bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Retrospective Analysis of Postmortem Salmonella Dublin Cases in Dairy Cattle in British Columbia
Authors: Boyd Ellen , Dick John , Millar Christine , Ghosh Kazal , Arya Gitanjali , Himsworth Chelsea
Published: May 2024

Salmonella Dublin is a bovine‐adapted bacterial pathogen that primarily affects dairy cattle. The incidence of S. Dublin has been increasing across North America, including strains that are multidrug resistant. In British Columbia, the Ministry of Agriculture’s Animal Health Center (AHC) reported an increase in cases since 2015, warranting an investigation into how S. Dublin is spreading within the province. The objectives of this study were to make use of historical data collected from dairy farms across the province to (1) describe S. Dublin cases diagnosed at the AHC between 2007 and 2021, (2) identify risk factors for S. Dublin transmission across British Columbia dairy farms, and (3) identify any potential biases associated with passive laboratory‐based data that may apply to our results. We found that S. Dublin cases diagnosed at the AHC have been increasing over time. Over half of the cases had respiratory symptoms; however, clinical signs tended to be highly variable. The prevalence of respiratory symptoms was mirrored by florfenicol treatment and was suggested to be due to using a first‐line antibiotic for more common causes of pneumonia when presented with an S. Dublin case. Calves were 38 times more likely to have S. Dublin when compared to adults (odds ratio = 38.43, confidence interval = 7.26–203.64), and given the sample population (postmortem cases), it is reasonable to conclude clinical disease is most severe in this age group. Farm premise accounted for a large amount of variability within our model (92% of unexplained variance), suggesting that farm‐level management practices may be the most important risk factor for S. Dublin infection. In total, only 54% of BC dairy farms submitted to the laboratory between 2007 and 2021; however, proximity to the laboratory did not appear to influence submissions as proportionally; farms within the Fraser Valley submitted as frequently as farms from other regions. We strongly suggest that future work explore factors associated with farm management practices, given our findings regarding the clustering by premises.
Hematological Markers in Children and Adults with Atopic Dermatitis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Weissmann Sarah , Babyev Amit Shira , Gordon Michal , Golan-Tripto Inbal , Horev Amir
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic skin disease with an inflammatory pathophysiology that includes the activation of the innate and adaptive immune systems. We aimed to investigate the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), eosinophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (ELR), and eosinophil-to-neutrophil ratio (ENR) in AD patients, according to age and disease severity. Methods: This is a retrospective, population-based cohort study conducted between the years 2005 and 2020, comparing hematological markers of AD patients and sex-age-ethnicity-matched controls. AD patients were further divided by age and disease severity (mild, moderate-to-severe AD). We created a decision tree to predict moderate-severe AD. Results: A total of 13,928 patients with AD were included in this study: 6,828 adults and 7,100 children, with 13,548 controls. NLR, PLR, and ELR were lower in children compared to adults (p values <0.001). NLR, PLR, ELR, and ENR were increased in moderate-severe AD patients compared to mild AD patients (p values <0.001). PLR, ELR, and ENR were increased in AD patients versus controls (p values <0.001), with an additional increase in the NLR of moderate-to-severe AD patients. Patients with an ELR <0.21, a PLR >161, and ENR ≤0.016 should be considered high risk for developing severe AD, as well as patients with an ELR >0.21 and age at diagnosis <30 or age >30 years and mean platelet volume ≤9. Conclusion: Hematological ratios were significantly higher in moderate-to-severe AD patients, compared to mild AD patients. Hematological markers were lower in children with AD compared to adults, except for ENR, likely reflecting age-related changes in blood count parameters. These markers can assist in the management and follow-up of AD patients.
Donor Inhalation of Nebulized Dexmedetomidine Alleviates Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rat Lung Transplantation
Authors: Wang Jing , Sun Jiaojiao , Yu Huizhi , Hu Chunlan , Wu Jinbo , Hu Chunxiao
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The occurrence of lung ischemia-reperfusion injury (LIRI) after lung transplantation results in primary graft dysfunction (PGD) in more than 50% of cases, which seriously affects the prognosis of recipients. Currently, donor lung protection is the focus of research on improving graft survival in lung transplant recipients. Dexmedetomidine (Dex) is a widely used general anesthesia adjuvant in clinical practice to alleviate ischemia-reperfusion injury in the lungs, liver, heart, kidneys, and brain. However, intravenous infusion of Dex can cause negative effects on the cardiovascular system. Inhaling nebulized Dex can directly act on the alveolar tissue and alleviate its cardiovascular inhibitory effect by reducing drug intake. This study aimed to investigate the effect of donor nebulized Dex inhalation on LIRI after lung transplantation in rats. Methods: We randomly divided the male Sprague-Dawley rats into donor rats and recipient rats, and allowed the donor rats to inhale nebulized Dex or physiological saline 15 min before surgery. The donor lung was refrigerated for 8 h before each single-lung transplant. After 2 h of reperfusion of the transplanted lung, serum and transplanted lung tissue were collected. The wet-to-dry weight ratio of the lung tissue was measured, arterial blood gas was detected, and histopathology changes, oxidative stress, inflammatory reactions, and apoptosis were evaluated. Results: Pretransplant inhalation of Dex through the donor’s lung reduced the injury of the transplanted lung, increased the levels of malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase, and decreased the levels of superoxide dismutase and glutathione in the lung tissue. Moreover, nebulized Dex inhalation of the donor lung inhibited LIRI-induced tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression and also suppressed nuclear factor kappa B phosphorylation. Nebulized Dex inhalation reduced the rate of cell apoptosis in the transplanted lung tissue by inhibiting the upregulation of Bax, downregulation of Bcl-2, and increase in caspase-3 lysis caused by LIRI. Conclusion: Inhalation of atomized Dex is a potential donor lung protection strategy, which can be used to reduce LIRI after lung transplantation and may be helpful to improve the occurrence of PGD and prognosis of lung transplant recipients.
The Management of Elevated Blood Pressure in the Acute Care Setting: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Bress Adam P. , Anderson Timothy S. , Flack John M. , Ghazi Lama , Hall Michael E. , Laffer Cheryl L. , Still Carolyn H. , Taler Sandra J. , Zachrison Kori S. , Chang Tara I. ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Hypertension; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; and Council on Clinical Cardiology
Published: May 2024

