bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Accumulating Neural Signal Underlying Binocular Rivalry Dynamics
Authors: Nie Shaozhi , Katyal Sucharit , Engel Stephen A.
Published: October 2023

During binocular rivalry, conflicting images are presented one to each eye and perception alternates stochastically between them. Despite stable percepts between alternations, modeling suggests that neural signals representing the two images change gradually, and that the duration of stable percepts are determined by the time required for these signals to reach a threshold that triggers an alternation. However, direct physiological evidence for such signals has been lacking. Here, we identify a neural signal in the human visual cortex that shows these predicted properties. We measured steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) in 84 human participants (62 females, 22 males) who were presented with orthogonal gratings, one to each eye, flickering at different frequencies. Participants indicated their percept while EEG data were collected. The time courses of the SSVEP amplitudes at the two frequencies were then compared across different percept durations, within participants. For all durations, the amplitude of signals corresponding to the suppressed stimulus increased and the amplitude corresponding to the dominant stimulus decreased throughout the percept. Critically, longer percepts were characterized by more gradual increases in the suppressed signal and more gradual decreases of the dominant signal. Changes in signals were similar and rapid at the end of all percepts, presumably reflecting perceptual transitions. These features of the SSVEP time courses are well predicted by a model in which perceptual transitions are produced by the accumulation of noisy signals. Identification of this signal underlying binocular rivalry should allow strong tests of neural models of rivalry, bistable perception, and neural suppression.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTDuring binocular rivalry, two conflicting images are presented to the two eyes and perception alternates between them, with switches occurring at seemingly random times. Rivalry is an important and longstanding model system in neuroscience, used for understanding neural suppression, intrinsic neural dynamics, and even the neural correlates of consciousness. All models of rivalry propose that it depends on gradually changing neural activity that on reaching some threshold triggers the perceptual switches. This manuscript reports the first physiological measurement of neural signals with that set of properties in human participants. The signals, measured with EEG in human observers, closely match the predictions of recent models of rivalry, and should pave the way for much future work.
Understanding India’s Exit from the RCEP
Authors: Dar Arshid Iqbal
Published: October 2023

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership is a huge free trade pact which was signed in November 2020 after eight years of laborious talks and deliberations by 15 Asia-Pacific countries. It was ratified on January 1, 2022. Besides 10 ASEAN member countries, the pact includes China, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and New Zealand. However, despite the long negotiations, India withdrew from the pact in November 2019. To explore why, I use the “two-level game” perspective offered by Robert Putnam. The main argument is that by themselves neither domestic nor international/structural factors can account for India’s exit; but the enmeshment of both provides a comprehensive treatment.
Strategic Clarity and Taiwanese Citizens’ Confidence in the US Security Commitment
Authors: Wang T.Y. , Cheng Su-feng
Published: October 2023

President Biden’s remarks that his administration is willing to get involved militarily to defend Taiwan appear to be a significant deviation from Washington’s long-standing policy of “strategic ambiguity.” Critics warn that such a clear pledge is likely to bolster Taiwanese citizens’ confidence in America’s defense commitment, which may encourage Taipei’s pursuit of independence. This study uses deterrence theory with panel survey data to examine this argument. The results support critics’ concerns that Biden’s security pledges have increased Taiwanese citizens’ confidence in Washington’s security assurance. However, the public’s overall confidence declined between 2021 and 2022, which can be attributed to the shifting views of pro-independence citizens due to their concern about a Chinese leadership emboldened by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. After witnessing America’s security assistance to Ukraine, independence supporters may have recognized the uncertain nature of Washington’s security commitment and adjusted their expectations.
Water Pollution and Cancer: An Updated Review
Authors: Smith Iredell
Published: October 2023

Water pollution refers to the contamination of water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and groundwater with harmful substances, leading to serious health hazards. One major concern linked to water pollution is its association with cancer. Numerous studies have substantiated that exposure to contaminants in polluted water sources can significantly increase the risk of developing various types of cancers. Chemicals like heavy metals (e.g., arsenic, lead), industrial pollutants (e.g., benzene, vinyl chloride), and pesticides have been detected in contaminated water supplies worldwide. These carcinogens not only contaminate the water but also accumulate in aquatic organisms consumed by humans, ultimately entering our food chain. Certain chemicals act as mutagens or tumor promoters, damaging DNA and causing genetic mutations that can lead to cancer development. Additionally, long-term exposure to these pollutants can weaken the immune system’s ability to fight off cancer cells effectively. Consequently, preventive actions must be undertaken swiftly at domestic, industrial, and governmental levels to reduce this pervasive threat through regulated waste disposal practices and advanced purification technologies.
Propuesta de Innovación Docente sobre Metodologías Participativas para el Alumnado Universitario: Resultados de un Estudio
Authors: Villamil Victoria , Vega Julio Isaac , Sancho-Álvarez Carlos , Bisquert Mercedes
Published: October 2023

