bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Employment and mental health in the working age population: a protocol for a systematic review of longitudinal studies
Authors: Aanesen Fiona , Berg Rigmor C. , Jørgensen Ingrid Løken , Mohr Benedicte , Proper Karin , Lunde Lars-Kristian
Published: July 2024

Background

Employment provides economic security, a social network, and is important for self-identity. A review published by van der Noordt and colleagues in 2014 showed that employment was beneficial for depression and general mental health. However, an updated synthesis including research published in the last decade is lacking. In the planned review, we aim to update, critically assess, and synthesise the current evidence of the association between paid employment (excluding precarious employment) and common mental health outcomes (depression, anxiety, and psychological distress) among the working age population in the labour force.

Methods

We will follow recommended guidelines for conducting and reporting systematic reviews. Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, APA PsycINFO, and Web of Science) will be searched from 2012, using appropriate MeSH terms and text words related to our inclusion criteria. We will screen the records against predefined eligibility criteria, first by title and abstract using the priority screening function in EPPI-Reviewer, before proceeding to full-text screening. Only studies investigating the longitudinal relationship between employment and common mental health outcomes will be included. We will search for grey literature in OpenAlex and conduct backward and forward citation searches of included studies. The methodological quality of the included studies will be assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (RoB 2), Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I), or the Newcastle–Ottawa scale (NOS). We will conduct a narrative review and, if possible following pre-set criteria, conduct random-effects meta-analyses to estimate the pooled effect of employment on depression, anxiety, and psychological distress, across the included studies.

Discussion

An updated review of the association between non-precarious employment and mental health outcomes is needed. In the planned review, we will assess the quality of the included studies and synthesise the results across studies to make them easily accessible to policy makers and researchers. The results from the review can be used to aid in policy decisions and guide future research priorities.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42023405919.
Unified interpolative of a Reich-Rus-Ćirić-type contraction in relational metric space with an application
Authors: Vara Prasad Koti N. V. V. , Mishra Vinay , Mitrović Zoran D. , Santina Dania , Mlaiki Nabil
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we introduce the notion of unified interpolative contractions of the Reich–Rus–Ćirić type and give some results about the fixed points for these mappings in the framework of relational metric spaces. We present examples where the results of some previous research are not relevant. Also, we apply our results to solving problems related to nonlinear matrix equations, emphasizing their practical importance.
On the solutions of a nonlinear system of q-difference equations
Authors: Turan Nihan , Başarır Metin , Şahin Aynur
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we examine the existence and uniqueness of solutions for a system of the first-order q-difference equations with multi-point and q-integral boundary conditions using various fixed point (fp) theorems. Also, we give two examples to support our results.
Existence of positive solutions for a class of singular elliptic problems with convection term and critical exponential growth
Authors: Baraket Sami , Ben Ghorbal Anis , Figueiredo Giovany M.
Published: July 2024

This paper uses the Galerkin method to investigate the existence of positive solution to a class of singular elliptic problems given by $$\begin{aligned} \textstyle\begin{cases} -\Delta u= \displaystyle \frac {\lambda _{0}}{u^{\beta _{0}}} + \Lambda _{0} |\nabla u|^{\gamma _{0}}+ \frac{f_{0}(u)}{|x|^{\alpha _{0}}}+ h_{0}(x), \ \ u>0 \ \ \text{in} \ \Omega , \\ u=0 \ \text{on} \ \ \partial \Omega , \end{cases}\displaystyle \end{aligned}$$

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The algorithmic resolution of spectral-element discretization for the time-dependent Stokes problem
Authors: Ouertani Henda , Abdelwahed Mohamed
Published: July 2024

We consider two algorithms for the resolution of the time-dependent Stokes problem with nonstandard boundary conditions by the domain-decomposition spectral-element method. The first algorithm (Elimination method) is based on the Uzawa method by decoupling the linear system, while the second algorithm (Global inversion) is based on the overall resolution of the system by the GMRES method. A detailed implementation is proposed and some numerical tests are carried out in two and three dimensions and where the domain is multiply connected.
Existence of solution of a system of non-linear differential inclusions with non-local, integral boundary conditions via fixed points of hybrid contractions
Authors: Rashid Maliha , Shahid Lariab , Dar Fatima , Ayoob Irshad , Mlaiki Nabil
Published: July 2024

In the present article, we have introduced the notions of γ-admissibility for the pair of q-ROF set-valued maps and admissible hybrid q-ROF $\mathcal{Z}$
Z
-contraction. Notions introduced in the article generalizes the existing concepts in fuzzy literature. Common fixed point result for a pair of γ-admissible q-ROF mappings in b-metric spaces utilizing the introduced contraction is presented. A nontrivial example to support the obtained results is also included. As an application, we have discussed the existence of solution of system of non-linear n-th order differential inclusions with non-local and integral boundary conditions.
Describing an old trick in posterior thoracal and lumbar ımplant removal surgery: follow-up results for at least 10 years
Authors: Yilmaz Murat , Ikizoglu Ersin , Ertem Onder , Arslan Mert , Erbayraktar Serhat Resat , Yucesoy Kemal
Published: July 2024

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Objectives

We aimed to describe with a novel surgical approach for the removal of posterior thoracolumbar implant in patients with symptomatic failure of the implant and present our preliminary results with this method.

