bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Drivers' Compliance Behavior: Data-Driven Assessment of Longer Yellow Intervals
Authors: Khalilabadi Pouya Jalali , Karimpour Abolfazl , Wu Yao-Jan , Ramos Simon T.
Published: August 2024

Red-light running (RLR) behavior poses significant risks at signalized intersections and has emerged as a leading cause of intersection-related crashes. The Phoenix metropolitan area had 113 RLR-related fatalities and 9,320 injuries from 2014 to 2020. To effectively mitigate RLR violations and uphold the safety of all road users, it is crucial to investigate RLR behavior at local intersections, evaluate the impact of different signal timing parameters—such as the yellow interval—on the frequency of RLR violations, and, finally, identify effective countermeasures. This study investigated the effect of updating the yellow interval on the frequency of red-light violations. Twelve intersections within the City of Phoenix were carefully selected as study sites. Then, smart sensors were installed to collect various data types, such as signal timing parameters, the vehicle count, and RLR violation data. Based on the ITE 2020 guidelines, yellow intervals were adjusted at each intersection. The effects of increased yellow intervals on RLR violations were examined by utilizing a comprehensive experimental before-and-after design. The before-and-after study results indicated that increasing the yellow intervals significantly reduced the average frequency of RLR violations for both through and left-turn movements by 83% and 72%, respectively. The results of this research are instrumental in informing transportation agencies, enabling them to adopt evidence-based approaches to signal timing strategies that enhance intersection safety and effectively reduce RLR violations.
Insights into User Acceptance of Battery Swapping Services for Sustainable Micromobility using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 Model
Authors: Zhang Fan , Lv Huitao , Sun Ning , Ji Yanjie
Published: August 2024

Intelligent Battery Swapping Services (BSSs) present an innovative solution to the challenges of charging, safety hazards, and disorganized battery management encountered by electric micromobility vehicles (EMVs). Although BSSs have gained traction in the business-to-business domain, their acceptance in the business-to-customer sector remains uncertain. This study leverages the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) combined with a structural equation modeling framework to discern the adoption intentions toward BSS among individual drivers. Drawing from a survey of 434 EMV users in Jiangsu Province, China, we analyzed the relationship between latent variables, while also evaluating the moderating effects of sociodemographic and transport-related factors via multi-group analysis. The findings revealed a model with impressive explanatory power, accounting for approximately 54.8% of the variance in intention. Notably, social influence emerged as the most potent influencer on intention, trailed by effortlessness expectancy, price sensitivity, and performance expectancy. Intriguingly, both price sensitivity and technology anxiety exhibited a negative correlation with intention. Furthermore, variables such as gender, age, income, riding purpose, and riding frequency were found to significantly shape users’ intentions to embrace BSS. This research offers valuable insights for policy makers aiming to promote BSS adoption among EMV users and encourage the EMV market’s growth and sustainability.
From systems to forms: Reconstructing Niklas Luhmann’s approach to relationships
Authors: Blatterer Harry
Published: August 2024

Niklas Luhmann’s approach to relationships was ambivalent. While references to the word abound in his work, his systems theory renders ‘relationship’ redundant as key concept. This has made it difficult for Luhmannian theorists to describe social forms that endure beyond serial interactions. Attempts have been made to overcome this ‘latency problem’ by conceptualising relationships as social systems. Contending that by focusing on communication these attempts reproduce rather than solve the problem, this article proposes an alternative solution. Centred in Luhmann’s conception of meaning, it conceives of relationships as meaning forms ( Sinnformen) in whose construal the phenomenalising capacities of psychical systems play a vital role: mental operations such as imagined interactions routinely bridge phases of non-interaction, which are constitutive elements of relationships. This critical reconstruction aims to contribute to a fuller grasp of the interdependencies between serial interactions and enduring relationships in Luhmann’s own terms.
Red Tape and Burnout Risks in the Public Service: Evidence From a Survey Experiment of School Principals
Authors: Fuenzalida Javier , Gutiérrez Laura L. , Fernández-Vergara Andrés , González Pablo A.
Published: August 2024

Occupational stress and burnout remain largely unexplored as red tape repercussions, even though they can jeopardize public servants’ wellbeing, motivation, and performance. Using a survey experiment with 354 school principals conducted between November 2018 and January 2019 in Chile, we provide evidence that red tape foments burnout risks. More red tape increases emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a sense of low personal accomplishment, while cutting red tape reduces emotional exhaustion but does not attenuate depersonalization and low personal accomplishment. These experimental results further prior observational findings about employee responses to red tape and are particularly pertinent for public services struggling with effectively cutting red tape.
Effect of cadmium sulfide spheres on structural, mechanical, and optical properties of polyvinyl butyral/cadmium sulfide nanocomposite films
Authors: Alziyadi Mohammed O , Alkabsh Asma , Amal M Said Basmat , Shalaby Mustafa S.
Published: August 2024

