bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Perceived Groove in Music on Effective Brain Connectivity during Cycling: An F-NIRS Study
Authors: Chen Jiangang , Zhou Gaoquan , Han Junbo , Su Pei , Zhang Hongli , Tang Donghui
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Perceived groove, a complex and integrated musical characteristic, is considered a core factor in inducing synchronization between movement and music. This study aimed to employ functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to explore the effective connectivity (EC) changes among brain regions during cycling activities under different perceived groove conditions.

Methods

In a randomized crossover design, 18 university students performed 3-min cycling tasks under high (HG) and low (LG) perceived groove music conditions. Revolutions per minute (RPM), coefficient of variation of pedaling cadence (CVPC), and sensorimotor coupling index (SMCI) were measured. Granger causality analyses were performed on the fNIRS data from the cycling task to obtain EC matrices at the brain region and channel (Ch) levels.

Results

The RPM was significantly higher, and CVPC and SMCI were significantly lower in HG than in LG. The EC values of the Brodmann Area (BA) 8→the left prefrontal cortex (lPFC), the superior portion of BA 6 (BA 6_Sup)→lPFC, and BA 1-3→lPFC were significantly higher in HG than in LG. Channel analyses indicated that the EC values of Ch 14→Ch 9, Ch 41→Ch 9, Ch 14→Ch 10, Ch 41→Ch 10, Ch 31→Ch 10, and Ch 35→Ch 23 were significantly higher in HG than in LG. Correlation analysis revealed that the EC values of the channels included in BA 6_Sup→lPFC were significantly correlated with cycling performance metrics.

Conclusions

The EC changes from BA 6_Sup to lPFC may play a critical role in the process through which perceived groove affects the synchronization of cycling to music.
Theta Burst Stimulation Modulates Exercise Performance by Influencing Central Fatigue and Corticospinal Excitability
Authors: Martignon Camilla , Barbi Chiara , Vernillo Gianluca , Sidhu Simranjit K , Andani Mehran Emadi , Schena Federico , Venturelli Massimo
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Theta-burst stimulation (TBS) over the primary motor cortex modulates activity of the underlying neural tissue, but little is known about its consequence on neuromuscular fatigue (NMF) and its neural correlates. This study aimed to compare the effects of facilitatory versus inhibitory TBS on the NMF and excitability/inhibition of the corticospinal pathway in an unfatigued/fatigued muscle.

Methods

The effects of three TBS protocols (facilitatory/intermittent: iTBS; inhibitory/continuous: cTBS, and sham: sTBS) were tested on exercise performance, neuromuscular function, corticospinal excitability and inhibition in twenty young healthy participants. Transcranial magnetic and peripheral electrical stimulations were used at baseline, following TBS (unfatigued state), and after a fatiguing sustained contraction (fatigued state) at 35% of the maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) of the elbow flexors.

Results

Time-to-task failure was shorter for cTBS (142±51 s) and longer for iTBS (214±68 s) compared with sTBS (173±65 s) (P < .05). In an unfatigued state, cTBS reduced MVIC and voluntary activation (VA), increased motor-evoked potential (MEP), and silent period (SP) (P < 0.05), while iTBS did not cause any change. In a fatigued state, MVIC and VA decreased in all TBS sessions (P < 0.05). However, the reduction in VA was larger after cTBS (Δ-18±18%) compared with iTBS (Δ-3±5%), and sTBS (Δ-9±9%) (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the increase in MEP and SP were greater for cTBS (P < .05), compared to iTBS and sTBS (P < .05).

Conclusions

Facilitatory TBS augments exercise performance that is independent of central parameters and corticospinal mechanisms whilst inhibitory TBS attenuates exercise performance through an exacerbation in the development of central fatigue and possibly intracortical inhibition.
Challenging the role of resilience and vulnerability in narratives of well-being
Authors: Brown Petra , Browne Tamara Kayali
Published: November 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was significant emphasis on building resilience to address the vulnerability felt at both individual and collective levels. This focus on resilience was critiqued by scholars who saw the discourse as stemming from neoliberal governance. In this paper, we critique the political roots of neoliberalism, particularly the ideal liberal state citizen, the autonomous individual who views reliance on others as vulnerability. We use the concept of relational autonomy, which has influenced fields like bioethics and health studies, to explore how vulnerability relates to interpersonal, social, and political dimensions of autonomy. We propose a typology where vulnerability can emerge as positive or self-affirming, or negative, as self-undermining, circumstantial, and/or pathogenic. The latter forms require significant political engagement to address the conditions that foster it. We apply this typology to two related case studies: Australia’s National Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan and the Victorian State Government’s lockdown of public housing towers in inner Melbourne. These case studies reveal how vulnerability can be used as a tool of governmental control within resilience discourse, risking circumstantial and pathogenic vulnerability due to state securitization of protection. We conclude by proposing a reframing of vulnerability within a relational autonomy framework of well-being, emphasizing care for interpersonal relationships and care as a public practice to enhance democratic participation in pursuing health and social good.
Identification of compounds from natural Peruvian sources as potential inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro mutations by virtual screening and computational simulations
Authors: Barazorda-Ccahuana Haruna Luz , Cárcamo Rodriguez Eymi Gladys , Centeno-Lopez Angela Emperatriz , Paco-Chipana Margot , Goyzueta-Mamani Luis Daniel , Chavez-Fumagalli Miguel Angel
Published: November 2024

