bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of Recurrence in Patients with Non Metastatic Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer. Can Radiotherapy Interruptions Influence The Patients Prognosis?
Authors: A* Bosurgi , A Pontoriero , A Brogna , C Siragusa , S Parisi , S Pergolizzi
Published: October 2024

Aims: To determine the impact of interruptions/suspensions of radiotherapy in relation to the stage and histopathological features in patients with Non-Metastatic Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer (NMHNSCC), undergoing chemotherapy and Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT). Materials and methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients with T3-T4 N+ NMHNSCC treated with IMRT in our department from January 2014 to December 2023, matching the following inclusion criteria: age > 18 years, availability of 18F-FDG CT/PET before and after the treatment, T3-4 N+ disease, adjuvant or exclusive Concurrent Chemoradiation Therapy (cCTRT) +/- Induction Chemotherapy (ICT). The patients were divided into two groups according to the nodal disease stage: Group A with limited (N1-N2b) and group B (N2c-N3) with extensive nodal involvement. Prescribed doses and Treatment volumes extension were determined according to international guidelines. Data concerning time of treatment, interruptions, dose prescriptions, sites of progression, and histopathological features were collected. Results: A total of 107 eligible patients were collected. Median age was 68.6 years (range 53-78 years). Median time of follow-up 36.7 months (range 12-60 months). Group A included 79 patients; of these, 62.02% (49) achieved a complete response, 12.66% (10) showed no response to treatment; 25.32% (20) showed loco-regional progression. Median End of Treatment Delay (EoTD) for patients experiencing recurrences was 9.05 days, being > 5 days in 85% (17) of them. Group B included 28 patients. Of these, only 14.29% (4) achieved a complete metabolic response. 21.43% (6) showed no response to treatments. 60.71% (17) showed loco-regional progression. Median EoTD for these patients experiencing pathologic relapses was 7.4 days, being > 5 days in 71.43% (20) of them. LC for all patients was 49.53% (53). Cumulative 1 year-PFS was 71.1%. Cumulative 3 years-PFS was 55.4%. The PFS analysis was also performed in relation to patients’ HPV status confirming worse clinical outcomes in those with HPV-unrelated tumors. Conclusion: This study shows the role of a correctly timed radiotherapy. It was also confirmed that patients, not achieving complete remission, experience disease progression in sites located outside the areas where higher radiation doses were delivered, but still included in the treatment field. Thus, patients with tumor progression after chemoradiation should be included in clinical trials testing immunotherapy, alone or combined with chemotherapy.
Biliary Colic. Is it All?
Authors: Cambronero Maria Sanchez , Cardenas Maria Guisasola , Bravo Alicia Gonzalez , Generoso Torres Maria Nieves , Aguirre Rodriguez* Juan Carlos
Published: October 2024

We present a very common case about abdominal pain, but with some peculiarity that we consider notable. The use of ultrasound in Primary Care consultation was very useful to reach the final diagnosis among the multiple possible differential diagnoses.
Preclinical Assessment of MicroMatrix® + Cytal® and Integra® DRT in a Porcine Third-Degree Burn Model
Authors: Jorgensen Adam M , Nelson Ronald A , Clouse Cara , Scott Christie L , Gandhi Uma , Atala Anthony , Murphy* Sean V
Published: October 2024

Third-degree burn wounds can cause devastating loss of functionality for patients. As such, platform technologies that allow effective wound management are needed. Herein, we describe the use of MatriStem™ Urinary Bladder Matrix (UBM)-based products (MicroMatrix® + Cytal®) and a collagen and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) product (Integra® Dermal Regeneration Template (DRT)) in a porcine third-degree burn wound model. Full-thickness third-degree burns were created on dorsal porcine skin, debrided using an excisional model, then treated with MicroMatrix® + Cytal® or Integra® DRT; treatment groups were compared against the untreated wound controls. MicroMatrix® + Cytal®-treated wounds appeared to have faster wound closure and epithelialization compared to untreated and Integra® DRT-treated wounds. Multi-factor wound healing analysis demonstrated that MicroMatrix® + Cytal® performed better than untreated and Integra® DRT-treated wounds based on the metrics of contraction, epithelialization, and wound closure rate. Histological analysis demonstrated that all treated wounds had complete epidermal closure at various levels of maturation and presented mature, thick, and organized collagen bundles. Integra® DRT -treated wounds appeared to have more similar histological resemblance to native tissue compared to MicroMatrix® + Cytal® and untreated control. Importantly, treatment with either MicroMatrix® + Cytal® products or Integra® DRT, resulted in an extracellular matrix (ECM) composition and cellular organization similar to healthy skin. MicroMatrix®+ Cytal®-treatment promoted rapid wound closure and neo-epithelialization, while Integra® DRT-treatment seemed superior in promoting a healthy and pro-regenerative dermal wound bed.
Face Forward: Streamlining Pre-Treatment Patient Assessment via FILLMEDs 6 Steps Matrix and Protocol
Authors: Natalia* Sukmanskaya , Redaelli Alessio
Published: October 2024

