bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dromoelimination: Accelerating settler colonialism in Palestine
Authors: Ghantous Wassim , Joronen Mikko
Published: April 2022

This paper examines the eliminatory speed of Israeli settler colonialism, particularly the ways in which settler organizations aim to accelerate the pace of elimination at the colonial frontiers in Palestine. We show, by focusing on the settler NGO Regavim, how such settler entrepreneurs constantly develop new techniques that challenge the slow and creeping eliminatory pace of state’s administrative, legal and security bodies with an intensifying eliminatory speed we call ‘dromoelimination’. By closely elaborating the ongoing events in the West Bank village of Susiya, we argue that dromoelimination operates, firstly, through accelerative state-settler dynamics that traverses beyond the eliminatory functions of the state while at the same time fundamentally reconfiguring them; and secondly, by turning Palestinian life and struggle against dispossession, forced displacement and destruction increasingly vulnerable to intensified temporalities of ‘depleting time’. Settler colonialism, we contend, becomes comprehensible in a more tangible, complex and spatially nuanced terms when looked through the speed and pace of its movement: that is, through intensified and accelerated eliminatory rhythms – of dromoelimination.
Effect of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with gastric hepatoid adenocarcinoma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Sun Yansha , Chang Wanhua , Yao Juan , Liu Haiyan , Zhang Xiaofei , Wang Wei , Zhao Kun
Published: April 2022

Gastric hepatoid adenocarcinoma (GHAC) is a highly aggressive histological subtype of gastric cancer (GC) with similar tissue morphology to hepatocellular carcinoma. GHAC frequently produces alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and has a poor prognosis; however, standardized treatment remains elusive. We report a male patient in his early 60s with GHAC who received immunotherapy, and the curative effect was evaluated. He was admitted because of progressive fatigue and dizziness for 2 months. He had experienced spontaneous epigastric pain with muscular defense of the epigastrium and accompanying tenderness 1 year earlier and underwent radical gastrectomy. Immunohistochemistry showed that hepatocyte-specific marker (Hep) was highly-expressed, indicating probable GHAC. Additionally, imaging suggested GC recurrence or gastric stump cancer. Radioimmunoassay indicated an AFP level of >1210.00 µg/L, and liver biopsy was performed following abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography. Pathology showed a few hepatocytes and proliferative fibrous connective tissue. The patient received three cycles of chemotherapy, with no obvious improvement. The possibility of surgical treatment was excluded, and immunotherapy or palliative treatment was selected. He received 11 cycles of a programed death-1 (PD-1) monoclonal antibody, and the effect of treatment was satisfactory. The mechanism of action of immunotherapy in GHAC warrants further investigation.
Rapid subcutaneous progression after immunotherapy in pretreated patients with metastatic carcinoma: two case reports
Authors: Da Yong , Shen Ge , Zhou Ming , Wang Tao , Dong Dapeng , Bu Lina , Shao Yun , Sun Qiyun , Yu Ruoying
Published: April 2022

There is heterogeneity in cancer patients’ responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), including hyperprogression, which is very rapid tumor progression following immunotherapy, and pseudoprogression, which is an initial increase followed by a decrease in tumor burden or in the number of tumor lesions. This heterogeneity complicates clinical decisions because either premature withdrawal of the treatment or prolonged ineffective treatment harms patients. We presented two patients treated with ICIs with heterogeneous responses. One patient had Merkel cell carcinoma in the right thigh, and the other had nasopharyngeal squamous carcinoma. The first patient was treated with sintilimab and the second with sintilimab combined with abraxane. In the first patient, subcutaneous lesions grew substantially after the first cycle of treatment with sintilimab. In the second patient, subcutaneous lesions grew gradually after the second cycle of treatment with sintilimab combined with abraxane. In both cases, biopsy examination confirmed that newly emerged lesions were metastases of the primary tumor. These two cases remind clinicians that when subcutaneous nodules appear after treatment with ICIs, pathological biopsy is needed to determine the nature—pseudoprogression or rapid progression—of the disease course.
Differential diagnostic value of the ResNet50, random forest, and DS ensemble models for papillary thyroid carcinoma and other thyroid nodules
Authors: Deng Chengwen , Han Dongyan , Feng Ming , Lv Zhongwei , Li Dan
Published: April 2022

Objective To explore the differential diagnostic efficiency of the residual network (ResNet)50, random forest (RF), and DS ensemble models for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and other pathological types of thyroid nodules.

Methods This study retrospectively analyzed 559 patients with thyroid nodules and collected thyroid pathological images and auxiliary examination results (laboratory and ultrasound results) to construct datasets. The pathological image dataset was used to train a ResNet50 model, the text dataset was used to train a random forest (RF) model, and a DS ensemble model was constructed from the results of the two models. The differential diagnostic values of the three models for PTC and other types of thyroid nodules were then compared.

Results The DS ensemble model had the highest sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (85.87%, 97.18%, 93.77%, and 0.982, respectively).