Herein, cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanospheres were synthesized using the hydrothermal method and then inserted into a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) matrix at different concentrations (0%, 2%, and 4% wt.) using the solution casting method. This work examines the effects of varying percentages of CdS spheres on the structural characteristics, mechanical properties, surface/volume energy loss functions, dielectric constants, and linear/non-linear optical properties of PVB nanocomposite films. The findings confirmed the successful synthesis of sphere-like CdS with a cubic structural phase. The stress-strain curves of PVB and its composites with nano CdS spheres were examined. The PVB has a direct/indirect energy gap of 5.1 eV (4.1 eV). With a CdS doping level of 2% and 4%, the values correspondingly decreased to 4.76 eV (3.36 eV) and 4.49 eV (2.45 eV). The EU values for PVB, PVB-2 wt.% CdS, and PVB-4 wt.% CdS nanocomposite are 15.3, 11.2, and 14.1 meV, respectively. CdS nanospheres decreased the volume and surface energy losses (VELF & SELF) of PVB films. The research demonstrates that the mechanical properties and optical parameters of PVB/CdS nanocomposite films positively correlate with the concentration of CdS nanospheres. These attributes make them well-suited for incorporation into flexible electronic devices.
Design and analysis of a four-crease origami gripper (FCOG)
Authors: Qiu Lifang , Cui Shuyu
Published: August 2024

In this paper, a Four-Crease Origami Gripper (FCOG) is designed. The kinematic model of the FCOG is derived. The correctness of the theoretical model is verified through experimental tests. To describe the performance of the FCOG, two parameters are defined, that is, capacity ratio and load ratio. The capacity ratio describes the configuration characteristics of the FCOG, which has been validated through experiments and analysis. The load ratio describes the load-bearing performance. The experiments show that the FCOG can meet the requirements of strength and load performance. Finally, the future potential applications of the FCOG are discussed.
Detecting and classifying defects on the surface of water heaters: Development of an automated system
Authors: Semitela Ângela , Ferreira André , Completo António , Lau Nuno , Santos José P
Published: August 2024

Seeking a total automation of the existing industrial processes, manual product quality control systems have been gradually replaced by automated ones, to significantly improve efficiency and speed, and ultimately, increase industrial productivity. In this regard, an automated inspection system was developed in this work to detect and classify defects on the painted surfaces of Bosch Thermotechnology water heaters. This system comprised a deflectometry-based image acquisition module, two light deep learning models built and trained from scratch for defect detection and classification in the painted surfaces and a visual interface. The experimental results confirmed that: (1) deflectometry techniques were crucial for an accurate defect detection; (2) the two lightweight models – for detection and classification – rapidly achieved high accuracies, even in the testing stage, demonstrating their high performance regardless of their small size; (3) the developed system was able to correctly and quickly predict the status of a painted surface, and then successfully send this status information to a user-friendly visual interface, validating its suitability for an industrial setting. Overall, this system demonstrated great potential as a suitable alternative to the existing manual inspection of the painted surfaces of Bosch Thermotechnology water heaters.
High-α maneuver under lateral centre of gravity uncertainty: A robust adaptive backstepping control scheme
Authors: Khanna Anukaran , Mukherjee Bijoy K , Sinha Manoranjan
Published: August 2024

The present note addresses the novel problem of executing complex aircraft maneuvers under considerable center of gravity (c.g.) uncertainties arising from asymmetrical loading or release of payloads, uneven fuel consumption etc. First, the aircraft flight dynamics under predominantly lateral c.g. movement, is approximated and expressed in a block strict feedback form and thereafter an adaptive backstepping controller is proposed to adapt to the c.g. variations. To alleviate the model uncertainty caused by this model approximation and also to provide robustness to aerodynamic uncertainties in high-alpha regions, a sliding mode control is further integrated with the adaptive backstepping control law. Asymptotic stability conditions of the proposed controller are derived from the first principle using Lyapunov’s method and Barbalat’s lemma. To validate the proposed control scheme, the high-alpha Herbst maneuver is implemented in simulation for the F18-HARV aircraft and the results show that the maneuver performance remains nearly the same under both the nominal and the off-nominal c.g. positions.
Output feedback based PD-type iterative learning fault-tolerant control for uncertain discrete systems with actuator faults
Authors: Shen Yanxia , Zou Wei , Wang Lei
Published: August 2024

This article investigates an output feedback based proportional-derivative (PD)-type iterative learning fault-tolerant control approach for a category of uncertain discrete systems subject to actuator faults. To develop the iterative learning control scheme based on the output measurement, the fault system of repetitive nature is equivalently converted into a discrete linear repetitive process. By applying a Lyapunov function, this article establishes new adequate criteria for to ensure the asymptotic stability of the implemented fault-tolerant controller through linear matrix inequality constraints. The precise allocation of the controller gain matrices is also provided. Finally, simulation results of an injection molding process demonstrate the effectiveness and viability of the proposed approach.
Introduction to the Special Issue: Hindutva and the Rule(s) of Law
Authors: Sudhir Selvaraj M. , Susewind Raphael
Published: August 2024

