bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Achieving 10-Min Neighborhoods in Underinvested Communities: Understanding Transportation Opportunities and Challenges through Resident Stories
Authors: Idziorek Katherine , Zuñiga Michelle E.
Published: May 2024

The City of Charlotte in North Carolina, U.S., recently adopted the Charlotte Future 2040 Comprehensive Plan which envisions the creation of “10-minute neighborhoods” in which residents have access to daily services and amenities within a short trip of their home. Although necessary for social and economic mobility, access to these kinds of basic resources in underinvested communities is often limited by available transportation options. Thus, increasing accessibility of needed resources in these locations will require targeted interventions. We focus on two of Charlotte’s Corridors of Opportunity to understand what basic services and amenities are most important to residents, the transportation barriers residents experience in accessing those resources, and potential interventions that could facilitate resource access. We conduct 30 in-depth interviews to answer these questions from the perspective of residents with a focus on the experiences of renters, immigrants, senior citizens, mobility-impaired individuals, and individuals who do not have access to a car. Our results identify important destinations often overlooked in chrono-urbanism policy goals and highlight ways in which layered transportation barriers contribute to a condition of time poverty and transportation disadvantage for many residents. We conclude with recommendations to guide planners in contextualizing chrono-urbanism policy goals to better serve residents of underinvested urban communities.
Cornelius Castoriadis and Jacques Ellul on the dilemmas of technical autonomy
Authors: Nikoletos Nikos
Published: May 2024

Shortly before the end of his life, Cornelius Castoriadis turned to radical political ecology, which he seemed to consider the only way to de-colonize the technicist, capitalist imaginary ( imaginaire), into which the totality of modern philosophy and praxis is, to use a Heideggerian concept, (heteronomously) being-thrown. Castoriadis’ critique of the capitalist imaginary, the imaginary of the unlimited extension of rational mastery, is in a state of eclectic affinity with the unsurpassed critique of the autonomous Technique by the French theologian and sociologist Jacques Ellul. Ellul had highlighted the necessity of demythologizing the spirit of technicism since the 1940s, when he was working on the uncontrollability of modern technology, which in his work is depicted as the societal manifestation of the Ge-stell. The Weberian ideal type of formal rationality runs through the critique of both thinkers. For Ellul, technology, or technique, is intrinsically rational. However, when technique is in contact with social and cultural milieus which belong to a non-technical formation and organization, paradoxes and irrationalities are inevitable. In turn, Castoriadis emphasizes the irrationality and autonomy that characterize the modern sphere of techno-science, which leads, with mathematical precision, to the ecological, and also the anthropological, destruction of the Anthropos. Therein lies the central problem of modernity’s technology. Is there a way out? Castoriadis envisions the foundation of a true democracy, nowhere near theocratic, which, nonetheless, must learn to limit itself politically and technologically. Ellul, on the other hand, highlights the ethics of non-power, an essentially spiritual and idealistic attitude that Hans Jonas will adopt a few years later, talking about the heuristics of fear.
Trajectories of Purpose in Life Across Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease or Related Dementias in Older Adulthood
Authors: Mroz Emily L. , Collette Tyler , Keefe Kate , Gil Heidi , Monin Joan , Sharma Shubam
Published: May 2024

Objectives: Sense of purpose serves as a psychological resource for late-life health. Limited research has examined how purpose changes across chronic illness diagnoses, including a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD).

Method: This study leverages data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS; N = 831) to establish trajectories of purpose across ADRD diagnosis using three-year (pre-diagnosis, year of diagnosis, post-diagnosis) timespans and two comparison groups (heart disease diagnosis, no diagnosis). Results: We observed a longitudinal decrease in purpose in the ADRD diagnosis group, t = 3.85, p = .003, d = −0.258. This contrasts with heart disease diagnosis and no diagnosis groups, where purpose did not change over time. Discussion: Older adults who receive an ADRD diagnosis may be vulnerable to a decreasing sense of purpose across their diagnosis experience. We consider social, psychological, and clinical antecedents for this trend.
Effectiveness of a Daily Honeycomb-Shaped Dental Chew in Reducing Calculus, Plaque, Gingivitis and Malodor in Dogs
Authors: Crowder Susan E. , Berg Mary , Bellows Jan , Artzer Marjory , MacGee Scott , Schultz Loren
Published: May 2024

Periodontal disease in dogs is common. Client compliance with oral hygiene and oral care for pets is low. The gold standard is annual dental prophylaxis under general anesthesia with imaging followed by home care including daily brushing. Clients should be offered methods to reduce calculus, plaque, gingivitis, and resulting halitosis that are time efficient, cost-effective, and easy to administer between annual preventative dental prophylaxis with the goal to move into maintenance phase of managing periodontal disease. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a honeycomb-shaped dental chew in reducing hardened calculus, plaque, gingivitis, and malodor in client-owned dogs in their normal home environment including various breeds, skull types, ages, and weights. Calculus, plaque, and gingival scores with volatile sulfur compounds readings were performed under sedation and evaluated under general anesthesia after 60 consecutive days of receiving a daily honeycomb-shaped dental chew treat. There was an overall statistically significant percentage reduction of calculus (26.6%), plaque (14.2%), and malodor (46.71%). Gingival scores did not demonstrate statistically significant reduction (0.99%). Use of this honeycomb-shaped daily dental chew significantly reduced calculus, plaque, and associated malodor in dogs when fed consecutively for 60 days.
Acute hepatitis B in a hepatitis B vaccine non-responder
Authors: Seneviratne Kanch , Scott Jane , Cherif Soumeya
Published: May 2024

