bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
poolHelper: An R package to help in designing Pool‐Seq studies
Authors: Carvalho João , Faria Rui , Butlin Roger K. , Sousa Vitor C.
Published: July 2023

Next‐generation sequencing of pooled samples (Pool‐seq) is an important tool in population genomics and molecular ecology. In Pool‐seq, the relative number of reads with an allele reflects the allele frequencies in the sample. However, unequal individual contributions to the pool and sequencing errors can lead to inaccurate allele frequency estimates, influencing downstream analysis. When designing Pool‐seq studies, researchers need to decide the pool size (number of individuals) and average depth of coverage (sequencing effort). An efficient sampling design should maximise the accuracy of allele frequency estimates while minimising the sequencing effort. We describe a novel tool to simulate single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data using coalescent theory and account for sources of uncertainty in Pool‐seq.

We introduce an R package, poolHelper, enabling users to simulate Pool‐seq data under different combinations of average depth of coverage and pool size, accounting for unequal individual contributions and sequencing errors, modelled by adjustable parameters. The mean absolute error is computed by comparing the sample allele frequencies obtained based on individual genotypes with the frequency estimates obtained with Pool‐seq.

poolHelper enables users to simulate multiple combinations of pooling errors, average depth of coverage, pool sizes and number of pools to assess how they influence the error of sample allele frequencies and expected heterozygosity. Using simulations under a single population model, we illustrate that increasing the depth of coverage does not necessarily lead to more accurate estimates, reinforcing that finding the best Pool‐seq study design is not straightforward. Moreover, we show that simulations can be used to identify different combinations of parameters with similarly low mean absolute errors. This can help users to define an effective sampling design by using those combinations of parameters that minimise the sequencing effort.

The poolHelper package provides tools for performing simulations with different combinations of parameters (e.g. pool size, depth of coverage, unequal individual contribution) before sampling and generating data, allowing users to define sampling schemes based on simulations. This allows researchers to focus on the best sampling scheme to answer their research questions. poolHelper is comprehensively documented with examples to guide effective use.
Biocarceral citizenship: Criminalizing through care in postapartheid South Africa
Authors: Rupcic Sonia
Published: July 2023

The story often told about HIV in South Africa is a celebratory one that foregrounds the relationship between seropositive citizens and health‐care institutions. In the last 20 years, the government has invested heavily in rolling out life‐sustaining antiretroviral medicines to all who need them, making HIV a firm ground upon which many residents claim protections from the state. This article explores the role of medicine in buttressing the carceral state. I proposebiocarceral citizenshipto characterize the way health‐care entitlements produce new relationships to the criminal legal system, not through active state surveillance but by extending the responsibilization expected of patients to the penal sphere. Drawing from 22 months of ethnographic research carried out in clinics and courtrooms in the town of Thohoyandou between 2014 and 2018, I apply this concept to both those who have experienced rape, for whom reporting to the (carceral) state is a condition of accessing HIV prophylaxis, and to those who are charged with rape, for whom adherence to antiretroviral medicines is used as evidence of weaponizing sickness. In parallel ways, therapeutic responsibilization exposes both groups to state violence. The article takes HIV‐related entitlements as a cipher for theorizing punishment beyond a critique of neoliberalism.
How does learners’ L2 utterance fluency relate to their L1? A meta‐analysis
Authors: Gao Jianmin , Sun Peijian Paul
Published: July 2023

Unraveling how learners’ L2 fluency performance relates to their L1 is crucial for promoting L2 speaking assessment. Despite the consensus that learners’ L1 and L2 are correlated in several measures of utterance fluency, there have been variations in the correlation strength resulting from methodological differences. The current meta‐analysis aims to present an overall picture of the L1–L2 fluency relationship and investigate the moderating effect of methodological factors. We identified 16 studies with 137 effect sizes and 714 participants. Through a multi‐level meta‐analysis, we calculated the aggregate effect sizes of the relationship between L1 and L2 fluency and examined the potential moderating effect of five learner and task variables. The overall correlation was strongest in L1 and L2 breakdown fluency, followed by speed and composite fluency, and weakest in repair fluency. Based on the results of the moderator analyses, we assume that the relationship between L1 and L2 composite fluency may be affected by L2 learning context, task type, and task consistency. The findings have implications for future research design and L2 fluency assessment.
Melatonin in food allergy: Mechanism and potential therapy
Authors: Wang Hao , Yan Yuqi , Hung Ifen , Liu Chunxue , Yin Jie , Ge Liangpeng , Ren Wenkai
Published: July 2023