Background Although the COVID-19 pandemic has diminished in intensity, the virus continues to circulate globally. The SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) is a key enzyme in the life cycle of the virus, making it important for the development of treatments against future variants of the virus. In this work, Peruvian natural compounds were evaluated against different mutations of the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. Methods In silico techniques such as virtual screening, all-atom molecular dynamics simulations, and energy estimation analysis were applied. Results Of the tested compounds by virtual screening, rutin was identified as the best binding agent against the different proposed Mpro mutations. In addition, computational simulations and energy estimation analysis demonstrated the high structural and energetic stability between the Mpro-rutin systems. Conclusions Overall, our study identified rutin as the most promising compound with a strong affinity for various Mpro mutations, potentially playing a key role in the development of new treatments for emerging viral variants.
Analysis of internet educational websites on tobacco cessation: A content analysis
Authors: Avinash B R , Chengappa Kaveri , Shenoy Ramya , Rao Ashwini , Pai Mithun , Rajesh G
Published: November 2024

Background There have been significant changes in the lifestyles of individuals in the past few decades, which has led to increased morbidity and mortality worldwide. Both smoking and chewing forms of tobacco are highly prevalent, especially in India, and are implicated as causes of diseases, including oropharyngeal carcinomas. Effective tobacco cessation techniques and sources can help overcome addiction and reduce the disease burden in society. The aim was to evaluate the quality and readability of contents of various sources on an internet website about tobacco cessation. Objectives i) To evaluate the readability of internet content (Google) regarding tobacco cessation using Flesch–Kincaid readability tests and the quality of internet content (Google) by using the JAMA benchmark, HONcode and DISCERN questionnaire. Methods A content review was employed to screen the content of the Google search engine for educational tobacco cessation websites, and the top 50 websites were selected according to criteria and reviewed by two reviewers. The readability of the internet content (Google) regarding tobacco cessation was evaluated using Flesch–Kincaid readability tests. The quality of the screened sites was evaluated by using the JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) benchmark, HONcode (The Health on the Net Code of Conduct) and DISCERN (Discerning the Quality of Information for Choosing Treatments) questionnaire, and the readability and quality of the screened websites were correlated using the above instruments. Results FK readability ease was found to be 49% standard and 30% easy. The FK grade test found that 33% of the content could be easily understood by < 5th grade. All 4 JAMA benchmarks were met by 23% of websites, and authorship was the least fulfilled criterion. Correlation analysis revealed a significant association between FK ease score and FK grade score. Conclusions The Read-ability Ease and Read-ability Grade Levels of the websites related to tobacco cessation were not standard, and few websites fulfilled the JAMA benchmarks and had HONcode certification.
Protocol for the systematic review of age and sex in preclinical models of age-correlated diseases
Authors: Diederich Kai , Steinfath Matthias , Bannach-Brown Alexandra , Bert Bettina , Butzke Daniel , Wildner Paul Lucas , Wurm Maximilian , Schadock Ines , Heinl Céline
Published: November 2024

The translation of animal-based biomedical research into clinical research is often inadequate. Maximizing translation should be central to animal research on human diseases, guiding researchers in study design and animal model selection. However, practical considerations often drive the choice of animal model, which may not always reflect key patient characteristics, such as sex and age, impacting the disease's course. Despite diseases affecting both sexes, researchers frequently use male mice. To address this imbalance, journals and funding agencies have begun questioning the sex of animals used in studies and issued new guidelines. Conversely, the age of rodents is rarely discussed, even though many diseases primarily affect older patients. Young mice are commonly used, even in studies of diseases affecting older adults. Systematic comparisons between the age of rodents used and the age of patients in clinical trials are lacking. In this review, we systematically analyze the age and sex of mice used to model the five leading causes of global disability-adjusted life-years over the age of 75. We compare the results with the age and sex of patients in clinical trials focusing on Alzheimer's disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes mellitus, ischemic heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. We also analyze whether the age of the mice used has changed over the past decade. By systematically assessing the age and sex of the mice, we aim to initiate a discussion on the appropriate choice of animal model to improve the translatability of research results.
Case Report: Case report: Hepatic and pulmonary echinococcosis with reactivated tuberculosis
Authors: Mohamed Yousif , Arbab Sohaib , Mohamed Ali
Published: November 2024

The co-infection of Pulmonary Tuberculosis (TB) and hydatid disease is rare. Diagnosis and treatment of this co-infection may be challenging as both diseases present with overlapping clinical manifestations, especially in war zones where the health system is destroyed. We are reporting a 45-year-old female police officer transferred to Sinnar Sudan due to ongoing conflict. She was admitted with chronic cough, shortness of breath, and weight loss. The preliminary diagnosis of pulmonary TB was made based on chest X-ray examination and sputum analysis. Further imaging showed cystic lesions in both the liver and the lungs, and thus a diagnosis of Echinococcosis was made. Surgical intervention was done successfully followed by the courses of Albendazole and anti-TB medication. The clinical condition of the patient improved, with the disappearance of all symptoms. This case represents the diagnostic dilemma of dual infections in the areas of their endemicity because of the symptomatology overlap that might occur and result in an erroneous diagnosis. It does demand an appropriate diagnostic approach, thus, with advanced imaging applications, and once more, emphasizes the interdisciplinary attitude in its treatment for the best possible result.
Protocol for Conducting Scoping Review on Reliability and Validity of Low-Stakes Assessments in Medical Education
Authors: Zafar Imran , Waller Susan , Schuwirth Lambert , Filho Carvalho , Magzoub Mohi Eldin
Published: November 2024

