bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanocarrier-Based Drug Delivery Systems Targeting Kidney Diseases
Authors: Zucaro Laura , Longobardi Consiglia , Miele Antonio , Villanova Antonio , Suzumoto Yoko
Published: October 2024

Background: The potential applications of nanotechnology in the medical field have become increasingly recognized in recent years. Nanocarriers have emerged as a versatile tool, offering a wide range of applications due to their unique properties. In addition to the targeted drugs delivery, nanocarriers have also proven to be extremely effective in imaging and diagnostics. Continuous advances in nanotechnology have paved the way for innovative solutions to complex challenges in human health, shaping the future of nanotechnology and its applications. Summary: By exploring different types of nanoparticles, this review delves into the different characteristics that can be tailored to enhance their kidney access. Although the structural complexity of the kidney may prevent nanocarriers passage, optimization of nanocarrier characteristics such as shape, size, charge, and surface modifications may overcome these barriers, allowing for targeted delivery. By harnessing the potential of nanoparticles, researchers aim to develop targeted and efficient therapies that can address various kidney-related disorders. Key Messages: This review highlights the promising advancements in nanotechnology and their potential impact on improving the therapeutic outcomes for several kidney diseases.
Nodal T-Cell Lymphoma Transdifferentiated from Mantle Cell Lymphoma with Epstein-Barr Virus Infection
Authors: Barone Paul D. , Tam Wayne , Geyer Julia T. , Leonard John P. , Phillips Adrienne , Ouseph Madhu M.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: We report a case of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) with an apparent lineage switch to an EBV-positive T-cell lymphoma. Although lineage switch is a well-documented phenomenon in some hematolymphoid diseases, such as acute leukemias or histiocytic/dendritic cell neoplasms, lineage switch from mature B-cell to T-cell lymphoma is exceedingly rare. Case Presentation: A 55-year-old man with an established history of MCL presented to our institution. Peripheral blood flow cytometry was consistent with MCL. Biopsy of a lumbar vertebral fracture site demonstrated MCL, EBV-associated, with large cells reminiscent of high-grade transformation (BCL1-positive). Two months later, a lymph node biopsy demonstrated an EBV-positive T-cell lymphoma without phenotypic evidence of B-cell lymphoma (BCL1-negative). Cytogenetic testing revealed CCND1::IGH fusion in all three specimens. IGH/IGK clonality testing revealed conserved monoclonal peaks in all three samples; TCR clonality testing revealed monoclonal peaks in the T-cell lymphoma, only. NGS-based molecular genetic studies revealed shared mutations between the three samples, consistent with a clonal relationship suggesting evolution from MCL to T-cell lymphoma. Conclusions: This case demonstrates that lineage switch from mature B-cell to mature T-cell phenotype is possible in certain settings. Whether lineage switch in this case was potentiated by EBV infection is unclear. The loss of BCL1 expression in the T-cell lymphoma, despite conservation of the CCND1::IGH fusion, may be attributable to the downregulation of the IGH promoter as part of the shift from B-cell to T-cell phenotype.
Fetal Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome with Intact Atrial Septum: From Successful in utero Stenting to Subtotal Stent Occlusion – A Case Report
Authors: Tulzer Andreas , Scharnreitner Iris , Sames-Dolzer Eva , Kreuzer Michaela , Mair Rudolf , Tulzer Gerald
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Fetuses with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and intact atrial septum (IAS) have an overall poor prognosis and a high risk of neonatal death due to severe secondary lung damage. Intrauterine stenting of the atrial septum was introduced in these patients to enable survival. Case Presentation: We present a case of a HLHS fetus with IAS and signs of incipient nutmeg lung, in whom at 30 weeks gestation an atrial stent was successfully placed but continuously developed subtotal stent-obstruction over the next weeks. Conclusion: Continuous obstruction of placed atrial septum stents until delivery is possible and requires close monitoring of successfully treated fetuses.
ФІТОХІМІЧНИЙ ТА МІКРОМОРФОЛОГІЧНИЙ АНАЛІЗ НАСІННЯ НОВОГО СОРТУ NIGELLA DAMASCENA L.
Authors: Shanaida M. I. , Brindza J. , Horčinová Sedlačková V. , Korablova O. A. , Serafyn O. A. , Ostrovský R. , Rakhmetov D. B.
Published: October 2024

Мета роботи. Проаналізувати загальний вміст фенольних сполук і компонентного складу летких сполук у насінні нового сорту «Різдвяна зірочка» Nigella damascena L. (чорнушка дамаська); також оцінювали морфометричні показники насіння цього сорту.
Матеріали  і  методи. Для аналізу якісного складу та кількісного вмісту летких сполук застосовано метод газової хромато-мас-спектрометрії (ГХ/МС). Використано хроматограф Agilent Technologies 6890 з мас-спектрометричним детектором. Кількісний вміст летких компонентів визначали з використанням тридекану як внутрішнього стандарту. Загальний вміст фенольних сполук визначали за допомогою реактиву Фоліна-Чекольту (метод Сінглтона й Россі). Морфометричний аналіз насіння проводили під світловим мікроскопом AxioCam MRc5 із застосуванням програми AxioVision Rel. 4.8.2.
Результати й обговорення. Серед виявлених летких сполук домінували терпеноїди: бета-елемен (34,01 %), гермакрен А (28,16 %) і дамасценін (21,97 %). Загальний вміст фенольних сполук у 80 % метанольному витязі досліджуваного насіння сорту становила (29,37±0,59) мг/г (у перерахунку на галової кислоти еквівалент). Крім того, проведений морфометричний аналіз дав змогу виявити основні морфологічні параметри цього насіння.
Висновки. У цьому дослідженні проаналізовано загальний вміст фенольних сполук та компонентний склад ​​летких сполук у насінні нещодавно виведеного сорту «Різдвяна зірочка» Nigella damascena та оцінено морфометричні характеристики цього насіння.
Caracterização do Risco Coronariano em Indivíduos Hipertensos
Authors: Fonseca Lucas Buri dos Anjos , Socorro Jacicleide Karollyne Gertulino do , Santos Maria Clara Carvalho dos , Andrade Mônica Santana , Oliveira Carlos José Matos de
Published: October 2024

