bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Which Leadership Traits Matter Most? An Activity in Leadership Development
Authors: Ross John , Valenzuela Marcus , Dixon Deirdre
Published: November 2024

Leadership is widely associated with an array of attributes. The variety of attributes present both advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, attributes are appealing and easy to recognize in leadership. On the other hand, the number of attributes and which ones matter the most may be overwhelming. Grounded in experiential learning and situational interest, we present an implicit leadership activity with two main goals. First, we provide examples of attributes associated with many effective leadership prototypes. And second, we ask students to reflect on these attributes themselves and with others. The exercise is ideal for undergraduate introduction to leadership in general or implicit leadership theory. We provide instructions and resources to tailor the exercise to the needs of the instructor.
Unveiling the Secrets of Customer Satisfaction  and Loyalty in Online Retail: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Authors: Sehgal Monika , Malik Kavita
Published: November 2024

Prior research has been conducted to investigate the impact of digital marketing on customer satisfaction. Many recent studies have shown the future of digital and social media marketing and their impact on businesses. However, scant research reveals the influence of digital marketing dimensions such as website features, information quality on websites and social media, participatory promotional activities to attract or retain customers, cognition behavior of the customers, and their purchase intent on customer satisfaction and loyalty. The investigation demonstrates how crucial website features, information quality, interactivity, participation, cognition, and purchase intent play in boosting customer satisfaction and loyalty. The reliability, validity, and model fit are all checked using principal component analysis, factor analysis, and regression analysis in SPSS, and structure equation modeling is formed in AMOS. The results revealed a positive relationship between these six dimensions and customer satisfaction and loyalty. The results provide practical insights to academics, digital marketing consultants, and online retailers. The study also emphasizes why this association is essential for optimizing benefits in the digital era. By bridging the gap between these variables and their effect on customer satisfaction and loyalty, the research contributed value to unveiling the secrets of customer satisfaction and loyalty in online retail.
Protocol for a Pilot Study on the Neurocardiac Mechanism of an Interoceptive Compassion-Based Heart-Smile Training for Depression
Authors: Kim Eunmi , Joss Diane , Marin Frannie , Anzolin Alessandra , Gawande Richa , Comeau Alexandra , Ellis Seneca , Bumpus Clare , Cahn B. Rael , Kim Misan W. D. , Napadow Vitaly , Schuman-Olivier Zev
Published: November 2024

Background

Heart-Smile Training (HST) is an interoceptive compassion-based behavioral intervention that in case reports has been beneficial for depression. Interoception refers to the awareness and regulation of physiological signals from inside the body. Depressed patients often have diminished interoceptive awareness and often experience disconnection from bodily needs and sensations. In addition to interoceptive dysfunction, depression often involves negative self-evaluation and self-critical rumination. HST is a compassion-based meditation training program that explicitly cultivates interoceptive awareness of the heart area. This study aims to investigate the possible neurocardiac mechanisms engaged through HST for depression patients.

Methods

We plan to enroll 50 subjects to be randomized into a 4-week HST intervention group and a waitlist group. A battery of psychological questionnaires will be administered at baseline and post-intervention timepoints, and electroencephalography (EEG) will be collected during compassion meditation guided by pre-recorded audio. The primary clinical outcome measures are on the feasibility of the intervention and research procedures, the primary mechanistic outcome measure is the post-intervention change in Heartbeat Evoked Potential (HEP) amplitude. Secondary outcome measures include changes in depression severity and EEG gamma spectral activity. Exploratory outcome measures include effects of HST on skin conductance response, heart rate variability, EEG spectral properties in other frequency bands, as well as a list of psychological questionnaires that measure depression and anxiety symptoms, emotion regulation, mindfulness, interoceptive awareness, self-compassion, gratitude, sleep quality, quality of life and social connectedness.

Results

Results not yet available.

Conclusion

This is the first study on the feasibility and interoceptive neurocardiac mechanism of HST. Our findings will provide frontier knowledge on the physiological working mechanism of behavioral interventions with an interoception-based meditative approach. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05564533 .
Chinatown, part five? ‘Capitalism with Asian values’ in Vancouver commentary on Elvin Wyly's ‘Regarding the Pain of (Indigenous) Others’
Authors: Tse Justin K.H.
Published: November 2024

In this commentary on Elvin Wyly’s ‘Regarding the Pain of (Indigenous) Others’, I comment on the absent ontology of Asian subjectivities in urban studies of neoliberal global cities. Wyly’s account of neoliberal Vancouver hellscapes frames racial formations and narratives of dispossession as formed by capital. Asian subjectivities, I argue in this commentary, are also flattened by narratives of capital into purely economic subjects, but what Wyly’s reading of Vancouver opens up, I also hope to show, is the possibility of tracing the complex life stories of Asian capitalist characters in Vancouver’s neoliberal hellscape. In this way, Wyly avoids the trap of the previous urban studies entries in the post-Chinatown ilk, where global cities are depicted as being shaped by capital with the complexity of Roman Polanski’s Chinatown, but ironically have neither ‘Asian’ nor ‘Chinese’ characters in them that are subjectively complex. Paying attention to complex Asian subjectivities in neoliberal cities allows for further questioning of the relationship between race and capital in contemporary urban studies.
“Can’t Remember What I Forgot:” Investigating Organizational Forgetting Within a Project-Based Organization
Authors: Garcias Frédéric , Dalmasso Cédric , Depeyre Colette
Published: November 2024

