bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Citrus‐Based Bio‐Insect Repellents—A Review on Historical and Emerging Trends in Utilizing Phytochemicals of Citrus Plants
Authors: Fernando S. S. S. T. , Jayasooriya R. G. P. T. , Samarakoon Kalpa W. , Wijegunawardana N. D. Asha D. , Alahakoon Sampath B.
Published: November 2024

Research on citrus plants is the result of increasing interest in the discovery of plant species with potential insect‐repellent properties. Insect‐repelling ability can be achieved by the numerous ubiquitous citrus species. This is mainly due to the presence of phytochemicals such as limonene, citronellol, citral, and α‐pinene. These phytochemicals’ composition varies depending on the geographical location of the plant. The extraction method dictates the configuration of attainable phytochemicals while the dosage affects the repellency potential. Therefore, developing insect repellent involved a number of observations related to the identification of both citrus plant phytochemical composition present in the different parts of the plant and the repellency potential of these phytochemicals in advance. Conversely, the development of repellent methods that go beyond conventional methods has been made possible by scientific developments including modern strategies such as encapsulation, the preparation of emulsion, and the incorporation of repellents into textiles. Therefore, this review article intends to probe into the aforementioned information and provide a sound insight into citrus‐based repellent development in the future.
Coadministration of Monophosphoryl Lipid and Curcumin Modulates Neuroprotective Effects in LPS Stimulated Rat Primary Microglial Cells
Authors: Hooshmand Maryam , Asoodeh Ahmad
Published: November 2024

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced activation of microglia triggers the release of neuroinflammatory molecules, contributing to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Targeting these neuroinflammatory molecules could serve as a potential therapeutic strategy. Given the evidence supporting the immune‐boosting properties of curcumin (Curc) and the protective effects of monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) in the central nervous system (CNS) related to Alzheimer’s disease (AD), this study aimed to assess the anti‐inflammatory effects of these compounds on primary rat microglial cells, which are crucial in the response to neuroinflammation. This in vitro study investigated the effects of Curc, MPL, and their coadministration (Curc + MPL) on inflammatory cytokine levels in activated microglial cells. Primary microglial cells were isolated from 1‐day‐old rats and treated with various concentrations of Curc, MPL, and Curc + MPL prior to LPS stimulation. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay, followed by the Griess assay to evaluate nitric oxide (NO) production. The levels of inflammatory cytokines interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), as well as the gene expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), were analyzed via real‐time PCR. Additionally, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was employed to quantify the protein levels of IL‐1β, TNF‐α, and IL‐6. Our findings demonstrate that Curc and MPL possess antineuroinflammatory properties in LPS‐stimulated microglial cells. Notably, the coadministration of Curc and MPL (Curc + MPL) significantly inhibited the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐1β, TNF‐α, and IL‐6. Furthermore, Curc + MPL suppressed the expression of iNOS and COX‐2. These results strongly suggest that Curc + MPL is a promising neuroprotective agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders by mitigating neuroinflammatory responses.
Does atopic dermatitis increase the risk of inflammatory bowel disease? A meta-analysis of data from 61 million participants
Authors: Wan Mengjie , Yang Xiaoyang
Published: November 2024

Background: This review aimed to examine if atopic dermatitis (AD) led to an increased risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by collating data from longitudinal studies.
Summary: Cohort and case-control studies examining the risk of IBD, Crohn’s disease (CD), or ulcerative colitis (UC) due to exposure to AD were included in this review. Articles were searched on PubMed, CENTRAL, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science electronic repositories up to 2nd October 2024. Eight retrospective cohort studies with 61,190,816 participants were included. The meta-analysis found that AD was a significant risk factor for IBD (OR: 1.37 95% CI: 1.31, 1.43). No statistical heterogeneity was noted. Pooled analysis showed that exposure to AD was a significant risk factor for both CD (OR: 1.51 95% CI: 1.31, 1.76) and UC (OR: 1.33 95% CI: 1.13, 1.56). Both meta-analyses had high inter-study heterogeneity with I2=83% and I2=89% respectively. Results remained significant on sensitivity analysis.
Key Messages: Our study shows an association between AD and IBD. The association was persistent for both CD and UC. Given the small increase in risk of IBD in AD, its clinical relevance may be questionable.
Application Value of Ureteral Stents in Adjunctive Treatment for Renal Tuberculosis
Authors: Wang Yeqiang , Hao Sida , Liu Pengju , Cai Guofeng , Qin Yong
Published: November 2024