Over the past 3 decades, a substantial body of high-quality evidence has guided the diagnosis and management of elevated blood pressure (BP) in the outpatient setting. In contrast, there is a lack of comparable evidence for guiding the management of elevated BP in the acute care setting, resulting in significant practice variation. Throughout this scientific statement, we use the terms acute care and inpatient to refer to care received in the emergency department and after admission to the hospital. Elevated inpatient BP is common and can manifest either as asymptomatic or with signs of new or worsening target-organ damage, a condition referred to as hypertensive emergency. Hypertensive emergency involves acute target-organ damage and should be treated swiftly, usually with intravenous antihypertensive medications, in a closely monitored setting. However, the risk-benefit ratio of initiating or intensifying antihypertensive medications for asymptomatic elevated inpatient BP is less clear. Despite this ambiguity, clinicians prescribe oral or intravenous antihypertensive medications in approximately one-third of cases of asymptomatic elevated inpatient BP. Recent observational studies have suggested potential harms associated with treating asymptomatic elevated inpatient BP, which brings current practice into question. Despite the ubiquity of elevated inpatient BPs, few position papers, guidelines, or consensus statements have focused on improving BP management in the acute care setting. Therefore, this scientific statement aims to synthesize the available evidence, provide suggestions for best practice based on the available evidence, identify evidence-based gaps in managing elevated inpatient BP (asymptomatic and hypertensive emergency), and highlight areas requiring further research.
Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacodynamics of AZD3366 (Optimized Human CD39L3 Apyrase) Alone and in Combination With Ticagrelor and Acetylsalicylic Acid: A Phase 1, Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled Study
Authors: Kardassis Dimitris , Egnell Ann‐Charlotte , Åstrand Magnus , Daniels Samuel J. , Whatling Carl , Fjellström Ola , Gabrielsen Anders
Published: May 2024

Background

ADP and ATP are importantly involved in vascular and thrombotic homeostasis, via multiple receptor pathways. Blockade of ADP P2Y
12
receptors inhibits platelet aggregation and represents an effective cardiovascular disease prevention strategy. AZD3366 (APT102), a long‐acting recombinant form of an optimized CD39L3 human apyrase, has effectively reduced ATP, ADP, and platelet aggregation and provided tissue protection in preclinical models, features that could be very beneficial in treating patients with cardiovascular disease.

Methods and Results

We conducted this phase 1, first‐in‐human study of single ascending doses of intravenous AZD3366 or placebo, including doses added to dual antiplatelet therapy with ticagrelor and acetylsalicylic acid. The primary objective was safety and tolerability; secondary and exploratory objectives included pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics (measured as inhibition of platelet aggregation), adenosine diphosphatase (ADPase) activity, and ATP/ADP metabolism. In total, 104 participants were randomized. AZD3366 was generally well tolerated, with no major safety concerns observed. ADPase activity increased in a dose‐dependent manner with a strong correlation to AZD3366 exposure. Inhibition of ADP‐stimulated platelet aggregation was immediate, substantial, and durable. In addition, there was a prompt decrease in systemic ATP concentration and an increase in adenosine monophosphate concentrations, whereas ADP concentration appeared generally unaltered. At higher doses, there was a prolongation of capillary bleeding time without detectable changes in the ex vivo thromboelastometric parameters.