A hipertensão arterial é uma doença crônica caracterizada por níveis elevados de pressão arterial, sendo um dos principais fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento de doenças cardiovasculares. Essa condição contribui significativamente para o aumento da morbidade e mortalidade precoce na população hipertensa. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o risco cardiovascular dos hipertensos acompanhados por uma Unidade Básica de Saúde no município de Lagarto, Sergipe, com o intuito de prevenir desfechos negativos. Trata-se de uma pesquisa quantitativa, de caráter transversal, envolvendo 28 participantes. Na análise dos resultados utilizando o Escore de Morise, 14,3% dos indivíduos apresentaram baixa probabilidade de desenvolver doença arterial coronariana (DAC), 67,9% apresentaram moderada probabilidade e 17,8% alta probabilidade, resultando em 85,7% dos participantes com probabilidade moderada a alta de desenvolver DAC. Os resultados indicam que, dentro da população hipertensa, indivíduos mais idosos e com menor capacidade funcional são mais propensos a eventos cardiovasculares.
Uso de dexmedetomidina no manejo da ventilação mecânica não invasiva em pacientes pediátricos
Authors: Apostólico Nadua , Cruz Monize Mendonça da , Coura Maria Helena Faria , Bussaglia Maria Eduarda Fruet , Wiezel Giovana , Luiz Thais Adriano , Camargo Carolina Cristina dos Santos , Gomes Evelim Leal de Freitas Dantas
Published: October 2024

RESUMENIntroducción: La ventilación no invasiva se utiliza en pacientes pediátricos en una unidad de cuidados intensivos porque es eficaz para el tratamiento de la insuficiencia respiratoria relacionada con enfermedades respiratorias. Sin embargo, existe una alta tasa de fracaso debido a la inquietud. Por lo tanto, la dexmedetomidina se usa como agente de sedación primario o en el período periextubación. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión sistemática de estudios observacionales en pacientes pediátricos (0 a 18 años) durante ventilación mecánica no invasiva con dexmedetomidina. Métodos: Levantamiento sistemático de artículos publicados en las bases de datos PubMed/MedLine, EBSCO, EMBASE, Scielo, SCOPUS, Cochrane library, Google academic y ScienceDirect y revistas disponibles en el Portal de Publicaciones Periódicas de la Coordinación para el Perfeccionamiento del Personal de Educación Superior (Capes). No se limitó ningún período ni año para analizar críticamente los principales elementos relacionados con la interacción entre el fármaco dexmedetomidina, la población pediátrica y el uso de ventilación mecánica no invasiva. Resultados: El uso de dexmedetomidina en pacientes pediátricos con ventilación no invasiva fue positivo después de la extubación porque no provocó depresión del sistema ventilatorio y además tuvo una eficacia significativa en pacientes que presentaron agitación durante la ventilación no invasiva. Sin embargo, su uso durante la ventilación no invasiva ha tenido efectos adversos hemodinámicos como bradicardia e hipertensión, además de signos de abstinencia, que se han informado después de la suspensión del fármaco. Conclusión: Los resultados de los estudios observacionales mostraron dexmedetomidina positivamente en pacientes pediátricos con ventilación no invasiva después de la extubación, aunque puede tener efectos adversos como bradicardia e hipertensión.
Acrônimo baseado no monte “Everest” para o desenvolvimento do raciocínio clínico e hipóteses diagnósticas durante a graduação médica
Authors: Gardona Rodrigo Galvão Bueno , Dambros Robbson Haugusto , Iachinski Joslaine Schuartz , Arruda Gisele , Reis Beatriz Castro , Rodrigues Carlos Frederico de Almeida , Baumer Michel Henrique , Lima Renato Miranda , Pinto Wladimir Bocca Vieira de Rezende
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Acronyms can be an interesting educational tool to guide medical scholars and non-specialist physicians in systematically developing diagnostic hypotheses. Objective: The present study aims to develop an acronym for the step-by-step development of clinical diagnosis to assist medical scholars in constructing diagnostic hypotheses. Method: Classic structures related to clinical reasoning steps and investigative inspirations from Sherlock Holmes were used to create an acronym with educational-indicative content. The acronym was crafted with reference to a natural phenomenon, which, much like medical diagnosis, inspires challenge, technique, and skill to be “conquered.” The acronym was internally validated by three medical professionals.Result: EVERESTE was formulated to be used in academic settings to encapsulate the essence of medical practice. It metaphorically relates to ascending a mountain: E stands for interviewing the patient, VE for the practice of proper semiology, RE for reorganizing collected information, S signifies sensing and presenting diagnostic hypotheses developed through tools of anamnesis, semiology, and clinical epidemiology, the T step involves tests to confirm/exclude clinical suspicions, and E represents the stage of choosing the therapy that best suits the patient, always considering the therapeutic option with the strongest evidence. Conclusion: Rare clinical conditions and common diseases share symptoms, posing significant challenges in scenarios where data, whether clinical or laboratory-based, are scarce for forming an effective diagnosis. This approach correlates clinical elements, aiming to reach the pinnacle of the “EVERESTE.”
Percepção do paciente quanto à qualidade devida no pós-Covid-19
Authors: Menezes Karina Almeida Slemer de , Garcia Lucas França , Felipe Daniele Fernanda
Published: October 2024

