bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A decolonial anthropology: You can dismantle the master’s house with the master’s tools
Authors: Venkatesan Soumhya , Ntarangwi Mwenda , Mills David , Gillespie Kelly , Davé Naisargi , Backhaus Vincent
Published: May 2024

The 2022 meeting of the Group for Debates in Anthropological Theory (GDAT) Social Anthropology, University of Manchester. The motion is, of course, a riff on Audre Lorde’s well-known 1984 claim that ‘the master’s tools will never dismantle the master’s house. They may allow us temporarily to beat him at his own game, but they will never enable us to bring about genuine change.’ Lorde is asking about the tools of a racist and constitutionally exclusionary world, but we can ask similar questions about the tools of an academic discipline, anthropology, which arose during the height of empire, and the house that anthropology has built and its location in the university. Are anthropology's tools able to dismantle a house built on oppression, exploitation and discrimination and then build a different better house? If not, then what kinds of other tools might we use, and what is it that we might want to build? The motion is proposed by David Mills and Mwenda Ntarangwi and opposed by Kelly Gillespie and Naisargi Davé with Soumhya Venkatesan convening and editing the debate for publication.
The Biblical Nesher as the Griffon Vulture, Gyps fulvus: Ornithological character traits
Authors: Cannon Fred S.
Published: May 2024

The biblical Nesher נֶשֶׁר is the Griffon Vulture ( Gyps fulvus). Both the biblical Nesher and ornithological Griffon are known for their ‘bald’ head, enormous wingspan, effortless flight, cliff nesting, devoted nurturing, rapid descent, and group feasting on carrion. From biblical times until the industrial age, Griffons have been ubiquitous in the Middle East but absent in northern Europe or the Americas. However, eagles commonly resided in northern Europe but are uncommon residents or pass-through migrants in the Middle East. Through millennia, when northern Europeans sought translations for biblical plant and animal names, they sometimes replaced Middle Eastern meanings with recognizable northern European ones. So the Nesher became known as the eagle to many northern Europeans and North Americans. However, recent Hebrew-speaking ornithologists concur that the Nesher is the Griffon. This distinction becomes important when gleaning nuances from biblical metaphors, clarifying kosher dietary regulations, and discerning genealogical connections among raptors.
Dreaming big: On expanding dreams, hubris, and the character of the biblical Joseph
Authors: Rabel Magnus
Published: May 2024

Dreams play a special role in the Joseph narrative. They are arranged in three pairs each and carry the story forward decisively. Joseph’s dreams in particular form a narrative framework for the central theme of the story: family conflicts and dominion. Again and again, it has been observed that while Joseph’s first dream comes true, his second does not correspond entirely to the events that transpire within the narrative. Contrary to the tendency to make this second dream equal to the first, or to exclude or reinterpret it in terms of literary criticism, this essay proposes that the second dream should be understood within the negative conception of the Joseph character in Genesis 37 as a sign of Joseph’s hubris and therefore as an exaggeration or even invention which Joseph himself manufactured.
Understanding Consumer Adoption of Light-Duty Electric Vehicles: An Interdisciplinary Literature Review
Authors: Dcosta Jeronimo , Graul Antje R. H. , Hasnat Sajid Bin
Published: May 2024

The present paper focuses on the adoption of light-duty electric vehicles (EVs), encompassing a comprehensive review and summary analysis of the existing research in the field to identify forthcoming research directions. An emerging interest in understanding factors that influence and accelerate the widespread adoption of EVs has produced insightful research from a variety of disciplines including transportation, natural resources, and social sciences. Considering the vast variety of research endeavors, it is important to establish a baseline understanding of consumer EV adoption to provide an agenda for future research needed to advance current knowledge. This review focuses on aggregating insights gained from 437 research articles across disciplines. Specifically, we systematically reviewed journal articles on EV adoption with the goal of identifying theories used to understand EV adoption, methods by which data was collected, and key findings related to perceived advantages of, and barriers to, EV adoption. Our results help draw an overarching picture of the state of the art in research on EV adoption across disciplines, and identify remaining gaps. We conclude by showing an evolution of methodological practices in EV research and suggesting potential avenues for future research that may be of interest to both academics and practitioners interested in accelerating the widespread adoption of electrified transportation by consumers.
Estimating Urban Arterial Traffic Speed Distributions Using XGBoostLSS
Authors: Boasiako Antwi Eugene , Zhang Xu , Chen Mei
Published: May 2024