Developing acute hepatitis B in immunocompetent non-responders to hepatitis B vaccination has been rarely reported. We report such a case in a 79 year old heterosexual male. There is evidence that tenofovir disoproxil/emtricitabine as primary prophylaxis can prevent acquisition of hepatitis B. In the current era of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with tenofovir disoproxil/emtricitabine, there is dual benefit of preventing HIV and hepatitis B. We discuss the importance of considering tenofovir disoproxil/emtricitabine pre-exposure prophylaxis in those hepatitis B vaccination non-responders at high risk of acquiring hepatitis B.
Clinicoetiological Profile of Meningitis Cases in HIV-infected Patients Admitted at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Eastern India
Authors: Mandal Madhuchhanda , Chatterjee Rupak , Ghosh Subir Kumar , Mukherjee Shatavisa
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims:

Meningitis in immunocompromised patients is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity. In HIV-infected cases, it is majorly of infectious origin, with Cryptococcus neoformans and Mycobacterium tuberculosis being two opportunistic pathogens together accounting for about 75% of meningitis cases. However, other variants like bacterial, aseptic, fungal or acanthamoeba meningitis can also occur in patients with HIV. The present study aimed to observe the clinical profile and aetiology of different types of meningitis in HIV-infected patients.

Methods:

A cross-sectional observational study included HIV-infected patients with symptoms and signs suggestive of meningitis. Patients were then assessed according to clinical, blood and CSF biochemical, blood and CSF microbiological and/special test parameter and/or radiological parameters. Data was statistically analysed.

Results:

Of 120 patients included, a majority belonged to the age group 26–49 years. Common presenting features included headache, fever, photophobia, neck stiffness and altered mental status. Various aetiologies of the cases included 55% cases of cryptococcal meningitis, 38.33% cases of tubercular meningitis, 3.33% cases of tubercular/cryptococcal co-infection meningitis and 1.66% cases of syphilis and pyogenic infection each. CSF findings suggested elevated opening pressure in 64.16% cases, followed by positive serum CrAg in 63.33% cases. CSF CrAg and India ink were positive, and budding yeast cell was seen in 58.33% cases.

Conclusion:

Tuberculosis and cryptococcal meningitis continue to be the prevailing culprits of meningitis in individuals with HIV. As treatment is readily available for these infections, early suspicion and prompt diagnosis coupled with effective early initiation of treatment can improve the lifespan of these patients.
What About Me? An Essay on Creating Nonprofit Ventures
Authors: Shepherd Dean A. , Patzelt Holger
Published: May 2024

Although we know a great deal about creating ventures that can generate financial wealth for entrepreneurs, we have largely excluded, ignored, or “danced around” the creation of nonprofit ventures (with some important exceptions). We propose research to explore how initiating, engaging, and performing nonprofit venturing may differ from for-profit venturing and how some nonprofit entrepreneurs and their ventures differ from other nonprofit entrepreneurs and their ventures. We hope this essay convinces some entrepreneurship scholars that investigating the creation of nonprofit ventures is valuable and can add richness and vibrancy to the entrepreneurship field.
Interfacial microstructure and mechanical properties of B4C/TC4 brazed joints based on Ag-Cu-Ti + W-AlN/Mo foil/Nb foil interlayer
Authors: Chen Zhaoran , Liu Xuejian , Zhang Zhaoquan
Published: May 2024

The microstructure and formation mechanism of the boron carbide (B4C) and titanium alloy (TC4) joints brazed with AgCuTi-AlN-W + Mo foil + Nb foil brazing filler were investigated. The effects of W/AlN content on microstructure and mechanical properties of the joints were discussed. To alleviate residual thermal stress, refractory metal foils such as Mo/Nb foils were added. Compared with the common composite interlayers, the interlayer formed via AgCuTi-AlN-W + Mo foil + Nb foil in-situ alloying had more and finer reinforcing phases without reducing the activity of the filler material. The ductile Mo/Nb foils contributed to accommodate the large strain mismatch by elastic deformation. The interfaces between the adjoining materials and the interlayer were well-bonded without any cracks. The most effective system was nickel-plated B4C + Mo foil + AgCuTi-3 wt% AlN-5 wt% W + AgCu foil + Nb foil + TC4, which exhibited the highest shear strength of approximately 115 MPa.
From halal tourism to the sharia economy: The case of Lombok honeymoon halal tourism
Authors: Bazin Damien , Bhukuth Augendra , Dragasevic Marija , Faviandhani Qausya
Published: May 2024