Durante la pandemia por Covid-19, el profesorado universitario se vio obligado a cambiar sus clases a la modalidad online. Como consecuencia, al volver a la modalidad presencial, el profesorado observó que los estudiantes no se implicaban de la misma manera en las asignaturas como en los cursos anteriores. Por ello, se realizó un estudio cuantitativo de alcance descriptivo para detectar necesidades en los estudiantes de una asignatura del Grado de Pedagogía orientada a la investigación y posteriormente, se planteó una propuesta de innovación para atender las principales problemáticas encontradas. A partir del estudio y las preguntas aplicadas a través de una encuesta online, se identificó una baja participación y una demanda de metodologías participativas como técnicas que propicien que el alumnado sea más partícipe en su aprendizaje. Al respecto, se procedió al diseño de un manual de propuestas para los docentes sobre dichas metodologías de acuerdo a los resultados obtenidos. Se concluye que las estrategias que el profesorado utilice requieren estar diseñadas de acuerdo a las necesidades de los estudiantes, para que se generen procesos de reflexión, diálogo y participación activa, tanto de forma individual como grupal para personalizar las clases.
Fractional SDEs with stochastic forcing: Existence, uniqueness, and approximation
Authors: Kubilius Kęstutis
Published: October 2023

In this article, we are interested in fractional stochastic differential equations (FSDEs) with stochastic forcing, i.e., to FSDE we add a stochastic forcing term. The conditions for the existence and uniqueness of solutions of such equations are obtained, and the convergence rate of the implicit Euler approximation scheme for them is established. Such types of equations can be applied to the consideration of FSDEs with a permeable wall.
Observed & Experiential Integration (OEI) Therapy for Adolescent Girls with Depression
Authors: Kholifah Umi Nur , Dinata Konto Iskandar
Published: October 2023

Depression is a significant concern among female adolescents, necessitating effective therapeutic interventions. This study investigates the efficacy of Observed Experiential Integration (OEI) therapy in reducing depression levels among female adolescents. The research involves site selection, securing permissions, adapting measurement tools (BDI-II), modifying the OEI module, and selecting qualified therapists and observers. After implementing informed consent procedures, initial BDI-II assessments were conducted, followed by OEI therapy sessions. One week later, post-treatment assessments and a follow-up were used to evaluate the outcomes. This study employed a mixed-methods quantitative research approach with a quasi-single experimental design with pretest experimental and control groups, as well as posttest design, which is used to evaluate the effect of a treatment on a single case. Findings reveal notable reductions in depression levels post-OEI therapy. For instance, subject AIN's score decreased from 28 (moderate depression) in the pretest to 7 (minimal) in the follow-up. Subject LA's score dropped from 27 (moderate) in the pretest to 5 (minimal) in the follow-up. These results demonstrate the therapy's effectiveness in alleviating depression among female adolescents. This research provides valuable insights into the potential of OEI therapy as an effective intervention for adolescent female depression. However, limitations, including the small sample size, should be considered. Future research should explore broader populations and extended therapy durations. In conclusion, OEI therapy holds promise as a means of reducing depression among female adolescents and warrants further investigation.
Use of Mechanical Circulatory Support in Complex High-risk Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Review of Current Evidence
Authors: Sung Jonathan Gabriel , Lam Ho , Chui Ka-Lung , Wong Anthony Yiu-Tung , Yap Jonathan , Lee Zhen-Vin , Lo Sidney TH , Kochar Ajar , Liew Houng-Bang , Jensen Christoph Julian , Karthikesan Dharmaraj , Tan Jack Wei-Chieh , Yam Ping-Wa , Yeo Khung Keong , Park Duk-Woo , Eeckhout Eric
Published: October 2023

With advances in devices and techniques of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), interventional cardiologists are managing patients with coronary artery disease of increasing complexity. For patients with prohibitive operative risk or who refuse bypass surgery, PCI may provide a reasonable alternative. Procedural haemodynamic stress often poses a significant challenge and is poorly tolerated in patients with reduced myocardial reserve, such as those with advanced heart failure or extreme frailty. The emergence of new mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices has made PCI a more viable option for these high-risk patients. In this article, the authors review the existing evidence on the use of MCS in non-emergency complex and high-risk PCI, the optimal timing of initiating MCS and barriers to MCS use.
How does parents' psychological distress relate to adolescents' problematic gaming? The roles of parent-adolescent relationship and adolescents' emotion regulation
Authors: Lin Li , Ding Ruyi , Ni Shiguang
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

Emerging research has identified parents' psychological distress as a potential risk factor that increases adolescents' vulnerability to problematic gaming. This study attempted to address “why” from a relational perspective. We hypothesized that parents' psychological distress may link to adolescents' problematic gaming through the mediation of parent-child relationship quality, while the mediating effects of parent-child relationship quality may vary depending on adolescents' emotion regulation.