As the demand for minimally invasive aesthetic treatments increases, the need for a structured individualized facial analysis is becoming more and more evident. This article therefore presents FILLMED’s 6-step matrix, a holistic six-step guide for facial assessment prior to aesthetic treatments aiming to optimize the efficacy of soft tissue filler treatments. The first step, skin quality assessment, involves evaluating factors such as texture, pigmentation and hydration to understand the patient's skin condition before treatment and anticipate the treatment outcome. The second step, shadow assessment, focuses on identifying and eliminating shadows in critical facial areas. The third step, contour assessment, is to analyze the facial contour, thus detecting areas that need to be enhanced or corrected to achieve a balanced and natural-looking result. The fourth step entails a detailed assessment of wrinkles, which is crucial for choosing appropriate treatments, as different types and degrees of wrinkles require customized approaches. The fifth step, volume loss assessment, focuses on pinpointing areas where facial volume has decreased, particularly in the temples, periorbital area, midface and lips, which contribute significantly to the signs of aging. The sixth step, evaluating proportions, is to assess the balance and harmony of facial features, taking into account both overall and regional proportions to ensure that aesthetic treatments enhance rather than disrupt facial symmetry. FILLMED’s comprehensive 6-step matrix enables physicians to accurately assess patients’ pre-treatment facial aesthetics and hence to deliver personalized, effective and safe treatments.
Pengaruh Financial Distress, Politicall Connection, Foreign Activty, dan Audit Committee Terhadap Tax Avoidance
Authors: Dj Yunus Muhammad Ichfan , Amalia Sari Fala Dwi Yana , Hormati Asrudin
Published: October 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis pengaruh Financial Distress, Politicall Connection, Foreign Activity, dan Audit Committee terhadap Tax Avoidance. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh  perusahaan manufaktur yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia tahun 2018 - 2022. Sampel dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 35  yang diambil menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Jenis data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini ialah data kuantitatif. Sumber data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini ialah data sekunder yaitu berupa laporan keuangan tahunan yang bisa didapat pada situs web Bursa Efek Indonesia (BEI). Alat uji yang digunakan adalah analisis regresi data panel dengan menggunakan Eviews 12 sebagai alat uji statistik. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa: (1) Financial Distress  berpengaruh negatif terhadap tax avoidance, (2) Politicall Connection berpengaruh positif terhadap tax avoidance, (3) Foreign Activity  tidak berpengaruh terhadap tax avoidance, (4) Audit Committee  tidak berpengaruh terhadap tax avoidance.
Strategic Priorities for Small Innovative Business Development in Russia
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University’ Moscow School of Economics, Vlasyuk L.I. , Gavrilina D.N. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University’ Moscow School of Economics, Abakumova I.S. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University’ Moscow School of Economics
Published: October 2024

The purpose of the work is to substantiate the strategic priorities for the development of small innovative entrepreneurship in Russia. The work examines global and national trends in the development of small innovative entrepreneurship, analyzes strategic documents for the innovative development of Russia for their compliance with the theory of strategy and the strategizing methodology of Academician V. L. Kvint, the achievability of target indicators. It is shown that some of the target indicators have not been achieved and the proposed activities and government support measures are not enough. Taking into account the principles of strategizing, an OTSW analysis of the development of small innovative entrepreneurship was carried out, strategic factors for developing priorities were identified, strategic priorities for the development of small innovative entrepreneurship in Russia were developed and justified. Using the cluster analysis method, the regions of the Russian Federation are divided into three fairly homogeneous groups; for each group, a system of strategic priorities, supported by competitive advantages, has been formed. These priorities can be part of the strategy for the development of small innovative entrepreneurship in the Russian Federation.
Fire Rate of Spread and Growth Rate in a Set of 30 Global Wildfires: New Evidence of Extreme Fire Behavior
Authors:   Department of Agricultural and Forest Engineering, University of Lleida, Alcalde Rovira Roure 191, Lleida 25198, Spain, Duane A. ,   Forest Science Centre of Catalonia (CTFC), Carretera vella de Sant Llorenç de Morunys km 2, Solsona, Lleida 25280, Spain, Castellnou M. ,   GRAF division, Catalan Fire and Rescue Service, Carretera Universitat Autonoma s/n, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08290, Spain, Bachfisher M. ,   The Emergency Program, Calle Ignasi Barraquer Nº4, Santa Maria de Palautordera, Barcelona 08460, Spain, Brotons L. ,   Forest Science Centre of Catalonia (CTFC), Carretera vella de Sant Llorenç de Morunys km 2, Solsona, Lleida 25280, Spain,   CREAF, Edifici C. Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain,   Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
Published: October 2024

Wildfire science needs new methods to evaluate and predict wildfire behavior and impacts. In this study, we present a new algorithm that calculates the maximum fire rate of spread resulting from a fire progression map made of isochrones, according to 1) the shape of the isochrones, and/or 2) prevailing atmospheric wind direction. We have applied the algorithm to a set of 30 fires, differentiated according to the way the isochrone map was surveyed: by firefighters’ GPS positioning (in Europe, ~ 1-hour frequency), or by satellite data (North and South America, and Australia, ~ 12-hour frequency). The rate of spread was also related to the growth rate in hectares, and with the morphology of the fire scar. Our results reveal maximum speeds of 8.62 and 6.79 km/h for the GPS and satellite datasets respectively. In general, the GPS dataset shows faster runs that burn smaller extensions than the satellite dataset. Runs following wind direction are more elongated than the ones driven by other factors, which show more expansive runs. The algorithm presented here can be useful for the study of the factors influencing fire propagation.
Nota Técnica n. 64 (Diest) : Tipologia de classes e limites da compatibilização das codificações de ocupação nas pesquisas domiciliares do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE)
Authors: Fernandes Claudia Monteiro , Araújo Luiz Rubens de Câmera , Viana André Rego , Yannic Kolai Zagbaï Joel
Published: October 2024

