bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Progress of EEG-Based Emotion Recognition: A Survey
Authors: Wang Yiming , Zhang Bin , Di Lamei
Published: May 2024

Emotion recognition based on electroencephalography (EEG) signals has emerged as a prominent research field, facilitating objective evaluation of diseases like depression and motion detection for heathy people. Starting from the basic concepts of temporal-frequency-spatial features in EEG and the methods for cross-domain feature fusion, this survey then extends the overfitting challenge of EEG single-modal to the problem of heterogeneous modality modeling in multimodal conditions. It explores issues such as feature selection, sample scarcity, cross-subject emotional transfer, physiological knowledge discovery, multimodal fusion methods, and modality missing. These findings provide clues for researchers to further investigate emotion recognition based on EEG signals.
Editors’ Choice—Visualizing the Impact of the Composite Cathode Microstructure and Porosity on Solid-State Battery Performance
Authors: Minnmann Philip , Schubert Johannes , Kremer Sascha , Rekers René , Burkhardt Simon , Ruess Raffael , Bielefeld Anja , Richter Felix H. , Janek Jürgen
Published: May 2024

The kinetics of composite cathodes for solid-state batteries (SSBs) relies heavily on their microstructure. Spatial distribution of the different phases, porosity, interface areas, and tortuosity factors are important descriptors that need accurate quantification for models to predict the electrochemistry and mechanics of SSBs. In this study, high-resolution focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy tomography was used to investigate the microstructure of cathodes composed of a nickel-rich cathode active material (NCM) and a thiophosphate-based inorganic solid electrolyte (ISE). The influence of the ISE particle size on the microstructure of the cathode was visualized by 3D reconstruction and charge transport simulation. By comparison of experimentally determined and simulated conductivities of composite cathodes with different ISE particle sizes, the electrode charge transport kinetics is evaluated. Porosity is shown to have a major influence on the cell kinetics and the evaluation of the active mass of electrochemically active particles reveals a higher fraction of connected NCM particles in electrode composites utilizing smaller ISE particles. The results highlight the importance of homogeneous and optimized microstructures for high performance SSBs, securing fast ion and electron transport.
Seroinfection of Antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii, Parvovirus B19, Treponema pallidum, and HIV in a Pregnant Attending a Medical Center in Northern Peru
Authors: Cubas-Alarcón Deniss , Guevara-Vásquez Génesis Masiel , Suclupe-Campos Danny Omar , Castro-Martínez Salvadora , Aguilar-Gamboa Franklin Rómulo , Failoc-Rojas Virgilio E.
Published: May 2024

Introduction. Transplacental infections are frequent, especially in developing countries, where limited screening is performed to find infectious agents in the pregnant population. We aim to determine the clinical and epidemiological characteristics and seroinfection of antibodies against Toxoplasma, parvovirus B19, T. pallidum, and HIV in pregnant women who attended the Motupe Health Center in Lambayeque, Peru during July-August 2018. Methods. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 179 pregnant women interviewed with a standardized questionnaire. ELISA was used to determine antibodies to Toxoplasma and parvovirus B19. The detection of syphilis and HIV was conducted using immunochromatography, while the detection of hepatitis B was conducted using FTA-ABS and immunofluorescence, respectively. Results. Of 179 pregnant women, syphilis and HIV infections routinely included in the screening of pregnant women presented a seroinfection of 2.2 and 0.6%, respectively. Toxoplasmosis seroinfection was 25.1%, while IgM antiparvovirus B19 was 40.8%, revealing that pregnant women had an active infection at the time of study. Conclusion. The level of seroinfection of toxoplasmosis reveals the risk to which pregnant women who participated in the study are exposed. The high seroinfection of parvovirus B19 could explain the cases of spontaneous abortion and levels of anemia in newborn that have been reported in Motupe, Lambayeque, Peru. However, future causality studies are necessary to determine the significance of these findings.
High Ammonia Nitrogen‐Induced Reproductive Toxicity in Goldfish (Carassius auratus) Mature Ovary
Authors: Qi Qian , Zhang Chunnuan , Xu Ruiyi , Lv Chenran , Xue Ye , Wang Pu , Li Zhiyong , Chen Mingyang
Published: May 2024