Methods

We collected data from 4,835 parent-child dyads in China (parental age = 41.45 ± 4.53 years; adolescent age = 13.50 ± 1.00 years). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was utilized to analyze the relationships among the variables under study.

Results

Parent-reported parental depression/anxiety was related to worse adolescent-reported parent-child relationship, which in turn related to more severe adolescent-reported problematic gaming. Moreover, the mediating effects of parent-child relationship quality were weaker when adolescents used more expressive suppression (but not cognitive reappraisal).

Discussion and Conclusions

The findings of this study highlight the need to consider both parent-child relationships and adolescents' active role in their own emotion regulation in order to understand parental influence on adolescent problematic gaming.
Developments of additive manufacturing and 5D printing in tissue engineering
Authors: Lai Jiahui , Wang Min
Published: October 2023

Additive manufacturing, popularly known as “3D printing”, enables us to fabricate advanced scaffolds and cell-scaffold constructs for tissue engineering. 4D printing makes dynamic scaffolds for human tissue regeneration, while bioprinting involves living cells for constructing cell-laden structures. However, 3D/4D printing and bioprinting have limitations. This article provides an up-to-date review of 3D/4D printing and bioprinting in tissue engineering. Based on 3D/4D printing, 5D printing is conceptualized and explained. In 5D printing, information as the fifth dimension in addition to 3D space and time is embedded in printed structures and can be subsequently delivered, causing change/changes of the environment of 5D printed objects. Unlike 3D/4D printing that makes passive/inactive products, 5D printing produces active or intelligent products that interact with the environments and cause their positive changes. Finally, the application of 5D printing in tissue engineering is illustrated by our recent work. 3D/4D/5D printing and bioprinting are powerful manufacturing platforms for tissue engineering.

Graphical abstract
Synthesis and characterization of the graft copolymer PTFE-g-HEMA using gamma rays for the load and delivery of ciprofloxacin
Authors: Ramírez-Flores Benito E. , Bucio Emilio
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to develop a drug delivery copolymer. Hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) was grafted onto poly(tetrafluoroethylene) films using gamma rays as the initiator agent. The optimal conditions for the grafting procedure were determined through a series of experiments, considering the following factors: reaction time, temperature, HEMA concentration, solvent type, and gamma-ray doses. Grafting was accomplished using the oxidative-pre-irradiation method. The resulting copolymer was subjected to various characterizations, including thermal analysis (TGA and DSC), FTIR-ATR spectroscopy, contact angle measurements, and assessment of physicochemical properties. Additionally, its ability to load and release ciprofloxacin was evaluated.

Graphical abstract
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON AN AUTOMOBILE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM WITH INTERNAL HEAT EXCHANGER USING THE REFRIGERANTS HFC134a AND HFO1234yf
Authors: Gurudatt H. M. , Narasimham G.S.V.L. , Gowda B. Sadashive
Published: October 2023

Despite being favorable to stratospheric ozone, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), a synthetic replacement to
chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), have a high global warming potential (GWP). Despite this, HFCs are still used in many
applications, including air conditioning and refrigeration. The HFCs were included in the category of greenhouse
gases under the Kyoto Protocol, which was negotiated in 1997 and entered into force in 2005, and it was mandated
that the emissions of these gases be monitored and controlled. In order to meet the requirement of an 85% reduction in
HFCs, a phase-out of HFCs was suggested by the 2015 EU regulation and the 2016 Kigali Amendment to the Montreal
Protocol. This process will last until 2036 in industrialized countries and until 2047 in nonindustrial countries. The
global warming potential of the HFC134a refrigerant used in automobile air conditioning is 1300, which prompted
researchers to look for new low-GWP refrigerants. The hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) refrigerant HFO1234yf, with a GWP
of 4 or less, shows potential for use in the automobile air conditioning (AAC) area, according to recent research. Due
to frequent HFC leaks due to pipe failures brought on by vibration, the AAC needs special attention. In this research,
attention is given to the low-GWP refrigerant R1234yf to explore AAC system performance, and comparisons are made
with the currently used refrigerant HFC134a. The experiments are performed by including and excluding the internal
heat exchanger (IHX) (liquid-to-suction heat exchanger) in the circuit. Without any design modifications R1234yf
(with suitable lubricating oil) can be charged into an existing R134a AAC system, the R1234yf refrigerant charge
being 9-10% less than that of R134a. The results show that the use of IHX is advantageous for R1234yf. Even though
R134a performed better, R1234yf with IHX is a better alternative to an AAC system working with R134a without IHX,
with only a slight compromise in the performance of the system.
FAST FOURIER TRANSFORM METHOD FOR PERIDYNAMIC BAR OF PERIODIC STRUCTURE
Authors: Buryachenko Valeriy A.
Published: October 2023

