bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The limits of diplomacy by treaty: Evidence from China's bilateral investment treaty program
Authors: Chilton Adam , Rao Weijia
Published: November 2024

The web of over 3000 Bilateral Investment Treaties (“BITs”) is the primary body of international law regulating cross‐border investments. Research suggests that these treaties may have had a limited impact on promoting new investments, but that they still may have helped to improve countries' political relationships. In this paper, we document that this pattern was reversed for one of the most prolific signers of BITs: China. Using a stacked‐event research design, we find that Chinese BITs are associated with an increase in Bilateral Foreign Direct Investment Flows but a divergence in voting patterns at the United Nations. We then explore two explanations for why the Chinese BIT program led to increased investment while also producing foreign policy divergence: that the domestic political costs of economic engagement with China push countries away, and that there are offsetting international pressures that have stronger pulls than China's efforts. We find no support for the domestic political costs explanation, but we do find evidence that the countries that received increased aid from the United States after signing a Chinese BIT had greater foreign policy divergence with China.
Effect of protease inhibitors on the intraerythrocytic development of Babesia microti and Babesia duncani, the causative agents of human babesiosis
Authors: Aderanti Temitope , Marshall Jordan M. , Thekkiniath Jose
Published: November 2024

Human babesiosis is a malaria‐like, tick‐borne infectious disease with a global distribution. Babesiosis is caused by intraerythrocytic, apicomplexan parasites of the genus Babesia. In the United States, human babesiosis is caused by Babesia microti and Babesia duncani. Current treatment for babesiosis includes either the combination of atovaquone and azithromycin or the combination of clindamycin and quinine. However, the side effects of these agents and the resistance posed by these parasites call for alternative approaches for treating human babesiosis. Proteases play several roles in the context of parasitic lifestyle and regulate basic biological processes including cell death, cell progression, and cell migration. Using the SYBR Green‐1 assay, we screened a protease inhibitor library that consisted of 160 compounds against B. duncani in vitro and identified 13 preliminary hits. Dose response assays of hit compounds against B. duncani and B. microti under in vitro conditions identified five effective inhibitors against parasite growth. Of these compounds, we chose ixazomib, a proteasome inhibitor as a potential drug for animal studies based on its lower IC50 and a higher therapeutic index in comparison with other compounds. Our results suggest that Babesia proteasome may be an important drug target and that developing this class of drugs may be important to combat human babesiosis.
Fine structural features of the free‐living stages of Amyloodinium ocellatum (Dinoflagellata, Thoracosphaeraceae): A marine fish ectoparasite
Authors: Li Zhicheng , Zhuang Jingyu , Cao Jizhen , Han Qing , Luo Zhi , Wang Baotun , Wang Hebing , Dong Chuanfu , Li Anxing
Published: November 2024

Amyloodinium ocellatum is a protozoan parasite that causes amyloodiniosis in marine and brackish water fish, threatening global aquaculture. The present study investigates the morphology and ultrastructure of the free‐living stages of A. ocellatum (tomont and dinospore) using light microscopy (LM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Dinospores measured 13.03–19.66 μm in length, 12.32–18.71 μm in width, and were laterally flattened. Dinospores had a transverse flagellum for propulsion and a longitudinal flagellum for direction control. The cyst wall had three distinct layers and included cellulose. The outer wall was coated with numerous bacteria. The orange‐red speckled eyespot was observed all tomont developmental stages and in the dinospore of A. ocellatum. Tomonts proliferation required successive nuclear division, the formation of new cyst walls, and cytoplasmic segregation. The cytoplasm comprises mainly the matrix, organelles, and inclusions. The matrix was grainy and evenly distributed. In addition to organelles, including mitochondria with tubular cristae, Golgi apparatus, and endoplasmic reticulum, the cytoplasm had starch grains and lipid droplets as inclusions. The A. ocellatum cells lacked chloroplasts. This study provides the first ultrastructural view of the cytoplasmic structure of the free‐living stages of A. ocellatum.
Addressing campus–community relationships using the three corners marriage model
Authors: Zvonkovic Anisa M. , Standifer Alton , Dumlao Rebecca , Gavazzi Stephen M.
Published: November 2024

Campus–community partnerships are essential to the field of family science. Like many other academic units in the applied social sciences, family science departments connect with communities to train students and engage in outreach, fulfilling the mission of many institutions, particularly land‐grant universities. Establishing, nurturing, maintaining, monitoring, and improving these partnerships benefits academia, the scholarly institution in question, and the organizations and individuals in their host communities. This paper focuses on the application of a family science‐derived theoretical model to illuminate connections between institutions of higher education and the communities in which they are situated, for better or for worse. Using case studies and real‐life examples, we adapt the three corners theory of relationships to campus and community partnerships, illuminating how external interests and investment in the partnership can affect the productivity of joint initiatives.
Physical constraints on the positions and dimensions of the zebrafish swim bladder by surrounding bones
Authors: Satoh Koumi , Maeno Akiteru , Adachi Urara , Ishizaka Mizuki , Yamada Kazuya , Koita Rina , Nakazawa Hidemichi , Oikawa Sae , Fujii Renka , Furudate Hiroyuki , Kawamura Akinori
Published: November 2024

