bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Syk protein inhibitors treatment for the allergic symptoms associated with hyper immunoglobulin E syndromes: A focused on a computational approach
Authors: Mansouri Mariam , ElHaddoumi Ghyzlane , Kandoussi Ilham , Belyamani Lahcen , Ibrahimi Azeddine , El Hafidi Naima
Published: September 2024

Background: Mutations in the Spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) protein have significant implications for its function and response to treatments. Understanding these mutations and identifying new inhibitors can lead to more effective therapies for conditions like autosomal dominant hyper-IgE syndrome (AD-HIES) and related immunological disorders. Objective: To investigate the impact of mutations in the Syk protein on its function and response to reference treatments, and to explore new inhibitors tailored to the mutational profile of Syk. Methods: We collected and analyzed mutations affecting the Syk protein to assess their functional impact. We screened 94 deleterious mutations in the kinase domain using molecular docking techniques. A library of 997 compounds with potential inhibitory activity against Syk was filtered based on Lipinski and Veber rules and toxicity assessments. We evaluated the binding affinity of reference inhibitors and 14 eligible compounds against wild-type and mutant Syk proteins. Molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to evaluate the interaction of Syk protein complexes with the reference inhibitor and potential candidate inhibitors. Results: Among the analyzed mutations, 60.5% were identified as deleterious, underscoring their potential impact on cellular processes. Virtual screening identified three potential inhibitors (IDs: 118558008, 118558000, and 118558092) with greater therapeutic potential than reference treatments, meeting all criteria and exhibiting lower IC50 values. Ligand 1 (ID: 118558000) demonstrated the most stable binding, favorable compactness, and extensive interaction with solvents. A 3D pharmacophore model was constructed, identifying structural features common to these inhibitors. Conclusion: This study found that 60.5% of reported mutations affecting the Syk protein are deleterious. Virtual screening revealed three top potential inhibitors, with ligand 1 (ID: 118558000) showing the most stable binding and favorable interactions. These inhibitors hold promise for more effective therapies targeting Syk-mediated signaling pathways. The pharmacophore model provides valuable insights for developing targeted therapies for AD-HIES and related disorders, offering hope for patients suffering from Hyper IgE syndrome with allergic symptoms.
Exploring the frontier of Polylactic Acid/Hydroxyapatite composites in bone regeneration and their revolutionary biomedical applications – A review
Authors: Omigbodun Francis T , Oladapo Bankole I , Osa-uwagboe Norman
Published: September 2024

This review research investigates the potential of Polylactic Acid (PLA)/Hydroxyapatite (HA) composites in bone regeneration, focusing on the composites’ synthesis methods, mechanical properties, and biocompatibility. Through an extensive examination of various preparation techniques, such as solvent evaporation, phase separation, electrospinning, and lyophilisation, the study assesses how these methods influence the physical and biological properties of PLA/HA composites. Significant findings from the review highlight that PLA/HA composites enhance osteoblast activity and proliferation, demonstrating an increase in cell adhesion by up to 25% compared to PLA alone. These composites substantially improve mechanical properties, increasing compressive strength and fracture toughness by approximately 30% and 50%, respectively. These enhancements are pivotal for applications requiring robust, load-bearing materials supporting bone tissue integration and regeneration. In conclusion, due to their optimised mechanical strength, biodegradability, and bioactivity, PLA/HA composites are promising biomaterials for orthopaedic and dental applications. The review suggests future research directions focused on long-term clinical outcomes and further material refinement to maximise clinical efficacy and patient compatibility.
Exploring the Therapeutic Effects of Music Intervention Embedded With Binaural Beats on Health and Well-Being of Older People: A Scoping Review
Authors: Thummapol Onouma , Murad Sadaf , Amodu Oluwakemi , Kennedy Megan
Published: September 2024

The utilization of music intervention featuring auditory binaural beats (BBs) has garnered attention as a promising avenue for enhancing the health and well-being of younger, healthy individuals. This scoping review systematically examines the effects and correlates associated with BB stimulation in the context of older adults’ health. Additionally, it briefly addresses how incorporating BBs as a therapeutic modality can facilitate medical treatment strategies and support the rehabilitation of aging populations. Employing scoping review methodology, and adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension (PRISMA-ScR) for Scoping Review guidelines, a comprehensive literature search of seven databases was conducted. Twelve articles meeting the predefined inclusion criteria were identified and subsequently incorporated into the review. The findings of this scoping review underscore a notable paucity of studies exclusively dedicated to investigating the innovative and noninvasive application of binaural beat interventions among older individuals. The review delves into the applications of BB stimulation, health outcomes, and factors influencing the efficacy of BB interventions, with a particular focus on the older adults.
Navigating regulatory challenges, technical performance and circular economy integration of mineral-based waste materials for sustainable construction: A mini review in the European context
Authors: Armistead Samuel J. , Babaahmadi Arezou
Published: September 2024

