bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial pesticides: challenges and future perspectives for non-target organism testing
Authors: Karaoğlan Bilgin , Alkassab Abdulrahim T. , Borges Shannon , Fisher Tom , Link-Vrabie Cozmina , McVey Emily , Ortego Lisa , Nuti Marco
Published: December 2024

Biopesticides have received increasing global attention as environmentally friendly alternatives, allowing for more sustainable pest and disease control. In order to be registered or authorized for use, safety studies need to be submitted for regulatory risk assessments. However, it has been frequently reported that, in particular, microbial pesticides have a number of challenges when it comes to non-target organism testing. For instance, study results from such tests are often difficult to interpret or they lack consistency and accuracy. Reasons for this can be found firstly in the heterogeneity and resulting complexity of microbe-based pesticides comprising different taxonomic groups (e.g., bacteria, fungi, and viruses), and secondly in the lack of appropriate guidance for testing these different microbial agents considering their unique biological properties. The present review gives an overview of the available test guidelines by reflecting the current regulatory background in the area of environmental risk assessment of microbial pesticides and describes general and specific issues associated with safety studies on terrestrial vertebrates, aquatic organisms, bees, non-target arthropods other than bees, meso- and macro-organisms in soil, and non-target terrestrial plants. Proposals for improvement of existing test guidelines or guidance documents are provided and further discussed.
Unveiling genetic insights: Array-CGH and WES discoveries in a cohort of 122 children with essential autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Granata Paola , Zito Alessandra , Cocciadiferro Dario , Novelli Antonio , Pessina Chiara , Mazza Tommaso , Ferri Matteo , Piccinelli Paolo , Luoni Chiara , Termine Cristiano , Fasano Mauro , Casalone Rosario
Published: December 2024

Background

Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a strong genetic component and high heterogeneity. Essential ASD refers to patients who do not have other comorbidities. This study aimed to investigate the genetic basis of essential ASD using whole exome sequencing (WES) and array-comparative genomic hybridization (array-CGH).

Results

In a cohort of 122 children with essential ASD, WES detected 382 variants across 223 genes, while array-CGH identified 46 copy number variants (CNVs). The combined use of WES and array-CGH revealed pathogenic variants in four patients (3.1% detection rate) and likely pathogenic variants in 34 patients (27.8% detection rate). Only one patient had a pathogenic CNV (0.8% detection rate). Including likely pathogenic variants, the overall detection rate was 31.2%. Additionally, 33 de novo heterozygous sequence variants were identified by WES, with three classified as pathogenic and 13 as likely pathogenic. Sequence variants were found in 85 genes already associated with ASD, and 138 genes not previously included in the SFARI dataset were identified as potential new candidate genes.

Conclusions

The study enhances genetic understanding of essential ASD and identifies new candidate genes of interest. The findings suggest that using both array-CGH and WES in patients with essential ASD can improve the detection of pathogenic and likely pathogenic genetic variants, contributing to better diagnosis and potentially guiding future research and treatment strategies.
Impact of silica nanoparticles incorporation on the properties of resin infiltration: an in vitro study
Authors: ElEmbaby Abeer ElSayed , Nassar Adham Essam , Elawsya Mohamed Elshirbeny
Published: December 2024

Background

This study evaluated the effect of nano-silica (NS) incorporation with resin infiltrant on water sorption and solubility of resin infiltrant, mineral density of demineralized enamel, and resin tags penetration.

Methods

NS (Sigma-Aldrich, St Louis, Missouri, USA) was added into the resin infiltrant (ICON, DMG, Hamburg, Germany) at two concentrations by weight. The tested groups were: ICON (control), ICON + 0.2, and ICON + 0.5 (n = 10 per group). Water sorption and solubility were assessed using mass variation after 60 days water storage. Mineral density and surface topography were assessed using micro-Computed Tomography scans. Resin tags penetration was measured using a scanning electron microscope. Data were analyzed using one-way Analysis of Variance and Tukey’s post-hoc tests (P < .05).

Results

ICON revealed the highest water sorption, solubility mean values (28.90, 7.61) followed by ICON + 0.2 (14.80, 4.82) and ICON + 0.5 (12.32, 0.81) respectively, and vice versa for resin tags penetration. Mineral density of demineralized enamel significantly increased after treatment with ICON + 0.2 and ICON + 0.5.

Conclusion

Incorporation of NS to resin infiltrant decreased its water sorption and solubility along with enhancing the mineral density of the demineralized enamel and the penetration of resin tags.
Associations of accelerometer-measured physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep with next-day cognitive performance in older adults: a micro-longitudinal study
Authors: Bloomberg Mikaela , Brocklebank Laura , Doherty Aiden , Hamer Mark , Steptoe Andrew
Published: December 2024

Background

Previous studies suggest short-term cognitive benefits of physical activity occurring minutes to hours after exercise. Whether these benefits persist the following day and the role of sleep is unclear. We examined associations of accelerometer-assessed physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep with next-day cognitive performance in older adults.

