Research Studies Research Articles

Pathways of Co-Production: Negotiations and contextual insights into Quito's peripheral urbanisation

This study offers a detailed examination of urban habitat co-production in a semi-peripheral community of Quito, Ecuador, spotlighting a dynamic interplay of dialogue and negotiation between the Municipality and local communities. The stakeholders endeavour to preserve and evolve their ancestral territories in the absence of state support and amidst the challenges of formal urban development. Our research uncovers a rich tapestry of community collaboration, territorial disputes with the Municipality, and strategic partnerships with unconventional actors. Within this framework, our analysis seeks to provide nuanced, empirical, and theoretical insight into the mechanisms and impacts of co-producing urban habitat, against the backdrop of formal urban governance and community self-management practices. A comprehensive combination of desk research and field studies in a representative sector of Quito has delineated four distinct scenarios of urban habitat creation. This characterisation illustrates co-production's pivotal role in the nuanced processes of peripheral urbanisation, re-evaluating the virtues and constraints of participatory urban management and development policies. While aiming to foster state-community collaboration, these policies often lead to disjointed pathways, underscoring a multifaceted pattern of cooperative and contentious interactions that shape the evolution of peripheral urban landscapes.

Pressure-induced ferroelectric and electronic transitions in two-dimensional ferroelectric semiconductor of NbOCl2 up to 41.7 GPa

NbOCl2, a representative van der Waals ferroelectric (FE) semiconductor, has become the research frontier due to its peculiar appeal in both fundamental research studies and potential applications. In the present work, the high-pressure structural, vibrational, and electrical transport properties of NbOCl2 under different hydrostatic environments were systematically investigated over a wide pressure range of 1.7–41.7 GPa using a diamond anvil cell coupled with in situ Raman spectroscopy, electrical conductivity, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) observations. Upon non-hydrostatic compression, NbOCl2 underwent a FE-to-antiferroelectric phase transition at 3.4 GPa, followed by a semiconductor-to-metal transformation at 15.7 GPa. Under hydrostatic compression, the FE transformation and metallization of NbOCl2 were postponed by ∼2.0 and ∼4.0 GPa due to the effect of helium pressure-transmitting medium. Upon decompression, the phase transition was demonstrated to be reversible under different hydrostatic environments, which was well corroborated by HRTEM analyses. In addition, the linear relations between electrical current and sinusoidal voltage with the nonlinearity factors of ∼1.0 reflect the Ohmic response of NbOCl2 before and after the FE transition. Our findings on NbOCl2 provide a guideline for exploring other layered FE materials under high pressure and establishing a design paradigm for new generations of FE-based devices.

Fog Computing-Based Smart Consumer Recommender Systems

The latest effort in delivering computing resources as a service to managers and consumers represents a shift away from computing as a product that is purchased, to computing as a service that is delivered to users over the internet from large-scale data centers. However, with the advent of the cloud-based IoT and artificial intelligence (AI), which are advancing customer experience automations in many application areas, such as recommender systems (RS), a need has arisen for various modifications to support the IoT devices that are at the center of the automation world, including recent language models like ChatGPT and Bard and technologies like nanotechnology. This paper introduces the marketing community to a recent computing development: IoT-driven fog computing (FC). Although numerous research studies have been published on FC “smart” applications, none hitherto have been conducted on fog-based smart marketing domains such as recommender systems. FC is considered a novel computational system, which can mitigate latency and improve bandwidth utilization for autonomous consumer behavior applications requiring real-time data-driven decision making. This paper provides a conceptual framework for studying the effects of fog computing on consumer behavior, with the goal of stimulating future research by using, as an example, the intersection of FC and RS. Indeed, our conceptualization of the “fog-based recommender systems” opens many novel and challenging avenues for academic research, some of which are highlighted in the later part of this paper.