The integration of mineral-based waste materials is crucial for achieving a sustainable and circular construction sector. Whilst technological and economic aspects receive attention, this mini review spotlights overlooked legal ‘regulatory hurdles’. It explores major barriers within the European Union, aiming to compress the current ~30-year material development pipeline. Significant hurdles include the absence of harmonized end-of-waste criteria (Waste Framework Directive), the need for consensus-building in chemical risk assessments (REACH & CLP), scarcity of up-to-date harmonized product standards (Construction Products Regulation) and precision values for limit state analysis in structural codes (Eurocodes). This mini review serves as a practical manual, outlining the intricate regulatory landscape for industry experts, regulators and researchers. Emphasizing the parallel importance of environmental safety considerations and performance, our study presented in this mini-review, underscores the necessity for a multi-stakeholder approach to alleviate regulatory barriers. By illuminating regulatory intricacies, this mini review establishes the foundations for wider discussions and in-depth analysis as to the future outlook for consensus development procedures in a rapidly changing and challenging global construction sector. The manuscript also provides stakeholders with vital insights for informed decision-making, helping to facilitate the paradigm shift towards a sustainable and circular construction sector.
Learning About Lunar Phases: Exploring Taiwanese University Students’ Conceptions of and Approaches to Learning by Holographic Projection
Authors: Fan Yang-Hsin , Lin Tzung-Jin
Published: September 2024

Extant literature has preliminarily confirmed the potential benefits of holographic projections for educational purposes. Yet, students’ experiences of learning by holographic projection have rarely been addressed. The main purpose of this study was therefore to explore students’ conceptions of and approaches to learning by holographic projection. A holographic projection system was devised to assist students in learning the concept of lunar phases. This study also investigated the relationships between students’ conceptions and approaches, and determined if there were any variations based on students’ learning gains. Phenomenographic analysis was adopted to analyze 30 university students from Taiwan, and a multiple-choice conceptual test was conducted to assess their learning achievements. The main findings indicated that students with conceptions of learning by holographic projection as increasing the presence of a scene or mapping 2D images to 3D structures tended to adopt surface approaches, such as only observing the changes presented in the holographic projection, repetitively operating the system functions without intended purposes, or simply following the instruction guidelines to meet the minimal requirements. However, this study unexpectedly found that students who utilized surface approaches had significantly higher learning gains on the conceptual test than their counterparts did.
No Longer Seat-Less in Seattle: The Role of Coordinated Transportation and Land Use Planning in Sustaining Transit Ridership through the Pandemic Recovery Period
Authors: Parker Madeleine E. G.
Published: September 2024

Transit ridership had been decreasing in major cities across the United States prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, with Seattle as a notable exception. I examine the relationship between travel behavior and Seattle’s land use planning program in conjunction with transit improvements. I use econometric methods to analyze multiple waves of the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) Household Travel Survey from 2014 to 2021. Living in one of Seattle’s Urban Villages is significantly associated with a higher likelihood of taking transit. This relationship holds during the pandemic time period and when controlling for self-selection.
Harnessing Social Capital for Post-COVID-19 Resilience: A Study of Asian Businesses in New York City
Authors: Kim Sua , Chandrasekhar Divya
Published: September 2024

Prior studies have explored how Asian businesses leverage social capital for success, but little attention has been given to its role in disaster recovery. This study addresses this gap by highlighting social capital’s impact on recovery strategies. Twenty-three business interviews were conducted in Chinatown, Manhattan, NYC, and the research unveils that ethnic social capital, including co-ethnic labor, secured market access, in-kind support, and information sharing, constitutes instrumental resources for their recovery. Moreover, it is linked to the intersecting identities—immigrant, minority, and Asian. These findings underscore the importance of comprehending ethnic social capital to foster both business resilience and local economic recovery.
Factors Associated With Legal Decisions of Nonfatal Strangulation Cases With Forensic Evidence
Authors: Reckdenwald Amy , Szalewski Alec , Mandes Chelsea L. , Peebles Ciara
Published: September 2024

This study examines the influence of offender, victim, and case characteristics along with available forensic evidence on legal outcomes of nonfatal strangulation (NFS) cases. Research points to the importance of NFS forensic evidence collection to corroborate the attack during legal proceedings. However, little is known regarding the factors associated with legal decisions for NFS cases with forensic evidence. Law enforcement reports, forensic medical examinations, and legal outcomes for 63 NFS cases in Florida were analyzed. Findings have implications for the criminal justice system, as forensic medical exams can be used to collect valuable evidence to support prosecution outcomes.
Modelling and fabrication of flexible strain sensor using the 3D printing technology
Authors: Gunes Seyhmus , Ulkir Osman , Kuncan Melih
Published: September 2024

