bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of the Operant Silent Gap-in-Noise Detection Paradigm in Humans
Authors: Negri Louis , Oliver Patrick , Mitchell Rebecca , Sinha Lavanya , Kearney Jacob , Saad Dominic , Nodal Fernando R , Bajo Victoria M
Published: October 2024

Background: In the auditory domain, temporal resolution is the ability to respond to rapid changes in the envelope of a sound over time. Silent gap-in-noise detection tests assess temporal resolution. Whether temporal resolution is impaired in tinnitus and whether those tests are useful for identifying the condition is still debated. We have revisited these questions by assessing the silent gap-in-noise detection performance of human participants. Methods: Participants were seventy-one young adults with normal hearing, separated into preliminary, tinnitus and matched-control groups. A preliminary group (n = 18) was used to optimise the silent gap-in-noise detection two-alternative forced-choice paradigm by examining the effect of the position and the salience of the gap. Temporal resolution was tested in case-control observational study of tinnitus (n = 20) and matched-control (n = 33) groups using the previously optimized silent gap-in-noise behavioral paradigm. These two groups were also tested using silent gap prepulse inhibition of the auditory startle reflex (GPIAS) and Auditory Brain Responses (ABRs). Results: In the preliminary group, reducing the predictability and saliency of the silent gap increased detection thresholds and reduced gap detection sensitivity (slope of the psychometric function). In the case-control study, tinnitus participants had higher gap detection thresholds than controls for narrowband noise stimuli centred at 2 and 8 kHz, with no differences in GPIAS or ABRs. In addition, ABR data showed latency differences across the different tinnitus subgroups stratified by subject severity. Conclusions: Operant silent gap-in-noise detection is impaired in tinnitus when the paradigm is optimized to reduce the predictability and saliency of the silent gap and to avoid the ceiling effect. Our behavioral paradigm can distinguish tinnitus and control groups suggesting that temporal resolution is impaired in tinnitus. However, in young adults with normal hearing, the paradigm is unable to objectively identify tinnitus at the individual level. The GPIAS paradigm was unable to differentiate the tinnitus and control groups, suggesting that operant, as opposed to reflexive, silent gap-in-noise detection is a more sensitive measure for objectively identifying tinnitus.
Luteolin Mitigates Dopaminergic Neuron Degeneration and Restrains Microglial M1 Polarization by Inhibiting Toll Like Receptor 4
Authors: Xie Yangzhi , Zhang Hao , Chen Jiacheng , Xu Sicong , Luo Yan
Published: October 2024

Background: Luteolin is a natural flavonoid and its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects have been confirmed to mitigate neurodegeneration. Despite these findings, the underlying mechanisms responsible for these effects remain unclear. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is widely distributed in microglia and plays a pivotal role in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Here studies are outlined that aimed at determining the mechanisms responsible for the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective actions of luteolin using a rodent model of Parkinson's disease (PD) and specifically focusing on the role of TLR4 in this process. Methods: The mouse model of PD used in this experiment was established through a single injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Mice were then subsequently randomly allocated to either the luteolin or vehicle-treated group, then motor performance and dopaminergic neuronal injury were evaluated. BV2 microglial cells were treated with luteolin or vehicle saline prior to LPS challenge. MRNA expression of microglial specific marker ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (IBA-1) and M1/M2 polarization markers, as well as the abundance of indicated pro-inflammatory cytokines in the mesencephalic tissue and BV2 were quantified by real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), respectively. Cell viability and apoptosis of neuron-like PC12 cell line co-cultured with BV2 were detected. TLR4 RNA transcript and protein abundance in mesencephalic tissue and BV2 cells were detected. Nuclear factor kappa-gene binding (NF-κB) p65 subunit phosphorylation both in vitro and in vivo was evaluated by immunoblotting. Results: Luteolin treatment induced functional improvements and alleviated dopaminergic neuronal loss in the PD model. Luteolin inhibited apoptosis and promoted cell survival in PC12 cells. Luteolin treatment shifted microglial M1/M2 polarization towards an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype both in vitro and in vivo. Finally, it was found that luteolin treatment significantly downregulated both TLR4 mRNA and protein expression as well as restraining NF-κB p65 subunit phosphorylation. Conclusions: Luteolin restrained dopaminergic degeneration in vitro and in vivo by blocking TLR4-mediated neuroinflammation.
Alterations in Endogenous Stem Cell Populations in the Acute Phase of Blast-Induced Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Valenti David , Norris Carly , Yuan Margaret , Luke Benita , Thomas Rachel , Thomas Josiah , Murphy Susan , VandeVord Pamela , Roballo Kelly C.S.
Published: October 2024