Objective:
This study aims to assess and enhance the application value of ureteral stents in the adjunctive treatment of renal tuberculosis, thus providing a robust evidence-based framework for guiding clinical management strategies.
Methods:
A total of 360 patients diagnosed with renal tuberculosis between January 2019 and December 2023 were meticulously selected for this study. Utilizing a random number table, the patients were stratified into a control group and a study group, with 180 patients in each cohort. The control group received standard anti-tuberculosis treatment, while the study group underwent adjunctive treatment with ureteral stents. A comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the differential clinical efficacy, renal excision rate, renal function, degree of renal pelvis separation, and renal parenchymal thickness between the two groups.
Results:
The study group exhibited significantly superior clinical cure rates and clinical effectiveness in comparison to the control group. There was no statistically significant discrepancy in the 12-month renal excision rate between the groups, whereas the 18-month renal excision rate in the study group was markedly lower than that in the control group. Moreover, the study group demonstrated a substantial reduction in post-treatment blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Scr) levels, with values significantly lower than those observed in the control group. Additionally, the study group exhibited a significantly lower degree of renal pelvis separation and a notably higher renal parenchymal thickness relative to the control group.
Conclusion:
The adjunctive use of ureteral stents in the treatment of renal tuberculosis presents a significantly enhanced application value. It not only improves clinical efficacy but also diminishes the need for renal excision, effectively preserves renal function, reduces the degree of renal pelvis separation, and maintains optimal renal parenchymal thickness. Thus, advocating for the widespread implementation of ureteral stents as an adjunctive therapeutic modality for managing renal tuberculosis is strongly recommended.
Tandem Upregulation of Ion Transporters in Thick Ascending Limb of Henle’s Loop of Young Milan Hypertensive Strain of Rats
Authors: Shams Abbas , Di Donato Laura , Zucaro Laura , Iervolino Anna , Capolongo Giovanna , Simeoni Mariadelina , Suzumoto Yoko , Capasso Giovambattista
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Milan hypertensive strain (MHS) of rat represents as one of the ideal rat models to study the genetic form of hypertension associated with aberrant renal salt reabsorption. In contrast to Milan normotensive strain (MNS), MHS rats possess missense mutations in three adducin genes and develop hypertension at 3 months old due to upregulation of sodium-chloride cotransporter (NCC). At prehypertensive stage (23–25 days old), MHS rats show enhanced protein abundance of Na+-K+-2Cl– cotransporter (NKCC2) but retain blood pressure comparable to MNS probably through enhanced GFR and reduced NCC and α-subunit of epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) expressed in distal convoluted tubule (DCT) and collecting duct (CD). Methods: In the present study, mRNA and protein expressions of ion transporters in thick ascending limb of Henle’s loop (TAL) of young MHS rats were investigated. Results: Protein abundance of core-glycosylated form of renal outer medullary potassium (ROMK) channel in inner stripe of outer medulla (ISOM) is remarkably increased in MHS rats at prehypertensive stage. Furthermore, basolaterally expressed Na+-K+-ATPase and Barttin were upregulated. Discussion/Conclusion: These results may indicate that in TAL of MHS rats at this age, both total NKCC2 and core-glycosylated ROMK are upregulated in tandem potentially to balance the luminal potassium concentration. On the basolateral side, upregulation of Na+-K+-ATPase and CLC-Ka/b may energize the excretion of sodium and chloride out from the cells. These data may suggest the interplay of apical and basolateral ion transporters in TAL for the modulation of TAL function in favor of enhancing the transepithelial sodium reabsorption, although this seems compensated by NCC and ENaC expressed at the downstream nephron segments in young MHS rats.
The End of a Low Threshold for Granting Provisional Measures with the ‘Zheng He’ Case?
Authors: Gapsa Miłosz
Published: November 2024

On 27 July 2024, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea declined Luxembourg’s request for provisional measures in the ‘Zheng He’ case. Following two orders of the International Court of Justice, this marked the third consecutive decision in which provisional measures were denied. The question asked in this Note is whether this signals the end of a low threshold for granting provisional measures. Two points of view are possible: either the undertakings given by the respondents are being taken more seriously, or international courts have grown at least somewhat frustrated with the frequent requests for provisional measures.
Comparison of the growth and aflatoxin production of Aspergillus parasiticus on in-shell, shelled and split almonds depending on water activity and temperature
Authors: Szonyi B. , Huang G. , Birmingham T. , Gizachew D.
Published: November 2024

Aspergillus parasiticus is a fungus that can infect almonds and produce carcinogenic aflatoxins (AF). The objective of this study was to determine the growth and total AF production of A. parasiticus on three types of almond kernels (in-shell, shelled and split) under different combinations of temperature (20, 27 and 35 °C), water activity (0.65, 0.75, 0.80, 0.85, 0.90, 0.95, 0.99 aw) and incubation period (10, 20 and 30 days). The in-shell kernels supported the least amount of growth and AF production. The fungus grew moderately at 0.90 and 0.95 aw and produced moderate (<50 μg/kg) amount of total AF at 0.95 aw on in-shell almonds. On shelled kernels, growth was also limited to 0.90 and 0.95 aw. Aflatoxin production reached high levels at 0.95 aw at all three temperatures on shelled almonds (324.3, 325.4, and 139.8 μg/kg at 20, 27 and 35 °C, respectively). The fungus grew rapidly and produced high levels of AF (>300 μg/kg) on split kernels over a wide range of conditions (0.80 to 0.95 aw and 20 to 35 °C). Contour plots revealed that the optimum conditions for AF production on split kernels were at 0.90-0.95 aw and 20-27 °C. Aflatoxin production also depended on incubation time. By day 30, AF production on split kernels exceeded 300 μg/kg at 0.80 aw at all temperatures. There was no fungal growth and AF production at 0.65 and 0.75 aw. These findings indicate that maintaining low water activity (<0.75 aw) during transport and storage can reduce the risk of infestation and aflatoxin production by A. parasiticus on inshell, shelled and split almond kernels.
Experience With the Use of Paromomycin Via Nasogastric Tube as Treatment for Cryptosporidium Infection: A Case Report
Authors: Cores Rodríguez Iván , Tejedor Tejada Eduardo , Ortiz del Olmo Daniel , Bernárdez Domínguez Marta , Criado Illana Maria Teresa
Published: November 2024

