bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generative AI is already widespread in the public sector: evidence from a survey of UK public sector professionals
Authors: Bright Jonathan , Enock Florence , Esnaashari Saba , Francis John , Hashem Youmna , Morgan Deborah
Published: October 2024

Generative AI has the potential to transform how public services are delivered by enhancing productivity and reducing time spent on bureaucracy. But to what extent is the technology already in use? Our survey of UK public service professionals (in education, health, social work, and emergency services) seeks to answer this question. We find that use of generative AI is widespread: 45% of respondents were aware of colleagues using generative AI, while 22% use it themselves. Respondents were positive about its potential to enhance their efficiency and reduce their bureaucratic workload. For example, those working in the health service thought that time spent on bureaucracy could drop by the equivalent of one day per week, an enormous potential impact. Our survey also found a high amount of trust (61%) in generative AI and a low fear of replacement (16%). However, only a minority of respondents (32%) felt like there was clear guidance on generative AI usage in their workplaces. In other words, it is clear that generative AI is already coming into the public sector, but uptake is happening in a disorganised fashion without clear guidelines. The UK’s public sector urgently needs to develop more systematic methods for taking advantage of the technology.
Potential for GenAI in the Public Domain: A Review of Transportation, Healthcare, Agriculture, and Law
Authors: Dwivedi Divya , De' Rahul
Published: October 2024

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools are becoming quite popular for a variety of operations. One such tool, Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT), is rapidly permeating into people's daily lives and is considered to have the potential to reshape our society. While private organizations are spending huge amounts of money on ChatGPT, its usage in the public domain is still driven by its open access and simple functionality. This study draws on the key concepts of Effective Use theory—Transparent Interaction, Representational Fidelity, Informed Action, and Learning and Adaptation—to examine ChatGPT's current state of diffusion in four public sector domains: transportation, healthcare, agriculture, and law. We find that transparent interaction is better in transportation, agriculture, and law than healthcare; representational fidelity presents a complex picture, whereas informed action has been positive across domains; and learning and adaptation is an ongoing need. We conclude with various suggestions related to research and policy toward boosting GenAI's adoption. We suggest that governments invest resources and develop new regulatory frameworks considering the specific context and use cases for leveraging the enormous potential of GenAI tools in the public domain.
Suppression of Transition Metal Dissolution in Mn-Rich Layered Oxide Cathodes with Graphene Nanocomposite Dry Coatings
Authors: Boyd David A. , Quine Cullen M. , Pasalic Jasmina , Ahn Channing , West William C. , Fultz Brent
Published: October 2024

The growing demand for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) and the reliance on scarce metals in cathode active materials (CAMs) have prompted a search for sustainable alternatives. However, the performance of Mn-rich CAMs formulated with less Co suffer from transition metal dissolution (TMD). TMD can be suppressed by applying a thin film of carbon or oxide to the CAM but the assumed need for a continuous film necessitates bottom-up coating methods. This has been a challenge for LIB production as well as limiting material choices. Here we show that particulate coatings can also suppress TMD, allowing for scalable, material-independent, dry coating methods. Dry coating the Mn-rich CAM surfaces with graphene encapsulated nanoparticles (GEN) (1 wt%) suppresses TMD while nearly doubling the cycle life and improving rate capacities up to 42% under stressful conditions. The ability to suppress TMD is attributed to the unique chemical and electronic properties of the GEN produced by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The method is general and could provide a scalable path to CAM with less Co.
Anatomic and functional evidence for renal autonomic innervation in normotensive and hypertensive rats
Authors: Dai Min , Li Cai-Yu , Wang Jing-Xiao , Xu Xiao-Yu , Sun Shi-Xiu , Kang Ying , Chen Ai-Dong , Han Ying , Zhu Guo-Qing
Published: October 2024

Kidneys are innervated by renal nerves rather than the vagus. Adrenergic fibers in renal arteries are about seven times more than cholinergic fibers. Renal vasoconstriction is regulated by norepinephrine and adrenergic fibers rather than acetylcholine or cholinergic fibers. Renal blood flow is regulated by renal sympathetic nerves and is not affected by the vagus. These findings provide anatomical and functional evidence for renal autonomic innervation in normotensive and hypertensive rats.
Does Postgraduate Education Deepen Temporomandibular Disorders Insights for Dental Professionals?
Authors: Liu Zejin , Xiang Jie , Liu Yi , Zhou Xueman , Yi Yating , Wang Jun , Xiong Xin
Published: October 2024

Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of postgraduate education on the comprehension of Temporomandibular Disorders (TMDs) among dental professionals.

Methods: A cross‐sectional observational study was conducted, involving 348 dental professionals, including students and practicing dentists, categorized based on their educational background into two groups: bachelor’s degree or lower (Group B) and master’s degree or higher (Group M). Questionnaires were utilized to assess attitudes and knowledge across four TMDs‐related domains. Statistical analysis was performed to compare responses between groups and identify differences in TMDs comprehension.