Background: Blast-induced spinal cord injury (bSCI) is prevalent among military populations and frequently leads to irreversible spinal cord tissue damage that manifests as sensorimotor and autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Clinical recovery from bSCI has been proven to be multifactorial, as it is heavily dependent on the function of numerous cell populations in the tissue environment, as well as extensive ongoing inflammatory processes. This varied recovery process is thought to be due to irreversible spinal cord damage after 72 hours post-injury. Stem cell therapy for spinal cord injuries has long been investigated due to these cells’ proliferative nature, ability to enhance neuro-regeneration, neuroprotection, remyelination of axons, and modulation of the immune and inflammatory responses. Therefore, this study hypothesizes that the impaired function after injury is due to a lack of specific ectoderm and neural stem cell population activity at the injury site. Methods: This study aimed to elucidate changes in endogenous stem cell patterns by evaluating immunohistochemical staining densities of various stem cell markers using a preclinical thoracolumbar bSCI model. Analysis was performed 24-, 48-, and 72 hours following blast exposure. Behavior tests to assess sensory and mechanical functions were also performed. Results: The following Cluster of differentiation (CD) markers CD105, CD45, CD133, and Vimentin, Nanog homebox (NANOG), and sex determining region Y HMG-box 2 (SOX2) positive cell populations were significantly elevated with trending increases in Octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4) in the thoracolumbar region of spinal cord tissue at 72 hours following bSCI (p < 0.05). Behavior analyses showed significant decreases in paw withdrawal thresholds in the hind limbs and changes in locomotion at 48- and 72 hours post-injury (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The significant increase in mesenchymal, pluripotent, and neural stem cell populations within the thoracolumbar region post-injury suggests that migratory patterns of stem cell populations are likely altered in response to bSCI. Behavioral deficits were consistent with those experienced by military personnel, such as increased pain-like behavior, reduced proprioception and coordination, and increased anxiety-like behavior post-bSCI, which underlines the translational capabilities of this model. While further research is vital to understand better the intrinsic and synergistic chemical and mechanical factors driving the migration of stem cells after traumatic injury, increased endogenous stem cell populations at the injury site indicate that stem cell-based treatments in patients suffering from bSCI could prove beneficial.
Emerging Applications of Image Post-Processing 3D Visualisation for Cerebrovascular Diseases
Authors: Dong Jigen , Zhou Shuai , Jian Lipeng , Jin Lide , Huang Shengquan
Published: October 2024

Intracranial vascular-related diseases are a common occurrence in neurosurgery. They have complex and diverse pathogeneses; further, their diagnosis and treatment remain unclear. Three-dimensional image post-processing technology is an emerging technology that involves converting a brain image scan into a digital model using image post-processing software, thus establishing a 3D view of the region of interest. Three-dimensional visualisation of the brains of patients with cerebrovascular diseases can allow a more intuitive examination of the local anatomy of the lesion as well as the adjacency between the lesion and peripheral nerves, brain tissue, and skull bones. Subsequently, this informs pre-operative planning, allows more accurate diagnosis of cerebrovascular diseases, and improves the safety of surgical treatment. This review summarised the current literature regarding cerebrovascular diseases and the application of 3D image post-processing technology in different cerebrovascular diseases.
Comparison of Postoperative Outcomes between Leadless and Conventional Transvenous Pacemakers Implantation: An Up-to-Date Meta-analysis
Authors: Dai Huimiao , Liu Hao , Gao Chuncheng , Han Jing , Meng Jun , Liu Pengyun , Zhang Mingming , Li Dongdong , Guo Wangang
Published: October 2024

Background: Leadless cardiac pacemakers (LCPs) are emerging as viable alternatives to conventional transvenous pacemakers (TVPs). This study aimed to systematically compare the postoperative outcomes of LCPs and TVPs based on available published studies. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of literature comparing outcomes from LCP and TVP implantations. Data analysis was performed using Stata/MP 17.0. The evaluated endpoints included pericardial effusion or perforation, puncture site events, infective endocarditis, lead or device dislodgement, pocket-related complications, tricuspid regurgitation or dysfunction, any infection, increased right ventricle (RV) pacing threshold, embolism, and thrombosis. Aggregated odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were determined. Sensitivity analyses were conducted for heterogeneity if I2 was >50% or p < 0.01, otherwise, the random-effects model was chosen. Publication bias was analyzed if the number studies exceeded ten. Results: The meta-analysis included 24 observational studies with 78,938 patients, comprising 24,191 with LCP implantation and 54,747 with TVP implantation. The results indicated a significantly lower incidence of lead or device dislodgment (OR = 3.32, 95% CI: 1.91–5.77, p < 0.01), infective endocarditis (OR = 3.62, 95% CI: 3.10–4.24, p < 0.01), and infection (OR = 3.93, 95% CI: 1.67–9.24, p < 0.01) in the LCP group compared to the TVP group. In contrast, incidences of puncture site complications (OR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.19–0.32, p < 0.01) and pericardial effusion or perforation (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.28–0.39, p < 0.01) were significantly higher in the LCP group. Conclusions: Compared with TVP, LCP implantation is associated with a lower risk of infective endocarditis, lead or device dislodgment, infections, and pocket-related complications. However, LCP implantation carries a higher risk of puncture site complications and pericardial effusion or perforation. These findings underscore the need for careful consideration of patient-specific factors when choosing between LCP and TVP implantation. The PROSPERO Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ (CRD42023453145).
Molecular Interplay in Cardiac Fibrosis: Exploring the Functions of RUNX2, BMP2, and Notch
Authors: Docshin Pavel , Panshin Daniil , Malashicheva Anna
Published: October 2024