Ammonia nitrogen is one of the major pollutants in aquaculture. However, the mechanism of ammonia stress on ovarian development and follicular atresia is unknown. In this study, goldfish (Carassius auratus) were exposed to different ammonia concentrations, including 0 (control, C) and 50 mg/L (high, H) for 48 hr at 21 ± 0.5°C. Histology of the ovarian tissue sections revealed that the high ammonia concentrations inhibited the maturation of oocytes, and induced broken and wrinkled radiation bands, follicular membranes, and the accumulation of rod‐shaped yolk particles. From the transcriptome data, a total of 1,405 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected between H and C groups. Most DEGs were highly enriched in low‐density lipoprotein particle‐mediated signaling, oxidative stress‐induced premature senescence, and ovarian steroidogenesis pathway. Furthermore, a total of 19 genes were selected and determined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). The changes in oxidative stress and antioxidant activity indicated the excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in ovarian tissue. The ovarian apoptosis was induced in the H group. The downregulation of genes involved in the ovarian steroidogenesis pathway indicated that ammonia nitrogen stress prevented the synthesis of sexual hormones. These results suggest that high‐concentration ammonia stress induces ovarian damage in goldfish, affecting its antioxidant function, leading to excessive ROS accumulation, ovarian apoptosis, and hindered steroid synthesis, adversely affecting reproductive performance.
Sex Differences in Outcomes after Endovascular Thrombectomy for Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Chen Yimin , Zeng Xuehua , Kwan Angela T.H. , Mofatteh Mohammad , Nguyen Thanh N. , Zhou Sijie , Wei Hongquan , Dmytriw Adam A. , Regenhardt Robert W. , Yan Zile , Yang Shuiquan , Cai Xiaodong , Abdalkader Mohamad , Liao Xuxing
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is the standard of care for patients with large-vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke (AIS). There may be differing recanalization effectiveness based on patients’ sex, and understanding such variations can improve patient outcomes by adjusting for differences. We aimed to assess the sex differences in outcome after EVT for patients with AIS. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 250 consecutive AIS patients who underwent EVT from July 2019 to February 2022 across two large comprehensive tertiary care stroke centers in China. Outcomes of male patients were compared to females, where poor outcome was defined as a modified Rankin score (mRS) of 3–6 at 90 days. Results: Male patients had higher rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) (12.50% vs. 4.05%, p = 0.042) and higher hospitalization costs (114,541.08 vs. 105,790.27 RMB, p = 0.024). Male patients also had a longer median onset-to-needle time (ONT) (146.00 [104.00, 202.00] versus 120.00 [99.25, 144.75], p = 0.026). However, there were no differences in hospitalization length (p = 0.251), 90-day favorable outcome (p = 0.952), and 90-day mortality (p = 0.931) between the sexes. Conclusion: Female patients had lower hospitalization costs and sICH rates than males after EVT for AIS. Identifying such differences and implementing measures, including adaptations to workflow optimization, would help to reduce the ONT and last known normal-to-puncture time seen in males to improve patient outcomes. Despite such variations, favorable outcomes and mortality are similar in female and male AIS patients.
La formación continuada de docentes desde el sentir de los docentes del colegio Entre Nubes Sur Oriental
Authors: Uribe Garzón Sonia Milena
Published: May 2024

Este artículo es el resultado del trabajo investigativo sobre la formación continuada de docentes bajo una perspectiva histórica-hermenéutica. Se presenta una conceptualización sobre formación continuada y las políticas de formación en Colombia, además de los resultados de la indagación realizada con los docentes del Colegio Entre Nubes Sur Oriental IED, como un referente para el diseño de políticas públicas de formación de docentes en servicio, siendo pertinentes a los contextos e instituciones y reconociendo al docente como principal sujeto de formación.
Aletheia abre las puertas a nuevos horizontes
Authors: Bernal Cerquera Alba Lucía
Published: May 2024

Para la revista Aletheia. Revista de Desarrollo Humano, Educativo y Social Contemporáneo es muy gratificante entregar a la comunidad académica su número 8, edición correspondiente al segundo semestre del 2012.

Esta edición, además de presentar grandes retos académicos y científicos y a puertas de la indexación, estrena nueva imagen y diseño que con seguridad, será uno de los importantes eslabones dentro del proceso de mejoramiento.

En la carátula, tenemos el honor de compartir la obra del maestro colombo-español Juan Antonio Roda (1921-2003), uno de los grandes maestros de la pintura colombiana de finales del siglo XX. Sus obras abordan tendencias y expresiones características, que retoman aspectos de las corrientes vanguardistas de principios de siglo, como el expresionismo y el arte abstracto. El dramatismo de la pintura clásica española que marca sus raíces y el encuentro con la geografía del trópico, son dos elementos que determinan su trabajo.
Lack of Prognostic Value of T‐Wave Alternans for Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator Benefit in Primary Prevention
Authors: Pelli Ari , Kenttä Tuomas V. , Junttila M. Juhani , Huber Cynthia , Schlögl Simon , Zabel Markus , Malik Marek , Willems Rik , Vos Marc A. , Harden Markus , Friede Tim , Sticherling Christian , Huikuri Heikki V. ,   the EU‐CERT‐ICD Study Investigators
Published: May 2024

Background

New methods to identify patients who benefit from a primary prophylactic implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) are needed. T‐wave alternans (TWA) has been shown to associate with arrhythmogenesis of the heart and sudden cardiac death. We hypothesized that TWA might be associated with benefit from ICD implantation in primary prevention.

