bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skepticism and Fallibilism
Authors: Kvanvig Jonathan L
Published: November 2024

There are two common responses to skepticism, the epistemological claim that knowledge is at least non-existent and perhaps also unachievable, and both are to be avoided. So I argue here. The first response is to succumb to it, trying then to find some adequate basis for life that foregoes presumptions of knowledge. The second response is dismissive, viewing it as an overwrought, hyperbolic response to human limitations, so wrongheaded that nothing beyond a laconic response is needed before returning to important philosophical tasks. Avoiding these responses requires theory development on the part of skepticism and a way of characterizing sensitive fallibilism in contrast to complacent versions of it. These two tasks take up the majority of the chapters, several of which show how theory development on behalf of the skeptic needs to proceed. The hardest part of this project is to characterize the skeptical ideal for matters that we investigate through the use of defeasible reasoning, where the idea of finding an infallibilist standard looks impossible. In spite of this appearance, it is possible to characterize this ideal in terms of reasoning that puts one in full control over the possibility of error. The other task involves characterizing fallibilism in terms of this notion of full control over the possibilities of error, and then developing a version of this view that doesn’t require such full control while at the same time acknowledging, predicting, and explaining how and why such full control appears whenever the language of knowledge is used. The result is an approximationist version of fallibilism that acknowledges that our knowledge is never ideal but is nonetheless close enough to the ideal to be present.
Skepticism and the Commonsense Tradition
Authors: Kvanvig Jonathan L
Published: November 2024

Sober judgment affirms that the capacity for error is inescapable. Skepticism arises from this recognition, with the skeptic pressing the point that this capacity for error is our epistemic undoing. Given the assumption that knowledge is the epistemic summum bonum or necessary for it, the idea is that knowledge itself is somehow undermined by this feature of our cognitive condition. At the same time as we all stand convinced of our capacity for error, we also recognize the point of the assumption that knowledge matters. This chapter traces resistance to skepticism arising in the commonsense tradition that traces to Thomas Reid but also in the pragmatist tradition tracing to C.S. Peirce.
Infallibilism and Idealizations about Knowledge
Authors: Kvanvig Jonathan L
Published: November 2024

If skepticism can undergo appropriate theoretical development, fallibilists will need to find and develop a sensitive version of view, one that takes seriously the need to explain and predict how and why concessive attitudes and attributions about knowledge are both correct and infelicitous. One central problem for sensitive fallibilism concerns the notion of fallibility itself, and we the last chapter found that it is difficult to find a theory-neutral account of this notion. The goal of this chapter is to elucidate the high standards the skeptic maintains must be met in order for knowledge to be possible, and success in this project will allow an understanding of fallibilism in terms of the negation of this high standard. The goal of clarifying these standards is more difficult to achieve than is usually recognized, and this chapter shows why it is so difficult and how the difficulties can be met.
Conclusion
Authors: Kvanvig Jonathan L
Published: November 2024

Given the path through theory development on behalf of skepticism and the fallibilist response in the form of Approximationism, we have an account of the significance of skepticism that does not rely on the truth of the view. In addition, the significance of skepticism that is found in this process is not something that needs to prompt passional negativity of any sort. Instead, the significance of skepticism arises in the role it plays in sustaining a life of virtue. This concluding chapter focuses on this more general point, one that we have reached through the conclusions of previous chapters, though it never took center stage in any of them. So here we focus directly on it.
Folding and Unfolding Story to Meet the Space
Authors: Damkjær Maria
Published: November 2024

Short fiction in magazines sometimes had to be stretched or squeezed to fit the available space. This chapter looks at short fiction that displays its own responses to the urgent need to fill up space; either by directly addressing space restrictions or by having traces of typographical manipulation. An author like Camilla Crosland wrote ‘vignette fiction’—stories told in a series of scenes—as a solution to the spatial restraint in the magazine the Home Circle. The chapter also discusses authors like Austen, Trollope, and Gissing, who addressed the space they wrote for. Folding story out, or folding it in, are metaphors through which to see the possibilities of narrative fiction to fit itself to its format. Stories are truncated, squeezed, or stretched, and the result is a sense that space was both a generating spur for new content and a continuous negotiation for both writers, editors, and typesetters.
Samuel Beeton’s Love of Hidden Advertising
Authors: Damkjær Maria
Published: November 2024

When advertising disguises itself as another genre—a recipe, a footnote, or a short story—it raises questions about the relationship between a cheeky editor and an indulgent reader who gets the joke. The publications of Samuel Beeton’s publishing house—the Book of Household Management, for example—are often plugged in his various magazines like the Englishwoman’s Domestic Magazine, sometimes with little stories about a character encountering the publication or an advert for it. Genre masquerades, where imaginary readers read and use the printed product, are ways for the editor to project an ideal reception for his own publications. In the process, the agency of the reader–consumer is sublimated into actions that begin to look more like those of a maker–editor. In the print imaginary that Beeton constructs, female consumers are already engaged in miscellany practices before the miscellany appears: they are model editors as well as model readers.
Conclusion
Authors: Damkjær Maria
Published: November 2024