This article is based on the study of an engineering organization that is experiencing major difficulties on its first new project in 10 years. It contributes to the literature on organizational forgetting in project-based organizations, examining how this phenomenon can be perceived and assessed. The analysis of the data provides a better understanding of the conditions under which a situation of accidental forgetting can be (mis)identified. The case reveals that, due to five sources of ambiguity linked to the identification process—latency, novelty, multiplicity, complexity, and credibility—the forgetting phenomenon may be underestimated or the subject of contradictory assessments within the organization.
Intramedullary nail fixation versus open reduction and internal fixation for treatment of adult diaphyseal forearm fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Box McKenna W. , Stegelmann Samuel D. , Domingue Grayson A. , Wells Monica E. , Werthmann Neil J. , Potgieter Cornelis J. , Riehl John T.
Published: November 2024

Background

Diaphyseal radius and ulna fractures require surgical fixation in adults. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) have been considered the gold standard of treatment. The recent development of an interlocking intramedullary nail (IMN) has provided an alternative treatment method for these fractures. The objective of this meta-analysis is to compare the outcomes and complications of IMN versus ORIF for diaphyseal forearm fractures in adults.

Methods

MEDLINE and Embase were searched from January 1, 2000, through January 7, 2024. All English-language studies were included comparing radiographic and functional outcomes for interlocking IMN fixation and ORIF of diaphyseal forearm fractures in adults (age ≥ 18 years). Study demographics, fracture data, functional outcomes, radiographic outcomes, and complications were extracted. Study quality was determined using the ROBINS-I criteria for cohort studies and the Cochrane risk of bias 2.0 (RoB 2) tool for randomized controlled trials. Meta-analysis of included studies used odds ratios and standardized mean difference when appropriate. Data was analyzed using subgroups of all diaphyseal fractures (including isolated radius or ulna fractures) and those with BBFFs.

Results

Nine studies were included for analysis. There were 42 isolated radius, 80 isolated ulna, and 116 both-bone fractures (BBFF) treated with IMN and 36 radius, 81 ulna, and 116 both-bone fractures treated with ORIF. Compared to ORIF, IMN of diaphyseal forearm fractures appeared to be associated with shorter operative times and a lower overall complication rate. Time-to-union and the rate of nonunion following IMN were similar to ORIF. According to the Grace–Eversmann score, functional outcomes tended to be better following IMN, but DASH scores were similar between fixation strategies.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that interlocking IMN can be a safe and effective treatment option for simple and complex diaphyseal forearm fractures in adults. Further high-quality studies are needed to define indications for treating diaphyseal fractures with an interlocking IMN.

Level of Evidence

Therapeutic Level IV.
Natural plant polyphenols contribute to the ecological and healthy swine production
Authors: Mei Huadi , Li Yuanfei , Wu Shusong , He Jianhua
Published: November 2024

The absence of trace amounts of natural bioactive compounds with important biological activities in traditional dietary models for global farm animals, coupled with an incomplete theoretical system for animal nutrition, has led to unbalanced and inadequate animal nutrition. This deficiency has adversely impacted animal health and the ecological environment, presenting formidable challenges to the advancement of the swine breeding industry in various countries around the world toward high-quality development. Recently, due to the ban of antibiotics for growth promotion in swine diets, botanical active compounds have been extensively investigated as feed additives. Polyphenols represent a broad group of plant secondary metabolites. They are natural, non-toxic, pollution-free, and highly reproducible compounds that have a wide range of physiological functions, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and metabolic activities. Accordingly, polyphenols have been widely studied and used as feed additives in swine production. This review summarizes the structural characteristics, classification, current application situation, general properties of polyphenols, and the latest research advances on their use in swine production. Additionally, the research and application bottlenecks and future development of plant polyphenols in the animal feed industry are reviewed and prospected. This review aims to stimulate the in-depth study of natural plant polyphenols and the research and development of related products in order to promote the green, healthy, and high-quality development of swine production, while also providing ideas for the innovation and development in the theoretical system of animal nutrition.
Suicidal ideation and thoughts of self-harm during the COVID-19 pandemic among Swedish employees: a cohort study on the role of job instability and job insecurity
Authors: Blomqvist Sandra , Westerlund Hugo , Hanson Linda L. Magnusson
Published: November 2024

Background

Suicidal ideation may be a warning sign for suicide and previous work has indicated a higher prevalence of suicidal ideation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Job loss and job insecurity are potential risk factors for suicidal ideation, but their importance during the pandemic, and the role of organizational changes for suicidal ideation, is unclear. This study examined the association between various experiences associated with job loss and job insecurity during the pandemic and thoughts of suicide/self-harm in Sweden.

Methods

The study sample was drawn from the Swedish Longitudinal Occupational Survey of Health (SLOSH). Auxiliary data collections in February 2021 and 2022 assessed exposure to job loss/unemployment, furlough, workplace downsizing, or increased job insecurity versus stable employment and thoughts of suicide or self-harm (PHQ-9) during the pandemic. The analyses were based on 1558 individuals (2 349 observations) participating in either or both waves and who had been working before the pandemic. Logistic regression models with cluster-robust standard errors were fitted, including sociodemographic factors and prior mental health problems to control for potential confounding. Measures of personality based on a brief version of the Big-Five personality inventory were also added.

