bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ‘Second U-Turn’: Domestic Politics and Foreign Economic Policy Choice in Ghana
Authors: Hlovor Ishmael K.
Published: September 2023

After months of grandstanding amidst an economic crisis that has seen prices of basic goods skyrocketed, growing unsustainable public debt levels and the value of the local currency plummeting, the Government of Ghana made a U-turn on its earlier decision of not seeking an IMF bailout and announced on 1st July 2022, the intention to seek an IMF bailout. This paper tries to understand the initial government resistance to an IMF bailout. Using the qualitative research approach and analyzing speeches of political actors, the study makes the case that domestic politics was the main reason for the governments initial resistance to engaging the IMF. An IMF programme would be politically self-defeating for the government and provide a political tool for the opposition in the 2024 election since a similar deal in 2015 was portrayed as evidence of government failure. On the evidence of the current IMF bailout decision, the paper concludes that governments have political interest in making foreign economic policy choices in Ghana. Choices that may not enhance electoral chances are likely to be avoided in favour of those that enhance it. To derive the best outcome from foreign economic policy choices requires building national consensus, which would help to avoid adverse outcomes that may be occasioned by policy choices that enhance a political actor’s electoral chances at the expense of the long-term interest of the state.
The Mechanics of Representing Time
Authors: Hoerl Christoph P.
Published: September 2023

A number of recent attempts to explain the apparent contrast between ‘human time’ and ‘physical time’ have appealed to Hartle’s (2005) sketch of an ‘Information Gathering and Utilizing System’ (IGUS) as a model for explaining human temporal experience. I argue that they fall foul of William James’ (1890) dictum that “[a] succession of feelings, in and of itself, is not a feeling of succession”. Explaining how human beings come to represent time in the first place is a more substantive explanatory task than it is often taken to be.
A Wide Spectrum Yb-Doped All-Fiber-Integrated Chirped Pulse Amplification System Based on Parabolic Shaping
Authors: Tian Zhixue , Qiu Hangkai , Wang Hui , Qian Kun , Luo Jiang , Lin Shan , Du Jiongjiong , Chen Disong , Wang Zunliang , Chen Zhu , Chen Hui , Li Song , He Nongyue , Wang Chao
Published: September 2023

Nonlinear effect in an ultrafast fiber laser has always been a major obstacle in realization of laser with narrow pulse width and high energy. To achieve higher peak power, we herein introduce pre-chirping management and pre-amplification before the chirped pulse amplification (CPA)
system. The self-phase modulation effect is used to effectively stretch the spectrum when the pulse reaches a high peak power, and then the parabolic pulse and spectrum are obtained in a fiber amplifier. This parabolic pulse effectively reduces the impact of nonlinear effect in subsequent
fiber amplifier and realizes the amplification of chirped pulse with a higher peak power compared with conventional CPA system. We finally achieved a mode-locked pulse with 143 fs pulse duration, 8.57 W average power, 85.7 μJ single pulse energy, M2 < 1.10 beam quality,
and without obvious pulse degeneration. The reported pulse energy is the highest among all-fiber CPA systems based on nonlinear amplification technology.
High-Sensitivity and Wide Detection-Range Refractive-Index Sensor Based on Amplitude Change in Slotted Photonic Crystal Nanobeam Cavity
Authors: Al-Hmoud M.
Published: September 2023

High Q-factor is essential for the realization of high sensitivity photonic crystal-based sensors. The Q-factor is usually optimized for a specific refractive-index (RI) value of the ambient background. However, a small change in the RI reduces the Q value, and
therefore limits the performance of the sensor to a narrow RI range. Here, we report a high-sensitivity RI sensor with a wide detection-range based on amplitude change of the fundamental mode in slotted photonic crystal nanobeam cavity. Both wavelength and amplitude sensitivity of 333 nm/RIU
and 188/RIU are realized in the RI range from 1.3 to 1.6, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the widest sensing range ever reported in photonic crystal cavities. Owing to the wide sensing range and the insignificance of the Q value, this approach would find
applications in various research areas in integrated lab-on-chip systems for optofluidic- and bio-sensing applications.
Track Unevenness Prediction Based on Static Track Inspection Data Matching
Authors: Xi Jianpu , Zhou Changle , Qiao Xuetao , Zhou Zhuolin , Luo Laihua , Yang Qing , Zhao Zexiang
Published: September 2023

A track static misalignment prediction model based on track median deviation is created using an IGA-BP neural network in order to precisely predict the trend of ballastless track static misalignment. The historical static track median deviation detection data are matched using actual
compensation edit distance (ERP) to finish the correspondence processing of the original data. The precisely matched data are used to train the model, forecast irregularities in the track median, and compare results with other traditional prediction techniques. The outcomes demonstrate that
the IGA-BP neural network can more accurately predict the nonlinear time series data development trend. In comparison to other prediction models, the IGA-BP neural network model’s average relative error and root mean square error are 0.091 and 0.110, respectively. The prediction accuracy
is raised by between 43% and 60%, demonstrating the IGA-BP neural network model’s efficacy in predicting static upsets on ballastless tracks and presenting a workable strategy for track predictive maintenance.
Design of Sliding Mode Controller Based on 7 nm Gate Logic
Authors: Yan Li , Wenbin Liang , Jie Liao , Xian Yu
Published: September 2023

