bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moisture Recycling through Pumping by Mesoscale Convective Systems
Authors: Hu Huancui , Leung L. Ruby , Feng Zhe , Marquis James
Published: June 2024

Moisture recycling, the contribution of local evapotranspiration (ET) to precipitation, has been studied using bulk models assuming a well-mixed atmosphere. The latter is inconsistent with a climatologically stratified atmosphere that slants across latitudes. Reconciling the two views requires an understanding of overturning associated with different weather systems. In this study, we aim to better understand moisture recycling associated with mesoscale convective systems (MCSs). Using a convection-permitting WRF simulation equipped with water vapor tracers (WRF-WVT), we tag moisture from terrestrial ET in the U.S. Southern Great Plains during May 2015, when more than 20 MCS events occurred and produced significant precipitation and flooding. Water budget analysis reveals that approximately 76% of terrestrial ET is advected away from the region while the remaining 24% of terrestrial ET is “pumped” upward within the region, accounting for 12% of precipitation. Moisture recycling peaks during early night hours (1800–2400 LT) due to the mixing of the daytime accumulated ET by active convection. By focusing on five “diurnally driven” MCSs with less large-scale circulation influence than other MCSs during the same period, we find an upright pumping of terrestrial ET at the MCS initiation and development stages, which diverges into two branches during the MCS mature and decaying stages. One branch in the upper level advects the ET-sourced moisture downstream, while the other branch in the mid-to-upper level contributes to the trailing precipitation upstream. Overall, our analysis depicts a pumping mechanism associated with MCSs that mixes local ET vertically, highlighting its specific contributions to enhancing convective precipitation processes.
Enacting Decentralized Authority: The Practices and Limits of Moving Beyond Hierarchy
Authors: Lee Michael Y.
Published: June 2024

Decentralization as an organizing principle has drawn growing interest from scholars and practitioners because of its perceived suitability for contemporary market conditions and alignment with employees’ evolving work expectations. However, efforts to decentralize authority face significant obstacles and often end in failure. I propose that existing research on decentralization has struggled to generate insight into how such barriers can be overcome because it has treated decentralization as a static outcome imposed by organizational designers. In contrast, this article treats decentralization as a dynamic and situated achievement that must be continually enacted, and it leverages ethnographic data from a decentralization effort in order to build theory on the organizational practices that support enactments of decentralized authority. I find that successful enactments of decentralized authority were supported by practices that established clear boundaries of authority and focused collective attention on these boundaries, as well as by practices that depersonalized collective attributions of the source of authority. At the same time, the practices were difficult to sustain because they were cognitively, emotionally, and temporally demanding. Through this study, I show that decentralization is not merely a one-time structural change but an ongoing collective process that requires navigating and neutralizing the structural and psychological forces pulling organizations back toward hierarchy.
The Effect of Montelukast on Urinary Symptoms in Children With Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Arjmand Shabestari Ali , Akbarzadeh Faeze , Dorreh Fatemeh , Yousefichaijan Parsa , Almasi-Hashiani Amir
Published: June 2024

Montelukast by inhibiting leukotriene receptors in the bladder can prevent the activation of mast cells. We investigated the effectiveness of Montelukast in reducing the symptoms of children with bladder pain syndrome (BPS). In this randomized clinical trial, children were allocated into groups of intervention (Montelukast and oxybutynin) and the control (oxybutynin). At the beginning and after 14 days, questions from mothers of children about their urinary condition were asked about the frequency of nocturnal enuresis, frequent urination, urinary incontinence, urinary urgency, and their pain severity. There was no significant difference between two groups in terms of frequency of nocturnal enuresis, frequent urination, urinary incontinence, and urinary urgency. Regarding the frequency of pain distribution, the frequency of pain-free people in the Montelukast group was higher than control group (84.4% vs 56.3%, P = .023). The results showed that adding Montelukast to oxybutynin has a significant decrease in pain in children with BPS.
Evaluating Augmented Reality to Teach Science for Secondary Students With Intellectual Disability
Authors: Gulboy Emrah , Denizli-Gulboy Hicran
Published: June 2024

Augmented reality (AR) provides students with visual, auditory, and concrete learning understandings that facilitate their understanding of abstract concepts, leading to positive experiences in the learning process. Positive experiences increase students’ motivation and interest in learning. This study examined the effects of using AR technology to teach science concepts. Three students with intellectual disabilities, aged between 12 and 13 years, who were attending inclusive education, participated in the study. A multiple probe design across behaviors replicated across participants was used. The results indicated that all students acquired the science concepts, maintained the concepts 5 weeks later, and generalized the concept with classroom materials (science course textbook). Social validity results also showed that students found the AR intervention acceptable, making their learning experience more enjoyable. Conclusions are discussed in the context of applying universal design principles with AR technologies to create unique opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities to learn science concepts.
Effect of Birth Story on Personality Traits and Death Anxiety
Authors: Turan Zekiye , Ünkazan Semiha , Şen Tepe Çiğdem , Durat Gülgün
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study is to determine the effect of the birth story of individuals on personality traits and death anxiety.

Methods

This descriptive and analytical research was completed with 1,635 people who participated voluntarily. The study data were collected with the Personal Information Form, Cervantes Personality Scale (CPS), and Abdel-Khalek Death Anxiety Scale (ASDA).

Results

The research sample is average means 31.63 ± 11.04 years, most of the female (72.7%) and married (54.6%). In our study, it was observed that women’s death anxiety was higher than men’s. Our study found that individuals born by caesarean section had greater neurotic personality traits, emotional stability/neuroticism score averages, and death anxiety scores compared to individuals born vaginally.