Conclusions

AZD3366 was well tolerated in healthy participants and demonstrated substantial and durable inhibition of platelet aggregation after single dosing. Higher doses prolonged capillary bleeding time without detectable changes in ex vivo thromboelastometric parameters.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique Identifier: NCT04588727.
Thoughts on Teaching Critical History Using the Historical Jesus
Authors: Ullucci Daniel
Published: May 2024

This article discusses the author’s experience of teaching historical Jesus courses at several institutions in the United States over a span of fourteen years. It outlines some observed pedagogical challenges in teaching these courses and some strategies the author has employed to address them.
Widefield Super-Resolution Infrared Spectroscopy and Imaging of Autofluorescent Biological Materials and Photosynthetic Microorganisms Using Fluorescence Detected Photothermal Infrared (FL-PTIR)
Authors: Prater Craig B. , Kjoller Kevin J. , Stuart Andrew P.D. , Grigg David A. , ‘Limurn Rinuk , Gough Kathleen M.
Published: May 2024

We have demonstrated high-speed, super-resolution infrared (IR) spectroscopy and chemical imaging of autofluorescent biomaterials and organisms using camera-based widefield photothermal detection that takes advantage of temperature-dependent modulations of autofluorescent emission. A variety of biological materials and photosynthetic organisms exhibit strong autofluorescence emission under ultraviolet excitation and the autofluorescent emission has a very strong temperature dependence, of order 1%/K. Illuminating a sample with pulses of IR light from a wavelength-tunable laser source causes periodic localized sample temperature increases that result in a corresponding transient decrease in autofluorescent emission. A low-cost light-emitting diode-based fluorescence excitation source was used in combination with a conventional fluorescence microscopy camera to detect localized variations in autofluorescent emission over a wide area as an indicator of localized IR absorption. IR absorption image stacks were acquired over a range of IR wavelengths, including the fingerprint spectral range, enabling extraction of localized IR absorption spectra. We have applied widefield fluorescence detected photothermal IR (FL-PTIR) to an analysis of autofluorescent biological materials including collagen, leaf tissue, and photosynthetic organisms including diatoms and green microalgae cells. We have also demonstrated the FL-PTIR on live microalgae in water, demonstrating the potential for label-free dynamic chemical imaging of autofluorescent cells.
Impaired Perception of Body-Weight Distribution Marks Functional Mobility Problems in Patients Undergoing Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: De Leo Davide , Temporiti Federico , Bleggi Carlotta , La Guardia Moreno , Adamo Paola , Gatti Roberto
Published: May 2024

Hip osteoarthritis and total hip arthroplasty imply damaged articular and periarticular structures responsible for proprioception, and this damage may impair the accurate perception of body-weight distribution. In this study, we investigated proprioceptive abilities and accuracy perceiving body-weight distribution in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty, and we assessed the associations between these abilities and body perception accuracy with functional mobility testing in 20 patients scheduled for total hip arthroplasty and 20 age-matched healthy participants. We assessed (a) absolute error in hip joint position sense (AE-JPS), (b) absolute error in body-weight distribution (AE-BWD) during standing and sit-to-stand tasks with open and closed eyes, and (c) functional mobility with the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG). We assessed patients undergoing hip arthroplasty before (T0) and five days after their surgery (T1), while control participants underwent a single evaluation. Relative to controls, participants undergoing surgery showed higher AE-JPS at 15° of hip flexion at T0 ( p = .003) and at T1 ( p = .007), greater AE-BWD during sit-to-stand with open eyes at T1 ( p = .014) and with closed eyes at both T0 ( p = .014) and at T1 ( p < .001), and worse TUG at both T0 ( p = .009) and T1 ( p < .001). AE-BWD during sit-to-stand with closed eyes positively correlated with TUG at T0 ( r = 0.55, p = .011) and at T1 ( r = 0.51, p = .027). These findings suggested that impairments in body-weight distribution perception were evident both before and immediately after total hip arthroplasty, suggesting that these impairments may regularly mark these patients’ functional mobility problems.
A historical turn in the study of media governance. A research agenda for Europe in times of democratic crisis
Authors: Corduwener Pepijn
Published: May 2024

The liberalization of the media stands very much at the forefront in public, policy and academic concerns on how our current model of media governance affects democracy. But the discussion on the effects of media liberalization has obscured the vital question why liberalization was able to become the dominant media governance paradigm in the first place. This research note makes the case for a historical turn to answer this question. It argues that it is essential to contextualize media liberalization in the history of contemporary democracy in Europe rather than see it primarily through the perspective of technological innovation or top-down promotion of neo-liberal policies. It explores how three insights in historiography might form the core of a research agenda for media governance that takes history seriously. These include (a) the study of actors from below that pushed for reform outside the realm of government; (b) the influence of ideas on shaping institutional reform and (c) reading history forward rather than project today’s assumptions and outcomes into the past. Jointly, this historical turn will not only provide an enhanced understanding of how past reforms shaped the present, but also enlighten prospects for future changes of media governance paradigms.
An optimal regulation of grid-connected doubly-fed induction generator angular speed and the DC-link voltage
Authors: Bhushan Ravi , Chatterjee Kalyan
Published: May 2024