O projeto Dinâmica Econômica, Mudanças Sociais e Novas Pautas de Políticas Públicas utiliza códigos ocupacionais para criar uma tipologia de classes sociais com base nas pesquisas amostrais domiciliares brasileiras. Essa abordagem padroniza a inserção dos trabalhadores no mercado de trabalho e permite comparações internacionais, facilitando a análise das classes sociais brasileiras por meio da estratificação sócio-ocupacional. O objetivo do texto é apresentar os resultados da aplicação dessa tipologia utilizando dados da Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios (PNAD) do IBGE, tanto na versão anual (PNAD Anual) quanto na versão contínua (PNAD Contínua). O foco está na compatibilização dos códigos das duas versões da pesquisa e na análise das séries históricas desde 2002 até 2023. O texto não busca revisar extensivamente a literatura existente, mas sim detalhar a metodologia e os resultados da tipologia de classes sociais aplicada.
Nota Técnica n. 72 (Dinte) : Agenda político-institucional do estado brasileiro : uma visão antecipada do mês de setembro de 2024 (Publicação Expressa)
Authors: Lassance Antonio
Published: October 2024

Este trabalho atualiza, para o mês de setembro, o levantamento prospectivo que antecipa as agendas político-institucionais do Estado brasileiro, publicado anteriormente no Texto para Discussão 3012, do Ipea. A teoria e metodologia que fundamentam este estudo estão expostas no Textos para Discussão 3011 (Lassance, 2024a). O Texto para Discussão 3012 (Lassance, 2024b) apresenta o calendário mês a mês. E o Texto para Discussão 3013 (Lassance, 2024c) consolida a análise do quadro político-institucional, a partir dessas agendas de políticas públicas. Esta nota, portanto, segue os mesmos fundamentos teóricos e metodológicos já apresentados em trabalhos anteriores, além de resgatar algumas das análises já feitas, apenas atualizando o calendário e indicando, na análise, outras questões de maior saliência para o próximo mês. Os maiores destaques ficam por conta das eleições municipais, quanto ao peso maior ou menor que podem assumir as agendas patrocinadas pelo extremismo; o prolongamento e agudização dos riscos de insegurança hídrica, principalmente nas regiões Norte e em parte do Centro-Oeste e Sudeste (os mesmos apontados no levantamento anterior, mas agora com o agravamento decorrente das queimadas em larga escala havidas em agosto); as discussões sobre nova política de modernização das tarifas de energia elétrica e de uma reforma do sistema elétrico; além de uma conjunção de eventos que impactam diretamente os rumos da política fiscal, monetária e de aceleração do crescimento. O trabalho se destina a dirigentes e gestores dos três Poderes e também a organizações civis interessadas em uma visão antecipatória dos eventos do calendário político-institucional e em uma análise que sintetize as agendas que se formam ou consolidam-se a partir dessas iniciativas das organizações do Estado.
Nota Técnica n. 53 (Dirur) : Nota sobre o investimento federal regionalizado em 2020
Authors: Cruz Bruno de Oliveira , Melo Juliana Aguiar de , Silva Filho Luís Abel da , Ribeiro Luiz Carlos de Santana , Zackseski Nelson Fernando
Published: October 2024

Apresenta a distribuição regional dos investimentos federais do Orçamento Federal Fiscal e da Seguridade Social (OFSS) realizados no Brasil em 2020. Para tanto, foi utilizada metodologia desenvolvida pela Diretoria de Estudos e Políticas Regionais, Urbanas e Ambientais do Instituto de Pesquisa Econômica Aplicada (Dirur/Ipea) que possibilita a identificação regional de 84,67% dos referidos investimentos em 2020. Há um esforço de consolidação de pesquisas que analisam tanto o orçamento federal quanto a sua execução, de modo a ter uma distribuição dos investimentos federais do OFSS mais fidedigna do que a disponível no Sistema Integrado de Administração Financeira do Governo Federal (Siafi). O foco do trabalho é o gasto com a natureza de despesa investimento (código 44). A Dirur/Ipea vem desenvolvendo um painel interativo para a visualização de uma série histórica do investimento federal e de sua distribuição regional e por Unidade Federativa (UF). Esse painel deve ser lançado no segundo semestre de 2024.
Investigation of the Current Internal Audit Processes and Procedures within Morogoro Municipal Council
Authors: Nanji Amour
Published: October 2024

