bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex Thrombo-Inflammatory Responses versus Outcomes of Non-COVID-19 Community-Acquired Pneumonia and COVID-19
Authors: Haljan Greg , Lee Terry , McCarthy Anne , Cowan Juthaporn , Tsang Jennifer , Lelouche Francois , Turgeon Alexis F. , Archambault Patrick , Lamontagne Francois , Fowler Robert , Yoon Jennifer , Daley Peter , Cheng Matthew P. , Vinh Donald C. , Lee Todd C. , Tran Karen C. , Winston Brent W. , Kong Hyejin Julia , Boyd John H. , Walley Keith R. , McGeer Allison , Maslove David M. , Marshall John C. , Singer Joel , Jain Fagun , Russell James A.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The thrombo-inflammatory response and outcomes of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) due to various organisms (non-COVID-19 CAP) versus CAP due to a single virus, SARS-CoV-2 (i.e., COVID-19) may differ. Methods: Adults hospitalized with non-COVID-19 CAP (December 1, 2021–June 15, 2023) or COVID-19 (March 2, 2020–June 15, 2023) in Canada. We compared non-COVID-19 CAP and COVID-19 baseline, thrombo-inflammatory response, and mortality. We measured plasma cytokine and coagulation factor levels in a sample of patients, did hierarchical clustering, and compared cytokine and coagulation factor levels. Results: In 2,485 patients (non-COVID-19 CAP, n = 719; COVID-19 patients, n = 2,157), non-COVID-19 CAP patients had significantly lower 28-day mortality (CAP vs. COVID-19 waves 1 and 2; 10% vs. 18% and 16%, respectively), intensive care unit admission (CAP vs. all waves; 15% vs. 39%, 37%, 33%, and 24%, respectively), invasive ventilation (CAP vs. waves 1, 2, and 3 patients; 11% vs. 25%, 20%, and 16%), vasopressor use (CAP 12% vs. 23%, 21%, and 18%), and renal replacement therapy use (CAP 3% vs. Omicron 7%). Complexity of hierarchical clustering aligned directly with mortality: COVID-19 wave 1 and 2 patients had six clusters at admission and higher mortality than non-COVID-19 CAP and Omicron that had three clusters at admission. Pooling all COVID-19 waves increased complexity with seven clusters on admission. Conclusion: Complex thrombo-inflammatory responses aligned with mortality of CAP. At a fundamental level, the human thrombo-inflammatory response to a brand new virus was “confused” whereas humans had eons of time to develop a more concise efficient thrombo-inflammatory host response to CAP.
Adhering to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer Disease Staging and Treatment Algorithm: Disease Burden and Cost-of-Illness of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Portugal
Authors: Picado Nuno , Macedo Guilherme , Presa José , Silva Mário Jorge , Veloso Gomes Filipe , Alarcão Joana , Monteiro Isabel , Félix Jorge
Published: December 2024

OBJECTIVES:
Assess disease burden and cost-of-Illness of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Portugal, assuming full adherence to the treatment algorithm associated to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) system.
METHODS:
Individual-level, continuous-time, state-transition model was used to simulate the progression of HCC patients through the BCLC disease stages. Health state transition rates were derived from published literature. An expert panel provided further information on Portuguese epidemiology and clinical practice, including treatments and other healthcare resources utilization at each disease stage. Unit costs for health resources were collected from national public sources. HCC associated costs and outcomes were estimated over a 5 years horizon.
RESULTS:
Over the five years horizon of this study, the projections of HCC annual prevalence (including patients in remission) show an increasing trend, raising from 4,151 in 2023 to 4,851 in 2027. Despite the slight reduction on the predicted annual mortality rate (from 29.8% to 28.7%), we estimated that HCC could still lead to a total of 120,314 years of life lost due to premature mortality in the Portuguese population. Costs attributed to HCC were predicted to rise from around 70 million € in 2023 up to around 77 million € in 2027. Around 44.3% of these costs are related to HCC systemic treatment and 29.0% related to liver-transplantation costs.
CONCLUSIONS:
Hepatocellular carcinoma increasing prevalence trend will continue to impose substantial disease burden in terms of premature mortality, with more than 20,000 years of life lost per year in the Portuguese population. Consequently, costs attributed to HCC are expected to rise despite the reduction on mortality by full adherence to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer treatment algorithm. Continuing high disease burden and substantial cost-of-illness urge for a need of a comprehensive and effective healthcare interventions, as well as adequate resource allocation for Hepatocellular carcinoma.
Sobre algumas medidas anti-malaricas em Malaya
Authors: Darling Samuel T.
Published: December 2024

Estudando o modo por que os hygienistas procuraram resolver o problema da malaria, é de impressionar a multiplicidade e grande variedade de meios de que se serviam para esse fim, nos diversos paizes que visitamos.
Suggestões para a melhoria da Legistação Sanitaria Estadual, sobre generos alimenticios
Authors: SOUZA G. H. DE PAULA , MORENA NICOLINO
Published: December 2024

