bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concept of unification of mutually incompatible information models and data stored in relational databases of road administrations
Authors: Pospisil Karel , Janku Michal , Stryk Josef , Pospisil Vitezslav , Pospisilova Dagmar
Published: July 2024

Road Administrations (RAs) implement Building Information Modelling (BIM) through pilot projects developed for new or reconstructed structures. Each model is processed with respect to BIM standards and practices valid at the time of its creation. Consequently, models are incompatible and cannot be interconnected to create a combined model of the managed network or even its selected parts. Existing structures are often not included in the BIM effort until some major repair is planned. In addition, RAs usually store data on fixed and variable parameters of structures in relational databases. This results in a situation in which a relatively small number of structures are included in mutually incompatible models and data regarding the majority of structures is contained in relational databases. It creates a heterogeneous data environment for RAs. The goals of the paper are as follows: to analyse the described problem, to propose a method of model unification models, a method of creation of simplified compatible information models using data on existing structures stored in relational databases and a method of storing data at the level of the managed network, to support RA asset management systems which can be treated as a dynamic part of BIM.
Analiza możliwości zwiększania zadrzewienia pasów drogowych w strefach staromiejskich – uwarunkowania prawne
Authors: Gryszpanowicz Piotr , Lisicka Aneta , Rymsza Barbara
Published: July 2024

W artykule przedstawiono analizę oraz identyfikację przeszkód i możliwości związanych z zadrzewieniem pasa drogowego w obszarach staromiejskich dróg publicznych. Dotyczy to zagadnień takich jak istniejące przepisy prawa związane z zadrzewieniem dróg, ewentualne ograniczenia prawne czy administracyjne, a także potencjalne korzyści i wyzwania związane z zazielenianiem, w kontekście utrzymania zabytkowych obszarów miejskich. Analiza prawna obejmuje również ocenę, czy istniejące regulacje są wystarczające w odniesieniu do zadrzewienia pasa drogowego, czy też konieczne są zmiany prawne mające ułatwić wprowadzanie takich rozwiązań. Przeanalizowano usytuowanie drzew w pasach drogowych w wielu krajach. Analizę szczegółową przeprowadzono na przykładzie polskiego miasta średniej wielkości – Płocka. W związku z tym, że w wypadku stref staromiejskich istnieje potrzeba zachowania równowagi między ochroną dziedzictwa kulturowego a dostosowywaniem do współczesnych potrzeb, w tym „zielonego planowania miejskiego”, poniższe opracowanie oraz rekomendacje zmian przepisów mogą pomóc we wdrożeniu kolejnych kroków mających na celu zwiększenie zadrzewienia przy zapewnieniu pełnego bezpieczeństwa uczestnikom ruchu i uwzględnieniu unikalnych cech obszarów staromiejskich.
Intrinsic Motivation in Learning History Using Project-Based Learning in Online Environment
Authors: Mariadas Karina Valariie Anne , Yusop Farrah Dina
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate that project-based learning results in learners to be intrinsically motivated when learning History. Three methods were implemented in this study, namely role playing, poster-making and mixed projects (i.e., role playing and poster-making).
To further enhance the understanding of intrinsic motivation, the three basic psychological needs, autonomy, relatedness and competence were implemented during all three methods of project-based learning. Adopted from the Self-Determination Theory’s intrinsic motivation, a 5-point Likert
scale questionnaire was developed and administered to sixty-eight Years 9 to 10 secondary school students from an international school at Sungai Buloh, Malaysia. Results from this study indicated that role playing was the preferred method of learning compared to the other two methods, and
that project-based learning has been useful and effective in the acquisition of historical thinking skills. The findings also indicated the participants were receptive to implementation of project-based learning into their curriculum as a teaching tool for it proves to be beneficial in knowledge
gain and memory retention, as well as intrinsically motivating them to perform better. The key finding of this study proves that project-based learning has contributed to students forming intrinsic motivation when it comes to learning History.
Learning Trajectories for the Learning Area of Triangles and Quadrilaterals
Authors: Yunianto Wahid , Prahmana Rully Charitas Indra , Putri Ratu Ilma Indra , Wijers Monica , Darmawijoyo  , van Eerde Dolly
Published: July 2024

Students encounter difficulties in solving areas of triangles and quadrilaterals due to a lack of conceptual understanding of the topic. The researchers have developed the following activities and the hypothetical learning trajectory (HLT) through the design research approach focusing
on developing activities for students to learn the concepts properly. Reallotment or reshaping has been the primary idea for the activities. The designed activities in 2 cycles have been trialled out, improved, and implemented for 7-grade students in a classroom. Students’ understanding
and development of this study will be further discussed in this paper.
Gendered hiring and attrition on the path to parity for academic faculty
Authors: LaBerge Nicholas , Wapman Kenneth Hunter , Clauset Aaron , Larremore Daniel B
Published: July 2024