Low-stakes assessments (LSAs) are widely used in medical education to promote continuous learning by providing formative feedback and minimizing the high-stress environment associated with high-stakes assessments. While LSAs are recognized for their role in supporting student learning, questions remain about their reliability and validity. This scoping review aims to systematically identify and synthesize existing literature on the reliability and validity of LSAs within medical education contexts. This study aims to map the methodologies used to establish psychometric parameters, identify problems, and offer best practices. The review will use the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, encompassing a comprehensive search across six academic databases and grey literature to identify relevant studies published from 2000 onward. Two reviewers will independently screen and extract data, using the Covidence tool for systematic screening and data extraction. Data will be analyzed using qualitative and quantitative approaches to provide an overview of reliability and validity evidence for LSAs in medical education. Insights into motivational and psychometric theories, such as Self-Determination Theory, Classical Test Theory, and Generalizability Theory, that inform LSA design and implementation will be used to analyse the findings in this review. Expected outcomes include a detailed map of the literature on LSA reliability and validity, identification of key challenges, theoretical underpinnings and recommended strategies for improving LSA practices in medical education. Findings will inform future research and provide guidelines for optimizing the use of LSAs to enhance student learning outcomes, assessment integrity, and the educational experience in medical training.
Initial development and validation of item banks to measure problematic hypersexuality
Authors: van Tuijl Piet , Verboon Peter , van Lankveld Jacques
Published: November 2024

Background Problematic Hypersexuality (PH) is defined as a distress caused by hypersexuality, to the extent that seeking treatment is considered. PH was previously measured with instruments stemming from different perspectives on problems related to hypersexuality. These instruments might best be analyzed in unison to discover the most optimal set of characteristics to measure PH. Methods A total of 58 items were investigated with Item Response Theory (IRT). We included 1211 participants (592 women, 618 men, 1 other) from a representative Dutch general population sample of 18 years or older. In addition, 371 participants (116 women, 253 men, 2 other) in a web-based survey who sought information on their current level of PH were included. This latter group was divided into those that did or did not consider treatment and group differences in item averages were assessed. Results After item selection, 26 out of 58 items were retained and divided in two scales: Emotion Dysregulation-PH – 9 items representing the distressing emotional patterns coinciding with hypersexual preoccupation – and Negative Effects-PH – 17 items representing the negative consequences of patterns of hypersexual thoughts and behavior. Assumptions for IRT analyses were met (unidimensionality, local independence and monotonicity). After an IRT graded response model was fit, the scales showed sufficient reliability for the target population of hypersexual individuals. In the general population the scales showed large floor effects and were less reliable. Conclusions With this study a first step is taken in validating two complementary item banks to measure PH. Further development of the item banks should include the investigation of responsiveness. New items should be constructed to assess less-explored areas of PH and improve differentiating power of the scales. This study showed that diagnostic accuracy for PH is currently difficult to attain with a survey, even when using an extended item set representing the most unique characteristics of PH.
Instrumentalized migration: avoiding the trap
Authors: Lebrun Maxime , Ellingsen Tanja , Dumur-Laanila Hanne , Bujold Sophie , Miller Annabel , James Beth , Akrap Gordan , Mandić Josip
Published: November 2024

The article considers the European Union’s (EU) and its Member States’ capacities to face the challenge posed by instrumentalized migration as a hybrid threat activity. Instrumentalized migration in this context entails people being forcibly displaced towards an EU border and made to cross it to claim international protection with an aim of causing capacity overload, adverse reactions, or exerting larger pressure on the target state. Because global migration is a highly politicised and securitized issue in European and domestic politics, authoritarian states may see a strategic opportunity in instrumentalizing it their advantage. Responding strategically to instrumentalized migration requires identifying policy pitfalls and value traps while managing to maintain as many tools and as much space for manoeuvre as possible. Authoritarian states may use instrumentalized migration to further their wider agenda of turning international law into a system of rules which would primarily protect state sovereignty and non-interference at the expense of the international protection of human rights. Responses to instrumentalized migration have impacts and establish precedence in terms of acceptable state practice. Considering this, this article discusses the EU’s new Pact on Migration and Asylum and examines how it can be used to the advantage of Member States when dealing with instances of instrumentalized migration.
Science at the Secretariat of the International Seabed Authority: post-normal science for recalibration of policy instruments.
Authors: klimašauskaitė aistė , Dees Paul , Funtowicz Silvio Oscar , Drivdal Laura Elisabet , Berta Ola G.
Published: November 2024

