bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two new species and a new combination in Pleroma (Melastomataceae) from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: SCHMITZ MEYER FABRÍCIO , MORENO ARANTES FABÍULA , GOLDENBERG RENATO
Published: March 2024

Pleroma littorale is a new species described from several specimens collected in the Brazilian states of São Paulo, Paraná and Santa Catarina. It is morphologically similar to Pleroma urvilleanum, but differs by the cucullate bracteoles, with the apex obtuse and covering the flower bud (vs. ovate, with the apex acute and not covering the flower bud), and sepals with an obtuse apex (vs. attenuate). Pleroma semisterile is a new species described from six specimens collected in Pancas, state of Espírito Santo. It is morphologically similar to Pleroma fontanae, but differs by the longer petioles, 19–51.3 mm long (vs. 3.3–12.6 mm long), the antepetalous stamens with pedoconective and appendages covered by glandular trichomes (vs. glabrous), and narrower fruits, 5.5–6 mm wide (vs. 8.1–8.9 mm). One remarkable feature of the latter species is the androecium with apparently well-formed antesepalous stamens that do not produce pollen and are consequently staminoidal. This character has not been previously mentioned for species in Pleroma, but it may have been overlooked in species that are morphologically related to P. semisterile, such as P. fontanae, P. magdalenense, and P. manicatum. Finally, we also present the new combination Pleroma magdalenense, for a species originally described under Tibouchina that has been treated as a synonym of P. heteromallum.
Notes on taxonomy, distribution and conservation of Dichaea species (Orchidaceae: Zygopetalinae) in Brazilian Amazon
Authors: KRAHL DAYSE R. P. , CHIRON GUY , KRAHL AMAURI H. , DA SILVA JOÃO BATISTA F. , CANTUÁRIA PATRICK DE C.
Published: March 2024

In this article we first propose to treat Dichaea integrilabia and D. saraca-taquerensis as synonyms based on analysis of the types, original descriptions and other material conserved in Amazonian herbaria. We also better address the taxonomic issues relating to D. fusca and D. weigeltii which have been wrongly considered as synonymous species. Besides we document the geographical expansion of D. fusca to the state of Pará (Brazil) whereas it was hitherto thought to be restricted to the state of Amazonas (Brazil). For both taxa (D. saraca-taquerensis and D. fusca) we give a taxonomic description, a photograph plate, information about the geographical distribution (with a map) as well as a preliminary conservation status according to IUCN criteria.
Partial revision of the exclusively Neotropical species of Zelia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 (Tachinidae: Dexiinae: Dexiini), with the description of a new species
Authors: SANTIS MARCELO DOMINGOS DE , O’HARA JAMES E. , COURI MÁRCIA SOUTO
Published: March 2024

Zelia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 is a genus of Dexiini distributed throughout the New World, with most of its species in the Neotropical Region. This revision deals with the exclusively Neotropical species of Zelia, with the exception of the recently revised Zelia discalis group. The following new synonyms of Zelia are proposed in the present study: Diaugia Perty, 1833, syn. nov.; Huascarodexia Townsend, 1919, syn. nov.; Taperamyia Townsend, 1935, syn. nov.; Ushpayacua Townsend, 1928, syn. nov.; and Yahuarmayoia Townsend, 1927, syn. nov.. As a result of these synonymies, the following new combinations are proposed: Zelia angusta (Perty, 1833), comb. nov.; Zelia pickeli (Townsend, 1938), comb. nov.; Zelia pulchra (Townsend, 1919), comb. nov.; and Zelia ureophila (Townsend, 1928), comb. nov. Two additional species are moved to Zelia from other genera: Zelia obscura (Walker, 1853), comb. nov. (from Stomatodexia Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889); and Zelia varipennis (Wulp, 1891), comb. nov. (from Scotiptera Macquart, 1835). Additionally, Melaleuca peruviana Brèthes, 1920 is moved from its placement in Zelia to “Unplaced species of Tachininae”. Illustrations and detailed descriptions are presented for all species dealt with here. The male terminalia are described for Z. obscura, Z. pickeli and Z. potens. The female terminalia are described for the first time for Z. limbata, Z. pickeli, Z. plumosa, Z. potens and Z. ureophila. The first larval instar of Z. limbata, Z. pickeli, Z. plumosa and Z. potens are described and illustrated for the first time. A new species, Zelia infuscata sp. nov., is described from Brazil. Two new synonyms are proposed at the species level: Yahuarmayoia analis Townsend, 1927 (type species of Yahuarmayoia) and Yahuarmayoia phaeoptera (Wiedemann, 1830) as junior synonyms of Zelia potens (Wiedemann, 1830), syn. nov. Zelia phaeoptera is recognized as a subjective synonym of Z. potens, and by First Reviser action, the latter is chosen as the senior of the two Wiedemann names. An updated diagnosis for the genus Zelia and a key to the Neotropical species, including the Nearctic species that also occur in the Neotropics, are given. Previous lectotype fixations are recognized for Dexia limbata Wiedemann, 1830 and Dexia phaeoptera Wiedemann, 1830, and new lectotype designations are proposed for Dexia obscura Walker, 1853, Dexia plumosa Wiedemann, 1830 and Dexia potens Wiedemann, 1830. Finally, a brief biography of Dom Bento Pickel, who collected the holotype of Z. pickeli, is given.
Twenty years later: Biodiversity of marine symbiotic Siphonostomatoida (Copepoda) off Southern Africa
Authors: DIPPENAAR SUSAN M
Published: March 2024