This study focused on investigating the current internal audit processes and procedures within Morogoro Municipal Council. A descriptive research design and quantitative approach were utilized, targeting Morogoro Municipal Council staff and internal auditors with a sample size of 74 respondents selected via simple random and purposive sampling methods, respectively. Data was gathered through questionnaires for staff and interviews for auditors, supplemented by secondary data from relevant documents. While most respondents agree that the internal audit processes are well-documented, effectively communicated, and robust enough to address risks, there are concerns about adherence, resource adequacy, and the independence of the audit function. To improve effectiveness, it is recommended that the Council enhance adherence to procedures, allocate adequate resources, strengthen the independence of the audit function, and ensure regular updates to audit procedures. These steps will better support governance, accountability, and overall organizational efficiency.
A Review on Ashwagandha and Triphala for Treatment of Cataract
Authors: Kaur Sukhpreet , Thakur Mohita , Sharma Shalini
Published: October 2024

This article's goal is to review the available data about triphala's therapeutic use and efficacy. One of the earliest forms of medicine seen in conventional medical systems like Ayurveda is the use of herbs. A staple of gastrointestinal and restorative treatments is triphala, a popular and highly effective polyherbal herbal drug composed of the fruit of the botanical different species Emblica officinalis (Amalaki), Terminalia bellerica (Bibhitaki), and Terminalia chebula (Haritaki).Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, as well as Terminalia belerica combine to form Triphala (TP). The goal of the current investigation was to evaluate its anti-cataract efficacy using both in vitro and in vivo tests in an experimental model of cataract caused by selenite.
The use of Languages in DRC: Family, Educational and Cultural Implications
Authors: Bamose Ndungi By Marius , Felengamo Talimbo Felly
Published: October 2024

This study has been conducted with the aim of knowing whether the motivation of secondary school students in the Democratic Republic of Congo in learning the English language, and establishing the relationship linking language to family, education, and culture. It has been found firstly that secondary school students are highly motivated in learning English, and that cultural-linguistic motivation is predominant over the others, viz. the holistic and the cognitive-linguistic motivation, although it is difficult to tell one from another; secondly that most of families practice multilingualism, and that most of the parents do encourage their children in learning English despite the ignorance by some of them of the possible effects on their children; thirdly that the teaching of English in the Democratic Republic of Congo follows pedagogical norms as stated in the national syllabus, and that the majority of students are satisfied with the language learning situation, wishing that some of the teachers have to reconsider their teaching methodology in order to meet the needs of the learners, and that way reach the language learning objectives; and finally that despite the practice of multilingualism in the Democratic Republic of Congo, people do keep their cultural identity, and that the influence of English on the learners is mostly linguistic but not cultural.
Basic training in police brutality: Exploring the effects of SAPS Academies' basic police development learning programmes on the prevalence of Police brutality in South Africa
Authors: Chandré Boonzaaier,
Published: October 2024

Police brutality is one of the biggest problems facing the Criminal Justice System of South Africa. The purpose of this research study is to explore the relationship between the Basic Police Development Learning programmes presented at the academies of the SAPS and police brutality in South Africa and to also develop a greater understanding thereof. This research proposal will provide a brief background regarding the prevalence of police brutality in South Africa. The preliminary literature review and theoretical framework define some of the key concepts relevant to the study and discuss some of the findings of similar studies. The main objective of this research study is to explore and identify some of the root causes of police brutality and to determine whether the current Basic Police Development Learning Programmes presented at the SAPS Academies are adequate and capable of reducing police brutality in South Africa. Therefore, to achieve the main objective of this study there are a few research aims that must be addressed. The proposal also provides a few research questions to help guide the researcher in achieving the objectives and aims of the study. The research methodology more specifically the most appropriate and suitable research design, data collection, and data analysis methods for this research study will be discussed. The proposal will consider some of the limitations and potential challenges that might occur when conducting this study. Ultimately this research study aims to address the problem of police brutality and examine the possible effect police training has on its prevalence.
The bones of myth: The cultural impact of fossils in ancient Greece and Rome
Authors: Ambrocia Kesia Keyser,
Published: October 2024

Passed down to us through time, we know that myths formed a central part of ancient civilisation. From multiple studies and research conducted we know why some myths exist, but not necessarily what may have inspired them. My research led me to investigate myths which became popular in ancient society and remains popular today. Myths centring around the cyclopes, Griffins and mermaids are what I focus on as I try to pinpoint whether these myths may have physical merit and connect them to fossils and skeletons which comes to us from millennia ago.
Promoting teacher' well-being: Communication, mindfulness, and self-regulation
Authors: Maleshoane Mapane, , Eden-Lee Möhr, , Felicia Sibambo, , Konaye Masiba, , Lombard Rihani , Elam Maso,
Published: October 2024

