bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of surgical and oncological outcomes between different surgical approaches for overweight or obese cervical cancer patients
Authors: Chen Wanli , Wang Rong , Wu Jialin , Wu Yingyu , Xiao Lin
Published: March 2024

The purpose was to investigate the safety and advantages of different surgical approaches applied to overweight or obese cervical cancer patients by comparing their surgical and oncological outcomes. This is a retrospective cohort study. 382 patients with a body mass index of at least 24.0 kg/m2 and stage IB-IIA (The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, FIGO 2009) cervical cancer were enrolled, and then were divided into three groups: open radical hysterectomy (ORH) group, laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (LRH) group, and robot-assisted radical hysterectomy (RRH) group according to the surgical approach. IBM SPSS version 25.0 was used to analyze data. There were 51 patients in ORH group, 225 patients in LRH group and 106 patients in RRH group. In the comparison of surgical outcomes, compared to LRH and ORH, RRH had the shortest operating time, the least estimated blood loss, the shortest postoperative hospital stay, and the shortest recovery time for bowel function (P < 0.05). In the comparison of postoperative complications, ORH has the highest rate of postoperative infection and wound complication compared to LRH and RRH (P < 0.05), and RRH has the highest proportion of urinary retention. After a median follow-up time of 61 months, there was no statistically significant difference between the three groups in terms of 5-year overall survival (OS) rate and 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) rate, (P = 0.262, P = 0.453). In patients with overweight or obese cervical cancer, the long-term outcomes of the three surgical approaches were comparable, with RRH showing significant advantages over ORH and LRH in terms of surgical outcomes.
Is Australian Flora Unsuitable for the Bow-and-Arrow?
Authors: George Nicholas
Published: March 2024

The bow-and-arrow was not manufactured or widely used by Indigenous Peoples within the Australian continent, and the suitability of woody Australian plant species for constructing bows is poorly understood. The mechanical and physical properties of 326 plant species, including species highly suitable for self-bows and 106 native Australian species, were analyzed and compared using principal component analysis. Additionally, qualitative information regarding the use of Australian woods for bows was obtained from bow-making internet forums. The results suggest that Australian woods have combinations of properties that make them sub-optimal for bows compared to common woods from other parts of the world. The findings may explain the historical absence of bow-and-arrow technology on the Australian continent. Future work is needed to collect data from a broader range of woody Australian species, along with empirical research to assess the suitability of Australian woods for bow-making. The work also demonstrates, for the first time, that principal component analysis is a useful technique for exploring the suitability of woods for self-bows and should be investigated further for this purpose.
Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia with hepatic arteriovenous shunt diagnosed due to liver damage
Authors: Hagiwara Satoru , Takase Toru , Oda Itsuki , Komeda Yoriaki , Nishida Naoshi , Yoshida Akihiro , Yamamoto Tomoki , Matsubara Takuya , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: March 2024

A 53-year-old woman was diagnosed with liver dysfunction in August 20XX. Computed tomography (CT) revealed multiple hepatic AV shunts, and she was placed under observation. In March 20XX + 3, she developed back pain, and CT performed during an emergency hospital visit showed evidence of intrahepatic bile duct dilatation. She was referred to our gastroenterology department in May 20XX + 3. We conducted investigations on suspicion of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) with hepatic AV shunting based on contrast-enhanced CT performed at another hospital. HHT is generally discovered due to epistaxis, but there are also cases where it is diagnosed during examination of liver damage.
Unveiling the Legacy of the Nineteenth Century Riotinto Mining Railway: From Historic Heritage to Thriving Tourist Attraction
Authors: Boente C. , Romero-Macías E. , Delgado-Domínguez A. , Sierra C.
Published: March 2024

The Riotinto mining railway is a remarkable construction. Stretching an impressive 348 km it was built between 1873 and 1875 to transport minerals from Riotinto’s mining operations to the international port of Huelva. At its height in the 1950’s, this monumental railway network had a fleet of 162 locomotives (mostly steam but also diesel and electric) and around 3,300 freight cars and carriages. Towards the end of the 1960’s the line began to fall into disuse, and it was closed entirely in 1984. Since the establishment of the Rio Tinto Foundation in 1987, dedicated efforts have been made to preserve this invaluable railway heritage and today, the fruits of their labor can be enjoyed at the Riotinto Mining Park where tourists can ride a fully restored 22 km section of this historic rail network. The park is highly successful and has recovered strongly after the COVID-19 pandemic attracting a record 96,935 visitors in 2022. The majority of the park’s tourists are from Spain but also a significant number are international (principally from Germany) highlighting the global importance of this site and the railway as a sustainable heritage tourism destination. Taking the restoration of the Riotinto mining railway as a case study, we aim to demonstrate the transformative power of the preservation and restoration of industrial heritage.
Multidisciplinary approaches to establishing trauma informed practice for pre-service teachers
Authors: Louth Sharon Ann , Willis Alison
Published: March 2024