A questão da alimentação publica constitue capitulo importante de hygiene e merece de todas as administrações cuidadosa attenção. Envolve attribuiçôes que, segundo os paizes e suas organízaçôcs po1itícas, devem ser perfeitamente definidas para melhor e maior rendimento de serviço. É necessarío prever e evitar conflictos entre as autoridades, crear e intensificar a cooperação effíciente entre os varios poderes e agentes da segurança sanitaria.
A prova de Schick na escola
Authors: Vieira F. Borges
Published: December 2024

Antes de abordarmos o estudo da reacção de Schick, passemos em revista, embora rudimentar e perfunctoriamente, certos pontos importantes sobre a diphteria, afim de se facilitar a comprehensão do assumpto.
Pesquizas recentes sobre a opilação na Indonesia
Authors: Darling Samuel T.
Published: December 2024

A malaria é muito frequente nos tropicos; como podemos asseverar, cada doente alberga em si maior ou menor numero de uncinarias, donde a impossibilidade, em cada caso, ou ainda em cada localidade, de se saber o quanto da anemia existente corre por conta da malaria e de quanto é responsavel a uncinariose.
Intoxicação pelo Betanaphtol no Tratamento da Uncinariose
Authors: Smillie Wilson G.
Published: December 2024

Nestes ultimos annos. descobriu~ que o betanaphtol é uma substancía util no tratamento da uncinariose.
Poder calorífico de algumas substâncias alimentares da cozinha paulista
Authors: Souza G. H. de Paula , Wanderley Luiz A.
Published: December 2024

Apresentamos neste trabalho os primeiros resultados de experiências de nutriição, que sob vários aspectos encetamos no Instituto de Higiene.
Complete chloroplast genome of Marchantia emarginata subsp. cuneiloba (Marchantiaceae, Marchantiophyta): towards organellar phylogenomics of a model liverwort, Marchantia
Authors: ZHENG TIAN-XIONG , INOUE YUYA , SHIMAMURA MASAKI
Published: December 2024

The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Marchantia emarginata subsp. cuneiloba (Marchantiaceae) was determined. The chloroplast genome was 122,531 bp in length and displayed a typical circular structure composed of a large single-copy region, a small single-copy region, and a pair of inverted repeats. It contains 128 genes, namely 89 protein-coding genes, 35 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. Both substitution-based and indel-based phylogenetic trees support the sister relationship of M. emarginata subsp. cuneiloba with M. inflexa. Comparative analysis of chloroplast genome also reveals the usefulness of simple sequence repeat (SSR) patterns for classification in the genus Marchantia.
On the morphology, ecology and distribution of Orthotrichum camanchacanum (Orthotrichaceae)
Authors: LARRAÍN JUAN , DRAPER ISABEL , GARILLETI RICARDO , LARA FRANCISCO
Published: December 2024

A new species of Orthotrichum was recently described based on a single collection from the Coquimbo Region of Chile and was then thought to be rare. However, new collections reveal this species as common in central and northern Chile, and since it was described on a single specimen, here we present amendments to the original description. Some of the inaccurately described morphological characters provided in the original description are of diagnostic importance for differentiating this endemic species within closest species of the genus. In addition, we provide data about the ecology of this taxon and an updated distribution map.
Aristolochia pulvinata, a new species of Aristolochiaceae from Yunnan, Southwest China
Authors: ZHANG HONG-LIN , WANG YI-FAN , GUO ZI-RUI , ZHU TONG , YANG HU-HUA , YIN ZHI-JIAN
Published: December 2024

Aristolochia pulvinata Yi-Fan Wang & Zhi-Jian Yin, a new species of Aristolochia subgenus Siphisia (Aristolochiaceae) from Yunnan Province, southwest China, is described and illustrated. Aristolochia pulvinata is distinguished by its unique characters: an elevated and thickened pulvinate structure in the inferior calyx limbs of its perianth. Morphologically, it resembles A. ovatifolia, A. melanocephala, A. utriformis, and A. luudamcui due to the similar thickening on the calyx limb region, but it differs in terms of degree, surface texture, color, and angle, as well as leaf morphology. This species, discovered and known only from one region, is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) according to IUCN categories and criteria. This publication includes detailed morphological illustrations of A. pulvinata, with comparative photo plates and a table that highlights distinguishing features relative to similar species.
Discovery of Buxaceae in Acre State, southwestern Amazon: First record of this ancient plant family in Brazil
Authors: HONÓRIO MAYK , SILVEIRA MARCOS
Published: December 2024

The first record of Buxaceae for the flora of Brazil was made during fieldwork at the Rio Acre Ecological Station, Acre State, on the border between Brazil and Peru. This study describes the first record of Styloceras brokawii in the region and distinguishes it from other species within the genus based primarily on leaf and fruit morphology.
Fritillaria marivanensis (Liliaceae), a new species from western Iran
Authors: ADVAY MAHFOUZ
Published: December 2024

