bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors affecting the domestic tourists’ decision to choose Ta Dung national park in Dak Nong Province
Authors:   HUTECH University, Do Ninh Thi , Nguyen Kiet Anh Duy ,   HUTECH University, Le Thanh Hoai ,   Vision Travel Company
Published: November 2023

The purpose of the study is to determine and measure the influence of factors on the tourist’s decision to choose a travel destination in Ta Dung - Dak Nong National Park. Based on the theoretical basis and review of previous studies at domestic and abroad on the factors affecting the choice of destination, the author has built a research model to generate and develop research hypotheses. Besides, qualitative and quantitative research techniques such as group discussion, research results show that there are five factors including: Reasons to travel; Destination sights; Destination information; Travel experience; Infrastructure has a positive impact on the decision of domestic tourists to choose a travel destination in Ta Dung - Dak Nong National Park. On the basis of the research results, the next section will propose some managerial implications to make further improvement on the tourist’s decision of domestic tourists to choose a travel destination in Ta Dung - Dak Nong National Park in the future.
Experiential learning in the basic elements of art at University of Economics and Finance
Authors:   HCMC University of Economics and Finance, Vo Nga Dinh
Published: November 2023

In order to change training methods and approach student-centered teaching methods, the article proposes experiential learning activities for students of The Basic Elements of Art. Through the project “Art for Breath”, the writer shows the steps to guide students to practice the exercise experience and introduce their work to the public. The organization of experiential learning activities will contribute to training students’ skills in describing real models and stylizing colors. This also trains students in soft skills. This learning activities will help students improve their abilities, use their skills to serve society and bring value to themselves.
Digitizing the collective economic activities in the Mekong Delta’s agriculture
Authors:   Can Tho Political School, Nguyen Nhung Kim Thi
Published: November 2023

Digitization in the collective economic activities of the agricultural sector is not only new but also a key task for the whole country in general and the Mekong Delta in particular, in order to contribute to “reviving” the agricultural sector, which is the strength of the region, thereby improving the economic life, people’s intellectual level, improving the people’s quality of life and happiness index, limiting the immigration status as in the past time. The article focuses on the role of the collective economy in the development of agricultural production associated with digital transformation and the Party’s guidelines, the State’s laws and policies; at the same time, it also outlines the initial results achieved when digitizing the collective economic activities of the agricultural sector in the Mekong Delta, thereby suggesting recommendations for improvement in the coming time.
The central bank management of interest rate for development economies and suggestions for Vietnam
Authors:   HUTECH University, Hoang Khai Nguyen
Published: November 2023

At the end of 2021 and the beginning of 2022, after two years of implementing the inflation-targeted monetary policy in the context of the Covid-19 Pandemic, the Central Banks of some major economies in the world are expected to return to operate again in the normal state. However, an unusual development happened, that is, starting on February 24, 2022, the Russian Federation launched a “special military operation” in Ukraine that completely changed the normal expectation of that monetary policy. Inflation in many countries rose to record levels. That development reduces GDP growth prospects of major and global economies. So how do central banks around the world manage interest rates? How is Vietnam’s inflation and how does the State Bank of Vietnam manage monetary policy in the new context, contributing to the achievement of the economy’s macroeconomic objectives according to the Government’s Resolution? The article focuses on this content of the Central Banks of developed economies in the world, making forecasts and recommendations for Vietnam.
The relationship between organizational culture, digital transformation and performance of trading businesses in the Mekong Delta
Authors:   Tra Vinh University, Ho Duc Dai , Huynh Khuong Tan ,   Tra Vinh University
Published: November 2023

This research builds and tests conceptual model to explore the relation of organizational culture, digital transformation and Firm performance; assess the impact of organizational culture on digital transformation and firm performance, the impact of digital transformation on firm performance. Carrying out a survey of 215 IT and managerial staffs of Mekong delta comercial firms, using quantitative method by PLS- SEM analysis; The research results confirm that organizational culture has a positive impact on digital transformation, digital transformation improves firm performance.
Effect of disclosure the footnotes on financial instruments: Empirical evidence from Vietnamese commercial banks
Authors:   UEH University, Nguyen Anh Quoc
Published: November 2023

The study investigates the factors that influence the level of disclosure information on commercial bank financial statements in Vietnam. The study collected data for analysis using the expected number of samples from the financial statements of 31 joint stock commercial banks in Vietnam for 5 consecutive years (from 2016 to 2020). Based on data analysis using a regression model, the study found a statistically significant relationship between the level of disclosure of financial statement disclosures and audit quality variables such as equity structure, number of board members, and bank size.
LATAR BELAKANG LAHIRNYA SISTEM DEMOKRASI DI DUNIA DAN INDONESIA
Authors: Inayah Fiqih
Published: November 2023