Results: Among the 348 respondents, who participated in the study, 183 were students and 165 were practicing dentists, yielding a response rate of 79% (348/440). In the dentist group, 11 statements across every TMDs‐related domain exhibited statistically significant differences in responses between Group B and Group M (p < 0.05). Only 2 responses from Group M conflicted with the standard answers, whereas Group B had 9 conflicting responses. In the student group, 11 statements also showed statistically significant differences between Group B and Group M (p < 0.05). Group M had no conflicting responses with the standard answers, while Group B had 7 conflicting responses.

Conclusions: Postgraduate education deepened dental professionals’ understanding of TMDs. Students improved more in the domains of “diagnosis” and “treatment and prognosis,” whereas practicing dentists enhanced more in the “etiology” domain. To further advance postgraduate education, there is a need for more systematic course designs for TMDs, emphasizing the enhancement of knowledge related to examination methods and treatment options.
Biomass Yield and Chemical Composition of the Indigenous Browse Species in Gozamen District, Northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Desta Alemu Gashe
Published: October 2024

In many regions of Ethiopia, particularly in the study area, high‐quality livestock feed is scarce, particularly during the dry season. Indigenous browse species could potentially offer alternative sources of feed, but their potential has not been fully exploited, owing to a lack of detailed information. Without detailed information on the nutritional value of indigenous browse species, it is difficult to assess their suitability as feed sources. This knowledge gap indicates that even if these plants are abundant, they may not be used effectively because their nutritional benefits are not well understood. The objective of the present study was to fill this gap by systematically evaluating the biomass yield and nutritional content of indigenous browse species. The mean biomass yields for various indigenous browse species varied significantly (p < 0.05) among species, with Ficus thonningii producing the highest, whereas the biomass yields of Vernonia amygdalina were the lowest. Arundinaria species exhibited the highest NDF content (68.5%), whereas V. amygdalina had the lowest NDF content (46.8%). The crude protein content varied significantly (p < 0.05) among the species, with Acacia albida having the highest (20.3%), whereas the crude protein content of Carissa edulis was the lowest (13.3%). Hence, the crude protein content of all indigenous browse species is sufficient to meet the maintenance needs of cattle, sheep, and goats because, as stated by Kearl and NRC, the crude protein levels required for maintenance in these animals range from 7% to 10%. The crude protein content of indigenous browse species is sufficient to meet the milk production requirements of sheep and goats because the crude protein levels required for milk production for these animals range from 12% to 16%. For lactating dairy cows and growing beef cattle, Kearl recommended CP values of 14%–18% and 12%–16% required, respectively. Therefore, indigenous livestock producers should incorporate these species into their production systems to enhance productivity. This approach can also help mitigate the high costs associated with concentrate feeds, which are typically expensive.
Individual and Contextual Factors Associated With the Prevention of Corruption: A Qualitative Study Among Iranian Public Employees
Authors: Zandi Saeid , Esmaeili Masoumeh , Farahbakhsh Kumars
Published: October 2024

Background: Little research has been done to identify the individual‐level factors contributing to the prevention of administrative corruption. Specifically, Iranian public employees are an understudied population in terms of individual and contextual factors that contribute to the prevention of administrative corruption. This study aimed to identify the perception of public servants about the psychosocial factors that facilitate the prevention of corruption.

Method: Data were collected using semistructured interviews with 14 individuals working in public sector departments or agencies in Tehran.

Results: Six main themes emerged from the data: cognitive characteristics (including “detachment‐promoting thoughts and beliefs” and “consequence‐focused thoughts and beliefs”), emotional patterns (including “deterrent negative emotions” and “deterrent positive emotions”), personality characteristics (including “self‐oriented conservative personality traits” and “other‐oriented prosocial personality traits”), behavioral strategies (including “need‐fulfillment strategies” and “self‐care strategies”), familial background (including “growing up in a rule‐oriented and value‐oriented family” and “living with an honest and supportive spouse”), and organizational context (including “employee monitoring” and “rule‐based and ethical space of the organization”).

Conclusion: The study reveals some psychological and contextual factors that could be involved in preventing administrative corruption in Iran. These factors can be taken into consideration when designing preventive measures and policies aimed at reducing corrupt behaviors in public agents and promoting ethics in public service.
Elecciones 2024: Claves del voto suburbano en Estados Unidos
Authors: Boggiano Bárbara
Published: October 2024

El artículo analiza la importancia del voto suburbano en las elecciones presidenciales de Estados Unidos en 2024. Se examina cómo los cambios demográficos y políticos en los suburbios han afectado las estrategias de los partidos Republicano y Demócrata. Se destaca la estrategia de Kamala Harris enfocada en los derechos reproductivos de las mujeres, mientras que Donald Trump se centra en la retórica antiinmigración. El artículo también aborda la relación entre inmigración y criminalidad, citando estudios que desmienten la creencia de que los inmigrantes aumentan las tasas de criminalidad. Finalmente, se compara esta situación con el debate sobre inmigración y delincuencia en Chile.
Characterization of the Biological Variability of the Angiome Biomarkers over Time in Healthy Participants
Authors: Liu Yingmiao , Li Jiatong , Lyu Jing , Howard Lauren E. , Sibley Alexander B. , Starr Mark D. , Brady John C. , Arrowood Christy , Kohn Elise C. , Ivy S. Percy , Hurwitz Herbert I. , Abbruzzese James L. , Owzar Kouros , Nixon Andrew B.
Published: October 2024

Background:

Biomarker analyses are an integral part of cancer research. Despite the intense efforts to identify and characterize biomarkers in patients with cancer, little is known regarding the natural variation of biomarkers in healthy populations. Here we conducted a clinical study to evaluate the natural variability of biomarkers over time in healthy participants.