The distribution of traffic speed is a critical input in many practical transportation planning and management applications. Accurate estimation of speed distributions facilitates the understanding of traffic patterns, the evaluation of roadway performance, and the development of effective traffic control strategies. However, given the dynamic nature of traffic conditions, particularly on arterials typified by multimodal speed distributions, modeling of the distribution of traffic speed can be challenging. In this study, we propose a novel approach using XGBoostLSS, a tree-based model, for the simultaneous prediction of percentile speeds on urban arterials for each hour of the day. The model was trained and tested on a comprehensive data set, encompassing various urban arterial characteristics, traffic volume, and historical GPS-probe speed data. Our XGBoostLSS demonstrated good accuracy on percentile speed prediction compared with other approaches in literature. Also, the study identified crucial predictor variables influencing speed predictions, including speed limit, signal and stop sign density, peak capacity, right shoulder width, segment length, and crash history. Positive relationships were observed between speed limit, peak capacity, right shoulder width, segment length, and traffic speed, while increased signal and stop sign density and directional hourly traffic volume were associated with decreased traffic speed. Also, our model interpretation suggests that a minimum signal or stop sign spacing of 0.2 mi tended to improve traffic speed. The results from this study offer valuable insights for transportation professionals in estimating urban arterial traffic speed distributions, facilitating effective traffic management, and improving roadway safety.
Enhancing tribological performance of hybrid fiber-reinforced composites through machine learning and response surface methodology
Authors: Sathiyamurthy S. , Saravanakumar S. , Vinoth V.
Published: May 2024

This study delves into the significant effects of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) treatment on the tribological properties of hybrid fiber-reinforced composites, specifically focusing on the combination of paddy straw (PS) and pineapple leaf (PALF) in a polyester matrix. By leveraging Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) to predict the Specific Wear Rate (SWR) and Coefficient of Friction (COF), the research employs a grid search approach for hyperparameter optimization. This optimization process results in an optimal ANN architecture with impressive accuracy, showcasing low mean absolute error and high R-squared values of 0.991 and 0.986 for SWR and COF predictions, respectively. Utilizing the Design of Experiments (DOE), the study systematically analyzes the intricate interplay of disc speed, wear duration, and NaOH treatment percentage, with a specific focus on SWR and COF as pivotal tribological metrics. The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) results underscore the substantial impact of duration and treatment percentage on wear characteristics. Additionally, quadratic regression models reveal nuanced correlations, highlighting the sensitivity of SWR to NaOH percentage and the influence of disc speed, duration, and treatment percentage on COF. This outcome emphasizes the efficacy of these parameters in achieving superior tribological performance in hybrid composites. Beyond contributing to a profound understanding of wear characteristics, this work introduces an innovative dimension through optimized ANN modeling, ensuring a more accurate and fine-tuned predictive model.
Effects of the Affordable Care Act Medicaid Expansions on the Employment and Work Hours of Nursing Assistants in Hospitals and Nursing Homes
Authors: Xu Lili , Sharma Hari , Wehby George L.
Published: May 2024

We examine the effects of the Affordable Care Act Medicaid expansions on the employment and work hours of nursing assistants (NAs). We use the 2011–2019 American Community Survey data to identify NAs likely to be affected by Medicaid expansions (income up to 138% of the federal poverty level) in nursing homes and hospitals. Using classical difference-in-differences regressions, we find that Medicaid expansions have little effect on employment and work hours among NAs in the full sample. However, there is a 4.4 percentage-point increase in the probability of working part-time (<30 hours/week) for nursing home NAs ( p < .05). We found no employment effects of Medicaid expansions for hospital NAs. Our study adds to the literature on the heterogeneous effects of Medicaid expansions on work effort across occupations and workplaces. The rise in part-time employment for nursing home NAs following Medicaid expansions suggests the need for improved benefits to encourage full-time employment.
Seeking the public health angle in Missouri newspaper coverage of the opioid crisis
Authors: Willett Justin F. , Rodgers Shelly , Stemmle Jon
Published: May 2024

The public health model of reporting calls for public health professionals and journalists to work together to provide social and environmental context, risk factors, and prevention information in news coverage of public health issues. This quantitative content analysis describes the prevalence of contextual information in Missouri newspaper coverage of the opioid crisis. Results indicate Missouri newspapers are not depicting the opioid crisis as a public health issue. The study has implications for research and practice.
Determining the Safety and Tolerability of Rapid Administration of Undiluted Intravenous Levetiracetam in Pediatrics
Authors: Giannaccini Christa , Almendras Cassandra , Li Irene , DiNapoli Michael , Macnow Theodore
Published: May 2024

Objective: Levetiracetam is widely used in the emergency setting. Safety and tolerability of undiluted levetiracetam is prevalent in adults but is limited in pediatrics. The purpose is to determine the safety and tolerability of rapid administration of undiluted levetiracetam in pediatric patients. Methods: A retrospective, single-center, observational study was conducted in pediatric patients who received undiluted levetiracetam intravenous push. The primary outcome was adverse reactions, extravasation, need for intravenous line replacement, and discontinuation due to adverse reactions. The secondary outcome was turnaround time between ordering and administering first doses. Results: One hundred fourteen patients were included. Injection site reactions occurred in 7 patients. Extravasation occurred in 4 patients. Two patients required intravenous line replacement. There were no adverse events leading to discontinuation of levetiracetam. No difference was seen in the time from order to administration. Conclusion: Rapid administration of undiluted levetiracetam in pediatric patients was safe and well tolerated.
Changes in Time in Therapeutic Range Within a Warfarin Anticoagulation Clinic Following Introduction of Direct Oral Anticoagulants
Authors: Samuel Preethi , Cassidy Kaitlyn , Lazarevskiy Pauletta , Cope Rebecca
Published: May 2024