Demokrasi (Dmos) berasal dari bahasa Yunani yang berarti masyarakat, dan kratio atau krato ialah pemerintahan dalam bahasa Yunani. Demokrasi sudah menjadi sistem pemerintahan yang dianut oleh sebagian negara di dunia. Lahirnya sistem demokrasi di dunia dan Indonesia memiliki latar belakang yang kompleks dan dipengaruhi oleh sejumlah faktor historis, politis, dan sosial. Secara umum, sistem demokrasi merupakan hasil dari perjuangan dan evolusi politik yang berlangsung berabad-abad. Berbagai peneliti telah menimpulkan arti dari demokrasi, antara lain yang akan di bahas pada kali ini aialah Joseph Shemeter, Sidney Hook, dan Henry B. Mayo. Oleh karena itu di sini akan membahas beberapa hal, seperti apa saja yang melatar belakangi munculnya sistem Demokrasi di dunia dan bagaimana sistem demokrasi masuk dan diterima di negara Indonesia yang mana sebelumnya sistem sempat ditolak oleh sebagian masyarakat Islam khususnya para ulama. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode studi pustaka yang berdasarkan pemikiran para penulis dan juga bersumber dari jurnal-jurnal terpercaya. Di sini juga menggunakan metode deskripsi, yaitu berdasarkan peristiwa yang terjadi secara langsung maupun tidak langsung yang didapatkan dari sumber bacaan yang terpercaya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan bagaimana lahirnya sistem demokrasi sehingga populer lalu digunakan oleh sebagian besar negara di dunia dan bagaimana masuknya sistem ini di negara Indonesia sehingga dapat diterima oleh rakyat termasuk masyarakat yang bergama Islam yang sebelumnya sangat menolak kedatangan sistem demokrasi di Nusantara.
Latar Belakang Pergantian dan Perubahan Konstitusi di Indonesia
Authors: Sihotang Oryza Sativa H , Rahma Dilla Nur Indah , Atifah Nur , Andini  , Hermawan Heru , Afifah Khairizah , Vinanda Firda , Andini Zahra , Siregar Salwa Muthi'ah , Syahfitri Winda , Rambe Yuskaini Hadijah , Matondang Muhammad Iqbal Firdaus
Published: November 2023

ABSTRAKPerubahan Konstitusi merupakan suatu hal yang tidak dapat dihindari. Konstitusi suatu negara pada hakekatnya merupakan hukum dasar tertinggi yang memuat hal-hal mengenai penyelenggaraan negara, karenanya suatu konstitusi harus memiliki sifat yang lebih stabil dari pada produk hukum lainnya. Namun, karena sistem ketatanegaraan tidak dijalankan dengan baik, maka menyebabkan pemerintahan kacau dan terjadi ketidak percayaan dalam menjalankan pemerintahan. Sehingga menyebabkan terjadinya perubahan pada konstitusi melalui dekrit persiden kembali menggunakan UUD 1945. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui tentang perubahan konstitusi di Indonesia. Penelitian ini bersifat kualitatif deskriptif dengan metode studi pustaka. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perubahan konstitusi mempunyai cara-cara atau prosedur tertentu dalam pergantian maupun perubahannya tetapi harus disesuaikan dengan perkembangan masyarakat yang terjadi dalam suatu negara. Diharapkan dalam perubahan atau pergantian konstitusi bisa beradaptasi dengan zaman maupun masyarakat. Sehingga konstitusi bisa memberikan pertahanan pada negara untuk membatasi kekuasaan, mengendalikan perkembangan dan situasi politik yang selalu berubah serta upaya untuk menghindari adanya penyalahgunaan kekuasaan dalam negara. Kata Kunci: Konstitusi, UUD 1945, Pemerintahan.

ABSTRACTConstitutional change is something that can’t be avoided. The constitutional of a country is essentially the highest basic law that contains matters concerning the administration of the state, therefore a constitution must have a more stable nature than other legal products. However, because the constitutional system is not run properly, it causes caotic governmant and distrust in running the governmant. Thus causing changes to the constitution through a presidential decree to return to using the 1945 constitution. The purpose of the research is to find out about changes in the constitution in indonesia. This research is descriptive qualitative with literature study method. The results showed that changes to the constitution have certain ways or procedures in changing or changing it but must be adapted to the development of society that occurs in a country. It is hoped that in changing or changing the constitution can adapt to the times and society. So that the constitution can provide a defense to the state to limit power, control develpoments and political situations that are always changing and efforts to avoid abuse of power in the state.Keywords: Constitution, 1945 Constitution, Government.
PERKEMBANGAN FISIK REMAJA
Authors: Damanik Ismayani
Published: November 2023

Perkembangan fisik remaja merupakan hal sangat unik untuk dikaji secara ilmiah. Tulisan ini akan mengkaji tentang berbagai perkembangan fisik remaja. Remaja yang dimaksud dalam tulisan ini mencakup kepada remaja pia dan wanita. Tujuan tulisan ini adalah untuk meningkatkan pengetahuan dan pemahaman tentang perkembangan fisik remaja. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam tulisan ini adalah analisis kualitatif dengan pendekatan studi kepustakaan. Hasil penelitian ini mengungkapkan bahwa berbagai keragaman perkembangan fisik remaja membuat para remaja hasrus siap dan secara positif merespon setiap perubahan yang terjadi. Perbedaan perkembangan fisik antara remaja pria dan wanita harus bernar-benar dimaknai dan difahami secara utuh agar tidak salah dalam mengarahkan dan mengembangkan pemahaman para remaja.
Gastric Ulcer Mechanism, Protection and Treatment from Natural Sources
Authors: Kumar Shiv , Arushi  , Sharma Vijay , Devi Manjula
Published: November 2023