Efficacy and Safety of Pembrolizumab Monotherapy or Combined Therapy in Patients with Metastatic Triple-negative Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials

Background: Metastatic Triple-negative Breast Cancer (mTNBC) is the most aggressive form of breast cancer, with a greater risk of metastasis and recurrence. Research studies have published in-depth analyses of the advantages and disadvantages of pembrolizumab, and early data from numerous trials suggests that patients with mTNBC have had remarkable outcomes. This meta-analysis compares the data from numerous relevant studies in order to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pembrolizumab monotherapy or combination therapies for mTNBC. Methods: To identify eligible RCTs, a thorough literature search was carried out using electronic databases. CMA software was utilized to perform heterogeneity tests using fixed and random-effects models. Results: According to our pooled data, the median Progression-free Survival (PFS) was 2.66 months, and the median overall survival (OS) was 12.26 months. Furthermore, by comparing efficacy indicators between PD-L1–positive and PD-L1–negative groups, a correlation was found between the overexpression of PD-L1 with OS, PFS, and ORR. Patients with PD-L1-positive tumors had a higher response rate, with an ORR of 21.1%, compared to the patients with PD-L1-negative tumors. The ORR for first-line immunotherapy was higher than that of ≥second-line immunotherapy. In addition, pembrolizumab plus combination treatment resulted in a pooled incidence of immune-related adverse events of 22.7%. Conclusion: A modest response to pembrolizumab monotherapy was detected in the mTNBC patients. Furthermore, a better outcome from pembrolizumab treatment may be predicted by PD-L1-- positive status, non-liver/lung metastases, combination therapy, and first-line immunotherapy. Pembrolizumab, in combination with chemotherapy, may be more beneficial for patients whose tumors are PD-L1 positive.

Impact of TQM on operational, logistical and quality performance with a moderating role of reverse supply chain

Many research studies established the significance of total quality management to organizational performance. However, most of the researchers focused on individual relationships. This research aims to examine an integrated model by analyzing the impact of total quality management on operational performance, logistics performance, and quality performance with moderation of revere supply chain in steel companies of Pakistan. The study used a quantitative research method to test the hypotheses by collecting data utilizing the survey questionnaire on a five-point Likert scale. For analysis, the study opted for IBM SPSS and SmartPLS as the appropriate statistical tools. This study confirms the significant relationship between total quality management and reverse supply chain. Furthermore, this study finds no significant relationship between comprehensive quality management and operational, logistics, and quality performance. The insignificance values show the lack of implementation of study variables in the study and the geological context.

Group Classification for the Search and Identification of Related Patterns Using a Variety of Multivariate Techniques

Recently, many methods and algorithms have been developed that can be quickly adapted to different situations within a population of interest, especially in the health sector. Success has been achieved by generating better models and higher-quality results to facilitate decision making, as well as to propose new diagnostic procedures and treatments adapted to each patient. These models can also improve people’s quality of life, dissuade bad health habits, reinforce good habits, and modify the pre-existing ones. In this sense, the objective of this study was to apply supervised and unsupervised classification techniques, where the clustering algorithm was the key factor for grouping. This led to the development of three optimal groups of clinical pattern based on their characteristics. The supervised classification methods used in this study were Correspondence (CA) and Decision Trees (DT), which served as visual aids to identify the possible groups. At the same time, they were used as exploratory mechanisms to confirm the results for the existing information, which enhanced the value of the final results. In conclusion, this multi-technique approach was found to be a feasible method that can be used in different situations when there are sufficient data. It was thus necessary to reduce the dimensional space, provide missing values for high-quality information, and apply classification models to search for patterns in the clinical profiles, with a view to grouping the patients efficiently and accurately so that the clinical results can be applied in other research studies.

