bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Literasi Keuangan, Kemudahan Dan Kemanfaatan Terhadap Minat Penggunaan E-Money pada Mahasiswa Akuntansi di Kota Batam
Authors: Wijayanti Karin Legiana , Ompusunggu Hermaya
Published: April 2024

This research aimed to assess the influence of financial literacy, convenience, and expediency on the adoption of e-money among accounting students in Batam City during the academic year 2022. The study population comprised a total of 1,234 students, and data were collected from a sample of 302 students through online questionnaires distributed via Google Forms. The findings of the study indicate significant relationships between the variables examined: Firstly, financial literacy was found to have a notable impact on the interest in using e-money. The regression coefficient value of 0.244, along with a calculated t-value greater than the critical t-table value (5.610 > 1.96795), demonstrates the significance of this relationship. Secondly, convenience plays a crucial role in influencing the interest in using e-money. The regression coefficient of 0.347, coupled with a calculated t-value exceeding the critical t-table value (14.212 > 1.96795), emphasizes the significance of this aspect. Lastly, expediency also has a meaningful impact on the interest in using e-money, with a regression coefficient of 0.110 and a calculated t-value surpassing the critical t-table value (4.981 > 1.96795). These findings suggest that improving financial literacy, enhancing convenience, and promoting expediency in e-money usage could positively influence accounting students' interest in adopting e-money as a payment method. Further recommendations may include the development of educational programs to boost financial literacy and ensuring the user-friendliness of e-money platforms to enhance convenience and expediency for potential users.)
Faktor-Faktor Yang Mempengaruhi Keputusan Re-buying Produk Beras “BCL” CV Sri Jaya Alimin Di Desa Purwawinangun Kecamatan Suranenggala Kabupaten Cirebon
Authors: Bintang Bintang
Published: April 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan guna mengetahui pengaruh dari electronic word of mouth dan brand awareness terhadap minat beli di toko oleh-oleh Nadhira Napoleon pekanbaru. Zaman sekarang ini, adanya teknologi menjadi suatu hal penting dan bermanfaat bagi manusia. Dilain sisi, gaya hidup yang berbeda mendorong manusia mempunyai banyak pilihan dalam memenuhi kebutuhannya. Semakin tingginya kehidupan masyarakat, maka kebutuhan akan produk/barang juga akan tinggi. Kondisi tersebut memberi pengaruh terhadap sikap masyarakat saat mencari produk yang hendak dibeli sesuai yang diharapkan. Sebab itu, pelaku bisnis harus mengetahui serta memahami kebutuhan manusia sehingga bisa terlaksana keinginan yang diharapkan seseorang. Pelaku bisnis harus mampu menarik calon konsumen agar mereka mau membeli produk yang ditawarkan. Data penelitian dikumpulkan melalui sebaran kuesioner yang dibagikan kepada konsumen toko oleh-oleh Nadhira Napoleon, sehingga data penelitian ini yakni memakai data primer. Metode yang dipakai pada penelitian ialah metode kuantitatif. Sampel yang didapat sebagai objek penelitian yakni sejumlah 100 responden dari konsumen toko oleh-oleh Nadhira Napoleon, dimana memakai teknik purposive sampling. yakni objek diperkirakan menurut ketentuan yang sudah dibuat peneliti. Hasil penelitian memperlihatkan secara parsial variabel electronic word of mouth berpengaruh terhadap minat beli. Secara Parsial variabel brand awareness berpengaruh terhadap minat beli. Secara simultan variable electronic word of mouth dan variabel brand awareness berpengaruh terhadap minat beli.
Analisis Chi Square Zona Wilayah Marketing terhadap Penjualan Produk Ekonomi Kreatif
Authors: Herinanto Dwi , Utami Bernadhita Herindri S. , Helmita Helmita , Arif Denial
Published: April 2024

Analisis penjualan terhadap wilayah memungkinkan perusahaan untuk memahami faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi perilaku pembelian konsumen di setiap wilayah, seperti preferensi lokal, demografi, ekonomi, dan faktor budaya. Melalui analisis penjualan pada suatu wilayah juga memungkinkan perusahaan untuk meningkatkan daya saing dan mencapai pertumbuhan bisnis yang berkelanjutan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis hubungan antara produk yang ditawarkan oleh perusahaan dan wilayah pemasaran produk ekonomi kreatif dijual. Penelitian ini menggunkan uji Chi-Square untuk memberikan bukti tentang seberapa signifikan hubungan antar variabel, dan dengan menggunakan teknik ini, perusahaan dapat mengidentifikasi pola penjualan yang mungkin terjadi di berbagai wilayah dan memahami apakah ada hubungan yang signifikan antara produk tertentu dengan preferensi konsumen di wilayah tertentu. Hasil uji hipotesis, menunjukkan bahwa distribusi penjualan papan data sekolah sebagai produk ekonomi kreatif CV. Samudra Karya Sejahtera di Kabupaten Pringsewu  berbeda signifikan dengan penjualan di Kabupaten Pringsewu. Ditinjau dari segi jenis sekolah (negeri dan swasta) juga tidak terdapat perbedaan signifikan antara penjualan di Kabupaten Pringsewu dan Kabupaten Tanggamus.
Pengaruh Daya Tarik, Direct Marketing Dan Keamanan Terhadap Kepuasan Konsumen PT. Bina Mulia Perkasa
Authors: Harmadi awei  , David Humala Sitorus
Published: April 2024