Precise regulation of organ size and position is crucial for optimal organ function. Since the swim bladder is primarily responsible for buoyancy in teleosts, early development and subsequent inflation of the swim bladder should be appropriately controlled with the body growth. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we show that the size and position of the swim bladder are physically constrained by the surrounding bones in zebrafish. Non‐invasive micro‐CT scanning revealed that the anterior edge of the swim bladder is largely attached to the os suspensorium, which is an ossicle extending medioventrally from the 4th centrum. Additionally, we observed that hoxc6a mutants, which lack the os suspensorium, exhibited an anterior projection of the swim bladder beyond the 4th vertebra. During the swim bladder development, we found that the counterclockwise rotation of the os suspensorium correlates with posterior regression of the swim bladder, suggesting that the os suspensorium pushes the swim bladder posteriorly into its proper position. Furthermore, our results revealed a close association between the posterior region of the swim bladder and the pleural ribs. In hoxaa cluster mutants with additional ribs, the swim bladder expanded posteriorly, accompanied by an enlarged body cavity. Taken together, our results demonstrate the importance of the surrounding bones in the robust regulation of swim bladder size and position in zebrafish.
Social Enterprise Referents: How Social Enterprises Help Organize Nascent Fields to Address Complex Societal Problems
Authors: Reinecke Pauline C. , Wrona Thomas
Published: November 2024

Addressing societal challenges requires engaging diverse actors, but clashes between social and commercial interests often hinder coordination. In established fields, conflicting social interests can be integrated by challenging dominant commercial positions and rallying powerful actors. However, creating new fields without established actors and coordination mechanisms is more complex, especially when interests conflict. We explore this challenge through the development of reusable containers for takeaway food and beverages, where incompatible perspectives initially led to a field impasse. A pioneering social enterprise blending commercial and social interests emerged as a referent, facilitating collaboration and breaking the impasse. After initial field organizing succeeded, regulatory changes and increased demand exposed the shortcomings of early solutions, leading to setbacks. New social enterprises developed solutions to fill supply–demand gaps, anchoring new models in a market and driving both standardization and innovation. We introduce the concept of ‘social enterprise referents’ to highlight their essential role in organizing nascent fields to address complex societal issues. Without these referents, models for building new fields struggle to take hold. Successfully transitioning from an underorganized to an organized field requires sustained efforts from multiple social enterprise referents to anchor solutions in a market and uphold collaboration with field actors.
Offshoot Decline and Bud Rot of Date Palm Caused by Three Species of Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Abedinzadeh Alma , Falahi Charkhabi Nargues , Aeini Milad , Fazliarab Amal
Published: November 2024

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) considered a main income and food source for local individuals in producing countries. However, palm offshoot decline and bud rot disease was observed in some palm groves in Khuzestan province as a major date producer in Iran. Thirty‐five samples with rot and decline were collected from diseased offshoot from palm groves of six cities of Khuzestan during 2019–2021. Yellowing in outer leaves, black, brown or reddish brown spots were observed on petioles at the early stage, which gradually continues to rot. Seventy‐nine were isolated from symptomatic samples among which 38 strains caused rotting in the inoculated site and emission of a foul odour 3 weeks after inoculation on petioles and rachises of young offshoots. Based on the phenotypic characters, pathogenic strains categorised in three groups including Klebsiella oxytoca with 15, Kosakonia radicincitans with 12 and Citrobacter koseri with 11 strains. The phylogenic tree based on analysis of the concatenated partial sequences of two housekeeping genes, gyrB and infB, revealed that six representative strains clustered with the type strains of K. oxytoca and K. radicincitans. Furthermore, two strains were clustered with the type strain of C. koseri based on concatenated partial sequences of gyrB, fusA and pyrG genes. This is the first report of K. oxytoca, K. radicincitans and C. koseri, as agents of date palm offshoot decline and bud rot. The inundation of palm groves due to massive flood during 2019 and 2020 in Khuzestan province may intensify the outbreak of decline and offshoot rot disease.
Psychological Flexibility in Individuals With Substance Use Disorder: The Mediating Effect of Distress Tolerance and Stress
Authors: Yıldız Erman , Büyükfırat Emine
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Psychological flexibility is posited to aid individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) in managing stress and tolerating distress. However, the intricacies of this mechanism remain obscure.

Aim

This study investigates the potential mediating role of psychological flexibility in the relationship between distress tolerance and perceived stress among individuals with SUD.