The Conclusion builds on the idea of the print imaginary, to argue that mid-nineteenth-century print culture uses genre hybridity to suggest that the printed product is an exact fit with readers’ lives. In the print imaginary, readers are flattered by the suggestion that they are not only already readers, but already editors and writers in their own right. The Conclusion also expands on the idea of the print imaginary as a realm that is peopled by characters—fictional, but by definition life-like—who embody print’s ability to transform (idealized) lives. By sublimating the printed object into both a material product and a way of life, the magazine presents a fantasy of the heroic reading and making of print. Finally, the Conclusion argues for the values of literary genres that never caught on.
Social determinants of health and variability in treatment for patients with early-stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Scannell Bryan Molly , Hu Xiaohan , Izano Monika A , Mohammed Hina , Wicks Marianna , Brown Thomas , Simon George , Kaplan Henry , Berry Anna
Published: November 2024

Background

In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), social determinants of health (SDOHs) influence treatment, but SDOHs with geographic precision are infrequently used in real-world research due to privacy considerations. This research aims to characterize the influence of census-tract level SDOHs on treatment for stage I and IIa NSCLC.

Methods

Patients diagnosed between 1/1/17 and 9/30/22 with stages I and IIa NSCLC in the Syapse Learning Health Network had their addresses geocoded and linked to five census tract-level indicators of SDOH (social vulnerability index (SVI), percent (%) housing burden, % broadband internet access, primary care shortage area, and rurality). Clinical and demographic characteristics were ascertained from medical records. Nested multinomial logistic regression models estimated associations between SDOHs and initial treatment using two-sided Wald tests. The collective statistical significance of SDOHs was assessed with a likelihood ratio test (LRT) comparing nested models. Descriptive statistics described time-to-treatment-initiation.

Results

Among 3595 patients, 58% were initially treated with surgery, 29% with radiation, and 12% with “other.” Two SDOH variables were associated with increased relative risk ratios (RRR) for radiation therapy compared to surgery: living in primary care shortage areas (RRR 1.61, 95% CI: (1.23-2.10)) and living in non-metropolitan areas (RRR 1.45 (1.02-2.07)). The LRT suggested that the five SDOH variables collectively improved the treatment model. Further, patients in areas with high SVI, low internet access, and high housing-burden initiated treatment later.

Conclusion

When using precise estimates of geospatial SDOHs, these measures were associated with treatment, and should be considered in analyses of cancer outcomes.
Management of retained endoscopy capsule: a case series and literature review
Authors: Palm Preston H , Patrick Madison M , Cruz Claudia A , Navaneethan Udayakumar , Caycedo Antonio , Ferrara Marco
Published: November 2024

Video capsule endoscopy has become the gold standard for the evaluation of small bowel pathology. Capsular retention remains the most significant risk of this intervention. Here, we present two cases of retained capsules and our minimally invasive approach to retrieval. We also review the literature pertaining to retained endoscopy capsules and highlight a range of medical, surgical, and preventative strategies utilized in its management.
Percutaneous Release of Trigger Finger Under Local Anesthesia
Authors: Abdelhamed Romeih Mohamed
Published: November 2024

Objective:

The trigger finger involves the hindrance of the flexor tendon in the hand, commonly leading to pain, discomfort, and dysfunction in the hand. This work aimed to assess the results of percutaneous release using local anesthesia for the treatment of the trigger finger.

Patients and Methods:

This single-arm trial was carried out on 30 patients, aged 18 years old, both sexes, and diagnosed by clinical assessment by the percutaneous release of A1 pulley of the diseased finger with a history of triggering for at least 3 months and failure of previous steroid injection into the flexor sheath at least once.

Results:

The complications were pain in 10%, swelling in 13.33%, numbness in 3.33% of the patients, triggering, stiffness, digital nerve injury, scar, and recurrence were not present in any patients. Patient satisfaction was poor in 26.67%, good in 16.67%, and excellent in 56.67% of the patients. Age, sex, duration of symptoms, occupation, hand side, grade, and finger affection were insignificantly different among the 3 groups.