Background: As direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have become widely recommended as first-line anticoagulation therapy, patients who remain on warfarin are likely those unable to afford, adhere to, or utilize DOAC therapy due to the presence of a contraindication. It is currently unknown how availability of DOACs have affected populations being managed at warfarin (VKA) anticoagulation clinics. Methods: This was a retrospective chart review assessing warfarin-treated patients at an outpatient anticoagulation clinic. The primary endpoint was the 6-month time in therapeutic range (TTR) before and after DOACs were recommended as first-line therapy by clinical guidelines. Study periods were January to June 2015, before DOACs were recommended over VKA, and January to June 2022, when DOACs were often recommended over VKA. TTR, demographic changes, and the presence of contraindications to DOAC therapy in the clinic population between the two time periods were assessed. Results: No difference in 6-month TTR was observed between study periods (59% in 2015 vs 63% in 2022; P = .45). Patient demographics did not significantly vary, which may be due to the clinic retaining 45% of patients between both time periods. Contraindications to DOAC therapy were identified in 39% of the 2015 group and 49% of the 2022 group ( P = .18). The most common contraindication was indication for anticoagulation. Conclusion: Availability of DOACs did not seem to significantly affect the population or management of warfarin-treated patients at an outpatient anticoagulation clinic, however, contraindications and potential challenges to use of DOAC therapy are present in many patients.
How Can Nonprofit Policy Advocacy Influence Policymakers? A Factorial Survey Experiment on the Effects of Nonprofit Advocacy Strategies on Policymakers’ Willingness to Act
Authors: Brusseel Aaron , Raeymaeckers Peter , Verschuere Bram
Published: May 2024

This study investigates how policy advocacy strategies employed by nonprofit organizations (NPOs) affect the willingness of policymakers to act upon policy inputs. In a 2 × 2 full-factorial research experiment, we presented 706 Flemish municipal policymakers with four realistic scenarios describing an advocacy campaign of a local welfare nonprofit. In the scenarios, we apply two modes of advocacy tactics (direct or indirect) and two modes of NPO representation (professional staff members or self-advocates). The findings indicate a high likeliness to act on NPO policy inputs throughout the policy process, albeit with a small drop during the formulation stage. Small but significant increases in likeliness to act are noted when policymakers are confronted with either direct advocacy tactics or professional advocates.
Integrating Collective Voice within Job Demands–Resources Theory
Authors: Ringqvist Josef
Published: May 2024

Drawing on insights from the sociology of work, this article contributes to job demands–resources (JD-R) theory by arguing that collective employee voice should be considered within the framework as an antecedent of job demands and job resources. An empirical test is offered to substantiate the theoretical argument, hypothesizing that collective voice – measured as trade union influence at the workplace level – reduces job demands and increases job resources. Based on the notion that some jobs may be inherently demanding, an additional hypothesis posits that collective voice balances demands with job resources by supplementing resources particularly where demands are high. Drawing on data from the European Social Survey covering 27 countries, results of multi-level analyses reveal that while not associated negatively with job demands, collective voice enhances job resources, particularly where demands are high. On this basis the article encourages further sociologically informed analyses of the JD-R model.
Multidimensional policies, asymmetric public perception and stability in autocracies
Authors: Li Yuan , Gilli Mario
Published: May 2024

This paper provides a new explanation for autocracies’ political stability by focusing on the role of changes in asymmetric public perceptions of different policy dimensions. We show that the probability of policies enabling the provision of public goods on one dimension alone increases with the opacity of public perception. In turn, this implies that the probability of coups and revolts has a non-monotonic behavior in asymmetric opacity. Thus, transitional periods with changes in public perception might lead to an increase in the probability of coup and revolt attempts, reducing autocratic stability, and thereby altering some established ideas in the literature.
Contact force and pressure analysis of the three-row roller pitch bearing in a large-scale wind turbine
Authors: Zheng Jingyang , Guo Yalong , Ji Jinchen , Tong Van-Canh , Zhang Xiaoyang , Dong Hanjie , Hu Shuai , Xu Liyou
Published: May 2024