In this work, a linear quadratic regulator controller is utilized to optimize the gains of the machine-side converter and grid-side converter controllers. The DC-link voltage and the rotational speed of the doubly-fed induction generator are optimally regulated by these controls. Additionally, the small-signal stability of the proposed system has been evaluated using the linearized model of the system. The small-signal stability analysis of the designed system has been accomplished through the application of the eigenvalues and participation factors technique. The suggested controller has been tested in a variety of operating conditions under small disturbances. MATLAB/SIMULINK simulation simulations have been used to evaluate the efficacy of the suggested optimal control system. Additionally, the generator-angular speed and DC-link voltage dynamic performances demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed controller. Finally, the robustness of the proposed controller has also been tested and validated using OPAL-RT technology under large perturbations at stator terminal voltage.
Examining the Effect of Collaboration Effort, Input Method, and Age on Driver–Automation Collaboration in Unstructured Driving Environments
Authors: Rheem Hansol , Lee Joonbum , Lee John D. , Szczerba Joseph F. , Rajavenkatanarayanan Akilesh , Mathieu Roy
Published: May 2024

Both drivers and the current state of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADASs) are imperfect, but their collaboration as a team can compensate for individual limitations. Unstructured driving environments (e.g., parking lots and off-road trails) entail greater challenges for an ADAS and require driver–automation collaboration. However, few studies describe the factors shaping drivers’ subjective experience of collaboration with driving automation in unstructured environments. In this study, we examined the effects of collaboration effort and input method on drivers’ subjective experience, including mental workload, trust, and perceived usability. In addition, we examined how collaboration is experienced differently across different age groups. In this driving simulation study, participants collaborated with a hypothetical ADAS to navigate two unstructured driving environments. The results indicate that collaboration effort and input method did not directly affect drivers’ collaboration experience. However, examining the effect of collaboration effort by driver age suggests that older drivers (55 years old and over) experienced higher mental workload and gave lower usability ratings to the collaboration method than younger drivers. These results imply that older drivers may experience more challenging collaboration than younger drivers when they must devote substantial cognitive effort to collaborate with automation. The findings suggest designing driver–automation collaboration features to reduce cognitive effort for older drivers navigating unstructured driving environments. Moreover, future research must examine drivers’ collaboration experiences based on their unique situations, shaped by the interplay between situational properties (e.g., task demands) and driver characteristics (e.g., age) rather than relying on a limited understanding of individual factors.
Assessing Corridor Safety Performance at Approaches to Freeway Interchanges Using Lane Change Data
Authors: Shirinzad Maryam , Dixon Karen
Published: May 2024

Urban arterials near freeway interchanges are vital components of urban road infrastructure, connecting high-mobility freeway networks to the more accessible but lower-mobility urban network. In this study, the operational safety of these arterials is examined and the relationship between roadway geometry and safety performance is investigated. To assess operational safety, lane changes were considered as a risk factor, and the number of lane changes in each study subsegment was recorded. Segments were categorized as upstream or downstream based on their location relative to the intersection. The number of lane changes served as a safety performance measure, and was analyzed using linear regression models. The results indicate that downstream segments experienced decreased safety performance when median storages were present, while adding right running bays improved safety. Median openings and increased numbers of driveways negatively affected safety in these segments. For upstream segments, right turning bays were found to impair safety performance the most, followed by the number of driveways. The closer the driveways were to the interchange; the worse was the effect on the safety performance. In summary, this research highlights the importance of geometric design elements when considering the safety performance of urban arterials. It is crucial to consider geometric design elements, such as median storages, driveways, and other elements, as a part of a larger system rather than isolated elements, so as to provide safer arterials near freeway interchanges.
Effects of drilling-induced defects on tensile damage evolution of CFRP laminates
Authors: Liu Chao , Meng Qingxun , Zhao Changbao , Hu Daifeng
Published: May 2024

The reliability and service safety of composite structures are compromised by drilling defects on carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) materials. However, the synergism effect of different types of drilling defects on the mechanical behavior of structures remains unclear. To address this gap, this study focuses on investigating the intralaminar and interlaminar tensile damage evolution response of open-hole CFRP laminates while considering drilling quality. A model is developed, incorporating drilling delamination and tearing defects using the LaRC05 failure criterion and extended finite element method (XFEM). The model implemented in Abaqus/Standard software and the UDMGINI user subroutine is validated through experimentation. Subsequently, three types of open-hole CFRP laminates with typical drilling defect factors are subjected to tensile failure analysis. The results show a notable decline in the mechanical performance of CFRP laminates when drilling defect factors exceed certain levels. Moreover, a progressive damage evolution pattern is analyzed for open-hole CFRP laminates with respect to ply stacking sequences. The interaction between interlaminar delamination propagation and intralaminar crack evolution paths is discussed, highlighting that the concentration of in-plane shear stress primarily influences the location of crack initiation in CFRP laminates.
Linguistic Features of Secondary School Writing: Can Natural Language Processing Shine a Light on Differences by Sex, English Language Status, or Higher Scoring Essays?
Authors: Tate Tamara P. , Kim Young-Suk Grace , Collins Penelope , Warschauer Mark , Olson Carol Booth
Published: May 2024