Food allergy affects more than 500 million people in the world, and its prevalence is increasing at an alarming rate causing serious public health concerns; however, prevention and treatment methods are still under investigation and are relatively scarce so far. Insights on pathophysiology reveal a complex interplay of the immune cells (e.g., DCs, T cells, and B cells) resulting in allergy or tolerance. Studies have shown that melatonin metabolisms are altered in patients with allergic diseases, suggesting that melatonin might impact allergic diseases. Notably, melatonin can orchestrate the differentiation and function of immune cells. Additionally, the disease severities of many allergic diseases and the function of the immune system exhibit circadian rhythmicity. Therefore, melatonin, a rhythm regulator, may also act indirectly on the immune system through the circadian clock to regulate food allergies. Herein, we reviewed the impacts of melatonin on food allergy and its underlying regulatory mechanisms, providing a theoretical reference for melatonin as effective means of prevention and treatment for food allergy in the future.
Machine learning analysis of wing venation patterns accurately identifies Sarcophagidae, Calliphoridae and Muscidae fly species
Authors: Ling Min Hao , Ivorra Tania , Heo Chong Chin , Wardhana April Hari , Hall Martin Jonathan Richard , Tan Siew Hwa , Mohamed Zulqarnain , Khang Tsung Fei
Published: July 2023

In medical, veterinary and forensic entomology, the ease and affordability of image data acquisition have resulted in whole‐image analysis becoming an invaluable approach for species identification. Krawtchouk moment invariants are a classical mathematical transformation that can extract local features from an image, thus allowing subtle species‐specific biological variations to be accentuated for subsequent analyses. We extracted Krawtchouk moment invariant features from binarised wing images of 759 male fly specimens from the Calliphoridae, Sarcophagidae and Muscidae families (13 species and a species variant). Subsequently, we trained the Generalized, Unbiased, Interaction Detection and Estimation random forests classifier using linear discriminants derived from these features and inferred the species identity of specimens from the test samples. Fivefold cross‐validation results show a 98.56 ± 0.38% (standard error) mean identification accuracy at the family level and a 91.04 ± 1.33% mean identification accuracy at the species level. The meanF1‐score of 0.89 ± 0.02 reflects good balance of precision and recall properties of the model. The present study consolidates findings from previous small pilot studies of the usefulness of wing venation patterns for inferring species identities. Thus, the stage is set for the development of a mature data analytic ecosystem for routine computer image‐based identification of fly species that are of medical, veterinary and forensic importance.
Sedimentological and ichnological characterization of delta front mouth bars in a river‐dominated delta (Upper Cretaceous) from the La Anita Formation, Austral Basin, Argentina
Authors: Ponce Juan José , Carmona Noelia , Jait Damián , Cevallos Martín , Rojas Christian
Published: July 2023

Integrated sedimentological and ichnological studies in deltaic systems are key to determine whether a delta is river‐dominated, tide‐dominated, wave‐dominated or hybrid, and thus predict the distribution of their geometries and main reservoirs. The Austral Basin is one of the most important oil and gas basins from Argentina, and the Upper Cretaceous La Anita Formation has shown excellent attributes as a hydrocarbon reservoir. Analysis of eleven cores, supplemented by a large volume of well logging data and two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional seismic, allowed to recognize a river‐dominated deltaic system affected by hyperpycnal discharges and storm events. Four main facies associations were recognized (offshore, prodelta, delta front and interdistributary bay), being the delta front facies associations, the most recurrent facies and constituting the major reservoir of the La Anita Formation. Three types of deltaic mouth bars have been characterized in the delta front.Type Icorresponds to active mouth bars with preservation of sedimentary structures and bioturbated by suspension and deposit feeding organisms.Type IIrepresents the stopped progradation and the abandonment in the construction of mouth bars, which are completely reworked by suspension and deposit feeding organisms and, in some cases, affected by fair‐weather or storm‐wave processes at the top.Type IIIcomprises hyperpycnal mouth bars characterized by transitional and recurrent intervals of sedimentary structures, high concentration of phytodetritus, and paucity of bioturbation. The amalgamation and coalescence of these three types of sandy mouth bars produce lobe‐like geometries and are the main processes of delta front construction and progradation. This proposed model allows to explain the principal mechanism of construction of the delta front and can be applied to the analysis of other reservoirs where mouth bar architectural elements are dominant.
MBE growth of In0.53Ga0.47Sb on In0.53Ga0.47As/InP substrates using the interfacial misfit dislocation arrays
Authors: Ince Fatih F. , Frost Mega , Seth Subhashree , Shima Darryl , Rotter Thomas J. , Balakrishnan Ganesh
Published: July 2023

We present the growth of highly relaxed In0.53Ga0.47Sb buffers on In0.53Ga0.47As/InP by inducing a periodic array of interfacial misfit dislocation arrays at the In0.53Ga0.47Sb/ In0.53Ga0.47As interface. The periodic 90° misfit dislocation array is realized through As for Sb anion exchange while keeping the group III sublattice the same. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results show the presence of misfit dislocations with a periodicity of 6.16 nm, which corresponds to 14 In0.53Ga0.47Sb lattice sites or 15 In0.53Ga0.47As lattice sites. The In0.53Ga0.47Sb epilayer, however, is affected by phase segregation as evidenced by both TEM and Nomarski optical phase microscopy. The x ray based reciprocal space mapping indicates relaxation to be 99.5% for the In0.53Ga0.47Sb epilayer.
Acoustic behavior in the northern short-tailed shrew (Blarina brevicauda): Ultrasonic click production in a novel environment
Authors: Gleason Margaret E. , Eddington Valerie M. , Kloepper Laura N.
Published: July 2023