Pitch bearings are the key components of wind turbines (WTs). The reliability of pitch bearings affects the electric energy output efficiency of WTs. Due to its large loading ability, constant contact angle and high stiffness, the three-row roller slewing bearing (TRSB) is becoming a more attractive choice as a pitch bearing, especially in large-scale WTs. The contact force and pressure distributions significantly affect the fatigue life of a three-row roller pitch bearing (TRPB). Therefore, it is essential to propose a precise calculation method for the contact force and pressure. The present work establishes a quasi-static five degree-of-freedom (DOF) mathematical model for TRPBs, in which the bearing under general loading conditions is considered. The influences of combined external forces, overturning moments and inner ring misalignment angle on the contact force and pressure distributions of TRPBs are comprehensively investigated. According to the analysis results, the overturning moment and axial force can significantly affect the number of load-carrying rollers in each row. Furthermore, a slight variation of the inner ring angular misalignment has a significant effect on the contact force and pressure of TRPBs. Finally, it is more prone to pressure concentration in the non-crowned roller than that in the crowned roller, especially in the case of the inner ring with a misalignment angle. Since the high calculation efficiency and accuracy, the proposed method has remarkable potential applications in the fatigue life prediction and design of TRPBs.
Failure analysis of wellhead casing and optimization of slip hanger in ultra deep wells
Authors: Wan Zhiyong , Lian Zhanghua , Yang Dongchuan , Xie Ting , Zhao Zhaoyang , Shi Junlin
Published: May 2024

When replacing the sealing element and lifting the oil production spool in a certain oilfield in Xinjiang, it was found that the casing at the clamping point of the wellhead hanger slip was broken. Based on the Ф232.5 mm W-type slip hanger structure used in the X1 well on site, a three-dimensional finite element model of the casing’s grip by the slip hanger was established. Firstly, based on the third and fourth strength theories, the calculation formula for the ultimate load of the casing under the slip effect was derived. Furthermore, tensile experiments, chemical composition measurements, and microstructure analysis were conducted on the 155 V casing samples used, and it was found that the performance of the 155 V casing material meets the standard requirements, the data suggests that the slip may contribute to casing fracture, warranting further investigation. Therefore, based on the mechanical finite element analysis model, it is calculated that the maximum stress on the outer wall of the casing reaches 1146 MPa, which is higher than the yield strength of the 155 V casing. This will lead to the damage of the casing used on site. Therefore, the structure of the slip is optimized, and the analysis shows that the top of the slip tooth is optimized to have a long axis of 400 mm, the one-fourth elliptical distribution with a short axis of 1 mm and the optimization of the top angle of the slip teeth to 60°–70° will significantly decrease the maximum stress on the outer wall of the casing. However, the optimization scheme of changing the inclination angle of the slip teeth and increasing the clearance of the slip back cone angle cannot effectively improve the stress distribution and maximum value on the outer wall of the casing.
The energy management strategy of the multi-source parallel power system for the self-reconfigurable ground vehicle
Authors: Yang Xu , Ni Jun
Published: May 2024

The self-reconfigurable ground vehicle (SRGV) has the ability of self-assembly and self-disassembly, which is a disruptive innovation to the traditional fixed configuration ground vehicle. The basic component of the SRGV is defined as a cell unit (CU), which is a complete system capable of working independently and has the basic function of the ground vehicle. The reconfiguration of the SRGV is not only the connection of the mechanical systems but also the integration between the power sources of different CUs. To this end, this paper proposes a novel multi-source parallel power system (MSPPS) for the SRGV, whose key characteristics are multi-branch and co-bus. The MSPPS can extend any number of power sources, which greatly improves the power level of SRGV. In this paper, the MSPPS with battery power source is discussed. The disassembly and assembly of the SRGV could lead to some inconsistencies such as SoC between the battery packs of each CU. To prolong the lifetime of the battery packs and working time of the SRGV, a hierarchical proportional control (HPC) strategy and a filtered model predictive control (FMPC) strategy are proposed. Both energy management strategies can reasonably allocate the output energy between different battery packs to meet the power demand and reduce battery inconsistencies. To verify and compare the effectiveness of the proposed two strategies, numerous simulations are carried out. The simulation results show that the FMPC strategy has faster convergence speed and lower power fluctuations in the energy management process. A SRGV prototype consisting of three CUs is developed, and the experimental platform for the power system of the SRGV is successfully established. The feasibility of the proposed MSPPS architecture is validated. The proposed HPC strategy is deployed in the rapid ECU. The experiment results are similar to the simulations and effectively demonstrate the real-time performance.
Investigative examination of motion sickness indicators for electric vehicles
Authors: Deng Zhaoxue , Yuan Kun , Xiao Xiang
Published: May 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) pose a heightened risk of inducing motion sickness in passengers compared to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles. With the increasing prevalence of EVs, there is a pressing need for in-depth research on motion sickness in this specific context. To quantitatively assess motion sickness severity in electric vehicle occupants, this study meticulously selected 25 participants exhibiting a high susceptibility to motion sickness for experimental testing. The research endeavors to elucidate the intricate relationship between motion sickness assessment values, electrodermal activity (EDA) signals, and vehicle state signals during motion sickness episodes. Utilizing correlation analysis to scrutinize the interrelation between electrodermal signals and the severity of motion sickness, we advocate employing the mean and variation rate of EDA as objective metrics for characterizing the extent of motion sickness. Furthermore, we introduce the definition of cumulative seat rail vibration acceleration (CVA) as an integral component of this evaluation. Through meticulous correlation analysis, it is ascertained that the change rates of longitudinal vibration cumulative value (CVAx) and EDA exhibit robust correlations, signifying their significance in relation to motion sickness severity. This research not only establishes a theoretical foundation for quantifying motion sickness in electric vehicle occupants but also contributes profound insights into the underlying mechanisms of motion sickness in the context of electric vehicles.
Sex-based differences in treatment approaches and outcomes among patients with mpox: Limitations of real-world data
Authors: Chastain Daniel B. , Krsak Martin , Henao-Martínez Andrés F.
Published: May 2024