Post-normal conditions require post-normal resolutions. When stakes are high and values are disputed, policy discussions and decisions cannot rely on science alone. Such discussions require post-normal science, which centralizes the qualitative value of diverse knowledge groups. We discuss the usefulness of post-normal science in the context of the work of the Secretariat at the International Seabed Authority. In particular, we explore the need to expand the understanding of science and knowledge – the key components informing deep-seabed policies. Marine science encompasses a broad range of research topics and interests – from blue humanities with analyses of human-Ocean relations, to physics of particulate matter, to marine policy research. The increasing number of disciplines applied to marine science demonstrates growth in our collective knowledge of the Ocean and, in turn, increased realization and appreciation of the limitations of what we know. Such knowledge challenges are discussed among natural and social scientists. The Secretariat depends on broad expertise, from natural sciences, social sciences, civil society and beyond. In short, we argue that post-normal science can help metaphorically recalibrate policy-shaping instruments (the practice) so that decision-making processes and policy agendas are implemented for transformative actions.
Anakinra for dengue patients with hyperinflammation: protocol for a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Huyen Tran Bang , Trieu Huynh Trung , Vuong Nguyen Lam , Minh Nguyet Nguyen , Tam Dong Thi Hoai , McBride Angela , Linh Nguyen Thi My , Thuan Dang Trong , Phong Nguyen Thanh , Trung Truong Ngoc , Huong Nguyen Thi Cam , Vien Tran Thi Dong , Duyen Huynh Thi Le , Hoa Vo Thi My , Watson James , Geskus Ronald , Tho Phan Vinh , Kestelyn Evelyne , Qui Phan Tu , Yacoub Sophie
Published: November 2024

Background Novel host-directed therapies are urgently needed for patients with dengue, particularly those at high risk of developing severe disease. Broad immunosuppression using corticosteroids in unselected patients with dengue has so far been unsuccessful. Patients with hyperinflammation (raised CRP and/or ferritin levels) are at highest risk of poor outcomes in dengue. Anakinra is a licensed, bio-engineered form of the naturally occurring IL-1R antagonist which has shown efficacy in other acute viral-associated hyperinflammatory syndromes. Methods This is a randomized placebo-controlled phase II trial of anakinra in 160 patients ≥ 12 years old, diagnosed as having dengue with warning signs or severe dengue and the hyperinflammatory syndrome (plasma ferritin >2000 ng/ml). Participants will receive a 4-day course of either anakinra or placebo. The primary endpoint is the efficacy of anakinra measured by the delta mSOFA score* (change in mSOFA score over 4 days after randomization). The accompanying immunological and transcriptomic analyses aim to identify novel mechanisms and pathways that may represent future biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Discussion The observed immunomodulatory benefit of anakinra in acute viral-associated hyperinflammatory syndromes including COVID-19 and auto-immune diseases makes this medication a promising potential treatment for dengue patients with hyperinflammation. This trial will assess the safety and efficacy of anakinra in patients with severe dengue or at high risk of developing life-threatening dengue disease. Registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05611710).
Protocol of the Nutritional, Psychosocial, and Environmental Determinants of Neurodevelopment and Child Mental Health (COINCIDE) study
Authors: Lobo Eunice , R. Deepa , Mandal Siddhartha , Menon Jyothi S. , Roy Aditi , Dixit Shweta , Gupta Ruby , Swaminathan Sumathi , Thankachan Prashanth , Bhavnani Supriya , Divan Gauri , Prabhakaran Poornima , van Schayck Onno CP , Babu Giridhara Rathnaiah , Srinivas Prashanth Nuggehalli , Mukherjee Debarati ,   COINCIDE consortium
Published: November 2024

Background Over 250 million children are developing sub-optimally due to their exposure to early life adversities. While previous studies have examined the independent effects of nutritional status, psychosocial adversities, and environmental pollutants on children’s outcomes, little is known about their interaction and cumulative effects. Objectives This study aims to investigate the independent, interaction, and cumulative effects of nutritional, psychosocial, and environmental factors on children’s cognitive development and mental health in urban and rural India. It also seeks to explain pathways leading to inequities in child outcomes at the individual, household, and neighbourhood levels. Methods A mixed-methods prospective cohort study will be conducted on 1600 caregiver-child dyads (child age 3–10 years) in urban and rural India. Nutritional status, psychosocial adversities, environmental pollutants, and child mental health outcomes will be assessed using parent-report questionnaires. Performance-based measures will be used to assess cognitive outcomes. Venous blood and urine samples will be used to measure nutritional and pesticide biomarkers in 500 children. Indoor air pollution will be monitored in 200 households twice, during two seasons. Multilevel regression, weighted quantile sum regression, and Bayesian kernel machine regression will assess the individual and combined effects of exposures on child outcomes. Thematic analysis of in-depth interviews and focus group discussions will explore pathways to middle-and late childhood development inequities. Discussion The data will be used to formulate a Theory of Change (ToC) to explain the biological, psychosocial, and environmental origins of children’s cognitive and mental health outcomes across the first decade of life in diverse Indian settings, which can inform interventions targets for promoting children’s outcomes beyond the first 1000 days, potentially generalizable to similar under-resourced global settings. The COINCIDE research infrastructure will comprise a valuable global health resource, including prospective cohort data, validated study tools, and stored biological and environmental samples for future studies.
Twitter data as a linked digital phenotype in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children
Authors: Di Cara Nina H. , Joinson Daniel , Mummé Mark , Tanner Alastair R. , Maggio Valerio , Thomas Richard , Haworth Claire M.A. , Boyd Andy , Davis Oliver S.P.
Published: November 2024