Method

This cross‐sectional study evaluated 187 individuals with SUD, selected through non‐probability convenience sampling, using the Introductory Information Form, the Perceived Stress Scale, the Distress Tolerance Scale and the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire—Substance Abuse. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 25 and further refined with Jamovi 2.4.14, employing advanced mediation analysis techniques.

Results

Significant relationships were found between distress tolerance, perceived stress and psychological flexibility. Mediation model analysis showed that psychological flexibility mediated the relationship between distress tolerance and perceived stress.

Discussion

This study revealed that higher distress tolerance, higher psychological flexibility and lower perceived stress were associated. As individuals adopt a more flexible and accepting attitude towards distressing situations, they perceive stressful events as less threatening and more manageable.

Implications for Practice

The study suggests the need for psychiatric and mental health nursing practice and education to incorporate strategies to increase psychological flexibility.
Lay narratives of nationhood: Time, place and emotion in the talk of populist radical right‐wing supporters in Finland
Authors: Sakki Inari , Jaakkola Jenni , Hakoköngäs Eemeli , Martikainen Jari , Rovamo Helena
Published: November 2024

Inspired by previous research showing how populist radical right‐wing parties capitalise discussions around nation, this article examines Finnish lay citizens' understanding of nationhood in the context of rising right‐wing populism. Drawing on in‐depth interviews with voters of a populist party (N = 25) and using the photo‐elicitation method, this study explores how participants use time, place and emotions to construct their national identity. Through a narrative‐discursive analysis, three emotional narratives were identified—respecting the past, beloved places of identity and admiring traditional ways of living—each contributing to social identity continuity. The findings reveal the interplay between political discourses and embodied, affective meaning‐making, highlighting the importance of approaching the nation as an affective community and using image‐based methodologies to study complex national identities.
Faith over fear? Christian nationalism and cultural fears in the United States
Authors: Baker Joseph O , Whitehead Andrew L
Published: November 2024

Recent research demonstrates strong connections between Americans' embrace of Christian nationalism and their beliefs and attitudes towards a host of salient social and cultural issues. Implicit in these explanations is that a stronger embrace of Christian nationalism signals an underlying fear of changes to the broader culture, which are perceived as leading the nation further away from a preferred, mythic past. To date, however, empirical studies have not focused explicitly on the relationship between social fears and Christian nationalism. Using a nationally representative sample of American adults, we examine the relationship between Christian nationalism and Americans' fears about immigrants, Muslims, communism, white racial replacement and gun control. We find that Christian nationalism is strongly associated with fears about ethnoracial ‘others’, as well as fears about losing economic autonomy and access to guns. Overall, our study shows that contemporary Christian nationalism in the United States is situated in a constellation of social fears about ethnoracial purity, as well as about the perceived loss of individual autonomy.
Heavy‐duty conceptual engineering
Authors: Koch Steffen , Ohlhorst Jakob
Published: November 2024

Conceptual engineering is the process of assessing and improving our conceptual repertoire. Some authors have claimed that introducing or revising concepts through conceptual engineering can go as far as expanding the realm of thinkable thoughts and thus enable us to form beliefs, hypotheses, wishes, or desires that we are currently unable to form. If true, this would allow conceptual engineers to contribute to solving stubborn problems – problems that cannot be solved with our current ways of thinking. We call this kind of conceptual engineering heavy‐duty conceptual engineering. As exciting as the idea of heavy‐duty conceptual engineering sounds, it has never been developed or defended. In this paper, we pursue a two‐fold goal. First, to offer a theory of heavy‐duty conceptual engineering that distinguishes it from other kinds of conceptual engineering; second, to show that heavy‐duty conceptual engineering is possible, both in theory and in practice, and to explain how it can be applied in the service of solving stubborn problems. The central idea is that heavy‐duty conceptual engineering can enhance the semantic expressive power of a conceptual system by the use of bootstrapping processes.
A fungal sRNA silences a host plant transcription factor to promote arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis
Authors: Silvestri Alessandro , Ledford William Conrad , Fiorilli Valentina , Votta Cristina , Scerna Alessia , Tucconi Jacopo , Mocchetti Antonio , Grasso Gianluca , Balestrini Raffaella , Jin Hailing , Rubio‐Somoza Ignacio , Lanfranco Luisa
Published: November 2024

Cross‐kingdom RNA interference (ckRNAi) is a mechanism of interspecies communication where small RNAs (sRNAs) are transported from one organism to another; these sRNAs silence target genes in trans by loading into host AGO proteins. In this work, we investigated the occurrence of ckRNAi in Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis (AMS).

We used an in silico prediction analysis to identify a sRNA (Rir2216) from the AM fungus Rhizophagus irregularis and its putative plant gene target, the Medicago truncatula MtWRKY69 transcription factor. Heterologous co‐expression assays in Nicotiana benthamiana, 5′ RACE reactions and AGO1‐immunoprecipitation assays from mycorrhizal roots were used to characterize the Rir2216–MtWRKY69 interaction. We further analyzed MtWRKY69 expression profile and the contribution of constitutive and conditional MtWRKY69 expression to AMS.