Although echolocation is classically associated with bats and dolphins, many animals produce ultrasonic and/or click-like signals to potentially navigate their environment. Shrews (Soricidae) are thought to rely on ultrasonic signals for echo-orientation, producing both ultrasonic click-like signals and tonal twittering signals. Recently, the role of ultrasonic clicks in shrew echo-orientation has been questioned, as these clicks have been proposed to be artifacts of shrews moving throughout their environment. By combining infrared video and ultrasonic audio recordings, we investigated the acoustic signals made by shrews (Blarina brevicauda) during different periods of locomotion. We hypothesized that if shrews are using ultrasonic vocalizations as a sensory mechanism, they will display head scanning behavior while emitting clicks that share key characteristics with other known echolocating animals. Our results show that B. brevicauda predominantly emit ultrasonic clicks rather than ultrasonic twittering calls while exploring a new environment, with clicks having the following characteristics: less than 120 μs in duration, median peak frequency of 26.9 kHz, and median bandwidth of 22.9 kHz. Across individuals we found no significant difference in peak frequency. Our results indicate that shrews emit ultrasonic clicks in novel environments which further supports the hypothesis of echo-orientation or echolocation in shrews.
Absolute measurement of sampling jitter in audio equipment
Authors: Takeuchi Makoto , Saito Haruo
Published: July 2023

This study proposes a method for analyzing sampling jitter in audio equipment based on the time-domain analysis, considering the temporal fluctuations of the zero-crossing points in the recorded sinusoidal waves to characterize the jitter. This method enabled the separate evaluation of jitter in an audio player from those in audio recorders when the same playback signal is simultaneously fed into two audio recorders. The experiments were conducted using commercially available portable devices with a maximum sampling rate of 192 000 samples per second. The results demonstrated that jitter values on the order of a few tens of picoseconds can be identified in an audio player. Moreover, the proposed method enabled the separation of jitter from phase-independent noise utilizing the left and right channels of the audio equipment. As such, this method is applicable for performance evaluation of audio equipment, signal generators, and clock sources.
Effect of steady shear deformation on electrically conductive PP/PS/MWCNT composites
Authors: Strugova Daria , David Éric , Demarquette Nicole R.
Published: July 2023

Conductive polymeric materials are commonly obtained by adding conductive nanoparticles to blends of immiscible polymers that form a cocontinuous morphology. However, during processing, morphology changes, affecting material properties. This study investigates the impact of steady shear deformation on the morphological and electrical properties of a model system consisting of polypropylene/polystyrene/multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The findings reveal that the deformation results in the coarsening of the blend morphology and disruption of the electrical network, increasing both the rheological and electrical percolation threshold concentrations. The evolution of both electrical and morphological properties depends on MWCNT concentration, strain amplitude, and shear rate. The MWCNT concentration, below a certain level, leads to a disruption in electrical conductivity at high shear rates. However, if the MWCNT concentration is above 1 wt. %, the balance between filler network breakup and nanoparticle diffusion is maintained, resulting in stable electrical conductivity and morphology.
Targeting polyploid giant cancer cells potentiates a therapeutic response and overcomes resistance to PARP inhibitors in ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhang Xudong , Yao Jun , Li Xiaoran , Niu Na , Liu Yan , Hajek Richard A. , Peng Guang , Westin Shannon , Sood Anil K. , Liu Jinsong
Published: July 2023

To understand the mechanism of acquired resistance to poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) olaparib, we induced the formation of polyploid giant cancer cells (PGCCs) in ovarian and breast cancer cell lines, high-grade serous cancer (HGSC)–derived organoids, and patient-derived xenografts (PDXs). Time-lapse tracking of ovarian cancer cells revealed that PGCCs primarily developed from endoreplication after exposure to sublethal concentrations of olaparib. PGCCs exhibited features of senescent cells but, after olaparib withdrawal, can escape senescence via restitutional multipolar endomitosis and other noncanonical modes of cell division to generate mitotically competent resistant daughter cells. The contraceptive drug mifepristone blocked PGCC formation and daughter cell formation. Mifepristone/olaparib combination therapy substantially reduced tumor growth in PDX models without previous olaparib exposure, while mifepristone alone decreased tumor growth in PDX models with acquired olaparib resistance. Thus, targeting PGCCs may represent a promising approach to potentiate the therapeutic response to PARPi and overcome PARPi-induced resistance.
Prospective, observational study investigating the level of agreement between transcutaneous and invasive carbon dioxide measurements in critically ill emergency department patients
Authors: Farenden Scott , Chung Yewon , Cui Amy , Ferguson Ian
Published: July 2023

Background

Transcutaneous carbon dioxide (Ptcco2) measurement is a non-invasive surrogate marker for arterial carbon dioxide (Paco2), which requires invasive arterial blood sampling. Use of Ptcco2has been examined in different clinical settings, however, most existing evidence in the adult emergency department (ED) setting shows insufficient agreement between the measurements. This study assessed the level of agreement between Ptcco2and Paco2in undifferentiated adult ED patients across multiple timepoints.