Background

Limited data on females with mpox restricts understanding of potential sex-based disparities in treatment and outcomes. This study aims to investigate these differences using administrative claims and clinical data repositories.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed adults diagnosed with mpox using TriNetX, stratifying cohorts by sex. The primary outcome included urgent care, emergency room, and hospitalization visits, with secondary outcomes including clinical findings, vaccination, and treatment.

Results

Among 2011 cases, 90% were male. Males were older, more likely to identify as Hispanic or Latino, and had higher HIV prevalence and sexually transmitted infection rates. Hospitalization rates were low for both groups, with similar healthcare utilization. However, males received fewer opioid analgesics, glucocorticoids, and antiemetics versus females. Vaccination and tecovirimat use were minimal in both groups.

Conclusion

Addressing sex disparities in mpox treatment and outcomes is crucial, but existing data sources like administrative claims and clinical data repositories pose limitations.
Instantaneous flow area calculation for modeling an axial piston pump: A point cloud-based technique
Authors: Xia Xiaosong , Ye Shaogan , Hou Liang , Wu Dehui , Lin Quan
Published: May 2024

Accurate calculation of instantaneous flow area is of great significance for modeling an axial piston pump. A point cloud based technique is developed to calculate the instantaneous flow area, and used to perform a parametric analysis of key parameters on the pump fluid dynamics. First, a model is developed to analyze the fluid dynamics of the axial piston pump. Second, three techniques used to obtain the instantaneous flow area are described, with focus on the detailed description of the point cloud technique. The instantaneous flow areas are compared, and the accuracy of the pump model using the obtained instantaneous flow areas are verified by comparing the output pressure. Last, a comprehensive parametric study is conducted concerning the effects of the fillet radius and diversion position of the triangular groove on the pressure in the piston chamber and flow rate at the output port based on the point cloud technique. The results shown that the computation time of the point cloud technique is only 1% of the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) technique, with a total computational error of less than 2.5%, and the triangular groove inside the pitch circle with a small fillet radius is beneficial for reductions of pressure and flow rate ripples.
Natural resource depletion and carbon inequality: An empirical insight from developed and developing countries
Authors: Xu Yuanyuan , Jia Jing , Mahmood Hamid , Khalid Samia
Published: May 2024

Despite its profound implications for sustainable development, carbon inequality remains largely overlooked by many countries. It necessitates the development of targeted strategies to address its root causes and mitigate its impact. This study examines the effects of natural resource depletion on CI in both developed and developing countries from 1990 to 2020, using a newly developed carbon inequality (CI) index. The empirical study employs sophisticated econometric approaches, namely the cross-sectional autoregressive distributed lag and augmented mean group models. These models were specifically developed to address cross-sectional dependency and slope heterogeneity in the dataset. Our findings reveal a worrisome trend, indicating that CI is on the rise in both developed and developing countries due to the depletion of natural resources. Furthermore, fossil fuel energy consumption, globalization, and population growth are significant contributors to the escalation of CI. To shed further light on the causal relationships between variables, we employ the Dumitrescu and Hurlin (2012) causality test. Based on the outcomes, we propose developing robust public monitoring systems to assess individual carbon emissions as a crucial step in addressing this issue effectively. Moreover, our study highlights the imperative for a concerted global effort to transition towards sustainable resource management, reduce consumption levels, and ensure an equitable distribution of the benefits derived from natural resources. These recommendations hold the potential to alleviate the pressing challenge of CI, aligning countries with the objectives of sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Bibliographic coupling networks of global research on data literacy by documents, sources and authors
Authors: Nwagwu Williams Ezinwa
Published: May 2024