In this paper, a new discrete-time sliding mode predictive control (DSMPC) strategy with a PID sliding function is proposed for synchronous DC–DC Buck converter. The model predictive control, along with digital sliding mode control (DSMC) is able to further reducing the chattering
phenomenon, steady-state error, overshoot, and undershoot of the converter output voltage. The proposed control method implementation only requires output error voltage evaluation. The effectiveness of the proposed DSMPC is proved through simulation results executed by the MATLAB/SIMULINK
software. These results demonstrate its performance is superior to DSMC. The selected synchronous Buck converter in this paper has 380 V input voltage and 48 V output voltage that can be applied in sections of DC distribution systems.
A Novel Hierarchical Nickle Oxide Gas Sensor for Monitoring the Volatile Organic Compounds in Car Cabs
Authors: Guo Kuiyuan , Zhou Xiaoqin , Zhang Zhiqiang , Qu Ge
Published: September 2023

In this work, the novel NiO nanoflowers were synthesized by a hydrothermal method. Through X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, we can confirm that we have prepared high purity NiO and can observe that both nanoflowers are formed by self-assembly of thin nanosheets. Because
of the novel morphology, sparsely NiO nanoflowers have a large specific surface area and form more enclosed micro-reaction chambers that make it difficult for gas to escape. Allowing gas molecules to be more widely distributed among the sparsely sample surface and obtained fully reaction time.
Thus, the gas sensor based on compactly NiO nanoflowers exhibits excellent response and recovery characteristic.
Improving Precipitation Nowcasting for High-Intensity Events Using Deep Generative Models with Balanced Loss and Temperature Data: A Case Study in the Netherlands
Authors: Cambier van Nooten Charlotte , Schreurs Koert , Wijnands Jasper S. , Leijnse Hidde , Schmeits Maurice , Whan Kirien , Shapovalova Yuliya
Published: September 2023

Precipitation nowcasting is essential for weather-dependent decision-making, but it remains a challenging problem despite active research. The combination of radar data and deep learning methods has opened a new avenue for research. Radar data are well suited for precipitation nowcasting due to the high space–time resolution of the precipitation field. On the other hand, deep learning methods allow the exploitation of possible nonlinearities in the precipitation process. Thus far, deep learning approaches have demonstrated equal or better performance than optical flow methods for low-intensity precipitation, but nowcasting high-intensity events remains a challenge. In this study, we have built a deep generative model with various extensions to improve nowcasting of heavy precipitation intensities. Specifically, we consider different loss functions and how the incorporation of temperature data as an additional feature affects the model’s performance. Using radar data from KNMI and 5–90-min lead times, we demonstrate that the deep generative model with the proposed loss function and temperature feature outperforms other state-of-the-art models and benchmarks. Our model, with both loss function and feature extensions, is skillful at nowcasting precipitation for high rainfall intensities, up to 60-min lead time.
Hodographs and Skew Ts of Hail-Producing Storms
Authors: Nixon Cameron J. , Allen John T. , Taszarek Mateusz
Published: September 2023

Environments associated with severe hailstorms, compared to those of tornadoes, are often less apparent to forecasters. Understanding has evolved considerably in recent years; namely, that weak low-level shear and sufficient convective available potential energy (CAPE) above the freezing level is most favorable for large hail. However, this understanding comes only from examining the mean characteristics of large hail environments. How much variety exists within the kinematic and thermodynamic environments of large hail? Is there a balance between shear and CAPE analogous to that noted with tornadoes? We address these questions to move toward a more complete conceptual model. In this study, we investigate the environments of 92 323 hail reports (both severe and nonsevere) using ERA5 modeled proximity soundings. By employing a self-organizing map algorithm and subsetting these environments by a multitude of characteristics, we find that the conditions leading to large hail are highly variable, but three primary patterns emerge. First, hail growth depends on a favorable balance of CAPE, wind shear, and relative humidity, such that accounting for entrainment is important in parameter-based hail prediction. Second, hail growth is thwarted by strong low-level storm-relative winds, unless CAPE below the hail growth zone is weak. Finally, the maximum hail size possible in a given environment may be predictable by the depth of buoyancy, rather than CAPE itself.
More Than 1 Way to Put in A T-Tube: A Review of Different Techniques Used in Insertion of Montgomery T-Tubes
Authors: Feng Max , Watson WayAnne , Arom Gabriel , Damazo Benjamin , Krishna Priya
Published: September 2023

Objective:

The Montgomery T-tube is a commonly used device initially designed as a temporary airway stent, but also used as a long-term airway solution for stenosis. For patients undergoing either endoscopic or open airway procedures, proper techniques for inserting these tubes are well documented. This review compiles the techniques used for insertion of the Montgomery T-tube stent.