Conclusions Compared with Resnet50 and the RF models trained only on imaging data or text information, respectively, the DS ensemble model showed better diagnostic value for PTC.
Comparison of Infrazygomatic Crest Dimension Above Mesiobuccal Roots of Maxillary Molars in South Indian Subjects: A Retrospective Cone Beam Computed Tomography Study
Authors: Murugesan Arathi , Jain Ravindra Kumar
Published: April 2022

Aim and Objective:

The aim of the study was to compare the full-depth bone thickness and the cortical bone thickness in the infrazygomatic crest (IZC) region above the mesiobuccal (MB) root of maxillary first molar and second molar and thus find the ideal site for the placement of IZC screw.

Materials and Methods:

Pretreatment cone-beam computed tomography images of 30 orthodontic patients were collected and IZC bone thickness and cortical bone thickness were measured above the MB root of maxillary first and second molar at an angle of 70° to the molar occlusal plane. Measurements were done on both right and left sides. Independent sample t test was done to compare the bone thickness between the right and left sides and also to compare the bone thickness above the first and the second molar.

Results:

Mean bone thickness at the IZC region of 5.48 ± 2.2 mm and 7.78 ± 2.35 mm and a cortical bone thickness of 2.24 ± 0.46 mm and 2.13 ± 0.46 mm was obtained above the MB root of maxillary first molar and second molar, respectively. IZC bone thickness was significantly higher above the second molar than above the first molar ( P < .001), whereas there was no significant difference in the cortical bone thickness measured on both the sites ( P = .22).

Conclusion:

Significantly higher IZC bone thickness was noted above the MB root of the maxillary second molar, which may ensure better stability and safety of the miniscrew.
The prevalence of headache disorders in Postural Tachycardia Syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature
Authors: Ray Jason C , Pham Xiuxian , Foster Emma , Cheema Sanjay , Corcoran Susan J , Matharu Manjit S , Hutton Elspeth J
Published: April 2022

Background

Headache is a common presentation of postural tachycardia syndrome, yet robust prevalence data is lacking.

Objectives

To undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the prevalence of headache disorders in postural tachycardia syndrome, and to explore the potential shared pathophysiological mechanisms that underpin these conditions as well as treatment options.

Methods

Three databases were searched for publications evaluating prevalence of migraine (primary outcome) and general and orthostatic headache (secondary outcomes) in patients with postural tachycardia syndrome. Two independent reviewers selected studies and extracted data. A random-effects meta-analysis calculated the pooled prevalence of migraine in postural tachycardia syndrome. A narrative literature review explored the pathophysiology and treatment options for concurrent headache disorders and postural tachycardia syndrome.

Results

Twenty-three articles met inclusion criteria. Estimated pooled prevalence of migraine in postural tachycardia syndrome was 36.8% (95% CI 2.9–70.7%). Various shared pathophysiological pathways for these conditions, as well as proposed treatment strategies, were identified. Limitations: Heterogeneity of study design, populations, and methodology for identifying headache disorders and postural tachycardia syndrome limited the generalisability of results.

Conclusions

Migraine is a commonly reported comorbidity in POTS, however the true prevalence cannot be determined from the current literature. Further studies are required to assess this comorbidity and investigate the underlying mechanisms, as well as identify effective treatment strategies.
Adverse Childhood Experiences and Intimate Partner Violence Among Youth in Cambodia: A Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Miedema Stephanie S. , Le Vi Donna , Chiang Laura , Ngann Thanak , Wu Shortt Joann
Published: April 2022

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are a global public health problem, including in low- and middle-income country settings, and are associated with increased risk of intimate partner violence (IPV) during young adulthood. However, current measurement of ACEs may underestimate sequelae of different combinations, or classes, of ACEs and mask class-specific associations with adult exposure to IPV. We used data among ever-partnered young women and men aged 18–24 years from the Cambodia Violence Against Children Survey ( Nw = 369; Nm = 298). Participants retrospectively reported on seven ACEs and lifetime physical and/or sexual IPV victimization and perpetration. Latent classes comprised of ACEs were used as predictors of physical and/or sexual IPV perpetration and victimization, controlling for household wealth. Identified latent classes for women were “Low ACEs” (60%), “Community Violence and Physical Abuse” (23%), and “Physical, Sexual and Emotional Abuse” (17%). Latent classes for men were “Low ACEs” (48%) and “Household and Community Violence” (52%). Among women, those in the Physical, Sexual and Emotional Abuse class were more likely to experience and perpetrate physical and/or sexual IPV in their romantic relationships compared to the reference group (Low ACEs). Women in the Community Violence and Physical Abuse class were more likely to perpetrate physical and/or sexual IPV, but not experience IPV, compared to women in the Low ACEs class. Among men, those in the Household and Community Violence class were more likely to perpetrate physical and/or sexual IPV against a partner, compared to men in the Low ACEs class. Overall, patterns of ACEs were differently associated with IPV outcomes among young women and men in Cambodia. National violence prevention efforts might consider how different combinations of childhood experiences shape risk of young adulthood IPV and tailor interventions accordingly to work with youth disproportionately affected by varied combinations of ACEs.
“Mimicked Winks”: Criminalized Conduct and the Ethics of Thick Description
Authors: O’Donnell Goldensher Liora
Published: April 2022