This article provides three major contributions to the literature: we provide granular information on the development of student argumentative writing across secondary school; we replicate the MacArthur et al. model of Natural Language Processing (NLP) writing features that predict quality with a younger group of students; and we are able to examine the differences for students across language status. In our study, we sought to find the average levels of text length, cohesion, connectives, syntactic complexity, and word-level complexity in this sample across Grades 7-12 by sex, by English learner status, and for essays scoring above and below the median holistic score. Mean levels of variables by grade suggest a developmental progression with respect to text length, with the text length increasing with grade level, but the other variables in the model were fairly stable. Sex did not seem to affect the model in meaningful ways beyond the increased fluency of women writers. We saw text length and word level differences between initially designated and redesignated bilingual students compared to their English-only peers. Finally, we see that the model works better with our higher scoring essays and is less effective explaining the lower scoring essays.
Examining the Relationship Between E-Cigarette Status and Wearable Device Use on Physical Activity Levels in U.S. Adults
Authors: Tiralla Gillian , Tamulevicius Nauris , Martinasek Mary P. , Leung Willie
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this analysis is to investigate physical activity levels amongst e-cigarette users based on their wearable device use.

Design

Cross-sectional secondary data analysis using 2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS).

Setting

Data from the 2017 BRFSS were used.

Sample

5,562 U.S. adults (age 18+).

Measures

Self-reported physical activity related variables from U.S. adults (age 18+).

Analysis

Separate unadjusted and adjusted linear regression models were performed for each of the dependent variables using survey analysis.

Results

Non-users of wearable devices and e-cigarettes account for 96.6% (95%CI [95.7, 97.6]) of the sample, whereas users of wearable devices and e-cigarettes account for 3.3% (95%CI [1.2, 5.4]) of the sample. Those who use e-cigarettes participate in almost 50% less vigorous physical activity minutes per week than nonusers, 46 (95%CI [0.43, 91.57]) and 93 (95%CI [80.59, 106.34]) minutes respectively. Individuals who use e-cigarettes and use wearable devices were found to spend significantly more time in total physical activity per week in both the unadjusted and adjusted linear regressions, P = =0.01 and P = =0.04 respectively.

Conclusion

The use of e-cigarettes, wearable devices, or both technologies may influence the physical activity levels of its users. Additional research is needed to better understand the association between physical activity levels and the usage of these technologies.
Experimental investigation of 3D printed polylactic acid and polylactic acid – hydroxyapatite composite through material extrusion technique for biomedical application
Authors: Namasivayam Sukumaar Vijayvignesh , Arjunan Siddharthan , Pandiaraj Lakshmi Narayanan , Narayanan Arunagiri
Published: May 2024

In biomedical industries, composite additive manufacturing are employed for customization, quicker production, efficient use and capital reduction. This experimental work focuses on the development of poly lactic acid (PLA) and novel extruded hydroxyapatite (HA) reinforced poly lactic acid (HPLA) by material extrusion (ME) technique and their properties were compared with that of standard 3D printed PLA. The extruded composite filaments were subjected to thermal characterization (DSC, TGA) and chemical characterization (FTIR) to ensure filament quality and its implementation in ME technique for 3D printing process. In addition, the melt compounded composite filaments were subjected to annealing to observe the influence of heat treatment upon their mechanical properties and thereby to validate their potential to resist breakage during ME process. Taguchi orthogonal array method using MiniTab software is employed to execute the parameter optimization for the 3D printing process. The 3D printed tensile, flexural and impact specimens, using pure PLA and extruded composite filaments, as per American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards were subjected to a comparative experimental study which showed that 3D printed specimens using PLA and HPLA performed better than that of standard PLA specimens due to the improvement in their crystalline nature. The ruptured specimens were subjected to microstructural characterization (optical microscopy, SEM) to observe failure modes and ash content test was conducted to validate the homogenous distribution HA filler particles in PLA matrix. In addition, mechanical characterization was also performed on 3D printed bone plate/bone scaffold application using extruded filaments of PLA and HPLA, as per ASTM F543 standards, to validate incorporation of the composite filaments in real-time application in biomedical industry.
Leading Volunteers Effectively: Development and Preliminary Validation of the Volunteer Leader Behavior Scale
Authors: Tsai Amber CY , Newstead Toby , Lewis Gemma , Chuah Swee-Hoon
Published: May 2024