Results

The results indicated an association between all experiences, except furlough, and thoughts of suicide/self-harm, when adjusting for sex, age, civil status, socioeconomic status and prior mental health (job loss odds ratio (OR) = 3.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.79–7.63, downsizing OR = 2.41, CI 1.24–4.70, job insecurity OR = 2.77, CI 1.15–6.67). The associations for job loss and insecurity were attenuated by adjustment for personality, although it remained statistically significant for downsizing.

Conclusions

The results suggested a higher risk of suicidal ideation connected with loss of employment and survival of a downsizing, but not a forced reduction in working times/pay during the COVID-19 pandemic. The association for subjective job insecurity was less robust and may be partly explained by personality.
Precursory crater contraction associated with the 2017 eruption of Shinmoe-dake volcano (Japan) detected by PALSAR-2 and Sentinel-1 InSAR
Authors: Himematsu Yuji , Ozawa Taku , Aoki Yosuke
Published: November 2024

The time series of PALSAR-2 and Sentinel-1 images reveal inflation at the volcanic flank and contraction at the crater for approximately 5 months before the 2017 eruption of Shinmoe-dake volcano, Japan. While the observation of inflation at the volcano’s flank is ubiquitous, few studies have reported crater contraction preceding an eruption. The flank inflation stopped after the 2017 eruption, while the contraction at the crater continued until the 2018 eruption. We found that a pipe-shaped deformation source above sea level best fits the observation preceding the 2017 eruption. Suppose the flux of ejected materials constrains the conduit radius during the previous 2011 eruption. In that case, the amount of deformation of the pipe-shaped deformation source, whether open or closed at its top, is too large to be realistic. Although constraining the conduit radius from the eruption flux overestimates the pressure change of the pipe-shaped deformation source, water-saturated fractures along the volcanic conduit could extend the effective conduit radius of the pressure source. We propose one potential scenario for the mechanism of the crater contraction preceding volcanic eruptions based on the combination of compaction due to cooling by ambient groundwater and material withdrawal within the conduit. The groundwater inflows from the ambient aquifer through cracks in the porous conduit wall, which are generated by conduit expansion during the magma ascent. Decoupling from the conduit wall due to a decrease in volume of the material promotes material instability and crater contraction. The interaction between the groundwater and the magma triggers the 2017 eruption of Shinmoe-dake volcano, as previous studies have reported.

Graphical Abstract
Blue light stimulation of the blind spot in human: from melanopsin to clinically relevant biomarkers of myopia
Authors: Amorim-de-Sousa Ana , Chakraborty Ranjay , Collins Michael J. , Fernandes Paulo , González‑Méijome José , Hannibal Jens , Hoseini-Yazdi Hosein , Read Scott A. , Ellrich Jens , Schilling Tim
Published: November 2024

The protective effects of time spent outdoors emphasize the major role of daylight in myopia. Based on the pathophysiology of myopia, the impact of blue light stimulation on the signaling cascade, from melanopsin at the blind spot to clinically relevant biomarkers for myopia, was investigated.

Parameters and site of light stimulation are mainly defined by the photopigment melanopsin, that is sensitive to blue light with a peak wavelength of 480 nm and localized on the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGC) whose axons converge to the optic disc, corresponding to the physiological blind spot. Blue light at the blind spot (BluSpot) stimulation provides the opportunity to activate the vast majority of ipRGC and avoids additional involvement of rods and cones which may exert incalculable effects on the signaling cascade.

Experimental studies have applied anatomical, histochemical, electrophysiological, imaging, and psychophysical methods to unravel the mode of action of BluSpot stimulation. Results indicate activation of melanopsin, improvement of contrast sensitivity, gain in electrical retinal activity, and increase of choroidal thickness following BluSpot stimulation. Short-term changes of clinically relevant biomarkers lead to the hypothesis that BluSpot stimulation may exert antimyopic effects with long-term application.
ICe: interior cevian initialization for enhanced reconstruction methods
Authors: Omara A. N.
Published: November 2024

This paper introduces two novel self-induced basis strategies, interior cevian initialization for orthogonal matching pursuit (ICe) and its $$l_2$$

l
2

-sense optimized version, optimized interior cevian initialization (OICe). These methods address the complexity and convergence issues of the previously proposed self-inspired bases (SIBS) approach. Both algorithms enhance sparse image representation by generating adaptive auxiliary atoms tailored to the image, thereby improving reconstruction quality and computational efficiency. Experimental results show that ICe achieves up to a 35.6% improvement in Normalized Mean Squared Error (NMSE) and a 16.4% increase in Structural Similarity Index (SSIM) compared to conventional OMP. OICe, as the $$l_2$$

l
2

-sense optimized version of ICe, delivers even greater performance, with improvements of up to 40% in NMSE and 18.5% in SSIM. Additionally, both ICe and OICe significantly reduce bits per pixel (BPP) for image encoding, outperforming SIBS when paired with state-of-the-art dictionaries such as KSVD, MOD, RBDL, and ODL. These results highlight the effectiveness of ICe and OICe in addressing key challenges in sparse representation, offering enhanced accuracy and efficiency across a variety of applications.
A proposal of a simplified grading and echo-based staging of aortic valve stenosis to streamline management
Authors: Kardos Attila , Vannan Mani A.
Published: November 2024

