bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining the Influence of Artificial Intelligence Implementation in HRM Practices Using T-O-E Model
Authors: Siradhana Neha Kumari , Arora Ritu Gandhi
Published: April 2024

Given the swift progress of artificial intelligence in contemporary economies, HR managers are also adopting artificial intelligence tools to perform many HR tasks, from human resource planning to employee quitting. This research employs the TOE (Technology–Organization–Environment) model and incorporates the trust factor to propose a methodology for investigating artificial intelligence (AI) adoption in HRM. A structured questionnaire was used to survey 615 ITeS companies. Data analysis was performed using partial least squares structural equation modelling. The findings of this research indicate that factors such as cost-effectiveness, relative advantage, organization size, top management support, HR readiness, competitive pressure, vendor support, and the trust of HR managers are considered to have a positive impact on AI adoption in managing human resources. The utilization of AI in HRM has been cumbersome by conflicting results stemming from security and privacy concerns and the complexity of the technology involved. It is also found that factors such as reliability and credibility have a positive effect on the trust of HR managers. This article aims to provide valuable insights to senior executives, HR managers, experts, researchers, AI designers, developers, and marketers by strengthening their understanding of the impact of AI in managing human resources.
Impact of Interventions Supporting Girls’ Education on Early Marriage, Pregnancy and Work Participation: Evidence Synthesis
Authors: Gundi Mukta , Dayal Radhika
Published: April 2024

This article synthesises the evidence on the impact of interventions supporting adolescent girls’ and young women’s education on delaying marriage, childbearing and improving work participation. A total of 13 studies (eight from sub-Saharan Africa and five from South Asia) during the years 2000–2020 met our inclusion criteria. A major focus of the included studies was to reduce the schooling cost, with limited focus on strategies such as supplementary coaching, making schools girl-friendly, monitoring performance and sensitising communities about educating girls. Most studies that measured the effects on marriage and childbearing showed a positive impact. However, interventions were less successful in influencing work participation. Although a majority of studies reported positive effects on educational outcomes, fewer measured or reported positive effects on other social and health outcomes. This evidence synthesis suggests a need for studying long-term effects of such interventions on girls’ and women’s family, work and social life in order to inform policy. Studies that explore the varying impacts of such interventions on girls and women from different sociocultural settings are needed. Our evidence synthesis underscores the importance of making comprehensive efforts to support girls’ education in order to meet the global development commitments of ensuring equitable life opportunities for adolescent girls and young women.
Is gender equality in brain damage ‘progress’ for women and sport?
Authors: Hardwicke Jack , Al-Hashmi Reem , Forbes Debra , Paechter Carrie , Pocock Molly , Taylor Katie , Yeagers Dee , Matthews Christopher R
Published: April 2024

This commentary sits within a context of growing cultural concern over brain damage that occurs in many of the Western world's most popular, profitable and prized sports. After laying out evidence demonstrating this point, we discuss the increasing inclusion of women within sports which involve regular and routinised brain injuries. We problematise this apparent ‘progress’ with the title of our commentary. In particular, rather than offering some simplified yes/no answer, we argue that in light of the five decades of social scientific scholarship documenting the various harms produced by performance impact sports, working towards gender equality in brain damage is a nonsensical outcome. So, while there is clear evidence from academic gender studies that progress has been made towards tackling issues of exclusion and various forms of discrimination against women and girls in performance sport spaces, there has not been concomitant progress made in tackling the ways bodies and brains are often broken down, damaged and sometimes destroyed during participation in such sports. We do not suggest that consenting adults should be prohibited from enjoying impact sports and our aim with this commentary is not driven by a paternalistic, patriarchal belief which reflects historical notions around sportswomen being the ‘fairer’ sex, nor that responses to sport-acquired brain injury should be sex- or gender-specific. Rather, we conclude by suggesting that the emerging science on sport-acquired brain injuries should serve as an important inflection point to those leaders, organisers, practitioners and scholars working in this area to reconsider how we imagine, promote and structure sport – for everyone.
Comparison of genotypic and phenotypic antimicrobial resistance profiles of Salmonella enterica isolates from poultry diagnostic specimens
Authors: Shen Zhenyu , Zhang C. Y. , Gull Tamara , Zhang Shuping
Published: April 2024

The spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria is a significant concern, as it can lead to increased morbidity and mortality in both humans and animals. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is a powerful tool that can be used to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the genetic basis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). We compared the phenotypic and genotypic AMR profiles of 97 Salmonella isolates derived from chicken and turkey diagnostic samples. We focused AMR analysis on 5 antimicrobial classes: aminoglycoside, beta-lactam, phenicol, tetracycline, and trimethoprim. The overall sensitivity and specificity of WGS in predicting phenotypic antimicrobial resistance in the Salmonella isolates were 93.4% and 99.8%, respectively. There were 16 disagreement instances, including 15 that were phenotypically resistant but genotypically susceptible; the other instance involved phenotypic susceptibility but genotypic resistance. Of the isolates examined, 67 of 97 (69%) carried at least 1 resistance gene, with 1 isolate carrying as many as 12 resistance genes. Of the 31 AMR genes analyzed, 16 were identified as aminoglycoside-resistance genes, followed by 4 beta-lactam–resistance, 3 tetracycline-resistance, 2 sulfonamide-resistance, and 1 each of fosfomycin-, quinolone-, phenicol-, trimethoprim-, bleomycin-, and colistin-resistance genes. Most of the resistance genes found were located on plasmids.
Return to Sports Activity After Microfracture for Osteochondral Lesion of the Talus in Skeletally Immature Children
Authors: Tomonaga Seiya , Yoshimura Ichiro , Hagio Tomonobu , Ishimatsu Tetsuro , Sugino Yuki , Fukagawa Ryo , Taniguchi Yoshimasa , Yamamoto Takuaki
Published: April 2024

Background:

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) are among the common sports-related injuries. However, there are few reports on the return to sports after OLT surgery in skeletally immature children. This study was performed to evaluate the return to sports after microfracture for OLTs in skeletally immature children.

Methods:

This study involved 17 ankles of 16 patients (mean age, 13.2 years; range, 10-16 years) with open tibial epiphyses on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) who underwent microfracture for OLTs <10 mm in diameter and confirmation of lesion instability under arthroscopy. Nine of 17 ankles had additional lateral ankle ligament stabilization. All patients were participating in some form of sports. The Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot (JSSF) score, Ankle Activity Score (AAS), return to sports rate, lesion size, grade of subchondral bone marrow edema, and Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) score on MRI were evaluated after microfracture. The mean postoperative follow-up period was 53.5 months.

Results:

The mean JSSF score significantly improved from 76.1 points preoperatively to 94.9 points at the final follow-up ( P < .01). The mean AAS showed no change from preoperative state to final follow-up. The return to sports rate was 100%. The lesion size significantly decreased from 76.3 to 56.7 mm2 in area ( P = .02) and from 283.2 to 185.6 mm3 in volume ( P = .05). The bone marrow edema grade decreased in 8 of 17 ankles. The total MOCART score showed a significant improvement from 6 months to 1 year postoperatively ( P = .05).

Conclusion:

All skeletally immature children who underwent microfracture for OLTs in this study were able to return to sports activity and showed improvements in clinical scores and MRI parameters. Microfracture may be considered an effective first-line treatment for OLTs <10 mm in diameter in skeletally immature athletes.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case-control study.
Symplectic superposition method for the free-vibrating problem of sigmoid functionally graded material rectangular thin plates clamped at four edges
Authors: Bao Xiaoying , Bai Eburilitu , Han Lingqing
Published: April 2024

The symplectic superposition method (SSM) is implemented to investigate the free vibration problem of sigmoid functionally graded material (FGM) rectangular thin plates clamped at four edges. Firstly, the vibration equation of the sigmoid FGM rectangular thin plate is transformed into Hamiltonian canonical equations. Then based on the analysis of boundary conditions of the plate, the vibration problem of the sigmoid FGM rectangular thin plate clamped at four edges is decomposed as two sub-problems simply supported on two opposite edges. And then based on the symplectic elasticity method (SEM), the series expansion solutions for the two sub-vibrating problems are obtained. Afterward, by superposing the series expansion solutions for the two sub-vibrating problems, a symplectic superposition solution of the freely vibrating sigmoid FGM rectangular thin plates clamped at four edges is obtained. Finally, we apply the obtained symplectic superposition solution to research the frequencies and vibration mode functions of some specific sigmoid FGM rectangular thin plates, and the impact of the aspect ratio a/b and material gradient index k on the vibration frequencies of the sigmoid FGM rectangular thin plates is studied.
Relatively Unworthy Victims? Middle-Aged Women as Rape Survivors
Authors: Kwon Minju , Su Ya
Published: April 2024

This study examines how the age of female survivors impacts public perceptions of rape in China. In our online survey experiment, participants consider rape as less serious when the survivor is a middle-aged woman compared to other groups of women (younger, older, or age unknown). Participants also request shorter sentencing when the survivor is a middle-aged woman than a younger woman. In China, moral codes surrounding chastity and respect for elders lead to greater emotional responses toward rape against younger and older survivors than middle-aged survivors. Our study expands studies of rape perception by theorizing public attitudes toward middle-aged survivors.
Recasts, foreign language anxiety and L2 development during online mobile-mediated interaction
Authors: Rassaei Ehsan
Published: April 2024