In response to the urgent need for teachers to be better equipped with strategies for responding to students who suffer the effects of complex trauma (CT), this inter-disciplinary study investigated the lived experiences of professionals (social workers, psychologists, criminal justice workers and community workers) working with school students with CT in out-of-school contexts. The aim of this study was to formulate strategic approaches from the expertise of out-of-school professionals and specialists that might be adapted for use within pre-service teacher education programs to better prepare the next generation of teachers with the skills needed for working with trauma-affected students. Using a phenomenological methodology and working through an ecological-psychosocial theoretical lens, this qualitative study found three key categories of understandings and skills used as a common approach amongst specialists working with students suffering the effects of CT: an applied understanding of child development, a capacity to read and adjust classroom environment and climate; and underpinning theoretical knowledge of the effects of trauma on young people’s behaviour.
Diversification of subject combinations in the National College Entrance Examination and educational reforms in senior secondary schools: findings from China’s policies on college admissions
Authors: Zhu Peipei , Li Muzhou , Zhu Zuoxiang
Published: March 2024

China’s reforms on the National College Entrance Examination (NCEE) include diversification of subject combinations, which have a profound influence on senior secondary school (SSS) education. Although existing studies have paid attention to this issue, only a few were able to provide insightful explanations. This study uses a grounded theory approach to analyse the interview data of 42 major SSS leaders. It develops an in-depth understanding of how the diversification of NCEE subject combinations affects SSSs. Two main aspects of the findings are identified. First, diversification of the NCEE subject combinations has changed the educational goals and development strategies of SSSs, increased organisational and management difficulties, and required students to have a sense of active growth. Second, teacher quality gaps, along with disparities in school infrastructure and facilities, have led to significant differences between urban and rural SSSs. This study argues that the issue of diversifying NCEE subject combinations is not a case of ‘the more, the better’. How well this test scheme will be implemented in the future is rather a question of striking the right balance between effectiveness in student selection and practicality.
Algorithms Don’t Have A Past: Beyond Gadamer’s Alterity of the Text and Stader’s Reflected Prejudiced Use
Authors: Lindia Matthew S.
Published: March 2024

This commentary on Daniel Stader's recent article, “Algorithms Don't Have a Future: On the Relation of Judgement and Calculation” develops and complicates his argument by suggesting that algorithms ossify multiple kinds of prejudices, namely, the structural prejudices of the programmer and the exemplary prejudices of the dataset. This typology at once suggests that the goal of transparency may be impossible, but this impossibility enriches the possibilities for developing Stader's concept of reflected prejudiced use.
Is Propolis a Potential Anti-Obesogenic Agent for Obesity?
Authors: Tek Nilüfer Acar , Şentüre Şerife Akpınar , Ersoy Nursena
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

Propolis is a bee product that has been used for thousands of years. The chemical composition and biological activity of propolis, which has been investigated in the twentieth century, may vary according to location. Propolis polyphenols can induce thermogenesis in brown and beige fat tissue via the uncoupled protein-1 and creatinine kinase metabolic pathways. This review provides a comprehensive investigation of the structural and biological properties of propolis and provides insights into their promising potential strategies in body weight management.

Recent Findings

By raising overall energy expenditure, it might lead to body weight management. Furthermore, the phenolic components artepillin C, quercetin, catechin, and chlorogenic acid found in its composition may have anti-obesogenic effect by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system, enhancing browning in white adipose tissue, and triggering AMP-activated protein kinase activation and mitochondrial biogenesis.

Propolis, a natural product, is effective in preventing obesity which is a contemporary pandemic.
Behavioral Lifestyle Interventions for Weight Loss in Overweight or Obese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Gostoli Sara , Raimondi Giulia , Popa Alexandra Paula , Giovannini Micaela , Benasi Giada , Rafanelli Chiara
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

Around 80–90% of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are overweight or obese, presenting a greater risk for serious health complications and mortality. Thus, weight loss represents a main goal for T2DM management. Although behavioral lifestyle interventions (BLIs) could help promoting weight loss in T2DM patients with overweight or obesity, their effectiveness is still controversial. This systematic review offers an updated and comprehensive picture of BLIs according to Michie’s classification in T2DM patients with overweight or obesity and identifies possible factors (related to both patients and interventions) associated with weight loss. The PRISMA guidelines were followed. The literature search till March 2023 indicated 31 studies involving 42 different BLIs.

Recent Findings

Our findings suggest that structured BLIs, characterized by frequent feedback and support, can lead to a clinically meaningful 5% weight loss, regardless of specific behavioral, diet, and physical activity components.

Further research should address methodological issues and heterogeneity of interventions, also considering the effect of pharmacological therapies on weight reduction. Lastly, more attention should be paid to the long-term effectiveness of behavioral lifestyle interventions and to the relationship between weight loss and diabetes.
Incidence and predictors of complications in Gram-negative bloodstream infection
Authors: Mondal Utpal , Warren Erin , Bookstaver P. Brandon , Kohn Joseph , Al-Hasan Majdi N.
Published: March 2024

Background

The incidence of metastatic complications in Gram-negative bloodstream infection (GN-BSI) remains undefined. This retrospective cohort study examines the incidence and predictors of complications within 90 days of GN-BSI.

