bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Restructuring of Peer Firms on Investment
Authors:   , Kim Hojoong
Published: February 2024

Firms' operational restructuring involves information relevant to strategic choices as well as future demand and cost conditions. This study examines the relationship between peer firms' restructuring and a company's responsiveness to its growth opportunities. Peer firm restructuring can increase uncertainty with respect to a company's payoffs regarding its investment projects, leading to decreased responsiveness to growth opportunities. Using a large sample of public companies during 2006–2020, I find that peer firms' restructuring is negatively associated with the responsiveness of capital expenditures (Capex) to growth opportunities. The results suggest that peer firms' restructuring activities provide information about a company's investment projects above and beyond industry shocks reflected in changes in industry sales. Furthermore, these associations are moderated by industry competition. The negative effects of peer firms' restructuring on Capex sensitivity are the strongest in high-competition industries.
Rethinking the Study of Conflict and Peace: Making Causal Inferences in Quantitative Conflict and Peace Research
Authors:   , Lookabaugh Jr. Brian Scott
Published: February 2024

Most research questions and theory in quantitative peace and conflict research are fundamentally causal. However, a large gap exists in the extant literature between research question and research methodology. Not only does most existing methodology fail to achieve what most quantitative peace scholars attempt, but many researchers do not appear to be aware of these limitations. In this dissertation, I outline five key shortcomings within this literature that, left unaddressed, create results that are not informative of the questions quantitative peace researchers are interested in. This dissertation demonstrates solutions addressing these shortcomings with two applied chapters, conducting causal research designs on a study examining the economic impact of United Nations peacekeeping operations and the effect of human rights treaties on repression, respectively. I find that conventionally-established results in the literature change dramatically when exposed to methodological changes informed by the causal inference literature.
A case of acute myocardial infarction in a patient with essential thrombocythaemia treated with anagrelide
Authors: Yetiskul Ekrem , Nisar Aqsa , Khan Salman , Qaqish Faris , Khan Danyal , Bershadskiy Alexander
Published: February 2024

Anagrelide is a medication primarily used to manage thrombocytosis, an abnormal increase in platelet levels in the blood. It is often prescribed for patients with myeloproliferative disorders, such as essential thrombocythaemia (ET). Given the heightened susceptibility to thromboembolism associated with this condition, the primary emphasis in treatment revolves around reducing the risk of thrombotic events through the administration of cytotoxic agents. While anagrelide is generally effective in reducing platelet counts, it comes with potential side effects, including an increased risk of certain thrombotic events. Anagrelide acts by inhibiting megakaryocyte maturation and platelet release, thereby reducing platelet production. However, this platelet-lowering effect may be accompanied by an increase in platelet activation and reactivity, which could contribute to a prothrombotic state. We present a case of a 60-year-old female with a history of ET, managed with anagrelide and hydroxyurea therapy, who experienced an acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction.
Large coronary cameral fistula to the left ventricle presenting as congestive heart failure
Authors: Chirumamilla Yashitha , Brar Ajit , Belal Farouk , McDonald Philip
Published: February 2024

A 56-year-old African American female was under evaluation for coronary artery disease by a cardiologist due to her complaints of intermittent chest pain. She underwent an outpatient echocardiogram and was found to have an ejection fraction of 20–25% with global left ventricular hypokinesis. Due to this finding along with her ongoing chest pain, she was referred to the emergency department for further evaluation. Her electrocardiogram showed changes suggestive of ischaemia and her cardiac troponins were mildly elevated, so she underwent an urgent cardiac catheterisation. The angiography confirmed the reduced ejection fraction and global left ventricular hypokinesis, but also demonstrated a large coronary cameral fistula (CCF) extending from the first septal branch into the left ventricle. She was then diagnosed with non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction secondary to the CCF. In this report, we illustrate a frequently encountered clinical scenario in which a patient presented with chest pain and EKG findings indicative of ischaemic cardiomyopathy. The patient also had several risk factors for coronary artery disease, however further investigation revealed an alternative diagnosis.
MATERNIDADE NO SISTEMA PRISIONAL BRASILEIRO
Authors: Costa Bianca Neves Batista , Nascimento Simone Murta Cardoso do
Published: February 2024

Este trabalho objetiva demonstrar a realidade dos presídios femininos e as violações de direitos que neles acontecem, principalmente, sobre o exercício da maternidade. Os presídios não foram pensados para receber mulheres, e o estigma social sobre elas acarretou em seu abandono dentro dessas instituições. Assim, a mulher, muitas vezes, cumpre o seu tempo de pena sem visitação e seu encarceramento compromete todo o vínculo familiar, principalmente o convívio com seus filhos. Desta forma, esse trabalho busca expor como as instituições que deveriam proteger e garantir o direito dessas mulheres e crianças atuam como inviabilizadoras de direitos, e como expõem essas crianças ao etiquetamento social, ao mesmo tempo em que impedem que essas mulheres exerçam a maternidade. Busca-se comparar a legislação e a realidade, por meio de relatos documentais, a fim de solucionar um dos problemas invisíveis de nossa sociedade: a criminalização dos filhos de mulheres encarceradas.
Palavras-chave: Maternidade; Presídios femininos; Direitos das crianças; Etiquetamento social; Criminalização.
Legado acadêmico de estudos linguísticos em contexto amazônico mato-grossense
Authors: Santos Leandra Ines Seganfredo , De Pinho Albina Pereira
Published: February 2024