India is increasingly described as an ‘ethnic democracy’, ‘populist majoritarian autocracy’ or ‘ethnocracy’: a form of rule supported by an electoral majority rooted in ethnic affiliation, with limited and eroding checks and balances that would protect minorities. Over the past decade, constitutional arrangements shifted, ‘dog-whistle’ laws were passed and legal institutions starved of resources. In studying these developments, we want to ground generic studies of populist/majoritarian/autocratic law by unpacking the specific Indian version of it: how does Hindutva as a political ideology and the current dispensation as political agents conceive of the rule of law, its purpose and function? Which rules do they want the law to follow? We combine papers that trace Hindutva's own ideological commitments with those tracking material changes in legislation or jurisprudence and map out their differential consequences for India's minorities, culminating in a wider reflection on the rule(s) of law under autocratic circumstances.
HPV self-sampling in organized cervical cancer screening program: A randomized pilot study in Estonia in 2021
Authors: Hallik Reeli , Innos Kaire , Jänes Jaak , Jõers Kai , Ratnik Kaspar , Veerus Piret
Published: August 2024

Background

Cervical cancer incidence in Estonia ranks among the highest in Europe, but screening attendance has remained low. This randomized study aimed to evaluate the impact of opt-in and opt-out human papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling options on participation in organized screening.

Methods

A random sample of 25,591 women were drawn from the cervical cancer screening target population who were due to receive a reminder in autumn 2021 and thereafter randomly allocated to two equally sized intervention arms (opt-out and opt-in) receiving a choice between HPV self-sampling or clinician sampling. In the opt-out arm, a self-sampler was sent to home address by regular mail; the opt-in arm received an e-mail containing a link to order a self-sampler online. The remaining 30,102 women in the control group received a standard reminder for conventional screening. Participation by intervention arm, age and region of residence was calculated; a questionnaire was used to assess self-sampling user experience.

Results

A significant difference in participation was seen between opt-out (41.7%) (19.8% chose self-sampling and 21.9% clinician sampling), opt-in (34.1%) (7.9% self-sampling, 26.2% clinician sampling) and control group (29.0%, clinician sampling only). All age groups and regions in the intervention arms showed higher participation compared to the control group, but the size of the effect varied. Among self-sampling users, 99% agreed that the device was easy to use and only 3.5% preferred future testing at the clinic.

Conclusion

Providing women with a choice between self-sampling and clinician sampling significantly increased participation in cervical cancer screening. Opt-in and opt-out options had a different effect across age groups, suggesting the need to adapt strategies.
From Qin (Ch’in) to Cathay: Names for China and the Chinese on the Silk Road
Authors: Lieu Samuel N. C.
Published: August 2024

This article examines the many names for China given to her by neighbouring peoples from the Han to the Yuan periods using documents from the Silk Road. It also surveys the many names given to the Middle Kingdom in Chinese (including Buddhist and ‘Nestorian’ Christian) sources and asks why these were not reflected in the way in which China was named by her neighbours and foreign occupiers.
Reducing Racial Disparities at End-of-life: Using Narratives to Build Trust and Promote advance Care Planning
Authors: Ewy Donna
Published: August 2024

Black Americans are less likely than White Americans to have advance directives, die while receiving hospice services, or have their end-of life wishes honored. The root causes of disparities include imbalance of resources, lack of trust in health care institutions, lack of adequate education regarding end-of-life options, communication differences of health care providers with black vs white patients, variable access to hospice services in different communities, and poorer pain management for Black patients compared to White patients. Because root causes are numerous, comprehensive solutions are required. When advance care planning is in place, people are more likely to choose care focused on priorities and comfort than on seeking aggressive, sometimes futile, interventions in the last weeks of life. One important component of the solution should include listening to narrative stories of Black people as they encounter life-limiting diagnoses. Gathering the stories about life events and how strength was found through adversities can be a tool for growing trusting relationships and engaging in shared decision-making. Health care professionals should invite Black patients with serious illnesses to explore the sources of their strengths and identify their core values to work toward developing directives for the nature and place of their end-of-life and help to mitigate disparities in high quality end-of-life care.
Seller-Orchestrated Inventory Financing Under Bank Capital Regulation
Authors: Zhang Yuxuan , Huang Simin , Yang S Alex
Published: August 2024

To help small firms secure bank financing, large sellers often orchestrate joint finance programs, linking their small dealers with major banks that lend to all participating dealers based on the information the seller provides. We examine supply chain decisions (pricing and inventory) and lending terms under such seller-orchestrated financing programs. In loan pricing, we highlight a form of financial friction that is of particular importance under such schemes—bank capital regulation. Banks are globally mandated to maintain regulatory capital to mitigate unforeseen loan losses, using either the standardized approach (where regulatory capital is a fixed percentage of the loan amount) or the internal rating-based (IRB) approach (where it depends on the loan’s value-at-risk). We consider a game-theoretic model consisting of a large seller and multiple capital-constrained newsvendor-type dealers, who obtain financing from banks that are subject to capital regulation. The seller decides the wholesale price and whether to orchestrate a joint finance program for its dealers by collaborating with a bank, and the dealers choose their inventory level and the financing channel. We find that a seller should only orchestrate the joint financing program when the bank adopts the IRB approach and the dealers are of low risk. Such a program is more profitable to the seller when the demand correlation among dealers is low, and there is a large number of dealers. Although always benefiting the seller, these programs may hurt dealers with intermediate risk. Facing dealers with varying financial situations, the terms under the joint finance program should be designed as if the financially strong dealers subsidize the weak ones. Finally, allowing the seller to share part of the loan loss could further enhance the performance of joint financing, but only when the seller’s opportunity cost of capital is low. Our findings provide guidance to large sellers on how to orchestrate joint finance schemes, and to small dealers on making their corresponding operational decisions.
Customers’ Social Capital and Suppliers’ Profitability
Authors: Dai Jing , Deng Mingcherng , Yan Yan
Published: August 2024

