bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Post-Remission Consolidation Therapy in Patients with AML
Authors: Jimenez-Chillon Carlos , Dillon Richard , Russell Nigel
Published: November 2023

Background: Despite recent advances, 40–85% of patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) achieve complete remission after intensive chemotherapy. However, without optimal treatment after remission, the risk of relapse remains high. Summary: A variable number of consolidation cycles consisting of intermediate doses of cytarabine are the most commonly used regimens in low-intermediate-risk AML, while patients at higher risk of relapse should consolidate response by proceeding to HSCT. Different post-consolidation (maintenance therapies) have demonstrated their benefit in prolonging relapse-free survival, and others are still under investigation. Careful consideration should be given to which patients benefit most from each of these interventions, considering that the risk of relapse is dynamic. Key Messages: Patients consolidated with chemotherapy should receive either 2 courses of HDAC or no more than 3–4 cycles of IDAC with dose reduction in patients over 60 years. Patients with mutated FLT3 AML benefit from post-consolidation maintenance with FLT3 inhibitors, and selected patients not fit for adequate consolidation may benefit from CC-468 maintenance. Patients at higher risk of relapse should proceed to allogeneic SCT as soon as possible, opting for a more intensive conditioning in patients younger than 55 years. However, autologous HSCT may still have role in favourable-risk MRD-negative AML. Multiple treatment options targeting MRD are emerging, either as definitive treatment or as a bridge to allogeneic transplantation, and are likely to become increasingly relevant.
Prenatal Ultrasound Diagnosis of Megalencephaly-Polymicrogyria-Polydactyly-Hydrocephalus Syndrome with Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous: A Case Report
Authors: Su Xiao-Rong , Ma Bin , Zhang Chuan , Li Tian-Gang , Han Bao-Long , Wu Wen-Rui , Nie Fang
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Megalencephaly-polymicrogyria-polydactyly-hydrocephalus (MPPH) syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by megalencephaly (i.e., overgrowth of the brain), polymicrogyria, focal hypoplasia of the cerebral cortex, and polydactyly. Persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV) involves a spectrum of congenital ocular abnormalities that are characterized by the presence of a vascular membrane behind the lens. Case Presentation: Here, we present a case of foetal MPPH with PHPV that was diagnosed using prenatal ultrasound. Ultrasound revealed the presence of megalencephaly, multiple cerebellar gyri, and hydrocephalus. Whole-exome sequencing confirmed the mutation of the AKT3 gene, which led to the consideration of MPPH syndrome. Moreover, an echogenic band with an irregular surface was observed between the lens and the posterior wall of the left eye; therefore, MPPH with PHPV was suspected. Conclusion: MPPH syndrome with PHPV can be diagnosed prenatally.
EEGManyPipelines: A Large-scale, Grassroots Multi-analyst Study of Electroencephalography Analysis Practices in the Wild
Authors: Trübutschek Darinka , Yang Yu-Fang , Gianelli Claudia , Cesnaite Elena , Fischer Nastassja L. , Vinding Mikkel C. , Marshall Tom R. , Algermissen Johannes , Pascarella Annalisa , Puoliväli Tuomas , Vitale Andrea , Busch Niko A. , Nilsonne Gustav
Published: November 2023

The ongoing reproducibility crisis in psychology and cognitive neuroscience has sparked increasing calls to re-evaluate and reshape scientific culture and practices. Heeding those calls, we have recently launched the EEGManyPipelines project as a means to assess the robustness of EEG research in naturalistic conditions and experiment with an alternative model of conducting scientific research. One hundred sixty-eight analyst teams, encompassing 396 individual researchers from 37 countries, independently analyzed the same unpublished, representative EEG data set to test the same set of predefined hypotheses and then provided their analysis pipelines and reported outcomes. Here, we lay out how large-scale scientific projects can be set up in a grassroots, community-driven manner without a central organizing laboratory. We explain our recruitment strategy, our guidance for analysts, the eventual outputs of this project, and how it might have a lasting impact on the field.
New combinations and synonymies in the weevil genus Lyterius Schönherr (Coleoptera, Curculionidae), with a conspectus of historical works on Daldorff’s Sumatran beetles
Authors: PRENA JENS , HSIAO YUN , OBERPRIELER ROLF G.
Published: November 2023