PT. Bina Mulia Perkasa as a company in Batam City which is engaged in the sale of building materials. In this case PT. Bina Mulia Perkasa feels the intense competition in the field of building materials. The strategy of each company is different so that it will become a characteristic and competitive advantage for every building materials company. Therefore, PT. Bina Mulia Perkasa must be able to compete with similar companies. The strategy used by PT. Bina Mulia Perkasa to satisfy consumers by covering attractiveness, direct marketing and security. The purpose of this research is to find out how attractiveness, direct marketing and security can influence consumer satisfaction at PT. Bina Mulia Mighty. The method uses descriptive and quantitative, with a population of 211, the sample is based on the slovin formula with a total of 138 respondents and can use probability sampling with the simple random sampling technique. Data analysis techniques through data quality testing, classical assumption testing, influence testing and hypothesis testing. The findings of the research results can be concluded that attractiveness, direct marketing and security can have a positive and significant effect partially and simultaneously on customer satisfaction at PT. Bina Mulia Mighty.
Pengaruh Brand Image, Gaya Hidup dan Kelompok Teman Sebaya Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Sepatu Converse Pada Pelajar SMK di Kota Batam
Authors: Mersi Mersi , Suhardi Suhardi
Published: April 2024

Pembelian sepatu kets Converse dan sepatu musiman dipengaruhi oleh beberapa faktor, termasuk persepsi pelanggan terhadap merek, gaya hidup mereka, dan pendapat rekan mereka. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui bagaimana persepsi siswa SMK Kartini Batam terhadap perbedaan merek mempengaruhi keputusan pembelian sepatu mereka. Guna mengumpulkan informasi untuk penelitian kuantitatif ini, sebanyak 120 siswa SMK Kartini Kota Batam diminta mengisi kuesioner. Untuk memastikan bahwa hipotesis akhir analisis ini valid. Hasil uji F dan T dibandingkan untuk menganalisis pengaruhnya. Pilihan pembelian terbukti dipengaruhi oleh masing-masing variabel independen dan oleh semua variabel independen yang digabungkan, seperti yang ditunjukkan oleh temuan
Welcome to the Stress and Healthy Aging Research (StAR) Lab!
Authors: Fiocco Alexandra
Published: April 2024

Housed in the Institute for Stress and Wellbeing Research and directed by Dr. Alexandra J. Fiocco,  the Stress and Healthy Aging Research (StAR) Lab is dedicated to elucidating the biological and psychosocial predictors of cognitive health and emotional wellbeing in late life. In addition to predictors of cognitive health and wellbeing, the StAR research program aims to evaluate potential intervention program that may facilitate the maintenance of cognitive health and improve quality of life in later years.

 
The importance of cultivating mindfulness for cognitive function and psychological wellbeing in late life
Authors: Fiocco Alexandra , Mallya Sasha
Published: April 2024

The cultivation of mindfulness has received increasing attention over the past 2 decades because of its association with increased psychological well-being and reduced stress-related health disorders. Given the robust positive association between perceived stress and cognitive impairment in late life, the current study evaluated the association between trait mindfulness, psychological well-being, and cognitive function in 73 healthy community-dwelling older adults. Controlling for a priori covariates, multivariate regression analyses showed a significant association between trait mindfulness and measures of psychological well-being, including self-reported depressive symptoms, quality of life, and stress profile. Analyses further showed a significant association between trait mindfulness and executive function, namely set shifting. No association was found for declarative memory. Mediation analyses showed that the association between mindfulness and cognitive function is mediated by perceived stress. This research supports the importance of cultivating mindfulness in late life to ensure cognitive and emotional well-being.

 
The impact of informal caregiving on cognitive function and wellbeing in Canada
Authors: Mallya Sasha , Fiocco Alexandra
Published: April 2024

Background: With a rise in the aging population and a consequential rise in persons diagnosed with dementia comes an increase in the number of informal caregivers who are caring for a loved one. The objective of the proposed study was to assess the neurocognitive and psychological effects of caring for a person with dementia or a related neurodegenerative disease in a sample of Canadian informal caregivers.

Methods: Fifty-seven informal caregivers of a person with dementia or a related neurodegenerative disease (mean age = 66.26, SD = 7.55) and 97 non-caregivers (mean age = 69.16, SD = 4.84) were recruited. Neuropsychological measures of attention, cognitive flexibility, verbal learning, delayed recall, and verbal fluency were examined, and questionnaires related to perceived stress, quality of life, mood, and self-esteem were administered.