Cardiac fibrosis, characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, significantly contributes to the morbidity and mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases. This article explores the complex interplay between Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), and Notch signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of cardiac fibrosis. Each of these pathways plays a crucial role in the regulation of cellular functions and interactions that underpin fibrotic processes in the heart. Through a detailed review of current research, we highlight how the crosstalk among RUNX2, BMP2, and Notch not only facilitates our understanding of the fibrotic mechanisms but also points to potential biomolecular targets for intervention. This article delves into the regulatory networks, identifies key molecular mediators, and discusses the implications of these signaling pathways in cardiac structural remodeling. By synthesizing findings from recent studies, we provide insights into the cellular and molecular mechanisms that could guide future research directions, aiming to uncover new therapeutic strategies to manage and treat cardiac fibrosis effectively.
Associations of Depression, Antidepressants with Atrial Fibrillation Risk in HFpEF Patients
Authors: Fu Yonghui , Feng Shenghui , Gu Zhenbang , Liu Xiao , Zhu Wengen , Wei Bo , Guo Linjuan
Published: October 2024

Background: Studies dedicated to exploring the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with concurrent depression and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) are scarce. The impact of antidepressant therapy on AF risk within this population remains unclear. Our current study aimed to investigate the link between depression and AF risk in HFpEF patients and to assess the influence of antidepressant medication on the development of AF. Methods: We utilized Kaplan-Meier estimates to determine the event-free status for AF and applied the Log-rank test for comparative analysis between groups. The associations were quantified using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models, with results expressed as hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Among the 784 patients in the Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure with an Aldosterone Antagonist (TOPCAT) trial, 29.1% (228) were identified with major depression. After adjusting for significant confounders, compared with mild depression, major depression at baseline was not linked to the incidence of AF (adjusted HR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.46–1.49). Additionally, compared with controls, antidepressant use at baseline did not significantly influence the risk of incident AF in patients with HFpEF and major depression (adjusted HR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.08–2.10). Conclusions: The presence of major depression at baseline did not elevate the risk of incident AF among individuals with HFpEF. Additionally, the use of antidepressants showed no correlation with an increased rate of AF among HFpEF patients with comorbid major depression. Clinical Trial Registration: URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT00094302. Unique identifier: NCT00094302.
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Efficacy and Safety of Mavacamten for the Treatment of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zheng Li , Gu Xiaotong , Chen Yumiao , Liu Deping
Published: October 2024

Background: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common hereditary cardiomyopathy. Mavacamten, a first-in-class cardiac myosin inhibitor, is considered to be a specific drug for the treatment of HCM. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of mavacamten in patients with HCM. Methods: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase and Clinical Trials.gov databases were searched from inception to February 6, 2024 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which compared the efficacy and safety between mavacamten and placebo in treating HCM. Results: Six RCTs involving 732 patients were included in this meta-analysis. This meta-analysis showed that mavacamten improved the New York Heart Association (NYHA) function class [risk ratios (RR): 2.21, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.48 to 3.30, p = 0.00001], Clinical Summary Score of the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ-CSS) scores [mean difference (MD): 9.33, 95% CI: 7.09 to 11.57, p < 0.00001] and composite functional end point (RR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.25 to 2.78, p = 0.002). Meanwhile, mavacamten decreased N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) (MD: –492.28, 95% CI: –611.55 to –373.02, p < 0.00001), cardiac troponin I (cTnI) (MD: –14.58, 95% CI: –26.98 to –2.17, p = 0.02) and Valsalva left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient (MD: –57.96, 95% CI: –82.15 to –33.78, p < 0.00001). The results for the incidence of ≥1 total emergent adverse event (TEAE) and ≥1 serious adverse event (SAE) showed that there was no significant difference between both groups (RR: 1.9, 95% CI: 0.97 to 1.24, p = 0.16) (RR: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.46 to 2.44, p = 0.90). Conclusions: Mavacamten has great efficacy for the treatment of HCM. Meanwhile, mavacamten did not increase the incidence of adverse events or serious adverse events.
Evaluating the Impact and Financial Implications of Immediate versus Delayed Stenting Strategies in High Thrombus Burden Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis
Authors: Xie Bin , Li Jilin , Li Weiwen , Lin Ying , Wang Huaiwen
Published: October 2024

