bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Quantum Mechanics into Protein-Ligand Docking: Toward Higher Accuracy and Reliability
Authors: Fusti-Molnar Laszlo
Published: December 2024

I introduce two new methods, QFVina and QFVinardo, for protein-ligand docking that leverage precomputed high-quality conformational libraries with QM-optimized geometries and ab initio DFT-D4-based conformational rankings and strain energies. These methods provide greater accuracy in docking-based virtual screening by addressing the inaccuracies in intramolecular relative energies of conformations, a critical component often misrepresented in flexible ligand docking calculations. I demonstrate that numerous force field-based methods widely used today exhibit substantial errors in conformational relative energies, and that it is unrealistic to expect better accuracy from the faster scoring functions typically employed in docking. Consistent with these findings, I show that traditional flexible ligand docking often produces geometries with significant strain energies and large deviations, with magnitudes comparable to the protein-ligand binding energies themselves and much larger than the differences we aim to estimate in docking hitlists. By using physically realistic ligand conformations with accurate strain energies in the scoring function, QFVina and QFVinardo produce markedly different docking results, even with the same docking parameters and scoring functions for protein-ligand interaction energies. I analyzed these differences in docking hitlists and selected protein-ligand interactions using three protein targets from COVID-19 research.
Glioblastoma chemoattract migratory interneuron precursors modified to deliver therapeutic proteins
Authors: De Raedt Thomas , Brosius Stephanie , Manley William , Harvey Kyra , Galanaugh Jamie , Rohacek Deborah , Anderson Stewart
Published: December 2024

Glioblastoma has a poor prognosis with limited therapeutic options, in part due to the presence of the blood brain barrier, which often prevents the delivery of therapeutic agents, and the immune suppressive tumor environment (TME), which is a challenge for T-cell based immunotherapies. We developed a cellular delivery vector where implanted modified post-mitotic Migratory Inhibitory Interneuron Precursors (MIPs) are chemoattracted to high-grade glioma (HGG), independent of expressed antigens and unhindered by the TME, to deliver therapeutic proteins of choice.
Fatty Acid Synthase-Derived Lipid Stores Support Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Andolino Chaylen , Cotul Eylem Kulkoyluoglu , Xianyu Zilin , Li Yun , Bhat Divya , Ayers Mitchell , Buhman Kimberly K. , Hursting Stephen D. , Wendt Michael K. , Teegarden Dorothy
Published: December 2024

Lipid accumulation is associated with breast cancer metastasis. However, the mechanisms underlying how breast cancer cells increase lipid stores and their functional role in disease progression remain incompletely understood. Herein we quantified changes in lipid metabolism and characterized cytoplasmic lipid droplets in metastatic versus non-metastatic breast cancer cells. 14C-labeled palmitate was used to determine differences in fatty acid (FA) uptake and oxidation. Despite similar levels of palmitate uptake, metastatic cells increase lipid accumulation and oxidation of endogenous FAs compared to non-metastatic cells. Isotope tracing also demonstrated that metastatic cells support increased de novo lipogenesis by converting higher levels of glutamine and glucose into the FA precursor, citrate. Consistent with this, metastatic cells displayed increased levels of fatty acid synthase (FASN) and de novo lipogenesis. Genetic depletion or pharmacologic inhibition of FASN reduced cell migration, survival in anoikis assays, and in vivo metastasis. Finally, global proteomic analysis indicated that proteins involved in proteasome function, mitotic cell cycle, and intracellular protein transport were reduced following FASN inhibition of metastatic cells. Overall, these studies demonstrate that breast cancer metastases accumulate FAs by increasing de novo lipogenesis, storing TAG as cytoplasmic lipid droplets, and catabolizing these stores to drive several FAO-dependent steps in metastasis.
Geographical Variation in Morphological Traits of Catharanthus Roseus: A Comparative Study Across Five Distinct Ecological Niches From Southern Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: J JERSHIA HADRIN , Rosy Bojaxa A.
Published: December 2024

Medicinal plants have been vital in human history for their therapeutic benefits, offering a sustainable and accessible alternative to synthetic drugs. Among these, Catharanthus roseus [L.] G. Don stands out for its pharmacological significance, producing bioactive compounds such as vincristine and vinblastine, which are critical in cancer treatment. This plant's adaptability across diverse ecological zones highlights its resilience and underscores the influence of environmental factors on its morphology and physiology. Morphological variations in plants, particularly those growing across altitudinal and climatic gradients, can reveal insights into their adaptive strategies and evolutionary trends. However, limited research has been conducted on the relationship between environmental gradients and the phenotypic diversity of C. roseus.
This study focuses on the morphological characterization of C. roseus collected from five distinct agro-climatic zones in the Kanyakumari district. By analyzing variations in traits such as leaf dimensions, stem structure, and inflorescence, this research aims to understand how environmental conditions influence morphological expressions. Exploring these variations not only aids in species identification but also enhances our understanding of how environmental and genetic factors interact to shape plant adaptability. Such insights can further inform the conservation and optimized cultivation of medicinal plants, emphasizing their role in traditional medicine and modern pharmacology.
Integrated hybrid life cycle assessment of the Ukrainian water market
Authors: Galychyn Oleksandr , Fath Brian
Published: December 2024

