bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyploid cell dynamics and death before and after PEG-treatment of a NIH/3T3 derived culture: vinblastine effects on the regulation of cell subpopulations heterogeneity
Authors: Spano Alessandra , Sciola Luigi
Published: October 2023

Background

Neoplastic subpopulations can include polyploid cells that can be involved in tumor evolution and recurrence. Their origin can be traced back to the tumor microenvironment or chemotherapeutic treatment, which can alter cell division or favor cell fusion, generating multinucleated cells. Their progeny, frequently genetically unstable, can result in new aggressive and more resistant to chemotherapy subpopulations. In our work, we used NIHs cells, previously derived from the NIH/3T3 line after serum deprivation, that induced a polyploidization increase with the appearance of cells with DNA content ranging from 4 to 24c. This study aimed to analyze the cellular dynamics of NIHs culture subpopulations before and after treatment with the fusogenic agent polyethylene glycol (PEG), which allowed us to obtain new giant polyploid cells. Successively, PEG-untreated and PEG-treated cultures were incubated with the antimicrotubular poison vinblastine. The dynamics of appearance, decrease and loss of cell subpopulations were evaluated by correlating cell DNA content to mono-multinuclearity resulting from cell fusion and division process alteration and to the peculiarities of cell death events.

Results

DNA microfluorimetry and morphological techniques (phase contrast, fluorescence and TEM microscopies) indicated that PEG treatment induced a 4–24c cell increase and the appearance of new giant elements (64–140c DNA content). Ultrastructural analysis and autophagosomal–lysosomal compartment fluorochromization, which allowed us to correlate cytoplasmic changes to death events, indicated that cell depletion occurred through distinct mechanisms: apoptotic death involved 2c, 4c and 8c cells, while autophagic-like death involved intermediate 12–24c cells, showing nuclear (lobulation/micronucleation) and autophagic cytoplasm alterations. Death, spontaneously occurring, especially in intermediate-sized cells, was increased after vinblastine treatment. No evident cell loss by death events was detected in the 64–140c range.

Conclusions

PEG-treated NIHs cultures can represent a model of heterogeneous subpopulations originating from cell fusion and division process anomalies. Altogether, our results suggest that the different cell dynamics of NIHs subpopulations can affect the variability of responses to stimuli able to induce cell degeneration and death. Apoptptic, autophagic or hybrid forms of cell death can also depend on the DNA content and ability to progress through the cell cycle, which may influence the persistence and fate of polyploid cell descendants, also concerning chemotherapeutic agent action.
MiR-210 promotes bone formation in ovariectomized rats by regulating osteogenic/adipogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells through downregulation of EPHA2
Authors: Ren Lijue , Zhu Xiaohui , Tan Jiuting , Lv Xiangyu , Wang Jiahui , Hua Fei
Published: October 2023

Purpose

In osteoporosis, the balance between osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is disrupted. The osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow MSCs (BMSCs) is important for improving osteoporosis. The aim of this study was to explore the role and molecular mechanism of miR-210 in the balance of osteogenic/adipogenic differentiation of BMSCs in postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Methods

Postmenopausal osteoporosis rat models were constructed by ovariectomy (OVX). BMSCs were isolated from the femur in rats of Sham and OVX groups. MiR-210 was overexpressed and suppressed by miR-210 mimics and inhibitor, respectively. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the relative mRNA expression of miR-210, ephrin type-A receptor 2 (EPHA2), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osterix (OSX), osteocalcin (Bglap), Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma, and fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4) in each group of rat femoral tissues or BMSCs. Western blot was applied to detect the protein expression level of EPHA2 in rat femoral tissues and cells. Alizarin red S staining and oil red O staining were performed to assess the osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of BMSCs, respectively. In addition, the targeting relationship between miR-210 and EPHA2 was verified by a dual luciferase gene reporter assay.

Results

The expression of miR-210 was significantly reduced in femoral tissues and BMSCs of OVX rats, and its low expression was associated with reduced bone formation. The osteogenic differentiation was enhanced in OVX rats treated with miR-210 mimic. Overexpression of miR-210 in transfected BMSCs was also found to significantly promote osteogenic differentiation and even inhibit adipogenic differentiation in BMSCs, while knockdown of miR-210 did the opposite. Further mechanistic studies showed that miR-210 could target and inhibit the expression of EPHA2 in BMSCs, thus promoting osteogenic differentiation and inhibiting adipogenic differentiation of BMSCs.

Conclusion

MiR-210 promotes osteogenic differentiation and inhibits adipogenic differentiation of BMSCs by down-regulating EPHA2 expression. As it plays an important role in the osteogenic/adipogenic differentiation of osteoporosis, miR-210 can serve as a potential miRNA biomarker for osteoporosis.
Development and evaluation of short-form version of the Constitution in Chinese Medicine Questionnaire: study a new and best brief instrument of Chinese medicine for health management
Authors: Bai Ming-Hua , Li Zhu-Qing , Wang Huai-Yu , Ma Xiao-Li , Wang Zhong-Li , Li Shi-Jun , Dong Si-Ying , Zhang Zi-Ling , Li Wen-Le , Chen Shun-Qi , Cai Yu-Yang , Zhao Xiao-Shan , Wang Ji , Wang Qi
Published: October 2023

Background

More efficient instruments for body constitution identification are needed for clinical practice. We aimed to develop the short-form version of the Constitution in Chinese Medicine Questionnaire (CCMQ) and evaluate for health management.

