bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mineral supplementation by artificial salt licks is comparatively effective as natural salt licks for Malaysian mammals
Authors: Razali Nor Bazilah , Mansor Mohammad Saiful , Farinordin Farah Ayuni , Zaini Mohd Izzat-Husna Ahmad , Razali Siti Hajar Atiqah , Patah Pazil Abdul , Husin Shahril Mod , Hussein Mohamed Shah Redza , Nor Shukor Md
Published: January 2025

Background

Mineral-rich licks are known to provide mineral supplements to wildlife species, including mammals. Artificial salt licks have been provided as habitat enrichment in protected areas and secondary forests in Peninsular Malaysia since 2012. However, few studies have investigated artificial salt licks, particularly their mineral composition and roles in different habitats. We used 40 camera traps to assess mammal species diversity and assemblages at 20 salt licks (nine natural and 11 artificial licks) in three forest reserves in Peninsular Malaysia. Nine mineral elements from water and soil samples from natural and artificial licks in primary and secondary forests were analysed.

Results

Twenty-nine mammal species were identified across salt licks, with 16 species being salt lick users, including eight herbivorous, five frugivorous and three carnivorous mammals, most of which moved in groups and solitarily. The mammal species assemblages across both salt lick and habitat types demonstrated a predominantly nested pattern, with herbivorous and frugivorous mammals being the primary users. The artificial salt licks in both habitats showcased the same feeding guilds including species that are resilient to habitat changes. The visitation frequency at both types of licks and habitats suggests that each salt lick user had its own preferences for minerals from salt lick water and soil.

Conclusions

This study suggests that artificial licks may be as effective as natural licks in providing minerals to many mammal species both in primary and secondary forests. Thus, they could be used to enrich degraded habitats. Enriching degraded habitats is essential for supporting the ecosystem, especially in carbon reduction, biodiversity conservation and connectivity between degraded forests and intact forests.
Nitrogen and water additions with or without mowing altered soil microbial community characteristics in a semi-arid steppe
Authors: Liu Hao , Ren Feirong , Wan Shiqiang , Han Shijie , Zheng Junqiang
Published: January 2025

Background

The temperate grasslands are facing numerous pressures from global change. Despite their essential ecological and economic role, how their microbial communities react to multiple varying factors remain obscure. In this study, we simulated three global change drivers, i.e., nitrogen deposition (ambient N vs. elevated N, aN vs. eN), precipitation increase (ambient precipitation vs. elevated precipitation, aP vs. eP), and mowing, represented experimentally by clipping (unclipped vs. clipped, uC vs. CL), together in all possible combinations in a temperate semi-arid grassland ecosystem.

Results

Nitrogen addition had negative effects on the richness of bacterial and fungal communties, significantly changed their structures (P < 0.05) and increased their dissimilarities (P < 0.05), while water addition had positive effects on fungal and protist communities and significantly stimulated the α-diversity of protist communities under N addition without clipping, which was in contrast to the effect in clipped plots. Clipping had a marginal effect on fungal communities and significantly affected protist communities (P < 0.05). A notable interactive effect of N and precipitation on the structure of bacterial communities and a significant interactive effect of clipping and precipitation on protists were found. Combination effects of N with precipitation or clipping on module aggregation of meta-networks were also observed between uC and CL, as well as aP and eP meta-networks. Bacterial, fungal, and protist communities varied in their assembly mechanisms, and their assembly processes differed in response to the three global change factors.

Conclusions

Overall, N, water addition, and clipping individually and/or interactively, in distinct degrees, altered soil microbial interaction, community structure, and the potential function in a semi-arid steppe. These findings enhance our understanding of soil microbial community assembly and provide a scientific basis for managing temperate grasslands, particularly in the context of global change's impact on ecosystem function and stability.
Toward an ecosystem of non-fungible tokens from mapping public opinions on social media
Authors: Xing Yunfei , Zhang Justin Z. , He Yuming , Li Yueqi
Published: January 2025

As blockchain technology advances, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are emerging as unconventional assets in the commercial market. However, it is necessary to establish a comprehensive NFT ecosystem that addresses the prevailing public concerns. This study aimed to bridge this gap by analyzing user-generated content on prominent social media platforms such as Twitter, Weibo, and Reddit. Employing text clustering and topic modeling techniques, such as Latent Dirichlet Allocation, we constructed an analytical framework to delve into the intricacies of the NFT ecosystem. Our investigation revealed seven distinct topics from Twitter and Reddit data and eight topics from Weibo data. Weibo users predominantly engaged in reviews and critiques, whereas Twitter and Reddit users emphasized personal experiences and perceptions. The NFT ecosystem encompasses several crucial elements, including transactions, customers, infrastructure, products, environments, and perceptions. By identifying the prevailing trends and common issues, this study offers valuable guidance for the development of NFT ecosystems.
Liquidity constraints, real estate regulation, and local government debt risks
Authors: Gong Xiao-Li , Lu Jin-Yan , Xiong Xiong , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2025