Methods and Results

In the EU‐CERT‐ICD (European Comparative Effectiveness Research to Assess the Use of Primary Prophylactic Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillators) study, we prospectively enrolled 2327 candidates for primary prophylactic ICD. A 24‐hour Holter monitor reading was taken from all recruited patients at enrollment. TWA was assessed from Holter monitoring using the modified moving average method. Study outcomes were all‐cause death, appropriate shock, and survival benefit. TWA was assessed both as a contiguous variable and as a dichotomized variable with cutoff points <47 μV and <60 μV. The final cohort included 1734 valid T‐wave alternans samples, 1211 patients with ICD, and 523 control patients with conservative treatment, with a mean follow‐up time of 2.3 years. TWA ≥60 μV was a predicter for a higher all‐cause death in patients with an ICD on the basis of a univariate Cox regression model (hazard ratio, 1.484 [95% CI, 1.024–2.151];
P
=0.0374; concordance statistic, 0.51). In multivariable models, TWA was not prognostic of death or appropriate shocks in patients with an ICD. In addition, TWA was not prognostic of death in control patients. In a propensity score–adjusted Cox regression model, TWA was not a predictor of ICD benefit.

Conclusions

T‐wave alternans is poorly prognostic in patients with a primary prophylactic ICD. Although it may be prognostic of life‐threatening arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death in several patient populations, it does not seem to be useful in assessing benefit from ICD therapy in primary prevention among patients with an ejection fraction of ≤35%.
Interaction Rules Supporting Effective Flocking Behavior
Authors: Milano Nicola , Nolfi Stefano
Published: May 2024

Several simulation models have demonstrated how flocking behavior emerges from the interaction among individuals that react to the relative orientation of their neighbors based on simple rules. However, the precise nature of these rules and the relationship between the characteristics of the rules and the efficacy of the resulting collective behavior are unknown. In this article, we analyze the effect of the strength with which individuals react to the orientation of neighbors located in different sectors of their visual fields and the benefit that could be obtained by using control rules that are more elaborate than those normally used. Our results demonstrate that considering only neighbors located on the frontal side of the visual field permits an increase in the aggregation level of the swarm. Using more complex rules and/or additional sensory information does not lead to better performance.
Marxism and the Critique of Antisemitism
Authors: Englert Sai , de Jong Alex
Published: May 2024

Antisemitism is an increasingly prevalent aspect of public life in the West, both as a consequence of the growth of the far right across the board and through its mobilisation against Palestinian liberation and Palestine solidarity activism. While synagogues are targeted and far-right politicians revive ideas of Jewish global power, it is the left, Muslims, and Palestinians that are continuously constructed as the source of the current rise in hatred and violence against Jews. If historically the Marxist tradition engaged actively with the so-called Jewish question, in recent decades the subject has receded from focus. This shift took place as other forms of racism – directed at Muslims, Black populations, or migrants – became the basis for reactionary politics in the West. This article argues that while some of the assumptions that underwrote classical Marxist texts on the issue have been found wanting – perhaps most notably the inevitable (or desirable) character of the trend towards assimilation – they remain important starting points for making sense of our present, both by their method and their political commitment to liberation.
Albacillium hingganense gen. et sp. nov. (Clavicipitaceae) from forest litters in Northeast China
Authors: DING MENGMENG , LI YUPENG , BAI YANG , GAI PINGZHUO , WANG JIAN , JIANG ZIZHU , HU YANFENG , XU LIJIAN
Published: May 2024

Albacillium hingganense gen. et sp. nov. was isolated from forest litter in Northeast China. This new species characterized by combining its morphological features with a multi-gene (ITS, LSU, rpb1, rpb2, SSU, and tef1) phylogenetic analysis including its related taxa from Clavicipitaceae, Cordycipitaceae, Ophiocordycipitaceae, and a previously unresolved genus Chlorocillium (Hypocreales incertae sedis). According the multi-gene phylogenetic analysis, Albacillium and Chlorocillium formed a monophyletic group that was basal to the Clavicipitaceae. It implied that Albacillium and Chlorocillium belong to Clavicipitaceae. Albacillium hingganense is morphologically distinct from Chlorocillium and its similar taxa by having conidia arranged in mucoid globose heads at the apices of the phialides arising from aerial hyphae.
The Hydrochidae (Coleoptera) of Morocco with a redescription of Hydrochus cf. obtusicollis Fairmaire, 1877
Authors: BENAMAR LOUBNA , BENNAS NARD , HENEGOUWEN ARNO VAN BERGE , GARCÍA-MESEGUER ANTONIO JOSÉ , HASSOUN MUSTAPHA , BENALI NAOUAR , MILLÁN ANDRÉS
Published: May 2024

A checklist of water beetles of the family Hydrochidae from Morocco is presented. The study compiles data gathered from a deep literature review and field surveys at 397 freshwater localities between 1985 and 2023. The checklist also contains information concerning type localities and detailed distributions for the eight species found. We include a detailed redescription of Hydrochus cf. obtusicollis Fairmaire, 1877, currently listed as a synonym of H. flavipennis Küster, 1852, but clearly representing a different species. In addition, a key, based largely on male genitalia, is presented for Moroccan species. This work is the first detailed study of the family Hydrochidae in Morocco, which can provide a basis for future progress in the knowledge of Moroccan aquatic Coleoptera, an insect group of great ecological interest.
Lamiinae (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) from Panama: new species, new records, and new synonymy
Authors: HEFFERN DANIEL , NASCIMENTO FRANCISCO ERIBERTO DE L. , SANTOS-SILVA ANTONIO
Published: May 2024