In this paper we discuss the relevance of continuity equation based aortic valve area (AVA) calculation as a robust parameter suitable for accurate grading of aortic stenosis (AS) irrespective of flow conditions. Combining the AVA-based grading and echocardiography-based staging, can provide with the most comprehensive clinical assessment of patients with AS and preserved left ventricular systolic function to streamline management decisions.
How do Students’ Science, Social, and Personal Identities Influence their Experiences in Undergraduate Field Biology Courses?
Authors: Esparza David , Reilly-Sanchez Laura , Smith Michelle
Published: November 2024

Field biology courses can nurture students science identities, but also pose unique challenges to those who identify with marginalized groups. We used a card sorting task to understand the influence of students intersecting identities in field biology courses. We further offer suggestions on how to make the field biology more inclusive.
Cross-country comparison of depressive symptoms and social–emotional aspects in university students from Brazil and Germany during the COVID-19 pandemic: results from two cross-sectional surveys
Authors: Prado Aneliana da Silva , Baldofski Sabrina , Kohls Elisabeth , Bianchi Alessandra Sant'Anna , Oda Fernanda Suemi , Freitas Joanneliese de Lucas , Rummel-Kluge Christine
Published: November 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected students’ mental health, increasing pre-existing psychosocial vulnerabilities. University students worldwide have presented differences in their mental health status; however, cross-country studies comparing students’ mental health during the pandemic are lacking.

Aims

To investigate potential differences between university students from Brazil and those from Germany with respect to (a) depressive symptoms and alcohol and drug consumption, (b) social and emotional aspects (loneliness, self-efficacy, perceived stress, social support and resilience) and (c) attitudes towards vaccination.

Method

Two online cross-sectional studies were conducted with university students during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil (November 2021 to March 2022) and in Germany (April to May 2022). Depressive symptoms, alcohol consumption, loneliness, self-efficacy, perceived stress, social support, resilience, sociodemographic information and attitudes towards vaccination were assessed. Data were analysed using univariate and bivariate models.

Results

The total sample comprised N = 7911 university students, with n = 2437 from Brazil and n = 5474 from Germany. Brazilian students presented significantly more depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts, higher levels of perceived stress, higher frequency of drug or substance consumption, and lower levels of perceived social support and resilience than German students, whereas German students presented higher levels of loneliness than Brazilian students. A more favourable opinion towards vaccinations in general was found among Brazilian students compared with German students.

Conclusions

In both countries, low-threshold (online) counselling targeting university students is needed. The differences between the samples could indicate country and/or cultural differences which justify further research in this area.
Analysis of 20 Independently Performed Assays to Measure Homologous Recombination Deficiency (HRD) in Ovarian Cancer: Findings From the Friends' HRD Harmonization Project
Authors: Andrews Hillary S. , McShane Lisa M. , Kohn Elise C. , Arend Rebecca , Karlovich Chris , Kincaid Kaitlyn , Laird A. Douglas , Li Ming-Chung , Sokol Ethan S. , Starks Elizabeth R. , Bi Shulin , Brunner Lauren , Chapman Alyssa , Chen Li , Coletta Tommaso , Ding Yuan , Oliver Bailee D. , Foxall McKenzie , Gupta Mohit , Halford Zan , Kahn Andrea G. , Kotlov Nikita , Lai Yi-Hsuan Lucy , Lazar Alexander J. , Li Wenjie , McKelvey Brittany A. , Nam Hyunjun , Pabla Sarabjot , Safabakhsh Pegah , Saul Daniel , Stenzinger Albrecht , Taxter Timothy , Zhang Zhiwei , Zhao Yingdong , Zou ShiPing , Stewart Mark D. , Allen Jeff D.
Published: November 2024

PURPOSE

Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) assays measure DNA damage repair dysfunction to identify patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) who may benefit from poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors (PARPis). Numerous assays are available, but only two have undergone prospective clinical validation. Assay variability can affect patient and provider treatment choices; however, the level of assay variability across laboratory developed tests is unknown.

METHODS

Friends of Cancer Research initiated a research partnership, inviting HRD assay developers to participate in two blinded analyses. In the first, 11 assay developers reported HRD status for the Cancer Genome Atlas HGSOC data set (In Silico; n = 348) and then 17 assay developers reported HRD status for nucleic acids freshly extracted from archival specimens (n = 90) from patients with advanced HGSOC (clinical). HRD status was compared for each analysis.

RESULTS

The median (IQR) pairwise positive percent agreement (PPA) for the in silico analysis was 74% (51%-89%) and 81% (64%-92%) for pairwise negative percent agreement (NPA); for the clinical analysis PPA was 83% (70%-91%) and NPA was 80% (62%-91%). There was higher positive agreement on HRD status calls among those with a
BRCA1
or
BRCA2
mutation and a higher negative agreement in
CCNE1
-amplified cases. Sample characteristics like tissue block age were not observed to be associated with agreement. A subgroup of tumors largely called HRD across assays with no
BRCA1
or
BRCA2
mutations was associated with better outcomes on standard platinum-based therapy compared with not HRD; however, the subgroup was small, and further research is warranted.