Given the existence of real estate market bubbles and risks arising from high government debt, countries are faced with the challenge of preventing systemic risks. This study investigates the macroeconomic dynamics of the real estate market and local government debt risk from the perspective of liquidity constraints. We build a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model with real estate and local government debt risk based on the New Keynesian-Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium Model (NK-DSGE) model to investigate the transmission path of local government debt risk under real estate regulation. In addition, we analyze the risk transmission between the real estate market and local government under different tax systems and investigate the shock to household welfare from a local government debt default. The results show monetary policy can effectively control the scale of local government debt to reduce default risk. An increase in property taxes that restrains housing demand can effectively regulate the real estate market. Although reducing taxes can increase macroeconomic output, reducing tax rates on consumption, capital, and labor weakens the liquidity of household assets. Further, lowering taxes increases local government default risk, which reduces household welfare and makes it more difficult for local governments to deleverage. Our findings provide important insights for countries seeking an effective real estate regulation mechanism to curb local government default risk.
How does education promote green digital finance? Evidence from China
Authors: Lee Chien-Chiang , Wang Fuhao , Lee Chi-Chuan
Published: January 2025

This study constructs a new composite green digital finance index and describes its development in China over the past decade. Based on province-level panel data covering the period 2011–2020, we examine how education contributes to the development of green digital finance. Through detailed theoretical analysis and rigorous empirical testing, the following results are obtained. First, education directly promotes green digital finance by adjusting people’s consciousness and enhancing their abilities. Second, high-quality educational inputs, a high level of economic development, and a high degree of opening-up are among the important preconditions for education to further promote green digital finance in China. Third, education indirectly promotes green digital finance by driving industrial upgrades, increasing income levels, promoting technological innovation, and cultivating finance-related talent. This study offers policy recommendations to help improve education levels and suggests a valuable direction for further research on green digital finance.
Social support and aging: psychometric analysis of the ENRICHD Social Support Instrument in a Chilean population over 50
Authors: Salinas-Rehbein Belén , Terán-Mendoza Oscar , Cancino Vicente
Published: January 2025

Background

Social support is relevant to studying well-being, quality of life, and health during aging, particularly in people over 50. Therefore, brief instruments that allow its measurement within the clinical evaluation and research processes are necessary. The ENRICH Social Support Scale (ESSI) is a brief and easy-to-use instrument that measures the perception of social support; however, its psychometric properties in people over 50 in the Chilean context have yet to be tested.

Method

This study had a non-experimental, longitudinal panel design in which a sample of 303 people over 50 years of age (M = 55.14 years, SD = 5.19; 52% women) were administered a survey incorporating sociodemographic variables, the ESSI and the Newsom Social Negativity Scale. 277 participants completed the follow-up survey (M = 56.75 years, SD = 5.15; 54% women). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), structural equation modeling (SEM), invariance analysis, and internal consistency tests were performed to determine the psychometric properties.

Results

The six items from the scale load in a single-factor model obtained an excellent fit to the data and reliability coefficients (α = 0.902; ω = 0.904). The SEM analysis evidenced an inverse correlation between the ESSI and Newsom's social negativity scale, demonstrating evidence of construct validity. Furthermore, in the sex invariance analyses, the scalar level was reached, implying that the items’ meanings are the same for men and women. Finally, the residual level was reached in the temporal invariance analyses, which means that the scale items are consistent in time.

Conclusions

The ESSI is a reliable and valid tool to be used in the Chilean context both in the clinical setting and in research on people over 50. The evidence obtained supports its usability to appropriately measure the perception of social support, which is relevant considering that it has been associated with reports of higher quality of life and lower mortality and morbidity during aging.
Navigating Sense of Place through lived spaces and the memory of place in historic Anarkali Bazaar, Lahore
Authors: Batool Zunaira , Bahauddin Azizi
Published: January 2025

Historic fabric are increasingly at risk because they disregard the sense of place in urban regeneration projects, which jeopardises regional identities and customs. This study explores the processes underlying the creation of place meanings among users in historic urban bazaars, examining the attributes of lived space that contribute to the development of a sense of place and generate meaning through behavioural practices. Using the lived space of spatial triad theory as a theoretical framework, this research employs a hybrid methodological approach that combines phenomenological and grounded theory methods. Data are collected through semistructured interviews, onsite observations, and questionnaires, with analysis conducted via N-Vivo. By employing the lived space of spatial triad theory, this research offers a nuanced perspective on how historic urban bazaars function as living museums that foster pluralistic societies, cultural innovation, and economic fluidity within a contemplative environment. These insights underscore the importance of incorporating local memories and feelings into heritage conservation and urban regeneration projects, as these elements are crucial for maintaining the unique identity and vibrancy of historic sites.