Objetivo: Avaliar a percepção dos pacientes quanto à qualidade de vida pós-COVID-19. Métodos: A pesquisa foi realizada por meio de um estudo descritivo, exploratório, com corte transversal e abordagem mista. A amostra foi composta por 22 pacientes que testaram positivo para COVID-19, se recuperaram, e estavam sob acompanhamento em uma clínica médica especializada na cidade de Maringá-PR, atendidos por um médico especialista em pneumologia. Para a coleta de dados, foram utilizados dois instrumentos. O primeiro era uma ficha cadastral, com questões estruturadas referentes à caracterização da amostra, aos dados clínicos e aos sintomas pós-COVID-19, utilizando a escala Modified British Medical Research Council (mMRC) para percepção de esforço. O segundo instrumento foi destinado à coleta de dados relacionados à qualidade de vida, utilizando o “WHOQOL-bref”. Os dados obtidos a partir dos questionários foram analisados estatisticamente, utilizando o programa R (R Development Core Team, 2016), versão 3.6.2. Resultados: Dentre os domínios avaliados, o psicológico apresentou a maior pontuação média, com 15,61 pontos, enquanto a menor pontuação foi observada na autoavaliação da qualidade de vida, com média de 14,82 pontos. As sequelas mais recorrentes no pós-COVID dos pacientes foram tosse, falta de ar, perda de memória, dificuldade de atenção, ansiedade e depressão. Conclusões: As sequelas relatadas afetaram principalmente os domínios físico e psicológico, interferindo, assim, na qualidade de vida dos pacientes. O acompanhamento desses pacientes por uma equipe multidisciplinar é essencial para melhorar sua qualidade de vida. Dessa forma, este estudo pode contribuir para avanços no conhecimento das percepções e expectativas dos pacientes, oferecendo estratégias voltadas à promoção da saúde e ao cuidado.
Frequência de Internações Ponderadas (FIP): uma Proposta de Indicador para Mitigar o Risco Moral em Contratos de Gestão Hospitalar
Authors: Amorim Cláudio José Barbosa de , Almeida Denise Ribeiro de , Sacramento Ana Rita Silva , Raupp Fabiano Maury
Published: October 2024

In this article, the relationship between the hospital departures indicator, the main indicator for evaluating the performance of hospital management contracts in Bahia, and the incidence of moral hazard in light of Agency Theory was evaluated. Using a qualitative approach based on management contracts and data from the Hospital Admission System (SIH/SUS) in 2019, the performance of three hospitals representing the prevailing management models in the state was compared: direct management, Social Organization (OS), and Public-Private Partnership (PPP). The lower productivity in direct management and the higher frequency of low-complexity hospitalizations in the OS suggest the incidence of moral hazard in service delivery. As a strategy to mitigate this risk, a quantitative indicator is proposed for management contracts, which considers different types of hospitalizations in a weighted manner, based on variables available in the SIH/SUS. Although the inconsistencies in this system limit the specificity and potential of the proposed indicator, it is believed that its use can contribute to improving the evaluation of hospital management contracts and enhancing the SIH/SUS database, enabling further study of hospital admission measurement in future research.
Internações hospitalares por desnutrição infantil no Brasil: um panorama epidemiológico dos últimos 10 anos
Authors: Pinto Graziane da Silva Portela , Laguna Gabriela Garcia Carvalho , Lima Aline Oliveira Fernandes de , Bueno Rennan , Santos Islania Fablicia Felix dos , Moreira Rebeca Ferreira Nery , Oliveira Ana Cristina Santos Rocha , Souza Marilia Cordeiro de
Published: October 2024

Objective: To describe the number of hospital admissions due to child malnutrition in Brazil. Methods: This is an epidemiological, descriptive, observational study with a quantitative approach, focusing on hospitalizations of children aged 1 to 9 years due to malnutrition across Brazilian regions. Data were collected from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) between January 2012 and December 2022. Results: A total of 20,855 cases of child malnutrition were reported in Brazil. The years with the highest incidence within the analyzed period were 2012, with 13.0% of cases, followed by 2014, with 12.4%. The Northeast region showed the highest number of hospitalizations, accounting for 34.2% of the total cases. Reports of malnutrition were more common among males (50.9%), children aged 1 to 4 years (70.9%), and those self-identified as brown (40.8%). Regarding the number of deaths, 286 cases were reported, with the highest incidence in 2012 (12.9%). Conclusion: Although there has been a significant decrease in hospitalizations due to malnutrition over the study period, child malnutrition remains a public health issue, driven by fac- tors related to socioeconomic inequalities and disparities in health services across the country.
Resultados maternos e perinatais de gestantes com eclâmpsia em uma unidade de referência em Maceió, Alagoas
Authors: Santos Jadiele Mariana da Silva , Silva Lucas Emanuel de Oliveira , Lima Telmo Henrique Barbosa
Published: October 2024