The basic feature of the peridynamics [introduced by Silling (2000)] considered is a continuum description of material behavior as the integrated nonlocal force interactions between infinitesimal material points. A heterogeneous bar of the periodic structure of constituents with peridynamic mechanical properties is analyzed. One introduces the volumetric periodic boundary conditions (PBCs) at the interaction boundary of a representative unit cell (UC), whose local limit implies the known locally elastic PBCs. This permits us to generalize the classical computational homogenization approach to its counterpart in peridynamic micromechanics (PM). Alternative to the finite element methods (FEM) for solving computational homogenization problems are the fast Fourier transforms (FFTs) methods developed in local micromechanics (LM). The Lippmann-Schwinger (L-S) equation-based approach of the FFT method in the LM is generalized to the PM counterpart. Instead of one convolution kernel in the L-S equation, we use three convolution kernels corresponding to the properties of the matrix, inclusions, and interaction interface. The Eshelby tensor in LM depending on the inclusion shape is replaced by PM counterparts depending on the inclusion size and interaction interface (although the Eshelby concept of homogeneous eigenfields does no work in PM). The mentioned tensors are estimated one time (as in LM) in a frequency domain (also by the FFT method). Numerical examples for 1-D peridynamic inhomogeneous bar are considered. Computational complexities O (N log2 N) of the FFT methods are the same in both LM and PM.
FLUID FLOW THROUGH ISOMERIC CONSTRUCTAL NETWORKS OF TUBES
Authors: Pepe Vinicius R. , Miguel Antonio F. , Zinani Flavia S. F. , Rocha Luiz Alberto O.
Published: October 2023

The branching topology of tree networks has a considerable influence on the distribution of fluid flow inside them.
Fluid flow asymmetry (an unequal distribution of fluid flow between the daughter tubes) can arise in geometrically
symmetric branches. It is important to be able to pinpoint the reason for this, which is still not fully understood. This study compares tree flow network designs with the same number of tubes of equal sizes but attached to one another in various directions, i.e., network isomers. The flow resistance and fluid flow distribution assessment within the networks are calculated based on the computational fluid dynamics results. This study shows, among other results, that the flow asymmetries are more noticeable at higher bifurcation levels, and the performance of tree designs is highly dependent on how the tubes are arranged in the network, especially how they are aligned at different levels of bifurcation. Practical guidelines that can immediately produce significant insights into the relationship between the incidence of asymmetry in the flow and alignments of the tubes between levels are defined. The findings of this study will be useful to designers in improving the design and management of these networks.
A study on blog corpus-based travel destination multidimensional image automatic estimation: Focusing on Changwon special city case
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Jeong Ha-Yeong
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study is to propose an exploratory methodology for automatically estimating multi-dimensional images of travel destinations based on unsupervised learning using a large-scale travel blog corpus so that it can be used for longitudinal and cross-sectional studies. First literature reviews on the construal level theory conducted to clarify the relationship between the travel experiencer's level of travel destination interpretation and potential travelers' travel destination selection decision-making and instead of surveys, the value of travel blogs as message information on the travel experiencer's travel destination interpretation are useful data resource for automatically estimating multi-dimensional images was discussed. Next, by applying web crawling, natural language processing technology and the unsupervised learning-based machine learning algorithm principal component analysis, the frequency of co-occurrence of the travel destination named entity-subjective adjective pair is vectorized to estimate the multi-dimensional images of travel destinations, and visualize the image property structure of individual travel destinations through network centrality analysis by referring to the destination image attributes of Echtner and Ritchier (2003). Finally, the validity of this methodology was demonstrated by applying to the case of Changwon. The results of this study can contribute to gaining insight in making demand-oriented regional tourism vitalization policy decision-making and can be used for large-scale travel blogs corpus-based convergence follow-up studies.
Экосистема городских сервисов (ЭГС): приоритетные потребности в социальных (электронных) услугах старшего поколения
Authors: Григорьева Ирина , Равчик Михаил
Published: October 2023