Methods:

The NCBI Pubmed database was queried using the keywords: “stent,” “Montgomery,” “T-tube,” “stenosis,” “technique.” A total of 33 papers were reviewed with 12 papers selected for the study. Papers were selected based on inclusion criteria of English language and whether the paper described a technique for insertion of a Montgomery T-tube into the airway. Papers were excluded if they did not describe the technique of insertion of Montgomery T-tubes or dealt with another aspect of T-tube management.

Results:

The 12 selected papers each described a different technique for insertion of a Montgomery T-tube stent. Though nearly all the selected studies described using a modified Seldinger technique for insertion of the T-tube, there were discrepancies and a wide array of different instruments used. The instrument and/or technique that was selected was often determined by the individual need of the patient. Several studies addressed the challenge of interrupting ventilation while inserting or exchanging a T-tube in the operating room. These studies described attaching the T-tube to the endotracheal tube to pass the T-tube into the airway while allowing for continuous ventilation. Yet other studies used optical forceps or rigid bronchoscopes to allow placement of the T-tube with direct visualization.

Conclusion:

There are many techniques used for the insertion of a Montgomery T-tube. Nearly all studies described using a modified Seldinger technique and all the studies agreed on the necessity of a team approach for placement of the Montgomery T-tube.
An Analysis of the Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction Coaching Model Principles in High School Classrooms
Authors: Raley Sheida K. , Bumble Jennifer L. , Malone Kayla M. , Rentschler Lindsay F. , Shogren Karrie A. , Hume Kara A. , Greenberg Daniel J. , Alsaeed Abdulaziz H.
Published: September 2023

Coaching is an essential component of supporting teachers to implement evidence-based practices (EBPs) in classrooms. The Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction (SDLMI), an EBP designed to promote student self-determination, uses a research-based coaching model with six guiding principles. This qualitative study analyzed the content of coaching conversations between coaches and general and special education high school teachers implementing the SDLMI with autistic students to explore alignment with the guiding principles of the SDLMI coaching model. Findings highlighted the usefulness of the coaching principles in building trust between coaches and teachers, supporting teachers to set meaningful goals and build skills and competencies related to SDLMI implementation, promoting innovation and fidelity, and facilitating reflective dialogue. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Hearing the non-violence in a silent departure (John 8:59 and 10:39)
Authors: Hall Josiah D.
Published: September 2023

The provocative exchanges between Jesus and his interlocutors in John 8 and 10 both climax in the interlocutors rejecting Jesus’s claims and seeking to stone him before tersely describing Jesus’s escape from a premature death: in John 8:59, Jesus hides himself and departs from the temple, whereas in John 10:39, he merely departs. These enigmatic descriptions of departure create “narrative silences.” Considering ancient expectations for violent divine retribution against those who failed to recognize and honor a deity’s manifestation, I argue these “narrative silences” would have provoked an ancient audience to anticipate violent divine judgment. John, however, subverts this expectation. While maintaining that Jesus’s departure from the temple, and, later, from the world, are divine judgment in the form of the removal of the divine presence, John nevertheless presents this judgment as distinctively non-violent. This non-violent divine judgment in turn furthers the Gospel’s aim of convincing the audience to accept the Gospel’s claim that Jesus is the enfleshed divine presence.
Parental burnout and adolescents’ phubbing: Understanding the role of parental phubbing and adolescents’ psychological distress
Authors: Zhang Han , Hu Qing , Mao Yanting
Published: September 2023

Given its negative consequences for children's mental health and academic performance, parental burnout has recently drawn researchers’ attention. However, its effects on children's behavior remain unclear. To fill this gap, this study examined the relationship between parental burnout and adolescents’ phubbing as well as the mediating roles of parental phubbing and adolescents’ psychological distress based on the family system theory. This study included 871 adolescents and their primary caregivers. Results indicated positive correlations between parental burnout, parental phubbing, adolescents’ psychological distress and adolescents’ phubbing. Parental burnout had a direct relationship with adolescents’ phubbing; it also had an indirect relationship with adolescents’ phubbing through the independent mediating roles of parental phubbing and adolescents’ psychological distress as well as the chain-mediating roles of these two factors. The findings contribute to our understanding of how parental burnout is related to adolescents’ phubbing and highlight the importance of attending to parental phubbing and adolescents’ psychological distress in preventing and intervening in adolescents’ phubbing.
Drug repositioning of anti-microbial agent nifuratel to treat mast cell-mediated allergic responses
Authors: Lee Ji Eon , Choi Min Yeong , Min Keun Young , Jo Min Geun , Kim Young Mi , Kim Hyuk Soon , Choi Wahn Soo
Published: September 2023

Objectives: Our objective was to assess the effects and mechanisms of nifuratel on IgE-mediated mast cell (MC) degranulation and anaphylaxis in both in vitro and in vivo settings.

Methods: The anti-allergic activity of nifuratel was evaluated in mast cell cultures and the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) model. The effects of nifuratel on signaling pathways stimulated by antigen in mast cells were measured by immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation, in vitro protein tyrosine kinase assay, and other molecular biological methods.

