bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data from Evaluation of Selective γ-Secretase Inhibitor PF-03084014 for Its Antitumor Efficacy and Gastrointestinal Safety to Guide Optimal Clinical Trial Design
Authors: Wei Ping , Walls Marlena , Qiu Ming , Ding Richard , Denlinger Robert H. , Wong Anthony , Tsaparikos Kosta , Jani Jitesh P. , Hosea Natilie , Sands Michelle , Randolph Sophia , Smeal Tod
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Aberrant regulation of Notch signaling has been implicated in tumorigenesis. Proteolytic release of the Notch intracellular domain (NICD) by γ-secretase plays a key role in Notch-dependent nuclear signaling. γ-Secretase is an attractive pharmaceutical target for therapeutic intervention in cancer. We describe the potent antitumor effects of PF-03084014, a small molecule that is a reversible, noncompetitive, and selective γ-secretase inhibitor. The ability of PF-03084014 to inhibit γ-secretase activity was shown by the reduction of endogenous NICD levels and by the downregulation of Notch target genes Hes-1 and cMyc in the T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) cell line HPB-ALL. PF-03084014 caused cell growth inhibition of several T-ALL cell lines via cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis. PF-03084014 treatment also resulted in robust NICD reduction in HBP-ALL xenograft models. Broad antitumor efficacy at well-tolerated dose levels was observed in six Notch-dependent models. Additional mechanism-of-action studies showed inhibition of tumor cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in HPB-ALL tumors, suggesting that the antitumor activity of PF-03084014 may be mediated by its direct effects on tumor cell growth or survival. Further studies on PF-03084014–induced gastrointestinal toxicity identified an intermittent dosing schedule that displayed reduced body weight loss and sustained antitumor efficacy. We also showed that glucocorticoids abrogated PF-03084014–induced gastrointestinal toxicity and delayed administration of glucocorticoids did not compromise its protection effect. Collectively, the results show that inhibition of Notch signaling by PF-03084014 while minimizing gastrointestinal toxicity presents a promising approach for development of therapies for Notch receptor–dependent cancers. This compound is being investigated for the treatment of T-ALL and advanced solid tumors in phase I clinical trials. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(6); 1618–28. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Combinatorial pharmacologic approaches target EZH2-mediated gene repression in breast cancer cells
Authors: Sun Feng , Chan Eli , Wu Zhenlong , Yang Xiaojing , Marquez Victor E. , Yu Qiang
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Polycomb protein EZH2-mediated gene silencing is implicated in breast tumorigenesis through methylation of histone H3 on Lysine 27 (H3K27). We have previously shown that S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase inhibitor 3-deazaneplanocin A can modulate histone methylation and disrupt EZH2 complex. Here, we used 3-deazaneplanocin A, together with other chromatin remodeling agents, as well as RNA interference–mediated EZH2 depletion, to probe the role of EZH2 in coordination with other epigenetic components in gene regulation in breast cancer cells. Through genome-wide gene expression analysis, coupled with extensive chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis of histone modifications, we have identified a variety of gene sets that are regulated either by EZH2 alone or through the coordinated action of EZH2 with HDAC and/or DNA methylation. We further found that tumor antigen GAGEs were regulated by distinct epigenetic mechanisms in a cell context–dependent manner, possibly reflecting mechanistic heterogeneity in breast cancer. Intriguingly, we found that EZH2 regulates a remarkable cohort of genes whose functions are highly enriched in immunoresponse and autocrine inflammation network, and that their transcriptional activation upon EZH2 perturbation is cancer specific, revealing a potential novel role of EZH2 in regulating cancer immunity. These findings show the complexity and diversity of epigenetic regulation in human cancer and underscore the importance for developing combinatorial pharmacologic approaches for effective epigenetic gene reactivation. [Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(12):3191–202]
Data from Rapamycin Regulates Stearoyl CoA Desaturase 1 Expression in Breast Cancer
Authors: Luyimbazi David , Akcakanat Argun , McAuliffe Priscilla F. , Zhang Li , Singh Gopal , Gonzalez-Angulo Ana Maria , Chen Huiqin , Do Kim-Anh , Zheng Yuhuan , Hung Mien-Chie , Mills Gordon B. , Meric-Bernstam Funda
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling is a central regulator of protein translation, cell growth, and metabolism. Alterations of the mTOR signaling pathway are common in cancer, making mTOR a promising therapeutic target. In clinical trials, rapamycin analogs have shown modest response rates for most cancer types, including breast cancer. Therefore, there is an urgent need to better understand the mechanism of action of rapamycin to improve patient selection and to monitor pathway inhibition. To identify novel pharmacodynamic markers of rapamycin activity, we carried out transcriptional profiling of total and polysome-associated RNA in three breast cancer cell lines representing different subtypes. In all three cell lines, we found that rapamycin significantly decreased polysome-associated mRNA for stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1), the rate-limiting enzyme in monounsaturated fatty acid synthesis. Activators of mTOR increased SCD1 protein expression, whereas rapamycin, LY294002, and BEZ235 decreased SCD1 protein expression. Rapamycin decreased total SCD1 RNA expression without inducing a significant decline in its relative polysomal recruitment (polysome/total ratio). Rapamycin did not alter SCD1 mRNA stability. Instead, rapamycin inhibited SCD1 promoter activity and decreased expression of mature transcription factor sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP1). Eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) small interfering RNA (siRNA) decreased both SCD1 and SREBP1 expression, suggesting that SCD1 may be regulated through the mTOR/eIF4E-binding protein 1 axis. Furthermore, SCD1 siRNA knockdown inhibited breast cancer cell growth, whereas overexpression increased growth. Taken together these findings show that rapamycin decreases SCD1 expression, establishing an important link between cell signaling and cancer cell fatty acid synthesis and growth. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(10); 2770–84. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Renal Cancer Resistance to Antiangiogenic Therapy Is Delayed by Restoration of Angiostatic Signaling
Authors: Bhatt Rupal S. , Wang Xiaoen , Zhang Liang , Collins Michael P. , Signoretti Sabina , Alsop David C. , Goldberg S. Nahum , Atkins Michael B. , Mier James W.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Treatment of metastatic renal cell cancer (RCC) with antiangiogenic agents that block vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor 2 signaling produces tumor regression in a substantial fraction of patients; however, resistance typically develops within 6 to 12 months. The purpose of this study was to identify molecular pathways involved in resistance. Treatment of mice bearing either 786-0 or A498 human RCC xenografts with sorafenib or sunitinib produced tumor growth stabilization followed by regrowth despite continued drug administration analogous to the clinical experience. Tumors and plasma were harvested at day 3 of therapy and at the time of resistance to assess pathways that may be involved in resistance. Serial perfusion imaging, and plasma and tumor collections were obtained in mice treated with either placebo or sunitinib alone or in combination with intratumoral injections of the angiostatic chemokine CXCL9. Sunitinib administration led to an early downmodulation of IFNγ levels as well as reduction of IFNγ receptor and downstream angiostatic chemokines CXCL9 to 11 within the tumor. Intratumoral injection of CXCL9, although producing minimal effects by itself, when combined with sunitinib resulted in delayed resistance in vivo accompanied by a prolonged reduction of microvascular density and tumor perfusion as measured by perfusion imaging relative to sunitinib alone. These results provide evidence that resistance to VEGF receptor therapy is due at least in part to resumption of angiogenesis in association with reduction of IFNγ-related angiostatic chemokines, and that this resistance can be delayed by concomitant administration of CXCL9. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(10); 2793–802. ©2010 AACR.
Data from Bridging the Gap between Cytotoxic and Biologic Therapy with Metronomic Topotecan and Pazopanib in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Merritt William M. , Nick Alpa M. , Carroll Amy R. , Lu Chunhua , Matsuo Koji , Dumble Melissa , Jennings Nicholas , Zhang ShuYun , Lin Yvonne G. , Spannuth Whitney A. , Kamat Aparna A. , Stone Rebecca L. , Shahzad Mian M.K. , Coleman Robert L. , Kumar Rakesh , Sood Anil K.
Published: April 2023

Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the antitumor and antiangiogenic effects utilizing a novel therapy regimen of metronomic topotecan and pazopanib, a multireceptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor. In vitro (Western blot) and in vivo dose-finding experiments were done following pazopanib therapy in ovarian cancer models. Pazopanib and metronomic (daily) oral topotecan therapy was examined in an orthotopic model of ovarian cancer. Tumor weights, survival, and markers of the tumor microenvironment [angiogenesis (CD31 and pericyte coverage), proliferation (Ki-67), and apoptosis (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated dUTP nick-end labeling)] were analyzed by immunostaining following therapy. Pazopanib therapy reduced vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) activity in vitro and vivo in a dose-dependent manner. Compared with control mice, pazopanib reduced tumor weight by 28% to 82% (P < 0.01 in the SKOV3ip1 model) and metronomic topotecan reduced tumor weight by 40% to 59% in the HeyA8 (P = 0.13) and SKOV3ip1 (P = 0.07) models. Combination therapy had the greatest effect with 79% to 84% reduction (P < 0.01 for both models). In the SKOV3ip1 and A2780 models, mouse survival was significantly longer (P < 0.001 versus controls) with pazopanib and metronomic topotecan therapy. Pazopanib therapy reduced murine endothelial cell migration in vitro in a dose-dependent manner following VEGF stimulation and decreased tumor microvessel density and pericyte coverage when given in combination with metronomic topotecan. Tumor cell proliferation decreased in all treatment arms compared with controls (P < 0.01 for combination groups) and increased tumor cell apoptosis by 4-fold with combination therapy. Pazopanib therapy in combination with metronomic topotecan therapy showed significant antitumor and antiangiogenic properties in preclinical ovarian cancer models and warrants further investigation as a novel therapeutic regimen in clinical trials. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(4); 985–95. ©2010 AACR.
Data from A Novel Plant Homeodomain Finger 10–Mediated Antiapoptotic Mechanism Involving Repression of Caspase-3 in Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Wei Min , Liu Bingya , Su Liping , Li Jianfang , Zhang Jun , Yu Yingyan , Yan Min , Yang Zhongyin , Chen Xuehua , Liu Jiayun , Lv Xin , Nie Hui , Zhang Qing , Zheng Zhong , Yu Beiqin , Ji Jun , Zhang Jianian , Zhu Zhenggang , Gu Qinlong
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The mechanisms governing tumorigenesis of gastric cancer have been an area of intense investigation. Currently, plant homeodomain (PHD) finger (PHF) proteins have been implicated in both tumor suppression and progression. However, the function of PHF10 has not been well characterized. Here, we show that various levels of PHF10 protein were observed in gastric cancer cell lines. Alteration of PHF10 expression, which is associated with tumor cell growth, may result in apoptosis in gastric cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of PHF10 expression in gastric cancer cells led to significant induction of caspase-3 expression at both the RNA and protein levels and thus induced alteration of caspase-3 substrates in a time-dependent manner. Moreover, results from luciferase assays indicated that PHF10 acted as a transcriptional repressor when the two PHD domains contained in PHF10 were intact. Combined with previous findings, our data suggest that PHF10 transcriptionally regulates the expression of caspase-3. Finally, by using systematic reporter deletion and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, we localized a region between nucleotides −270 and −170 in the caspase-3 promoter that was required for the efficient inhibition of caspase-3 promoter activity by PHF10. Collectively, our findings show that PHF10 repressed caspase-3 expression and impaired the programmed cell death pathway in human gastric cancer at the transcriptional level. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(6); 1764–74. ©2010 AACR.
Worth a Pound of Cure? Emerging Strategies and Challenges in Cancer Immunoprevention
Authors: Haldar Saurav D. , Vilar Eduardo , Maitra Anirban , Zaidi Neeha
Published: April 2023