Objetivo: Analisar os desfechos maternos e perinatais de gestantes com diagnóstico de eclâmpsia em uma unidade de referência em Maceió, Alagoas. Métodos: Estudo observacional e retrospectivo com coleta de dados dos prontuários de gestantes diagnosticadas com eclâmpsia, admitidas na unidade de terapia intensiva da Maternidade Escola Santa Mônica (MESM). Resultados: A amostra consistiu em 70 pacientes, predominantemente adolescentes, afrodescendentes, primigestas com baixa escolaridade, e provenientes do interior do estado. As principais complicações maternas associadas à eclâmpsia foram a síndrome HELLP parcial e distúrbios hidroeletrolíticos. A análise dos desfechos perinatais mostrou que aproximadamente 26,2% dos recém-nascidos apresentaram índice de Apgar ≤ 6 no 1º minuto, e 8,1% no 5º minuto. Foi observada uma incidência de 37,1% de prematuridade, embora a maioria dos recém-nascidos (62,2%) tenha nascido com peso adequado. Entre os principais efeitos adversos perinatais, destacaram- se a ocorrência da Síndrome do Desconforto Respiratório Agudo em 27,14% dos casos e a internação em unidade de terapia intensiva em 31,5% dos casos. Conclusões: Os resultados reforçam a importância do pré-natal adequado e do acompanhamento neonatal para melhorar os desfechos maternos e perinatais. É crucial incentivar a interiorização do atendimento obstétrico especializado, para evitar a sobrecarga da unidade de referência do estado e garantir o atendimento emergencial adequado às parturientes.
O retorno ao lugar em que nunca se esteve: turismo afrodiaspórico em Dacar, Senegal
Authors: Ribeiro Carla Brito Sousa
Published: October 2024

Como abordagem de pré-campo no contexto da pesquisa de doutorado “Retorno e futuro no turismo africano e afrodiaspórico em Dacar, Senegal”, elaborei este ensaio bibliográfico e fotográfico a partir de fotografias postadas em modo público na plataforma Instagram por turistas em visita a capital senegalesa. Busquei correlacionar autoras e autores que contribuíram com a construção do escopo teórico da pesquisa trazendo conceitos chave e possíveis materializações nas imagens. O texto aborda o turismo afrodiaspórico como viagens de retorno, e elabora sobre alguns dos locais mais visitados em Dacar, como a Ilha de Gorée, a Casa dos Escravos e sua porta do não retorno, além do Monumento da Renascença Africana. A discussão bibliográfica também avalia como as fotografias analisadas permitem a reflexão sobre a hipótese desta pesquisa: de que o turismo afrodiaspórico é também uma forma de construção de comunalidades e ruptura com os silenciamentos históricos na diáspora afro-atlântica.
Exploiting Contextual Embeddings in Hierarchical Topic Modeling and Investigating the Limits of the Current Evaluation Metrics
Authors: Viegas Felipe , Pereira Antonio , Cunha Washington , França Celso , Andrade Claudio , Tuler Elisa , Rocha Leonardo , Gonçalves Marcos André
Published: October 2024

We investigate two essential challenges in the context of Hierarchical Topic Modeling (HTM) – (i) the impact of data representation and (ii) topic evaluation. The data representation directly influences the performance of the topic generation, and the impact of new representations such as contextual embeddings in this task has been under-investigated. Topic evaluation, responsible for driving the advances in the field, assesses the overall quality of the topic generation process. HTM studies exploit the exact topic modeling (TM) evaluation metrics as traditional TM to measure the quality of topics. One significant result of our work is demonstrating that the HTM’s hierarchical nature demands novel ways of evaluating the quality of topics. As our main contribution, we propose two new topic quality metrics to assess the topical quality of the hierarchical structures. Uniqueness considers topic topological consistency, while the Semantic Hierarchical Structure (SHS) captures the semantic relatedness of the hierarchies. We also present an additional advance to the state-of-the-art by proposing the c-CluHTM. To the best of our knowledge, c-CluHTM is the first method that exploits contextual embeddings into NMF in HTM tasks. c-CluHTM enhances the topics’ semantics while preserving the hierarchical structure. We perform an experimental evaluation, and our results demonstrate the superiority of our proposal with gains between 12% and 21%, regarding NPMI and Coherence over the best baselines. Regarding the newly proposed metrics, our results reveal that Uniqueness and SHS can capture relevant information about the structure of the hierarchical topics that traditional metrics cannot.
Bayesian evidence for the neural dissociation between finger and hand imitation skills
Authors: Rosenzopf Hannah , Röhrig Lisa , Goldenberg Georg , Karnath Hans-Otto
Published: October 2024