Results: Nifuratel reversibly inhibited antigen-induced degranulation of MCs (IC50, approximately 0.34 μM for RBL-2H3 cells; approximately 0.94 μM for BMMCs) and suppressed the secretion of inflammatory cytokines IL-4 (IC50, approximately 0.74 μM) and TNF-α (IC50, approximately 0.48 μM). Mechanism studies showed that nifuratel inhibited the phosphorylation of Syk by antigen via the inhibition of recruitment of cytosolic Syk to the ɣ subunit of FcεRI, and decreased the activation of Syk downstream signaling proteins LAT, Akt, and MAPKs. Finally, nifuratel dose-dependently suppressed the IgE-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in mice (ED50, approximately 22 mg/kg).

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that nifuratel inhibits pathways essential for the activation of mast cells to suppress anaphylaxis, thereby indicating that the anti-microbial drug, nifuratel, could be a potential drug candidate for IgE-mediated allergic disorders.
The Relevance of Jim Crotty’s Keynes Against Capitalism to Solving Macro economic Problems under Conditions of Class Conflict
Authors: Boddy Raford
Published: September 2023

Was Keynes trying to save capitalism or create “Liberal Socialism”? Jim Crotty’s unique approach to this long-standing question makes his work an outstanding contribution to heterodox macro policy. Tracing Keynes’s policy positions from World War I to Keynes’s death in 1946, Jim combines rich historical detail with Keynes’s insistence that the realism of assumptions affects the truth content of hypotheses. Jim’s book can serve as a guide to policy positions to sustain full employment through the socialization of investment under conditions of class struggle. Contrary to the position that Keynes denied class conflict, there is no fundamental contradiction between Marx’s assumption of class conflict and Keynes’s policy positions in support of full employment through the socialization of investment.

JEL Classification: E6, E11, E12
Diatom response in different climatic zones from west coast of India
Authors: Tiwari Pooja , Srivastava Purnima , Thakur Biswajeet
Published: September 2023

Coastal margins and their ecological setting are one of the magnificent landforms on globe. The complex interaction among the different biotic and abiotic components through ages has addressed that due to climatic changes the coastal regions, one of the pioneer regions, have been getting affected and this may continue in the future also. The role of microfossils through ages has helped in delineating the past climatic manifestations and global changes and amongst them diatoms also provide a valuable tool for inferring past climate and ecological variability in the dynamic coastal system. In the study, a modern set of 77 samples from different climatic zones along the west coast of India has been studied to gain knowledge about the present-day climate status and record environmentally susceptible diatoms to form a modern analogue for coastal settings. The study shows various associations of planktic and benthic diatoms that hitherto provide precious information about the diatoms and their relation to the climatic regions and ecological status. The change in the frequency of planktic and benthic diatoms inculcate the water levels, pH, salinity changes, tidal variability and trophic status. Hence, the study aims to provide a robust database on diatoms for the various climatic zones from the west coast of India and would inevitably fill knowledge gap in terms of primary productivity for broad implications. The study also aims to provide background for transfer-based function for the reconstruction of long-term palaeoclimatic records for the transition zone of terrestrial and oceanic realms.
A cybersecurity odyssey: Between Scylla and Charybdis
Authors: Kwolek Brendan
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the healthcare sector. In the face of waning caseloads, staff shortages, and supply chain issues, the topic of cybersecurity has often struggled for its time in the limelight. Behind the scenes, however, cybersecurity leaders and staff are burning out at a panicking rate. A dire shortage of skilled professionals continues to compound, as global affairs and an increase in the availability of information leaves healthcare cybersecurity teams barely able to keep afloat. This article describes the nature and scale of the health and human resource challenges faced by healthcare organizations and offers several practical options for health leaders to plot a course to attract and retain staff during this period of upheaval.
Elucidating Intimate Partner Violence Rate Disparities Between Same- and Opposite-Sex Couples: A Demographic Approach
Authors: Hubbell James T.
Published: September 2023

Studies on intimate partner violence (IPV) rates typically find higher rates for same-sex couples than opposite-sex couples. Regardless of sexual orientation, the risk for IPV perpetration is concentrated among young adults. Given that the HIV/AIDS epidemic significantly lowered the life expectancy of sexual minority men and that recent social movements have encouraged more youths to “come out,” population age differences may contribute to the observed differences in IPV rates between same- and opposite-sex couples. The present study applies direct age standardization and decomposition techniques to data from the National Incident-Based Reporting System and the American Community Survey to examine this possibility across 2,584 same-sex male, 4,029 same-sex female, and 284,614 opposite-sex physical IPV incidents. The results of the direct standardization procedures indicate physical IPV rates for same-sex male and same-sex female households would be 11.8% and 27.3% lower, respectively, if they had the same population age structure as opposite-sex households. The results of the decompositions indicate that differences in population age structure contribute 48% and 44% of the elevation in IPV rates in same-sex male and same-sex female households, respectively, compared to opposite-sex households. These findings demonstrate the promise of demographic methods to explain differences in offending rates between groups. These results suggest the need for prevention and intervention strategies aimed at youths. Future studies should be conducted with data on sexual orientation and gender identity to better elucidate the contribution of population age structure among various sexual and gender minority groups. Research comparing trends among sexual minority populations to the heterosexual population in particular should account for age where possible.
Dispensary Staff Perceptions About the Benefits, Risks, and Safety of Cannabis for Medical Purposes
Authors: Bulls Hailey W. , Althouse Andrew D. , Feldman Robert , Arnsten Julia H. , Liebschutz Jane M. , Nugent Shannon M. , Orris Steven R. , Rohac Rebecca , Slawek Deepika E. , Starrels Joanna L. , Morasco Benjamin J. , Kansagara Devan , Merlin Jessica S.
Published: September 2023