CONCLUSION

This analysis demonstrates how results from 20 HRD assays compare when assessing HGSOC. The results set the stage to improve alignment and establish standards for acceptable levels of agreement moving forward.
Neurosurgery in Pakistan: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Ajmal Erum , Khilji Hamza , Barthélemy Ernest J. , Khan Tariq
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Since its independence from India in 1947, Pakistan has struggled with economic crises such as global debt, corruption, constant regime change, and a decades-long war against terrorism. The resulting socioeconomic barriers have stymied efforts to develop a comprehensive and equitably accessible healthcare system, especially regarding safe, timely, and affordable surgical care. This article evaluates neurosurgery's development, current state, and prospects in Pakistan, a lower-middle–income country.

METHODS:

We performed a literature search using PubMed and analyzed relevant articles to better understand the state and landscape of neurosurgery in Pakistan. Moreover, we conducted ecological research by querying the databases of the World Bank and the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation to evaluate the neurological and neurosurgical disease burden in the Pakistani population.

RESULTS:

The neurosurgical workforce in Pakistan has demonstrated rapid growth over the past two decades, with approximately 450 neurosurgeons and a neurosurgeon-per-100 000 population density of 0.114. Nonetheless, access to essential neurosurgical procedures for the treatment of diseases such as stroke has been difficult to ensure, which likely contributes to Pakistan's stroke burden, ie, stroke was still the third most common cause of death in 2019, causing 21.7% of all deaths.

CONCLUSION:

While Pakistan's political and economic instability has adversely affected the development of neurosurgery, the field has still made great strides and demonstrates a promising future in providing equitable neurosurgical care to all Pakistan's people.
Decision-making style and entrepreneurial intentions among public sector workers in Ghana
Authors: Amofah Kwaku
Published: November 2024

The present research endeavours to ascertain the rational decision-making style of public sector workers (PSWs) and their impact on entrepreneurial opportunities in Ghana. In particular, the study examines the mediating role of entrepreneurial intention and the moderating effect of social capital. To test the hypotheses, a sample of 358 PSWs was analysed using a structural equation modelling (SEM). The findings reveal that decision-making style has a significant effect on entrepreneurial intention, opportunity development, and opportunity creation, respectively. Furthermore, the research supports the mediating role of entrepreneurial intention, which manifests itself as a crucial conduit between decision-making style and both opportunity development and opportunity creation. The study emphasises the imperative for policymakers to foster a robust social environment that nurtures the Ghanaian PSW community. The study posits that entrepreneurial opportunity creation can be substantially enhanced by encouraging these workers to explore and create business ventures.
Przestrzenna i czasowa zmienność zachmurzenia nad Polską w czasie przelotów satelity Sentinel-2
Authors: Kulesza Kinga
Published: November 2024

W pracy przedstawiono charakterystykę zachmurzenia w Polsce w miesiącach okresu wegetacyjnego (kwiecień–wrzesień) w latach 1991–2015, ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem czasu przelotów satelity Sentinel-2. Analizę przeprowadzono na podstawie danych o zachmurzeniu, pochodzących z produktu satelitarnego Satellite Application Facility for Climate Monitoring (CM SAF), charakteryzujących się wysoką rozdzielczością czasową (1 godzina) i przestrzenną (0,05° × 0,05°). Oceniono dobowy przebieg zachmurzenia w poszczególnych regionach Polski. Sporządzono także rozkład przestrzenny zachmurzenia oraz liczbę dni pochmurnych w godzinach 6:00, 12:00 i 18:00 UTC i w godzinach przelotu satelity Sentinel-2 (9:00, 10:00 i 11:00 UTC). W północno-zachodniej i zachodniej Polsce w czerwcu zachmurzenie w godzinach dziennych jest znacznie wyższe niż w pozostałych miesiącach, a różnica ta sięga aż 4 punktów procentowych w godzinach przelotu satelity Sentinel-2. W większości regionów kraju jest od 12–14 do 16–17 dni z niebem pochmurnym w tych godzinach. Na terenach górskich i na Pojezierzu Pomorskim liczba ta przekracza średnio 20 dni w miesiącu, co znacznie ogranicza możliwość wykorzystania optycznych danych satelitarnych z Sentinel-2 w badaniach środowiskowych.
Έλεγχος προέλευσης, ποιότητας σε προϊόντα αγροδιατροφής και επιμολύνσεων σε προϊόντα γάλακτος με μεθόδους οπτικής φασματοσκοπίας και χημειομετρίας
Authors: Κοντζεδάκη Ρενάτε
Published: November 2024