Effects of Ginger on Growth Indices and Pb Bioaccumulation of Tomato Fruits Cultivated in Lead and Spent Engine Oil-Contaminated Soils

Good soil is needed for public health and this research studies lead concentrations of tomato planted in different soil samples in Wukari, Taraba state, Nigeria (with 50mg/kg simulated and non-simulated contamination) labelled groups A-H. Two weeks-old tomato seedlings were transplanted to triplicates of soils pots labelled A: normal soil, B:Ginger treated (positive control), three negative controls; C:lead contaminated; D Spent Engine Oil (SEO) contaminated, and E:Pb+SEO containing soil, F:Lead contaminated+ginger treatment, G: SEO contaminated+ginger treatment, H:lead+SEO contaminated+ginger treatment. The lengths, circumferences and weights of 36 tomato fruits per plant pot were measured at random. Lead uptake and bioaccumulation were also assessed in tomato fruits derived from each group. Tomato fruits in group E weighed highest (15.41±7.81g) while those in group H had the lowest weight (12.02±6.69g). The longest and the highest average tomato fruit circumference were recorded in group D (5.61±2.66cm and 6.15±2.93cm) respectively. Conversely, group H presented the shortest mean tomato fruits with 4.19±2.45cm and lowest fruit circumference (4.49±2.34cm). Bioaccumulation of lead was highest in tomatoes of group E with 1.79±0.47ppm and the lowest was derived from group A:normal soil with 0.68±0.13ppm on average each. The lead concentrations of all groups exceeded permissible limits specified in WHO/FAO Standards (0.01 ppm) as well as the maximum allowable concentration of 0.02 ppm by EU and 0.05 ppm limit set by USEPA suggesting a public health concern.

Anthelmintic Herbal Remedies of North Eastern India: An Ethnopharmacological Exploration

Background:: Helminth infections caused by parasitic worms due to poor sanitation are a major public health problem. As the infections are often asymptomatic but can lead to malnutrition and growth problems, and also because of resistance to anthelmintics, effective treatments are crucial. Traditional herbal remedies, which are particularly important in resource-poor regions, such as northeast India, play an important role in addressing this challenge. Objective:: The study focuses on anthelmintic herbal remedies and aims to explore and analyze the indigenous herbal treatments in Northeast India. The review combines a comprehensive review of literature, field studies, and traditional knowledge and provides insights into plant species, preparation techniques and research studies that have been reported. Methods:: The information presented was assessed using a variety of electronic resources, including ScienceDirect, Wiley, Elsevier, Springer, Google Scholar, and PubMed (National Library of Medicines). Results:: The focus of this review is on the phytochemicals present in these herbal remedies from Northeastern India, which play a pivotal role in their efficacy against parasitic worms. The analysis explores the mechanisms of action behind these remedies and sheds light on the scientific basis of traditional therapies. It emphasizes the merging of ancient and modern research and emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing. Conclusion:: This review highlights the scope for effective anthelmintic therapies and explores the synergy between synthetic compounds and natural phytometabolites that offer the potential for effective interventions. This ethnopharmacological review not only scientifically validates traditional wisdom but also demonstrates the value of indigenous approaches in the treatment of modern health issues.

Making Sustainable Places Through Spaces: Role Identity Expansion and Imagination in a Swiss Urban Planning Committee

The transition toward sustainable cities has garnered significant attention from governments, policymakers, and researchers. Mirroring these developments in the academic world, organizational researchers are investigating sustainable placemaking and identifying the conditions that favor such a vital process. Building on a case study of an urban planning committee in the Swiss town of St. Gallen, this research studies how spaces (temporary social settings that enable the negotiation of new ideas) can initiate sustainable placemaking. The interplay between the expansion of space members’ role identities and their imagination of sustainable places is essential to sustainable placemaking. Generalizing these findings, our process model sheds light on the mutual constitution between imagination and role identity expansion inside spaces. The model makes two contributions to the organizational literature: (i) it highlights the importance of role identity expansion in sustainable placemaking processes through spaces and (ii) it discloses the interplay of imagination and identity expansion in spaces.