Despite the wealth of studies on corrective feedback (CF) and its relationship with individual learner factors, little is known about how foreign language (FL) anxiety moderates the effectiveness of recasts during mobile-mediated audio interactions. The present study thus examined the association between learners’ FL anxiety, the effectiveness of recasts, and learners’ responses to recasts during synchronous mobile-mediated interactions via audio call. Two intact classes of EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners were assigned into a control group and an experimental condition. After taking pre-tests, the participants of the experimental condition participated in four sessions of mobile-mediated oral interaction with an interlocutor via WhatsApp and received recasts for their definite and indefinite article errors. The participants of the control group also participated in the mobile-mediated interactions but received no recasts for their errors. Learners’ improvement was measured on two occasions following the fourth treatment session. The participants’ anxiety was also measured as a continuous variable using a 5-point Likert scale. Mixed between-within group ANCOVA results and regression analysis provided evidence for the efficacy of recasts delivered during mobile-mediated interactions, as well as the significant role of learners’ anxiety as a predictor of the effectiveness of recasts. The results also indicated that learners with low anxiety were significantly more successful in modifying their incorrect forms following recasts compared to learners with higher anxiety during the mobile-mediated interactions.
Post-Stroke Impairments of Manual Dexterity and Finger Proprioception: Their Contribution to Upper Limb Activity Capacity
Authors: van Ravestyn Coralie , Gerardin Eloïse , Térémetz Maxime , Hamdoun Sonia , Baron Jean-Claude , Calvet David , Vandermeeren Yves , Turc Guillaume , Maier Marc A. , Rosso Charlotte , Mas Jean-Louis , Dupin Lucile , Lindberg Påvel G.
Published: April 2024

Background

Knowing how impaired manual dexterity and finger proprioception affect upper limb activity capacity is important for delineating targeted post-stroke interventions for upper limb recovery.

Objectives

To investigate whether impaired manual dexterity and finger proprioception explain variance in post-stroke activity capacity, and whether they explain more variance than conventional clinical assessments of upper limb sensorimotor impairments.

Methods

Activity capacity and hand sensorimotor impairments were assessed using clinical measures in N = 42 late subacute/chronic hemiparetic stroke patients. Dexterity was evaluated using the Dextrain Manipulandum to quantify accuracy of visuomotor finger force-tracking (N = 36), timing of rhythmic tapping (N = 36), and finger individuation (N = 24), as well as proprioception (N = 27). Stepwise multivariate and hierarchical linear regression models were used to identify impairments best explaining activity capacity.

Results

Dexterity and proprioceptive components significantly increased the variance explained in activity capacity: (i) Box and Block Test was best explained by baseline tonic force during force-tracking and tapping frequency (adjusted R2 = .51); (ii) Motor Activity Log was best explained by success rate in finger individuation (adjusted R2 = .46); (iii) Action Research Arm Test was best explained by release of finger force and proprioceptive measures (improved reaction time related to use of proprioception; adjusted R2 = .52); and (iv) Moberg Pick-Up test was best explained by proprioceptive function (adjusted R2 = .18). Models excluding dexterity and proprioception variables explained up to 19% less variance.

Conclusions

Manual dexterity and finger proprioception explain unique variance in activity capacity not captured by conventional impairment measures and should be assessed when considering the underlying causes of post-stroke activity capacity limitations. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov . Unique identifier: NCT03934073.
Lifestyle Medicine’s Role in Common Hormonal Disorders: A Case-Based Discussion
Authors: Gulati Mahima
Published: April 2024

Hormonal disorders like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, male hypogonadism are commonly encountered in clinical practice in the US and worldwide, with rising frequency. These typically affect patients during young or middle age, compared with other common chronic illnesses like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, where onset may usually be in middle or older age. Multiple studies point to the role of disordered lifestyle health behaviors as contributory to these endocrinopathies, and conversely therapeutic lifestyle changes leading to improvement in signs, symptoms, biochemical markers, and sequelae of these conditions. This article presents 3 different real life case studies of the conditions enlisted above and documents the positive impact of lifestyle improvements on their disease condition. Therapeutic lifestyle behaviors are an extremely useful and important component of management of these familiar endocrinologic disorders, and clinicians need to routinely counsel their patients about healthy lifestyle interventions when treating these common syndromes.
Examining sedentary behaviours of adults with intellectual disabilities: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Safi Sana , Wong Gina , Thirsk Lorraine , Vallance Jeff
Published: April 2024