This study contributes to international scholarship on the lived space of historical sites by providing a focused examination of the dynamic forces shaping sense of place identity over time in historic bazaars.
Leveraging hydrocarbon expansion signals in time-lapse seismic data for brownfield development and near-field exploration
Authors: Bao Chen , Wang Kanglin , Brain Jonathan
Published: January 2025

Time-lapse seismic data play a key role in hydrocarbon field monitoring and infill opportunity development. In several deepwater hydrocarbon-producing reservoirs, time-lapse softening changes have been observed at the oil-water contact. Here, we refer to this as contact softening. Contact softening occurs when acoustically softer hydrocarbons above the contact invade and replace the stiffer brine in the pore space below the contact. This typically occurs when pressure depletion from production elsewhere is transmitted through a shared aquifer, causing the expansion of an unproduced hydrocarbon zone. It is shown that the strength and extent of such signals are controlled by the updip fluid volume, rock and fluid compressibility, and amount of pressure depletion transmitted. Such a relationship enables the qualitative and quantitative assessment of pressure depletion and characterization of the updip reservoirs. In some cases, it can be used to estimate a range for fluid compressibility, which has applications in fluid typing. The application of such a relationship could lead to opportunity identification in brownfield development and near-field exploration.
Understanding uncertainty in deepwater channel seismic facies classification applying random forest on outcrop-constrained 3D models and synthetic seismic data
Authors: La Marca Karelia , Bedle Heather , Stright Lisa , Ballinas Mario , Marfurt Kurt
Published: January 2025

To understand the uncertainties in seismic interpretation, especially for deepwater seismic facies, we apply a novel approach using outcrop-based synthetic data as ground truth. By applying the random forest (RF) supervised machine learning method we can better understand the influence of classifier hyperparameters on facies prediction accuracy. Based on previous analysis, we chose six seismic attributes that are able to differentiate five deepwater architectural facies: shale (thin-bedded turbidites), channel axis, off-axis, margin, and mass transport deposit. Hyperparameter testing indicated that optimization of the RF classifier is sensitive to the (1) choice of training attributes, (2) original facies proportions, (3) similarity in the seismic expression of different facies, and (4) seismic data resolution and seismic data signal-to-noise ratio. A simple classifier using common RF hyperparameters developed for fluid saturation predicted the facies with 74% accuracy. Although computationally more expensive, optimizing the RF hyperparameters provided approximately 89% accuracy, demonstrating the importance of hyperparameter tuning. When applying the best model to an unseen portion of the model, the position of the channel complex set was predicted accurately, but the accuracy was only 58%. This highlights the limitations of universal models and the persistent uncertainties faced when using ML to enhance our interpretations. Although we use a correlation matrix approach, we acknowledge that uncertainties can only be assessed and not quantified. Optimization of attribute choice and hyperparameter tuning reduce the epistemic uncertainty. We encourage future research to explore this in more detail.
Treatment Pattern and Outcome of Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer in Resource-Constrained Countries: Experience at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Hailu Elias Amare , Woldetsadik Edom Seife , Tadesse Biruk Legesse , Dibaba Abdi Dandena , Zingeta Girum Tessema , Kelemu Hidagewoin Frew , Zewde Yonas Alemayehu , Aytehgeza Ruth Shimeles , Begna Kebede H.
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

Management of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) includes neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) followed by total mesorectal excision. Recently, total neoadjuvant treatment (TNT) has gained attention. In developing countries, patients with rectal cancer often present at advanced stages. This study assesses treatment patterns and outcomes in LARC at a largest referral center in Ethiopia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients with LARC treated at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital from January 2020 to September 2022.

RESULTS

The median age at diagnosis was 45.5 years (range, 20-86), with 51% male. Of the patients, 81% had no previous oncologic treatment and 75.3% was discussed in a multidisciplinary tumor board. Up-front surgery was planned for 44.4% of patients, whereas 22.2% and 8.6% were assigned to TNT and NACRT, respectively. Among 81 treatment-naïve patients, 79 were triaged for surgery, but only 47 (59.5%) underwent surgery, achieving an 89.9% R0 resection rate. Of 36 up-front planned surgeries, 35 proceeded as planned, whereas only 12 of 43 (28%) planned after neoadjuvant treatment underwent surgery. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) was given to 37% of patients, with 16.7% (5 of 30) undergoing subsequent surgery. Radiotherapy was given to 24.2% of participants, with 56.25% undergoing surgery. Short-course radiotherapy (SCRT) was given to two patients. Only 14.8% completed all planned treatments, with radiation waiting time (median, 10 months) being the main impediment.