Methods:

The angiome multiplex array, a panel of 25 circulating protein biomarkers, was assessed in 28 healthy participants across eight timepoints over the span of 60 days. We utilized the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) to quantify the reliability of the biomarkers. Adjusted ICC values were calculated under the framework of a linear mixed-effects model, taking into consideration age, sex, body mass index, fasting status, and sampling factors.

Results:

ICC was calculated to determine the reliability of each biomarker. Hepatocyte growth factor was the most stable marker (ICC = 0.973), while platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB was the most variable marker (ICC = 0.167). In total, ICC analyses revealed that 22 out of 25 measured biomarkers display good (≥0.4) to excellent (>0.75) ICC values. Three markers (PDGF-BB, TGFβ1, PDGF-AA) had ICC values <0.4. Greater age was associated with higher IL6 (P = 0.0114). Higher body mass index was associated with higher levels of IL6 (P = 0.0003) and VEGF-R3 (P = 0.0045).

Conclusions:

Of the 25 protein biomarkers measured over this short time period, 22 markers were found to have good or excellent ICC values, providing additional validation for this biomarker assay.

Impact:

These data further support the validation of the angiome biomarker assay and its application as an integrated biomarker in clinical trial testing.
Biomarkers Suitable for Early Detection of Intrathoracic Cancers in Primary Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hamad Wasim , Grigore Bogdan , Walford Hugo , Peters Jaime , Alexandris Panos , Bonfield Stefanie , Standen Laura , Boscott Rachel , Behiyat Dawnya , Kuhn Isla , Neal Richard D. , Walter Fiona M. , Calanzani Natalia
Published: October 2024

Intrathoracic cancers, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and thymoma, present diagnostic challenges in primary care. Biomarkers could resolve some challenges. We synthesized evidence on biomarker performance for intrathoracic cancer detection in low-prevalence settings. A search in Embase and MEDLINE included studies that recruited participants with suspected intrathoracic cancer and reported on at least one diagnostic measure for a validated, noninvasive biomarker. Studies were excluded if participants were recruited based on a preestablished diagnosis. A total of 52 studies were included, reporting on 108 individual biomarkers and panels. Carcinoembryonic antigen, CYFRA 21-1, and VEGF were evaluated for lung cancer and mesothelioma. For lung cancer, carcinoembryonic antigen and CYFRA 21-1 were the most studied, with AUCs of 0.48 to –0.90 and 0.48 to –0.83, respectively. Pro–gastrin-releasing peptide (Pro-GRP) and neuron-specific enolase (NSE) had the highest negative predictive values (NPV) (98.2% and 96.9%, respectively), whereas Early Cancer Detection Test - Lung (Early CDT) and miRNA signature classifier panels showed NPVs of 99.3% and 99.0%, respectively, in smokers. For mesothelioma, fibrillin-3 and mesothelin plus osteopontin had AUCs of 0.93 and 0.91, respectively. Thymoma panels (binding AcHR + StrAb and binding AcHR + modulating AcHR + StrAb) had 100% NPVs in patients with myasthenia gravis. The review highlights the performance of some biomarkers. However, few were evaluated in low-prevalence settings. Further evaluation is necessary before implementing these biomarkers for intrathoracic cancers in primary care.
DICER1-Related Tumor Predisposition: Identification of At-risk Individuals and Recommended Surveillance Strategies
Authors: Schultz Kris Ann P. , Nelson Alexander T. , Mallinger Paige H. R. , Harris Anne K. , Kamihara Junne , Baldinger Shari , Chen Kenneth S. , Pond Dinel , Hatton Jessica N. , Dybvik Anna G. , Mitchell Sarah G. , Perrino Melissa R. , Ben-Ami Tal , Kachanov Denis , Su Yan , Duan Chao , Olson Damon R. , Watson Dave , Field Amanda L. , Harney Laura A. , Garrity Carr Ann , Frazier A. Lindsay , Schneider Dominik T. , Wilson David B. , MacFarland Suzanne P. , Schoettler Peter J. , Bauer Andrew J. , Dehner Louis P. , Hill Dana Ashley , Stewart Douglas R. , Messinger Yoav H.
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

DICER1-related tumor predisposition increases risk for a spectrum of benign and malignant tumors. In 2018, the International Pleuropulmonary Blastoma (PPB)/DICER1 Registry published guidelines for testing- and imaging-based surveillance of individuals with a known or suspected germline DICER1 pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variant. One of the goals of the Registry is to continue to refine these guidelines as additional data become available.

Experimental Design:

Individuals were enrolled in the International PPB/DICER1 Registry, the International Ovarian and Testicular Stromal Tumor Registry, and/or the NCI Natural History of DICER1 Syndrome study.