Este artigo analisa as produções acadêmicas em estudos linguísticos defendidas no período de 2018 a 2022 no contexto do Programa de Pós-graduação stricto sensu, Curso de Mestrado Acadêmico em Letras (PPGLetras), câmpus universitário de Sinop-MT, filiadas ao Grupo de Estudos e Pesquisas em Linguística Aplicada e Sociolinguística, totalizando quarenta dissertações. O objetivo consiste em historicizar o legado acadêmico proporcionado pelas pesquisas nos cinco primeiros anos de existência do programa a partir de um panorama norteado pelas seguintes categorias analíticas: título, objetivo(s) de pesquisa, viés teórico-metodológico, bem como resultados alcançados nos estudos em cada subárea. A análise visa, ainda, apontar possíveis lacunas e temáticas para pesquisas futuras. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa documental de enfoque interpretativista. Os resultados sinalizam que o legado dos estudos linguísticos tem produzido significativas contribuições e mudanças no cenário da educação básica, como também no percurso de aprendizagem, formação pessoal e profissional e constituição identitária de docentes de língua. Conclui-se que as pesquisas da linha dos Estudos Linguísticos do PPGLetras cumprem seu compromisso social e educacional e, ao mesmo tempo, tem um alcance considerável dos municípios que se situam nas regiões periféricas da Amazônia mato-grossense.
Highlighting the latest research: February 2024
Authors: Palmer Sarah Jane , Cowan Helen
Published: February 2024

Sarah Jane Palmer presents a selection of recently published articles of interest to nurses working in cardiovascular nursing, while Helen Cowan explores their application to practice. The aim of this roundup is to provide a brief overview of the research papers selected and highlight their relevance to cardiac nursing practice. A full reference is provided for those who wish to look at the research in further detail.
Trends in council spending on services for vulnerable children
Authors: Rome Andrew
Published: February 2024

Latest figures show that the amount spent by local authorities on children's services has accelerated over the past year. Andrew Rome summarises the key drivers of change and offers advice on how commissioners can respond to spending trends
Young dads' films give advice for better parenting
Authors: Józwiak Gabriella
Published: February 2024

Online platform sees young fathers produce films to share their experiences and practical advice, while helping to reduce the stigma around young fatherhood
Prediction model for dental implants utilization in the elderly after the national health insurance coverage of dental implants : focusing on socioeconomic factors
Authors: Lee Sang-Hee , Kim Kyu-Seok , Mun Hye-Young , Kang Jung-Yun
Published: February 2024

Objectives: The demand for dental care is expected to increase as the population ages. This study aimed to predict the utilization of dental implant care following the expansion of national health insurance benefits for dental implants. Methods: Multiple linear regression analysis was performed on HIRA big data open portal data and DNN-based artificial intelligence models to forecast the utilization of dental care in relation to the national health insurance coverage for dental implants. Results: National health insurance coverage of dental implants was found to be associated with the number of patients using dental implant services and demonstrated a statistical significance. The dental implant services utilization increased with the increased dental implant health insurance benefits for the elderly population, increased mean by region, increased number of dental institutions by region, and increased health insurance coverage rate for dental implants. However, the dental implant services utilization decreased with the increased number of older people living alone and increased size of dental institutions. Conclusions: With the expansion of the national health insurance coverage for dental implants, it is predicted that the utilization of dental implant medical services will increase in the future.
Traces of Truth: Chūgan Engetsu's Konhōron
Authors: Morley Brendan Arkell
Published: February 2024

Abstract: This study examines Konhōron , a Japanese exegesis of a well-known episode from Zhuangzi —a foundational and highly imaginative work of Chinese philosophy. Authored in the fourteenth century by Chūgan Engetsu, a Zen monk and prominent intellectual, Konhōron treats the symbolic significance of two of Zhuangzi 's most enigmatic characters: a gargantuan fish named Kun and an enormous bird named Peng. Chūgan's text offers a finely wrought symbolic reading that integrates yin-yang theory, the trigrams of the Yijing and the Yellow River Chart , the five phases, numerology, and etymological analysis. The present article explicates the key arguments of Chūgan's analysis, in particular his affirmation of language's ability to capture phenomenal reality and of the pedagogical potential of fantasy as a means of expressing larger truths about the world. It further demonstrates how that analysis functioned, in part, as a defense of the use of numerological symbolism and the broader yin-yang framework as hermeneutical tools—a view that ran counter to the mainstream of earlier and contemporaneous commentary.
Terahertz polarimetric imaging of biological tissue: Monte Carlo modeling of signal contrast mechanisms due to Mie scattering
Authors: Xu Kuangyi , Arbab M. Hassan
Published: February 2024