Siphonostomatoida (Copepoda) consists of 40 families of symbionts infecting vertebrates (17 families) and invertebrates (23 families) found mostly in marine habitats. In 2004, a list was compiled of all the reported families, genera and species symbiotic with marine fish in Southern African waters. Since this was done 20 years ago, it is necessary to re-evaluate the progress made in 20 years regarding our knowledge of the diversity of marine siphonostomatoids. To assess the current knowledge, the 2004 list was updated with reports published since 2004 as well as with new host and locality records including species with changes in taxonomy. Additionally, species collected but unreported as well as species previously reported but with new hosts and/or localities were also added. Currently reports include 16 families, 75 genera and 234 species. However, amongst these are reports of only two families (3 species) infecting invertebrates. Even though the report includes 71 additional species it still compares poorly with the about 2 274 accepted species, especially regarding species infecting invertebrates. Considering South Africa’s wealth in possible marine host species, examination of more hosts (especially marine teleosts and invertebrates) will definitely result in an increase in the current knowledge about the biodiversity of marine siphonostomatoids off Southern Africa.
Improving the Statistical Representation of Tropical Cyclone In-Storm Sea Surface Temperature Cooling
Authors: Wadler Joshua B. , Cione Joseph J. , Michlowitz Samantha , Jaimes de la Cruz Benjamin , Shay Lynn K.
Published: March 2024

This study uses fixed buoy time series to create an algorithm for sea surface temperature (SST) cooling underneath a tropical cyclone (TC) inner core. To build predictive equations, SST cooling is first related to single variable predictors such as the SST before storm arrival, ocean heat content (OHC), mixed layer depth, sea surface salinity and stratification, storm intensity, storm translation speed, and latitude. Of all the single variable predictors, initial SST before storm arrival explains the greatest amount of variance for the change in SST during storm passage. Using a combination of predictors, we created nonlinear predictive equations for SST cooling. In general, the best predictive equations have four predictors and are built with knowledge about the prestorm ocean structure (e.g., OHC), storm intensity (e.g., minimum sea level pressure), initial SST values before storm arrival, and latitude. The best-performing SST cooling equations are broken up into two ocean regimes: when the ocean heat content is less than 60 kJ cm−2 (greater spread in SST cooling values) and when the ocean heat content is greater than 60 kJ cm−2 (SST cooling is always less than 2°C), which demonstrates the importance of the prestorm oceanic thermal structure on the in-storm SST value. The new equations are compared to what is currently used in a statistical–dynamical model. Overall, since the ocean providing the latent heat and sensible heat fluxes necessary for TC intensification, the results highlight the importance for consistently obtaining accurate in-storm upper-oceanic thermal structure for accurate TC intensity forecasts.

Significance Statement

The ocean provides the heat and moisture necessary for tropical cyclone (TC) intensification. Since the heat and moisture transfer depend on the sea surface temperature (SST), we create statistical equations for the prediction of SST underneath the storm. The variables we use combine the initial SST before the storm arrives, the upper-ocean thermal structure, and the strength and translation speed of the storm. The predictive equations for SST are evaluated for how well they improve TC intensity forecasts. The best-performing equations can be used for prediction in operational statistical models, which can aid intensity forecasts.
Effectiveness of Interventions for Meaningful Activity Participation in Homelessness: A Systematic Review
Authors: Marshall Carrie Anne , Easton Corinna , Javadizadeh Elham , Holmes Julia , Phillips Brooke , Isard Roxanne
Published: March 2024