Methods

British adults aged 50-83 years (N = 76) without evidence of cognitive impairment or dementia wore accelerometers for eight days, and took daily cognitive tests of attention, memory, psychomotor speed, executive function, and processing speed. Physical behaviour (time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA], light physical activity [LPA], and sedentary behaviour [SB]) and sleep characteristics (overnight sleep duration, time spent in rapid eye movement [REM] sleep and slow wave sleep [SWS]) were extracted from accelerometers, with sleep stages derived using a novel polysomnography-validated machine learning algorithm. We used linear mixed models to examine associations of physical activity and sleep with next-day cognitive performance, after accounting for habitual physical activity and sleep patterns during the study period and other temporal and contextual factors.

Results

An additional 30 min of MVPA on the previous day was associated with episodic memory scores 0.15 standard deviations (SD; 95% confidence interval = 0.01 to 0.29; p = 0.03) higher and working memory scores 0.16 SD (0.03 to 0.28; p = 0.01) higher. Each 30-min increase in SB was associated with working memory scores 0.05 SD (0.00 to 0.09) lower (p = 0.03); adjustment for sleep characteristics on the previous night did not substantively change these results. Independent of MVPA on the previous day, sleep duration ≥ 6 h (compared with < 6 h) on the previous night was associated with episodic memory scores 0.60 SD (0.16 to 1.03) higher (p = 0.008) and psychomotor speed 0.34 SD (0.04 to 0.65) faster (p = 0.03). Each 30-min increase in REM sleep on the previous night was associated with 0.13 SD (0.00 to 0.25) higher attention scores (p = 0.04); a 30-min increase in SWS was associated with 0.17 SD (0.05 to 0.29) higher episodic memory scores (p = 0.008).

Conclusions

Memory benefits of MVPA may persist for 24 h; longer sleep duration, particularly more time spent in SWS, could independently contribute to these benefits.
The Power of The (First) Name: Do name tags for operating room staff improve effective communication and patient safety? A proof-of-concept study from an academic medical center in Germany
Authors: Bungert Alexander D. , Ramspott Jan Philipp , Szardenings Carsten , Knipping Alina , Struecker Benjamin , Pascher Andreas , Hoelzen Jens Peter
Published: December 2024

Background

Effective and reliable communication is the cornerstone of safe communication in the operating room (OR). The OR is one of the most dynamic places in the hospital where multiple disciplines must work together in perfect harmony to ultimately improve patient outcomes. To create familiarity by name regarding constantly changing team members, individual name tagging was implemented in the OR.

Methods

We analysed the impact of name tagging in the OR in a proof-of-concept study. Name tags (either first or last name), coloured according to the specific department, have been placed on the cap since March 13, 2023. On May 26, 2023, a total of 440 anaesthesiologists, general, visceral, and trauma surgeons, nurses, and service staff were invited to answer an evaluation questionnaire of nine questions. The survey period ended on August 7, 2023. 101 people answered the query which, among other things, asked for overall ratings, compliance, evaluation of specific items as well as positive and negative aspects. Statistical analyses were performed using R.

Results

Most of the interviewed staff rated the implementation of name tagging positively (median=3.4; scale from 1-5, 1=bad, 5=good). The greatest benefit was seen in communication in general, direct contact with colleagues, and delegation of tasks. Most of the staff (>90 %) adhered to the new project and used it regularly. Negative aspects mentioned included potential loss of sterility, loss of respectability, and environmental impact. Potential for improvement was seen in the bonding method of attachment or in the implementation.

Conclusion

Individual name tagging in the OR can improve interprofessional communication and is one tool to enhance patient safety by decreasing reservations or intimidations towards previously unknown colleagues. More studies are required to determine long-term effects on patient safety, outcome, or employee satisfaction.
Clinical efficacy and safety of a single administration of fluralaner injectable suspension (BRAVECTO® injectable) vs. monthly administration of oral afoxolaner (NexGard®) in dogs for tick and flea control over one year under European field conditions
Authors: Petersen Ivo , Goebel-Lauth Susanne , Pobel Thierry , Gil Maria J. , Löhlein Wolfgang , Wolf Oliver , Zschiesche Eva , Welzel Bjoern , Heinau Lea
Published: December 2024

Background

Year-round control of canine flea and tick infestations requires owner compliance with recommendations for regular treatments. Compliance failures can result in increased exposure of dogs to tick-borne pathogens and resurgence of flea populations. This study investigated the year-long efficacy of fluralaner 150 mg/ml injectable suspension (BRAVECTO® injectable), developed to remove the need for multiple owner-administered, within-year treatments.

Methods

This randomized, examiner-masked, non-inferiority study enrolled household dogs at veterinary clinics in Germany, France, and Spain. Each household contained a primary dog infested with ≥ 4 ticks or ≥ 5 fleas. Additional dogs in each household received the same treatment as the primary dog, either a single injection with fluralaner (15 mg/kg) on day 0, or 12 monthly treatments with oral afoxolaner (NexGard®) beginning on day 0. Owners presented their dogs for tick and flea assessments at visits 2 through 10 (days 14, 28, 56, 84, 112, 224, 280, 336, 365). Primary endpoints were the percentages of primary dogs free of live ticks or fleas at visit 10. Secondary endpoints were the percentage reductions of live ticks and fleas in primary dogs. All treated dogs were observed for adverse reactions throughout the study.