Conclusion:

The percutaneous release of the trigger finger under local anesthesia can be a safe and effective treatment for the trigger finger, applicable to a broad range of patients indicating a generally favorable outcome with minimal complications and higher satisfaction rates.
Invasive Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Nipple: Case Report With Literature Review
Authors: Potter Scott , Gulbahce Evin , Porretta Jane , Lomo Lesley , Duffy Keith , Winkler Nicole , Coleman Joshua , Jedrzkiewicz Jolanta
Published: November 2024

In this unusual case, a 73-year-old woman presented with bloody discharge from her right breast and skin thickening was observed on subsequent imaging. Clinically, the findings raised concern for Paget disease. A skin punch biopsy was performed, revealing a high-grade infiltrating carcinoma with squamous features. Metaplastic carcinoma was a differential diagnosis, given that this patient had a history of invasive ductal carcinoma and radiation treatment in the same breast. A subsequent central lumpectomy confirmed the diagnosis of invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the nipple, occurring in the context of Bowen disease as a precursor lesion. Notably, there was no evidence of ductal carcinoma in situ in the background breast tissue or conventional invasive ductal carcinoma component. Both in situ and invasive forms of squamous cell carcinomas have been rarely reported in the nipple. This case highlights the importance of considering such a rare diagnosis, especially in patients with a history of breast cancer.
Endometriosis management in low-income and middle-income countries—A critical review
Authors: Jain Kuldeep , Jain Maansi
Published: November 2024

Endometriosis is a chronic and multifactorial disease full of dilemmas, controversies, and complexities. It is progressive, recurrent, and difficult to diagnose and treat. The prevalence rate in a review was found to be very variable, from 2 to 36%, with an overall average rate of 18%. There are many questions that need to be answered and critically reviewed. A web-based survey was conducted to find out the management trend in clinical setting Pan India and reviewing the practice with available literature. Out of a total of 530 responders, 70% were postgraduate gynecologists, 15% were diploma holders, and 10% were general surgeons. Seventy-eight percent of the responders were from urban areas, and only 3% were from rural regions. The present survey revealed that the most preferred modality is laparoscopic surgery, followed by IUI (44.4%). The present survey showed that in the current practice, surgery is always done in 42%, followed by surgery and IVF in 20%, and IVF in 27%. The rest of them were individualized in favor of IVF or surgery. 82% of the respondents prefer doing cystectomy along with anatomical restoration. GnRH antagonists (cetrorelix and ganirelix) help to avoid pituitary suppression. Most of the respondents (43%) preferred to use antagonists in the present survey. It can be concluded on the basis of the present survey and trend in clinical practice that an individualized and comprehensive approach is to be practiced keeping in mind the age, previous surgery, ovarian reserve, size, and bilaterality of endometriomas.
Von Hippel-Lindau deficiency protects the liver against ischemia/reperfusion injury through the regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and 2α
Authors: Li Zihao , Yin Bing , Xu Yanan , Wang Chaoqun , Li Xinglong , Lu Shounan , Ke Shanjia , Qian Baolin , Yu Hongjun , Bai Miaoyu , Li Zhongyu , Zhou Yongzhi , Jiang Hongchi , Ma Yong
Published: November 2024

Background:

Ischemia and reperfusion (I/R)-induced liver injury contributes to morbidity and mortality during hepatic surgery or liver transplantation. As a pivotal regulator of cancer and inflammation, the role of Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) in hepatic I/R injury remains undetermined.

Methods:

We investigated the role of VHL in hepatic I/R injury by generating VHL conditional knockout (VHL-KO) mice. The downstream mechanisms of VHL were confirmed, and the role of HIF-2α in hepatic I/R injury was further investigated.

Results:

In this study, we discovered that VHL upregulation was associated with hepatic I/R injury in a mouse model. VHL gene knockout (VHL-KO) and overexpression (Ad-VHL) mice demonstrated that VHL aggravated liver injury, increased inflammation, and accelerated cell death in hepatic I/R injury. The VHL protein (pVHL) regulates a crucial control mechanism by targeting HIFα subunits for ubiquitin-mediated degradation. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that VHL interacted with and repressed hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and hypoxia-inducible factor 2α (HIF-2α) expression during hepatic I/R injury. Notably, the inhibition of HIF-1α or 2α, as well as the concurrent inhibition of HIF-1α and 2α, abrogated the protective effect of VHL-KO. The severe stabilization of HIF-1α or 2α, as well as the simultaneous overexpression of HIF-1α and 2α, compensated for the detrimental effect of VHL.

Conclusions:

Thus, we identified the VHL-HIF-1α/HIF-2α axis as an indispensable pathway that may be a novel target for mediating hepatic I/R injury.
The Barriers and Enablers to Participation in Oncology Clinical Trials for Ethnically Diverse Communities
Authors: Turner Lorraine , Taylor Sally , Ward Ashleigh , Thistlethwaite Fiona , Yorke Janelle
Published: November 2024

Background

Racial and ethnic inequities exist in cancer clinical trial participation. Low recruitment across ethnically diverse communities contributes to health inequalities further disproportionately affecting these groups. Understanding barriers and enablers to clinical trial participation for ethnic minorities is key to developing strategies to address this problem.