Background. Meaningful activity participation has been identified as a key outcome of services designed to support individuals during and following homelessness. Little is known about the effectiveness of interventions for promoting this outcome. Purpose. To identify the range and effectiveness of interventions on promoting meaningful activity participation among persons with experiences of homelessness. Method. We conducted a systematic review using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology following PRISMA guidelines including a critical appraisal and narrative synthesis. Findings. Of 12,343 titles and abstracts screened, we included 12 studies. The authors of the included studies primarily used standardized measures of meaningful activity engagement. Critical appraisal scores ranged from 50.0 to 77.8. The most common interventions evaluated in the included studies were psychosocial interventions ( n = 6; 50.0%), followed by case management and housing support interventions ( n = 4; 33.3%) and Housing First ( n = 2; 16.7%). While several interventions demonstrated effectiveness in promoting meaningful activity participation including psychosocial and case management interventions, Housing First, Critical Time Intervention, and a peer support intervention were found to be ineffective for promoting engagement in meaningful activity. Conclusion. Few intervention studies have been conducted that demonstrate effectiveness for promoting participation in meaningful activity for individuals during and following homelessness. Occupational therapy researchers and practitioners can build on existing evidence by developing and evaluating novel approaches by co-designing interventions in collaboration with persons with experiences of homelessness and service providers.
The impossibility of ethical citation
Authors: Imhoff Sarah
Published: March 2024

This piece responds to the articles of Castor, Hovland, Halvorson, and Pérez in this issue. It notes their moments of resonance and disagreement, and it ultimately concludes that the reason why we can have no consistent and thoroughgoing ethics of citation is because it is a practice that is embedded in an academic ecosystem with unequal foundations.
The Transformative Capacity of Baltimore’s Community Schools: Limits and Possibilities in a Spatially Unjust Urban Context for Black Communities
Authors: Shiller Jessica T.
Published: March 2024

Community schools are schools which recognize that children are apart of communities, and therefore, attempt to directly address the outside of school factors that impact student learning by offering services to students, their families, and the broader community through a variety of partnerships with governmental and community-based organizations. Based on empirical research, this paper argues that while the community schools provide a much-needed approach to educating students beyond their academic needs, the schools work within deeply-rooted racist systems and structures. Seen through the lens of racial capitalism, in particular, the work of community schools may be quite limited in what they can accomplish. Using census data from the Baltimore Neighborhood Indicators Alliance (BNIA) combined with GIS mapping, this paper investigated the racially segregated contexts in which community schools operated in Baltimore. In so doing, the paper argues that the potential of community schools is circumscribed by the spatial injustice that the neighborhoods experience.
Strategic, episodic and truncated orientations to planning in post-redundancy career transitions
Authors: MacKenzie Robert , McLachlan Christopher J , Ahlstrand Roland , Rydell Alexis , Hobbins Jennifer
Published: March 2024

This article examines different orientations to planning in the context of the post-redundancy transition of workers in the Swedish steel industry. The aim of the article is to extend our understanding of the role of planning in careers transitions. Drawing on careers transitions theories, the article explores the qualitative experience of the journey between a redundancy event and the employment situation several years later. Within the careers literature planning is regarded as important to transitions, yet there is a tendency to present planning as an ongoing and lifelong process. By going beyond the prevalent focus within the career literature on managerial, professional or creative industries workers, the article raises the question of whether highly agential, ongoing, lifelong approaches to planning apply to everyone. Data are based on working-life biographical interviews conducted several years after redundancy. The findings show that although some participants resembled assumptions within the careers literature, there are key variations relating to ongoing planning, reflecting differences in the expectations of agency and perceptions of structural constraint. The analysis identifies three orientations to planning – strategic, episodic and truncated – and explores these in relation to both post-redundancy transition outcomes and, crucially, the experience of the transition journey.
‘Everything-old-is-new-again’: Private urban security governance responses to new harmscapes
Authors: Berg Julie , Shearing Clifford
Published: March 2024

This article reflects on the proliferation of novel forms of private urban security governance assemblages, specifically the roles of private auspices and providers in responding to contemporary climate-related socio-material harmscapes. The authors use the lens of climatic harms and associated discursive shifts in understandings of the relationship between humans and ‘nature’ to draw attention to gating adaptations, assemblages of powers and capacities being mobilised in response to emerging harmscapes, the logics and technologies underpinning these developments, the roles of established security agents and novel security professionals and the use of resilience as a conceptual framing. These security governance ventures are conceived of as mutating private urban security governance vestiges from PUSG 1.0 to PUSG 2.0 and in this regard, ‘climate gating’ is used as an emblematic example in exploring PUSG 2.0.
Intergenerational Caregiving Patterns and Cognitive Health among the Sandwich Generation Within Four-Generation Families
Authors: Shi Jiaming , Zhang Denghao , Liu Xiaoting
Published: March 2024