Results

The analyzed per-protocol population included 415 primary dogs (fluralaner 279, afoxolaner 136) from 976 treated dogs (fluralaner 653, afoxolaner 323). From visits 2 through 10, ≥ 95% of primary dogs in each group were tick-free, and ≥ 93% were flea-free. The percentage of dogs free of ticks or fleas was non-inferior (P ≤ 0.0048) in the fluralaner group compared to the afoxolaner group at visit 10 and all earlier visits. Compared to baseline, fluralaner-group tick and flea counts were reduced by > 99%; afoxolaner-group tick and flea counts by > 98% and > 97%, respectively. There were no unexpected adverse events in any treated dog in either group, nor any sign of interactions between concomitantly administered vaccines and medications.

Conclusions

A single subcutaneous fluralaner injection provided a level of tick and flea control equivalent to that of 12 monthly administrations of afoxolaner. The sustained fluralaner efficacy helps maintain canine health by retaining treatment with the veterinarian and eliminating treatment-compliance failures by pet owners between veterinary visits.

Graphical Abstract
Atopic dermatitis
Authors: Carr Stuart , Pratt Rebecca , White Fred , Watson Wade
Published: December 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common, chronic skin disorder that can significantly impact the quality of life (QoL) of affected individuals as well as their families. Although the pathogenesis of the disorder is not yet completely understood, it appears to result from the complex interplay between defects in skin barrier function, environmental and infectious agents, and immune dysregulation. There are no diagnostic tests for AD; therefore, the diagnosis is based on specific clinical criteria that take into account the patient’s history and clinical manifestations. Successful management of the disorder requires a multifaceted approach that involves education, optimal skin care practices, anti-inflammatory treatment with topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) and/or phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4) inhibitors, the management of pruritus, and the treatment of skin infections. Systemic immunosuppressive agents may also be used, but are generally reserved for severe flare-ups or more difficult-to-control disease. Newer systemic agents, such as Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors and biologics, have a more favourable safety and efficacy profile than the older, traditional systemic immunosuppressives. Topical corticosteroids are the first-line pharmacologic treatments for AD, and evidence suggests that these agents may also be beneficial for the prophylaxis of disease flare-ups. Although the prognosis for patients with AD is generally favourable, those patients with severe, widespread disease and concomitant atopic conditions, such as asthma and allergic rhinitis, are likely to experience poorer outcomes. Newer systemic agents have been approved which are greatly improving the QoL of these patients.
Be aware of overfitting by hyperparameter optimization!
Authors: Tetko Igor V. , van Deursen Ruud , Godin Guillaume
Published: December 2024

Hyperparameter optimization is very frequently employed in machine learning. However, an optimization of a large space of parameters could result in overfitting of models. In recent studies on solubility prediction the authors collected seven thermodynamic and kinetic solubility datasets from different data sources. They used state-of-the-art graph-based methods and compared models developed for each dataset using different data cleaning protocols and hyperparameter optimization. In our study we showed that hyperparameter optimization did not always result in better models, possibly due to overfitting when using the same statistical measures. Similar results could be calculated using pre-set hyperparameters, reducing the computational effort by around 10,000 times. We also extended the previous analysis by adding a representation learning method based on Natural Language Processing of smiles called Transformer CNN. We show that across all analyzed sets using exactly the same protocol, Transformer CNN provided better results than graph-based methods for 26 out of 28 pairwise comparisons by using only a tiny fraction of time as compared to other methods. Last but not least we stressed the importance of comparing calculation results using exactly the same statistical measures.

Scientific Contribution We showed that models with pre-optimized hyperparameters can suffer from overfitting and that using pre-set hyperparameters yields similar performances but four orders faster. Transformer CNN provided significantly higher accuracy compared to other investigated methods.
A Novel Frequency-Division Deep Learning Approach for Magnetotelluric Data Quality Enhancement
Authors: Yu Nian , Ji Mingjie , Zhang Chao , Ye Yi , Zhou Wei
Published: December 2024

High signal-to-noise ratio magnetotelluric (MT) data are crucial for accurately interpreting subsurface structures. Recently, deep learning has become popular for MT denoising due to its ability to avoid parameter tuning and enable real-time processing. These methods typically fit or predict signals in noisy segments after identifying and segmenting signal and noise in the time domain. However, these methods struggle to preserve both low- and high-frequency signals effectively due to high noise levels in these segments. To address this issue, we propose a novel deep learning denoising method that separately recovers low- and high-frequency signals using distinct strategies. Low-frequency signals are fitted using an inverse autoencoder with a channel attention mechanism, effectively removing high-frequency components. High-frequency signals are then predicted using a bidirectional long short-term memory network (BiLSTM) combined with a squeeze-and-excitation (SE) mechanism, enhancing prediction by considering both global and local signal characteristics. Additionally, we introduce the multivariate state estimation technique (MSET) for real-time signal-noise identification. MSET analyzes residuals after separating low-frequency signals to identify noise. Denoising is performed only on segments with significant noise, preserving more effective signals. Finally, the fitted low-frequency dominant component and predicted high-frequency component are combined to form the denoised MT signals. This combined approach significantly improves the restoration quality of effective signals compared to existing methods. Experimental results demonstrate that our method exhibits superior denoising capabilities in both quantitative and qualitative evaluations, including apparent resistivity-phase curves and polarization direction analysis, offering enhanced performance over current deep learning methods.
Prediction of reservoir properties using the RDQ crossplot workflow
Authors: Bedle Heather , Neff Dennis B. , Neff Warren , Lubo-Robles David
Published: December 2024