Methods

This prospective observational study (study period 2020–2021) assessed paired Ptcco2and Paco2measurements at four consecutive timepoints (0, 30, 60 and 90 min) in adult (aged 18 years or over) Australian ED patients requiring hospital admission and arterial catheter insertion. Agreement between the pairs was assessed using Bland-Altman analysis. It was prospectively determined by expert consensus that limits of ±4 mm Hg would be a clinically acceptable level of agreement between Ptcco2and Paco2.

Results

During the study period 168 paired Ptcco2and Paco2readings were taken from 42 adult ED patients. Bland-Altman analysis showed a mean Ptcco2reading 3.85 mm Hg higher than Paco2,although at each timepoint the 95% CIs breached the limit of 4 mm Hg difference. In addition, only 66% (111/168) of results fell within the clinically acceptable range.

Conclusion

The level of agreement between Ptcco2and Paco2measurements may not be sufficiently precise for the adoption of Ptcco2monitoring in patients presenting to the ED.
Lung function tracking in children with perinatally acquired HIV following early antiretroviral therapy initiation
Authors: Gie André , Davies Claire , Vaida Florin , Morrison Julie , Maree David , Otwombe Kennedy , Browne Sara H , van der Zalm Marieke M , Cotton Mark F , Innes Steve , Goussard Pierre
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Lung disease remains a frequent complication in children with perinatal HIV infection (CHIV) and exposure without infection (CHEU), resulting in diminished lung function. In CHIV, early antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation improves survival and extrapulmonary outcomes. However, it is unknown if there is benefit to lung function.

Methods

Cohorts of CHIV (ART initiated at median 4.0 months), CHEU and HIV-unexposed children (CHU) prospectively performed pulmonary function testing (PFT) consisting of spirometry, plethysmography and diffusing capacity from 2013 to 2020. We determined lung function trajectories for PFT outcomes comparing CHIV to CHU and CHEU to CHU, using linear mixed effects models with multiple imputation. Potential confounders included sex, age, height, weight, body mass index z-score, urine cotinine and Tanner stage.

Results

328 participants (122 CHIV, 126 CHEU, 80 CHU) performed PFT (ages 6.6–15.6 years). Spirometry (forced expiratory volume in 1 s, FEV1, forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC) outcomes were similar between groups. In plethysmography, the mean residual volume (RV) z-score was 17% greater in CHIV than CHU (95% CI 1% to 33%, p=0.042). There was no difference in total lung capacity (TLC) or RV/TLC z-scores between groups. Diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide was similar in all groups, while alveolar volume (VA) differed between HIV groups by sex.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that early ART initiation can mitigate the loss of lung function in CHIV with lasting benefit through childhood; however, there remains concern of small airway disease. CHEU does not appear to disrupt childhood lung function trajectory.
Is $$d^*(2380)$$ a compact hexaquark state?
Authors: Pan Manying , Zhu Xinmei , Ping Jialun
Published: July 2023

The most fascinating dibaryon in the non-strange quark sector is$$d^*(2380)$$d∗(2380), which was reported by WASA-at-COSY Collaboration and confirmed by A2@MAMI Collaboration. The reported mass and decay width are$$M\approx 2.37$$M≈2.37GeV,$$\Gamma \approx 70$$Γ≈70MeV and the quantum numbers are$$IJ^P=03^+$$IJP=03+. The structure of$$d^*(2380)$$d∗(2380)is still in controversy. In the present calculation, the powerful method in few-body system, Gaussian expansion method (GEM) is employed to explore the structure of$$d^*(2380)$$d∗(2380)in the framework of constituent quark models without assuming the presupposed structure. The results show that the radius of$$d^*(2380)$$d∗(2380)is around 0.8 fm, it is a very compact object. Because of the compact structure, the color singlet-singlet component has a large overlap with the color octet-octet one, two colorless, large overlapped$$\Delta $$Δs dominate the state is possible.
Seismic Isolation Measures of Plate-Shell Integrated Concrete Liquid-Storage Structure
Authors: Qi Lei , Cheng Xuansheng , Wang Bo , Jing Wei , Hong Junliang , Li Xiaoshuang
Published: July 2023