For limb apraxia—a heterogeneous disorder of higher motor cognition following stroke—an enduring debate has arisen regarding the existence of dissociating neural correlates for finger and hand gestures in the left hemisphere. We re-assessed this question asking whether previous attempts analyzing pooled samples of patients with deficits in only one and patients with deficits in both imitation types might have led to systematically biased results. We conducted frequentist and Bayesian, voxelwise, and regionwise lesion symptom mappings on (i) the full sample (N = 96) in which all patients with hand and/or finger imitation apraxia as well as without apraxia were included and (ii) three sub-samples, which excluded those patients from the full sample showing isolated hand imitation deficits, isolated finger imitation deficits or shared (finger and hand) imitation deficits. Anatomical analyses revealed a cortical dissociation of finger imitation deficits (located more anteriorly) and of hand imitation deficits (located more posteriorly). The presence of patients with shared deficits did, indeed, dilute associations that appeared stronger in the respective isolated samples. Also, brain regions truly associated with hand imitation deficits showed a positive bias for finger imitation deficits, when the sample contained patients with shared deficits. In addition, our frequentist parameters uncovered that some of our Bayesian evidence supported reverse associations (damage protecting from rather than increasing the deficit). Anatomo-behavioral analyses that analyze patients with shared (hand and finger) and isolated (hand or finger) imitation deficits together in one sample do, indeed, lead to undesirable biases. This explains why some earlier studies failed to detect the apparent neural dissociation between hand and finger imitation deficits.
Structural projections to the nucleus accumbens link to impulsive
components of human risk preference
Authors: Tisdall Loreen , MacNiven Kelly , Leong Josiah , Frey Renato , Rieskamp Jörg , Hertwig Ralph , Knutson Brian , Mata Rui
Published: October 2024

Functional responses in the Nucleus Accumbens (NAcc) to risk- and reward-related cues can predict real-life risk-taking behavior. Since NAcc activity depends on neurotransmission from connected brain regions, projections to the NAcc may also predict risk preference. To quantify risk preference, we employed latent variables previously derived in a comprehensive, independent study examining the psychometric structure of risk preference, which yielded a general risk preference factor as well as several specific factors, including a factor capturing impulsivity. Informed by previous work, we preregistered a set of hypotheses concerning the association between different risk preference factors and fractional anisotropy (or FA, which is sensitive to fiber coherence) for projections to the NAcc from Medial PreFrontal Cortex (MPFC), Anterior Insula, Amygdala, and an inferior tract from the Ventral Tegmental Area (iVTA). We tested our hypotheses in a community sample of 125 healthy human adults. As predicted, bilateral iVTA-NAcc tract FA showed a negative correlation with a psychometric factor that captured impulsivity, generalizing findings from prior research. Also as predicted, FA of the bilateral Amygdala-NAcc tract was positively associated with the impulsivity factor. Contrary to predictions, however, we observed no robust associations between the general risk preference factor and FA for projections from bilateral MPFC, right Anterior Insula, or bilateral Amygdala to the NAcc. Notably, exploratory unilateral analyses revealed an association between the general risk preference factor and left MPFC-NAcc tract FA. Taken together, these findings suggest that impulse control as a facet of risk preference maps onto specific neurobiological targets, while more general facets of risk preference may be supported by structural properties of lateral fronto-striatal projections. Although the exact associated functional mechanisms remain to be fully clarified, conNAcctomic approaches like the one presented here could pave the way for further research into the physiological foundations of risk preference and related constructs.
Balance of power: The choice between trial and participant numbers to
optimise the detection of phase-dependent effects
Authors: Geffen Asher , Bland Nicholas , Sale Martin V.
Published: October 2024

The fields of neuroscience and psychology are currently in the midst of a so-called reproducibility crisis, with growing concerns regarding a history of weak effect sizes and low statistical power in much of the research published in these fields over the last few decades. Whilst the traditional approach for addressing this criticism has been to increase participant sample sizes, there are many research contexts in which the number of trials per participant may be of equal importance. The present study aimed to compare the relative importance of participants and trials in the detection of phase-dependent phenomena, which are measured across a range of neuroscientific contexts (e.g., neural oscillations, non-invasive brain stimulation). This was achievable within a simulated environment where one can manipulate the strength of this phase dependency in two types of outcome variables: one with normally distributed residuals (idealistic) and one comparable with motor-evoked potentials (an MEP-like variable). We compared the statistical power across thousands of experiments with the same number of sessions per experiment but with different proportions of participants and number of sessions per participant (30 participants × 1 session, 15 participants × 2 sessions, and 10 participants × 3 sessions), with the trials being pooled across sessions for each participant. These simulations were performed for both outcome variables (idealistic and MEP-like) and four different effect sizes (0.075—“weak,” 0.1—“moderate,” 0.125—“strong,” 0.15—“very strong”), as well as separate control scenarios with no true effect. Across all scenarios with (true) discoverable effects, and for both outcome types, there was a statistical benefit for experiments maximising the number of trials rather than the number of participants (i.e., it was always beneficial to recruit fewer participants but have them complete more trials). These findings emphasise the importance of obtaining sufficient individual-level data rather than simply increasing number of participants.
Heritability and genetic contribution analysis of structural-functional coupling in human brain
Authors: Dai Wei , Zhang Zhengwu , Song Peihan , Zhang Heping , Zhao Yize
Published: October 2024