We develop the rotated distance and quadrant (RDQ) crossplot, an innovative alternative to conventional amplitude variation with offset (AVO) analysis using amplitude versus gradient (AB) crossplots. This new display is made possible through the integration of the distance and quadrant trace attributes and offers significant advantages over traditional methods. The RDQ crossplot reduces shale data point overprinting on the wet and gas sand clusters, better separates the lithology and pore fluid points, and analyzes all seismic trace samples. Unlike AB crossplots, which require the specialized processing and conversion of seismic amplitudes, the RDQ workflow uses readily available near and far partial-stack seismic sections as input, expediting the AVO analysis. An AVO catalog of well-log suites and their synthetic modeled seismic traces are used to develop and test new theories, revealing linear trends in RDQ crossplot displays that correlate with the variations in thickness, porosity, lithology, and pore fluid. A new seismic trace attribute, DQ⊖px, is derived from the RDQ crossplot and used to delineate fluid types and augment lithology predictions better. We determine a DQ⊖px seismic display for a dim spot, an AVO class 1 sand model, revealing a hydrocarbon fluid contact not visible on stack seismic sections. In addition, a Signed Half Isochron preconditioning filter is introduced to distinguish between sand and shale lithologies. The RDQ workflow and crossplot represent a significant advancement in seismic AVO interpretation and reservoir characterization, allowing for the earlier integration of geology, petrophysics, and basin properties.
Neurosurgical Spreading Depolarization Monitoring: Why, How, and What to Do About It
Authors: Carlson Andrew P.
Published: December 2024

Monitoring of electrocorticography for the purpose of detecting spreading depolarization (SD) events is becoming increasingly used both for research and clinical applications. Although such monitoring bears many similarities to standard long-term epilepsy monitoring, there are a number of differences that neurosurgeons need to be aware of when initiating such a program. In addition, most of the focus in SD monitoring has been on traumatic and vascular conditions, where invasive monitoring is used commonly, but electrocorticography is not commonly used. In this brief review, a clinically focused approach is presented to support successful monitoring. This is not intended to be a comprehensive or systematic description of the neuroscience of SD and its clinical relevance, as many such previous reviews exist. It is also recognized that this is a rapidly evolving field and that new advances may disrupt these approaches and that there is a diversity of opinion on these topics, even among SD experts. Nonetheless, the general approach to SD monitoring has now been in use for >15 years and is the basis for several active and proposed clinical trials (NCT05337618, NCT04966546), so an understanding from a neurosurgical perspective of the rationale and approach to monitoring is warranted. In this review, we will consider the potential indications for SD monitoring in clinical trials or clinical care, the methodology for recording and interpreting, and finally some potential therapeutic approaches that are being considered in patients with clinically detected SD.
Constructing a doxycycline-inducible system for an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition model in MCF10A cells
Authors: Sun Yaxuan , Zhou Xun , Hu Xiaohui
Published: December 2024

Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been shown to play an essential role in the early stages of cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Inducible EMT models can initiate EMT in a controlled manner, thereby providing the opportunity to determine whether a cancer-associated gene influences cancer metastasis by triggering EMT. Moreover, different inducible EMT models enable the investigation of specific mechanisms of EMT modulation by various genes, facilitating a more precise understanding of how these genes influence cancer metastasis through the induction of EMT. Unfortunately, current inducible EMT models still present unmet needs. Therefore, we aimed to establish an inducible EMT model in MCF10A cells, a spontaneously immortalized human fibrocystic mammary cell line, by manipulating the expression of mouse Twist1 (mTwist1). In this study, we first compared the EMT induction capacity between human TWIST1 (hTWIST1) and mTwist1, and selected mTwist1 for further investigation. By monitoring the changes in epithelial and mesenchymal markers at different induction time points, we examined the EMT process in both polyclonal and monoclonal MCF10A cells that express doxycycline (DOX)-inducible mTwist1. Furthermore, our results showed that doxycycline-induced mTwist1 expression triggered EMT at a similar rate to TGFβ1-induced EMT in MCF10A cells. Additionally, this process was reversible upon DOX withdrawal. Thus, we have established a robust inducible EMT model in MCF10A cells, which can be used to further study cancer metastasis-driving genes.
Types of refractive errors in a sample of Iraqi children with Intermittent exotropia
Authors: K. Mohammad Najah , Ali Rajab Ibrahim
Published: December 2024