Sedentary behaviours among adults with intellectual disabilities have not been well studied. A sedentary lifestyle puts adults with and without disabilities at high risk of developing health conditions and diseases. Current literature revealed few empirical studies on the benefits of reducing sedentary behaviours with respect to the health of adults with intellectual disabilities. This research explored the factors that helped or hindered sedentary behaviours of adults with intellectual disabilities in the Canadian population. Guided by the socio-ecological model, Critical Incident Technique (CIT) was conducted. Five adults with intellectual disabilities from the Province of Ontario were interviewed and 102 critical incidents were collected. Adults with intellectual disabilities identified personal and environmental related factors that led to increased sedentary behaviours; and revealed helpful factors and wish-lists of actions that decreased sedentary lifestyle. Findings may be useful when developing programs aimed to decrease prolonged periods of sedentary behaviours specific to this vulnerable population.
Network Pharmacology and In Vivo Validation to Explore the Potential Active Ingredients and Mechanisms of Ziyin Buyang Formula in Diminished Ovarian Reserve
Authors: Wang Ruxin , Huang Haixia , Du Wenchen , Xia Guicheng , Tan Yong
Published: April 2024

The incidence rate of diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) is increasing, which is a difficult problem in the field of reproductive biology. The Ziyin Buyang Formula (ZYBYF), an empirical prescription for traditional Chinese medicine, is often used to improve the ovarian function of women with DOR. However, the underlying mechanism of this phenomenon remains unclear. This study was designed to identify the active components of ZYBYF and to further investigate the mechanism by which ZYBYF treats DOR through network pharmacological analysis and in vivo experiments. The network-based relationships between drug targets and disease-related proteins were screened, predicted, and constructed using a database. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were conducted using R software. AutoDock Vina 1.1.2 was used to perform the molecular docking analysis. In vivo experimental verification was carried out by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, histological observation and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. A total of 137 common targets were identified between ZYBYF and DOR. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses suggested that these compounds were associated with the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway. Furthermore, the molecular docking analysis revealed that quercetin strongly binds to MAPK1, AKT1, MYC, EGFR, and BCL2; luteolin strongly binds to EGFR, AKT1, and MAPK1; and kaempferol strongly binds to AKT1 and BCL2. In addition, in vivo experiments confirmed that ZYBYF can regulate the serum sex hormone levels, improve the ovarian function of DOR model rats, downregulate the expression of Mapk1 and Mapk14, and increase the levels of Akt1, Egfr, Myc, and Bcl2. ZYBYF improved ovarian function in DOR model rats by regulating the MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. This study provides objective evidence that supports the use of ZYBYF in the clinical application of DOR.
Metal Bioaccumulation and Assemblage Attributes for Anurans in the Sierra de Huautla Biosphere Reserve, Mexico
Authors: Chávez-Ramírez Eduardo Aarón , Mussali-Galante Patricia , Tovar-Sánchez Efraín , Ochoa-Ochoa Leticia M. , Mercado-Silva Norman
Published: April 2024

Background and Research Aims: Morphological and physiological effects of anthropogenic metals have been the focus of several studies in the Sierra de Huautla Biosphere Reserve (REBIOSH, Mexico) but little is known about how they affect anurans in the area. We evaluated metal bioaccumulation in anurans from streams in the REBIOSH and examined anuran communities in five sites at different positions relative to abandoned mine tailings.

Methods: Three and two sites were located upstream and downstream from mine tailings, respectively. We collected anuran community information and obtained sediment, water and liver samples for metal quantification from each site.

Results: Concentrations of Cu, Pb, Zn and Mn in water, and Zn, Mn, Fe and Cr in sediment, were significantly different among sites. We found bioaccumulation of Pb, Zn and Fe in livers of Smilisca baudinii, Lithobates spectabilis, L. zweifeli and Rhinella horribilis, species with different life traits. We found similar among-site species richness and diversity. Communities were dominated by L. zweifeli, R. horribilis and S. baudinii. Dominance was highest in sites distant from mine tailings. Agalychnis dacnicolor, Tlalocohyla smithii and Hypopachus variolosus were only present in sites located closest to mine tailings.

Conclusion: We did not detect an effect of metal bioacummulation on anuran communities, but our findings suggest a potential effect on certain species in the protected area. Our results form a baseline for future explorations of the impacts of metals in the region.

Implications for Conservation: Toxic metal bioaccumulation has potential for reducing anuran genetic variability and altering sexual proportions and fecundity, potentially leading to anuran extirpations. We provide first evidence for metal bioaccumulation in anurans in the protected area, and one of few studies on its anuran communities. Our evidence can serve as guidance to ameliorate effects of legacy metal mining in this biodiversity hotspot.
Speculative geographies: Fictions and futures
Authors: Attoh Kafui , Dalton Craig , Fraser Emma , Thatcher Jim , Crampton Jeremy
Published: April 2024

Speculative thinking has made its mark in several disciplines and literary genres, including continental philosophy, predictive analytics, and science (or speculative) fiction. What might speculation look like through a geographical lens? And how would such thinking in a distinctly geographical register build on and possibly place into a wider context work on utopias, alternative communities, game worldscapes, and speculative futures? This conversation brings together four geographers who have worked across these topics to help examine the relations between speculative geographies.
Cardiovascular risk, social vigilance, and stress profiles of male law enforcement officers versus civilians
Authors: White Shannon C , Ruiz John M , Allison Matthew , Uchino Bert N , Smith Timothy W , Taylor Daniel J , Jones Dusti R , Russell Michael A , Ansell Emily B , Smyth Joshua M
Published: April 2024