Cancer immunoprevention applies immunologic approaches such as vaccines to prevent, rather than to treat or cure, cancer. Despite limited success in the treatment of advanced disease, the development of cancer vaccines to intercept premalignant states is a promising area of current research. These efforts are supported by the rationale that vaccination in the premalignant setting is less susceptible to mechanisms of immune evasion compared with established cancer. Prophylactic vaccines have already been developed for a minority of cancers mediated by oncogenic viruses (e.g., hepatitis B and human papillomavirus). Extending the use of preventive vaccines to non-virally driven malignancies remains an unmet need to address the rising global burden of cancer. This review provides a broad overview of clinical trials in cancer immunoprevention with an emphasis on emerging vaccine targets and delivery platforms, translational challenges, and future directions.
Ditylenchus dactylonae n. sp. (Tylenchomorpha: Anguinidae), an associate of Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. in the USA
Authors: Zeng Yongsan , Dant Lukas A. , Roberts Joseph A.
Published: April 2023

A new species of the genus Ditylenchus was recovered from rhizosphere soil of a ‘TifEagle’ hybrid bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. transvaalensis (Burtt-Davy)) putting green located at the Pee Dee Research & Education Center, Clemson University, Florence, SC, USA. It is described herein as Ditylenchus dactylonae n. sp. and is characterised by possessing the combined characters of a medium body size (682-815 μm in females; 618-718 μm in males), six incisures at the lateral fields, a delicate stylet (7.6-8.0 μm) with rounded knobs, a bottle-shaped basal pharyngeal bulb (BPB), an excretory pore (EP) near anterior end of BPB, a posteriorly located vulva (V = 78-83%), a reflexed ovary, a uterus with crustaformeria anteriorly and nearly spherical structure posteriorly, a post-vulval uterine sac (30-50% of the vulva-anus distance), an elongate conoid and ventrally bent tail, a tylenchoid spicule (17-18 μm), and a leptoderan bursa. Ditylenchus dactylonae n. sp. was differentiated from other sequenced species by the partial small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene, D2-D3 expansion segments of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) rRNA. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that D. dactylonae n. sp. belongs to the D. dipsaci-group, and is sister to D. medicaginis and/or D. ferepolitor based on SSU 18S, LSU D2-D3 and ITS sequences.
The Sexual Abuse of African Boy Soldiers by Male and Female Offenders: the Need for an International Criminal Law Response
Authors: Nortje Windell
Published: April 2023

The sexual abuse of boy soldiers is a matter that has unfortunately not received the judicial and academic attention it deserves. Boy soldiers have been sexually abused not only by male commanders but also female commanders and other offenders. International Criminal Law has opted to focus on the prosecution of those most responsible for committing sexual violence against women and children. Boys are often mentioned in passing. This article challenges this view. It does so by looking at a special case in Northern Uganda where boy soldiers in the Lord’s Resistance Army was sexually abused. The article then examines several cases where International Courts have dealt with the sexual abuse of males, since the abuse of boy soldiers have not been adjudicated internationally. The article then looks at the reasons why there is a silence among those boys who are sexually abused and recommendations are proffered.
The Wrong Place at the Wrong Time? Territorial Autonomy and Conflict During Regime Transitions
Authors: Juon Andreas , Bochsler Daniel
Published: April 2023