Thick description has long been the standard for both credibility and quality in ethnographic, community action, and participatory observation research across the disciplines, but I argue that researchers have an ethical obligation to consider when to decline to describe thickly. When ethnographers write about actions their informants took that broke, skirted, or challenged laws and rules in service of meeting their own basic needs, anonymization is not enough. We risk drawing the attention of law enforcement or hostile regulators to whole communities employing those practices, rendering their future actions more highly policeable or criminalizable—even if we do not intend to do so, and even if we adequately conceal the identities of the particular individuals described. I suggest five principles for ethical description of criminalized or policeable conduct: justified disclosure, substituting thick description of evidence of a practice for description of the practice itself, balancing thickness with thinness, telling stories when the risks of criminalization are decreasing, and narrating affinities with less-surveilled practices.
Investigation of analysis and improvement of the assessment of bonding performance for thermoplastic composites
Authors: Liu Hongquan , Li Yong , Huan Dajun , Zeng Dan , Chen Xiaodong , Wang Wuqiang , Xiao Jun , Li Yanrui , Jiao Yang
Published: April 2022

A lap shear test is employed to evaluate the interfacial bonding strength between unidirectional CF/PEEK tapes as quantification of bonding quality. In this study, a novel tab is proposed to ameliorate bonding testing. The crucial role of developed tabs is to avoid the adherend fracture that is typically observed in specimens with conventional tabs. Specimens with different tab, bonding processes, and lap lengths are prepared and tested. Moreover, theoretical analysis is conducted to predict bonding strength, and finite element simulations are also performed for stress distribution in these specimens with different types of tabs. The experimental and theoretical results demonstrate that the full tab is employed in the bonding test, the stress concentration reduces nearly by 6 times, and the failure mode coincides with the expected requirement. Additionally, the highest estimation of bonding strength increases nearly by 69%, and is approximately consistent with the theoretical calculation, up to 98.6%. This tab configuration, with low dependence on processes and joint parameters, describes a straightforward and efficient procedure to meliorate the quantification of the bonding strength, and is found to be applicable in the tape placement process and single-lap-joint assemblies for thermoplastic composites.
Why Do People Choose Different Social Media Platforms? Linking Use Motives With Social Media Affordances and Personalities
Authors: Chen Meng , Peng Altman Yuzhu
Published: April 2022

Drawing on uses and gratifications (U&G) theory, the current research investigates how social media users exploit different media affordances to satisfy their motives and how such motives are shaped by their personalities. A cross-sectional survey among college students ( N = 190) was conducted to examine their most frequently used social media platforms, use motives, and perceived media affordances. Their personalities were also assessed along the Big Five and narcissism. An exploratory factor analysis yielded five broad categories of social media use motives. Structural equation modeling results revealed that social media use motives were differentially associated with affordances and that personalities play an influential role in shaping individuals’ use motives and affordance preferences. The findings are discussed in relation to the theoretical contributions to the U&G approach as well as the practical implications to social media platform design and development.
A study of vertical tie reaction forces in ballasted railroad tracks through field instrumentation and numerical modeling
Authors: Rabbi Md Fazle , Bruzek Radim , Sussmann Theodore R , Thompson Hugh B , Mishra Debakanta
Published: April 2022

This manuscript presents findings from an ongoing research study at Oklahoma State University studying different factors that affect vertical tie reaction forces in ballasted railroad tracks. A combined approach involving field instrumentation and numerical modeling has been adopted for this purpose. Measurements of tie reactions can indicate the load distribution patterns and quality of vertical support along a track. Locations where tie support conditions are not adequate can develop geometry defects, ultimately leading to component failure. Three different approaches are adopted in this study to measure the forces being transmitted through the rail-tie interface; this is equal to the tie reaction force. The field instrumentation effort validates an alternative method to measure forces at the rail-tie interface using rail-mounted strain gauges. Results from this approach are compared to two other conventional methods of force measurement, i.e. through the use of load cells (LC), and an instrumented tie plate (ITP). A validated 3-dimensional Finite Element (FE) model is used to support the field-observed trends, and explain any observed discrepancy. Parametric analyses using the FE model identify different factors that can contribute to the rail-tie interaction force, thus affecting the instrumentation results. The strain gauge-based approach, using the concept of differential shear strain measurement, has been established as a suitable method for tie reaction force measurement. Exact measurement of the tie reaction force can be ensured through proper installation of the strain gauges, away from possible boundary effects.
A study of wheel wear on a high-speed railway motor car
Authors: Sang Hutang , Zeng Jing , Gan Feng , Mu Jian , Qi Yayun
Published: April 2022