Στις μέρες μας, ο ποιοτικός έλεγχος των τροφίμων κρίνεται υψίστης σημασίας. Βασίζεται κυρίως σε μοντέρνες αναλυτικές μεθόδους και τεχνικές που είναι μεν ακριβείς αλλά είναι ταυτοχρόνως ακριβές και χρονοβόρες. Έτσι, προκύπτει η ανάγκη για την εφαρμογή εναλλακτικών τεχνικών οι οποίες είναι χαμηλού κόστους, μη καταστρεπτικές και που μπορούν να παρέχουν πληροφορίες σχετικές με την ταυτότητα και την ποιότητα των προϊόντων αγροδιατροφής. Στην παρούσα διατριβή έγινε εφαρμογή οπτικής φασματοσκοπίας σε συνδυασμό με στατιστική ανάλυση (μεθόδους μηχανικής μάθησης) σε δείγματα προϊόντων αγροδιατροφής όπως το κρασί ,τα γαλακτοκομικά και το ελαιόλαδο. Στην περίπτωση του κρασιού εφαρμόστηκε φασματοσκοπία απορρόφησης και με τη χρήση της στατιστικής ανάλυσης έγινε διάκριση της βοτανικής προέλευσης διαφόρων δειγμάτων και κατασκευάστηκαν επιτυχημένα μοντέλα πρόβλεψης της φαινολικής σύστασης του κρασιού, της συγκέντρωσης σε ανθοκυάνες και τανίνες. Όσον αφορά δείγματα γάλακτος και γαλακτοκομικών προϊόντων έγινε εφαρμογή φασματοσκοπίας απορρόφησης, FT-IR, φθορισμού και διάχυτης ανάκλασης σε συνδυασμό με στατιστική ανάλυση με σκοπό την διάκριση των δειγμάτων ως προς την ζωική τους προέλευση, τον τρόπο εκτροφής και το σύστημα εκτροφής. Επίσης κατασκευάστηκαν επιτυχημένα μοντέλα πρόβλεψης του λίπους, των πρωτεϊνών και του SNF. Μελετήθηκε επίσης η νόθευση του γάλακτος με νερό και γάλα διαφορετικής ζωικής προέλευσης. Τέλος έγιναν κάποιες βασικές μελέτες για ανίχνευση επιμόλυνσης από αντιβιοτικά σε δείγματα γάλακτος. Ένα άλλο τρόφιμο το οποίο μελετήθηκε είναι το εξαιρετικά παρθένο ελαιόλαδο. Εφαρμόστηκε η φασματοσκοπία Raman σε συνδυασμό με στατιστική ανάλυση με σκοπό την διάκριση της ποιότητας και του τύπου καλλιέργειας εξαιρετικά παρθένου ελαιόλαδου. Όλα τα αποτελέσματα επιβεβαίωσαν την δυνατότητα εφαρμογής της οπτικής φασματοσκοπίας ως εναλλακτικού εργαλείου χαμηλού κόστους στον έλεγχο προέλευσης, ποιότητας και νοθείας τροφίμων.
Genetic changes clinically relevant in canine osteosarcoma
Authors: Lee E , Loukopoulos P
Published: November 2024

Osteosarcoma (OSA) is a malignant tumour of osteoblasts, forming neoplastic bone and/or osteoid. The cancer is most prevalent in children and canines, although occurring 10 times more frequently in the latter (Fenger et al., 2014). Up to 85% of malignant bone cancers are diagnosed as OSA, characterised by aggressive metastasis and rapid haematogenous dissemination, particularly to the lungs (Nelson and Couto, 2019, Thompson and Dittmer, 2020). These most commonly occur in dogs aged between 7-10 years (Selvarajah et al., 2009). The nature of canine osteosarcoma (CnOSA) gravitates to the appendicular skeleton, with 95% prevalence in dogs over 40kg, and 40% prevalence in dogs under 15kg (Nelson and Couto, 2019). Regardless of the high prevalence of CnOSA, there has been little progression in improving survival rates in the last 50 years (Zapata et al., 2019). This may be a consequence of the spontaneity of the cancer in canines (Davis and Ostrander, 2014). However, recent combined utilisation of genomic/transcriptomic technologies has been of benefit to investigating genetic loci as causes and/or protectors against CnOSA (Davis and Ostrander, 2014). As a result, somatic mutations in the TP53, MYC, CDKN2A/B, PTEN, RUNX2, and DLG2 genes in humans and dogs with osteosarcoma– and KIT and MDM2 in OSA dogs alone have been identified (Zapata et al., 2019). These findings are not only of prognostic importance to the several dog breeds with genetic predispositions to CnOSA (Simpson et al., 2017), but for humans too. This is not purely for better diagnosis of at-risk patients, but for earlier management, and a foundation for novel approaches to treatment targets for OS. Therefore, this literature review aims to identify the genetic changes clinically relevant in dogs with osteosarcoma.
Genetic profiling of virulence genes among Pseudomonas Aeruginosa isolates recovered from diseased chickens
Authors: Morsy MM , Sorour HK , Abdel Razek ZS , Shalaby AG
Published: November 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is regarded as an opportunistic organism for bird species. Also is one can be mentioned as an example of an environment-associated infection that results in severe disease in poultry farms, Indeed, we detected the incidence of P. aeruginosa in chickens and also discovered the implicated virulence genes and antibiotic-resistant mechanism. Two hundred cases were collected from broiler and layer chicken organs (heart blood, heart, and lungs) that suffered from some respiratory manifestation and septicemia in addition to yolk sacs from one-day-old chicks, which were examined bacteriologically and Serologically. The studied isolates were tested against eight antimicrobial discs. Bacterial DNA was analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) against six virulence genes (lasL, lasB  toxA, exoU, exoT, and oprl genes). Eighteen isolates out of 200 (9%) of P. aeruginosa were defined. Serologically the isolates were related to more serogroup (O1,O4,O6, O11 and O12) P. aeruginosa. PCR defined the existence of P. aeruginosa by detection of the 16SRNA gene. All isolates showed 100% multidrug resistance (MDR) to more than one antimicrobial disc (sulfamethoxazole, erythromycin, tetracycline, and ampicillin). Conversely, those isolates exhibited 100% sensitivity to ciprofloxacin, and four of them showed sensitivity to norfloxacin with a percentage of (22.2%). In addition to 15 isolates showed resistance of 83.3% percent to streptomycin and nalidixic acid. By PCR test, all examined P. aeruginosa strains carried four virulence genes (lasI, toxA, exoU, and oprl). However, only three strains carried lasB, and four carried the exoT gene. In conclusion, we confirmed the presence of different factors of virulence for P. aeruginosa and MDR to more than one antimicrobial drug. So, restricting Pseudomonas infection in poultry requires strict biosecurity measures to control and eradicate the infection by P. aeruginosa
Morphological characteristics of rabbits’ carpal tunnel: Evaluation of its potential for carpal tunnel research
Authors: Turker Yavas F , Dabanoglu I
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to define the main anatomic components and describe the normal size and form of the carpal tunnel in rabbits using imaging techniques.  It was also aimed to evaluate the potential of rabbits as an animal model for carpal tunnel research. The forelimbs of eight adult New Zealand rabbits were investigated using histology, magnetic resonance, and computed tomography. Two cadavers were used for anatomical dissection to support the findings. The carpal tunnel was examined at proximal and distal levels, and it was found that the flexor retinaculum is two-layered in rabbits. Both vascular nerve bundles, including the median nerve and the ramus palmaris of the ulnar nerve, were within two layers of it and passed through the carpal tunnel. The deep digital flexor, superficial digital flexor, and radial carpal flexor tendons were observed within the carpal tunnel. The flexor pollicis longus tendon is not found in rabbits. The area of the carpal tunnel narrowed towards the distal end in three methods, and its depth decreased in CT and MRI. The length of the accessory carpal bone determined this depth. The study found that rabbits' carpal tunnels are morphologically similar to those of humans compared to dogs. This situation is thought to pave the way for more accurate approaches to carpal tunnel research in rabbits.
Relationship between physical activity, body posture and morbidity risk in the elderly population
Authors: Arango Zuleta Sandra Marcela , Poblete-Valderrama Felipe , Monterrosa-Quintero Armando
Published: November 2024