This study examined the cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk profiles of male law enforcement officers (LEOs) and civilians. CVD risk profiles were based on data collected using traditional objective (e.g., resting BP, cholesterol), novel objective (e.g., ambulatory BP) and self-report measures (e.g., EMA social vigilance). A subset of male LEOs ( n = 30, M age = 41.47, SD = 8.03) and male civilians ( n = 120, M age = 40.73, SD = 13.52) from a larger study were included in analyses. Results indicated LEOs had significantly higher body mass index [BMI], 31.17 kg/m2 versus 28.87 kg/m2, and exhibited significantly higher trait and state social vigilance across multiple measures, whereas perceived stress was higher among civilians. Findings highlight the need for future research examining CVD risk associated with occupational health disparities, including attributes of individuals entering certain professions as well as experiential and environmental demands of the work.
Serum Level of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Symptoms of Pica Among Adolescent School Children in Northern Sudan: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ahmed Mohamed A. , Al-Nafeesah Abdullah , AlEed Ashwaq , Adam Ishag
Published: April 2024

Objectives. To assess levels of 25(OH)D among adolescents with symptoms of pica in northern Sudan. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted in North Sudan. Questionaries were used to collect adolescents’ sociodemographics. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure 25(OH)D level. Results. Of the 344 adolescents enrolled, 161 (46.8%) and 183 (53.2%) were male and female, respectively and 103 (29.9%) had symptoms of pica. The median (IQR) of 25(OH)D level was significantly lower in adolescents with symptoms of pica. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that while age (coefficient = 1.1, P = .023) was positively associated with 25(OH)D level, female sex (coefficient = −7.5, P < .001), and pica symptoms (coefficient = −3.5, P = .032) were negatively associated with 25(OH)D level. Conclusion. Adolescents with symptoms of pica had lower 25(OH)D levels. Adolescents with symptoms of pica have to be assessed for vitamin D status.
Indoor view graph: A model to capture route and configurational information
Authors: Hamzei Ehsan , De Cock Laure , Tomko Martin , Van de Weghe Nico , Winter Stephan
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a graph model that simultaneously stores route and configurational information about indoor spaces. Existing indoor information models either capture route information to compute shortest paths and to generate route descriptions (i.e., answering how-to-get-to questions), or they store configurational information about objects and places and their spatial relationships to enable spatial querying and inference (i.e., answering where-questions). Consequently, multiple representations of an indoor environment must be stored in information systems to address the various information needs of their users. In this paper, we propose a graph that can capture both configurational and route information in a unified manner. The graph is the dual representation of connected lines of sight, or views. Views can represent continuous movement in an indoor environment, and at the same time, the visible configurational information of each view can be explicitly captured. In this paper, we discuss the conceptual design of the model and an automatic approach to derive the view graph from floorplans. Finally, we demonstrate the capabilities of our model in performing different tasks such as calculating shortest paths, generating route descriptions, and deriving place graphs.
Uniform as Assertion: The Politics of Caste Reservation in Colonial and Post-colonial Armed Forces of India (1930–2020)
Authors: Ghosh Aryama
Published: April 2024

Recruitment of lower and middle castes remained a much-debated topic in Indian electoral politics till now. On the one hand, there was intense political debate between various castes, and on the other, there was judicial and administrative debate about social justice. Even though Ambedkar tried to use it as a method of social justice and state-sponsored social alleviation, because of its connection to identity politics, it quickly became a matter of electoral mobilization. Various parties that were attempting to win over various communities with their call for military recruitment eventually strayed from the real motivation behind that Ambedkarian demand. Lastly, since the turn of the twentieth century, the new political rhetoric of Hindutva has intriguingly transformed this call for military recruitment into a different cause. This article discusses how the demand for the Chamar Regiment and the Ahir Regiment in particular became the focal point of this debate for nearly a century.
Tracing Internal Migration Governance in India Through a ‘Mainstreaming’ Lens
Authors: Naik Mukta
Published: April 2024

The COVID-19 migrant crisis was a watershed moment for internal migration, driving home the importance of inclusionary frameworks and action. Despite the lack of an omnibus migration policy, several disparate policy initiatives have emerged at multiple levels of government, across various sectors and involving multiple stakeholder types. This article traces and analyses internal migration policy in India over time, particularly how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped responses. In doing so, it builds on the idea of ‘mainstreaming’, a reflexive approach to policymaking that Peter Scholten proposed to address such complex policy areas as migration. The article argues that a nascent framework for migration governance is evolving in India and offers suggestions on how mainstreaming can help streamline research and policy design for enhanced migrant inclusion.
Urban-urban split households in China: Gender, migration, and stay-behind women
Authors: He-Schaefer Yali , Fan C Cindy
Published: April 2024