Background One of the most common strabismus types in children is intermittent exotropia, which predominantly occurs in children between the ages of 2 to 4 years. It may affect visual development and often coexists with refractive errors. Unlike esotropia, which usually links to hyperopia, intermittent exotropia might have a different relationship with refractive errors and thus lead to myopia. Methods In this cross-sectional retrospective study from August 2021 to December 2023, 179 patients diagnosed with intermittent exotropia were recruited via an outpatient clinic of Najah Al-Quraishi, Baghdad, Iraq. The refractive errors were compared by autorefractometry and retinoscopy after cycloplegic dilation. Data analysis was constructed under the use of IBM SPSS V.26 for the determination of emmetropia, myopia, and hyperopia prevalence. Results Among the 179 patients, emmetropia was the most commonly observed refractive status, present in 68 patients (38%). Low hyperopia and low myopia were also common, with 64 and 40, respectively. A limited number of patients had moderate/high myopia and moderate/high hyperopia; in detail, the prevalence was following: 5% of patients had moderate myopia, while 0.5% of patients suffered from high myopia; symmetrically, 5% were moderate to high hyperopia. From the data collected, a trend emerged for a low refractive error and symmetric refractive error in both eyes. Conclusion Contrasted to prior conventional wisdom about refractive error in strabismus, it established the greater incidence of emmetropia in patients with intermittent exotropia. The findings call for specific management strategies to be applied in this population.
Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) on Selected Surgeries in the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department incurred by Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), Private Health Insurance and Uninsured Patients in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital in Karnataka state of India.
Authors: Kamath Sagarika , Sankar Acharya Siddhartha , Brand Helmut , Salins Prajwal , Verma Reena , Sumit Dr. Kumar , Prabhu Dr. Vidya , kamath rajesh
Published: December 2024

Introduction OOPE for healthcare services is a major concern within the Indian healthcare system. 30% of the population remains uninsured despite increasing health insurance coverage. For obstetrics and gynaecology (OBG) patients financial obstacles like OOPE can delay access to health care, evaluating spending patterns can inform policies to enhance accessibility, affordability and equitable health. Methodology A retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital in Karnataka state of India to analyze OOPE for 905 OBG patients who underwent Cesarean Section(C-Section), Laparoscopic Hysterectomy, Laparoscopic Cystectomy, Laparoscopic Myomectomy and Laparoscopic Assisted Vaginal Hysterectomy (LAVH). These were the top five most performed obstetrics and gynecology surgeries in the tertiary care teaching hospital between January 2023 and July 2023. Data was collected across AB-PMJAY, private health insurance, uninsured patients and analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, median) and the Shapiro-Wilk test for data normality. Results The study analyzed OOPE across 905 OBG patients. Findings show AB-PMJAY provided full coverage with zero OOPE for all surgeries. Though private health insurance reduced OOPE compared to uninsured patients under private health insurance still faced significant financial burden. Variations existed in minimum and maximum OOPE and percentage of OOPE across different private insurances. All the uninsured patients incurred 100% OOPE, with a median OOPE of Rs. 33,257 (405.67 USD) to Rs. 57,053 (695.76 USD) and a mean OOPE of Rs. 39,848 (485.95 USD) to Rs. 60,687 (740 USD) across the surgeries. Discussion Findings of the study show that AB-PMJAY is highly effective in reducing OOPE and enhancing financial risk protection for OBG patients. Patients covered by private health insurance incurred less OOPE, yet the burden remained considerable. High OOPE rates for uninsured patients (100%) and private health insurance (38.15%) compared to 0% OOPE in AB-PMJAY emphasizes the need for the continued expansion of AB-PMJAY.
Does Brand Attitude Complement Influencer Credibility in Shaping Purchase Intention of Indian GenZ Consumers?
Authors: Vilas Chavare Pranav , Nayak Smitha , Birau Ramona , Alapati Varalakshmi
Published: December 2024

Introduction The social media landscape has undergone radical changes and has revolutionized consumer perspectives, purchasing habits, and behaviours. Amidst this emerging trend is the rise of influencer marketing and its impact on the purchase intentions of followers. The objective is to explore the characteristics of influencers that contribute to their credibility. This research aims to explore the role of consumers’ attitude toward brands on their intention to adopt brands endorsed by influencers. Methods This cross-sectional research was undertaken among GenZ in the urban landscape of India. Data collected was analyzed using SmartPLS4 software. Findings Trust, expertise, and similarity were the significant antecedents of the formation of influencer credibility. Attractiveness did not have a significant influence on influencer credibility. A complementary partial mediation of Attitude towards a brand is observed in the association between influencer credibility and the purchase intention of followers. Attitude towards the video also had a significant positive influence on purchase intention. Conclusion The study found that Gen Z places little importance on an influencer’s attractiveness, as it has no significant impact on credibility. However, attitude toward the brand strongly influenced purchase intention and partially mediated the relationship between influencer credibility and purchase intention.
Mapping evidence of postgraduate research supervision experiences at higher education institutions in Africa: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Nxumalo Celenkosini , Roberts Tina , Mohamed Abdel-Hakeem , Marais Janene , Mayedwa Noluthando
Published: December 2024