The flow of functional connectivity (FC) is thought to be supported by white matter structural connectivity (SC). While research on the correlations between SC and FC (SC-FC coupling) has progressed, the genetic implications of SC-FC coupling have not been thoroughly examined. Traditionally, SC-FC coupling investigations utilize predefined atlases. Here, we adopted an atlas-free SC-FC coupling built on the high-resolution white surface (the interface of white matter and gray matter) to uncover common genetic variations. Leveraging data from the Human Connectome Project, we demonstrated considerable heritability in areas within the early and intermediate visual cortex and across dorsal-attention, language, and somatomotor functional networks. We detected 334 genetic loci (spanning 234 cytogenetic bands) linked to SC-FC coupling (P < 1.26 × 10−11), notably in cingulo-opercular, somatomotor, and default mode networks. Using an external dataset from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study, we confirmed 187 cytogenetic bands associated with SC-FC coupling across 22 brain regions (P < 1 × 10-5). Genetic correlation analyses revealed high genetic interrelatedness for SC-FC coupling in neighboring regions. Furthermore, it showed genetic correlations with a spectrum of complex traits, encompassing various neurological and psychiatric conditions. In essence, our study paves the way towards deciphering the genetic interplay between structural and functional connectivity of the brain.
A Survey on Female Employment and the Quality of Their Family Relationships in Mahabad, Iran (2017–2018)
Authors: Dadparvar Shabnam , Nasiri Hesam
Published: October 2024

The primary objective of this descriptive survey is to examine the correlation between women’s employment and the quality of their family relationships in Mahabad, a Kurdish city in the northwest of Iran. This locale has distinct cultural norms and perspectives concerning female employment. The statistical sample consists of all married women aged between 20 and 60 years and employed within the urban areas of Mahabad from 2017 to 2018. This group encompasses a total of 2,995 individuals (N = 2995). Employing Cochran’s formula, the sample size was determined to be n = 350. Participants were selected through multi-stage clustering and systematic random sampling methodologies. Data were collected through a researcher-designed questionnaire, with a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient estimated at 0.89, indicating satisfactory reliability. Descriptive and inferential statistical techniques were employed for data analysis, including the chi-square test and percentage frequency distribution tables. The study’s central hypothesis was validated using the chi-square test at a 5% significance level. Consequently, the research findings substantiate that, within the context of Mahabad, employed women exhibit a higher quality of family relationships than their unemployed counterparts. Given the historically limited discourse on the circumstances of Kurdish women in smaller regions, and the prevailing tendency to focus primarily on the challenges faced by women at the lower strata of society, this research serves as a valuable contribution towards a more comprehensive understanding of the lives of this particular cohort of Kurdish women residing in the modest city of Mahabad. By delving into the dimensions of employment and the quality of their marital relationships, this study strives toward shedding light on the positive impacts of women’s participation on their family dynamics. The insights gleaned from this research hold the potential to serve as a model that can be extrapolated to benefit women in other regions across the Middle East in the future.
Our Current Attitude towards Science Determines the Future of Our Planet
Authors: Zhang Kaiqiang
Published: October 2024

This article examines the intertwined relationship between modern scientific advancement and its potential to shape the future of Earth’s ecological and societal well-being. While scientific innovations have brought about unprecedented developments, they also present new challenges, particularly regarding sustainability and ecological balance. By tracing humanity’s historical relationship with nature and the rise of specialized sciences, the article reflects on the dual nature of technological progress. It calls for a balanced approach, one that prioritizes wisdom alongside knowledge to avoid irreversible harm to the planet. Through philosophical reflections, the article emphasizes the need for responsible innovation, urging researchers to consider the long-term consequences of their work for Earth’s future.
Gender Disparities and Femininity in the Third Mission: The Example of Blog Writing
Authors: Gunnarsson Nina Veetnisha
Published: October 2024

The “third mission” in academia refers to work that makes research accessible and relevant to policymakers, stakeholders, and the public. This article explores the third mission from a gender and feminist perspective, analysing blog posts to illustrate gender disparities in Swedish academia. The analysis identifies gender differences in blog post frequency, topics, and styles. Women tend to write about general and popular themes with an emotionally charged and inclusive approach. In contrast, men focus more on research-related topics with an ostensibly neutral and assertive style. This difference reflects traditional gendered communication patterns, where women often adopt a relational style, and men take a factual approach. These gendered norms can potentially affect research focus and career progression. The implications suggest that these patterns reinforce societal gender norms, perpetuating disparities and limiting women’s voices in academic and research settings.
Neglected plants of Prunus L. (Rosaceae) in East China
Authors: LI JUN-PING , CHEN FENG , XIE WEN-YUAN , WANG JUN-FENG , MAO LI-MI , YING SHANG-JIAO , CHEN ZHENG-HAI , LOU JIA , JIN XIAO-FENG
Published: October 2024

A new species with a new variety of Prunus L. (Rosaceae) from Zhejiang, East China, namely P. huadongensis, and P. huadongensis var. pubipes, were described and illustrated. Prunus huadongensis is similar to P. conradinae Koehne, but differs in having leaf blades glabrous on both surfaces, margin obtusely serrulate, teeth curved-inward with a breast-like apical gland, and pedicel apically slightly thickened. Additionally, pollen sculpture of P. huadongensis is characterized by relatively coarse striae and no distinctive perforations between striate elements, whereas pollen sculpture of P. conradinae shows fine striae and dense perforations between striate elements. The new variety, var. pubipes, differs from the typical variety in leaf blades appressed-pubescent on veins of abaxial surfaces, branchlets, petioles, peduncles, pedicels, outside base of hypanthium and sepals all spreading-pubescent, leaf blade obtusely biserrulate at margin.
The Euphorbia bivonae aggregate (Euphorbiaceae) in the Central Mediterranean area: First report of Euphorbia papillaris from Tunisia
Authors: MOKNI RIDHA EL , BARONE GIULIO , DOMINA GIANNIANTONIO
Published: October 2024