We empirically examine the effect of customers’ social capital on the financial performance of suppliers. Social capital, as captured by the strength of secular norms and the density of social networks in local geographical regions, reflects social influences surrounding corporate headquarters. Because customers’ social capital could constrain their opportunistic behaviors and improve supply chain collaboration through its influence on managers’ moral values and external monitoring, we hypothesize and find a positive association between customer social capital and supplier profitability. The association is more pronounced when customers reside closer to suppliers, have more short-horizon incentives, and possess stronger bargaining power. Collectively, our findings suggest that social capital arising from institutions in local areas may mitigate customer opportunism and highlight its real effects that spill over to suppliers’ operational performance.
‘A Total Gamechanger’: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Swedish Fathers’ Work-Family Experiences Since the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Cox Laura , Bjärehed Jonas , Lundberg Tove
Published: August 2024

Although Sweden is a top country for gender equality, there are disparities in domestic labor and parental leave use between men and women. The COVID-19 pandemic changed work-home life by increasing remote work. This study explored eight fathers’ work-family experiences in Sweden before, during and since the COVID-19 pandemic using interviews. Three group themes were developed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis: “Fatherhood as protected and restrained before and during COVID-19”, “COVID-19 as an opportunity for introspection” and “COVID-19 as an opportunity for better balance”. Fathers made meaning of the pandemic in terms of new freedom and flexibility, whilst also expressing the importance of social connection at work. The study contributes insights on fathers’ needs and the debate on post-pandemic work organization.
Evaluating When Subscores Add Value in Psychological and Health Applications
Authors: Gardner Molly J. , Edwards Michael C.
Published: August 2024

Many scales used in psychological and health research are designed to yield subscores, yet it is common to see total scores reported instead. One challenge of using subscores is they can lack adequate reliability due to their shortened length. However, methods originally developed for educational measurement have shown that augmenting subscores can improve reliability estimates. Augmented subscores blend the individual score with other sources of information. The present study sought to understand (a) the costs of ignoring subscores in favor of total scores and (b) the extent to which augmentation can help alleviate challenges encountered when using subscores. Data were simulated to examine when subscores should be preferred to total scores and the magnitude of improvement from using augmented subscores over non-augmented subscores. Results suggested that when a scale is designed to yield subscores, there is practical benefit to using them. In situations where subscore reliability is low, we recommend using augmentation.
A comprehensive study of adverse effects of chemotherapy on female breast cancer patients in NORI Cancer Hospital, Islamabad in a developing country
Authors: Abid Areesha , Saeed Humza , Iftikhar Uswa , Arshad Muhammad Khubaib , Shahid Muhammad Uzair , Rasool Tayyab , Fazal Faizan , Goyal Aman , Akbar Anum
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Breast cancer is one of the top three malignancies worldwide. While radiotherapy, hormone replacement therapys, and chemotherapy are treatments, chemotherapy causes adverse effects that hinder daily life activities.

Objectives

To assess the prevalence, severity, and association of symptomatic toxicities in female breast cancer patients affecting various organ systems post systemic chemotherapy (adjuvant and neoadjuvant), and their impact on daily activities. Additionally, to determine the severity of adverse effects in specific age groups and their association with family history and disease stage.

Methodology

An observational study was conducted on 253 female breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy at NORI Cancer Hospital from May to October 2023. Data collection tools included the NCI-PRO-CTCAE standardized questionnaire and patient medical records. Analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, T-tests, and Chi-square tests.

Results

Among the 253 patients, 41.4% were aged 41–50. Significant weight changes ( p = 0.034) were observed with more than three chemotherapy cycles. Notable associations included increased chemotherapy cycles with gastrointestinal (mouth/throat sores p = 0.031, vomiting p = 0.021), respiratory (cough p = 0.04), cardiovascular (arm/leg swelling p = 0.007, palpitations p = 0.052), integumentary (hair loss p = 0.000, skin dryness p = 0.054), and musculoskeletal (fatigue p = 0.002) adverse effects. Positive family history and the 18–30 age group also showed significant associations with adverse effect severity. Disease stage significantly influenced the nervous system (stage 2 p = 0.007, stage 3 p = 0.01).