Objective

To explore, evaluate, and synthesize qualitative research surrounding patients’ lived experiences and perceptions of participating in cancer clinical trials from ethnically diverse groups.

Methods

Noblit and Hare’s 7-stage metaethnography was used. Seven databases were searched. Inclusion criteria were as follows: qualitative studies published in English from January 1, 2012, to January 31, 2022; patients from any ethnic minority 18 years and older with a cancer diagnosis; and cancer patients’ carers and healthcare professionals (HCPs)/healthcare leaders involved in the delivery of cancer clinical trials.

Results

The majority of included articles were conducted in the United States. Interpretive qualitative synthesis resulted in 7 categories including patient perceptions and beliefs and HCP perception of trial burden and social determinants of health. Four lines of argument were established.

Conclusions

The findings capture the experience and perceptions of ethnic minority patients, their carers, HCPs, and healthcare leaders in this area of research. Incongruities exist between patient-reported barriers and those perceived by HCPs. Published empirical research outside the United States is limited.

Implications for Practice

When developing strategies to increase clinical trial participation, research literacy, cultural safety, and unconscious biases within healthcare need to be addressed. Further research to examine intersectionality and the role of faith in decision-making among ethnic groups is warranted.
A Review of Low- and No-Calorie Sweetener Safety and Weight Management Efficacy
Authors: Mattes Richard D. , Rivera Brianna N. , Rutigliani Giorgia , Rogers Sarah , Mendoza Ivan D. , Wang Lucheng , Beckemeier Katheryn , Wikoff Daniele
Published: November 2024

Low- and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCSs) impart sweetness while providing little or no energy. Their safety and weight management efficacy remain unsettled science that leaves open questions among consumers, researchers, clinicians, and policy makers. The objective of this narrative review is to provide a critical consideration of the safety and efficacy of weight management evidence for LNCSs that have been reviewed/approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and have the highest frequency of use: acesulfame potassium, allulose, aspartame, erythritol, monk fruit, saccharin, stevia, sucralose, and xylitol. Safety assessments by the authoritative bodies for the World Health Organization, European Union, and United States were reviewed. Additionally, emerging topics of interest regarding the safety of these sweeteners commonly cited in the recent literature or highlighted in the media are discussed. Collectively, authoritative assessments and the primary literature support the safety of the sweeteners reviewed herein, with high concordance of safety substantiation across authoritative bodies. Weight management efficacy, measured by various adiposity indices in epidemiological studies, ranges from no effect to a slight positive association. Clinical trials with various mixtures of LNCSs more consistently indicate LNCS use is associated with lower adiposity indices. The latter are ascribed greater evidentiary weight, and recent application of statistical methods to better correct for potential biases in cohort studies reveals they are more consistent with the clinical trial findings. Studies that investigated individual sweeteners were limited but suggestive of differing effects or lack of sufficient data to support any formal conclusions on their efficacy for weight management. Taken together, and consistent with the current 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the evidence indicates LNCS use is safe and may aid weight management.
Shear Wave Elastography in the Assessment of Liver Iron Overload in Children With Beta Thalassemia Major
Authors: Eker Nurşah , Turkay Rüştü , Özdemir Sevim , Taş Burcu Tufan , Ocak Süheyla , Canpolat Aylin , Altaş Zeynep , Koç Ahmet
Published: November 2024

Shear wave elastography (SWE) is an ultrasound method that effectively demonstrates liver fibrosis. This prospective study aimed to compare magnetic resonance imaging T2* and SWE results of the liver in children with thalassemia major (TM). Patients with TM who had regular follow-ups were included. SWE was performed first, followed by MRI T2*. In addition, a healthy control group of the same age group, known to have no liver disease, was recruited. For these participants, only SWE was performed, and their results were compared with the SWE parameters of the TM patients. The study included 38 patients and 25 individuals who made up the control group. The groups with mild, moderate, and severe iron overload according to MRI T2* were compared in terms of SWE with parameters, and no statistically significant difference was found. However, when comparing the SWE parameters between the control group and patients, the median, average, and standard values were found to be statistically significantly higher in the patient group (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.026). When comparing MRI T2* results, the median, average, and standard values were found to be statistically significantly higher in the patients with normal and mild iron overload (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.033). SWE is an effective, more accessible, and easy-to-apply method for demonstrating early changes in the liver in pediatric patients with TM. This study serves as a guide for more comprehensive studies that may investigate the effect of SWE in this patient group.
Enterococcus faecalis co-cultured with oral cancer cells exhibits higher virulence and promotes cancer cell survival, proliferation, and migration: an in vitro study
Authors: Fathima Fida , Subramaniyan Yuvarajan , Rai Akshatha , Rekha Punchappady Devasya
Published: November 2024

Introduction.
Enterococcus faecalis is a common pathogen associated with many oral diseases and is often isolated from oral cancer patients. However, limited information is available on its key virulence gene expression in oral cancer cell microenvironment and cancer cell behaviour in co-culture studies.