Background:

Therapeutic use of cannabis is common in the United States (up to 18.7% of Americans aged ≥12), and dispensaries in the US are proliferating rapidly. However, the efficacy profile of medical cannabis is unclear, and customers often rely on dispensary staff for purchasing decisions. The objective was to describe cannabis dispensary staff perceptions of medical cannabis benefits and risks, as well as its safety in high-risk populations.

Methods:

Online Survey study conducted using Qualtrics from February 13, 2020 to October 2, 2020 with a national sample of dispensary staff who reportedinteracting with customers in a cannabis dispensary selling tetrahydrocannabinol-containing products. Participants were queried about benefits (“helpfulness”) and risks (“worry”) about cannabis for a variety of medical conditions, and safety in older adults and pregnant women on a five-point Likert scale. These results were then collapsed into three categories including “neutral” (3/5). “I don’t know” (uncertainty) was a response option for helpfulness and safety.

Results:

Participants (n = 434) were from 29 states and included patient-facing dispensary staff (40%); managers (32%); pharmacists (13%); and physicians, nurse practitioners, or physician assistants (5%). Over 80% of participants perceived cannabis as helpful for post-traumatic stress disorder (88.7%), epilepsy (85.3%) and cancer (83.4%). Generally, participants were not concerned about potential cannabis risks, including increased use of illicit drugs (76.3%), decreases in intelligence (74.4%), disrupted sleep (71.7%), and new/worsening health problems from medical cannabis use (70.7%). Cannabis was considered safe in older adults by 81.3% of participants, though there was much less consensus on safety in pregnancy.

Conclusions:

Cannabis dispensary staff generally view medical cannabis as beneficial and low-risk. However, improvements in dispensary staff training, an increased role for certifying clinicians, and interventions to reduce dispensary staff concerns (e.g., cost, judgment) may improve evidence-based staff recommendations to patients seeking medical cannabis.
Social credit system construction and corporate environmental performance: A quasi-natural experiment from China
Authors: Cui Xinghua , Ning Xueping , Xu Ning , Zhang Wenjie
Published: September 2023

This study explores the role of social credit system construction, an informal institution, in improving corporate environmental performance. To identify the causal connections between social credit and corporate environmental performance, the progressive difference-in-differences (DID) method is adopted by introducing the social credit system construction pilots aiming to improve the social credit environment of China as a quasi-natural experiment. Empirical results imply that social credit system constructions exert a significant improvement effect on corporate environmental performance. In addition, corporate innovation, financial constraints alleviation, and the strengthening of environmental cases enforcement are three effective action mechanisms by which social credit system constructions helping improve corporate environmental performance. Moreover, this promotion effect presents heterogeneity characteristics due to enterprises ownership and the environmental pollution degree of the city where the enterprise is located. This study provides an informal institutional perspective for the green development of enterprises.
Augmenting Trait Meta-Mood: An Intervention to Enhance Psychological Well-being and Academic Achievement in Adolescents
Authors: Rana Vijay , Dangwal Pragyan , Mishra P. C.
Published: September 2023

Background

The period of adolescence is a crucial phase of development marked by significant transformations in emotional experiences, cognitive processes, and social interactions. Throughout this stage, individuals encounter diverse challenges that can influence their psychological well-being and academic performance. Existing research has highlighted the importance of trait meta-mood, which involves the ability to understand and regulate one’s own emotions, in shaping overall functioning during adolescence. However, there is a lack of comprehensive interventions specifically focusing on enhancing trait meta-mood in this population. Thus, this study aims to address this gap by investigating the effectiveness of an intervention program designed to improve trait meta-mood in adolescents.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of the intervention program on academic achievement, psychological well-being, and trait meta-mood in adolescents.

Methods

The study employed a pre- and post-experimental design. Participants included adolescents aged 15–17 years. The intervention program consisted of a series of workshops and activities aimed at promoting self-awareness, emotional regulation, and positive cognitive strategies. Pre- and post-intervention measures were used to assess academic achievement, psychological well-being, and trait meta-mood.