Despite long-running efforts to increase gender diversity among tenured and tenure-track faculty in the U.S., women remain underrepresented in most academic fields, sometimes dramatically so. Here, we quantify the relative importance of faculty hiring and faculty attrition for both past and future faculty gender diversity using comprehensive data on the training and employment of 268,769 tenured and tenure-track faculty rostered at 12,112U.S. PhD-granting departments, spanning 111 academic fields between 2011 and 2020. Over this time, we find that hiring had a far greater impact on women’s representation among faculty than attrition in the majority (90.1%) of academic fields, even as academia loses a higher share of women faculty relative to men at every career stage. Finally, we model the impact of five specific policy interventions on women’s representation, and project that eliminating attrition differences between women and men only leads to a marginal increase in women’s overall representation—in most fields, successful interventions will need to make substantial and sustained changes to hiring in order to reach gender parity.
Hemodynamics regulate spatiotemporal artery muscularization in the developing circle of Willis
Authors: Cheng Siyuan , Xia Ivan Fan , Wanner Renate , Abello Javier , Stratman Amber N , Nicoli Stefania
Published: July 2024

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) envelop vertebrate brain arteries and play a crucial role in regulating cerebral blood flow and neurovascular coupling. The dedifferentiation of VSMCs is implicated in cerebrovascular disease and neurodegeneration. Despite its importance, the process of VSMC differentiation on brain arteries during development remains inadequately characterized. Understanding this process could aid in reprogramming and regenerating dedifferentiated VSMCs in cerebrovascular diseases. In this study, we investigated VSMC differentiation on zebrafish circle of Willis (CoW), comprising major arteries that supply blood to the vertebrate brain. We observed that arterial specification of CoW endothelial cells (ECs) occurs after their migration from cranial venous plexus to form CoW arteries. Subsequently, acta2+ VSMCs differentiate from pdgfrb+ mural cell progenitors after they were recruited to CoW arteries. The progression of VSMC differentiation exhibits a spatiotemporal pattern, advancing from anterior to posterior CoW arteries. Analysis of blood flow suggests that earlier VSMC differentiation in anterior CoW arteries correlates with higher red blood cell velocity and wall shear stress. Furthermore, pulsatile flow induces differentiation of human brain PDGFRB+ mural cells into VSMCs, and blood flow is required for VSMC differentiation on zebrafish CoW arteries. Consistently, flow-responsive transcription factor klf2a is activated in ECs of CoW arteries prior to VSMC differentiation, and klf2a knockdown delays VSMC differentiation on anterior CoW arteries. In summary, our findings highlight blood flow activation of endothelial klf2a as a mechanism regulating initial VSMC differentiation on vertebrate brain arteries.
Deciphering the actin structure-dependent preferential cooperative binding of cofilin
Authors: Ngo Kien Xuan , Vu Huong T , Umeda Kenichi , Trinh Minh-Nhat , Kodera Noriyuki , Uyeda Taro QP
Published: July 2024

The mechanism underlying the preferential and cooperative binding of cofilin and the expansion of clusters toward the pointed-end side of actin filaments remains poorly understood. To address this, we conducted a principal component analysis based on available filamentous actin (F-actin) and C-actin (cofilins were excluded from cofilactin) structures and compared to monomeric G-actin. The results strongly suggest that C-actin, rather than F-ADP-actin, represented the favourable structure for binding preference of cofilin. High-speed atomic force microscopy explored that the shortened bare half helix adjacent to the cofilin clusters on the pointed end side included fewer actin protomers than normal helices. The mean axial distance (MAD) between two adjacent actin protomers along the same long-pitch strand within shortened bare half helices was longer (5.0–6.3 nm) than the MAD within typical helices (4.3–5.6 nm). The inhibition of torsional motion during helical twisting, achieved through stronger attachment to the lipid membrane, led to more pronounced inhibition of cofilin binding and cluster formation than the presence of inorganic phosphate (Pi) in solution. F-ADP-actin exhibited more naturally supertwisted half helices than F-ADP.Pi-actin, explaining how Pi inhibits cofilin binding to F-actin with variable helical twists. We propose that protomers within the shorter bare helical twists, either influenced by thermal fluctuation or induced allosterically by cofilin clusters, exhibit characteristics of C-actin-like structures with an elongated MAD, leading to preferential and cooperative binding of cofilin.
Evolutionary rescue of spherical mreB deletion mutants of the rod-shape bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25
Authors: Yulo P Richard J , Desprat Nicolas , Gerth Monica L , Ritzl- Rinkenberger Barbara , Farr Andrew D , Liu Yunhao , Zhang Xue-Xian , Miller Michael , Cava Felipe , Rainey Paul B , Hendrickson Heather L
Published: July 2024

Maintenance of rod-shape in bacterial cells depends on the actin-like protein MreB. Deletion of
mreB
from
Pseudomonas fluorescens
SBW25 results in viable spherical cells of variable volume and reduced fitness. Using a combination of time-resolved microscopy and biochemical assay of peptidoglycan synthesis, we show that reduced fitness is a consequence of perturbed cell size homeostasis that arises primarily from differential growth of daughter cells. A 1,000-generation selection experiment resulted in rapid restoration of fitness with derived cells retaining spherical shape. Mutations in the peptidoglycan synthesis protein Pbp1A were identified as the main route for evolutionary rescue with genetic reconstructions demonstrating causality. Compensatory
pbp1A
mutations that targeted transpeptidase activity enhanced homogeneity of cell wall synthesis on lateral surfaces and restored cell size homeostasis. Mechanistic explanations require enhanced understanding of why deletion of
mreB
causes heterogeneity in cell wall synthesis. We conclude by presenting two testable hypotheses, one of which posits that heterogeneity stems from non-functional cell wall synthesis machinery, while the second posits that the machinery is functional, albeit stalled. Overall, our data provide support for the second hypothesis and draw attention to the importance of balance between transpeptidase and glycosyltransferase functions of peptidoglycan building enzymes for cell shape determination.
PDGFRα signaling regulates Srsf3 transcript binding to affect PI3K signaling and endosomal trafficking
Authors: Forman Thomas E , Sajek Marcin P , Larson Eric D , Mukherjee Neelanjan , Fantauzzo Katherine A
Published: July 2024