The use of additive manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing in sensor technology is increasing daily because it can fabricate complex structures quickly and accurately. This study presents the modeling, fabrication, and characterization processes for the development of a resistance type flexible strain sensor. The finite element model of the sensor was developed using COMSOL software and was verified experimentally. The experimental results agreed well with the simulation results. The fabrication process was performed using the molding technique. The flexible substrate of the strain sensor was fabricated by fused deposition modeling (FDM), an AM method, with dimensions of 20 mm × 60 mm and a thickness of 2 mm. In this process, a flexible and durable elastomer material called thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) was used. The liquid conductive silver was then injected into the mold channels. The characterization process was performed by establishing experimental and numerical setups. Studies were conducted to maximize sensitivity by changing the geometric properties of the sensor. At the 30% strain level, sensitivity increased by 9% when the sensor thickness decreased from 2 to 1.2 mm. As a result of the gradually applied force, the strain sensor showed a maximum displacement of 34.95 mm. Tensile tests were also conducted to examine the effects of stress accumulation on the flexible base. The results of this study show that the strain sensor exhibits high linearity-sensitivity and low hysteresis performance.
Influences of various thermoplastic veil interleaves upon carbon fiber-reinforced composites subjected to low-velocity impact
Authors: Coskun Taner , Tarih Yavuz Selim , Yar Adem , Gündoğdu Ömer , Sahin Ömer Sinan
Published: September 2024

Throughout their service life, composite materials may be subjected to impact loads, which can result in some damage mechanisms that cause degradation in mechanical and dynamic responses. Especially matrix-induced cracks and delamination can have significant effects on the final properties, and cause serious problems if the necessary precautions are not taken. In the current study, Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composites interleaved with Fine Glass (FG), Polyetherimide (PEI), Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), Polyimide (PI) and Poly-Phenylene Sulphide (PPS) thermoplastic veils were fabricated, and exposed to LVI tests under 25.2 J constant impact energy to determine how veils affect the dynamic properties. The selected veils are commercially available materials and are used for various purposes. In this regard, it was aimed to examine the usability of these commercially available veils as interlayers and to examine the impacts of the veils used as interlayers on the LVI characteristic of CFRP composites. According to the present study, it was found that veil interleaves significantly affect the composite stiffness, and accordingly, relevant LVI responses such as total impulse, bending stiffness, interaction times etc. For instance, approximately 21.2% reduction in the peak displacement and 73.23% increment in the bending stiffness were observed due to FG veil interleaves. On the other hand, when the effects of veil types were examined, the maximum and minimum variations in the LVI responses were observed for the FG and PEI interleaves, respectively, and FG veils were found to be the most effective veil types for the CFRP composites. It was also revealed that veil interleaves strengthen the interlaminar region between plies and delamination resistance, and thereby improved the Delamination Threshold Loads for all configurations.
The Relationship Between Teacher Collaboration and Instructional Practices, Instructional Climate, and Social Relations
Authors: Shand Robert , Goddard Roger D.
Published: September 2024

There is growing consensus about the importance of teacher collaboration. Less clear are the mechanisms by which teacher collaboration can positively impact student achievement. We address this gap by examining two questions using panel data methods. First, does the degree to which teachers collaborate predict future growth in conditions relevant to student learning, including teachers’ instructional practice, instructional climate, and trust relations? Second, does growth over time in collaboration affect growth in these outcomes? We find evidence that both collaboration at baseline and its growth over time are positive predictors of change in teacher practice, instructional climate, and trust relations.
Max Weber and Carl Schmitt on Legitimate Domination: Belief in Legitimacy or Acknowledgement of Legitimacy?
Authors: Kökerer Can Mert
Published: September 2024

This article discusses Weber’s and Schmitt’s diverging interpretations of the legitimate bases of domination. While Weber regards the belief in legitimacy as the source of legitimate domination, Schmitt employs an existentialist interpretation by deriving legitimacy from the acknowledgement of the people. These two distinct sources are preponderant in their understandings of plebiscitary leadership. Weber derives the legitimacy of the plebiscitary leader from charismatic grounds. In contrast, Schmitt maintains that the acknowledgement of the people of the already existing order constitutes the democratic legitimacy of the plebiscitary leader. Weber’s ideal-type of charismatic domination seems to be more appositely applicable to left-wing populism, while Schmitt provides a more adequate framework to analyse right-wing populism in contemporary societies. As a result, this article argues that comparative-historical and political sociologists should take into account these distinct conceptions of legitimate domination in order to comprehend the peculiar features of legitimate government in contemporary societies.
Study on finite element simulation and experiment based on the design of zero-point clamping system
Authors: Yin Youkang , Ma Zheng , Ming Weiwei , Xu Jinyang , An Qinglong , Chen Ming , Wu Wei , Sun Yuankun
Published: September 2024