CONCLUSION

Timely administration of neoadjuvant treatment is not possible in most resource-limited settings. Because of better treatment completion, up-front surgery looks a more viable option than NACT in these situations. Extended waiting time for radiotherapy can be mitigated by opting for alternatives like SCRT in selected patients.
Revisiting the matrix elements of the position operator in the crystal momentum representation
Authors: Si M. S. , Zhang G. P.
Published: January 2025

Fewer operators are more fundamental than the position operator in a crystal. But since it is not translationally invariant in crystal momentum representation (CMR), how to properly represent it is nontrivial. Over half a century, various methods have been proposed, but they often lead to either highly singular derivatives or extremely arcane expressions. Here we propose a resolution to this problem by directly computing their matrix elements between two Bloch states. We show that the position operator is a full matrix in CMR, where the off-diagonal elements in crystal momentum

only appear along the direction of the position vector. Our formalism, free of singular derivative and degeneracy difficulties, can describe an array of physical properties, from intraband transitions, polarization with or without spin-orbit coupling, orbital angular momentum, to susceptibilities.
The Captopril Challenge Test Predicts Cardiac Structure and Dysfunction in Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Chen Uei-Lin , Liao Che-Wei , Wang Shuo-Meng , Lai Tai-Shuan , Huang Kuo-How , Chang Chin-Chen , Lee Bo-Ching , Lu Ching-Chu , Chang Yi-Ru , Chen Zheng-Wei , Chang Yi-Yao , Hung Chi-Sheng , Chueh Jeff S , Wu Vin-Cent , Tsai Cheng-Hsuan , Vaidya Anand , Lin Yen-Hung
Published: January 2025

Context

The captopril challenge test (CCT) is a commonly used confirmation test that identifies the magnitude of renin- and angiotensin II-independent aldosterone production and thus the presence and severity of primary aldosteronism (PA).

Objective

This study investigated the association between the post-CCT plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) and cardiovascular remodeling and diastolic dysfunction.

Methods

A total of 540 PA patients with complete CCT and echocardiographic data were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical and echocardiographic parameters were assessed at baseline and 1 year after PA-targeted treatment.

Results

The post-CCT PAC showed a significant linear association with both left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and the ratio of early diastolic transmitral and myocardial velocity on tissue Doppler imaging (E/e′) in restricted cubic spline analyses, indicating a continuum of risk linked to postcaptopril aldosterone levels. In linear regression analyses, post-CCT PAC was significantly associated with baseline LVMI, E/e′, and left atrial volume index (LAVI), regardless of multiple model adjustments. One year after PA-targeted treatment, patients with higher post-CCT PAC experienced the greatest improvements in LVMI, E/e′, and LAVI. In contrast, baseline aldosterone levels were associated only with baseline LVMI and its improvement after treatment but not with the baseline or improvement of E/e′ or LAVI.

Conclusion

Higher post-CCT PAC was significantly associated with worse left ventricular remodeling and diastolic dysfunction but also greater improvements in cardiac structure and dysfunction following targeted treatment. These findings highlight the prognostic and therapeutic values of the CCT that the post-CCT PAC predicts the severity of cardiac disease and also the potential for therapeutic benefits in PA.
What Are “Nonphysician Obligations” Anyway? A Survey Study Exploring Their Impact on Anesthesiology Resident Education and Developing a Conceptual Framework
Authors: Cormier Nicholas R. , Kinney Daniel A. , Gaiser Robert R.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND:

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education defines “nonphysician obligations” as “duties performed by nursing and allied health professionals, transport services, or clerical staff.” How anesthesiology trainees understand the concept of “nonphysician obligations” and are impacted by these obligations is incompletely understood. The objective of the study was to identify how anesthesiology trainees define “nonphysician obligations,” which obligations impact trainee education, and what attitudes trainees hold.

METHODS:

A survey was administered to Anesthesiology residents (N = 86) at a large academic hospital in 2023. Respondents defined “nonphysician obligations,” listed obligations that impacted their education, and indicated the frequency of these obligations. Respondents scored their agreement with statements appraising attitudes toward the clarity and consistency of the term and classified anesthesiology tasks as physician/nonphysician. The authors developed a conceptual framework defining “nonphysician obligations” using grounded theory and categorized the participants’ responses based on this framework. Tallies assessed which obligations and attitudes were most prominent.

RESULTS:

The response rate was 82.6% (n = 71). Respondents defined nonphysician obligations with either a patient-centered or physician-centered framework. Tasks spanning nursing, patient transport, anesthesia technicians, certified registered nurse anesthetists, and care coordinators impacted education most. Outlier definitions and obligations emerged, including personal and household obligations. Fifty-seven percent of trainees disagreed that the definition of nonphysician obligations was clear. Forty-seven percent agreed definitions held by anesthesiology trainees were aligned. Sixty-two percent felt that different medical specialties did not share a common definition. Classification of typical anesthesiology tasks as physician/ nonphysician was heterogenous.