This article evaluates how territorial autonomy affects ethnic mobilization and conflict during regime transitions. Previous research has highlighted its conflict-inducing role during prominent transition contexts. Alternatively, it has shown its pacifying role in the “average” case, without distinguishing transition periods from stable contexts. Addressing these gaps, we argue that the de-escalatory consequences of autonomy depend on critical stabilizing factors which are themselves “muted” during transitions. We test our expectations in a cross-national analysis, covering all regime transitions between 1946 and 2017. We also revisit the 1989 transition from Communism, focusing on the role of “inherited” autonomy in the post-communist successor states. This enables us to address concerns whereby autonomy is offered to ward off transitions or whereby transitions are themselves induced by mobilization. Our findings indicate that during transitions, territorial autonomy increases the likelihood of ethnic mobilization, government concessions in response, and violent escalation where these are not forthcoming.
Birth family contact from childhood to adulthood: Adjustment and adoption outcomes in adopted young adults
Authors: Lo Albert Y. H. , Grotevant Harold D. , Wrobel Gretchen M.
Published: April 2023

Experiences of contact between adopted persons and birth family members have implications for psychological adjustment of adopted persons. The current study utilizes four contact trajectory groups, spanning from middle childhood to young adulthood and encompassing three aspects of birth family contact in predicting psychological adjustment and adoption-related outcomes in adopted young adults. Data come from a longitudinal study of adoptive families in which adopted persons were domestically adopted in infancy by same-race parents in the United States. Adopted young adults in the group characterized by sustained high levels of contact and satisfaction with contact over time (“Extended Contact”) displayed lower levels of psychological distress and higher levels of psychological well-being than adopted persons in the group characterized by contact that increased over time but remained limited (“Limited Contact”). Generally, adopted persons within the group characterized by consistent lack of contact (“No Contact”) and the group characterized by contact that was initially present but ended (“Stopped Contact”) did not differ in distress and well-being from those in the “Extended Contact” group. No group differences were found on adoption dynamics and identity; however, young adults in the “Extended Contact” group generally reported more positive relationships with their birth mothers than those in the other groups. Findings are discussed in the context of heterogeneity in contact experiences and implications for policy and practice.
Trust and Strength of Family Ties: New Experimental Evidence
Authors: Ermisch John , Gambetta Diego , Iacono Sergio Lo , Sonmez Burak
Published: April 2023

We provide a conceptual replication of an experimental study that uncovered a robust correlation between the strength of individuals’ family ties and their distrust of strangers, striving to establish whether the link is causal. Using a different subjects pool and an online setting, we repeat the binary trust-game experiment from Ermisch and Gambetta and enrich it by manipulating the payoffs to create a low-trust and high-trust environment. The key finding is corroborated, but as expected, only in the high-trust environment. The two environments further allow us to impose a diff-and-diff design on the data, which rules out selection of low-trusting individuals into strong-tied families and gives us indirect evidence of causation, namely, that having strong family ties stunts the development of trust in strangers. Our findings support the emancipatory theory of trust proposed by Toshio Yamagishi and could be interpreted as uncovering the micro foundations of classic ethnographic studies, such as that by Edward Banfield, which described how subcultures fostering tight bonds within families or small groups make cooperation harder to be achieved.
Co-design and prototype development of the ‘Ayzot App’: A mobile phone based remote monitoring system for palliative care
Authors: Carey Nicola , Abathun Ephrem , Maguire Roma , Wodaje Yohans , Royce Catherine , Ayers Nicola
Published: April 2023

Background:

Palliative care, a recognised component of care by the World Health Organization is poorly developed in low- and middle-income countries. Mobile phone technology, an effective way to increase access and sustainability of healthcare systems globally, has demonstrated benefits within palliative care service delivery, but is yet to be utilised in Ethiopia.

Aim:

To co-design, develop and evaluate a mobile phone based remote monitoring system for use by palliative care patients in Ethiopia

Design:

Two-phase co-design approach comprising multiple methods that is stakeholder interviews, focus groups, user-co-creation activities and healthcare worker prioritisation discussions 2019–2020. Phase-1 interviews ( n = 40), Phase-2 focus groups ( n = 3) and interviews ( n = 10).

Setting/Participants:

Hospice Ethiopia and Yekatit 12 Medical College Hospital: healthcare workers, palliative care patients, family carers & software-developers.

Results:

Co-design activities lead to development of the prototype ‘Ayzot’ application, which was well received and reported to be easy to use. Patients, and family caregivers saw provision of self-care information and symptom management as a key function of the App and expressed very positive attitudes towards such information being included. Healthcare workers found the App offered service benefits, in terms of time and cost-savings.