Conclusion

The severity of adverse effects varies among age groups, depending on disease stage, genetics, and treatment duration. These patient-reported outcomes highlight the need for better management strategies considering prognostic factors and treatment adverse effects.
Safety outcomes of teclistamab accelerated dose escalation
Authors: Kawasaki Yumena , Steele Aaron Paul , Rosenberg Aaron , Guglielmo Julie
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Teclistamab, a bispecific T-cell engaging antibody targeting B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA), is indicated for the treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma after at least four lines of therapy. It has boxed warnings for life threatening cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS). To mitigate these risks, teclistamab is initiated using step-up doses. This article examines safety event rates following the implementation of a 2-day separation between step-up doses at one institution to streamline patient care.

Methods

This was a retrospective, single-center study encompassing all patients who received teclistamab within a 1-year period. The primary endpoint was the overall incidence of CRS and ICANS. Secondary endpoints included hospital length of stay, hematological toxicities, infection rates, among other adverse events.

Results

A total of 27 patients were included in the analysis and stratified into accelerated (days 1,3,5) or standard (days 1,4,7) dosing groups. CRS occurred in 48% (11) of patients for the accelerated dosing and 50% (2) for the standard dosing group. ICANS was seen in 17% (4) of patients in the accelerated dosing group and none in the standard dosing group. Average length of stay in the accelerated dose was 7.6 days versus 9.2 days in the standard dose group.

Conclusion

Accelerated dose escalation of teclistamab yielded safety event rates comparable to those in the literature. These findings may support outpatient administration for teclistamab. Accelerated dose escalation strategy allowed for the optimization of hospitalization and resources.
Pembrolizumab related perforated appendicitis
Authors: Kiracı Murat , Akturk Esen Selin , Turkay Duriye Ozer , Kos Fahriye Tugba
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Pembrolizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody IgG4 programmed cell death protein 1 antagonist, and its use in oncology has been increasing in recent years, providing durable and favorable responses and tolerable toxicity profiles in various types of cancer. We describe a case of pembrolizumab related perforated appendicitis in a patient with stage 3C malignant melanoma (MM).

Case report

A 70-year-old male patient who had no known disease was diagnosed with MM as a result of the excision of the mass on his right shoulder. The disease stage was stage 3C (pT4aN1bM0). Subsequently, adjuvant pembrolizumab treatment was started. A few days after the fourth maintenance course, he presented to the emergency department complaining of abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Emergency abdominal tomography showed a significant increase in the diameter of the appendix vermiformis, peritoneal thickening and appendiceal wall defects that could be significant in terms of perforation.

Management and outcome

The mentioned finding and given the clinical presentation, was attributed to a perporating of the appendix, so the patient was hospitalized in the Department of Surgery and the patient underwent emergency appendectomy. Histological findings were consistent with appendicitis. After a day in the hospital, the abdominal pain subsided, C-reactive protein tended to decrease and the patient was discharged.

Discussion

In patients who develop acute abdominal pain with or without diarrhea during immunotherapy, urgent imaging, endoscopic and clinical evaluation should be performed, and bowel perforation, although rare, should be considered as a potential complication of any immunotherapy.
Ferulic acid inhibits tumor proliferation and attenuates inflammation of hepatic tissues in experimentally induced HCC in rats
Authors: Abdulal Zakria A , Altahhan Mohammed Y , Qindil Abdulrahman F , Al-Juhani Aseel M , Alatawi Manahel A , Hassan Hanan M , Al-Gayyar Mohammed MH
Published: August 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent form of primary liver cancer with a 5-year survival rate of just 18%. Ferulic acid, a natural compound found in fruits and vegetables such as sweet corn, rice bran, and dong quai, is an encouraging drug known for its diverse positive effects on the body, including anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and neuroprotective properties. Our study aimed to investigate the potential antitumor effects of ferulic acid to inhibit tumor growth and inflammation of HCC in rats. HCC was induced in rats by administering thioacetamide. Additionally, some rats were given 50 mg/kg of ferulic acid three times a week for 16 weeks. Liver function was assessed by measuring serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and examining hepatic tissue sections stained with hematoxylin/eosin or anti-hypoxia induced factor-1α (HIF-1α). The hepatic mRNA and protein levels of HIF-1α, nuclear factor κB (NFκB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), cMyc, and cyclin D1 were examined. The results showed that ferulic acid increased the rats’ survival rate by reducing serum AFP levels and suppressing hepatic nodules. Furthermore, ferulic acid ameliorated the appearance of vacuolated cytoplasm induced by HCC, reduced apoptotic nuclei, and necrotic nodules. Finally, ferulic acid decreased the expression of HIF-1α, NFκB, TNF-α, mTOR, STAT3, cMyc, and cyclin D1. In conclusion, ferulic acid is believed to possess antitumor properties by inhibiting HCC-induced hypoxia through the suppression of HIF-1α expression. Additionally, it helps in reducing the expression of mTOR, STAT3, cMyc, and cyclin D1, thereby slowing down tumor growth. Lastly, ferulic acid reduced hepatic tissue inflammation by downregulating NFκB and TNF-α.
Soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 as an endothelial dysfunction biomarker associated with pulmonary hypertension in adult patients with beta-thalassemia major
Authors: Abozeid Samah Fathy , Elkholy Rasha A , Elbedewy Tamer A , Seliem Mahmoud Farouk
Published: August 2024