This data note describes the collection and linkage of participants' Twitter data as a digital phenotype in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) multi-generational birth cohort study. Twitter (renamed X in 2023) is a social media platform based around a micro-blog format. Digital phenotyping represents a novel opportunity for cohort studies to collect data with a low participant burden, and outside of discrete measurement periods. The ALSPAC governance framework supports the ethical consenting, storage and sharing of social media data, and linking Twitter data with wider cohort data provides opportunities to assess Twitter data quality concerns in a research context. All adults currently participating in ALSPAC (N=26,205) were invited to take part, which included the index cohort and their parents. N=3,247 indicated that they were Twitter users, 26% of these (N=835) consented and 19% (N=623) had their data successfully linked. Data were collected using our open-source software, Epicosm in February 2023. Approximately two thirds of the linked Twitter cohort are from the index cohort generation, and the remainder from the parent generation. In general, linked participants are representative of the general ALSPAC cohort, with the exception of having slightly higher educational attainment. This is consistent with previous research into the demographics of Twitter users. Overall the linked dataset contains 1,488,517 posts (tweets) from between 2008 and 2023, with 27% of these being 'retweets'. The available data includes information derived from a range of commonly used sentiment scoring algorithms, type of tweet, public metrics such as likes and retweets, and the time and date of the tweet. Controls are in place to maintain the anonymity of cohort participants, and data linkage is managed by ALSPAC’s data linkage team to reduce disclosure risk. This ensures high standards of data security and ethical use of social media data.
ABOUT OF THE ASSIGNING APPEARANCES TO LOCOMOTIVE CREWS
Authors: Vakulenko Sergey P. , Kolin Aleksey V. , Nasybullin Airat M. , Aysina Liliya R.
Published: November 2024

There is a shortage of workers involved in train and shunting work, especially in freight transportation in the railway industry. Occupational diseases, Unsatisfactory working and rest regime in some depots are the reasons for leaving the profession of "train driver" and "assistant of train driver".
Purpose. The paper discusses the potential optimization of the current system for assigning turnouts to freight train crews. This optimization could improve the planning of labor resource availability with a longer-term perspective. It is necessary to study the existing functionality of the software that informs employees of locomotive crews which involved in freight traffic in advance and propose potential solutions to increase the depth of forecasting and the quality of the formation of the call sequence.
Methodology. In this paper methods of analysis, synthesis, induction and deduction were used.
Results. The authors propose improving the quality of forecasting for the formation and dispatch of trains and locomotives at freight train-forming stations, in conjunction with the competence of various locomotive crews for assigning operations, in order to enhance working conditions.
Practical implications. This study may be of practical interest to the traction directorates, traffic management and the technical department of JSC Russian Railways, as well as organizations representing the interests of locomotive workers in terms of improving working conditions (locomotive trade unions, Rosprofzhel). Certain aspects of the article could be used as supplementary settings for existing software products which assist in selecting employees for locomotive teams and assigning them to specific locomotives and trains.
USE OF UNMANNED TRANSPORTATION VEHICLES IN DELIVERY OF ROLLED METAL PRODUCTS AND NAVIGATION PROBLEMS
Authors: Izotov Anton I.
Published: November 2024

The article offers a comprehensive analysis of unmanned automotive vehicles in logistics, focusing particularly on the transportation of rolled steel products. It discusses key aspects of integrating and operating UAVs, highlighting their economic efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability. Current safety issues in transporting rolled steel, including cargo securing methods and inertial force considerations, are thoroughly examined. Detailed insights into modern navigation technologies and safety systems like LiDAR and radars applied in unmanned vehicles are provided. Additionally, the article presents data on leading Russian companies in UAV development and implementation, such as Evocargo, KamAZ, SberAutoTech, and Starline, detailing their achievements and prospects in this field.
Purpose. An investigation into the present status and future prospects of employing unmanned vehicles in logistics, with a specific focus on transporting rolled steel products.
Methodology. Conducting an analysis of regulatory documents and standards, examining practical experience and case studies, performing a comparative analysis of navigation technologies, and engaging in theoretical analysis and synthesis.
Results. For successful integration of unmanned vehicles into the delivery of rolled steel products, it is recommended to launch pilot projects on key routes, develop infrastructure for charging and refueling stations, establish regulatory frameworks, and collaborate with industry partners.
Practical implications. The results are advantageous for entities engaged in the logistics and transportation of rolled steel products. Integrating unmanned vehicles can enhance delivery efficiency and safety, as well as reduce CO₂ emissions, which are critical for sustainable development and cost reduction.
ANALYSIS OF NOISE CHARACTERISTICS OF TRAFFIC FLOWS ON THE EXAMPLE OF KRASNODAR
Authors: Kotenkova Irina N. , Senin Ivan S. , Zambrzhitskaya Alina A.
Published: November 2024