Gastric acid secretions are main cause for formation of gastric ulcers that are attributed by Helicobacter pylori infection and extensive use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). These contributors facilitate the initiation of cellular and molecular signalling pathways in our body that give rise to formation of gastric ulcer. Generally, gastric ulcer results in minute to deep invading of gastric mucosal linings which may produce harmful symptoms in our body. Non-infectious gastric ulcers are another problem related with gastro-intestinal disorders that mainly caused because of poor daily activities including alcohol consumption, oxidative stress, mental stress and low consumption in healthy food intake. Stress plays a crucial role in the formation gastric ulceration due to its effect on the generation of ROS (reactive oxygen species) and RNS (reactive nitrogen species).Gastric cancer is found common in severe ulceration and gastric lesions. This type of cancer mainly attributed by untreated gastric ulcer and other related infected and inflammatory conditions. They all increase the worldwide incidence of morbidity and mortality rates. Therefore, a novel approach towards research and development has been must to categorise these complications. Natural agents with adaptogenic and antioxidant properties are useful in this situation. Some of the herbal extracts have been used from ancient times due to their cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. New approaches are still on progress to obtain a potential phytopharmaceutical and natural agent to treat these disorders. It has been reported anti-secretory effects of herbal preparations give rise to protective action in the cure of gastric ulcers. We try to explain mechanisms involve in this complication and important pharmacological activity of natural extracts to counter act these symptoms in our review.
Ultraconfined Plasmons in Atomically Thin Crystalline Silver Nanostructures
Authors: Mkhitaryan Vahagn , Weber Andrew P. , Abdullah Saad , Fernández Laura , Abd El‐Fattah Zakaria M. , Piquero‐Zulaica Ignacio , Agarwal Hitesh , García Díez Kevin , Schiller Frederik , Ortega J. Enrique , García de Abajo F. Javier
Published: November 2023

The ability to confine light down to atomic scales is critical for the development of applications in optoelectronics and optical sensing as well as for the exploration of nanoscale quantum phenomena. Plasmons in metallic nanostructures with just a few atomic layers in thickness can achieve this type of confinement, although fabrication imperfections down to the subnanometer scale hinder actual developments. Here, narrow plasmons are demonstrated in atomically thin crystalline silver nanostructures fabricated by prepatterning silicon substrates and epitaxially depositing silver films of just a few atomic layers in thickness. Specifically, a silicon wafer is lithographically patterned to introduce on‐demand lateral shapes, chemically process the sample to obtain an atomically flat silicon surface, and epitaxially deposit silver to obtain ultrathin crystalline metal films with the designated morphologies. Structures fabricated by following this procedure allow for an unprecedented control over optical field confinement in the near‐infrared spectral region, which is here illustrated by the observation of fundamental and higher‐order plasmons featuring extreme spatial confinement and high‐quality factors that reflect the crystallinity of the metal. The present study constitutes a substantial improvement in the degree of spatial confinement and quality factor that should facilitate the design and exploitation of atomic‐scale nanoplasmonic devices for optoelectronics, sensing, and quantum‐physics applications.
‘It's all about rapport’: Australian therapists' recommendations for engaging adolescent males in counselling and psychotherapy
Authors: Boerma Micah , Beel Nathan , Jeffries Carla , Krishnamoorthy Govind
Published: November 2023

Objective

What are the recommendations provided by Australian therapists to engage and retain adolescent males in psychotherapy? This question is considered in response to research highlighting low engagement and high premature dropout in psychological treatment among adolescent males in both Australia and other Western nations.

Method

Participants were 67 Australian mental health practitioners (35 psychologists, 20 social workers, eight counsellors, three psychiatrists and one occupational therapist) recruited through purposive sampling via professional association websites, publications and social media. Participants completed an open‐question, web‐based qualitative survey. Responses were analysed using inductive reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes and 10 subthemes were developed, including the following: (1) creating a context of safety; (2) undertaking practices that develop rapport and engagement; and (3) undertaking masculinity‐aware adaptions to the therapy process.

Conclusion

The recommendations provided by Australian therapists align with the broader literature tasked with developing male‐friendly interventions applicable and appealing to young men. Therapeutic relationships underpinned by masculinity‐informed trust, commitment and collaboration may be a part of the remedy to young men's limited engagement and retention in therapy.
Tunable Metal‐Free Imidazole‐Benzimidazole Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Tanjedrew Narisara , Thammanatpong Kittimeth , Surawatanawong Panida , Chakthranont Pongkarn , Chantarojsiri Teera , Unjarern Takdanai , Kiatisevi Supavadee
Published: November 2023