Methods

First, the short forms were developed through expert survey, classical test theory (CTT), and modern item response (IRT) based on the CCMQ. A combination of e-mail and manual methods was used in expert survey. Then, five indexes of CTT including criteria value-critical ratio, correlation coefficient, discrete tendency, internal consistency, and factor loading were used. And, IRT method was used through analyzing the discrimination and difficulty parameters of items. Second, the three top-ranked items of each constitution scale were selected for the simplified CCMQ, based on the three combined methods of different conditions and weights. Third, The psychometric properties such as completion time, validity (Construct, criterion, and divergent validity), and reliability (test–retest and internal consistency reliability) were evaluated. Finally, the diagnostic validity of the best short-form used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

Three short-form editions were developed, and retained items 27, 23 and 27, which are named as WangQi nine body constitution questionnaire of Traditional Chinese Medicine (short-form) (SF-WQ9CCMQ)- A, B, and C, respectively. SF-WQ9CCMQ- A is showed the best psychometric property on Construct validity, Criterion validity, test–retest reliability and internal consistency reliability. The diagnostic validity indicated that the area under the ROC curve was 0.928 (95%CI: 0.924–0.932) for the Gentleness constitution scale, and were 0.895–0.969 and 0.911–0.981 for unbalance constitution scales using the cut-off value of the original CCMQ as 40 (“yes” standard) and 30 (“tendency” standard), respectively.

Conclusions

Our study successfully developed a well short-form which has good psychometric property, and excellent diagnostic validity consistent with the original. New and simplified instrument and opportunity are provided for body constitution identification, health management and primary care implementation.
MLKL regulates Cx43 ubiquitinational degradation and mediates neuronal necroptosis in ipsilateral thalamus after focal cortical infarction
Authors: Tang Yanyan , Chu Quanhong , Xie Guanfeng , Tan Yafu , Ye Ziming , Qin Chao
Published: October 2023

Necroptosis is known to play an important role in the pathophysiology of cerebral ischemia; however, its role in the occurrence of secondary thalamic injury after focal cerebral infarction and the mechanism about how mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL) executes necroptosis in this pathophysiology are still unclear. In this study, Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to distal branch of middle cerebral artery occlusion (dMCAO). The expression of MLKL, connexin 43 (Cx43) and Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) in vitro and in vivo were assessed by Western blot. Bioinformatic methods were used to predict the potential binding sites where MLKL interacted with Cx43, and the ubiquitination degradation of Cx43 regulated by VHL. The interactions among MLKL, Cx43, VHL, and Ubiquitin were assessed by immunoprecipitation. Dye uptake assay were used to examine the Cx43 hemichannels. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured using Fluo-4 AM. Overexpression and site-directed mutagenesis studies were used to study the mechanisms by which MLKL regulates Cx43 ubiquitinational degradation to mediate neuronal necroptosis. We found that MLKL and Cx43 were upregulated in the ventral posterolateral nucleus (VPN) of the ipsilateral thalamus after dMCAO. In the in vitro experiments MLKL and Cx43 were upregulated after TSZ-mediated necroptosis in SH-SY5Y cells. The interaction between MLKL and Cx43 inhibited the K48-linked ubiquitination of Cx43 in necroptotic SH-SY5Y cells. VHL is an E3 ubiquitin ligase for Cx43, and MLKL competes with VHL for binding to Cx43. Interaction of MLKL Ser454 with Cx43 can trigger the opening of Cx43 hemichannels, causing increased intracellular Ca2+, and cell necroptosis. This innovative study at animal models, cellular, and molecular levels is anticipated to clarify the roles of MLKL and Cx43 in thalamic damage after focal cortical infarction. Our findings may help identify novel targets for neurological recovery after cortical infarction.
Translation and psychometric evaluation of the Spanish version of the problem areas in diabetes–pediatric version (PAID-Peds) survey
Authors: Casanovas-Marsal Josep-Oriol , Civitani Monzón Elisa , Ferrer Duce M. Pilar , Ferrer Lozano Marta , Vara Callau Marta , González de la Cuesta Delia , Yelmo Valverde Rosa , Pérez Repiso Victoria , Goicoechea Manterola Irune , de Arriba Muñoz Antonio
Published: October 2023

Background

Metabolic control and psychological management of paediatric type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) can be challenging over time. Development of an instrument to assess the youth-reported burden could aid in preventing T1DM-associated diseases.

Methods

The aim of this study was to translate and validate the Spanish version of the Problem Area in Diabetes Survey–Pediatric version (PAID-Peds). A multicentre, cross-sectional translation and linguistic validation study was performed on a sample of 30 participants aged 8–17 years with a minimum 1-year history of T1DM diagnosed at the Miguel Servet University Hospital in Zaragoza (Aragon, Spain), Ramón y Cajal University Clinical Hospital in Madrid (Spain), and Sant Joan de Déu Hospital in Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain). The qualitative validation consisted of translation into Spanish and back-translation into English of the Paid-Peds survey and subsequent administration to the sample population. Data were gathered on parameters related to sociodemographic characteristics and metabolic control. Validity, feasibility, and test-retest reliability were evaluated. Internal consistency was determined using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, test-retest reliability by means of interclass correlation, and paired samples using the Wilcoxon W-test. The study was approved by the ethics and research committees at each participating centre.