Signaling through the platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα) plays a critical role in craniofacial development. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt is the primary effector of PDGFRα signaling during mouse skeletal development. We previously demonstrated that Akt phosphorylates the RNA-binding protein serine/arginine-rich splicing factor 3 (Srsf3) downstream of PI3K-mediated PDGFRα signaling in mouse embryonic palatal mesenchyme (MEPM) cells, leading to its nuclear translocation. We further showed that ablation of Srsf3 in the murine neural crest lineage results in severe midline facial clefting and widespread alternative RNA splicing (AS) changes. Here, we demonstrated via enhanced UV-crosslinking and immunoprecipitation of MEPM cells that PDGF-AA stimulation leads to preferential binding of Srsf3 to exons and loss of binding to canonical Srsf3 CA-rich motifs. Through the analysis of complementary RNA-seq data, we showed that Srsf3 activity results in the preferential inclusion of exons with increased GC content and lower intron to exon length ratio. We found that Srsf3 activity downstream of PDGFRα signaling leads to retention of the receptor in early endosomes and increases in downstream PI3K-mediated Akt signaling. Taken together, our findings reveal that growth factor-mediated phosphorylation of an RNA-binding protein underlies gene expression regulation necessary for mammalian craniofacial development.
A synthetic method to assay polycystin channel biophysics
Authors: Larmore Megan , Esarte Palomero Orhi , Kamat Neha , DeCaen Paul G
Published: July 2024

Ion channels are biological transistors that control ionic flux across cell membranes to regulate electrical transmission and signal transduction. They are found in all biological membranes and their conductive state kinetics are frequently disrupted in human diseases. Organelle ion channels are among the most resistant to functional and pharmacological interrogation. Traditional channel protein reconstitution methods rely upon exogenous expression and/or purification from endogenous cellular sources which are frequently contaminated by resident ionophores. Here, we describe a fully synthetic method to assay functional properties of polycystin channels that natively traffic to primary cilia and endoplasmic reticulum organelles. Using this method, we characterize their oligomeric assembly, membrane integration, orientation, and conductance while comparing these results to their endogenous channel properties. Outcomes define a novel synthetic approach that can be applied broadly to investigate channels resistant to biophysical analysis and pharmacological characterization.
Emerging trends in gait recognition based on deep learning: a survey
Authors: Munusamy Vaishnavi , Senthilkumar Sudha
Published: July 2024

Gait recognition, a biometric identification method, has garnered significant attention due to its unique attributes, including non-invasiveness, long-distance capture, and resistance to impersonation. Gait recognition has undergone a revolution driven by the remarkable capacity of deep learning to extract complicated features from data. An overview of the current developments in deep learning-based gait identification methods is provided in this work. We explore and analyze the development of gait recognition and highlight its uses in forensics, security, and criminal investigations. The article delves into the challenges associated with gait recognition, such as variations in walking conditions, viewing angles, and clothing as well. We discuss about the effectiveness of deep neural networks in addressing these challenges by providing a comprehensive analysis of state-of-the-art architectures, including convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), and attention mechanisms. Diverse neural network-based gait recognition models, such as Gate Controlled and Shared Attention ICDNet (GA-ICDNet), Multi-Scale Temporal Feature Extractor (MSTFE), GaitNet, and various CNN-based approaches, demonstrate impressive accuracy across different walking conditions, showcasing the effectiveness of these models in capturing unique gait patterns. GaitNet achieved an exceptional identification accuracy of 99.7%, whereas GA-ICDNet showed high precision with an equal error rate of 0.67% in verification tasks. GaitGraph (ResGCN+2D CNN) achieved rank-1 accuracies ranging from 66.3% to 87.7%, whereas a Fully Connected Network with Koopman Operator achieved an average rank-1 accuracy of 74.7% for OU-MVLP across various conditions. However, GCPFP (GCN with Graph Convolution-Based Part Feature Polling) utilizing graph convolutional network (GCN) and GaitSet achieves the lowest average rank-1 accuracy of 62.4% for CASIA-B, while MFINet (Multiple Factor Inference Network) exhibits the lowest accuracy range of 11.72% to 19.32% under clothing variation conditions on CASIA-B. In addition to an across-the-board analysis of recent breakthroughs in gait recognition, the scope for potential future research direction is also assessed.
The Impact of Neo-Liberal Policies on Distance Education Focused on Lifelong Learning and Adult Education
Authors: YALÇINKAYA Deniz
Published: July 2024