A series of metal‐free imidazole‐benzimidazole catalysts (ImBenz‐H, ImBenz‐NO2, ImBenz‐OCH3) for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) were prepared. We demonstrate that the electrocatalytic O2 reduction by ImBenz‐NO2 with the electron‐withdrawing group showed high selectivity toward H2O with the number of electrons transferred (n=3.7) in a neutral aqueous solution. The highest ORR selectivity toward H2O2 was achieved using ImBenz‐H (n=2.4) in an alkaline solution. Electrochemical studies of reaction kinetics disclosed that the highest turnover frequencies were obtained from ImBenz‐H in both neutral and alkaline aqueous solutions. The results prove that the ORR selectivity is tunable by modulating the substituent of the ImBenz catalysts. Furthermore, DFT calculations suggested that the ORR mechanism of ImBenz‐H involves the electron transfer from imidazole‐benzimidazole to O2 resulting in the formation of H2O2 which supports the redox active properties of the catalysts ImBenz.
Perceived managerial and leadership effectiveness within multinational corporations in Saudi Arabia: The role of Islamic and Wasta values
Authors: Hamlin Robert G. , Alhejji Hussain , Patel Taran
Published: November 2023

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) presents a promising yet volatile environment for international business. US‐centric models dominate management/leadership studies in the Arab Gulf Region, while emic, indigenous, and context‐specific studies remain scarce. To rectify this epistemic injustice, we have conducted a qualitative Type 3 (emic‐as‐emic) indigenous ‘critical incident' study of managerial behavior exhibited by expat and local managers within MNCs operating in Saudi Arabia. This has led to an emergent KSA‐related two‐factor taxonomy comprised of 15 behavioral dimensions (BDs) that differentiate effective managers from ineffective managers, as perceived by their Saudi colleague managers and staff. The positive (effective), and most of the negative (ineffective) BDs are endorsed by Islamic and tribal Wasta values, thus lending support to literature on culturally endorsed implicit leadership theories, while simultaneously calling for increased attention toward proximal cultural factors rather than distal national cultural dimensions. Comparing our findings against those of an equivalent study in the United Arab Emirates reveals significant similarities and interesting differences, thus challenging the notion of a homogenous ‘Arab culture'. The derived taxonomy offers an insightful, contextually relevant, and richly described understanding of specific types of managerial behavior that managers within MNCs in Saudi Arabia, and perhaps in other Arab Gulf desert countries, should strive to emulate or conversely avoid if they are to be perceived effective by their respective superiors, peers, and subordinates. After discussing the theoretical and practical implications of our findings, we outline the limitations of the study and suggest several directions for future research.
Three Orthogonal Polarization Distribution Mapping of the Tightly Focused Fields with a Dual‐Mode Waveguide Probe
Authors: Yang Aiping , Chen Jiashuo , Chen Xusheng , Meng Fanfei , Du Luping , Yuan Xiaocong
Published: November 2023

Strongly confined electromagnetic (EM) fields generated by tightly focused light beams are applied widely in nano‐optics due to their vectorial characteristics. The inclusion of the longitudinal polarized component plays a crucial role in both the physical characteristics and practical uses of tightly focused vector beams. The acquisition of the distributions of the three orthogonal polarized components of these fields is advantageous for the comprehensive examination of their captivating physical phenomena and possible applications. However, this continues to pose a noteworthy obstacle, especially in the case of the fields that are generated by high numerical aperture objectives. A novel approach is proposed to quantifying the three mutually perpendicular polarizations simultaneously in the focal plane. The method utilizes a dual‐mode waveguide probe that is composed of a dielectric nanoparticle and a metal‐dielectric waveguide. This design allows for the simultaneous support of both transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) modes. Consequently, it enables the polarization recognition of scattering light in k‐space. Importantly, this method effectively eliminates any interference originating from the background light. The work involves an analysis of the theoretical notion of the probe and followed by experimental investigations. This approach holds promise for augmenting optical nanoscopy methodologies and their associated applications.
Investigation on the effect of multiwalled carbon nanotubes in carbon fiber‐reinforced epoxy composites manufactured using vacuum infusion process and hand layup process followed by vacuum bagging
Authors: Varghese Arun Sam , M. S. Sreekanth
Published: November 2023

Epoxy/carbon fiber (CF) composites are widely used for structural applications owing to their exceptional mechanical and physical characteristics. The main aim of this work is to individually analyze the impact of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as nanofillers in epoxy/MWCNTs/CF composites prepared by vacuum infusion process (VIP) and hand layup followed by vacuum bagging technique (HLVB). Optimal Manufacturing Strategies were followed at various stages of manufacturing which include the selection of effective dispersion technique for MWCNTs, identification of optimal weight percentage of MWCNTs in epoxy/MWCNTs nanocomposites and preparation of epoxy/MWCNTs/CF composites. For HLVB samples, tensile and flexural strengths increased from 337.5 to 475 MPa and 615.40 to 677.09 MPa. For VIP samples tensile and flexural strengths increased from 371 to 521 MPa and 714.19 to 769.02 MPa. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated improvement in the thermal stability of epoxy with the incorporation of MWCNTs/CF and improved weight percentage retention of 84.7% at 375°C. Fracture analysis of the epoxy/MWCNTs/CF composites prepared using VIP were analyzed by FE‐SEM and revealed that constant fiber rupture caused by better interface and improved bridging mechanism eventually led to enhanced mechanical performance. The predominant immediate fracture mechanism of MWCNTs also indicated this improved interfacial interaction.