The etiology of vascular problems in beta-thalassemia has been linked to endothelial damage. Antiangiogenic proteins such as soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFLT-1) inhibit the signaling of vascular endothelial growth factor and placental growth factor, resulting in a decrease in the development of new blood vessels. Additionally, they promote the maturation of existing blood vessels and lead to endothelial dysfunction. This study aimed to assess the role of sFLT-1 in adult patients with beta-thalassemia major (TM) as a biomarker of endothelial dysfunction and its association with pulmonary hypertension (PHT). A total of 90 subjects were recruited and categorized into two groups: 45 patients with beta-TM, who were further divided based on the presence or absence of PHT, and 45 healthy individuals served as a control group. Serum sFLT-1 was determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. The results revealed that Beta-TM patients had higher sFLT-1 levels than the control group. In addition, patients with PHT had significantly higher sFLT-1 levels compared to those without PHT. The levels of sFLT-1 were positively correlated with von Willebrand factor, serum ferritin, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. Regression analyses demonstrated a significant association between high sFLT-1 levels and the occurrence of PHT. Additionally, sFLT-1 (at a cutoff value of 8.84 pg/mL) demonstrated a sensitivity of 83.30% and a specificity of 80.0% in diagnosing thalassemic patients with PHT. In conclusion, beta-TM patients with elevated serum levels of sFLT-1 are at risk of developing endothelial dysfunction and subsequent development of PHT.
Squeezed in: Writing Instruction Over Time
Authors: Alston Chandra L. , Eagle Jessica L.
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study was to understand the nature of writing instruction across time and grade bands. We used quantitative and qualitative analyses of teacher interviews and video records of classroom instruction of English language arts writing instruction in 97 fourth- through eighth-grade classrooms in 2010 and 2018. Video records showed a decline in writing instruction across time and grade bands. Teacher lessons focused on the first five Common Core Writing Standards with little attention to the latter five. The lessons included aspects of a writing process approach that used instructional scaffolding, models, student practice, and teacher feedback. Lessons were less likely to include the use of authentic texts, text analysis, and student discussion. Teacher interviews pointed to curricular constraints, a view of writing as peripheral, and comfort with teaching writing as hindrances to quality writing instruction. These findings demonstrate a need for curricular and instructional resources to support teachers in offering consistently quality writing instruction.
A randomised study comparing performance and safety of Eyestil Plus® vs Vismed Multi® in moderate-to-severe dry eye syndrome patients
Authors: Pisella PJ , Gain P , Cochener B , Baillif S , Kodjikian L , Creuzot-Garcher C , Touboul D , Gonzalvez M , Gabisson P , El Amali S , Galarreta D , Merayo Lloves J , Cano-Ortiz A , Ruiz Mesa R , Civiale C , Mazzone MG , Montero J
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This clinical investigation compared the performance and safety of Eyestil Plus® (SIFI) and Vismed Multi® (TRB Chemedica) for reducing keratitis lesions in moderate-to-severe dry eye disease (DED) patients.

Materials and methods

This was a randomised, double-blind, multicentre investigation. 96 adults (>18 years of age) with moderate-to-severe DED received Eyestil Plus® ( N = 48) or Vismed Multi® ( n = 48) 6 times daily for 3 months. The primary objective clinical performance after 1 month as global corneal and conjunctival staining scores. The secondary objectives were clinical performance after 3 months, tear film stability (tear break up time (TBUT), tear production (Schirmer test), patient-reported outcomes (PROs), investigator satisfaction, and safety.

Results

96 participants were randomised to receive the clinical investigations’ treatments, 82.3% of them were female and their mean age was 65.8 years. The non-inferiority of Eyestil Plus® for moderate-to-severe DED was demonstrated at 1 month. No statistical difference was found for any of the study's objectives: change at 1 and 3 months of the global corneal and conjunctival staining score ( p-value = 0.506 and 0.661, respectively), change at 1 and 3 months ( p-value = 0.538 and 0.302) for TBUT test; change at 3 months for Schirmer test ( p-value = 0.540). There were no changes for PROs either. Investigator satisfaction was high for both products. 16.6% of the participants experienced adverse events.

Conclusion

This clinical investigation showed the non-inferiority of Eyestil Plus® compared to Vismed Multi® regarding performance and safety in a moderate-to-severe DED population.
“Long-term safety and efficacy of injection mitomycin C(MMC) versus sponge application in trabeculectomies”
Authors: Maheshwari Devendra , Pillai Madhavi Ramanatha , HM Priya , Kader Mohideen Abdul , Rengappa Ramakrishnan , Pawar Neelam
Published: August 2024

Aims

To compare the long-term safety and efficacy of subconjunctival injection mitomycin C(MMC) with conventional sponge applied MMC during trabeculectomy.