This article conceptually examines the coherence of the halal tourism model on Lombok Island. The arguments presented are based on discussions with local government officials and tourism industry professionals (85 were interviewed) and an extensive literature review. We analyze the development of a Sharia-compliant economic model based on the creation of halal tourism. Lombok Island serves as a case study due to the government’s active promotion of halal tourism as a foundation for its Sharia-compliant economic development model. The development of honeymoon halal tourism is presented as an inclusive approach that integrates other industries. We show that while local actors are aware of the potential of this sector, they remain skeptical about their involvement in developing this new economic model. This article highlights the ethical considerations surrounding the establishment of a new market and proposes future research directions in this field.
Size Matters? Penis Dissatisfaction and Gun Ownership in America
Authors: Hill Terrence D. , Zeng Liwen , Burdette Amy M. , Dowd-Arrow Benjamin , Bartkowski John P. , Ellison Christopher G.
Published: May 2024

In this study, we formally examine the association between penis size dissatisfaction and gun ownership in America. The primary hypothesis, derived from the psychosexual theory of gun ownership, asserts that men who are more dissatisfied with the size of their penises will be more likely to personally own guns. To test this hypothesis, we used data collected from the 2023 Masculinity, Sexual Health, and Politics ( MSHAP) survey, a national probability sample of 1,840 men, and regression analyses to model personal gun ownership as a function of penis size dissatisfaction, experiences with penis enlargement, social desirability, masculinity, body mass, mental health, and a range of sociodemographic characteristics. We find that men who are more dissatisfied with the size of their penises are less likely to personally own guns across outcomes, including any gun ownership, military-style rifle ownership, and total number of guns owned. The inverse association between penis size dissatisfaction and gun ownership is linear; however, the association is weakest among men ages 60 and older. With these findings in mind, we failed to observe any differences in personal gun ownership between men who have and have not attempted penis enlargement. To our knowledge, this is the first study to formally examine the association between penis size and personal gun ownership in America. Our findings fail to support the psychosexual theory of gun ownership. Alternative theories are posited for the apparent inverse association between penis size dissatisfaction and personal gun ownership, including higher levels of testosterone and constructionist explanations.
Prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and its associations with dietary and other lifestyle factors among university female students in Dubai: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Al Sabbah Haleama , Al Mutawa Noof , Assaf Enas A
Published: May 2024

Background:

Premenstrual syndrome is a relatively prevalent condition that affects a significant number of menstruating women worldwide. It can range from mild to severe and may interfere with daily activities.

Objective:

This study aims to investigate the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and its associated factors among female university students in Dubai.

Design:

This study was designed as a cross-sectional study.

Methods:

The analysis for this study involved 217 female university students (aged ⩾18 years old) who completed a self-reported online questionnaire. Participants were recruited through simple random sampling, and the study received ethical approval from the Zayed University Ethical Committee.

Results:

All participants reported that they experienced at least one premenstrual syndrome symptom with different levels of severity. The prevalence rate of psychological, physical, and behavioral symptoms was 83.0%, 79.4%, and 76.6%, respectively. The most frequently reported premenstrual psychological symptoms were loss of control (69.6%). Most reported physical premenstrual symptoms included lethargy/fatigue/decreased energy (56.7%); premenstrual syndrome symptoms interfered with participants’ daily routines (45.2%). Normal body mass index, no smoking, milk consumption, cruciferous vegetables, fruits, animal foods, fish oil supplements, and no fast-food consumption were all significant factors associated with decreasing premenstrual syndrome.

Conclusions:

Premenstrual syndrome is a common menstrual disorder among university students that interferes with their daily routines. Dietary habits and other lifestyle factors were highly related to premenstrual syndrome. Therefore, health promotion programs are highly recommended to encourage healthy diets and lifestyles for females as early as adolescence at the school level.
Well-Being, Loneliness, and Quality of Relationships Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Botswana
Authors: Mhaka-Mutepfa Magen , Jabuyer Biswas Md , M. Mfolwe Leonne , Mathoothe Kesego D. , Hasan M. Tasdik
Published: May 2024

This paper explored the determinants of well-being, quality of relationships (QOR), and loneliness among people of Botswana before and during the novel COVID-19 pandemic. It also examined whether there were significant differences between participants’ well-being, loneliness, and QOR before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Factors associated with the well-being, loneliness, and QOR of the Botswana population before and during the COVID-19 pandemic were also explored. A cross-sectional design was used to collect information on the three variables before and during the COVID-19 pandemic using online platforms. Convenience sampling was used to recruit participants ( N = 422) using the WHO-5, Three-Item Loneliness Scale, and the Relationship Quality Index (RQI). Data were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate mixed-effects linear models. Age, relationship status, concern about own and family health, difficulty switching on and off media reporting on COVID, change in lifestyle, participation in sports, and resting were significantly associated with well-being ( p < .001) and loneliness ( p < .05). Sleep was associated with QOR. There were significant differences in the well-being, QOR, and loneliness scores before COVID-19 conditions and during COVID-19 conditions. Stakeholders should take cognizance of the impact of predictor variables on well-being and loneliness to mitigate the impact of current and future pandemics.
Health-Seeking Behavior of Persons with Chronic Hepatitis B in Peri-Urban Ghana: Application of the Health Belief Model
Authors: Adjei Charles Ampong , Ampem Kwaku Darko , Dzansi Gladys , Tenkorang-Twum David , Klutse Kokui Dziedzom
Published: May 2024

