp90 has synergistic roles towards regulating inflammatory responses associated with macrophages. The role of TRPA1 in Hsp90 inhibition-mediated modulation of macrophage responses may provide insights towards designing future novel therapeutic approaches to regulate various inflammatory responses.
Molecular network of the oil palm root response to aluminum stress
Authors: Mejia-Alvarado Fernan Santiago , Botero-Rozo David , Araque Leonardo , Bayona Cristihian , Herrera-Corzo Mariana , Montoya Carmenza , Ayala-Díaz Iván , Romero Hernán Mauricio
Published: June 2023

Background

The solubilization of aluminum ions (Al3+) that results from soil acidity (pH < 5.5) is a limiting factor in oil palm yield. Al can be uptaken by the plant roots affecting DNA replication and cell division and triggering root morphological alterations, nutrient and water deprivation. In different oil palm-producing countries, oil palm is planted in acidic soils, representing a challenge for achieving high productivity. Several studies have reported the morphological, physiological, and biochemical oil palm mechanisms in response to Al-stress. However, the molecular mechanisms are just partially understood.

Results

Differential gene expression and network analysis of four contrasting oil palm genotypes (IRHO 7001, CTR 3-0-12, CR 10-0-2, and CD 19 − 12) exposed to Al-stress helped to identify a set of genes and modules involved in oil palm early response to the metal. Networks including the ABA-independent transcription factors DREB1F and NAC and the calcium sensor Calmodulin-like (CML) that could induce the expression of internal detoxifying enzymes GRXC1, PER15, ROMT, ZSS1, BBI, and HS1 against Al-stress were identified. Also, some gene networks pinpoint the role of secondary metabolites like polyphenols, sesquiterpenoids, and antimicrobial components in reducing oxidative stress in oil palm seedlings. STOP1 expression could be the first step of the induction of common Al-response genes as an external detoxification mechanism mediated by ABA-dependent pathways.

Conclusions

Twelve hub genes were validated in this study, supporting the reliability of the experimental design and network analysis. Differential expression analysis and systems biology approaches provide a better understanding of the molecular network mechanisms of the response to aluminum stress in oil palm roots. These findings settled a basis for further functional characterization of candidate genes associated with Al-stress in oil palm.