bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural mass modeling for the masses: Democratizing access to whole-brain biophysical modeling with FastDMF
Authors: Herzog Rubén , Mediano Pedro A. M. , Rosas Fernando E. , Luppi Andrea I. , Sanz-Perl Yonatan , Tagliazucchi Enzo , Kringelbach Morten L. , Cofré Rodrigo , Deco Gustavo
Published: August 2024

Different whole-brain computational models have been recently developed to investigate hypotheses related to brain mechanisms. Among these, the Dynamic Mean Field (DMF) model is particularly attractive, combining a biophysically realistic model that is scaled up via a mean-field approach and multimodal imaging data. However, an important barrier to the widespread usage of the DMF model is that current implementations are computationally expensive, supporting only simulations on brain parcellations that consider less than 100 brain regions. Here, we introduce an efficient and accessible implementation of the DMF model: the FastDMF. By leveraging analytical and numerical advances—including a novel estimation of the feedback inhibition control parameter and a Bayesian optimization algorithm—the FastDMF circumvents various computational bottlenecks of previous implementations, improving interpretability, performance, and memory use. Furthermore, these advances allow the FastDMF to increase the number of simulated regions by one order of magnitude, as confirmed by the good fit to fMRI data parcellated at 90 and 1,000 regions. These advances open the way to the widespread use of biophysically grounded whole-brain models for investigating the interplay between anatomy, function, and brain dynamics and to identify mechanistic explanations of recent results obtained from fine-grained neuroimaging recordings.
Description of Pratylenchus platyceriumis sp. n. from the root and rhizosphere of Platycerium seedlings from Thailand
Authors: Du Yu , Li Min , Zhou Jian , Yang Yan , Zhong Jie , Yang Jianjun , Gu Jianfeng
Published: August 2024

A new species, Pratylenchus platyceriumis sp. n., was intercepted in the roots and rhizosphere of Platycerium spp. imported from Thailand. It is characterised by sexual adults with lip region containing two annuli, the lateral field with four equidistant lines, partially areolated, the female stylet (16.5-18.7 μm) robust with broadly rounded knobs, V = (70.2-79.2), with a large oval spermatheca often full of sperm, tail subcylindrical to conoid, and terminus obliquely truncated to conical with variable mucrons or projections. Male spicules are arch-shaped, the gubernaculum trough-shaped, the tail conoid, with tip narrow and pointed and bursa striated instead of crenate. The new species is close to Pratylenchus coffeae, P. dakotaensis, P. goodeyi, P. gutierrezi, P. horti, P. morettoi, P. okinawaensis, P. panamaensis, P. pratensis, P. pseudocoffeae, P. speijeri, P. yamagutii and P. ventroprojectus, but different. Phylogenetic analyses using D2-D3 expansion domains of the 28S rRNA gene, the ITS region, the partial 18S rRNA gene and the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene confirm its classification as a new species.
從海南閩語動詞後的{在}類介詞短語看語言接觸中的句法借移
Authors: 曾 綉薇 , 郭 必之
Published: August 2024

本文關注海南閩語（海口、瓊海、港門）允許表動作發生地點的{在}類PP後置於VP的特殊分佈。文章認為該罕見特點是受以[VP-PP]為固有語序的壯侗語影響的結果，為通過語言接觸從黎語、臨高語借移來的特徵。這種語序改變屬Heine（2008）提出的「不變之變」；各地方言句法限制上的差異則反映受語固有特徵在借移過程中起到的「過濾」作用。
Lost Words and Lost Worlds: Combatting Environmental Generational Amnesia
Authors: Craps Stef
Published: August 2024

This essay explores the problem of society’s environmental memory loss and the potential for literary and cultural works to counteract it. It uses the concepts of environmental generational amnesia and shifting baseline syndrome to argue that our connection to the natural world has been eroded by our severely limited experience of it. Each generation’s perception of what is “normal” in nature is shaped by their own experience rather than an objective standard. As a result, we forget what we have lost and do not realise the full extent of environmental degradation that has occurred over time. People’s baseline expectations of the state of the environment are constantly being reset to a lower level as they are born into a world with fewer resources and a more degraded environment than the generation before. The essay examines two case studies to illustrate how creative works can play a vital role in reversing these trends and curing our planetary amnesia: The Lost Words: A Spell Book and its sequel The Lost Spells by Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris, and What Is Missing?, an interactive digital project by Maya Lin.
Bulbophyllum bokodense (section Polymeres, Orchidaceae), a new species from Benguet Province, Luzon Island, Philippines
Authors: TAMAYO MAVERICK N. , MAGTOTO LIEZEL M. , PENALES PATRICK JAMES F. , BAQUIRAN ETHEL RUTH A. , BUSTAMANTE RENE ALFRED ANTON
Published: August 2024