Three species are recorded from Panama for the first time: Lagocheirus cristulatus Bates, 1872; Leptostylus guianensis Vlasak & Santos-Silva, 2021; and Nealcidion cephaliferum Vlasak & Santos-Silva, 2022. Lepturges (Lepturges) brechlini Santos-Silva et al., 2019 is synonymized with L. (L.) vigneaulti Audureau, 2018. Three new species are described from Panama: Pseudosparna rileyi sp. nov. (Acanthocinini); Sternacutus cupelloi sp. nov. (Acanthocinini); and Antodice raberi sp. nov. (Aerenicini). An updated key to species of Pseudosparna Mermudes & Monné, 2009 is provided.
Therapists to Therapy Assistants: Experiences of Internationally Educated Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists
Authors: Kadakia Zeal , Lopez Ana , Shahid Maheen , Theoret Ashley , Dass Ronessa , Dhillon Shaminder , Dhir Jasdeep , Packham Tara
Published: May 2024

Background: In Canada, internationally educated physiotherapists (IEPTs) and occupational therapists (IEOTs) may work as occupational/physical therapy assistants (OTAs/PTAs) while pursuing Canadian licensure. This experience presents personal and professional opportunities and challenges. Purpose: We explored a) the barriers and facilitators experienced by IEPTs and IEOTs working as OTAs/PTAs while pursuing licensure in Canada and b) how might their professional identity changes during this period. Methods: In this cross-sectional qualitative study, we sampled IEPTs and IEOTs working as assistants using online focus groups. Reflexive thematic analysis of data was used to generate themes. Findings: Fourteen IEPTs or IEOTs participated reporting barriers including financial impacts while working as an OTA/PTA, discrimination, and challenges completing licensing exams. Facilitators while working as OTA/PTAs included social support, acculturation with Canadian systems, and career opportunities. Changes to professional identity encompassed accepting a new identity, reclaiming their old identity, or having a strong sense of identity within a healthcare profession. Participants advocated for bridging programs and modifications for examination processes for IEPTs and IEOTs to improve their experiences while pursuing licensure in Canada. Conclusion: Increased advocacy is needed to address the current experiences of IEPTs and IEOTs working as OTA/PTAs after migration.
Feasibility study of friction stir joining of aluminium with carbon fibre reinforced thermoplastic composite
Authors: Malaske Lasse , Blaga Lucian-Attila , Bergmann Luciano , Ahmad Bilal , Zhang Xiang , Klusemann Benjamin
Published: May 2024

During the last decades, environmental concerns and limited resources have set focus of research on lightweight, mechanically high-performing structures for the transportation industry, in order to reduce fuel consumptions and CO2 emissions. Friction Stir Joining (FSJ), as a variant of the Friction Stir Welding (FSW), is an innovative friction-based joining technique for metal-composite hybrid structures. Joining in the plasticized state below the melting temperature of the metal leads to a comparatively small heat-affected zone, so that only minor metallurgical changes occur. Additionally, only a short processing time and no additional weight in form of fasteners is needed. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of metal-composite structures via FSJ, intending to enable a macro-mechanical interlocking bonding mechanism. Main focus was given to the integration of an aluminium nub inserted in a carbon fiber-reinforced polyphenylene sulfide (CF-PPS) sheet, to ensure sufficient plasticization of the aluminium part and no degradation in the polymer part. Residual stress arising from the friction stir joining process was also characterised using the Contour method. In this study, aluminium alloy 6082-T6 and CF-PPS composite sheets were used to produce long lap joints. Results have shown that the joints were created at almost constant peak temperature slightly above the melting temperature of the PPS but no physical-chemical changes were detected in the PPS. In addition, the influence of a PPS film as interlayer between the sheets was investigated in order to explore a method for preventing galvanic corrosion. Preliminary results indicate that it is not possible to integrate a metal nub to the CF-PPS without interrupting the PPS film. However, it is possible to create a nub within the PPS film.
Election proximity and the effectiveness of economic sanctions
Authors: Zarpli Omer , Peksen Dursun
Published: May 2024

Do elections matter for sanction effectiveness? Scholars have long highlighted the importance of domestic political factors in target (i.e. sanctioned) states in explaining when economic sanctions work. This line of research, however, has primarily focused on political regime characteristics and interest groups that are relatively low time-variant during sanction episodes. Building on this literature, we explore the effect of temporal proximity to elections. While the impact of elections have been examined in the context of military conflicts, their possible effects on sanction effectiveness have not been subject to systematic scrutiny. We argue that target governments are more likely to comply with sender demands as elections loom near in order to avoid the likely political costs of sanctions. The effect of elections, however, is likely to vary across different election characteristics and political regime types. We assess the empirical merits of our claims using data on over 1,000 sanction cases between 1950 and 2020. The results from a battery of empirical tests, including those that account for potential selection bias, support our hypotheses. We find that elections have a positive effect on sanction success, and this effect is more prominent in less democratic states that hold competitive elections. This suggests that even if sanctions have a relatively low success rate against non-democratic polities, elections may provide a window of opportunity for senders to extract concessions from target states.
Effects of an Auditory Versus Visual Stimulus on Reaction and Response Time During Countermovement Jumps
Authors: Lowell Russell , Saucier David , Chander Harish , Burch Reuben , Gillen Zachary
Published: May 2024