In preparation for a future taxonomic revision, we explore provenance, collectors, original owners and current repositories of the type material for three available genus-group names, Lyterius Schönherr, 1844, Barisoma Motschulsky, 1863 and Plaxes Pascoe, 1885, which have been applied to a group of small, relatively flat weevils associated with Pandanaceae. Lectotypes are designated for Rhynchaenus musculus Fabricius, 1802 and Plaxes impar Pascoe, 1885. The lectotype of Rh. musculus is designated as neotype for Curculio abdominalis Weber, 1801, making the species names objective synonyms (reestablished synonymy), with C. abdominalis having date priority. The names Barisoma Motschulsky and Plaxes are placed in synonymy with Lyterius (new synonymies). Five valid species names are recognised in Lyterius, L. abdominalis (Weber), L. dispar (Faust, 1896) new combination, L. impar (Pascoe) new combination, L. instabilis Boheman, 1844 and L. pandanicola (Motschulsky, 1863) new combination. We also provide an overview of the early descriptive works on Sumatran beetles collected by Daldorff and their original owners.
Monoecocestus (Cestoda: Anoplocephalidae) diversity in Sigmodontinae rodents characterized by morphology and molecular methods
Authors: MARTINS NATALIA BEATRIZ GUERREIRO , ROBLES MARÍA DEL ROSARIO , NAVONE GRACIELA TERESA , CALLEJÓN ROCÍO
Published: November 2023

This paper provides new morphological and molecular data for identifying Monoecocestus species from rodents: a) morphological update of Monoecocestus spp., b) morphological data on Anoplocephalidae taxa from Sigmodontinae rodents, c) analyses of the genetic distances between the specimens studied and other Anoplocephalidae from rodents available in GenBank, and phylogenetic inferences. A total of 25 specimens of Holochilus spp. were examined from four provinces of Argentina. Cestodes specimens were removed from the rodents’ small intestines. Conventional studies were used for the morphological and molecular analysis. Four taxa of Monoecocestus were identified. Monoecocestus threlkeldi was identified as first record in Holochilus chacarius and from Argentina. Molecular and morphological aspects of Monoecocestus sp.1, Monoecocestus sp.2 and Monoecocestus sp.3 were described. Specimens belonging to the genus Monoecocestus may represent closely related species, demonstrating the importance of using integrative taxonomic approaches to understand biological diversity. The continuity of the studies on Anoplocephalidae will allows to advance in investigation of molecular analyses and ecological aspects that determine parasite-host-environment relationship.
Beginning teacher preparation and readiness for the profession as inclusive educators
Authors: Rosenberg Rebecca , De Bruin Kate , Ludecke Michelle
Published: November 2023

In this study, we investigated the perceptions of beginning teachers regarding their preparation for becoming inclusive educators. Our aim was to explore what they considered facilitators and barriers to becoming inclusive educators upon transitioning into the profession. The research was informed by the three apprenticeships model encompassing the cognitive, practical and moral dimensions of teaching that is the knowledge, skills and beliefs required to practice as an inclusive educator. We collected interview data from eight beginning teachers who transitioned into the profession in 2020 or 2021 and undertook a thematic analysis of these conversations. Our analysis identified that beginning teachers perceived that their teacher education at university did not prepare them sufficiently with 1. Strong professional inclusive education terminology and knowledge; 2. Practical and evidence-based skills for instruction and assessment; or 3. The opportunity to work with people with disabilities in inclusive contexts in order to become effective inclusive educators across all three domains. Findings are discussed and future directions for research are outlined.
The Role of Partnership Portfolios for Sustainability in Addressing the Stability-Change Paradox: Dong/Orsted’s Transition From Fossil Fuels to Renewables
Authors: Dzhengiz Tulin , Henry Leona A. , Malik Khaleel
Published: November 2023

This article investigates how firms address the stability-change paradox inherent in sustainability transitions through the maintenance and utilization of a portfolio of sustainability-oriented partnerships. Drawing on a retrospective case study of Dong/Ørsted, a Danish energy company, we demonstrate the varying manifestations of the stability-change paradox during different phases of the company’s transition, influenced by both exogenous and endogenous factors. Furthermore, our findings reveal how Dong/Ørsted employed their partnership portfolio to implement diverse responses to manage the paradox. Based on these findings, we argue that partnership portfolios can serve as spatiotemporal pockets, enabling organizations to effectively address and leverage the temporal and spatial aspects inherent in sustainability paradoxes. In addition, we highlight how partnership portfolios facilitate sustainability transitions by creating and leveraging different forms of collaborative value.
Unwitting Participants at Our Expense: A/B Testing and Digital Exploitation
Authors: Zou Tengjian , Ertug Gokhan
Published: November 2023

Firms use A/B testing, a methodology to compare two or more versions of ideas to see which one performs better, to decide on features of their digital products and services. Although A/B testing brings benefits, some A/B testing can lead to digital exploitation (i.e., appropriating resources from users to increase firms’ performance). We explicate why A/B testing can lead to digital exploitation, suggest mitigation options by establishing Institutional Review Boards, explicitly seeking users’ consent, and implementing incentive schemes, and conclude with research directions on this topic.
Understanding Political Will and Why It Matters to Confront Corruption in Zimbabwe
Authors: Garufu Paradzai
Published: November 2023