N/A
Validating Deep Learning Weather Forecast Models on Recent High-Impact Extreme Events
Authors: Pasche Olivier C. , Wider Jonathan , Zhang Zhongwei , Zscheischler Jakob , Engelke Sebastian
Published: December 2024

The forecast accuracy of machine learning (ML) weather prediction models is improving rapidly, leading many to speak of a “second revolution in weather forecasting.” With numerous methods being developed and limited physical guarantees offered by ML models, there is a critical need for a comprehensive evaluation of these emerging techniques. While this need has been partly fulfilled by benchmark datasets, they provide little information on rare and impactful extreme events or on compound impact metrics, for which model accuracy might degrade due to misrepresented dependencies between variables. To address these issues, we compare ML weather prediction models (GraphCast, Pangu-Weather, and FourCastNet) and ECMWF’s high-resolution forecast system (HRES) in three case studies: the 2021 Pacific Northwest heatwave, the 2023 South Asian humid heatwave, and the North American winter storm in 2021. We find that ML weather prediction models locally achieve similar accuracy to HRES on the record-shattering Pacific Northwest heatwave but underperform when aggregated over space and time. However, they forecast the compound winter storm substantially better. We also highlight structural differences in how the errors of HRES and the ML models build up to that event. The ML forecasts lack important variables for a detailed assessment of the health risks of the 2023 humid heatwave. Using a possible substitute variable, prediction errors show spatial patterns with the highest danger levels over Bangladesh being underestimated by the ML models. Generally, case study–driven, impact-centric evaluation can complement existing research, increase public trust, and aid in developing reliable ML weather prediction models.

Significance Statement

With the performance of machine learning–based weather forecasting models improving rapidly, thorough analyses are needed to ensure that their forecasts are accurate and reliable before deploying them in operational settings. Existing evaluations often reduce forecast performance to a few metrics, potentially obscuring rare but systematic errors. This is especially problematic for high-impact extreme events, which, by definition, are rare in the data but often substantially affect society. In a detailed analysis of three extreme events, we observe that, although machine learning (ML) models generally outperform the best physics-based numerical weather prediction (NWP) model on benchmark datasets, they do not consistently do so for the studied extreme events or compound impact metrics and lack some impact-relevant variables.
Spectral Latent Heating Retrieval for the Midlatitudes Using GPM DPR. Part II: Development and Consistency Check of the Retrieval Algorithm
Authors: Hamada Atsushi , Yokoyama Chie , Tsuji Hiroki , Ikuta Yasutaka , Shige Shoichi , Yamaji Moeka , Kubota Takuji , Takayabu Yukari N.
Published: December 2024

A new algorithm for estimating the latent heating profile for precipitation in the extratropics was developed to extend the current spectral latent heating (SLH) algorithm that applies only to the tropics. The new algorithm incorporates normalized relative height into the heating estimation for deep stratiform precipitation. The normalized relative height successfully determines the cloud-base heights, above and below which latent heating and cooling occur, from the precipitation profile and adapts well to quite diverse precipitation and related heating in the extratropics. Another important improvement is the detection of multiple precipitation layers in the precipitation profiles that are not implemented in the algorithm for the tropics, further ensuring a reasonable estimation of the heating profile for diverse precipitation in the extratropics. The retrieval algorithm was evaluated from several perspectives. A self-consistency check using the numerical simulation data to construct the lookup tables confirmed that our algorithm can reproduce the true heating profiles well. Application to Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Ku-band precipitation radar (KuPR)-measured precipitation further confirmed that our algorithm works well, especially in capturing the variability of cloud-base heights for deep stratiform precipitation. A zonal-mean meridional cross section of the heating, including both tropics and extratropics up to 65° latitude, is described for the first time for the SLH product. The estimated distribution of heating in the extratropics corresponds well to midlatitude storm-track activity.
Validation of the Ensemble Generalized Analog Regression Downscaling (En-GARD) Model to Downscale Near-Surface Wind Speed for the Northeast United States
Authors: Zaman Tasnim , Gutmann Ethan , Wang Guiling , Astitha Marina
Published: December 2024

Wind, often overlooked in climate change impact assessments, is now a crucial atmospheric variable due to our imminent reliance on renewable energy sources like wind energy. Therefore, establishing a wind speed database in higher temporal and spatial resolution is of great importance to assess wind power in historical periods and future projections. This study focuses on enhancing wind data representation and reliability of statistically downscaled model outputs by refining grid spacing from coarser to a desirable finer scale. Employing the Ensemble Generalized Analog Regression Downscaling (En-GARD) technique, we downscaled near-surface wind speed across a northeast (NE) U.S. domain that combines onshore and offshore wind farm areas. We tested multiple atmospheric variable combinations and identified near-surface wind speed (wind speed at 10 m), longitudinal and latitudinal wind at 10 m, and atmospheric temperature at 2 m, as the set that effectively guides the selection of analog days for the analog regression downscaling approach. Validation involved using ERA5 atmospheric reanalysis products (31 km) and high-resolution (4 km) Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model simulations. Downscaling was conducted using a leave-one-year-out approach over 12 years (2001–12). Statistical analysis of the downscaled output over this period demonstrated a significant correlation and low error metrics (less than 20% for normalized RMSE and 16% for normalized MAE), indicating the reliability of the method and paving the way for its future application to downscale climate projection outputs.