Sub-Saharan African countries, including Ghana, are disproportionately affected by hepatitis B. In Ghana, the burden of hepatitis B is unevenly distributed, with the Brong Ahafo region having the highest prevalence (13.7%). Given that people with hepatitis B (PWHB) in Ghana have previously been found to have a lack of understanding of the impact of the infection, we sought to explore their health-seeking behaviour using the health belief model as an organising framework. A qualitative exploratory design was used. In total, 18 people were purposively selected for face-to-face interviews. The data was processed and analysed using QSR NVivo version 11.0 and the Braun and Clarke thematic analysis procedure. The belief that hepatitis B can cause liver cancer and death was the most important determinant of health seeking. Furthermore, access to accurate hepatitis B information, particularly information about availability of effective hepatitis B treatment, influenced a number of participants to seek formal care. However, the high cost of clinical monitoring and treatment to use herbal medicine, despite their concerns about the effectiveness of herbal medicines in managing hepatitis B. Given that hepatitis B information was a factor in health seeking, it is recommended that a hepatitis B awareness campaign focusing on the availability of hepatitis B treatment and where it can be obtained be carried out in the study area. Counselling PWHB at the point of diagnosis should highlight the relevance of life-long clinical monitoring. To remove financial barriers to hepatitis B care in Ghana, the government should include the cost of hepatitis B laboratory investigations and treatment in the health insurance scheme.
Risk Perception-Perceived Investor Performance Nexus: Evaluating the Mediating Effects of Heuristics and Prospects With Gender as a Moderator
Authors: Kumar Parul , Islam Md. Aminul , Pillai Rekha , Tabash Mosab I.
Published: May 2024

As the financial condition of most individuals has taken the toll during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study aims to analyze varied risk perceptions owing to dynamic behavioral aspects ingrained in individuals. The study primarily incorporates the impact of COVID-19 induced risk perceptions on psychological bias and its aftermath on perceived investment performance, with gender differences being moderators in the aforesaid relationship. A mix of probability and non-probability sampling has been used to collect data from 1,133 respondents through a structured questionnaire. The partial least square structured equation modeling (PLS-SEM) has been employed as an estimation technique. The findings highlight that risk perception has been significant in affecting the heuristics and prospects. However, it is insignificant in directly impacting the perceived investment performance. However, psychological biases, proxied by heuristics and prospects, were found to mediate the relationship between risk perception and perceived investment performance. Practical implications suggest a judicious combination of risk, return, and behavioral portfolio to stimulate, and upscale investments thereby enhancing the investment momentum to reach pre-covid levels. At the same time, the relevance for society lies in the fact that they need to re-consider their investment portfolio to adjust for uncertainties like COVID-19. Future studies can embark on cross country research to investigate varied risk perception-investment performance relationships prevalent in respective economic settings. Also, studies can explore the variation in findings with respect to different classes of investors that is, experiences, first timers, institutional, influencers and others.
Quantifying Careless Responses in Student Evaluation of Teaching and Justifying Removal for Data Validity
Authors: Wang Yingchen
Published: May 2024

Surveys are typical for student evaluation of teaching (SET). Survey research consistently confirms the negative impacts of careless responses on research validity, including low data quality and invalid research inferences. SET literature seldom addresses if careless responses are present and how to improve. To improve evaluation practices and validity, the current study proposed a three-step procedure to screen SET data for quantifying careless responses, delete and justify the removal of careless responses, and assess if removing careless responses improved the internal structure of the SET data. For these purposes, a convenience sample was taken from a Chinese university. A web-based survey was administered using a revised version of the Students’ Evaluation of Education Quality. One hundred ninety-nine students evaluated 11 courses with 295 responses. Longstring and Rasch outlier analyses identified 49% of nonrandom and random careless responses. The careless responses impacted evaluation results substantively and were deleted. The subsequent study demonstrated that removal improved data validity, using reliability, separation, and inter-rater agreement from the multi-facet Rasch model and G- and D-coefficients, signal-noise ratios, and error variance from generalizability theory. Removing careless responses improved the data validity in terms of true score variance and discrimination power of the data. Data screening should be a prerequisite to validating SET data based on the research results. Data removal is necessary to improve the research validity only if there is a noticeable change in the estimated teaching abilities. Suggestions and implications were discussed, including developing sound evaluation practices and formative use of SET.
A Sociocultural Perspective on the Impact of Instructor Versus Peer Scaffolding Upon Lexical Digesting and Reading Perception
Authors: Abdulaal Mohammad Awad Al-Dawoody , Shaalan Iman El-Nabawi Abdel Wahed , Alenazi Maryumah Heji , Alharbi Wael Matar , Abuslema Naglaa Fathy Mohammad Atia
Published: May 2024