When national programmes, development plans or policy issues are discussed, more often, their success, growth or failure is imputed on ‘political will’ or lack of it. The absence of political will is typically associated with underperformance in national programmes or strategies. It has become increasingly evident that domestic political realities influence the general attitude towards combating corruption and the continued shortcomings of political will as the traditional and initial point of focus. Despite being used to analyse or criticize the unsatisfactory outcome of government programmes and strategies, ‘political will’ has been poorly defined and understood. It remains unclear what political will actually mean, as the term has been widely misused as a catch-all concept. Assessments on political will are more often retrospective, focusing on failed national policies, plans and programmes. Nevertheless, the application of political will as a model illustrates a category of all action-based and orchestrated components that are observable, assessable and conducive to outward strengthening and consolidation. In other words, the application clarifies the extent to which political will can be attained. Considering the political realities in Zimbabwe, effective comprehending and combating corruption also necessitates a hands-on approach and sound understanding of the idea of ‘political will’. Zimbabwe is one of the countries experiencing rampant corruption in the world. Over the years, corruption has manifested itself through deteriorating socio-economic conditions across the country. Therefore, the main objective of this paper is to comprehend political will in order to confront corruption in Zimbabwe. The narrow approach to political will was preferred because it illuminates key issues, which inform the current Zimbabwean government’s failure to combat corruption.
‘An Obligation of Means, Not One of Result’: A Historical Overview and Theoretical Assessment of the Whole Life Order Sentencing Regime in England and Wales
Authors: Blick Atticus
Published: November 2023

In England and Wales, a ‘whole life order’ (WLO) is a life sentence with no prospect of parole. At present, the WLO sentencing regime provides insufficient clarity about the assessment criteria for the release of prisoners, rendering these sentences unreviewable. Indeed, no WLO prisoner has ever been released. This article submits that it is the means by which the executive and courts preclude scrutiny of the WLO review mechanism, and so devalue the systemic health of our legal order by undermining rule of law principles of accountability and transparency, which form the most disquieting aspects of the regime. I set out my argument in two parts. Part One provides a historical assessment of the development of the WLO sentencing regime and its impact on wider human rights discourse. A critical evaluation of this history reveals that WLOs today are irreducible and underscored by the long-term accumulation of unaccountable executive power. Part Two considers WLOs from the position of the philosopher John Rawls’ theory of ‘political liberalism’ as applied to understandings of European human rights constitutionalism. Adapting Rawls’ emphasis on the importance of reciprocal deliberation between diverse citizens and institutions in maintaining a just and stable society, this article presents the deficiencies of the WLO regime as deriving from an inter-institutional failure to engage in meaningful deliberation about whether the WLO regime complies with the UK's human rights obligations. I propose reforms to the reviewability of WLO sentences to give prisoners the ‘means’ if not necessarily the ‘result’ of release. Rather, there remain outstanding questions about how many of the worst of the worst prisoners possess the capacity for rehabilitation, even if provided with the opportunities to do so. As such, these reforms can be justified, less on grounds of ensuring the actual release of prisoners, but more as part of restoring a broader functional human rights and rule of law framework.
The diagnostic performance of micro-RNA and metabolites in lung cancer: A meta-analysis
Authors: Mlika Mona , Zorgati Mohamed Majdi , Abdennadher Mehdi , Bouassida Imen , Mezni Faouzi , Mrabet Ali
Published: November 2023

Background

The diagnosis of lung cancer is based on the microscopic exam of tissue or liquid. During the recent decade, many biomarkers have been pointed to have a potential diagnostic role. These biomarkers may be assessed in blood, pleural effusion or sputum and they could avoid biopsies or other risky procedures. The authors aimed to assess the diagnostic performances of biomarkers focusing on micro-RNA and metabolites.

Methods

This meta-analysis was conducted under the PRISMA guidelines during a nine-year-period (2013–2022). the Meta-Disc software 5.4 (free version) was used. Q test and I2 statistics were carried out to explore the heterogeneity among studies. Meta-regression was performed in case of significant heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed using the funnel plot test and the Egger's test (free version JASP).

Results

According to our inclusion criteria, 165 studies from 79 articles were included. The pooled SEN, SPE and dOR accounted, respectively, for 0.76, 0.79 and 13.927. The AUC was estimated to 0.859 suggesting a good diagnostic accuracy. The heterogeneity in the pooled SEN and SPE was statistically significant. The meta-regression analysis focusing on the technique used, the sample, the number of biomarkers, the biomarker subtype, the tumor stage and the ethnicity revealed the biomarker number ( p  =  0.009) and the tumor stage ( p  =  0.0241) as potential sources of heterogeneity.