We show that Rir2216 is loaded into an AGO1 silencing complex from the host plant M. truncatula, leading to cleavage of a host target transcript encoding for the MtWRKY69 transcription factor. MtWRKY69 is specifically downregulated in arbusculated cells in mycorrhizal roots and increased levels of MtWRKY69 expression led to a reduced AM colonization level.

Our results indicate that MtWRKY69 silencing, mediated by a fungal sRNA, is relevant for AMS; we thus present the first experimental evidence of fungus to plant ckRNAi in AMS.
Valuing behavioral interventions for obesity reduction: A scoping review of economic models
Authors: McLaughlin Joanna , Sillero‐Rejon Carlos , Moore Theresa H. M. , McLeod Hugh
Published: November 2024

Policymakers require health economic modeling to guide their decision‐making over the choice of interventions for obesity. This scoping review was undertaken to report on the health economic models in use for estimating the value of behavioral interventions (individual or population level) for obesity reduction. Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, EconLit, and Web of Science) were searched for publications meeting inclusion criteria from January 2015 to May 2023. Seventy‐three studies were included, using 44 health economic models between them. When considered against the expert recommendations for modeling of this type, only four models (9%) met all five key elements. The element most commonly unfulfilled was the use of a microsimulation modeling approach (41%, n = 18), followed by model validation (46%, n = 20). A majority of models met each of the other elements: use of a lifetime horizon (59%, n = 26), inclusion of key health events (66%, n = 29), and a risk equation approach to event simulation (71%, n = 31). In addition, under half of the studies considered health inequalities in their reporting. Continued proliferation of models with inadequate time horizons, breadth of obesity‐related health conditions, and perspectives on costs and outcomes risks underestimation of the benefits of longer term interventions and impacts on health inequalities.
Against anti‐fanaticism
Authors: Tarsney Christian
Published: November 2024

Should you be willing to forego any sure good for a tiny probability of a vastly greater good? Fanatics say you should, anti‐fanatics say you should not. Anti‐fanaticism has great intuitive appeal. But, I argue, these intuitions are untenable, because satisfying them in their full generality is incompatible with three very plausible principles: acyclicity, a minimal dominance principle, and the principle that any outcome can be made better or worse. This argument against anti‐fanaticism can be turned into a positive argument for a weak version of fanaticism, but only from significantly more contentious premises. In combination, these facts suggest that those who find fanaticism counterintuitive should favor not anti‐fanaticism, but an intermediate position that permits agents to have incomplete preferences that are neither fanatical nor anti‐fanatical.
Got alt hui. Some considerations on the German dialogue between Massimiliano Sforza and Maximilian I in the Liber Iesus (Milan, Archivio Storico Civico e Biblioteca Trivulziana, Cod. Triv. 2163)☆
Authors: Berger Michael
Published: November 2024

The so‐called Liber Iesus, a Latin prayer book commissioned for the young Massimiliano Sforza by his father Ludovico il Moro in the 1490s, features a splendid miniature depicting a meeting between the child count and Emperor Maximilian I. It is accompanied by a brief dialogue in German with an interlinear version in Italian on the topic of the Milanese‐Imperial alliance on the opposite page. Although the presence of a German version has often been discussed in research, no linguistic analysis has been conducted; statements about the dialogue's contents have apparently always been based on the Italian version. However, it has gone unnoticed that the German text shows a number of idiosyncratic forms that greatly limit its comprehensibility. This finding raises doubts about the common interpretation of the dialogue as a transcript or learning aid for a factual meeting between the two protagonists. In this paper, the language of the dialogue is analysed and the possible genesis of the text in its written form is reconstructed. Moreover, the potential functions of the dialogue beyond the communicative value of the language are discussed.
Utility of acid citrate dextrose‐acidification for platelet volume reduction protocols in the transfusion service
Authors: Jung Yujung , Khan Jenna , Nester Theresa , Usaneerungrueng Chomkan , Stolla Moritz , Barry Dwight , Taroc Ann‐Marie , Ricci Kristin , Saifee Nabiha H.
Published: November 2024

Background

Volume‐reduced platelets can minimize circulatory overload, allergic transfusion reactions, or out‐of‐group plasma infusion. Our center adopted a volume reduction protocol that includes acidification with acid citrate dextrose solution A (ACD‐A) before centrifugation and without any rest period prior to resuspension allowing a better turnaround time for platelet issue.

Study Design and Methods

This report compares corrected count increments (CCIs) from full‐volume and ACD‐A acidified volume‐reduced human platelets in a retrospective study at a single hospital and in a mouse model.