This study applies an integrated hybrid Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) framework to evaluate the environmental impacts of Ukraine’s potable water supply and wastewater treatment systems. By combining process-based LCA with economic input-output analysis, the study captures upstream and downstream interactions, providing a comprehensive assessment of industrial and resource management processes. Key findings reveal significant contributions of steel slag disposal (80%) to human toxicity and hydropower generation (53%) to water consumption impacts, highlighting inefficiencies in waste management and water resource utilization. Regional disparities are evident, with hydropower reliance in western Ukraine amplifying water consumption burdens and infrastructure inefficiencies in central regions increasing emissions and resource use. Policy recommendations include promoting circular economy practices, modernizing infrastructure, and implementing region-specific interventions. The study underscores the potential of hybrid LCA methodologies for identifying environmental hotspots and guiding sustainable water management strategies in transitioning economies, addressing data gaps, and supporting evidence-based policy development.
Anti-collusion Dynamic Distanced Online Testing
Authors: Qian Jingwen , Sikdar Sujoy , Wang Ge , Xia Lirong
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we address the problem of minimizing collusion gain, the increase in students' test scores when they cheat by colluding with each other, in distanced online testing (DOT). Recent works seek to address this by requiring students to answer questions sequentially within
designated time slots synchronized over all students and assigning questions from a large question bank in a manner that eliminates the possibility of a lower-competence student colluding with and copying from a higher-competence student by assigning the lower-competence student with any common
questions before the higher-competence student. However, existing techniques require estimates of students' competencies and their collusion network as input. This poses a significant challenge to their widespread adoption in the real world, where such estimates are either unavailable or,
at best, noisy. To address this challenge, we provide the dynamic DOT framework, where tests are conducted in multiple rounds and questions are assigned dynamically in each round using updated estimates of students' competencies and collusion network learned from students' performances in
previous rounds. We show through extensive experiments on simulated tests that in the common regime, where the size of the question bank is close to the desired length of the test (number of questions assigned to each student), our dynamic DOT framework incurs significantly lower total collusion
gain on average compared to tests conducted using both randomized and existing static question assignment schemes that do not update estimates of students' competence and collusion network.
A house accursed: reconsidering Sophocles’ sisters, Antigone & Ismene
Authors:   , Fox Peta Ann
Published: December 2024

Traditionally, Ismene’s refusal to help Antigone bury their brother in Sophocles’ Antigone tends to be regarded only in relation to Antigone’s own remarkable bravery. Antigone exists on the heroic level, Ismene on the ordinary; Antigone is courageous, Ismene is timid and submissive; Antigone is an idealist and an individualist, Ismene is convention and herd-bound. Ismene is, in many ways, presented as the antithesis of Antigone and Sophocles does indeed make use of her character as a foil to Antigone, but this thesis will argue that the relation between the two sisters is far more complicated than a dichotomous contrast between ‘extraordinary heroine’ and ‘average woman’. Like Antigone, Ismene is very much a character in her own right, and her emotions, motivations and impulses are every bit as realised and compelling as Antigone’s own. Both sisters have been deeply affected by the tragic misfortunes of their family, but their sad history affects each sister quite differently. Whereas Antigone’s instinctive reaction to Creon’s edict is a furious determination not to tolerate any further dishonour, Ismene’s equally instinctive reaction is to avoid the pattern of self-destructive inwardness that has plagued their family for generations. By offering a comprehensive re-examination of the key passages that have informed our critical reception of Ismene and the nature of her relationship with Antigone, this study aims to disrupt the established, and largely prejudiced, reading of Ismene as a model of feminine timidity and submission. Although Ismene is certainly no grand tragic heroine, titling the theoretical focus away from the death-oriented extremism of Antigone towards a more balanced consideration of the so-called ‘weaker sister’ not only allows for new insights into the nature of Sophoclean tragedy, but also challenges the very basis on which Ismene has so often been dismissed in favour of her more intrepid sister: the pervasive assumption that Sophocles has only given us one sister who is willing to risk her life for a principle.
Acacia catechu: Comprehensive Review of Traditional Use, Phytochemicals and Pharmacology
Authors: Kasana Rishabh , Sharma Pragya , Jain Smita
Published: December 2024

Aim and Objectives:

This review aims to discuss the traditional applications, ethnobotanical
significance, phytochemistry, and pharmacological profile of Acacia catechu (A. catechu).
By examining the crude extracts, isolated components, and various fractions of the plant, the review
seeks to identify potential new therapeutic agents.

Material and Methods:

The available published literature on the plant was searched in databases
like Scopus, Google Scholar, Science Direct, ACS, Wiley, Web of Science, Springer Link, and
PubMed for all appropriate information to bring this review in place. In addition, other official
electronic sources like the Encyclopedia Britannica and Northern Regional Center of the Botanical
Survey of India, along with the links theplantlist.org, were also searched. In addition to these
sources, some book chapters and books were also searched for the same.

Results:

A. catechu is a well-documented tree with numerous medicinal uses, widely utilized in
Asia and beyond. The plant exhibits various pharmacological properties, including antibacterial
effects, antidiarrheal activity, analgesic properties, cholesterol-lowering capabilities, ulcer protection,
antidiabetic effects, inhibition of cell growth and anti-inflammatory actions.

