bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Complications of Diabetic Among Adult with Type 2 Diabetic Patients at Hubaal Specialist Hospital and Libaan Hospital in Mogadishu: Case Control Study
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed , Mohamed Ali , Guled Ahmed , Fuji Mohamed , Qoryoley Abdullahi , Hassan Abdirahman
Published: October 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a major global health issue characterized by persistently high blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin production or decreased insulin efficacy. Over 422 million adults have diabetes worldwide, with an expected rise to 642 million by 2040. Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90% of these cases. Sub-Saharan Africa is seeing a notable rise in type 2 diabetes due to lifestyle changes and an aging population In Somalia, the private-sector-dominated healthcare system, exacerbated by prolonged armed conflicts, struggles with affordable diabetes management, leading to increased diabetic complications. With an estimated 5% prevalence of diabetes in Somalia, the lack of routine screening and limited access to affordable healthcare further elevate the prevalence and complications, particularly among those with type 2 diabetes. Objective: This study aimed to identify socio-demographic, healthcare, lifestyle, and clinical factors associated with diabetic complications among adults with type 2 diabetes at selected hospitals in Mogadishu, Somalia. Methods: A case-control study of 187 type 2 diabetes patients used purposive sampling and structured questionnaires to collect data. Analysis was performed using SPSS version 27.0 with bivariate and logistic regression, and significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The study found that participants aged over 47 years had significantly higher odds of developing diabetic complications compared to those aged 18-27 years (OR: 3.17, 95% CI: 1.26-7.96, p = 0.014). In the multiple regression analysis, the duration of diabetes significantly influenced the risk of complications, with those diagnosed for 5-10 years (AOR: 3.50, 95% CI: 1.19-10.28, p = 0.029) and more than 10 years (AOR: 3.59, 95% CI: 1.36-9.49, p = 0.011) having increased odds. Uncontrolled blood glucose levels were also a significant predictor of complications (AOR: 3.55, 95% CI: 1.82-6.91, p < 0.001). Other factors, such as marital status and monthly income, were not significant in the multiple regression analysis. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of early detection and management of diabetes to prevent complications, especially among older adults and those with longer disease duration. Interventions should focus on improving glycemic control and managing comorbid conditions. Targeted education and support for patients, especially those at higher risk, are crucial to mitigating the impact of diabetic complications.
Perturbation Patterns of Bone Metabolism Secondary to COVID-19 Among Nigerian Healthcare Workers
Authors: Aaron Friday , Amadi Collins , Lawson Stephenson , Agbo Ezra , Okafor Johnbosco
Published: October 2024

Background: Severe acute respiratory coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiologic agent of coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) is known to affect several organ systems. However, the disease’s influence on bone metabolism is poorly characterized especially among native Nigerians. Consequently, the current study explored the effect of the disease on bone metabolism among Nigerian healthcare workers (HCWs). Methods: This was a prospective longitudinal study conducted in the Department of Chemical Pathology of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital among unvaccinated HCWs in Rivers State, Southern Nigeria. Eligible HCWs (n=96) were followed up from when they unwittingly had contact with SARS-CoV-2 infected/COVID-19 patients until they developed symptomatic RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19. Demographic, anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory data were obtained before and at diagnosis/confirmation of COVID-19 among the eligible HCWs. Statistical analysis was done using descriptive/inferential statistics at a p-value of <0.05. Results: At COVID-19 diagnosis, the HCWs had increased levels of inflammatory markers (procalcitonin, C-reactive protein, and D-dimer), raised bone resorption marker (s-CTX), but reduced bone formation marker (s-PINP) compared to the pre-COVID-19 parameters (p<0.001). These cardinal biochemical findings were more prominent among those with severe disease variant than those with non-severe disease variant (p<0.001). In addition, a negative correlation pattern was observed between these inflammatory markers and the bone formation marker, however, a positive correlation was observed between the inflammatory markers and the bone resorption marker (p<0.001). Conclusion: The current finding indicates perturbation of bone metabolism, associated with increased bone resorption pattern, secondary to COVID-19 among the studied population. Hence, it is highly recommended that the evaluation of bone metabolism status be incorporated into the management protocols for COVID-19.
Clinical Practice: Estimating the Breakpoints for EUCAST Fast Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Using Flagged BacT/Alert Blood Culture Bottles
Authors: Gangar Seema , Nirmal Kirti , Lakra Avinash , Swain Kalyani , Das Shukla
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The escalating prevalence of multidrug resistance is a global threat to human health particularly in critically ill patients with bloodstream infections (BSIs). Delay in the administration of the appropriate antimicrobial treatment is associated with higher mortality rates and adverse consequences. This study attempted to estimate the rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing (RAST) breakpoints directly from flagged BacT/Alert blood culture bottles in clinical practice. Material & Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Delhi over a period of two months. The RAST was performed directly from the clinical samples for blood cultures received in our laboratory in parallel with the routine antimicrobial testing as per standard CLSI guidelines. Blood cultures were routinely incubated in BacT/Alert 3D. The inhibition zones were read at 4, 6, 8 and 16-20 hour of incubation as per European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) guidelines. The identification of the isolates was confirmed by Vitek-2 compact system. Results: In our study, the area of technical uncertainty (ATU) percentage was initially high at 4 hours but decreased significantly in later incubation periods. At 4 hours, none of the S. aureus isolates showed >90% categorical agreement (CA) for any antimicrobial tested. However, clindamycin achieved the highest CA (100%) at 6 hours and 90% thereafter, with no very major errors (VME) or major error (ME). Cefoxitin required 8 hours to reach >90% CA, with no VME observed at any time point, but up to 75% ME at 8 hours. At 4 hours, most antimicrobials had high (>1.5%) rates of VME among Enterobacteriales. By 6 hours, only Meropenem and Gentamicin had >90% CA, with no VME observed for other antibiotics. Conclusion: The RAST method is relatively easy to implement in clinical microbiology labs, offering cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and rapid results, especially in resource-limited settings. However, reporting RAST results can be complex due to potential challenges with CA, VME, and ME, particularly in the initial hours of incubation and within the ATU.
A Study of Factors That Affect Chinese Tertiary EFL Learners’ Willingness to Communicate in Class
Authors: Zhao Haifang , Sun Bianqi , Gu Ying
Published: October 2024