Reacting and responding to an external stimulus is an important component of human performance, and they inform us about a participant’s neurophysiological capabilities. Our purpose in this study was to determine whether reaction times (REACT), response times (RT), and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance differ when responding to an auditory (AUD) versus visual (VIS) stimulus. Participants were 17 college-aged volunteers (6 females and 11 males; M age = 23.0, SD = 3.4 years; M height = 174.57, SD = 10.37 cm; M body mass = 73.37, SD = 13.48 kg). Participants performed CMJs on force plates immediately upon receiving an AUD or a VIS stimulus. The AUD stimulus was a beep noise, while the VIS stimulus was a light on a screen in front of the participants. We determined REACT for the tibialis anterior (TA), medial gastrocnemius (GM), vastus lateralis (VL), and biceps femoris (BF) muscles to be the amount of time between stimulus onset and the initiation of the muscle’s electromyographic (EMG) signal. We determined RT to be the amount of time between stimulus onset and the beginning of the participant’s force production. We assessed CMJ performance via ground reaction forces during the unweighting, braking, and propulsive phases of the jump. We quantified EMG amplitude and frequency during each CMJ phase. We found RT to be faster to the AUD versus the VIS stimulus ( p = .007). VL and BF muscles had faster REACT than TA and GM muscles ( p ≤ .007). The AUD stimulus was associated with faster CMJ unweighting phase metrics ( p ≤ .005). Thus, individuals may react and respond faster to an AUD versus VIS stimulus, with limited improvements in their subsequent physical performance.
The People Who Do All Things Together: Living Base Ecclesial Communities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Carney J. J.
Published: May 2024

This article analyzes the pastoral practice and ecclesiological vision of living base ecclesial communities (CEVBs) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo through a case study in the Diocese of Tshumbe. Contextualizing this within the broader history of Global South base communities, the author argues that CEVBs exemplify Vatican II’s people of God ecclesiology and Africa’s image of the church as the family of God. They also embody Pope Francis’s calls for a more synodal and dialogical church that empowers laity, provides opportunities for women’s leadership, and integrates faith and social concern.
Evidence-based pedagogy used to teach beginning readers braille in a mainstream setting: A scoping review
Authors: Croake Karen , Gentle Frances , Duncan Jill
Published: May 2024

Braille literacy enables equal access to learning for students who are blind or have very low vision in a mainstream, inclusive classroom. Teachers need to know which teaching strategies best support the development of braille literacy skills in beginning touch readers. A scoping review following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines was conducted to identify and synthesise the body of literature on braille literacy. The search criteria were peer-reviewed research publications focusing on pedagogy for teaching braille in mainstream Kindergarten to Year 4 settings to beginning readers with vision impairment, without other disabilities, who spoke English as their first language. The publication period searched was from 1975 to 2022. A total of 740 articles were identified. After screening for eligibility using the search criteria, 10 articles were included. A thematic analysis identified the overarching theme of evidence-based pedagogy and the sub-themes of uncontracted and contracted braille, the Learning Environment of the Classroom and Reading Instruction. There was limited research found on evidence-based pedagogy to support the sustained, systematic development of braille literacy in Kindergarten to Year 4 students with vision impairment. The scoping review identified one seminal US study that found braille readers were falling behind their sighted peers as more complex reading skills were not being learned at the same rate. Determining successful evidence-based pedagogy which will support the sustained development of braille literacy skills in developing readers will require a sophisticated research approach involving braille literacy experts and braille readers.
Tripping into the unknown: Exploring the experiences of first-time LSD users through global drug survey insights
Authors: Baxter Luke , Puljević Cheneal , Piatkowski Tim , Ferris Jason , Davies Emma L , Barratt Monica J , Winstock Adam
Published: May 2024

Background:

The recreational use of LSD, a synthetic psychedelic drug, has surged in recent years, coinciding with a renewed research focus on its potential psychotherapeutic properties.

Aim:

This study aims to describe the experiences and perceptions of individuals engaging in LSD use for the first time, derived from a large international sample.

Methods:

This study utilised 2018 Global Drug Survey data collected from 6 November 2017 to 10 January 2018. Participants who initiated LSD use in the preceding 12 months answered questions on their experiences, social settings, harm-reduction behaviours, and demographics. Descriptive statistics were employed, and characteristics of those seeking emergency medical treatment (EMT) and those not planning further LSD use were compared with other respondents.

Results:

Among 3340 respondents who used LSD in the past year, their first-time experiences generally exceeded expectations, with 97.7% expressing excitement. Adverse and unwanted side effects were rarely reported, and only 17 individuals needed EMT. Feelings of fear were reported by most (64.1%), but only very mildly and not enough to put them off from wanting to use LSD again.