Methods

This retrospective, single-center study was performed in the neurosurgery department of a university hospital. Data were gathered from the medical files of 314 patients (243 women, 77.39%; 71 men, 22.61%) with symptomatic thoracolumbar implant failure that underwent implant removal operation using our novel technique between 2010 and 2020. Symptoms, radiological findings, intraoperative findings as well as clinical outcomes were evaluated.

Results

In our series, the average age was 46.5 years (range: 21–84) with a mean follow-up duration of 7 years (range: 3 months to 10 years). Preoperatively, the most common symptoms were leg pain and numbness of the lower extremity. Postoperatively, no major complications were noted. Clinical progression of symptoms was avoided by surgery in all patients, while we came across removal difficulties due to screw–screwdriver mismatch in 15 of 314 surgeries (4.78%). Our novel approach allowed successful screw removal including these challenging cases.

Conclusions

We suggest that our novel approach is a practical and effective for the removal of posterior thoracolumbar implant in cases with symptomatic failure attributed to screw–screwdriver mismatch. Further trials are warranted to assess the efficacy of this technique to overcome surgical problems associated with screw removal.
Heavy metals in dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) collected from Medina and Dhaka City markets, and assessment of human health risk
Authors: Chamon Afrose Sultana , Parash Md. Abrar Hasin , Fahad Jannatul Islam , Hassan S. M. Nazmul , Ahmed Santo Kabir , Mushrat Maesha , Islam Nafisha , Hasan Taukir , Atiya Zarin , Mondol Md. Nadiruzzaman
Published: July 2024

Background

Constantly eaten foods (such as fruits, vegetables, cereal, etc.) that contain excessive concentrations of heavy metals pose a major risk to human health and deplete the food supply. The amounts of heavy metals in different date varietiies were measured after they were collected from three wholesale markets in the major cities of Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Medina. In order to look at the health risks associated with heavy metal consumption after intake of dates, the Average Daily Intake (ADI), Hazard Quotient (HQ), and Hazard Index (HI) were also calculated.

Results

Copper (Cu), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Iron (Fe), Lead (Pb), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), and Zinc (Zn) levels were evaluated. Several analyses of date fruit exhibited levels of Pb and Cd in different date varieties that beyond the Maximum Permissible Limit (MPL). In the majority of the samples, ADI was below the upper authorized tolerated daily consumption. The likelihood of a health risk from the regular eating of the investigated date fruits is revealed by the hazardous indexes of samples taken from New Market and Badamtali that surpassed unit value as a result of excessive air pollution brought on by greater industrial and vehicle traffic. According to the study, the majority of the analyzed heavy metals were identified in date samples and those from later samples at levels that were less harmful than the maximum acceptable threshold (MAL).

Conclusions

Some samples included higher levels of Pb and Cd. As a result, eating dates that contain more metal has a higher chance of harming your health. Additionally, it has been recommended that regular testing for heavy metals in date fruits may be useful in preventing health risks associated with eating fruits that are contaminated with heavy metals.
A Comparative Genomic Analysis of Parathyroid Adenomas and Carcinomas Harboring Heterozygous Germline CDC73 Mutations
Authors: Li Yulong , Simonds William F , Chen Haobin
Published: July 2024

Context

Parathyroid cancer has been linked to germline mutations of the Cell Division Cycle 73 (CDC73) gene. However, carriers harboring cancer-associated germline CDC73 mutations may develop only parathyroid adenoma or no parathyroid disease. This incomplete penetrance indicates that additional genomic events are required for parathyroid tumorigenesis.

Objective

(1) Determine the status of the second CDC73 allele in parathyroid tumors harboring germline CDC73 mutations and (2) compare the genomic landscapes between parathyroid carcinomas and adenomas.

Design

Whole-exome and RNA sequencing of 12 parathyroid tumors harboring germline CDC73 mutations (6 adenomas and 6 carcinomas) and their matched normal tissues.

Results

All 12 parathyroid tumors had gained 1 somatic event predicted to cause a complete inactivation of the second CDC73 allele. Several distinctive genomic features were identified in parathyroid carcinomas compared to adenomas, including more single nucleotide variants bearing the C > G transversion and APOBEC deamination signatures, frequent mutations of the genes involved in the PI-3K/mTOR signaling, a greater number of copy number variations, and substantially more genes with altered expression. Parathyroid carcinomas also share some genomic features with adenomas. For instance, both have recurrent somatic mutations and copy number loss that impact the genes involved in T-cell receptor signaling and tumor antigen presentation, suggesting a shared strategy to evade immune surveillance.