Methods

Patients with GN-BSIs hospitalized at two Prisma Health-Midlands hospitals in Columbia, South Carolina, USA from 1 January 2012 through 30 June 2015 were included. Complications of GN-BSI included endocarditis, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, spinal infections, deep-seated abscesses, and recurrent GN-BSI. Kaplan–Meier analysis and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression were used to examine incidence and risk factors of complications, respectively.

Results

Among 752 patients with GN-BSI, median age was 66 years and 380 (50.5%) were women. The urinary tract was the most common source of GN-BSI (378; 50.3%) and Escherichia coli was the most common bacteria (375; 49.9%). Overall, 13.9% of patients developed complications within 90 days of GN-BSI. The median time to identification of these complications was 5.2 days from initial GN-BSI. Independent risk factors for complications were presence of indwelling prosthetic material (hazards ratio [HR] 1.73, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.08–2.78), injection drug use (HR 6.84, 95% CI 1.63–28.74), non-urinary source (HR 1.98, 95% CI 1.18–3.23), BSI due to S. marcescens, P. mirabilis or P. aeruginosa (HR 1.78, 95% CI 1.05–3.03), early clinical failure criteria (HR 1.19 per point, 95% CI 1.03–1.36), and persistent GN-BSI (HR 2.97, 95% CI 1.26–6.99).

Conclusions

Complications of GN-BSI are relatively common and may be predicted based on initial clinical response to antimicrobial therapy, follow-up blood culture results, and other host and microbiological factors.
Sentinel node biopsy in gynaecological cancers: state of art and future perspectives
Authors: Fuoco Valentina , Sassano Serena , Fragomeni Simona M. , Bizzarri Nicolò , Arciuolo Damiano , Bruno Isabella , Di Giuda Daniela , Collarino Angela
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This review aims to provide an overview of current knowledge and future perspectives on sentinel node biopsy in gynaecological cancers.

Methods

Literature research in the PubMed/MEDLINE database was carried out to identify relevant studies on sentinel node biopsy in gynaecological cancers. We selected only original studies, published in the English language and including a minimum of nine patients.

Results

The most relevant results on sentinel node biopsy in gynaecological cancers were summed up, focusing on clinical indications, technical aspects, preoperative and intraoperative procedures and the latest technological advances.

Conclusion

Sentinel node biopsy has been widely validated in well-selected patients with early-stage vulvar, cervical and endometrial cancers. It is essential to standardise the acquisition protocol, including SPECT/CT imaging, for an improved surgical planning and a personalised approach. Recent technological advances, such as hybrid tracers and intraoperative tools, may efficiently guide gynaecological cancer surgery.
Preoperative contributing factors and the remission of diabetes after metabolic surgery: the mediating role of preoperative triglyceride
Authors: Niu Lijuan , Mu Liqian , Wu Runda , Tong Shan , Mao Zhongqi , Yang Yi , Yin Jun
Published: March 2024

Background and objective

Limited understanding exists regarding the factors affecting the prognosis of surgical treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), particularly in Chinese patients. In this study, we examined a cohort of early and intermediate obese T2DM patients to explore the potential impact of preoperative lipid metabolism in metabolic surgery on the postoperative remission of T2DM.

Methods

Participants with T2DM and obesity underwent metabolic surgery. Clinical data, including baseline body mass index, percentage of excess weight loss, and preoperative biochemical indicators, were collected and analyzed. A multidisciplinary team conducted patient follow-up. Remission was defined as sub-diabetic hyperglycemia (HbA1c < 48 mmol/mol, fasting glucose 100–125 mg/dl) without pharmacological intervention for at least 12 months.

Results

Over a median follow-up of 27 months, 96 T2DM patients with metabolic surgery were studied, with no laparotomies required. Among these patients, 61 (63.5%) achieved complete remission, and 85 (88.5%) experienced remission. In multivariable analysis models, preoperative fasting blood glucose (FBG) significantly correlated with all postoperative outcomes. Furthermore, mediation analysis indicated that preoperative triglycerides (TG) mediated 26.31% of the association between preoperative FBG and postoperative remission. Both preoperative FBG and TG were negatively associated with the postoperative remission of T2DM.

Conclusion

In summary, our findings suggest that lower preoperative fasting glucose levels enhance the likelihood of postoperative T2DM remission. Moreover, preoperative TG could potentially play a mediating role in the postoperative remission of T2DM. Therefore, evaluating and managing fasting glucose and lipids before the procedure may aid in assessing the prognosis of metabolic surgery.