Background: The efficacy of delayed stenting strategies in the management of high thrombus burden acute myocardial infarction remains uncertain. We aimed to compare the therapeutic effects and financial implications of immediate and delayed stenting strategies in patients with acute myocardial infarction and high thrombus burden treated at our institution. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of 158 patients who underwent intracoronary thrombus aspiration for acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College between 2013 and 2023. Patients were divided into two groups: immediate stenting (immediate group; n = 101) and delayed stenting (delayed group; n = 57), based on the timing of the stenting procedure. Propensity score matching was performed to minimize confounding bias. Therapeutic effects and cost of treatment were compared between the two groups. Results: After propensity score matching (n = 52 for each group), there were no significant differences in terms of baseline clinical characteristics, characteristics of vascular lesions (number of diseased vessels, culprit vessels, thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) thrombus grade, proximal coronary artery lesion), the incidence of no-reflow/slow flow during the first surgery, or the use of antiplatelet drugs, intraprocedural anticoagulants, intracoronary drugs, and tirofiban. There were no significant between-group differences in terms of in-hospital all-cause mortality, in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular events, or hospitalization costs. However, peak creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB) levels were significantly lower in the delayed group. Conclusions: For patients with STEMI undergoing emergency thrombus aspiration, a delayed stenting strategy appears to be non-inferior to immediate stenting strategy in terms of clinical efficacy and hospitalization costs, and may reduce the extent of myocardial injury. Delayed stenting strategy may allow for a more individualized surgical approach based on assessment of thrombus burden and lesion complexity.
Improvement of the Immunity System Through Sports: Novel Regulatory Mechanisms for Hypertension
Authors: Yang Jin , Sun Rui , Pei Zuowei
Published: October 2024

Hypertension and its resulting target organ damage is a complex process associated with a range of physiological and molecular factors, including immune regulation. The profound effects of exercise on normal immune system function and the development and progression of hypertension are well known. This review aims to create new avenues for preventing and treating hypertension and its associated target organ damage. This narrative review emphasizes the role of exercise training in the prevention/treatment of hypertension development through immune response modulation and presents current perspectives on the available scientific evidence. Several studies have shown that exercise regulates hypertension by altering immune cells, which is partly attributable to the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise training. Regular exercise modifies immune modulation and could represent a new mechanism for regulating hypertension. Although the utilization of exercise training and the immune system in conjunction for treating and preventing hypertension is still in its early stages, current scientific literature indicates numerous potential physiological links between exercise training, the immune system, and hypertension.
Enhancing Organizational Performance: Can Innovative Millennial Entrepreneurship and Business Continuity Take on A Mediating Role?
Authors: Aulia Annisa Nur , Hermawan Iwan , Purnamasari Eva
Published: October 2024

Facing business challenges requires creative ideas that can push into the realm of innovation. Innovation, which is widely held by the millennial generation, is advantageous for companies because this generation is good at developing ideas. However, the phenomenon is that 67% of creative media businesses in 2021 declined in revenue. In connection with these main obstacles, the purpose of this study is to identify constructs that can mediate the role of Relational Capital (RC) in organizational performance (OP). To address the research objective, this study concentrates on the creative media industry, utilizing a sample of 163 respondents. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) through the AMOS software. The results reveal that RC does not have a significant impact on OP.This research examines the role of Innovative Millennial Entrepreneurship (IME) and Business Continuity (BC) in mediating RC to OP. This study empirically proved that RC has no significant effect on OP, but IME and BC can increase RC to OP, with a total effect of 1.487 for IME and 0.509 for BC. Based on this result, it is empirically proven that IME and BC fully mediate the role of RC in CP. This is a contribution to the theoretical domain of dynamic capacity theory.
Self-Leadership Practices and Beliefs in Nonprofit Organizations: Differences Between Leaders and Non-Leaders
Authors: Dunaetz David Robert , Gobrail Mark , Howard Jaye , Lord Jasmine , Yun Jaimie C.
Published: October 2024

Self-leadership theory predicts that specific self-leadership practices will enable individuals to better accomplish their goals. However, little is known about the role that these practices play in conventional leadership (leading or influencing others). This study compares leaders to non-leaders (N = 318) in nonprofits and examines both the extent to which self-leadership practices are employed and the strength of beliefs concerning their importance. Leaders practiced self-goal setting (d = .47) and self-observation (d = .45) more than non-leaders. Non-leaders practiced more self-reward (d = .33) and self-punishment (d = .37) than leaders. The only differences in belief concerning the importance of the self-leadership practices were due to leaders believing self-goal setting (d = .46) and self-observation (d = .36) were more important than non-leaders did. If self-leadership practices contribute to leadership effectiveness or emergence, this study indicates that goal setting and self-observation (monitoring progress toward goals) may contribute positively to the leadership of others whereas self-reward and self-punishment may contribute negatively. Self-leadership may not be as important to the leadership of others as is often claimed or implied. This is the first study to look at how self-leadership practices differ between leaders and non-leaders.
Childhood stunting and cognitive development: a meta-analysis
Authors: Sideropoulos Vasileios , Draper Aisling , Chereau Bernardita Munoz , Ang Lynn , Dockrell Julie
Published: October 2024