Hypothesis.
E. faecalis overexpresses virulence genes when co-cultured with oral cancer cells and possibly alters the tumour microenvironment, promoting oral cancer proliferation and survival.

Aim. To investigate altered virulence gene expression in E. faecalis and oral cancer cell behaviour using in vitro co-culture experiments.

Methodology. Cal27 cells were co-cultured with E. faecalis and assessed for their cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and clonogenicity using standard cell culture assays. The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory cytokines, along with proliferative, angiogenic and apoptotic biomarker expressions, were also assessed. E. faecalis adherence to cancer cells was demonstrated by the gentamicin protection assay. Real time-PCR was used to analyse the expression of virulence genes.

Results. Co-culture of Cal27 cells with E. faecalis showed significantly higher cell proliferation, migration and clonogenicity compared to the control (P<0.01). A significant increase in the levels of ROS and inflammatory cytokines and overexpression of Ki67, vascular endothelial growth factor, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, phosphoinositide 3 kinase and Akt was observed in the co-culture group. E. faecalis also downregulated p53 and Bax genes while upregulated Bcl-2. The virulence genes GelE, Asa and Ace were overexpressed in E. faecalis co-cultured with Cal27 cells.

Conclusion. The results from this study indicate the possible risks of E. faecalis infection in oral cancer. An effective antibiotic strategy against E. faecalis to prevent complications associated with oral diseases, including cancer, is needed.
phenotypic and Genotypic Detection of Carbapenemases in Clinical Isolates ofAcinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Rahi Alya Amer
Published: November 2024

Acinetobacter baumannii,a Gram-negative coccobacillus with a short and round rod-like shape, is an opportunistic pathogen in immunocompromised patients, particularly prevalent as a nosocomial infection. A notable characteristic is its diverse antibiotic resistance mechanisms. The isolation ofA. baumanniistrains in hospitals is becoming more prevalent, presenting an escalating challenge in the treatment process. In the present study involving isolates obtained from diverse sources (blood, urine, wound, and burn swabs), the Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) results for(28)Acinetobacter baumanniiisolates revealed pronounced resistance. Notably, resistance rates were notably high for piperacillin (80%) and carbenicillin (81’.2%). Resistance to Imipenem and meropenem stood at 8.4% and 19.8%, respectively, while the highest resistance was recorded against gentamicin (82%), amikacin (72.6%), cefepime (60.8%), cefotaxime (70.2%), ceftazidime (70.2%), and ceftriaxone (71.6%). Molecular detection of Enzymatic genes was executed through PCR testing, revealing that, All 28 isolates (100%) exhibited the presence of theblaOXA-51type gene, a considered pointer for finding of bacteria by PCR. The prevailing MBL gene wasblaVIM-type, identified in 12(42.8)% of isolates. Furthermore, 10(35.7%)of isolates carried theblaKPC-gene. In conclusion the identification of these genes (blaOXA-51,blaVIM,andblaKPC-type) inAcinetobacter baumannii. Addressing antibiotic-resistant bacteria challenges healthcare; crucial to understand, monitor, and regulate antibiotic resistance gene dissemination for public health.
Replication stress marker phospho-RPA2 predicts response to platinum and PARP inhibitors in homologous recombination-proficient ovarian cancer
Authors: Schab Angela , Compadre Amanda , Drexler Rikki , Loeb Maggie , Rodriguez Kevin , Brill Joshua , Harrington Shariska , Sandoval Carmen , Sanders Brooke , Kuroki Lindsay , McCourt Carolyn , Hagemann Andrea R. , Thaker Premal , Mutch David , Powell Matthew , Serra Violeta , Hagemann Ian S. , Walts Ann E. , Karlan Beth Y. , Orsulic Sandra , Fuh Katherine , Sun Lulu , Verma Priyanka , Lomonosova Elena , Zhao Peinan , Khabele Dineo , Mullen Mary
Published: November 2024

Background

Ovarian cancer treatment includes cytoreductive surgery, platinum-based chemotherapy, and often poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. Homologous recombination (HR)-deficiency is a well-established predictor of therapy sensitivity. However, over 50% of HR-proficient tumors also exhibit sensitivity to standard-of-care treatments. Currently, there are no biomarkers to identify which HR-proficient tumors will be sensitive to standard-of-care therapy. Replication stress may serve as a key determinant of response.