Conclusion:

This article goes into great detail about plants, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry,
pharmacology and toxicity studies.
Analisis Dinamika Penggunaan Lahan Menggunakan Spatial Metrics di Kota Kotamobagu
Authors: Makalalag Wahyu Devito , Rondonuwu Dwight Mooddy , Siregar Frits Ontang Poedjianto
Published: December 2024

Kota Kotamobagu terus menunjukkan peningkatan jumlah penduduk dan perkembangan prasarana dan sarana perkotaan yang memicu perubahan penggunaan lahan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis dinamika pola spasial penggunaan lahan di Kota Kotamobagu menggunakan pendekatan spatial metrics. Dinamika pola spasial penggunaan lahan dianalisis dengan menggunakan perhitungan metric Number of Patch (NP), Patch Density (PD) dan Shannon’s Diversity Index (SHDI). Berdasarkan hasil analisis menggunakan spatial metrics, kerapatan penggunaan lahan pada periode 2013-2028 menunjukkan pola perkembangan penggunaan lahan yang terfragmentasi dan cenderung menjadi teragregasi pada periode 2018-2023. Dari segi dinamika keragaman penggunaan lahan, nilai SHDI Kota Kotamobagu menunjukan kenaikan yang tergolong kecil dan masih temasuk dalam kategori keragaman sedang yang mengindikasikan rendahnya tingkat perkembangan penggunaan lahan di Kota Kotamobagu dan masih terdapat jenis penggunaan lahan yang mendominasi.
Integrasi Google Earth Engine ke dalam Modul Pembelajaran Digital: Meningkatkan Pemahaman Fenomena Kekeringan Pada Siswa Geografi
Authors: Fahmi Muhammad Rizieq , Purwanto Purwanto , Bachri Syamsul
Published: December 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan modul ajar digital berbasis spasial yang memanfaatkan Google Earth Engine (GEE) untuk meningkatkan pemahaman siswa SMA terhadap fenomena kekeringan. Modul ini dirancang untuk menyajikan materi kekeringan secara interaktif, memadukan visualisasi spasial dan data penginderaan jauh melalui platform Google Sites. Penelitian ini menggunakan model pengembangan ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation) dengan uji coba melibatkan tiga sekolah di Jawa Timur. Hasil validasi ahli, guru, dan siswa menunjukkan bahwa modul ini memperoleh penilaian sangat baik dalam hal cakupan materi, media, serta implementasi. Skor N-Gain sebesar 0,362 menempatkan peningkatan hasil belajar siswa pada kategori sedang dengan indikator identifikasi kekeringan memperoleh peningkatan tertinggi (N-Gain = 0,474). Meskipun modul ini menunjukkan efektivitas dalam meningkatkan pemahaman siswa terhadap kekeringan, penelitian ini juga menemukan bahwa siswa memerlukan waktu adaptasi lebih lama terhadap penggunaan data spasial. Selain itu, pengembangan lebih lanjut perlu difokuskan pada perluasan implementasi modul dalam skala luas serta integrasi strategi pembelajaran yang mendukung keterampilan dasar geografi, seperti kemampuan berpikir spasial, keterampilan pemecahan masalah, dan berpikir kritis.
Intersection of Performance, Interpretability, and Fairness in Neural Prototype Tree for Chest X-Ray Pathology Detection: Algorithm Development and Validation Study
Authors: Chen Hongbo , Alfred Myrtede , Brown Andrew D , Atinga Angela , Cohen Eldan
Published: December 2024

Background

While deep learning classifiers have shown remarkable results in detecting chest X-ray (CXR) pathologies, their adoption in clinical settings is often hampered by the lack of transparency. To bridge this gap, this study introduces the neural prototype tree (NPT), an interpretable image classifier that combines the diagnostic capability of deep learning models and the interpretability of the decision tree for CXR pathology detection.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the utility of the NPT classifier in 3 dimensions, including performance, interpretability, and fairness, and subsequently examined the complex interaction between these dimensions. We highlight both local and global explanations of the NPT classifier and discuss its potential utility in clinical settings.

Methods

This study used CXRs from the publicly available Chest X-ray 14, CheXpert, and MIMIC-CXR datasets. We trained 6 separate classifiers for each CXR pathology in all datasets, 1 baseline residual neural network (ResNet)–152, and 5 NPT classifiers with varying levels of interpretability. Performance, interpretability, and fairness were measured using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC AUC), interpretation complexity (IC), and mean true positive rate (TPR) disparity, respectively. Linear regression analyses were performed to investigate the relationship between IC and ROC AUC, as well as between IC and mean TPR disparity.