Many promising biomedical applications have been proposed for terahertz (THz) spectroscopy and diagnostic imaging techniques. Polarimetric imaging systems are generally useful for enhancing imaging contrasts, yet the interplay between THz polarization changes and the random discrete structures in biological samples is not well understood. In this work, we performed Monte Carlo simulations of the propagation of polarized THz waves in skin and adipose tissues based on the Mie scattering from intrinsic structures, such as hair follicles or sweat glands. We show that the polarimetric contrasts are distinctly affected by concentration, size and dielectric properties of the scatterers, as well as the frequency and polarization of the incident THz waves. We describe the experimental requirements for observing and extracting these polarimetric signals due to the low energy and small angular spread of the back-scattered THz radiation. We analyzed the spatially integrated Mueller matrices of samples in the normal-incidence back-scattering geometry. We show that the frequency-dependent degree of polarization (DOP) can be used to infer the concentrations and dielectric contents of the scattering structures. Our modeling approach can be used to inform the design of the imaging modalities and the interpretation of the spectroscopic data in future terahertz biomedical imaging applications.
Interferometer-based chemical sensor on chip with enhanced responsivity and low-cost interrogation
Authors: Piretta Flaminia , Samà Francesca , Bontempi Francesca , Elaskar Javier , Angeloni Debora , Oton Claudio J.
Published: February 2024

We report experimental results of an interferometric chemical sensor integrated on a silicon chip. The sensor measures refractive index variations of the liquid that contacts exposed spiraled silicon waveguides on one branch of a Mach-Zehnder interferometer. The system requires neither laser tuning nor spectral analysis, but a laser at a fixed wavelength, and a demodulation architecture that includes an internal phase modulator and a real-time processing algorithm based on multitone mixing. Two devices are compared in terms of sensitivity and noise, one at 1550 nm wavelength and TE polarization, and an optimized device at 1310 nm and TM polarization, which shows 3 times higher sensitivity and a limit of detection of 2.24·10−7 RIU.
Polarization coherence frustration
Authors: Réfrégier Philippe , Fade Julien
Published: February 2024

From the joint analysis of polarization and coherence properties of light, a remarkable concept referred to as polarization coherence frustration is introduced and analyzed. It is shown that two kinds of partially polarized and partially coherent light, with different levels of complexity, can be distinguished and that they mathematically correspond to different equivalence classes. On the one hand, light has polarization coherence properties that are not frustrated in a spatial domain D when there exists a configuration of local polarization devices at each location of the light field that allows the maximization of the modulus of the scalar degree of coherence between any couple of points in D. Two conditions are shown to hold for light to be polarization coherence unfrustrated and their physical interpretations are analyzed. On the other hand, if one of these conditions is not verified, polarization coherence frustration occurs. These notions are discussed in analogy with well-known concepts of frustration and gauge transformations developed in statistical physics for spin glasses. Their relevance in the field of statistical optics is demonstrated through different theoretical results and examples.
Evolution mechanism of scratch removal based on the implementation of magnetorheological finishing
Authors: Li Yongjie , Li Longxiang , Li Xingchang , Cheng Runmu , Wei Hongda , Liu Ximing , Wang Yiren , Zhang Xuejun
Published: February 2024

Scratches on optical components induce laser damage and limit the increase in laser power. Magnetorheological finishing (MRF) is a highly deterministic optical manufacturing technology that can improve the surface roughness of optical components. Although MRF has exhibited significant potential for reducing subsurface damage and removing scratches, the principle and mechanism behind the scratch removal are not sufficiently understood. In this study, the theory of fluid mechanics is used to analyze the pressure, velocity, and particle trajectory distribution near a scratch. A physical model was developed for the differential removal of scratches at the bottom and surface of the optical components. The morphological evolution of the scratch was predicted during removal, and detailed experiments were performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed model. The results indicate that scratches expand laterally rather than being completely removed. Furthermore, scratch removal efficiency is greater when the removal direction is perpendicular to the scratch rather than being parallel. This study offers an intrinsic perspective for a comprehensive understanding of the MRF technique used for scratch removal, which can be beneficial for removing scratches from aspherical optical systems.
Manipulation of optical orbit-induced localized spin angular momentum using the periodic edge dislocation
Authors: Liu Fengqi , Song Jingqi , Zhang Naichen , Tong Xiangyu , Sun Mingli , Cao Bingsong , Huang Kaikai , Zhang Xian , Lu Xuanhui
Published: February 2024

Orbit-induced localized spin angular momentum (OILS) has recently garnered significant attention. This paper introduces periodic edge dislocation (PED) into the tight focusing system. The study delves into the tight focusing characteristics of the radially polarized vortex plane beam with PED, demonstrating that PED serves as a straightforward and effective means of manipulating OILS, especially when both the orbital angular momentum and the polarization of the incident beam are fixed. Our findings indicate that the longitudinal OILS reaches its maximum when the difference between the period of PED and the vortex topological charge is equal to 1. Conversely, when the difference is 0, the transverse OILS reaches its maximum, while the longitudinal OILS reaches its minimum. Similar patterns are also observed in linearly polarized vortex beams. This research proposes a simple and practical way to control OILS, contributing to our understanding of optical orbit-spin coupling.
Time-reversed electromagnetic fields in anisotropic media
Authors: Le Boudec Elias , Mora Nicolas , Rachidi Farhad , Rubinstein Marcos , Vega Felix
Published: February 2024