Classroom interaction characterizes communicative language teaching. Effective classroom interaction promotes second language acquisition (SLA) and serves as an important means of using the language especially for students in a foreign language context. Willingness to communicate (WTC) has received constant attention since its application to the SLA field in the 1990s. Students’ WTC ensures the quantity and quality of classroom interaction. By analyzing the data from an end-of-year questionnaire in an ordinary Chinese college English class, the present study aims to examine Chinese non-English major students’ general attitudes towards classroom communication activities and two major categories of factors, namely Teacher Factors and Task Factors, that influence students’ WTC in English classes from students’ perspective. The results show that the factors affecting WTC in college English classrooms are multidimensional, with Teacher’ s Emotions (being patient, encouraging, guiding, positive, happy, lively, passionate, trust), Teacher’ s Professional qualities (content selection, class organization, pronunciation, wait-time) and Task Content (usefulness, degree of difficulty, interest) having relatively greater effects. At the end of the paper, direction for future research is given. Second/foreign language teachers are advised to conduct further classroom research and actively regulate these factors for a more interactive English class and thus improve students’ class participation and learning efficiency.
Evaluation of Modified Conventional Still Distiller Using Coupled External Passive Condenser: An Experimental Study
Authors: Oni Omolara , Adams Hamzah , Oguike Raphael
Published: October 2024

Solar radiation plays an important part in the desalination of saline water owing to its abundance in areas with potable water shortage and it also occupies a paramount place in green energy generation due to its simplicity of application. Still distiller is viewed by researchers as a suitable source of potable water because of low cost of fabrication, easy operation and zero emission technology. Studies by researchers are geared towards exploring new models to improve the productivity of solar stills and enhance its production rate is ongoing. The main aspiration of this work is to experiment the consequence of introducing a passive condenser to a modified conventional solar still to enhance its productivity yield. It was observed that the modified passive still distiller coupled with the external condenser gave about 11.85% higher production yield in comparison with the modified conventional still distiller. Daily and accumulated distillate yield for the still distillers have been studied and analyzed. The result of the findings revealed that sawdust padding around the still distillers is recommended to maximize productivity leading to efficient water distillation in regions where that require still distiller usage. This recommendation has been seen to produce the desired result in accessing to potable water within areas where water scarcity prevails. This is suggested to contribute effectively bearing the cost ineffective water desalination technique.
532 nm Sub Pulsed Laser for Treating Melasma in Latin American Patients, Series of Cases
Authors: Willis Kateryn
Published: October 2024