Promoting the well-being of others is a central value of a community psychologist (Visser & Moleko, 2012). We as Community psychology students strive to fulfil this value through our community and social psychology module. Our group worked alongside each other to create an intervention to promote the teacher’s well-being at Lettie Fouche school, placing focus on communication strategies and conflict management. Communication strategies can be defined as much-needed tools when engaging in social interactions and can act as guidelines when interacting with the public, co-workers, and stakeholders (Ekeowa, 2016; Neuvonen et al., 2021). Conflict can have an impact on the work environment and social interactions between the employees and this can lead to lowering levels of productivity and job satisfaction (Ayoko, 2016). When the focus is placed on teachers’, conflict can have an impact on the learning environment as well as the teacher’s performance at work (Valento & Lourenco, 2020).This portfolio would consist of the description of the project, the planning that went into the project, in-depth theoretical grounding, references to other modules, ethical considerations, the evaluation of our intervention, and challenges faced by the group. At the end of the portfolio, there would be an appendix attached. Which will consist of our podcast transcript, self-refection paragraphs of every member of the group, needs assessment and feedback Google form, peer review feedback forms, group member contribution, a photo of the group members and the teachers, and a poster. Lastly, a turn-it-in report will also be attached.
Financial literacy as an important aspect in the area of business sustainability: the case of Slovak Republic
Authors: Kicová Eva , Poniščiaková Oľga , Rosnerová Zuzana , Fabuš Juraj
Published: October 2024

The essence of literacy is currently understood on a broader level. Emphasis is placed on functional literacy, which also includes financial literacy. Its level significantly affects a person’s standard of living. In the contribution, we are devoted to the investigation of this issue and the possibilities of increasing the level of financial literacy in the Slovak Republic. We will use theoretical and empirical scientific methods. We work with analysis, synthesis, induction, and deduction. Subsequently, empirical scientific techniques that work with concrete data and precise methods to achieve results will be used. In addition to explanatory methods, interpretative methods will also be used. According to the level of financial literacy of respondents based on the interview method, hypotheses are established. An analysis of individual answers and an analysis of the impact of financial literacy on young people’s interest in entrepreneurship will be carried out. The findings led to the definition of practically oriented conclusions, with an emphasis on the assessment of the level of financial literacy. Attention is also paid to incentives for young entrepreneurs. All proposals written in this chapter are designed with the intention of improving the level of financial literacy in Slovakia.
Superphot+: Real-time Fitting and Classification of Supernova Light Curves
Authors: de Soto Kaylee M. , Villar V. Ashley , Berger Edo , Gomez Sebastian , Hosseinzadeh Griffin , Branton Doug , Campos Sandro , DeLucchi Melissa , Kubica Jeremy , Lynn Olivia , Malanchev Konstantin , Malz Alex I.
Published: October 2024

Photometric classifications of supernova (SN) light curves have become necessary to utilize the full potential of large samples of observations obtained from wide-field photometric surveys, such as the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) and the Vera C. Rubin Observatory. Here, we present a photometric classifier for SN light curves that does not rely on redshift information and still maintains comparable accuracy to redshift-dependent classifiers. Our new package, Superphot+, uses a parametric model to extract meaningful features from multiband SN light curves. We train a gradient-boosted machine with fit parameters from 6061 ZTF SNe that pass data quality cuts and are spectroscopically classified as one of five classes: SN Ia, SN II, SN Ib/c, SN IIn, and SLSN-I. Without redshift information, our classifier yields a class-averaged F
1-score of 0.61 ± 0.02 and a total accuracy of 0.83 ± 0.01. Including redshift information improves these metrics to 0.71 ± 0.02 and 0.88 ± 0.01, respectively. We assign new class probabilities to 3558 ZTF transients that show SN-like characteristics (based on the ALeRCE Broker light-curve and stamp classifiers) but lack spectroscopic classifications. Finally, we compare our predicted SN labels with those generated by the ALeRCE light-curve classifier, finding that the two classifiers agree on photometric labels for 82% ± 2% of light curves with spectroscopic labels and 72% ± 0% of light curves without spectroscopic labels. Superphot+ is currently classifying ZTF SNe in real time via the ANTARES Broker, and is designed for simple adaptation to six-band Rubin light curves in the future.
Deciphering the Kinematic Substructure of Local Dark Matter with LAMOST K Giants
Authors: Zhu Hai , Guo Rui , Shen Juntai , Liu Jianglai , Liu Chao , Xue Xiang-Xiang , Zhang Lan , Mao Shude
Published: October 2024

Numerical simulations indicate that correlations exist between the velocity distributions of stars and dark matter (DM). We study the local DM velocity distribution based on these correlations. We select K giants from LAMOST DR8 cross-matched with Gaia DR3, which have robust measurements of velocity and metallicity, and separate them into the disk, halo substructure, and isotropic halo components in the chemodynamical space utilizing the Gaussian mixture model. The substructure component is highly radially anisotropic and possibly related to the Gaia–Enceladus–Sausage (GES) merger event, while the isotropic halo component is accreted from the earliest mergers following the Maxwell–Boltzmann distribution (standard halo model [SHM]). We find that the GES-like substructure contributes ∼85% of the local nondisk stars in the solar neighborhood, which is nearly invariant when applying different volume cuts or additional angular momentum constraints. Utilizing the metallicity–stellar mass relation and the stellar mass–halo mass relation, we find that

∼

25

−
15

+
24

%

of local DM is in the kinematic substructure. Combined with the stellar distributions of nondisk components, we modify the heliocentric velocity distribution of local DM. It shifts to a lower speed with a sharper peak compared to the SHM and updates the detection limits of DM direct detection experiments. We discuss extensively the degeneracies present in the GMM fitting and propose that more kinematic and chemical information such as α abundance could help to break the degeneracy in the future. Our work confirms that the local DM velocity distribution deviates significantly from the SHM and needs to be properly accounted for in the DM detection experiments.
Pre-peak Emission in Tidal Disruption Events
Authors: Huang 黄 Xiaoshan 小珊 , Davis Shane W. , Jiang 姜 Yan-fei 燕飞
Published: October 2024