Cryptosporidiosis is an infectious disease caused by the Cryptosporidium parasite, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal tract of both humans and animals. Transmission occurs via fecal-oral route, mainly through ingestion of water or food contaminated with oocysts, the parasite’s infectious form. Immunocompromised individuals are particularly susceptible to severe and prolonged symptoms. Current treatment strategies involve supportive measures and antiparasitic medications such as nitazoxanide and paromomycin, although patients with predisposing factors have an elevated risk of recurrence. There is currently no evidence supporting the use of paromomycin via nasogastric tube. Therefore, we present our experience with the use of an extemporaneous paromomycin solution and its clinical impact.
Comparison Between Scene-Independent and Scene-Dependent Eye Metrics in Assessing Psychomotor Skills
Authors: Deng Shiyu , Kulkarni Chaitanya , Oh Jinwoo , Parker Sarah Henrickson , Lau Nathan
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aims to compare the relative sensitivity between scene-independent and scene-dependent eye metrics in assessing trainees' performance in simulated psychomotor tasks.

Background

Eye metrics have been extensively studied for skill assessment and training in psychomotor tasks, including aviation, driving, and surgery. These metrics can be categorized as scene-independent or scene-dependent, based on whether predefined areas of interest are considered. There is a paucity of direct comparisons between these metric types, particularly in their ability to assess performance during early training.

Method

Thirteen medical students practiced the peg transfer task in the Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery. Scene-independent and scene-dependent eye metrics, completion time, and tool motion metrics were derived from eye-tracking data and task videos. K-means clustering of nine eye metrics identified three groups of practice trials with similar gaze behaviors, corresponding to three performance levels verified by completion time and tool motion metrics. A random forest model using eye metrics estimated classification accuracy and determined the feature importance of the eye metrics.

Results

Scene-dependent eye metrics demonstrated a clearer linear trend with performance levels than scene-independent metrics. The random forest model achieved 88.59% accuracy, identifying the top four predictors of performance as scene-dependent metrics, whereas the two least effective predictors were scene-independent metrics.

Conclusion

Scene-dependent eye metrics are overall more sensitive than scene-independent ones for assessing trainee performance in simulated psychomotor tasks.

Application

The study’s findings are significant for advancing eye metrics in psychomotor skill assessment and training, enhancing operator competency, and promoting safe operations.
A weakly supervised method for 3D object detection with partially annotated samples
Authors: Lu Bin , Li Qing , Liang Yanju
Published: November 2024

In numerous practical applications, particularly in the field of autonomous driving, acquiring annotated datasets that include both images and LiDAR point clouds simultaneously presents significant challenges and incurs substantial costs. To overcome the limitations of limited sample annotations, we propose an innovative weakly supervised learning methodology that utilizes reciprocal knowledge transfer between image detection models and 3D point cloud detection models. To the best of our knowledge, this area has not been explored by prior research teams. Our approach effectively addresses the alignment challenge of diverse modal features from an aerial perspective. Through heatmap prediction, we successfully facilitate knowledge transfer between the image detection and 3D point cloud detection models. Additionally, we conduct extensive experiments to evaluate the performance of our models under different parameters in the domain adaptation process, employing Exponential Moving Average (EMA) progressive learning. Furthermore, we explore the advantages of incorporating regression and prediction fusion heads to enhance weakly supervised learning. Remarkably, our experimental results on the widely accessible KITTI datasets demonstrate that our proposed approach achieves outstanding performance in 3D object detection under weak supervision, surpassing the baseline performance of the original 3D point cloud detection model.
Unethical Pro-Organizational Behavior Across the Cultures: A Meta-Analysis of Antecedents From 16 Countries
Authors: Mishra Vivek , Sharma Varun , Verma Deepak
Published: November 2024