The study of split households in China and beyond has traditionally centered on rural-urban migration, overlooking the prevalence of split householding among urban-urban migrants. Despite receiving scant scholarly attention, urban-urban migrant dynamics, particularly concerning relational power negotiation among women in long-distance relationships, warrant exploration. This paper delves into the experiences of urban-urban migrants in China, spotlighting how stay-behind women negotiate relational power within split households. Drawing from 30 in-depth, semi-structured interviews conducted with various types of migrant households and focusing on 12 split households, this study sheds light on the relationships of contemporary urban, educated Chinese couples with patriarchal values entrenched in the Confucian family system. The findings reveal that split households expose the tension between entrenched Confucian patriarchy and women’s aspirations for autonomy. While serving as a respite from traditional gender roles, split households inadvertently offer women newfound independence. Although not overtly challenging conventional gender norms, stay-behind women in urban-urban split households leverage agency and empowerment within the existing gender framework. This research underscores the evolving gender dynamics in China, poised between entrenched patriarchy and emerging spaces for alternative gender practices, offering insights into the nuanced experiences of women in split households.
CD4+ CAR T-cell exhaustion associated with early relapse of multiple myeloma after BCMA CAR T-cell therapy
Authors: Ledergor Guy , Fan Zenghua , Wu Kai , McCarthy Elizabeth , Hyrenius-Wittsten Axel , Starzinski Alec , Chang Hewitt , Bridge Mark , Kwek Serena , Cheung Alexander , Bylsma Sophia , Hansen Erik , Wolf Jeffrey , Wong Sandy , Shah Nina , Roybal Kole T. , Martin Thomas , Ye Chun J. , Fong Lawrence
Published: April 2024

Multiple myeloma is characterized by frequent clinical relapses after conventional therapy. Recently, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) has been established as a treatment option for patients with relapsed or refractory disease. However, although >70% of patients initially respond to this treatment, clinical relapse and disease progression occur in most cases. Recent studies showed persistent expression of BCMA at the time of relapse, indicating that immune-intrinsic mechanisms may contribute to this resistance. Although there were no preexisting T-cell features associated with clinical outcomes, we found that patients with a durable response to CAR T-cell treatment had greater persistence of their CAR T cells than patients with transient clinical responses. They also possessed a significantly higher proportion of CD8+ T-effector memory cells. In contrast, patients with short-lived responses to treatment have increased frequencies of cytotoxic CD4+ CAR T cells. These cells expand in vivo early after infusion but express exhaustion markers (hepatitis A virus cellular receptor 2 [HAVCR2] and T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing-3 [TIGIT]) and remain polyclonal. Finally, we demonstrate that nonclassical monocytes are enriched in the myeloma niche and may induce CAR T-cell dysfunction through mechanisms that include transforming growth factor β. These findings shed new light on the role of cytotoxic CD4+ T cells in disease progression after CAR T-cell therapy.
Circulating biomarkers and progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: data from the INMARK trial
Authors: Maher Toby M. , Jenkins R. Gisli , Cottin Vincent , Nishioka Yasuhiko , Noth Imre , Selman Moisés , Song Jin Woo , Ittrich Carina , Diefenbach Claudia , Stowasser Susanne , White Eric S.
Published: April 2024

Background

We used data from the INMARK trial to investigate associations between circulating biomarkers of extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover, inflammation and epithelial dysfunction and disease progression in subjects with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Methods

Subjects with IPF and forced vital capacity (FVC) ≥80% predicted were randomised 1:2 to receive nintedanib 150 mg twice daily or placebo for 12 weeks followed by open-label nintedanib for 40 weeks. Associations between baseline biomarker levels and the proportion of subjects with disease progression (decline in FVC ≥10% predicted or death) over 52 weeks were assessed in subjects randomised to placebo using logistic regression. Associations between baseline demographic/clinical characteristics and biomarker levels and disease progression over 52 weeks were analysed using multivariate models.

Results

Of 230 subjects who received placebo for 12 weeks then open-label nintedanib for 40 weeks, 70 (30.4%) had disease progression over 52 weeks. Baseline levels of CRPM (C-reactive protein (CRP) degraded by matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1/8), C3M (collagen 3 degraded by MMP-9), CRP, KL-6 (Krebs von den Lungen-6) and SP-D (surfactant protein D) were not significantly associated with disease progression over 52 weeks in analyses corrected for multiple comparisons. In models including only baseline demographic/clinical characteristics, 61.2–64.2% of subjects were correctly classified as having or not having disease progression over 52 weeks. When both demographic/clinical characteristics and biomarker levels were included in the models, 50.0–64.5% of the test set were correctly classified.