CONCLUSIONS:

“Nonphysician obligations” are defined by a new, nuanced, specialty-specific explanatory framework, and those that impact education are summarized in distinct classes. Trainee definitions and attitudes expose possible faults in how nonphysician obligations are currently evaluated.
A master regulatory loop that activates genes in a temporally coordinated manner in muscle cells of ascidian embryos
Authors: Oda Izumi , Satou Yutaka
Published: January 2025

Ascidian larval muscle cells present a classic example of autonomous development. A regulatory mechanism for these cells has been extensively investigated, and the regulatory gene circuit has been documented from maternal factors to a muscle-specific gene. In the present study, we comprehensively identified genes expressed specifically in ascidian muscle cells, and found that all of them are under control of a positive regulatory loop of Tbx6-r.b and Mrf, the core circuit identified previously. We also found that several transcription factors under control of the Tbx6-r.b/Mrf regulatory loop exhibited various temporal expression profiles, which are probably important for creating functional muscle cells. These results, together with results of previous studies, provide an exhaustive view of the regulatory system enabling autonomous development of ascidian larval muscle cells. It shows that the Tbx6-r.b/Mrf regulatory loop, but not a single gene, serves a ‘master’ regulatory function. This master regulatory loop not only controls spatial gene expression patterns, but also governs temporal expression patterns in ascidian muscle cells.
Cell migration signaling through the EGFR-VAV2-Rac1 pathway is sustained in endosomes
Authors: Pinilla-Macua Itziar , Surve Sachin , Sorkin Alexander
Published: January 2025

Ligand binding to EGFR activates Rho family GTPases, triggering actin cytoskeleton reorganization, cell migration and invasion. Activated EGFR is also rapidly endocytosed but the role of EGFR endocytosis in cell motility is poorly understood. Hence, we used live-cell microscopy imaging to demonstrate that endogenous fluorescently labeled VAV2, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rho GTPases, is co-endocytosed with EGFR in genome-edited human oral squamous cell carcinoma (HSC3) cells, an in vitro model for head-and-neck cancer where VAV2 is known to promote metastasis and is associated with poor prognosis. Chemotactic migration of HSC3 cells toward an EGF gradient is found to require both VAV2 and clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Moreover, sustained activation of Rac1, a Rho family GTPase promoting cell migration and a major substrate of VAV2, also depends on clathrin. Endogenous fluorescently labeled Rac1 localizes to EGFR-containing endosomes. Altogether, our findings suggest that signaling through the EGFR-VAV2-Rac1 pathway persists in endosomes and that this endosomal signaling is required for EGFR-driven cell migration.
RNA editing in disease: mechanisms and therapeutic potential
Authors: Tamizkar Kasra Honarmand , Jantsch Michael F.
Published: January 2025

Adenosine to inosine conversion byadenosinedeaminases acting onRNA (ADARs) was first identified in the late 1980s of the previous century. As the conversion of adenosines to inosines can be easily detected by sequencing of cDNAs, where the presence of an inosine reads out as a guanosine, the analysis of this type of RNA editing has become widespread. Consequently, several pipelines for detecting inosines in transcriptomes have become available. Still, how to interpret the consequences and alterations of RNA-editing events in whole transciptome editomes is a matter of debate. In particular, the cause or consequence of altered editomes on disease development is poorly understood. Similarly, absolute frequencies of editing events in single molecules, their longitudinal distribution, and naturally occurring changes during development, in different tissues, or in response to physiological changes need to be explored. Lastly, while the use of site-directed RNA editing as a treatment of certain genetic diseases is rapidly evolving, the applicability of this technology still faces several technical obstacles. In this review, we describe the current state of knowledge on adenosine deamination-type RNA editing, its involvement in disease development, and its potential as a therapeutic. Lastly, we highlight open challenges and questions that need to be addressed.
O concurso conflito
Authors: Giffoni Anderson Nascimento , Menezes Alexandre Mello Telles de , Santos Helder Ferreira Pinto
Published: January 2025

Este caso aborda o dilema da manutenção do reforço do quadro de auditores fiscais do Estado do Mar de Fevereiro1. O governador, Chiquinho Cepernildo, fizera tal promessa em sua campanha para incrementar a arrecadação de tributos e agir de forma severa em relação à concorrência desleal no estado. Após tomar posse do cargo, o gestor estadual tinha de arcar com os compromissos de campanha, atuar na reforma tributária e tratar de gastos com pessoal que já estavam no limite prudencial permitido. O caso apresenta características marcantes do modelo burocrático weberiano, reforma administrativa e reforma tributária. Também são abordados os impactos da influência política na tomada de decisões, a presença do rent-seeking, ou jogo institucional, na atuação governamental.
E-learning no contexto corporativo: transformando talentos ou perdendo conexões?
Authors: Ramos Carolina de Quadros , Kasznar Istvan
Published: January 2025