Methods

We evaluated phospho-RPA2-T21 (pRPA2) foci via immunofluorescence as a potential biomarker of replication stress in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor samples collected at diagnosis from patients treated with platinum chemotherapy (discovery cohort: n = 31, validation cohort: n = 244) or PARP inhibitors (n = 87). Recurrent tumors (n = 37) were also analyzed. pRPA2 scores were calculated using automated imaging analysis. Samples were defined as pRPA2-High if > 16% of cells had ≥ 2 pRPA2 foci.

Results

In the discovery cohort, HR-proficient, pRPA2-High tumors demonstrated significantly higher rates of pathologic complete response to platinum chemotherapy than HR-proficient, pRPA2-Low tumors. In the validation cohort, patients with HR-proficient, pRPA2-High tumors had significantly longer survival after platinum treatment than those with HR-proficient, pRPA2-Low tumors. Additionally, the pRPA2 assay effectively predicted survival outcomes in patients treated with PARP inhibitors and in recurrent tumor samples.

Conclusion

Our study underscores the importance of considering replication stress markers alongside HR status in therapeutic planning. Our work suggest that this assay could be used throughout a patient’s treatment course to expand the number of patients receiving effective therapy while reducing unnecessary toxicity.
QCD in the chiral SU(3) limit from baryon masses on lattice QCD ensembles
Authors: Lutz Matthias F. M. , Heo Yonggoo , Hudspith Renwick J.
Published: November 2024

The baryon masses on Coordinate Lattice Simulations (CLS) ensembles are used to determine the Low-Energy Constants (LEC) that characterize quantum chromodynamics in the flavor-SU(3) limit with vanishing up, down, and strange quark masses. Here we reevaluate some of the baryon masses on flavor-symmetric ensembles with much-improved statistical precision, in particular for the decuplet states. These additional results then lead to a more significant chiral extrapolation of the lattice dataset to its chiral SU(3) limit. Our results are based on the chiral Lagrangian with baryon octet and decuplet fields considered at the one-loop level. Finite-box and discretization effects of the lattice data are considered systematically. While in our global fit of the data we insist on large-Nc sum rules for the LEC that enter at N3LO, all other LEC are unconstrained. In particular, we obtain values for the chiral limit of the pion decay constant and the isospin-limit of the quark-mass ratio compatible with the FLAG report.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Impact of artificial intelligence and knowledge management on proactive green innovation: the moderating role of trust and sustainability
Authors: Abdulmuhsin Amir A. , Hussein Hayder Dhahir , AL-Abrrow Hadi , Masa’deh Ra’ed , Alkhwaldi Abeer F.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

In this research, we seek to understand the effects of artificial intelligence (AI) and knowledge management (KM) processes in enhancing proactive green innovation (PGI) within oil and gas organizations. It also aims to investigate the moderator role of trust and sustainability in these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs a quantitative analysis. Surveys have been gathered from the middle-line managers of twenty-four oil and gas government organizations to evaluate the perceptions of the managers towards AI, KM processes, trust, sustainability measures and proactive measures toward green innovation. Analytical and statistical tools that were employed in this study, including structural equation modeling with SmartPLSv3.9, have been used to analyze the data and to examine the measurement and structural models of this study.

Findings

The study results reveal a significant and positive impact of AI utilization, KM processes and PGI within oil and gas organizations. Furthermore, trust and sustainability turn out to be viable moderators affecting, and influencing the strength and direction of AI, KM and PGI relationships. In particular, higher levels of trust and more substantial sustainability commitments enhance the positive impact of AI and KM on green innovation outcomes.

Practical implications

Understanding the impact of AI, KM, trust and sustainability offers valuable insights for organizational leaders and policymakers seeking to promote proactive green innovation within the oil and gas industry. Thus, organizations can increase the efficiency of sustainable product development, process improvement and environmental management by using robust AI technologies and effective KM systems. Furthermore, fostering trust among stakeholders and embedding sustainability principles into organizational culture can amplify the effectiveness of AI and KM initiatives in driving green innovation outcomes.

Originality/value

This study extends the current knowledge by assessing the effect of AI and KM on proactive green innovation while accounting for trust and sustainability as moderators. Utilizing quantitative methods offers a nuanced understanding of the complex interactions between these variables, thereby advancing theoretical knowledge in the fields of innovation management, sustainability and organizational behavior. Additionally, the identification of specific mechanisms and contextual factors enriches practical insights for organizational practitioners striving for a practical understanding of the dynamics of the complexities of sustainable innovation in an AI-driven era.
Local traditions, global ambitions: influence of organizational culture on innovative capability and international growth orientation in Brazilian wineries
Authors: Baldissarelli Juciele Marta , Gomes Giancarlo , Hahn Ivanete Schneider
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study examines the influence of organizational culture types, specifically clan, adhocracy, hierarchy and market culture, on innovative capability and a firm’s international growth orientation within Brazil’s wine industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper builds on empirical evidence gathered from responses of managers from 230 Brazilian winemaking organizations based on a self-administered survey. The hypotheses in the conceptual model are tested using Smart-PLS (partial least square).