The rising part of a tidal disruption event light curve provides unique insight into early emission and the onset of accretion. Various mechanisms are proposed to explain the pre-peak emission, including shocks from debris interaction and reprocessing of disk emission. We study the pre-peak emission and its influence on the gas circularization by a series of gray radiation hydrodynamic simulations with varying black hole mass. We find that, given a super-Eddington fallback rate of

10

M

̇

Edd

, the stream–stream collision can occur multiple times and drive strong outflows of up to

9

M

̇

Edd

. By dispersing gas to ≳100r

s
, the outflow can delay gas circularization and leads to sub-Eddington accretion rates during the first few stream–stream collisions. The stream–stream collision shock and circularization shock can sustain a luminosity of ∼1044 erg s−1 for days. The luminosity is generally sub-Eddington and shows a weak correlation with accretion rate at early times. The outflow is optically thick, yielding a reprocessing layer with a size of ∼1014 cm and photospheric temperature of ∼4 × 104 K.
Photospheric Prompt Emission from Long Gamma Ray Burst Simulations. III. X-Ray Spectropolarimetry
Authors: Parsotan Tyler , Lazzati Davide
Published: October 2024

While gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) have the potential to shed light on the astrophysics of jets, compact objects, and cosmology, a major set back in their use as probes of these phenomena stems from our incomplete knowledge surrounding their prompt emission. There are numerous models that can account for various observations of GRBs in the gamma-ray and X-ray energy ranges, due to the flexibility in the number of parameters that can be tuned to increase agreement with data. Furthermore, these models lack predictive power that can test future spectropolarimetric observations of GRBs across the electromagnetic spectrum. In this work, we use the MCRaT radiative transfer code to calculate the X-ray spectropolarimetric signatures expected from the photospheric model for two unique hydrodynamic simulations of long GRBs. We make time-resolved and time-integrated comparisons between the X-ray and gamma-ray mock observations, shedding light on the information that can be obtained from X-ray prompt emission signatures. Our results show that the T
90 derived from the X-ray light curve is the best diagnostic for the time that the central engine is active. We also find that our simulations reproduce the observed characteristics of the Einstein Probe–detected GRB 240315C. Based on our simulations, we are also able to make predictions for future X-ray spectropolarimetric measurements. Our results show the importance of conducting global radiative transfer calculations of GRB jets to better contextualize the prompt emission observations and constrain the mechanisms that produce the prompt emission.
Data-driven Simulation of Effects of a Solar Flare with Extreme-ultraviolet Late Phase on Ionospheric Electron Density
Authors: Liu Xuanqing , Qian Liying , Chamberlin Phillip C. , Chen Yao , Kong Xiangliang , Zhang Qing-He , Li Shuhan , Liu Jing
Published: October 2024

Effects of the extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) late phase of solar flares on the ionosphere were rarely studied. Here we simulated such effects on the ionospheric electron density using an ionosphere−thermosphere coupled model driven by the realistic solar spectrum observed during the X1.8 flare on 2012 October 23. Global total electron content (TEC) observations and simulations showed that the dayside ionospheric TEC during the EUV late phase increased more than that of the flare’s main phase. We examined the performance of the model for flares with EUV late phase. The results showed that the F-region electron density enhancement and recovery did not vary in the same pace as the temporal variations of the EUV late phase, and the presence of the EUV late phase prolonged the recovery of electron density by ∼9 hr. We also found that the enhancement in electron density was mainly determined by the chemical production, while the recovery of electron density was primarily controlled by the electric field transport effects. This study enhanced understanding of the intricate physical and photochemical processes governing Earth’s space environment and similar planetary systems during solar flare events with EUV late phase.
Mapping the Longitudinal Magnetic Field in the Atmosphere of an Active Region Plage from the Inversion of the Near-ultraviolet CLASP2.1 Spectropolarimetric Data
Authors: Li Hao , del Pino Alemán Tanausú , Trujillo Bueno Javier , Ishikawa Ryohko , Alsina Ballester Ernest , McKenzie David E. , Belluzzi Luca , Song Donguk , Okamoto Takenori J. , Kobayashi Ken , Rachmeler Laurel A. , Bethge Christian , Auchère Frédéric
Published: October 2024