This meta-analysis investigates the moderating effect of national culture dimensions, as delineated by Hofstede (1991), on the relationship between unethical pro-organizational behavior (UPB) and its leading antecedents. Leveraging data from 91 published articles, with 175 effect sizes and 36,664 participants across 16 countries, the study investigates the extent to which national culture shapes employees’ inclination for UPB. The results highlight that specific cultural dimensions—power distance, individualism-collectivism, masculinity-femininity, and uncertainty avoidance—exhibit a pronounced impact on the relationships between UPB and specific antecedents, such as moral identity, reciprocity, and job satisfaction. The findings underscore that societies characterized by higher power distance, higher collectivism, more masculinity, and lower uncertainty avoidance are more conducive to UPB, where the pro-organizational element may exert a greater sense of obligation toward organizations among employees. These findings carry significant ramifications for multinational corporations and diverse teams in the context of cross-cultural management and leadership by elucidating how the variations in employees’ inclination toward UPB may be attributed to the moderating impact of their national culture.
Building Metaphors that Describe Mathematics Identity and Experiences Among Mathematics Graduate Teaching Assistants
Authors: Pilgrim Mary E. , Tenney Kristin , Doe Sue
Published: November 2024

Women and people of color continue to be underrepresented in mathematics. Thus, mathematics graduate teaching assistants’ (GTAs’) classroom experiences are often dominated by individuals who are white and/or male. This sends a problematic message about who can access and engage with mathematics. To better understand their educational experiences, we studied a group of mathematics GTAs’ reflections about short biographies from mathematicians of varying backgrounds. Analysis showed that reading such biographies provided validation for lived experiences, highlighted the lack of representation in mathematics, and shed light on ways that inequities in the education system continue to impact students of color.
Demystifying Death: Reflections on End-of-Life Doula Work
Authors: Dellinger Page Amy , Husain Jonelle H. , Glascock Jack H.
Published: November 2024

End-of-life doulas (EOLDs) represent a portion of a broader mobilization of end-of-life care practitioners to normalize discussions of death and assist dying persons and their caregivers in navigating the dying process. EOLDs primarily focus on creating a supportive environment for the dying and their loved ones. Research on the burgeoning care profession has documented the backgrounds and services of EOLD work; however, literature has overlooked EOLDs’ personal reflections on their work. This study seeks to help fill this gap through interviews with 39 EOLDs registered with the International End-of-Life Doula Association (INELDA). Interviewees discussed the rewards, challenges, surprises, and motivations to continue their work, reinforcing previous studies’ findings while expanding upon the perspectives of EOLDs in their own words. In sharing their experiences, EOLDs showcase how they facilitate death by respecting and advocating for the wishes of their clients while simultaneously navigating the hardships and joys of their profession.
A Constitution of Values? Principles and Values in the Commonwealth Constitution
Authors: Duke George
Published: November 2024

Recent Australian public law scholarship has demonstrated an increasing interest in the theme of constitutional values. In the current paper, I seek to clarify the terms of the debate by defending a distinction between (i) constitutional principles, understood as relatively flexible legal norms which rest on text, structure and history and (ii) extra-legal values. My argument is framed initially through a critical discussion of Rosalind Dixon’s proposal for a ‘functionalist’ approach to constitutional interpretation, which ascribes a central place to values in judicial reasoning. The functionalist position, I contend, lacks a sufficiently clear distinction between, on the one hand, constitutional principles as legal norms and, on the other, extra-legal values of political morality. As a consequence, the functionalist appeal to ‘constitutional values’ tends to shift between a relatively modest supplement to purposive approaches to judicial interpretation and a more ambitious proposal for judges to promote ‘normatively attractive’ values. These claims are elaborated and refined through a comparative analysis of German constitutional jurisprudence and a recent example of an appeal to values by the High Court.
Evaluation of Accuracy and Engagement of Otolaryngology Educational Videos on Instagram
Authors: Anwaegbu Ogechukwu S. , Adeniran Michel M. , Ihediwa Adannaya C. , Lewis Joshua E. , Srivastava Shobit D. , Janz Tyler A. , McKinnon Brian J.
Published: November 2024

Objective: To examine the accuracy, engagement, and quality of otolaryngology-related educational videos produced by health care providers on Instagram. Methods: A systematic search on Instagram was conducted to identify the top 150 video posts using the hashtags #Otolaryngology, #Otolaryngologist, and #ENTeducation, ranging from September 2020 to January 2024. Posts not related to otolaryngology medical education were excluded from analysis. Engagement metrics such as likes, comments, shares, views, and video duration were used to quantify the reach of the content. The Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Materials was utilized to evaluate the understandability and actionability of medical educational videos. Results: 54 Instagram videos were analyzed and categorized by content type based on their primary topic—ear (n = 15), nose (n = 20), and throat (n = 19). Overall, 85% of the content was completely accurate, 13% was incomplete/misleading, and 2% was completely inaccurate. The average understandability was high at 89%, and the average actionability was low at 39%. 78% of the videos were created by otolaryngologists, 7% by plastic surgeons, and 15% by other health care providers. Conclusions: Most of the top otolaryngology-related educational content on Instagram was accurate with some misleading and inaccurate content. Although the inaccurate video is small in comparison, the moderate user engagement reveals that even a single inaccurate video can adversely reach and influence many people.
Flame retarded plasticized poly(lactic acid) using phosphorus-based additives
Authors: Yesil Sertan , Aytac Ayse , Selim Fatma
Published: November 2024