Level of evidence Level III, designed cohort.
Morphological and Chemical Characteristics of Microplastics in Surface Water of the Vaal River, South Africa
Authors: Saad Dalia , Ramaremisa Gibbon , Ndlovu Michelle , Chimuka Luke
Published: March 2024

Microplastics research in South Africa has focused on marine and coastal areas, with limited studies reporting microplastics in freshwaters. To address this gap, we conducted this study to investigate the presence, abundance, physical characteristics, and chemical composition of microplastics in the surface water of the Vaal River, one of the most important freshwater systems in South Africa. Twenty-two surface water samples were collected along 60 km of the middle part of the river using a 55 μm plankton net. Samples were treated by acid digestion, and MPs were separated by density separation. Physical identification was performed using a Nikon stereomicroscope, and chemical composition was identified using Raman spectroscopy. MPs were observed in all samples with 0.13 to 2.52 particles/m3 concentrations. Microplastics ranged in size from 0.06 – 4.95 mm, with more than 89% less than 2 mm, and 81% were fragments (39%) and fibers (42%). Microplastics were observed in numerous colours, of which green, black, and blue were the most dominant, representing 22%, 19%, and 18%, respectively. Chemical analysis revealed the polymer types as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), and low-density polyethylene (LDPE). In addition, two colourants, pigment yellow 83 and carbon black, were detected. This study provides new data on microplastic occurrence and characteristics in the Vaal River system and offers a baseline for future monitoring. Our findings confirm that the Vaal River is under a real threat of microplastic contamination, which could impact its role as a significant freshwater system in South Africa.

Highlights

• Microplastics were prevalent in the surface water of the Vaal River.

• Fibrous, small-sized, and coloured microplastics were most abundant.

• Polymers were identified as HDPE, LDPE, and PP.
A Molecular-Sieving Interphase Towards Low-Concentrated Aqueous Sodium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Tingting , Wu Han , Wang Hao , Jiao Yiran , Du Xiaofan , Wang Jinzhi , Fu Guangying , Zhang Yaojian , Zhao Jingwen , Cui Guanglei
Published: March 2024

Aqueous sodium-ion batteries are known for poor rechargeability because of the competitive water decomposition reactions and the high electrode solubility. Improvements have been reported by salt-concentrated and organic-hybridized electrolyte designs, however, at the expense of cost and safety. Here, we report the prolonged cycling of ASIBs in routine dilute electrolytes by employing artificial electrode coatings consisting of NaX zeolite and NaOH-neutralized perfluorinated sulfonic polymer. The as-formed composite interphase exhibits a molecular-sieving effect jointly played by zeolite channels and size-shrunken ionic domains in the polymer matrix, which enables high rejection of hydrated Na+ ions while allowing fast dehydrated Na+ permeance. Applying this coating to electrode surfaces expands the electrochemical window of a practically feasible 2 mol kg–1 sodium trifluoromethanesulfonate aqueous electrolyte to 2.70 V and affords Na2MnFe(CN)6//NaTi2(PO4)3 full cells with an unprecedented cycling stability of 94.9% capacity retention after 200 cycles at 1 C. Combined with emerging electrolyte modifications, this molecular-sieving interphase brings amplified benefits in long-term operation of ASIBs.
The Use of Instagram and TikTok in Relation to Problematic Use and Well-Being
Authors: Hendrikse Calanthe , Limniou Maria
Published: March 2024

Much of the existing literature on the influence of social media use on well-being has focused on Facebook. Additionally, there exist inconsistencies in how different aspects of social media use (i.e., duration, problematic use, and emotional investment) impact well-being. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate how engagement with social media (Instagram and TikTok) was related to problematic social media use and mental well-being. Additionally, this study examined individuals’ emotional investment (value attributed to “likes” and social media followers) on each platform and how this related to problematic social media use and well-being. In this correlational study, 252 participants completed an online questionnaire including validated scales (e.g., the Rosenberg self-esteem scale) and items measuring the time spent on each platform (minutes per day) and the importance of likes, and followers. Time spent on TikTok was a significant positive predictor of problematic social media use, depression, and self-esteem, however, did not predict loneliness. Time spent on Instagram was a significant positive predictor of problematic social media use, but not any other well-being factors. These latter findings highlight the need to investigate additional factors related to how individuals are using social media, as duration is not a sufficient predictor of well-being. Problematic social media use was a significant positive predictor of depression and self-esteem, but not loneliness. Emotional investment varied in predicting problematic social media use and well-being across the two social media platforms. Present findings may alert clinical psychologists to the importance of monitoring social media use in clinical populations.
Acute Treatment with the Nootropic CILTEP® Does Not Improve Cognitive Performance in Healthy Middle-Aged Participants
Authors: Possemis Nina , Caldenhove Stéphanie , Sambeth Anke , Blokland Arjan
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the acute effects of the dietary nootropic stack CILTEP®. It contains a combination of ingredients that have been individually reported to improve cognitive performance. Especially, the ingredients luteolin, which is considered a phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4) inhibitor, and forskolin, an adenylate cyclase stimulator, were of interest since they can increase the second messenger cAMP and thus also intracellular signaling. Numerous studies have shown that inhibition of PDE4 can improve memory in animals and humans. We examined whether acute dosing of 3 capsules of CILTEP® would improve cognitive function in healthy participants aged 30 to 40 (n = 33). We used a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-way cross-over design. Our test battery was aimed at measuring memory performance, attention, and sensorimotor speed. The primary outcome measures were the performance on the verbal learning task and the spatial pattern separation task. Secondary outcomes included other cognitive tests, event-related potentials (ERPs), and assessment of the activity of the enzyme beta-glucuronidase and its effect on the bioavailability of luteolin, heart rate, and blood pressure. No relevant effects of acute CILTEP® treatment were found on any measure of the test battery or ERPs. Blood plasma concentrations of luteolin increased, yet about 2000 times too low to likely exert any PDE4 inhibition. CILTEP® treatment did neither affect heart rate nor blood pressure. In summary, there is no evidence that a single standardized dose of 3 capsules of CILTEP® can improve cognitive function in healthy middle-aged participants.
A quantum algorithm for linear differential equations with layerwise parameterized quantum circuits
Authors: Xiao Junxiang , Wen Jingwei , Zhou Zengrong , Qian Ling , Huang Zhiguo , Wei Shijie , Long Guilu
Published: March 2024