Results

The performance of the NPT classifier improved as the IC level increased, surpassing that of ResNet-152 at IC level 15 for the Chest X-ray 14 dataset and IC level 31 for the CheXpert and MIMIC-CXR datasets. The NPT classifier at IC level 1 exhibited the highest degree of unfairness, as indicated by the mean TPR disparity. The magnitude of unfairness, as measured by the mean TPR disparity, was more pronounced in groups differentiated by age (chest X-ray 14 0.112, SD 0.015; CheXpert 0.097, SD 0.010; MIMIC 0.093, SD 0.017) compared to sex (chest X-ray 14 0.054 SD 0.012; CheXpert 0.062, SD 0.008; MIMIC 0.066, SD 0.013). A significant positive relationship between interpretability (ie, IC level) and performance (ie, ROC AUC) was observed across all CXR pathologies (P<.001). Furthermore, linear regression analysis revealed a significant negative relationship between interpretability and fairness (ie, mean TPR disparity) across age and sex subgroups (P<.001).

Conclusions

By illuminating the intricate relationship between performance, interpretability, and fairness of the NPT classifier, this research offers insightful perspectives that could guide future developments in effective, interpretable, and equitable deep learning classifiers for CXR pathology detection.
Two-Layer Retrieval-Augmented Generation Framework for Low-Resource Medical Question Answering Using Reddit Data: Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Das Sudeshna , Ge Yao , Guo Yuting , Rajwal Swati , Hairston JaMor , Powell Jeanne , Walker Drew , Peddireddy Snigdha , Lakamana Sahithi , Bozkurt Selen , Reyna Matthew , Sameni Reza , Xiao Yunyu , Kim Sangmi , Chandler Rasheeta , Hernandez Natalie , Mowery Danielle , Wightman Rachel , Love Jennifer , Spadaro Anthony , Perrone Jeanmarie , Sarker Abeed
Published: December 2024

Background

The increasing use of social media to share lived and living experiences of substance use presents a unique opportunity to obtain information on side effects, use patterns, and opinions on novel psychoactive substances. However, due to the large volume of data, obtaining useful insights through natural language processing technologies such as large language models is challenging.

Objective

This paper aims to develop a retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) architecture for medical question answering pertaining to clinicians’ queries on emerging issues associated with health-related topics, using user-generated medical information on social media.

Methods

We proposed a two-layer RAG framework for query-focused answer generation and evaluated a proof of concept for the framework in the context of query-focused summary generation from social media forums, focusing on emerging drug-related information. Our modular framework generates individual summaries followed by an aggregated summary to answer medical queries from large amounts of user-generated social media data in an efficient manner. We compared the performance of a quantized large language model (Nous-Hermes-2-7B-DPO), deployable in low-resource settings, with GPT-4. For this proof-of-concept study, we used user-generated data from Reddit to answer clinicians’ questions on the use of xylazine and ketamine.

Results

Our framework achieves comparable median scores in terms of relevance, length, hallucination, coverage, and coherence when evaluated using GPT-4 and Nous-Hermes-2-7B-DPO, evaluated for 20 queries with 76 samples. There was no statistically significant difference between GPT-4 and Nous-Hermes-2-7B-DPO for coverage (Mann-Whitney U=733.0; n1=37; n2=39; P=.89 two-tailed), coherence (U=670.0; n1=37; n2=39; P=.49 two-tailed), relevance (U=662.0; n1=37; n2=39; P=.15 two-tailed), length (U=672.0; n1=37; n2=39; P=.55 two-tailed), and hallucination (U=859.0; n1=37; n2=39; P=.01 two-tailed). A statistically significant difference was noted for the Coleman-Liau Index (U=307.5; n1=20; n2=16; P<.001 two-tailed).

Conclusions

Our RAG framework can effectively answer medical questions about targeted topics and can be deployed in resource-constrained settings.
Exploring How Older Adults Experience semAPP, a 360° Media–Based Tool for Memory Assessment: Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Bruni Francesca , Mancuso Valentina , Panigada Jonathan , Stramba-Badiale Marco , Cipresso Pietro , Pedroli Elisa
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Technology is already a part of our daily lives, and its influence is growing rapidly. This evolution has not spared the health care field. Nowadays, a crucial challenge is considering aspects such as design, development, and implementation, highlighting their functionality, ease of use, compatibility, performance, and safety when a new technological tool is developed. As noted in many works, the abandonment rate is usually higher when a user has a terrible experience with these instruments. It would be appropriate to incorporate the final users—whether they are patients, health care professionals, or both—in the stages of instrument design to understand their needs and preferences. Since most apps that fail did not include end users and health care professionals in the development phase, their involvement at all stages of app development may increase their commitment and improve integration, self-management, and health outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims (1) to develop semAPP (spatial and episodic memory assessment application), a 360° media–based tool, to assess memory in aging by simulating a real-life situation and (2) to test the usability of the app and the connected experience in an end-user population.

METHODS

A total of 34 older adults participated in the study: 16 (47%) healthy individuals and 18 (53%) patients with mild cognitive impairment. They used semAPP and completed qualitative and quantitative measures. The app includes 2 parts: object recognition and spatial memory tasks. During the first task, users have to navigate in an apartment freely and visit rooms, and then they must recognize the right map of the house. In the second task, users are immersed in a living room, and they have to encode and then recall some target objects, simulating a relocation. We deployed this app on an 11.2-inch iPad, and we tested its usability and the experience of users interacting with the app. We conducted descriptive analyses for both the entire sample and each subgroup; we also conducted parametric and correlation analyses to compare groups and to examine the relationship between task execution and the virtual experience, as well as the acceptance of technology.