Childhood stunting is associated with delayed developmental trajectories. While the relationship between childhood stunting and cognitive development has been widely studied, the results remain inconsistent. This meta-analysis aims to synthesize existing research to clarity if there is any relationship and then examine in which cognitive sub-domains it lies. Additionally, it will attempt to capture moderating effects of this relationship as well as examine the intervention evidence. We systematically reviewed literature from 1990 to 2023. Thirty-four studies, of the 2164 identified, were included in our analysis. Random effect models were employed to calculate pooled effect sizes, and heterogeneinty was assessed using I2 statistics. Publication bias was evaluated through Egger’s test. Our models revelaed that childhood stunting was associated with poor cognition, intelligence, motor-skills, executive-function,visuo-spatial and socio-emotional development in specific regions (e.g., Asia). Sub-group analyses indicated that effects were more pronounced when controlled for moderating factors such as demographics and health-related information. Finally, nutritional interventions did not affect cognitive development in stunted children. These findings highlight the critical need for further research to better understand this relationships. Future research should explore standardised culturally sensitive assessments tools, emphasising the necessity of accurate reporting, and the exploration of moderating effects across cognitive sub-domains.
Moral Anger and Disgust: Examining the Recipient vs. Initiator Focus in the Moral Evaluation of Transgressions
Authors: VIVES Eva , Thébault Guiochon Astrid , Trémolière Bastien , Falco Agnès , Djeriouat Hakim
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to test whether inducing participants' attention towards the agent or recipient of a moral violation would elicit different emotional responses. Fictional situations were created to spotlight either the recipient's experience (e.g., a person being tripped on the street) or the initiator experience (e.g., a person tripping another). Participants were presented with a series of vignettes describing moral transgressions and asked to judge as quickly as possible whether the emotional reactions of third parties depicted in different facial expressions were consistent with what would be expected regarding the misconduct. In two studies (N = 315) we tested the hypotheses that focusing on the initiator would stress their poor moral character and elicit distancing reactions typical of moral disgust, while focusing on the recipient would emphasize the harmful act and the recipient's resulting personal distress, aligning more closely with moral anger. The results indicate that directing participants' attention to the recipient resulted in a quicker and more frequent selection of angry expressions compared to disgust. However, a preference for disgust was primarily evident in scenarios depicting moral transgressions in the initiator-focus condition but not in the recipient-focus condition, only when compared to neutral affect.
Leuven Orthogonalized Art Dataset (LOAD): A Multidimensional Art Image Set for Aesthetic Appreciation Research
Authors: Lin Yi , Op de Beeck Hans , Wagemans Johan
Published: October 2024

The intricate interplay between visual art, aesthetic appreciation, and human cognition has long captivated artists and scientists. One difficulty of this line of research is that artworks differ on many dimensions that influence aesthetic appreciation. While trying to keep the out-of-scope dimensions constant is a typical strategy, using a stimulus set with balanced dimensions avoids noise and bias. Although several visual art datasets exist, none have been specifically designed to control many dimensions simultaneously. In response to the need of a well-controlled and balanced stimulus set, the Leuven Orthogonalized Art Dataset (LOAD) controls and balances dimensions related to aesthetic appreciation, including style, content, emotional valence, and liking/beauty. Each artwork in the image set was first carefully selected to fit a balanced design, then annotated by 50 participants on measures of pleasure, fluency, interest, liking, emotional valence, and familiarity for further validation. This careful annotation process also aims to disentangle the often- ambiguous interrelations among several aesthetic appraisals such as pleasure, interest, and liking. By providing balanced designs across multiple dimensions, LOAD serves as a valuable and highly flexible tool for exploring the complexities of aesthetic appreciation.
Are we aware of what we are about to do? New experimental approaches to voluntary action and conscious awareness
Authors: Huang Zheng , Seghezzi Silvia , Haggard Patrick
Published: October 2024

Generating a voluntary action typically involves some experience of conscious intention. Prospective theories propose that conscious intention is a readout of action preparation processes, while retrospective theories view conscious intention as an inference retro-inserted into narratives of one’s own behaviour. Studying conscious intention experimentally is difficult, because (a) eliciting voluntary actions in laboratory settings is problematic, and (b) existing measures of conscious intention using post-action reports could involve post hoc biases. We developed touch-typing versions of a verbal fluency task to elicit voluntary actions to address (a), and then interrupted participants quasi-randomly, asking “Were you about to type your next word?”, to address (b). Across two experiments with 51 participants, we found conscious intention emerged at 1079 ms (SD=1366 ms) and 1258 ms (SD=749 ms) before the estimated time of upcoming action. EEG results showed more reduction of beta-band oscillations and a greater readiness-potential-like deflection prior to probes that elicited reports of conscious intention, compared to probes that did not. Our results offer novel support for prospective theories of conscious intention, and may partly address methodological difficulties of previous studies.
Concurrent measurement of working memory and inhibitory control and their correlations with autistic traits in the general population
Authors: Rahmati Yasamin , Jarrold Christopher
Published: October 2024