Conclusion

Biallelic inactivation of CDC73 is essential for parathyroid tumorigenesis in carriers harboring germline mutations of this gene. Despite sharing some genomic features with adenomas, parathyroid carcinomas have more distinctive alterations in the genome, some of which may be critical for cancer formation.
DiGeorge Syndrome Diagnosed at Age 38: Challenges in Low-resource Settings and Implications of a Missed Diagnosis
Authors: Kuenstner William , Rapisuwon Suthee , Shobab Leila
Published: July 2024

22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22.q11.2 DS) is a genetic syndrome resulting from a microdeletion on chromosome 22. It has a diverse array of manifestations, and most cases are diagnosed early in childhood. We present the case of a 38-year-old female born in a developing country who presented to our clinic to establish care for a history of primary hypothyroidism. She was clinically and biochemically euthyroid on thyroid supplementation. She was also noted to have hypocalcemia in the setting of low PTH, for which the patient was previously prescribed calcitriol. Given a history of cleft palate, abnormal facial features, mild recurrent sinopulmonary infections, and her endocrine history (including short stature with height in the 6th percentile), genetic testing was obtained. She was diagnosed with a heterozygous whole gene deletion of the TBX1 gene. Additional genetic evaluation demonstrated a 2.6-Mb microdeleted segment of the 22a11.2 region encompassing 62 genes. The patient was referred to cardiology for evaluation of cardiac involvement given a history of tachyarrhythmia. This case highlights challenges in diagnosis and the implications of a delayed diagnosis of 22.q11.2 DS.
Association Between the Ultrasound Evaluation of Muscle Mass and Adverse Outcomes in Critically Ill Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Umbrello Michele , Formenti Paolo , Artale Alessandro , Assandri Maddalena , Palandri Chiara , Ponti Silvia , Venco Roberto , Waccher Giulia , Muttini Stefano
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Computed tomography (CT)-derived low muscle mass is associated with adverse outcomes in critically ill patients. Muscle ultrasound is a promising strategy for quantitating muscle mass. We evaluated the association between baseline ultrasound rectus femoris cross-sectional area (RF-CSA) and intensive care unit (ICU) mortality. Secondary outcomes were the determinants of RF-CSA, and the diagnostic performance of RF-CSA after adjustment for body size.

METHODS:

A prospective, single-center, observational cohort study was conducted in 3 ICUs (general, neuroscience, coronavirus disease-2019 [COVID-19]) of a university-affiliated hospital. Consecutive, mechanically ventilated patients with predicted length of stay >72 hours were included. RF-CSA was assessed at the dominant leg by ultrasound. Association with ICU mortality was tested using multivariable logistic regression. Diagnostic performance of RF-CSA was compared after adjustment by sex (CSA-sex), body surface area (CSA-BSA), and squared height (CSA-H2).

RESULTS:

A total of 316 patients were enrolled: age 69 [60–76], 211 men and 183 ICU survivors. Older age (odds ratio, OR [95% confidence interval, CI], 1.03 [1.01–1.05]), the type of ICU (neuroscience: 0.82 [0.38–1.79], COVID-19: 4.1 [2.01–8.38]), a higher modified Nutrition and Rehabilitation Investigators Consortium (NUTRIC) score (1.43 [1.21–1.70]), and a lower RF-CSA (0.41 [0.29–0.58]) were associated with ICU mortality. Baseline RF-CSA was lower in women, with higher nutritional risk, older age, and larger body size. Unadjusted RF-CSA had an area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for ICU mortality of 0.720 [0.663–0.776], and this value was not significantly different from that of CSA-sex, CSA-BSA, and CSA-H2 (P = .1487).

CONCLUSIONS:

Low baseline RF-CSA was associated with increased ICU mortality. Admission RF-CSA was lower in women, with high nutritional risk, in older subjects and with lower body size. Absolute muscle mass was significantly associated with mortality, with no significant increase in this relationship when adjusting for sex or body size.
Capacity of Anesthesiology Residency Programs in Four East African Countries: Can Supply Meet the Demand?
Authors: Nekyon David O. , Mung’ayi Vitalis O. , Kasumba John M. , Nizeyimana Francoise , Lugazia Edwin R. , Harakandi Stanislas
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

By 2015, 4 East African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi) had identified a deficit in the number of anesthesiologists, with a mean density of 0.30 physician anesthesia providers (PAP) per 100,000 population, which was significantly lower than the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA) recommended minimum of 5.0/100,000 population. This workforce shortfall has been recognized as 1 factor that may negatively affect surgical outcomes. This survey sought to assess the capacity of anesthesia residency programs to meet recommended human resource standards in these countries.

METHODS:

This retrospective cross-sectional study surveyed heads of anesthesia departments, principals of medical colleges that host residency programs and registrars of national medical councils in 4 East African countries. A descriptive analysis of the infrastructural characteristics, human resources, cost of training, enrollment, and output from the programs over 5 years (2015–2020) was conducted. The growth in the number of registered PAP and trends in workforce density were determined. The 2020 needs deficit was calculated based on the WFSA benchmark, and the projected workforce needs in 2030 were estimated based on the population growth trajectory.

RESULTS:

There were 7 accredited university-based anesthesia residency programs in 2020, with median (range) enrollment and graduation rates of 10.5 (2–18) and 5.5 (0–13) residents/country/year, respectively. Enrollment was unstable with some countries having years with no enrollment at all. Only 1 country had new programs planned. There was a median resident to supervisor ratio of 1.44 (0.89–7):1 and 50.3 (21.4–100)% of residency training supervisors had no academic faculty appointment. The median university tuition was $1677 (600–6165)/year. The number of PAP increased in all 4 countries median 5-year growth of 79.3 (22.7–150)%, with minimal impact on the low workforce density, median of 0.23 (0.04–0.35)/100,000 in 2020. The median deficit in PAP in 2020 was an estimated 1410 (589–2499) PAP, with a median need for 1763 (763–2911) new specialists per country by 2030.