Significance Statement

Wind speed has become a significant atmospheric variable due to our society’s imminent reliance on renewable energy resources like wind power. Often overlooked in climate change assessments, wind speed at a local scale over wind farm locations plays a crucial role in assessing and planning wind power resources in a future climate. We are providing the successful validation of a statistical downscaling methodology for near-surface wind speed at 4-km grid spacing using reanalysis data. The validity of the methodology gives confidence to downscale climate projection models and assess changes in wind speed for future climate scenarios in a follow-up study.
Toward a Generalized Understanding of the Role of Convective Available Potential Energy (CAPE) Removal and Entrainment Rate in Convective Parameterizations on the Diurnal Cycle of Tropical Precipitation
Authors: Murata Akihiko , Fukui Shin , Nosaka Masaya , Ushiyama Tomoki , Acierto Ralph Allen
Published: December 2024

The diurnal rainfall cycle is a key factor affecting tropical precipitation variability. However, the diurnal cycle is not sufficiently represented in numerical models, which can be associated with convective parameterization in the models. This study presents the sensitivity of simulated precipitation over Java Island, Indonesia, to adjust two parameters in parameterization schemes. These two parameters are related to convective available potential energy (CAPE) removal and entrainment of environmental air into cumulus convection. Using a climate model, we conducted sensitivity experiments by perturbing the parameters in two plume-type convective parameterization schemes, Kain–Fritsch and Grell. Our results show a delayed phase of the diurnal cycle of the simulated precipitation over land, although this phase delay was not found over the oceanic areas. Sensitivity tests demonstrated that the phase delay of precipitation over land depends on the values of these two parameters. The timing of precipitation was improved by enhancing the degree of elimination of the vertical instability and reducing the entrainment rate. Further analyses by dividing simulated precipitation into parameterized and nonparameterized precipitation demonstrate that enhancing the degree of elimination of vertical instability can produce adequate amount of precipitation and that the reduced entrainment rate can increase the cloud top, improving precipitation timing. These results apply to both the convective parameterization schemes. Therefore, the results obtained in this study can be generalized to a range of convective parameterizations using the plume model.
Deep Learning Enhanced Wind Speed and Direction Forecasting for Airport Regions
Authors: Alves Décio , Mendonça Fábio , Mostafa Sheikh Shanawaz , Morgado-Dias Fernando
Published: December 2024

This work introduces a deep learning architecture tailored for accurate wind speed and direction forecasting for airports using a grid-based input. Moving beyond the limitations of conventional forecasting methods, which struggle with rapid and localized atmospheric changes and demand substantial computational power, this study positions a machine learning approach as a superior alternative for wind nowcasting. By employing a comprehensive dataset covering 75 years, the proposed model distinguishes itself by achieving a mean absolute error of 1.26 m s−1 for wind speed and 16.18° for wind direction in the examined location, Madeira International Airport area. The model’s robustness was further validated using transfer learning across 10 global airport areas, each with diverse atmospheric conditions, resulting in consistent accuracy. Additionally, a precision forecast focused specifically on the runway was conducted, and its performance was found to be consistent with the broader spatial area forecasts. These results underscore the potential of machine learning in wind prediction for aviation, highlighting a promising pathway for future advancements in weather forecasting technology.

Significance Statement

This study introduces a machine learning model that demonstrates the potential for improving spatial grid and runway wind forecasts in aviation. The model achieves a mean absolute error of 1.26 m s−1 for wind speed and 16.18° for wind direction within a region measuring 10° in both latitude and longitude. It also reduces computational demands and enhances processing speed, generating 6-h ahead forecasts in just 6 s.
The Effectiveness of Smart Sanctions: Examining Divergent Outcomes in Myanmar and Zimbabwe
Authors: Rochat Matthew , Tsouloufas George
Published: December 2024

This paper provides a comparative analysis of the divergent outcomes of smart sanctions in Myanmar and Zimbabwe in the 2000s, examining their effectiveness in prompting political change. Smart sanctions, aimed at specific individuals and entities to minimize humanitarian impacts, have become a prominent tool in international relations. Their success, however, hinges on key factors such as the precision in targeting decision-makers, the political structure and stability of the regime, the cohesion of the sanctioning coalition, and the ability of targeted entities to evade the measures. An in-depth analysis of Myanmar’s military junta and Zimbabwe’s authoritarian regime reveals that smart sanctions were more effective in Myanmar, contributing to political reforms, whereas Zimbabwe’s entrenched political control and reliance on alternative international alliances allowed the regime to withstand external pressures. These findings emphasize the critical importance of tailoring sanctions to the specific political and economic context of each regime, along with the need for cohesive international cooperation and stringent enforcement to ensure the effectiveness of smart sanctions.
Child Consonant Harmony Revisited: The Role of Lexical Memory Constraints and Segment Repetition
Authors: Ota Mitsuhiko
Published: December 2024

