bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An infant with trisomy 9p and partial trisomy 12p derived from maternal balanced translocation: A case report and literature review
Authors: Ming Shengjin , Zhou Zhumei , Huang Yao , Huang Ying , Zhong Jinping , Li Yingli
Published: November 2024

We present here, a case of a neonate with an unbalanced chromosomal translocation due to a maternal chromosomal translocation carriage that resulted in the presence of trisomy 9p combined with a partial trisomy 12p. Karyotype analysis was performed using conventional cytogenetic chromosomal analysis using the GTG-banding technique. The mother was a carrier of a balanced chromosomal translocation of 46, XX, t(9;12)(q13;p11.2), that resulted in an unbalanced translocation of the offspring, who had a karyotype 47, XX, +der(9)t(9;12)(q13;p11.2)dmat, featuring a combined trisomy of 9q13→9pter region and 12p11.2→12pter region. Clinical phenotype of the infant included cephalo-facial deformity, growth retardation, hypertonia, opisthotonus, laryngeal wheezing, foot deformity, and congenital heart disease.
A novel homozygous PSAP mutation identified by whole exome sequencing in a consanguineous family with metachromatic leukodystrophy: a case report
Authors: Li Xueyi , Kuang Xiaoni , Huang Guangwen , Liu Zhenyu , Yan Shuyuan
Published: November 2024

Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is a genetic lysosomal disease. Here, we investigated the role of prosaposin ( PSAP) gene mutations in MLD. This current case report describes a female patient who presented with motor development regression at two years and five months of age. The symptoms included difficulty walking, loss of ambulation, increased muscle tension, limb pain, and intentional tremors. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed potential white matter lesions, while electromyography indicated neurogenic damage in both lower limbs. Gesell assessment showed severe motor retardation, along with mild retardation in adaptability, speech, and social communication. Whole exome sequencing analysis identified a homozygous mutation in the PSAP gene, specifically c.643A>G, resulting in the amino acid change p.N215D. Immunofluorescence assays of cultured cells indicated no impact on the PSAP protein lysosomal localization, but the mutation was associated with a decreased lysosomal pH and reduced cathepsin D activity. Transmission electron microscopy revealed changes in lysosome morphology and abnormal protein aggregation. These findings suggest that the PSAP c.643A>G (p.N215D) mutation may be a causal factor for MLD in this patient. This discovery may provide new insights into the genetic basis and pathophysiological mechanisms of MLD.
Systemic sectarianism in Northern Ireland
Authors: Taylor Rupert
Published: November 2024

This article begins by arguing that the UK race riots of August 2024 had their own distinct – and especially worrisome – sociological dynamics when it came to the disorder that occurred in Northern Ireland. The upsurge in race hate and racism has to be viewed in the context of the continuing existence of loyalist paramilitary groups and most especially the enduring sectarian division which is shown to have not been adequately addressed in the years since the Belfast Agreement of 1998. Most importantly, it is advanced that what lies at the heart of such social problems that beset Northern Ireland is a particular form of systemic racism: ‘systemic sectarianism’. It is the web of systemic sectarianism which ensures that sectarian division endures and operates to reproduce inequality and social injustice. Against this, it is asserted that there is a need to advance a social transformation agenda that enables people to develop a political vision and agenda that transcends race hate, racism and sectarianism.
The Romani–Indian Diaspora: Migration, Persecution and Statelessness
Authors: Mohapatra Atanu , Panda Chandan K.
Published: November 2024

A constant sense of othering constitutes the core of the Romani diasporic experience. This otherness was not a transient phenomenon in the Romani diasporic history. Its constancy was seemingly unending. It began with their unfortunate exit from India under the historical imperatives characterised by foreign invasion and forced slavery. What followed thereafter embodies the history of the Roma diasporic experience. A deep sense of being othered unequivocally acquired constancy as they moved on under different historical compulsions and forces from Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey to Europe. In Europe, they experienced, contrary to their perception of finding a better ground for an assumed difference, othering in its sinister form. Their movement in Europe and to America subsequently was underlined with servitude, subjection and a deep sense of humiliation. Therefore, this article divides the Roma diasporic experience into three distinct categories—migration, persecution and statelessness—to present the nature of this experience and the acute sense of the othering ingrained therein.
Religious Encounter, Contradictions and Social Crisis in Cooch Behar (1872–1950)
Authors: Adhikary Chanchal
Published: November 2024

This article analyses the discourses on the social crisis in borderland Cooch Behar between 1876 and 1950. Some historians in this issue observed that ‘centuries of contact between the two communities (Hindu and Muslim) were bound to result in a mutual understanding’ in this region. However, after the arrival of the orthodox upper-class Muslims and the formation of the Muslim League and other fundamentalist organisations, tensions and various violent activities have been conducted by orthodoxies in Cooch Behar. Islamic fundamentalism in the decade of Indian independence was very much active and frequently perused their activities against the Indian integration of Cooch Behar. In this line, this article aims to examine the process of deterioration of Hindu–Muslim religious composite and syncretism culture that turned into social contradictions and crises in the 1940s. Yet unused historical archival records from the National Archives of India and West Bengal State Archives are the key sources for this study.
Political Dynamics During the Reign of Ranjit Singh: A Case of Western Himachal Hill States
Authors: Bhardwaj Ankush , Sharma Shivam
Published: November 2024