Conclusion

Even if this meta-analysis highlighted the potential diagnostic utility of biomarkers, more prospective studies should be performed, especially to assess the biomarkers’ diagnostic potential in early-stage lung cancers.
Book review: Pankaj Jha, A Political History of Literature: Vidyapati and the Fifteenth Century
Authors: Tiwari Heeraman
Published: November 2023

Pankaj Jha, A Political History of Literature: Vidyapati and the Fifteenth Century, Oxford University Press, New Delhi, 2019, pp. xxxviii+272.
Factors Influencing E-learning Technology Among Youth in India: An Extended TAM Model
Authors: Sharma Bhuvanesh Kumar , Kumar V. V. Ravi , Bhatt Vimal KamleshKumar
Published: November 2023

Given the pandemic that hit the world, there was suddenly an increased focus on E-learning. This study aimed at determining the various factors that influence the youth of India to opt for E-learning. This study was conceptualized based on the technology acceptance model and integrating social influence (SI) and perceived enjoyment (PE) as additional constructs to determine the attitude (AT) and behavioural intention (BI) towards E-learning. The study also proposes a basic framework of knowledge for E-learning, a shift from traditional classroom learning, which is not researched adequately in previous literature. The sample for this research study were postgraduate students drawn by non-probability judgment and snowball sampling. Data analysis was performed using structural equation modelling, cross-tabulation and Pearson correlation with the help of SPSS Amos software. The results of the study concluded that AT significantly mediates between perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, SI, PE, and BI. Additionally, the study determined the classroom and E-learning preferences of students comparatively.
Treating posttraumatic stress disorder and alcohol use disorder comorbidity: Current pharmacological therapies and the future of MDMA-integrated psychotherapy
Authors: Gully Brian J. , Eaton Erica , Capone Christy , Haass-Koffler Carolina L.
Published: November 2023

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) frequently co-occur in patients who have experienced trauma. This comorbidity leads to a vicious cycle where PTSD symptoms beget heavy drinking and vice versa. There are no FDA-approved medications to treat PTSD-AUD; therefore, individuals suffering from this comorbidity are treated with medication approved to treat the disorders separately or with off-label pharmacological interventions. However, these medications are limited in their efficacy for treating PTSD-AUD comorbidity. Emerging research on the nonclassical psychedelic drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) suggests that it may be an effective drug used in conjunction with psychotherapy. The following reviews the current research for clinical pharmacotherapies, as well as MDMA-integrative psychotherapy as they pertain to PTSD and AUD in isolation and co-occurrence. Future directions for the role of psychedelic-integrative therapy for the treatment of this comorbidity are discussed.
Astrocyte KDM4A mediates chemokines and drives neutrophil infiltration to aggravate cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury
Authors: Huang Jing , Wang Xin-Shang , Gao Tian , Wang Xing , Yu Man-Yang , Song Hao-Xin , Wang Bi-Yan , Li Ling-Mei , Zeng Qiang , Zhang Hui-Nan
Published: November 2023

Neutrophils plays a crucial role in acute ischemic brain injury and have emerged as potential treatment targets to mitigate such injuries. Lysine-specific demethylase 4 A (KDM4A), a member of the histone lysine demethylase family of enzymes involved in transcriptional regulation of gene expression, is upregulated during hypoxic events. However, the exact role of KDM4A in the pathological process of ischemic stroke remains largely unexplored. Our findings reveal that there was an upregulation of KDM4A levels in reactive astrocytes within both stroke mouse models and in vitro oxygen-glucose deprivation/regeneration (OGD/R) models. Using a conditional knockout mouse, we observed that astrocytic Kdm4a knockout regulates neutrophil infiltration and alleviates brain injury following middle cerebral artery occlusion reperfusion. Furthermore, Kdm4a deficiency astrocytes displayed lower chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 1 (CXCL1) level upon OGD/R and decreased neutrophil infiltration in a transwell system. Mechanistically, KDM4A, in cooperation with nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), activates Cxcl1 gene expression by demethylating histone H3 lysine 9 trimethylation at Cxcl1 gene promoters in astrocytes upon OGD/R injury. Our findings suggest that astrocyte KDM4A-mediated Cxcl1 activation contributes to neutrophil infiltration via cooperation with NF-κB, and KDM4A in astrocytes may serve as a potential therapeutic target to modulate neutrophil infiltration after stroke.
Examining the Longitudinal Connection Between Adolescent Delinquency and Risky Sexual Behaviors in a Sample of Males and Females
Authors: Koshenova Diana , Alimkkulov Yerbol , Bisengali Lilya , Turgumbayev Marlen , Beaver Kevin M.
Published: November 2023

Adolescence is a time period that is highlighted by widespread involvement in delinquent behaviors. The long-term consequences associated with engaging in such behaviors is not entirely understood. There is some research showing, though, that adolescents who are involved in delinquency are at-risk for also engaging in an assortment of risky sexual behaviors. Whether this association is causal or the result of selection/confounding remains unclear. The current study sought to add to the literature on this topic by examining whether measures of adolescent delinquency predict later-life involvement in risky sexual behaviors (number of sexual partners, number of one-night stands, and being diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection) in a sample from the United States. To do so, data drawn from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health) were analyzed ( N ranging from 5018 to 5964). The results revealed statistically significant associations between adolescent delinquency and risky sexual behaviors for males and females even after controlling for levels of self-control, exposure to peer substance use, parental socialization, and neighborhood disadvantage. These results suggest that the association between delinquent involvement and risky sexual behaviors is robust and future research should begin to systematically examine the developmental nature of this association.
Men's Hostile Sexism Predicts Skepticism of Sexual Assault Science
Authors: Betz Diana E. , Deegan Kelly , Gomes Alex
Published: November 2023