The zero-point positioning system (Z-PCS) is more suitable for the increasingly common production modes of multiple types, small batches, and changing conditions than to conventional fixtures. Currently, the Z-PCS cannot provide sufficient clamping force, and the design of the positioning structure is prone to over-positioning. The working principles of each functional module in the system are unclear, making it difficult to promote product design optimization and troubleshooting. This article aims to design a high-performance Z-PCS, revealing the structural composition and working principle of the system, including the clamping structure, positioning structure, and air circuitry arrangement. During the design process, the finite element numerical calculations were adopted to verify the mechanical properties of each key load-bearing component. Finally, the designed product underwent positioning accuracy and clamping force testing. The results indicate that the Z-PCS designed in this article can provide a clamping force of at least 73.7 kN and control the repetitive positioning error below 0.002 mm. Micro-deformation grooves can be adaptively added to compensate for the over-positioning error. Heat-treated martensitic-type stainless steel is an ideal material for constructing the body of a high-performance Z-PCS.
Ballast stiffness estimation based on measurements during dynamic track stabilization
Authors: Dafert Manuel , Pistrol Johannes , Kopf Fritz , Adam Dietmar
Published: September 2024

Ballast compaction with the Dynamic Track Stabilizer (DTS) is known to improve the lateral track resistance by increasing the stiffness of the ballast. This paper presents two approaches for estimating the strain dependent ballast shear modulus G based on measurements during dynamic track stabilization. One approach uses the Hardin equation with its enhancement for coarse-grained soils to estimate the small strain shear modulus for a given grain size distribution curve. Since different shear strains are induced on an observed sleeper (with fixed location) by a bypassing DTS, the measurement of ballast shear strains with accelerometers on the top and the bottom edge of the ballast layer yield shear modulus degradation curves G/Gmax. It is shown for data from a regular maintenance operation, that these shear modulus degradation curves are in accordance with previous research. For the second approach, a SDOF model for the track-ballast interaction under harmonic loading (caused by the dynamic track stabilizer) is developed. Influence lines are used to estimate the mass, the mass moment of inertia and the geometry of an equivalent machine foundation (with spring and dashpot coefficients according to the Hall analog). An optimization algorithm is used to fit the model response to the measured data from field tests with the DTS. The resulting shear moduli show plausible values for loose and compacted ballast conditions, which proves the potential of the presented method as a basis for a future system for Intelligent Compaction (IC) with the DTS.
Long railway track modelling – A parallel computing approach
Authors: Agustin Dan , Wu Qing , Zhu Shengyang , Spiryagin Maksym , Cole Colin
Published: September 2024

This paper presents the development of a dynamics model for long track sections. It is based on an established short track model that utilises the Finite Element Method to describe rails and block models to describe sleepers, ballast and subballast. By implementing a parallel computing method, this innovation enables the construction of a true long track model: by segmenting the long track into shorter segments that are easier to compute. The model facilitates simulations to be run in parallel, thereby permitting simultaneous calculations of various numerical track variables. The model employs a Message Passing Interface framework to seamlessly link the track segments, handling the flow of data among the computing cores designated to each subdivided section. This strategic framework allows the long track model with the capability to simulate tracks of virtually any length, with the only constraints being the available computational resources and time. The claimed contribution about modelling capability is verified using two case studies on a 6km-long track involving different practical and conceptual train operational scenarios: emergency braking and constant braking force with constant train speed. These case studies show the flexibility and scalability of the method and its capability to handle complex track dynamic systems.
Women Entrepreneurship: A Bibliometric Review from 2012 to 2022
Authors: Kumari Ritu , Kumar Deepak
Published: September 2024

This study aims for bibliometric analysis by analysing trends in various authors, documents, topics, conceptual structures and collaboration networks on women entrepreneurship. This work analysed 329 publications that were recovered from the Web of Science record from the period of 2012–2022 (and early access articles of 2023) and conclusions were drawn using the ‘bibliometric R-package’ and ‘VOSviewer’. Observations have shown that after 2018, scholarly attention quickened. Trending areas related to women’s entrepreneurship during the selected period include gender, growth, women and work. Highly relevant themes that are underdeveloped till now related to women entrepreneurs which can attract researchers in the future include mediating roles, moderating roles, leadership, performance, determination and much more. This bibliometric evaluation provides a thorough, organized, impartial analysis of women entrepreneurs. Results showed that business, management and entrepreneurship disciplines rule writings on women’s entrepreneurship. This study has identified four components based on the selected data, i.e., strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and dangers faced by women entrepreneurs. There is an utmost need for capacity development and training, particularly in the areas of governance, leadership, communications and the use of information, communication and technology in business because the majority of women entrepreneurs are unable to provide appropriate services to their members. The findings may give scholars and professionals information about the current situation and trending topics of female entrepreneurs. We put out a few research questions that may be addressed in the future for each of the primary study directions.
The Extract of Camellia japonica L. Protects against Mice Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury via Promoting the H2S-BKCa Pathway
Authors: Lu Weizhuo , Jiang Zenghong , Wen Jiyue
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives

The effect and mechanism of the extract of Camellia japonica L. (ECJ) on brain injury following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) were demonstrated in the present study.