A new species of orchid, Bulbophyllum bokodense, is herein described and illustrated from Benguet Province, Luzon Island, Philippines. It closely resembles Bulbophyllum rinkei endemic to New Guinea, but is distinct by having a broader leaf, a shorter inflorescence, an acute petal apex, glabrous auricles, a slightly canaliculate labellum, mid lobe and apex of labellum devoid of concavity, and a longer stelidia. A detailed description, photographs, and illustration are also provided. Preliminary conservation assessment of the new species following IUCN guidelines suggest a conservation status of data deficient (DD).
Cirsium wulongense (Asteraceae, Cardueae), a new species from Chongqing, China
Authors: JIN ZI-CHAO , CHEN FENG , CHEN YOU-SHENG
Published: August 2024

Cirsium wulongense (Asteraceae), a new species from Xiannü Shan in Wulong district, Chongqing, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is similar to C. sichuanense in its nodding capitula and white corolla, but differs by having leaves discolorous (vs. concolorous), abaxially grayish white and densely tomentose (vs. green, glabrous or sparsely pubescent with long multicellular hairs) and phyllaries subulate (vs. acute) at apex. It is also closely similar to C. fanjingshanense in the campanulate involucre and patent to reflexed phyllaries, but differs by its stems pubescent with densely long multicellular hairs (vs. subglabrous), leaves pinnatilobate to pinnatipartite (vs. undivided), discolorous (vs. concolorous), abaxially grayish white and densely tomentose (vs. green and glabrous), and corolla white (vs. purplish).
Moroccan Secondary School Teachers’ Perspectives Towards Jewish Cultural Elements During the Gaza Conflict: A Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Regragui Ayoub
Published: August 2024

This study explores the attitudes and perceptions of Moroccan secondary school teachers towards Jewish cultural elements during the Gaza Conflict, offering a descriptive analysis to elucidate their perspectives within the broader socio-political context. By exploring their viewpoints, this research has aimed to contribute to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding cultural integration and sensitivity within the educational landscape of Morocco, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The participants of this study were 50 secondary school teachers from the Casablanca-Settat region, who primarily teach social studies subjects including Arabic, English, French, Islamic education, history and geography. Structured questionnaires were the primary technique of data collection. A quantitative approach was adopted, and the data were analysed using SPSS statistical methods. The study's results show a diverse range of perspectives, with 60% exhibiting favourable views and 30% reflecting negative sentiments. Teachers are observed to have a level of awareness regarding the historical contributions of Moroccan Jews. However, it is crucial to implement targeted interventions for the 16% who are less familiar with this topic. These findings emphasize the importance of adopting comprehensive educational strategies to address knowledge gaps and promote cultural empathy, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions.
Acute Pesticide Toxicity on Oreochromis Niloticus, with Particular Reference to Insecticides
Authors: Polycarpe Tuekam , Paul-Derrick Nguemetia-Mogni , Sylvie Chinche , Hubert Zebaze
Published: August 2024

Pyriforce 600 EC and Cyperplant 100 EC are insecticides used in large quantities in agricultural practices in Cameroon. Residues due to intensive agriculture combined with surface runoff and surface drainage, a few weeks after application are deposited in water courses like ponds, rivers and lakes. This has negative effects on fish and other aquatic organisms which are of great concern to the wider public. To assess the risks of toxicity and their negative influence on aquatic biodiversity, acute toxicity bioassays on individuals of Oreochromis niloticus were carried out using Pyriforce 600 EC and Cyperplant 100 EC (toxicants) separately with nine concentrations in static media in aquariums for 24 hours. The test solution (P) representing the farmer’s dose was prepared using each toxicant. For Pyriforce 600 EC, P was of 3.125 ml/l while for Cyperplant 100 EC P was 1.33 ml/l. From this test solution (P), different concentrations were calculated and introduced into various aquaria to which Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings were exposed. The nominal test concentrations for Pyriforce were: 0.0 µl/l, 2.60 µl/l, 3.125 µl/l, 3.9 µl/l, 5, 2 µl/l, 7.8 µl/l, 15.6 µl/l, 31.25 µl/l, 39 µl/l and Cyperplant were: 0.0 µl/l, 1.10 µl/l, 1.33 µl/l, 1.66 µ/l, 2.22 µl/l, 3.33 µl/l, 6.66 µl/l, 13.33 µl/l, 16.60 µl/l respectively. The experimental setup constituted of ten specimens, (3,5 ± 0,5) cm standard length and mean weight (2,75 ± 0.5) g placed in each 75 × 45 cm glass aquarium located indoors, each containing 10 L of combined water from the pond from which test specimens were harvested and the test solution. Physicochemical parameters were measured throughout the test period following the recommendations of Rodier et al. Minimum (30±0.00%) and maximum (100 ± 0.00%) mortalities were recorded. Correlations were positive and strong between mortality rates and concentrations. Physicochemical parameters did not vary greatly during the test period. The 50% lethal concentration for 24 hours of exposure (LC50-24 h) was relatively high with Cyperplant 100 EC (P/800) and low with Pyriforce 600 EC (P/1200) which turns out to be the most toxic pesticide. The results showed that they may cause serious long term effects in our ecosystem such as the killing of Oreochromis nioticus fingerlings even at very low doses which may lead to gross drop in their population in the ecosystem and even the extinction of the species if the situation is not controlled.
Combining Ability, Heterosis and Potence Ratio for Yield and Yield Components in Korean Double-Haploid, Progenies and Improved Rice Varieties in Nigeria
Authors: Somtochukwu Ogba , Abiodun Efisue
Published: August 2024