Results

The study assessed 30 children (46.7% female) with an average age of 13.33 ± 2.98 years; mean age at onset was 5.70 ± 3.62 years, and the mean disease duration was 7.63 ± 4.36 years. The mean score on the PAID-Peds survey was 42.88 ± 17.85. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.90. Test-retest reliability measured by interclass correlation coefficient was 0.8 (95% CI: 0.63–0.90). No significant differences in total scores were found between test and retest (Wilcoxon W-test: 289; p = 0.051).

Conclusions

The Spanish version of the PAID-Peds survey is a feasible, valid, and reliable instrument to assess the youth-perceived burden of T1DM.
Dedifferentiated endometrial carcinoma metastasis to axillary lymph node: a case report
Authors: Morrison Chase William , Sanjasaz Kayvon Nick , Nathanson Saul David , Raina-Hukku Supriya , Pinkney David Matthew , Davenport Alexis Anna
Published: October 2023

Background

We present an unusual case of a left axillary lymph node metastasis from a primary dedifferentiated endometrial carcinoma. This pattern of metastasis is likely the result of circulating tumor cells reaching the node through its arterial blood supply.

Case presentation

In this report, a 68-year-old white woman with a dedifferentiated endometrial carcinoma underwent a hysterectomy. She later developed an enlarged axillary lymph node due to metastatic dedifferentiated endometrial carcinoma, treated with chemotherapy and anti-programmed cell death protein 1 immunotherapy resulting in a complete clinical and radiological response.

Conclusion

A review of the literature reveals the rarity of blood-borne lymph node metastasis, especially with uterine carcinoma. Immunotherapy has shown promising results in the treatment of some subtypes of metastatic uterine carcinoma.
Small bowel adenocarcinomas with favorable prognoses by radical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy: a case series of five cases
Authors: Nishioka Yuri , Matsumoto Yasunori , Imanishi Shunsuke , Endo Satoshi , Toyozumi Takeshi , Kurata Yoshihiro , Sasaki Takuma , Ohira Gaku , Hayano Koichi , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: October 2023

Background

Small bowel cancer is very rare, accounting for less than 5% of all gastrointestinal cancers, and small bowel adenocarcinoma accounts for approximately 40% of all small bowel cancers. Small bowel adenocarcinoma is often found in advanced stages, with only 40–65% of cases being curatively resectable. The prognosis is poor, with a 5-year survival rate of 14–33% for all patients and 40–60% for those who are curatively resectable. In Japan, practice guidelines for duodenal cancer were instituted in 2021. However, evidence-based standard treatments have not been established for jejunal and ileal cancers. In particular, chemotherapeutic options are limited, and there are only a few reports on multidisciplinary treatments, including adjuvant chemotherapy.

Case presentation

We report five cases of jejunal or ileal lesions that were treated with adjuvant chemotherapy after radical resection. Three patients were male and two were female, with a median age of 67 years. Tumor localization was observed in the jejunum in all cases. Clinical staging was as follows: stage IIIA in two cases and stage IIIB in three cases. Laparotomy was then performed in all cases, employing partial resection with lymph node dissection. Pathological staging in all cases was as follows: stage IIB in two cases, stage IIIA in one case, and stage IIIB in two cases. In all cases, the regimen for adjuvant chemotherapy was selected based on the colorectal cancer guidelines. No serious complications arose from adjuvant therapy; however, adverse events occurred in patients receiving multi-agent chemotherapy. No recurrence was observed in any of the cases, and all the patients survived, with a median survival time of 32 months. As a representative case, we present a case of adjuvant chemotherapy for jejunal adenocarcinoma staged as pT3N2M0, pStage IIIB, with no recurrence at 32 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

In general, favorable outcomes were achieved with adjuvant therapy applied in accordance with the criteria for colorectal cancer. These favorable outcomes suggest that it is necessary to identify the risk factors and indications for adjuvant therapy, specifically for small bowel adenocarcinoma.
The effects of an individualized smartphone-based exercise program on self-defined motor tasks in Parkinson’s disease: a long-term feasibility study
Authors: Lützow Lisa , Teckenburg Isabelle , Koch Veronika , Marxreiter Franz , Jukic Jelena , Stallforth Sabine , Regensburger Martin , Winkler Jürgen , Klucken Jochen , Gaßner Heiko
Published: October 2023

Background

Exercise therapy is considered effective for the treatment of motor impairment in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). During the COVID-19 pandemic, training sessions were cancelled and the implementation of telerehabilitation concepts became a promising solution. The aim of this controlled interventional feasibility study was to evaluate the long-term acceptance and to explore initial effectiveness of a digital, home-based, high-frequency exercise program for PD patients. Training effects were assessed using patient-reported outcome measures combined with sensor-based and clinical scores.

Methods

16 PD patients (smartphone group, SG) completed a home-based, individualized training program over 6–8 months using a smartphone app, remotely supervised by a therapist, and tailored to the patient’s motor impairments and capacity. A control group (CG, n = 16) received medical treatment without participating in digital exercise training. The usability of the app was validated using System Usability Scale (SUS) and User Version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale (uMARS). Outcome measures included among others Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale, part III (UPDRS-III), sensor-based gait parameters derived from standardized gait tests, Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39), and patient-defined motor activities of daily life (M-ADL).