Materials and Methods

We detected mice’s brain damage after cerebral I/R and tested neuronal injury following oxygen-glucose deprivation/re-oxygenation (OGD/R) to evaluate the neuroprotection of ECJ. Besides, we tested the expressions of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) synthase cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) and α subunit of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (BKα) both in brain tissues and culture neurons. Importantly, the roles of iberiotoxin (IbTX), BKCa channel inhibitor, and CBS inhibitor aminooxyacetic acid (AOAA) on ECJ-mediated neuroprotection were assessed to explore the neuroprotective mechanism of ECJ.

Results

ECJ treatment could alleviate the mice’s brain injury following cerebral I/R and reduce the neuronal damage caused by OGD/R in vitro, which was inhibited by IbTX and AOAA. In addition, ECJ could increase the expression of CBS and the α subunit of BKCa channel (BKα) in mice brain tissues and the culture neurons, as well as improve the H2S production. Furthermore, exogenous H2S donor NaHS also improved the BKα expression in OGD/R neurons. Importantly, NaHS alleviated the neuronal injury in vitro, which was inhibited by IbTX as well.

Conclusion

ECJ can protect against mouse cerebral I/R injury, the mechanism of which is correlated with promoting the CBS/H2S-BKCa pathway.
Evaluation of an in-house indirect immunoperoxidase test for detection of antibodies against African swine fever virus
Authors: Wu Ping , McDaniel Aric J. , Rodríguez Yelitza Y. , Blakemore Leslie , Schumann Kate R. , Chung Chungwon J. , Jia Wei
Published: September 2024

African swine fever (ASF) is a high-consequence transboundary animal disease caused by African swine fever virus (ASFV). Given that vaccines are not widely available, ASFV detection, including by molecular and serologic assays, is paramount to efficacious control and mitigation of ASF. ASFV-specific antibodies can be detected as early as 7–10 d postinfection in infected animals and may persist for several months or longer. Accurate detection of ASFV-specific antibody is critical for the identification of chronically infected, subclinically infected, or recovered animals. ELISAs are commonly used for the rapid screening of large numbers of animals for ASFV antibodies. The World Organisation for Animal Health recommends that ELISA-positive results should be confirmed with a second serologic method, such as an indirect immunofluorescent assay, indirect immunoperoxidase test (IPT), or immunoblot test. Commercial kits are not available for those tests. We developed and validated an in-house IPT by using a currently circulating genotype II ASFV strain as antigen. The sensitivity and specificity of the in-house IPT are comparable to the reference IPT developed by an international ASFV reference laboratory and superior to a commercial blocking ELISA.
Demoralization Syndrome in End-Of-Life Cancer Patients: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bovero Andrea , Cito Alessandra Loreta , Botto Rossana , Pidinchedda Alexa , Olivetti Veronica , Tucci Marcello , Geminiani Giuliano Carlo
Published: September 2024

Objectives

In our previous study we analyzed the prevalence of demoralization in a sample of 235 end-of-life cancer patients using the Demoralization Scale (DS). The findings revealed that 50.2% of the participants reported experiencing a moderate level of demoralization. The main sub-dimensions observed from the original DS were Helplessness, Disheartenment, and Sense of Failure, which we have categorized as “Emotional Distress and Inability to Cope”. The aim of this study was to qualitatively investigate the subjective experience of this factor among a group of terminal cancer patients.

Method

A sample of 30 patients was interviewed using seven open-ended questions, divided into 3 categories: helplessness, disheartenment and sense of failure. Content analysis was performed.

Results

Faith and prayer, social support and preserving autonomy were the principal coping strategies used by the sample and have been classed as sources of hope. Sadness, anger, death anxiety, fear, and sickness were the most commonly expressed emotions. Faith, social support, autonomy, and fighting spirit were identified as the primary coping strategies.

Conclusions

This study allowed a better understanding of the patient’s subjective experience of the demoralization sub-dimension. The deepening of the topic can increase personalized clinical interventions, according to the patient’s needs.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy for Early Maladaptive Grief Study Protocol
Authors: Tofthagen Cindy , Sheffield Kathy , Pachman Deirdre R. , Mandrekar Jay , Szalacha Laura A. , Chesak Sherry S. , Rhudy Lori M. , Kilpatrick Molly , Buck Harleah
Published: September 2024