Electromagnetic time reversal is commonly used for field imaging and focusing. This Letter builds upon the concept of the time-reversal cavity, which constitutes the main theoretical framework of time reversal theory. We study the behavior of the fields using modern methods of mathematical physics involving Colombeau generalized functions. This approach allows for a direct expression of time-reversed electric and magnetic fields in anisotropic time-reversal-invariant and nonreciprocal media. Moreover, the results hold for any arbitrary localized source and can readily be applied beyond the dipole approximation. Finally, a general result allows the prediction of the quality of focusing of the time-reversed fields as a function of the electrical permittivity and the magnetic permeability tensors in homogeneous anisotropic media, which contributes to the understanding of time reversal in complex media such as super-resolution enabling metamaterials.
Demonstration of a 1 TW peak power, joule-level ultrashort Tm:YLF laser
Authors: Tamer Issa , Hubka Zbynek , Kiani Leily , Owens Jason , Church Andrew , Batysta František , Galvin Thomas , Willard Drew , Yandow Andrew , Galbraith Justin , Alessi David , Harthcock Colin , Hickman Brad , Jackson Candis , Nissen James , Tardiff Sean , Nguyen Hoang , Sistrunk Emily , Spinka Thomas , Reagan Brendan A.
Published: February 2024

We report on the demonstration of a diode-pumped, Tm:YLF-based, chirped pulse amplification laser system operating at λ ≈ 1.9 µm that produces amplified pulse energies exceeding 1.5 J using a single 8-pass power amplifier. The amplified pulses are subsequently compressed to sub-300 fs durations by a diffraction grating pair, producing record >1 TW peak power pulses. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest peak power demonstrated for any solid-state, near-2 µm laser architecture and illustrates the potential of Tm:YLF for the next generation of high-power, diode-pumped ultrashort lasers.
Comparison of plane-to-sky contrast and detection range performance in the visible, short-wave infrared, mid-wave infrared, and long-wave infrared bands
Authors: Cavanaugh Richard , Jordan Shane , Rubis Jordan , Ledbetter Jamie , Driggers Ronald
Published: February 2024

Recent advances in uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) technology have the potential to benefit diverse civil, commercial, scientific, and defense projects. Many applications would benefit from beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations. Such operations require automated safety systems that allow uncrewed aircraft to avoid collisions with both crewed and uncrewed aircraft. Electro-optical and infrared sensors are commonly employed by aircraft collision avoidance systems. This study compares plane-to-sky contrast in the VIS (0.4 to 0.7 µm), SWIR (1 to 1.7 µm), MWIR (3 to 5 µm), and LWIR (8 to 14 µm) to determine which band is most sensitive to aircraft signal against a clear sky background. Contrast in the two reflective bands (VIS and SWIR) is determined in terms of equivalent reflectivity, and contrast in the two emissive bands (MWIR and LWIR) is determined in terms of equivalent blackbody temperature. Sensitivity data is then used alongside resolution specs to estimate detection performance at-range using the Night Vision Integrated Performance Model (NVIPM). Results are extrapolated to a maritime atmosphere using MODTRAN. The analysis of contrast, range-performance, and recommendations on band selection are provided for reference in the design of EO/IR systems for aircraft collision avoidance. Future research may study band performance at night and against other backgrounds (e.g. clouds, ocean, ground terrain).
Anthracyclines induce cardiotoxicity through a shared gene expression response signature
Authors: Matthews E. Renee , Johnson Omar D. , Horn Kandace J. , Gutiérrez José A. , Powell Simon R. , Ward Michelle C.
Published: February 2024

TOP2 inhibitors (TOP2i) are effective drugs for breast cancer treatment. However, they can cause cardiotoxicity in some women. The most widely used TOP2i include anthracyclines (AC) Doxorubicin (DOX), Daunorubicin (DNR), Epirubicin (EPI), and the anthraquinone Mitoxantrone (MTX). It is unclear whether women would experience the same adverse effects from all drugs in this class, or if specific drugs would be preferable for certain individuals based on their cardiotoxicity risk profile. To investigate this, we studied the effects of treatment of DOX, DNR, EPI, MTX, and an unrelated monoclonal antibody Trastuzumab (TRZ) on iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs) from six healthy females. All TOP2i induce cell death at concentrations observed in cancer patient serum, while TRZ does not. A sub-lethal dose of all TOP2i induces limited cellular stress but affects calcium handling, a function critical for cardiomyocyte contraction. TOP2i induce thousands of gene expression changes over time, giving rise to four distinct gene expression response signatures, denoted as TOP2i early-acute, early-sustained, and late response genes, and non-response genes. There is no drug- or AC-specific signature. TOP2i early response genes are enriched in chromatin regulators, which mediate AC sensitivity across breast cancer patients. However, there is increased transcriptional variability between individuals following AC treatments. To investigate potential genetic effects on response variability, we first identified a reported set of expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) uncovered following DOX treatment in iPSC-CMs. Indeed, DOX response eQTLs are enriched in genes that respond to all TOP2i. Next, we identified 38 genes in loci associated with AC toxicity by GWAS or TWAS. Two thirds of the genes that respond to at least one TOP2i, respond to all ACs with the same direction of effect. Our data demonstrate that TOP2i induce thousands of shared gene expression changes in cardiomyocytes, including genes near SNPs associated with inter-individual variation in response to DOX treatment and AC-induced cardiotoxicity.
Low prevalence of scabies and impetigo in Dakar/Senegal: A cluster-randomised, cross-sectional survey
Authors: Hansmann Andreas , Wamba Lékémo Genevia , Fomba Chiaka , Kaddoura Jade , Toure Ramatoullaye , Diop Assane , Ndiaye Maodo , Chosidow Olivier , Marks Michael , Ly Fatimata
Published: February 2024

Background

Scabies, a parasitic infection caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis, is a public health problem with significant morbidity worldwide, particularly in low-resource countries. Impetigo, a complication of scabies infection, is a risk factor for sepsis, glomerulonephritis and possibly acute rheumatic fever. Currently, the majority of epidemiological data has been collected in rural populations in the Pacific with limited applicability to urban populations in sub-Saharan Africa, where scabies is also believed to be a problem. To inform future public health programs, more reliable information about the burden of disease is required.