The humanitarian aspect of distance education focused on adult education and the quality of education is the most debated issue. The prevailing opinion on this issue is that this system aims to provide individuals with the job skills
needed by the market through mass education in efforts to reduce people to a human resource as a result of neoliberal policies. However, the participation needs of adults and the level of satisfaction after getting diploma or certificate
can reveal how adult education process is practiced. Reports on adult education practices tell us a different story when compared to some of the proposals put forward by neoliberal policies that put adult education at the center.
The impact of neoliberalism on education, particularly in the domains of lifelong learning and adult education through distance education is a subject of significant concern and debate. Neoliberalism, often viewed as an economic
doctrine, goes beyond mere economic principles and has broader implications for political, cultural, and social values in society. While it is often promoted as a path to economic growth and individual freedom, the effects of neoliberal
policies on education, as discussed in this paper, needs a careful consideration. This study has shown that adult education and the distance education that seems to serve it are seemingly captive to the aims of neoliberalism.
How Do Supply Chain Management Practices Influence Organizational Performance? A Case Study of Bangladesh's Agro-Food Industry
Authors: Siju Sirajul Islam , Akter Salina , Hossain Sazzad , Mustafi Mohitul Ameen Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Supply chain management practices are essential for enhancing organizational performance, particularly in the Agro-food industry. This study examines the impact of specific SCM factors—Strategic Supplier Partnership, Customer Relationship, Level of Information Sharing, and Quality of Information Sharing—on organizational performance in Bangladesh.
Methodology: Data were collected via a structured questionnaire targeting key stakeholders in Bangladesh's Agro-food industry, using a 5-point Likert scale to measure responses. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was utilized to analyze the relationships between SCM practice factors and organizational performance factors such as marketing and financial performance.
Findings: The analysis revealed that customer relationships, quality of information sharing, and strategic supplier partnerships have significant positive relationships with organizational performance, particularly in terms of financial and marketing outcomes. However, the level of information sharing did not show a significant impact on both financial and marketing performance.
Managerial Implications: The study emphasizes the significance of prioritizing strategic supplier partnerships, customer relationships, and high-quality information sharing for improving organizational performance in Bangladesh's Agro-food industry. Strengthening these SCM practices can lead to better financial and marketing performance, providing valuable insights for managers to develop targeted strategies.
Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare Analytics: From Diagnosis to Treatment Optimization
Authors: Khinvasara Tushar , Cuthrell Kimberly Morton , Tzenios Nikolaos
Published: July 2024

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare analytics has brought about a transformation in the medical field of diagnosis and treatment optimization. AI technologies have unmatched abilities in processing substantial amounts of medical data and extracting valuable insights by combining big data analytics and advanced machine learning algorithms. AI algorithms provide healthcare professionals with enhanced accuracy and speed in diagnosing illnesses, predicting patient results, and tailoring treatment plans across the entire healthcare journey. This abstract explores how artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize healthcare analytics in various areas such as genomics, electronic health records (EHRs), medical imaging, and clinical decision support systems. Healthcare providers can improve healthcare services by optimizing workflows, enhancing patient outcomes, and using AI-driven initiatives to make services more accessible and high in quality. In order to ensure ethical and accountable use of AI in healthcare, it is necessary to address problems such as algorithm bias, data privacy worries, and regulatory obstacles. Despite these challenges, the ongoing advancement of AI technologies has vast potential to transform patient care models and healthcare delivery methods.
Impact of Conservation Tillage on Soil Physical Properties under Sorghum-wheat Cropping System in Semi-arid Tropics of Haryana, India
Authors: Panghaal Dheeraj , Sangwan Pratap Singh
Published: July 2024

The study was conducted at Research Farm of CCSHAU, Hisar. Three tillage (Zero tillage, conventional tillage and minimum tillage) and four P treatments (0, 45, 60, and 75 kg ha-1) were applied in wheat. The mean weight diameter of soil aggregates in 0-5 cm soil depth was significantly higher under zero tillage as compared to other tillage practices. Maximum aggregation was in 5-10 cm soil depth. Amongst three tillage systems, bulk density increased with depth. The saturated hydraulic conductivity was significantly improved under zero tillage as compared to other practices. Moisture content was significantly higher at field capacity under zero tillage as compared to other methods, while moisture content at permanent wilting point (PWP) was not affected significantly by tillage treatments. Infiltration rate was almost identical under conventional tillage and minimum tillage practices, respectively which was significantly lower than the zero tillage.
Potassium Release Parameters and their Relation with Yield of Rice Based Cropping Systems in Bapatla District, India
Authors: Vyshnavi E. , Latha M. , Vani P. Madhu , Ramesh D.
Published: July 2024