Background The evolving landscape of the African higher education sector necessitated by global higher education reforms and the need for research informed responses to address contextual challenges is partly dependent on effective postgraduate research supervision. A wide range of postgraduate research supervision models and practices are documented globally. In the African context, the experiences of postgraduate research supervision are not clearly understood from the experiences of all stakeholders. Aim The proposed scoping review aims to map evidence on the range of postgraduate research supervision experiences at higher education institutions in Africa. Methods The methodological framework proposed by Arksey and O’Malley will be used to conduct the review. Relevant articles will be sourced from different electronic data bases namely; ERIC, Web of Science, EbscoHost and Scopus. A combination of search terms and Boolean operators will be used to obtain the relevant articles based on the inclusion criteria stipulated within the Population, Context and Concept (PCC) framework of study identification for this review. Results Studies reporting on postgraduate research supervision experiences from the perspective of academics, students and support staff in the African higher education context will be included. The results may also provide insights postgraduate supervision experiences from varying postgraduate research disciplines. Conclusion The findings will provide consolidated empirical evidence on experiences of postgraduate supervision in the African higher education context, thereby providing holistic insight on postgraduate research supervision practices, models currently used, implementation challenges and highlight research gaps. This may inform recommendations that advance knowledge within this field, particularly in the African higher education context.
Criminal law of the Russian Federation. The general part
Authors: Grishko Natal'ya , Antonyan Elena , Belyakov Aleksandr , Bodrova Elena , Gavrilov Boris , Kadnikov Nikolay , Kashuba Yuriy , Naumov Anatoliy , Nekrasov Denis , Pinkevich Tat'yana , Stepanov Maksim , Nikiforova Alena , Chernyh Evgeniya , Marshakova Natal'ya , Saninskiy Roman , Utkin Vladimir
Published: December 2024

The authors of the textbook, well—known legal scholars with extensive experience in practical and scientific-pedagogical activities, outlined the theoretical material, illustrating it with practical examples, highlighting the difficulties of application, controversial issues, and suggesting ways to resolve them.
The textbook presents judicial practice in criminal cases of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation and other courts of general jurisdiction.
The textbook has been prepared on the basis of the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation, the current criminal legislation, taking into account recent changes, the experience of legislative and law enforcement practice.
For students, trainees, postgraduates, teachers of law schools, researchers and practitioners of law enforcement and special agencies, as well as for a wide range of readers, anyone interested in the history and current state of Russian criminal law.
Technology and properties of fiber reinforced concrete with a nanomodified matrix
Authors: Leonovich Sergey , Sadovskaya Elena
Published: December 2024

The monograph substantiates the concept of multilevel reinforcement of structural heavy concrete, including the level of nano-, micro-reinforcement of cement stone with tubular carbon nanomaterials and macro-reinforcement of the concrete structure with steel fiber.
Fiber-reinforced concrete compositions have been developed to determine the optimal content of steel fiber and carbon nanomaterial during monoarming, the properties of fiber-reinforced concrete of multilevel reinforcement with a combination of nano-, micro-reinforcement with tubular UNM and macro-reinforcement with steel fiber have been studied.
A technique has been developed for a multiparametric assessment of the properties of fiber reinforced concrete of multilevel polydisperse reinforcement in order to determine strength, crack resistance and deformability in laboratory and building conditions.
A set of technological measures for conducting concrete works with the preparation and use of fiber reinforced concrete of multilevel polydisperse reinforcement in the construction of monolithic building structures is proposed.
A comprehensive methodology for assessing the quality of fiber concrete in building structures has been developed.
The Main Factors of Competitiveness of Resort Hotel Services in the Modern Conditions of the Russian Federation
Authors: Levkina Nataliya
Published: December 2024

The hotel business, as well as other sectors of the Russian economy, is experiencing significant economic problems in the modern conditions of the Russian Federation. At the same time, certain segments of the hospitality industry are characterized by a high level of competition. To increase the competitiveness of the hotel, it is necessary to ensure the growth of the competitiveness of the services offered by it, which depends on the degree of customer satisfaction with their quality and level of service. This work is devoted to the identification of the main factors determining the competitiveness of resort hotel services. The results of the study can be further used to identify strategies for the functioning of relevant economic entities.
Optimization of Human Resource Management in Chinese Construction Enterprises in the Context of Digital Transformation
Authors: Lu R.
Published: December 2024

This article examines how Chinese construction companies can optimize human resource management to increase productivity in a digital mindset. First of all, the article highlights the main problems of modern human resource management, including outdated management concepts, irrational allocation of human resources and the lack of a scientifically based incentive system for employees. To eliminate the existing problems, the article proposes specific measures to optimize human resource management, including the development of a peopleoriented management concept, integration and optimization of human resource allocation, paying attention to work efficiency to increase employee enthusiasm, creating a system to improve the quality of employee work and a harmonious corporate culture. These measures are aimed at optimizing human resource management through digital thinking and technical means in order to effectively increase the productivity of employees of Chinese construction companies.
CAMINHOS PARA A EDUCAÇÃO INCLUSIVA
Authors: Belo de Oliveira Leticia Moraes , Cardozo Layla Arenari , Delpupo Carolina Brioschi , Costa Rafael Nogueira
Published: December 2024