The extension of the power of Ranjit Singh in the early nineteenth century in the hilly regions of Upper Sutlej changed the political scenario in many aspects. The hill states became beneficial to Ranjit Singh as they were forced into the Vassal–Suzerain relationship. All this increased the status of Ranjit Singh, and he eventually came to occupy the whole of the hilly areas barring the Shimla Hill States, which were under the domination of the British. During this tumultuous period, the hill areas were facing the rising power of Raja Sansar Chand of Kangra, the depredations of the Gurkhas and finally the British ascendency. All these events changed the political map of the hills forever. This article attempts to examine the course of events that took place leading to the extension of Ranjit Singh’s power in the hill states in the upper areas of Sutlej River and its unequivocal impact on the political domain.
Ideological Convergence or Political Overtures: Hindu Nationalists’ Engagement with Ambedkar
Authors: Ragi Sangit Kumar
Published: November 2024

The dominant political discourse in India situates Ambedkar in opposition to the ideology of Hindutva. Ambedkar criticised Hindu religious texts on the ground of sanctioning graded inequality in the Hindu social order. This further gets traction with demands of Ambedkar to treat depressed classes as non-Hindus or protestant Hindus. The twenty-one commandants read out at the time of his conversion also denounced key Hindu gods and goddesses. All this goes against the basic tenets of Hindutva ideology. Therefore, any overtures by Hindutva protagonists in favour of Ambedkar are interpreted as attempts to appropriate him for electoral reasons. This article counters this narrative and argues that there are several political and ideological issues on which both Ambedkar and Hindu nationalists converge. The author has used the discourse analysis method to identify those issues that bring Ambedkar close to Hindu nationalists.
Factors Affecting Consumption Patterns of Neglected and Underutilized Species in Atacora, Northern Benin
Authors: Bankole Bissola Malikath , Bodjrenou Sam , Bodecker Julia , Termote Celine , Chadare Flora Josiane , Hounkpatin Waliou Amoussa
Published: November 2024

Background

Many recent efforts focus on promoting neglected and underutilized species (NUS) for improved nutrition, but consumption depends on various factors.

Objective

With this in mind, this study aims to understand the factors associated with the consumption patterns of Adansonia digitata, Ocimum gratissimum, Vigna radiata, and Moringa oleifera by households in Atacora, northern Benin.

Methods

To achieve this, a food consumption survey was carried out in 3 communes. Two villages per commune were randomly selected to carry out the food consumption frequencies of households through a 7-day recall for periods of abundance and scarcity. A multinomial regression model was used to explain the consumption frequency of species depending on socio-demographic factors and seasonality.

Results

Different parts of these different species targeted were used in various forms to prepare sauces, porridges, juices, etc. Baobab- and moringa-based foods appeared to be the most widely consumed foods, regardless of the season. Even though fresh moringa leaves sauce and baobab seeds sauce were consumed mostly in periods of scarcity. The probability of rarely consuming foods made from these species was lower for households living in Toucoutouna and Tanguiéta compared to Natitingou. Furthermore, the consumption of these foods was usually higher for mothers who were students, hairdressers or seamstresses compared to housewives ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The consumption patterns then vary from species to species and are influenced by demographic factors such as household location and mother's occupation. Promoting NUS among the population is essential to increase awareness of their nutritional importance and improve their consumption.

Plain language title

Factors Affecting Consumption of Neglected and Underutilized Species in Atacora, Northern Benin
Deposit pickers in the Nordic: The role of deposit-refund systems for waste pickers in Stockholm
Authors: Johansson Nils
Published: November 2024

This article examines a specific subtype of informal waste picking: deposit picking. Despite its global prevalence, waste picking has neither been extensively studied in the Nordic countries nor in the context of a deposit-refund system. Through interviews and text analyses of waste pickers in Stockholm, Sweden, similarities and differences between deposit picking and traditional waste picking are uncovered. For example, unlike other waste materials, the income from deposits is stable. The focus on beverage containers and the ability of reverse vending machines to sort the containers, lowers the knowledge threshold to begin the activity. The lightweight nature of beverage containers makes collection mobile, and deposit pickers often carry only a bag. The deposit pickers are mainly older, poor and male. Similar to traditional waste pickers, deposit pickers are central to the formal waste system, but their work is invisible, and foreign deposit pickers, in particular, are stigmatized. The dual invisibility of their labour and contributions, coupled with their independence from formal social systems, highlights the need for internal organization and representation within the formal systems.
Ecological compensation for cross-regional domestic waste treatment: A stochastic differential game perspective
Authors: Li Mengdi , Han Chuanfeng , Meng Lingpeng , Shao Zhiguo , Liu Pihui
Published: November 2024