Статья основана на идеологии Международного Мадридского плана по активному старению и разработанного на его основе Индекса активного старения (Active Ageing Index – AAI), где приоритетное место отдается занятости пожилых. Подход «активного старения» полностью укладывается в рамки классической и современной активистской социологии. Кратко анализируется социальное обслуживание пожилых в России, которое развивается с конца 1980-х годов, а в 1995 г. было унифицировано и введено в рамки федерального закона. Затем, в 2004 г., реализация функций социального обслуживания вместе с финансированием, были переданы на уровень субъектов РФ. Однако до сих пор мало исследований, где уточняется, в каких услугах нуждаются сами пожилые. Развивается также государственное пенсионное страхование и обеспечение, в рамках которого решается вопрос, какие выплаты, с какого возраста и на каких условиях предоставляются гражданам. В начале 1990-х годов были открыты и службы занятости, но пожилым всегда предлагались вакансии на низкоквалифицированные и низкооплачиваемые рабочие места. Цель статьи – показать, что потребности и возможности «старшего поколения» заметно меняются, а существующий подход к предоставлению социальных услуг, сложившийся, в основных чертах, в 1990-е годы, устарел. Наш основной исследовательский вопрос: соответствуют ли проектируемые цифровые экосистемы (сервисы, услуги) положениям, закрепленным в Мадридском плане? Многие пожилые хотят продолжать трудовую или волонтерскую деятельность, в том числе, осваивая цифровую среду. Поэтому дополнительный вопрос следующий: учитываются ли потребности пожилых в трудовой деятельности цифровыми и традиционными поставщиками социальных услуг? Основным эмпирическим материалом статьи является проект Администрации Санкт-Петербурга по цифровизации услуг гражданам, в том числе и пожилым, на основе перечня их потребностей (электронные государственные услуги – ЭГС СПб). В настоящее время этот проект быстро развивается. Статья носит аналитический и полемический характер. Делается вывод, что социальные услуги должны поддерживать достигнутый и нормативный статус пожилого человека как взрослого, независимого и сохраняющего самостоятельность и достоинство.
Media Accountability: Global Trends and European Monitoring Capabilities
Authors: Kreutler Marcus , Fengler Susanne
Published: October 2023

This article summarises the global state of the art of research into media accountability, using this overview as a framework for an analysis of 14 European countries’ structures and the possibilities for monitoring their media accountability landscapes. The first step shows that a model developed purely in the context of liberal Western democracies struggles to explain the diversity of media accountability instruments, actors, proceedings, and the effectiveness of these systems in different countries. When a broad understanding of media accountability is applied, different models of media accountability frameworks can be identified globally, and even within Europe. These findings on structures and actors in the field function as guidelines for the second part of the article, which analyses monitoring capabilities in Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Sweden—with a special focus, not only on the status quo, but also the capability to monitor changes and trends over time. Even in countries with generally well-developed monitoring and research structures in the media sector, much of the available literature focuses on normative questions, and available data is not necessarily comparable longitudinally or cross-nationally. International efforts have inspired key publications in a number of countries, but they are rarely followed up by continuous monitoring of developments in the field. Several cases describe a common reason for monitoring deficits: Weak professional culture among journalists leads to ineffective and often neglected media accountability measures, which in turn limits research activity and funding opportunities.
“Circumbaltian space”: methodological priorities and regulatory grounds for delimitation
Authors: Monastyrskaya Marina Ye.
Published: October 2023

This paper outlines the methodological priorities for delimitating the Circumbaltian space as a unique geospatial form, namely: the geospatial approach, constructive modeling, the geohistorical paradigm, and the geotory concept. Based on the above, along with the theoretical and methodological ideas and algorithmic proposals outlined by the author in earlier works, as well as the regulatory prerequisites for delimitating the outer core of the Baltic naval civilization, the paper sets its land, water, and air boundaries. The author designs a three-step methodology for ranking coastal spaces and describes the basic land and water contact structure of the Baltic for urban planning purposes. The paper also draws legally compliant generalized boundaries of the Circumbaltian space and designs a basic digital model of this geospatial form.
Concept and material in the architecture of Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron
Authors: Danilova Elina V.
Published: October 2023

The article is devoted to the early period of architectural oeuvre of Swiss architects. It was at this time that Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron developed their own approach to design, which becomes the object of study in this work. The article describes the origins of the conceptual thinking of architects, establishes the role of the urban, educational and cultural environment in the formation of architectural ideas and professional tools. Particular attention is paid to the specifics of the concepts in the architectural projects of Herzog and de Meuron, individual methods and techniques that architects used in the design of small objects, the reduction of plastic language, the invention of the envelope and material texture. Eleven examples are considered, which are today recognized monuments of contemporary architecture, in which the unique contribution of architects to the development of discipline and profession was most clearly manifested.
Application of the metauniverse in cities, its concept, advantages and disadvantages
Authors: Kashiripoor Mohammad M.
Published: October 2023

In the second half of 2021, companies around the world decided to make a massive digital transition into the virtual space. The development of metaverse poses a lot of questions for the society, but so far, few people think about how the appearance and structures of cities will change if the majority of residents go into virtual reality. The article discusses the latest trends and directions in society and science, which is known to us as the metaverse, attempts to discuss this trend and its connection with architecture and urban planning through scientific literature, their analysis and the actual stage of development of this trend.

The purpose of study is to provide a basic understanding of the metaverse and its application analyses to cities at this stage.

The tasks of the study are: definition and understanding of the metaverse and its working systems; application of this direction/trend in cities; reveal the main advantage and disadvantage of using this direction for cities. To achieve the proposed result, it is necessary to use the method of analysis of scientific literature and documents related to the metaverse concept and its application in cities to reach and form conclusions. This study concluded in studying the latest direction and application of metaverse in urban planning and identifying some of its advantages and disadvantages.