Background Physical activity plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of older adults, positively influencing various aspects of their quality of life. This study aims to explore the relationship between physical activity and body segments, as well as the risk indices of non-communicable chronic diseases in healthy elderly individuals. Methods The analyzed variables include weekly physical activity, the Postural Correction Index (PCI), measured using the system developed by Portland State University (PSU), and predictors of non-communicable chronic diseases assessed through body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio. Results The results reveal a moderate positive relationship between physical activity and the PCI (r=0.45; p≤0.05), with significant correlations in specific components of the PCI, such as thoracic depression (r=0.51; p<0.01), anteroposterior shoulder alignment (r=0.51; p<0.01), and upper back (r=0.53; p<0.001). Conclusions It is concluded that physical activity has a significant positive impact on the posture of older adults, particularly in the trunk, contributing 40% to the improvement of PCI components. The PCI values obtained, exceeding 84.67 in men and 82.67 in women according to the PSU evaluation, underscore the effectiveness of physical activity in postural correction and the prevention of issues associated with chronic diseases.
Advanced Monte Carlo simulations and benchmark of residual dose rate assessments in the ATLAS detector at CERN LHC
Authors: Lorenzon Tommaso , Björkman Daniel , Bozzato Davide , Cimmino Anna , Froeschl Robert , Kouskoura Vasiliki
Published: November 2024

Background The European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) pushes the frontiers of physics through the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), a 27-kilometre hadron accelerator capable of producing proton-proton collisions at a center-of-mass energy of up to 13.6 TeV. Its four main detectors (ALICE, ATLAS, CMS, LHCb) are unique examples of advanced particle detection technology and complexity. Ensuring radiological safety throughout the LHC’s environments and lifecycle is a critical task managed by the CERN Radiation Protection group. In this context, assessing residual dose rates is crucial for planning exposure situations, such as maintenance and upgrade projects during LHC shutdowns. Methods This work presents advanced Monte Carlo techniques developed at CERN to predict residual dose rates in the LHC experimental caverns, focusing on the ATLAS detector. Predictions are made using the FLUKA Monte Carlo code and the SESAME toolkit for two-step simulations. The simulation results are benchmarked against experimental residual dose rate measurements collected during LHC Long Shutdown 2 at ATLAS. Additionally, forecasts for Long Shutdown 3 are also presented. Results The FLUKA benchmark for the ATLAS detector demonstrates a general agreement within a factor of 1.5. This consistency validates both the FLUKA geometry model of the ATLAS detector and the reliability of the Monte Carlo techniques used to predict residual dose rates in such complex environments. Conclusions The study highlights the predictive capabilities of the FLUKA and SESAME coupling for simulating residual dose rates in large LHC experiments. This method plays a crucial role in ensuring radiological safety, primarily for dose prediction and optimization. The reliability of this approach is significantly supported by the benchmark results obtained at ATLAS and presented in this paper.
Comparative Analysis of Factors Influencing Optimal and Timely Antenatal Care Uptake in Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria: A Cross-Section Study
Authors: Igumbor Jude , Malomane Rixongile , Zingoni Zvifadzo Matsena , Otwombe Kennedy , Adeoye Ike , Akinwaare Margaret , Bosire Violet , Moko Singilizwe , Malenga Tumaini , Fagbamigbe Adeniyi , Musenge Eustasius
Published: November 2024