Results

Exercise frequency of 74.5% demonstrated high adherence in this cohort. The application obtained 84% in SUS and more than 3.5/5 points in each subcategory of uMARS, indicating excellent usability. The individually assessed additional benefit showed at least 6 out of 10 points (Mean = 8.2 ± 1.3). From a clinical perspective, patient-defined M-ADL improved for 10 out of 16 patients by 15.5% after the training period. The results of the UPDRS-III remained stable in the SG while worsening in the CG by 3.1 points (24%). The PDQ-39 score worsened over 6–8 months by 83% (SG) and 59% (CG) but the subsection mobility showed a smaller decline in the SG (3%) compared to the CG (77%) without reaching significance level for all outcomes. Sensor-based gait parameters remained constant in both groups.

Conclusions

Long-term training over 6–8 months with the app is considered feasible and acceptable, representing a cost-effective, individualized approach to complement dopaminergic treatment. This study indicates that personalized, digital, high-frequency training leads to benefits in motor sections of ADL and Quality of Life.
Translation, validation and psychometric properties of the Dutch version of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease-Fatigue (IBD-F) self-assessment scale
Authors: Stoker Annemay M. H. , Gruters Angélique , Loon Mirjam C. M. van der Ende-van , Postulart Debby , Czuber-Dochan Wladyslawa , Gilissen Lennard P. L.
Published: October 2023

Background

In patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a symptom with major impact on health-related quality of life is fatigue. To assess fatigue and conduct research regarding fatigue in IBD patients, a validated disease specific assessment tool is required. The aim of this study was to translate the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Fatigue patient self-assessment scale (IBD-F) into Dutch and to validate this translated scale in a Dutch IBD population.

Methods

The study comprised three phases. In phase 1, the original IBD-F was translated into Dutch. Phase 2 comprised a pilot-test of the pre-final Dutch IBD-F to assess content validity by applying a semi-structured interview design. In phase 3, construct validity, internal consistency and test-retest reliability were assessed using a cross-sectional design.

Results

Phase 1 resulted in the pre-final version of the Dutch IBD-F. After five semi-structured interviews with IBD patients in phase 2, minor adjustments were made which resulted in the final version of the Dutch IBD-F. Evaluation of this final version in 133 IBD patients showed adequate psychometric properties: good convergent validity with the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory subscales (Spearman’s r 0.57–0.86) and excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha 0.94 for Section I and 0.97 for Section II). Test-retest reliability in 102 patients was shown to be good (Section I ICC 0.85 (95% CI 0.79–0.90) and Section II ICC 0.88 (95% CI 0.83–0.92)).

Conclusions

The thorough translation process resulted in a comprehensible, valid and reliable version of the Dutch IBD-F. Convergent validity with the MFI-20 appeared to be good. This study found excellent internal consistency and good test-retest reliability.
Multiple sclerosis and fecundity: a study of anti-mullerian hormone level in Egyptian patients
Authors: Zaki Maha Atef , Ramzy Gihan , Ali Samah , Sharaf Sahar Abdelatty , Hegazy Mohamed I. , Mostafa Emad , Fawzy Ibrahim , El-Ghoneimy Lobna
Published: October 2023

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease that affects people aged 20–40 years on average. It classically affects young females of reproductive age. The prevalence of MS for females to males has increased markedly in recent years (from 2.3 to 3.5:1). Females with MS seem to use infertility treatments more frequently and fecundity could be affected years before making an MS diagnosis. The anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level is the strongest marker of ovarian reserve. Although recent studies suggest that patients with MS have lower ovarian reserve, there is no definite data to conclude that females with MS suffer from impaired fertility. This study aimed to investigate fertility and fecundity among female patients with MS by assessing AMH level. This study included 100 patients with MS and 60 healthy controls (HC). Both groups were assessed for AMH levels, activities of daily living (ADL) were assessed using the Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and the reproductive history of both groups was assessed via a self-administered questionnaire.

Results

AMH levels among the HCs (0.34–2 ng/ml with a mean of 1.03 ± 0.41 ng/ml) were significantly higher than in patients with MS (0.15–2 ng/ml with a mean of 0.68 ± 0.31 ng/ml). The use of disease-modifying therapies (DMT) was the only predictor of below normal AMH among patients, but there was no significant correlation with age, duration of disease or type of DMT.

Conclusions

Levels of AMH were significantly lower in MS patients than in healthy controls.
A comparative study between surgical cut down and percutaneous closure devices in management of large bore arterial access
Authors: Mousa Mohamed Ahmed , Zahwy Sherif Samir El , Tamara Ahmed Fathy , Samir Wafed , Tantawy Mahmoud Ahmed
Published: October 2023

Background

Compared to conventional open surgery, minimally invasive catheter-based procedures have less post procedural complications. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) require large bore arterial access. Optimal site management of large bore arterial access is pivotal to reduce the hospital-acquired complications associated with large bore arterial access. We wanted to compare surgical cutdown versus percutaneous closure devices in site management of large bore arterial access.