Conclusion:

This paper provides a detailed example of the development and design of a prototype remote monitoring system using mobile phone technology for palliative care use in Ethiopia. Further development and real-world testing are required, to not only understand how it acts within usual care to deliver anticipated benefits but also to explore its effectiveness and provide cost estimates for wider implementation.
Location and turbine parameter selection for offshore wind power maximization
Authors: Tusar Md Imran Hasan , Sarker Bhaba R
Published: April 2023

Offshore wind turbines can capture more wind than onshore because of their larger structure and location. This higher yield even fails to reduce the high installation and maintenance cost of an offshore wind farm (OWF). Appropriate turbine parameters and installation site selection may maximize the power generation which is a way to trade off these costs. Knowing the wind thrust force, air density, and power coefficient beforehand can help select an appropriate site for turbine location. Once the site is selected, the optimal value of turbine variables such as height and radius can contribute to higher power yield. In this paper, a MINLP (Mixed Integer Non-Linear Programing) model is formulated with these important variables and the optimal values of these variables are determined to maximize the annual power production ([Formula: see text]) from offshore wind farm. The estimated power production, [Formula: see text], is calculated using two methods, mathematical programing method and simulation method. Computational result indicates that mathematical programing method is time consuming but more accurate whereas the accuracy of simulation method is proportional to the number of iterations. Although the result of a simulation can be improved to some extent, it cannot be as accurate as mathematical modeling for this study. These study results have great impact on the managerial decision and long range strategic and technical planning for maximizing power generation from an offshore wind farm.
Utility of preoperative urine cultures and cystoscopies before ureteral reimplantation in pediatrics
Authors: Davis Erin , Hinkley Dawson , Quiring Mark E , Hamby Tyler , Reyes Kristy J , Pinto Kirk
Published: April 2023

Background:

Ureteral reimplantation remains the primary surgical method used for patients with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Cystoscopy is commonly performed first to visualize anatomy and rule out possible abnormalities. Urine cultures may also be obtained. The objective of this study is to evaluate the prudency of preoperative urine cultures and cystoscopies in pediatric patients undergoing ureteral reimplantation.

Methods:

Pediatric urologists were surveyed regarding collecting urine cultures in asymptomatic patients and cystoscopies before reimplantation. A retrospective review was also conducted of patients who underwent ureteral reimplantation for VUR between March 2018 and April 2021 at Cook Children’s Medical Center.

Results:

When physicians were asked the frequency they obtain urine cultures before reimplantation on asymptomatic patients, 36% said “never” and 38% said “always.” Regarding cystoscopy, 53% said “never” and 32% said “always.” Inclusion criteria were met by 101 patients. Cystoscopies were performed in 46 patients and never altered the reimplantation. There were 20 preoperative, 90 intraoperative, and 61 postoperative urine cultures. Complications were associated with positive cultures of urine collected intraoperatively and postoperatively only.

Conclusion:

Cystoscopies and asymptomatic urine cultures obtained before ureteral reimplantation provide no additional benefit while increasing cost for patients’ families. Further research is needed to thoroughly identify the prudency of such practices in ureteral reimplantation for VUR.
Review of Four Preregistration Registries for Special Education Researchers
Authors: Fleming Jesse I. , McLucas Alan S. , Cook Bryan G.
Published: April 2023

Preregistration involves researchers publicly registering key study elements before conducting a study to increase the transparency of research and limit the use and impact of questionable research practices. To support special education researchers’ engagement with preregistrations, in this article we provide an overview of preregistration and systematically review four preregistration registries (Open Science Framework, Registry of Efficacy and Effectiveness Studies, AsPredicted, and ClinicalTrials). Each of the registry templates reviewed effectively addresses most questionable research practices and can accommodate a variety of research designs, with the exception of mixed-methods research. Among the benefits of Registry of Efficacy and Effectiveness Studies, Open Science Framework, and ClinicalTrials are the provision of highly specific templates and allowing users to update the preregistration when changes to the original study occur. Researchers can use this review to help select and use a registry that is appropriate for their study design and purpose.
Factors Influencing Educational Equity in Online Instruction for Students During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Krishnan Sudha
Published: April 2023

This qualitative study examined special education teachers’ perceptions of student success in online instruction during the COVID-19 pandemic school closures to isolate the key determinants in the differential student outcomes reported by the teachers. Data were collected from 16 teachers in the U.S. state of California using semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic coding. The six themes that emerged from the data were that the key determinants of student outcomes were variables related to teacher, school administrator, district, student, parent, and pedagogy. The study showed that underlying deficit thinking in school professionals, lack of planned support for those parents and students needing the most support, and limited range of teaching practices were responsible for the equity gap seen in the differential student outcomes. Recommendations include training school administrators, providing parent support to access technology, addressing needs of non-English speaking families, expanding pedagogical practices, and planning for students with the most extensive support needs.
Critical Han Studies Through the Lens of Internal Colonialism: China, Guangdong, and Hong Kong
Authors: Chen David , Miller Jason A. , Shakespear Mark
Published: April 2023