Young children often produce non-target-like word forms in which non-adjacent consonants share a major place of articulation (e.g., [gɔgi] “doggy”). Termed child consonant harmony (CCH), this phenomenon has garnered considerable attention in the literature, primarily due to the apparent absence of analogous patterns in mature phonological systems. This study takes a close look at a potential account of CCH that is compatible with findings from adult word learning, serial recall, and phonological typology. According to this account, CCH is a response to memory pressure involved in remembering and retrieving multiple consonantal contrasts within a word. If this is the main motivation behind CCH, we would expect the resulting child forms to be biased toward full assimilation (i.e., consonant repetition) as it allows maximal reduction of phonolexical memory load. To test this prediction, children’s productions of target words containing consonants that differ in both major place and manner were analyzed using two data sources: a single session sample from 40 children aged 1–2 years learning English, French, Finnish, Japanese, or Mandarin; and longitudinal samples from seven English-learning children between 1 and 3 years of age. Prevalence of consonant repetitions was robustly evidenced in early child forms, especially in those produced for target words with the structure CVCV(C). The results suggest that early word production is shaped by constraints on phonolexical memory.
Challenge Acceptance as a Key Psychological Characteristic of Ukrainian Sergeants During the War: A Research Note
Authors: Kokun Oleg , Pischko Iryna , Lozinska Natalia
Published: December 2024

This exploratory pilot study aimed to identify psychological characteristics associated with combat readiness among Ukrainian sergeants engaged in the Russian–Ukrainian war. Eighty-three male sergeants (aged 26–60) from various combat units were assessed using psychological questionnaires and supervisor ratings of combat readiness. The findings revealed that challenge acceptance, a key component of hardiness, had the strongest positive correlation with combat readiness, while avoidance coping emerged as the most significant negative predictor. Additional negative coping strategies, such as indirect, antisocial, and aggressive actions, were also found to be negatively associated with readiness. These results provide initial insights into the psychological traits that may contribute to effective performance in combat and offer potential directions for refining selection and training processes for military personnel. Further research with larger samples is needed to confirm these findings and expand upon them.
Detecting Urban Community Based on Urban Mobility Patterns From the Public Transportation Trip-Chain Data: A Case Study of Seoul, South Korea
Authors: Kim Jiwoo , Lee Gunhak
Published: December 2024

Urban mobility has been studied in various areas of geography and related disciplines. Commuting patterns are highly linked to the spatial structure of functional districts in a city, which is substantially influenced by public transportation systems. Understanding urban mobility patterns are significant for revealing actual living districts and planning efficient transportation systems and infrastructure. This study aims to detect urban communities with spatially strong interaction based on similar mobility patterns. To extract homogeneous urban communities, we utilize a network community detection method, focusing on the multimodal transfer travels of the public transport system. As a case study, we examined urban communities in the Seoul metropolitan area of South Korea. The results showed newly detected living communities based on the actual mobility patterns of urban populations including multiple-choice behavior of transport mode. Such empirical findings depict more realistic dynamics of populations in large metropolitan areas and the significant influence of public transportation systems on urban mobility patterns.
Navigating With Experience: Twice-Exceptional Educators Guiding and Teaching Twice-Exceptional Students
Authors: Matthews Michael S. , McKinney Jennifer L.
Published: December 2024

Scholars have devoted increased attention in recent years to students identified as twice-exceptional (2e), those who have a concurrent federally recognized disability while also identified as gifted. However, there has been little if any study of how the lived experiences of teachers who themselves are identified as 2e inform their practices with 2e learners in the classroom. In the current qualitative study, five educators who self-identified as twice-exceptional shared how their lived experience as a 2e learner informed their lesson planning, teaching practice, and their interactions with students and colleagues. Findings suggest these teachers drew upon their own experiences as a person with dual exceptionalities to design lessons focused on mastery learning and engage multiple learning modalities, to modify instructional practices for all learners in ways that addressed the needs of 2e learners without singling them out as different, and to create learning environments where all students thrive.
Research on ride control strategy of electromagnetic suspension based on sliding mode algorithm
Authors: Xiong Xin , Chen JiaLing , Wei JinCheng , Xu Fei
Published: December 2024