Solving linear differential equations is a common problem in almost all fields of science and engineering. Here, we present a variational algorithm with shallow circuits for solving such a problem: given an $$N \times N$$

N
×
N

matrix $${\varvec{A}}$$

A

, an N-dimensional vector $$\varvec{b}$$

b

, and an initial vector $$\varvec{x}(0)$$

x

(
0
)

, how to obtain the solution vector $$\varvec{x}(T)$$

x

(
T
)

at time T according to the constraint $$\textrm{d}\varvec{x}(t)/\textrm{d} t = {\varvec{A}}\varvec{x}(t) + \varvec{b}$$

d

x

(
t
)
/
d
t
=

A

x

(
t
)
+

b

. The core idea of the algorithm is to encode the equations into a ground state problem of the Hamiltonian, which is solved via hybrid quantum-classical methods with high fidelities. Compared with the previous works, our algorithm requires the least qubit resources and can restore the entire evolutionary process. In particular, we show its application in simulating the evolution of harmonic oscillators and dynamics of non-Hermitian systems with $$\mathcal{P}\mathcal{T}$$

P
T

-symmetry. Our algorithm framework provides a key technique for solving so many important problems whose essence is the solution of linear differential equations.
Digital ethicswashing: a systematic review and a process-perception-outcome framework
Authors: Schultz Mario D. , Conti Ludovico Giacomo , Seele Peter
Published: March 2024

The term “ethicswashing” was recently coined to describe the phenomenon of instrumentalising ethics by misleading communication, creating the impression of ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI), while no substantive ethical theory, argument, or application is in place or ethicists involved. Ethicswashing resembles greenwashing for environmental issues and has become an issue – particularly since 2019 with Thomas Metzinger’s harsh criticisms as a member of the EU panel for developing ethical guidelines for AI, which he called “ethicswashing.” Nowadays, increased ethics washing has changed the perception of AI ethics, leading critics to find a “trivialization” of ethics that may even lead to “ethics bashing.” Considering the scattered literature body and the various manifestations of digital ethicswashing, we recognise the need to assess the existing literature comprehensively. To fill this gap, this research systematically reviews current knowledge about digital ethicswashing stemming from various academic disciplines, contributing to an up-to-date assessment of its underlying characteristics. Applying content analysis to map the field leads us to present five thematic clusters: ethicswashing, ethics bashing, policymaking and regulation, watchdogs, and academia. In conclusion, we synthesise ethicswashing along a process-perception-outcome framework to provide future research to explore the multiple meanings of digital ethicswashing.
Opportunities, challenges, and benefits of AI innovation in government services: a review
Authors: Alhosani Khalifa , Alhashmi Saadat M.
Published: March 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as an excellent tool across multiple industries and holds great promise for the government, society, and economy. However, the absence of a distinct consensus regarding the definition and scope of artificial intelligence hinders its practical implementation in government settings. This article examines the various methodologies, emphases, and goals within artificial intelligence, emphasizing its ability to enhance human capabilities in critical situations. Considering the present advantages and enhanced productivity brought about by AI adoption in trailblazing government departments, this study explores the possible benefits and limitations of AI usage in the public sector. By looking at the cross-disciplinary difficulties of public AI applications, such as language hurdles and service delays, this study highlights the necessity for a thorough knowledge of the risks, impediments, and incentives of employing AI for government services. The study hopes to provide insight into AI research's ultimate aims, including object manipulation, natural language processing, and reasoning. This study emphasizes the potential for greater productivity, simplified procedures, and reduced obligations by analyzing the pros and cons of using AI in the public sector. Further, organizational theory is considered a tool for figuring out how to deal with challenges and maximize possibilities associated with AI deployment. The theory is used as the conceptual framework to understand the benefits, opportunities, and challenges involved in using AI when providing government services. The results of this research help us better understand how AI may revolutionize public service delivery by stimulating new ideas and improving efficiency. This study covers critical questions about organizational theory's role in improving government AI adoption, the challenges governments have in adopting AI, and the potential benefits AI might offer public service delivery. The research recommends a strategic approach to AI adoption in the public sector, considering organizational, ethical, and societal implications while recognizing the possibility of AI's transformative impacts on governments' service provision.
GAIT analysis based on GENDER detection using pre-trained models and tune parameters
Authors: Vora Charmy , Katkar Vijay , Lunagaria Munindra
Published: March 2024