Executive function can be defined as the combination of goal representation in working memory and the inhibition of goal-irrelevant responses. This paper comprises two studies that assess these core components of executive function orthogonally and examine their correlation with ASD and ADHD traits in the general population. Both studies utilized a paradigm with two tasks, each assessing working memory and one type of inhibitory control concurrently: the modified Flanker task, which measured working memory and interference control, and the modified Spatial Conflict task, which measured working memory and response inhibition. The study aimed to explore the main effects of memory and inhibitory load in each task, investigate potential over-additive interactions between executive function components, and examine the correlations between autistic and ADHD traits and task performance. Each study involved 100 typically developing adult participants. In Study 1, results showed that reaction time in the Flanker task was significantly influenced by demands on both working memory and inhibitory control. In the Spatial Conflict task, reaction times were affected by congruency, with a potential role of memory load in incongruent trials. Study 2 introduced modifications that revealed effects on reaction time in the Spatial Conflict task due to both memory and congruency load. The Flanker task demonstrated memory effects in reaction time, but congruency effects were only evident under low memory conditions. No interactions between executive function components in an over-additive way were observed in either Study 1 or Study 2. Bayesian linear regression and correlation analyses found evidence against any meaningful correlations between the size of the congruency or memory effect for either dependent variable (accuracy or reaction time) and ASC or ADHD traits in both studies.
Application of universal design for learning within Australian school-based mental health programs: Scoping review protocol.
Authors: Purnomo Jessika , Wilmot Adrienne , McEvoy Peter , Boyes Mark Edward , McArthur Genevieve , Hill Elizabeth
Published: October 2024

Objective: This review will map existing literature to identify and describe the extent to which Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles of engagement, representation, and expression are applied to the design, delivery, and/or evaluation of school-based mental health programs in Australia. Introduction: UDL is an education framework that aims to create inclusive learning environments for students with diverse needs. Approximately 25% of Australian students are likely to live with language, literacy, and/or learning differences that place them at elevated risk of mental health problems. Many school-based mental health programs exist with the shared aim of promoting positive outcomes for students. Early prevention and mental health promotion efforts that are inclusive to students with language and/or learning differences are critically important. However, there has been no previous exploration of the extent to which UDL has been applied to school-based mental health programs. This review aims to identify and describe the extent to which UDL principles are evident in existing Australian school-based mental health programs. Eligibility criteria: This review will consider studies that report the development and/or evaluation of school-based mental health programs within an Australian education context. This review will exclude non-English studies, reviews, books, and theoretical or opinion pieces. Methods: This review will be informed by the JBI guidelines for scoping reviews and will be conducted between October and December 2024. Five databases will be searched (PsycInfo, Medline, Informit, Scopus, and ERIC) and two reviewers will independently screen all identified studies against inclusion criteria by title, abstract, and full text review. Conflicts will be resolved by consensus. Results: Two independent reviewers will extract relevant data from the selected studies and results will be presented numerically and narratively. The review will identify and describe the extent to which UDL principles are evident in descriptions of the design, delivery, and/or evaluation of school-based mental health programs in Australia. Synthesis and interpretation of included studies will be framed within the three principles of UDL. The review will outline key findings of the included papers, gaps in the literature, and salient directions for future research. Conclusion: The outcomes of this review will be disseminated via publication and plain language summaries. The outcomes may also inform conference presentations relevant to inclusive education, mental health, and child language and learning differences.
Excessive flexibility? Recurrent neural networks can accommodate individual differences in reinforcement learning by capturing higher-order history dependencies
Authors: Katahira Kentaro
Published: October 2024

Cognitive and computational modeling has been used as a method to understand the processes underlying behavior in humans and other animals. A common approach in this field involves the use of theoretically constructed cognitive models, such as reinforcement learning models. However, human and animal decision-making often deviates from the predictions of these theoretical models. To capture characteristics that these cognitive models fail to account for, artificial neural network (ANN) models have recently gained attention. One of the roles of ANNs in cognitive and computational modeling is to provide a (upper) benchmark of predictive accuracy for cognitive models, helping ensure that no important factors are missing in theoretical models. For modeling choice behavior involving reinforcement learning, recurrent neural networks (RNNs), a type of ANN, have been frequently used. RNNs are able to capture how the choice probability changes depending on past experience. In this work, we demonstrate that RNNs can improve future choice predictions by capturing individual differences on the basis of past behavior, even when a common single model is fit to the entire population. We term this property of the RNN the individual difference tracking (IDT) property. While the IDT property might be useful for prediction, it may introduce excessive flexibility when providing an upper bound on the predictive accuracy. Through numerical simulations, we illustrate the properties of RNNs and discuss their implications and issues for further consideration.
DAMPAK PERGAULAN BEBAS DI KALANGAN REMAJA
Authors: lobja shaqira fransisca
Published: October 2024