The implementation of ecological compensation for cross-regional domestic waste treatment is beneficial for balancing the interests of waste generation districts and waste treatment districts. This paper introduces dynamic differential games to capture the temporal evolution and adjustment of strategies, examining dynamic game strategies under different compensation scenarios (non-horizontal ecological compensation, horizontal ecological compensation and fully shared ecological compensation). A new interest distribution model is proposed, with empirical analysis conducted using Shanghai as a case study to validate the reliability and feasibility of the model. The findings indicate: (1) Government intervention combined with horizontal ecological compensation significantly improves waste management efficiency and urban welfare. The compensation mechanism fosters regional cooperation, optimizes resource allocation, reduces decision-making conflicts and enhances overall processing effectiveness. (2) Without a compensation mechanism, high costs in export regions and low benefits in import regions result in low cooperation willingness. The ecological compensation mechanism enhances willingness to cooperate by fairly distributing costs and benefits, optimizing long-term cooperation and overall gains. (3) Complete shared ecological compensation is optimal, though partial shared mechanisms are also effective in practice. Proper interest and ecological compensation ratios can significantly improve waste management efficiency and urban environment, strengthening long-term cooperation. The study theoretically expands the dynamic optimization and cooperation mechanism analysis in waste management, provides solutions for environmental policy formulation in cross-regional waste handling and offers new perspectives and tools for addressing complex issues in cross-regional environmental governance, including targeted policy recommendations with practical significance for enhancing cross-regional waste management.
Development and Initial Validation of the Computer-Based Orthographic Processing Assessment Short Form: An Application of Cognitive Diagnostic Modeling
Authors: Chen Yi-Jui I. , Wu Yi-Jhen , Chen Yi-Hsin , Irey Robin
Published: November 2024

A short form of the 60-item computer-based orthographic processing assessment (long-form COPA or COPA-LF) was developed. The COPA-LF consists of five skills, including rapid perception, access, differentiation, correction, and arrangement. Thirty items from the COPA-LF were selected for the short-form COPA (COPA-SF) based on cognitive diagnostic modeling (CDM) analyses. Both parametric and nonparametric CDM and correlational analyses were conducted with the responses of 74 U.S. second-grade students on the COPA-SF. Results supported five skills of orthographic processing represented on the COPA-SF. Concurrent and convergent validity evidence was found for the COPA-SF. Overall, the findings suggest that the COPA-SF is a time-efficient, reliable, multidimensional measure of orthographic processing.
Culturally competent health reporting: The influences of news sources and formats
Authors: Garyantes Dianne M. , Murphy Priscilla
Published: November 2024

This study examined news sources and formats in relation to cultural competence indicators in 140 obesity articles in mainstream and ethnic urban newspapers. Through semantic network analysis, the research found that community and non-government sources and personalized news formats were most strongly associated with cultural competence. Ethnic newspapers pursued a culturally competent approach across all news formats and with their community sources, providing important health news to audiences who need it most.
Les sondages sont-ils tous égaux ? Modes d’administration et bases de sondage dans l’élection présidentielle américaine de 2020
Authors: Durand Claire
Published: November 2024

Résumé

À l’aube de l’élection présidentielle américaine de 2024, il est essentiel de se pencher sur ce qui s’est passé en 2020. Cinquante-et-un instituts ou organisations ont conduit 222 sondages indépendants du 1er septembre jusqu’à la veille du vote, le 3 novembre 2020. Ces sondages ont présenté les plus grands écarts avec le vote depuis 1996 et la plus importante disparité entre les différents modes d'administration depuis 2008. Nous avons classé les sondages en trois catégories en fonction de leur mode d’administration et de leur base de sondage : mixtes, combinant plus d’un mode d’administration (16%), à mode unique utilisant une base aléatoire ou quasi-aléatoire (25%) et web utilisant un access panel (59%). L'analyse utilise des régressions locales pour visualiser l’évolution des appuis durant la campagne, puis des analyses multiniveaux pour valider statistiquement comment les diverses combinaisons de mode et de base de sondage influencent l’estimation de l’évolution des intentions de vote durant la campagne et du vote final. Les analyses révèlent que les sondages à sources d'échantillonnage aléatoires ou quasi-aléatoires (modes mixtes ou uniques) indiquaient une hausse initiale puis une baisse des intentions de vote pour Joe Biden alors que les panels web estimaient que l’intention de vote était stable. Par ailleurs, les sondages mixtes ont mené à une prédiction exacte du vote.