Results

The findings of this study indicate that the intervention program significantly enhanced academic achievement, psychological well-being, and trait meta-mood of adolescents. Participants who underwent the intervention demonstrated improved self-awareness, emotional regulation skills, and positive cognitive strategies. Moreover, these improvements were associated with higher levels of psychological well-being and academic achievement.

Conclusion

The results suggest that the intervention program designed to enhance trait meta-mood in adolescents is effective in improving academic achievement, psychological well-being, and trait meta-mood. The findings highlight the importance of promoting self-awareness, emotional regulation, and positive cognitive strategies in interventions targeting adolescents, as they contribute to overall well-being and academic success.
Detection of Coxiella antibodies in ruminants using a SucB recombinant antigen
Authors: Ferrara Gianmarco , Colitti Barbara , Flores-Ramirez Gabriela , Pagnini Ugo , Iovane Giuseppe , Rosati Sergio , Montagnaro Serena
Published: September 2023

The detection of Coxiella burnetii in ruminants remains challenging despite the use of new technology and the accumulation of novel knowledge. Serology tools, the primary methods of infection surveillance in veterinary medicine, have limitations. We used recombinant antigen production to develop an ELISA based on the SucB protein, one of the major immunodominant antigens described in humans and laboratory animals. We produced the antigen successfully in an Escherichia coli heterologous system, confirmed by sequencing and mass spectrometry, and seen as a band of ~50 kDa in SDS-PAGE and on western blot analysis. We compared the performance of the recombinant ELISA with a commercial ELISA. We observed agreement of 83.5% and a substantial Cohen κ value of 0.67 in our pilot study.
The Motivation to Be Inclusive: Understanding How Diversity Self-Efficacy Impacts Leader Effectiveness in Racially Diverse Workgroups
Authors: Houston Lawrence , Kraimer Maria , Schilpzand Pauline
Published: September 2023

Diversity management is becoming integral to leaders’ success, given the influx of diversity in today’s organizations and workgroups. Yet, little is known about why some leaders and not others are effective at leading a racially diverse group of employees. To shed light on this important conundrum, we integrate social cognitive theory with the categorization-elaboration model of workgroup diversity (Van Knippenberg, De Dreu, & Homan, 2004) to advance a theoretical model that identifies how leaders’ diversity self-efficacy may be positively related to followers’ evaluations of leader effectiveness. We further hypothesize that leaders’ inclusive leadership behavior explains why those leaders who feel efficacious in leading diverse work groups would be deemed more effective, particularly when these leaders’ workgroups are more racially diverse. Based on a sample of 101 group leaders and 1470 healthcare professionals who worked in interdependent workgroups to provide quality patient care (Study 1) and a sample of 135 leader-follower dyads from various industries (Study 2), our data show that leaders’ diversity self-efficacy was more strongly related to followers’ evaluation of leader effectiveness when there were higher levels of racial diversity within workgroups. The data also indicate that the extent to which leaders engage in inclusive leadership behavior can explain why leaders’ diversity self-efficacy beliefs are positively related to followers’ evaluations of leader effectiveness and that the mediation of inclusive leadership behavior is stronger when workgroups are more racially diverse. Our study highlights the importance of leaders’ diversity self-efficacy beliefs in fostering an inclusive and effective work environment.
Experimental and simulation study on rail admittance characteristics in turnout area of urban rail transit
Authors: Gao Xin , Wang Liuchong , Zhao Caiyou , Wang Ping , Yi Qiang
Published: September 2023

In order to study the dynamic performance of rail-track turnout more widely and deeply, this paper established a 3D refined model of turnout and calculated the condensation characteristics of rail-track through the application of harmonic load sweep frequency analysis. The relevant calculation results are verified by field experiments. It was found that the rail pin-pinned resonance mode in the stock rail and switch rail close position, and jacking block and heel block would be suppressed. The change of switch rail profile caused gradual variation of switch rail admittance characteristic, which showed as the low-frequency original point admittance gradually decreases in the frequency-spatial distribution. The special fastener system of guardrail has limited lateral constraint on the guide rail, resulting in the lateral pin-pinned resonance mode of the guide rail not being significantly observed in the measured results. At the same time, the variation of the vertical bending first-order frequency of the rail was analyzed to analyze the change of the vertical support stiffness in the switch zone. The reliability and shortage of the three-dimensional (3D) track model in the switch zone were also analyzed by comparing the experimental data with the model calculation results.
Progressing the understanding of chronic illness and its treatment: A post-human, ethological understanding of haemodialysis
Authors: Cluley Victoria , Eborall Helen , Hull Katherine , Quann Niamh , Burton James O
Published: September 2023