Based on a sociocultural theory and a plethora of experiential studies on the efficacy of scaffolding on foreign language learning, the goal of this research article is to examine the effectiveness of diverse types of scaffolding on university students’ lexical digesting and reading perception from a sociocultural standpoint. Using the Harvard Placement Test, 40 EFL students from a total of 70 were selected and divided into two experimental groups and a single control group. The first group (G1 Exp.) was given teaching with instructor scaffolding, the second group (G2 Exp.) received instruction with peer scaffolding, and the control group (G3 Cont.) received conventional instruction without any external enhancement. Pretests for lexical digesting and reading perception were administered to the three groups. Following the treatment, post-tests for lexical digesting and reading perception were administered. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used to examine the collected data. The results showed a significant difference between instructor and peer scaffolding, with the peer scaffolding group outperforming the instructor scaffolding group. Both experimental groups outperformed the control group in lexical digesting and reading perception. Regarding various kinds of scaffolding, this study provided some advice for psycholinguists, curriculum designers, and language instructors.
Unveiling the Necropolitics of Oil on Migrant Bodies in Deepak Unnikrishnan’s Birds
Authors: Jose Briji
Published: May 2024

Oil played a significant role in fuelling the sociopolitical and economic development of Middle Eastern nations, attracting mass migration from South Asian nations. The article draws a nexus between the energy dynamics and labour exploitation within these petroleum-rich nations. It undertakes a close reading of the text Birds from Deepak Unnikrishnan’s novel Temporary People as it depicts the lives of migrant labourers who navigate an exploitative petro-capitalist system. The fictional text employs a narrative strategy juxtaposing elements of magic and realism, opening up a space for multilayered marginalised voices. The article engages with energy theories and interweaves Mbembe’s theory on necropolitics to grasp oil’s sovereign influence in delineating the boundaries between life and death in migrant lives. The surplus energy generated through fossil fuel extraction contributes to notions of boundless growth, coupled with technical and economic progress, which conceals the intensive manual labour underpinning these petrocultures. The magical property alluded to oil and the spectral absence of labour in the socio-cultural imagination co-constructs an exploitative and dehumanising labour regime for migrants. The migrant body is kept alive, and their existence is contingent upon the instrumental value of their labouring body, which constructs them as easily disposable and expendable as they are positioned outside the formal boundaries of citizenship.
A negotiated sovereignty: Surfacing Indigenous geopolitics within settler colonialism
Authors: Teo Yee-Chin
Published: May 2024

This paper examines Indigeneity within the less-explored settler colonial context of Taiwan in the face of China’s increasing irredentism. I review two processes of Indigenous reconciliation developing in Taiwan and frame them as Indigenous geopolitics – the survey and legislation of traditional territory and the instrumentalization of Indigeneity to assert the island’s autonomy from China. I highlight that Indigenous political struggles that have otherwise often been contained within a stable conception of the settler nation-state can have outward facing effects and suggest that Indigenous rights won can be seen within a spectrum of Indigenous sovereignty in varying degrees, from mere recognition in history books to the extent of making representations to other states. Noting the highly visible process of reconciliation that has thus far yielded limited legislative outcomes in Taiwan, I propose that Indigenous geopolitics should not be considered independent of or in opposition to the settler state. Rather, Indigenous representatives necessarily negotiate their politics within the framework of the settler state in an unequal relationship that nonetheless hold benefits for both sides.
Navigating Economic Ripples: How Real Exchange Rate Volatility Shapes Real Gross Domestic Product with Evidence from Tanzania
Authors: Rashid Furaha N. , Tengaa Peter , Mwenda Beny , Sesabo Jennifer K.
Published: May 2024

This article aimed at examining the effects of the real exchange rate on real gross domestic product (GDP) in Tanzania using a data set spanning from 1964 to 2019. The Gregory–Hansen test was employed to check the long-run relationship between the real exchange rate and real economic growth. Structural vector autoregressive and vector error correction models were employed to establish the effects of the real exchange rate on real economic growth, while fully modified least-squares and Granger causality tests were used for robustness check and determination of the direction of causality between variables, respectively. Findings show a long-run relationship between the exchange rate and economic growth. In addition, when the Tanzanian shilling appreciates, it significantly and negatively affects real GDP. A 1% appreciation leads to a 0.13% decrease in GDP in the long run and 0.01% in the short run. Merchandise exports had a positive effect, while inflation had a negative effect both in the long and short run. The impulse response function shows that the real exchange rate affects the real GDP through the merchandise export channel and inflation. This implies that the appreciation of the Tanzanian shilling makes merchandise exports more expensive, reduces foreign exchange inflows and thus reduces actual output. Stabilising the exchange rate, targeting inflation, improving productive capacity and promoting export-led growth are important.
Scale in Project Management: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Harrison Joseph W. , Lewis Michael A. , Roehrich Jens K. , Davies Andrew
Published: May 2024