In this study, the synergistic effect of the flame-retardant additives on the properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) was investigated and at the same time, it was tried to increase the toughness of PLA by adding small amounts of phosphate-based additives to plasticized PLA as binary and ternary mixtures. Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) was used as a plasticizer. As flame retardant additives, ammonium polyphosphate (APP), tri-phenyl phosphate (TPP), and boron phosphate (BP) were used. Characterization of the composites was carried out by tensile test, impact test, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermal gravimetric analyses (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), limiting oxygen index (LOI), and UL-94 horizontal burning tests. In addition, TGA-FTIR analyses were carried out to understand the thermal degradation mechanism of composites during combustion. According to the SEM micrographs of the burnt surfaces of the samples, a smooth and flat structure is observed in PLA/PEG/5TPP-5BP sample, while a porous structure and branching formations are observed in other composite samples. Among the composite samples, the best flame retardancy features were observed in the composite containing PLA/PEG/5APP-2.5TPP-2.5BP sample, and the highest impact strength and elongation at break values were obtained in the composite containing PLA/PEG/5APP-5TPP sample.
Unveiling Istanbul’s intersectional alliance: Unravelling Turkey’s anti-gender backlash
Authors: Kolluoglu Poyraz
Published: November 2024

The immense global surge in the anti-gender discourse, driven by right-wing populism and appealing to hegemonic masculinity, appears to be a calculated strategy aimed at consolidating conservative support during times of economic and political uncertainties. Conservative governments readily exhibit tendencies to implement this globally shared anti-gender rhetoric through various forms of public policy, such as legislative regulations that restrict abortion rights, limit access to medical services for sex reassignment procedures or by imposing bans on pride marches in public spaces. The worrisome assault undertaken by heteronormativity through the state apparatus may be considered a reflection of the crises surrounding the protective welfare state, the so-called efficient neoliberal economy and masculinity itself. In this article, however, I present an ethnographic perspective to argue otherwise; that the anti-gender backlash unleashed by the current neoliberal Islamic regime in Turkey emerges as a defensive response to Istanbul’s Occupy Movement commonly known as the Gezi events.
Optimization of wide-area multilateration ground station deployment based on genetic algorithm
Authors: Tang Xinmin , Liao Yifu , Gu Junwei , Zhou Yang , Guan Xiangmin
Published: November 2024

Positioning accuracy affects flight safety. In this study, aiming to address the issue of how ground station deployment affects the accuracy of multilateration, an optimal deployment strategy based on real terrain factors is proposed. This method comprehensively considers practical geographical terrain factors, constructs a geographical terrain grid model, and generates initial candidate sites through this model. Subsequently, the Xdraw algorithm is utilized to assess the coverage of ground stations and conduct preliminary screening of initial sites. Then, the optimal deployment combination is computed by integrating GA. Finally, experiments are conducted to validate site selection in irregularly shaped areas. Random geographical terrain is generated within the site selection area, resulting in a 31.25% reduction in initial candidate points through preliminary screening, obtaining the final deployment approach. Comparative experiments with traditional deployment methods indicate that the RMSE of the deployment combination computed by this method is 4.0159 m smaller than that of the traditional diamond-deployment method with the minimum error. Additionally, its GDOP remains the lowest within 10 km. This method accounts for real terrain conditions and is suitable for irregular station deployment areas. By using the Xdraw algorithm for preliminary filtering, it accelerates the solution process, effectively optimizing deployment results and improving positioning accuracy. This approach holds practical significance for multilateration ground station deployment considering real terrain factors.
Time to care: How a homecare model harnesses nurses’ professional ethic and cultivates caring
Authors: Petit dit Dariel Odessa , Cristofalo Paula
Published: November 2024

Background

A persistent devaluation of care-work, difficult working conditions, and low salaries have led to challenges with staff recruitment and retention in the homecare sector in France. A new homecare organization adopting an innovative organizational model recently experimented an hourly payment method yielding positive outcomes.

Objectives

Using Tronto’s caring framework, this paper analyzes the strategies used by the founders as they developed their innovative model and the nursing activities performed during home visits.

Design

A longitudinal qualitative study was conducted between 2017 and 2023. Homecare nursing teams were shadowed for 1–2 days per year yielding detailed field notes on caregiving activities, both before and after the new payment method. Secondary data included reports, videos, articles, and unpublished documents found online.

Ethical considerations

While there is no requirement in France to obtain ethical approval in non-interventional research, verbal consent was obtained by all participants prior to their involvement in the study; confidentiality and anonymity were strictly maintained; and pseudonyms were assigned to protect identities.

Findings

63 interviews and 185 h of shadowing and observations were conducted. Results revealed a virtuous cycle of caring facilitated and encouraged by new incentives that resonated with nurses’ professional ethics. The favorable working environment and the hourly payment method enabled nurses to provide caregiving in accordance with their values.