Este estudo investiga a percepção dos funcionários sobre plataformas de e-learning no contexto corporativo, destacando seu papel no desenvolvimento profissional e nas estratégias de treinamento organizacional. Fundamentado em teorias e estilos de aprendizado, o trabalho oferece uma visão histórica e conceitual do e-learning, evidenciando sua evolução e aplicações atuais. A pesquisa adotou uma metodologia quantitativa, utilizando um questionário com escala Likert para analisar a opinião dos colaboradores sobre nove aspectos-chave das plataformas: relevância, variedade, qualidade, absorção, flexibilidade, comodidade, interação, rapidez e fixação. Os resultados indicam percepções positivas em relação à flexibilidade e comodidade, com preferência por conteúdos em vídeo curtos e experiências práticas de aprendizado. Contudo, desafios relacionados à fixação de conteúdo e à interação entre usuários foram identificados, apontando áreas para melhorias. A relevância prática deste estudo está em destacar como o e-learning se tornou essencial no atual cenário de transformação digital, oferecendo às empresas uma solução flexível e escalável para capacitar seus colaboradores. Além disso, as plataformas promovem o engajamento, a retenção de talentos e a redução de custos operacionais, enquanto alinham o aprendizado às metas organizacionais. As implicações práticas incluem estratégias para aprimorar o design das plataformas e justificar investimentos em soluções digitais de treinamento, beneficiando tanto os funcionários quanto o desempenho organizacional.
Werner Marx and Martin Heidegger: What “Measure” for a Post-metaphysical Ethics?
Authors: Swazo Norman K.
Published: January 2025

German philosopher Martin Heidegger’s later thought is significant because of his attention to the meaning of “truth” (alētheia) and its connection to Protagoras’s thesis of anthrōpon metron (“of all things man is the measure…”), which Heidegger elevates to the “highest principle” of philosophy. Philosopher Werner Marx concurs with Heidegger that our time faces the “age of technology” as the completion of the Western tradition of metaphysics. With the “end of philosophy” in this sense, we stand to inaugurate “a new beginning” in thinking without reliance on the principles and standards that have their provenance in the tradition from ancient Greek philosophy onward to late European modernity. For Marx, this elicits the possibility of a non-metaphysical ethics, hence the question of “measure” that he engages in connection with Heidegger’s later thinking. However, it is problematic that Marx engages Schelling’s reflections on the essence of human freedom to articulate a possibility of measure. Here Marx’s reflections are engaged by considering his motivation and the thought of Schelling, Nietzsche, Heidegger, as well as the historical context of the twentieth century, all of which constrain Marx’s normative objective. Heidegger’s engagement of Schelling and Kant to elucidate the problem of human freedom raises questions whether Marx’s proposal for a measure “on this earth” can achieve the goal of a foundation for a post-metaphysical ethics.
An Encompassing, Normative Philosophy of Design: The Theory of Responsive Cohesion
Authors: Fox Warwick
Published: January 2025

Design is concerned with the ways in which we deliberately seek to arrange, organize, or structure things. From a philosophy of design perspective, the practice of design raises fundamental questions about the basic ways in which things can and should be organized. I advance a tripartite schema of the basic ways in which things (anything at all) can be organized and offer a triangular model of the “organization space” or “design space” they define. I refer to these three basic forms of organization as “responsive cohesion,” “fixed cohesion,” and “discohesion,” and offer three reasons why responsively cohesive forms of organization are more valuable than the other two; indeed, the other two forms of organization are typically disvaluable. Beyond focusing on the value of individual instances of responsive cohesion, I further consider the fact that every responsively cohesive item exists within a wider context(s), which may itself tend more towards fixed cohesion, responsive cohesion, or discohesion. This raises a number of further issues; for example, what should we do if a responsively cohesive item clashes with – is discohesive with – its responsively cohesive context? I advance a normative theory of contexts to sort out these kinds of issues. In the context of this discussion, I briefly consider a range of other ideas that bear a family resemblance to the idea of responsive cohesion and indicate, equally briefly, why the theory of responsive cohesion approach is superior to these other approaches. I conclude with some guidance on how we can implement the ideas advanced here (“we” because we all design things in our own way) and then, more specifically, on the implications of these ideas for the professional designer-client relationship.
The Stoic Paradigm of Ethics as a Philosophical Tool for Objectifying the Concepts of Organizational Ethics, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Corporate Governance
Authors: Kourtoglou Olga , Vavouras Elias , Sariannidis Nikolaos
Published: January 2025

In this article, the relationship between ethics in general and business ethics in particular to Stoic philosophy is investigated. Stoic ethics is used as a research tool, which step-by-step deciphers the position of the human as a functional part of a larger organization, such as the natural environment or civil society. Ethics is inextricably linked to the rational, free choice of what is right for both the individual and the total organism. Ethical rightness imposes a form of rational order within the organization, in the sense that each part must perform the function appropriate to its abilities. At the maximum degree of ethical integration stands the paradigm of the Stoic sage as a model of a virtuous leader, who is able to understand the causes of each decision or action and direct the organization towards the set goal. From this perspective, concepts such as leadership, organizational ethics, or corporate social responsibility acquire an objective status and view the philosophical cosmopolitanism of the Stoic sage as a timeless example of ethical rightness.
Factors influencing osteoradionecrosis progression during hyperbaric oxygen therapy: A case study
Authors: Mezri Sameh , Zitouni Chaima , Bahrini Khadija , Haggui Mounir , Boughzala Wiem , Gharsallah Hedi
Published: January 2025