In order to study isolation measures for plate-shell integrated concrete liquid storage structure (PSICLSS), shaking table tests were carried out to investigate the seismic responses of PSICLSS. The isolation performance of rubber isolation and sliding isolation bearings for PSICLSS was studied and shape memory alloy (SMA) was used to reduce the residual displacement of sliding isolation PSICLSS. The results show that the sliding isolation bearing can effectively reduce the seismic response of PSICLSS; however, there is a large residual displacement in the isolation layer. On the other hand, SMA-sliding isolation can provide a reliable recentering capability for isolating PSICLSS and does not cause amplification of structural response.
Influence of Velocity Slip and Viscous Dissipation on MHD Heat Transfer Fe3O4-Ethylene Glycol Nanofluid Flow Over a Shrinking Sheet with Thermal Radiation
Authors: Dharmendar Reddy Y. , Mangamma I.
Published: July 2023

The primary emphasis of this study is on the interactions between heat radiation and viscous dissipation on the MHD flow of Fe3O4-ethylene glycol nanofluid along a dwindling sheet with heat absorption/ production and velocity slip is investigated. Consequently, we provide a novel study to develop and comprehend a mathematical model for the non-Newtonian nanofluid flow in a magnetic and porous medium situation. Ethylene glycol (EG) is a commonly used fluid. In order to form the nanofluid, Fe3O4nanoparticles are distributed in EG. The basic governing PDEs are converted into ODEs by appropriate suitable resemblance conversions. Employing the Keller-Box process, the numerical outcome of the governing equations is found. In diagrams and tables, the influence of developing flow aspects on essential flow appearances is elucidated. The results of this research are also contrasted with those found in the previous works. The presence of Eckert number has been shown through computational investigation to increase the temperature curve, whereas the Porosity parameter resulted in a diminution in fluid velocity and an upsurge in fluid temperature. The results demonstrated that the temperature of a fluid improves with increasing thermal radiation and diminishes with raising the heat absorption factor. The suggested concept finds useful applications in the construction of nuclear vessels where the moving plate serves as a rheostat rod, power transmission systems, and molding compression development in nanoscale nanotechnology.
A Multi-target Study of Natural Compounds in Preventing Neurodegenerative Disease Progression: A Computational Modeling Study
Authors: de Oliveira Só Yuri Alves , de Abreu Silva Mônica , Kiametis Alessandra Sofia , Sette Camila D’Avila Braga , Pereira Junior Marcelo Lopes , Ribeiro Júnior Luiz Antônio , Gargano Ricardo
Published: July 2023

This work reveals how two natural multi-target compounds (Carnosine and Homocarnosine) can prevent the oligomerization of beta-amyloid peptides (A[Formula: see text]. Properly combining molecular dynamics, docking and electronic structure calculations it was possible to investigate how Carnosine/Homocarnosine strongly interact with the amino acids of the A[Formula: see text](1-42) peptide responsible for the complexation with metallic ions (metallic hypothesis). This discovery may prevent the formation of harmful protein deposits, thereby preventing the progression of, for example, Alzheimer’s disease (AD). These important results suggest that Carnosine/Homocarnosine can interact with, at least, two of the amino acids responsible for the complexation of the A[Formula: see text](1-42) peptide with the metallic ion copper(II). These findings open a new perspective on the inhibitory potential of these molecules in the treatment of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Data from Spatial Transcriptomics of Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms of The Pancreas Identifies NKX6-2 as a Driver of Gastric Differentiation and Indolent Biological Potential
Authors: Sans Marta , Makino Yuki , Min Jimin , Rajapakshe Kimal I. , Yip-Schneider Michele , Schmidt C. Max , Hurd Mark W. , Burks Jared K. , Gomez Javier A. , Thege Fredrik I. , Fahrmann Johannes F. , Wolff Robert A. , Kim Michael P. , Guerrero Paola A. , Maitra Anirban
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms (IPMNs) of the pancreas are bona fide precursor lesions of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The most common subtype of IPMNs harbor a gastric foveolar-type epithelium, and these low-grade mucinous neoplasms are harbingers of IPMNs with high-grade dysplasia and cancer. The molecular underpinning of gastric differentiation in IPMNs is unknown, although identifying drivers of this indolent phenotype might enable opportunities for intercepting progression to high-grade IPMN and cancer. We conducted spatial transcriptomics on a cohort of IPMNs, followed by orthogonal and cross species validation studies, which established the transcription factor NKX6-2 as a key determinant of gastric cell identity in low-grade IPMNs. Loss of NKX6-2 expression is a consistent feature of IPMN progression, while re-expression of NKX6-2 in murine IPMN lines recapitulates the aforementioned gastric transcriptional program and glandular morphology. Our study identifies NKX6-2 as a previously unknown transcription factor driving indolent gastric differentiation in IPMN pathogenesis.
Worry about Climate Change of Outdoor Recreation Participants: A Case Study in Türkiye
Authors: Aslan Ramazan , Köçer Musab Süleyman , Mizrak Sefa
Published: July 2023