Rice is the most widely consumed staple crop in Africa and consumption continues to grow at a rapid pace with increasing population. Success in breeding programs are largely dependent on the genetic diversity of a crop. Genetic variability occurs due to genetic differences in individuals within a given population, which is the basis of plant breeding. Thus, if the genetic variability is well managed, diversity can result to permanent gains in the performance of the crop. The objectives of this study were to determine the interaction between grain yield and yield components and to conduct genetic studies on selected rice genotypes. The research was carried out at the University of Port Harcourt Faculty of Agriculture teaching and research farm. Thirteen (13) varieties were used which comprised 7 adapted Nigerian varieties and 6 Korean rice varieties in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in three replications was established. All agronomic practices were carried out at appropriately crop phenology. North Carolina II mating design was used to perform crosses. Data was collected on 10 agronomic traits. All means were subjected to ANOVA, combining ability, Heterosis and Potence ratio were determined. The progenies from UPIA 2 x UPN 234, FARO 52 X UPN 266 and UPIA 3 X UPN 266 had the best phenotypic and genotypic expression and most of the hybrids had heterotic values than their parents. The results also showed ranges of dominance for genotypes. UPIA 1, UPIA 2, UPN 223, UPN 234 and UPN266 should be included in breeding programs because they showed the best GCA’s across most traits.
Review of Approaches to Enhancing the Effectiveness of Transport Infrastructure and Services: A Focus on Asia
Authors: Hargroves Karlson , Newman Peter , Joshi Ganesh , James Benjamin
Published: August 2024

A dominance of private vehicles in cities around the world has led to unsustainable levels of congestion, pollution, and human harm, which stand to be exacerbated by future growth. This paper briefly outlines the implications of rapid urbanization based on private vehicles and then provides an overview of the benefits associated with Integrated Shared Transit (IST) services. IST can provide a number of benefits such as improved public health outcomes, reduced congestion, and reduced land use from car parking, along with economic development and job creation Opportunities. A recent study suggested this approach presents strong local economic multipliers with every US$1 invested in shared transit creating as much as US$4 in economic returns. The paper then provides a review of four important areas, namely: the shift to electro-mobility, the creation of transit activated corridors (TACs), advanced freight telematics exchange, and the use of disruptive technologies including artificial intelligence and distributed ledgers. The paper then concludes with the recommendation to shift focus from a model of private vehicle dominance to a system of integrated shared transit that is supported by private modes.
Factors That Affect the Success of Consumer Cooperatives in Case of Bench Sheko, West Omo and Sheka Zones Ethiopia
Authors: Wodajo Sitotaw , Haile Worku
Published: August 2024

The study aimed to identify external challenges that influence the success of consumer cooperatives in the case of southwest Ethiopia. An explanatory type of research design method was applied. The study was focused on seventeen (17) selected active consumer cooperatives in southwest Ethiopia. A three-stage random sampling procedure was adopted for the selection of the sample respondents. In stage one, seven woredas were selected from each zone proportionately. In stage two, from those woredas 17 sample consumer cooperatives were selected. Finally, 385 samples of respondents were selected by simple random method. Political, Technology, Management, Bureaucracy, Marketing, Finance and Infrastructure influence were selected as independent factors. Successes of consumer cooperatives were identified as the dependent variable for this study. The finding reveals variables like politics, management, marketing and finance are important factors that affect significantly the target variables. Factor bureaucracy had no significant influence on dependent variables. The study suggests giving special attention given on problems like lack of marketing and finance access shortage, lagging technological advances and political interference. Therefore, Bench Sheko, Sheka and West Omo zones should solve these challenges.
Cultural Education Sustainability and Development of Vocational Business Education in Nigeria
Authors: George Owhoeke , Chidinma Oparaku , Nchelem Ordu
Published: August 2024

Culture and art is a significant aspect of human life, and the aim has been to create ideas relevant to the new interdisciplinary education as no society survives without cultural values. Culture is one of the phenomenon that shape individuals toward moral integrity and human development. Culture therefore helps to engender development and sustainability in the society. Without culture no society can make progress into the sustainability of its future civilization. Thus this paper is designed to evaluate the contributions of cultural education sustainability towards the achievement of developing vocational business education in Nigeria. The paper adopted explanatory descriptive approach which is content analysis. The paper discourse is centred on: concept of culture and cultural education, value/importance of cultural education, overall impact of cultural education and contributions of cultural education to the development of vocational business education in Nigeria. The paper concluded that sustainable Culture and vocational business education are connected phenomenal that collaborates to build a society with human and sustainable civilization. The development of culture influences the development of vocational business education and Nigeria can only leverage on the values of culture to shape a better curriculum of vocational business education. Thus, vocational business education cannot achieve its laudable objectives in Nigeria without embracing the norms and caprices of the culture of the society. Consequently, the paper recommended among others that educational institutions should develop curriculum guidelines and resources that incorporate cultural education components into vocational business programs at all levels of education, from secondary schools to tertiary institutions. Ensure that cultural education is integrated across relevant subjects, such as entrepreneurship, marketing, tourism, and international business.
Tunisian Doctoral Students between Course Management and Effective Performance
Authors: Behi Mohamed
Published: August 2024