Methodology/Principal findings

In July/August 2022, we conducted a cross sectional, cluster-randomised, household survey in Pikine/Dakar using the ‘International Association for the Control of Scabies (IACS)’ criteria to diagnose scabies and impetigo. All participants underwent a standardised clinical examination by post-graduate dermatology students. For those diagnosed with scabies, an age-adapted ‘Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI)’ questionnaire was filled. We recruited and examined 1697 participants to detect 27 cases of scabies (prevalence: 1.6%, 95% CI 0.8–3.2), mostly in school aged children. Ten participants suffered from impetigo (prevalence: 0.6%, 95% CI 0.3–1.3), 5 of which were dually infected with scabies. Risk factors for scabies infection were young age, male gender and Koranic school attendance. Of those found to have scabies, in 7 out of 22 cases (31.8%) it had a large effect on their lives according to the DLQI questionnaires filled.

Conclusions/Significance

This study adds to the mapping of the burden of scabies across Africa to support public health action. With a low prevalence of scabies that is concentrated amongst poor households and children attending Koranic schools, a focused public health approach targeting Koranic schools and poor households seems to be most appropriate in this community.
Delay in reaching health facilities for emergency obstetric care and associated factors among postpartum mothers at Bale zones, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study
Authors: Eshetu Derese , Aschalew Zeleke , Bante Agegnehu , Negesa Belda , Gomora Degefa , Ejigu Neway , Geta Girma , Mersha Abera
Published: February 2024

Maternal mortality occurs in developing nations as a result of inadequate health care, delayed medical attention and the inability to access medical facilities. The three-delay model was employed to determine the causes of maternal death. There was limited data on maternal delay in reaching health facilities for emergency obstetric care services in the study area. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of delay in reaching health facilities for emergency obstetric care and associated factors among postpartum mothers at Bale and east Bale zones. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 407 postnatal women from April 6 to May 6, 2022. A systematic sampling technique was used to select study participants. The data were collected electronically using an Open Data Kit and exported to SPSS window version 25 for cleaning and analysis. Both bivariable and multivariable analysis was done by using a binary logistic regression model to identify factors associated with delay in traveling for emergency obstetric care services. Statistical significance was declared at P-value < 0.05. In this study, the prevalence of delay in reaching health facilities during emergency obstetric care was 38.1% (95%CI: 33.3, 43). The following factors showed significant association with delay in reaching health facilities during emergency obstetric care: Average monthly income (AOR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.12, 3.14), distance (AOR = 4.35; 95% CI: 2.65, 7.14), a referral from other health facilities (AOR = 1.77; 95% CI: 1.01, 3.11) and delay one (AOR = 2.9; 95% CI: 1.7, 4.93). This study showed that the prevalence of delay in reaching health facilities for emergency obstetric care services in the study area was high. Promoting road accessibility and transport mechanisms and strengthening referral mechanisms shall be emphasized.
Study of medium and long-term free flow capacity and queue discharge rates on roads
Authors: Rong Yi , Xue Zitao
Published: February 2024

With the rise in vehicle ownership, traffic congestion has emerged as a major barrier to urban progress, making the study and optimization of urban road capacity exceedingly crucial. The research on the medium and long-term free-flowing capacity and queue emission rate of roads takes an in-depth exploration of this issue from a cutting-edge perspective, aiming to find solutions adaptable to the progression of the times. The purpose of this study is to understand and predict the road capacity and queue emission rate more accurately, thus improving the urban traffic condition. Existing literature primarily focuses on short-term forecasts of road capacity, leaving a notable void in the research of medium and long-term road capacity and queue emission rate. This gap often results in a lack of sufficient foresight when urban traffic planning faces practical issues. To fill this void, this study undertook an in-depth examination of the road capacity and queue emission rate over the medium and long term (10 years) based on big data analysis and artificial intelligence theories. This paper employs a Radial Basis Function (RBF) neural network, combined with twelve other parameters that could potentially impact road capacity, such as traffic volume, road width, number of lanes, traffic signal control methods, etc., to analyze the relationship between each parameter and free-flow traffic and queue emission rate. These analyses are grounded in extensive road data, encompassing not only the city’s main roads but also secondary roads and community roads. The study results show a continuous downward trend in the free-flowing capacity of roads and a slight upward trend in the queue emission rate over the past decade. Further analysis reveals the extent of impact each factor has on the free-flow traffic and queue emission rate, providing a scientific basis for future urban traffic planning.
Triad influence on the detection of crime in Hong Kong
Authors: Wong Gabriel , Manning Matthew , Lo T. Wing , Johnson Shane D.
Published: February 2024