During floristic field exploration within the Tunisian territory, an interesting Euphorbia population was sampled from the Haouaria region in Cap-Bon peninsula. After critical study of the collected specimens against closely related taxa of the Euphorbia bivonae aggregate and following review of relevant literature and herbarium specimens, that population was identified as E. papillaris. This species is very rare and was considered endemic to western Sicily. The revision of historical herbarium specimens in the main European herbaria led to document the occurrence of this species also in Libya. An updated geographical distribution for the E. bivonae aggregate in the Central Mediterranean area as well as floristic and ecological data are here provided. An identification key is also presented.
Redescription of Chrysosphaerella baikalensis (Chrysophyceae, Chromulinales) with new data on the ultrastructure of its stomatocysts
Authors: BESSUDOVA ANNA , FIRSOVA ALENA D. , LIKHOSHWAY YELENA V.
Published: October 2024

An amended description of the ultrastructure of plate and spine scales is provided, along with the first description of the stomatocyst Chrysosphaerella baikalensis from Lake Baikal. C. baikalensis exhibits four types of plate scales: small and large elliptical, large rounded, and large subcircular scales. The spines can grow up to 47 μm in length. The stomatocysts of C. baikalensis are spherical or slightly oblate, with a small, regular pore surrounded by a flat pseudoanulus, lacking a collar. Based on their surface ornamentation, two forms of stomatocysts are distinguished, Forma A covered with densely arranged short needle-like outgrowths and Forma B having a smooth to psilate surface. We associate the first form with the immature stage. In this article, we report the growth of C. baikalensis in Lake Baikal during June, in the open water period, at a water temperature of 3.9–4.5 °C. During this period, whole cells and stomatocysts covered with plate scales were observed. Individual spines and plate scales were found at temperatures up to 11.5 ℃.
Introduction
Authors: Zwier Jochem , de Boer Bas
Published: October 2024

In the introduction, it is motivated why it is important to articulate the phenomenological legacy of the philosophy of technology. We introduce some of the key concerns within philosophy of technology, link those to the general project of phenomenology, and distinguish the phenomenological method from the scientific method. We introduce key figures in the history of phenomenology (e.g., Husserl, Heidegger, Merleau-Ponty) and show how their mode of inquiry remains to influence contemporary philosophical reflections on technology. We discuss how phenomenology is typically used in such analyses and identify two different functions of phenomenology in the philosophy of technology: (1) a vehicle to articulate human (embodied) experiences in their interaction(s) with technology, and (2) a way of presenting technology as a general phenomenon that shapes how human beings understand themselves, others, and the world around them. In conclusion, we provide a summary of the chapters and discuss how they relate to the project of the book.
5. Technological Mediation without Empirical Borders
Authors: Ritter Martin
Published: October 2024

This chapter provides a critique of the postphenomenological understanding of “technology” as something referring to empirically observable artefacts in reality. He argues that postphenomenology suffers from three main shortcomings: (1) it fails to engage with the question what constitutes a technology, (2) it mistakenly reduces technological mediations to observable interactions between humans and technologies, and (3) its commitment to the empirical turn in the philosophy of technology and its according focus on case studies provides limited access to postphenomenology’s self-proclaimed object of study: human-technology relations. In providing these critiques, the chapter offers a substantial general critique of the empirical turn in the philosophy of technology, as well as points towards the need to find a language to articulate how the notion of “technological mediation” is not bounded to particular empirical circumstances.
Epilogue
Authors: Zwier Jochem , de Boer Bas
Published: October 2024

The epilogue serves to highlight the lessons learned from the contributions to this edited volume. A first lesson is that it appears that phenomenology only is singular as a term, and that perhaps we must no longer speak of phenomenology of technology, but of phenomenologies of technologies. Secondly, we can also observe an increasingly distinct reaction to the mentioned pluralization of phenomenology. This reaction is anticipated by the critique of postphenomenology’s empiricism. The methodical chapters of the present volume further demonstrate this reaction, as it is becoming increasingly clear that next to ongoing pluralizing and interdisciplinary approaches, the ‘classical’ phenomenological question concerning the whole of being is resurfacing. The third lesson is that the early critique on phenomenology as lacking political and ethical thrust remains to be an issue in contemporary phenomenology of technology. We conclude with, giving the interest in bringing phenomenology and politics together, it is remarkable that Stiegler’s phenomenologically inspired politics of technology remains undiscussed throughout the volume. We suggest that this perspective opens up a fruitful avenue for future work in phenomenology of technology.
Non-destructive Analytical Study of Raman Spectra Variations and Mechanisms of Calcite and Aragonite in Modern and Fossilized Oysters
Authors: Han Yaxuan , Ozaki Yukihiro , Tsuboi Motohiro
Published: October 2024