This study proposes a main inner loop control technique to address the dynamic response of the electromagnetic suspension during vehicle driving. The genetic algorithm is employed to optimize the control parameters of the linear quadratic adjustment controller in the control main loop, with the aim of achieving the desired control force. In the control inner loop, a closed-loop sliding mode controller is designed based on the exponential approximation law to regulate the current. The Lyapunov function was utilized to assess the stability of the controller in terms of its theoretical feasibility. The simulation results of Matlab/Simulink show that under the given working conditions, compared with the passive suspension, sliding mode control and fuzzy sliding mode control for references, the root mean square value and peak value of the vertical acceleration of the body and the dynamic load of the tire with the improved sliding mode control are significantly reduced, the root mean square value of the dynamic deflection of the suspension was not improved. However, on the whole, the ride comfort of the vehicle has been improved.
Transplantation of Exosomes Derived From Human Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Enhances Functional Improvement in Stroke Rats
Authors: Chiu Yu-Sung , Wu Kuo-Jen , Yu Seong-Jin , Wu Kun-Lieh , Hsieh Chang-Yi , Chou Yu-Sheng , Chen Kuan-Yu , Wang Yu-Syuan , Bae Eun-Kyung , Hung Tsai-Wei , Lin Shih-Hsun , Lin Chih-Hsueh , Hsu Shu-Ching , Wang Yun , Chen Yun-Hsiang
Published: December 2024

Cerebral ischemic stroke is a major cerebrovascular disease and the leading cause of adult disability. We and others previously demonstrated that transplantation of human Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stromal cells (WJ-MSCs) attenuated neuronal damage and promoted functional improvement in stroke animals. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of human WJ-MSC exosome (Exo) transplant in cellular and rat models of cerebral stroke. Administration of Exo significantly antagonized glutamate-mediated neuronal loss and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP-X nick end labeling (TUNEL) in rat primary cortical neuronal cultures. Adult male rats underwent a 60-min middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo); Exo or vehicle was injected through the tail vein 5–10 min after the MCAo. Two days later, the rats underwent a series of behavioral tests. Stroke rats receiving Exo developed a significant improvement in locomotor function and forelimb strength while reductions in body asymmetry and Bederson’s neurological score. After the behavioral test, brain tissues were harvested for histological and quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analyses. Animals receiving Exo had less infarction volume, measured by 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. Transplantation of Exo increased the expression of protective neurotrophic factors (BMP7, GDNF) and anti-apoptotic factors (Bcl2, Bcl-xL) in the ischemic brain. These findings suggest that early post-treatment with WJ-MSC Exo, given non-invasively through the vein, improved functional recovery and reduced brain damage in the stroke brain.
Cooperation through rational investments in social organization
Authors: Sokolova Anna , Buskens Vincent , Raub Werner
Published: December 2024

Repeated interactions and contractual agreements are examples of different ways of organizing interactions in social and economic life and can foster cooperation in social dilemmas. Thus, when involved in social dilemmas, actors have incentives to form long-term relations with repeated interactions or to enter into contractual agreements. We analyze theoretically and experimentally the effects of repeated interactions and contractual agreements as well as their endogenous emergence. In line with earlier evidence, both ways of organizing interactions are found to foster cooperation. Our key contribution is twofold. First, with respect to theory, we derive conditions for investments in social organization. Second, empirically, we find that such investments are more likely when the costs are below a threshold that follows from a parsimonious game-theoretic model assuming equilibrium behavior, self-regarding preferences, and complete information. We find less experimental support for two additional conjectures on investments that are based on reasoning more in line with behavioral game theory.
An approach to the mechanics of pantographic structures through swarm dynamics
Authors: D’Avanzo Paolo , Rapisarda Alessio C , Dell’Erba Ramiro
Published: December 2024

This work concerns mechanical systems known as “pantographic structures”, which are considered a family of beams connected by pivots. We propose a computationally efficient and predictive model capable of providing a plausible description of deformation, using a discrete two-dimensional (2D) “kinematic” model. This model assigns the displacements of certain points, called leaders, while the other points, called followers, are left free to rearrange themselves according to the lattice structure and assigned flocking rules. The advantages of the kinematic model include savings in calculation time and easier handling of complicated structures and fracture phenomena. Moreover, extending the model to encompass non-local interactions, as exemplified by second-gradient materials, is a more straightforward process than solving partial differential equations. The model has previously been employed to elucidate the behaviour of simple materials. The principal innovation of this paper is the essential delineation of the constraint between the pantograph beams, which is contingent upon the presence of the pivot. This was accomplished by imposing an ”average” displacement on the component points of the pivot belonging to two separate beams, thereby introducing an additional parameter into the model. This also necessitated a significant alteration to the calculation algorithm. The model is still constrained by several limitations, including the absence of a physical interpretation for its parameters and the necessity of connecting it to the CUDA (Compute Unified Device Architecture, by NVIDIA) architecture for the calculation of the developed algorithm. The principal limitation of the present approach, however, is the absence of a correlation between the parameters of the ’kinematic’ model and the constitutive parameters of the material. This aspect will be the subject of future research.
When the Future Feels Closer Than the Past: An Experimental Research of Nostalgia Versus Forestalgia in Destination Ads
Authors: Cai Ruiying , Leung Xi Y , Lu Lu
Published: December 2024