In past several decades, gait biometrics has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional identification methods, offering advancements in surveillance, monitoring, and analysis techniques. However, determining gender based on gait remains a challenge, particularly in computer vision applications. This study proposes a robust and adaptable approach to address this issue by leveraging gait analysis. There is a growing need for datasets tailored to gait analysis and recognition to facilitate the extraction of relevant data. While most existing research relies on image-based gait datasets, this study utilizes the OULP-Age dataset from OU-ISIR, representing gait through gait energy images (GEIs). The methodology involves feature extraction from GEIs using pre-trained models, followed by classification with the XGBoost classifier. Gender prediction is enhanced through parameter fine-tuning of the XGBoost classifier. Comparative analysis of 11 pre-trained models for feature extraction reveals that DenseNet models, combined with optimized XGBoost parameters, demonstrate promising results for gender prediction. This study contributes to advancing gender prediction based on gait analysis and underscores the efficacy of integrating deep learning models with traditional classifiers for improved accuracy and reliability.
New memory-one strategies of the Iterated Prisoner’s Dilemma: a new framework to programmed human-AI interaction
Authors: de Paulo Katharine Padilha , Estombelo-Montesco Carlos Alberto , Tejada Julian
Published: March 2024

With the rapid and continuing development of AI, the study of human-AI interaction is increasingly relevant. In this sense, we propose a reference framework to explore a model development in the context of social science to try to extract valuable information to the AI context. The model we choose was the Prisoner Dilemma using the Markov chain approach to study the evolution of memory-one strategies used in the Prisoner’s Dilemma in different agent-based simulation contexts using genetic algorithms programmed on the NetLogo environment. We developed the Multiplayer Prisoner’s Dilemma simulation from deterministic and probabilistic conditions, manipulating not only the probability of communication errors (noise) but also the probability of finding again the same agent. Our results suggest that the best strategies depend on the context of the game, following the rule: the lower the probability of finding the same agent again, the greater the chance of defect. Therefore, in environments with a low probability of interaction, the best strategies were the ‘Always Defect’ ones. But as the number of interactions increases, a different strategy emerges that is able to win Always Defect strategies, such as the Spiteful/grim. In addition, our results also highlight strategies that emerge in situations in which Spiteful/grim and Always Defect were banned. These are memory-one strategies with better performance than both TFT and PAVLOV under all conditions showing behaviors that are particularly deceiving but successful. The previously memory-one strategies for the Prisoner Dilemma represent a set of extensively tested strategies in contexts with different probability of encountering each other again and provide a framework for programming algorithms that interact with humans in PD-like trusted contexts.
Spatial pattern, and evolution of China’s urban agglomerations
Authors: Yu Taofang , Shu Tianheng , Xu Jiahui
Published: March 2024

China's urban agglomeration is not only crucial to tackle with the more and more contradiction between population, resources and environment, but also an important spatial actor to increase the global competitiveness and promote the transformation of China's economic development mode. In the national "14th Five-Year Plan" in 2021, it is proposed to "promote the coordinated and development of large, medium-sized and small cities and towns based on urban agglomeration and metropolitan area". Generally, 19 urban agglomerations designated in this Plan are heterogeneous in development level and national functions. To this end, from the nature of urban agglomerations, especially on agglomeration economy and functional urban region hypothesis, the research focuses on the spatial pattern and changes of these 19 areas mainly based on the 6th and 7th national census. The findings show that, China’s UAs are unique in driving forces, and spatial patterns as well. China’s UAs are more state-led, though now the marketing forces more and more crucial. The UAs have been evolved from the early planned economy period to the reform and opening up period, and then to the further development of the Socialist market economy until now. Unlike other typical UAs abroad, most of the developed UAs are more specialized in manufacture, not in producer services, though these regions show a remarkable high-end services oriented shift in 2010–2020.
Systematic review of ecological research in Philippine cities: assessing the present status and charting future directions
Authors: Olfato-Parojinog Anne , Dagamac Nikki Heherson A.
Published: March 2024