This study aims to investigate whether generational differences in intergenerational caregiving patterns (caring for parents only, caring for grandchildren only, and caring for parents and grandchildren simultaneously) are associated with cognitive health disparities among the sandwich generation within four-generation families, drawing upon the theories of intergenerational solidarity and intergenerational stake. Moreover, this study seeks to identify mediators that help explain these disparities. A nationally representative sample of 8,065 respondents was drawn from the 2011 and 2018 waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. The findings reveal that the sandwich generation caring for grandchildren only, as well as those caring for grandchildren and parents simultaneously, exhibit better cognitive health. However, caregiving for parents only is not significantly related to their cognitive health. This study identifies the inability to reduce depressive symptoms as a mediator explaining the insignificant association between caregiving for parents only and the cognitive health of the sandwich generation. The findings underscore the importance of offering support to the sandwich generation within four-generation families to enhance their cognitive health. Moreover, it is imperative to distinguish between different intergenerational caregiving patterns based on generational differences among the sandwich generation, with a specific emphasis on allocating public resources aimed at promoting cognitive health for those engaged in caring for parents.
“Pieces of My Soul”: A Humanistic Approach to Teaching Black-Identified Students about Race and Anti-Blackness
Authors: Sears Stephanie D.
Published: March 2024

This teaching note reviews a four-part discussion post assignment that asks Black-identified students enrolled in a class connected to a Black living-learning community to make sociological and personal connections to concepts related to race, anti-Blackness, and institutional racism in Yaa Gyasi’s novel Homegoing. Reflecting on their posts, I share how using literary fiction in the classroom can support students’ development of a sociological imagination grounded in history’s missing voices and an intersectional and structural understanding of race and racism. Moreover, by making connections between the characters, their peers, and their own lives and sharing these connections via their discussion posts, students create a space of collective vulnerability where they can reflect simultaneously upon the dehumanizing aspects of anti-Blackness and assert their individual and collective humanity in the face of this oppressive force.
Why do Citizens Criminalize Migrants? Experimental Evidence from a Multi-Role Country, Mexico
Authors: Fuerte-Celis María del Pilar , Zizumbo-Colunga Daniel
Published: March 2024

Every year, millions of immigrants arrive in countries that play multiple roles: they expel them, receive them, or shelter them. Sometimes, citizens welcome immigrants with open arms. Other times, they perceive them as potential criminals. Surprisingly, there is little research on the determinants of criminalization in multi-role countries. In this article, we analyze the results from a nationally representative survey experiment where we investigate how two sources of variation (the skin tone and national origin of others) bias citizens’ willingness to blame suspects for crime. We find that individuals criminalize suspects more when they have a darker skin tone and, against expectations, less when they come from El Salvador. Moreover, in exploratory analyses, we find that coloristic bias is exacerbated among individuals with lower levels of education and, surprisingly, among those with a darker skin tone. Also interesting is that we found that, against contact theory, anti-American bias is stronger among Mexicans with direct or indirect cross-national contact. Our results highlight the various degrees to which migratory contexts influence public opinion.
Music-related wellbeing as a teaching objective? A critical interpretive synthesis
Authors: Schmid Silke
Published: March 2024

Educational researchers increasingly focus on psychosocial factors, implying the need for an improvement of school settings regarding child wellbeing. However, so far, studies which focus music-related wellbeing of primary school aged children are rare. The paper explores the essential question which empirically based frameworks offer concrete foundations for corresponding educational practices in the music classroom. Hence, the research conducted a critical interpretive review of English-language publications. In a multi-stage process, it sampled publications between 2017 and 2020 targeting children of early primary school age and focussing on a connection between musical practices and well-being. For a full-text analysis, the research selected studies offering theoretical frameworks for synthetic theorisation. Findings show that until now, few studies have focussed on primary school-aged children. However, it also indicates that an integrative model such as the PERMA Well-being Cycle can function as point of reference for the design of educational settings. Departing from ongoing reflections of this research, the paper argues for a differentiated professional perspective on psychosocial processes in the music classroom and music-related wellbeing as an explicit teaching objective instead of following implicit ‘hidden’, yet powerful agendas. The outcome might serve as the clarification of strategies to foster child wellbeing in music education settings.
Unlocking sound: New trends and innovations in intonation education over the past decade
Authors: Lu Hui , Tan Wee Hoe , Cheong Ku Wing , Cong Yuan
Published: March 2024

Intonation education plays a crucial role in music education. However, research in this field is relatively scarce. To address this research gap, this review conducts a comprehensive analysis by extensively searching the SCOPUS, WoS, and ERIC databases using the keywords “music,” “education,” and “intonation,” resulting in 326 retrieved articles. After rigorous selection, 13 highly relevant articles were chosen to analyze the trends and developments in intonation education over the past decade. This review focuses on three core themes in intonation education: drone accompaniment, multimodal feedback, and intonation strategies for short-term practice. Our analysis emphasizes the significance of employing diverse teaching methods and feedback strategies in intonation education. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the current research on intonation education primarily focuses on Western educational contexts. This review also reveals that educational methods for intonation training in non-Western music environments remains an underexplored and underdeveloped area. These findings provide an indepth and comprehensive understanding for the future development of intonation education and offer insightful value to music educators and industry professionals.
Access to basic education: A literature review of challenges facing children living with visual impairment in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Sukati Velibanti Nhlanhla
Published: March 2024