Kesimpulannya adalah bahwa pergaulan bebas di kalangan remaja di Indonesia merupakan masalah serius yang memerlukan perhatian yang lebih besar dari berbagai pihak, termasuk pemerintah, keluarga, sekolah, masyarakat, dan individu. Faktorfaktor yang menjadi penyebab pergaulan bebas melibatkan kurangnya pendidikan seks yang komprehensif, tekanan sosial, peran orangtua yang kurang aktif, akses mudah terhadap konten seksual, dan kurangnya kesadaran tentang konsekuensi tindakan tersebut. Untuk mengatasi masalah ini, pendekatan holistik yang mencakup pendidikan seks yang lebih baik, komunikasi terbuka antara orangtua dan anak, kesadaran masyarakat yang lebih tinggi, akses terhadap layanan kesehatan reproduksi yang mudah, pendekatan yang bersifat positif, dan penciptaan lingkungan yang mendukung bagi remaja sangat diperlukan. Dengan upaya bersama, kita dapat berharap untuk mengurangi tingkat pergaulan bebas di kalangan remaja dan melindungi generasi muda dari konsekuensi yang merugikan.
Association of serum bilirubin levels and glycemic measurements in Type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Kariyawasan C.C.  , Balasuriya B.L.T.  , Ranatunga S.A.C.D.  , Dissanayaka D.M.C.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Bilirubin, a waste product of the heme catabolic pathway, has proven to be a natural antioxidant associated with a lower prevalence of oxidative stress-mediated diseases. This study evaluates the association of serum bilirubin levels with Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c), Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) and Post Prandial Blood Sugar (PPBS) in diabetic patients. Methods: A retrospective analytical study was conducted at the Department of Haematology of the Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital. Data was obtained through a laboratory information system of randomly selected 201 adult patients diagnosed with T2DM and grouped as poorly and well controlled using HbA1c values over and below 7%, respectively. Normal ranges for serum bilirubin, FBS, and PPBS were (0.3-1.2) mg/dL, (75-110) mg/dL and (80-140) mg/dL, respectively. Data were analyzed using (SPSS) version 20, descriptive statistical methods, Pearson’s Correlation test and independent sample t-test. P<0.05 was considered significant. Results: A negative correlation between total bilirubin and HbA1c (r = -0.234, p=0.001) was observed. There was no statistically significant correlation between total bilirubin level and FBS (p=0.131), PPBS (p=0.408), and age (p=0147). However, the mean values of total bilirubin (p=0.001), FBS (p<0.001) and PPBS (p<0.001) were significant between diabetes well controlled and poorly controlled groups. A statistically positive correlation was observed between HbA1c and FBS (p<0.001) and PPBS (p<0.001), but not with age (p=0.887). Conclusion: There was a significant relationship between total bilirubin with FBS, and PPBS in both groups. A significant negative correlation was found between total bilirubin and HbA1c, suggesting a potential protective or modulatory role of bilirubin in glycemic control. No significant correlation was observed between total bilirubin levels and FBS, PPBS, or age in the total population.Keywords: T2DM, HbA1c, bilirubin, FBS, PPBS
Knowledge And Practice Regarding Prehospital Care After Road Traffic Accidents Among Three-Wheel Drivers and Associated Factors in Selected Police Areas in Colombo District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Nawarathna S.N.A.M.  , Goonewardena C.S.E.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Road traffic injuries are an increasingly significant public health issue worldwide. Knowledge and practice of prehospital care is a crucial responsibility of every citizen of the country. Pre-hospital care is delivered by a civilian first responder, who is usually another driver. The study aims to describe the knowledge and practice of prehospital care after a road traffic injury among three-wheel drivers and associated factors in selected police areas in the Colombo District. Methods: A communitybased descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in three Colombo Municipality police areas. A sample of 384 full-time three-wheel drivers above the age of 18 years, registered in these police areas were recruited using a simple random sampling method. A structured pre-tested intervieweradministered questionnaire was used for data collection. Descriptive analysis was used to determine the level of knowledge and practices regarding prehospital care. SPSS version 25 was used for data entry and analysis. Significance was taken as p<0.05. Results: Mean age of three-wheel drivers was 40.98 (SD±11.01). Only 31.5% of the drivers had first aid training. The majority (52.9%) of the drivers had good knowledge and 65.2% had poor practice towards prehospital care. Advanced age (>45 years) and having first aid training were significantly associated with good knowledge (p<0.05). Drivers with previous training within the last ten years (p=0.031) and having less hires per day (<10) were significantly associated with better first aid practice (p=0.001). Conclusion: Although knowledge regarding prehospital care was adequate, practice of prehospital care was inadequate. Findings of the study call for ongoing first-aid training for all three-wheel drivers.Keywords: Prehospital care, First aid, Knowledge, Practice, Road traffic accidents
Knowledge, attitudes, practices of cancer palliative care and their associated factors among nursing officers in Apeksha Hospital, Maharagama
Authors: Madushan P.A.T.  , Gunasekera P.A.N.C.P.  , Munasinghe M.A.R.N.  , Uthpala A.A.S.  , Karunanayaka N.S.  , Goonewardena C.S.E.  , Meegoda M.K.D.L.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Nursing officers, having a good knowledge, favourable attitudes, and correct practices in cancer palliative care uplift patient’s quality of life. Objectives: To describe the level of knowledge, attitudes, practices of cancer palliative care and associated factors among the nursing officers in Apeksha Hospital, Maharagama. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 252 participants with more than one year of work experience at Apeksha Hospital, Maharagama. Stratified sampling technique was adopted to select the nursing officers from different wards. Data were collected using a validated self-administered questionnaire. Sum of points of each participant and the percentage was calculated. Depending on the mean score they were categorized into groups accordingly. Data were analysed initially by a descriptive analysis and then by Chi square test using SPSS software version 26. P<0.05 was the significance level. Results: Response rate was 70. %. The mean age of the study participants was 32.9 (SD=6.55) years. The majority (59.5%) had good knowledge, 53.2% had favourable attitudes and 54% engaged in correct practices. Mean knowledge score was 26.4 (SD=3.44). Nurses above 30 years of age, married and having more than 10 years’ experience had significant association with knowledge (p<0.05). Most of the participants who had good knowledge had correct practices (p<0.001). Most of the participants those who had favourable attitude had correct practices (p<0.001). Association of level of knowledge and attitude was not found to be statistically significant (p=0.109). Conclusion: The majority of the nurses had a good knowledge, favourable attitudes and were engaged in correct practices in palliative care. There is a significant association between the year of experience and the nurses’ knowledge on palliative care. Having a good knowledge and favourable attitude on palliative care were positive factors for correct practices.Keywords: Knowledge, Attitude, Practices, Cancer palliative care, Nurses
Navigating New Waters: Russian Military Aggression on Ukraine and Effects on the Visegrad Group
Authors:   Matej Bel University in Banska Bystrica, Slovakia, Ušiak Jaroslav
Published: October 2024