Objective: To analyze a series of cases treated with a 532 nm Sub Pulsed laser treatment for Melasma in Latin American Patients with Fitzpatrick type IV. Background: Melasma is a common, acquired, symmetrical hypermelanosis that presents as light to dark brown macules on the face usually over the forehead and malar areas that negatively impact patient’s quality of life. Many laser treatments have been described without any consensus, however, targeting the vascular component has been gaining popularity daily but the adverse reactions such as transient post inflammatory hyperpigmentation or atrophic scars have been described for treating the superficial and deep vessels. We propose a new laser range in order to treat Melasma. Methods: This is an observational study with 20 patients, Fitzpatrick type IV diagnosed with facial melasma that were treated with one to two sessions of a Sub Pulsed 532 nm Laser with an interval of 11 to 30 days. Dermoscopy was performed in the patients before the laser in order to show the presence of multiple vessels and pigmentation in the patients, before and after pictures were taken with Quantificare Lifeviz to show the results after the laser without any other topical or oral treatment. This Study was reviewed and approved by the Ethics and Investigation Committee of Dermalaser KPW in Lima, Peru, adhering to the highest ethical standards and following the principles Outlined in the Helsinsky Declaration. Informed Consent was obtained from all participants, who also provided written authorization for the publication of the study results and accompanying images. Results: In this series of cases the Modified MASI Score describes an average of 90.9% improvement in Melasma severity after the laser sessions. The pictures taken with Quantificare Lifeviz in order to asses the vascular, pigmentary and basal pictures show significant improvement. No PIH (Post inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) or major adverse reaction were described in this study.
Child Rights, Abuse and Mitigating Options in Nollywood Films: A Study of Wives on Strike and Itoro
Authors: Agoha Kelechi , Ume Judith , Akas Nicholas
Published: October 2024

Child rights are those fundamental privileges that contribute to the overall development of children in society. The increasing rate of child abuse impinges on the rights of children resulting in numerous negative effects that are harmful to their growth and well-being. Although some Nollywood films portray the problem of child abuse in society, not much has been done to examine the rights of children and how these rights are violated as a result of cultural and social factors that condition the well-being of children. The study examined the representation of child rights, abuse and mitigating options in Omoni Oboli’s Wives on Strike (2016) and Precious Adeyemi’s Itoro (2017). These Nollywood films were selected through a purposive sampling technique because the have thematic importance relevant to the problem of the study. James Garbarino’s Social Habitability theory was adopted as the theoretical framework for the study. Findings revealed that child labour and marriage are dominant abuses of children and teenagers in Nigeria with adverse consequences on their development. It also revealed that the girl child is at the greatest risk of abuse due to cultural and social factors. The study recommended further exposition of this crime, especially other forms of child abuse by Nollywood film practitioners to mitigate its scourge because the future of every nation depends on children.
How Digital Transformational Leadership Promotes Digital Creativity: A Dual-path Mediation Model
Authors: Xia Rui , Hou Liang
Published: October 2024

This study explores the dual-path mechanisms for the influence of digital transformational leadership on employees’ digital creativity. A questionnaire survey of 300 knowledge-based employees in several Chinese firms was conducted, and 219 valid questionnaires were obtained. We conducted structural equation modeling using Mplus to analyze our data. The results show that digital transformational leadership has a significant positive effect on digital creativity. Openness to change and change self-efficacy mediates the relationship between digital transformational leadership and digital creativity. Importantly, openness to change and change self-efficacy play a chain mediating role in the effect of digital transformational leadership on digital creativity—that is, digital transformational leadership increases their openness to change and change self-efficacy, which in turn contributes to their digital creativity. By enriching research in the field of creativity, this study is also instructive for guiding and promoting employees’ digital creativity.
Estimating Ice Water Content for Winter Storms from Millimeter-Wavelength Radar Measurements Using a Synthesis of Polarimetric and Dual-Frequency Radar Observations
Authors: Oue Mariko , Ryzhkov Alexander V. , Matrosov Sergey Y. , Bukovčić Petar , Kollias Pavlos
Published: October 2024

The potential of millimeter-wavelength radar-based ice water content (IWC) estimation is demonstrated using a Ka-band Scanning Polarimetric Radar (KASPR) for the U.S. northeast coast winter storms. Two IWC relations for Ka-band polarimetric radar measurements are proposed: one that uses a combination of the radar reflectivity Z and the estimated total number concentration of snow particles Nt and the other based on the joint use of Z, specific differential phase KDP, and the degree of riming frim. A key element of the algorithms is to obtain the “Rayleigh-equivalent” value of Z measured at the Ka band, i.e., the corresponding Z at a longer radar wavelength for which Rayleigh scattering takes place. This is achieved via polarimetric retrieval of the mean volume diameter Dm and incorporating the relationship between the dual-wavelength ratio DWRS/Ka and Dm. Those techniques allow for retrievals from single millimeter-wavelength radar measurements and do not necessarily require the dual-wavelength ratio (DWR) measurements, if the DWR–Dm relation and Rayleigh assumption for Ka-band KDP are valid. Comparison between the quasivertical profile product obtained from KASPR and the columnar vertical profile product generated from the nearby WSR-88D S-band radar measurements demonstrates that the DWRS/Ka can be estimated from the two close radars without the need for collocated radar beams and synchronized antenna scanning and can be used for determining the Rayleigh-equivalent value of Z. The performance of the suggested techniques is evaluated for seven winter storms using surface disdrometer and snow accumulation measurements.