Volunteers are integral to civic and social life, and leadership is integral to keeping volunteers satisfied and committed. However, volunteer leadership research is hindered by the dispersion of leadership theories and the absence of a specialized leader behavior assessment tool. To address this, we developed and validated a four-dimensional scale for evaluating the behaviors of leaders of volunteers. Using confirmatory factor analyses, we confirmed a four-factor, hierarchical model in an Australian emergency volunteer sample. Concurrent validity was confirmed in relation to satisfaction with leadership, overall satisfaction with volunteering experience, and affective organizational commitment. Further details of quantitative studies for scale evaluation are provided. This study provides researchers and practitioners with a valid and reliable instrument to assess different aspects of effective leader behaviors within the volunteering context. Implications, limitations, and future research directions are discussed.
Proenvironmental Behavior Increases Subjective Well-Being: Evidence From an Experience-Sampling Study and a Randomized Experiment
Authors: Prinzing Michael
Published: May 2024

Two preregistered studies investigated whether engaging in proenvironmental behavior increases a person’s well-being. A 10-day experience-sampling study (7,161 observations from 181 adults in 14 countries, primarily the United States) revealed positive within-person and between-person associations, and a randomized controlled experiment ( N = 545 U.S. undergraduates) found that incorporating proenvironmental behavior into individuals’ daily activities increased their experiences of happiness and meaning in life. Indeed, the effect was comparable to incorporating activities selected specifically to elicit such positive states, though these results may be affected by demand characteristics. The studies also offered some tentative preliminary evidence about why such an effect might emerge. There was some support for the hypothesis that proenvironmental behavior affects well-being by creating a “warm glow.” But overall the findings align more closely with the hypothesis that proenvironmental behavior helps to satisfy individuals’ basic psychological needs.
Informativeness of Announcement Returns in Cross-border Acquisition Completion: A Perspective from Emerging Economies
Authors: Ahuja Sugandh , Singh Shveta , Yadav Surendra Singh
Published: May 2024

This study examines the informative role of announcement returns in the deal-closing decision for cross-border acquisitions from emerging economies. Using a sample of 903 acquisitions from five emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS), we find that the likelihood of deal completion increases if the market reacts favorably at the time of announcement. Further, we investigate if the relationship between announcement returns and deal completion becomes more significant under increased information asymmetry. Empirical results attest that the relationship between the market reaction and deal completion becomes more pronounced in unrelated deals and deals without advisors.

JEL Codes: G14, G34
Lijing-Anfei Decoction Attenuates COPD in a Mouse Model: Network Pharmacology Analysis, Molecular Docking, and Experimental Validation
Authors: Zhu Jiajia , Liu Jie , Jia Wei , Shao Guoqiang , Xu Haizhu
Published: May 2024

Background

Today, network pharmacology and molecular docking were utilized for investigation and prediction of possible mechanisms in fields such as pharmacognosy and traditional Chinese medicine formulas when treating disease.

Purpose

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is caused by exposure to toxic particles and leads to chronic bronchitis and lung dysfunction. Lijing-Anfei decoction (LAD) is a traditional Chinese herbal decoction used to cure COPD. This study explored the effects of this decoction and its intrinsic mechanism in a COPD mouse model.

Materials and Methods

Possible targets were retrieved from several databases and combined using Veny. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed via STRING database. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed via the Metascape database. The COPD model was established by exposing the mice to cigarette smoke for 12 weeks. After the model was established, LAD was administered for four weeks. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed, and body weights and lung wet/dry ratios were measured. Lung morphology was observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining.

Results

After the screening, 32 overlapping targets were used to generate PPI networks and the following hub genes were identified: JUN, IL6, RELA, IL1B, HIF1A, MAPK1, PPARG, PTGS2, MAPK14, and NOS2. The KEGG analysis indicated that hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) and other signaling pathways are possible signaling pathways. The molecular docking results demonstrated tight links between major compounds and their targets. In animal experiments, LAD attenuated body weight loss, downregulated inflammatory cell numbers, and inhibited the enhancement of Fe2+ levels. The mean linear intercept index changes indicated that LAD ameliorated the lung structural damage. ELISA revealed that it downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and inhibited excessive oxidant production, TdT-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling assay demonstrated that it alleviated cell death in the lungs, and immunohistochemical staining revealed that it inhibited HIF-1α and PTGS2. ML228—an agonist of HIF-1—blocked the effect of LAD, validating the role of HIF-1-mediated ferroptosis in the pharmacological effects of this decoction.