CONCLUSIONS:

The PAP workforce deficits significantly outstripped the annual output of all residency programs. Anesthesia societies need to raise awareness about this deficit and engage policymakers to increase investment in anesthesia training, including providing scholarships and employment of PAP in training institutions. Integrating nonuniversity-based residency programs may support an increased output. The attainability of the 2030 workforce goals will need review. National strategies are needed to increase the total anesthesia workforce, which includes nonphysician anesthesia providers (NPAPs) as part of the task-sharing framework.
Sovereignty and Extortion
Authors: Lomnitz Claudio
Published: July 2024

Over the past fifteen years in Mexico, more than 450,000 people have been murdered and 110,000 more have been disappeared. In Sovereignty and Extortion, Claudio Lomnitz examines the Mexican state in relation to this extreme violence, uncovering a reality that challenges the familiar narratives of “a war on drugs” or a “failed state.” Tracing how neoliberal reforms, free trade agreements, and a burgeoning drug economy have shaped Mexico’s sociopolitical landscape, Lomnitz shows that the current crisis does not represent a tear in the social fabric. Rather, it reveals a fundamental shift in the relationship between the state and the economy in which traditional systems of policing, governance, and the rule of law have eroded. Lomnitz finds that power is now concentrated in the presidency and enforced through militarization, which has left the state estranged from itself and incapable of administering justice or regaining control over violence. Through this critical examination, Lomnitz offers a new theory of the state, its forms of sovereignty, and its shifting relation to capital and militarization.
The phenomenon of henotheism in the worship tradition of Graeco-Roman culture
Authors: Ορφανίδης Γεώργιος
Published: July 2024

Η παρούσα Διδακτορική Διατριβή εντάσσεται στον κλάδο της Μελέτης των Θρησκειών (Θρησκειολογία), με ειδικό θέμα μελέτης την πολύπλευρη ερμηνεία των φανερών & κεκαλυμμένων (σημειωτικών) ενοθεϊστικών λατρευτικών πρακτικών προς τιμήν του Διός-Ήλιου-Μεγάλου-Σάραπι, όπως αυτές προέκυψαν-αναπτύχθηκαν στη γεωγραφική ζώνη της ελληνορωμαϊκής Μεσογείου κατά την ευρύτερη Ελληνιστική Εποχή (συμπεριλαμβανομένης βέβαια και της ρωμαϊκής επικυριαρχίας εντός και εκτός ελληνικού χώρου). Για τον σκοπό αυτόν, εξετάζονται πολυεπίπεδα διάφορα αρχαία κείμενα, αρχαιολογικά κατάλοιπα, και καλλιτεχνικές επιρροές.
The relationship of age, sex and prothrombin time related to the severity of COVID-19 patients with diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta analysis
Authors: Mirza Audrey Fabianisa , Halim Ceria , Sari Mutiara Indah
Published: July 2024

Background SARS-CoV-2 first appeared in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Looking at the prevalence data in the world and in Indonesia, the highest mortality rate due to COVID-19 involves age, gender and comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus. Severity of the condition also refers to coagulation abnormalities, such as abnormal prothrombin time values. Methods This systematic review study and meta-analysis used online literature sourced from PubMed, Science Direct, EBSCO, Cochrane and Google Scholar. The literature used here is literature that has data on age, sex and prothrombin time of COVID-19 patients with diabetes mellitus whose quality is assessed by the NOS (Newcastle-Ottawa Scale) criteria and processing data using Review Manager 5.4. Results Out of 8711 literatures that were traced from various search sources, there were 46 literatures that were included in this study. The results of the analysis on age showed the Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) value of 0.45 and P <0.0001 (95% CI: 0.23–0.68), the gender analysis showed an Odds Ratio (OR) value of 3.28 and P = 0.01 (95% CI: 1.26–8.52) and the prothrombin time analysis showed SMD values of 0.41 and P = 0.07 (95%CI = -0.03–0.85). Conclusion Older and male COVID-19 patients have a higher risk of having diabetes compared to younger and female COVID-19 patients. As diabetes is a comorbidity in COVID-19, it can be concluded that old age and male sex are associated with a more severe disease.
Physicochemical characteristics of Pangasius sp. skin-gelatin-based-edible film enriched with silver nanoparticles
Authors: Nurdiani Rahmi , Prihanto Asep A. , Firdaus Muhamad , Aini Faridatul Nur , Nabilah Fajrin Adin , Talib Rosnita A , Huda Nurul
Published: July 2024