Haemodialysis is a common treatment option offered internationally for people requiring kidney replacement therapy. Research exploring haemodialysis is predominantly clinical and quantitative, and improvements to its provision and receipt tends also to be clinically focused. In recent years, however, a number of studies have sought to explore the lived experience of haemodialysis. These studies tend to use semi-structured interviews and present descriptive findings. Such findings serve to raise the profile of patient perspectives and encourage thinking beyond the clinical gaze. To progress this, we apply a post-humanism approach to the understanding of the receipt of haemodialysis. Drawing on findings from a study to explore the experience and impact of in-centre, daytime, haemodialysis we follow Fox and Alldred’s ethological toolkit to provide a post-human analysis of haemodialysis. In doing so we argue that haemodialysis exists as a heterogenous and changeable assemblage of multiple and fluid, human and non-human factors that has the capacity to affect. Here we outline this post-human approach and the impact it has for understanding not just haemodialysis but also the receipt of treatment for other chronic illnesses.
Overview of recent cases before the Court of Justice of the European Union (January–June 2023)
Authors: Melin Pauline , Sivonen Susanne
Published: September 2023

In this casenote, the judgments in DRV Intertrans and Verbraeken (Joined Cases C-410/21 and C-661/21) and Thermalhotel Fontana (Case C-411/22) are discussed. DRV Intertrans and Verbraeken concerned a case of alleged fraudulent A1 certificates for posted workers. The issue was that those A1 certificates were only provisionally, as opposed to definitively, withdrawn by the issuing institution. As a result, the referring court in DRV Intertrans and Verbraken asked the Court of Justice whether the courts of the Member State where the work was carried out could consider the provisional withdrawal of the A1 certificates by the issuing institution as rendering those A1 certificate non-binding. Alternatively, the referring court asked whether it could disregard those A1 certificates following the Altun jurisprudence of the Court of Justice. Thermalhotel Fontana involved isolation measures being imposed on frontier workers by their Member State of residence, making them unable to work. The specific legal issue at hand in Thermalhotel Fontana concerned the fact that the employer of those frontier workers was not able to get compensation from Austria, the Member State of establishment, for his employees due to the fact that the isolation measures were not taken by Austria but by the Member States of residence of the frontier workers. Considering that this case did not fall within the scope of Regulation 883/2004, the Court examined it under the principle of equal treatment of EU workers.
Decoupling the complexities of air-conditioning cooling energy use in express hotels by data mining approaches
Authors: Chen Shuqin , Li Xinyue , Ma Yuhang , Wang Zhichao
Published: September 2023

The air-conditioning (AC) energy use in express hotels is stochastic with the high coupling relationships amongst AC usage, indoor temperature and energy consumption. Such complexities and stochasticity make it hard to facilitate energy saving with clear effect on indoor environment. However, lacking analyses of high-resolution occupants’ energy use makes it difficult to achieve such goals due to the split form of ACs and various thermal comfort of guests in express hotels. Therefore, this study made a serial analysis on the AC energy use in a more detailed scope. The stochastic AC usage, indoor temperature and AC energy consumption were quantified by proposed typical patterns with the cluster method. The stochasticity was described by four typical patterns for each aspect. After the quantifications, the relationships amongst these three aspects were decoupled by the proposed energy use decoupling model. Two data mining methods, namely, random forest method and decision tree method, were employed to achieve this purpose, respectively. With these models, the impacts of each variable on AC energy consumption and explicit relationships of operation rules for management are presented. Strictly limiting set point temperature higher than 23°C is the effective way to save energy for most of AC usage patterns. This study can provide a deeper understanding of AC energy use in express hotels, and benefits energy saving and facility operation in express hotels.
Digital policing in Nigeria: A study of Jigawa State Police Command
Authors: Ismail Ukasha , Abdullahi Ahmad Salisu
Published: September 2023

The application of digital technologies in police practices can engender a number of benefits, which include round-the-clock surveillance, intelligence collection (in real time), community policing (through regular online briefings and trust-building by policing agencies) and disruption of crimes, among others. This study used situational crime prevention theory and examined the use, benefits and challenges of digital policing in Jigawa State Police Command, Nigeria. A sample of 230 respondents was utilized in the study. From the sample, 215 police personnel were administered questionnaires, and 15 in-depth interviews were conducted with 5 police personnel, 5 information technology professionals and 5 policing scholars. The study revealed that use of digital technologies in police practice is low in Jigawa State, because the study discovered insufficient digital technologies in the police command. Furthermore, the majority of police personnel sampled were not skilled in information and communications technologies. No doubt, poor use of digital technologies may pose a serious setback to crime prevention in Jigawa State, Nigeria. Therefore, it is recommended that the police should acquire and leverage on emerging policing technologies. Police personnel should be given adequate training and retraining on the use of digital technologies. Collaboration and information sharing with relevant agencies should also be improved.
Eye gaze is not unique: The reversed congruency effect on gaze and tongue targets
Authors: Tanaka Yoshihiko , Ishikawa Kenta , Oyama Takato , Okubo Matia
Published: September 2023