Methods and Material

Retrospective analysis of 98 eyes of 90 patients who underwent trabeculectomy with Mitomycin C were divided into two groups, group 1- sponge (n = 52) and group 2- Injection(n = 46). Follow-up data were collected on day one, day 15, one month, three months, six months, one year, two years and three years. Data from baseline and follow-up visits were analyzed and compared to study the significant difference in intraocular pressure (IOP), number of antiglaucoma medications (AGM) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) . P-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Mean preop IOP was 34.61 ± 13.3 mmHg in group one and 33.07 ± 9.6 mmHg in group two, which reduced to 11.43 ± 3.2 and 11.59 ± 3.2 mmHg at three years ( p < 0.001 in both groups) with no significant difference between the groups. Mean number of preoperative AGM was 2.28 ± 0.8 and 2.42 ± 0.7 in group one and two respectively which reduced to 1.19 ± 1.1( p = 0.405) and 0.88 ± 0.9( p = 0.001) at three years. Complete and overall success rates (complete + qualified) were 59.3% and 78.9% in group one and 60.9% and 80.4% in group two at three years. No statistically significant difference was found in complication rates, post-operative interventions, and final visual outcome in both groups.

Conclusions

Subconjunctival Injection MMC was a safe and effective alternative to sponge application with comparable long term surgical outcomes.
Health outcomes of telemonitoring of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: One-year results from a randomized controlled trial (Optimizing care of Patients via Telemedicine In Monitoring and aUgmenting their control of diabetes Mellitus)
Authors: Lee Cia S , Tyagi Shilpa , Ling Koh Eileen Y , Gong Pei P , Ang Seng B , Gerald Koh Choon H , Tan Ngiap C
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Telehealth increases care accessibility to patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus but the duration of its implementation to sustain optimal glycaemic control remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the health outcomes of these patients using the Optimizing care of Patients via Telemedicine In Monitoring and aUgmenting their control of diabetes Mellitus (OPTIMUM) home tele-monitoring (HTM) system 6 months post-intervention, compared to standard care.

Methods

An open-labelled randomized controlled trial involving 330 participants with type-2 diabetes mellitus, aged 26–65 years, and suboptimal glycaemic control (HbA1c = 7.5%–10%) was conducted. Intervention group received OPTIMUM HTM for 6 months followed by usual care for another 6 months, while control group received usual care for 12 months. OPTIMUM HTM includes in-app video-based tele-education, tele-monitoring of the blood pressure, capillary glucose and weight via Bluetooth devices and mobile applications, followed by algorithm-based tele-management by the OPTIMUM HTM team. Assessments using self-care inventory scale and medication adherence were administered for both groups at baseline, 6-month, and 12-month timepoints.

Results

Complete data from 156 (intervention) and 159 (control) participants, with comparable demographic profiles, were analysed. Both groups showed a significant reduction in HbA1c from baseline ( p < 0.001). From 6-month to 12-month time-points, the intervention group was twice as likely to maintain their HbA1c ≤ 8% (adjusted odds ratio = 2.02, 95%CI = 1.18–3.49; p < 0.011). The intervention group demonstrated higher scores for self-care behaviours (adjusted odds ratio = 3.83 [95%CI = 1.68–5.97], p = 0.001) and not skipping medications (adjusted odds ratio = 2.32 [95%CI = 1.09–4.97], p = 0.030) at 12 months.

Discussion

The OPTIMUM HTM system enabled patients to maintain their glycaemic control beyond the intervention period. The favourable outcomes could be the effect of telehealth in sustaining self-care behaviour and medication adherence.
Does the Liberalization of Masculine Space Improve Experiences for Sexual Minorities?
Authors: Anderson Eric , Zeigler Cyd , Batten John , Reed Joseph , Parry Keith D. , Magrath Rory
Published: August 2024

North American attitudes are liberalizing toward sexual minorities. This is even found within traditionally conservative, masculine institutions, like fraternities, religion, and the military. However, evidence for Liberalization Theory is mostly derived from attitudinal change of sexual and gender majorities alongside policy changes, with less evidence from sexual and gender minority experiences. Thus, there remain questions as to whether, or to what degree, improved majority attitudes promote sexual minority experiences. To investigate the impact of liberalization of the masculine organizational culture of team sports, we used survey results from 793 openly lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) high school and collegiate athletes, representing 981 coming out experiences. We find that 92.5% of high school and 97.1% of college athletes’ coming out-of-the-closet to teammates experiences were deemed to be from neutral to perfect. We also found no significant differences in overall experience in being out to teammates in highly masculinized teams sports compared to other sports at either the high school or collegiate level. These results suggest that liberalizing North American sexual majority attitudes do translate into improved LGBT experiences within the socially conservative institution of educationally based team sports.
Nanoceramic particle reinforced high alloying Al-Zn-Mg-Cu composites
Authors: Cong Hailong , Zhang Zhen , Cheng Zefan , Li Haichao , Wang Pei , Sun Wanting
Published: August 2024