RESULTS

Both groups judged the app as an easy-to-use tool, and they were willing to use it. Moreover, the results match the idea that usability might be influenced by different factors depending on instrument and personal features, such as presentation, functionality, system performance, interactive behavior, attitudes, skills, and personality.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings support the possibility of using semAPP in older patients, as well as the importance of designing and evaluating new technological tools, considering not only the general population but also the specific target ones.
Navigating older adults care: insights from caregivers and community health workers in Ngestiharjo, Bantul, Yogyakarta
Authors: Hafidz Firdaus , Monanda Adelia Pramudita , Fitriani Dewi Caesaria , Hariyanti Tatik , Jamiah Erni
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to elucidate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of older adult caregivers in Ngestiharjo, Bantul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, towards older adult care and to discern the role of Community Health Workers (CHWs).
Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed between April and June 2023, encompassing quantitative data collection with a cross-sectional approach from 253 older adult caregivers via a pretested questionnaire and qualitative insights with a descriptive approach from focus group discussions with seven CHWs. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and thematic analysis.
Results: The caregivers were predominantly female (67.2%) and over the age of 50 (46.6%), with the most common occupation being housekeeping (34.8%). Knowledge deficits were noted in several areas, with mean scores of 0.53 for depression signs, 0.56 for physical exercise, 0.73 for sleep quality, and 0.79 for fall risk. Caregivers' sleep quality and fall risk knowledge were better than depression and physical exercise. Attitude scores averaged 82.42 ± 20.42 (out of 125), showing moderate confidence in caregiving activities. Practices related to older adult care showed promising results, especially in maintaining a clean living environment (mean Score: 4.08 ± 0.86). The pivotal role of CHWs in bridging this knowledge gap and facilitating healthcare access was underscored.
Conclusion: The study highlights the need for targeted educational programs to improve the knowledge and practices of caregivers, particularly in physical exercise and mental health areas. Strengthening the role of CHWs is essential to enhancing caregiving outcomes.
A Dynamic R User Interface Utilizing Arima Model for Visualizing Passenger Volume Forecast for Improved Public Decision Making
Authors: Suryavanshi Shri. Ranjeetsingh
Published: December 2024

India's road public transportation system suffers difficulties because of inconsistent passenger volumes, particularly in
the bus sector, which makes it difficult for the general public to decide whether or not to wait, leading to confusion. This study
suggests an R-language based user interface made using a shiny package for visualizing the forecast of passengers volume of
incoming buses using the time series analytic method known as the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA). The
ARIMA model is used to forecast the number of passengers for the following day for the same route, based on previous days. It
is trained on passenger data obtained from a practical counting of the passengers boarding and disembarking the bus of a
specific route, taking into consideration only the number of passengers in the bus on the same corresponding time and space.
Управление жизненным циклом объекта капитального строительства
Authors:   ФГБОУ ВО «НИУ МГСУ», Уварова С.С. , Ларионов А.Н. , Беляева С.В. , Канхва В.С.
Published: December 2024

Монография посвящена исследованию эффективности применения платформенных технологий и информационного моделирования на всех этапах жизненного цикла объектов капитального строительства российскими организациями. Определен ряд эффектов неэкономического плана, включая сокращение рисков инвестиционно-строительного проекта и рост качества как проекта, так и объекта строительства, доказана целесообразность создания единой цифровой платформы взаимодействия стейкхолдеров инвестиционно-строительного проекта путем электронного документооборота на базе отечественного программного обеспечения.
Для аспирантов, преподавателей, практических работников, а также обучающихся высших учебных заведений экономического профиля.
How Do LGBT Employees Assess Their Firm’s Organizational Culture Regarding LGBT Leadership?
Authors:   , Honore Philippe
Published: December 2024

This study explored Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Trans (LGBT) employees’ perceptions and assessments of their firms’ organizational cultures and, in particular, the opportunities within the culture that can lead to upper management positions for those who identify as LGBT. The research sought to understand the extent to which inclusivity efforts are reflected in real career progression opportunities for openly LGBT employees working in San Diego County. Employing a convergent parallel mixed-methods research design, the study incorporated quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to achieve a comprehensive understanding of participant’s perspectives and experiences. The decision to use both methods allowed the research to capture both broad trends and more personal, nuanced insights, creating a fuller picture of LGBT experiences in the workplace.

The quantitative phase involved administering, to a diverse sample of openly LGBT employees employed by various organizations in San Diego County, a structured questionnaire that assessed participants’ views about their organizations’ cultures, in general, and access to upper management positions in their organizations, in particular. This phase of the research was critical in identifying the common experiences and perceptions shared across a wide range of industries and organizational contexts. The qualitative phase employed interviews with a subset of survey participants to gain richer insights into individual experiences with inclusion. These interviews allowed participants to express personal stories and deeper reflections on their workplace environments, providing a valuable complement to the broader patterns identified in the survey responses.