An investigation was carried out to study the different potassium release parameters in rice based cropping systems (viz. Rice-Pulse, Rice-Groundnut, Rice-Maize and Rice-Sorghum cropping systems) of Bapatla district of Andhra Pradesh and their relation with rice yield and rice equivalent yield of different cropping systems. Step-K values in Rice-Pulse, Rice-Groundnut, Rice-Maize and Rice-Sorghum cropping systems was in the range of 505-1266, 414 -884, 742-1296 and 776-1369 mg kg-1 with the mean values of 954, 563, 965 and 1067 mg kg-1, respectively. Constant-K values in Rice-Pulse, Rice-Groundnut, Rice-Maize and Rice-Sorghum cropping systems was in the range of 17-28, 11-22, 17-25and 14-27mg kg-1 with the mean values of 23, 17, 21 and 20 mg kg-1, respectively. Cumulative-K values in Rice-Pulse, Rice-Groundnut, Rice-Maize and Rice-Sorghum cropping systems was in the range of 607-1466, 480-1038, 889-1496 and 930-1585 mg kg-1 with the mean values of 1119, 672, 1123 and 1223 mg kg-1, respectively. The highest potassium release parameters such as step-K and cumulative K observed in rice-sorghum cropping system and the lowest in rice-groundnut cropping system. Lower amounts of cumulative K were observed in all soils except in soils of Kodiparru and Ananthavaram villages under present investigation. Lower cumulative K and continuous cropping would lead to depletion of soil K reserves and result in K deficiency. Among the K release i.e cum- K and step K obtained with boiling 1N HNO3 showed maximum positive and significant correlation with rice yield and rice equivalent yield while, constant K showed minimum correlation.
UNEXPECTED SILVER LINING OF A WORLDWIDE PANDEMIC: STUDENT WORKERS WORKING FROM HOME
Authors:   Grand Canyon University, Hahn Marette
Published: July 2024

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, our university leadership charged our department to shift academic and career support for our 20,000 ground students to a virtual modality. Through 100+ student workers, our department maintained similar service levels and outcomes to pre-pandemic times while working remotely during the pandemic. This reflective practice explores four working ideas for how and why our student worker team succeeded in remote work, including: organizational culture, departmental culture, adapting an existing technology model, and training. Ultimately, all four working ideas likely contributed to our team’s success. However, it is likely an incomplete picture of what truly influenced our team’s success working remotely for 18 months. Keywords: virtual student support, academic support, career support, student workers, remote work
IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON SPIRITUAL GRACE
Authors:   Baylor University, Ervin Erin ,   Faulkner University, Paltzer Jason ,   The Meros Center; Visiting Professor at Wisconsin Lutheran College, Taylor Keyanna ,   University of California, Los Angeles
Published: July 2024

The guidelines to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic greatly impacted the economic and social well-being of United States adults, and it continues to this day. This study assessed if social isolation and unmet physical or financial needs resulting from the pandemic impacted spiritual grace among adults in the United States. Results from a survey conducted from June through August of 2020 (N = 94) concluded that COVID-19 did not significantly impact spiritual grace, but Christians have an increased likelihood of experiencing positive spiritual grace. Given spirituality’s salutary health effects, further research may include how to leverage the resiliency offered by spiritual coping strategies that Americans can use during difficult times. Keywords: spiritual grace, social isolation, religion, spirituality, pandemic
A CONSISTENT INCONSISTENCY: A CULTURAL STUDY OF ATTRIBUTIONS OF FANS IN THE UNITED STATES
Authors:   California Baptist University, Park John
Published: July 2024

Literature explores cultural orientation in cross-cultural settings but fails to look at the diversity that exists in the U.S. population. I collected data from a liberal arts university in California. I examine the role cultural orientation plays in how sport fans may attribute the performance of their sport team. Correlations and hierarchical regression analyses were used to test the hypotheses of this study. Results revealed unique findings for the attribution process. The interaction of collectivism and fan identification was negatively associated with internal attributions across wins (p < .05). Asian Americans had lower levels of internal attributions across wins (p < .01). Recommendations for future research are provided. Keywords: sport fan, culture, spectator, cultural orientation, fan identification, attribution, self-serving bias
Burnout Syndrome in obstetric nurses and midwives who attend planned home births in Brazil / Síndrome de Burnout em enfermeiras obstetras e obstetrizes que atendem parto domiciliar planejado no Brasil
Authors: Pinho Talita Lima Corrêa de , Da Mata Junia Aparecida Laia , Schmalfuss Joice Moreira , Sanfelice Clara Fróes de Oliveira , Girardi Baraldi Nayara
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: identificar a prevalência da Síndrome de Burnout em enfermeiras obstetras e obstetrizes que atendem parto domiciliar planejado no Brasil. Método: estudo transversal, com amostragem não-probabilística por conveniência. As participantes foram recrutadas em ambiente virtual e os dados foram colhidos com uso de questionário sociodemográfico e escala Oldenburg Burnout Inventory. As relações entre o escore da escala e as variáveis sociodemográficas foram avaliadas por meio de teste de comparação e coeficiente de correlação. Resultados: participaram 73 profissionais atuantes em 11 estados brasileiros, predominando 98,6% de mulheres e 79,4% de enfermeiras obstetras. Identificou-se 45,2% das participantes com Síndrome de Burnout, 30,1% sem nenhum acometimento, 17% com esgotamento e 6,8% com distanciamento do trabalho. Conclusão: os dados apontam para elevada prevalência da Síndrome de Burnout na população estudada e taxas menores de esgotamento e distanciamento com o trabalho.
Adverse events of hypodermoclysis in cancer patients under palliative care: scoping review / Eventos adversos da hipodermóclise em pacientes oncológicos sob cuidados paliativos: revisão de escopo
Authors: Ferraciolli Clarissa , Quispe Mendoza Isabel Yovana , De Souza Raquel Eustáquia , Nogueira de Almeida Márcia , Falci Ercole Flávia , Vieira Toledo Luana
Published: July 2024