Les analyses des dix derniers jours de campagne confirment globalement ces résultats. Les sondages mixtes et à mode unique quasi-aléatoire sont les plus précis. De plus, l'utilisation de multiples sources d'échantillonnage ou la pondération par scores de propension amènent également de meilleures estimations. Cette étude suggère que différents modes et sources d'échantillonnage rejoignent des segments variés de la population, et que leur combinaison mène à une meilleure estimation de la dynamique électorale. Les sondages web sur invitation, dominants dans l’espace médiatique, ont pu fausser la perception des électeurs. L'article appelle à une surveillance des méthodologies de sondage émergentes pour mieux comprendre leur impact et informer adéquatement la population de l’état de l’opinion publique.
Childhood Maltreatment and Revictimization in Young Adulthood: Is Problematic Substance Use a Mediator? A Linked Survey–Register Data Study
Authors: Frøyland Lars Roar , Heggebø Kristian
Published: November 2024

Victims of childhood maltreatment often experience revictimization later in life. However, there is scant knowledge of the explanatory mechanisms that generate this phenomenon. Problematic substance use is a maladaptive coping strategy that may increase the risk of revictimization after maltreatment. We used linear regressions and mediation analyses to investigate the explanatory role of problematic substance use in the association between childhood maltreatment and violent revictimization in young adulthood. We analyzed linked survey-register data on a sample of senior high school graduates in Norway ( n = 3,156) who were followed longitudinally until ages 32 to 33 (2021). Ordinary least squares regression analyses showed that childhood maltreatment was associated with both problematic substance use and violent revictimization, adjusted for a wide range of covariates. Moreover, problematic substance use was associated with an increased risk of violent revictimization in young adulthood. Mediation analyses showed that about one eighth (12.0%) of the association between childhood maltreatment and violent revictimization was mediated by problematic substance use. Sensitivity tests indicated that the mediation may be susceptible to unmeasured confounding. Thus, it is unclear whether the mediating role of problematic substance use can be interpreted causally within a counterfactual framework. In conclusion, reducing problematic substance use among victims of childhood maltreatment may mitigate the risk of violent revictimization later in life. Early detection and tailored treatment of problematic substance use could be one way to prevent violent revictimization following childhood maltreatment. Therefore, equitable access to primary and specialized healthcare services is essential, both for victims of maltreatment and individuals with habits of (borderline) problematic substance use. However, the majority of the maltreatment-revictimization pathway (88.0%) is not statistically explained by substance use, which implies that other mechanisms are also at play.
Organizational Communication Scholars and U.S. Higher Education Leadership: Opportunities and Challenges When Scholars Become Administrators
Authors: Castor Theresa , Milburn Trudy , Eisenberg Eric M. , Shockley-Zalabak Pam
Published: November 2024

Universities and colleges are organizations that significantly impact students, their communities, and society. This forum explores how organizational communication scholars who are university leaders have applied their scholarly backgrounds to inform their roles. The forum participants engage in the work of being reflective practitioners to shed light on how organizational communication theory can help in negotiating the everyday lived experience of academic leadership. Three key issues are explored: (1) in what ways are organizational communication scholars uniquely positioned to assume a university leadership role? (2) how do communication concepts inform the communication practices of administrators? and (3) how do communication practices contribute to universities as multi-faceted institutions? The participants conclude by reflecting on current challenges in higher education and the potential of organizational communication scholars to play a vital role in navigating those challenges.
The Fifth Generation of Revolution Studies. Part III: A Systematic Review of Substantive Findings (Repression, Success, and Outcomes of Revolutions)
Authors: Korotayev Andrey , Fain Egor , Ustyuzhanin Vadim , Grinin Leonid
Published: November 2024

This article is the final part of our systematic review of the substantive findings of fifth-generation revolution studies, building on the examination of the emergence and characteristics of this generation contained in the first article in the series. Our systematic review is divided into two parts. In this second and final part, the following areas of research explored by fifth-generation scholars will be specifically considered: (1) impact of repression on the course of revolutions; (2) causes and factors that contribute to the success of revolutions; and (3) the outcomes of revolutionary uprisings. This article also presents the authors’ vision of the tasks ahead for the fifth generation of revolution studies.
Age-Related Trajectories of Health Decline Among Immigrants and Natives in Europe: The Effect of Education
Authors: Solé-Auró Aïda , Sáenz-Hernández Isabel , Ratniece Luīze
Published: November 2024

Background: The ability to age healthily is highly dependent on individual characteristics that include gender, social class, a range of biological and contextual factors, and migrant background. Indeed, immigration has changed the demographic composition and social structure of many European countries, generating an increasing interest in how societies, and immigrants in particular, are aging. Research Design: This paper compares the age-related trajectories of health decline in three health measures (activity limitation indicator, self-perceived health, and chronic conditions) among 7,429 immigrants and 81,424 native-born populations aged 50 years old and over using longitudinal data from seven waves of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) (2004–2020). Analysis: We use descriptive and multivariate models (random-effects regression models) to analyze the association between migration status and each health outcome. We are particularly interested in determining the age-related trajectory of this association across three levels of education, exploring at the same time the effect of the interaction between immigration status and age on health. Results: Our results highlight potential gaps in health between immigrants and native-born people that are particularly large for the low-educated group. In other words, the health decline is more marked for low-educated immigrants compared to native-born populations in particular for activity limitation indicator and self-perceived health, while it is less pronounced with the accumulation of chronic conditions. Conclusions: Our findings should serve to enhance the design of the provision of social services and support and the promotion of equal opportunities.
A pressure compensation method and its application in cavitation suppression of swash plate axial piston pump
Authors: Tan Li , Xie Haibo , Xiao Gang , Tang Herong , Sun Shanbing , Yang Huayong
Published: November 2024