Sexual assault statistics are both widely disseminated and routinely challenged. Two studies investigated reactions to sexual assault research through the lens of ideologically motivated science denial. In particular, hostile sexism was expected to positively predict skepticism of sexual assault research. In Study 1, adult men in the United States ( N = 316) reported their hostile sexism, then read one of three research summaries and reported their skepticism of the findings. Although there was no difference in skepticism across conditions, hostile sexism was a stronger predictor of skepticism regarding sexual assault research than of skepticism regarding breast cancer or alcohol abuse research. In Study 2 ( N = 254), a standard self-affirmation manipulation failed to alter the hostile sexism-skepticism relation. Given that people deny science when it contradicts their ideology, it was posited that the research substantiating sexual assault had clashed with hostilely sexist views of women. Strategies beyond standard self-affirmation interventions, such as scientific literacy psychoeducation, may thus be needed to effectively communicate sexual assault-relevant science to hostile audiences. Online slides for instructors who want to use this article for teaching are available on PWQ's website at http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/03616843231215373 .
‘The Lamp that Illumines the Past’: Sanskrit Kāvya and the Writing of History in Early India
Authors: Kaul Shonaleeka
Published: November 2023

Kāvya is literature as art. Few modern scholars have suspected such aesthetic and affective literature to possess an impulse for capturing human history, and certainly not in any form consistent with modern notions of the discipline. Interrogating anew the remarkably long-lived misconception that early India did not/could not write history, and moving beyond interpretations that identify ‘embedded’ rather than overt forms of historicity in our antiquity, this essay pioneers the argument that Sanskrit poetics ( alam˙kāras´āstra) and its theories of representation may have conceived of poetry as in fact an ideal vehicle for writing history. And, taking seriously Kāvya’s traditional narrative modes may yield an alternative, more cohesive notion of historicality in early India that invested in the epistemic authority of the poet ( kavi) and, in a constructivist vein, in history itself as a poetic production ( nirmān˙a) underwritten by a deeply ethico-political discursivity.
Transit Investment and Income Inequality in U.S. Metropolitan Areas
Authors: Liu Cathy Yang , Zhao Jerry Zhirong
Published: November 2023

The impact of transit investment on the access to economic opportunities and income inequality is an important question for researchers, transportation planners, and policymakers. This research conducts a comprehensive panel data analysis on the association between different types of transit investment (rail and non-rail) and various measures of income inequality for all U.S. Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) from 2011 to 2017. We find a significant effect of transit investment on reducing Gini coefficient and poverty rate in large MSAs with over a million population. The impacts seem to be driven mainly by adding new rail systems to traditional non-rail systems.
The U.S. Workforce From 1960 to 2020: A RIASEC View
Authors: Peace Carley S. , Reardon Robert C.
Published: November 2023

This paper analyzes civilian occupations and employment data collected by the U.S. Census Bureau over seven decades (1960–2020) with respect to six kinds of work (Holland’s RIASEC classification). The focus is on (a) occupational titles used, (b) civilian employment, and (c) income. This study is a continuation and extension of eight articles published earlier by 11 different scholars, and it represents a 10th contribution to career development and vocational psychology literature with respect to the environmental aspects of Holland’s theory. In each census period, the Artistic area was the smallest area of employment at 1% or 2%. At the other extreme, the Realistic area was a large area of employment, ranging from 55% in 1960 to 26% in 2020. The principal findings of the current study are examined in terms of three research questions followed by a discussion of the implications for career counseling practice.
A multi-dimensional study of organisational boundaries and silos in the healthcare sector
Authors: Pedersen Esben Rahbek Gjerdrum , Sudzina Frantisek , Rosati Francesco
Published: November 2023

Purpose: The aim of this study is to understand how healthcare practitioners experience organisational boundaries and silos in day-to-day operations. Based on a multi-dimensional scale of organisational boundaries, the study examines how organisational demarcation lines enable and constrain daily work tasks in the healthcare sector.

Research design: The study is based on a quantitative and qualitative analysis of survey responses from 895 healthcare practitioners in Denmark.

Results: The results indicate that tendencies toward organisational silos relate to systems and hierarchies (management-staff) rather than professions and departments. Moreover, the study identifies resource scarcity as an important undercurrent in the understanding of the respondents’ perceptions of boundaries and silos.