We use bootstrap data envelopment analysis, adjusting for endogeneity, to examine police efficiency in detecting crime in Hong Kong. We address the following: (i) is there a correlation between the detection of crime and triad influence? (ii) does the level of triad influence affect the efficiency in translating inputs (police strength) into outputs (crime detection)? and (iii) how can the allocation of policing resources be adjusted to improve crime detection? We find that nighty-eight percent of Hong Kong police districts in our sample were found to be inefficient in the detection of crime. Variation was found across districts regarding the detection of violent, property and other crimes. Most inefficiencies and potential improvements in the detection of crime were found in the categories violent and other crimes. We demonstrate how less efficient police districts can modify police resourcing decisions to better detect certain crime types while maintaining current levels of resourcing. Finally, we highlight how the method we outline improves efficiency estimation by adjusting for endogeneity and measuring the conditional efficiency of each district (i.e. the efficiency of crime detection taking the instrumental variables (e.g. influence of triads) into consideration). The use of frontier models to assist in evaluating policing performance can lead to improved efficiency, transparency, and accountability in law enforcement, ultimately resulting in better public safety outcomes and publicly funded resource allocation.
The impact of population aging on FDI: A panel data analysis based on 27 segments in China’s manufacturing industry
Authors: Li Yujie , Chen Tingwei , Zhang Zongbin
Published: February 2024

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is an important part of China’s new "double-cycle" development pattern. Among the many factors affecting FDI, will the aging population have an impact on manufacturing, the key industry for FDI? This paper examines the direct and indirect effects of an aging population on FDI using panel data from 27 manufacturing sub-industries in China between 2005 and 2020. It is found that (1) the deepening of the population’s aging negatively affects FDI inflows and this result continues to hold after a series of robustness tests. (2) Using labor quantity and labor cost as mediating variables, it is found that the population’s aging indirectly affects FDI by reducing labor quantity and increasing labor cost. (3) The heterogeneity analysis study finds that the deepening of the population’s aging significantly inhibits FDI in labor-intensive and capital-intensive industries among manufacturing sub-industries, and the inhibitory effect on FDI in technology-intensive industries is not significant. This study provides meso-evidence to support the findings of existing studies and provides suggestions and insights for the government to formulate relevant policies to actively cope with aging.
Changes in the place of death before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan
Authors: Shibata Masashi , Otsuka Yuki , Hagiya Hideharu , Koyama Toshihiro , Kashiwagi Hideyuki , Otsuka Fumio
Published: February 2024

Background

In the global aging, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may have affected the place of death (PoD) in Japan, where hospital deaths have dominated for decades. We analyzed the PoD trends before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan.

Methods

This nationwide observational study used vital statistics based on death certificates from Japan between 1951 and 2021. The proportion of PoD; deaths at home, hospitals, and nursing homes; and annual percentage change (APC) were estimated using joinpoint regression analysis. Analyses were stratified by age groups and causes of death.

Results

After 2019, home deaths exhibited upward trends, while hospital death turned into downward trends. By age, no significant trend change was seen in the 0–19 age group, while hospital deaths decreased in the 20–64 age group in 2019. The trend change in home death in the ≥65 age group significantly increased since 2019 with an APC of 12.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 9.0 to 15.7), while their hospital death trends decreased by −4.0% (95% CI: −4.9 to −3.1) in 2019−2021. By cause of death, home death due to cancer and the old age increased since 2019 with an APC of 29.3% (95% CI: 25.4 to 33.2) and 8.8% (95% CI: 5.5 to 12.2), respectively.

Conclusion

PoD has shifted from hospital to home during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. The majority of whom were older population with cancer or old age.
Structure and antigenicity of the divergent human astrovirus VA1 capsid spike
Authors: Ghosh Anisa , Delgado-Cunningham Kevin , López Tomás , Green Kassidy , Arias Carlos F. , DuBois Rebecca M.
Published: February 2024

Human astrovirus (HAstV) is a known cause of viral gastroenteritis in children worldwide, but HAstV can cause also severe and systemic infections in immunocompromised patients. There are three clades of HAstV: classical, MLB, and VA/HMO. While all three clades are found in gastrointestinal samples, HAstV-VA/HMO is the main clade associated with meningitis and encephalitis in immunocompromised patients. To understand how the HAstV-VA/HMO can infect the central nervous system, we investigated its sequence-divergent capsid spike, which functions in cell attachment and may influence viral tropism. Here we report the high-resolution crystal structures of the HAstV-VA1 capsid spike from strains isolated from patients with gastrointestinal and neuronal disease. The HAstV-VA1 spike forms a dimer and shares a core beta-barrel structure with other astrovirus capsid spikes but is otherwise strikingly different, suggesting that HAstV-VA1 may utilize a different cell receptor, and an infection competition assay supports this hypothesis. Furthermore, by mapping the capsid protease cleavage site onto the structure, the maturation and assembly of the HAstV-VA1 capsid is revealed. Finally, comparison of gastrointestinal and neuronal HAstV-VA1 sequences, structures, and antigenicity suggests that neuronal HAstV-VA1 strains may have acquired immune escape mutations. Overall, our studies on the HAstV-VA1 capsid spike lay a foundation to further investigate the biology of HAstV-VA/HMO and to develop vaccines and therapeutics targeting it.
Docking Studies, Synthesis, SAR and Anti-TB Activity of Glycinamido Analogues
Authors: Vaidehi Bondada N.B. , Veeravarapu Hymavathi , Muthyala Murali Krishna Kumar
Published: February 2024