Methods

Participants planned for TAVI or EVAR with large bore arterial access more than 10 French were included, while participants with history of bypass surgery, malignancies, thrombophilia, or sepsis were excluded. A consecutive sample of 100 participants (mean age 74.66 ± 2.65 years, 61% males) was selected, underwent TAVI or EVAR with surgical cutdown (group 1) versus TAVI or EVAR with Proglide™ percutaneous closure device (group 2).

Results

The incidence rate of hematoma was significantly lower in group 2 versus group 1 (p = 0.014), the mean procedure time (minutes) and the median hospital stay (days) were significantly higher in group 1 versus group 2 (t(98) =  − 2.631, p = 0.01, and U = 2.403, p = 0.018, respectively), and the c-reactive protein pre-procedure and the c-reactive protein post-procedure were significantly lower in group 2 versus group 1 (U = -2.969, p = 0.003, and U = -2.674, p = 0.007, respectively).

Conclusions

Our study showed a lower incidence rate of large bore arterial access complications as hematoma, a shorter procedure time, and a shorter hospital stay with percutaneous closure devices compared to surgical cutdown.
The role of miRNA20a and miRNA320 in Iraqi patients with COVID-19: a case–control study
Authors: Abed Reema Mohammed , Abdulmalek Hadeel Waleed , Yaaqoob Laith Ahmad
Published: October 2023

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiological agent responsible for the onset of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), elicits a wide range of clinical manifestations, spanning from asymptomatic infection to the development of severe and potentially fatal diseases. The involvement of host microribonucleic acids (microRNAs) in the cytokine storm induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection has been observed, leading to their identification as potential biomarkers for COVID-19. Consequently, the objective of this study was to examine the expression of miRNA-20a and miRNA-320 in 145 COVID-19 patients and 145 healthy controls using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

Results

The results indicated a significant increase in miRNA-20a expression with fold change (10.65; P ≤ 0.0001), while decreased expression of miRNA-320 was found with fold change (0.48; P ≤ 0.0001) in COVID-19 patients. The specificity and sensitivity of miRNAs in COVID-19 patients were assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Conclusion

miRNA-20a and miRNA-320 may serve as potential COVID-19 diagnostic biomarkers with high sensitivity and specificity.
Weathering the Occupation
Authors: Bhan Mona
Published: October 2023

This article examines how weather became an important element of India’s imperial project particularly after 2019, while its everyday forecast and management, as well as its seeming predictability, offered the Indian state an illusion of control in Kashmir’s uncertain political terrain. Against this backdrop, the article foregrounds how weathering the occupation offers a critical analytic to track the eco-logics of the Indian occupation in Kashmir and to consider how Kashmiris rely on the potency of differently constituted “earth beings” to envision alternative political, ecological, and geographic futures. As Kashmir’s climate vulnerabilities intensify because of India’s occupational and settler-colonial regimes, how can weather intrusions unravel geopolitics and contest the fiction of national cartographies? In other words, how might centering weather, rather than nation or borders, help us reenvision Kashmir’s futures beyond the confines of Indian statehood?
From Islamists to Religious Patriots
Authors: Al-Ali Nadje , Kurt Mashuq
Published: October 2023

This article explores the complex and intersectional identities and positionalities of Kurdish Islamist women activists in Turkey in the context of heightened violence and tensions linked to the ongoing Turkish-Kurdish conflict. While both female Islamist activists and Kurdish activists in Turkey and the wider region have been subject to in-depth research over the past decade, Kurdish Islamist women have largely been overlooked in the literature. The article focuses on the complex relationship between ethnicity and religion in understanding Kurdish Islamist women’s mobilization, political views, perceptions of gender norms and relations, and self-ascribed identities. Based on original empirical research carried out in southeastern Turkey in 2015 and 2018, the article engages with the relevant literature on Islamist women’s mobilization, particularly in relation to Turkey, to complicate discourses of empowerment and critiques of liberal notions of agency while also challenging prevailing depictions of Kurdish women’s mobilization. It pays attention both to the intersecting power configurations enabling and challenging Kurdish Islamist women’s everyday lives and political engagement, and to changing political economy locally, nationally, and transnationally.
“My Body, My Decision!”
Authors: Saluk Seda
Published: October 2023

This article examines the discourses and strategies used by reproductive rights activists in Turkey to counter the state’s antiabortion policies. Drawing on a critical genealogical analysis, the article first traces the concept of “bodily autonomy” in feminist mobilizations against sexual and ethnoracial violence from the 1980s to the first decade of the 2000s. It then focuses on the slogan of the 2012 abortion rights mobilizations, “My body, my decision!,” which relies on bodily autonomy as the central trope of claim making. The article argues that the slogan is limited, not because it draws on a liberal, individualistic framework but because it represents the bodily autonomy of the white reproductive subject, assuming that it is an ethnoracially unmarked, universal subject. In doing so, the article demonstrates how feminist strategies that build on bodily autonomy obscure the state’s stratified reproductive policies, which have historically promoted a Turkish majority at the expense of non-Turkish lives.
Determination of water balance maintenance in Orcinus orca and Tursiops truncatus using oxygen isotopes
Authors: Séon Nicolas , Brasseur Isabelle , Scala Christopher , Tacail Théo , Catteau Sidonie , Fourel François , Vincent Peggy , Lécuyer Christophe , Suan Guillaume , Charbonnier Sylvain , Vinçon-Laugier Arnauld , Amiot Romain
Published: October 2023