Results:

Review of participant records identified 713 participants with a germline DICER1 P/LP variant from 38 countries. To date, 5 cases of type I and 29 cases of type Ir PPB have been diagnosed by surveillance in enrolled individuals. One hundred and three individuals with a germline P/LP variant developed a primary ovarian Sertoli–Leydig cell tumor at a median age of 14 years (range: 11 months–66 years); 13% were diagnosed before 8 years of age, the current age of onset of pelvic surveillance. Additionally, 4% of Sertoli–Leydig cell tumors were diagnosed before 4 years of age.

Conclusions:

Ongoing data collection highlights the role of lung surveillance in the early detection of PPB and suggests that imaging-based detection and early resection may decrease the risk of advanced PPB. DICER1-related ovarian tumors were detected before 8 years of age, prompting the Registry to recommend earlier initiation of ovarian surveillance with pelvic ultrasound beginning at the time of detection of a germline DICER1 P/LP variant.
Table S3 from Tumor-Intrinsic Activity of Chromobox 2 Remodels the Tumor Microenvironment in High-grade Serous Carcinoma
Authors: Iwanaga Ritsuko , Yamamoto Tomomi M. , Gomez Karina , Nguyen Lily L. , Woodruff Elizabeth R. , Post Miriam D. , Mikeska Railey G. , Danis Etienne , Danhorn Thomas , Boorgula Meher P. , Mitra Siddhartha S. , Marjon Nicole A. , Bitler Benjamin G. , Brubaker Lindsay W.
Published: October 2024

Nanostring
Figure S4 from Tumor-Intrinsic Activity of Chromobox 2 Remodels the Tumor Microenvironment in High-grade Serous Carcinoma
Authors: Iwanaga Ritsuko , Yamamoto Tomomi M. , Gomez Karina , Nguyen Lily L. , Woodruff Elizabeth R. , Post Miriam D. , Mikeska Railey G. , Danis Etienne , Danhorn Thomas , Boorgula Meher P. , Mitra Siddhartha S. , Marjon Nicole A. , Bitler Benjamin G. , Brubaker Lindsay W.
Published: October 2024

M1/M2 macrophages convey differential survival outcomes. M1/M2 gating strategy. CD68 gating of monocytes in culture system.
Spatial Multiomics Reveals Intratumoral Immune Heterogeneity with Distinct Cytokine Networks in Lung Cancer Brain Metastases
Authors: Christensson Gustav , Bocci Matteo , Kazi Julhash U. , Durand Geoffroy , Lanzing Gustav , Pietras Kristian , Gonzalez Velozo Hugo , Hagerling Catharina
Published: October 2024

The tumor microenvironment of brain metastases has become a focus in the development of immunotherapeutic drugs. However, countless patients with brain metastasis have not experienced clinical benefit. Thus, understanding the immune cell composition within brain metastases and how immune cells interact with each other and other microenvironmental cell types may be critical for optimizing immunotherapy. We applied spatial whole-transcriptomic profiling with extensive multiregional sampling (19–30 regions per sample) and multiplex IHC on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded lung cancer brain metastasis samples. We performed deconvolution of gene expression data to infer the abundances of immune cell populations and inferred spatial relationships from the multiplex IHC data. We also described cytokine networks between immune and tumor cells and used a protein language model to predict drug–target interactions. Finally, we performed deconvolution of bulk RNA data to assess the prognostic significance of immune–metastatic tumor cellular networks. We show that immune cell infiltration has a negative prognostic role in lung cancer brain metastases. Our in-depth multiomics analyses further reveal recurring intratumoral immune heterogeneity and the segregation of myeloid and lymphoid cells into distinct compartments that may be influenced by distinct cytokine networks. By using computational modeling, we identify drugs that may target genes expressed in both tumor core and regions bordering immune infiltrates. Finally, we illustrate the potential negative prognostic role of our immune–metastatic tumor cell networks. Our findings advocate for a paradigm shift from focusing on individual genes or cell types toward targeting networks of immune and tumor cells.

Significance:

Immune cell signatures are conserved across lung cancer brain metastases, and immune–metastatic tumor cell networks have a prognostic effect, implying that targeting cytokine networks between immune and metastatic tumor cells may generate more precise immunotherapeutic approaches.
Immunotherapy-Based Strategies for Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Jacobsen Laura M. , Schatz Desmond
Published: October 2024