Scale is commonly deployed as a descriptor in the extant project management literature without an associated discussion of what this means. Following a literature review and synthesis of 172 papers we identify three findings. First, most papers addressed the foundational concept of scale obliquely, suggesting a conceptual gap. Second, where scale is mentioned, it is mostly in association with large-scale projects and megaprojects. There are few papers discussing small- to medium-scale projects. Third, the limited categorization of scale is linked to limited discussion of its managerial implications. We then synthesize this research to establish a project scale framework and position future research avenues.
Halting multiple myeloma with MALT1 inhibition: suppressing BCMA-induced NF-κB and inducing immunogenic cell death
Authors: Yao Yao , Yuan Mei , Shi Min , Li Wenyu , Sha Yuqian , Zhang Yan , Yuan Canli , Luo Jianping , Li Zhenyu , Liao Chengcheng , Xu Kailin , Niu Mingshan
Published: May 2024

Because multiple myeloma (MM) poses a formidable therapeutic challenge despite recent progress, exploring novel targets is crucial. Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma translocation protein 1 (MALT1) emerges as a promising paracaspase with druggable potential, especially unexplored in MM. Our study provided compelling evidence demonstrating a statistically significant elevation of MALT1 expression in human primary MM cells. Moreover, elevated MALT1 expression was associated with a poorer prognosis in MM. Genetic deletion of MALT1 reduced cell growth, colony formation, and tumor growth in vivo. Pharmacological inhibition with 1 μM of a small-molecular MALT1 inhibitor, Mi-2, effectively inhibited cell growth, inducing mitochondria-dependent apoptotic cell death. Mechanistically, MALT1 inhibition disrupted diverse signal transduction pathways, notably impeding nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). Significantly, the inhibition of MALT1 demonstrated a substantial suppression of NF-κB activation by elevating inhibitor of NF-κB, disrupting the nuclear localization of p65 and c-REL. This effect was observed in both the basal state and when stimulated by B-cell maturation antigen, highlighting the pivotal role of MALT1 inhibition in influencing MM cell survival. It was noteworthy that Mi-2 induces properties associated with immunogenic cell death (ICD), as evidenced by increased calreticulin, adenosine triphosphate release, and high-mobility group protein B1 upregulation, consequently triggering ICD-associated immune activation and enhancing CD8+ T-cell cytotoxicity in vitro. In conclusion, our research highlights MALT1 as a promising druggable target for therapeutic interventions in MM, providing insights into its molecular mechanisms in MM progression.
Flow cytometric profiles with CD7 and CADM1 in CD4+ T cells are promising indicators for prognosis of aggressive ATL
Authors: Jimbo Koji , Kawamata Toyotaka , Inamoto Yoshihiro , Ito Ayumu , Yokoyama Kazuaki , Sato Aki , Fukuda Takahiro , Uchimaru Kaoru , Nannya Yasuhito
Published: May 2024

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) is a poor prognosis hematological malignancy originating from human T-cell leukemia virus 1 (HTLV-1)–infected CD4+ T cells. Flow cytometric plots of CADM1 and CD7 in CD4+ T cells are useful for separating HTLV-1–uninfected T cells and ATL cells. They are indicators of clonal evolution of HTLV-1–infected cells and disease progression of asymptomatic carriers or indolent ATL. However, the impacts of the plots on the clinical course or prognosis of ATL, especially in aggressive ATL, remain unclear. We focused on the N fraction (CD4+ CADM1+ CD7–) reflecting ATL cells and analyzed the flow cytometric profiles and clinical course of 497 samples from 92 HTLV-1–infected patients who were mainly aggressive ATL. The parameters based on N fractions showed significant correlations with known indicators of ATL disease status (soluble interleukin-2 receptor, lactate dehydrogenase, abnormal lymphocytes, etc.) and sensitively reflected the treatment response of aggressive ATL. The parameters based on N fractions significantly stratified the prognosis of aggressive ATL at 4 different time points: before treatment, after 1 course of chemotherapy, at the best response after chemotherapy, and before allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Even after mogamulizumab administration, which shows potent effects for peripheral blood lesions, the N fraction was still a useful indicator for prognostic estimation. In summary, this report shows that CADM1 vs CD7 plots in CD4+ T cells are useful indicators of the clinical course and prognosis of aggressive ATL. Therefore, this CADM1 and CD7 profile is suggested to be a useful prognostic indicator consistently from HTLV-1 carriers to aggressive ATL.
A Coordinate-Free Approach to the Design of Generalized Griffis-Duffy Platforms
Authors: Shen Chengwei , Pei Xu , Hang Lubin , Yu Jingjun
Published: May 2024