Conclusions

Among subjects with IPF and preserved FVC, multivariate models based on demographic/clinical characteristics and biomarker levels at baseline did not provide an accurate prediction of which patients would progress.
Elevating community well-being in mining areas: the proposal of the mining area sustainability index (MASI)
Authors: Yu Haoxuan , Zahidi Izni , Fai Chow Ming , Liang Dongfang , Madsen Dag Øivind
Published: April 2024

In response to the urgent environmental and social challenges posed by mining operations, this paper introduces the Mining Area Sustainability Index (MASI), a novel framework aimed at transforming the mining sector towards sustainable practices. Mining activities have historically led to significant environmental degradation, including water contamination and habitat destruction, contributing to climate change and biodiversity loss. These activities also have profound social implications, such as displacing communities, endangering health, and distributing economic benefits inequitably, often leaving local communities in developing countries marginalized. Recognizing these challenges, this paper outlines the consolidation and standardization in sustainability reporting within the mining sector as a pivotal development. The introduction of international standards by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) and the European Union's European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) marks significant strides towards enhancing transparency, accountability, and sustainability across mining operations. Furthermore, the concept of double materiality, assessing both financial and social impacts of mining, represents an advancement in comprehending the broader societal impacts of mining alongside its environmental and economic effects. MASI emerges as a comprehensive tool designed to assess the sustainability of mining areas, offering a nuanced understanding of mining activities' impacts on local environments, societies, and economies. By focusing on localized, community-centric evaluations, MASI aims to fill existing gaps in sustainability assessment and provide a reference for local residents to gauge the sustainability of their surroundings. This framework advocates for a multidimensional approach to sustainability, encompassing ecological preservation, social welfare, and economic viability, urging a reimagined, sustainable future for mining communities.
Assessment of bacterial profile, antimicrobial susceptibility status, and associated factors of isolates among hospitalized patients at Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia
Authors: Sisay Assefa , Seid Abdurahaman , Tadesse Selamyhun , Abebe Wagaw , Shibabaw Agumas
Published: April 2024

Background

Antimicrobial resistant bacteria among hospitalized patients are becoming a major public health threat worldwide, mainly in developing countries. Infections by these multidrug resistant pathogens cause high rate of mortality, prolong hospital stays, and affect individual and country economies in greater amounts. Thus, this study aimed to assess the bacterial profile, antimicrobial susceptibility status, and associated factors of isolates from hospitalized patients at the Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital.

Methodology

This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted between February and April 2021. Consecutive sampling was used to select the study participants. All bacterial isolates were identified using standard bacteriological techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using disk diffusion technique. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Of 384 clinical samples (blood, urine, stool, wound, vaginal discharge, and ear discharge) processed 180 (46.9%) were culture positive. Overall, Escherichia coli was the predominant isolate (41; 22.8%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (36; 20%). Most of the isolates were from blood (70; 38.9%). The level of overall drug resistance of the gram-negative bacteria isolates for ampicillin, tetracycline, and cotrimoxazole was (104; 88.1%), (79; 75.9%), and (78; 75.0%), respectively. The overall multidrug rate of isolates was 143 (79.4%). Variables such as history of invasive procedures, chronic underlying diseases, history of hospitalization, and habit of eating raw animal products were statistically significant for the acquisition of bacterial infection.

Conclusions and recommendation

E. Coli and S. aureus were the most common isolates. Most of the isolates were resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics. And also, consumption of raw animal products, chronic underlying disease, previous hospitalization, history of invasive procedures, and educational status were associated with the acquisition of bacterial infections. Therefore, routine antimicrobial susceptibility testing, proper patient management, wise use of antibiotics in clinical settings and health education are recommended.
Neutrophil extracellular traps formation: effect of Leishmania major promastigotes and salivary gland homogenates of Phlebotomus papatasi in human neutrophil culture
Authors: Firouzjaie Fahimeh , Taghipour Niloofar , Akhavan Amir Ahmad , Seyyed Tabaei Seyyed Javad , Rouhani Soheila , Shirazian Maryam , Koochaki Ameneh , Fatemi Mahboubeh , Mosaffa Nariman , Moin Vaziri Vahideh
Published: April 2024

Background

Leishmaniasis as a neglected tropical disease (NTD) is caused by the inoculation of Leishmania parasites via the bite of phlebotomine sand flies. After an infected bite, a series of innate and adaptive immune responses occurs, among which neutrophils can be mentioned as the initiators. Among the multiple functions of these fighting cells, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) were studied in the presence of Leishmania major promastigotes and salivary gland homogenates (SGH) of Phlebotomus papatasi alone, and in combination to mimic natural conditions of transmission.