Results: Caregivers made more errors on a measure of cognitive flexibility (p = 0.02), generated fewer words on measures of phonemic fluency (p < 0.01) and semantic fluency (p < 0.001), and learned significantly fewer words on a list-learning task (p < 0.01). Caregivers also reported experiencing significantly more perceived stress (p < 0.001), lower quality of life (p < 0.001), and were more likely to meet the cut-off for clinically significant depressive symptoms on a self-report scale (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: These data contribute to a growing body of literature that consistently points to the need for immediate action to improve the welfare of caregivers.
Sodium intake and physical activity impact cognitive maintenance in older adults: The NuAge study
Authors: Fiocco Alexandra , Shatenstein Bryna , Ferland Guylaine , Payette Hélène , Belleville Sylvie , Kergoat Marie-Jeanne , Morais José A. , Greenwood Carol E.
Published: April 2024

 

This study examines the association between sodium intake and its interaction with physical activity on cognitive function over 3 years in older adults residing in Québec, Canada. We analyzed a subgroup from the NuAge cohort (aged 67–84 years) with nutrient intake data, including sodium, from a food frequency questionnaire administered at baseline. Baseline physical activity was assessed using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE; high-low). Modified Mini Mental State Examination (3MS) was administered at baseline and annually for 3 additional years. Controlling for age, sex, education, waist circumference, diabetes, and dietary intakes, analyses showed an association between sodium intake and cognitive change over time in the low PASE group only. Specifically, in the low PASE group, elders in the low sodium intake tertile displayed better cognitive performance over time (mean decline in 3MS over years: mean [M] = −0.57, standard error [SE] = 0.002) compared with the highest (M = −1.72, SE = 0.01) and mid sodium intake (M = −2.07, SE = 0.01) groups. This finding may have significant public health implications, emphasizing the importance of addressing multiple lifestyle factors rather than a single domain effect on brain health.

 
Now you see it, now you don’t: Testing environments modulate the association between hippocampal volume and cortisol levels in young and older adults
Authors: Sindi Shireen , Fiocco Alexandra , Juster Robert-Paul , Lord Catherine , Pruessner Jens , Lupien Sonia  J.
Published: April 2024

The hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis production of the stress hormone cortisol interacts with the hippocampal formation and impacts memory function. A growing interest is to determine whether hippocampal volume (HV) predicts basal and/or reactive cortisol levels in young and older adults. Recent evidence shows that contextual features in testing environments might be stressful and inadvertently induce a stress response in young and/or older populations. This latter result suggests that variations in testing environments might influence associations between HV and cortisol levels in young and older adults. To this end, we investigated 28 healthy young adults (ages 18-35) and 32 healthy older adults (ages 60-75) in two different environments constructed to be more or less stressful for each age group (Favoring-Young versus Favoring-Old conditions). Cortisol levels were repeatedly assessed in each environment, and young and older participants underwent an anatomical magnetic resonance imaging scan for subsequent assessment of HV. Results in both age groups showed that HV was significantly associated with cortisol levels only in the unfavorable stressful testing conditions specific for each age group. This association was absent when testing environments were designed to decrease stress for each age group. These findings are fundamental in showing that unless the nature of the testing environment is taken into consideration, detected associations between HV and cortisol levels in both young and older populations might be confounded by environmental stress.
Measuring perceived receipt of filial piety among Chinese middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Huang Vivian , Fiocco Alexandra
Published: April 2024

Filial piety plays an important role in the parent-child relationship in Chinese culture. To date, the majority of studies have focused on filial piety attitudes and expectations from the perspectives of the adult child. With only a few studies examining filial piety from the parent’s perspectives, there is a paucity of studies that examines the dimensionality of filial piety receipt. The objective of this study was to validate the Perceived Receipt of Filial Piety Scale (PRFPS), a 10-item questionnaire designed to measure how often Chinese parents perceive their child(ren) engage in filial pious behaviours. A total of 222 middle-aged and older adult Chinese parents (Mage = 67.91, SD = 13.20) completed the PRFPS, MultidimensionalScale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and the Quality of Life Scale (QOLS). A single-factor structure emerged from the developed PRFPS, which demonstrated excellent internal consistency (α = .95). The scale was also significantly associated with the MSPSS (r = .50) and QOLS (r = .42), supporting convergent and criterion validity. In conclusion, the PRFPS is found to be a reliable and valid measure of perceived filial piety receipt among Chinese parents. Theoretical implications and suggestions for further scale development and research is discussed.

 
Healthy lifestyle as a moderator of the relationship between psychological distress and cognitive decline among older adults in the NuAge study
Authors: D'Amico Danielle , Alter Udi , Laurin Danielle , Ferland Guylaine , Fiocco Alexandra
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The objective of this study was to examine whether a healthy lifestyle composite score of social engagement, physical activity, and Mediterranean diet adherence moderates the association between psychological distress and global cognitive decline among cognitively healthy older adults (67+ years of age at baseline).

Methods: A total of 1,272 cognitively intact older adults (Mage = 74.1 ± 4.1 years, 51.9% female) in the Quebec Longitudinal Study on Nutrition and Successful Aging (NuAge) completed a series of self-reported questionnaires to measure psychological distress and lifestyle behaviors, and the Modified Mini-Mental Examination (3MS) to assess cognitive performance at baseline and annually over 3 years.

Results: Controlling for sociodemographic and health-related characteristics, greater psychological distress was associated with steeper cognitive decline over time among males (B = -0.07, 95% CI: [-0.12, -0.02]), but not females (B = 0.008, 95% CI: [0.03, 0.04]). Although a healthy lifestyle composite score did not statistically significantly moderate the distress-cognition relationship (B = -0.005, 95% CI: [-0.02, 0.01]), there was an association between higher psychological distress and greater cognitive decline at low levels of social engagement (B = -0.05, 95% CI: [-0.09, -0.006]), but not at high levels of social engagement (B = 0.02, 95% CI: [-0.03, 0.07]).