Different teaching models have been used to enhance the teaching and learning process in order to meet the required achievements. This process keeps on changing for decades, particularly with the inclusion of the communicative approach. In this respect, a mooting point concerns how the interactive process of teachers and learners take place for designing course materials. Another vital point to consider is how to evaluate the achievements of a set of pedagogical packages offered for novice teachers in particular, which are merely a part of their constitutive formation and course management. These investigative points are conducted by loading the Tunisian doctoral students with the most effective pedagogical means so that they acquire the desired procedures for course planning and class management. These students are required to teach their classmates, pretending to be learners, within a micro-teaching context. The presupposed teachers are equipped with the necessary teaching means. The experiment consists in a scientific class session followed by a class discussion describing and assessing the presented courses performance. This pursued process represents a pedagogical mechanism for designing a yardstick for mapping out an assessing measure of the courses. It is found that the doctoral students use different cognitive techniques to manage their classes by assigning tasks with different levels of complexities. Finally, it is suggested that the presented courses leave traces of achievements. The doctoral students are able to diversify their pedagogical techniques during class management. What remain at issue are the pedagogical anomalies to avoid for a better teaching performance.
Developing Disobedience: A Decolonial Childist Perspective on School Strikes for Climate Justice
Authors: Biswas Tanu , Mattheis Liola Nike
Published: August 2024

What do the school strikes for climate teach (adults)? Beyond being apt responses to democratic exclusions, children’s and young people’s strikes also have educative potential (including for adults) through counterweighing formal education, as the authors previously argued. This paper continues to explore the educational import of children and young people’s climate contentions as part of a more explicit decolonial agenda. In a first step, the paper sketches the altered conditions under which children stage school strikes/occupations and highlights increasing global connections drawn also by strikes in the North. Next, departing from a reading of Socrates’s canonical defense of obedience to the law, it offers a reading of the political economy and developmentalism of neoliberal, Anthropocene schooling as part of a modern oikos that depends on children’s work in their roles as “pupils.” Finally, children’s and young people’s activism is approached as resistance to colonially shaped epistemic injustice.
Psychological distress, work–family conflict and family life satisfaction: A quantitative study of social workers in the UK
Authors: Stanley Selwyn , Murphy Ciaran , Brougham Rachel , Richardson Carly
Published: August 2024

Frontline social workers work in difficult circumstances with clients who face significant trauma and distress. The increasing turnover of social workers is a matter of concern. This quantitative research explores psychological distress, work–family conflict and family life satisfaction in a sample of 104 social workers in North-West England. The findings revealed significant correlations among the variables. It was seen that family life satisfaction partially mediated the effects of depression on the manifestation of work-to-family conflict. Social work organisations need to introduce measures to enhance work–life balance, reduce psychological distress and promote the well-being of social work practitioners.
François Viète and his analysis of the Copernican lunar model
Authors: Carman Christián C.
Published: August 2024

In his unfinished Ad harmonicon coeleste, François Viète (1540–1603) approaches astronomical models in a purely mathematical way, analyzing the equations involved in them and suggesting new geometrical approaches, usually equivalent but simpler. After dealing with the Copernican planetary models, he develops three different lunar models. The first one describes a model geometrically similar but not identical to the Ptolemaic lunar model. The second is identical to that of Copernicus, but Viète significantly simplifies the calculation methods, and the third one is inspired by Tycho’s lunar model. In a previous paper, I analyzed the first model. In this paper, I describe and analyze the second one, leaving for a future work the third one. Extending the ellipse models used by Viète for the outer planets, I also show that every model of epicycle and deferent can be replaced by a planet revolving on a rotating ellipse.
Indigenous workplace policies: the crucial role of Indigenous management
Authors: Eva C. , Foley D. , Bodle K. , Hunter B. , Harris J. , Nichols N.
Published: August 2024

Indigenous employment is a critical policy area in Australia, with businesses adopting targeted workplace and recruitment practices to increase their levels of Indigenous employment. However, non-Indigenous-owned Australian businesses are still struggling to meet their Indigenous employment targets, and the national gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous employment rates remains wide. Despite the increased popularity of Indigenous-specific workplace and recruitment policies, there is a lack of research that aims to determine their associations with Indigenous employment. This paper addresses this gap by surveying 680 non-Indigenous-owned Australian businesses, detailing the uptake of various Indigenous-focused workplace and recruitment practices and their associations with Indigenous employment. The study finds that there is limited uptake of policies and practices such as Reconciliation Action Plans, cultural competency training, and Indigenous employment strategies, and some scepticism from respondents about their efficacy. OLS and negative binomial estimations could not demonstrate consistent associations between the implementation of these policies and Indigenous employment. However, the paper finds a significant association between the presence of Indigenous people in management positions within non-Indigenous-owned businesses and higher rates of Indigenous employment. This finding is consistent with previous research, which suggests that Indigenous-led approaches lead to improved Indigenous employment outcomes.
Using Response Prompting, Frames, and Technology to Teach Rural Students With Extensive Support Needs to Write About Stories
Authors: Pennington Robert C. , Pinczynski Monique , Masud Andy , Saunders Alicia , Stanley Melissa
Published: August 2024