Discussion:

Although the occurrence of unwanted side effects seems low and the LSD experience is generally pleasurable, vigilance amid the rising illicit use of LSD through harm-reduction education is still important in preventing possible risks.
The use of an anterior-posterior atrophy index to distinguish Alzheimer's disease from frontotemporal disorders: an automated volumetric MRI Study
Authors: Gerlach Leah R. , Prabhakaran Vivek , Antuono Piero G. , Granadillo Elias
Published: May 2024

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) require different treatments. Since clinical presentation can be nuanced, imaging biomarkers aid in diagnosis. Automated software such as Neuroreader (NR) provides volumetric imaging data, and indices between anterior and posterior brain areas have proven useful in distinguishing dementia subtypes in research cohorts. Existing indices are complex and require further validation in clinical settings.

Purpose

To provide initial validation for a simplified anterior-posterior index (API) from NR in distinguishing FTD and AD in a clinical cohort.

Material and Methods

A retrospective chart review was completed. We derived a simplified API: API = (logVA/VP-μ)/σ where [Formula: see text] is weighted volume of frontal and temporal lobes and [Formula: see text] of parietal and occipital lobes. [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are the mean and standard deviation of logVA/VP computed for AD participants. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and regression analyses assessed the efficacy of the API versus brain areas in predicting diagnosis of AD versus FTD.

Results

A total of 39 participants with FTD and 78 participants with AD were included. The API had an excellent performance in distinguishing AD from FTD with an area under the ROC curve of 0.82 and a positive association with diagnostic classification on logistic regression analysis (B = 1.491, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The API successfully distinguished AD and FTD with excellent performance. The results provide preliminary validation of the API in a clinical setting.
Physical simulation study on flow field characteristics of molten steel during argon blowing in shroud of tundish
Authors: Song Tian-le , Bao Yan-ping , Gu Chao
Published: May 2024

In the current study, water models are used to study the effect of the flow control devices, the casting velocity, gas flow rate and gas inlet position in the shroud on the flotation of inclusions and molten steel transfer behaviour at the tundish. Microbubbles were generated by using a ladle shroud. The results show that the inclusion flotation efficiency decreases and the dead volume fraction increases as the casting velocity becomes faster. Meanwhile, with the installation of the flow control devices, the residence time of molten steel becomes longer and the inclusion flotation efficiency is getting higher. Bubble adhesion plays an important role in removing inclusions. Smaller bubbles are favourable for inclusion flotation. As the flow rate of gas becomes larger and the gas inlet position installs a topper in the shroud, the bubbles become small. In this experiment, the flotation rate of inclusions in the tundish can be improved to 95.28% by changing the blowing parameters.
Control of silicon content in blast furnace iron based on GRA–LSTM–BAS prediction methods
Authors: Xiaojie Liu , Yujie Zhang , Xin Li , Ran Liu , Zhifeng Zhang , Shujun Chen
Published: May 2024

In blast furnace smelting, the silicon content in molten iron is an important indicator of the temperature trend of the blast furnace. Due to the multi scale, non-linear, large time delay and strong coupling characteristics of the blast furnace smelting process, the control effect of silicon content in hot metal is often not ideal. Therefore, finding an effective and accurate method for controlling silicon content in hot metal is very important for blast furnace smelting. Based on this, this paper proposes a prediction and control model for silicon content in hot metal of blast furnace based on GRA–LSTM–BAS. Based on this, this paper proposes a prediction and control model for silicon content in hot metal of blast furnace based on GRA–LSTM–BAS. Firstly, the original data set is processed using wavelet analysis and normalisation processing methods. Secondly, the gray relational analysis (GRA) method is used to analyse the correlation between the input variables of the model to determine the input parameters of the model. Subsequently, a long short-term memory (LSTM) prediction model was established to obtain silicon content values at future times through feedback correction. The model was trained and tested by on-site collected data and compared with the support vector machine (SVM) model. The results show that the LSTM model can quickly and accurately predict the silicon content in hot metal, and has a good guiding significance for actual blast furnace production. Finally, the control model for silicon content in molten iron is optimised iteratively by combining the beetle antennae search algorithm (BAS algorithm). Feedback and update of the results in the model are done in real time according to errors, forming a closed-loop controller to maintain the silicon content in molten iron at an appropriate level and achieve optimal control of the silicon content.
Training Vehicle Detection and Classification Models with Less Data: An Active Learning Approach
Authors: Arthur Elizabeth , Muturi Tanner , Adu-Gyamfi Yaw
Published: May 2024