Conclusion: This study suggests that the potentially harmful impact of stress on cognitive function may be malleable through specific healthy lifestyle behaviors and emphasizes the importance of taking a sex-based approach to cognitive aging research.
Examining the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Life Orientation Test (CLOT-R) in Older Chinese immigrants
Authors: Fiocco Alexandra , Huang Vivian , Lo Kitty Ching
Published: April 2024

The current study examined the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Revised Life Orientation Test (CLOT-R) in a sample of 342 community-dwelling older Chinese immigrants in Canada (mean age = 71.99, SD = 5.62; 58.5% female). Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated that the CLOT-R yields a two-factor model with one item cross-loading on two latent constructs of optimism and pessimism. Analysis further revealed poor internal consistency and convergent validity. Evidence for discriminant and convergent validity was found between optimism and perceived stress, as well as optimism and quality of life. Compared with the factor structure reported in previous Chinese-speaking samples, the modified two-factor structure found in the current group of older Chinese immigrants could be attributed to the heterogeneity of the sample and possible configural variance across culture and age. Overall, the current findings suggest that the CLOT-R may not be a reliable and valid measure to assess dispositional optimism and pessimism among older Chinese immigrants. Theoretical implications and suggestions for further scale development and research is discussed.

 
Cumulative stress exposure and cognitive function among older adults: The moderating role of a healthy lifestyle
Authors: D’Amico Danielle , Alter Udi , Fiocco Alexandra
Published: April 2024

Objectives: Although chronic stress is a risk factor for poor age-related cognitive health, there is limited research that has examined how cumulative stress across the lifespan affects cognitive aging. There may also be resilience factors that minimize the effects of cumulative stress on cognitive health. Engaging in a healthy lifestyle is protective against cognitive decline and may therefore interact with cumulative stress to buffer the stress–cognition relationship. The objective of the current study was to examine the moderating role of a healthy lifestyle, comprised of physical activity, social engagement, and sleep quality, in the relationship between cumulative stress exposure (CSE) and baseline and change in cognitive performance (global cognition, episodic memory, executive function) over 9 years among 1,297 older adults in the Midlife in the United States cohort (Mage = 69.0 ± 6.4, 57.8% female).

Methods: CSE and healthy lifestyle behaviors were indexed using self-reported questionnaires at baseline, and cognitive function was assessed using a battery of standardized neuropsychological tests at baseline and follow-up.

Results: Controlling for age, sex, education, race, marital status, employment status, hypertension, diabetes, and depression, higher CSE was associated with poorer baseline performance and slower decline over time in global cognition and executive function, but not episodic memory. A healthy lifestyle did not significantly moderate the relationship between cumulative stress and cognitive function. Exploratory analyses showed a significant cumulative stress–cognition relationship among females only.

Discussion: This study lends support for a lifespan model of cognitive aging and suggests that the cognitive health consequences of stress extend beyond immediate timescales.
Can anxiety damage the brain?
Authors: Mah Linda , Szabuniewicz Claudia , Fiocco Alexandra
Published: April 2024

Purpose of review Stress exacerbates mental illnesses such as depression but also appears to increase risk of dementia, suggesting a common mechanism for development of stress-induced affective and cognitive impairment. The purpose of this review is to address the question of whether anxiety ‘damages’ the brain, and to identify potential mechanisms for the link between stress and neuropsychiatric illness.

Recent findings Anxiety disorders are associated with alterations in fear neurocircuitry such that ‘bottom-up’ processes in the amygdala which respond to threat are exaggerated, and regulation of these processes by the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus is impaired. Chronic stress exposure similarly alters fear neurocircuitry by enhancing amygdalar functioning while causing structural degeneration in the PFC and hippocampus thereby inhibiting PFC/hippocampus control over the stress response. Pharmacological (e.g., antidepressant medications) and nonpharmacological interventions (cognitive-behavioral therapy, exercise) may reverse stress-induced damage in the brain.

Summary Pathological anxiety and chronic stress lead to structural degeneration and impaired functioning of the hippocampus and the PFC, which may account for the increased risk of developing neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression and dementia. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine whether reversal of stress-induced brain changes by interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy can reduce risk of neuropsychiatric illness.
Tajemnica donosu na bunkier „Krysia” odkryta
Authors: Sandak Adrian
Published: April 2024

Artykuł opublikowany wyłącznie w wersji Online
Tematem artykułu są odnalezione przez autora dokumenty konspiracyjnego kontrwywiadu Okręgu Warszawskiego AK pozwalające poznać tożsamość osoby, która złożyła donos do niemieckiej Policji Kryminalnej o miejscu ukrycia kilkudziesięciu Żydów (bunkier „Krysia” przy ul. Grójeckiej 81), wśród nich historyka Emanuela Ringelbluma. Przez dziesięciolecia funkcjonowało w tej kwestii wiele przypuszczeń. Donosicielem, wedle meldunku informatora ulokowanego najprawdopodobniej w strukturach policyjnych, był przedsiębiorca budowlany Marian Nowicki, który za swój postępek otrzymał nagrodę pieniężną i obietnicę wciągnięcia na listę płatnych agentów. Jego dalszych losów nie udało ustalić. Pewne jest tylko, że sprawa nie stała się przedmiotem śledztwa ze strony konspiracyjnych komórek śledczych, a postępek donosiciela pozostał bezkarny.
“Carne abituata a soffrire.” I cafoni abruzzesi, il mondo contadino e la crisi morale in Fontamara e Vino e pane di Ignazio Silone
Authors: Amelii Niccolò
Published: April 2024