Results

At a pediatric tertiary care hospital, 530 patients received conventional apheresis platelets during the 20‐month study period. Among all patients, the expected 4‐h mean CCI was 9.8 (95% CI: 8.7, 10.9) for full‐volume platelets, and 8.8 (95% CI: 7.3, 10.6) for ACD‐acidified volume‐reduced platelets (p = .29). A statistically significant difference (p = .01) was identified in the expected 24‐h mean CCI: 6.3 (95% CI: 5.5–7.0) with full‐volume platelet, 4.7 (95% CI: 3.6–6.0) with ACD‐acidified volume‐reduced platelet. Limiting CCI calculations to patients with Hematology/Oncology/Hematopoietic Progenitor Cell Transplant diagnosis (n = 296, 56%) indicated a statistically significant difference in both 4‐ and 24‐h predicted CCIs, showing lower CCIs in ACD‐acidified volume‐reduced platelet, although these were still similar to the CCIs observed in all patients and considered to be clinically acceptable responses similar to other volume reduction protocols. The recovery of count‐adjusted, volume‐reduced platelets was significantly lower in mice, suggesting a procedure‐related defect.

Discussion

ACD‐A acidification of platelets before volume reduction decreases turnaround time for platelet issue and provides clinically allowable 4‐h and 24‐h platelet increments.
Evaluation of 3D‐printed patient‐specific guides to facilitate fluoroscopic‐assisted Kirschner wire stabilization of simulated capital physeal fractures in 3D‐printed dog femur models
Authors: Deveci Mehmet Zeki Yilmaz , Lewis Daniel D. , Worden Natalie J. , Johnson Matthew D. , Scheuermann Logan M. , Kim Stanley E. , Peterson Lindsay C.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To compare the efficiency and accuracy of freehand and three‐dimensionally printed (3DP) guide‐facilitated fluoroscopic‐assisted Kirschner wire placement in the femoral capitis performed by novice and experienced surgeons.

Sample population

3DP models of five skeletally immature dog femurs were replicated.

Methods

Virtual surgical planning was done to position three parallel, virtual Kirschner wires inserted from the lateral subtrochanteric surface of the femur, coursing proximomedially through the femoral neck to engage the central capitis without penetrating the subchondral bone. Patient‐specific guides were designed and 3DP to facilitate optimal Kirschner wire placement in each femoral model. Four faculty surgeons and four surgery residents performed freehand fluoroscopic‐assisted wire placement in the femoral models. Wire placement was repeated ≥1 month later using the 3DP guides. Surgical time, number of times wires were redirected, number of fluoroscopy images acquired and Likert scores from the participants were recorded. Post‐procedural CTs of the femur models were used to assess wire placement by 3D analysis.

Results

The number of fluoroscopy images was greater (p < .001) and procedure time was longer (p < .001) for freehand applications, while Likert scores were greater (p < .001) for 3DP‐guide applications. Wire placement was more accurate with 3DP guides. Subchondral bone penetration occurred more frequently during freehand applications (p < .01).

Conclusion

3DP patient‐specific guides resulted in faster, simpler, and more accurate Kirschner wire placement than freehand placement for both novice and experienced surgeons. Further cadaveric and clinical studies are warranted to evaluate the utility of 3DP patient‐specific guides to facilitate minimally invasive fluoroscopic‐assisted femoral capital physeal fracture stabilization in dogs.
The transportation of embedded inversion in world Englishes
Authors: Amador‐Moreno Carolina P.
Published: November 2024

The present study uses private correspondence to investigate the use of embedded inversion on both sides of the Atlantic as an illustration of the spread of spoken/conversational features through writing. The paper discusses the use of embedded inversion in Irish English (IrE) and briefly compares its occurrence in other varieties of English during the 19th century. The data come from CORIECOR, the Corpus of Irish English Correspondence, which contains emigrant letters written to and by Irish emigrants from 1760 to 1940. The letters were sent mainly between Ireland and other countries such as the United States, Canada, Great Britain, New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina, and therefore provide an empirical base for studies of historical change. By using corpus linguistics techniques, we analyze possible connections between American English and IrE. The occurrence of embedded inversion in CORIECOR is compared with other historical corpora such as the Corpus of Historical American English, which provides data from one of the main destinations of Irish emigrants.
IDENTIFICATION OF SECONDARY METABOLITES BY GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY WITH MASS SPECTROSCOPY IN CALLUS TISSUES OF CISTANCHE DESERTICOLA Y.C. MA
Authors: Sutula M.Y. , Gubaidullin N.N. , Rakhimzhanova A.O. , Manabayeva S.A.
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study is to analyze the types of secondary metabolite compounds found in cistanche (Cistanche deserticola) plants. Methanolic extracts of callus tissues and shoots (stolon) of cistanche were obtained by lyophilic drying and grinding to powdered state using 80% methanol. Secondary metabolites within cystanche callus were first identified by GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy). The identification results of the methanolic extracts revealed various types of compounds including fatty acids (hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester); phenolic compounds and their derivatives (phenol, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, homovanillyl alcohol, phenol, 2,6-dimethoxy;) sterols (γ-sitosterol); sugars, glycosides and other carbohydrates (ethyl α-D-glucopyranoside, sucrose), glycols and their derivatives (tetraethylene glycol, diethylene glycol monodododecyl ether), etc. Some of the detected compounds may be precursors or by-products of phenylethanoid glycosides biosynthesis. We also found a correlation between callus color and its chemical composition of secondary metabolites. The data can be used for further optimization of C. deserticola cultivation methods to increase the content of target secondary metabolites.
Detection of pathogenic microorganisms in ticks collected from wild boars (Sus scrofa) in a recreational park in Portugal
Authors: Guerreiro-Nunes Andreia , De Sousa Rita , Núncio Maria Sofia , Norte Ana Cláudia , Lopes de Carvalho Isabel
Published: November 2024