Highlights

Pull‐out fracture mechanism was predominantly seen in high viscous epoxy/MWCNTs composites

Immediate fracture mechanism of MWCNTs were predominant in low viscous epoxy/MWCNTs sample

Constant fiber rupture of VIP samples indicated improved fiber matrix interface

Incorporation of MWCNTs showed improved weight percentage retention

0.5 wt% MWCNTs incorporated VIP epoxy/CF composites showed improved performance
Pralsetinib-associated pneumonia in RET fusion-positive non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Gao Ming , Zhang Xia , Yan Huan , Sun Decong , Yang Xuejiao , Yuan Fang , Ju Yanfang , Wang Lijie , Wang Jinliang , Zhao Wei , Zhang Dong , Li Lin , Xu Xiaoyun , Ma Junxun , Hu Yi , Zhang Xiaotao
Published: November 2023

Objective

Oncogenic alternation in RET is one of the important targets of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Pralsetinib has shown great efficacy in RET fusion-positive NSCLC, but a series of adverse reactions will inevitably occur in the meantime. We aimed to explore the clinical characteristics of patients with pneumonia and recognition it in early stage, so patients could longer benefit from pralsetinib.

Methods

This is a multicenter, retrospective study. RET fusion-positive advanced NSCLC patients who developed pneumonia during pralsetinib treatment from January 2020 to December 2022 were included. Clinical data, time to onset of pneumonia, methods of pneumonia diagnosis, treatment with pneumonia, prognosis of pneumonia, and the effect of pneumonia on the efficacy of pralsetinib.

Results

A total of 8 patients with pneumonia were included in the study, most of which were non-smoking female patients and the main fusion gene was KIF5B (87.5%), which was consistent with the general characteristics of RET fusion population. The median occurrence time of pralsetinib-associated pneumonia was 2.15 (range 1.1–6.63) months. All patients were infected by opportunistic pathogens, and the most common pathogen was human herpesviruses and pneumospora yerbii. Fever was always the first symptom, and timely anti-infective treatment including antibiotics, antiviral drugs, and antifungal drugs was effective. Until February 28, 2023, the median follow-up time was 18.7 months, the mean PFS of patients was 17.4 months, and the median PFS was not reached. Fortunately, patients who restarted pralsetinib after infection control continued to benefit.

Conclusions

Opportunistic infection may be a unique adverse effect of pralsetinib. During the treatment of pralsetinib, we should be vigilant about the occurrence of pneumonia and achieve early recognition and timely treatment.
The synergistic route for enhancing rice by-product derived nanoparticles in sustained release of bioactive compound
Authors: Basta Altaf H. , Lotfy Vivian F.
Published: November 2023

This work deals with enhancing the rice straw as precursor of cellulose-based nanoparticles in further application in production of nanogels for prolonging the bioactive compound (Carvedilol drug) release time (sustained release), till the release of the drug is continuous and useful, with minimal side effects. The benefit of the investigated nanogels was proved from comparing their sustaining release with patent and literature data. The nanogels were synthesized from chelating of cellulose-nanoparticles (ONC) in hybrid with palm extract (PE) by chitosan. The effective role of pulping reagent to prepare the pulp precursor of ONC was also assessed. The ONCs were prepared from different RS-pulp precursors, using soda, soda-anthraquinone-borohydride and AcOH-organosolv pulping reagents. FT-IR, SEM, non-isothermal TGA and swelling behavior of nanogels, in addition to their in vitro release of drug and kinetics were studied. The data showed that incorporating the PE to ONCs, especially from alkaline pulp-produced nanogels with highestsustaining behavior, where at 5 h the release % was decreased from ~ 50 to 33% and provided 50% CAR release at 24 h. This time was greater than reported by literature on using other drug carriers (10–18 h), which will stimulate the reduction of the number of doses. Almost all PE-containing gels followed the zero-order kinetic release.

Graphical abstract
Cone-driven strong flash electroretinograms in healthy adults: Prevalence of negative waveforms
Authors: Jiang Xiaofan , Bhatti Taha , Tariq Ambreen , Leo Shaun M. , Aychoua Nancy , Webster Andrew R. , Hysi Pirro G. , Hammond Christopher J. , Mahroo Omar A.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Both rod and cone-driven signals contribute to the electroretinogram (ERG) elicited by a standard strong flash in the dark. Negative ERGs usually reflect inner retinal dysfunction. However, in diseases where rod photoreceptor function is selectively lost, a negative waveform might represent the response of the dark-adapted cone system. To investigate the dark-adapted cone-driven waveform in healthy individuals, we delivered flashes on a dim blue background, designed to saturate the rods, but minimally adapt the cones.

Methods

ERGs were recorded, using conductive fibre electrodes, in adults from the TwinsUK cohort. Responses to 13 cd m−2 s white xenon flashes (similar to the standard DA 10 flash), delivered on a blue background, were analysed. Photopic and scotopic strengths of the background were 1.3 and 30 cd m−2, respectively; through a dilated pupil, this is expected to largely saturate the rods, but adapt the cones much less than the standard ISCEV background.