Cavitation is a common undesired phenomenon which causes rise of noise and damage to units in axial piston pump, this article proposes a method to collect the wasted oil during piston decompression and reuse it for cavitation suppression. In order to verify this idea, a swash plate axial piston pump which suffers from cavitation was selected as the research object, simulation model, including 1D mathematical model and 3D fluid model, were built for analysis and unit design, critical parameters, such as piston pressure, flow ripple and cavitation distribution, are able to be exported by these two models, moreover, the optimized units were designed and a test bed was set up to measure pump noise and pressure ripple, the maximum reduction of noise and pressure ripple achieves 10.4 dBA and 12 bar respectively, besides, experimental result validates the effect of cavitation suppression. This research may provide a new way for reduction of noise and cavitation.
Determine the dynamic rollover threshold and roll safety thresholds of tractor semi-trailer vehicles when turning maneuver based on the yaw rate parameters: A simulation approach
Authors: Ta Hung Tuan , Duong Khanh Ngoc
Published: November 2024

The article aims to evaluate the dynamic rollover threshold and roll safety threshold of a tractor semi-trailer vehicle when turning maneuver, based on the vehicle body’s yaw rate parameters. A full dynamics model with the Burckhardt tire model is presented, using the Multibody System method and the Newton-Euler equation system. The model is used to simulate and investigate the motion state of a tractor semi-trailer vehicle when turning maneuver on dry asphalt roads. The survey results show the stability zone and rollover zone for initial velocities ranging from 40 to 80 km/h and the magnitude of steering wheel angles ranging from 12.5 to 300 deg. Using the proposed load transfer ratio, rollover and roll safety zones have been established. The Dynamic Rollover Threshold (DRT) and Roll Safety Thresholds (RSTs) based on the yaw rate parameter are presented. This article demonstrates that vehicle speed and steering wheel angle are key factors that affect the yaw rate dynamic rollover threshold and yaw rate roll safety thresholds of a tractor semi-trailer vehicle. At a speed of 70 km/h, the Dynamic Rollover Threshold based on the yaw rate parameter (YDRT) for tractor and semi-trailer is 13.932 and 13.116 deg/s, respectively. When selecting Proposed Load Transfer Ratio (LTRprop) = 0.8, Roll Safety Threshold based on the Yaw rate parameter (YRST) are 11.286 and 11.028 deg/s for the tractor and semi-trailer, respectively. LTRprop = 0.7, the YRST are 10.176 and 10.058 deg/s for the tractor and semi-trailer, respectively. The results of this study can serve as a basis for designing early warning and anti-roll control systems of tractor semi-trailer when turning maneuver.
The impact of neoliberalism on psychological research and practice
Authors: Merhej Rita , Makarem Rahaf
Published: November 2024

Rapid changes in technology have contributed to making globalization a reality, in spite of it being criticized for imposing Western cultural values on the world. Globalization embeds a neoliberal ideology where productivity, competition, and profit prevail. This paper posits that neoliberalism has enabled the persistence and further spread of coloniality in the field of psychology, both as a research enterprise and practice. The production of psychological research, the diagnosis of psychological disorders, and the prescription of Western therapeutic packages all follow the neoliberal profit-making paradigm which commodifies the field of psychology. The underrepresentation of Global South research is discussed, as well as the over-emphasis on individuality in the conceptualization of well-being and success. The call for a decolonial perspective is underlined, advocating a perspective from within, as opposed to a perspective from above, that critically and selectively integrates indigenous knowledge and practices with what is relevant from the West.
Rapid mangrove sediment accretion in late-Holocene paleochannels of Singapore
Authors: Nathan Yudhishthra , Chua Stephen , Chong Ancel , Chan Nicholas , Morgan Kyle , Switzer Adam D , Friess Daniel A , Horton Benjamin P
Published: November 2024

The evolution of mangroves in response to sea-level rise will partially depend on the availability of accommodation space, which is influenced by the hydrodynamic setting. Here, we reconstruct mangrove evolution in a paleochannel of Sungei Jurong (i.e., Jurong River), Singapore via litho-, bio-, and chrono-stratigraphical analyses. Paleochannels are a commonly-occurring, but under-studied hydrodynamic setting in mangroves. Our results show a stratigraphy of a pre-Holocene basal unit of light grey clayey silt with no recorded microfossils (Unit I), overlain by dark grey clayey silt with 45–58% mangrove pollen (e.g., Rhizophora mucronata, Kandelia candel, and Rhizophora apiculata) and no recorded foraminifera (Unit II). Overlying Unit II is dark brown sandy silt with 44–67% mangrove pollen and no recorded foraminifera (Unit III), separated by a sharp contact from light brown clayey silt (Unit IV) with 39–67% mangrove pollen and agglutinated foraminifera (e.g., Trochammina inflata, Jadammina macrescens, and Haplophragmoides spp.). We develop a Bchron age-depth model from eight radiocarbon dates of plant macrofossils in the form of wood. We infer the presence of a tidal channel near a mangrove environment with a maximum sediment accretion rate of 3.3–5.0 mm yr−1 (~1,230 ± 60 to 990 ± 70 cal. yrs. BP), and an abandoned paleochannel with sediment accretion of up to 18.0–30.0 mm yr−1 (~500 ± 30 cal. yrs. BP to present), separated by a maximum hiatus of 590 cal. yrs. The provision of accommodation space in paleochannels may be driven by rapid sediment accretion caused by overbank flow as well as precipitation and overland flow, thus exemplifying the influence of local hydrodynamics.
Sexual and Reproductive Health, Including Family Planning in India: Evolution of Communication Outreach
Authors: Gupta Deepak , Yadav J. S.
Published: November 2024