Conclusion

This study revealed that LAD was successful in treating COPD.
Unravelling the Link Between Bilateral Investment Treaties and Environmental Sustainability in Sub-Saharan African Countries
Authors: Afolabi Luqman , Ejumedia Patrick Efe , Oduyoye-Ejumedia Adebunmi Olusola , Kabanda Richard , Madichie Nnamdi O
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the practical relationship between foreign direct investments (FDI), bilateral investment treaties (BITs), income, energy consumption and CO2 emissions in sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries between 2000 and 2020. To address the challenges of heterogeneity, non-stationarity and cross-sectional dependence, we employed the dynamic common-correlated effects estimation method introduced by Chudik and Pesaran. This methodology provides reliable results for panel datasets of significant to moderate size. The results indicate a direct connection between FDI and CO2 emissions, providing evidence for the pollution haven theory. Notably, BITs also have a favourable and substantial impact on environmental degradation in SSA countries. These findings emphasise the need for effective environmental regulatory frameworks and management techniques. Achieving sustainable growth and economic development in SSA countries requires prioritising the adoption and implementation of carbon reduction strategies. SSA countries can attain balanced growth between economic progress and environmental preservation by reducing the negative effects of FDI inflows and BITs on environmental sustainability. This study expands the current knowledge base by providing insights into the complex relationship between FDI inflows, BITs, income, energy consumption and CO2 emissions in SSA countries. The findings offer valuable guidance to policymakers and stakeholders in formulating and executing effective environmental policies and regulations to promote sustainable development in the area.
Differences in Physical Activity Levels by Sociodemographic and Health Risk Factors Among Persons With Disabilities in South Korea
Authors: Lee SeungCheor , Cheong Hyeon-Kyoung , Park Saengryeol , Park So-Youn , Oh In-Hwan
Published: May 2024

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends physical activity for more than 150 minutes a week to improve health and reduce disease burden; however, previous studies have shown a lack of participation among persons with disabilities. Logistic regression analysis was performed on National Health Insurance Service data to analyze the relationship between physical activity levels by disability type and socioeconomic factors. The results showed that women with disabilities exercised 0.663 times compared to men with disabilities and individuals with severe disabilities exercised 0.719 times compared to those with mild disabilities. Those from the highest income level households (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.442) and the re-employed (AOR = 1.119) exercised adequately. Thus, physical activity levels and socioeconomic factors are related in persons with disabilities. Exercise policies and programs are required to support persons with disabilities by income level.
Beyond Survival: A Scoping Review on the Sexual Health of Sexual and Gender Minority Women Following Curative Cancer Treatment
Authors: Miles Heather S. , Wickersham Karen E. , Hein L. C.
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

To explore the existing research on sexual health experiences of sexual and gender minority women (SGMW) post-curative cancer treatment.

Methodology:

This scoping review was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews. Four articles that focused on sexual health experiences of SGMW post-curative cancer treatment were included.

Results:

Four themes were identified: (a) sexual function; (b) sexual orientation and gender identity, including disclosure and health care provider reactions; (c) relationship dynamics, such as relationship status and the quality of romantic relationships; and (d) body image.

Discussions:

The findings underscore substantial challenges faced by SGMW cancer survivors in achieving optimal sexual well-being, impacting their access to post-treatment care. This study advocates for more expansive research efforts involving diverse participant cohorts, extending beyond breast cancer, to gain deeper insights into these critical issues.
Do Gender-Diverse Teams Deliver Better Operational Performance: An Experimental Study
Authors: Sunder M Vijaya , Gangwar Manish , Modukuri Siddhartha
Published: May 2024

The routines-based approach to operations management emphasizes the role of routines in operational performance. However, little is known about how gender diversity in teams could alter coordination and change behaviors of team members, potentially impacting performance. In this study, we report on two laboratory experiments that induce routines to assess the stability of coordination and adaptability to organizational changes across mixed-gender teams of varying diversity and empirically examine operational performance via routines. Based on frequentist and Bayesian statistical approaches, our findings reveal that compared to other mixed-gender teams, balanced-gender teams (a) attain stability in routines faster, (b) exhibit varying levels of adaptability to internal and external changes, and (c) deliver better economic benefits via resource- and time-efficiencies under normal and change conditions, and this is attributable to their higher pace of routine formation. We find the operational-performance effect more prominent in situations of change than in normal conditions. Alongside our theoretical contributions, our study has several implications for management and effective operations management in terms of team composition, hiring, and staffing decisions.
Adaptive predefined-time tracking control of uncertain permanent-magnet synchronous motor drive chaotic system
Authors: Ji Yuehui , Ke Zhaotao , Liu Junjie , Song Yu , Gao Qiang
Published: May 2024

A predefined-time tracking control algorithm is formulated for the Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor(PMSM) driver system subjected to chaotic oscillations and undeterministic parameters, which can determine the upper bound of settling-time by controller gains. Radial Basis Function Neural Networks(RBFNNs) are employed to approximate the unknown nonlinear functions as universal approximators. The innovative predefined-time tracking differentiators are constructed to estimate the derivatives of the virtual inputs, resolving “the explosion of complexity” in traditional backstepping method. Then, an adaptive predefined-time controller is proposed in the backstepping framework. Lyapunov’s theoretical analysis proves that all signals in the closed-loop systems are uniformly ultimately bounded and the output tracking errors can converge to a small neighborhood of the origin within the predefined-time. Finally, simulation studies are performed to demonstrate that the proposed control scheme can quash the chaotic behaviors of the PMSM drive system and ensure fast-tracking performance even under unknown parameters.
Decolonizing nature conservation according to natural law: learning from the Kogui
Authors: Pyhälä Aili
Published: May 2024