Mycolic acid is a crucial component of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis cell wall and mycolic acid methyltransferases (MAMTs) are essential for mycolic acids to mature. In the present study, an inhouse library of 330 ligands was designed taking glycinamido moiety as scaffold. Virtual screening was carried out with this library of compounds against MmaA1 as the target protein. About 55 hits were identified through docking, ADMET studies and these molecules were synthesized by the Schotten-Baumann reaction followed by a nucleophilic substitution reaction. All the compounds were subjected to in vitro anti-Tb screening by microplate alamar blue assay (MABA). The Mdb1, Mdb4 & Meb1 exhibited excellent activity against M. tuberculosis H37Rv bacilli strain with an MIC of 1.56 µg/mL. The SAR studies shows that the aryl ring attached directly to the nitrogen atom as present in 2(-N-substituted glycinamido) derivatives is essential for the compound to exhibit potent anti-TB activity.
Synthesis, Antimicrobial Activities and Molecular Docking Studies of New N-Acylated Derivatives of 5-(2-Phenyl-1,8-naphthyridin-3-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-amine
Authors: Md Kadeer , Domala Ramesh
Published: February 2024

Present study establishes a novel synthetic route of N-acetylated derivatives of 5-(2-phenyl-1,8-naphthyridine-3-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-amine (6a-j), which was achieved in four steps with good yields. 2-Amino nicotinaldehyde and ethyl 3-oxo-3-phenylpropanoate on refluxing with triethylamine in ethanol undergoes Friedlander synthesis to furnish ethyl 2-phenyl-1,8-naphthyridine-3-carboxylate, which further converted into 2-phenyl-1,8-naphthyridine-3-carbohydrazide by reacting with hydrazine hydrate upon reflux, followed by cyclization with cyanogen bromide in the presence of water and 1,4-dioxane with sodium bicarbonate to afford 5-(2-phenyl-1,8-naphthyridin-3-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-amine (5). Compound 5 was acetylated using numerous symmetrical anhydrides to synthesize novel N-acetylated derivatives (6a-j). The IR, 1H, 13C NMR and mass spectral analysis were used to characterize the structure of synthetic compounds. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial efficiency against bacteria (S. aureus and E. coli) using ampicillin as a standard reference and against fungi (C. albicans) using fluconazole as a standard reference. Compound 6e exhibited good antibacterial properties while compounds 6c and 6e had shown high antifungal activity, whereas remaining compounds shown moderate to weaker antimicrobial activity. The synthesized derivatives verified their docking strength against Mtb MurB (PDB ID: 5JZX) and showed significant docking activity, however, compound 6f (-10.98 kcal/mol) and compound 6b (-10.52 kcal/mol) had a strong binding affinity compared to the other synthesized compounds.
Synthesis and Characterization of Thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-ol Tethered with 1,2,3-Triazole Derivatives and Their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Khakhariya Amit D. , Savaniya Nikhil P. , Ladva Kartik D.
Published: February 2024

In effort to develop biologically active compounds, novel heterocyclic compounds of thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine tethered with 1,4-disubstituted-1,2,3-triazoles through methylene-oxy group were synthesized and characterized. The synthesized technique possesses a number of standout characteristics, including few reaction steps, high yield, simple reaction conditions and no need for any further purification processes. The in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of the synthesized derivatives was evaluated and several compounds were found to be moderate to excellent inhibition.
Synthesis, Characterization, Docking Studies and in vitro Response of New Camptothecin Derivatives towards Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ugrappa S. , Jagadeesan D. , Lalitha P. , Ravichandran M. , Solyappan M. , Khor G.H. , Wu Y.S. , Balakrishnan V. , Thangeswaran D. , Fuloria S.
Published: February 2024

Evidence suggests heterocyclic rings as the essential component of various available chemotherapeutics. Present study was aimed to carry out the molecular docking, synthesis, characterization and response of new camptothecin derivatives (NCDs) towards OSCC cell lines. To achieve the aim of the study, new camptothecin derivatives were designed to perform molecular docking against the target protein Human DNA Topoisomerase-1 (1T8I). Molecules 2 and 3 with high docking scores were subjected to synthesis. In current investigation, NCDs were synthesized by cyclization of imino analogue (2) into a new azetidinone derivative (3) on treatment with triethylamine and chloroacetyl chloride. Synthesized NCDs were characterized using IR, NMR and mass analysis. The NCDs were further subjected to antiproliferation study using CAL-27 (OSCC), followed by in vitro DNA relaxation assay and cell cycle analysis. The results of the docking of CPT-11 against Human DNA Topoisomerase-1 Duplex (PDB ID: 1T8I) in present study revealed compound 2 and 3 exhibited high docking score among all camptothecin analogues. Present study successfully synthesized and elucidated the structures of NCD 2 and 3. The antiproliferation study results revealed that NCD 2 and NCD 3 offered an IC50 of 34.73 µg/mL and 62.5 µg/mL, respectively. The DNA relaxation assay exhibited the inhibition action of synthesized NCDs (IC50 concentration) against topoisomerase enzyme. Moreover, the cell cycle analysis revealed that both NCDs arrested cancer cells in ‘S’ phase. Though the present study highlights the potential of NCDs against oral squamous cell carcinoma, however, the present study also recommends that the synthesized NCDs must be further evaluated for preclinical and clinical significance.
Enhancing Liquid Crystal Properties through Nanoparticle Doping: A Mini Review
Authors: Kashyap Bhaskar , Saini Ayushi , Rastogi Arshi
Published: February 2024