Anthropogenic climate change (ACC) is considered to be one of the biggest threats to humanity in this century, with severe direct or indirect impacts on people’s lives. Such a significant threat causes serious concern, which can motivate low-level proenvironmental behavior and lead to serious health problems at high levels. Therefore, determining the level of this concern is crucial. Outdoor recreation participants, who are constantly in contact with nature, can closely witness the effects of ACC due to these interactions. Therefore, evaluating their ACC worry is essential. In this study, the aim was to determine the ACC worry levels of outdoor recreation participants. The research data were collected through an online survey from a sample reached through convenience sampling method throughout Türkiye. The data were analyzed using analysis of moment structures (AMOS) and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The relationship between independent variables and ACC concern was revealed through ordinal logistic regression. The research found that the participants had a high level of concern about ACC, with a score of 3.50. It was also determined that this level of concern was influenced by variables such as the type of outdoor recreation, the duration of participation in outdoor recreation, and exposure to the effects of ACC. Considering that ACC can motivate proenvironmental behaviors, the research suggests that outdoor recreational participants with high levels of concern about ACC should not be ignored in the adaptation process.
How Do Employer Practices Affect Economic Mobility?
Authors: Kelly Erin L. , Rahmandad Hazhir , Wilmers Nathan , Yadama Aishwarya
Published: July 2023

How can employers facilitate economic mobility for workers, particularly workers of color or those without a college degree? The authors integrate a fragmented literature to assess how employers’ practices affect enhanced economic security and mobility. This article first identifies three pathways linking employers’ practices to mobility: improving material job quality, increasing access to better jobs for historically marginalized workers, and promoting sustainability of employment. The authors provide a critical assessment of the research literature on recruitment and hiring practices; pay and wages; promotion practices; scheduling; leaves; diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives; and work systems as these practices relate to economic mobility. They then identify strategic questions and feasible designs for enhancing future research on these questions in order to guide policy and management practice.
Symptoms of depression and stress among migrant workers in Al Qassim, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Umar Anwar , Saquib Juliann , Haikal Amal Yassien Mohamed , Al Komi Omar , Alnajjar Anas Hasson , Rizky Wahyu Choirur , Muqresh Mohamad Ayham , Sayed Mustafa Mohamed , Almazrou Abdulrahman , Saquib Nazmus
Published: July 2023

Background:

Migrant workers make up a third of the population of Saudi Arabia, approximately 13 million. Mental health disorders among this population are common, but very limited data exist currently.

Aims:

To assess the prevalence of moderate to severe symptoms of depression and stress among a sample of migrant workers in Saudi Arabia. To identify whether migrant-specific factors, such as occupation, nationality, duration of migration, and work characteristics, are associated with depressive and stress symptoms.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study of 2,123 migrants was conducted in Al Qassim, Saudi Arabia. Depressive and stress symptoms were assessed with the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). The outcomes were categorized into two levels (i.e. mild or no symptoms versus moderate to severe symptoms). Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regressions were used to assess the relationship with potential covariates.

Results:

The prevalence of moderate to severe depressive and stress symptoms was 7.3% and 3.6%, respectively. These did not vary by the duration of stay in the country or weekly work hours. However, there was substantial variance in the symptoms by participants’ nationality and occupation. Participants from Bangladesh were 3.8 (95% CI [1.50, 9.62]) times more likely, and hospital cleaners were 6.5 (95% CI [2.12, 20.07]) times more likely to have depressive symptoms. Similarly, auto-repair workers were 6.3 times more likely to have symptoms of stress (95% CI [1.55, 25.90]).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of depressive and stress symptoms varied significantly depending on occupation and country of origin. It would behoove employers to screen for these mental health conditions and refer employees to the relevant healthcare services. Future studies could examine the feasibility of mental health screening programs among migrant employees.
Implementing Preexposure Prophylaxis for HIV Prevention in a Statewide Correctional System in the United States
Authors: Murphy Matthew , Rogers Brooke G. , Ames Evan , Galipeau Drew , Uber Julia , Napoleon Siena , Brinkley-Rubinstein Lauren , Toma Emily , Byrne Sophie , Teitelman Anne M. , Berk Justin , Chan Philip A. , Ramsey Susan
Published: July 2023

HIV disproportionately affects populations experiencing incarceration. Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective approach to preventing HIV acquisition among populations at increased risk of acquiring HIV. Yet few, if any, efforts have been made to offer PrEP in correctional settings. Beginning in November 2019, the Rhode Island Department of Corrections (RIDOC) implemented a systemwide PrEP initiation program with linkage to PrEP care in the community upon reentry. Incarcerated individuals identified as being potentially at increased risk of HIV acquisition during standard clinical screenings and medical care were referred to a PrEP care provider for potential PrEP initiation. Of the 309 people who met with a PrEP care provider, 35% (n = 109; 88 men, 21 women) agreed to initiate PrEP while incarcerated. Clinical testing and evaluation were completed for 82% (n = 89; 69 men, 20 women) of those who agreed to initiate PrEP. Of those, 54% (n = 48; 29 men, 19 women) completed the necessary clinical evaluation to initiate PrEP, were determined to be appropriate candidates for PrEP use, and had the medication delivered to a RIDOC facility for initiation. Only 8 people (4 men, 4 women) were successfully linked to a PrEP care provider in the community after release. The RIDOC experience demonstrates notable levels of PrEP interest and moderate levels of PrEP uptake among this population. However, PrEP engagement in care after release and persistence in taking PrEP when in the community were relatively poor, indicating a need to better understand approaches to overcoming barriers to PrEP care in this unique setting.
W. E. B. Du Bois’ Indian Romance
Authors: Burawoy Michael
Published: July 2023