Significance Statement

Ice water content (IWC) estimation using millimeter-wavelength radar measurements has been challenging for decades, because of the complexity of snow particle properties and size, which can cause complex scattering at the shorter radar wavelengths. The suggested polarimetric techniques overcome this difficulty via utilizing specific differential phase KDP which is higher at millimeter wavelengths than at centimeter wavelengths. This study proposes new IWC relationships for Ka-band polarimetric radar measurements and evaluates them using a Ka-band Scanning Polarimetric Radar (KASPR) and a nearby NEXRAD (S-band) polarimetric radar for the U.S. northeast coast winter storms. The proposed techniques can be applied to other millimeter-wavelength radars and shed light on the millimeter-wavelength polarimetric radar IWC estimation.
Assessing Air–Sea Surface Turbulent Heat Fluxes from Reanalyses Using Concurrent Shipboard Measurements
Authors: Foody Rebecca , Dong Shenfu , Goes Marlos , Campos Ricardo , Pena Pedro , Barton Zachary
Published: October 2024

Air–sea surface turbulent heat fluxes are crucial to forming accurate weather and climate predictions. However, there is considerable disagreement among current reanalysis products. The study assesses biases in these products using concurrent shipboard measurements of air temperature, barometric pressure, relative humidity, and upper-ocean temperature taken along two transbasin expendable bathythermograph (XBT) transects in the North Atlantic between 2020 and 2022. Following a quality control procedure, the data from shipboard measurements and hourly ERA5 and 6-hourly NCEP-2 reanalysis data were collocated to the locations and time of the XBT profile data. Our analyses show that mean biases among the three products are not statistically significant for all variables, but the biases for individual cases can be large. XBT could reliably estimate SST in the mixed layer, with a good comparison with the reanalysis products. Additionally, the correlation between the shipboard measurements and reanalyses is high (r > 0.9) for all variables except relative humidity (RH). Specifically, RH shows a correlation slightly lower between shipboard and ERA5 data (r = 0.84) and much lower between NCEP-2 and the other products (r = 0.42 for shipboard and r = 0.46 for ERA5 data). The collocated data were then used to compute the surface latent and sensible heat fluxes in four scenarios using the Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Response Experiment flux algorithm version 3.6: in situ data with satellite winds, in situ data with ERA5 winds, ERA5 data, and NCEP-2 data. Overall, ERA5-based fluxes agree better with the shipboard estimates of both latent and sensible heat fluxes than NCEP-2-based fluxes, pointing to the importance of higher-resolution reanalysis to improve air–sea flux estimates.
Inner-Core Humidification and Prelandfall Rapid Intensification of Typhoon Mekkhala (2020) in Strong Vertical Wind Shear
Authors: Dong Yue , Li Qingqing
Published: October 2024

A numerical simulation was conducted in this study to investigate the physical processes governing the unusual rapid intensification (RI) of Typhoon Mekkhala (2020) under strong vertical wind shear. The vortex tilt exhibited a gradual decrease from approximately 70 to below 10 km over a period of 6 h prior to and following the onset of the RI. Nevertheless, due to substantial midlevel ventilation, the storm intensity exhibited only slight variations in the early phase of the vortex alignment, 6 h prior to the RI onset. The RI occurred subsequent to the precipitation within the inner core becoming increasingly axisymmetric as the stratiform clouds developed cyclonically. The precipitation axisymmetrization was found to be closely associated with inner-core humidification in the left-of-shear and upshear quadrants, occurring 3 h before the RI onset. As previously documented, horizontal vapor advection greatly influenced the moistening process. A new finding of this study was that the “showerhead effect,” namely, moistening due to sublimation from stratiform clouds and evaporation from stratiform rain, could be predominantly conducive to the humidification of the inner core compared with horizontal vapor advection. Another noteworthy finding in the tangential wind budget was that the eddy radial vorticity flux contributed negatively and positively during the pre-RI and RI of Mekkhala, respectively, in conjunction with the dominant positive contribution resulting from the mean radial vorticity flux.

Significance Statement

Rapid intensification has been a long-standing part of the challenge of tropical cyclone forecasting. This study aims to understand the dynamics of the rapid intensification of a typhoon in the presence of strong vertical wind shear, which is generally known to be unfavorable for rapid intensification. The results suggest that evaporation of stratiform precipitation could contribute more substantially to the humidification in the inner core than horizontal advection of moisture. In this circumstance, inner-core precipitation axisymmetrization and rapid intensification occurred. These results will hopefully shed more light on how the tropical cyclone community perceives the effects of humidification near the tropical cyclone core on tropical cyclone rapid intensification.
Health promotion intervention in at-risk South African primary schools
Authors: Shaik Mahomed Ruzaika , Etokabeka Elsa
Published: October 2024

Background:

Interventions to promote health have been implemented in some urban settings. However, school-based health promotion interventions in at-risk urban schools have not been thoroughly investigated.

Objective:

This article investigates teachers’ perceptions regarding health promotion interventions with the main goal of establishing social change in at-risk school communities.