Introduction Although relatively uncommon, osteoradionecrosis (ORN) remains a serious complication following radiotherapy. Various therapeutic approaches, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), are utilized in managing ORN. This study aims to evaluate the role of HBOT in ORN management and to identify predictive factors influencing the evolution of head and neck ORN after HBOT. Methods This retrospective study includes 46 patients who received HBOT for head and neck ORN between 2017 and 2020. The patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n=36) included those with regression or stabilization of ORN, while Group 2 (n=10) comprised patients with worsening lesions. We performed a statistical study in order to identify factors influencing ORN progression under treatment. Results ORN affected the mandible in 93.5% of patients, the maxilla in 2 cases, and the skull base in 4 cases. All patients received HBOT, with an average of 44.65 sessions. Pre-operative HBOT was administered in 17% of cases, and post-operative HBOT was given in 42% of cases. After at least 20 sessions, ORN regressed in 33% of cases, stabilized in 45%, and worsened in 22%. Analysis of factors influencing ORN progression on the univariate study revealed significant associations with high blood pressure (p=0.046), larger tumor size (p=0.004), advanced tumor stages (p=0.048), mean radiation dose (p=0.002), delays between dental care and radiotherapy (p=0.045), and the location of ORN within the mandible (p=0.049). Additionally, the number of HBOT sessions significantly affected ORN evolution, with more sessions correlating with better outcomes (p=0.001). In the multivariate analysis, variables such as the average interval between dental care and radiotherapy (p=0.043) as well as the number of HBOT sessions (p=0.040) emerged as significant influencers of ORN evolution. Conclusion Our study provides valuable insights into the management of ORN by identifying key predictors that influence the post-therapeutic evolution of head and neck ORN after HBOT.
A guide to selecting high-performing antibodies for STING1 (Uniprot ID: Q86WV6) for use in western blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence
Authors: Ruíz Moleón Vera , Alende Charles , Fotouhi Maryam , Ayoubi Riham , Southern Kathleen , Laflamme Carl ,   NeuroSGC/YCharOS/EDDU collaborative group,   ABIF consortium
Published: January 2025

Stimulator of interferon genes protein (STING1) is an immune adaptor protein which promotes innate immune defense mechanisms against pathogens. To enhance our understanding of STING1-associated disease, it is essential to make high-performing antibodies accessible to the scientific community. This study aims to improve reliability of STING1 research as we have characterized sixteen STING1 commercial antibodies for western blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence using a standardized experimental protocol based on comparing read-outs in knockout cell lines and isogenic parental controls. These studies are part of a larger, collaborative initiative seeking to address antibody reproducibility issues by characterizing commercially available antibodies for human proteins and publishing the results openly as a resource for the scientific community. While use of antibodies and protocols vary between laboratories, we encourage readers to use this report as a guide to select the most appropriate antibodies for their specific needs.
Current scenario of machine learning applications to hydrothermal liquefaction via bibliometric analysis
Authors: Katongtung Tossapon , Sukpancharoen Somboon , Sinthupinyo Sakprayut , Tippayawong Nakorn
Published: January 2025

Background Energy shortages and global warming have been significant issues throughout history. Therefore, the search for environmentally friendly renewable energy sources is crucial for achieving sustainability. Biomass energy is gaining global attention as a renewable energy option, particularly through the process of hydrothermal liquefaction, which converts wet biomass into bio-crude oil. Methods Hydrothermal liquefaction is a complex process that is challenging to explain, leading to research on machine learning models for this process. These models aim to predict values and investigate the impact of variables on the hydrothermal liquefaction process. These models aim to predict values and investigate the impact of variables on the hydrothermal liquefaction process. However, the development of machine learning in hydrothermal liquefaction is still limited due to its novelty and the time required for comprehensive study. Thus, the objective of this study was to analyze relevant publications in the Scopus database, focusing on indexed ML and HTL keywords, to understand keyword associations and co-citations. Results The results reveal an increasing trend in the study of ML in the HTL process, with a growing interest from various countries. Conclusion Notably, China currently holds the largest share of ML research in HTL processes, with most published works falling within the field of engineering. The keyword “liquefaction” emerges as the most popular term in these publications.
Factors associated with progression of fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B virus infection in the indeterminate phase
Authors: Rouis Sana , mrabet soumaya , Ferjaoui Mohamed , Ben Lasfar Nedia , Sahli Jihene , Boujamline Syrine , Ayari Rym , Abid Maha , Ben Selma Manel , Ben Ticha Mariem , Bellazreg Foued , Ben Jezia Elhem , Letaief Amel , Hachfi Wissem
Published: January 2025