The secondary adaptation of Cetacea to a fully marine lifestyle raises the question of their ability to maintain their water balance in a hyperosmotic environment. Cetacea have access to four potential sources of water: surrounding salt oceanic water, dietary free water, metabolic water and inhaled water vapour to a lesser degree. Here, we measured the 18O/16O oxygen isotope ratio of blood plasma from 13 specimens belonging to two species of Cetacea raised under human care (four killer whales Orcinus orca, nine common bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus) to investigate and quantify the contribution of preformed water (dietary free water, surrounding salt oceanic water) and metabolic water to Cetacea body water using a box-modelling approach. The oxygen isotope composition of Cetacea blood plasma indicates that dietary free water and metabolic water contribute to more than 90% of the total water input in weight for cetaceans, with the remaining 10% consisting of inhaled water vapour and surrounding water accidentally ingested or absorbed through the skin. Moreover, the contribution of metabolic water appears to be more important in organisms with a more lipid-rich diet. Beyond these physiological and conservation biology implications, this study opens up questions that need to be addressed, such as the applicability of the oxygen isotope composition of cetacean body fluids and skeletal elements as an environmental proxy of the oxygen isotope composition of present and past marine waters.
Unpacking p-Hacking and Publication Bias
Authors: Brodeur Abel , Carrell Scott , Figlio David , Lusher Lester
Published: October 2023

We use unique data from journal submissions to identify and unpack publication bias and p-hacking. We find initial submissions display significant bunching, suggesting the distribution among published statistics cannot be fully attributed to a publication bias in peer review. Desk-rejected manuscripts display greater heaping than those sent for review; i.e., marginally significant results are more likely to be desk rejected. Reviewer recommendations, in contrast, are positively associated with statistical significance. Overall, the peer review process has little effect on the distribution of test statistics. Lastly, we track rejected papers and present evidence that the prevalence of publication biases is perhaps not as prominent as feared. (JEL A11, A14, C13, L82)
Is There a VA Advantage? Evidence from Dually Eligible Veterans
Authors: Chan David C. , Card David , Taylor Lowell
Published: October 2023

We study public versus private provision of health care for veterans aged 65 and older who may receive care provided by the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and in private hospitals financed by Medicare. Utilizing the ambulance design of Doyle et al. (2015), we find that the VA reduces 28-day mortality by 46 percent (4.5 per centage points) and that these survival gains are persistent. The VA also reduces 28-day spending by 21 percent and delivers strikingly different reported services relative to private hospitals. We find suggestive evidence of complementarities between continuity of care, health IT, and integrated care. (JEL H51, I11, I12, I18, J14)
Measuring Upward Mobility
Authors: Ray Debraj , Genicot Garance
Published: October 2023

We conceptualize and measure upward mobility over income or wealth. At the core of our exercise is the Growth Progressivity Axiom: transfers of instantaneous growth rates from relatively rich to poor individuals increases upward mobility. This axiom, along with mild auxiliary restrictions, identifies an “upward mobility kernel” with a single free parameter, in which mobility is linear in individual growth rates, with geometrically declining weights on baseline incomes. We extend this kernel to trajectories over intervals. The analysis delivers an upward mobility index that does not rely on panel data. That significantly expands our analytical scope to data-poor settings. (JEL D31, D63, I32, O15, O40)
Κατοικώντας στις παρυφές της πόλης
Authors: Γλεντή Δήμητρα
Published: October 2023

Η διατριβή έχει ως στόχο να φωτίσει την αστική εγκατάσταση των μικρασιατών προσφύγων του 1922, να εξετάσει το αποτύπωμά της στον αστικό χώρο και να διερευνήσει τους τρόπους με τους οποίους ο χώρος καθόρισε την πορεία τους μέσα στην ελληνική κοινωνία, εστιάζοντας στο παράδειγμα της Μυτιλήνης. Η μελέτη αυτή επιδιώκει να συγκεράσει ιστορικές αφηγήσεις του προσφυγικού ζητήματος με προσεγγίσεις του ελληνικού αστικού χώρου, κάνοντας χρήση των αναλυτικών εργαλείων της κοινωνικής και πολιτισμικής ιστορίας, της προφορικής ιστορίας και της κοινωνικής ανθρωπολογίας. Τα βασικά ζητήματα που θίγονται εδώ αφορούν τόσο τις διαδικασίες της κοινωνικής παραγωγής των προσφυγικών συνοικιών, όσο και αυτές της κοινωνικής κατασκευής τους. Δηλαδή τις κοινωνικές διεργασίες μέσα από τις οποίες προέκυψε ο φυσικός χώρος αλλά και τους τρόπους με τους οποίους νοηματοδοτήθηκαν αυτοί οι τόποι από τους ίδιους τους κατοίκους τους και από την υπόλοιπη πόλη. Οι χωρικές αναπαραστάσεις και οι χρήσεις τους, οι σχέσεις ιεραρχίας και η παραγωγή της κοινωνικής διαφοράς μέσα από τον χώρο, αποτελούν κεντρικά σημεία εστίασης. Η κατοικία, η μνήμη, το φύλο και η κοινωνική τάξη είναι οι βασικές αναλυτικές κατηγορίες, οι οποίες, σε συνδυασμό με την κεντρική κατηγορία του χώρου, βοηθούν να κατανοήσουμε τους κοινωνικούς μετασχηματισμούς που συμβαίνουν στο πλαίσιο των προσφυγικών συνοικιών της Μυτιλήνης, στη διάρκεια μισού περίπου αιώνα (1922-1970).
PyFMLab: Open-source software for atomic force microscopy microrheology data analysis
Authors: López-Alonso Javier , Eroles Mar , Janel Sébastien , Berardi Massimiliano , Pellequer Jean-Luc , Dupres Vincent , Lafont Frank , Rico Felix
Published: October 2023