Il presente contributo si propone di analizzare stilisticamente e tematicamente i primi due romanzi di Silone—Fontamara e Vino e pane—mediante una lettura comparata che ne evidenzi continuità e cesure, con l’intento di indagare le modalità narrative—stilemi anti-populistici, tono anti-idillico, linguaggio popolare “traslato”—attraverso cui vengono messe in dialogo la rappresentazione realistica del microcosmo contadino abruzzese e la trasfigurazione romanzesca della crisi ideologica, identitaria e morale sperimentata dallo stesso Silone nei primi anni Trenta. Nostro interesse sarà, poi, quello di evidenziare le forti istanze morali mediante cui l’impronta necessariamente regionalistica che abita le pagine di Silone si sposa ad una tensione universalizzante che pone sempre al centro l’immagine dell’uomo storicamente condannato all’oppressione.
Bacterial-Material Agentic Assemblages
Authors: Geaney Victoria
Published: April 2024

In this paper, I will discuss two of my collaborative works - Inciperem and Lo Lamento – and how the production of these biodesigned pieces, toward fashion propositions, further complicate the already entangled notions of human-nonhuman relations. These works of biofashion force us to confront typical and idealised anthropo-centred ways of working – and I question and critique, instead, a bacterially-centred notion of ‘Protection’ in relation to fashion, body and the garment, whilst operating in the production of living and agential materialities. I discuss how these pieces invite us to probe typical design research methods and demonstrate ways in which such methods are challenged when working with bacterial-material, agentic assemblages. I underpin my paper, drawing upon theorists Jane Bennet and Bruno Latour and the notion of ‘agentic assemblages’. This is discussed as underpinning the pieces, when including both organic and inorganic substances as holding efficacy and agency within processes, whether social, political, or in this case in relation to fashion. Theoretical fashion academics Anneke Smelik, Joanne Entwhistle and Elaine Igoe are discussed, having translated aspects of philosophical concepts of Actor Network Theory and New Materialism into frameworks within theoretical fashion research, in order to explore the processes of the fashion system when each element – organic or inorganic matter – arguably holds agency. Here I examine what aspects of new materialist philosophies can mean for these forms of human-nonhuman relationships – and will discuss how this form of ‘in-becoming’ is shaped through and via materialities, agencies and assemblages in flux.
Manual de Métodos Qualitativos em Geografia
Authors: Daniel Paiva
Published: April 2024

Este livro pretende introduzir os métodos qualitativos a geógrafos em formação. Foi pensado como o primeiro passo para quem está a começar a planear um projeto de investigação no qual a informação qualitativa se revela significante. A investigação qualitativa implica a definição de metodologias rigorosas, o que significa um cuidado especial com a forma como estabelecemos o nosso campo de investigação, com os métodos através dos quais recolhemos informação, e com as técnicas que usamos para tratar e interpretar essa informação. Pelas características dos dados qualitativos – a sua diversidade, liberdade, e subjetividade –, a investigação qualitativa levanta problemas específicos que os investigadores devem ter em conta. Com isto em mente, este livro aborda os vários caminhos que a investigação qualitativa pode tomar.
Exploring biomechanical variations in ankle joint injuries among Latin dancers with different stance patterns: utilizing OpenSim musculoskeletal models
Authors: Gao Xiangli , Xu Datao , Baker Julien S. , Ee-Chon Teo , Liang Minjun , Gu Yaodong
Published: April 2024

Background: Dancers represent the primary demographic affected by ankle joint injuries. In certain movements, some Latin dancers prefer landing on the Forefoot (FT), while others prefer landing on the Entire foot (ET). Different stance patterns can have varying impacts on dancers’ risk of ankle joint injuries. The purpose of this study is to investigate the differences in lower limb biomechanics between Forefoot (FT) dancers and Entire foot (ET) dancers.

Method: A group of 21 FT dancers (mean age 23.50 (S.D. 1.12) years) was compared to a group of 21 ET dancers (mean age 23.33 (S.D. 0.94) years), performing the kicking movements of the Jive in response to the corresponding music. We import data collected from Vicon and force plates into OpenSim to establish musculoskeletal models for computing kinematics, dynamics, muscle forces, and muscle co-activation.

Result: In the sagittal plane: ankle angle (0%–100%, p < 0.001), In the coronal plane: ankle angle (0%–9.83%, p = 0.001) (44.34%–79.52%, p = 0.003), (88.56%–100%, p = 0.037), ankle velocity (3.73%–11.65%, p = 0.017) (94.72–100%, p = 0.031); SPM analysis revealed that FT dancers exhibited significantly smaller muscle force than ET dancers around the ankle joint during the stance phase. Furthermore, FT dancers displayed reduced co-activation compared to ET dancers around the ankle joint during the descending phase, while demonstrating higher co-activation around the knee joint than ET dancers.