This study was carried out to visualise the interconnectedness among research works in the field of Data Literacy documents, Sources and Authors, Identify clusters, nodes and key connections to understand the structural patterns within Data Literacy scholarly literature and determine the most influential and highly-cited papers, authors and journals within the bibliographic coupling networks. We specified the syntax ‘DATA LITERACY’. While it is obvious that there may be studies that have addressed this subject using other syntax, ‘Data Literacy’ will yield an appropriately representative sample of keywords in the area. The findings offer valuable insights into the landscape of research on data literacy, particularly in terms of the interconnections and influences among various scholarly works. Several discussions can be carried out based on these findings. The analysis identifies key documents that have significantly contributed to the development of research on data literacy. The analysis of publication years of identified documents offers insights into the temporal evolution of research on data literacy. This helps reveal shifts in research emphasis over time and highlights emerging areas of interest within the field.
Strong association between reduction of late-stage cancers and reduction of cancer-specific mortality in meta-regression of randomized screening trials across multiple cancer types
Authors: Dai James Y , Georg Luebeck E , Chang Ellen T , Clarke Christina A , Hubbell Earl A , Zhang Nan , Duffy Stephen W
Published: May 2024

Background

Late-stage cancer incidence has been proposed as an early surrogate for mortality in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of cancer screening; however, its validity has not been systematically evaluated across screening RCTs of different cancers.

Methods

We conducted a meta-regression analysis of cancer screening RCTs that reported both late-stage cancer incidence and cancer mortality. Based on a systematic literature review, we included 33 RCTs of screening programs targeting seven cancer types, including lung ( n = 12), colorectal ( n = 8), breast ( n = 5), and prostate ( n = 4), among others. We regressed the relative reduction of cancer mortality on the relative reduction of late-stage cancer incidence, inversely weighted for each RCT by the variance of estimated mortality reduction.

Results

Across cancer types, the relative reduction of late-stage cancer incidence was linearly associated with the relative reduction of cancer mortality. Specifically, we observed this association for lung ( R2 = 0.79 and 0.996 in three recent large trials), breast ( R2 = 0.94), prostate ( R2 = 0.98), and colorectal cancer ( R2 = 0.75 for stage III/IV cancers and 0.93 for stage IV cancers). Trials with a 20% or greater reduction in late-stage cancers were more likely to achieve a significant reduction in cancer mortality. Our results also showed that no reduction of late-stage cancer incidence was associated with no or minimal reduction in cancer mortality.

Conclusions

Meta-regression of historical screening RCTs showed a strong linear association between reductions in late-stage cancer incidence and cancer mortality.
New Paradigms of Management Control for Start-ups: A Conceptual Understanding and Prescription for Future Research
Authors: Ebrahim M. K. , Mohan G. Madan
Published: May 2024

Start-ups face unique challenges in managing and controlling their operations, including limited resources, rapid technological changes and uncertainty. Start-ups can choose from a variety of management control systems (MCS) based on their specific objectives, strategy and context. A judicious combination of several instruments of MCS tailored to the particular context might be key to their success. However, start-ups and other small firms may not have resources to implement MCS. In recent years, new paradigms of management control have emerged to address these challenges and support success of start-ups in the long term. This article aims to explore the existing literature on management control in start-ups and to use conceptual model to discuss three new paradigms of management control in start-ups: The lean start-up approach (LSA), the agile start-up approach (ASA) and the design thinking start-up approach (DTA). These paradigms emphasise importance of rapid experimentation, adaptability and user-centred design in management of start-ups. The article concludes by highlighting importance of finding the right approach or combination of approaches for the specific needs and goals of the start-up. Future researchers will benefit from this study by identifying research opportunities related to the implementation and effectiveness of different management control paradigms in start-ups and developing a comprehensive framework for selecting and implementing these paradigms.
Extraction, Purification, and in vitro Antioxidant Activity Assessment of Total Flavonoids from the Aerial Parts of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum
Authors: Sun Chong-lu , Zhang Yu-jiong , Yu Song-lin , Li Shi-min , Hu Xiao-yu , Xu Jin-long
Published: May 2024

Background

The effective extractives of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum ( T. hemsleyanum) are useful, but this plant was not fully utilized in rural China. In this study, flavonoids from the aerial parts of T. hemsleyanum were extracted, and the purification method and the antioxidant capability were explored.

Purpose

This study is to explore the optimized purification method and the biological capability of the total flavonoids extracted from T. hemsleyanum.

Materials and Methods

The optimal extraction conditions were determined by single-factor and Box-Behnken design experiments. The antioxidant activities were assessed by analyzing their capability to scavenge 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and OH free radicals.

Results and Discussion

The optimal conditions for the extraction of the total flavonoids were as follows: ethanol volume fraction 60%, liquid-to-material ratios 35:1 mL/g, temperature 45℃, and time 85 min. The extraction rate of the total flavonoids was (3.59 ± 0.03)%. NKA-9 is an ideal macroporous resin for purification. The optimized purification process conditions of flavonoids were mass concentration of adsorption solution 1.50 mg/mL, pH value of adsorption solution 4.0, sample loading flow rate 2 BV/h, ethanol volume fraction in desorption process 60%, desorption flow rate 2 BV/h and elution volume 4 BV. After crude extracts were purified by NKA-9 macroporous resin, the content of the total flavonoids enhanced from (21.76 ± 0.18)% to (58.92 ± 0.22)%. The results of the experiments for antioxidant activity showed that the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of the purified flavonoids extracted were 33.1and 42.7 µg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicated that the flavonoids in T. hemsleyanum have good antioxidant activity in vitro and deserve exploring in further pharmacological studies.
Schisandrol A Relaxes the Rat Trachea Via L-Type Ca2+ Channels and KV Channels
Authors: Xu Zhiying , Lin Chengcheng , Sun Jinghui , Li He , Zhuang Wenyue , Chen Jianguang , Wang Chunmei , Wang Haili
Published: May 2024