Conclusion: The study contributes to existing research by documenting the coordination and collaboration challenges linked to the multitude of demarcation lines in complex health organisations.
Experimental examination of the effect of thermal barrier coating in a 2-stroke gasoline engine on recovery performance in exhaust waste heat recovery system with thermoelectric generator and engine performance
Authors: Akif Kunt Mehmet , Erdogan Garip , Gunes Haluk , Alchehabi Fadel A
Published: November 2023

In internal combustion engines, while the decrease in in-cylinder wall temperature increases the amount of energy passing towards the cooling system, it decreases temperature and pressure at the end of compression and accordingly reduces thermal efficiency of the engine. Moreover; combustion chamber elements are exposed to chemical corrosion and deformation as a result of uncompleted combustion in the cylinder. With thermal barrier coating application, the energy lost in cooling system will decrease and exhaust temperatures will increase in 2-stroke engines. Placement of a waste heat recover system with thermoelectric generator into the exhaust system can provide exhaust waste heat recovery and increase thermal efficiency of the engine. There is no study in the literature, which examines waste heavy recovery systems with thermal barrier and thermoelectric generator altogether. In this article, yttria stabilized zirconia coating has been applied by means of plasma spraying method in the combustion chamber of a 2-stroke gasoline engine, and effect of thermal barrier coating application on engine performance and exhaust waste heat recovery system has been examined experimentally. According the results of the experiment, maximum engine power has increased by 6.23%, maximum engine torque has increased by 6.02%, and specific fuel consumption decreased by 5.56%. While the exhaust temperatures have increased by 78.5 °C at maximum by means of thermal barrier coating application; by means of thermal barrier coating application with waste heat recovery system with thermoelectric generator, a higher waste heat recovery has been obtained by 64.8%.
Effect of modification and subsequent heat treatment on thermal and mechanical properties of near-eutectic Al-Si-Fe-Mg alloys
Authors: Wang Ye , Li Jinlin , Guo Yu , Jiang Bo , Hu Maoliang , Ji Zesheng
Published: November 2023

To investigate the effect of the size, shape and distribution of eutectic Si on the thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of near-eutectic Al-Si-Fe-Mg alloys, the morphology of eutectic Si was improved by modification and subsequent T6 heat treatment. The average size and aspect ratio of the eutectic Si decreased from 11.22 μm and 7.92 to 2.09 μm and 2.78 after modification by 0.04% Sr. After subsequent T6 heat treatment, the average size and aspect ratio of eutectic Si further decreased to 0.96 μm and 1.57. And the morphology of eutectic Si transformed from coarse lamellar to highly branched and refined fibrous, which were attributed to fusion and spheroidization of eutectic Si during the T6 heat treatment. The thermal and electrical conductivity of the alloy increased from 155.99 W/(m·K) and 35.64 pct IACS to 172.58 W/(m·K) and 37.05 pct IACS after modification and heat treatment, and the ultimate tensile strength and elongation increased from 162.05 Mpa and 0.78% to 256.16 Mpa and 4.09%, respectively. The shape and size of eutectic Si play an essential role in improving the properties of the alloy, not only by increasing the gaps between eutectic Si, promoting more electron transfer channels and reducing the scattering effect on the electron flow through the α-Al matrix, but also by reducing the cutting effect of the eutectic Si on the matrix and enhancing the ultimate tensile strength and elongation of the alloy.
Optimization of air-conditioning load for a residential building using Taguchi method
Authors: Arif Rashique , Mondal Sharifuddin , Mandal Nimai P
Published: November 2023

Economic growth has been raised in many countries in recent years, prompting people to seek out human comforts. For human comfort, residential buildings consume a significant amount of energy for air-conditioning systems. Building materials are the most significant factor in deciding the air-conditioning load. In this research work, a typical residential flat model is prepared using AutoCAD software and the building energy simulation is done for this model using hourly analysis program software. The results obtained from the building simulation are optimized using the Taguchi method. For optimizing the air-conditioning load, five influencing factors such as the overall heat transfer coefficient of wall (A), thickness of roof insulation material (B), heat transfer coefficient of window glass (C), bypass factor (D) and cooling coil supply temperature (E) of air-conditioning equipment at three levels are selected. For the experimental tests, an orthogonal L27 arrangement is chosen for experimental trials and in every trial, air-conditioning load of the typical residential flat has been calculated. After that, using Minitab 17 statistical software, the signal-to-noise ratios are obtained for different factors by selecting smaller-is-better option. After studying the response table for Taguchi tests, the optimum levels for all five factors are obtained. The analysis of variance method was also used to identify the main factors affecting the results significantly by finding out the contribution of all five factors in percentage. The results indicated that the most efficient set of all five factors is A1B3C1D2E3 and the most affecting factor is the wall material of the residential flat having a contribution of 91.91%.
LINC01140 Hinders the Development of Breast Cancer Through Targeting miR-200b-3p to Downregulate DMD
Authors: Peng Gongling , Yan Jiaqi , Shi Pengfei , Li Hai
Published: November 2023