Conclusion: This study biomechanically demonstrates that in various stance patterns within Latin dance, a reduction in lower limb stance area leads to weakened muscle strength and reduced co-activation around the ankle joint, and results in increased ankle inversion angles and velocities, thereby heightening the risk of ankle sprains. Nevertheless, the increased co-activation around the knee joint in FT dancers may be a compensatory response for reducing the lower limb stance area in order to maintain stability.
Production of arabitol from glycerol by immobilized cells of Wickerhamomyces anomalus WC 1501
Authors: Ranieri Raffaella , Candeliere Francesco , Sola Laura , Leonardi Alan , Rossi Maddalena , Amaretti Alberto , Raimondi Stefano
Published: April 2024

Polyalcohols such as arabitol are among the main targets of biorefineries aiming to upcycle wastes and cheap substrates. In previous works Wickerhamomyces anomalus WC 1501 emerged as an excellent arabitol producer utilizing glycerol. Arabitol production by this strain is not growth associated, therefore, in this study, pre-grown cells were entrapped in calcium alginate beads (AB) and utilized for glycerol transformation to arabitol. Flasks experiments aimed to assess the medium composition (i.e., the concentration of inorganic and organic nitrogen sources and phosphates) and to establish the appropriate carrier-to-medium proportion. In flasks, under the best conditions of ammonium limitation and the carrier:medium ratio of 1:3 (w/v), 82.7 g/L glycerol were consumed in 168 h, yielding 31.2 g/L arabitol, with a conversion of 38% and volumetric productivity of 186 mg/mL/h. The process with immobilized cells was transferred to laboratory scale bioreactors with different configurations: stirred tank (STR), packed bed (PBR), fluidized bed (FBR), and airlift (ALR) bioreactors. The STR experienced oxygen limitation due to the need to maintain low stirring to preserve AB integrity and performed worse than flasks. Limitations in diffusion and mass transfer of oxygen and/or nutrients characterized also the PBR and the FBR and were partially relieved only in ALR, where 89.4 g/L glycerol were consumed in 168 h, yielding 38.1 g/L arabitol, with a conversion of 42% and volumetric productivity of 227 mg/mL/h. When the ALR was supplied with successive pulses of concentrated glycerol to replenish the glycerol as it was being consumed, 117 g/L arabitol were generated in 500 h, consuming a total of 285 g/L glycerol, with a 41% and 234 mg/L/h. The study strongly supports the potential of W. anomalus WC 1501 for efficient glycerol-to-arabitol conversion using immobilized cells. While the yeast shows promise by remaining viable and active for extended periods, further optimization is required, especially regarding mixing and oxygenation. Improving the stability of the immobilization process is also crucial for reusing pre-grown cells in multiple cycles, reducing dead times, biomass production costs, and enhancing the economic feasibility of the process.
Review of advanced emergency evacuation procedures in hospital buildings: comprehensive analysis and insights
Authors: Wu Hao , Nie Ruimin , Zeng Xu , Cheng Chuanjie , Pan Jing , Han Daguang , Hosamo Haidar
Published: April 2024

This research paper explores the integration of novel technologies in hospital emergency evacuations, particularly in Operating Rooms (ORs) and Emergency Departments (EDs). It examines the application of advanced tools like simulation modeling, Building Information Modeling (BIM), Digital Twin technology, sensor data, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve evacuation strategies in the building. The study extends to in-depth case studies for assessing the practicality of existing protocols, while also highlighting the critical importance of staff training and preparedness. Additionally, it addresses the ethical and psychological impacts of emergencies on patients and healthcare staff, underscoring the need for technology to be complemented with human-centered care. The paper concludes by emphasizing the ongoing necessity for innovative research in enhancing safety and operational resilience in healthcare emergency management.
“Next top” mouse models advancing CTCL research
Authors: Luo Yixin , de Gruijl Frank R. , Vermeer Maarten H. , Tensen Cornelis P.
Published: April 2024

This review systematically describes the application of in vivo mouse models in studying cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), a complex hematological neoplasm. It highlights the diverse research approaches essential for understanding CTCL’s intricate pathogenesis and evaluating potential treatments. The review categorizes various mouse models, including xenograft, syngeneic transplantation, and genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs), emphasizing their contributions to understanding tumor-host interactions, gene functions, and studies on drug efficacy in CTCL. It acknowledges the limitations of these models, particularly in fully replicating human immune responses and early stages of CTCL. The review also highlights novel developments focusing on the potential of skin-targeted GEMMs in studying natural skin lymphoma progression and interactions with the immune system from onset. In conclusion, a balanced understanding of these models’ strengths and weaknesses are essential for accelerating the deciphering of CTCL pathogenesis and developing treatment methods. The GEMMs engineered to target specifically skin-homing CD4+ T cells can be the next top mouse models that pave the way for exploring the effects of CTCL-related genes.
Prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension and contributing factors in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gobezie Mengistie Yirsaw , Hassen Minimize , Tesfaye Nuhamin Alemayehu , Solomon Tewodros , Demessie Mulat Belete , Fentie Wendie Teklehaimanot , Tadesse Getachew , Kassa Tesfaye Dessale , Berhe Fentaw Tadese
Published: April 2024

Background

Uncontrolled hypertension (HTN) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. The prevalence of HTN in the Ethiopian adult population is almost 20%.This study aimed to determine the prevalence of uncontrolled HTN and its contributing factors among patients with HTN in Ethiopia undergoing treatment.