Results

Mean (SD) participant age was 62.5 (11.3) years (93% female). ERGs from 203 right and 204 left eyes were included, with mean (SD) b/a ratios of 1.22 (0.28) and 1.18 (0.28), respectively (medians, 1.19 and 1.17). Proportions with negative waveforms were 23 and 26%, respectively. Right and left eye b/a ratios were strongly correlated (correlation coefficient 0.74, p < 0.0001). We found no significant correlation of b/a ratio with age.

Conclusions

Over 20% of eyes showed b/a ratios less than 1, consistent with the notion that dark-adapted cone-driven responses to standard bright flashes can have negative waveforms. The majority had ratios greater than 1. Thus, whilst selective loss of rod function can yield a negative waveform (with reduced a-wave) in some, our findings also suggest that loss of rod function can occur without necessarily yielding a negative ERG. One potential limitation is possible mild cone system adaptation by the background.
Hunting and the Social Lives of Southern Africa’s First Farmers
Authors: Jones Mica B. , Kapumha Russell , Chirikure Shadreck , Marshall Fiona
Published: November 2023

Perspectives on human–animal relationships are changing in archaeology and related disciplines. Analytical models that distinguish foraging from food production remain popular, but scholars are beginning to recognize greater variability in the ways people understood and engaged with animals in the past. In southern Africa, researchers have observed that wild animals were economically and socially important to recent agropastoral societies. However, archaeological models emphasize cattle keeping and downplay the role of hunting among past farming groups. To address this discrepancy and investigate human–wild animal interactions over the last ~ 2000 years, we examined zooarchaeological data from 54 southern African Iron Age (first and second millennium AD) farming sites. Diversity and taxonomic information highlights how often and what types of animals people hunted. Comparisons with earlier and contemporaneous forager and herder sites in southern and eastern Africa show that hunting for social and economic purposes characterized the spread of farming and rise of complex societies in southern Africa. The long-term cultural integration of wild animals into food-producing societies is unusual from a Global South perspective and warrants reappraisal of forager/farmer dichotomies in non-Western contexts.
Self-Inflicted Frankfurt-Style Cases and Flickers of Freedom
Authors: Robinson Michael
Published: November 2023

According to the most popular versions of the flicker defense, Frankfurt-style cases fail to undermine the Principle of Alternative Possibilities (PAP) because agents in these cases are (directly) morally responsible not for making the decisions they make but for making these decisions on their own, which is something they could have avoided doing. Frankfurt defenders have primarily focused on trying to show that the alternative possibility of refraining from making the relevant decisions on their own is not a robust alternative, while generally granting that this alternative cannot easily be eliminated from successful cases of this sort. In a recent issue of this journal, Stockdale (2022) attempts to sidestep the debate concerning robustness and develops a novel kind of Frankfurt-style case in which agents are unable to avoid making the relevant decisions on their own. The fundamental problem with Stockdale’s argument is that it hinges on an implausible conception of acting on one’s own. I help clarify the pertinent sense of what it means to do a thing on one’s own in this context and show that these new cases are unable to overcome the targeted versions of the flicker defense of PAP.
Genetic preservation of SLC22A3 in the Admixed and Xhosa populations living in the Western Cape
Authors: Pearce Brendon , Jacobs Clifford , Benjeddou Mongi
Published: November 2023

Background

Amphiphilic solute facilitator organic cation transporters mediate the movement of various endogenous and exogenous organic cations, including crucial drugs like metformin, oxaliplatin, and lamivudine. These transporters are now seen as a potential explanation for inter-individual differences in drug effectiveness, contributing to 15–30% of such variability due to genetic factors.The aim of this study was to determine the baseline minor allele frequency distribution of 18 known coding SNPs in the SLC22A3 gene of 278 Cape Admixed (130) and Xhosa (148) individuals residing in Cape Town, South Africa.

Methods

A convenience sampling method was used for sample collection. DNA extraction and subsequent amplification of target sites was carried out according to standard established methodologies. All genotyping was performed using the SNaPshot™ mini-seuqencing platform.

Results

This study found no genetic polymorphisms in the coding region of the SLC22A3 gene of both the Xhosa and Cape Admixed individuals investigated.