With rising concerns over the failed outcomes of global conservation strategies and the militarization of environmental monitoring and enforcement, there is an urgent need for decolonizing nature conservation. This article examines the position of Indigenous peoples as rights-and-knowledge-holders in this discourse and the vital role they play in biodiversity conservation globally. I present a 2018 case study of the Kogui Indigenous peoples of Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia, one of the last remaining examples of a sustainable biocultural system. My results demonstrate that the success of the Kogui is largely defined by their: (a) nature-based cosmovision, (b) strong cultural identity related to that cosmovision, and (c) functioning governance system ordered by Natural Law. These findings stand as beacons to reframe the nature conservation paradigm and help humanity re-find and re-connect with our place in, and relationship with, both the material and non-material worlds.
Effect of Deficit Irrigation on Maize (Zea Mays L.) Crop Under Conventional, Fixed, and Alternate Furrow Irrigation for Effective Irrigation Water Management
Authors: Ashine Etefa Tilahun , Bedane Minda Tadesse , Kedir Chota Mohammed , Admassu Robel
Published: May 2024

A study was conducted with the objective of determining the effect of deficit irrigation on maize (Zea mays L.) under conventional, fixed, and alternate furrow irrigation. The experiment was conducted at Jimma Agricultural Research Center (JARC) in 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 dry periods. Nine treatments of different deficit irrigation levels were factorial combined and randomized in plots, and all cultural practices were done. The crop water requirement was calculated using the CROPWAT8.0 program. Yield and growth parameter data were recorded, and analyzed using SAS software. The two-year over-all statistical analysis result showed that, different deficit irrigation levels had a significant effect (p<0.05) on grain yield, ear height, fresh biomass, 100 seed weight, girth, and water productivity. However, there was no significant effect (p > 0.05) on plant height and internode length. The result revealed that 100% ETc conventional furrow gave the highest grain yield (106.1 Qun/ha), followed by 75% ETc conventional furrow (101.23 Qun/ha) and 50% ETc conventional furrow (81.86 Qun/ha). The minimum yield of 55.64 Qun/ha was obtained at a fixed 50% furrow irrigation, and there was a 52.44% yield improvement. The maximum fresh biomass of 196.5 Qun/ha was obtained from 100% conventional furrow, and the minimum 103.40 Qun/ha was at 50% fixed furrow irrigation. The maximum and minimum water productivity of 8.007 and 2.8 kg/m3 were obtained at 75% conventional and 100% fixed furrow irrigation, respectively. Considering the water productivity, net economic benefit and sustainable production of the crop in the agroecology of the study area, combination of 55% up to 85% of deficit irrigation level with conventional furrow irrigation system could be recommended for the production of maize in a deficit furrow irrigation method. Based on the observations made and the statistical analysis done, fixed furrow irrigation was not recommended for the study area.
A Review of Intense Pulsed Light in the Treatment of Ocular Rosacea
Authors: Shergill Mahek , Khaslavsky Sophie , Avraham Shani , Kashetsky Nadia , Zaslavsky Kirill , Mukovozov Ilya
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Ocular rosacea is an underdiagnosed form of rosacea that may occur with or without typical cutaneous signs of rosacea. One of the common manifestations is dry eyes. Although the use of intense pulsed light (IPL) in the treatment of rosacea-related dry eyes has been reported, a recent review is lacking.

Methods:

A scoping review was performed to summarize the efficacy of IPL in the treatment of ocular rosacea.

Results:

Five articles were included, representing 108 patients, with a mean age of 58.4 years. Based on available data, 59.2% (n = 58/98) were female. The studies detailed the use of IPL in combination with meibomian gland expression treatment. Overall, 91% (n = 89/98) of patients with ocular rosacea treated with IPL had a partial response and 9% (n = 9/98) had no response. IPL therapy did not lead to complete recovery in any of the included patients. One participant experienced an adverse event across the included studies.

Conclusions:

IPL is a promising treatment modality for ocular rosacea, as demonstrated by its ability to relieve dry eye symptoms with limited adverse events. Further research into this novel treatment is necessary to ascertain its role in the management of ocular rosacea.
Mermaids and bin chickens: Australian teenagers’ engagement with screen stories in the on-demand age
Authors: Potter Anna , Archer-Lean Clare , Macrossan Phoebe , Beazley Harriot
Published: May 2024

Australian teenagers have grown up with abundant choices in digital screen entertainment including social media, gaming, and global streaming video services such as Netflix. This participatory audience study investigates how, why and to what extent Australian teenagers engage with drama and movies in their daily lives, including Australian stories. The research findings show that Australian teens enjoy watching long-form screen stories on their favourite streaming services and that on-demand delivery is critical to their viewing preferences. Although many remember with affection the Australian drama they watched as children, teens now place a low priority on a screen story being Australian. A sophisticated audience that particularly values diverse and inclusive representation, teens’ deprioritising of Australian content – and linear television – has profound implications for policy, for Australian screen production and for public service broadcasters the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and the Special Broadcasting Service.