Wheel/rail wear is one of the key issues in the safe operation of a high-speed railway motor car. This paper analyzes and predicts the wheel wear evolution of motor car during the long-term operation process. Firstly, the detailed motor car with gear transmission systems and trailer car of the high-speed train, which take into account various non-linear factors such as dampers, bump stops, wheel/rail contact relation, etc., are developed to obtain interaction force between wheel and rail. Secondly, according to the tread update strategy based on fixed travel distance, a novel wheel wear prediction model integrating the Archard wear model and previous dynamics system is established. In order to more accurately obtain the dynamic responses of the motor car, the comprehensive gear transmission system coupling with motor bogie is also built, which considers the time-varying mesh stiffness and gear shift coefficient. And the corresponding traction characteristic curve is also applied to the gear transmission system. Finally, the wheel wear evolution in one re-profiling cycle is simulated to verify the developed model, and the wheel wear mechanism is investigated in detail. Furthermore, the influence of traction velocity on wheel wear is also investigated. The simulation shows that the cumulative wear amount of both two cars increases gradually and the wear rate decreases gradually with traveling mileage, but the wear rate of the trailer car decreases faster than that of the motor car due to larger longitudinal creepage and longitudinal creep force induced by traction torque. Moreover, the max wheel wear depth and wear bandwidth for motor car gradually increase with traction velocity. While the discrepancies of the max wheel wear depth and wear bandwidth for trailer car are small under different speeds.
Effects of the number of blades on impeller-volute interaction and flow instability of a centrifugal pump
Authors: Shim Hyeon-Seok , Kim Kwang-Yong
Published: April 2022

Effects of the number of blades on the impeller-volute interaction and flow instability were studied for a centrifugal pump. The hydraulic performance and time-dependent flow field were analyzed by using the unsteady three-dimensional Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations with the k-ω based shear stress transport turbulence model. The grid dependence and temporal resolution were tested to evaluate the numerical uncertainties, and the numerical results were validated using experimental data. As the performance parameters, the stage total-to-static head coefficient, the impeller total-to-static head coefficient, and the volute static pressure recovery coefficient were selected to classify the cause of the impeller-volute interaction and flow instability observed inside components. Using the fast Fourier transform, fluctuations of the performance parameters were divided into three categories: the blade passing frequency and its harmonic frequencies, the fluctuations in the broadband frequency region, and the fluctuations in the low-frequency region. The results showed that the fluctuations of the performance parameters and local pressure were affected in various ways by the number of blades. The time-dependent flow structure was investigated to study the root causes of the differences in the impeller-volute interaction and flow instability by the number of blades.
Constructing COVID-19: A corpus-informed analysis of prime ministerial crisis response communication by gender
Authors: Power Kate , Crosthwaite Peter
Published: April 2022

This paper compares Australian and New Zealand Prime Ministers’ crisis response communication about COVID-19. We examine how gender performativity and contextual factors contribute to each leader’s discursive ‘style’ at the lexical level, and explore micro-diachronic changes as the pandemic unfolded. Informed by corpus linguistics approaches, we analysed written texts published on each leader’s website between January and December 2020, using Scattertext to visualise lexical differences between each leader’s corpus, and mapping frequencies against coronavirus case numbers in each country. Guided by these results, closer qualitative analysis reveals that whereas Jacinda Ardern quickly established and maintained a consistent and highly personalised style in guiding New Zealanders through the pandemic, Scott Morrison’s messaging was both less personal and more reactive to the epidemic curve. However, despite some traces of stereotypically gendered language, neither leader made gender salient in their COVID-19 crisis response communication.
Components of the Mobile Social Networking Sites Addiction Scale and Its Relationship with Social Overload and Religiosity
Authors: Maduku Daniel K.
Published: April 2022

The present study aims at adapting and validating the Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale (BFAS) for mobile social networking site (MSNS) addiction in the context of a developing country. The study further examines the role of social overload and religiosity in MSNS addiction. A cross-sectional survey was used to obtain data from a sample of 557 MSNS users in South Africa. The psychometric properties of the adaptation of the BFAS for MSNS addiction were robustly assessed using the structural equation modelling technique. The results suggest a five-factor addiction component model for MSNS addiction with excellent psychometric properties. Given that much of the existing literature suggests a six-factor behavioural addiction component model for SNS addiction, the findings of the present study contribute new insights into the literature and reinforce the need for far-reaching cross-cultural validation scales beyond their original contexts. Furthermore, the findings of the study make an original contribution to the literature by explaining how social overload mediates the impact of religiosity on users who are addicted to MSNS.
The Co-Existence of Micronodular Thymoma and Lymphoma: A Clinicopathological and Immunohistochemical Study of Two Cases
Authors: Alqaidy Doaa , Moran Cesar A.
Published: April 2022