Conclusions

As the new hourly payment experiment is scaled-up nationally, it is imperative that it is not isolated from the organizational model. Without the underpinning values and principles, the hourly payment method alone is unlikely to shift the value attributed to caring.
How to Leverage Digital Platforms in Preventing Industrial Accidents: Evidence from a Multi-Level Empirical Study
Authors: Zhang Lin , Shao Zhen , Benitez Jose
Published: November 2024

The embeddedness of digital platforms in firms to improve industrial accident prevention performance remains a challenge for safety management. A pressing question exists regarding appropriate pathways to improve firm accident prevention performance by leveraging digital platforms. Prior research focuses on individual and organizational factors to prevent industrial accidents while ignoring information technology (IT) from a holistic perspective. Following a socio-technical lens, this study fills the research gap by proposing a new conceptualization of technical and institutional components and examining their combined effects in shaping individual and organizational accident prevention outcomes (i.e., employee accident prevention competence and firm accident prevention performance). Specifically, we introduce and conceptualize the concept of digital platform affordance to represent the technical component and theorize the external institutional force ( government pressure) and the internal human agency ( top management support) as the institutional components of digital platforms. By integrating the socio-technical lens, IT affordance theory, and institutional theory, we develop a theoretical model to examine the interaction effects between digital platform affordance, government pressure, and top management support on accident prevention performance. We conduct a multilevel modeling approach to test the proposed research model using a fine-grained matched-pair survey from multiple respondents (i.e., employees and safety executives) in 161 industrial firms in China. We find that digital platform affordance enhances firm accident prevention performance by improving employee accident prevention competence. The results also indicate that the magnitude of the moderating effect of government pressure is contingent upon top management support. This study conceptualizes and assesses the role of digital platforms in safety management and indicates that the amalgamation of their technical/institutional components is a promising means to prevent industrial accidents. We also provide a new perspective for Operations Management scholars to reinterpret the socio-technical lens in the emerging digitally enabled safety management subdiscipline.
Rotation matrix-based finite-time trajectory tracking control of benthic AUV with communication bandwidth limitation
Authors: Xu Yufei , Wan Lei , Qin Hongde , Miao Jianming , Zhu Cheng
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study was to address the trajectory tracking control problem of benthic autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) subjected to the unwinding phenomenon, lumped uncertainties, and communication bandwidth limitations. The hydrodynamic model of the AUV expressed using the Euler angle exhibits an unwinding phenomenon, and the attitude angle cannot be uniquely represented. Hence, the attitude dynamics model is restructured using a rotation matrix to solve this problem. Because of the growing complexity of the controller design for employing a rotation matrix representation for the attitude model, it is essential to adopt an alternative error format that facilitates simplified calculations. Subsequently, a new singularity-free sliding mode control law is proposed to satisfy finite-time convergence. Furthermore, a bounded adaptive law is introduced to enhance the robustness under lumped uncertainties. Additionally, an event-triggering mechanism is implemented for the control laws to alleviate the communication burden on the AUV control system. Theoretical analysis and simulations demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method.
Young Women’s Informal Leadership: Reflections on Taking Responsibility in Youth Participation
Authors: Pitti Ilaria , Lütgens Jessica , Walther Andreas
Published: November 2024

This article aims to enhance understanding of young women’s experiences in political participation by examining their practices of ‘informal leadership’ within Italian and German radical grassroots organizations. It explores the biographical pathways that lead young women to assume leadership roles and highlights the often invisible practices of responsibility that challenge traditional power dynamics. Drawing on gender and feminist studies, the article reveals how gendered practices of responsibility emerge in the analysed participatory settings and how gender biases obscure the recognition of certain leadership practices. In so doing, the article also examines the broader implications for understanding youth participation. It argues that dominant discourses, which emphasize contemporary young people’s disinterest in taking responsibility in civic and political spheres, overlook how and where young people assume responsibility outside formal political institutions and fail to consider the impact of various inequalities on young people’s ability to take on responsibilities.
System Genetics Analysis Reveals Sex Differences in Human Aortic Smooth Muscle Gene Expression
Authors: Meng Sarah L , Anane-Wae Rita , Benavente Ernest Diez , Aherrahrou Redouane
Published: November 2024

Background:

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The buildup of atherosclerotic plaque, including lipids and cellular waste, characterizes this disease. Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) can migrate and proliferate to form a fibrous cap that stabilizes the atherosclerotic plaque in response to plaque buildup. However, in some severe cases, the fibrous cap is unable to prevent plaque rupture, which can lead to a thrombotic event causing a stroke or myocardial infarction. Studies have been conducted to identify genes associated with this disease. However, the influence of sex on CAD risk is poorly understood due to the complexity of the disease and the lack of women in clinical studies.

Methods:

This study is investigated with a unique collection of human aortic smooth muscle cells (huASMCs) derived from 118 male and 33 female individuals who either underwent a heart transplant or were victims of motor vehicle accidents. In this investigation, we explore differentially expressed genes between males and females related to atherosclerosis using a unique RNAseq dataset of human aortic SMCs.