As instituições de ensino regular foram pensadas a partir de um padrão normativo, igualitário e excludente. Com o aumento das discussões sobre a inclusão de pessoas com deficiência nas escolas, faz-se necessária a construção de um ambiente escolar que promova a inclusão, com estrutura, profissionais e currículo de ensino que se ajustem a esse modelo educacional. O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar e analisar se existem ações educativas de inclusão em uma unidade escolar pública de ensino fundamental. Para isso, foi realizada uma discussão teórica sobre a inclusão no Brasil, embasada na autora Maria Teresa Égler Mantoan. De maneira empírica, foi realizado um estudo de campo em uma escola pública localizada no interior do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, no município de Macaé. A pesquisa apresentada faz parte do relato final de um grupo de Prática de Ensino do Curso de Licenciatura em Ciências Biológicas da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. O estudo de caso analisou as seguintes categorias: i) estrutura escolar e ii) as práticas e os métodos de ensino no campo da inclusão empregados pela instituição. A título de considerações finais, o artigo aponta para a educação inclusiva como uma forma de reestruturar o sistema educacional, valorizando a heterogeneidade humana.
CURADORIA DIGITAL COMO RECURSO PEDAGÓGICO PARA EDUCAÇÃO INCLUSIVA
Authors: Vidal Adriane , De Oliveira Daniel
Published: December 2024

O presente artigo discorre sobre o Produto Educacional (PE) Curadoria Digital de Recursos Pedagógicos para Educação Especial, que se encontra em construção e faz parte de uma pesquisa qualitativa, descritiva e bibliográfica que discorre sobre o fenômeno da inclusão de crianças com Deficiência Intelectual (DI) na Educação Básica e suas expectativas de desenvolvimento. A elaboração desse produto é resultado da inquietação da pesquisadora diante das dificuldades vivenciadas, e de outros professores, em reunir materiais que atendessem as necessidades dos alunos com necessidades especiais. A pesquisa intitulada: “A tecnologia como facilitadora da inclusão de alunos com deficiência intelectual na educação básica”, aborda a importância da tecnologia como aliada de professores e demais profissionais da educação no desenvolvimento do ensino e aprendizagem de alunos com deficiência intelectual.  O PE é um Portal (site) com uma Curadoria onde estão sendo reunidas atividades para alunos com DI, que estejam cursando desde o 1º ano até o 6º ano do Ensino Fundamental, a fim de possibilitar maior desenvolvimento para esse estudante. Trata-se de um processo de escolha, avaliação e organização de recursos educacionais que facilitem a aquisição de conhecimentos, utilizando materiais didáticos que possibilitem a ludicidade e a interação, onde o aluno torne-se protagonista do seu processo de construção do conhecimento. Como resultado dessa pesquisa é esperado disponibilizar conhecimentos básicos sobre a deficiência intelectual para profissionais da educação, e através do portal, otimizar o trabalho do professor que poderá utilizar a organização de conteúdos apropriados para alunos com DI.
USOS DOS RECURSOS DIGITAIS NAS PRÁTICAS DE LEITURA DE PESSOAS COM DEFICIÊNCIAS VISUAIS
Authors: Subrinho Abinalio Ubiratan da Cruz , Sodré Barbosa Fernada , Sacramento de Sousa Nilcelio
Published: December 2024

Com o surgimento da Tecnologia Assistiva (TA) e o aumento na produção de recursos digitais, como aparelhos e softwares cada vez mais sofisticados, também em decorrência dos altos índices de conectividade dos sujeitos, escolas e demais instituições de ensino têm utilizado tais recursos na promoção da acessibilidade e da inclusão das pessoas com deficiência visual, objetivando sua participação nas variadas práticas sociais. Nesse sentido, o presente artigo busca refletir como os recursos digitais têm auxiliado na prática de leitura das pessoas com deficiências visuais assistidas pela Associação dos Deficientes Visuais de Irecê e Região (ADEVIR). A pesquisa é qualitativa em educação e adota por método o Estudo de Caso, tendo a observação participante e a entrevista coletiva como instrumento de construção de informações. A partir dos dados construídos foi possível identificar, entre outras, que os dispositivos mais utilizados pela comunidade investigada: é o DOSVOX e o Talkback, que já vem instalado em celulares com sistema Android.
SUPORTE EDUCACIONAL ON-LINE AOS ALUNOS COM DEFICIÊNCIA INTELECTUAL NO ENSINO SUPERIOR
Authors: De Alvernaz Branco Ferraz Aline , Correa Pitanga De Oliveira Mariana
Published: December 2024

Este artigo tem por objetivo apresentar uma ação de suporte educacional on-line aos alunos com deficiência intelectual do curso à distância da Licenciatura em Educação Especial da Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro. Foram acompanhados dois alunos com deficiência intelectual por meio de reuniões on-line e suporte em tarefas cotidianas por WhatsApp. Os desafios apresentados pelos alunos foram organizados em três grupos: gestão da rotina acadêmica, dificuldade no letramento digital e capacitismo. Observamos que as ações decorrentes do suporte educacional on-line foram profícuas para acessibilidade e ciberacessibilidade dos estudantes. E destacamos que as questões relatadas pelos alunos são um alerta para o desenvolvimento de ações contundentes de combate ao capacitismo no Ensino Superior na perspectiva de uma Pedagogia Descapacitista.
ITINERÂNCIAS E MÍDIAS SOCIAIS NA/PARA DIVERSIDADE
Authors: Costa Soares Cabral Rosangela , Da Rocha Moreira Joana , Rocha Damasceno Allan
Published: December 2024