The scientific novelty of the study lies in the study and application of the metaverse concept in cities and the identification of its main advantages and disadvantages. The author emphasizes that this direction does not actually reconstruct cities, but on the contrary, a new function of reality appears in the city that people want to see and, as a result, should make cities more livable.
Problematizing Assumptions on Digital Transformation Research in the Information Systems Field
Authors:   University of Galway, Carroll Noel , Conboy Kieran ,   University of Galway, Hassan Nik Rushdi ,   University of Minnesota, Hess Thomas ,   Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Junglas Iris ,   College of Charleston, Morgan Lorraine ,   University of Galway
Published: October 2023

In an era of heightened uncertainty and urgency around disruption, digital transformation has become a global priority on leadership agendas and garnered the attention of researchers across the Information Systems (IS) field. However, the ongoing acceleration of digital technologies not only poses great opportunities but also major challenges for organizations that use digital transformation as a means to survive. Yet, literature on how to successfully implement, manage, and sustain digital transformations that possibly change an organization’s business model, along with its product offering, structure, and culture, is often vague and hence various assumptions can go unexamined. This panel report aggregates insights from an author development workshop on “Managing and Sustaining Digital Transformations” and provides different perspectives from six experts. Specifically, it adopts the problematization method to discuss ten commonly held assumptions regarding digital transformation and presents a research roadmap to guide digital transformation research in the future.
A Population-Based Performance Evaluation of the ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning System for M 9 Megathrust Earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest, U.S.A.
Authors: Thompson Mika , Renate Hartog J. , Wirth Erin A.
Published: October 2023

We evaluate the potential performance of the ShakeAlert earthquake early warning system for M 9 megathrust earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) using synthetic seismograms from 30 simulated M 9 earthquake scenarios on the Cascadia subduction zone. The timeliness and accuracy of source estimates and effectiveness of ShakeAlert alert contours are evaluated with a station-based alert classification scheme using an alert threshold equal to the target threshold. We develop a population-based alert classification method by aligning a population grid with Voronoi diagrams computed from the station locations for each scenario. Using raster statistics, we estimate the PNW population that would receive timely accurate alerts during an offshore M 9 earthquake. We also examine the range of expected warning times with respect to the spatial distribution of the population. Results show that most of the population in our evaluation region could receive alerts with positive warning times for an alert threshold of modified Mercalli intensity (MMI) III, but that late and missed alerts increase because the alert threshold is increased. An average of just under 60% of the population would be alerted for MMI V prior to the arrival of threshold level shaking. Large regions of late and missed alerts for thresholds MMI IV and V are caused by delays in alert updates, inaccurate FinDer source estimates, and undersized alert contours due to magnitude underestimation. We also investigate an alerting strategy where ShakeAlert sends out an alert to the entire evaluation region when the system detects at least an M 8 earthquake along the coast. Because large magnitude offshore earthquakes are rare in Cascadia, overalerting is most likely to occur from an overestimated M 7+ on the Gorda plate. With appropriate criteria to minimize overalerting, this strategy may eliminate all missed and late alerts except at sites close to the epicenter.
Construction of a Ground-Motion Logic Tree through Host-to-Target Region Adjustments Applied to an Adaptable Ground-Motion Prediction Model: An Addendum
Authors: Boore David M.
Published: October 2023

Boore et al. (2022; hereafter, Bea22) described adjustments to a host-region ground-motion prediction model (GMPM) for use in hazard calculations in a target region, using Chiou and Youngs (2014; hereafter, CY14) as the host-region model. This article contains two modifications to the Bea22 procedures for the host-to-target adjustments, one for the source and one for the anelastic attenuation function. The first modification is to compute logic-tree branches for the source adjustment variable ΔcM given in Bea22 assuming that the host- and target-region stress parameters are uncorrelated, instead of the implicit assumption in Bea22 that they are perfectly correlated. The assumption of uncorrelated stress parameters makes little difference for the example in Bea22 because the standard deviation of the host-region stress parameter is much less than that of the target-region stress parameter. However, this might not be the case in some future applications. The second modification is to the host-to-target anelastic attenuation path adjustment. The adjustment in Bea22 involves a distance-independent change in the γ variable that controls the rate of anelastic attenuation in the CY14 GMPM. This article proposes a method to account for a distance dependence in the adjustment. Such a dependence is needed for short-period ground-motion intensity measures (GMIMs) at distances greater than 100 km, with the importance increasing with distance. For the example in Bea22, the ratio of GMIMs computed with the revised and the previous adjustment to γ is less than about a factor of 1.05 at distances within about 100 km, but it can exceed a factor of 2 at 300 km for short-period GMIMs.
La percepción del clasismo y el racismo colorista en la publicidad mexicana
Authors: Tipa Juris
Published: October 2023