The application of computer vision in transportation engineering has facilitated real-time traffic flow optimization, vehicle counting, anomaly detection, and ameliorated transportation safety. Most vision systems are, however, developed through a supervised learning process, which can be data hungry and costly because it requires manual annotation of objects from a variety of sources. The general rule of thumb for building accurate and transferrable vision models has been to increase the quality, diversity, and quantity of the annotated datasets used in model training. This paper presents a simple, yet efficient active learning framework that significantly reduces the number of annotations needed to build a state-of-the-art vehicle detection and classification model. To achieve this, we first leverage a vision transformer that generates embeddings rich with information needed to quantify the similarity and diversity between images in a two-dimensional embedding space. To select which images from the embedding space should be annotated, we propose a scoring and sampling strategy that minimizes class imbalance and model uncertainty through an iterative process. The latest iteration of the You Only Look Once (YOLO) model, YOLOv8, is used as the active learner. We compare the efficacy of our proposed active learning methods with models developed at much higher sampling rates using the mean average precision. The models developed were also integrated with tracking algorithms to evaluate differences in accuracy for vehicle counts and their practical implications for direction counts.
Literature Synthesis of Emerging Last-Mile Delivery Technologies and their Applications to Rural Areas: Drones, Autonomous Delivery Vehicles, and Truck-Drones
Authors: Kaplan Marcella , Heaslip Kevin
Published: May 2024

Rural areas have the distinct opportunity to become trendsetters of innovation and technology, molding and optimizing delivery advances to operate in a way that meets their needs. Drones, autonomous delivery vehicles (ADVs), and truck-drones have the potential to improve rural delivery services significantly. However, rural environments have considerably different characteristics than urban or suburban areas. Therefore, delivery services must be evaluated specifically for the rural use case because the outcome of rural drone delivery is likely different from urban. This study conducted a systematic literature review about the current state-of-the-art drone, ADV, and truck-drone package delivery in rural areas (excluding medical or healthcare delivery). Drones can significantly reduce rural delivery emissions and costs while increasing efficiency. ADVs have the potential to greatly improve rural delivery efficiency. The truck-drone solution is one of the best mode choices for rural delivery because the truck can travel longer distances while the drone can cross challenging geography without delay. The literature review identified a general need for more drone, ADV, and truck-drone delivery research focusing on rural locations. There also is a need for research about the specific economic, environmental, and societal impacts of drone, ADV, and truck-drone delivery in rural areas. There is a significant gap in the literature on realistic rural delivery modeling and gaps about attitudes and perceptions of drone, ADV, and truck-drone delivery services in rural areas. With additional research, innovative delivery modes and technologies can become more cost-effective, accessible, and efficient in rural areas.
Why Do So Many People Not Vote? Correlates of Participation in Trade Union Strike Ballots
Authors: Bessa Ioulia , Hodder Andy , Kelly John
Published: May 2024

The Trade Union Act (2016) stipulates that in order for a strike to be lawful it must now achieve a turnout of ‘at least 50 per cent’ in addition to a majority vote for strike action in the UK. We know remarkably little about the correlates of voting and even less about the decision to vote or abstain in union strike ballots. We address this gap, drawing from a large-scale survey of Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) members administered shortly after their 2019 national pay strike ballot. Results show a disconnect between the focus of the dispute (pay) and the grievances that motivated participation in the ballot (working conditions). We find that those who do not vote in strike ballots are not neutral or undecided, but are, in many cases, opposed to strike action. Our findings also demonstrate the importance of internal union communication to participation in strike ballots.
Impact of Financial Management Practices on Performance Measurement of Small and Medium Enterprises in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Venkatesan Ranganathan
Published: May 2024

Small and medium enterprise (SME) development is essential for India’s economic expansion. SME is an important participant in the development of accessories that supports major industries. The current study is focused on the variables impacting performance measurement in SMEs, despite the fact that many small and medium businesses are experiencing significant losses and closures as a result of poor performance. The next goal is to determine the connection between small and medium business performance management and financial management practices. This study uses SME performance measurement as a dependent variable. Risk management, working capital management and credit management are three independent factors that can be used to assess SME financial management practices. The questionnaire that was used for each item was based on the earlier research. A five-point Likert scale was used to score each item scale used in this investigation. Working people in a few districts in South Tamil Nadu, India and used online structured questionnaires to gather data. The present sample size of the study is 157. The statistical data analysis has been carried out employing jamovi 1.8. For factor loading, reliability, sample size, model fit, regression analysis for hypothesis testing and structural education modelling were used. Policymakers and SME entrepreneurs who are familiar with performance measurement of many elements can benefit from the study’s findings. The study found a relationship between SMEs’ performance measurement and financial management practices.
Childhood Trauma and Relationship Satisfaction in Married Turkish Individuals: Mediating the Role of Attachment Injuries
Authors: Tönbül Özgür , Özdemir Asude
Published: May 2024

This study examined the effects of attachment injuries on relationship satisfaction in married individuals. The study participants comprised 346 married individuals selected using the convenience sampling method. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22 and AMOS 23 programs. The fit values of the model established in this study were excellent. A significant and negative relationship was observed between the predictor variables and predicted variables in the correlation analysis. The results indicated that childhood trauma negatively predicted relationship satisfaction and attachment injuries mediated the relationship between childhood trauma and relationship satisfaction. Based on these results, it is recommended that family therapists consider the concepts of attachment injuries and emotion-focused couple therapy to intervene in marital problems.
The Effect of Anesthesia on Passive Ankle Dorsiflexion
Authors: Tucker William , Saltzman Hanna M. , Kapron Claire , Trice Will , Simister Samuel K. , Swenson Jeffrey , Saltzman Charles L.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Equinus contractures can commonly be due to contractures of gastrocnemius muscle or combined contractures of the gastrocnemius-soleus Achilles tendon complex. The decision to release part or all of the gastrocnemius-soleus Achilles tendon complex is often assessed intraoperatively while the patient is under anesthesia. It remains unknown whether the administration of general anesthesia affects the measurement of passive ankle dorsiflexion.