Findings from this study revealed a general sense of inclusivity among openly LGBT employees. In fact, most participants did not perceive any significant barriers to their career advancement and felt supported by their organizations, which appeared to foster environments where LGBT employees could thrive professionally. However, nuanced challenges related to gender identity and societal attitudes were identified and underscored the continuing complexity of navigating professional environments as an LGBT individual even in an era in which many organizations officially embrace the concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion and implement those concepts in making promotion decisions.
Socio-Cultural Strength: Optimization of Bhuppa’, Bhâbhu’, Ghuru, and Rato in Establishing Compliance in Madurese Familial Conduct
Authors: Susylawati Eka , Hariyanto Erie , Hosen Hosen , Hamzah Moh
Published: December 2024

The identification of the Madurese local concept, Bhuppa’-Bhâbhu’-Ghuru-Rato, is a part of the conflict resolution instrument based on social construction theory. This concept serves as a strong foundation underlying the social relationships and moral structure of the Madurese community, which remains deeply rooted in various aspects of daily life. This research aims to analyze the significant role of the socio-cultural value system of the Madurese community in shaping the behavioral compliance of Madurese families. The research is qualitative in nature, relying on both primary and secondary data. Primary data is obtained from field studies, including direct observations and mapping of research aspects. The research findings indicate that there has been controversy in the interpretation of threats related to social inequality, economic family issues, and the pandemic already experienced. This interpretational controversy has been caused by differences in understanding, conflicting interests, and varying traditions or practices. Differences in understanding are evident from the varying levels of comprehension between groups in the community, which also highlights differences in literacy levels when interpreting these issues. The four important elements of Bhuppa’-Bhâbhu’-Ghuru-Rato play a vital role in controlling and providing guidance through families to enhance compliance. These elements are actualized in daily praxis as binding normative rules.
The Strategic Role of Local Political Parties in the Legislative Process Qanun for Sharia Financial Institutions in Aceh
Authors: Alqarni Wais , Saleh Rahmat , Anggraini Titi , Sulaksono Tunjung , Akhyar M. Nur
Published: December 2024

According to the 2019 Election data, the Aceh Party secured 18 out of the 81 seats in the Aceh DPR (Legislative Assembly). The Speaker of the DPR is appointed from the Aceh Party, which holds the majority of seats in the legislature as the winners of the election. Furthermore, Commission I is responsible for overseeing matters related to Law, Politics, Government, and Security, is headed by a member of the DPR representing the Aceh Party. The Aceh DPR Legislation Body is led by a member of the Aceh DPR who belongs to the Aceh Party. This study employs a qualitative-normative approach, utilizing role theory for analysis. Data is gathered through in-depth interviews and literature review. The participants interviewed consisted of individuals affiliated with the DPR, the Islamic Sharia Service, and Academics. The material studied encompassed journal papers, books, news media reports, and research relevant to the topic under consideration. The findings suggest that local parties play a significant influence in the enactment of the LKS Qanun. The Aceh Party, a local political organization, emerged victorious in the election and secured the majority of seats in the Aceh parliament. This is evident through the participation of the chairman of the Aceh DPR legislative body who originates from the Local Party. This is an important part of the Political Party's contribution to the development of local democracy in Aceh as well as supporting the implementation of Islamic law in Aceh based on law within the framework of the unitary state of the Republic of Indonesia.
Rereading the Concept of Joint Property: Fiqh Literacy in the Book of Sabilal Muhtadin and the Genealogy of Sheikh Arsyad's Thoughts
Authors: Tarantang Jefry , Akbar Wahyu , Astiti Ni Nyoman Adi , Rollis Rollis , Ridwan Ahmad Hasan
Published: December 2024

This research describes fiqh literacy regarding joint property which has become an academic rumor referring to the Book of Sabilal Muhtadin by Sheikh Arsyad, which is a reference for studies on joint property in Indonesia. Because of this, it is necessary to re-read the concept of joint property, which was born from the culture of the Banjar people, namely the property of taboo, which was initiated by Sheikh Arsyad, because the reference is not from the Book of Sabilal Muhtadin.This research uses a type of normative research using historical, hermeneutic, netnographic, conceptual and philosophical approaches. Data was collected by means of literature studies that refer to the book of Sabilal Muhtadin and articles and studies of parties who are concerned about the book in correspondence. The findings of this research indicate that the Islamic legal methodology used by Sheikh Arsyad regarding the concept of joint property is a product of his ijtihad taking into account the local culture of the Banjar community. Although there is a misrepresentation of fiqh literacy regarding joint assets in the Sabilal Muhtadin Book which is used as a literary reference. Sheikh Arsyad's genealogical thoughts regarding joint property, although not contained in Sabilal Muhtadin's Book, have become a local legal doctrine that has been transformed into a global insight using the methods of islah, maslahah mursalah, urf, and adatul muhakkamah.However, this concept will not be degraded, because it has been practiced for a long time and has become a living law that contains beneficial values.
Child Custody Rights for Mothers of Different Religions: Maqāṣid al-Sharī'ah Perspective on Islamic Family Law in Indonesia
Authors: Mera Nasaruddin , Marzuki Marzuki , Taufan B. M. , Sapruddin Sapruddin , Cahyani Andi Intan
Published: December 2024