Recognising the link between population and development, India initiated the family planning (FP) programme in 1951 soon after independence in 1947. The programme kept expanding; however, the thrust of the FP remained on ‘small family’ and ‘population stabilisation’. Reaching correct and timely information to individuals and community is the key first step towards bringing about a positive behaviour change on sexual and reproductive health (SRH)/FP issues. Scientifically designed social and behaviour change (SBC), based on time-tested conceptual frameworks, help in delivering desired results. Community engagement and ownership of the SRH/FP programme, through participatory methods, is an essential element of a successful and rights-based programme. Key informants interviews (KIIs) were held with the renowned experts in the health sector, they opined: scientific design of SBC is integral to the rights-based and results-driven SRH/FP programmes. Building SBC technical skills of managers and providers and institutional capacity of all those departments and organisations that are engaged in SRH/FP communication design/delivery is of paramount significance. It concludes, effective and results-based SBC strategies use concepts from psycho-social learning theories of role modelling communicated via multiple modes, including mass media and use of advocacy and social mobilisation. Dialogue with and active participation of individuals is an essential element in SBC, especially in the SRH/FP interventions.
The Effect of Apigenin on Renal Damage Induced by Aristolochic Acid I and the Involvement of Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway
Authors: Ma Leyi , Quan Zijiao , Zheng Nan , Lin Ming
Published: November 2024

Background

Aristolochic acid is naturally found in plants of the Aristolochiaceae family and possesses antitumor, anti-infection, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Purpose

This study investigated the protective effect of apigenin (API) on aristolochic acid I (AAI)-induced renal damage in mice and its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Male C57BL/6J mice were assigned to the control group, model group, and API low, medium, and high-dose groups (10, 20, 40 mg/kg). On the 5th day, 2 h after administration, except for the control group, all other groups were intraperitoneally injected with AAI (10 mg/kg). Following final administration, 24-h urinary protein levels, serum creatinine (Scr), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were assessed along with hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining of kidneys and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining, as well as analysis of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity.

Results

When compared with the model group, mice in API treatment groups exhibited significantly reduced 24-h urinary protein levels and serum levels of Scr and BUN ( p < 0.05) with an improvement in renal tissue histopathological changes and cell apoptosis as well as decreased MDA and increased SOD and GSH-Px ( p < 0.05). Tumor necrosis factor alpha protein (TNF-α)/interleukin (IL)-1β/IL-6 levels showed a reduction ( p < 0.05). Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were upregulated, while NF-κB/Cleaved Caspase-3 were downregulated ( p < 0.01).

Conclusion

API protects against renal damage induced by AAI possibly through Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, which in turn inhibits oxidative stress damage, inflammatory responses, and cell apoptosis.
Pharmacological Activities of Aesculus hippocastanum and Its Bioactive Constituents in Hemostasis: A Mechanistic Review
Authors: Yan Linyin , Zhang Yu , Dai Decai , Li Yanqiang , Xiao Wei
Published: November 2024

Hemostatic disorders are the leading cause of morbidity and even mortality worldwide. Therefore, there is a growing tendency to develop novel, effective, and safer agents for the management of hemostatic diseases. Current hemostatic agents come with several drawbacks, such as unavoidable adverse effects, instability in oral administration, lack of biodegradability, poor safety profile in long-term uses, and high costs. Therefore, herbal remedies with better safety profiles have become a popular alternative therapeutic option for the prevention and treatment of coagulopathies. Aesculus hippocastanum is a commonly found decorative plant with significant medicinal importance. Its various organs contain valuable phytochemicals, and extensive research has demonstrated the effectiveness of A. hippocastanum-based treatments for venous disorders. This review explores the impact of A. hippocastanum on inflammation, oxidative stress, platelet aggregation, and the endothelium of blood vessels. Early studies on the pharmacological properties of A. hippocastanum indicate that it is an exceptional astringent and hemostatic medicinal plant. Its main bioactive compounds, including escin, esculetin, kaempferol, quercetin, and (‒)-epicatechin, not only exhibit vasoconstriction effects but also demonstrate strong anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet, and antioxidant properties. A. hippocastanum exerts these effects by modulating targets such as P-selectin, Nrf2/HO-1, NF-κB, 5HT2A, P2RY1, P2RX1, and cPLA2. Nevertheless, further research is necessary to thoroughly confirm A. hippocastanum’s effectiveness as a hemostatic agent.
Efficacy of Phytopharmaca (Cinnamon, Turmeric, Ginger and Garlic) as an Adjuvant in Rheumatoid Arthritis Management: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Amirah Shakira , Abdurrahman Muhammad Fahd , Sudiasa I Nyoman Sebastian , Duta Teuku Fais , Fakri Fajar , Iqhrammullah Muhammad
Published: November 2024