Background Adequate antenatal care (ANC) visits and early timing are crucial for maternal and foetal health. However, many pregnant women in Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria delay ANC initiation and fail to meet recommended visit numbers. This study aimed to identify factors associated with timely ANC initiation and achieving optimal number of ANC visits in these countries. Methods A cross-sectional analysis with data from the most recent Demographic Health Survey (DHS) datasets for Kenya (2022), Nigeria (2018) and South Africa (2016) were used. The study included 35,219 women aged 15–49 who had given birth within the previous two years. The women's sociodemographic and maternal health care-seeking characteristics were summarised using descriptive statistics. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify associations between explanatory variables, the timing of the first ANC visit, and the frequency of ANC visits. Results Optimal ANC visits (≥4 visits) were 67.2% in Kenya, South Africa (75.5%), and Nigeria (56.9%). Early timing of first ANC visits (≤3 months) was 30.2% in Kenya, 47.3% in South Africa and 18.3% in Nigeria. Factors associated with adequate ANC visits were maternal age, wealth status, and caesarean section, while parity and household size reduced the odds of optimal ANC visits. Maternal age, caesarean section, wealth status, and others were associated with increased odds of early timing of ANC visits. Parity, male-headed households, employed women and women who had a challenge with treatment costs had reduced the odds of timely ANC uptake. Conclusion More than half of the participants had optimal ANC visits, while less than half initiated ANC early. Tailored interventions addressing specific social, cultural, and economic contexts are crucial to improving early ANC visits and the frequency of ANC visits. Mixed methods research could provide in-depth insights into barriers and facilitators of ANC uptake, informing the design of targeted interventions.
The genome sequence of the Birch Mocha moth, Cyclophora albipunctata (Hufnagel, 1767)
Authors: Prescott Tom , Botham Marc ,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: November 2024

We present a genome assembly from a female specimen of Cyclophora albipunctata (the Birch Mocha; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Geometridae). The genome sequence has a total length of 319.40 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the W and Z sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.92 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 16,542 protein-coding genes.
The genome sequence of knotweed leaf beetle, Gastrophysa polygoni (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: McCulloch James ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: November 2024

We present a genome assembly from a female specimen of Gastrophysa polygoni (knotweed leaf beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Chrysomelidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 369.80 megabases. Most of the assembly (99.89%) is scaffolded into 12 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 17.11 kilobases in length.
Investigating precipitation pattern and variability in the Niger Delta: a statistical analysis of trends and change points (1972–2022)
Authors: Mbachu Ikechukwu
Published: November 2024

There has been significant variation in precipitation in different parts of the world, and increasingly this has been attributed to climate change. Despite reliance on rain-fed agriculture, detailed analysis of regional precipitation trends within specific sub-national areas, such as the Niger Delta, remains scant. This study examines annual rainfall trends over 51 years (1972–2022) across seven stations in the Niger Delta using different statistical methods. Descriptive statistics show different patterns among stations, some showing upward trends, others declines. Mean annual rainfall ranges from 1,969.05 mm in Akure to 2385.04 mm in Port Harcourt, showing significant regional variability. Linear regression and LOWESS analysis show mixed trends; Mann–Kendall and Spearman’s Rho tests showed significant increase in Owerri, while Sen’s slope analysis confirms varying trends across the region. Pettitt test results confirms Owerri’s significant increase in precipitation. This study contributes to a greater understanding of precipitation trends in the Niger Delta.
Formation of Professional Competences of Future Specialists in ‘Tourism’ in the Course of Studying the Discipline „Market of Tourist Services”
Authors: Binytska Olena
Published: November 2024

Our research examines the approaches to the formation of professional competencies of future specialists in the speciality “Tourism” in the process of studying the discipline “Market of Tourist Services”. It is emphasised that the modern training of future specialists in the speciality “Tourism” should meet global standards and market needs, providing graduates with not only theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills and the ability to work in an innovative environment.
As part of the “Tourism Services Market” discipline, students are offered interactive learning methods such as role-playing games, business simulations, and group projects. This contributes to the development of important skills, including marketing, organisation of travel services and communication with clients. Particular attention is paid to the study of modern digital technologies used in the tourism sector, as well as marketing approaches that help to adapt tourism products to the individual needs of consumers.
Autorytaryzm i rządy prawa a reżim graniczny: przypadek Polski
Authors: Buchowski Michał
Published: November 2024

W artykule skupiono się na znormalizowanym już braku poszanowania praw człowieka i przyjętych przez państwo polskie zasad prawnych w odniesieniu do imigrantów. To znane i komentowane zjawisko. Niniejszy przyczynek polega na przedstawieniu go w sposób, który ujawnia, jak reżim migracyjny i graniczny wiązały się z budową systemu nieliberalnej demokracji („demokratury”) oraz z kreowaniem nastrojów ksenofobicznych, których podłożem jest etniczno-kulturowy nacjonalizm. Popularność poglądów o charakterze nacjonalistycznym stanowi podłoże i determinantę działań politycznych, mających podtrzymać poparcie społeczne nawet w sytuacji, kiedy głosi się respektowanie bądź przywracanie reguł demokracji liberalnej.