When the concept of ‘internal colonialism’ has been applied to China, it has often been focused on the plight of ethnic minorities. The political and cultural subordination of non-Mandarin Han groups, however, has drawn little attention. We argue that critical Han studies, by posing a challenge to the state ideology of Han ethnic unitarism, provides a theoretical arsenal capable of broadening the application of the internal colonialism framework to the study of non-Mandarin Han groups and regions in China. To provide empirical support for our argument, we examine ethno-geographic representation among Chinese political elites. We find an internal heterogeneity and ethnic hierarchy between different Han groups who have integrated into the political ruling class of China, which is dominated by the Mandarins, to various extents: the Wu people of Shanghai and Zhejiang represent the top layer of the hierarchy; the Xiang of Hunan, the Hokkien of Fujian, and the Gan of Jiangxi constitute the intermediate layer; and the Cantonese and the Teochew of Guangdong belong to the bottom layer. These findings provide the basis for our discussion of internal colonization in China with a specific focus on Guangdong and Hong Kong.
A data driven method applied on nonlinear vibration of flexible rotor supported on centralized squeeze film damper
Authors: Kumar Anurag , Srivastava Aman K , Tiwari Mayank , Singh Akhilendra
Published: April 2023

This paper discusses the application of Dynamic Mode Decomposition (DMD) on vibration response of flexible rotor supported by a Centralized Squeeze Film Damper (CSFD). The mathematics behind DMD and its applications to rotor vibration data such as linearization, reconstruction has been established. Vibration data from the flexible rotor system supported on CSFD exhibits both linear and nonlinear behavior. Further, DMD has been applied on periodic and quasi-periodic vibration data of CSFD for prediction and forecasting. DMD is observed to have successfully linearized a nonlinear system with the linear Henkel Matrix. The reconstruction and forecasting of time series data from rotor has been achieved with a maximum error of 0.2% even for nonlinear vibration data. Further, White Gaussian Noise has been intermixed with CSFD data to demonstrate the noise reduction capability of DMD method for nonlinear systems. Lastly, the application of DMD algorithm on experimental data from Jeffcott rotor based test setup has been shown.
In the Name of Dark Web Justice: A Crime Script Analysis of Hacking Services and the Underground Justice System
Authors: Choi Kyung-Shick , Lee Claire Seungeun
Published: April 2023

The Dark Web serves as a key venue for peddling illegal goods and services, from stolen possessions and drugs to illicit activities. The concurrent increase in Tor network usage and the development of cryptocurrency has led to the creation of major black market sites. One of the most popular illicit services offered on the Dark Web is hacking, which includes website/social media account hacking, Denial-of-service attacks, and custom malware. At the same time, the Dark Web community has formed its own justice system leveraging the layer of anonymity that exists between underground community users and the cybercrime ecosystem. Existing studies predominantly focus on the major drug market operating on the Dark Web, firearm sales, sexual exploitation, and money laundering. To address the gaps in the current research as well as the relative nascency of an underground justice system to monitor hacking services on the Dark Web, this study attempts to broadly capture the dynamic nature of hacking services, which requires continuous research to identify new trends and develop effective responses. The study aims to examine the characteristics and the operations of the hacking service market and the underground justice system on the Dark Web via an in-depth examination of Dark Web forums with a crime script analysis vis-à-vis thematic analysis. The study defines the crime script as that which includes pretrial, mid-trial, finalization, and exit stages. This research sheds light on Dark Web justice courts’ procedures and the courts’ implications for shaping the future of the Dark Web.
SARM1-Dependent Axon Degeneration: Nucleotide Signaling, Neurodegenerative Disorders, Toxicity, and Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: McGuinness Helen Y. , Gu Weixi , Shi Yun , Kobe Bostjan , Ve Thomas
Published: April 2023

Axons are an essential component of the nervous system, and axon degeneration is an early feature of many neurodegenerative disorders. The NAD+ metabolome plays an essential role in regulating axonal integrity. Axonal levels of NAD+ and its precursor NMN are controlled in large part by the NAD+ synthesizing survival factor NMNAT2 and the pro-neurodegenerative NADase SARM1, whose activation triggers axon destruction. SARM1 has emerged as a promising axon-specific target for therapeutic intervention, and its function, regulation, structure, and role in neurodegenerative diseases have been extensively characterized in recent years. In this review, we first introduce the key molecular players involved in the SARM1-dependent axon degeneration program. Next, we summarize recent major advances in our understanding of how SARM1 is kept inactive in healthy neurons and how it becomes activated in injured or diseased neurons, which has involved important insights from structural biology. Finally, we discuss the role of SARM1 in neurodegenerative disorders and environmental neurotoxicity and its potential as a therapeutic target.
The subjective wellbeing of expatriate international school teachers in Hong Kong: An exploratory study into the influence of school-level factors
Authors: Harrison Mark G , Kai Hou Wai
Published: April 2023

The international school sector in Hong Kong makes a substantial contribution to educational provision in the city, employing many expatriate teachers. Wellbeing has taken on increasing prominence in international school discourses, but little research has investigated how the wellbeing of international school teachers is influenced by school-level factors. For the purposes of this study, thirteen expatriate teachers from ten different international schools in Hong Kong were interviewed and the data were analysed thematically. The teachers’ wellbeing was found to be influenced by relationships with students, colleagues and senior leaders, and a pervasive climate of accountability. Teachers felt a sense of social isolation associated with cultural differences, and often did not feel supported by their schools. Teachers’ wellbeing, it is proposed, may be improved by the articulation of a shared vision which focuses on classroom-level interactions, an affiliative climate, and an institutional environment which addresses social isolation and protects teachers against an excessive climate of performativity and accountability.
Meaning in life through work: A cognitive-experiential self-theory (CEST) perspective
Authors: Baburaj Sharath , Marathe Gaurav Manohar
Published: April 2023