Background: Edible films intended for food packaging have been produced from hydrocolloids, lipids, resins, and composites, including gelatin. Gelatin is known to have a good filming ability and has been suggested as an alternative to non-biodegradable plastics. Naturally active compounds incorporated into film packaging may not only protect the food product from oxidation and microbial contamination, but they may also alter the physicochemical properties of the film. Silver nanoparticles have been used in food packaging as active agents due to their antibacterial and antifungal properties. The addition may affect the characteristics of the packaging. Therefore, this study aims to determine the effect of the addition of silver nanoparticles on the physicochemical characteristics of edible film from Pangasius sp. skin gelatin. Methods: Mangrove extract of Bruguiera gymnorrhiza was used to synthesize silver into nanoparticle size. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with different concentrations (0, 2, 4 and 8%) were added into gelatin-based edible film. The edible films produced were observed for their physicochemical characteristics, including thickness, tensile strength, elongation, water vapour transmission, moisture content, pH, and colour. Results: AgNPs affected the colour of the fish-gelatin-based edible film, as an increased concentration of AgNPs resulted in a darker film. Nevertheless, the addition of AgNPs showed no significant effect on the thickness (145–216 µm), tensile strength (14.58–19.72 MPa), elongation (21.86–54.19%), water vapour transmission (30.91–42.55 g/m2/day), moisture content (9.57–11.16%) or pH (5.92–6.01) of the fish-gelatin-based edible film. Conclusions: The addition of AgNPs has no significant effect on gelatin-based edible film physicochemical properties except colour. Therefore, the incorporated edible film has the potential to be developed further.
Assessing hard and loose “endpoints”: comparison of patient and expert Bristol Stool Scale scoring of 2280 fecal samples
Authors: Dale Hanna Fjeldheim , Hagen Milada , Malmstrøm Gunn Helen , Fiennes Jennifer T. , Høivik Marte Lie , Kristensen Vendel A. , Valeur Jørgen
Published: July 2024

Background Stool consistency is an important outcome measure to evaluate in the investigation of several gastrointestinal diseases. The Bristol Stool Scale (BSS) is one of the most commonly used tools for evaluation of stool consistency. BSS ranges from 1-7 and each score is assigned to a given consistency of the feces. Self-reported characterizations can differ from an expert evaluation, and the reliability of BSS is unclear. We aimed to evaluate the reliability of BSS by comparing patient scores with expert scores. Methods Patients with inflammatory bowel disease collected stool samples throughout a 3-year follow-up. The stool´s consistency was evaluated with BSS by the patients and matched with an expert score. Agreement between patient and expert scores was assessed using Cohen’s kappa. Results BSS scores from 2280 fecal samples collected from 992 patients at up to five time points were included. When all samples were compared, there was good to substantial agreement between patient and expert scores (Cohen’s weighted kappa: 0.66-0.72). When the BSS scores were simplified and categorized as 1 (scores 1-2), 2 (scores 3-5) or 3 (scores 6-7), the agreement improved slightly (Cohen’s weighted kappa: 0.73-0.77). When the scores from the first sample per patient were compared, the experts were more likely to assign higher scores compared to the patient. The proportion of the lowest assigned scores (1-2) was 12.1% for patients and 8.1% for experts. Conclusions The agreement between patient and expert BSS scores is good to substantial, especially when the BSS scores are simplified into three categories.
Postcolonial ethnopolitical separatism: Strategies for the political destabilization of the Sahel (based on the materials of the Tuareg and Fulani in Mali)
Authors: Camara S.
Published: July 2024

The article attempts to explain one of the reasons for the political instability that many countries in the world and, in particular, Africa face. This is the problem of multiethnicity and various forms of its instrumentalization to destabilize the country. the author of the article will try to demonstrate the involvement of internal (political) actors but also the place of Western institutions such as France as well as other external regional and international actors such as the UN and certain countries in the region. The purpose of this article is to show that the ethnic factor is one of the political means of weakening and segmenting former African colonies by Western powers. It is important and necessary to clarify the following tasks to try to achieve this goal: consider the colonial policy of France towards African states; identify the main ethnic groups and analyze their actions to destabilize the state; prove the cooperation and support of Western powers to these ethnic groups. The hypothesis put forward by the author is that the destabilization of the state of Mali associated with ethno-separatism and terrorism finds support mainly from Western powers and, in particular, from the former colonialist France. The article is based on several scientific methods, such as a historical and comparative approaches, a review of works and reports on the issue, and experience gained in our university courses. The article provides a brief political science excursion into the history of the instrumentalization of the ethnic factor as a source of political destabilization in time and space, before focusing on the cases of the Tuareg and Fulani ethnic groups in Mali, which reached the stage of political separatism and international terrorism. The practical value and theoretical necessity of this analysis is seen in the fact that the results of the work can be studied in the educational process at universities and in centers of political research, as well as in the process of negotiations and political decision-making. The author of the article comes to the conclusion that the problem of destabilization of Malian and other states in the Sahel (Burkina Faso and Niger) is associated with the expansive policy of Western powers, especially France, to obtain, preserve and strengthen their national, geopolitical and geostrategic interests in the region. The main instrument for the implementation of this policy is the creation and maintenance of ethno-separatist and terrorist groups.
Carl Schmitt and Georg Simmel in the perspective of the theory of international relations and international law
Authors: Korolev S.
Published: July 2024