Design:

The study used phenomenology as a theoretical lens supported by the use of a qualitative research approach. As a theoretical framework, the researchers utilised Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory.

Setting:

The investigation used a descriptive case study design to select 17 teachers from 2 at-risk urban primary schools in Pretoria.

Methods:

Visual data including participatory reflection action posters and photographs, and field notes were part of the data collection techniques.

Findings:

Teachers’ responses informed how school-based health promotion interventions can be developed in the foundation phase of education. Themes relevant to this included recognition of the importance of education in bringing about social change; involving the whole community in developing health promotion projects; working closely with parents; promoting physical activity; and advocating for nutritional literacy. Goals can best be achieved through a focus on nutritional needs, physical health and social needs of at-risk communities.

Conclusion:

Findings from this study can be used to inform at-risk communities about food consumption, optimum physical activities and positive socio-emotional actions. Beyond this, young professionals entering the field of education should be encouraged to develop awareness of how school-based health promotion programmes can benefit the health and well-being of children.
Modeling and control of dynamical biomechanical arm systems with elastic joints sensitive to the effect of an external load
Authors: Tchomeni Kouejou Bernard Xavier , Alugongo Alfayo Anyika
Published: October 2024

In this study, a biomechanical model mimicking the human hand-arm system under heavy disk excitation is developed to define the stability threshold between the preload vibration and the stress of the human hand-arm system. The fully electromechanical system, consisting of a DC motor, a transmission system, and three discrete masses representing the upper arm, forearm, and hand lifting a heavy disk, is connected by shock absorbers and various springs. The challenge of mimicking the angular activity of the elbow joint in torsion and flexion was also included to assess its contribution to system stability and to study the absorption of mechanical energy in the human hand-arm system. Finally, the movements of the model were described by a differential matrix equation, and its analysis facilitates the understanding of the threshold of the chaotic behaviors observed in an oscillating arms system. Specifically, it explores how the motion of a DC motor can be regulated using a single controller parameter within the context of a multi-degree-of-freedom human hand-arm system. The study uses numerical integrations to analyze system behaviors, with an emphasis on the use of frequency spectra, Poincaré maps, and bifurcation diagrams for visualization and interpretation. The results indicate that the system exhibits chaotic behavior when subjected to certain conditions, particularly when the mass load exceeds 35 kg. Imposing motion on the mass block further intensifies the chaos, leading to manifestations such as strong oscillations and frequency-synchronization effects. These characteristics, exhibited by the idealized model, which imitates the human body through a mechanical model and computation of the motions of the body, play a vital role in various fields of ergonomics and sports biomechanics. Understanding the dynamic behaviors of such systems, especially in response to varying conditions, has significant implications for engineering applications.
Democracy as a cause of semi-presidential regimes: On reverse causality between democracy and semi-presidential establishment
Authors: Åberg Jenny , Denk Thomas
Published: October 2024

This article re-examines the relationship between democracy and semi-presidential regimes. While numerous scholars have traced the effects of semi-presidential regimes on democracy, few have addressed the risk of reverse causality, namely, that democracy influences the establishment of semi-presidential regimes. This article uses statistical analyses to test whether the level of democracy in a country affects its choice of semi-presidential regime subtype: a premier–presidential or a president–parliamentary. Including all semi-presidential regimes from 1919 until 2015 and controlling for other conditions such as colonial legacy, the level of development and regime diffusion, our results confirm the hypothesis. The higher the level of democracy – the higher the probability of a premier–presidential regime. Our results underline that democracy is a highly influential cause of the type of semi-presidential regime chosen, a conclusion that places a question mark on the self-evident use of the semi-presidential subtypes as an independent variable.
Analyzing the Determinants of Teleworking during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Chile
Authors: Astroza Sebastian , Hurtubia Ricardo , Tirachini Alejandro , Guevara C. Angelo , Carrasco Juan Antonio , Salas Patricio , Munizaga Marcela
Published: October 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered an unprecedented increase in telework, a trend expected to have lasting effects on the labor market and commuting patterns, including location preferences. Understanding the demand for telework is critical to face the challenges that may come in present and future scenarios with hybrid work arrangements. In this paper, a model for the probability of telework is proposed and estimated with data collected during two different periods of the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2020, in Chile. The model measures the correlation between several socioeconomic characteristics, and latent variables related to concerns about health and the economy, with the probability of teleworking. We find that low-income workers are less likely to telework, and that females are more likely to work from home. Latent variables also played a relevant role at the beginning of the pandemic: a greater concern about health issues increased the probability of teleworking. In comparison, a greater concern about the economic effects of the pandemic had the opposite impact. However, these effects shifted 10 weeks into the pandemic, when a total lockdown was imposed in the largest city. The implications of our findings for both policy and research after the pandemic are discussed.
Climatic and environmental changes since last deglaciation in the steppe region of northern China and their impact on early population survival patterns
Authors: Ma Dewen , Chen Lin , Niu Lili , Li Mengjing , Zhou Shi , Yang Rui , Huang Youliang , Zhou Aifeng
Published: October 2024