Former colonial powers are living through a moment of self-discovery. They are examining the enormous benefits they reaped from colonialism as well as the heavy costs they inflicted on the colonised. Academic disciplines have set about questioning their own foundations, some more successfully than others. Sociology, in particular, is experiencing its decolonial moment. In the United States at the centre of debate is W. E. B. Du Bois (1868–1963)—a brilliant sociologist, historian, novelist, dramatist, socialist, civil rights and peace activist and Pan-Africanist. Despite being the leading African American public intellectual of the 20th century, he was largely ignored by academic sociology. An ardent advocate of national self-determination and an enthusiastic admirer of Nehru and Gandhi, he was the author of a surreal novel Dark Princess (2007 [1928]) that placed India at the centre of world revolution. In this talk, I try to disentangle the global significance of canonising Du Bois for the decolonisation of sociology.
Workcation (Workation) Travel Experiences, Satisfaction and Revisit Intentions: Focusing on Conceptualization, Scale Development, and Nomological Network
Authors: Shin Hakseung , Lee Jinhee , Kim Namjo
Published: July 2023

Since the COVID-19 crisis has accelerated digital transformation around the world, one notable trend in the tourism industry is the emergence of long-stay tourism, such as workcation which combines working and vacationing. Although workcation travel displays unique experiential characteristics compared with traditional travel experiences, conceptual and empirical knowledge on the nature and dimensional structure of such experiences is lacking. To fill this gap, this research conceptualizes workcation travel experiences and develops a multi-dimensional scale to measure the degree of such experiences. Based on the analysis of qualitative interviews, four workcation travel experience dimensions are identified: relaxing, improvised, autonomous, and localized experiences. Building on this, two online surveys with workcation travelers were conducted to develop a multi-dimensional scale of workcation travel experiences. Lastly, the nomological network of the developed scale with workcation satisfaction and revisit intentions was investigated. Theoretical and practical implications are provided.
Female directors and employment stability: A longitudinal analysis of the roles of ultimate owners and managers’ incentive compensation
Authors: Chen Ming-Yuan , Wang Yi-Ting
Published: July 2023

This study examines the moderating role of ultimate owners in the relationship between female directors and employment stability, and tests whether this moderation can be achieved through a mediation process whereby female directors reduce top managers’ incentive compensation to enhance employment stability. We analyze longitudinal data of Taiwanese firms from 2005 to 2019 in a multilevel mediated-moderation model. Our results indicate that while female directors have a positive impact on employment stability, this effect is attenuated by ultimate owners’ private benefit-seeking control. We also find that this moderating effect can be realized by moderating the mediation process between female directors and employment stability. In addition, we explore the differences between family and non-family firms and consider the issue of critical mass. Overall, our study suggests that the value of a gender-diverse board for employment stability depends on appropriate governance structures.

JEL Classification: D22, G30, J33, M51
Research and optimization of valve curve parameters for homogeneous charge compression ignition based on variable valve actuation
Authors: Wang Yaodong , Yuan Xinmei , Su Yan , Xie Fangxi , Li Jincheng , Gong Yanfeng
Published: July 2023

Homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) can improve engine emissions and fuel consumption. HCCI based on variable valve actuation (VVA) benefits from the wide application of VVA technology, which makes it easier to popularize. However, most VVA mechanisms are based on cam drive and inherit from spark ignition (SI) engine, the valve lift and duration can only be increased or decreased simultaneously. Therefore, the above VVA mechanisms cannot give full play to the performance of HCCI. The control parameters of valve curve are simplified into maximum valve lift and duration. At different speeds, this paper uses GT-POWER to first study the influence of the matching relationship between maximum valve lift and valve duration on HCCI combustion economy, and then study the design strategies of HCCI valve curve with fuel economy as the target. At same speed, multiple valve curves can achieve almost the same load range, however, among those valve curves, under the condition that the pumping loss and temperature in the cylinder are almost identical, the valve curve with lower cylinder volumetric efficiency can achieve lower indicated specific fuel consumption (ISFC). For low and medium loads, there is a better matching relationship of valve curve for each speed. For high loads, large maximum valve lift combines with large valve duration is easy to obtain lower ISFC in most situations, but the ISFC deteriorates significantly for low and medium loads. The fixed valve curve can obtain a smaller IMEP range or a higher ISFC; the optimized valve parameters combine with SI valve control strategy and VVT of 110°CA can only optimize the load range of partial speeds, the load range of other speeds will attenuation and the ISFC is higher; the newly designed valve curve scheme in this paper can achieve the maximum IMEP range and relatively low ISFC.
Remittance inflow and its impact on green growth in China: Economic and environmental implications of labor mobility
Authors: Zhang Lingxuan , Lian Xiaomei , Ullah Sana
Published: July 2023