Background: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is more than an insulin-deficiency disease – it is an autoimmune disease, and the field is moving toward adopting disease-modifying immunotherapy as part of clinical care during T1D development. Summary: Recent successful immunotherapies as well as therapies that missed the mark are reviewed. T cell-directed therapies may allow for the greatest preservation of β cell function but also come with more side effects. Anti-cytokine therapies are very promising but likely need chronic administration. Antigen-specific therapies while safe have not produced meaningful results. Most successful trials have been conducted in adolescents and adults with stage 3 T1D (clinical T1D) with preserved C-peptide (up to 60% more compared to placebo) demonstrated 1–2 years post treatment. HbA1c and total insulin dose are less likely to be significantly different between treated and placebo groups because most participants in studies are meeting glycemic targets and because of the heterogeneous nature of these measures. In the prevention space (delaying progression from stage 2 to stage 3 T1D), the outcome is more discrete, and a T cell-directed therapy, teplizumab, has received FDA approval. Even negative studies with promising mechanistic and safety profiles have added value. Key Messages: What is clear, a single administration or short course of an immunotherapy is unlikely to provide sustained freedom from exogenous insulin.
A integralidade no cuidado da obesidade infantil em municípios brasileiros
Authors: Barbosa Maria Irene de Castro , Paula Laura Solléro de , Recine Elisabetta
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE: To understand the potential and limits of care for childhood obesity from the perspective of comprehensiveness, in the context of Primary Health Care, in Brazilian municipalities. METHODS: A qualitative approach was adopted, with an electronic form of a dissertative nature being applied in 11 municipalities in the five Brazilian regions, derived from the four axes of comprehensiveness defined by Ayres (needs, purposes, articulations, and interactions). RESULTS: Among the strengths for comprehensive care, the following were observed: the provision of services at different levels of care; the relevance of intersectoral programs in the development of actions aimed at the multidimensionality of childhood obesity; the implementation of strategies for systematizing care and tools that encourage the expansion of dialogue and humanization; and intersectoral coordination to create appropriate responses to the expanded needs of children and their families. Limitations include: the centralization of actions in nutrition professionals and in the care sphere; the failure to prioritize childhood obesity in health agendas; and the lack of trained professionals to deal with the complexity of obesity. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that child obesity care practices, in order to be transformative, need to be understood in the context of comprehensiveness. And this includes (re)thinking public policies, professional practices, and the organization of work processes so that they are, in fact, more inclusive, participatory, dialogical, humanized, supportive, fair, and, therefore, effective.
Cardiac Arrhythmias and Autonomic Dysfunction Associated With COVID-19: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Gopinathannair Rakesh , Olshansky Brian , Chung Mina K. , Gordon Steve , Joglar Jose A. , Marcus Gregory M. , Mar Philip L. , Russo Andrea M. , Srivatsa Uma N. , Wan Elaine Y. ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Electrocardiography and Arrhythmias Committee of the Council on Clinical Cardiology; Council on Basic Cardiovascular Sciences; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; Council on Genomic and Precision Medicine; and Council on Hypertension
Published: October 2024

Cardiac arrhythmias are commonly noted in patients during infections with and recovery from COVID-19. Arrhythmic manifestations span the spectrum of innocuous and benign to life-threatening and deadly. Various pathophysiological mechanisms have been proposed. Debate continues on the impact of incident and exacerbated arrhythmias on the acute and chronic (recovery) phase of the illness. COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccine–associated myocardial inflammation and autonomic disruption remain concerns. As the pandemic has transformed to an endemic, with discovery of new SARS-CoV-2 variants, updated vaccines, and potent antiviral drugs, vigilance for COVID-19–associated arrhythmic and dysautonomic manifestations remains. The objective of this American Heart Association scientific statement is to review the available evidence on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management of cardiac arrhythmias and autonomic dysfunction in patients infected with and recovering from COVID-19 and to provide evidence-based guidance. The writing committee’s consensus on implications for clinical practice, gaps in knowledge, and directions for future research are highlighted.
CERASTIUM MAHMUTKILINCII (CARYOPHYLLACEAE), A NEW SPECIES FROM TÜRKIYE
Authors: KESKİN MUSTAFA , KARAER FERGAN , CELEP FERHAT
Published: October 2024

Cerastium (Caryophyllaceae) is a taxonomically difficult genus of over than 100 species. The flora of Türkiye include 30 species of Cerastium, of which 9 are endemics. A further species (Cerastium mahmutkilincii sp. nov.), belonging to sect. Cerastium subsect. Grandiflora, was proposed here based on a morphological investigation of herbarium specimens. The new species is only known from the Erbaa-Tokat region (North Anatolia) and it is similar to C. szowitsii and C. araraticum, but differs from both by the hairy filaments and sparsely glandular (eglandular hairy in both C. szowitsii and C. araraticum) and multicellular hairy stem indumentum (usually simple hairy in C. szowitsii and C. araraticum). It also differs from C. araraticum by a hairy claw at the base (glabrous in C. araraticum). Data about the ecology and phenology, as well as a identification key of the Turkish members of subsect. Grandiflora are also given; lacking sufficient data, the IUCN conservation status was assessed as DD (Data Deficient). As a result, with the new species in this article, the number of Cerastium species in Türkiye has increased to 31 and the number of endemic taxa to 10.
Elites and ordinariness in cross-status encounters: Adding Goffman's ritual interaction order to sociological interpretations
Authors: Vassenden Anders
Published: October 2024