We used a single case concurrent multiple probe across participants design to evaluate the effects of a multi-component intervention package on the number of correct sentences used when writing about a story for three rural elementary students with intellectual or developmental disabilities and extensive support needs. The package was comprised of response prompting, sentence frames, and selection-based writing software and produced improved performance across all three participants. Overall, data indicate students improved their writing performance following the introduction of the package. We discuss our findings in relation to future research and implications for practitioners.
The effect of multi-field coupling on dynamic recrystallization behavior in IN718 alloy
Authors: Jin-lan An , wei Xie , Song Zhou , Lei Wang
Published: August 2024

The dynamic recrystallization behavior of IN718 alloy is studied under multi-field coupling based on deformation difficulty at high temperature. The results show that dynamic recrystallization of IN718 alloy occur at 750°C under multi-field. At the same temperature, the resistance of IN718 alloy decreases and the degree of dynamic recrystallization increases with the increase of pulse current frequency. The dynamic recrystallization mechanism of alloy under multi-field coupling is discontinuous mechanism of grain boundary arch nucleation. The dynamic recrystallization ability is significantly improved under the action of multi-field coupling, thus the deformation resistance is reduced. The reason is that the dislocation movement intensifies under the action of multi-field coupling, which promotes dislocation proliferation and recovery, and then promotes dynamic recrystallization.
Modeling techniques in nanofinishing processes - a review
Authors: Dubey Nitesh Kumar , Sidpara Ajay
Published: August 2024

With the growing demand of high surface finish components, the need of nanofinishing techniques arises immensely. Generally, finishing experiments are performed to analyse the surface finish, temperature rise, and material removal. Using modeling techniques, one can analyse the same without carrying out experiments for different nanofinishing processes. These techniques help in finding different unexpected situations before initiating any finishing process. Using the methods of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), finite element method (FEM), molecular dynamics simulation, and mechanistic techniques it becomes easy to predict material removal, heat generation using the results of velocity, pressure, stress, and temperature. Modeling techniques offer fluid flow behavior, workpiece behavior visualizations under the effect of forces, cost-effectiveness solutions, and identification of problematic issues. In this article, a comprehensive review of different modeling techniques is presented for better understanding and visualization of the nanofinishing process. This review paper attempts to provide an informative literature survey on the research being done to simplify the understanding of modeling techniques and which modeling technique should be selected along with suitable modeling parameters considered by researchers for a particular nanofinishing process.
A clinical comparison of glycol and water-based heater-cooler systems for cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Ohlrich Kelly , Kwon Jennie , Hill Morgan A , Ayala McKenzie , Stone Amber , Bruner Samantha , Pollard Melissa , Dell’Aiera Laura , Fitzgerald David , Kilic Arman
Published: August 2024

Introduction

While newer heater-cooler technologies using ethylene glycol-based (GB) solutions during cardiothoracic surgery have become commercially available, there is a paucity of clinical data describing their effectiveness during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) support. This analysis aimed to compare clinical characteristics and procedural outcomes using water-based (WB) and GB heater-cooler systems.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on consecutive adult patients undergoing CPB from June to October 2022 comparing WB or GB groups. The primary outcome was a composite of operative death or major morbidity. Secondary endpoints included transfusion requirements on CPB, patient cooling and warming rates, and vasoactive-inotropic scores (VIS) at case completion. P-control charts were used to monitor the weekly incidence of the composite outcome. A sub-analysis was performed to evaluate the primary outcome for cardiac surgery cases indexed by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS).

Results

There were 167 patients included for analysis; 87 (52.1%) underwent CPB with a WB system and 80 (47.9%) with a GB system. GB procedure subjects were younger ( p = .01), experienced longer CPB times ( p = .034), and were more likely to receive thoracic transplant or aortic surgery ( p = 0.015). The composite outcome of operative mortality or major morbidity occurred in 29.9% and 24% of the WB and GB groups, respectively ( p = .372). P-control charts indicated a weekly mean incidence of 30% during WB practice, which decreased to 24% with GB practice. Among 106 STS-indexed cardiac surgery cases, mean composite outcome incidence decreased from 19% to 6% following our GB transition. Additionally, cooling, and warming rates indexed to patient BSA and VIS at case completion were not significantly different.