We apply the HanleRT Tenerife Inversion Code to the spectropolarimetric observations obtained by the Chromospheric Layer Spectropolarimeter. This suborbital space experiment measured the variation with wavelength of the four Stokes parameters in the near-ultraviolet spectral region of the Mg ii h and k lines over a solar disk area containing part of an active region plage and the edge of a sunspot penumbra. We infer the stratification of the temperature, the electron density, the line-of-sight velocity, the microturbulent velocity, and the longitudinal component of the magnetic field from the observed intensity and circular polarization profiles. The inferred model atmosphere shows larger temperature and electron density in the plage and the superpenumbra regions than in the quiet regions. The shape of the plage region in terms of its brightness is similar to the pattern of the inferred longitudinal component of the magnetic field in the chromosphere, as well as to that of the overlying moss observed by the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly in the 171 Å band, which suggests a similar magnetic origin for the heating in both the plage and the moss region. Moreover, this heating is particularly significant in the regions with larger inferred magnetic flux. In contrast, in the superpenumbra, the regions with larger electron density and temperature are usually found in between these regions with larger magnetic flux, suggesting that the details of the heating mechanism in the chromosphere of the superpenumbra may be different from those in the plage, but with the magnetic field still playing a key role.
The Primary Flare Following a Stellar Collision in a Galactic Nucleus
Authors: Brutman Yuval , Steinberg Elad , Balberg Shmuel
Published: October 2024

High-velocity stellar collisions near supermassive black holes may result in a complete disruption of the stars. The initial disruption can have energies on par with supernovae and power a very fast transient. In this work, we examine the primary flare that follows the initial transient, which arises when streams of gas from the disrupted stars travel around the central black hole and collide with each other on the antipodal side with respect to the original collision. We present a simple analytic estimate for the properties of the flare, which depends on the distance of the collision from the central black hole and on the center of mass velocity of the colliding stars. We also present the first-of-their-kind radiation-hydrodynamics simulations of a few examples of stellar collisions and postcollision flow of the ejected gas and calculate the expected bolometric light curves. We find that such postcollision flares are expected to be similar to flares that arise in tidal disruptions events of single stars.
Mechanism of Circular Polarization in Giant Pulses and Fast Radio Bursts
Authors: Wu Hui-Chun
Published: October 2024

Some giant pulses and fast radio bursts (FRBs) exhibit notable circular polarization, which remains unexplained and carries significant implications for their emission mechanisms. In this study, we identify multiple nanoshot pairs uniformly spaced by approximately 21 μs within a giant pulse emitted by the Crab pulsar. Among these pairs, a subset displays left-hand and right-hand circular polarization in two distinct nanoshots. We propose that the occurrence of such nanoshot pairs with dual circular polarizations arises from the fragmentation of a linearly polarized nanoshot along the magnetic field lines under the extreme Faraday effect, leveraging highly asymmetrical pair plasma and the ultra-intense field of nanoshots. The asymmetry in pair plasmas is likely linked to discharge activities in pulsars. Moreover, the intense field of nanoshots induces cyclotron resonance within the magnetosphere, effectively slowing down the propagation velocity of the circularly polarized mode. Our findings suggest that Crab giant pulses composing nanoshots originate in its polar cap region and escape the magnetosphere along the polar magnetic field. This mechanism can also elucidate the origin of circular polarization in some FRBs and thus lends support to their magnetospheric origin.
The genus Lasioglossum Curtis, 1833 (Hymenoptera, Halictidae) in Azerbaijan
Authors: Astafurova Yulia V. , Maharramov Mahir M. , Proshchalykin Maxim Yu.
Published: October 2024

Available information about bees of the genus Lasioglossum in Azerbaijan is summarised. One hundred and one species are currently known from this country. Twenty-three species are newly recorded from the Caucasus region and additional eighteen species are newly recorded from Azerbaijan. Three species are excluded from the list of Azerbaijani fauna. A new synonymy is proposed for Lasioglossum euxinicum Ebmer, 1972 = L. alievi Pesenko, 1986, syn. nov., and a lectotype is designated for Halictus schelkovnikovi Kokujev, 1913.
Taxonomic revision of the genus Micryletta (Amphibia, Microhylidae), with description of a new species from Thailand
Authors: Cao Yu-Yang , Suwannapoom Chatmongkon , Kasyoka Kilunda Felista , Gao Wei , Wu Chun-Lian , Wu Yun-He , Che Jing
Published: October 2024