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are frequently reported to be involved in breast cancer (BC) oncogenicity. The goal of this study was to probe lncRNA LINC01140’s role and action mechanism in BC. Relative LINC01140, miR-200b-3p, and dystrophin (DMD) levels were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). DMD protein levels in BC cells were quantified using Western blotting, and the targeting relationships were validated by luciferase reporter assays and RNA immunoprecipitation experiments. The proliferative potential of the cells was evaluated using CCK-8 and colony formation tests, while the migratory and invasive abilities of the cells were assessed using scratch and transwell assays. Apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. Nude mouse models have been established to allow the examination of tumor growth in vivo. Pronounced downregulation of LINC01140 and DMD, as well as upregulation of miR-200b-3p, was observed in BC. LINC01140 binds directly to miR-200b-3p to downregulate DMD expression. Ectopic LINC01140 expression not only limited tumor growth in vivo but also diminished the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of BC cells in vitro, however, it induced apoptosis in BC cells. Elevated miR-200b-3p expression stimulated the tumorigenic potential of BC cells and attenuated the suppressive effect of LINC01140 or DMD overexpression on BC cell malignancy, whereas DMD overexpression restricted the tumorigenic potential of BC cells. Overall, LINC01140 prevents BC development via the miR-200b-3p–DMD axis. These findings support the latent potential and usefulness of the LINC01140-miR-200b-3p–DMD network as a target for BC therapy.
Proxy Neo-colonialism? The Case of Wagner Group in the Central African Republic
Authors: Doboš Bohumil , Purton Alexander
Published: November 2023

Central African Republic is a fragile state mired in internal instability and external interventions. The article presents the case of Russian involvement in the country. It argues that the utilisation of the Wagner Group is setting up proxy neo-colonial ties between the regime and Moscow. The political elite in the Central African Republic is protected against a possible takeover by rebel troops or an army coup and the external benefactor is allowed to export the sought-after natural resources and gather some diplomatic support. The relationship thus clearly follows the neo-colonial pattern rather than developing the state capacities.
Constitutional and Legislative Frameworks for the Local Sphere of Government in South Africa: Analytical and Interpretive Perspective
Authors: Mlambo Daniel Nkosinathi , Maserumule Mashupye H.
Published: November 2023

After many years of apartheid rule, South Africa held its first democratic elections in 1994. As evident in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996, a commitment to establish developmental and human rights became an imperative doctrine. Three government spheres were established here: national, provincial and local. The latter is the sphere closest to the public and is constitutionally mandated to render and deliver sustainable essential services. Since 1994, significant strides have been made by the local sphere of government with both successes and failures. South Africa’s legal and policy framework transformation took place between 1993 and 2000 through changes in legislation, proclamations, white papers and by-laws. However, the elements of bad governance since 1994 have created a loss of confidence and service delivery hindrances in South African local government. Much of the population, especially the previously marginalised, face inadequate health services, unclean water and poorly maintained infrastructure and housing because some state institutions have become paralysed due to corruption and maladministration. This article aims to delve into the constitutional and legislative framework of local government in South Africa. The premise from which this article moves is that the quality of governance at the local government level directly impacts service delivery and is, therefore, critical to understanding some of the constitutional and legislative underpinnings driving local government. Municipalities should ensure that all actions and conducts comply with the statutes (acts of parliament, legislations and laws) and regulatory documents (white papers, official rules and regulations and by-laws) to local government.
Structural Factors Contributing to Compassion Fatigue, Burnout, and Secondary Traumatic Stress Among Hospital-Based Healthcare Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Chatham Ana A. , Petruzzi Liana J. , Patel Snehal , Brode W. Michael , Cook Rebecca , Garza Brenda , Garay Ricardo , Mercer Tim , Valdez Carmen R.
Published: November 2023

High levels of burnout among healthcare providers (HCPs) have been a widely documented phenomenon, which have been exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the United States, qualitative studies that are inclusive of HCPs in diverse professional roles have been limited. Therefore, we utilized a qualitative–quantitative design to examine professional quality of life in terms of compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress among hospital-based HCPs, including social workers, hospitalists, residents, and palliative care team members during COVID-19. HCPs ( n = 26) participated in virtual semi-structured focus groups or individual interviews and online surveys ( n = 30) including the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) Scale. While ProQOL scores indicated low levels of compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress, thematic analysis of our qualitative data included rich descriptions of compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress. Safety concerns and value misalignment characterized structural stressors perceived to contribute to HCP compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress. The discrepancy between our qualitative and quantitative findings may be indication that modifications to current screenings are warranted. These findings also suggest a need to identify and implement structural and policy changes that increase HCPs’ physical and emotional safety and promote better alignment of institutional interests with HCP values.
End-of-Life Medical Decisions: The Link Between Sociodemographic Characteristics and Treatment Preferences
Authors: Shayya Ashley , Young Yuchi
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Advance directives (ADs) promote patient autonomy in end-of-life (EOL) care, including an individual’s EOL medical treatment preferences. This study aims to better understand preferences regarding EOL medical treatment among community-dwelling adults (18 and older) residing in the United States and examine the association between sociodemographic characteristics and EOL medical treatment preferences.