Conclusion

Our analysis demonstrated a safe transition from WB to GB heater-cooler technologies in our practice. This early analysis suggests that GB heater coolers may be safely adopted to mitigate the risks of nontuberculous mycobacterium infections for cardiac surgical patients.
Passenger Time Use Comparison Between Traditional and Autonomous Vehicles: A Latent Class and Transition Analysis
Authors: Hamad Nadim , Tahlyan Divyakant , Abkarian Hoseb , Mahmassani Hani
Published: August 2024

As the era of autonomous vehicles (AVs) approaches, understanding how passengers’ time use during a trip may change from a traditional vehicle (non-AV) to an AV is important to the adoption and use of AVs. In this study, a latent class analysis (LCA) as well as a latent transition analysis (LTA) are adopted to investigate the choice of travel activities of individuals as passengers in a traditional vehicle, such as a car or transit, and the anticipated shift in these activities in an AV. Since individuals may perform different activities during different trip purposes, activity choices and non-AV to AV transition dynamics are explored from two different perspectives: commute trips (e.g., to work or school) and non-commute trips (e.g., leisure, errands, or medical). Findings from the LCA models show three distinct groups of individuals with varying activity preferences in a traditional vehicle and four distinct groups that could emerge in an AV. AV users exhibited a higher preference for activities such as texting/browsing social media, relaxing, and working, suggesting that AVs may offer passengers a more productive use of their travel time. Furthermore, the LTA model shows that there is a good portion of individuals who were performing one or two activities in a traditional vehicle now becoming variety seekers that could perform at least four different activities in an AV, further corroborating the findings that AVs could provide a more productive and efficient use of travel time.
Droxidopa for Vasopressor Weaning in Critically Ill Patients with Persistent Hypotension: A Multicenter, Retrospective, Single-Arm Observational Study
Authors: Webb Andrew J , Casal Gianna LH , Newman Kelly A , Culshaw Justin R , Northam Kalynn A , Solomon Edmond J , Beargie Sarah M , Johnson Riley B , Lopez Natasha D , Hayes Bryan D. , Roberts Russel J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Persistent vasopressor requirements are a common reason for delayed liberation from the intensive care unit (ICU) and adjunct oral agents are sometimes used to hasten time to vasopressor discontinuation. We sought to describe the use of droxidopa for vasopressor weaning in critically ill patients with prolonged hypotension.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective, single-arm, observational study included adult patients admitted to an ICU at two academic centers between 06/2016–07/2023 who received droxidopa for vasopressor weaning. Patients who received droxidopa prior to admission or for another indication were excluded. The primary outcome was time to vasopressor discontinuation, defined as when vasopressors were stopped and remained off for at least 24 h. Secondary outcomes included rates of tachycardia and hypotension post-initiation, norepinephrine equivalents pre- and post-initiation, concomitant oral agent use, and dosing. A subgroup analysis was conducted in patients receiving droxidopa via feeding tubes.

Results

A total of 30 patients met inclusion criteria. Median age was 62 years old, 12 (40%) were female, and 73% were in a cardiac/cardiac surgical ICU. Patients were on vasopressors for a median of 16 days prior to droxidopa initiation. Median (IQR) time to vasopressor discontinuation was 70 h (23-192) and norepinephrine equivalents decreased immediately after initiation (0.08 vs 0.02 mcg/kg/min, p < 0.001). MAP increased after droxidopa initiation (68.8 vs 66.5 mm Hg, p = 0.008) while heart rates were unchanged (86 vs 84 BPM, p = 0.37) after initiation. Patients who weaned from vasopressors within 72 h versus longer than 72 h after droxidopa initiation were more likely to be on lower norepinephrine equivalents prior to initiation (0.05 vs 0.12 mcg/kg/min, p = 0.013). Feeding tube administration did not impact time to vasopressor discontinuation (p = 0.93).

Conclusions

Droxidopa may be considered an adjunct therapy for vasopressor weaning. Effects were similar when analyzing patients receiving droxidopa via feeding tube.
Transforming Islamic higher education institutions in Indonesia from “institutes/colleges” into “universities”: Globalization or glocalization?
Authors: Sibawaihi Sibawaihi , Suyatno Suyatno , Suyadi Suyadi , Fernandes Venesser
Published: August 2024

Transforming “institutes” and “colleges” into “universities” has become a trend in the effort to develop state Islamic higher education institutions in Indonesia. The transformation idea was examined in this study, whether it was a globalization phenomenon or a glocalization phenomenon. Using a case study, this qualitative research found that globalization and glocalization played a role in institutional transformation. Through internationalization, globalization became the initial motive for transformation. However, under limited autonomy and funding, efforts to internationalize and implement globalization behaviors were hampered. In turn, glocalization appeared stronger through the political and moral literacies of the leaders of the universities. The resistance that started the controversy over the idea of transformation can, in principle, be accommodated and suppressed by the facts of glocalization. Without ignoring locality, accommodation for globalization can be optimized by accelerating these Islamic universities toward world-class universities and changing them into universities with greater autonomy.
An enhancement in the tensile modulus and bending resistance of polylactic acid/carbon nanotube composite by optimizing FFF process parameters
Authors: Hardani Hatam , Afshari Mahmoud , Samadi Mohammad Reza , Afshari Hossein , López Santi Ago
Published: August 2024