Methods

Electronic bibliographic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Hinari (Research4Life), Embase, and Scopus were searched for original records in the English language that assessed HTN control in Ethiopia and were available before 29 June 2023. The data were extracted using a format prepared in Microsoft Excel and exported to the software STATA 17.0 for analysis. The study protocol was registered at PROSPERO with the reference number CRD42023440121.

Results

A total of 26 studies with 9,046 patients with HTN were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, of which 11 studies were used to assess factors contributing to uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) in patients in Ethiopia. The estimated prevalence of uncontrolled HTN in the population of Ethiopia is 51% [95% confidence interval (CI), 42%–60%]. The subgroup analysis, based on the assessment tools, region, and follow-up period, revealed that the prevalence of uncontrolled BP was highest following the guidelines of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology (AHA/ACC) (89%; 95% CI: 87%–91%) and in Addis Ababa (58%; 95% CI: 40%–76%), and the lowest proportion of uncontrolled BP was in the 3-month follow-up period (34%; 95% CI: 29%–39%). The presence of diabetes mellitus showed the highest impact (pooled odds ratio: 5.19; CI: 1.41–19.11) for uncontrolled HTN. The univariate meta-regression method confirmed that the sample size, year of publication, and subgroups were not sources of heterogeneity in the pooled estimates. Egger's regression test did not indicate the presence of publication bias.

Conclusion

More than half of the hypertensive patients in Ethiopia have uncontrolled BP. Diabetes mellitus, advanced age, male sex, and the presence of comorbidities are among the factors contributing to uncontrolled HTN in Ethiopia. The concerned bodies working in this area should implement interventional strategies and recommendations that might be helpful in achieving optimal BP in hypertensive patients.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023440121, PROSPERO (CRD42023440121).
Sedimentological characterization of earthquake-generated turbidites in fault-proximal glacial lakes: a case study from Jenny Lake, Teton range, Wyoming
Authors: Larsen Darren J. , Blumm Aria R. , Crump Sarah E. , Muscott Amelia P. , Abbott Mark B. , Hangsterfer Alexandra , Porcelli Maya
Published: April 2024

Lakes in seismically active regions preserve valuable sedimentary archives of paleoseismic activity within their catchment and beyond. A series of glacially-excavated lakes positioned directly along the surface trace of the Teton normal fault at the base of the Teton Range, WY, are ideally situated to record past fault activity since their formation approximately 15,000 years ago. Here, we focus on the sediment fill contained in Jenny Lake (5 km2; approximately 73 m max depth) located at the bottom of Cascade Canyon, in the central Tetons, where postglacial slip rates are greatest. Past earthquakes that generated slope failures in and around Jenny Lake are expressed stratigraphically as coseismic turbidite deposits. These deposits were previously identified and dated in sub-bottom profiles and in sediment cores taken from multiple locations around the basin. In this study, we focus on the six thickest turbidites (ranging from 6 to 34 cm thick) present in multiple cores recovered from the central depositional basin and analyze them at sub-centimeter resolution for changes in physical, biological, and geochemical parameters, including sediment density, magnetic susceptibility, grain size distributions, organic content, and elemental composition. Results reveal each deposit contains a well-defined, three-component sedimentary sequence composed of a relatively homogenous and thick basal sandy unit with a sharp bottom contact, a similarly thick silt-rich middle unit, and a thin top unit of very fine-grained sediments. The characteristics of these components and their similarity between individual deposits suggest consistent sediment sources and transport pathways during successive earthquake events. Based on our analyses and the unique local geomorphic setting, we create a mechanistic model of coseismic turbidite formation in Jenny Lake, which may provide an improved framework for identifying, characterizing, and correlating earthquake-generated disturbance deposits in other Teton lakes and lakes in similar tectonic-geomorphological settings, for example, in the Basin and Range Province, USA or beyond.
Simulation and optimization of unstable dynamic propagation of multiple fractures in the shale formation
Authors: Wang Jue , Peng Genbo , Zhang Lei , Cong Ziyuan , Hu Buqin
Published: April 2024

Multi-cluster hydraulic fracturing of horizontal wells is a well-adopted technique with high efficiency to increase the production of tight and shale formations. However, the stress shadows among clusters pose challenges to the synchronous propagation of hydraulic fractures during multi-cluster fracturing. In order to explore the fracture propagation mechanism and characteristics under the influence of stress shadow in low-spacing staged multi-cluster fracturing, a three-dimensional hydraulic fracturing model was generated using a lattice-based method. This model considered the impact of geological and engineering parameters on the propagation behavior of multiple fractures in shale formation. A variable pumping approach is adopted, where the fracturing fluid is initially injected at a high rate and then transitioned to a lower rate. Afterward, a method was proposed to quantitatively assess the extent of fracturing in a specific area (i.e., the stimulated area), considering the impact of stress shadow within a single stage. The simulation results demonstrated significant differences in the fracture stimulation area due to the influence of each parameter in the case of uncontrollable geological factors and controllable engineering factors. An increase in both Young’s modulus and stress anisotropy of the reservoir results led to a corresponding increase in the total fracture stimulation area. As the principal stress orientation increased, the fracture stimulation area gradually decreased. In terms of operational parameters, the stimulated area of hydraulic fractures gradually decreased as the fracture spacing increased. With increasing injection rate, the stimulated area initially expanded and then decreased, peaking at an injection rate of 0.04 m3/s. These findings can provide valuable insights into the propagation behavior of multi-cluster hydraulic fractures under uncertain parameters, with significant implications for future engineering applications.
Matrix metallopeptidase 9 contributes to the beginning of plaque and is a potential biomarker for the early identification of atherosclerosis in asymptomatic patients with diabetes
Authors: Liu Bingli , Su Liping , Loo Sze Jie , Gao Yu , Khin Ester , Kong Xiaocen , Dalan Rinkoo , Su Xiaofei , Lee Kok-Onn , Ma Jianhua , Ye Lei
Published: April 2024