The northern Chinese steppe is situated in the periphery of the East Asian Summer Monsoon and exhibits high sensitivity to variations in monsoon intensity and global climate change. Therefore, comprehending the climatic evolution history of this region is pivotal for elucidating early human civilization development. The research focuses on a fully enclosed crater lake located in the northern Chinese steppe by utilizing n-alkanes, total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN) in lake sediments, based on AMS-14C dating analysis, the climatic and environmental evolution history of this region from the last deglaciation to the middle Holocene has been reconstructed, and the impact of climate change on the evolution of early human civilization is elucidated. The findings indicate that the EASM driven by summer solar radiation, exerts control over the climate and hydrology in the steppe region of northern China. Since the last deglaciation, the gradual warming and humidification of the climate environment have significantly enhanced the animal and plant resources, thereby establishing a solid foundation for the transition of early human populations in northern Chinese steppe from high-mobility hunter-gatherers to settled communities. Additionally, this climatic shift has provided an optimal backdrop for the emergence of primitive agriculture. The changes of stone tool assemblages unearthed at related sites also confirm the above views. However, the climate model underwent rapid changes during the period of 7.2–6.4 cal kyr BP, leading to the occurrence of extreme arid climate events. Consequently, regional precipitation decreased, lake ecology became imbalanced, woody plants retreated in the basin, and vegetation coverage was greatly reduced. The aforementioned factor may have played a pivotal role in the disappearance of early populations within the region. Consequently, climate and environmental change not only serve as the primary driving force behind human civilization’s development but also act as an inexorable catalyst for its decline.
Inverse feedforward control of piezoelectric actuators using optimized composite neural network-based Hammerstein model
Authors: Jin Jiaxi , Sun Xuan , Chen Zhaobo
Published: October 2024

This paper utilizes the optimized composite neural network (OCNN)-Hammerstein model to directly identify the dynamic inverse hysteresis effect, employing it as a feedforward controller to compensate for the rate-dependent and amplitude-dependent dynamic hysteresis of the piezoelectric actuator. The OCNN-Hammerstein model consists of an optimized composite neural network and an auto-regressive exogenous model in series. The OCNN comprises convolutional neural network layer and radial basis function neural network layer, with its hyperparameters optimized using a modified grey wolf optimizer algorithm. Compared to the existing dynamic Prandtl-Ishlinskii-Hammerstein and dynamic Bouc-Wen-Hammerstein models in the literature, the feedforward controller based on the proposed model in this paper demonstrates superior performance, with an RSME below 0.45 μm and a 74.5% reduction in relative hysteresis at the condition of 300 Hz and maximum amplitude. The feedforward controller exhibits universality across all amplitude ranges and within the 50–300 Hz frequency range, while also providing predictive compensation for dynamic hysteresis at 300–400 Hz. The feedforward controller based on the OCNN-Hammerstein model in this paper provides a crucial methodology for open-loop control of piezoelectric actuators.
Harnessing Natural Language Processing and High-Dimensional Clinical Notes to Detect Goals-of-Care and Surrogate-Designation Conversations
Authors: Albashayreh Alaa , Herr Keela , Fan Weiguo , Street W. Nick , Gilbertson-White Stephanie
Published: October 2024

Advance care planning, involving goals-of-care and surrogate-designation conversations, is crucial for patient-centered care. However, determining the optimal timing and participants for these conversations remains challenging. This study explored the frequency, timing, and predictors of documenting two advance care planning elements, goals-of-care and surrogate-designation conversations, in clinical notes for patients with advanced illness. In this retrospective observational study, we leveraged high-dimensional data and natural language processing (NLP) to analyze clinical notes and predict the presence or absence of advance care planning conversations. We included notes for patients treated at a Midwestern United States hospital who had advanced chronic conditions and eventually passed away. We manually labeled a gold-standard dataset ( n = 913 notes) for the presence or absence of advance care planning conversations at the note level, achieving excellent inter-annotator agreement (90.5%). Training and testing four NLP models to detect goals-of-care and surrogate-designation conversations revealed that a transformer-based model (Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers [BERT]) achieved the highest accuracy, with an F1 score of 93.6. We then deployed the BERT model to a high-dimensional corpus of 247,241 notes for 4,341 patients and detected goals-of-care and surrogate-designation conversations in the records of 85% and 60% of patients, respectively. Temporal analysis revealed that goals-of-care and surrogate-designation conversations were first documented at medians 28 and 8 days before death, respectively. Patient characteristics and referral to specialty palliative care emerged as significant factors associated with documenting these conversations. Our findings demonstrate the potential of NLP, particularly Transformer-based models like BERT, to accurately detect goals-of-care and surrogate-designation conversations in clinical narratives. This study identified significant temporal patterns, including late documentation, and patient characteristics associated with these conversations. It highlights the value of high-dimensional data in enhancing our understanding of advance care planning and offers insights for improving patient-centered care in clinical settings. Future research should explore the integration of these models into clinical workflows to facilitate timely and effective advance care planning discussions.
Anti-lipase activity from Polygonum multiflorum: An in vitro and in silico study
Authors: To Dao Cuong , Nguyen Phi Hung , Hoang Viet Dung , Tran Manh Hung , Truong Phu Chi Hieu , Pham Hong Khuyen Thi , Hoang Le Minh , Hoa Truong Thi Viet , Truong Thi Thuy Nhung , Nguyen Hoa Thi
Published: October 2024