Fused-filament fabrication (FFF) is one of the most common 3D printing methods for thermoplastic polymers and composite materials because it is easy to use and is low-cost. The printed polymer parts for industrial applications require desirable mechanical properties. Therefore, in the present research, the process parameters of fused filament fabrication are optimized to enhance the Young’s modulus and bending resistance of polylactic acid/carbon nanotube (PLA/CNT) composite. For this purpose, the response surface method (RSM) and desirability function technique (DFT) are applied to find the optimal values of the effective parameters of CNT content, printing speed and nozzle temperature. The printed samples were examined by using DSC, TGA and SEM analyses. The results of DSC and TGA analyses indicated that the addition of CNT into PLA enhanced the thermal stability of PLA/CNT composite. It was also observed from the optimization results that the Young’s modulus and bending resistance of PLA/CNT composite improved at CNT content of 2.9 wt%, printing speed of 20 mm/s and nozzle temperature of 210°C.
Consolidation Enhances Sequential Multistep Anticipation but Diminishes Access to Perceptual Features
Authors: Tarder-Stoll Hannah , Baldassano Christopher , Aly Mariam
Published: August 2024

Many experiences unfold predictably over time. Memory for these temporal regularities enables anticipation of events multiple steps into the future. Because temporally predictable events repeat over days, weeks, and years, we must maintain—and potentially transform—memories of temporal structure to support adaptive behavior. We explored how individuals build durable models of temporal regularities to guide multistep anticipation. Healthy young adults (Experiment 1: N = 99, age range = 18–40 years; Experiment 2: N = 204, age range = 19–40 years) learned sequences of scene images that were predictable at the category level and contained incidental perceptual details. Individuals then anticipated upcoming scene categories multiple steps into the future, immediately and at a delay. Consolidation increased the efficiency of anticipation, particularly for events further in the future, but diminished access to perceptual features. Further, maintaining a link-based model of the sequence after consolidation improved anticipation accuracy. Consolidation may therefore promote efficient and durable models of temporal structure, thus facilitating anticipation of future events.
Macrophage activation syndrome as a presenting feature in juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ramadoss Ishwarya , Rengabashyam Pirahalathan , Seetharaman Varadhan Mythili , Ponniah Subramanian Arul R
Published: August 2024

Background

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is an acquired form of hemo phagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and is usually associated with infections, autoimmune, auto inflammatory syndromes and malignancies.

Case details

A 14 year old girl presented with sub-acute onset of fever with lymphadenopathy, pancytopenia,high ferritin values and a falling erythrocyte sedimentation rate. She was evaluated with relevant laboratory tests that was suggestive of systemic Lupus erythematosus and associated macrophage activation syndrome She recovered with immunosuppressive therapy and other supportive care.

Conclusion

There is a need for a high index of suspicion of occult MAS and MAS in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus as it may be an initial presentation. Delay in diagnosis and initiation of treatment can lead to a higher mortality.
Naringenin alleviates bone cancer pain via NF-κB/uPA/PAR2 pathway in mice
Authors: Li Yaoyuan , Zheng Guangda , Tang Yiting , Chen Yupeng , Yang Mingzhu , Zheng Qiuhui , Bao Yanju
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This investigation aims to explore the protective role of Naringenin (Nar) in bone cancer pain (BCP) via TNF-α-mediated NF-κB/uPA/PAR2 pathway.

Methods

BCP model was manipulated by the injection of LL2 cells into femur of mice. The levels of TNF-α and uPA in bone tissue and serum were studied by ELISA. The expressions of PAR2, PKC-γ, PKA and TRPV1 were determined by qPCR and western blot. Levels of p-IKKβ, IKKβ, p-p65, p65 were determined by western blot. Levels of p-p65 and uPA in bone tissue were studied by immunohistochemistry. Behavior tests in this investigation included paw withdrawal latency (PWL) and the paw withdrawal threshold (PWT). Radiological analysis and micro-CT were used to study bone structure. The lesions of bone tissue were determined by HE staining. The Dorsal root ganglia (DRG) isolated from mice were used to determine the level of PAR2 pathway.

Results

Naringenin improved the BCP-induced bone damage based on the increases of BV/TV, Conn. D, BMD and BMC and the decrease of bone destruction score. Naringenin repressed the reductions of PWT and PWL in BCP mice. Naringenin decreased the levels of PAR2, PKC-γ, PKA and TRPV1 of DRG and reduced the levels of p-IKKβ, p-p65, and uPA in serum and bone tissue in BCP. Importantly, naringenin suppressed the enhancement of TNF-α in serum and bone tissue in BCP mice.