Findings

The types of culture that showed a positive relationship with dynamic innovation capability were clan, adhocracy, and market. Regarding the orientation for international growth, the market culture is the most conducive. Clan culture is not ideal for internationalization, and both adhocracy and hierarchical cultures showed no relationship. It was found that dynamic innovation capability has a positive relationship with the orientation for international growth.

Practical implications

The study broadens the research perspectives for analyzing resources from the Brazilian wine industry, further examining their linkage with the orientation for the international growth of the segment. The findings provide managers with insights about which types of culture should be fostered when aiming to innovate and internationalize.

Social implications

The advancements are related to the Sustainable Development Goals advocated by the United Nations.

Originality/value

The study is motivated by the lack of integrated methodologies that relate organizational culture, dynamic innovation capability and orientation for international growth. International business research has neglected to specify which particular resources a company needs to have a propensity for international growth orientation.
Analyzing the connectedness between psychological contract, burnout and work engagement using a serial mediation model
Authors: Banerjee Antara , Malik Aradhna
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aimed to examine the serial mediating effect of psychological contract violation (PCV) and burnout in the relationship between psychological contract breach (PCB) and work engagement. Also, the role of PCV as a mediator was tested in the relationship between PCB and work engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 536 employees working in various organizations of the manufacturing, consulting, banking, healthcare and mining sectors situated across India using time-lagged surveys. The analysis was carried out using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 22 and IBM SPSS Amos Version 24 software.

Findings

We found positive relationships between PCB and PCV, and PCV and burnout; negative relationships between PCB and work engagement, PCV and work engagement, and burnout and work engagement. PCV partially mediated the relationship between PCB and work engagement. PCV and burnout serially mediated the relationship between PCB and work engagement.

Originality/value

The study tested the effect of PCV generated due to PCB on burnout and work engagement. Also, the study embarks on a unique concept of testing a serial mediating effect of PCV and burnout in the relationship between PCB and work engagement. Furthermore, we tested the mediating effect of PCV in the relationship between PCB and work engagement. Managerial implications for preventing PCB, PCV and burnout are discussed in the article.
Awareness of Pakistani academic librarians towards communication skills: barriers and benefits
Authors: Hussain Abid , Richardson Joanna
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to measure the current levels of awareness of communication skills among academic librarians in degree-awarding institutions of Pakistan and to identify barriers that libraries, with the support of organizational stakeholders, could target to enhance adoption and / or improvement of these skills.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative research design, based on a Web-based survey method, used a questionnaire as the data collection tool for librarians used in degree-awarding institutions in Pakistan. After incorporating feedback from experts in the field, the questionnaire link was shared with a sample population of n = 400 academic librarians in Pakistan, using simple random sampling. The data was coded in Microsoft Excel and exported to SPSS v 26 for analysis.

Findings

Overall, the findings underscore a consistent and moderate to high level of awareness by this cohort of basic library communication skills and their associated benefits. The level of agreement as to the principal barriers to these skills aligns with previous research results over the past decade and therefore underlines the need to prioritize the development of appropriate solutions.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is indicated to investigate the major factors contributing to the principal barriers identified in the current study.

Practical implications

The study recommends that librarians work with relevant stakeholders to identify strategies to enhance their personal and interpersonal communication skills and to address current barriers to upskilling.

Originality/value

The study could serve as a foundation for any future research and policy frameworks to enhance employability and communication skills among librarians in Pakistan.
From remittances to representation: the Asian diaspora in development and politics
Authors: Ferdous Jannatul , Das Monojit
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Through its transnational networks, the Asian diaspora builds a bridge between the nations of origin and the host countries, greatly contributing to growth. To advance development initiatives in Asia and elsewhere, it is imperative to acknowledge the potential and complexity of these networks. The purpose of this study is to investigate how Asian diaspora-created transnational networks contribute to development outcomes. It aims to comprehend the ways in which these networks impact the social, cultural and economic development of both the host and home countries. The economic, social and cultural contributions made by the Asian diaspora and their international networks are evaluated in this study in relation to development.

Design/methodology/approach

The existing literature review emphasises the diverse role of the Asian diaspora in development, including remittances, investment, knowledge transfer and cultural exchange.