Objetivo : mapear as evidências científicas sobre os eventos adversos locais decorrentes do uso da hipodermóclise em pacientes oncológicos sob cuidados paliativos.  Método : revisão de escopo baseada nas diretrizes Prisma, cuja busca foi realizada nas bases de dados: Portal Regional da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde; Biblioteca Nacional de Medicina ; Biblioteca Cochrane , Scopus, Web of Science e Embase via Portal de periódicos da Capes. Resultados : os eventos adversos mais relatados nos estudos foram eritema, edema, desconforto no local, abcesso e sangramento. Considerações finais : a hipodermóclise é uma técnica útil e segura para hidratação e administração de medicamentos em pacientes oncológicos em cuidados paliativos, porém apresenta eventos adversos que precisam ser mais bem esclarecidos.
Level of stress and contributing factors perceived by nursing students in the training environment / Nível de estresse e fatores contribuintes percebidos por acadêmicos de enfermagem no ambiente formativo
Authors: Sousa Carliane Oliveira , Bispo de Barros Francisco Railson , Alves Carlos Cley Jerônimo , Dias Débora Emilly Barbosa , Farias Gabriela de Sá Roriz , Marinho Marcella Lima
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: identificar o nível de estresse e os fatores contribuintes percebidos por acadêmicos de enfermagem no ambiente formativo. Método: estudo descritivo-correlacional, realizado entre dezembro de 2022 a abril de 2023 com 126 estudantes de enfermagem de uma Instituição de Ensino Superior pública de Roraima, Brasil. Resultados: participaram do estudo 55 estudantes de enfermagem, com média de idade de 22,3 ± 2,3 anos. A partir das questões da PSS-10, emergiram as médias de sentimentos positivos (57,7 ± 18,0) e negativo (70,0 ± 20,9), com uma média geral de estresse percebido de 65,1 ± 10,9. As variáveis que apresentaram relação estatística significativa com o nível de estresse percebido foram: sexo, filhos, satisfação com o curso, uso de drogas ilícitas, hábito de estudo, horas de sono. Conclusão: o perfil dos estudantes de enfermagem acerca do nível de estresse depara-se com uma conjuntura negativa, sendo relevante o conhecimento dos fatores que o influenciam.
Quality of work life of intensive care nurses during Covid-19 / Qualidade de vida no trabalho de enfermeiros intensivistas durante a covid-19
Authors: Silva Natalia Paiva da , Bispo de Barros Francisco Railson , Santos Mauro Leonardo Salvador Caldeira dos , Oliveira Fernando Bernardo de , Oliveira Eliene Mendes de , Marinho Marcella Lima
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: identificar os fatores associados à qualidade de vida no trabalho de enfermeiros intensivistas de Boa Vista, Roraima. Método: estudo descritivo-correlacional, realizado entre novembro/2022 e janeiro/2023 com 36 enfermeiros intensivistas de um hospital público. Resultados: predominaram profissionais do sexo feminino (66,7%), casado(a)/união estável (55,6%) e com tempo médio de atuação em UTI de 6,6 anos. A maioria foi diagnosticada com COVID-19 (91,7%), maior exigência no trabalho (97,2%), cansaço físico e mental (94,4%), insegurança quanto a proteção e EPI (58,3%), insônia (63,9%), irritação (72,2%), medo de perder amigos e parentes (91,7%), falta de apoio e reconhecimento dos superiores (69,4%). A qualidade de vida no trabalho apresentou a esfera Psicológica/Comportamental com maior pontuação (65,3) e a esfera Econômica/Política com menor pontuação (43,1). Conclusão: a pandemia refletiu negativamente sobre a qualidade de vida dos enfermeiros, pois é notório o elevado crescimento de profissionais que adoeceram fisicamente e mentalmente.
Robust adaptive dynamic surface control for linear time‐varying systems
Authors: Song Mingchao , Lin Yan , Huang Ran
Published: June 2013

In this paper, robust output‐feedback tracking control is considered for a class of linear time‐varying plants whose time‐varying parameters are unknown bounded with bounded derivatives and output is affected by unknown bounded additive disturbances. Using adaptive dynamic surface control technique, the proposed scheme possesses the following advantages: (1) the design procedure is simple and the control law is easy to be implemented, and (2) by introducing an initialization technique, together with adjusting some design parameters, the  performance of system tracking error can be guaranteed regardless of the time variation. It is proved that with the proposed scheme, all the closed‐loop signals are semi‐globally uniformly ultimately bounded. Simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tuning Magnetic Property and Autophagic Response for Self‐Assembled Ni–Co Alloy Nanocrystals
Authors: Dong Liang , Liu Yun , Lu Yang , Zhang Li , Man Na , Cao Liang , Ma Kai , An Duo , Lin Jun , Xu Yun‐Jun , Xu Wei‐Ping , Wu Wen‐Bin , Yu Shu‐Hong , Wen Long‐Ping
Published: June 2013