Although there are several studies analyzing racist discourse and representations in the Mexican media, there is still little knowledge about the perception of these media contents among the audiences. Using in-depth interviews, this article analyzes how audiences interpret and value Mexican media content, particularly, advertising permeated with colorist and classist representations. It aims to inquire about a possible critical reflection, or lack thereof, on the underlying colorism and classism in the media content in Mexico. It is concluded that, in general, there is a critical decoding of the advertising discourse in relation to these representations; however, this decoding varies and shows different nuances among people of different ages and socioeconomic contexts.
Comparing the accuracy of nasopharyngeal COVID-19 PCR alone versus combined nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal COVID-19 PCR tests
Authors: Saeed Alan , Kalfah Anas , Mohammed Zhila
Published: October 2023

Background: Efficient containment of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, is heavily reliant on precise diagnostic methodologies. Amidst prevalent use of nasopharyngeal (NP) and oropharyngeal (OP) swabs for detection, the superiority in sampling method effectiveness remains debated.
Methods: A retrospective study within Qatar's Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) contrasted the accuracy of combined NP/OP PCR tests versus NP-only tests, utilizing inconclusive test rates, primarily attributed to sampling adequacy, as a crucial accuracy measure. A total of 179,694 NP/OP and NP-only samples were analyzed across two phases: pre and post-16/01/2022, the latter marking a transition predominantly to NP-only swabs and increased reliance on rapid antigen testing. With a notable disparity in sample size between methods, a 1% simple random sample was extracted for analysis. Patients aged 18 years and below were excluded in this study.
Results: The dual NP and OP swab approach registered a 2% inconclusive rate pre-cut off, while a 5% inconclusive rate was observed with the NP-only technique post-cut off, presenting a statistically significant 3% differential (p<0.001). Subgroup analyses divulged a mere 1% inconclusive rate disparity between age groups and a 1% lower rate amidst symptomatic individuals, with chronic allergic rhinitis patients exhibiting a 2% elevation (p=0.086).
Conclusions: Combined NP/OP swabbing produced fewer inconclusive PCR results relative to NP-only swabbing, offering a 3% improvement in conclusive diagnostics. Notably, symptomatic presentation and chronic allergic rhinitis most significantly influenced accuracy, indicating potential avenues for further diagnostic refinement research, thus bolstering our current understanding and mitigation approaches towards COVID-19.
Outcome of different modes of non-invasive ventilation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with type II respiratory failure
Authors: Ansari Sana , Rai Pratyakcha , Ahmad Zuber , Baneen Ummul , Sadaf Shadan
Published: October 2023

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive inflammatory airway disorder often leading to type II respiratory failure (RF). Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is crucial in COPD management. This study compares T (Timed), ST (Spontaneous-Timed), and iVAPS (Intelligent volume assured pressure support) modes.
Method: A prospective, experimental, comparative study spanned two years. One hundred COPD patients with Type 2 RF were randomized into three groups: T mode (n=33), ST mode (n=33), and iVAPS mode (n=34). Outcome assessment included clinical, hematological parameters, and intubation rate.
Result: The study revealed varying degrees of success among the three modes of NIV. iVAPS mode demonstrated the highest success rate, with 79.4% of cases achieving positive outcomes. Noteworthy improvements were observed in respiratory rate (RR) and oxygen saturation (SpO2) in the iVAPS group after 12 hours of NIV. Both the ST mode and iVAPS mode showed significant increases in pH levels, with a more pronounced improvement seen in the iVAPS group. Additionally, a substantial reduction in pCO2 levels after BiPAP was noted in the iVAPS group. The intubation rate was lowest in the iVAPS group, though the difference did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusions: iVAPS mode demonstrated superior outcomes, including significant improvements in RR, SpO2, pH, and pCO2. While the intubation rate was lowest in the iVAPS group, statistical significance was not achieved. iVAPS emerges as a promising alternative, potentially averting the need for invasive ventilation. Larger, diverse studies are needed to validate these findings.
Complications of chronic otitis media and their management: a study at tertiary care centre
Authors: Mili Mohan Kumar , Kalita Sukanya , Sarmah Monikuntal , Talukdar Sharmistha , Goswami Suhanee
Published: October 2023