Emerging scientific evidence suggests that herbal medicine or phytopharmaca could be used in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – a chronic inflammatory disorder caused by autoimmune. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of herbal plants (including Curcuma longa/turmeric, ginger, cinnamon and garlic) as adjuvants in managing RA. A literature search was conducted based on ProQuest, PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Wiley Libraries for randomised controlled trials published until 18 May 2024. Cochrane RoB 2 was utilised to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. Eleven randomised controlled trials with a total of 619 patients were included. Only curcumin was included in the pooled analysis since other herbal plants were only reported in a single study. Curcumin was found effective to improve DAS-28 scores (mean difference [MD] = –1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI]: –1.61, –.73; P <.01; I2 = 92%), tender joint count (MD = –5.06; 95% CI: –8.24, –1.88; P <.01; I2 = 98%), swollen joint count (MD = –4.62; 95% CI: –7.91, –1.33; P <.01; I2 = 98%), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (MD = –62.92; 95% CI: –105.30, –20.54; P <.01; I2 = 99%), C-reactive protein (MD = –0.36; 95% CI: –0.56, –0.16; P <.01; I2 = 91%), visual analogue scale (MD = –6.76; 95%CI: –8.45, –5.05; P <.01 I2 = 96%) and rheumatoid factor (MD = –51.32; 95% CI: –57.95, –44.68; P <.01; I2 = 0%). Adverse events were not associated with curcumin intake (odds ratio [OR] = 0.38; 95% CI: 0.09, 1.65; P = .2; I2 = 0%). Curcumin can be used to improve the outcome of RA conventional therapies, but more research is required to conclude the effective dose. Garlic, cinnamon and ginger are potential but remained understudied. Future studies should also consider other herbal plants based on the pre-clinical trial evidence. PROSPERO registration: CRD42023423480.
Attitudinal Measures for Socio-environmental Governance in Public Organisations of the Amazon Region
Authors: Monteiro Renato Schaurich , Filho Flávio de São Pedro , Patil-Dake Jayashree
Published: November 2024

This study involves attitudinal measures by public agents committed to the environment, society and governance. It seeks to build idealists in socio-environmental management in the Amazon, promoting the induction of behaviours that lack a logical methodology to support solutions in a strategy for sustainability. The question to be raised here is: What attitudinal measures could be adopted by public agents in responsible socio-environmental governance? To answer this question, the general objective is to investigate the attitudinal measures of public officials in the face of their commitment to socio-environmental management in organisations. Thus, the content analysis method and related procedures were applied through bibliographic and documentary surveys made available on platforms such as ANPAD’s Spell, Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science, using keywords and Boolean criteria. Habermas’ Theory of Communicative Action was used in the analysis. The results made it possible to carry out a critical study that is valid in empirical experiments, which makes it possible to outline measures for the development of socio-environmental actions; it considered participatory and collaborative management models, environmental diagnosis in organisations; it offers the reader a SWOT framework in the face of a middle-up-down structure, through which knowledge creation is induced; it focuses on the institutional tactical level, aligning knowledge management processes involving leadership, coordination, control and measurement; it outlines the establishment of sustainability indicators, making it possible to measure socio-environmental performance in public organisations. This is an academic contribution to those interested in promoting socio-environmental management in the public sector, pointing to innovative practices as valid models to be considered in optimal decision-making.
Innovative Strategies for Public Health Training in the Asia Pacific: Insights From Experience and Evidence
Authors: Baker Philip R. A. , Carroll Julie-Anne , Demant Daniel
Published: November 2024

The past decade has seen a rapidly changing landscape in priority areas for public health globally and, as such, across the teaching and learning curriculum for tertiary education in health sciences. The nature of some of these changes has led to pedagogical challenges in higher education that require transformative, interactive, and virtual modes of delivery and knowledge facilitation not previously seen. The COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, increasing health disparities, and a shift to a focus on noncommunicable diseases has merged with the changing nature of social, cultural, and technological preferences of the generations living through such times to see an increasing need in more viable teaching solutions for these “wicked problems.” This article outlined key innovations empirically demonstrated to meet these challenges through nuanced responses to increasingly disrupted approaches to linear delivery of content and a shift toward bite-sized, interactive, reflexive modes of achieving learning objectives.
The political economy of inflation management: the case of Greece
Authors: Theodoropoulou Sotiria , Pierros Christos , Matsaganis Manos
Published: November 2024