Elites and higher-class people often downplay – even conceal – their status when interacting with people of lower class/status than themselves. This finding has been reported from several countries in the Global North. It is also shown in research from disparate academic fields and disciplines: the sociology of class, psychology, cognitive decision-making, and microsociology. This paper reviews and synthesises the literature on elites and high-status people who downplay social differences in cross-status social interaction. It makes two main contributions: First, I show that the phenomenon is more widespread transnationally than especially Nordic researchers have assumed. The second contribution comes from tracing the theoretical interpretations in the research. I notice tendencies of an individual – structure dualism in some strands of research, with the relevant analytical levels being the broader moral repertoires and predispositions. Other strands of research suffer from overly individualist interpretations. I argue that what is missing in most current research on cross-status interaction, is an adequate theoretical grasp of the social situation. I discuss how the study of cross-status interaction can be fertilised by the classical microsociological idea of situations’ existence in themselves, a social domain that cannot be reduced to dispositions or broader culture. I engage here especially Erving Goffman's ritual interaction order. From this vantage point, I also highlight situational variation, something attended to by few studies of cross-status interaction.
Toward a Theology of Trans Opacity: Trans Studies’ Critique of Queer Theory in Conversation with Karl Barth’s Doctrine of Revelation
Authors: King Maxine
Published: October 2024

While it is generally known that the disciplinary origins of feminist and queer religious studies are enmeshed with the production of anti-trans feminisms, theological legacies of this historical entanglement remain largely unaddressed. Although later feminist and queer theologies might not explicitly take up these anti-trans positions, trans identity is still often instrumentalized in its incorporation into queer and feminist theological discourse for rhetorical and methodological gain without attention to the subjectivity and self-understanding of trans people themselves. This article argues that the theology of Karl Barth, when read with his feminist and queer critics, provides resources for critiquing this kind of trans instrumentalization in his doctrine of revelation and critique of natural theology. Moving beyond either reactionary dismissal or instrumentalized incorporation, this article instead argues for a right to opacity for trans people in Christian theology and practice resourced from Barth’s theology.
Enhancing Pracademia in Business Schools: Designing Systems That Enable Impact
Authors: Hughes Helen P. N. , Dickinson Jill , Hall Ged , Loseby David L.
Published: October 2024

This commentary builds on ongoing dialogs examining the impact agenda. Its purpose is to (a) demonstrate how pracademia can enhance the impact agenda of Business Schools and (b) apply principles from socio-technical theory, to show how achieving this requires widespread culture change in Business Schools, which must be considered within the wider socio-technical system in which pracademia and impact are embedded. We consider inherent problems, and ways forward.
Graffiti Writers Choose Locations That Optimize Exposure
Authors: Kuralarasan K. , Bernasco Wim , Vandeviver Christophe
Published: October 2024

We investigate the spatial decision-making of graffiti writers when selecting target locations, examining how street segment characteristics influence exposure. Extending the rational choice perspective to expressive offending, we collected data through Systematic Social Observation in Ghent’s city center in November 2017, covering 12,655 graffiti instances across 2,233 street segments. The SSO involved counting graffiti items and public facilities likely to attract crowds, and measuring street network centrality. Conditional logit models assessed the impact of these characteristics on graffiti location choices. Results show that street network centrality and the presence of bars, night shops, residential units, and schools significantly increased graffiti writers’ preferences. Our findings suggest that graffiti writers aim to maximize exposure, highlighting the rational choice perspective’s relevance for expressive offending.
The impact of social media screen-exposure time on suicidal ideation among Pakistani adolescents
Authors: Alyas Mamoona , Mahesar Rameez Ali , Shoib Sheikh , Khan Muhammad Babar , Ali Syeda Ayat-e-Zainab , Ventriglio Antonio
Published: October 2024

Background:

Adolescence is a crucial life stage for the individual identity formation. The growing employment of social media and screen-exposure among teenagers and the concerning rise in suicide ideation rates in this susceptible group both suggested this study. Thus, we explored the association between adolescents’ suicidal ideation and their daily social media screen-exposure.

Methods:

We surveyed 502 students, aged 13 to 19 years old, recruited in colleges and universities of Punjab, Pakistan. The survey was based on a 28-item self-reported questionnaire and demographic data collection.

Results:

Approximately 40% of adolescents reporting suicidal ideation showed an extended social media screen-exposure, as well as significant depressive feelings and problematic personality traits. In particular, suicidal ideation increased by 0.39 for each one-unit increase in screen-exposure time and levels of depression increased by 0.21 times by unit of screen-exposure. The correlation coefficients further indicated a moderate positive association between depression and suicidal thoughts as well as personality traits played as mediators between social media screen-exposure time and suicidal ideation among adolescents.