In this article, the authors consider the noise characteristics of traffic flows in urban conditions. The unevenness of traffic flows in time and space entails a change in noise effects on the environment.
The main source of noise pollution is the internal combustion engine, which produces aerodynamic noise and structural noise. Noise level measurements are carried out separately for vehicles in motion and for stationary vehicles.
The noise level is directly influenced by the mode of movement of cars, the speed of traffic flow, and the intensity of traffic flow.
Deterioration of working and leisure conditions with a high level of traffic noise can lead to a decrease in labor productivity and the occurrence of nervous disorders. Therefore, the protection of the population from the noise generated by transport is not only of social, but also of economic importance.
Purpose: to analyze the level of noise impacts of traffic flow in urban conditions.
Method and methodology. The methods of observation, statistical analysis, and synthesis were used in the article.
Results: noise level measurements were carried out on the selected section of the road network, and calculated data were obtained based on the declared characteristics of the traffic flow.
Scope of application of the results: research activities to improve the environmental safety of the traffic flow.
The future of Iranian social housing: a regional governance challenge
Authors: Ali Soltani  , Goodarzi Majid , Soltani Zahra , Fahime Fadaei Jazi
Published: November 2024

Housing is a fundamental human necessity, shaping health, security and socio-economic well-being. The government of Iran has implemented various policies, plans and projects to ensure housing provision, but significant challenges remain, particularly in social housing. This study aims to identify and analyse the obstacles affecting the future development of social housing in Iran. Utilising a mixed-method approach, we conducted both quantitative and qualitative research, gathering expert insights through the Delphi method and analysing the data using cross-impact analysis via MICMAC software. The results revealed four critical challenges: limited loan repayment ability, currency instability, social issues within low-income communities, and policy isolation. These findings underscore the need for policymakers to adopt a comprehensive strategy that addresses financial, social and political fragmentation to ensure sustainable and equitable access to social housing for low-income residents.
Discursive Struggles and Contested Stigma Extensions: Explaining the Gradual Stigmatization of the U.S. Tobacco Industry
Authors: Aranda Ana M. , Vaara Eero , Etchanchu Helen , Guyt Jonne Y.
Published: November 2024

Despite extensive research on stigma, we still lack a comprehensive understanding of how industry stigmatization progresses when constantly contested by resourceful incumbents. To shed light on this issue, we focus on the revealing case of the U.S. tobacco industry between 1980 and 2016. Combining structural topic modeling and discourse analysis to explore the extensive media discussions surrounding the industry, we find that stigmatization unfolds through three phases. These were each characterized by discursive struggles, which resulted in contested stigma extensions about establishing harm (1980–1992), assigning responsibility (1993–2010), and creating new norms (2011–2016). We develop a process model highlighting three key mechanisms in stigmatization processes: attention, which shifts focus to new issues and discussions; stigma construction work, where the stigmatizers use discursive strategies to establish stigma; and resistance work, where targets use discursive strategies to slow down stigmatization. The interplay of these mechanisms reveals that stigmatization is neither linear nor complete but characterized by partial and contested stigma extensions. While acknowledging the limitations of our case, our study advances research by showing how industry stigmatization persists even when challenged, opening new avenues for future research in related settings.

Supplemental Material: The online appendices are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.2022.16145 .
Implementation of STEM based PBL with design thinking strategies to improve students creative problem solving capability on renewable energy topics
Authors: Lia Hana , Abdurrahman Abdurrahman , Herlina Kartini
Published: November 2024

This research aims to describe the effectiveness of STEM-based PBL with design thinking strategies in improving students' creative problem-solving abilities on renewable energy. This research was conducted at SMAN 1 Sungkai Jaya using a non-equivalent control group design research design. The research instrument used was a description test sheet. Learning by applying the STEM-based PBL model with design thinking strategies can improve creative problem-solving abilities; this can be seen from the average N-gain for the experimental class of 0.49 in the medium category. This is also supported by the data obtained from the Independent Sample t-test, which obtained a Sig value. (2-tailed) is 0.000, and the effect size value is 0.862 in the large category, which can be concluded that the implementation of STEM-based PBL with design thinking strategies can improve students' creative problem-solving abilities on renewable energy topics.
A contrastive analysis of reports on US Military withdrawing from Afghanistan: China Daily and U.S. News & World Report
Authors: Li Jiayu
Published: November 2024

This article studies new reports released by the U.S. and China press from 30 August to 2 September 2021 on the United States’ troops withdrawing from Afghanistan, aiming at investigating the difference of ideologies towards the evacuation. Comparing how China Daily and U.S. News & World Report reported the withdrawal, the study finds out that invidious terminology isn’t presented in the U.S. reports but repugnant terms are presented in China reports in the headlines. Moreover, the chaotic withdrawal is just Biden’s failure and there is no mention of the death of Afghans at all in the U.S. press, while the withdrawal is the U.S. failure but also their so-called “war on terror” is pointless from the beginning, moreover the “America First” policy is implied in China reports. Taoist philosophy (Tao Te Ching) has been reflected in China reports.
A ação da polícia e seus efeitos na construção identitária de crianças pequenas
Authors: Do Nazareth Ferreira Celia Marcia do , Lima Rita de Cássia Pereira
Published: November 2024