This article explores existential meaning-making from work using the cognitive-experiential self-theory (CEST). To start with, we use the tenets of CEST to elaborate on how the cues from archetype work environments—a realization facilitating work environment (RfWE) and justification facilitating work environment (JfWE)—are interpreted by information-processing systems to imbue meaning in life (MiL) as internal or external manifestations of coherence, purpose, and significance. Next, we explain how individual differences in work centrality and proactive meaning-crafting ability moderate the impact of JfWE, but not of RfWE, on MiL. Finally, we create a nomological network of existential meaning states emerging from the simultaneous presence or absence of RfWE and JfWE. In summary, by applying the information-processing lens of CEST, we develop an integrated model that explains how work drives MiL, elucidates the resultant existential states, and assesses the role of individual differences in meaning-making.
Development of Indian Tax System: Pre and Post-Colonial Influences
Authors: Kapoor Shashi , Singh Amanpreet
Published: April 2023

This article examines the origins, growth, and development of taxation practices in India. Based on multiple perspectives from historical research, the article divides up developments in the Indian tax system into four different governance regimes. These are the pre-colonial period (Ancient and Medieval), the colonial period (1857–1947), India as a Sovereign State under the 1950 Constitution (1950–1991) and post-economic liberalisation (1991–2020). In each of these periods, several major taxation developments that occurred in the country are reviewed, and the article highlights how different political and governance systems influenced the changes in the Indian tax system. Based on such changes and influence, the study also proposes agenda for future research. The article makes significant contributions to economic and business history research from a developing economy perspective and provides insights for any future developments in relation to tax systems.
Understanding peer support: a qualitative interview study of doctors one year after seeking support
Authors: Horne Ingrid Marie Taxt , Veggeland Frode , Bååthe Fredrik , Drewes Christina , Rø Karin Isaksson
Published: April 2023

Background

Doctors’ health is of importance for the quality and development of health care and to doctors themselves. As doctors are hesitant to seek medical treatment, peer support services, with an alleged lower threshold for seeking help, is provided in many countries. Peer support services may be the first place to which doctors turn when they search for support and advice relating to their own health and private or professional well-being. This paper explores how doctors perceive the peer support service and how it can meet their needs.

Materials and methods

Twelve doctors were interviewed a year after attending a peer support service which is accessible to all doctors in Norway. The qualitative, semi-structured interviews took place by on-line video meetings or over the phone (due to the COVID-19 pandemic) during 2020 and were audiotaped. Analysis was data-driven, and systematic text condensation was used as strategy for the qualitative analysis. The empirical material was further interpreted with the use of theories of organizational culture by Edgar Schein.

Results

The doctors sought peer support due to a range of different needs including both occupational and personal challenges. They attended peer support to engage in dialogue with a fellow doctor outside of the workplace, some were in search of a combination of dialogue and mental health care. The doctors wanted peer support to have a different quality from that of a regular doctor/patient appointment. The doctors expressed they needed and got psychological safety and an open conversation in a flexible and informal setting. Some of these qualities are related to the formal structure of the service, whereas others are based on the way the service is practised.

Conclusions

Peer support seems to provide psychological safety through its flexible, informal, and confidential characteristics. The service thus offers doctors in need of support a valued and suitable space that is clearly distinct from a doctor/patient relationship. The doctors’ needs are met to a high extent by the peer-support service, through such conditions that the doctors experience as beneficial.
Diversity of soil bacteria in alpine coal slag mountain grassland in different vegetation restoration years
Authors: Dao Rina , Zhang Ying , Li XiLai , Ma Linxiong , Tie Xiaolong , Lei Shengyan
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate changes in the bacterial diversity of the rhizosphere soil of slag mountains in different years of revegetation restoration.

Methods

Seven soil samples were selected from different years of revegetation restoration in Qinghai, China. The bacterial community of each soil was analyzed via high-throughput sequencing using the Illumina MiSeq platform.

Results

Statistical analyses revealed that the diversity of the soil bacterial community was higher in the soil that was restored in 2017 than that in the soils restored from other years. 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria were the dominant phyla. Sphingomonas was the dominant genus. Total nitrogen, available nitrogen, and total potassium influenced the horizontal community structure of the phylum, whereas total nitrogen, organic matter, and pH had a great influence on the horizontal community structure of the phylum. The richness and diversity of the bacterial community in the soils that underwent revegetation restoration were greater in the third year (2017) than in other years. In the seventh year of recovery, the richness and diversity of the bacterial community began to decline.