Este artigo teve como objeto de investigação as itinerâncias e projeções do Laboratório de Estudos e Pesquisas em Educação, Diversidade e Inclusão (LEPEDI) nas mídias sociais e nos mais diversos espaços para além da Universidade e caminhou de maneira crítico-reflexiva por questões acerca dos impactos acadêmicos-científicos produzidos pelo laboratório. Para tal, estabeleceu-se categorias de estudo, construídas a partir da Teoria Crítica de Theodor Adorno (1985-2020). Definimos como objetivos: a organização administrativo-pedagógica, relação com a comunidade (mídias sociais, programas institucionais, projeção na mídia, etc.); identificar os impactos do LEPEDI no âmbito acadêmico-científico, considerando sua missão institucional e metas; e caracterizar a identidade epistêmica do LEPEDI no que se refere a afirmação do conceito “Inclusão em Educação”. A pesquisa debruçou-se sob a perspectiva histórico-político-pedagógica de um laboratório de pesquisa, que gera impactos em seu lócus de atuação. Assim, concluímos que a visibilidade nas mídias sociais e itinerâncias do LEPEDI, é consequência da extensão realizada por esse laboratório de pesquisa e atinge a comunidade interna e externa à Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro.
PLATAFORMIZAÇÃO DA EDUCAÇÃO PÚBLICA
Authors: Gonçalves da Silva Nathália Aparecida , Carolei Paula
Published: December 2024

O artigo apresenta uma discussão sobre a plataformização a partir de uma pesquisa documental de produtos e serviços oferecidos numa feira educacional e seus argumentos de venda e a incorporação de duas dessas plataformas privadas numa rede pública de São Paulo analisando as recomendações para a inclusão e autoria do aluno, assim como para a autonomia do professor. O que se concluiu é que a plataformização está muito avançada e houve um recuo da promessa da Educação e dos recursos abertos que acabaram sendo substituídos por plataformas, sistemas e políticas que reduzem completamente a autonomia do professor e a autoria do alunos. Apesar dos esforços formativos para uma postura mais reflexiva diante dessas plataformas, concluímos que essa política atual do Governo do Estado de São Paulo está  realmente cerceando a autonomia docente e dificultando a autoria e emancipação discente.
Diagnostic Value of Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Intranodal Forceps Biopsies Combined with Rapid On-Site Evaluation for Mediastinal/Hilar Lymph Node Disease
Authors: Wang Zhongli , Xu Peng , Wan Nansheng , Feng Jing
Published: December 2024

Aims/Background Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is the standard method for sampling mediastinal/hilar lymph node disease. However, the smaller samples obtained via needle aspiration have a lower diagnostic rate for benign compared to malignant diseases. The low diagnostic rates have been reported to be improved through using endobronchial ultrasound-guided intranodal forceps biopsy (EBUS-IFB), but the implementation of IFB presents technical challenges, as described with variable results in certain studies. The main objective of this study was to investigate the diagnostic value and safety of EBUS-IFB for mediastinal/hilar lymph node disease.

Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 150 patients with mediastinal/hilar lymph node disease at Tianjin Medical University General Hospital. EBUS-TBNA was performed using a rigid bronchoscope on the same lymph node of each patient under general anesthesia, with rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) conducted to determine the presence of pathological tissue. Following this, a tunnel was established, and a 1.5 mm biopsy forceps was employed for EBUS-IFB. Subsequently, diagnostic rates and safety of the methods used were determined.

Results EBUS-IFB + EBUS-TBNA (the combined strategy) exhibited the highest diagnostic rates, with the addition of bronchial mucosa biopsy/transbronchial lung biopsy/neoplasm biopsy contributing to a successful diagnostic rate of 97.2% (139/143). The combined strategy (90.2%) and EBUS-IFB alone (88.1%) contributed to successful diagnosis for all diseases, with rates significantly higher than that of EBUS-TBNA (60.1%) (p < 0.001). The diagnostic rates for malignant disease detected with the combined strategy (97.4%) and EBUS-IFB alone (93.6%) were significantly higher than that with EBUS-TBNA alone (71.8%) (p < 0.001). Both the diagnostic rates for sarcoidosis detected with the combined strategy and EBUS-IFB alone were 87.8%, which was significantly higher than that with EBUS-TBNA alone (46.9%) (p < 0.001). The procedures implemented did not engender major complications.

Conclusion Routine EBUS-TBNA followed by ROSE to acquire pathological tissue, followed by tunnel formation and EBUS-IFB, can enhance the overall diagnostic rate for mediastinal/hilar lymph node lesions. This approach is particularly valuable for diagnosing malignant diseases and sarcoidosis. EBUS-IFB serves as a safe and feasible complement to EBUS-TBNA, despite the fact that the procedure was extended in duration.