O estudo objetiva discutir representações de polícia vivenciadas por crianças de creche situada no Complexo do São Carlos (Rio de Janeiro). Considera as crianças como sujeitos de representações e procura mostrar que a representação que têm da polícia pode contribuir para sua construção identitária, da infância à vida adulta. O contexto em que vivem e frequentam a creche é tomado como fundamental, particularmente com a instalação da Unidade de Polícia Pacificadora (UPP) na comunidade em 2011, acirrando os conflitos entre policiais e traficantes. A pesquisa foi realizada com 10 crianças de três anos. Com apoio na abordagem microgenética, foi utilizada a filmagem de brincadeiras das crianças com uma maquete representando o local onde habitam. Houve preferência por objetos como o “Caveirão”, helicóptero da polícia e a figura do policial. Se referem a ele como “cachorro mau”, “Caveirão”, e “leão feroz”, o que permite indícios de uma representação objetivada no “medo”. Em sua construção identitária, as crianças mostram afastamento do policial, representante do Estado, e proximidade do traficante, o que pode legitimar um círculo perverso que inclui a vida adulta, quando crescerem.
Porque poderíamos abster: como o voto obrigatório é injustificado no brasil (e ao redor do mundo)
Authors: De Souza Faggion Vinicius
Published: November 2024

Apresento uma crítica contra o voto obrigatório no Brasil. Por incluir outros países onde o voto é compulsório, meu caso contra o dever de votar também é abrangente. A discussão está inserida num campo interdisciplinar entre a filosofia e a ciência política conhecido por Ética do Voto. Após apresentar o problema moral do voto como um conflito entre deveres pro tanto, exponho e desenvolvo objeções contra dois argumentos influentes em favor da obrigatoriedade. Explico como os defensores do voto obrigatório têm um ônus grande de justificação e que, ao contrário das aparências, o modelo é presumido injusto até que se prove o contrário. Por força de objeções normativas e empíricas, sugiro que a imposição ao voto não produz as vantagens práticas esperadas, sendo até mesmo possível que ela seja prejudicial à legitimidade democrática e representatividade política. Confirmada a hipótese de o voto obrigatório ser injustificado, encerro a exposição indicando dois posicionamentos normativos sobre o dever de votar que não envolvem o uso da coerção estatal e estão entre as teses mais plausíveis sobre a ética do voto. Concluo reconhecendo que propostas favoráveis ao voto facultativo devem ser levadas mais a sério no Brasil.
JUDGES AND THE SOCIAL NETWORKS
Authors: Rosales Garcia Carlos Manuel , Vargas Oscar Ruiz
Published: November 2024

The use of social media by judges is an issue that complicates their common political and civil rights. In which their freedom to use them for private purposes or to implement them for a public purpose is not discussed or denied, but a kind of censorship (own or external) is created for the use of their networks. This paper presents, analyzes and examines related issues regarding the use of social networks by judges, and the effects of their publications.
A Mission on The Moon
Authors: Francis Trinity
Published: November 2024

WITH NASA AIMING TO LAND A CREW ON THE MOON BY THE END OF 2026, THE RACE IS ON TO BUILD THE HARDWARE TO SUPPORT HUMANS IN A HOSTILE ENVIROMENT – INCLUDING ELECTRIC, OFF-HIGHWAY ROVERS, SCHEDULED TO BE TAKEN THERE IN 2030. HERE WE TAKE A LOOK AT THREE OF THE VEHICLE DESIGNS IN THE RUNNING AND FIND OUT ABOUT NEW TECHNOLOGY THAT COULD ONE DAY FIND ITS WAY INTO EVERYDAY MACHINES ON EARTH
Review: The effect of climate change on the distribution pattern of small pelagic fish around the world
Authors: YUNIAR ALFIRA , ZAINUDDIN MUKTI , HIDAYAT RACHMAT , SRIOKTOVIANA SITI KHADIJAH , SAFRUDDIN SAFRUDDIN , AHMAD MUSTAPHA MUZZNEENA , FARHUM ST. AISJAH
Published: November 2024

Abstract. Yuniar A, Zainuddin M, Hidayat R, Srioktoviana SK, Safruddin, Mustapha MA, Farhum SA. 2024. Review: The effect of climate change on the distribution pattern of small pelagic fish around the world. Biodiversitas 25: 3325-3341. Small pelagic fish populations, which are critical to marine ecosystems and play a crucial part in food availability worldwide, are significantly impacted by climate change. Variations of small pelagic catch could be indicated by indices of climate variability such as AMO (Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation), ENSO (El-Nino Southern Oscillation), IOD (Indian Ocean Dipole), and Monsoon. The purpose of this study was to provide important insight into the relationship of climate variability with the distribution of dominant species of small pelagic fish such as European sardines, mackerel, Decapterus sp., anchovy, and Sardinella sp. from 1974-2022. On average, the temperature optimum of small pelagic fish is generally 28.31±1.97°C, chlorophyll concentration of 0.68±0.37 mg.m-3, and salinity of 31.44±2.40 psu. In North Atlantic Waters, the dynamic migration and abundance of pelagic fish are influenced by the climate variability of AMO tharough the warm phase and cold phase. The impact of ENSO, IOD, and chlorophyll variability affect the distribution pattern and abundance of small pelagic species (mackerel, lemuru, anchovy, indian scad, and sardine) in tropical and subtropical waters. In the context of climate change impacts, the results show that small pelagic fish with a preference for warm temperatures tend to migrate to higher latitudes. Understanding the effect of climate change on the spatial and temporal dynamics of small pelagic fish could help improve the performance of future small pelagic fishing strategies and management around the world.
Bioremoval of Pb2+ by Aspergillus niger D1RA, A heavy metal-resistant fungus isolated from an illegal gold mining site
Authors: NOFIANI RISA , MU’IN RITA , HAFIZAH HAFIZAH , ARDININGSIH PUJI
Published: November 2024