In the spatial Stroop task, an arrow target produces a spatial Stroop effect, whereas a gaze target elicits a reversed congruency effect. The reversed congruency effect has been explained by the unique attentional mechanisms of eye gaze. However, recent studies have shown that not only gaze but arrow targets produced a reversed congruency effect when embedded in a complex background. The present study investigated whether non-gaze targets produce a reversed congruency effect. In Experiments 1 and 2, we used the tongue, which is not commonly used to indicate spatial directions in daily life, as a target in the spatial Stroop task, in addition to the conventional gaze and arrows. In Experiment 3, we used arrow stimuli embedded in a complex background as a target. Participants judged the left/right direction of the target presented in the left or right visual field. Although arrow and gaze targets replicated previous findings (spatial Stroop and reversed congruency effect, respectively), the tongue target produced a reversed congruency effect (Experiments 1 and 2). The spatial Stroop effect of arrow targets disappeared when they were in a complex background (Experiment 3). These results are inconsistent with previous accounts emphasising the unique status of eye gaze. We propose that temporal decay of the location code and response inhibition are responsible for the reversal of spatial interference.
Optimization of the removal of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin by composite aerogels based on PVA/agar/maltodextrin
Authors: Ngo Thi Cam Quyen , Lam Van Tan , Nguyen Hoang Thanh Tu , Hoang Ngoc Bich , Tran Thi Tuu , Le My Hanh , Nguyen Thi Nhu Dung , Bach Long Giang
Published: September 2023

In this study, we used a synthetic aerogel based on PVA/agar/maltodextrin to remove the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CFX) from aqueous media. Response surface method (RSM) is used to study the relationship between the factors affecting the adsorption process, thereby optimizing the adsorption efficiency, and making decisions on improving the adsorption process better sub. The research results obtained are as follows: pH2, initial CFX concentration 51 mg L−1, adsorbent dosage 0.16 g L−1, adsorption time 120 min, and temperature 51.5 °C reached the maximum adsorption capacity. The maximum additive is 38.63 mg g−1. The experimental data agree with the pseudo-quadratic kinetic model and the Langmuir and Temkin isotherm models. The composite aerogel adsorbent (AE) in this study is a potential candidate for adsorbent to remove antibiotic contamination in aqueous media.
Fine-Scale Spatial Genetic Structure of Remnant Populations of Abies religiosa, in a Temperate Forest in Central Mexico
Authors: Cruz-Salazar Bárbara , García-Bautista Maricela , Ruiz-Montoya Lorena , Martínez-y Pérez José Luis
Published: September 2023

Genetic structure of a population can be molded by the resistance of the landscape or the distance between populations that function as barriers to gene flow. We analyzed the population genetic structure of Abies religiosa on a fine spatial scale and examined isolation models by resistance and distance. We collected vegetative tissue from populations located at the altitudinal extremes of the distribution range of the species on three slopes of La Malinche National Park (LMNP) (South, North, and East) in central Mexico. Genomic DNA was obtained using the CTAB 2X method, and eight microsatellite chloroplast loci were amplified. The genetic structure was identified based on an Analysis of Molecular Variance, a Discriminant Analysis of Principal Components with cross-validation and a spatial Principal Component Analysis using the Gabriel-type connectivity network. The isolation hypotheses were evaluated by constructing partial Mantel tests using Reciprocal Causal Modeling and Maximum Likelihood Population Effects models. A genetic structure of isolation by resistance to elevation was identified, and two genetic groups were recognized: one including populations of the South slope and the other comprising populations of the North and East slopes. We detected in Abies religiosa populations of the LMNP an isolation by resistance to elevation that determines the genetic structure, and the greatest genetic exchange between groups of populations located at higher altitudes. It is suggested to promote the connectivity between slopes through assisted migration and immediately halt land-use changes, as part of the actions to preserve genetic diversity in the LMPN. This study contributes to the knowledge of the spatial genetic structure of species at risk in the Mexican temperate forest for their conservation.
Effectiveness of Auditory Training in Experienced Hearing-Aid Users, and an Exploration of Their Health-Related Quality of Life and Coping Strategies
Authors: Van Wilderode Mira , Vermaete Ellen , Francart Tom , Wouters Jan , van Wieringen Astrid
Published: September 2023

Hearing aids (HA) are a fundamental component in restoring auditory function; however, they cannot completely alleviate all problems encountered by adults with hearing impairment. The aim of this study is twofold. Firstly, we assess the health-related quality of life and coping strategies of experienced HA users. Secondly, we assess whether HA users can benefit from auditory training. To this end, 40 participants who had worn HAs for more than 6 months participated in this study. Half of the participants received auditory training, while the other half served as a passive control. The training consisted of a personalized training scheme, with outcome measures including speech in noise perception in free-field and via direct streaming to the HA, phoneme identification, cognitive control, and health-related quality of life. Results showed that experienced HA users reported a relatively good quality of life. Health-related quality of life was correlated with aided speech perception in noise, but not with aided pure tone audiometry. Coping strategies were adaptive, leading to improved communication. Participants showed improvements in trained tasks, consonant identification, and speech in noise perception. While both groups yielded improved speech in noise perception at the end, post hoc analysis following a three-way interaction showed a significantly larger pre–post difference for the trained group in the streaming condition. Although training showed some improvements, the study suggests that the training paradigm was not sufficiently challenging for HA users. To optimize daily life listening, we recommend that future training should incorporate more exercises in noise and focus on cognitive control.