NA
“We’re All Brothers”: Exploring Bonding Strategies Among Professional Baseball Players of Diverse Backgrounds
Authors: Gentile Patrick C. , Skuratowicz Luke A. , Riordan Zachary J. , Arth Zachary W.
Published: November 2024

This article seeks to understand the mechanisms through which professional baseball players of diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds create bonds with each other. Utilizing interviews with 22 individuals including players, coaches, and team personnel, the study aims to elucidate the nuances of cultural navigation and comprehension within the baseball context. Employing social-identity theory as a framework, the authors underscore the necessity for players to adopt a mindset conducive to linguistic experimentation and humor, viewing each other as individuals beyond cultural labels and embracing the diversity inherent in their respective backgrounds. The pivotal role of cultural understanding in fostering camaraderie among teammates is highlighted, emphasizing the significance of mutual respect and empathy in transcending language and cultural barriers in the professional baseball realm.
Efficacy and safety of fezolinetant for moderate-severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause in individuals unsuitable for hormone therapy: phase 3b randomised controlled trial
Authors: Schaudig Katrin , Wang Xuegong , Bouchard Céline , Hirschberg Angelica Lindén , Cano Antonio , Shapiro C M Marla , Stute Petra , Wu Xi , Miyazaki Kentaro , Scrine Ludmila , Nappi Rossella E
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To assess the efficacy and safety of the non-hormonal, neurokinin 3 receptor antagonist, fezolinetant, to treat moderate-severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause in individuals unsuitable for hormone therapy.

Design

Phase 3b randomised controlled trial.

Setting

16 countries.

Participants

453 individuals aged 40-65 years with moderate-severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause who were considered unsuitable candidates for hormone therapy (contraindicated, caution (based on medical history), stoppers (previous discontinuation of hormone therapy), or averse (informed choice not to use hormone therapy)) were randomised to receive fezolinetant (n=227) or placebo (n=226).

Intervention

Fezolinetant 45 mg or placebo once daily for 24 weeks.

Main outcome measures

The primary endpoint was mean change in daily frequency of moderate-severe vasomotor symptoms from baseline to week 24. Secondary endpoints were mean change in symptom severity, sleep disturbance using the Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Sleep Disturbance Short Form (PROMIS SD-SF) 8b total score, and safety.

Results

370 (81.7%) participants completed the study (fezolinetant=195, placebo group=175). The safety and full analysis sets comprised 452 participants who received at least one dose of study drug. Mean age was 54.5 (standard deviation 4.7) years and most of the participants (435 (96.7%) were white and categorised as either hormone therapy averse (168 (37.2%)) or caution (165 (36.5%)). At week 24, fezolinetant significantly reduced the frequency (least squares mean difference –1.93, 95% confidence interval (CI) –2.64 to –1.22; P<0.001) and severity of vasomotor symptoms (–0.39, –0.57 to –0.21; P<0.001). At week 24, the fezolinetant group had a greater reduction in sleep disturbance (PROMIS SD-SF 8b total score) compared with placebo (–2.5, –3.9 to –1.1; P<0.001). Improvements over placebo were observed as early as week 1. Both groups showed similar incidences of treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs, 147 (65.0%) in the fezolinetant group, 138 (61.1%) in the placebo group) and serious TEAEs (10 (4.4%) and 8 (3.5%), respectively). The most common TEAEs in the fezolinetant group were covid-19 (30 (13.3%)), headache (20 (8.8%)), and fatigue (13 (5.8%)).