Conclusion:

Our study found a positive association, even if modest, between the use of social media screens and suicidal ideation among adolescents. This evidence may suggest to adopt specific strategies to address the use of media among youths and prevent mental disorders related to the prolonged and inappropriate use of digital technologies in those users with a vulnerable personality.
A Cosmopolitan Approach to Preparing Preservice Teachers for a Diverse World
Authors: Ryman Cynthia K.
Published: October 2024

This article considers the future of teacher education through researching the impact of encouraging cosmopolitan perspectives in an undergraduate children’s literature course for preservice teachers. The research question focuses on how preservice teachers respond to reading and dialoguing through a cosmopolitan lens. Reading literature through a cosmopolitan lens entails a reflexive consideration of personal convictions and a reflective openness to learning from the perspectives of others. The results of this study provide insights into how preservice teachers understood a cosmopolitan response. The results also highlight the need for further critical inquiry into how to invite greater reflexive consciousness and reflective openness to other perspectives in preparing teachers for a diverse society.
Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) characterisation of mouse inbred strains bred at MRC-National Institute for Medical Research
Authors: Sánchez-Morgado José M
Published: October 2024

Inbred mouse strains have long proved useful as tools for biomedical research. They remove the effects of genetic background as an experimental variable. Within all mouse colonies, genetic drift is a recognised phenomenon and monitoring and documenting changes is important for experimental design and consistency. This communication documents the initial characterisation through SNP analysis of the inbred mouse strains bred and used at the time at the Medical Research Council National Institute for Medical Research (MRC-NIMR), Mill Hill, now The Crick Institute. These inbred strains were part of the foundation colonies for the many genetically modified mouse strains made at Mill Hill. We found small genetic changes in four of the nine inbred strains. Although phenotypic differences have not yet been found between the NIMR and the correspondent parental strains, I cannot discard that these may arise or have already arisen. This work has also authenticated the 129/SvJEvNimr- Gpi1c strain that was widely used at MRC-NIMR for gene targeting. All these inbred strains have been renamed according to The International Committee on Standardized Genetic Nomenclature for Mice.
What Lies Beneath: A Development-Oriented Auditing Approach to Understand Organizations Beyond the Surface of Hard-Control
Authors: Beckers Jorrick , Hermanussen José , Stevens Ronald , van der Pluym Ingrid
Published: October 2024

Auditing procedures aim to improve educational quality in vocational education and training. Auditing approaches often focus on checking for compliance to rules and standards. Through dialogue, development-oriented audits are thought to inspire soft-control, a form of control that aims to address what is beneath the surface of mere compliance. These kinds of audits offer opportunities to demonstrate ethical leadership as part of an ethical culture. It is expected that an ethical culture variables positively influence working climate variables and ultimately intrinsic motivation. In this study, conducted as part of the (Hermanussen et al., 2022) study, we employed structural equation modeling to test if model behavior and sanctionability positively influenced perceived autonomy, perceived relatedness, trust, and self-efficacy, and ultimately intrinsic motivation. The study was conducted at eight different Dutch secondary vocational education and training organizations including 1223 participants. Results demonstrate a good model fit, χ2 = .12, df = 3, p = .989, GFI = 1.00, AFGI = 1.00, and RMSEA <.001. All presumed effects were significant. The strongest effects include model behavior on autonomy (.49) and autonomy on intrinsic motivation (.45). Future research should employ designs and analyses that are able to account for a multilevel structure in educational organizations.
Impact of easy-care and softener treatments on fabric frictional noise properties: a study on two protective fabrics
Authors: Dhim Hamza , Leclinche Floriane , Drean Emilie , Adolphe Dominique , Zimpfer Véronique
Published: October 2024

This research aimed to reduce fabric frictional noise to enhance wearing comfort, as such noise can be bothersome. This goal was achieved through chemical surface treatments, specifically cross-linker treatment and silicone softener treatment. Frictional noise from the treated fabrics was generated, recorded, and analyzed using a frictional noise generator, fast Fourier transform, and sixth-band analysis to determine the total noise level. A novel aspect of this work is the use of psychoacoustic characterization to evaluate the fabric frictional noise by calculating Zwicker’s parameters using the Brüel and Kjær application. In addition, the mechanical properties were tested using the Kawabata compression and surface testers, with data comparison achieved using Student’s t-test. The results showed that softeners are more effective than cross-linkers in reducing the total frictional noise level, loudness, and fluctuation strength. However, cross-linkers are better at reducing sharpness. Neither treatment affected the roughness of the frictional noise. In summary, both easy-care and softener treatments help reduce discomfort and produce less loud and sharp fabric frictional noise.
Associations of diagnostic awareness with psychosocial symptoms and survival time in patients with advanced lung cancer
Authors: Abali Hulya , Onur Seda Tural , Baser Yusuf , Demir Dilara , Bicen Asli
Published: October 2024

Objective

Disclosing the diagnosis of lung cancer to patients is an issue, especially in the Middle East where cultural factors may prohibit disclosure from being done. The psychosocial consequences of diagnostic awareness and its impact on life expectancy of disclosure are an important issue that may influence this decision. The present study evaluated the effects of diagnostic awareness on psychosocial symptomatology and survival time in advanced lung cancer patients in Turkey.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 126 advanced lung cancer patients admitted to the oncology department between February 2021 and August 2021. A face-to-face survey included questions on age, gender, marital/employment statuses, comorbidities, and psychological symptoms (SCL-90-R). Diagnostic awareness was assessed by asking patients whether they knew their diagnosis. The correlation of diagnostic awareness with 2-year survival time was analyzed using Cox regression analysis.