Two cases with the co-existence of micronodular thymoma and lymphoma are presented. The patients are two female patients 54 and 60 years of age who presented with symptoms of chest pain, general malaise, cough, and dyspnea. Diagnostic imaging demonstrated the presence of an anterior mediastinal mass. Initial biopsy was interpreted as an epithelial neoplasm compatible with thymoma. Surgical resection took place demonstrating the presence of micronodular thymoma in both cases. In addition, in both cases the lymphoid proliferation infiltrated surrounding adipose tissue. However, in one case the lymphoid proliferation was composed of atypical lymphocytes with irregular nuclei and increase mitotic activity positive for CD3 and TDT, while in the second case, the lymphoid proliferation was composed of more mature lymphocytes with a monocytoid appearance and positive for CD20. Both of these cases represent an unusual association and one that must be kept in the differential diagnosis especially in cases of micronodular thymoma.
Radiation Induced Liver Injury: Collateral Damage Radiologically Simulating Interval Metastasis in Carcinoma Esophagus; a Diagnostic Dilemma Resolved Through Liver Biopsy
Authors: Bakshi Neha , Chand Vineeta , Sangal Rishu , Duggal Rajan
Published: April 2022

F-18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18-FDG PET/CT) is increasingly being used in patients with cancer, both for baseline staging and for evaluation of treatment response. However, in patients with incidental irradiation of the liver during radiotherapy, particularly for lower gastrointestinal tract cancers, increased focal F-18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography avidity may be the result of collateral radiation induced liver damage rather than metastases. Awareness of this pathologic entity and correlation with with other imaging, clinical and laboratory findings including liver biopsy is vital to avoid misinterpretation and overstaging of the carcinoma in these patients. We encountered such a scenario in an elderly female patient with distal esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patient, who developed F-18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography avid left lobe liver lesion post neoadjuvant radiotherapy, simulating interval metastasis. A liver biopsy ruled out malignancy and helped to clinch the correct diagnosis of radiation induced liver injury.
Buddies as In-Group Influencers in Online Support Groups: A Social Network Analysis of Processes and Outcomes
Authors: Esmaeeli Ali , Pechmann Cornelia (Connie) , Prochaska Judith J.
Published: April 2022

Buddies, serving as in-group influencers to aid demographically similar cobuddies, are extensively used in face-to-face support groups to enhance positive social influence. The authors examine the efficacy of buddies in online support groups and investigate underlying mediating processes using social network analysis. They observe what happens when members of support groups for quitting smoking, including members who are relatively active and less active in the group, after a few days are called on to be buddies and assigned to specific cobuddies. The findings indicate that, consistent with normative expectations for buddies, members form especially strong ties with their designated cobuddies. The more active buddies are in the group, the stronger the ties they form with their cobuddies and, in turn, their cobuddies form stronger ties with group members overall, which then relates to cobuddy goal attainment. The findings suggest that interactive marketers should consider using buddies in online support groups but observe activity levels before making buddy assignments, because positive outcomes are contingent on buddies being active in the group. Marketers should also ensure that online support group members post to everyone, not just their buddies, because ties formed among group members as a whole are crucial for goal attainment.
Knowledge, attitudes and influencers of cat owners in North America around antimicrobials and antimicrobial stewardship
Authors: Stein Madeleine R , Weese J Scott , Stull Jason W , McClure J Trenton , Evason Michelle
Published: April 2022

Objectives

The primary aims of this study were to determine preferences of North American cat owners when they are prescribed an antimicrobial for their cat with regard to cost, method of administration and the importance of antibiotics for treating infections in people, and to establish baseline knowledge, attitudes and influencers of cat owners on antimicrobial resistance and stewardship.

Methods

An online questionnaire was used for data collection from two cat-owner groups: US cat owners and Canadian cat owners. Participants were queried on antimicrobial resistance and stewardship, and their preferences for their own cat when prescribed an antimicrobial, with respect to cost, method of drug administration and the importance of a drug for treating infections in people. Responses were evaluated through conjoint analysis and Likert-type questions. Data were analyzed using descriptive and analytic statistics.

Results

A total of 630 complete responses were included in the final analysis. Cost (37%) and method of administration (38%) were of similar participant preference when assessed using conjoint analysis. The importance of a drug for treating infections in people was lower priority (21%). The majority of cat owners preferred an antimicrobial that was ‘very important’ in treating human infections. A low proportion (21%) of participants responded that antimicrobial use in pets posed a risk to humans. Participants with a university education were more likely to respond that antimicrobial use in pets was a concern for people (31%; P <0.001).