Carl Schmitt’s intellectual legacy keeps attracting Russian jurists and social scientists for at least three decades. It would be unwise to give a similar comment on Georg Simmel’s legacy. Though, Simmel’s agenda is also no terra incognita in this country. Both in their respective world outlook and ideologically Schmitt and Simmel are worlds apart. At first sight, it would be impossible to find a common key which would enable a comparative analysis of their works. Nevertheless, formulating the purpose of the study, the author of the article found such a common denominator in the comparison of Schmitt's political concept "friend-enemy" and Simmel's sociological concept "friend-foe". The key research method is comparative analysis, which compares the two above-mentioned concepts. It is concluded that both concepts are instrumental, primarily in the field of international relations. The author holds that practically all sphere of international relations lends itself to the interplay of the said conceptions. Moreover, they can be applied for a proper investigation of the same international situation. For example, one international actor regards another one as its “existential enemy”. But the other one is not bound to lend itself to this status. The other one may discard the role the imposed “existential enemy” and regard the first one in the Simmel’s term of “stranger”. This term has no pejorative connotations, not even the aftertaste of unfriendliness. The theoretical significance of the research lies in the use of the concepts of Karl Schmitt and Georg Simmel to supplement the theory of international relations and international law with new conclusions and generalizations.
Book Reviews
Authors: Shen Wenjing
Published: July 2024

In Book Reviews, we review an extensive and diverse range of books. They cover theory and applications in operations research, statistics, management science, econometrics, mathematics, computers, and information systems. In addition, we include books in other fields that emphasize technical applications. The editor will be pleased to receive an email from those willing to review a book with an indication of specific areas of interest. If you are aware of a specific book that you would like to review or that you think should be reviewed, please contact the editor. The following book is reviewed in this issue of INFORMS Journal on Applied Analytics, 54(4), July–August: Operations Engineering and Management: Concepts, Analytics and Principles for Improvement (author: Seyed M.R. Iravani; reviewer: Reha Uzsoy).
Product Safety and Liability with Deceptive Advertising and Moral Hazard
Authors: Guan Xu , Cao Huan , Li Krista J. , Ding Yucheng
Published: July 2024

This paper examines how the two common product liability rules (strict liability versus comparative negligence) affect firms and consumers when firms can advertise product quality deceptively and consumers exert precaution efforts endogenously.
OM Forum—The Best of Both Worlds: Machine Learning and Behavioral Science in Operations Management
Authors: Davis Andrew M. , Mankad Shawn , Corbett Charles J. , Katok Elena
Published: July 2024

Problem definition: Two disciplines increasingly applied in operations management (OM) are machine learning (ML) and behavioral science (BSci). Rather than treating these as mutually exclusive fields, we discuss how they can work as complements to solve important OM problems. Methodology/results: We illustrate how ML and BSci enhance one another in non-OM domains before detailing how each step of their respective research processes can benefit the other in OM settings. We then conclude by proposing a framework to help identify how ML and BSci can jointly contribute to OM problems. Managerial implications: Overall, we aim to explore how the integration of ML and BSci can enable researchers to solve a wide range of problems within OM, allowing future research to generate valuable insights for managers, companies, and society.
Inert failure strain measurements of sodium borate glass fibres
Authors: Lower Nathan P. ,   Missouri University of Science & Technology, Tang Zhongzhi , Brow Richard K.
Published: July 2024

The two-point bend (TPB) technique was used to measure the failure strains of freshly-drawn xNa2O.(100−x)B2O3 glass fibres under liquid nitrogen. In such experiments, the effects of extrinsic flaws and environmental fatigue are minimised so that intrinsic failure characteristics might be determined and related to glass composition and structure. The inert failure strain for pure B2O3 glass ranges between 29 and 36%; to our knowledge this is the largest inert failure strain ever reported for an oxide glass in a TPB experiment. Failure strains decrease systematically with increasing Na2O content. The addition of Na2O increases the dimensionality and connectivity of the borate glass structure, increasing Young’s elastic modulus and hence increasing resistance to deformation before failure. Similar correlations between inert failure strain and network connectivity have been reported for silicate and aluminosilicate glasses, and may be related to the resistance to crack initiation of the glass network.
RAZÕES DA ROTATIVIDADE VOLUNTÁRIA: UM ESTUDO COM JOVENS DA GERAÇÃO Z
Authors: Matta Letícia Hermsdorff da , Carvalho Neto Antônio Moreira de , Diniz Daniela Martins
Published: July 2024

Este estudo teve como objetivo central identificar e analisar as razões que levam jovens pertencentes à Geração Z a se desligarem voluntariamente das organizações. De caráter qualitativo, o estudo envolveu a realização de doze entrevistas com profissionais pertencentes à Geração Z que trabalham em empresas brasileiras de grande porte. Os resultados do estudo revelam que os principais fatores de desligamento, na perspectiva dos jovens, foram: i) o desalinhamento entre valores pessoais e organizacionais; ii) poucas oportunidades de crescimento na empresa; e iii) líderes autocráticos que não dialogam e desenvolvem o seu time. Importante destacar que os fatores apontados pelos jovens estão mais vinculados a aspectos da dimensão organizacional. O entendimento sobre o que importa para os jovens profissionais contribui para a formulação de políticas e práticas de retenção mais efetivas e voltadas para esse público em específico, que é a força de trabalho mais recente a ingressar no mercado.
Bubrežna funkcija tijekom i nakon onkološkog liječenja
Authors: Abdovic Slaven
Published: July 2024