Conclusions

Fezolinetant was efficacious and well tolerated over a six month period for treating moderate-severe vasomotor symptoms in individuals considered unsuitable for hormone therapy. These results highlight the utility of fezolinetant as an effective treatment option for those who have contraindications to or choose not to use hormone therapy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov
NCT05033886
; EudraCT 2021-001685-38.
UAV Inspection Trajectory Planning Method for High-Precision Tower Models
Authors: Zhang Yueyuan , Zhang Chunyuan , Wang Yongli , Shi Shijie , Zhang Rong , Wang Yizhang
Published: November 2024

To accurately complete the inspection task of transmission lines, a UAV inspection trajectory planning method for high-precision tower models is discussed. By using GIM three-dimensional modeling technology, high-precision models of power towers and transmission lines are obtained, and then the coordinates of target points during the UAV inspection process are obtained. A target model based on the inspection point coordinates is established to plan the trajectory path. A trajectory planning model based on particle swarm algorithm and beetle whisker algorithm is established to improve the algorithm model’s ability to escape from difficulties. In response to sudden obstacles during UAV inspections, a wall-walking strategy is introduced to prevent UAVs from falling into static traps. Through experimental verification, the improved algorithm can effectively reduce the flight distance by 2.81[Formula: see text]km and improve the efficiency of UAV operation. The verification of sudden static and dynamic threats has been conducted, and the experimental results show that this method can effectively ensure the effectiveness of the UAV power inspection process.
Promoting Effect of Art Design Competition on Teaching Reform of Visual Communication Design Specialty
Authors: Rui Lyu , Yang Chanxi
Published: November 2024

The art and design competition has brought more practical project experience to graphic communication design. Traditional design education often focuses on teaching theoretical knowledge and basic skills, while practical business projects and design challenges are rarely introduced into the classroom. This paper will introduce the basic concepts and characteristics of art design competition and its application in teaching visual communication design. Through the case analysis of various art and design competitions, we can see how these competitions stimulate students’ innovative thinking, improve students’ design skills, and help students establish professional design concepts. Art and design competitions can not only improve students’ design skills but also help teachers understand the latest trends in the industry. Suggestions have been put forward on how to better utilize art and design competitions to enhance professional level. These suggestions include how to choose a suitable competition project, how to organize and guide students to participate in the competition, and how to transform the results of the competition into teaching resources. Art and design competitions help improve students’ practical abilities and innovative thinking. Compared to traditional teaching methods, art and design competitions place more emphasis on practice and innovation. During the competition, students need to apply their theoretical knowledge, combine it with practical needs, unleash innovative thinking, and complete works with practical application value. This form of competition can encourage students to transform theoretical knowledge into practical abilities, cultivate their innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Research on the Influencing Factors of High-Quality Development of Service Industry Under Digital Network Computing
Authors: Yang Lei , Chu Zetai , Shi Jing
Published: November 2024

Faced with the growing demand for personalized services and the challenge of high service quality standards in the market, the traditional service industry model is no longer able to meet current needs, and transformation and upgrading are urgently needed. Therefore, it is particularly crucial to deeply analyze how digital network computing can effectively empower and accelerate the high-quality development process of the service industry, while identifying and analyzing the core influencing factors in this process. Digital network computing relies on vast digital knowledge and information resources, with highly interconnected network infrastructure as the cornerstone, integrating advanced information and communication technologies to achieve real-time transmission, processing, and analysis of data, thereby driving the continuous emergence of intelligent decision-making and innovative applications. Its distinctive characteristics include high network interconnectivity, deep data mining and utilization, intelligent decision support, and continuous technological innovation drive. The purpose of this study is to deepen the understanding of the internal mechanism of the integration and development of digital network computing and the service industry, and to reveal the multiple paths and key factors that promote high-quality development of the service industry. Through system analysis, we hope to provide scientific decision-making basis for policy makers, valuable strategic suggestions for service enterprises on the road of digital transformation, and jointly promote the service industry to move toward a more prosperous, efficient, and sustainable new stage of development.
Adaptive Control of Multimodal Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Based on Embedded Neural Network
Authors: Zhaona Lu , Chuanxing Wang , Junlong Wang , Yan Wang
Published: November 2024

Permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) occupy a core position in various industrial and household equipment due to their excellent energy efficiency, high-power density, and low-noise characteristics. However, facing dynamic factors such as load fluctuations, environmental temperature changes, and manufacturing tolerances, the stability and optimization of its operational efficiency have become a major challenge. To address these issues, this study innovatively proposes a multimodal adaptive control strategy based on embedded neural networks, aiming to enhance the adaptability of PMSM to complex working environments through intelligent learning and optimized decision-making. The core of the research is to construct a control system based on embedded neural networks, which can capture the characteristics of PMSM in different operating modes in real time and learn the corresponding optimal control strategy. The advantages of embedded neural networks lie in their compact model design and efficient computing power, making them highly suitable for resource-constrained motor control systems. Through multimodal learning, the system can recognize and adapt to various states of motor operation, such as start-up, acceleration, steady-state operation, and deceleration, thereby achieving precise control of motor performance.
Research on the Accuracy of Machine Translation in Cross-Cultural Communication Based on Embedded Neural Networks
Authors: Han Qi
Published: November 2024