This article explores how the impact of the 2022–2023 inflationary episode was managed in Greece, and explains how labour market governance framed public policy responses. Greece resembles other southern European countries in the chronic weakness of its institutional preconditions for managing emerging inflationary pressures in a coordinated manner. Greece is also different, however, in that the previous two economic shocks had left a legacy of drastically diminished collective bargaining, financially vulnerable households and a public debt-to-GDP ratio close to 200 per cent. We show that, in a context of weakened trade unions and collective bargaining institutions, the response of wages to inflation was anaemic, while profits grew strongly, especially in oligopolistic product markets. We also discuss how, in order to ease the cost-of-living crisis, the government resorted mainly to untargeted support measures with a regressive distributional impact. We conclude by reflecting on what our findings imply for Greece’s quest for a more sustainable and more inclusive growth model.
Unraveling the Impact of Data Breaches: Evidence From the US Healthcare Sector
Authors: Kwon Juhee , Johnson M Eric
Published: November 2024

As data breaches become an increasingly common risk, they are now a matter of “when” rather than “if.” While there has been active research on breaches, much of the work has focused on the antecedents and prevention of breaches, leaving the quantitative ramifications and variations in breach impact relatively unexplored. To address this gap, our study quantifies the impact of breaches on operational performance and identifies how operational, technological, and market factors moderate the impact. Using a quasi-experimental design with a difference-in-differences technique and propensity score matching, we analyzed a matched sample of 1,766 US hospitals, consisting of 883 breached hospitals and their non-breached peers from 2010 to 2017. We find that breached hospitals experience a 2.1% reduction in hospital admissions and a 0.28% decrease in market share. Moreover, network affiliation, decentralized governance, and cloud-based information technology services negatively moderate breach impacts, while IT security systems for detection, identity governance, and recovery provide mitigating effects. Additionally, we find that breaches in one hospital spillover to affect non-breached hospitals in the same local market. Our findings contribute to the operations management and security literature and provide managerial insights for enhancing breach resilience. Understanding these moderating factors can help hospital managers and policymakers formulate tailored mitigation strategies.
Multi-Agent Deep Reinforcement Learning for Multi-Echelon Inventory Management
Authors: Liu Xiaotian , Hu Ming , Peng Yijie , Yang Yaodong
Published: November 2024

We apply heterogeneous-agent proximal policy optimization (HAPPO), a multi-agent deep reinforcement learning (MADRL) algorithm, to the decentralized multi-echelon inventory management problems in both a serial supply chain and a supply chain network. We also examine whether the upfront-only information-sharing mechanism used in MADRL helps alleviate the bullwhip effect. Our results show that policies constructed by HAPPO achieve lower overall costs than policies constructed by single-agent deep reinforcement learning and other heuristic policies. Also, the application of HAPPO results in a less significant bullwhip effect than policies constructed by single-agent deep reinforcement learning where information is not shared among actors. Somewhat surprisingly, compared to using the overall costs of the system as a minimization target for each actor, HAPPO achieves lower overall costs when the minimization target for each actor is a combination of its own costs and the overall costs of the system. Our results provide a new perspective on the benefit of information sharing inside the supply chain that helps alleviate the bullwhip effect and improve the overall performance of the system. Upfront information sharing and action coordination in model training among actors is essential, with the former even more essential, for improving a supply chain’s overall performance when applying MADRL. Neither actors being fully self-interested nor actors being fully system-focused leads to the best practical performance of policies learned and constructed by MADRL. Our results also verify MADRL’s potential in solving various multi-echelon inventory management problems with complex supply chain structures and in non-stationary market environments.
Equitable Workload Allocation in Vehicle Routing Problem With Heterogeneous Drivers
Authors: Mahmoodian Vahid , Charkhgard Hadi , Dayarian Iman
Published: November 2024

In the private logistics service sector, considerations of fairness among service agents are relatively new but are gaining importance due to public and governmental pressures to improve equity in workload allocation among internal stakeholders, such as the service personnel. Fairness becomes more complex in settings with a heterogeneous workforce due to inherent worker differences. In this study, we present an equitable workload allocation model for the vehicle routing problem with heterogeneous drivers. We adopt the Nash Social Welfare (NSW) solution as the focal point for coalition among the various drivers. In our setup, while the ultimate goal is to maximize the equity and efficiency of drivers, the company’s efficiency is guaranteed by putting a cap on the deviation of the company’s cost from the least-cost solution value. We formulate the problem of last-mile delivery of online orders from a store using a fleet of crowdshippers as a variant of the vehicle routing problem with a highly nonlinear objective function inspired by NSW’s objective function. To solve the proposed new formulation, a column generation method is developed and used to study the behavior of the model. Through a comprehensive computational study, we investigate the behavior of the system in terms of the company’s cost, drivers’ total profit, and the level of achieved equity among the drivers when the main parameters of the problem vary. Our study demonstrates that the proposed framework outperforms the classical max–min approach in balancing workload equity and efficiency. We show a median equity improvement of 18% with a 5% cost deviation and 30% with a 10% deviation from the least-cost solution.