Marriage is a physical and mental bond between a man and a woman. It is hoped that it will give birth to a harmonious and happy family, including having offspring who will then care for them well. In reality, couples from different religions who later divorce and have children become a problem, because custody becomes a struggle between the father and mother. This research discusses the child custody rights of an apostate mother as happened in the Parigi religious court decision case, Central Sulawesi. This study uses empirical legal methods with a maqāṣid al-sharī'ah approach. The data collection techniques used were interviews and document study. The informants interviewed were judges, academics and ulama. The documents analyzed were religious court decisions, journal articles, legal rules and books related to the discussion. The results of the research show that in deciding cases, the panel of judges set aside the written law which was used as a reference, and the compilation of Islamic law in order to fulfill the principle of benefit from fulfilling legal objectives. There are several reasons for the judge to overrule these two laws: the interests of the child, social aspects, the principle of benefit (mashlahat) for all. In the end, the judge's decision within the framework of maqāṣid al-sharī'ahanalysis has implications for the maintenance of the soul, eyesight, and the maintenance of offspring, as well as the maintenance of religion.
Women and Family Based Voter Education Strategy to Increase Community Participation in Elections in Buton, Indonesia
Authors: Kadir Abdul , Burhan Burhan , Mahrudin Mahrudin , Sumardona Sumardona
Published: December 2024

This article discusses women and family-based voter education strategies to increase community participation in regional elections in Buton, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. Voter education plays an important role in strengthening democracy and generating public interest, then women and families are important segments in the context of political participation in Indonesia. This study uses qualitative methods, analyzed with political participation theory. Data was collected by means of document study and interviews. The documents analyzed refer to articles, books, scientific reports and various studies related to the discussion, while the informants interviewed are women voters and their families. This study concludes that as an election organizer, the KPU at the district/city level can adopt the concept of a social learning framework to observe the configuration and dynamics in organizing elections. Social learning involves commissioners and the public in learning from peers, first-time voters, and available resources. Political education can also strengthen democratization efforts and overcome negative perceptions of politics. Voter education plans must consider the development of autonomy, open-mindedness, efficiency, transparency, and popular or non-formal education. To increase community participation in elections, women and their families must maximize their role as segments of voters who are close to the community. According to political participation theory, one effective strategy to increase political participation is elections that involve women and families so that people's voices can be meaningful in building democracy.
Fístula Uretro-Prepucial em Cão sem Raça Definida - Uretrostomia
Authors: Vasconcelos Gislaine Mariel de Souza , Felipe Oliveira Nascimentos Lucas , Breno Alves Cabral Silva Gleydson , Almeida Edvaldo Lopes de , Soares Anísio Francisco , De Barros Marques Neuza
Published: December 2024

Urethropreputial fistulas are communicative conduits between the urethra, prepuce, and environment whose origin deviates the urinary flow from its physiological path. The condition has a multifactorial cause and is considered uncommon in dogs. By the scarce occurrence of this malformation, as well as the scarcity of case reports on the subject, the present work aims to report a case of congenital urethropreputial fistula in a mixed breed dog and the surgical procedures performed to correct this genitourinary abnormality. In addition, it seeks to cross information available in the literature with the changes found during the case attendance.
Anestesia para procedimento ortopédico em um gato-mourisco (Herpailurus yagouaroundi)
Authors: Vaccarin Charline , Giovanini da Silva Janine , Rech Cassanego Guilherme , De Nardin Peixoto Gabriella , Dutra Corrêa Luis Felipe , Coelho Freitas Gabrielle , Perez Floriano Beatriz , Vasconcelos Soares André
Published: December 2024

Background: Relatar o caso clínico de um gato-mourisco (Herpailurus yagouaroundi) com fratura de fêmur, demonstrando os procedimentos anestésicos com o intuito de agregar maior conhecimento à literatura de felídeos selvagens.
Case: Um gato-mourisco (Herpailurus yagouaroundi) filhote com fratura de fêmur foi resgatado e encaminhado a atendimento veterinário. Ao exame clínico constatou-se prostração, desidratação severa e caquexia, optando-se por estabilização clínica prévia ao procedimento cirúrgico-anestésico. Na data do procedimento, foi administrado zolazepam associado à tiletamina por via intramuscular, para imobilização farmacológica. Em seguida, o paciente foi induzido à anestesia com propofol por via intravenosa e mantido sob anestesia com isoflurano por via inalatória. Para analgesia transoperatória realizou-se bloqueio epidural sacrococcígeo com lidocaína e morfina. Foram monitorados pressão arterial sistólica, saturação parcial de oxigênio nos tecidos periféricos, temperatura esofágica e frequências cardíaca e respiratória durante o período transanestésico. Como intercorrências, observou-se hipotensão e bradicardia transitórias, revertidas após administração de atropina intravenosa. Ao término do procedimento, o paciente foi monitorado e mantido aquecido até recuperação anestésica completa e posterior internação clínica.
Discussion: A manipulação de animais silvestres requer, muitas vezes, a administração de fármacos sedativos ou ansiolíticos para permitir uma intervenção segura. Como opção de contenção farmacológica para felídeos cita-se associação de tiletamina e zolazepam, obtendo-se rápido início de ação com ampla margem de segurança em pacientes saudáveis. Sua duração de ação permite grande parte das intervenções clínicas necessárias nestas espécies, além de ser uma opção como medicação pré-anestésica. O bloqueio epidural sacrococcígeo em felídeos, com associação de anestésicos locais e opioides permite a redução do requerimento de anestésicos gerais, bem como proporciona analgesia satisfatória no trans e pós-operatório, minimizando os efeitos adversos da terapia analgésica parenteral. O protocolo anestésico instituído foi considerado adequado para osteossíntese de fêmur em um gato mourisco (Herpailurus yagouaroundi), não cursando com intercorrências graves e garantindo qualidade analgésica satisfatória para execução da técnica cirúrgica.
Knemidocoptes mutans em criação de galinhas caipiras no Oeste da Bahia, Brasil
Authors: Souza Isabela Pereira de Oliveira , De Oliveira Danilo Coimbra , Santos Marcos Wilker da Conceição , Conceição Maurício dos Santos , Albuquerque Milena Oliveira , Parazzi Larissa José , Dos Santos Flavia
Published: December 2024