In the metal matrix composites (MMCs) reinforced with nanoparticles, the enhancement of composite performance is often closely associated with the types of nanoparticles. It is vital to explore the influences and differences of various nanoparticles on the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of highly alloyed aluminum-based composites. This study is the first to employ hot pressing for preparing Al-Zn-Mg-Cu composite materials reinforced with SiC and Al2O3 nano-ceramic particles, respectively. By employing hot extrusion and T6 heat treatment techniques, a systematic investigation was conducted on the effects of the addition of nano-ceramic particles on the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu composites, and a comparative analysis was performed on the two types of composite materials. The experimental results demonstrated that the Mg atoms in the α-Al matrix were consumed by the addition of SiC/Al2O3 nano-ceramic particles, and thereby the grain size primary η’ (MgZn2) strengthening phase was refined, leading to an enhanced overall mechanical performance of the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu composite. In particular, the Mg2Si phase was generated by the addition of SiC nanoceramic particles, through the interfacial reactions, and thus with the synergistic effects of precipitation strengthening and Orowan strengthening, the ultimate compressive strength and compressibility of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu composite can be increased to 844 MPa and 27.5%, respectively. On the other hand, the addition of Al2O3 nanoceramic particles can bring about the formation of an oxygen-rich phase and refined precipitates at grain boundaries. Accordingly, the elongation is increased to 43.5% while a high ultimate compressive strength in the composites can be maintained. It is anticipated that nanoceramic particle-reinforced Al-based metal composites have significant potential for achieving both high strength and exceptional ductility for the application in the industry field.
Numerical study on the effect of SLWR buoyancy configuration on pipe-soil interaction based on co-rotational method
Authors: Wang Shujiang , Gu Jijun , Chen Leilei , Jia Jichuan , Huang Jun , Gao Lei
Published: August 2024

The buoyancy module installed on the steel lazy-wave riser makes the riser locally S-shaped, which weakens the motion transmission from the top to the bottom but makes the pipe-soil interaction more susceptible to the buoyancy configuration. In this study, a two-dimensional planar static numerical model considering the riser global motion coupled with the nonlinear seabed interaction is developed. The planar co-rotating beam element is established based on the co-rotating coordinate method, the vertical soil resistance is simulated by the semi-empirical pipe-soil interaction model. And the global displacement of the riser and the soil resistance of the seabed are coupled in the co-rotational framework by the principle of minimum potential energy. Finally, the parametric effects of buoyancy configurations and riser structural characteristics are analysed. The results show that the established numerical model is suitable for solving the vertical pipe-soil interaction between riser and nonlinear seabed. Compared with SCR, the maximum embedment depth of SLWR in the TDZ is reduced by 23.5%, and the maximum vertical soil resistance is reduced by 8.26%. In the two buoyancy configuration adjustment methods, increasing the buoyancy section length obviously changes the shape of SLWR, resulting in significant changes in the embedment depth and vertical soil resistance.
IRB Consent Guidelines: Potential Barriers to Diversity in Research
Authors: Decker Evan , Chongsuwat Tana
Published: August 2024

Despite initiatives aimed at improving study participation and inclusion among ethnic and racially minoritized and marginalized populations, participation remains low. While necessary to ensure ethical practice in human participant research, certain Institutional Review Board (IRB) guidelines may introduce additional barriers in research involving these populations. This work outlines guidelines pertaining to consent translation for non-English speaking populations and offers discussion on a greater emphasis for more inclusive methods for marginalized communities. The University of Wisconsin’s IRB approved alternative oral consent processes after the community partner determined that standard translation processes would be inefficient. Researchers used translated consent materials for four different ethnic groups (Hmong, Karen, Karenni, and Burmese). We provided recorded consents in each respective language to participants before study participation and obtained verbal consent prior to study participation at the study location. We experienced time and resource constraints in both access to translators and the consent-translation process itself. Furthermore, many participants were unable to read in their native language making standard written consent processes both difficult and impractical. Oral discussion and verbal consent processes were efficient. Adjustments to consent-related guidelines may prevent and eliminate time and resource-related barriers in consent processes. In eliminating such barriers, subsequent improved efficiency in both study design and study promotion areas can work to better promote diversity in research among populations that emphasize oral language and in instances where literacy rates in written non-English language may be lower.
Does Draft Currency Promote Competitive Balance? An Empirical Investigation of the National Football League 2002–2021
Authors: Lapré Michael A. , Palazzolo Elizabeth M.
Published: August 2024

In the National Football League (NFL) annual draft, teams take turns selecting entering players. The draft is a market mechanism designed to promote competitive balance as the NFL assigns draft positions to teams in reverse order relative to last season's performance. Teams frequently trade draft picks for other picks and/or players. We use several market valuations of draft picks to define original draft currency as the total value of draft picks available before any trades and final draft currency as the total value of picks used after all trades. For the 2002–2021 period, we find that original draft currency does not affect the probability of reaching the playoffs, but final draft currency does. Usage of outdated market valuations of draft picks by most teams can help explain how the best team has used draft-pick trades to remain among the strongest teams over two decades thereby perpetuating competitive imbalance.