Induction of autophagy is a common response of cells upon exposure to nanomaterials and represents both a safety concern and an application niche for engineered nanomaterials. Herein, it is reported that the magnetic property and the autophagy‐inducing activity for Ni–Co alloy nanocrystal (NC) assemblies can be differentially “tuned” through altering the material composition. A series of Ni–Co alloy NC assemblies, composed of nanoparticles (NPs) with a size of about 30 nm, can be quickly synthesized under microwave irradiation in aqueous solution. A controllable self‐assembling effect is observed due to the strong magnetic moment of NPs and external magnetic field. Interestingly, the saturation magnetization (Ms) shows a ‘roller coaster’ effect with varying component molar ratio, while the autophagy‐inducing activity and toxicity of these alloy NCs presents an elevated tendency with the increase of nickel component. The autophagic response partly contributes to the observed cellular toxicity of the NC assemblies, as inhibition of autophagy partially but significantly reduces toxicity. Therefore, through tuning the composition of the alloy, optimal Ni–Co NCs satisfying the needs of different applications such as diagnostic imaging (maximum magnetization and low autophagic response) or magnetically‐directed cancer cell killing (maximum autophagic response and sufficient magnetization) may be designed and developed.
Host–Guest Supramolecular Nanosystems for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapeutics
Authors: Wang Lei , Li Li‐li , Fan Yun‐shan , Wang Hao
Published: June 2013

Extensive efforts have been devoted to the construction of functional supramolecular nanosystems for applications in catalysis, energy conversion, sensing and biomedicine. The applications of supramolecular nanosystems such as liposomes, micelles, inorganic nanoparticles, carbon materials for cancer diagnostics and therapeutics have been reviewed by other groups. Here, we will focus on the recent momentous advances in the implementation of typical supramolecular hosts (i.e., cyclodextrins, calixarenes, cucurbiturils and metallo‐hosts) and their nanosystems in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics. We discuss the evolutive process of supramolecular nanosystems from the structural control and characterization to their diagnostic and therapeutic function exploitation and even the future potentials for clinical translation.
Penning‐trap mass spectrometry and neutrino physics
Authors: Eliseev Sergey , Novikov Yuri N. , Blaum Klaus
Published: June 2013

Rapidly developing neutrino physics has found in Penning‐trap mass spectrometry a staunch ally in investigating a variety of fundamental problems. The most familiar are the absolute neutrino mass, possible existence of resonant neutrinoless double‐electron capture and of keV‐sterile neutrinos, and investigation of neutrino oscillations. This article is a brief review of the latest achievements and future perspectives of Penning‐trap mass spectrometry in the exploration of these problems with a focus on electron capture and double electron capture processes.
Preparation and properties of polystyrene–γ‐methacryloxypropyl trimethoxy silane copolymer/zirconia nanohybrid materials
Authors: Tong Mingkang , Yu Juan , Song Jianzhi , Qi Rongrong
Published: June 2013

Polystyrene (PS)–γ‐methacryloxypropyl trimethoxy silane (MPTMS) copolymer/zirconia (ZrO2) nanohybrid materials were successfully prepared by the combination of solvothermal and in situ synthesis methods, in which the comonomer was used as chemical bonding agent between the nanoparticles and the matrix, and acetylacetone (AcAc) was used as a size control agent of ZrO2 in the PS matrix. Then, a new transparency film with a relatively high refractive index (1.72) was successfully obtained, in which ZrO2 could be dispersed well in the PS–MPTMS matrix. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images indicated that AcAc was helpful in the dispersion of the nanoparticles, and smaller ZrO2 particles with no aggregation were obtained in the PS–MPTMS matrix. The structure and thermal properties of the hybrid films were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis, and the surface properties were also examined. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2320–2327, 2013
Genome reduction as the dominant mode of evolution
Authors: Wolf Yuri I. , Koonin Eugene V.
Published: June 2013

A common belief is that evolution generally proceeds towards greater complexity at both the organismal and the genomic level, numerous examples of reductive evolution of parasites and symbionts notwithstanding. However, recent evolutionary reconstructions challenge this notion. Two notable examples are the reconstruction of the complex archaeal ancestor and the intron‐rich ancestor of eukaryotes. In both cases, evolution in most of the lineages was apparently dominated by extensive loss of genes and introns, respectively. These and many other cases of reductive evolution are consistent with a general model composed of two distinct evolutionary phases: the short, explosive, innovation phase that leads to an abrupt increase in genome complexity, followed by a much longer reductive phase, which encompasses either a neutral ratchet of genetic material loss or adaptive genome streamlining. Quantitatively, the evolution of genomes appears to be dominated by reduction and simplification, punctuated by episodes of complexification.
Spatio‐Temporal Heterogeneity: Concepts and Analyses by DUTILLEUL, P.R.L.
Authors: Zhu Jun
Published: June 2013

EDITOR: TAESUNG PARK

Spatio‐Temporal Heterogeneity: Concepts and Analyses

(P.R.L. Dutilleul)

Jun Zhu

Programming Graphical User Interfaces

(M.L. Lawrence and J. Verzani)

Fernando Tusell

Simultaneous Inference in Regression

(W. Liu)

Aldo Solari
Understanding mild acid pretreatment of sugarcane bagasse through particle scale modeling
Authors: Greenwood Ava A. , Farrell Troy W. , O'Hara Ian M.
Published: June 2013