Oyster fossils are some of the most common bivalve mollusk fossils found all over the world, they are different from other fossils because the oyster is still alive in the present day, and the body structure of modern oyster is almost the same as that of ancient one. Therefore, we designed a control experiment comparing the Raman spectra of minerals from both modern oysters and fossil oysters to explore the mechanism of oyster's fossilization process, which is considered to be helpful for investigating biological evolution or paleoenvironment. The oyster fossil sample was found in Nagi-Cho, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. We focused on the variations of band position and full width half-maximum of ν1 Raman band (symmetric stretching mode) of calcite (CaCO3) from modern and fossil oysters and the mineral conversion between calcite and aragonite (CaCO3) around the adductor muscle inside the oyster. Compared to modern oysters, the ν1 band at around 1086 cm−1 of calcite from oyster fossils shifted to a high wavenumber region, and the possible reason for this phenomenon is considered an elemental substitution between Ca2+ and Mg2+. As for aragonite around adductor muscle in fossil oysters, it has been found by Raman spectra that most of the aragonite has been converted into calcite because calcite has a relatively more stable structure.
Applying to Lead: A Mixed-Methods Investigation of Prospective Principals’ Job Application Strategies in Two Urban Districts
Authors: Gordon Molly F. , Grissom Jason A. , Blanchard Alyssa , Ellison Ashley B. , Rubin Mollie , Santelli Francisco Arturo
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Urban school districts often face challenges in filling principal vacancies with effective leaders, especially in high-needs schools. Prospective principals’ engagement with the job application process may contribute to these challenges. The goal of this study is to better understand the job search strategies and behaviors of prospective principals and how their approaches might contribute to leadership staffing challenges in high-needs schools. Research Design and Methods: We employ a convergent mixed-methods design that draws on data from two urban school systems. We pair analysis of interviews of 36 principals who have recently navigated the districts’ hiring systems with multiple years of applications and other administrative data provided by the two districts. We explored how patterns and themes that emerged from each data source were confirmed or disconfirmed with the other source. Findings: Guided by a job-search model, our analysis uncovers three main findings. First, the typical principal applicant conducted a targeted rather than a wide search, reflecting multiple strategies, preferences, and relational factors. Second, elementary educators showed a strong propensity to apply to the same grade level. Third, leaders applied to schools serving larger proportions of historically marginalized students at similar rates as other schools, reflecting their motivations to work with underserved students. Implications for Research and Practice: Considerations informing prospective principals’ job searches are multifaceted. High-needs schools are desirable to many principal candidates. Identifying and strategically recruiting candidates with preferences for working in such schools can be a strategy for districts seeking to overcome challenges in filling principal vacancies.
Voices of Families of Color: Navigating White Spaces in Gifted Education
Authors: Lamb Kristen N. , Hertzog Nancy B.
Published: October 2024

Even when achievement outcomes are equal, some students of color still do not participate in advanced academic or gifted education programs. To better understand this phenomenon, researchers engaged in a research-practice partnership within the local community to explore the experiences of families of color and assess their needs pertaining to advanced learning opportunities for their children. Data were collected during two family outreach events using a semi-structured interview protocol with focus groups. Focus-group interviews were independently coded and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed challenges and barriers related to accessing enrichment and advanced academic learning opportunities. Some families discussed their personal experiences of racism, bias, and deficit thinking. Overall, themes illustrated how families of color believed they were perceived by educational practitioners and their desire for a sense of belonging and equitable access to high-quality academic programming for their children.
Evidence-Based Instructional Practices for Twice-Exceptional Students With Autism
Authors: Austermann Quinn , Reis Sally M. , Delgado Julie
Published: October 2024

Academically talented students with autism, also known as twice-exceptional students with autism (2eASD), are increasingly identified in school. These students present challenges to educators who attempt to plan and implement successful instructional opportunities, as teachers’ knowledge and use of evidence-based practices (EBPs) for students identified with 2eASD vary. The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify current practices used by 10 high-school content and special education teachers who teach these students, as well as their recommendations for postsecondary institutions for these students. The findings suggest high-school teachers support the use of differentiated, strength-based individualized instruction for college-bound students with 2eASD, but are generally unable to offer specific examples of how these practices are implemented in their special education or content classrooms. In addition, they seldom focus on the strengths and talents of this population in their classrooms and fail to recommend competitive colleges for their consideration.
Wear and friction behavior of wrinkled-Ti3C2Tx /epoxy composites
Authors: Berber Messaoud , Haddad Adel , Liu Lu , Chiker Nabil , Ying Guobing , Benamor Abdessabour , Badji Riad , Hadji Mohamed
Published: October 2024

Herein, the tribological behavior of the epoxy/wrinkled-Ti3C2Tx MXene composites against 440C stainless steel under dry sliding conditions was investigated. Due to the inherent brittleness and poor wear resistance of epoxy resin, wrinkled-Ti3C2Tx MXenes (delaminated using MTHPA: methyl tetrahydrophthalic anhydride) were incorporated in various concentrations (0.1-1 Wt.%). The sliding experiments showed little impact of MXenes’ addition on the friction coefficient values. Meanwhile, the wear resistance of epoxy was significantly improved, particularly with 0.2 wt% MXene, showing a 91.82% improvement. This improvement of the epoxy’s wear properties at a low MXene concentration is attributed to the homogenous MXene distribution and strong interfacial adhesion. The present study opens up new horizons for the application of epoxy/wrinkled-Ti3C2Tx MXene nanocomposites as dry sliding wear components.