Conclusion

Naringenin alleviated pain sensitization and bone damage of mice with BCP via TNF-α-mediated NF-κB/uPA/PAR2 pathway. We demonstrated a novel pathway for anti-BCP treatment with naringenin.
Diagnostic biomarkers in knee osteoarthritis: Based on bioinformatics and experimental verification in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Wen Yaqian , Zou Mengdi , Chen Chujie
Published: August 2024

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a multifactorial whole-joint disease with a high rate of disability. Considering the complexity of KOA, there is an urgent need to discover new molecular pathological markers and multi-target treatment strategies.

Methods

Two datasets, GSE51588 and GSE57218, were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and screened for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using the Gene Expression Omnibus 2R (GEO2R). Gene Ontology (GO)/Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses of DEGs were performed. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed and hub genes were identified using Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE). Receiver-operating characteristic curves (ROC) were plotted for the genes, and their prognostic values were evaluated. The expression levels of the hub genes in the monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced KOA rat model and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated C28/I2 cells were verified using reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR).

Results

Overall, 33 DEGs were up-regulated and 6 DEGs were down-regulated in the two datasets. A total of 12 hub genes were identified, including COL15A1, THY1, COL1A1, COL5A1, CTHRC1, MXRA5, FN1, COL1A2, COL3A1, SPARC, COL8A1, and COL2A1, which all could be used as biomarkers to differentiate KOA samples from healthy controls. More importantly, we found that THY1, CTHRC1, SPARC, and COL8A1 were significantly upregulated in vivo and in vitro compared with the controls ( p < .01).

Conclusions

The expression levels of THY1, CTHRC1, SPARC, and COL8A1 were elevated and had good prognostic values as biomarkers in KOA.
The Ethnographic Interview: An Interdisciplinary Guide for Developing an Ethnographic Disposition in Health Research
Authors: Trundle Catherine , Gardner John , Phillips Tarryn
Published: August 2024

Interviews are central to the health ethnographers’ toolkit. In this article, we offer a critical engagement with methodological literature coupled with reflective examples from our own research, in order to articulate the value of the ethnographic interview in health research. We contribute to literature on ethnographic interviews in two ways: by decoupling ethnographic interviews from the necessity of accompanying participant observation, and by outlining an ethnographic disposition towards interviewing. We define the seven key epistemic dispositions underpinning the ethnographic interview. These are humility, a readiness to revise core assumptions about a research topic, attentiveness to context, relationality, openness to complexity, an attention to ethnographic writing, and a consideration of the politics and history of the method. The strength of an epistemic understanding of the ethnographic interview is that it offers flexibility for developing a diverse array of interview techniques responsive to the needs of different research contexts and challenges. Ethnographic interviews, we show, contribute to the study of health through a richly explorative, responsive, contextualised, and reflexive approach.
Impairments of Human Dignity at the End of Life Quantitatively Assessed by Health Care Professionals: A Pilot Study From Germany
Authors: Derler Florian , Mielke Emilia L.
Published: August 2024

Background

Empirical investigations on health care professionals’ (HCPs) perception of dignity have already spotted common themes in preserving dignity in end-of-life care. However, heterogenic assessment results of varying HCP groups exist. This pilot study wants to provide further evidence on HCPs’ rating of dignity-impairing aspects based on a patient-centered concept, especially regarding different underlying job profiles and other professional characteristics.

Methods

In a quantitative study design, the rating of dignity-impairing factors in end-of-life care via an adapted version of the Patient Dignity Inventory (aPDI) was assessed. Participants of the relevant professional groups were recruited via convenience sampling from a region of Germany.

Results

From the final sample of participants, 229 questionnaires were analyzed. The overall importance of each dignity-impairing aspect in end-of-life care was considered to be very high by all different HCP groups. Nonetheless, ratings differed between professions: nursing staff had the highest ratings of importance compared to both physicians and individuals with multiple occupations. Participants with previous knowledge in bioethics also rated some aspects as more important compared to those without this feature.

Conclusion

With the findings of this investigation, an insight of how professionals rate impairments of dignity at the end of life based on a patient-centered concept is given. Thus, a link between empirical research and medical ethics is added. Potential normative implications for HCPs in practice of a dignified care can be derived, consisting of actively addressing social topics as well as further stressing ethics as a fundamental subject in the training and continuing education.
Evaluating Bereavement Response Plans in Daycare: A Comparative Analysis of Support Systems in Denmark and Norway
Authors: Lytje Martin , Dyregrov Atle , Gjestad Rolf
Published: August 2024

This study examines the implementation and use of bereavement response plans (bereavement plans) in Danish and Norwegian daycare institutions. Two large-scale surveys were conducted to explore the implementation rates, satisfaction levels, and source of the plans. The data collected was analyzed using frequency analyses and Chi-square tests of independence. The findings suggest that 87% of Danish institutions have bereavement plans compared to 98% in Norway. Furthermore, the study highlights the differences in the development of bereavement plans between the two countries, as Danish institutions trust their individually tailored plans more than their Norwegian counterparts, while the Norwegian plans seem to be of higher quality. Despite these differences, bereavement plans provide a sense of safety for staff when supporting bereaved children in both countries. This study contributes to the ongoing efforts to improve bereavement support in daycare institutions and emphasizes the importance of continued research and development in this area.