Results:

Our study identified 8 genes ( CHST1, DKK2, DLL4, EIF1AXP1, GALNT13, NOTCH4, SELL, SPARCL1) that exhibit sex-biased effects in SMCs. Of these, 6 genes were found in the Athero-Express dataset and 5 of them were associated with atherosclerosis-relevant phenotypes. We discovered a novel NOTCH4/DLL4 pathway that plays a role in the differential expression of these genes between males and females. This pathway is linked to coronary artery physiology and may play a role in the pathophysiology of coronary artery disease that differs between the sexes.

Conclusions:

Overall, this investigation shows that differentially expressed genes between males and females in human aortic SMCs exist.
Flexural behaviors of GFRP-wood sandwich beams with recycled wood formwork cores
Authors: Sun Zhi , Xu Lin , Fu Bing , Gao Ruo-Fan
Published: November 2024

The escalating consumption of wood products has inevitably led to a rapid accumulation of waste wood, of which a large amount has been landfilled. An innovative concept has been therefore proposed to repurposes waste wood formwork as the core material of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP)-wood sandwich beams. A series of four-point bending tests were conducted on these sandwich beams, with the thicknesses and orientations of strengthening GFRP layers as the main test parameters examined. The test findings indicated that the GFRP-waste wood sandwich beams failed in either buckling of compression zone or rupture of GFRP covering. In addition, the increase in the number of GFRP layer resulted in a significant increase in the both bending stiffness and flexural strength, and the beams strengthened with three-layer GFRP sheets exhibited the bending stiffness and flexural strength up to respectively 4.7 and 6.5 times greater than those without such GFRP strengthening. The analytical and numerical predictions of flexural properties of sandwich beams are in a good agreement with the test results, thereby validating the accuracy of the models employed in the present study.
Time–frequency representation of adjacent multi-component signals driven by IVKF-MPRTF and its application for mechanical equipment fault diagnosis
Authors: Yi Cancan , Qin Yingjie , Huang Tao , Yan Xuguo
Published: November 2024

Rotating machinery is characterized by time-varying operating conditions and complex structures. The balance of its internal structure gradually changes with the variation of external working conditions. The vibration signals of rolling bearings that are key components exhibit obvious nonstationary characteristics at low speeds and heavy loads. Furthermore, mixed faults and modulation phenomena will generate time-varying multicomponent signals with adjacent fault characteristic frequencies. The existing time–frequency representation (TFR) algorithms for processing nonstationary signals with adjacent frequencies have limitations such as low time–frequency resolution and excessive parameter dependence. Therefore, a novel time–frequency analysis (TFA) framework for adjacent multicomponent signals driven by improved Vold–Kalman filtering-modified parameterized resampling time–frequency (IVKF-MPRTF) transform is presented in this study. First, this article introduces multicomponent signal time–frequency curve extraction to obtain the initial frequency information of the measured vibration signal, which addresses the issue of Vold–Kalman filtration (VKF) relying on a priori frequency information, and thus forms the improved Vold–Kalman filtering (IVKF). Then, the vibration signal can be precisely decomposed into adjacent components by the presented IVKF. Second, this article introduces local maximum frequency allocation operator and synchroextracting operator to compensate for the blur time–frequency resolution by parameterized resampling time–frequency transform, thus forming a modified parameterized resampling time–frequency (MPRTF) transform. By MPRTF, high-resolution TFR of multiple sets of single components can be obtained, and thus an enhanced TFR of nonstationary multicomponent signals is achieved through time–frequency fusion. Finally, the superiority of the adjacent multicomponent signals identification by the proposed IVKF-MPRTF is verified through the experimental signal analysis.
Numerical investigation on vane leading edge impingement cooling performance under influences of ribs established between adjacent jets
Authors: Zhou Junfei , Song Guangtao , Zhao Lidanyang , Xu Jinglei , Wang Zhe
Published: November 2024

Numerical studies on the vane leading edge jet impingement cooling are conducted to analyzed the influence of the cylindrical ribs applied between adjacent jets. A one-way inlet coolant supply channel and a one-way exit semicircular target channel are connected through single array of 10 jet holes. The gradually accumulated cross flow greatly decreases the impingement heat transfer intensity at the target channel downstream region. Therefore, the influences of rib diameters ( Dr/ D = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0) and three rib to jet distances ( P/ D = 1.2, 1.5, 1.8) are numerically studied to decrease the effect of the cross flow and increase the impingement heat transfer performance as well as the heat transfer uniformity. The Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations (RANS) method coupled with Realizable k–ε turbulence model are used to complete the numerical simulation, the numerical method is carefully validated. The pressure and velocity distributions are illustrated. The effects of ribs on the flow characteristics inside the semicircular target channel are discussed and three major vortical structures are captured and compared. The two heat transfer enhancement mechanisms which depend on the rib to jet distance are also analyzed in detail. Results indicate that, with the application of ribs, the area-averaged Nusselt number increases about 4.3%–11.3% and the impingement heat transfer is more uniformly distributed along the target channel axis. When pursuing a larger heat transfer enhancement and a larger performance evaluation criterion (PEC), a larger rib diameter coupled with a larger rib to downstream jet distance is preferred, the largest PEC enhancement is about 8.1%.
Numerical study of performance curve incline and instability flow phenomena in low flow rates according to absolute flow angle change at axial-flow pump inlet
Authors: Son Yong-Jin , Yang Hyeon-Mo , Kim Yong-In , Lee Kyoung-Yong , Yoon Joon Yong , Choi Young-Seok
Published: November 2024