A study on the phytochemical composition of the roots of Polygonum multiflorum collecting in Vietnam and an evaluation of its capacity to inhibit pancreatic lipase enzyme was conducted. In total, 12 metabolites (1–12) were isolated from anti-lipase activity-guided fractionation of P. multiflorum. The isolated compounds (1–12) were identified as trans-resveratrol (1), methyl protocatechuate (2), methyl gallate (3), catechin (4), epicatechin (5), myrciaphenone A (6), quercetin (7), kaempferol (8), apigenin (9), luteolin (10), tricin (11), and afzelin (12). This is the first time Compound 12 has been reported from P. multiflorum. However, 12 second metabolites (1–12) were tested in vitro to assess the anti-lipase potential. The results revealed Compound 7 exhibited the most significant lipase inhibition, with an IC50 value of 0.30 ± 0.04 μM. Following closely, Compounds 6, 8, 10, and 12 displayed IC50 values of 5.38 ± 0.65, 0.72 ± 0.10, 0.79 ± 0.19, and 1.22 ± 0.18 μM, respectively. For comparison, orlistat (positive control), the most common anti-obesity drug available on the market, has an IC50 value of 0.91 ± 0.10 μM. Molecular docking was applied to explore the affinity and interactions between active compounds 6–8, 10, and 12 and proteins associated with obesity, namely pancreatic lipase–colipase complex (PLCC) and pancreatic lipase-related protein 1 (PLRP1). In addition, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) were used in predictions. The results indicate that the active compounds isolated from P. multiflorum could be further in-depth research on lipase inhibition.
Artificial intelligence approach for detecting and classifying abnormal behaviour in older adults using wearable sensors
Authors: Liu Xiaojun , Chau Ka Yin , Zheng Junxiong , Deng Dongni , Tang Yuk Ming
Published: October 2024

The global population of older adults has increased, leading to a rising number of older adults in nursing homes without adequate care. This study proposes a smart wearable device for detecting and classifying abnormal behaviour in older adults in nursing homes. The device utilizes artificial intelligence technology to detect abnormal movements through behavioural data collection and target positioning. The intelligent recognition system and hardware sensors were tested using cloud computing and wireless sensor networks (WSNs), comparing their performance with other technologies through simulations. A triple-axis acceleration sensor collected motion behaviour data, and Zigbee enabled the wireless transfer of the sensor data. The Backpropagation (BP) neural network detected and classified abnormal behaviour based on simulated sensor data. The proposed smart wearable device offers indoor positioning, detection, and classification of abnormal behaviour. The embedded intelligent system detects routine motions like walking and abnormal behaviours such as falls. In emergencies, the system alerts healthcare workers for immediate safety measures. This study lays the groundwork for future AI-based technology implementation in nursing homes, advancing care for older adults.
Mediating Effect of Principals’ Perceived Workplace Hope on the Relationship Between Workplace Savoring Beliefs and Workplace Resilience
Authors: Yang Ya-Hui , Chang Shu-Hsuan , Hua Yi-Hao
Published: October 2024

In recent years, principals have been challenged in their school operations by the low birth rate, the promotion of significant education policies, and changes in the power structure of schools in Taiwan. These problems once caused a retirement boom among principals, significantly affecting educational development. Past research on principals’ school operations has focused chiefly on external policies and related support systems, but rarely examined the psychological aspects of the principals themselves. Based on the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotion, this study explored the relationship among principals’ workspace savoring beliefs, principals’ perceived workplace hope, and workplace resilience. A total of 302 principals (66 females, 236 males, with an average age of 55.6 years) from Taiwanese senior high schools completed the paper-based questionnaire. The study results indicate that both principals’ workplace savoring beliefs and workplace hope positively impacted workplace resilience and that perceived workplace hope partially mediated between workplace savoring beliefs and workplace resilience. This study makes specific recommendations for educational authorities, principals, and subsequent research directions based on the above conclusions.
Pixels to Paychecks: Understanding The Determinant of Latent Entrepreneurial Transition in Digital Context
Authors: Sun Xinbo , Usman Magaji Abdullahi
Published: October 2024