From Conceptual Gaps to Policy Dialogue: Conceptual Approaches to Disability and Old Age in Ageing Research and Disability Studies

Abstract In this study, we investigated the conceptual approaches to disability and ageing in two leading social scientific journals (Ageing & Society [AS] and Disability & Society [DS]) of the research fields that form the bases of policies on disability and ageing. This study aimed to identify the journals’ trajectories of conceptual development and their differences, and through that, find possible pathways for further interaction between the yet largely separate policy frameworks for disability and ageing. Our analysis showed considerable differences between the conceptual approaches of the two journals, with the dominant approach in DS being sociomaterial and individual-functional in AS. We conclude this paper by identifying the conceptual gaps in the respective journals, suggesting a further collaboration between the approaches in research as well as policies. These gaps could be potentially narrowed, leading to a constructive dialogue on older disabled people.

Growth Processing and Strategies: A Way to Improve the Gas Sensing Performance of Nickel Oxide-Based Devices

The review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of nickel oxide (NiO) as an emerging material in environmental monitoring by surveying recent developments primarily within the last three years and reports the growth processing and strategies employed to enhance NiO sensing performance. It covers synthesis methods for pristine NiO, including vapor-phase, liquid-phase, and solution-processing techniques, highlighting advantages and limitations. The growth mechanisms of NiO nanostructures are explored, with a focus on the most recent research studies. Additionally, different strategies to improve the gas sensing performance of NiO are discussed (i.e., surface functionalization by metallic nanoparticles, heterostructure formation, carbon-based nanomaterials, and conducting polymers). The influence of these strategies on selectivity, sensitivity, response time, and stability of NiO-based sensors is thoroughly examined. Finally, the challenges and future directions that may lead to the successful development of highly efficient NiO-based gas sensors for environmental monitoring are introduced in this review.

Quality assessment of systematic literature on uterine fibroids: a systematic review

Background A systematic literature review (SLR) is a research methodology that examines data and findings of other authors relative to specified research questions (RQ), collects multiple research studies, and summarises them to answer a research question using rigorous methods. Many SLRs have been published on uterine fibroids (UFs) in the last two decades but there is a dearth of knowledge on assessment of the quality to determine the reliability of results. Methods This study employed the SLR method to identify available SLRs published on UFs. Dybå and Dingsøyr quality standards and dichotomous grading scales were employed to determine the quality of primary studies. On February 3rd, 2022, an auto search was conducted twice over Citeseer, EBSCO, ACM, Springer Link, IEE Computer society digital library, and Scopus using 17 search strings. Two teams independently screened papers and compared notes with the inclusion/exclusion criteria. 11 criterial were adapted to evaluate the quality of the SLR’s. Results 33 SLRs were subjected to data extraction after inclusion/exclusion criteria. Answers to our primary research question was positive as the aims and contexts of the SLRs are generally clear and the methodologies employed are all inclusive. The research outputs of the primary studies are valid and justifiable as their research statements were clear and findings unambiguous. Although some studies failed some quality criteria, answers to all RQs were affirmative as the percentage scores of the studies on each of the quality conditions is favourably high. Conclusions The auto search may be incomplete because some qualified SLRs may have been missed as the choice of search strings was limited and may have omitted terminologies. Notwithstanding, with average quality scores of 83% in reporting, 81.2% in rigour, and 79% in credibility, this study concludes that majority of the meta-analysis published so far on UF are valid and reliable.

The Critical Role of Networks to Describe Disease Spreading Dynamics in Social Systems: A Perspective

This review underscores the critical significance of incorporating networks science in epidemiology. Classic mathematical compartmental models (CMs) employed to describe epidemic spreading may fail to capture the intricacies of real disease dynamics. Rooted in the mean-field assumption, CMs oversimplify by assuming that every individual has the potential to “infect” any other, neglecting the inherent complexity of underlying network structures. Since social interactions follow a networked pattern with specific links between individuals based on social behaviors, joining classic CMs and network science in epidemiology becomes essential for a more authentic portrayal of epidemic spreading. This review delves into noteworthy research studies that, from various perspectives, elucidate how the synergy between networks and CMs can enhance the accuracy of epidemic descriptions. In conclusion, we explore research prospects aimed at further elevating the integration of networks within the realm of epidemiology, recognizing its pivotal role in refining our understanding of disease dynamics.