Visual impairment is a serious public health challenge that impacts on the social, economic, and educational opportunities of affected children, particularly those in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Most countries in SSA fail to address education barriers emanating from poorly formulated education policies and implementation that directly or indirectly discriminate against children living with visual disabilities, particularly those from rural backgrounds. Therefore reviewing education policies and legislative laws about their pertinence and execution appears paramount. An extensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane, Medline, and EBSCOhost databases as well as official websites including technical reports, policy documents and/or frameworks. The literature search used the following keywords in various combinations ‘access to basic education’, ‘challenges to accessing basic education’, and ‘visual impairment among children in Sub-Saharan Africa’. The literature reviewed geographically covers a SSA perspective on the following aspects: (1) visual impairment among children in SSA, (2) the lack of access to basic education for visually impaired children, (3) shortage of specialised skills in basic education for visually impaired children, (4) violations of good practice and discrimination in accessing basic education, and (5) possible solutions to the challenges experienced by children with visual impairments in SSA. Visually impaired children need to be recognised as part of their communities and should have the same rights to education as other citizens. All necessary measures should be made available for them to have fulfilling lives, including appropriate educational facilities.
Parametric study on surface modification of Al-7075 alloy using electric discharge coating
Authors: Barua Bhargab M , Rahang Maneswar
Published: March 2024

This work investigates the surface modification of Al-7075 alloy using a copper-multi-walled carbon nanotube powder metallurgical green compact tool in the electric discharge coating process. The effect of input parameters such as compact load, peak current ( Ip), and pulse on-time ( Ton) on material deposition rate and surface roughness ( Ra) has been investigated. The process parameters are optimised using the teaching learning-based optimisation algorithm. Maximum material deposition rate of 0.62 mg/min with minimum Ra of 3.00 µm has been achieved at compact load of 6 tons, Ip of 2.5 A, and Ton of 1000 µs. The field emission scanning electron microscopy images show smooth surface generation at low Ip and compact load settings. Characterisation using different techniques confirms the presence of tool materials on the modified surface. The microhardness test of the modified surface exhibits a higher hardness value of 2.70 times than that of the substrate material.
High task demand in dual-target paradigm redirects experimentally increased anxiety to uphold goal-directed attention
Authors: Stanković Miloš , Allenmark Fredrik , Shi Zhuanghua
Published: March 2024

Previous research has shown that state anxiety facilitates stimulus-driven attentional capture and impairs goal-directed attentional control by increasing sensitivity to salient distractors or threat cues or narrowing spatial attention. However, recent findings in this area have been mixed, and less is known about how state-dependent anxiety may affect attentional performance. Here, we employed a novel dual-target search paradigm to investigate this relationship. This paradigm allowed us to investigate attentional control and how focus narrows under different anxiety states. Participants watched a short movie—either anxiety-inducing or neutral—before engaging in the dual-target visual search task. We found that they performed faster and more accurately in trials without the salient distractor compared to those with distractors, and they performed better in tasks presented on the center than the periphery. However, despite a significant increase in self-reported anxiety in the anxiety-inducing session, participants’ performance in terms of speed and accuracy remain comparable across both anxious and neutral sessions. This resilience is likely due to compensatory mechanisms that offset anxiety, a result of the high demands and working memory load inherent in the dual-target task.
Walkable and Safe Route to Transit for Pedestrians in Greater Montréal: An Environmental Justice Approach
Authors: Brodeur-Ouimet Philippe , Cloutier Marie-Soleil
Published: March 2024

The experience of walking to transit stops plays a critical role in the use of public transportation. Having a safe and walkable environment for this part of the trip is even more important for vulnerable population groups, who depend more heavily on public transportation. The aim of this paper was to evaluate first mile/last mile walkability and road risks in the Montréal metropolitan area using an environmental justice approach. Using a spatially sound method, we determined that areas where more people identify as visible minorities are disadvantaged as far as walking-to-transit routes are concerned and that areas with higher proportions of people on low incomes and people aged 65 and over have more walkable environments but also have to deal with more road risk.
Evaluation Framework for Multi-Modal Public Transport Systems Based on Connectivity and Transfers at Stop Level
Authors: Sipetas Charalampos , Huang Zhiren , Espinosa Mireles de Villafranca Alonso
Published: March 2024