Nostalgia has been a powerful tool for attracting travelers to visit tourism destinations. Compared to the extensive attention that nostalgia marketing has received, its counterpart of forestalgia (i.e., future-focused) marketing has received limited attention. The present research is one of the first to compare the effectiveness of nostalgia and forestalgia focused destination advertising messages in attracting travelers’ destination visit intentions. Across three experimental studies based on 665 responses from U.S. travelers, the research finds that forestalgia focused destination ads are more effective in enticing travelers compared to nostalgia focused ones. The findings also reveal a significant mediating role of positive emotions and moderating roles of temporal distance and future time perspective. Our research sheds light on extant literature about nostalgia marketing, construal level theory, Temporal Doppler Effect, and rosy effect. Managerial implications are provided to assist destination management organizations in better capitalizing on both past and future-focused marketing communications.
Study of offset factor and depths of dimple on the performance of two-lobe journal-bearings
Authors: Singh Harinder Pal , Singh Niranjan , Awasthi RK
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the combined effect of offset factor and depths of a dimple on the performance parameters of hydrodynamic two-lobe journal-bearings. The finite element method (FEM) technique is employed to solve the governing Reynolds equation, facilitating the computation of oil-film pressure within the bearing. Three distinct texture configurations on the bearing surface are analyzed. The performance parameters of textured bearing configurations are calculated by varying the offset factor and depths of a dimple. The results indicate that the performance enhancement ratio of textured-II configuration of two-lobe journal-bearing is higher than that of other bearings. Furthermore, textured-II configuration shows the better performance in terms of static, dynamic and stability parameters. This superior performance is observed with an increase in the offset factor up to 0.5. Moreover, a comparative analysis of spherical and kite-shaped textures reveals that spherical textures generally outperform kite-shaped textures in terms of critical mass and threshold speed, while kite-shaped textures exhibit better damping characteristics.
Unequal pathways to digital self-entrepreneurship: Class-inflected orientations regarding vlogging as a career
Authors: Ting Tin-Yuet
Published: December 2024

Digital self-entrepreneurship has become one of the most popular career options among younger generations. However, limited attention has been paid to the relationships between socioeconomic differences and digital self-entrepreneurship among youths. Using an extended Bourdieusian framework, this article critically reassesses vloggers’ digital creative labour, conditions and decisions by conceptualising them as various outcomes of position-taking in the emerging field of digital cultural production, tied to socioeconomic differences. Based on interviews with YouTubers in Hong Kong, this study examines how class background shapes young vloggers’ career paths and future aspirations. The findings reveal their divergent class-inflected orientations towards the common tensions between (1) platform productivity and creative autonomy, (2) elite evaluation and mass rating and (3) career planning and an uncertain vlogging future. Shifting the focus to the nexus between class inequality and the platform creative economy, this article provides a nuanced account of digital creative work amid platform precarity and uncertainty.
Developing indicators for measuring the sustainability of hotels
Authors: Abdalla Eltoum Reem Mohamed , Rasoolimanesh S. Mostafa , Soeiro Joaquim Dias , Marjani Mohsen
Published: December 2024

The aim of this study is to develop a comprehensive set of indicators for monitoring and measuring sustainability in the hotel industry in Malaysia. It gives special attention to the environmental, social, resiliene and economic dimensions. This study applies the Delphi method by interviewing three key stakeholder groups—hotel managers, academicians, and hotel staff—in two rounds, in order to assess and validate indicators identified from the literature. Findings reveal demonstrate a strong attention to indicators associated with environmental sustainability, especially those which relates to waste management, consumption of energy and water and recycling which amounts to 51% of participants view. Further, 34% of participants aligns with social sustainability indicators such as community engagement and employee well-being which remains second most significant. Resilience and economic indicators on the contrary gained few support from participants with 9% and 6% respectively. This paper, therefore, extends the collective number of works by providing a set of validated indicators which aligns within the context of Malaysia. It also contributes novel indicators withing the framework of current dialogue. This model serves a useful mechanism for stakeholders – policymakers and hotel managers to examine and optimize sustainability pracices within the hotel industry. This paper highlights the relevance of region-centric sustainability strategies which underscores the international application of these indicators as a model to effectively monitor and measure the sustainability of hotels.
Sustaining critical minds: How classroom learning cultures shape student thinking dispositions and practices
Authors: Darcie Isabela , Gray Robert , Vander Kloet Marie
Published: December 2024

Critical thinking is routinely identified as a goal for student learning in higher education. Critical thinking, however, is difficult to define or teach, often left as an educational aspiration that is challenging to operationalize and assess. Therefore, many interventions targeting critical thinking are isolated and tend to focus on the development of cognitive skills, providing less attention to students’ dispositions toward applying these skills to different situations. In this study of a redesigned course at a research-intensive university, we query what a dispositional view of thinking can reveal about students’ understanding and experience in an active learning environment. Drawing on student reflection journals and semi-structured interviews with 13 students from two cohorts of the course, we trace how students decide when and how critical thinking is necessary and suitable, as well as when it is perceived to be too demanding or out of place in the classroom. The course included newly introduced, ill-structured problems aimed at competency development. We note that although students employed many critical thinking skills to complete these tasks, the uncertainty related to applying critical thinking to ill-structured problems often conflicted with students’ expectations of classroom instruction. When adapting to unfamiliar instructional practices, students were largely successful in using different approaches to solve problems. However, students’ sensitivity to error and tendency toward familiar ways of being students were barriers to the solidification of critical thinking habits. We argue that to foster long-lasting critical thinking skills and dispositions, education interventions need to shift from the course to the program level and move toward the development of broader cultures of thinking.
Explaining theory through artistic metaphors, an evaluation of arts-based works created by social science students
Authors: Dierckx Chloé , Zaman Bieke , Hannes Karin
Published: December 2024