Not necessary.
Shape/Shift: Imagining a Discipline of Care through Mutual Aid
Authors: Kost Kiley , Neuman Nichole M.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: How can a mutual aid network reshape German studies to challenge structural inequities and difficulties, and to create meaningful communities of care that generate sustainable support? In this contribution we reflect on the work of the Diversity, Decolonization, and the German Curriculum mutual aid network by outlining key components of mutual aid, focusing on basic principles, notions of deprogramming, and the barriers of asking for help. Expanding networks of radical kinship necessarily entails questioning the systems that frame the field of German studies in favor of a temporality of care. It also requires implementing a flat, nonhierarchical relational structure that empowers all collective, network, and action group members. We also consider mutual aid’s potential to fundamentally shift the field by focusing on communities that sustain and inspire. We conclude our contribution with an invitation to Feminist German Studies readers to join us in shaping our disciplines in our mutual aid network.
Radical Care in the Neoliberal Institution: Two Administrators in Conversation
Authors: Herrmann Mareike , Stewart Alexandra M.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Institutions of higher education are increasingly marked by neoliberal strategies of operation and transaction, when both the institutions and the students ask how they can get the most return on their investment. The rhetoric of “crisis” in higher education is often used to delay care work and diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ) initiatives, further taxing exhausted individuals and prioritizing profit over people. In this conversation, two administrators at primarily undergraduate institutions ask what role care can play as a radical tool to disrupt neoliberal thinking and center relationships with their colleagues and students. Despite the inherent conflict between capitalism and care, the authors argue, strategies of care—which can include supporting faculty, slowing down, arguing against curricular cuts, furthering DEIJ work, and pursuing joy—can meet the needs of the people who make the institutions.
Examining Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Implementation in Great Plains Schools
Authors: Feusner Chelsea M. , Witte Amanda L. , Rangel-Pacheco Abril , Teahon Michael
Published: July 2024

abstract: Schools are challenged to respond to the rise in student needs by offering more support for academics, behavior, and social-emotional needs. A Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) framework aims to support continuous school improvement for all students and provide robust interventions and programs to support students in multiple areas of education. Scholars report that while MTSS is increasingly adopted by schools as an improvement model, little is known about how well MTSS is implemented. Although implementation may vary from state to state and from district to district, understanding the challenges and anticipating barriers will support continued implementation. This study examined educators’ reports of MTSS implementation. Differences between elementary and secondary implementation and individual MTSS essential components implementation were also explored. Participants included nine administrators and 38 teachers in a rural school district in a subregion of the Great Plains of the United States. Educators reported moderate rates of implementation of the MTSS essential components. Significant differences in overall MTSS implementation scores were found between elementary and secondary respondents, with elementary participants reporting higher levels of implementation.
The prioritisation of curable sexually transmitted infections among pregnant women in Zambia and Papua New Guinea: Qualitative insights
Authors: Vallely Lisa M. , Kapungu Kelvin , Mengi Alice , Chaponda Mike , Chico R. Matthew , Riddell Michaela A. , Vallely Andrew J. , Pomat William , Cignacco Eva , Low Nicola , Kelly-Hanku Angela
Published: July 2024

Curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are neglected in public health policy, services and society at large. Effective interventions are available for some STI but seem not to be prioritised at global, regional or local levels. Zambia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have a high burden of STIs among pregnant women but little is known about the prioritisation of STI treatment and care among this group. We undertook a qualitative study to explore how STIs are prioritised among pregnant women in local health systems in Zambia and PNG. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 key informants—health care workers providing antenatal care, and policy and programme advisers across the two countries. Audio recordings were transcribed and translated into English and stored, managed, and coded in NVivo v12. Analysis used deductive and inductive thematic analysis. Findings were coded against the World Health Organization health system building blocks. Participants spoke about the stigma of STIs at the community level. They described a broad understanding of morbidity associated with undiagnosed and untreated STIs in pregnant women. The importance of testing and treating STIs in pregnancy was well recognised but many spoke of constraints in providing these services due to stock outs of test kits for HIV and syphilis and antibiotics. In both settings, syndromic management remains the mainstay for treating curable STIs. Clinical practice and treatment were not in alignment with current STI guidelines in either country, with participants recognising the need for mentorship and in-service training, as well as the availability of commodities to support their clinical practice. Local disruptions to screening and management of syphilis, HIV and other curable STIs were widely reported in both countries. There is a need to galvanise priority at national and regional levels to ensure ongoing access to supplies needed to undertake STI testing and treatment.
Bayesian model selection for COVID-19 pandemic state estimation using extended Kalman filters: Case study for Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alyami Lamia , Das Saptarshi , Townley Stuart
Published: July 2024