Background: Brazil stands out as one of the leading countries in poultry, as well as in the export of chicken meat in the world. It is evident throughout the national territory the creation of free-range chickens, as a family subsistence production and source of supplementary income for small producers. Standing out for the rusticity of the animals, free access to the ground and pasture area, becoming a positive aspect to animal welfare. However, disregard for facilities, local hygiene and, sanitary management, as well as nutritional and reproductive management, will result in low productivity, and leading to greater occurrences of diseases, parasites and ectoparasites.
Cases: The occurrence of scabies on the paws, caused by the mite of the genus Knemidocoptes, having Knemidocoptes mutans as a direct agent, is a chronic disease that can manifest at any age and may be linked to individual characteristics of the birds. In this report, a poultry farmer from the municipality of Barra, western region of Bahia, producer of free-range chickens, reported her experience when her birds were affected by the mite K. mutans, the birds presented scaly deformations on the scales of the metatarsus and paws, leaving the scales deformed and lackluster.
Discussion: To diagnosis knemidocoptic mange, the patterns of skin lesions associated with laboratory techniques for microscopic visualization of the parasite are observed. The birds studied are bred in captivity for subsistence, so genetic factors and the restricted lifestyle of the animals can influence the development and appearance of several diseases, as well as Knemidocoptiasis. Where its diagnosis is restricted to the morphological characteristics, hosts that have a predilection, aspects of the lesions and sites of parasitism. Knemidocoptic mange is caused by several species of mites of the genus Knemidokoptes belonging to the family Knemidokoptidae, all parasites of the skin of birds. The specific cause of foot scabies is Knemidocoptes mutans, a very small mite, which has a rounded body and lodges itself inside the scales that cover the metatarsus of birds. Thus, the characteristic lesions of knemidocoptic mange are dermatitis, crusts, deformation of the scales and the deep presence of the mite, which can be observed through the microscopy of the crusts. For treatment and prophylaxis, hygiene and handling must be taken into account, recommending daily cleaning of perches and the floor with chlorine, eliminating mite reservoirs and applying a sulfur-based paste to the lesions.
Choline Acetyltransferase (ChAT) Immunoreactive Structures in the Porcine Extrahepatic Bile Ducts
Authors: Stefanov Ivaylo , Hrischev Petar
Published: December 2024

Background: In the domestic pig, mast cells, neural and non-neuronal cholinergic systems in the gallbladder and extrahepatic bile ducts need a detailed morphological study to identify the type and localization of their structural components. The aim of the current study was to quantitatively analyze biliary cholinergic ganglia and nerves as well as non-neuronal cholinergic cells.
Materials, Methods & Results:  In the present study were used tissue samples from the extrahepatic bile ducts and gallbladders of male clinically healthy pigs. A part of the serial histological sections was stained with hematoxylin and eosin to rule out the presence of pathological findings. Another part of the sections was processed immunohistochemically to determine the expression of choline acetyltransferase and tryptase. Two primary antibodies were used: a polyclonal rabbit choline acetyltransferase and a monoclonal mouse antihuman mast cell tryptase. The number and dimensions of cholinergic ganglia, perikaryons and nerves forming ganglionic nerve plexuses in the propria, muscular and subserosal layers were estimated. The immunoexpression of choline acetyltransferase in biliary glandular cells and mast cells was also detected and analyzed.
Discussion:  The current study provided original information on the number and dimensions of intramural choline acetyltransferase positive nerves, ganglia, and perikaryons of ganglion neurons, showing that ganglia in porcine gallbladder and  extrahepatic bile ducts are cholinergic. It was revealed that the localization of intramural nerves and ganglia in the porcine gallbladder and  extrahepatic bile ducts was similar to that in man. The expression of choline acetyltransferase found by us for the 1st time in the mast cells of porcine gallbladder and extrahepatic bile ducts suggests, on the one hand, the possibility of its synthesis and release from these cells, and on the other hand, its involvement in modulating the interaction between mast cell and intramural neurons in the studied organs. Interactions between mast cells and neurons may potentially contribute to the pathogenesis of many diseases in gastrointestinal tract.
Keywords: mast cells, ganglia, choline acetyltransferase, tryptase, bile ducts, pigs.