In the ever-changing landscape of China’s digital economy, comprehending the transition drivers from latent to active participation in entrepreneurship is critical. This research explores the factors shaping the decisions of latent entrepreneurs to become active entrepreneurs in a digital context. Using simple random sampling, this study randomly selected 18 industries within China’s major cities. This study collected cross-sectional data from 485 respondents in high-tech and low-tech industries across six major Chinese cities and tested the model using partial least structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Statistical findings conducted by SmartPLS reveal a nuanced interplay between personal factors and external traits in shaping the transition to active entrepreneurship. In particular, entrepreneurial competence, digital skills and literacy, and adaptability are crucial personal factors influencing this transition. Access to the necessary technology, startup cost, market and customer base, and government support are external traits found to significantly shape individual decisions to venture into digital entrepreneurship. Surprisingly, Logistics and Transportation (LAT) had no substantial impact on the transformation. This investigation strengthens entrepreneurship theory while also providing policymakers and industry actors with practical insights. Personalized training for entrepreneurs, spending on digital infrastructure, evidence-based regulations, and enhanced business innovation initiatives are among the recommendations.
Formal Institution Networks and Coopetition: Insights from the Brazilian Private Healthcare Industry
Authors: Monticelli Jefferson Marlon , Garrido Ivan Lapuente , Chim-Miki Adriana Fum , Verschoore Jorge Renato
Published: October 2024

This study demonstrates that formal institution networks are antecedent to firms adopting coopetition to improve performance. The influence of formal institution agents to foster coopetition within an industry is driven by fragilities in the institutions of emerging economies. We studied the Brazilian healthcare sector, which is characterized by strong regulation and government support. We analyzed how and to what extent coopetition relates to formal institution agents and the performance of private healthcare operators. The study employs a quantitative methodology with a sample of 149 firms from the Brazilian private healthcare system through partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Our findings highlight that networks facilitated by formal institution agents precede firms’ adoption of coopetition to enhance performance. They also underscore the impact of regulatory policy on firms’ strategies and behaviors in the healthcare sector. Our findings emphasize that formal institution networks alone do not guarantee performance improvement. Healthcare firms must develop coopetitive strategies to create and capture value within these relationships. Our study sheds light on the organizational dynamics within the Brazilian private healthcare sector and provides insights for managers and policymakers. For policymakers, it highlights opportunities and challenges in enhancing healthcare sector competitiveness, emphasizing the importance of considering the institutional environment. For healthcare firm managers, it details opportunities for developing coopetitive strategies. Finally, the study is subject to boundary conditions potentially limiting the generalizability of its findings to a broader global context. Additionally, it is also limited by the cross-sectional design since respondents’ replies are specific to the current scenario in the healthcare sector.
Entrepreneurs’ thriving after venture distress: The role of self-compassion, learning, and venture failure
Authors: Coppens Karlien , Knockaert Mirjam
Published: October 2024

Well-being is important to entrepreneurs, yet entrepreneurship does not necessarily foster well-being. Stressful work conditions such as venture distress might put entrepreneurs’ well-being under pressure. Drawing upon self-determination theory, we investigate the conditions that enhance entrepreneurs’ thriving after experiencing venture distress. We test this model on a survey-based sample of 177 entrepreneurs in Belgium who either persisted with their distressed venture or started a new one after their distressed venture had failed. Our findings reveal that personal attributes of self-compassion and learning from venture distress can buffer the potential negative effects of venture distress experiences on entrepreneurs’ subsequent thriving. In addition, this protective capacity is not mitigated by the failure of the distressed venture. We further discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.

JEL CLASSIFICATION: L26, M13, I31
Navigating identity shifts and well-being in the entrepreneurial exit process: A comparative study of entrepreneurs nearing retirement
Authors: Pauley Matthew K
Published: October 2024

Entrepreneurs in their 50s and beyond face significant identity shifts and well-being challenges as they transition out of the businesses they have built. Grounded in Super’s career-development framework and utilizing the Eisenhardt Method for case study analysis, this research explores the entrepreneurial exit process during the maturity and decline stages. With an average business tenure of 11 years, these entrepreneurs encounter emotional and practical hurdles, such as health concerns, financial pressures, and shifting priorities. The study highlights valuing identity diversification and social support in easing the transition, revealing that financial success alone does not guarantee positive post-exit well-being. Gender differences show women prioritize sustainability and family, while men focus on growth and professional identity. These insights underscore the need for early exit planning and holistic support for successful entrepreneurial succession and retirement strategies.

JEL CLASSIFICATION: L26: Entrepreneurship; D91: Intertemporal Household Choice; Life Cycle Models and Saving; M14: Corporate Culture; Diversity; Social Responsibility; J14: Economics of the Elderly; Economics of the Handicapped; Non-labor Market Discrimination; I31: General Welfare, Well-being