Conclusion

This study has shown that SLC22A3 coding SNPs observed in other populations are absent in the sample of both Cape Admixed and Xhosa individuals studied. The lack of protein sequence variation was consistent with other studies and may reflect the significant physiological role of human organic cation transporter 3 in maintaining cellular and organismal homeostasis.
Mixed Methods Evaluation of Satisfaction with Two Culturally Tailored Substance use Prevention Programs for American Indian/Alaska Native Emerging Adults
Authors: Palimaru Alina I. , Brown Ryan A. , Dickerson Daniel L. , Kennedy David , Johnson Carrie L. , D’Amico Elizabeth J.
Published: November 2023

American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities are disproportionately affected by the opioid epidemic. AI/AN emerging adults (ages 18–25) in urban areas are at particularly high risk, with the overdose death rate among urban-dwelling AI/AN people 1.4 times higher than rural-dwelling AI/AN people. Despite these challenges, there are no evidence-based culturally tailored prevention or intervention programs to address opioid, alcohol and other drug use among urban AI/AN emerging adults. This study focused on understanding AI/AN emerging adults’ experiences with two culturally tailored programs addressing opioid, cannabis, and alcohol use as part of the randomized controlled trial for Traditions and Connections for Urban Native Americans (TACUNA) in order to enhance feasibility of this intervention. Using a convergent mixed methods design at 3-month follow-up, we collected satisfaction and experience ratings and written narratives (total n = 162; intervention n = 77; control n = 85) from a sample of urban-dwelling AI/AN emerging adults who participated in both programs. We analyzed data through simultaneous examination of qualitative and quantitative data. The quantitative ratings show that both programs were rated highly. The qualitative data contextualized these ratings, illustrating pathways through which specific components were perceived to cause desired or observed behavioral change in participants. Among the elements that mattered most to these participants were the convenience of the virtual format, having a comfortable and safe space to share personal stories, and learning new information about their social networks. Negative comments focused on workshop length and inconvenient scheduling. This is one of the first studies to explore participant satisfaction and experience with culturally tailored substance use programming among a historically marginalized and understudied population. It is important to consider the voices of urban-dwelling AI/AN people in program development because hidden factors, such as limited financial resources, limited time, and misalignment with cultural values may prevent existing programs from being feasible.
Presence and consequences of positive words in scientific abstracts
Authors: Edlinger Moritz , Buchrieser Finn , Wood Guilherme
Published: November 2023

Abstracts are the showcase of scientific studies, crafted to make an impression on the reader within a limited space and to determine the amount of attention each study receives. Systemic conditions in the sciences may change the expressive norm and incentive scientists to hype abstracts to promote their work and career. Previous studies found that terms such as “unprecedented”, “novel” and “unique” have been used increasingly in recent history, to describe one’s own research findings. The present study investigates the use of valence-loaded scientific jargon in the abstracts of scientific articles. Sentiment analysis with dictionaries specifically attuned to detect valence-loaded scientific jargon was employed to analyze more than 2,300,000 MEDLINE abstracts from the fields of psychology, biology, and physics. Results show that over the last four decades, abstracts have contained an increasing amount of valence-loaded scientific jargon, as previously observed in earlier studies. Moreover, our results reveal that the positive emotional content of abstracts is increasing in a way that cannot be accounted for by the increase in text length, which has also been observed in the same time period. There were small differences between scientific disciplines. A detailed analysis of the distribution of valence-loaded scientific jargon within abstracts reveals a strong concentration towards the end of the text. We discuss these results in light of psychological evidence relating positive emotions with the propensity to overestimate the value of information to inform judgment and the increase in the competition for attention due to a pressure to publish.
The true futures
Authors: Braüner Torben
Published: November 2023

In this paper various branching time semantics are compared with the aim of clarifying the role of true futures of counterfactual moments, that is, true futures of moments outside the true chronicle. First we give an account of Arthur Prior’s Ockhamistic semantics where truth of a formula is relative to a moment and a chronicle. We prove that this is equivalent to a version of a semantics put forward by Thomason and Gupta where truth is relative to a moment and what is called a chronicle function which assigns a chronicle to each moment. Later we discuss how a semantic theory considered by Belnap and Green may be formalised. It comes about by assuming a chronicle function to be given once and for all. However, this semantics invalidates an intuitively valid formula, so we present an alternative semantics where the formula in question is valid. Furthermore, we shall exhibit an intuitively invalid formula which is invalid in our alternative semantics, but which is valid in Prior’s Ockhamistic semantics. So we can conclude that Prior’s Ockhamistic validity does not imply validity in the alternative semantics. On the other hand, the converse implication does hold, as we shall prove. Summary of mathematical results: We have proved that Prior’s Ockhamistic semantics has the same valid formulas as Thomason and Gupta’s semantics, and we have proved that Prior’s Ockhamistic semantics has strictly more valid formulas than the alternative semantics.
Impacts of stormwater pipe materials and pipe repairs on stormwater quality: a review
Authors: Taneez Mehwish , Österlund Heléne , Lundy Lian , Viklander Maria
Published: November 2023

The water quality implications of transferring stormwater through pipes composed of concrete (new and used), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), galvanized corrugated steel (GCS), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and pipes subjected to cured in place pipe (CIPP) and spray in place pipe (SIPP) trenchless repair technologies on stormwater quality are reviewed. Studies involve either the use of flowing water or an immersion experimental design, with data showing contact with pipe materials can affect stormwater quality parameters including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and concentrations of minerals, metals, and organic constituents, e.g. styrene. ‘In-transport’ changes in pH (1–3 units), EC (2–3-fold), bicarbonate (3–44-fold), and calcium (2–17-fold) in stormwaters were reported following exposure to concrete pipes. Differences between the use of synthetic and field-collected stormwater were identified, e.g. turbidity levels in field-collected stormwater reduced on passage through all pipe types, compared to synthetic water where levels of turbidity on exposure to concrete and cement-based SIPP increased slightly. Transfer through PVC and HDPE pipes had minimal effects on physicochemical parameters, whereas exposure to galvanized corrugated steel pipes led to increases in EC, Zn, and Pb. Though limited data was available, the use of CIPP repairs and associated waste condensate generated during thermal curing and/or incomplete curing of resins was identified to release organic contaminants of concerns (e.g. styrene, vinylic monomers, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), and benzaldehyde). The implications of findings for both future research and stakeholders with responsibility for reducing diffuse pollution loads to receiving waters are considered.