Background Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is one of the main techniques used to characterize the mechanical properties of soft biological samples and biomaterials at the nanoscale. Despite efforts made by the AFM community to promote open-source data analysis tools, standardization continues to be a significant concern in a field that requires common analysis procedures. AFM-based mechanical measurements involve applying a controlled force to the sample and measure the resulting deformation in the so-called force-distance curves. These may include simple approach and retract or oscillatory cycles at various frequencies (microrheology). To extract quantitative parameters, such as the elastic modulus, from these measurements, AFM measurements are processed using data analysis software. Although open tools exist and allow obtaining the mechanical properties of the sample, most of them only include standard elastic models and do not allow the processing of microrheology data. In this work, we have developed an open-source software package (called PyFMLab, as of python force microscopy laboratory) capable of determining the viscoelastic properties of samples from both conventional force-distance curves and microrheology measurements. Methods PyFMLab has been written in Python, which provides an accessible syntax and sufficient computational efficiency. The software features were divided into separate, self-contained libraries to enhance code organization and modularity and to improve readability, maintainability, testability, and reusability. To validate PyFMLab, two AFM datasets, one composed of simple force curves and another including oscillatory measurements, were collected on HeLa cells. Results The viscoelastic parameters obtained on the two datasets analysed using PyFMLab were validated against data processing proprietary software and against validated MATLAB routines developed before obtaining equivalent results. Conclusions Its open-source nature and versatility makes PyFMLab an open-source solution that paves the way for standardized viscoelastic characterization of biological samples from both force-distance curves and microrheology measurements.
The economy of the enterprise (in diagrams, tables, calculations)
Authors: Kucherenko Anna , Akulenko Nina , Prudnikov Vladimir , Sklyarenko Vyacheslav
Published: October 2023

The textbook on the structure coincides with the book by V.K. Sklyarenko, V.M. Prudnikov "Enterprise Economics: Lecture Notes". However, unlike the lecture notes, for better assimilation of the material, the presentation of topics is presented in diagrams, tables, calculations.
For university students studying economic disciplines. It will also be useful for practitioners and specialists.
Economic Analysis As a Basis for Finding Ways to Reduce the Cost of Manufactured Products (Works, Services) in Modern Conditions of the Russian Federation
Authors: Levkina Nataliya
Published: October 2023

Reduction of the cost of manufactured products (works, services) as a way to increase financial results, it has always been an attractive, but difficult-to-achieve goal for economic entities. This indicator is influenced not only by internal factors that depend on the enterprise, but also by external factors that affect its activities. Since 2020, such factors have been the unstable economic situation in Russia and the world as a whole, bans, restrictions, inflation, market instability, rising prices for resources, etc. Accordingly, in order to maintain competitiveness and its position in the market, to increase financial results, serious work should be carried out to reduce the cost of production due to internal factors controlled by the economic entity. This work is devoted to substantiating the importance of conducting a competent economic analysis to identify the main directions of reducing the cost of manufactured products (works, services) in the current economic realities. The results of the study can be used for further study of anti-crisis management measures of economic entities.
Adaptación y validación de la Escala de Dificultades en la Regulación Emocional en adultos del Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires
Authors: Cremades Camila , Garay Cristian Javier , Etchevers Martín Juan , Muiños Roberto , Peker Graciela Mónica , Gómez Penedo Juan Martín
Published: October 2023

La desregulación emocional (de) fue identificada como uno de los principales procesos involucrados en el surgimiento y mantenimiento de los trastornos emocionales. A su vez, los trastornos emocionales son los más prevalentes mundialmente, volviendo a la de un objeto de estudio de gran relevancia. El presente trabajo consiste en la adaptación y validación de la Escala de Dificultades en la Regulación Emocional (Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, ders) (Gratz & Roemer, 2004), para ser usada en población general del Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires. Se realizó un estudio transversal con 315 participantes entre 18 y 65 años. La consistencia interna resultó adecuada (α = 0.936; ω = 0.938). Se llevó a cabo un análisis factorial confirmatorio mediante el paquete Lavaan, quedando la escala conformada por 30 ítems que se ajustan a las seis dimensiones originales. También se presenta evidencia de validez convergente y discriminante, la capacidad de discriminación de los ítems, diferencias por sexo y edad, y valores normativos para adultos del Área Metropolitana de Buenos Aires. La adaptación al español de la ders representa una herramienta válida y confiable para medir distintos aspectos del proceso de regulación emocional.
Social Media in Electoral Communication: A Case Study of Strategic Initiatives by Bantul Election Commission for the 2024 Elections
Authors: Sari Eka Anisa , Setiawan Resdika Anggesa Dwi , Jandevi Uspal
Published: October 2023