Automated extraction of standardized antibiotic resistance and prescription data from laboratory information systems and electronic health records: a narrative review

Antimicrobial resistance in bacteria has been associated with significant morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. In the era of big data and of the consequent frequent need for large study populations, manual collection of data for research studies on antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic use has become extremely time-consuming and sometimes impossible to be accomplished by overwhelmed healthcare personnel. In this review, we discuss relevant concepts pertaining to the automated extraction of antibiotic resistance and antibiotic prescription data from laboratory information systems and electronic health records to be used in clinical studies, starting from the currently available literature on the topic. Leveraging automatic extraction and standardization of antimicrobial resistance and antibiotic prescription data is an tremendous opportunity to improve the care of future patients with severe infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms, and should not be missed.

Basic and translational evidence supporting the role of TM6SF2 in VLDL metabolism.

Transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 ( TM6SF2 ) gene was identified through exome-wide studies in 2014. A genetic variant from glutamic acid to lysine substitution at amino acid position 167 (NM_001001524.3:c.499G> A) (p.Gln167Lys/p.E167K, rs58542926) was discovered (p.E167K) to be highly associated with increased hepatic fat content and reduced levels of plasma triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. In this review, we focus on the discovery of TM6SF2 and its role in VLDL secretion pathways. Human data suggest TM6SF2 is linked to hepatic steatosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD), hence understanding its metabolic pathways is of high scientific interest. Since its discovery, completed research studies in cell, rodent and human models have defined the role of TM6SF2 and its links to human disease. TM6SF2 resides in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the ER-Golgi interface and helps with the lipidation of nascent VLDL, the main carrier of triglycerides from the liver to the periphery. Consistent results from cells and rodents indicated that the secretion of triglycerides is reduced in carriers of the p.E167K variant or when hepatic TM6SF2 is deleted. However, data for secretion of APOB, the main protein of VLDL particles responsible for triglycerides transport, are inconsistent. The identification of genetic variants that are highly associated with human disease presentation should be followed by the validation and investigation into the pathways that regulate disease mechanisms. In this review, we highlight the role of TM6SF2 and its role in processing of liver triglycerides.

Social media analytics for academic music library: a case study of CUHK center for Chinese Music Studies

PurposeWith the rapid development of social media, many organizations have begun to attach importance to social media platforms. This research studies the management and the use of social media in academic music libraries, taking the Center for Chinese Music Studies of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CCMS) as a case study.Design/methodology/approachWe conducted a sentiment analysis of posts on Facebook’s public page to analyze the reaction to the posts with some exploratory analysis, including the communication trend and relevant factors that affect user interaction.FindingsOur results show that the Facebook channel for the library has a good publicity effect and active interaction, but the number of posts and interactions has a downward trend. Therefore, the library needs to pay more attention to the management of the Facebook channel and take adequate measures to improve the quality of posts to increase interaction.Originality/valueFew studies have analyzed existing data directly collected from social media by programming based on sentiment analysis and natural language processing technology to explore potential methods to promote music libraries, especially in East Asia, and about traditional music.

Revealing the Profile of Foster Parents, Biological Parents, Foster Children and the Triadic Relationship amongst them

This research paper explores the foster care framework in Greece, with a particular focus on the triadic relationship among foster carers, biological parents, and foster children. It refers to the current 30 hours compulsory training program of foster parents, emphasizing the necessity of a further specialized comprehensive training, on the ground that well prepared foster carers can better face the complexities of fostering. There is also an imperative need for ongoing support for foster parents, which will be provided in the context of social workers’ supervision to meet the behavioral and emotional challenges presented by foster children. The study investigates the potential hindrances faced during the child's placement within the foster home and the vital role social workers play in addressing these difficulties. It delves into the backgrounds of biological parents, foster carers, and foster children, examining the psychological issues and trauma they may confront. The paper highlights the paths of creating an emotional bond, trusting relationships, amongst the child and his/her foster parents and contact issues between foster and biological parents, asserting that these elements are crucial for the child's well-being and his/her integration into the foster family. Moreover, it recognizes the need for policy makers and practitioner’s collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches within the foster care system. The study concludes that well-structured support, the empowerment of children through resilience building, and a stable legal framework are foundational to successful application of the institution of fostering. It encourages future research in the form of longitudinal studies, the evaluation of training models, and cross-national comparisons that include Greek foster care organizations to ameliorate the effectiveness of foster care system. The research incorporates theoretical and research studies articles as well as selected books in the field to underline the importance of evidence-based practices in advancing the application of the institution of foster care as well as the experiences of both foster care children, biological and foster parents.