The objective of this manuscript is to present the protocol of a study aiming to test the effects of Accelerated Resolution Therapy® (ART) on pre-loss grief and prolonged grief among older adult family caregivers. This study also aims to better understand predictors of response to ART®, and cognitive processes that occur among grieving individuals following ART®. Design: The study is a double-blinded, randomized clinical trial. Setting: This study takes place at both inpatient and outpatient palliative care and hospice programs at two Mayo Clinic sites. Participants: Participants include older adult ([Formula: see text] 60 years) immediate family members who are primary caregivers of someone with an advanced illness and life expectancy of less than 12 months. Intervention: Participants are randomized to either the ART® intervention group or the attention control group. In the ART® intervention, caregivers engage in imaginal exposure, lateral eye movements, and imagery rescripting via 4 sessions lasting 1-1.5 hours each. The attention control group receives a standard social work intervention, including education, resources, and active listening, which is matched for time and attention. Both interventions will longitudinally follow caregivers from active caregiving into bereavement. Outcomes Measured: The primary outcomes of pre-loss grief and prolonged grief will be measured with the Pre-Loss Grief 12 item (PG-12-R) before the care recipient’s death, and with the Prolonged Grief-13 (PG-13-R) afterwards.
Online Social Comparison and Impostor Phenomenon Among Music Education Undergraduates
Authors: Rinn Thomas J.
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate online social comparison and impostor phenomenon (IP) in undergraduate music education students. In Phase 1, participants provided demographic information and completed measures of online social comparison, Facebook use, and the Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale (CIPS). Facebook social comparison emerged as the only significant predictor of IP in participants accounting for 13.3% of the variance in CIPS scores. In Phase 2, I conducted focus groups to investigate participants’ perceptions of how they engaged in online social comparison. I identified four themes in the data: (a) comparing to peers online, (b) using Facebook for professional purposes, (c) psychological effects of online comparison, and (d) withdrawing from social media to avoid adverse effects. The findings provide insight for music teacher educators into how online social interactions among students may influence music educator identity and well-being during the undergraduate degree.
Fault tolerant control of uncertain hydraulic system against actuator fault based on redesign Lyapunov approach
Authors: Ben Hassen Walid , Tellili Adel , Abdelkrim Nouceyba
Published: September 2024

The design of stabilizing controller for uncertain nonlinear systems with control constraints is a challenging problem. This paper proposes the design of fault tolerant control for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems with actuator faults based on Lyapunov redesign principle. First, an assumption is introduced to design the control of the nominal system. Then, a new control law has been introduced to handle the difficulty caused by actuator failures. It is shown that the actuator faults can be completely compensated by the proposed nonlinear controller. Finally, the method will be applied to a hydraulic system to show its effectiveness.
A novel memristive chaotic jerk circuit and its microcontroller-based sliding mode control
Authors: Yesil Abdullah , Gokyildirim Abdullah , Babacan Yunus , Calgan Haris
Published: September 2024

Due to the experimental realization of memristor circuit elements, research on memristors and memristor-based circuits has surged. Because of their nonvolatile and nonlinear behavior, memristors can be easily applied to chaotic circuits. This study introduces a novel memristive 3D chaotic jerk system, comprising only seven terms, along with its electronic model and microcontroller-based control. The flux-controlled memristor-based jerk system exhibits complex dynamics, which were analyzed through various properties such as phase portraits, the Jacobian matrix, equilibria, eigenvalues, Lyapunov spectra, bifurcation diagrams, and transient chaos behavior. Three controllers, namely, nonlinear feedback, classical sliding mode, and integral sliding mode were designed to control the chaotic jerk oscillator. Lyapunov functions were used to synthesize the nonlinear feedback controller and ensure system stability with the sliding mode technique. Numerical tests under various performance criteria and disturbance conditions showed that the sliding mode controller outperforms the nonlinear feedback controller due to its single-state control structure. The chaotic jerk oscillator hardware circuit was designed and implemented, operating easily with initial conditions set to zero and low DC supply voltages, with all output voltages within ±6V. Both theoretical and simulation results demonstrate the system’s complexity and applicability, with experimental results aligning well with simulations. Consequently, effective microcontroller-based control was achieved using a single-state controller.
Embodied Empowerment: Somatic Approaches to Gender Violence and Trauma
Authors: Brigden Noelle , Hlavka Heather R.
Published: September 2024

This special issue brings together recent research on embodiment and practitioner-based somatic approaches to examine trauma and healing from violence. Contributors address the long-term somatic impact of oppression and the effects of structural inequalities enacted and perpetuated through bodies and in interaction with other bodies. Somatic practices and embodiment are addressed through the lens of intergenerational trauma, gendered, racialized, political, and colonial violence, and interpersonal and collective trauma. The introductory article contextualizes embodied empowerment, collective healing, and activist-research possibilities.
Problematic Sexual Behavior in Children: The Influence of Transgressions of Interpersonal Boundaries and Family Adversity Across Generations
Authors: Daignault Isabelle V. , Bédard Sarah , Chouinard Thivierge Stéphanie , Pitre Camille , Vidal-Bernard Alexandra
Published: September 2024