Architectural singularity belongs to the Type II singularity, in which a parallel manipulator (PM) gains one or more degrees of freedom and becomes uncontrollable. PMs remaining permanently in a singularity are beneficial for linear-to-rotary motion conversion. Griffis-Duffy (GD) platform is a mobile structure admitting a Bricard motion. In this paper, we present a coordinate-free approach to the design of generalized GD platforms, which consists in determining the shape and attachment of both the moving platform and the fixed base. The generalized GD platform is treated as a combination of six coaxial single-loop mechanisms under the same constraints. Owing to the inversion, hidden in the geometric structure of these single-loop mechanisms, the mapping from a line to a circle establishes the geometric transformation between the fixed base and the moving platform based on the center of inversion, and describes the shape and attachment of the generalized GD platform. Moreover, the center of inversion not only identifies the location of rotation axis, but also affects the shape of the platform mechanism. A graphical construction of generalized GD platforms using inversion, proposed in the paper, provides geometrically feasible solutions of the manipulator design for the requirement of the location of rotation axis.
Development of environmental DNA metabarcoding primers for marine mollusks and comparison with published primers
Authors: Shi Xiaojing , Jiang Yihui , Cao Ling , Zeng Cong
Published: May 2024

Monitoring mollusk biodiversity is a great challenge due to their large diversity and broad distribution. Environmental DNA (eDNA) technology is increasingly applied for biodiversity monitoring, but relevant studies on marine mollusks are still limited. Although previous studies have developed several pairs of primers for mollusk eDNA analyses, most of them targeted only a small group of mollusks. In this study, seven primers were designed for the mollusk community and validated and compared with eight pairs of published primers to select the best candidates. After in silico test, MollCOI154 and MollCOI255 primers showed non-specific amplification, and same results were also obtained in published primers (COI204, Sepi, and veneroida). Moll12S100, Moll12S195 and Moll16S primers failed to amplify across all genomic DNA from selected mollusk. Except Moll16S, all developed and two published (unionoida and veneroida) primers were successfully amplified on four eDNA samples from Yangtze River estuary. After annotation of the amplified sequences, MollCOI253 showed higher annotation of the amplification results than the other primers. In conclusion, MollCOI253 had better performance in terms of amplification success and specificity, and can provide technical support for eDNA-based research, which will be beneficial for molluscan biodiversity investigation and conservation.
Medical needs during the Kumamoto heavy rain 2020: analysis from emergency medical teams’ responses
Authors: Taji Akihiro , Yumiya Yui , Chimed-Ochir Odgerel , Fukunaga Ami , Tsurugi Yoko , Kiwaki Koji , Akahoshi Kouki , Toyokuni Yoshiki , Chishima Kayako , Mimura Seiji , Wakai Akinori , Kondo Hisayoshi , Koido Yuichi , Kubo Tatsuhiko
Published: May 2024

Background

Rainfall-induced floods represented 70% of the disasters in Japan from 1985 to 2018 and caused various health problems. To improve preparedness and preventive measures, more information is needed on the health problems caused by heavy rain. However, it has proven challenging to collect health data surrounding disasters due to various inhibiting factors such as environmental hazards and logistical constraints. In response to the Kumamoto Heavy Rain 2020, Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs) used J-SPEED (Japan-Surveillance in Post Extreme Emergencies and Disasters) as a daily reporting tool, collecting patient data and sending it to an EMTCC (EMT Coordination Cell) during the response. We performed a descriptive epidemiological analysis using J-SPEED data to better understand the health problems arising from the Kumamoto Heavy Rain 2020 in Japan.

Methods

During the Kumamoto Heavy Rain 2020 from July 5 to July 31, 2020, 79 EMTs used the J-SPEED form to submit daily reports to the EMTCC on the number and types of health problems they treated. We analyzed the 207 daily reports, categorizing the data by age, gender, and time period.

Results

Among the 816 reported consultations, women accounted for 51% and men accounted for 49%. The majority of patients were elderly (62.1%), followed by adults (32.8%), and children (5%). The most common health issues included treatment interruption (12.4%), hypertension (12.0%), wounds (10.8%), minor trauma (9.6%), and disaster-related stress symptoms (7.4%). Consultations followed six phases during the disaster response, with the highest occurrence during the hyperacute and acute phases. Directly disaster-related events comprised 13.9% of consultations, indirectly related events comprised 52.0%, and unrelated events comprised 34.0%. As the response phases progressed, the proportions of directly and indirectly related events decreased while that of unrelated events increased.

Conclusion

By harnessing data captured by J-SPEED, this research demonstrates the feasibility of collecting, quantifying, and analyzing data using a uniform format. Comparison of the present findings with those of two previous analyses of J-SPEED data from other disaster scenarios that varied in time, location, and/or disaster type showcases the potential to use analysis of past experiences to advancing knowledge on disaster medicine and disaster public health.
Well-being of family physicians during COVID-19 pandemic in Slovenia
Authors: Tajki Alina Verdnik , Miroševič Špela , Gomezelj Maja Cvetko , Bunc Ksenija Tušek , Van Poel Esther , Willems Sara , Klemenc-Ketiš Zalika
Published: May 2024

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, family physicians (FPs) served as the the initial point of contact for patients potentially infected with the virus, necessitating frequent updates to treatment protocols. However, practices also faced organizational challenges in providing care to other patients who also needed their medical attention. The pressure on FPs increased and affected their well-being. The international PRICOV-19 study, titled “Primary care in times of COVID-19 pandemic,” investigated how FPs functioned during the COVID‐19 pandemic. This article examines the correlation between various organizational and structural COVID-19-related variables and the well-being of FPs in Slovenia.