Conclusions and relevance

Cat owners prioritize antimicrobial cost and method of administration equally. Few cat owners recognized the human antimicrobial resistance risks associated with antimicrobial use in pets.
Cytokines in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Master Regulators With Clinical Application
Authors: Puchenkova Olesya A , Soldatov Vladislav O , Belykh Andrei E , Bushueva OlgaYu , Piavchenko Gennadii A , Venediktov Artem A , Shakhpazyan Nikolay K , Deykin Alexey V , Korokin Mikhail V , Pokrovskiy Mikhail V
Published: April 2022

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a potentially life-threatening disorder with a mostly asymptomatic course where the abdominal aorta is weakened and bulged. Cytokines play especially important roles (both positive and negative) among the molecular actors of AAA development. All the inflammatory cascades, extracellular matrix degradation and vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis are driven by cytokines. Previous studies emphasize an altered expression and a changed epigenetic regulation of key cytokines in AAA tissue samples. Such cytokines as IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-17, IL-33, IL-1β, TGF-β, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and CXCL10 seem to be crucial in AAA pathogenesis. Some data obtained in animal studies show a protective function of IL-10, IL-33, and canonical TGF-β signaling, as well as a dual role of IL-4, IFN-γ and CXCL10, while TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12/IL-23, IL-17, CCR2, CXCR2, CXCR4 and the TGF-β noncanonical pathway are believed to aggravate the disease. Altogether data highlight significance of cytokines as informative markers and predictors of AAA. Pathologic serum/plasma concentrations of IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-8, IL-17, IFN-γ, and PDGF have been already found in AAA patients. Some of the changes correlate with the size of aneurysms. Moreover, the risk of AAA is associated with polymorphic variants of genes encoding cytokines and their receptors: CCR2 (rs1799864), CCR5 (Delta-32), IL6 (rs1800796 and rs1800795), IL6R (rs12133641), IL10 (rs1800896), TGFB1 (rs1800469), TGFBR1 (rs1626340), TGFBR2 (rs1036095, rs4522809, rs1078985), and TNFA (rs1800629). Finally, 5 single-nucleotide polymorphisms in gene coding latent TGF-β-binding protein ( LTBP4) and an allelic variant of TGFB3 are related to a significantly slower AAA annual growth rate.
From Beginning to End: Expanding the SERINC3 Interactome Through an in silico Analysis
Authors: Tu Mckenzie , Saputo Sarah
Published: April 2022

The serine incorporator (SERINC) family of proteins are a family of multipass transmembrane proteins associated with biosynthesis of serine-containing phospholipids and sphingolipids. Humans have 5 paralogs, SERINC1-5, which have been linked to disease including variable expression in tumor lines and possessing activity as restriction factors against HIV-1. Despite recent studies, the cellular function of SERINC proteins have yet to be fully elucidated. The goal of this study as to investigate the role of SERINC3 by expanding upon its interactome. We used a variety of bioinformatic tools to identify cellular factors that interact with SERINC3 and assessed how sequence variation might alter these interactions. Analysis of the promoter region indicates that SERINC3 is putatively regulated by transcription factors involved in tissue-specific development. Analysis of the unique 3′-untranslated region of one variant of HsSERINC3 revealed that this region serves as a conserved site of regulation by both RNA binding proteins and miRNA. In addition, SERINC3 is putatively regulated at the protein level by several posttranslational modifications. Our results show that extra-membrane portions of SERINC3 are subject to variation in the coding sequence as well as areas of relatively low conservation. Overall, our data suggest that regions of low homology as well as presence of variations in the nucleotide and protein sequences of HsSERINC3 suggest that these variations may lead to aberrant function and alternative regulatory mechanisms in homologs. The functional consequences of these sequence and structural variations need to be explored systematically to fully appreciate the role of SERINC3 in both health and disease.
Nano-Clay and Iron Impregnated Clay Nanocomposite for Cu2+ and Pb2+ Ions Removal from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Tarekegn Mekonnen Maschal , Balakrishnan Raj Mohan , Hiruy Andualem Mekonnen , Dekebo Ahmed Hussen , Maanyam Hema Susmitha
Published: April 2022

Several physicochemical techniques have been widely studied for heavy metals removal despite most of them are associated with challenges of higher cost, accessibility, and complex technical feasibility. In this study, nano-sorbent materials were developed from a naturally available clay matrices and its heavy metals (Cu2+ and Pb2+) removal capacity was tested at its pristine and iron impregnated form. Both top to down and borohydride reduction methods were used to produce the nano-sorbents. The nano-sorbents were characterized by XRD, XRF, SEM, FTIR, BET, and TGA/DGA. The sorption was studied in batch experiments. The surface area, pore-volume, and pore diameter of nano-clay were found 43.49 m2/g, 0.104 cm3/g, and 2.81 nm, respectively while iron impregnated nano-clay has shown a surface area (73.11 m2/g), pore-volume (0.153 m3/g), and pore diameter (3.83 nm). Both nanoparticles have shown a mesoporous nature. The highest Cu2+ and Pb2+ removal capacity of nano-clay was 99.2% (~11.9 mg/g) and 99.6% (~11.95 mg/g), respectively. Whereas, the iron impregnated nano-clay has achieved the highest Cu2+ and Pb2+ removal efficiency 99.8% (~11.97 mg/g) and 99.7% (11.96 mg/g), respectively. The highest Cu2+ adsorption efficiency of iron impregnated nanoclay was achieved at pH 5.0, adsorbent dose 0.83 g/L, contact time 150 minutes, and Cu2+ initial concentration 4 ppm while its highest Pb2+ adsorption activity was achieved at pH 5.0, contact time (90 minutes), Pb2+ initial concentration (6 ppm), and the adsorbent dose (0.67 g/L). Whereas, the Cu2+ adsorption using nano-clay was highest at pH 5.0, contact time (180 minutes), adsorbent dose (1.0 g/L), and Cu2+ initial concentration (2 ppm). While, pH 5.0, contact time (90 minutes), adsorbent dose (0.83 g/L), and Pb2+ initial concentration (4 ppm) was found to the conditions of highest Pb2+ removal. In all cases, the pseudo-second-order kinetics indicated the presence of chemisorption. Langmuir adsorption characteristics has been reflected on Pb2+ and Cu2+ removal activities of the nanoclay and iron impregnated nanoclay, respectively. Whereas, Freundlich isotherm model was better fitted for Cu2+ adsorption activity of the nanoclay. The −ΔG (<−20 KJ/mol), + ΔH°, and + ΔS° have shown a spontaneous and endothermic adsorption activity with a high level of adsorbents disorder. In general, the result of iron impregnated nano-clay has shown a promising result for the removal of Cu2+ and Pb2+ aqueous solution.
Task repetition and corrective feedback via models and direct corrections among young EFL writers: Draft quality and task motivation
Authors: Roothooft Hanne , Lázaro-Ibarrola Amparo , Bulté Bram
Published: April 2022