Problematic sexual behavior (PSBs) in children have been linked to difficulties or challenges within the family environment. Despite this association, few studies have examined how interpersonal boundary transgressions influence children’s PSBs. Based on a sample of 112 parent-child dyads recruited before undergoing PSB-focused psychotherapy, this study first aims to explore the concept of sexual, physical, and emotional boundary transgressions within the current family environment in relation to reported levels of PSBs. The study further investigates the connections between parents’ current boundary transgressions and their past and present family environments. Bivariate analyses revealed a positive correlation between heightened levels of interpersonal boundary transgressions and increased PBS, alongside elevated externalized behaviors. Two hierarchical linear regression models were employed: one to predict children’s PSB scores with boundary transgressions as a predictor, and another to predict current boundary transgressions within the family environment. Results showed that current boundary transgressions within the family predicted the level of PSBs. However, once the child’s externalized behaviors were considered, boundary transgressions ceased to be significant. Regarding the parents, transgression of interpersonal boundaries within the current family environment was associated with exposure to higher levels of interpersonal boundary transgressions during their childhood, current socioeconomic status, and a higher level of parental psychological distress. Keywords: problematic sexual behavior, PSBs, transgression of interpersonal boundaries, conceptual model, victimization experiences, intergenerational cycle.
A Study on the Impact of Public Parks on Community Health
Authors: Emmanuel Ojonugwa
Published: September 2024

To ascertain if living near green spaces is linked with the health and well-being of the inhabitants of Denton County, this study examines the variables that characterize community well-being regarding park accessibility and proximity. This research identifies a few factors likely to impact residents’ wellness. These factors determine whether living close to or having access to green spaces positively correlates with residents’ health and wellness. This paper found out that distance to the park is not the only factor that enhances physical activity; other factors such as types of nature (Blue space and Countryside) and size of green spaces, accessibility of parks, quality of parks, Social and recreational services availability; park maintenance, and management is influential. Overall, proximity to green spaces, such as parks and natural areas, has been associated with reduced stress, anxiety, and depression. Green spaces contribute to cleaner air by absorbing pollutants and producing oxygen.
Non-smooth Bayesian optimization in tuning scientific applications
Authors: Luo Hengrui , Cho Younghyun , Demmel James W , Kozachenko Igor , Li Xiaoye S , Liu Yang
Published: September 2024

Tuning algorithmic parameters to optimize the performance of large, complicated computational codes is an important problem involving finding the optima and identifying regimes defined by non-smooth boundaries in black-box functions. Within the Bayesian optimization framework, the Gaussian process surrogate model produces smooth mean functions, but functions in the tuning problem are often non-smooth, which is exacerbated by the fact that we usually have limited sequential samples from the black-box function. Motivated by these issues encountered in tuning, we propose a novel Gaussian process model called a clustered Gaussian process (cGP), where the components are dynamically updated by clustering. In our studies, the performance of cGP can be better than stationary GPs in nearly 90% of the experiments and better than non-stationary GPs in nearly 70% of the repeated experiments while requiring less computational cost. cGP provides a novel approach for dynamic GP, computes more efficiently than recursive partitioning, and discovers non-smoothness regimes. We provide extensive experiments including high-performance computing (HPC) and industrial simulation functions to show the effectiveness of our methods.
Efficacy of ranibizumab and aflibercept on reducing maximum diameter of largest cyst in diabetic cystoid macular edema: MARMASIA study group
Authors: Tokuç Ecem Önder , Karabaş V. Levent , Sevik Mehmet Orkun , Kaplan Fatih Bilgehan , Kutlutürk Karagöz Işıl , Kanar Hatice Selen , Yayla Uğur , Sönmez Ayşe Demirciler , Aykut Aslan , Limon Utku , Bozkurt Erdinç , Özsoy Saygın Işılay , Aydoğan Gezginaslan Tuğba , Erçalık Nimet Yeşim , Kumral Türkseven Esra , Aydın Öncü Özlem , Çelik Erkan , Başaran Emengen Ece , Özkaya Abdullah , Öncel Banu Açıkalın , Yenerel Nursal Melda , Şahin Özlem
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the effect of intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) and ranibizumab (IVR) on the maximal diameter of the largest intraretinal cyst (mdIRC), indicating chronicity in patients with diabetic cystoid macular edema (CME).

Methods

This retrospective, comparative study included a subgroup of patients from the MARMASIA Study with treatment-naïve diabetic CME who had IVA (IVA group) or IVR (IVR group) on a pro re nata regimen after a loading dose of 3-monthly injections and followed-up for 24 months. Best-corrected visual acuity (logMAR), central macular thickness (CMT, µm), and mdIRC (µm) and their changes during the study period in the IVA and IVR groups were compared.

Results

A total of 175 eyes (65 [37.1%] in IVA and 110 [62.9%] in IVR group) of 113 patients were included in the study analysis. Both groups had statistically significant improvements in BCVA and CMT during the follow-up (p < 0.05 for all), which were comparable between the groups at each time point. However, the mean reduction in mdIRCs was consistently and significantly higher in the IVA group compared to the IVR group at each follow-up examination (F[1, 3.52] = 6.93, p = 0.009).