Background

Schisandra chinensis is widely applied in the prevention and treatment of asthma in China, but the material basis for the anti-asthmatic effect of S. chinensis is unclear. Our previous studies found that the lignans from S. chinensis can relax tracheal smooth muscle in rats. Schisandrol A (SCA) is a representative monomer of S. chinensis lignans with high content and activity.

Purpose

This study was aimed at further exploring the relaxation effect of SCA and its mechanism on the isolated tracheal smooth muscle of rats through tracheal perfusion experiments.

Materials and Methods

The isolated rat tracheal ring was precontracted with acetylcholine (ACh). Then, the impact of SCA on the tension of precontracted tracheal ring was studied. Verapamil (L-type calcium channel blocker) and four potassium channel blockers, including glibenclamide, tetraethylamine, 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), and barium chloride (BaCl2), as well as propranolol (β-adrenergic receptor antagonist), were respectively used to precontract the tracheal ring for investigation.

Results

SCA could dose-dependently reduce the ACh-induced contraction of the tracheal ring, and the verapamil and 4-AP could weaken this effect, while BaCl2, glibenclamide, tetraethylamine, and propranolol did not show this effect.

Conclusion

SCA can significantly relax the effect of tracheal smooth muscle of rats, and the underlying mechanism might be involved in the blocking of L-type Ca2+ channels and activating the voltage-dependent potassium channels (KV).
Authoritarian populist turn and market capture in Turkey: The political economy of public procurement
Authors: Kutlay Mustafa , Yıldırım Kerem
Published: May 2024

The state’s economic role has become more visible, beyond regulatory features, since the 2008 global financial crisis. In several cases, the new interventionist turn goes parallel to the authoritarian populist turn in international politics. Although the two processes have their own dynamics, they are still interrelated. Rather than abolishing the façade of the market economy, right-wing authoritarian populist leaders are more likely to capture the market through politically loyal economic actors. To this end, public procurement is one of the fundamental mechanisms to allocate resources. In this paper, we tested this argument in the case of Turkey by examining all public procurement deals (867,260 in total) between 2010 and 2019. We found that over a relatively short period of 10 years, the level of competitiveness, measured by the effective number of companies that receive public procurement, has decreased substantively. We also showed that the decrease in competitiveness was not limited only to the highest level of procurement deals. Across all deciles of procurement deals, competition has decreased, especially after 2013 – and this trend has continued since then.
Using Grounded Theory to Develop a Substantive Theory for Grandparent-Caregiving in Uganda: The GRACE Model
Authors: Matovu Schola N. , Watt Melissa , Young Heather M. , Nakasujja Noeline , Ellington Lee
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Few studies have focused on developing theories to explain caregiving as performed by grandparents who provide care for their grandchildren in any setting. Theory development that is grounded in the experiences and cultural context of those being studied is needed to inform research, subsequent care, and overall well-being, especially of populations that are understudied.

Methods:

This manuscript was informed by Constructivist Grounded Theory, semi-structured in-depth and individual interviews. Also, three methodological phases were followed: (a) concurrent data collection and analysis procedures, (b) developing categories and relationships among them, and (c) defining the core category and building the substantive theory.

Results:

The methodological steps involved in generating a substantive theory, the GRAndparent-CarEgiving (GRACE) model, are reported.

Discussion:

Research, and subsequently the well-being and health care of grandparent-caregivers, needs to be informed by culturally congruent theories that are founded in the experiences and cultural context of the individuals being investigated.
Unraveling the Evolution of Brain-Based Learning in Indonesia: An In-Depth Exploration through Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Azzahra Waliyyatu , Dwiputra Dimas Febriansyah Krisna
Published: May 2024

Purpose: The objective of this research is to investigate how brain-based learning (BBL) has been adopted in Indonesia and its influence on the overall learning experience. Design/Approach/Methods: This research employs a systematic literature review methodology, adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines and utilizing the Scopus and Google Scholar databases. Out of 2198 articles initially identified, only 101 met the predetermined criteria, leading to subsequent content analysis. Findings: The findings indicate: (1) an upward trend in research activity from 2013 to 2019 followed by a decline from 2020 to 2024; (2) predominance of quasi-experimental approaches; (3) the relevance of BBL across various educational levels; (4) a focus on mathematics and science in research endeavors; and (5) the positive impact of BBL on diverse learning facets. Originality/Value: This study provides valuable insights for stakeholders keen on advancing BBL research, exploring novel avenues across different methodologies, educational domains, and expertise areas. Such endeavors foster innovation in BBL research, underscoring its beneficial role in enhancing the educational landscape in Indonesia.
Optimizing Pricing Delegation to External Sales Forces via Commissions: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Amaral Christopher , Kolsarici Ceren , Nediak Mikhail
Published: May 2024