Physical Activity Participation, Quality of Life, and Behavioral Health Disorders for Veterans with PTSD

The growing prevalence of behavioral health disorders in veterans has triggered a widespread effort to identify and provide complementary interventions. This study investigated physical activity as a complementary treatment option for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for recreational therapy (RT) programs. A correlational survey research design was used to examine relationships between participation in three types of physical activity (traditional indoor fitness, outdoor adventure activity, and mind-body practices) and four psychosocial measures for veterans with PTSD (depression, anxiety, health-related quality of life [HRQoL], and substance use). A total of 102 participants completed the online survey. Results indicated that the frequency and duration of traditional indoor fitness activities and outdoor adventure activities were significantly associated with higher HRQoL, lower reoccurrence of substance use risk, substance use, and depression. Implications for the use of physical activity in recreational therapy for veterans with behavioral health disorders and future research studies were presented.

Different yet complementary: A systematic literature review on data journalism in visualization research and journalism studies

This article surveys and compares literature on data journalism from two areas of inquiry: journalism studies and visualization research. As digital interfaces become an important access point for news, journalism and visualization scholars have begun to share a common research interest: data journalism. Given their radically different traditions and histories, these areas follow very different rules in how the topic is approached. The result is two parallel scholarships on data journalism with little points of contact. Arguably, developing research space for encounters and exchange of the two is an opportunity for expanding the academic discourse on data journalism. This study aims at opening this space of exchange through a systematic literature review. 121 articles, published between 2010 and 2023, are analyzed. Findings show that the two areas of research approach data journalism with very different aspirations. In relation to data journalism, journalism studies and visualization research could be compared with Lazersfeld’s distinction between critical and administrative research. These aspects cause various differences at an epistemic level, namely what, how and when knowledge about data journalism is produced.

Importance of specific vital signs in nurses' recognition and response to deteriorating patients: A scoping review.

To explore the published research related to nurses' documentation and use of vital signs in recognising and responding to deteriorating patients. Scoping review of international, peer-reviewed research studies. Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature Complete, Medline Complete, American Psychological Association PsycInfo and Excerpta Medica were searched on 25 July 2023. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews. Of 3880 potentially eligible publications, 32 were included. There were 26 studies of nurses' vital sign documentation: 21 adults and five paediatric. The most and least frequently documented vital signs were blood pressure and respiratory rate respectively. Seven studies focused on vital signs and rapid response activation or afferent limb failure. Five studies of vital signs used to trigger the rapid response system showed heart rate was the most frequent and respiratory rate and conscious state were the least frequent. Heart rate was least likely and oxygen saturation was most likely to be associated with afferent limb failure (n = 4 studies). Despite high reliance on using vital signs to recognise clinical deterioration and activate a response to deteriorating patients in hospital settings, nurses' documentation of vital signs and use of vital signs to activate rapid response systems is poorly understood. There were 21studies of nurses' vital sign documentation in adult patients and five studies related to children. A deeper understanding of nurses' decisions to assess (or not assess) specific vital signs, analysis of the value or importance nurses place (or not) on specific vital sign parameters is warranted. The influence of patient characteristics (such as age) or the clinical practice setting, and the impact of nurses' workflows of vital sign assessment warrants further investigation. No Patient or Public Contribution.