Background: Chronic otitis media is a disease associated with complications. Due to ignorance, poor literacy and late presentation the management becomes challenging and difficult. The aim is to find the incidence of complications of COM and their management.
Methods: This is a hospital based observational study carried out on 50 patients with COM admitted in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of a tertiary care centre during a period of 1 year.
Results: Out of 50 patients, 19 cases of safe COM and 31 of unsafe COM. 31% of safe COM patients had complications with 100% extracranial complication (mastoiditis). 45% of unsafe COM had complications, where most common extracranial complication was mastoiditis and intracranial complication was brain abscess. Complications were more common in the age group of 21-30 years. In all the patients, multiple intravenous antibiotics were given covering gram positive, gram negative and anaerobic organisms. The intracranial complications were initially managed by neurosurgery or neurology followed by disease eradication at source. 2 mortalities were seen in cases with intracranial complication due to late presentation.
Conclusions: The complications of COM still pose a great challenge. Late presentation leads to difficulty in management and consequently higher mortality. This study mainly emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and prompt treatment to avoid complications.
Utilization and acceptance of Ayush medicines among school going adolescents
Authors: Sudan Mohan Singh , Yousuf Amjad Waheed , Erum Aasiy Ul , Haji Amanullah
Published: October 2023

Background: India is a country with significantly high use of Ayush medicine especially in the rural areas. Data on utilization of Ayush medicines among school going adolescent population are lacking. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence, patterns, and determinants of Ayush medicine use among school going adolescents aged 10 to 19 years in a rural setting.
Methods: The cross-sectional survey based study was conducted involving 298 school going adolescents aged 10 to 19 years of age. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, and statistical analysis was performed to determine the utilization and acceptance of Ayush medicines among the participants.
Results: Of the 298 adolescents who were offered the questionnaire, 264 returned the filled questionnaires, however, only 261 were included in the final analysis. The rate of utilization of Ayush drugs amounts to 47%. Utilization increases along with increase in age and shows a significant difference between boys and girls. Teenage girls are more likely to use Ayush medicines than teenage boys. 36% participants have used Ayush medicines for the treatment of respiratory ailments, while 28.7% utilized Ayush drugs for dermatological causes. Majority of participants had used both Unani and Ayurveda while Unani alone was the most prevalent system with a utilization rate of 22.1%.
Conclusions: Utilization of Ayush medicines including Unani and Ayurveda among school going adolescents in the age group of 10 and 19 years shows relatively higher rates. The findings of current study highlight the current state of Ayush drug utilization and identify factors influencing awareness levels among school going adolescents.
Prevalence of hypertension and its risk factors among urban school children of Belagavi- a cross sectional study
Authors: Gunagi Praveena , Harikanth Disha Rama , Mulsange Kailas
Published: October 2023

Background: Primary hypertension is becoming common among apparently healthy children. Measures for early diagnosis of pre hypertension and hypertension along with its risk factors during childhood could benefit from earlier intervention and follow-up.
Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted among 270 urban school students of Belagavi of class 10th in 2016 by using a structured questionnaire followed by anthropometry and blood pressure measurement.
Results: About 39% of children had family history of hypertension and 27% had family history of chronic diseases. Majority had inadequate consumption of vegetables (84.07%) and fruits (83.70%). The overall physical activity among the students was inadequate (78.15%) and about 46.30% of them got easily angered, stressed or irritated. The waist circumference of 14.07% students was falling in obese category. About 11.48% of them were overweight and 7.04% were obese according to their body mass index. Among the students, 71.85% had normal blood pressure and 18.15% had pre-hypertension. Hypertension was detected among 10.00% of students of which 5.56% belonged to stage I and 4.44% belonged to stage II hypertension. Statistical association between the blood pressures of school children showed significance with family history of chronic diseases (p=0.025), body mass index and waist circumference (p<0.001).
Conclusions: One tenth of the children had hypertension and one fifth of the children had pre-hypertension. The children who were obese had increased blood pressure than those with normal weight. Health promotion at early phase of life can help in the prevention of hypertension.
Nutritional status and morbidity pattern among school children in an urban slum of Kolkata, India
Authors: Dan Amitabha , Pasi A. R. , S. Selvaganapathi , G. P. Maitreyee , Purkait Prithu
Published: October 2023

Background: Sickness and morbidity rates in Indian school going children are among the highest in the world. Poor health and sickness absenteeism results in school dropouts and it is more among the female children as compared to male children. Present study was conducted to study the nutritional status and morbidity pattern among children attending the school health clinics in an urban area of West Bengal India.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the field practice area of urban health centres (UHC) of AIIH and PH Kolkata, West Bengal. Children enrolled in class 1-10 were included in the study by using systematic random sampling technique. Data was collected by using semi-structured questionnaire, clinical history and physical examination was done.
Results: Out of total 254 students, 129 (50.8%) were boys and 125 (49.2%) were girls. Dental caries and skin diseases like ringworm infection, cuts and fungal infection were most common types of morbidity found in school children. Dental caries and skin diseases both were more common in girls as compared to the boys. Underweight was found in more than 70% of the children and their BMI was significantly low as compare to the ICMR standard.
Conclusions: The proportion of malnutrition is very high in the school children of the field practice area of UHC Chetla and there is need to create opportunities to increase the family income and awareness programme to increase the nutritive values of foods prepared at household level.