Material & methods

The effect of L. major and SGH on NETs formation was studied in three different groups: neutrophils + SGH (NS), neutrophils + L. major (NL), neutrophils + L. major + SGH (NLS) along with negative and positive controls in 2, 4 and 6 h post-incubation. Different microscopic methods were used to visualize NETs comprising: fluorescence microscopy by Acridine Orange/ Ethidium Bromide staining, optical microscopy by Giemsa staining and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, the expression level of three different genes NE, MPO and MMP9 was evaluated by Real-Time PCR.

Results

All three microscopical methods revealed similar results, as in NS group, chromatin extrusion as a sign of NETosis, was not very evident in each three time points; but, in NL and especially NLS group, more NETosis was observed and the interaction between neutrophils and promastigotes in NL and also with saliva in NLS group, gradually increased over times. Real-time reveals that, the expression of MPO, NE and MMP9 genes increased during 2 and 4 h after exposure, and then decreased at 6 h in most groups.

Conclusion

Hence, it was determined that the simultaneous presence of parasite and saliva in NLS group has a greater impact on the formation of NETs compared to NL and NS groups.
Physiological and oxidative stress response of carrot (Daucus carota L.) to jumping plant-louse Bactericera trigonica Hodkinson (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) infestation
Authors: Đurić Marija , Jevremović Slađana , Trifunović-Momčilov Milana , Milošević Snežana , Subotić Angelina , Jerinić-Prodanović Dušanka
Published: April 2024

Background

Carrot is an important vegetable crop grown worldwide. The major economic problem in carrot cultivation is yellow disease caused by Bactericera trigonica, which induces biotic stress and has the greatest impact on crop productivity. Comprehensive studies on the mechanism of carrot defense response to biotic stress caused by B. trigonica infestation have yet to be conducted.

Methods

The changes in photosynthetic pigments, proline, TPC, H2O2 and MDA content, DPPH radical scavenging ability, and antioxidant enzyme activity of SOD, CAT, and POX in carrot leaves in response to insect sex (female and male), rapid response (during the first six hours), and long-term response to B. trigonica infestation were evaluated.

Results

The results of our study strongly suggest that B. trigonica infestation causes significant changes in primary and secondary metabolism and oxidative status of carrot leaves. Photosynthetic pigment content, TPC, and DPPH and CAT activities were significantly reduced in carrot leaves in response to insect infestation. On the other hand, proline, H2O2 content, and the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and peroxidase were increased in carrot leaves after B. trigonica infestation. The results indicate that B. trigonica attenuates and delays the oxidative stress responses of carrot, allowing long-term feeding without visible changes in the plant. Carrot responded to long-term B. trigonica infestation with an increase in SOD and POX activity, suggesting that these enzymes may play a key role in plant defense mechanisms.

Conclusions

This is the first comprehensive study strongly suggesting that B. trigonica infestation causes significant changes in primary and secondary metabolism and an attenuated ROS defense response in carrot leaves that enables long-term insect feeding. The information provides new insights into the mechanisms of carrot protection against B. trigonica infestation.
Native T1-mapping as a predictor of progressive renal function decline in chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Shi Zhaoyu , Sun Chen , Zhou Fei , Yuan Jianlei , Chen Minyue , Wang Xinyu , Wang Xinquan , Zhang Yuan , Pylypenko Dmytro , Yuan Li
Published: April 2024

Background

To investigate the potential of Native T1-mapping in predicting the prognosis of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

We enrolled 119 CKD patients as the study subjects and included 20 healthy volunteers as the control group, with follow-up extending until October 2022. Out of these patients, 63 underwent kidney biopsy measurements, and these patients were categorized into high (25–50%), low (< 25%), and no renal interstitial fibrosis (IF) (0%) groups. The study's endpoint event was the initiation of renal replacement therapy, kidney transplantation, or an increase of over 30% in serum creatinine levels. Cox regression analysis determined factors influencing unfavorable kidney outcomes. We employed Kaplan–Meier analysis to contrast kidney survival rates between the high and low T1 groups. Additionally, receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis assessed the predictive accuracy of Native T1-mapping for kidney endpoint events.

Results

T1 values across varying fibrosis degree groups showed statistical significance (F = 4.772, P < 0.05). Multivariate Cox regression pinpointed 24-h urine protein, cystatin C(CysC), hemoglobin(Hb), and T1 as factors tied to the emergence of kidney endpoint events. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed a markedly higher likelihood of kidney endpoint events in the high T1 group compared to the low T1 value group (P < 0.001). The ROC curves for variables (CysC, T1, Hb) tied to kidney endpoint events demonstrated area under the curves(AUCs) of 0.83 (95%CI: 0.75–0.91) for CysC, 0.77 (95%CI: 0.68–0.86) for T1, and 0.73 (95%CI: 0.63–0.83) for Hb. Combining these variables elevated the AUC to 0.88 (95%CI: 0.81–0.94).

Conclusion

Native T1-mapping holds promise in facilitating more precise and earlier detection of CKD patients most at risk for end-stage renal disease.