Conclusion

IVA seems to have a greater impact in reducing cyst sizes than IVR in diabetic CME.
Training for ultrasound-guided implantation of central venous catheters eliminates venolysis in pediatric patients
Authors: Finazzi Paolo , Rodriguez Perez Carmen , Risso Francesco Maria , Giannini Alberto Michele
Published: September 2024

Background:

In the pediatric setting, the procurement of vascular access can be particularly difficult. Surgical venolysis was the first technique described but, in recent years, the literature has shown that ultrasound-guided implantation has fewer complications. The principal aim of this paper is to state how after a structured training to place ultrasound-guided central lines, venolysis was definitively abandoned in our hospital. We also analyzed the impact of training on the duration of procedures. Finally, the number of procedures performed per operator to maintain the quality standard achieved.

Method:

In this observational retrospective study, we analyzed data from 2013 to 2020 of 1497 pediatric and neonatal central venous access placements in a single center during a training path.

Results:

Venolysis performed by the pediatric surgeons was used in 11% of total placements, the most in the smallest patients (76.1%, <1 year of age). With the implementation of training, this invasive technique became obsolete to the point where it was no longer practiced (24.6% of vascular placement in 2013 to 0% in 2020). In the placement performed by the pediatric anesthesiologists, time progressively decreased from 51.5 min in 2013 to 29.4 min in 2022. From the analysis of the number of procedures performed by pediatric anesthesiologists, the first consultant involved performed averaging 48 procedures per year, while the other consultants had an overall average of 16.7–25 placements per year.

Conclusion:

Echo-guided vascular cannulation was found to be safe, reliable, and reproducible in pediatric patients and neonates and permits to deletion definitively venolysis. Well-structured training is essential and should be standardized in the future.
Comparing Deep Learning Performance for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia Cell Segmentation in Brightfield Microscopy Images
Authors: Vašinková Markéta , Doleží Vít , Vašinek Michal , Gajdoš Petr , Kriegová Eva
Published: September 2024

Objectives:

This article focuses on the detection of cells in low-contrast brightfield microscopy images; in our case, it is chronic lymphocytic leukaemia cells. The automatic detection of cells from brightfield time-lapse microscopic images brings new opportunities in cell morphology and migration studies; to achieve the desired results, it is advisable to use state-of-the-art image segmentation methods that not only detect the cell but also detect its boundaries with the highest possible accuracy, thus defining its shape and dimensions.

Methods:

We compared eight state-of-the-art neural network architectures with different backbone encoders for image data segmentation, namely U-net, U-net++, the Pyramid Attention Network, the Multi-Attention Network, LinkNet, the Feature Pyramid Network, DeepLabV3, and DeepLabV3+. The training process involved training each of these networks for 1000 epochs using the PyTorch and PyTorch Lightning libraries. For instance segmentation, the watershed algorithm and three-class image semantic segmentation were used. We also used StarDist, a deep learning-based tool for object detection with star-convex shapes.

Results:

The optimal combination for semantic segmentation was the U-net++ architecture with a ResNeSt-269 background with a data set intersection over a union score of 0.8902. For the cell characteristics examined (area, circularity, solidity, perimeter, radius, and shape index), the difference in mean value using different chronic lymphocytic leukaemia cell segmentation approaches appeared to be statistically significant (Mann–Whitney U test, P < .0001).

Conclusion:

We found that overall, the algorithms demonstrate equal agreement with ground truth, but with the comparison, it can be seen that the different approaches prefer different morphological features of the cells. Consequently, choosing the most suitable method for instance-based cell segmentation depends on the particular application, namely, the specific cellular traits being investigated.
Therapeutic Opportunities in Breast Cancer by Targeting Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor as a Pleiotropic Cytokine
Authors: Khezrian Ali , Shojaeian Ali , Khaghani Boroujeni Armin , Amini Razieh
Published: September 2024

As a heterogeneous disease, breast cancer (BC) has been characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of mammary epithelial cells. The tumor microenvironment (TME) also contains inflammatory cells, fibroblasts, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and soluble factors that all promote BC progression. In this sense, the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), a pleiotropic pro-inflammatory cytokine and an upstream regulator of the immune response, enhances breast tumorigenesis through escalating cancer cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, and stemness, which then brings tumorigenic effects by activating key oncogenic signaling pathways and inducing immunosuppression. Against this background, this review was to summarize the current understanding of the MIF pathogenic mechanisms in cancer, particularly BC, and address the central role of this immunoregulatory cytokine in signaling pathways and breast tumorigenesis. Furthermore, different inhibitors, such as small molecules as well as antibodies (Abs) or small interfering RNA (siRNA) and their anti-tumor effects in BC studies were examined. Small molecules and other therapy target MIF. Considering MIF as a promising therapeutic target, further clinical evaluation of MIF-targeted agents in patients with BC was warranted.