Methods:

The unaffected, nonoperative limb on 46 foot and ankle patients underwent a Silfverskiold test measuring passive ankle dorsiflexion preoperatively and intraoperatively after administration of general anesthesia using an instrumented force-angular displacement goniometer. To determine clinical significance, we surveyed experienced surgeons to estimate the perceived minimally detectable clinical accuracy for measuring passive ankle dorsiflexion.

Results:

Forty-six subjects were included with mean age of 42 ± 14.8 years, mean body mass index of 26.2 ± 4.9, and 52% female. The mean change in dorsiflexion values from before anesthesia to after the administration of general anesthesia was 1.9 degrees with 10 lb of pressure with knee extended (E10), 2.3 degrees with 20 lb of pressure with knee extended (E20), 2.8 degrees with 10 lb of pressure with knee flexed (F10), and 2.3 degrees with 20 lb of pressure with knee flexed (F20) (all P < .001). Thirty-three of 45 (73%) surgeons responded to the survey; all thought their minimally detectable clinical accuracy was 5 degrees or greater.

Conclusion:

After the administration of general anesthesia, a small but likely not clinically detectable increase in passive ankle dorsiflexion occurs. The common clinical practice of making intraoperative treatment decisions regarding the presence of a gastrocnemius-soleus driven equinus contractures after general anesthesia without use of paralytic agents appears reasonable given the magnitude of the changes identified in this study.
The role of multimodal imaging in characterization and monitoring of choroidal neovascularization secondary to angioid streaks
Authors: Kilani Adnan , Vogt Denise , Wolf Armin , Vounotrypidis Efstathios
Published: May 2024

Background

To characterize and monitor choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) secondary to angioid streaks (AS) using multimodal imaging and to compare the results with conventional fluorescein angiography (FA).

Methods

A total of 11 eyes with CNV secondary to AS were included in this retrospective study. Multimodal morphological and functional assessment, including spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), spectral-domain optical coherence tomography angiography (SD-OCTA), and fundus autofluorescence (FAF), were used to assess for evidence of CNV activity and compared with conventional FA. Morphological features of CNV were analyzed and treatment was continuously monitored using SD-OCT and SD-OCTA.

Results

Our results showed that SD-OCTA provided reliable results for the detection of secondary CNV in AS that were comparable to conventional FA. With SD-OCTA, a total of 13 CNVs were detected in 11 eyes and analyzed by means of outer retinal choriocapillaris depth (ORCC) segmentation and the corresponding B-scans. Twelve of the 13 CNVs were classified as active and therefore required treatment. For treatment monitoring during intravitreal therapy (IVT), SD-OCTA was found to be a valuable diagnostic tool over a mean follow-up of 76 weeks.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that SD-OCTA can be routinely used to identify ill-defined CNV without dye-based angiography, especially in cases of CNV secondary to AS, where Bruch's membrane (BM) defects limit the diagnostic value of FA. Our results showed that non-invasive multimodal imaging facilitates sufficient CNV monitoring and treatment guidance. Further studies are warranted to provide more evidence in this rare retinal disease.
Management of PICC rupture in a multidisciplinary collaborative model: A case report
Authors: Zeng Fenghua , Dai Jun , Zhang Xueqing , Guo Yafen , Wang Hui , Shen Jinhua
Published: May 2024

A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is commonly used for fluid infusion in patients. However, rupture is one of the most serious complications associated with PICC placement. We investigated an 81-year-old patient who experienced a catheter break nearly 11 months after the placement of PICC, followed by a catheter break during catheter capture that was removed after accessing the superior vena cava with a catcher. This case suggests that silicone-based PICCs are fragile and have a high risk of spontaneous dislocation. Therefore, they should be replaced with polyurethane-based PICCs.
Reflective smartphone disengagement as a coping strategy against cyberbullying: A cross-country study with emerging adults from the United States and Indonesia
Authors: Khaleghipour Maryam , Koban Kevin , Stevic Anja , Matthes Jörg
Published: May 2024

Cyberbullying is a highly prevalent phenomenon among emerging adults, and it may lead to severe psychosocial harm for some targets. Understanding how emerging adults can cope with cyberbullying by altering their media use but without risking one of their crucial social lifelines, mobile social media, during the process is essential. To this end, this study examines a stress-coping process that involves cyberbullying as a stressor and reflective smartphone disengagement as a well-balanced coping strategy, accounting for gender-related, dispositional, and cultural specificities of emerging adults (aged 16–25, N = 4029) from the United States and Indonesia. With substantial invariance across countries, findings show that cyberbullying is related to higher perceived stress, especially for men and people with high levels of self-esteem, which, then again, is associated with reflective smartphone disengagement, in particular among American men and people with higher self-esteem.