Results

Of the 126 patients, 86 died at the time of follow-up. Survival time and scores on SCL-90-R symptom subscales were compared between diagnosis-aware (79.4%) and diagnosis-unaware groups (20.6%). Somatization ( P = 0.04), depression ( P = 0.01), hostility ( P = 0.03), scores on additional symptom scales ( P = 0.01), and Positive Symptom Total scores ( P = 0.01) were significantly higher in the diagnosis-unaware group. No significant difference was found between diagnostic awareness and survival time ( P = 0.24).

Conclusions

Advanced lung cancer patients aware of their diagnosis experienced less psychosocial burden. However, no significant difference was found in survival time between diagnosis-aware and diagnosis-unaware patients. These findings suggest that the diagnosis should be disclosed to lung cancer patients after confirmation of diagnosis.
Factors associated with caregiver burden among family members of persons with schizophrenia in urban communities of China
Authors: Liang Fangling , Du Hui , Liu Xin , Zheng Mengyao , He Changjiu
Published: October 2024

Objective

Family caregivers bear a heavy burden while providing care for those with schizophrenia, and they frequently play an important role in this regard. The present study examined the degree of caregiver burden and characteristics related to it among family caregivers of persons with schizophrenia in Chinese urban settings.

Methods

Between August 2023 and June 2024, a cross-sectional study was conducted of 401 family caregivers of persons with schizophrenia living in metropolitan settings. The following measures were administered: the Zarit Burden interview (ZBI), General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS), and Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ). Linear regression analyses were used to identify independent correlates of caregiver burden.

Results

Family caregivers of persons with schizophrenia had an average ZBI score of 32.90(SD = 17.53) on a 0-88 scale, with the majority (80.0%) reporting moderate caregiver burden (scores of 21-39). The person with schizophrenia’s marital status (not married), impulsive or aggressive conduct in the previous year, the caregiver’s physical health (poor), and not having multiple caregivers were all independent correlates of caregiver burden.

Conclusions

Family caregivers of persons with schizophrenia experience a moderate level of caregiver burden. To lessen the psychological suffering of and strain on caregivers, it is important to intervene early on impulsive and aggressive conduct of persons with schizophrenia, effectively treat physical health problems of caregivers, and strengthen the social support system or otherwise provide assistance to those caring for persons with schizophrenia.
A reflective study on the intricate history of Chinese immigration in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Tseng Ampere A.
Published: October 2024

This article presents a reflective microcosm to faithfully echo the intricate history of Chinese immigration in Peninsular Malaysia, focusing on two migration waves that occurred during the Malacca Sultanate and colonial eras. It meticulously examines the underlying causes, defining the characteristics, patterns and quantities of each immigration wave by drawing upon historical documents, tombstone inscriptions and demographic data. In a significant departure from conventional wisdom, this study challenges the prevailing notion that Chinese immigrants were overwhelmingly male, shedding light on the fact that the initial wave featured a higher proportion of females. Moreover, the analysis illuminates the intricate interplay between local colonial policies and the external factors emanating from China, demonstrating their profound influence on migration patterns and quantities. The present quantitative study offers fresh insights into the multifaceted experiences of Chinese immigrants in Peninsular Malaysia. It underscores the key findings while bringing attention to the associated complexities and nuances.
Evaluating UKCP18-Based weather files for overheating assessment using building simulation: A case study for a flat in london
Authors: Xie Hailun , Eames Matt , Mylona Anastasia , Challenor Peter , De Grussa Zoe , Davies Hywel
Published: October 2024

Global warming and net zero transition are the two biggest challenges currently faced by the building industry in the UK. While the net zero transition primarily focuses on the problems of energy efficiency and heat decarbonization, the rise of global temperature imposes a significant threat to the health and wellbeing of occupants and the industry is obliged to make buildings climate-resilient by testing their designs using future weather files. To improve the quality of the current weather files, a new project has been commissioned by CIBSE to revisit the data and the methodology employed for creating future weather files and produce new CIBSE weather files using the latest UK Climate Projections released in 2018 (UKCP18). In this study, we evaluate the newly produced weather files for overheating risk using building simulation. Two different batches of weather files were curated. The first batch was produced primarily using the existing methodology for creating the UKCP09 based weather files, with an adjustment to accommodate new features of the UKCP18 and an improved procedure for morphing the solar radiation data. The second batch was created through an improved morphing process to better emulate the characteristics of distributions of climatic variables. The differences between the existing UKCP09 and new UCKP18 based weather files are compared by evaluating overheating metrics. The new weather files enable robust building performance assessment against future climate conditions under different scenarios and will play an important role in designing climate-resilient buildings and delivering a net zero built environment.

Practical applications

As the extreme weather events resulting from climate change become more frequent and intense, they pose significant challenges to the resilience of the built environment and severe threats to the health and wellbeing of the occupants. Climate data, which serves as the foundation for climate risk assessment, plays a critical role in helping the building sector to achieve climate resilience through the means of performance assessment and the channel of regulatory compliance. In this study, the revised future weather files created using the latest UKCP18 climate projections are presented and evaluated using building simulation, as part of the weather file testing programme for quality assurance. The revision of the CIBSE weather files according to the latest climate science, i.e. UKCP18, will enable the building industry to quantify overheating risks with more accurate climate assumptions and better inform decision making about risk mitigation and climate adaptation.