In this paper, using data from indirect auto lending and a structural model of external sales representative (ESR) behaviour, we investigate (1) the role of commissions as a potential tool to influence ESRs’ pricing decisions under limited authority, (2) the impact of optimized commissions on firm profitability, and (3) the implications for customer welfare. The results provide strong evidence for ESRs being strategic (vs. myopic) in their pricing and effort decisions; and in both cases, strategic behaviour is inversely proportional to customer risk. Moreover, once optimized, commissions are an effective tool for firms to bridge the profitability gap between centralized pricing and pricing delegation. Our analyses on social justice and fairness reveal that customer groups along the dimensions of customer risk, income class, and gender, which have been traditionally marginalized in society, suffer from inequities in the indirect-lending ecosystem. While, the optimization of commissions does not intensify these biases, we found females to be the exception, and that the inequities due to gender bias not only persist in the optimized regime, but also deepen. Through counterfactual simulations, we propose two policies for firms to minimize social inequity, which helps them balance immediate profit-maximizing goals with responsible AI initiatives.
The Use of Knotless Suture Tape Construct vs Screw Fixation for Lisfranc Injuries: A Cadaveric Biomechanical Study
Authors: Cardenas Cesar , McIver Natalia D. , Nelson Jessica , Ahmad Aamir , Chavez Tyler , Gross Jessica , Salas Christina , Gavin Katherine
Published: May 2024

Background:

Lisfranc injuries are often treated with open reduction and internal fixation using rigid fixation techniques. The use of flexible fixation to stabilize the Lisfranc joint is a newer technique. The purpose of this cadaveric study is to compare the amount of diastasis at the Lisfranc interval under diminished physiologic loads when treated with a knotless suture tape construct and a solid screw.

Methods:

Ten cadavers (20 feet) had native motion at the intact Lisfranc interval assessed at multiple increasing loads (69, 138, and 207 N). The Lisfranc ligamentous complex was then disrupted, and testing repeated to evaluate the amount of diastasis. Randomization was performed to determine the type of fixation for each cadaver: solid screw or knotless suture tape construct. Once fixation was completed, specimens were cyclically loaded for 10 000 cycles at loads, and diastasis was quantified after each load cycle to compare the interventions. Diastasis was measured using motion tracking cameras and retroreflective marker sets. A non-inferiority statistical analysis was performed.

Results:

Diastasis mean values were confirmed to be >2 mm for all load bearing conditions in the injury model. Posttreatment, diastasis was significantly reduced when compared to the sectioned conditions ( P < .01) for both treatment options. Non-inferiority analyses showed that the knotless suture tape construct did not perform inferior to screw fixation for diastasis at the Lisfranc interval at any of the compared load states.

Conclusion:

Under the loads tested, there is no significant difference in diastasis at the Lisfranc interval when treating ligamentous Lisfranc injuries with a knotless suture tape construct or solid screws. Both reduced diastasis from the injured state and were not different from the intact state.

Clinical Relevance:

In this cadaveric model with ligamentous Lisfranc injury, diastasis of a knotless suture tape construct is compared to solid screw fixation as tested.
Changes in Foot Width in Minimally Invasive Bunionectomy
Authors: El Masry Seif , DiGiovanni Grace M. , Boden Allison L. , Palma Joaquín , Srikumar Syian , Nguyen Joseph T. , Johnson A. Holly
Published: May 2024

Background:

Minimally invasive bunionectomy (MISB) has emerged as a popular approach to treat symptomatic hallux valgus deformity. Although previous studies focused on distal foot width changes postsurgery, this research introduces a novel midshaft measurement to evaluate proximal transverse midfoot width, aiming for a comprehensive understanding of foot changes post-MISB.

Methods:

A retrospective review of 44 HV patients from an institutional registry was conducted. Demographic data, surgical details, radiographs, and foot width measurements were collected. Changes in hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) were also measured.

Results:

Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) demonstrated good to excellent interobserver reliability (all ICCs > 0.70) for all measurements. MISB resulted in a consistent reduction in distal foot width ( P < .001). These reductions correlated with changes in HVA and IMA, suggesting that the extent of deformity correction influenced distal foot width: distal bone width decreased an average of 8 mm, P < .001). However, midshaft bony width increased an average of 4 mm, P < .001). Changes in midshaft foot width showed no correlation with HVA or IMA alterations.

Conclusion:

We found in this cohort of 44 patients that MISB for HV leads to an expected decrease in distal bony foot width but, on average, an increase in midshaft foot width.