Multi-modal public transport (PT) networks within metropolitan areas are often characterized by complexity resulting mainly from their infrastructure, design, operations, and demand. This complexity leads to a significant amount of effort on behalf of the transit agencies to properly evaluate their performance at certain locations and proceed with improvements. This study proposes a methodology based on clustering techniques that facilitates the evaluation of PT networks. The evaluation framework refers to the comparison between the levels of supply and demand at a certain stop. Service supply is quantified through an existing connectivity index, whereas demand is considered through the number of transfers that are performed at each stop. Transfers are critical within multi-modal mobility and often serve as a hindrance for choosing PT. The case study here is the Helsinki PT network in Finland. General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) data are used for quantifying connectivity and a dataset deriving from smartphone ticketing application for quantifying transfers. Results include the evaluation for each PT mode and for the overall multi-modal PT network. Focusing on the evaluation of the overall multi-modal PT network, connectivity and transfers levels for 75.60% of stops are found to be well aligned. Therefore, these stops could be eliminated from the list of candidate stops for performing improvements. Of the remaining stops, 19.73% belongs to the case of higher connectivity than transfers and 4.67% to the case of lower connectivity than transfers. Stops included in these two cases require further attention and prioritization during planning processes.
Gender-Specific Pathways in Violent Crime: Investigating the Role of Demographic and Mental Health Factors Using Mixed Graphical Models and Bayesian Networks
Authors: Yan Wen-Jing , Zhao Jun-Hao , Chen Li
Published: March 2024

This research aims to uncover gender-specific relationships and pathways that contribute to the perpetration of violent crimes, using sophisticated analytical tools to analyze the complex interactions between various factors. Employing Mixed Graphical Models and Bayesian networks, the study analyzes a sample of 1,254 prisoners (61.64% males and 38.36% females) to investigate the relationships among demographic factors, mental health issues, and violent crime. The study utilizes comprehensive measures, including the Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, to assess participants’ mental health status.

Key findings reveal significant gender differences in the pathways to violent crime. For males, incomplete parental marriages strongly correlate with criminal behavior severity, while marriage status emerges as a significant factor, with married males less likely to commit violent crimes. In contrast, these relationships are not significant for females. Bayesian network analysis indicates that living in urban areas differently influences education and emotional expression across genders, emphasizing the importance of contextual factors. The study highlights the need for gender-specific considerations in criminal justice policies and interventions. It underscores the complex interplay of demographic and mental health factors in influencing violent crime pathways, providing insights for developing more effective prevention strategies. Despite its cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported data, the research significantly contributes to understanding the gendered dimensions of criminal behavior.
Coupled occupant-suspension-seat system analysis and vehicle-specific design optimization
Authors: Dorugade Darshan Vishnu , Rakheja Subhash , Zheng Zhou , Boileau Paul-Émile
Published: March 2024

A suspension seat is generally designed to achieve attenuation of low frequency whole-body vibration for a broad range of vehicles. Owing to the strong dependence of its vibration isolation performance on the nature of vibration excitation, an optimal performance could be realized via optimal tuning of suspension for specific classes of vehicles. In this study, a coupled occupant suspension seat model is developed and analyzed to identify optimal design parameters for different classes of vehicles. The multibody dynamic model of the air suspension seat is formulated considering kineto-dynamics of the suspension system and the elastic motion-limiters. The component models, namely, air spring with auxiliary air volume, hydraulic damper, and cushion, are identified from the laboratory-measured static and dynamic characteristics. A two-degree-of-freedom occupant model, is integrated to the suspension seat model to account for contribution due to occupant biodynamics. Model validity is examined using the laboratory-measured responses with a rigid load and a human occupant of similar body weight, and analyzed for different body weights and excitation spectra. The results suggest strong dependency of the suspension resonance frequency on nonlinear behavior of the air spring and the seated body mass. The model is subsequently employed to identify optimal coordinates of the air spring to achieve nearly constant natural frequency for a broad range of body masses. Furthermore, the model is used to identify optimal linkage and suspension design parameters with an objective to minimize the SEAT (Seat Effective Amplitude Transmissibility) for different spectral classes of earth moving machines defined in the ISO-7096 standard, while limiting the suspension travel. It is shown that the optimal coordinates of air spring could yield nearly constant natural frequency for different body weights, while damper could help limit the suspension travel, in addition to notable reductions in SEAT, ranging from 9% to 31% for different spectral classes of vehicles.
Prediction of performance parameters of a hermetic reciprocating compressor applying an artificial neural network
Authors: Bacak Aykut , Çolak Andaç Batur , Dalkılıç Ahmet Selim
Published: March 2024