In the contemporary landscape of democratic processes, the role of social media has become instrumental in shaping political communication strategies. This study investigates the nuanced dynamics of social media utilization, with a specific focus on its impact on the effectiveness of communication strategies employed during the 2024 Elections by the Bantul Election Commission (KPU Bantul) in Indonesia. Recognizing the potential of social media in enhancing voter participation, KPU Bantul strategically employed platforms such as Instagram, websites, and YouTube to educate, engage, and mobilize the public. Through a qualitative analysis rooted in social media theory and communication strategy frameworks, this research explores the innovative methods used by KPU Bantul. Key findings encompass strategic networking and coordination, digital literacy initiatives targeting novice voters, challenges in measuring social media impact, and the transformative potential of integrating social media within electoral processes. The study not only sheds light on the intricate mechanisms of social media utilization but also offers practical insights for improving social media initiatives in future electoral contexts.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND INNOVATION PRACTICES: A CONCEPTUAL INQUIRY
Authors: Purnomo Boyke Rudy
Published: October 2023

Discourse on artificial intelligence runs noticeably along with the developments of computing technology. At the same time, the business environment become more uncertain, ambiguous, and competitive, which requires organizations to innovate for their sustainability continuously. This paper aims to broaden innovation management knowledge, particularly in applying artificial intelligence. The behavioural Theory of the Firm is a framework for writing this conceptual inquiry. To do so, artificial intelligence can assist organizations in processing information companies need to create incremental and radical innovations. Specifically, artificial intelligence is useful in overcoming barriers to innovation (during information processing and search processes) and generating and developing ideas and solutions. Furthermore, adopting artificial intelligence in innovation management is determined by the level of organizational capability in information processing, which consists of three levels: exploitation, expansion, and exploration. Then, economic, technological and social forces are argued as factors that can push organizations to adopt artificial intelligence. The challenges faced in the adoption process can come from technical aspects of technology, individual aspects, and interaction between technology and humans. The final part of this manuscript describes the future research agenda that can be carried out related to artificial intelligence and innovation management.
THE EFFECT OF FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY, ONLINE SHOPPING, AND SELF-CONTROL ON CONSUMPTIVE BEHAVIOR
Authors: Sulistiyani Tina , Muthusamy Ariharaan , Solihudin Ahmad Rizal
Published: October 2023

Technological advances have now been felt in business, particularly in financial services companies. The financial services industry innovates in financial services, namely establishing financial technology. This study aims to determine the influence of financial technology, online shopping, and self-control on the consumptive behavior of Generation Z in Yogyakarta. The samples in this study were 520 respondents taken by sampling technique using non-probability sampling with purposive sampling method. The data obtained is then processed using the Smart PLS statistical tool. The results showed that online shopping has a negative influence on consumptive behavior, while financial technology and self-control show a positive impact on consumptive behavior.
Optical frequency reference based on a cryogenic silicon resonator
Authors: Wiens Eugen , Kwong Chang Jian , Müller Timo , Bongs Kai , Singh Yeshpal , Schiller Stephan
Published: October 2023

We present the development and in-depth characterization of an optical reference based on a 1.5 μm laser stabilized to a cryogenic silicon optical resonator operated at 1.7 K. The closed-cycle cryostat is equipped with a cryogenic passive vibration isolation. At τ = 1 s integration time the frequency instability is 2 × 10−14, predominantly due to residual vibrations. At τ = 100 s the frequency instability is 6.2 × 10−15. The lowest instability of 3.5 × 10−16 occurs at τ = 6000 s, and is limited by the stability of the hydrogen maser used in the comparison. The mean fractional frequency drift rate over 190 days was −3.7 × 10−20/s. In conjunction with a frequency comb and a GNSS receiver this optical reference would be suitable to provide optical frequencies with accuracies at the low 10−14 level. We show that residual vibrations affect the resonator and the optical fiber delivering the laser light to it, and that laboratory temperature variations contribute to frequency instability at short and medium integration times. Mitigation of these issues might in the future allow for demonstration of the thermal-noise-limited performance of the resonator.
Nano-optical theory of planar x-ray waveguides
Authors: Lohse Leon M. , Andrejić Petar
Published: October 2023

X-ray waveguides are routinely used at synchrotron light sources in imaging setups and as a platform for experiments with quantum emitters, providing nanometer-sized confinement – even x-ray optics on a chip has been showcased. X-ray waveguides are weakly guiding and experience significant material absorption, such that the established waveguide theory is not immediately applicable. Here, a general self-contained nano-optical theory of planar waveguides is derived, which is appropriate for hard x-ray energies. Solutions of the electromagnetic fields and its Green’s functions are derived in detail. Asymptotic expansions into resonant and non-resonant modes are derived, which are particularly useful in the presence of strong material absorption. A method to reliably find the resonant modes of x-ray waveguide structures is presented. Based on the general theory, certain common experimental geometries, namely evanescent coupling in grazing-incidence, front-coupling in forward-incidence and radiation from buried emitters, are discussed in more detail. Complementing the analytic discussion, numerical tools are provided and applied to quantitatively extract the main figures of merit. The theory provides an analytic foundation for the interpretation of past and future experiments and, combined with the numerical tools, will facilitate the computer-aided design of x-ray waveguides.