Background Anti-viral therapy is not routinely recommended for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, in patients who have persistently elevated serum HBV DNA level (>2000 IU/mL), normal alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) and without significant liver fibrosis, defining the indeterminate phase. The objective of the study is to identify the factors associated with the progression of liver fibrosis in chronic HBV infected patients in the indeterminate phase. Methods This is cross-sectional study, conducted in Infectious Disease and Hepato-gastroenterology departments of Farhat Hached university hospital, between January 2008 and January 2022. We have included the Ag HBs (+) patients initially not treated, presenting at the time of the initial evaluation: a viral load> 2,000 IU/L for at least six months, normal ALAT (<40UI) and a fibrosis score F0 and/or F1 (in liverbiopsy or FibroScan). Univariate and logisticreg ression analysis were performed to identify the factors associated with liver fibrosis progression. Results In total, 97 patients were included, with a median age of 32.9± 9.1 years, and a female predominance (sex ratio M/F=0.64). Progression of fibrosis was observed in 16 patients (16.5%) with a mean delay of 70.9±41.1 months. In the univariate analysis, factors associated with progression of fibrosis were the presence of comorbidities (p=0.001), the high initial viral load (p=0.004), the appearance of cytolysis (p=0.001) and the increase in viral load (p=0.002), during follow-up. The AUROC of the initial viral load was 0.664 (95%CI: 0.500-0.820). An intial viral load at 8090 UI/l was associated with the progression of fibrosis with a sensibility of 70.3% and specificity of 63%. Conclusion Factors associated with progression of fibrosis in the indeterminate phase of chronic HBV infection were the presence of comorbidities, and changes of ALAT during follow-up. This leads us to consider extending the therapeutic indications to this group of patients.
The Double-Edged Sword of Third-Party Resources: Examining Use and Financial Burden of Extracurricular Tools in Medical Students
Authors: Farhan Saaniya , Kienzle Drake , Guler Meryem , Siddique Faizaan , Fernandez Andres , Papanagnou Dimitrios
Published: January 2025

Background According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Year 2 questionnaire, the percentage of students using online medical education videos (Boards and Beyond®Sketchy Medical®, Youtube) at least once per week increased from 47.7% (2015) to 70.1% (2022). Transition to virtual learning in 2020 fostered a greater reliance on these online third-party resources (i.e., educational tools distinct from formal medical curriculum), yet existing literature have rarely evaluated their efficacy. As students in this landscape, we aimed to review the usage, efficacy, and drawbacks of third-party resources and their financial burden on students. Methods Four authors searched PubMed from June-July 2023 using the search terms “prevalence,” “efficacy,” and “disparities introduced by third-party board preparation resources.” All peer-reviewed articles in English were evaluated. No inclusion or exclusion criteria were implemented. References were mined for additional results, per the discretion of each reviewer. Results 31 studies were examined for common themes and findings to provide a snapshot of the existing literature. Studies suggest third-party resources are used in a task-dependent manner with a supplemental role to lectures during the preclinical years and a primary role for United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) preparation during clinical years. Medical students access these resources to perform well on board exams, prompted by studies demonstrating their efficacy in increasing USMLE Step 1 scores. Though certain resources have been frequently cited for improving board performance (e.g., First Aid, UWorld), students combine multiple third-party resources to best serve their preparation. Subscription-pricing of most third-party resources and 12-month access prices range from $100 to $479. Conclusion Third-party resource use may contribute to an increased financial strain on students. This, coupled with overwhelming medical student debt, may exacerbate socioeconomic disparities in medical education. Institutions should evaluate third-party resource use among students and consider provisions to increase access to them.
Transcendental Communication with Near Death Experience
Authors: Lorita Simamora Santa , Sulthan Fadhilah Muhammad , Andika Dicky , Gunawan M , Jamilah Mihardja Eli
Published: January 2025

This study examines the experiences of individuals with Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) or individuals who have had near-death experiences. This phenomenon is still without a concrete definition and clear mechanism, almost like a mystery, as it is not perceived by others, only felt by the individuals who experience it. There are few individuals with near-death experiences due to severe illness or tragic accidents. The Near-Death Experience phenomenon falls into the category of unique and rare events, with a relatively small number of studies from the perspective of transcendental communication in Indonesia. The aim of this study is to understand and describe how individuals interpret their experiences of transcendental communication when in a coma or abnormal consciousness. This study uses a phenomenological approach with three subjects. The results of this study are expected to deeply explore the experiences of individuals' transcendental communication with their Creator during near-death conditions. These experiences serve as lessons for everyone that death will surely come, hence the need to prepare with good deeds and worship. To delve deeper into the description of the near-death transcendental communication experiences, in-depth interviews were conducted with subjects who voluntarily agreed to participate. The subjects were selected using purposive sampling techniques, specifically snowball sampling. The study results indicate that the transcendental communication experienced by the three subjects involved communicating with their God, their Creator, resulting in profound meanings for them. All three subjects perceived their near-death condition as a pivotal point for behavioral change towards a better direction in life.