Sugarcane bagasse is an abundant and sustainable resource, generated as a by‐product of sugarcane milling. The cellulosic material within bagasse can be broken down into glucose molecules and fermented to produce ethanol, making it a promising feedstock for biofuel production. Mild acid pretreatment hydrolyses the hemicellulosic component of biomass, thus allowing enzymes greater access to the cellulosic substrate during saccharification. A particle‐scale mathematical model describing the mild acid pretreatment of sugarcane bagasse has been developed, using a volume averaged framework. Discrete population‐balance equations are used to characterise the polymer degradation kinetics, and diffusive effects account for mass transport within the cell wall of the bagasse. As the fibrous material hydrolyses over time, variations in the porosity of the cell wall and the downstream effects on the reaction kinetics are accounted for using conservation of volume arguments. Non‐dimensionalization of the model equations reduces the number of parameters in the system to a set of four dimensionless ratios that compare the timescales of different reaction and diffusion events. Theoretical yield curves are compared to macroscopic experimental observations from the literature and inferences are made as to constraints on these “unknown” parameters. These results enable connections to be made between experimental data and the underlying thermodynamics of acid pretreatment. Consequently, the results suggest that data‐fitting techniques used to obtain kinetic parameters should be carefully applied, with prudent consideration given to the chemical and physiological processes being modeled. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013;110: 3114–3125. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Caffeic acid production enhancement by engineering a phenylalanine over‐producing Escherichia coli strain
Authors: Huang Qin , Lin Yuheng , Yan Yajun
Published: June 2013

Caffeic acid is a plant‐specific phenylpropanoic acid with multiple health‐improving effects reported, and its therapeutic derivatives have also been studied throughout the last decade. To meet its market need and achieve high‐level production, microbial production of caffeic acid approaches have been developed in metabolically engineered Escherichia coli. In our previous work, we have established the first artificial pathway that realized de novo production of caffeic acid using E. coli endogenous 4‐hydroxyphenylacetate 3‐hydroxylase (4HP3H). In this work, we exploited the catalytic potential of 4HPA3H in the whole‐cell bioconversion study and produced 3.82 g/L (461.12 mg/L/OD) caffeic acid from p‐coumaric acid, a direct precursor. We further engineered a phenylalanine over‐producer into a tyrosine over‐producer and then introduced the artificial pathway. After adjusting the expression strategy and optimizing the inoculants timing, de novo production of caffeic acid reached 766.68 mg/L. Both results from the direct precursor and simple carbon sources represent the highest titers of caffeic acid from microbial production so far. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013;110: 3188–3196. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The distribution of influence in purchase decisions by male homosexual couples
Authors: Schneider Helmut , Schönenberg Ines , Ferié Frederik
Published: June 2013

The purchase decisions of families are of great interest to marketing researchers, yet families also have become increasingly multi‐faceted, especially in Western societies, where non‐traditional families are far more prevalent and evident in public and business life than they once were. Even as it attempts to adapt to some changes, marketing has not kept up with every development; homosexual couples in particular remain poorly researched. This article therefore examines which factors affect the distribution of influence between partners in male homosexual, long‐term relationships when they make purchase decisions. In line with some extant predictions, male homosexual families tend to use highly egalitarian processes to make purchase decisions. Sex‐role orientation generally does not significantly affect the distribution of influence. In contrast with prior work, this study also shows that a partner's resources affect his relative influence. The investigation demonstrates that some conflict resolution styles employed by partners have significant effects on influence distribution in the context of purchase decisions by male homosexual couples. By providing insights into the purchase decision‐making of male homosexual couples, this research broadens the understanding of homosexual consumers in general. Moreover, the findings about the effect of conflict resolution styles on the influence distribution in male homosexual couples adds significantly to consumer research. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Skeletal muscle density predicts prognosis in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma treated with targeted therapies
Authors: Antoun Sami , Lanoy Emilie , Iacovelli Roberto , Albiges‐Sauvin Laurence , Loriot Yohann , Merad‐Taoufik Mansouriah , Fizazi Karim , di Palma Mario , Baracos Vickie E. , Escudier Bernard
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown that skeletal muscle and adipose tissue are linked to overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS). Because targeted therapies have improved the outcome in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC), new prognostic parameters are required. The objective of the current study was to analyze whether body composition parameters play a prognostic role in patients with mRCC.

METHODS

Adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and skeletal muscle density (SMD) were assessed with computed tomography imaging by measuring cross‐sectional areas of the tissues and mean muscle Hounsfield units (HU). A high level of mean HU indicates a high SMD and high quality of muscle. OS and PFS were estimated using the Kaplan‐Meier method and compared with the log‐rank test. The multivariable Cox proportional hazards model was adjusted for Heng risk score and treatment.

RESULTS

In the 149 patients studied, the median OS was 21.4 months and was strongly associated with SMD; the median OS in patients with low SMD was approximately one‐half that of patients with high SMD (14 months vs 29 months; P = .001). After adjustment for Heng risk score and treatment, high SMD was associated with longer OS (hazards ratio, 1.85; P = .004) and longer PFS (hazards ratio, 1.81; P = .002). Adding SMD will separate the intermediate‐risk and favorable‐risk groups into 3 groups, with different median OS periods ranging from 8 months (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 6 months‐12 months) for an intermediate‐risk Heng score/low SMD to 22 months (95% CI, 14 months‐27 months) for an intermediate‐risk Heng score/high SMD and a favorable‐risk Heng score/low SMD to 35 months (95% CI, 24 months‐43 months) for a favorable‐risk Heng score/high SMD.

CONCLUSIONS

High muscle density appears to be independently associated with improved outcome and could be integrated into the prognostic scores thereby enhancing the management of patients with mRCC. Cancer 2013;119:3377–84. © 2013 American Cancer Society.