Aims

To determine the roles of matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP9) on human coronary artery smooth muscle cells (HCASMCs) in vitro, early beginning of atherosclerosis in vivo in diabetic mice, and drug naïve patients with diabetes.

Methods

Active human MMP9 (act-hMMP9) was added to HCASMCs and the expressions of MCP-1, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 were measured. Act-hMMP9 (n=16) or placebo (n=15) was administered to diabetic KK.Cg-Ay/J (KK) mice. Carotid artery inflammation and atherosclerosis measurements were made at 2 and 10 weeks after treatment. An observational study of newly diagnosed drug naïve patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM n=234) and healthy matched controls (n=41) was performed and patients had ultrasound of carotid arteries and some had coronary computed tomography angiogram for the assessment of atherosclerosis. Serum MMP9 was measured and its correlation with carotid artery or coronary artery plaques was determined.

Results

In vitro, act-hMMP9 increased gene and protein expressions of MCP-1, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and enhanced macrophage adhesion. Exogenous act-hMMP9 increased inflammation and initiated atherosclerosis in KK mice at 2 and 10 weeks: increased vessel wall thickness, lipid accumulation, and Galectin-3+ macrophage infiltration into the carotid arteries. In newly diagnosed T2DM patients, serum MMP9 correlated with carotid artery plaque size with a possible threshold cutoff point. In addition, serum MMP9 correlated with number of mixed plaques and grade of lumen stenosis in coronary arteries of patients with drug naïve T2DM.

Conclusion

MMP9 may contribute to the initiation of atherosclerosis and may be a potential biomarker for the early identification of atherosclerosis in patients with diabetes.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT04424706.
Influence of deflectors on indoor airflow velocity distribution under natural ventilation conditions
Authors: Wang Chaojie , Jin Meng , Cheng Haifeng
Published: April 2024

Deflectors offer a cost-effective solution for enhancing airflow distribution. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of the deflector on the indoor airflow velocity distribution under natural ventilation conditions. The results obtained from numerical simulations are validated through experimental measurements using a reduced-scale model. Subsequently, the validated reduced-scale numerical model was extended to full-size rooms. A full-size numerical simulation method is used to analyze the effect of no deflector, deflectors with different opening width-to-height ratios and deflectors with different opening shapes on the percentage of indoor velocity partitions under natural ventilation conditions. The findings reveal that the judicious installation of deflectors can enhance indoor airflow velocity distribution and increase the percentage of the indoor comfort zone. Deflectors with different opening width-to-height ratios exert distinct influences on indoor airflow velocity distribution. When the deflector opening width-to-height ratio is set at 7/6, the indoor comfort zone percentage reaches its maximum at 75.98%. Furthermore, the shape of the deflector’s opening significantly affects indoor airflow velocity distribution, and when the opening shape is a rhombus shape of 4.00 cm × 9.00 cm, the proportion of indoor velocity comfort zone is the largest, which is 75.56%. This study provides a reference for the design and practice of natural ventilation in buildings.
Evaluation of bi-directional causal association between periodontitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia: epidemiological studies and two-sample mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Wei Haotian , Tian Guangjie , Xu Shendan , Du Yaqi , Li Minting , Wang Yonglan , Deng Jiayin , Quan Changyi
Published: April 2024

Background: Periodontitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are all common chronic diseases with higher incidence in middle-aged and old men. Several studies have indicated a potential association between periodontitis and BPH, although the findings remain inconclusive. However, there is no mendelian randomization (MR) studies to assess this association.

Methods: The 40 men who had received health check-ups were included in an epidemiological study. Genetic data of BPH (13118 cases and 72799 controls) and periodontitis (3046 cases and 195395 controls) from FinnGen project was used to perform two-sample MR analysis. The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) model was identified as the primary analytical method, with MR Egger, weighted median, simple mode, and weighted mode serving as additional approaches.

Results: The epidemiological analysis demonstrated a lack of statistically significant differences in the prevalence of clinical BPH between severe periodontitis group and non-severe periodontitis group. Similarly, no statistically significant differences were found in the prevalence of severe periodontitis among individuals with clinical BPH compared to those without. Additionally, Among the five models utilized in MR analysis, including the IVW model, no evidence of a causal link between periodontitis and BPH was observed.

Conclusion: The findings from our epidemiological investigation and MR analysis do not provide support for a causal relationship between periodontitis and BPH.