This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by examining the nonlinear impact of remittance inflow on green growth. To analyze the short and long-run estimates, we have relied on the nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag and quantile autoregressive distributed lag models. The use of nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag and quantile autoregressive distributed lag models to analyze the impact of remittance inflow on green growth is an innovative approach that adds to the existing body of knowledge on this topic. The long-run results from the nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag suggest that a positive shock in remittance inflow improves green growth, while a negative shock reduces green growth. Moreover, foreign direct investment, research and development activities, environmental technology, and financial development encourage green growth. In the short run, the remittance inflow improves the green in the nonlinear model only, and foreign direct investment promotes green growth in linear and nonlinear models. The nonlinear quantile autoregressive distributed lag results show that, in the long run, green growth exhibits an asymmetric response to both positive and negative changes in remittance inflow, particularly at higher quantiles. Our findings will suggest appropriate policies to policymakers regarding the effective utilization of remittances to enhance green growth.
Mother alone: Caregiving and identity in Senegalese migrant women living in southern Spain
Authors: del Villar-Toribio Cristina , de la Mata Benítez Manuel , Saavedra Javier , Español Alicia
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study was to analyze identity construction regarding caregiving amongst Senegalese women in diaspora, and to identify what challenges and negotiations they face in their caregiving practices. We conducted semistructured interviews with seven women of Senegalese origin who live in Andalusia, southern Spain. We conducted voice and I-position analysis, which highlighted power inequalities and was sensitive to the dynamic and dialogical acculturation process. The findings showed an identity reconstruction process from caregiving in the cultural context of their home country—where caregiving has a strong collectivist component with mutual support networks, especially in child raising and motherhood, as well as intergenerational respect and caregiving relationships—to a more individualistic host cultural context, where motherhood is more isolated and solitary. Diasporic Senegalese women have also lost their support networks and are overburdened by caregiving work, problems of conciliation between paid work and childcare needs, loss of social status as mothers and as adults, and racism. In such situations, their resilience strategies position them as responsible mothers, maintaining the values of their home culture and developing new strategies for searching information and support.
Retinal changes after fluocinolone acetonide implant (ILUVIEN®) for DME: SD-OCT imaging assessment using ESASO classification
Authors: Leite João , Ferreira André , Castro Catarina , Coelho João , Borges Tânia , Correia Nuno , Pessoa Bernardete
Published: July 2023

Introduction

A detailed understanding of the anatomical and structural changes occurring in the retina following intravitreal fluocinolone acetonide implantation may help improve the management and prognosis of persistent or recurrent diabetic macular edema (DME).

Methods

Overall, 45 eyes (from 35 patients) with refractory center-involved DME received an intravitreal fluocinolone acetonide implant. They were monitored at baseline and at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months for best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central foveal thickness (CFT), and the seven retinal parameters used in the classification of diabetic maculopathy recently developed at the European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology (ESASO).

Results

Within 6 months of implantation, significant improvements were evident in BCVA, CFT, maculopathy stage, and the percentage of eyes with: intraretinal cysts; CFT > 30% above the upper normal value; and disrupted or absent ellipsoid zone (EZ) and/or external limiting membrane (ELM). Significant improvements were still maintained at 36 months post-implantation. At month 36, early treatment with the implant (i.e., after < 6 previous intravitreal injections for DME) trended toward being more effective than later treatment in improving BCVA, CFT, maculopathy stage, and the percentage of eyes with CFT > 30% above the upper normal value. However, statistical significance was not achieved.

Conclusion

In persistent or recurrent DME, fluocinolone acetonide implantation can be effective in improving maculopathy stage and reducing the percentage of eyes with: intraretinal cysts; CFT > 30% above the upper normal value; and disrupted or absent EZ and/or ELM. It can also increase BCVA and reduce CFT.
Recanalization of occluded central veins in hemodialysis patients using a dual lumen microcatheter
Authors: Adiarto Suko
Published: July 2023

Background:

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is the standard therapy for stenosis or occlusion of the central vein in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing routine hemodialysis. In the case of chronic total occlusion (CTO) of the central vein, crossing the lesion might be the most challenging part of the procedure. Although several techniques have been successfully used, a new, additional strategy that is safer yet equally effective would be beneficial.

Methods:

We reported two cases of central vein occlusion in which the lesions could not be crossed by multiple escalating wires even with the support of a microcatheter. The wires could not penetrate the hardest part of the lesion and were always deflected to the false route. A dual lumen microcatheter was used as a support for the first wire and to facilitate the insertion of a second wire through the chronic occlusion.

Results:

The dual lumen microcatheter successfully facilitated wire crossing of the CTO lesion in two patients.

Conclusions:

Dual lumen microcatheters may serve as an alternative strategy to cross central vein occlusions during PTA.