In this article, the author examines the dynamic evolution of the Visegrad Group (V4) countries in response to Russia's war on Ukraine. Although V4 cooperation is deeply rooted in shared historical experiences, recent geopolitical challenges have revealed significant differences among member countries. Poland and the Czech Republic are strongly supportive of Ukraine and oriented towards NATO, while Hungary and Slovakia are more ambivalent, creating internal tensions. The author examines the factors that shape national identities and their influence on these divergent responses, highlighting that these factors have implications for the future of the V4 countries. The researcher used mixed methods to analyse official documents, political speeches and opinion poll data from the V4 countries, to examine the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine on V4 unity and solidarity, and to consider the implications for the future of the V4 countries. The findings point to a fragile unity and growing concerns about the V4's ability to respond coherently to external threats.
Akuntansi dan Laba Rugi dalam Sebuah Pemaknaan: Studi Fenomenologi pada Pedagang Kaki Lima
Authors: Arwanda Febry , Aditya Dimas , Laire Wahyu Laksana Caesar , Ginting Rafles
Published: October 2024

This study aims to reveal the meaning of profit and loss for street vendors in the auditorium area of Tanjungpura University. This study uses a qualitative approach with a phenomenological method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with ten street vendors who were purposively selected. The results of the study show that the meaning of profit and loss for street vendors is not only determined by the amount of income and expenditure, but also by other factors such as customer satisfaction, social relations, health, security, and self-confidence. Street vendors have different ways of calculating and managing profit and loss, as well as strategies to overcome the risks and challenges they face. This study contributes to understanding the microeconomic phenomenon from the subjective perspective of informal business actors.
Peran Mediasi dari Presenteeism dan Workaholism dalam Pengaruh Job Insecurity terhadap Emotional Exhaustion
Authors: Latifah Nandita Nury , Hendarsjah Hidajat
Published: October 2024

The existence of a pandemic and government policies that require everyone to stay indoors has caused tourism, including hotels, to experience a decline in visitors. As a result, many of these hotels had to close and lay off the work of some of their employees. This causes the emergence of job insecurity among employees who are still working. Then many employees try to keep their jobs by practicing presenteeism and workaholism. However, this behavior will result in emotional exhaustion. This study aims to analyze the mediating role of presenteeism and workaholism in the relationship between jab insecurity and emotional exhaustion. This study used 103 respondents by taking respondents from hotel employees in Surakarta. Data analysis was carried out using the PLS (Partial Least Square) method with the smartPLS 4 program. Based on the results of the analysis it was concluded that job insecurity has a positive relationship with emotional exhaustion, presenteeism and workaholism are positive in the role of mediating the relationship between job insecurity and emotional exhaustion.