Quantifying the uncertainty in data-driven mechanistic models is fundamental in public health applications. COVID-19 is a complex disease that had a significant impact on global health and economies. Several mathematical models were used to understand the complexity of the transmission dynamics under different hypotheses to support the decision-making for disease management. This paper highlights various scenarios of a 6D epidemiological model known as SEIQRD (Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Quarantined-Recovered-Deceased) to evaluate its effectiveness in prediction and state estimation during the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. Then we investigate the suitability of the classical 4D epidemiological model known as SIRD (Susceptible-Infected-Recovered-Deceased) in the long-term behaviour in order to make a comparison between these models. The primary aim of this paper is to establish a foundational basis for the validity and epidemiological model comparisons in long-term behaviour which may help identify the degree of model complexity that is required based on two approaches viz. the Bayesian inference employing the nested sampling algorithm and recursive state estimation utilizing the Extended Kalman Filter (EKF). Our approach acknowledges the potential imperfections and uncertainties inherent in compartmental epidemiological models. By integrating our proposed methodology, these models can consistently generate predictions closely aligned with the observed data on active cases and deaths. This framework, implemented within the EKF algorithm, offers a robust tool for addressing future, unknown pandemics. Moreover, we present a systematic methodology for time-varying parameter estimation along with uncertainty quantification using Saudi Arabia COVID-19 data and obtain the credible confidence intervals of the epidemiological nonlinear dynamical system model parameters.
Association between SII and markers of liver injury: A cross-sectional study from the NHANES (2017–2020)
Authors: Zhang Xu-Feng , Qin Yu-Yan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

A novel indicator of inflammation is the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and liver dysfunction is linked to the advancement of inflammation. In light of this, this study aims to look into any potential connections between SII and markers of liver injury.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using the National Health and Nutrition Examination (NHANES) dataset for 2017–2020. The linear relationship between SII and markers of liver injury was examined using multiple linear regression models. Examining threshold effects and fitted smoothed curves were utilized to describe nonlinear connections.

Results

A total of 8213 adults aged 18–80 years participated in this population-based study. In the fully adjusted model, SII maintained a negative association with ALT(β = -0.003, 95%CI:-0.005, -0.002, P<0.00001), AST(β = -0.004, 95% CI:-0.005, -0.002, P<0.00001), and GGT(β = -0.004, 95% CI:-0.007, -0.000, P = 0.03791) and a positive association with ALP (β = 0.005, 95% CI:0.003, 0.007, P<0.00001). In subgroup analyses, it was found that SII remained negatively correlated with ALT, AST and GGT in gender, age and body mass index. SII was positively correlated with ALP at BMI≥25(kg/m2)(β = 0.005, 95% CI:0.003, 0.008, P = 0.00001), and was negatively correlated with ALT(β = -0.004, 95% CI:-0.005, -0.002, P<0.00001), AST(β = -0.004, 95% CI:-0.005, -0.003, P<0.00001) and GGT(β = -0.004, 95% CI:-0.008, -0.000, P = 0.02703) at BMI≥25, whereas no significant correlation was observed at BMI<25 (all P-values>0.05). Furthermore, the association between SII and markers of liver injury was nonlinear. By using a two-stage linear regression model for analysis, a U-shaped relationship was found to exist between SII and ALT with a turning point of 818.40(1,000 cells/μl). The inflection points of SII with AST and GGT were 451.20 (1,000 cells/μl) and 443.33 (1,000 cells/μl), respectively, and no significant inflection point with ALP was observed. Interaction tests demonstrated that SII correlation with ALT, AST, ALP, and GGT was not significantly different between strata (all p for interaction>0.05).

Conclusions

The research findings suggested that there was a negative correlation between SII and ALT, AST and GGT, and a positive correlation with ALP. However, larger prospective investigations are still greatly needed to confirm the findings.
Botanical formulation HX110B ameliorates PPE-induced emphysema in mice via regulation of PPAR/RXR signaling pathway
Authors: Lee Soojin , Lee Chang Hyung , Lee Jungkyu , Jeong Yoonseon , Park Jong-Hyung , Nam In-Jeong , Lee Doo Suk , Lee Hyun Myung , Ahn Soo-Yeon , Kim Eujung , Jeong Seungyeon , Yu Seung-Shin , Lee Wonwoo
Published: July 2024

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), an inflammatory lung disease, causes approximately 3 million deaths each year; however, its pathological mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we examined whether HX110B, a mixture of Taraxacum officinale, Dioscorea batatas, and Schizonepeta tenuifolia extracts, could suppress porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE)-induced emphysema in mice and its mechanism of action. The therapeutic efficacy of HX110B was tested using a PPE-induced emphysema mouse model and human bronchial epithelial cell line BEAS-2B. In vivo data showed that the alveolar wall and air space expansion damaged by PPE were improved by HX110B administration. HX110B also effectively suppresses the expression levels of pro-inflammatory mediators including IL-6, IL-1β, MIP-2, and iNOS, while stimulating the expression of lung protective factors such as IL-10, CC16, SP-D, and sRAGE. Moreover, HX110B improved the impaired OXPHOS subunit gene expression. In vitro analysis revealed that HX110B exerted its effects by activating the PPAR-RXR signaling pathways. Overall, our data demonstrated that HX110B could be a promising therapeutic option for COPD treatment.