Liquid crystals doped with nanoscale particles have recently acquired popularity, improving their capabilities and applications. The impact of doping metallic and metal-oxide nanoparticles as well as other nanoparticles in liquid crystals is presented in this brief review. Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) have an effect on phase transitions, molecular alignment and electrical properties such as threshold voltage and response time. The optical tilt and electro-optical characteristics of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) are improved. Metal-oxide nanoparticles such as MgO, ZnO, Al2O3, CuO and SiO2 enhance dielectric properties, mitigate screening effects, increase birefringence, and reduce light leakage. Doping carbon nanotubes (CNTs) influences impedance, optical transmittance and electro-optical properties. The review aims to study the effects of nanoparticle doping on liquid crystal features such as phase transitions, molecular alignment, electrical and optical properties, dielectric behavior, and impedance. A better understanding of these modifications can lead to more applications for liquid crystal in areas such as sensors, displays, optoelectronics, and photovoltaics.
AULAS DE GINÁSTICA PARA TODOS NO AMBIENTE VIRTUAL DE APRENDIZAGEM
Authors: Cruz Tsukamoto Mariana Harumi , Escarante da Costa Brenda , Pires dos Santos Laíse , Santos Domingues Laís
Published: February 2024

Quais seriam as percepções dos idosos praticantes de um projeto de ginástica para todos (GPT) sobre as aulas em ambiente virtual impostas pela pandemia? O presente estudo tenta responder a esta questão a partir da conversa com 19 idosos praticantes de GPT de uma oficina oferecida de modo remoto, em um projeto de extensão para a comunidade realizado em uma universidade localizada no Estado de São Paulo. Os dados foram coletados em de rodas de conversas virtuais, que ocorreram ao final do período de aulas. Os resultados demonstraram que o ambiente virtual criou adversidades para a prática da GPT, mas que o envolvimento com a atividade neste formato permitiu novas aprendizagens.
GINÁSTICA PARA TODOS PARA PACIENTES ONCOLÓGICOS
Authors: Fontenelle Sá Flores Shaianny , Viviene Carbinatto Michele
Published: February 2024

Uma vez que a Ginástica para Todos pressupõe a prática da ginástica para pessoas sob quaisquer condições, este estudo apresenta os caminhos iniciais da implantação da GPT em dois institutos que atendem pacientes oncológicos. Como estratégia para minimizar os efeitos negativos do tratamento, o projeto de GPT foi instituído de maneira remota para elevar momentos de vida ativa e voltada ao lazer para os pacientes e perspectiva a participação do grupo no maior evento de GPT organizado pela Federação Internacional de Ginástica, a Ginastrada Mundial.
POR UMA GINÁSTICA BRINCANTE
Authors: Vesfal Dutra Eduarda , Stainki de Sá Ingrid , Ramires Costa Andrize
Published: February 2024

Neste ensaio, buscamos refletir sobre elementos didático-pedagógicos que proporcionem uma ginástica com sentidos e significados para a vida da criança pequena, assim trazemos perspectivas de uma Ginástica Brincante, a qual considera a criança como centro do processo, lhe oportunizando uma aprendizagem livre e prazerosa. A partir de um estudo crítico e reflexivo da Educação Física, em que dialoga com teorias do movimento humano, podemos compreender esse ser criança de maneira mais respeitosa, e assim propor uma prática mais significativa a seu mundo. É notável que o modo como a ginástica vem sendo desenvolvida na escola, principalmente na Educação Infantil, não atendem de forma satisfatória as necessidades desse ser. Por isso, a busca por uma Ginástica Brincante, remete-se na tentativa de valorizar a essência do ser criança, a sua subjetividade, e liberdade para brincar e se-movimentar, a partir de possibilidades que valorizem o protagonismo infantil.
ENSINO DA EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA NA INFÂNCIA
Authors: Lima Deivide Telles de , Corrêa Evandro Antonio , Hunger Dagmar
Published: February 2024

O presente artigo aborda as potencialidades das brincadeiras na construção do conhecimento crítico nas aulas de Educação Física escolar na infância, na perspectiva da educação do corpo e humanização. Trata-se de um recorte dos dados produzidos em uma pesquisa ampla de abordagem qualitativa do tipo “pesquisa- participante”, que teve como objetivo geral analisar o ensino da Educação Física na etapa da Educação Infantil. Desse modo, o estudo discute as reflexões, estratégias, intencionalidades pedagógicas apresentadas no âmbito de um Produto Educacional na perspectiva da Pedagogia Histórico-Crítica. Conclui-se que as discussões sobre as intencionalidades de ensino em relação à educação do corpo em movimento devem superar as práticas espontâneas e assistemáticas, por intermédio de intervenções pedagógicas intencionalmente sistematizadas e contextualizadas, promovendo o desenvolvimento crítico para tomada de decisões conscientes e a humanização das crianças em sua totalidade.