This study predicted the performance of an inlet guide vane to be installed later by applying an absolute flow angle (ß) at the axial pump inlet. The pump’s performance was predicted based on changes in inlet ß, and the influence of variations in inlet ß on the low-flow area was analyzed. For turbulence flow analyses, the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations were discretized based on the finite volume method. The internal flow was analyzed in detail through transient analysis. Furthermore, the impact of changes in the absolute flow angle at the inlet on the rotating stall occurring inside the pump in the low-flow-rate region was analyzed. The analysis of the internal flow field confirmed that the absolute flow angle at the inlet affects the stability of the internal flow. Results showed that energy reduction and efficient operation scenarios can be established compared with the existing valve control method by changing inlet ß. Through fast Fourier-transform analysis, it was confirmed that when the inlet angle (θ) is changed in the low-flow-rate region, a more stable operation is possible compared with the existing one.
Our path together: Development of the inclusive parenting goals questionnaire
Authors: Van keer Ines , Maes Bea
Published: November 2024

Background: Instruments on parenting goals are often outdated and don’t consider goals related to capabilities and needs of children with (severe) disabilities. This study aimed to develop an inclusive questionnaire on parenting goals applicable to parents of all children (0-21 years). Method: The iterative development process relied on academic and experiential expertise of parents and professionals; and included consultation of relevant literature, interviews with 6 parents of a child with severe to profound intellectual disabilities, a feedback round with diverse stakeholders, and a pilot study. Results: The Inclusive Parenting Goals Questionnaire (IPGQ) is a 99-item summated rating scale demonstrating high face and content validity. A renewed and inclusive definition of parenting goals was formulated, alongside extensive reflection on theoretically robust and practically relevant categorization. Discussion: The IPGQ is suitable for gaining insight into parents goal patterns and differentiating between (various groups of) parents. It also provides a basis for further discussion and elaboration.
Decellularized extracellular matrix for organoid and engineered organ culture
Authors: Guo Xiaoxu , Liu Boxun , Zhang Yi , Cheong Sousan , Xu Tao , Lu Feng , He Yunfan
Published: November 2024

The repair and regeneration of tissues and organs using engineered biomaterials has attracted great interest in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Recent advances in organoids and engineered organs technologies have enabled scientists to generate 3D tissue that recapitulate the structural and functional characteristics of native organs, opening up new avenues in regenerative medicine. The matrix is one of the most important aspects for improving organoids and engineered organs construction. However, the clinical application of these techniques remained a big challenge because current commercial matrix does not represent the complexity of native microenvironment, thereby limiting the optimal regenerative capacity. Decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) is expected to maintain key native matrix biomolecules and is believed to hold enormous potential for regenerative medicine applications. Thus, it is worth investigating whether the dECM can be used as matrix for improving organoid and engineered organs construction. In this review, the characteristics of dECM and its preparation method were summarized. In addition, the present review highlights the applications of dECM in the fabrication of organoids and engineered organs.
Diagnostic pitfalls in ovarian androgen-secreting tumors in postmenopausal women with rapidly progressed severe hyperandrogenism
Authors: Garzia Emanuele , Galiano Valentina , Guarnerio Paolo Pasquale , Marconi Anna Maria
Published: November 2024

Objective

Sex cord-stromal neoplasms of the ovary are rare tumors and a very infrequent cause of androgen excess and virilization in women. We report two cases of postmenopausal women with rapidly progressive signs of virilization and negative or indeterminate imaging for pelvic masses.

Methods

Both patients underwent a complete hormone profile, inconclusive transvaginal ultrasound and contrast-enhanced abdominopelvic computed tomography.

Results

Serum hormone analysis revealed for both cases a marked increase in serum total testosterone (T). In the first woman, Δ-4 androstenedione (Δ-4 A), dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S) and cortisol levels were in a normal range for age. In the second, Δ-4 A and DHEA-S levels were below the reference range. For both women, an ovarian source of androgens was suspected and bilateral laparoscopic oophorectomy was performed. Ovarian histology demostrated bilateral Leydig cell tumor (LCT) in the first case and bilateral ovarian thecoma in the second. After surgery, total testosterone returned to normal levels and clinical symptoms subsided.

Conclusions

In cases of postmenopausal androgen excess, physicians must rule out relatively rare androgen-producing tumors originating from the adrenals or ovaries. Regardless of imaging evaluation, our report highlights the importance of prompt and careful clinical and hormonal evaluation to ensure appropriate and timely treatment for the patient.