What is the potential of arts-based works to help learners grasp complex theoretical insights? In this paper, we discuss the integration of an artistically inspired course in a university curriculum. Social science students created arts-based works to explain the essence of complex social theories. These works were used to communicate theoretical insights to peer students during a presentation session. Through a questionnaire, we analyzed which works scored best in generating a sense of understanding of the theory. We then evaluated the artistic and technical characteristics of the highest and lowest scoring works. Our findings reveal that incorporating material accuracy, connective relations, and a coherent narrative into arts-based science dissemination can enhance engagement with and communication of theoretical knowledge. We therefore encourage educational staff and researchers to consider these characteristics when teaching and disseminating social scientific concepts.
Efficacy and Safety of LigaSure in Breast Surgery With Axillary Lymph Node Dissection in Patients With Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Ali Mansab , Umar Tungki Pratama , Ali Shujaat , Khalil Saba , Irfan Hamza , Muhammad Aiman , Javed Amna , Shahzadi Fatima , Ara Seemab , Usman Amir , Khan Ubaid
Published: December 2024

Background

Conventional axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) is associated with significant post-operative morbidity in patients undergoing breast surgery due to increased lymphatic leakage. LigaSure, an electrothermal bipolar vessel sealing system, provides better closure of the leakage. This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of LigaSure against conventional techniques in patients with breast cancer underwent ALND and breast surgery.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search across the databases to identify relevant studies. The search results were imported into Covidence for article eligibility screening, and all relevant outcomes data were synthesized using odd ratios (ORs) or standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in meta-analysis models using RevMan 5.4.

Results

Twelve studies with the total of 895 patients (LigaSure = 441; Conventional technique = 454) with breast cancer underwent breast surgery with ALND were included. LigaSure was associated with significantly lower post-operative drain volume (SMD: −0.39, 95% CI [-0.53, −0.24], P < 0.00001), shortened duration of drain (SMD: −0.51, 95% CI [-0.67, −0.34], P < 0.00001), and reduced hospital stay length (SMD: −0.57, 95% CI [-0.96, −0.18], P = 0.004) compared to conventional techniques. However, no difference observed in total operation time, intra-operative blood loss, seroma related outcomes and post-operative complications between the two groups.

Conclusion

LigaSure significantly reduced the lymphorrhea, duration of drain and hospital stay, however, it did not prove be effective in seroma-related outcomes.
Lived experiences of intimate partner violence survivors during pregnancy and who had spontaneous abortions: A phenomenological study to inform survivor-centered strategies
Authors: Gufue Zenawi Hagos , Hailu Helen Teweldebrhan , Atsbaha Abadi Hailay , Kiros Berhe Mengesha , Tsegay Etsay Weldekidan , Mengesha Meresa Berwo
Published: December 2024

Background:

Previous studies quantified that women who experienced intimate partner violence (IPV) had a higher risk of spontaneous abortion than women who did not experience IPV. However, there is limited evidence documenting the experiences of women in Northern Ethiopia who have been subjected to partner violence and who had spontaneous abortions. This evidence is critical for policymakers looking to improve women’s access to maternity care.

Objectives:

This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of IPV survivors during pregnancy who had spontaneous abortions in Northern Ethiopia.

Design:

A phenomenological qualitative study design was used to explore the lived experiences of survivors of IPV who had spontaneous abortions.

Methods:

A total of 16 interviews were conducted between April 23 and June 5, 2020. Eight in-depth interviews and eight key informant interviews were conducted with eligible mothers who received the required service, Adigrat General Hospital service providers, zonal women’s affairs experts, and legal professionals. The purposive sampling technique was used to select study participants, and the sample size was determined using the information saturation principle. The data were analyzed through open coding and thematic content analysis.

Result:

The themes that emerged in this study included opinions toward IPV, mothers’ and experts’ experiences of partner support during pregnancy, attitudes toward IPV, and understanding of spontaneous abortion. Physical, emotional, sexual, and economic pressure were identified as the most common forms of IPV. Participants in the study believed that physical violence and stress were associated with spontaneous abortion. They also mentioned various strategies for preventing IPV, such as providing job opportunities for women, punishing perpetrators, and encouraging mutual tolerance.

Conclusion:

This study found that spontaneous abortion is linked to any type of IPV, including physical IPV during pregnancy. IPV is a community-supported event that necessitates strategies and legal frameworks to prevent and mitigate its effects.