The efficiency of the compressor's thermodynamic, mechanical, and electric motors can be increased by minimizing their losses. Based on the design characteristics of the compressor, the current study proposes an artificial neural network (ANN) model to forecast the mass flow rate, cooling capacity, compression power, and discharge line loss of the hermetic reciprocating compressor as outputs. This study uses experimental and numerical results obtained by the fluid–structure interaction (FSI) method, and the whole findings are used as inputs for the machine learning method. Using 36 numerical and 3 experimental data sets, a multilayer network is created with input parameters defining mass flow rate, cooling capacity, compression power, and discharge line energy loss. The input parameters for the network model are the compressor's design parameters, which include the compressor speed, discharge valve thickness, and discharge valve length. When comparing the experimental and FSI methods for compressor speeds of 1300, 2100, and 3000 rpm, the FSI study's mass flow rate and cooling capacity parameters converged at 11.9%, 9.1%, and 9.3%, respectively, to their actual values. The convergence rate to experimental compression power data was −0.3%, 2.6%, and 11%. The numerical-experimental deviation for discharge line energy losses is 14.9%, −3.6%, and 7.8%, respectively, for 1300, 2100, and 3000 rpm. With the Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) ANN model, which is used in this study, the average squared error value is calculated as 1.75E-02 and the R2 value is calculated as 0.99976. ANN model can predict outputs with average deviation rates of less than 0.88%. It is seen that results obtained with the ANN method provide high convergence on the experimental and FSI results, while the results obtained with the regression model deviate from the compressor exhaust line results by more than ±20%, and the ANN method is more successful than regression.
Sustaining or overcoming distance in representations of U.S. drone strikes
Authors: Oddo John , Mozafari Cameron , Kirsch Alexandra
Published: March 2024

This article examines how U.S. news reports sustain or overcome distance between domestic audiences and the victims of U.S. drone strikes overseas. More specifically, we explain how language is used to construe distance in two different news stories about the same drone strike, enacting different political and affective relationships between Americans and the Pakistani victims of U.S. war. Drawing on theories of cognitive linguistics, we analyze how distance is negotiated in three overlapping areas of conceptualization: specificity, time, and narrative perspective. We show how lexical and grammatical choices can make victims of drone strikes appear remote, indistinct, and uninteresting – or indeed how they can make victims and their suffering appear close, clear, and dramatic. Simultaneously, we show that minimalist reporting on distant suffering is not natural or inevitable. Despite the obstacles they face, it is possible for journalists to convey what actually happens to the distant victims of U.S. violence.
The Progress and Prospects of Immune Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Cancer
Authors: Han Jia , Zhang Bowen , Zheng Senyu , Jiang Yuan , Zhang Xiaopeng , Mao Kaiyun
Published: March 2024

Immune cell therapy as a revolutionary treatment modality, significantly transformed cancer care. It is a specialized form of immunotherapy that utilizes living immune cells as therapeutic reagents for the treatment of cancer. Unlike traditional drugs, cell therapies are considered “living drugs,” and these products are currently customized and require advanced manufacturing techniques. Although chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapies have received tremendous attention in the industry regarding the treatment of hematologic malignancies, their effectiveness in treating solid tumors is often restricted, leading to the emergence of alternative immune cell therapies. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) cell therapy, cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cell therapy, dendritic cell (DC) vaccines, and DC/CIK cell therapy are designed to use the body’s natural defense mechanisms to target and eliminate cancer cells, and usually have fewer side effects or risks. On the other hand, cell therapies, such as chimeric antigen receptor-T (CAR-T) cell, T cell receptor (TCR)-T, chimeric antigen receptor-natural killer (CAR-NK), or CAR-macrophages (CAR-M) typically utilize either autologous stem cells, allogeneic or xenogeneic cells, or genetically modified cells, which require higher levels of manipulation and are considered high risk. These high-risk cell therapies typically hold special characteristics in tumor targeting and signal transduction, triggering new anti-tumor immune responses. Recently, significant advances have been achieved in both basic and clinical researches on anti-tumor mechanisms, cell therapy product designs, and technological innovations. With swift technological integration and a high innovation landscape, key future development directions have emerged. To meet the demands of cell therapy technological advancements in treating cancer, we comprehensively and systematically investigate the technological innovation and clinical progress of immune cell therapies in this study. Based on the therapeutic mechanisms and methodological features of immune cell therapies, we analyzed the main technical advantages and clinical transformation risks associated with these therapies. We also analyzed and forecasted the application prospects, providing references for relevant enterprises with the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding their R&D direction selection.
Virtual Reality simulation and Video Lecture are Equally Effective in Abscess Incision Training: A Multicentre Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Nuutinen Henrik , Bister Ville , Koljonen Virve
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The aim of the study was to evaluate undergraduate medical students’ knowledge and self-confidence to perform abscess incision after virtual reality-simulation or video lecture. Pre and post-knowledge assessment was conducted.

Materials and Methods

This was a multicentre randomised controlled trial from October 2021 to January 2022. The study was carried out at two universities providing medical education. Undergraduate medical students were randomized into either fully immersive head mounted display virtual reality-simulation (VR) or video lecture. Pre- and post-learning surveys probed self-confidence and student’s own assessment of competence. Participants were third-, fourth- and fifth-year medical students from the University of Eastern Finland and the University of Helsinki. All students were sent an email informing them of the opportunity to participate in this voluntary study. All willing students were included in the study.

Results

42 medical students participated in the study. Most were fourth year medical students, 52% of the participants had previously used VR in some context and the mean age of participants was around 25 years. Both methods increased knowledge and self-confidence equally. In VR subgroup, those with technical support available experienced greater learning than those without.