Conclusion

The bacterial diversity of the soil in the coal mine slag mountain improved with the increase in vegetation restoration years.
Parametric study of a bubble removing device for hemodialysis
Authors: Chaichudchaval Poonnapa , Fuangkamonvet Nunthapat , Piboonlapudom Supajitra , Chanthasopeephan Teeranoot
Published: April 2023

Background

This paper sets out to design a device for removing bubbles during the process of hemodialysis. The concept is to guide the bubbles while traveling through the device and eventually the bubbles can be collected. The design focuses on the analysis of various parameters i.e. inlet diameter, inlet velocity and size of the pitch. The initial diameters of Models 1 and 2 have thread regions of 6 and 10 mm, respectively. Parameters: Swirl number, Taylor number, Lift coefficient along with pressure field are also implemented.

Results

Based on computational fluid dynamics analysis, the bubbles' average maximum equilibrium position for Model 1 reached 1.995 mm, being greater than that of Model 2, which attained 1.833 mm. Then, 16,000 bubbles were released into Model 1 to validate the performance of the model. This number of bubbles is typically found in the dialysis. Thus, it was found that 81.53% of bubbles passed through the radial region of 2.20 ± 0.30 mm. The appropriate collecting plane was at 100 mm, as measured from the inlet position along the axial axis. The Taylor number, Lift coefficient, and Swirl number proved to be significant parameters for describing the movement of the bubbles. Results were based on multiple inlet velocities. It is seen that Model 3, the improved model with unequal pitch, reached a maximum equilibrium position of 2.24 mm.

Conclusion

Overall, results demonstrated that Model 1 was the best design compared to Models 2 and 3. Model 1 was found capable of guiding the bubbles to the edge location and did not generate extra bubbles. Thus, the parametric study, herein, can be used as a prototype for removing bubbles during the process of hemodialysis.
Application of fuzzy multicriteria decision-making model in selecting pandemic hospital site
Authors: Al Mohamed Alaa Alden , Al Mohamed Sobhi , Zino Moustafa
Published: April 2023

One of the most important challenges for decision-makers and investors is location selection, which may be assessed using multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) methodologies. Problems with picking a location include deciding between alternative locations, analyzing alternatives, and identifying the best location for a hospital. Because they analyze options with multiple perspectives in terms of numerous competing criteria, MCDM approaches are useful instruments for solving decision-making challenges. The fuzzy set theory (FST), which represents uncertainty in human beliefs, may be effectively used with MCDM approaches to produce more sensitive, tangible, and accurate findings in this context. A hybrid fuzzy multi-criteria decision model (FMCDM) is proposed to find the optimal location based on a combination of factors. In the first stage, the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) is used to estimate the relative criteria classification through the evaluation process. In the second stage, the fuzzy technique of order preference using similarities to the perfect solution (FTOPSIS) is applied to rank the possible alternative sites. The findings from this study indicate that integrate FAHP and FTOPSIS is the most often used FMCDM approach in Aleppo for selecting the best location for a new hospital.
Mjr Irena Stępniewska z d. Sudnik
Authors: Rojewska Anna
Published: April 2023

Artykuł o zmarłej 1 maja 2021 roku mjr Irenie Stępniewskiej z d. Sudnik
Halina Szewczyk z d. Melzacka ps. Halinka, Olga
Authors: Skerska Elżbieta
Published: April 2023

Artykuł o zmarłej w 2021 roku Halinie Szewczyk z d. Melzacka ps. Halinka, Olga, łączniczce i kurierce Komendy Okręgu Pomorskiego Związku Walki Zbrojnej - Armii Krajowej
STRUCTURAL AND SPECIES DIVERSITY ON NORTH AND SOUTH SLOPES IN CONIFEROUS-DECIDUOUS FORESTS OF THE NORTH-WESTERN CAUCASUS
Authors: Shevchenko Nikolaj , Geraskina Anna
Published: April 2023

The research was conducted in similar soil-orographic conditions of three widespread coniferous-deciduous forest types in the North-Western Caucasus: aspen-hornbeam, beech-fir-hornbeam, and fir-beech. The methods used included geobotanical, population-ontogenetic, and soil-zoological. It was found that the north and south slopes in all the studied forest types, in comparison with the flat areas, are characterised by significantly higher plant species richness. The efficiency of the renewal of arboral cenopopulations was much higher on the slopes, in comparison with the flat areas: the number of tree species (higher by 20–70%); density of tree species (higher by 50–100%); the number of cenopopulations of tree species with a complete ontogenetic spectrum was larger on the slopes, in comparison with the flat areas. A greater number of ecological groups of plants were described on the north and south slopes, in comparison with the flat areas. The proportion of boreal species was higher on the north slopes, in comparison with the south slopes, whereas the majority of meadow-forest edge species were the south slopes. The north and south slopes were characterised by the full functional diversity of soil invertebrates, whereas endemic and sub-endemic macrofauna also preserved. On the north slopes, we revealed a high biomass of large litter and soil saprophages, including species and groups actively participating in transformation of plant litter and soil formation. The south slopes showed high densities of phytophages and predators (among soil macrofauna), which regulate the diversity of other components of forest communities through biotic interactions. All the studied forest types on the north and south slopes exceeded the flat areas in terms of species diversity of plant communities, regeneration of tree species, ecological plant groups, endemic fauna of soil invertebrates, including soil formers.