Methods

Utilizing a cross-sectional study and snowball sampling methodology, community-dwelling adults completed a survey containing two different ADs and a questionnaire with sociodemographic information. Univariate analyses were used to summarize EOL medical treatment preferences among the sample, and bivariate analyses (Chi-square and Fisher’s Exact tests) were performed to examine the association between sociodemographic characteristics (age, gender, and race/ethnicity) and EOL medical treatment preferences.

Results

The mean age of the 166 participants was 50 (SD: 21.65, range: 18-93), with 58.4% being White and 61.4% being female. Generally, when EOL scenarios involved brain damage or a coma, more participants indicated that they did not want life-support treatment. Age and race were both associated with EOL medical treatment preferences, but no significant differences were observed in the bivariate results by gender. Largely, young and middle-aged adults, along with Black participants, were more likely to prefer more aggressive EOL medical treatments than older adults and White participants.

Conclusion

Overall, EOL medical treatment preferences varied among participants. The study findings indicate that adults develop different preferences for EOL medical treatment, with some of the variation attributable to sociodemographic characteristics such as age and race.
Fighting for Connection: A Socially Distanced Grief Experience
Authors: Sheppard Travis , Lush Sandra , Strickland Judith T.
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to explore people’s experiences with grief and loss during the COVID-19 pandemic and how they may have been impacted by public health restrictions. Restrictions on social gatherings were in place during highly sensitive and emotional times including visitation of dying loved ones admitted to hospital and impacted funeral arrangements as well. This study was conducted using a grounded theory approach to identity strategies that participants used to navigate grief and loss in the context of such restrictions. From the findings, a core category emerged Fighting for Connection which represents an ongoing “fight” to maintain and/or regain connection with dying loved ones using five specific strategies. The long-term impacts of socially distanced grief are unknown and cannot be fully appreciated at this time. These findings may be significant to healthcare professionals who offer bereavement support to individuals experiencing complicated and/or unresolved grief.
The influence of technology on the future of work: Bibliometric review and directions for management scholarship
Authors: Subramony Mahesh , Kepes Sven , Yagil Dana , Groth Markus , Solnet David
Published: November 2023

The rapid escalation of technology-driven transformation has spawned scholarship across disciplines related to the future of work. We conducted a systematic bibliometric analysis of peer-reviewed publications across multiple disciplines (business, computer science, decision science, economics, engineering, psychology, and social science) to discover how technology shapes work in the 21st century. Utilizing a variety of bibliometric techniques, we identified the dominant and influential topics in this literature. We uncovered four research clusters related to (1) algorithmic management in online platforms ( n = 297), (2) influence of automation and new technologies on employment ( n = 121), (3) adoption of digital technologies as a response to disruptions in the environment ( n = 68), and (4) worker experiences and outcomes in the gig economy ( n = 47). Based on these findings, we propose specific directions for management scholarship.
Cytokeratin 7 Expression and Mismatch Repair Status for Survival Prediction in Patients With Low Rectal Cancer After Neoadjuvant Therapy
Authors: Shi Songli , Zhou Mingming , Wang Gang , Xu Jinling , Zhang Dan , Zheng Minying , Zhang Shiwu
Published: November 2023

Background

More than half of the patients with locally advanced low rectal cancer exhibit no or minor response to nCRT. It is important to investigate the predictive and prognostic values of potential biomarkers in patients with locally advanced low rectal cancer receiving nCRT.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective study included 162 patients with locally advanced low rectal cancer who underwent nCRT, followed by total mesorectal excision (TME) between 2016 and 2019. Cytokeratin 7 (CK7) expression and mismatch repair (MMR) status were determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Categorical variables were compared using the chi-square test. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) curves were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier and Cox methods.

Results

There were predominance significant differences in distance from anus margin ( P < .0001) and circumferential extent of the tumor ( P < .0001).CK7 positive expression was detected in 21 of the 162 patients (13%). The univariate and multivariate analysis revealed that patients whose tumors had CK7 positive expression had significantly shorter OS (HR = 3.878, P = .038; HR = 1.677 , P = .035) and DFS (HR = 3.055, P = .027;HR = 3.569 , P = .038) than those with CK7 negative expression. While patients with CK7 positive expression had a higher proportion of worse TRG compared with CK7 negative patients ( P = .001). Patients with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) just occupied a small proportion (8.6%), but there was still a close connection between the MMR status and recurrence after TME ( P = .045). MMR status was an independent risk factor affecting the OS (HR = .307, P < .0001; HR = .123 , P < .0001) and DFS (HR = .288, P < .0001; HR = .286 , P < .0001) by univariate and multivariate analysis. But no significant difference in the proportion of TRG was observed between patients with dMMR and pMMR ( P = .920).

Conclusions

The result confirms negative prognostic role of CK7-positive and dMMR statuses, which have potential predictive value for neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy response. This provides opportunity to modify individualized treatment strategies for patients with different CK7 expression levels and dMMR statuses.