Conclusions

Interestingly, in the present study, both VR and video lecture increased knowledge and professional self-confidence equally.
Managing End of Life Care for the Critically Ill: A Novel Program to Deliver Bedside Critical Care Without Transfer to the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Bass Kathryn , Gupta Rohit , Wells Celia , Ortiz Muriel Samantha , Hackett Anna , Ahmed Sanam , Kohli-Seth Roopa
Published: March 2024

Background: Navigating medical care at the end of life can be a challenging experience for patients. There are also significant resource burdens, including intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, accompanying terminal illness. For actively dying patients, developing a care plan based on patient goals and delivering care at the bedside can enhance patient well-being, avoid inappropriate transfers or interventions, and improve resource management. Methods: The Rapid Response Team (RRT) is an around the clock intensivist service that responds to all acutely decompensating patients in our hospital. Through the Appropriate Care Escalation (ACE) program, the RRT intensivist identifies amongst decompensating patients, terminally ill individuals for whom prognosis is extremely poor irrespective of available interventions. These patients receive discussions about goals of care, code status, and management options. They receive care on a dedicated stepdown unit without escalation to the ICU. If aligned with patient goals, care plans incorporate critical care interventions including ventilator and vasopressor therapy. Results: Over 5 years, RRT identified 413 terminally ill patients under the ACE program to continue end of life care on the stepdown unit. Following discussions of goals, 60.8% of patients requested DNR/DNI, 30.9% were full code, and 8.5% requested DNR/OK-TO-INTUBATE status. At discharge, 82.1% of ACE patients expired compared to 23% of all RRT consultations. Patients received 233 critical care procedures at bedside including intubations, central access catheters and bronchoscopy. Conclusion: The ACE program helped identify, in real time, actively dying, terminally ill patients, establish patient goals, and expand critical care services outside the ICU.
The Effect of a Repeated Standardized Patient-Based End-of-Life Care Training Program on Nursing Students’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Emotions Toward End-of-Life Patients
Authors: Çakmak Betül , Inkaya Bahar
Published: March 2024

Background

Sufficient knowledge of end-of-life care, positive attitudes, and emotions regarding death and dying are essential criteria for showcasing favorable palliative care educational results to undergraduate nursing students. However, nursing students have negative attitudes toward end-of-life care and know little about it.

Aim

This study aimed to examine the effect of a repeated standardized patient-based training program (intervention) on nursing students’ knowledge, attitudes, and emotions about end-of-life patients.

Method

This study adopted a pretest-posttest quasi-experimental research design. The sample consisted of 50 fourth-year nursing students divided into intervention (n = 25) and control (n = 25) groups. All participants attended the intervention. The intervention group attended the intervention twice, while the control group attended it only once. Data were collected using a personal information form, the Frommelt Attitudes Toward Care of the Dying Scale, the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, and the End-of-Life Care Nursing Questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s Chi-square test, dependent groups t test, Pearson-Spearman, Mann-Whitney test, Wilcoxon test, and Friedman test.

Results

The intervention helped participants learn more about end-of-life care (χ2 = 27.167, P = .000; F = 42.725, P = .000) and develop more positive attitudes toward end-of-life patients (F = 13.279, P = .000; F = 6.934, P = .000). The intervention also helped participants develop communication skills.

Conclusion

Universities should integrate repeated standardized patient-based into nursing curricula.
Exploring Family Adjustment Among Parents of a Child With a Disability Attending Relationship Education
Authors: Wheeler Naomi J. , Allen Lindsay , Man Jiale , Pointer Ashley
Published: March 2024

Objective: The current exploratory study examined dyadic changes in family adjustment (i.e., parental stress, positive coping, family-based support, social support) reported by parents of a child with a disability after 12-hours of relationship education (RE). Background: Parents of a child with a disability encounter social barriers that contribute to parental stress and inhibit family well-being. RE reduced psychological and relationship distress in community samples—yet, ability status and the influence on a family's presenting needs/resources are overlooked in previous research. Methods: We extracted a subset of data to examine pre- and post-reports of family adjustment among couples parenting a child with a disability who completed the PREP curriculum. We used structural equation modeling to examine an actor–partner interdependence model for the dyadic association of mean-centered baseline subscale measures of family adjustment and residual change scores for men and women in a relationship post-RE intervention. Results: Actor effects were significant and predicted the amount of residual change for men and women. Significant partner effects existed for male social support and male and female family-based support. Conclusion: Results expand our understanding of RE effectiveness with an understudied subset of parents, those raising a child with a disability. Parents reported improvements in family adjustment and partners influenced one another in terms of family adjustment changes. Implications: Supportive parent programming, such as RE, may be an important consideration for families that include a child with a disability to address the social barriers that tax existing parent and family resources.