The genus Micryletta is widely distributed in South China and Southeast Asia. Although significant progress has been made in the diversity and taxonomy of this genus over the past few years, the distribution range and taxonomy of some species still remain controversial, especially in M. inornata sensu lato. Consequently, limitations at national borders have resulted in a lack of comparative research on species from different countries. To resolve the classification dispute, assess species diversity, and determine the distribution range of Micryletta, a series of specimens were collected from the Yunnan Province of China and Thailand during herpetological surveys from 2009 to 2020. Subsequent analyses based on morphological and molecular data revealed a distinct and previously unknown lineage from western Thailand, which we formally describe as a new species. Furthermore, our study confirms that M. ‘inornata’, previously known from Mengla, Yunnan, was actually M. menglienica, and further extends its distribution range to Thailand and Laos. In addition, our findings extend the latitudinal distribution of M. inornata and M. subaraji northward into southern Thailand. Notably, this study brings the total number of known species in the genus Micryletta from 13 to 14, with the count rising from three to six species in Thailand and from one to three in Laos. Our study further confirms that species diversity within the genus Micryletta is underestimated and emphasizes the important role that international collaborations play in taxonomy. Intensifying field surveys in other regions (e.g., Myanmar, Vietnam, and Guangxi of China) will be extremely necessary in the future to clarify any taxonomic questions and reevaluate the distribution range of these species.
Impact and critical factors in Heijunka implementation an action research study
Authors: Alvarez Lucia , Avella Lucía , Martinez Ramón
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Although Heijunka (production levelling or smoothing) is a lean tool designed to balance changing customer needs and production efficiency, this study aims to analyze the impact of Heijunka and identify various factors which can generally affect its successful implementation.Design/methodology/approach: We adopted an action research (AR) approach to analyze the consequences of implementing Heijunka in a factory that successfully operates in a lean environment but faces demand that is increasingly less predictable, and customers who require ever more individualized products at low prices with extremely demanding delivery timescales. An estimation of costs was carried out to compare three alternative production planning scenarios: (1) make to order (MTO) production, (2) weekly levelled production and (3) production with minimal changeovers.Findings: The analysis of the impact of implementing Heijunka in this factory demonstrated that MTO production planning without Heijunka is the most efficient option for the factory. We explore the reasons why Heijunka is not suitable for this factory even though other lean principles and tools have been successfully implemented. In this way we identify the main factors which might influence the successful implementation of Heijunka, such as changeover time, the number of different product types (and lot sizes) and the capacity that the production lines are running at.Originality/value: Based on close collaboration between researchers and practitioners in the field of Operations Management, this AR study provides important information for decision making in lean environments (applying Heijunka or not), as well for the advancement of the academic debate about successful lean implementation nowadays.
Improving Undergraduate Nursing Testing Practice by Developing a Peer-Review Methodology
Authors: Manocchi Patricia , Turick-Gibson Theresa , Grust Patricia
Published: October 2024

Background

Nursing tests are considered a high-stakes method of evaluating students' mastery of learned concepts and a means to prepare students for the licensing examination. After observing a downward trend in nursing program graduates' NCLEX-RN pass rates, an increase in test question issues, and anticipating the NCLEX-RN changes to the NGN format in 2023, the department sought to increase test quality.

Method

Using shared governance, faculty mentorship, and evidence-based test practices, a testing methodology and process was created by implementing a test review committee.

Results

Implementation of the test review committee demonstrated a significant improvement in the quality of tests administered, facilitated improved faculty test development, and increased student preparedness for the 2023 NGN examination by demonstrating a 100% pass rate.

Conclusion

Although implementing the test review committee and changing test practice required continued faculty support and mentorship, the outcome produced a standardized quality testing process that demonstrated student success.

[
J Nurs Educ
. 2024;63(10):679–685.]
The Role of Virtual Simulation in De-Escalating a Patient Demonstrating Escalating Behavior
Authors: Conrad Meghan , Harder Nicole , Duff Els , Schönwetter Dieter
Published: October 2024

Background

Undergraduate nursing students are unprepared to manage patients demonstrating escalating aggressive behavior encountered during their clinical placements. Confidence and competence surrounding de-escalation skills can be achieved through virtual simulated learning opportunities. This study evaluated undergraduate nursing students' perceptions of confidence and success in their de-escalation skills following a virtual simulation intervention.

Method

A quantitative, one-group pretestposttest design was used to complete this study. Students (
n
= 33) completed a 10-question demographic questionnaire with four additional questions on participants' psychosocial well-being considering the pandemic, and a nine-question pre- and postvirtual simulation de-escalation confidence and knowledge survey.

Results

Virtual simulation had positive effects on participants' feelings of confidence and success. Male students and students who reported Caucasian as their ethnicity were the most comfortable with de-escalating behaviors.

Conclusion

These findings emphasize the effectiveness of de-escalation education.

[
J Nurs Educ
. 2024;63(10):698–702.]
The Influence of Chromatic Aberration on Visual Quality in Patients With Trifocal Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Güngör; Helin S. , Łabuz Grzegorz , Yildirim Timur M. , Auffarth Gerd U. , Khoramnia Ramin
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To investigate how varying levels of longitudinal chromatic aberration (LCA) affect visual quality in patients with trifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs).

Methods

Twenty-nine patients implanted with trifocal IOLs were assessed for corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), defocus curves, the contrast sensitivity function, and the area under the logarithmic contrast sensitivity function (AULCSF). The measurements were performed under natural viewing conditions after introducing +1.00 and −1.00 diopters (D) of LCA using zero-power triplet lenses.

Results

CDVA was −0.10 ± 0.09, −0.07 ± 0.09, and −0.08 ± 0.08 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) with natural, enhanced, and reduced LCA, respectively. At defocus levels of 0.00 to −1.50 D, visual acuity decrease was steeper under natural conditions than under conditions with more positive LCA. At a defocus level of −2.50 D, visual acuity was 0.02 ± 0.09, 0.03 ± 0.08, and 0.06 ± 0.14 logMAR with natural, elevated, and reduced LCA, respectively. The AULCSF was 1.19 ± 0.12 under natural and reduced LCA conditions. Increasing LCA lowered the AULCSF to 1.12 ± 0.13 (
P
≤ .0001).

Conclusions

LCA elevation led to a slight enhancement of depth of focus while not substantially affecting vision at far focus. Reducing LCA with an achromatizing triplet lens failed to improve CDVA and contrast sensitivity. Likewise, at intermediate and near viewing distances, lowering LCA did not improve visual function.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2024;40(10):e692–e698.]