Second language (L2) writing research has demonstrated that young learners discuss linguistic issues, make use of feedback, and show a generally positive disposition toward writing tasks. However, many issues deserve further investigation. Regarding task implementation, few studies have been conducted with young learners writing individually, and few have compared different feedback types. Also, the focus of analysis has mostly been placed on students’ discussions; little is known about aspects such as draft quality and task motivation. To address these gaps, draft quality and task motivation were measured in 75 learners (aged 10–12 years) engaged in a three-stage writing task. They were divided into a task repetition group ( n = 21), a group that received feedback via direct corrections ( n = 30), and a group that received feedback via model texts ( n = 24). Students’ drafts improved very slightly in complexity with task repetition; they significantly improved in accuracy with direct corrections, and also in lexical diversity and text quality with models. Task motivation remained high throughout the writing cycle in the task repetition group, where students found the task easy. However, it dropped slightly with direct corrections and – especially before the final draft, with models – which students deemed conducive to learning but difficult. Some pedagogical guidelines are discussed.
A mixed methods approach to exploring grammar learning strategies in self-regulation task phases: Evidence from grounded theory and regression analysis
Authors: Hassanzadeh Mohammad , Ranjbar Mostafa
Published: April 2022

While research into various dimensions of language learning strategies has been thriving over the recent years, grammar learning strategies (GLS) have largely remained under-explored. The present mixed methods research aimed to explore GLS in the three stages of classroom grammar tasks, while striving to determine the sequence of GLS and their contribution to grammar proficiency. In the qualitative phase, 13 participants partook in stimulated recall and semi-structured interviews after completing consciousness-raising (CR) tasks. Then, the grounded theory (GT) methodology was applied to conceptualize a theoretical model. For the quantitative phase, a modified version of Pawlak’s Grammar Learning Strategy Inventory and a grammar proficiency test were administered to 249 participants. The theoretical model of GT indicated that learners set goals and expected an outcome in the ‘forethought’ phase. Then, they employed strategies to pay attention to the form or meaning of the grammatical feature. Learners also attempted self-instruction by using facilitators in the ‘performance’ phase. Furthermore, their self-evaluation played an essential role in the ‘self-reflection’ phase. The results also indicated an interplay between the forethought and self-reflection phases, whereas the interaction between the performance phase and the other two phases appeared to be unidirectional. Additionally, it was revealed that GLS in the forethought and self-reflection phases as well as ‘total grammar strategy use’ significantly predicted grammar proficiency. The findings will serve classroom pedagogy via contributing to the body of knowledge about strategy instruction in general and GLS in particular.
Tungsten carbide material tribology and circular economy relationship in polymer and composites industries
Authors: Hussain Abrar , Podgursky Vitali , Antonov Maksim , Abbas Muhammad Mujtaba , Awan Muhammad Rizwan
Published: April 2022

The implementation of the circular economy concept in industries demands experimental and innovative investigations. The set of strategies and paradigms that express the theoretical base of the circular economy plays a vital role in the enhancement of the quality and performance of polymer and composite materials. In this article, tungsten carbide material is advanced for tribological investigations. The scanning electron microscope and an optical and mechanical profilometer were used for the analysis of cotton polymer and tungsten carbide ball surfaces. A newly developed tribometry technique was introduced to investigate the coefficient of friction, wear, and deformation. The cotton surface was found damaged and rough. The tungsten carbide balls showed low roughness and higher hardness. The average surface roughness parameters Ra, Rz, and Rp of tungsten carbide balls were 0.10, 0.15, and 0.20, respectively. The average friction constant values were found to be 0.12–0.15 in the perpendicular direction and 0.11–0.17 in the parallel direction. Reciprocation distance increment has been used for industrial optimization. The coefficient of friction remained constant and slightly deformed cotton polymer. Based on the friction values, deformation, wear, and morphology evaluations, tungsten carbide ceramic materials could be used operationally for surface alterations of industrial machinery parts. The results could also enhance the quality and performance of polymer and composite products.
Overcoming urban frontiers: Ordering Favela tourism actor-networks
Authors: Altamirano Maria Eugenia
Published: April 2022