Findings

It recognises the potential of diaspora engagement in development projects, but there are still gaps in understanding the dynamics of transnational networks and their influence on development outcomes. This study aims to uncover the complex ways in which the global networks of the Asian diaspora contribute to development. Identifying the factors that help or hinder their effectiveness will provide policymakers and development practitioners with insights to harness these networks for sustainable progress.

Originality/value

Understanding the networks will have significant ramifications for both the host and home nations. It will highlight the significance of transnational connections in fostering economic, social and cultural development in Asia and how crucial it is to use the Asian diaspora’s transnational networks to their full potential in the larger conversation about connection and global development.
Impact of ESG performance on financial risk in energy firms: evidence from developing countries
Authors: Gidage Mithilesh , Bhide Shilpa
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of ESG performance on financial risk (FR) in energy firms from developing countries. It also explores the moderating roles of ESG controversies and board gender diversity (BGD) on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a panel data set of 218 energy firms from 20 developing countries from 2019 to 2024, using two-stage least squares regression to address potential endogeneity. Robustness checks are conducted using fixed-effects estimation and pooled ordinary least squares.

Findings

The results indicate that superior ESG performance significantly reduces both total and systemic risk. ESG controversies positively moderate the relationship between ESG performance and FR, suggesting that controversies may weaken the risk-reducing benefits of strong ESG practices. Additionally, BGD significantly strengthens the negative relationship between ESG performance and FR. Robustness checks confirm the consistency of these findings across different estimation methods.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the growing body of literature by examining the role of ESG performance in FR mitigation, specifically within the energy sector in developing countries. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first research to explore these dynamics in this specific context. This study uniquely illustrates how ESG controversies and BGD significantly moderate the ESG–risk relationship, offering fresh insights that extend stakeholder, risk management and legitimacy theories. The findings highlight the importance of integrating ESG factors into corporate governance and risk management, particularly for firms operating in high-risk, high-impact industries such as energy.
Current insights into lower limb prostheses: Brazilian users’ perceptions on the (Re)construction of body image and identity
Authors: Volpini Lana Mariana Ribeiro , Maia Joana Pimenta , Ribeiro Juliana Pontes
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the (re)construction of body image and identity among Brazilian individuals using orthopedic prostheses from a phenomenological perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study involved 16 lower-limb orthopedic prosthesis users, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews.

Findings

Thematic analysis, grounded in phenomenology, identified two superordinate themes: 1) Representativeness of the orthopedic prosthesis, and 2) Considerations regarding prosthesis use. These themes were further divided into subordinate themes: the first into “The prosthesis as part of me,” “What the prosthesis provides me,” and “It means everything to me”; the second into “Feelings about prosthesis use,” “Difficulties in daily life,” and “The gaze of others.”

Originality/value

According to orthopedic prosthesis users, their experiences and narratives reveal that prostheses play a key role in reconstructing body image and shaping identity. Initially, many participants viewed the prosthesis as merely a replacement for the lost limb, but over time, especially with prolonged use, it became more deeply integrated into their sense of self, fostering a stronger emotional connection. Prostheses were found to offer both functional and emotional benefits, enhancing users’ independence, self-esteem and sense of normalcy. However, despite these positive aspects, participants reported ongoing challenges, including difficulties in adapting to the device and limitations in functional mobility. Additionally, the study revealed that, despite societal progress, individuals with amputations continue to experience judgment and stigma, often reflected in the gaze of others.
Corporate social responsibility and firm performance: the role of firm reputation
Authors: Anita Rizqa , Abdillah Muhammad Rasyid , Sari S. Putri Sevriyanti , Rizki Sri , Arlendhea Windy
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the role of firm reputation as a mediator in the relationship between corporate social responsibility and firm performance, along with the underlying mechanism.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is quantitative research that aims to explain the phenomenon of the relationship between the implementation of corporate social responsibility and firm performance. A total of 573 companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2019–2021 period were sampled in this study. The analysis method in this study combines time series data and cross-section data called pooled data.

Findings

This research found a significant positive association between corporate social responsibility and firm reputation as well firm reputation is positively related to firm performance. In contrast, corporate social responsibility directly affects firm performance insignificantly. Based on the analyses, firm reputation mediates the effect of corporate social responsibility on firm performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited due to its reliance on secondary data related to publicly listed companies from 2019 to 2021, which involves various downsides, that is many businesses still have not disclosed their engagement in corporate social responsibility practices. This study will ultimately yield practical implications for organizational managers, as it emphasizes the significance of corporate social responsibility in enhancing firm success.

Originality/value

The research presented in this paper contributes to the existing body of knowledge on corporate social responsibility by examining the impact of corporate social responsibility on firm performance. Furthermore, this study provides additional evidence for shared value creation by explaining the impact of corporate social responsibility on firm performance.