Graphical Abstract
Antioxidants green tea extract and nordihydroguaiaretic acid confer species and strain-specific lifespan and health effects in Caenorhabditis nematodes
Authors: Banse Stephen A. , Sedore Christine A. , Johnson Erik , Coleman-Hulbert Anna L. , Onken Brian , Hall David , Jackson E. Grace , Huynh Phu , Foulger Anna C. , Guo Suzhen , Garrett Theo , Xue Jian , Inman Delaney , Morshead Mackenzie L. , Plummer W. Todd , Chen Esteban , Bhaumik Dipa , Chen Michelle K. , Harinath Girish , Chamoli Manish , Quinn Rose P. , Falkowski Ron , Edgar Daniel , Schmidt Madeline O. , Lucanic Mark , Guo Max , Driscoll Monica , Lithgow Gordon J. , Phillips Patrick C.
Published: November 2023

The Caenorhabditis Intervention Testing Program (CITP) is an NIH-funded research consortium of investigators who conduct analyses at three independent sites to identify chemical interventions that reproducibly promote health and lifespan in a robust manner. The founding principle of the CITP is that compounds with positive effects across a genetically diverse panel of Caenorhabditis species and strains are likely engaging conserved biochemical pathways to exert their effects. As such, interventions that are broadly efficacious might be considered prominent compounds for translation for pre-clinical research and human clinical applications. Here, we report results generated using a recently streamlined pipeline approach for the evaluation of the effects of chemical compounds on lifespan and health. We studied five compounds previously shown to extend C. elegans lifespan or thought to promote mammalian health: 17α-estradiol, acarbose, green tea extract, nordihydroguaiaretic acid, and rapamycin. We found that green tea extract and nordihydroguaiaretic acid extend Caenorhabditis lifespan in a species-specific manner. Additionally, these two antioxidants conferred assay-specific effects in some studies—for example, decreasing survival for certain genetic backgrounds in manual survival assays in contrast with extended lifespan as assayed using automated C. elegans Lifespan Machines. We also observed that GTE and NDGA impact on older adult mobility capacity is dependent on genetic background, and that GTE reduces oxidative stress resistance in some Caenorhabditis strains. Overall, our analysis of the five compounds supports the general idea that genetic background and assay type can influence lifespan and health effects of compounds, and underscores that lifespan and health can be uncoupled by chemical interventions.
Tracked ultrasound registration for intraoperative navigation during pediatric bone tumor resections with soft tissue components: a porcine cadaver study
Authors: van der Zee J. M. , Fitski M. , van de Sande M. A. J. , Buser M. A. D. , Hiep M. A. J. , Terwisscha van Scheltinga C. E. J. , Hulsker C. C. C. , van den Bosch C. H. , van de Ven C. P. , van der Heijden L. , Bökkerink G. M. J. , Wijnen M. H. W. A. , Siepel F. J. , van der Steeg A. F. W.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Resection of pediatric osteosarcoma in the extremities with soft tissue involvement presents surgical challenges due to difficult visualization and palpation of the tumor. Therefore, an adequate image-guided surgery (IGS) system is required for more accurate tumor resection. The use of a 3D model in combination with intraoperative tracked ultrasound (iUS) may enhance surgical decision making. This study evaluates the clinical feasibility of iUS as a surgical tool using a porcine cadaver model.

Methods

First, a 3D model of the porcine lower limb was created based on preoperative scans. Second, the bone surface of the tibia was automatically detected with an iUS by a sweep on the skin. The bone surface of the preoperative 3D model was then matched with the bone surface detected by the iUS. Ten artificial targets were used to calculate the target registration error (TRE). Intraoperative performance of iUS IGS was evaluated by six pediatric surgeons and two pediatric oncologic orthopedists. Finally, user experience was assessed with a post-procedural questionnaire.

Results

Eight registration procedures were performed with a mean TRE of 6.78 ± 1.33 mm. The surgeons agreed about the willingness for clinical implementation in their current clinical practice. They mentioned the additional clinical value of iUS in combination with the 3D model for the localization of the soft tissue components of the tumor. The concept of the proposed IGS system is considered feasible by the clinical panel, but the large TRE and degree of automation need to be addressed in further work.

Conclusion

The participating pediatric surgeons and orthopedists were convinced of the clinical value of the interaction between the iUS and the 3D model. Further research is required to improve the surgical accuracy and degree of automation of iUS-based registration systems for the surgical management of pediatric osteosarcoma.