Developing countries such as the Philippines have an increasing urbanization rate, resulting in both the positive and negative effects of socioeconomic growth, including environmental degradation. Thus, the emergence of research on the ecological interactions in urban ecosystems has been given more attention throughout the years. This systematic review gathered relevant studies from research platforms such as Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and Google Scholar to assess the trends in urban ecology research based on publication date, study area, number of citations, methods employed, and most used keywords. 105 were recorded from 1982 to 2023, with 2022 having the most published studies. Most studies were conducted in Metropolitan Manila, Luzon Island, a region with high population density and economic activity. Employing survey questionnaires (21.4%), GIS and remote sensing techniques (16.8%), and biodiversity assessments (18.3%) were the methods that were mainly used in the studies recorded. The thematic analysis has subdivided the studies into urban landscape, urban systems, bio-ecological, and human ecology-based approaches in the context of the Philippines. Science-based solutions integrated each fundamental disciplines of urban ecology in studying Philippine cities can address the gaps exhibited. Although the country's scientific knowledge in urban ecology has evolved, this comprehensive review exposes the knowledge gaps in a temporal manner, especially in further studying Visayas and Mindanao islands and smaller peri-urban areas. Expanding to multidisciplinary approaches is recommended for more thorough understanding of Philippine urban ecology, which will help in decision-making toward a more sustainable future for Philippine cities.

Graphical Abstract
Lipid metabolism and MAPK-ICE1 cascade play crucial roles in cold tolerance of banana
Authors: Wu Shuofan , Hu Chunhua , Zhang Sheng , Deng Guiming , Sheng Ou , Dou Tongxin , Bi Fangcheng , He Weidi , Dong Tao , Li Chunyu , Liu Siwen , Gao Huijun , Yao Zhen , Yang Qiao-Song
Published: March 2024

Low temperature is a major environmental factor that limits the growth, yield, and geographical distribution of Cavendish and Dajiao bananas (Musa spp.). Dajiao bananas exhibit a significantly higher cold tolerance than the Cavendish cultivar. However, the underlying mechanisms involved in cold tolerance regulation in Dajiao plants have not been determined. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the differences in cold tolerance at the cellular level between the cold-sensitive Cavendish and cold-tolerant Dajiao banana types through comparative metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses in calli exposed to cold treatment under dark conditions. A higher accumulation of lipids was observed in Dajiao calli cells compared to Cavendish cells under cold stress. After cold treatment, 4,626 and 5,516 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in Cavendish and Dajiao banana cells, respectively. By integrating the transcriptomic and metabolomic datasets, we discovered that the linoleic acid and α-linoleic acid metabolism and the Abscisic acid (ABA)-independent Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade-Inducer of CBF expression 1 (ICE1) signal transduction pathway (including Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 1 [MEKK1], MAPK5, ICE1, and Cold-regulated 47 [COR47]) played crucial roles in the cold tolerance of Dajiao bananas. Our study provides new insights into cold response regulation and novel cold tolerance mechanisms, providing valuable leads and targets for the genetic improvement of cold tolerance in bananas.
Companion animal adoption and relinquishment during the COVID-19 pandemic: The experiences of animal rescue staff and volunteers
Authors: Carroll Grace A , Reeve Catherine , Torjussen Alice
Published: March 2024

There has been a paucity of research into the experiences of animal rescue staff and volunteers during COVID-19. The aim of this qualitative research was to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on companion animal rescue organisations and their staff and volunteers, and to develop a set of recommendations on how to reduce the risk to companion animal welfare during a crisis. Descriptive thematic analysis was used to explore the experiences of staff and volunteers from 28 animal rescue organisations, most of which were based in the UK. Other surveyed countries included Germany, the Republic of Ireland, France, Spain, the USA and Australia. We identify three key themes that reflect the challenges faced by pet rescue organisations during the pandemic: (1) impact on animals; (2) impact on identity; and (3) impact on organisational processes. Key recommendations include the promotion of co-operation and modifications within the sector, the need to understand, and change, detrimental pet-owner behaviours, and the need to clarify the identity of animal rescue organisations within the Government. Both positive and negative outcomes were experienced by animal rescue organisations during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings should be considered for future crises and indeed the everyday operating procedures of companion animal rescue organisations.
The political consequences of corporate donations for public service provision
Authors: McCarty Sean , Sumner Jane L.
Published: March 2024

Companies often donate to support public service delivery in US cities. Although this can help alleviate budgetary struggles for those governments, it is unclear what effect it may have on the individual residents receiving the services. In this paper, we argue that people who receive services funded in part by corporate donations are less likely to hold their local governments accountable if the services are of poor quality, because they no longer conceive of themselves as being the sole set of interests the government is catering to. We test our theory using a survey experiment with a realistic fictional government email and find evidence that, when compared with people receiving strictly taxpayer-funded services, people who are told services are provided in part by companies are less likely to take the quality of services into account when they vote.
Quiet Strength: Kurdish Women Kolbars and the Feminization of Poverty
Authors: AleAhmad Yosra
Published: March 2024

We get money at the cost of life here. Do you think death is not better than this life?Being a Kolbar is darkness. It is unfortunate. You either get shot, or you fall down a mountain, then stay alive but disabled.1 (Arasteh, a Kurdish woman kolbar)
Regimes in rotating Rayleigh–Bénard convection over rough boundaries
Authors: Tripathi Vinay Kumar , Joshi Pranav
Published: March 2024