Abstract. Nofiani R, Mu’in R, Hafizah, Ardiningsih P. 2024. Bioremoval of Pb2+ by Aspergillus niger D1RA, A heavy metal-resistant fungus isolated from an illegal gold mining site. Biodiversitas 25: 2504-2511. Heavy metal pollution can cause serious problems for the environment and human health. One of the methods to eliminate this pollution is to use heavy metal-resistant fungi isolated from heavy metal-polluted environments. This study aimed to investigate the ability of heavy metal-resistant fungi to remove Pb2+ in liquid media, Potato Dextrose Broth (PDB). Samples were collected from two locations, namely an abandoned illegal gold mining site and illegal gold mine, Samalantan, Bengkayang District, West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Each sample was inoculated on two different agar media (PDA= Potato Dextrose Agar and MEA= Malt Extract Agar) supplemented with 7.5 ppm HgCl2. All fungal species that grew on the surface media were isolated, identified (based on spore morphology and Internal Transcribed Spacer [ITS]), evaluated (tolerance index [TI] against Hg2+, Pb2+, and Zn2+), and assessed for their bioaccumulation capacity and Pb2+removal efficiency. Four isolates (Aspergillus sp. OK2A, Aspergillus sp. OEA, Aspergillus sp. OEB and OEC) were successfully isolated from the abandoned illegal gold mine, while only one isolate (Aspergillus niger D1RA) was isolated from the illegal gold mining site. On the eighth day of incubation, the high tolerance level of each fungus to various selected metal concentrations was Aspergillus sp. OK2A in 40 ppm HgCl2 and 300 ppm ZnCl2; Aspergillus sp. OEA in 40 ppm HgCl2 and 1,200 ppm ZnCl2; Aspergillus sp. OEB in 800 ppm Pb(NO3)2; OEC in 20 ppm HgCl2; A. niger D1RA in 40 ppm HgCl2, 1,200 ppm Pb(NO3)2, 300 ppm ZnCl2. Only A. niger D1RA showed a high tolerance for three metals and was further analyzed to determine the bioaccumulation capacity and removal efficiency of Pb2+. The best bioaccumulation capacity and removal efficiency of Pb2+ in PDB medium supplemented with 100 ppm Pb(NO3)2 at pH 4 were 237.776 mg/g dried biomass and 93.266 %, respectively. In conclusion, A. niger D1RA has the potential as a bioremediation agent to remediate Pb2+ environments.
Antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of red, brown, and black sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) cultivated in a dry land area
Authors: MUKKUN LINCE , Tangkearung ENOS TANGKE ARUNG , ISMAYATI MAYA , KLEDEN YASINTA LETEK , PAKAN PRISCA DEVIANI , NGURU ELIAS ST. O. , NAIBAHO NETTY MARIA
Published: November 2024

Abstract. Mukkun L, Arung ET, Ismayati M, Kleden YL, Pakan PD, Nguru ESO, Naibaho NM. 2024. Antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of red, brown, and black sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) cultivated in a dry land area. Biodiversitas 25: 2560-2569. In an effort to find natural sources for skin treatment, several varieties of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) were evaluated. Sorghum is one of the most important food crops, it is mainly grown in semi-arid areas, because of its ability to tolerate both drought and low soil fertility. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammation properties of seven types of colored sorghums. Two species of bacteria, Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermis, were used to evaluate the antibacterial properties of sorghum extracts. The results exhibited that sorghum has potent antibacterial activity against P. acnes, ranging from very strong to strong, while moderate to high against S. epidermis. The red Sumba exhibited very strong antibacterial properties against P. acnes and S. epidermis. The brown Sumba showed the highest level of antioxidant activity among other types of sorghum, measured at 82.21%. The brown Sabu had high anti-inflammation activity with an IC50 value of 70.92 ?g/mL. The phenolic compounds found in colored was 57.69 to 64.12% Gallic Acid Equivalent (GAE), dry weight. Six major bioactive compounds were detected using GC-MS, including methyl ester of hexadecanoic acid, n-hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester of 11,14-octadecadienoic acid, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (Z, Z)-, methyl ester of 4-octadecenoic acid, cis-13,16-docasadienoic acid, aspidospermidin-17-ol, and 1-acetyl-19,21-epoxy-15,16-dimethoxy. Further studies are needed to investigate the effect of compounds extracted from colored sorghums as a commercial anti-acne in the future.