Methods

Between October 2020 and January 2021, we conducted an online cross-sectional survey. The questionnaire was distributed to 1040 Slovenian FPs and 218 family medicine (FM) trainees. Part of the questionnaire assessed the cooperation and well-being of FPs. The Mayo Clinic Well-being Index was used for the assessment. FP’s well-being was also assessed descriptively by asking open-ended questions about maintaining mental health during the pandemic. Potential factors associated with FPs’ well-being were identified using a multivariate linear regression method.

Results

The final sample comprised 191 participants (response rate 14.1%). The mean value ± standard deviation of the Mayo Well-being Index was 3.3 ± 2.6 points. The FPs with the poorest well-being had 5–15 years of work experience and worked in a practice where work could not be distributed in the absence of a co-worker without compromising the well-being of colleagues. Physical activity was identified as the most common method of maintaining mental health among FPs.

Conclusions

The results of the study suggest that targeted interventions are needed to support FPs mid-career, increase resilience in practice, promote strong team dynamics, and prioritise physical activity in healthcare. Addressing these aspects can contribute to the well-being of individual FPs and the overall health of the healthcare workers.
Effect of cervical Bishop score on induction of labor at term in primiparas using Foley catheter balloon: a retrospective study
Authors: Li Shu-Fen , Ju Hui-Hui , Feng Chuan-Shou
Published: May 2024

Background

Previous studies had found that the mechanical methods were as effective as pharmacological methods in achieving vaginal delivery. However, whether balloon catheter induction is suitable for women with severe cervical immaturity and whether it will increase the related risks still need to be further explored.

Research aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Foley catheter balloon for labor induction at term in primiparas with different cervical scores.

Methods

A total of 688 primiparas who received cervical ripening with a Foley catheter balloon were recruited in this study. They were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 (Bishop score ≤ 3) and Group 2 (3 < Bishop score < 7). Detailed medical data before and after using of balloon were faithfully recorded.

Results

The cervical Bishop scores of the two groups after catheter placement were all significantly higher than those before (Group 1: 5.49 ± 1.31 VS 2.83 ± 0.39, P<0.05; Group 2: 6.09 ± 1.00 VS 4.45 ± 0.59, P<0.05). The success rate of labor induction in group 2 was higher than that in group 1 (P<0.05). The incidence of intrauterine infection in Group 1 was higher than that in Group 2 (18.3% VS 11.3%, P<0.05).

Conclusion

The success rates of induction of labor by Foley catheter balloon were different in primiparas with different cervical conditions, the failure rate of induction of labor and the incidence of intrauterine infection were higher in primiparas with severe cervical immaturity.
Posterior capsular radial sign: a novel method to confirm anterior vitreous cortex resection in phacovitrectomy
Authors: Qu Shen , Zhou Qi , Shao Yu-Ting , Lin Ming-Yue , Shen Jia-Qi , Niu Guo-Zhen , Han Wen-Ting , Zhang Li , Bi Yan-Long
Published: May 2024

Background

The main purpose of this paper is to introduce a method that can accurately locate the posterior capsule of the lens to facilitate a relatively complete resection of the anterior vitreous body.

Methods

A total of 51 patients in the experimental group and control group were enrolled in this study. Phacoemulsification combined with vitrectomy was performed in all cases. After the cataract procedure was completed in the control group, the surgeon performed a conventional anterior vitrectomy with the operative eye. In the experimental group, anterior vitrectomy was performed according to the threadiness corrugation of the posterior capsule of the lens. During the operation, with the help of triamcinolone, two surgeons confirmed the resection of the anterior vitreous cortex; the best corrected visual acuity and intraocular pressure of all patients were recorded at 1 week, 1 month and 3 months after surgery.

Results

Fifty patients underwent phacoemulsification combined with vitrectomy, except one patient in the experimental group who was lost to follow-up. After surgery, no significant complications were observed in all patients except two patients in the control group with temporary increases in intraocular pressure. There was no significant difference in preoperative visual acuity between the two groups (t = 0.83, P = 0.25). Both groups had varying degrees of improvement in best corrected visual acuity at 1 week, 1 month and 3 months after surgery. Moreover, there was no significant difference in BCVA between the two groups at the three follow-up time points (t=-1.15, -1.65, -1.09, P = 0.53, 0.21, 0.23). After surgery, no significant complications were observed in all patients except two patients in the control group with temporary increases in intraocular pressure. Incomplete resection of the anterior vitreous cortex was observed in 2 patients in each group, but there was no significant difference (χ2 = 7.81, P > 0.05).

Conclusion

In the process of cataract surgery combined with vitrectomy, thready corrugation appears in the posterior capsule of the lens and is an important sign of its localization. Anterior vitrectomy can be accomplished safely and effectively with the help of thread-like corrugation, and the surgical effect is almost the same as that of traditional surgery. Especially suitable for beginners in vitreous surgery.