This paper examines the multiple and heterogeneous, current and potential, relations between hybrid actors of tourism in Favela Santa Marta, Rio de Janeiro. It seeks to elucidate the legitimizing potential of tourists acting as “connectors” that reach beyond formal politics’ hindrances. This work applies assemblage theory epistemological framework, and Actor-Network Theory ethnomethodological tools, to explore the issues and roles questioned, altered, made visible, or transformed through favela tourists’ practices and performances. Hence, avoiding the ethical dilemmas and representational concerns from slum tourism researchers in the past. Our fieldwork engages with two favela tours. We follow tourists as they stitch hybrid actor-networks that create multiple orderings in such assemblages, and their material and semiotic configurations. Our research reveals that such tours could be related to different shifts in the favela’s political, social, economic, cultural, and material dimensions.
Who cares what the people think? Public attitudes and refugee protection in Europe
Authors: Ruhs Martin
Published: April 2022

This paper discusses why and how public attitudes should matter in regulating asylum and refugee protection in rich democracies, with a focus on Europe. Taking a realistic approach, I argue that public views constitute a soft feasibility constraint on effective and sustainable policies towards asylum seekers and refugees, and that a failure to take seriously and understand the attitudes of the host country’s population can have a very damaging effect on refugee protection and migrants’ rights in practice. Bringing together insights from political philosophy, the politics of asylum, and research on public attitudes, I develop my argument by discussing why ‘what the people think’ should matter in asylum and refugee polices; how public views can and should matter given the well-known challenges with measuring attitudes and policy preferences; and what the prevailing public views might mean for the reform of asylum and refugee policies in Europe.
An iterative morphological difference product wavelet for weak fault feature extraction in rolling bearing fault diagnosis
Authors: Guo Junchao , He Qingbo , Zhen Dong , Gu Fengshou , Ball Andrew D
Published: April 2022

Weak fault feature extraction is of great significance to the fault diagnosis of rolling bearing. At the early stage of defects, fault features are usually weak and easily submerged in strong background noise, which makes feature information extremely difficult to be excavated. This paper proposes an iterative morphological difference product wavelet (MDPW) to address this issue. In this scheme, firstly, the morphological difference product filter (MDPF) is developed using the combination morphological filter-hat transform operator and difference operator. The MDPF is then incorporated into a morphological undecimated wavelet to construct the MDPW, which can achieve noise suppression and fault feature enhancement. Subsequently, the optimal iteration numbers that influence the performance of MDPW is determined using the fault severity indicator, which effectively extracts periodic impulse related to the failure of rolling bearing. Finally, the fault identification is inferred by the occurrence of fault defect frequencies in the MDPW spectrum with the optimal iteration numbers. The validity of the iterative MDPW is evaluated through numerical simulations and experiment cases. The analysis results demonstrate that the iterative MDPW has higher diagnosis accuracy than existing algorithms (e.g., adaptive single-scale morphological wavelet and weighted multi-scale morphological wavelet). This research provides a new perspective for improving the weak fault feature extraction of rolling bearing.
Catch the Rhythm!
Authors: Eid Tore , Zaveri Hitten P.
Published: April 2022

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Evaluation of the morphology and chelating agent excess in the design of luminescent metalorganic framework of europium thenoyltrifluoroacetone
Authors: Medina-Velazquez Dulce-Yolotzin , Osorio-de-la-Rosa Edith , Colín Calderón Víctor Hugo , García Murillo Antonieta , Carrillo Romo Felipe-de-Jesús , Ruiz Guerrero Maria del Rosario
Published: April 2022

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have been synthesized using several elements, including the rare-earth. Research on luminescent diketones as an efficient alternative for the generation of OLEDs has increased in recent years, however, the evaluation of parameters such as morphology or excess of the cheating agent is not completely studied. In this work, the synthesis of thenoyltrifluoroacetone (TTA) combined with europium at the different chelating agent and rare earth ratio is presented, founding a change in morphology directed related with optical performance, structural analysis was performed using x-ray diffraction (XRD), and was observed a monoclinic structure in Eu 15% and Eu 20% samples. Morphological analysis was done with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The TTA5Eu sample presented an irregular morphology with nanometric particles embedded, the TTA15Eu had a morphology of agglomerated particles, and TTA20Eu sample the morphology changes radically to an angular morphology. Nanowires were present in the sample of 25% Eu3+. The chemical properties were determined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and the optical properties were measured by photoluminescence (FL). The results showed vibration bands and stretching of the thiophene group, without apparent change due to the chelation of the Eu3+.