The introduction of embedded neural network technology marks a significant leap forward in machine translation technology. This technology not only simulates the complex learning and understanding mechanisms of the human brain but also achieves precise capture and conversion of subtle differences and deep meanings in language through continuous algorithm optimization and iteration. This study mainly focuses on the accuracy of machine translation in cross-cultural communication using embedded neural network technology. Our aim is to explore in depth the potential of this advanced technology in overcoming language barriers, improving cross-cultural communication efficiency and quality. The study emphasizes the importance of deeply integrating machine translation technology with cross-cultural communication theory. Compared with traditional rule-based machine translation methods, embedded neural networks can better handle the complexity and diversity of language, reduce human set limitations and errors, and significantly improve translation accuracy. Through an interdisciplinary research perspective, the aim is to gain a deeper understanding of the unique habits, communication norms, and potential cultural differences in language use across different cultural backgrounds, in order to provide more accurate cultural context support for machine translation systems. This combination not only helps to improve the quality of translation, but also promotes mutual understanding and respect between cultures, contributing to the construction of a more harmonious and inclusive cross-cultural communication environment.
Scalable Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Data Mining Protecting Career Success in Labor Education
Authors: Wen Dayong
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the creative approaches to labor education by looking at them through the prism of educational and technical advancements. It tackles the current issue of insufficient worker preparation for the complexity of contemporary workplaces caused by antiquated educational methods. There is a widening skills gap since traditional labor education has a hard time keeping up with the changes. Labor Education based on Digital Technologies (LE-DT) is proposed as a solution to this problem in this paper. To make labor education more engaging, accessible, and relevant to today’s workers, LE-DT uses digital technologies and platforms to transform its delivery. Learners’ engagement, retention, and skill development may be improved by the use of multimedia materials, interactive simulations, virtual reality experiences, online courses, and LE-DT. Personalized learning paths, remote collaboration tools, gamified learning modules, and virtual apprenticeships are a few of the many uses of LE-DT covered in the paper. In doing so, it prepares employees for the challenges of the contemporary workplace by bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. The paper evaluates the efficacy of LE-DT in enhancing learning outcomes, boosting labor productivity, and encouraging lifelong learning habits by presenting results from its deployment in various scenarios. Job rates, organizational performance indicators, learner happiness, and skill mastery are some of the evaluation measures.
Design and Implementation of Personalized Recommendation Algorithm in Alumni Using Natural Language Processing
Authors: Jiang Liyu
Published: November 2024

Recently, new possibilities for its web portal application have been presented by the automatic discovery of information in educational data, which has been expanding its horizons. The recommendation of university courses for high school students is an unexplored area. Traditional recommendation systems rely on collaborative filtering, which, in this instance, does not apply since the number of items and users needed to achieve high-performance levels is too small. One of the most well-known recommendation approaches in the course recommendation career is Natural Language Processing (NLP). Association rules have been added using data from alumni and assessments of student recommendations. The rules have been created by first mining data about the course that students completed, then comparing the discovered relationships to the existing course tree to improve it. Hence, a Natural Language Processing-based Personalized Recommendation System (NLP-PRS) has been established to help students choose courses that would take them to their desired careers by analyzing data from alumni and job offers. This study can use the alumni web portal and content formation through NLP to extract relevant information from course programs. It then presents recommendations based on students’ performance, interests, and results in each course that makes up each program. In addition, for the best results in improving their learning skills, students’ decisions should inform the recommended compliance. Because students vary in preferences (based on prior knowledge, learning style, emotional state, etc.), it is impossible to recommend a set timeframe for the recommended sequence. Based on the experimental outcome data, it gives the impression that the system is superior for allowing alumni to engage, share updates, and interact with current students who are alumni.
Solving Multiobjective Fuzzy Binary Integer Linear Fractional Programming Problems Involving Pentagonal and Hexagonal Fuzzy Numbers
Authors: Akate Adane , Fentaw Getaye
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we studied a multiobjective linear fractional programming (MOLFP) problem with pentagonal and hexagonal fuzzy numbers, while the decision variables are binary integer numbers. Initially, a multiobjective fuzzy binary integer linear fractional programming (MOFBILFP) problem was transformed into a multiobjective binary linear fractional programming problem by using the geometric average method; second, a multiobjective binary integer linear fractional programming (MOBILFP) problem was converted into a binary integer linear fractional programming (BILFP) problem using the Pearson 2 skewness coefficient technique; and third, a BILFP problem was solved by using LINGO (version 20.0) mathematical software. Finally, some numerical examples and case studies have been illustrated to show the efficiency of the proposed technique and the algorithm. The performance of this technique was evaluated by comparing their results with those of other existing methods. The numerical results have shown that the proposed technique is better than other techniques.