The present work focuses on the effect of rough horizontal boundaries on the heat transfer in rotating Rayleigh–Bénard convection. We measure the non-dimensional heat transfer, the Nusselt number

$Nu$

, for various strengths of the buoyancy forcing characterized by the Rayleigh number

$Ra$

(

${10^5}\mathrm{\ \mathbin{\lower.3ex\hbox{$\buildrel< \over {\smash{\scriptstyle\sim}\vphantom{_x}}$}}\ }Ra\mathrm{\ \mathbin{\lower.3ex\hbox{$\buildrel< \over {\smash{\scriptstyle\sim}\vphantom{_x}}$}}\ }5 \times {10^8}$

), and rotation rates characterized by the Ekman number E (

$1.4 \times {10^{ - 5}}\mathrm{\ \mathbin{\lower.3ex\hbox{$\buildrel< \over {\smash{\scriptstyle\sim}\vphantom{_x}}$}}\ }E\mathrm{\ \mathbin{\lower.3ex\hbox{$\buildrel< \over {\smash{\scriptstyle\sim}\vphantom{_x}}$}}\ }7.6 \times {10^{ - 4}}$

) for aspect ratios

$\varGamma \approx 1$

,

$2.8$

and

$6.7$

. Similar to rotating convection with smooth horizontal boundaries, the so-called rotationally constrained (RC), rotation-affected (RA) and rotation-unaffected (RuA) regimes of heat transfer seem to persist for rough horizontal boundaries. However, the transition from the RC regime to RA regime occurs at a lower Rayleigh number for rough boundaries. For all experiments with rough boundaries in this study, the thermal and Ekman boundary layers are in a perturbed state, leading to a significant enhancement in the heat transfer as compared with that for smooth walls. However, the enhancement in heat transfer due to wall roughness is observed to attain a maximum in the RC regime. We perform companion direct numerical simulations of rotating convection over smooth walls to suggest a phenomenology explaining this observation. We propose that the heat transfer enhancement due to wall roughness reaches a maximum when the strength and coherence of the columnar structures are both significant, which enables efficient vertical transport of the additional thermal anomalies generated by the roughness at the top and bottom walls.
Justice Isn’t Blind: Attorney Attractiveness and Success in US Federal Court
Authors: Waterbury Nicholas W.
Published: March 2024

Many court observers have argued that judges are capable of avoiding the use of extraneous factors in decision-making. This study examines the influence of seemingly irrelevant heuristics on real-world courtroom proceedings. Drawing on theories from neighboring disciplines, I hypothesize that physically attractive attorneys have greater success in US federal court. Using a generalizable causal inference strategy and a dataset of over 1,000 cases and 3,000 votes, I find support for my expectations using multiple measures of attractiveness. These findings raise serious normative concerns about equality and underscore the need to adjust traditional models of judicial behavior to account for inherent biases.
Aiming at the Right Targets on Drug Price Reform
Authors: Dusetzina Stacie B.
Published: March 2024

A lack of transparency and concerns over patients costs at the pharmacy counter have increased Congressional focus on pharmacy benefits management practices. However, applying regulations without transparency into pharmacy benefits managers practices could do more harm than good.
Phenomenological Thomism: A Prooemium
Authors: Engelland Chad , Sanford Jonathan J.
Published: March 2024

This paper introduces Phenomenological Thomism by accomplishing the three tasks Thomas Aquinas sets for every prooemium. First, to promote goodwill (beniuolus), it shows how fruitful Phenomenological Thomism promises to be by arguing that it unites the strengths of two complementary alternatives to the modern starting point. Second, to make teachable (docilis), it delineates the principal vectors of phenomenological engagement, including philosophy of nature, philosophical anthropology, ethics, epistemology, metaphysics, philosophical theology, and revealed theology. Third, to arouse attention (attentus), it focuses on the theme of manifestation to highlight the challenge of bringing the two traditions together. In this way, the prooemium encourages the further development of Phenomenological Thomism as a research program involving countless scholars and an infinity of tasks.
Waka waka politician: what are the drivers of party switching in Nigeria?
Authors: Agboga Victor
Published: March 2024

Most existing literature on the causes of party switching both in Africa and around the world is built on tenuous empirical foundations. The question of why members of parliament (MPs) switch parties has hardly been asked directly either to the MPs themselves or to everyday voters. While MPs could lie or give more favourable accounts that suit their interests, putting this question to them could uncover other crucial factors that have fallen through the cracks in previous theorizations. This article takes a triangulation approach by drawing from the viewpoints of researchers, voters and MPs themselves to give a more holistic picture of the drivers of party defection. Through a combination of a nationwide representative survey and elite and key informant interviews, I situate the trend of party switching in Nigeria within broader comparative literature on the subject, showing how Nigeria conforms and deviates from existing conceptualizations of party switching around the world. I find evidence of interactions between formal and personal drivers of party switching in Nigeria. I also discover that while a majority of Nigerian voters are suspicious of defectors, defectors point accusing fingers at the lack of internal democracy within political parties, thereby exposing an issue not adequately addressed in existing literature.