Conclusion

In the model made with multiple regression analysis, birth type did not significantly predict death anxiety, while sex and emotional stability/neuroticism personality trait significantly predicted death anxiety.
Access and Equity Among Veterans During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Research Note
Authors: Makridis Christos A. , Alterovitz Gil , Darden Michael
Published: June 2024

It has long been recognized that at-risk groups tend to experience a greater proportion of burden during times of turbulence. Motivated by the COVID-19 pandemic as a source of unprecedented crisis and change, this article uses data on employment, wages, and subjective well-being (SWB) to examine how U.S. veterans—an at-risk group for a variety of social ailments, including homelessness, disability, depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicide—fared over the pandemic between 2020 and 2021. While veterans were less likely to be employed, those who were employed have higher wages, conditional on being employed, and higher levels of SWB. Our results are qualitatively robust to controlling for a wide array of demographic factors, such as age and education, as well as industry and occupational differences. To better understand why veterans fared better than anticipated, we explore the moderating role of local Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers (VAMCs). We find that veterans who live closer to VAMCs exhibit higher levels of SWB with some evidence that the benefits of VAMC proximity are concentrated among more rural veterans, suggesting that VAMCs may have played an important role of supporting veteran communities during the pandemic.
Housing Development and Union Wages: Waitresses and Saleswomen Living in San Francisco’s Tenderloin, 1910-1941
Authors: Day Linda L.
Published: June 2024

Tenderloin housing built after the 1906 earthquake and fire is the focus of a qualitative study linking the achievement of union wages by waitresses and saleswomen to their ability to afford comfortable housing in the years between 1910 and 1941. Paul Groth’s research on downtown districts supplying workforce housing between 1880 and 1930 provides the foundation. Information from the Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees International Union and the Department Store Employees Union Local 1100 archives at San Francisco State University’s Labor Archives and Research Center provided information about wages and work conditions. A 1941 Waitresses Local 48 roster of members’ names and addresses shows that after achieving union wages, women who lived independently of larger family households could afford well-built and comfortable mid-priced hotel rooms or efficiency apartments.
Maleic Anhydride Based Ether-Ester Polyols for Rigid Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Ionescu Mihail , Zugravu Viorica , Mihalache Ioana , Stanca Mihai
Published: June 2024

A new class of polyols for rigid polyurethane foams and urethane isocyanuric foams based on Maleic Anhydride (MA) as raw material, having both ether and ester units , was developed. The synthesis of these polyols is based on the propyleneoxide addition to a mixture of a polyol (glycerine, trimethylolpropane, sorbitol, glucose) and maleic anhydride. The reaction is a cationic self-catalysis, the resulted acidic - COOH groups catalyse simultaneously three reactions: the esterification reaction (the addition of propyleneoxide [PO] to -COOH groups), the esterification reaction (the addition of PO to hydroxyl groups) and the addition of hydroxyl groups to the double bonds. The method is very flexible and has a high potential for th synthesis of new ether-ester polyols for rigid polyurethane foams. The resultant ether-ester polyols have low viscosities, high functionalities, and low cost. The synthesised polyols were successfully used in classical processes to obtain rigid polyurethane and urethane-isocyanuric foams with exceIIent physico-mechanical, thermal and flame resistant properties.
Initial Impact Studies on Open and Closed-cell Foams
Authors: Sims G.L.A. , Pentrakoon D.
Published: June 2024

Cushioning performance of flexible open-cell polyurethane and closed-cell polyethylene foams were compared. The study included incorporation of centrally placed square voids of varying cross-sectional area into standard samples. Deceleration and internal void pressure were monitored as a function of time.

Closed cell foams gave relatively stable shock performance virtually independent of void size whereas open-cell foams gave consistent peak G values only up to a critical void size after which peak G increased with increasing void size. Results are discussed after suitably considering G and pressure traces to more fully understand the contribution of the gaseous phase during impact. Observed phenomena were mainly related to gas compression in closed-cell structures compared with a complex mixture of gas flow and compression in open-cell foams.
Method of Increasing the Solubility of Hydrocarbons and HFCs in Polyurethanes Raw Materials and the Effects on the Performance and Processing Characteristics of Construction Foams*
Authors: Singh S.N. , Burns S.B. , Costa J.S. , Bonapersona V.
Published: June 2024

Liquid hydrocarbons and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are the leading zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) blowing agents being considered for rigid polyurethane foam insulation used in the construction industry. Different isomers of pentane, namely normal-, iso- and cyclopentane, are the major hydrocarbons under consideration. The leading HFCs being evaluated are HFC-245fa (CF3-CH0-CF9H) and HFC-365mfc (CF3-CH2-CF2-CH3).

The solubility of such blowing agents in many of the typical polyols and isocyanates used by the construction industry is limited. Additives have been used to improve the solubility of blowing agents in the past. For example, ethoxylated nonylphenol was added to many polyols in order to enhance CFC-11 (CCI3F) compatibility. A great many additives are being proposed today for use with hydrocarbons and HFCs.

This study examines the fundamental properties of various hydrohalocarbon and hydrocarbon blowing agents, and their relationship to solubility in polyurethane raw materials. The solubility of the various pentane isomers in many polyols and isocyanates used to produce insulation boardstock in a continuous lamination process is evaluated. The potential of many isocyanate modifications and polyol additives to improve blowing agent solubility is explored.

The effects of blowing agent solubility on the processing characteristics of foam properties are also examined. The data is used to examine the conventional theory regarding soluble systems - are such systems always necessary to get good processing? Many non-reactive or monofunctional additives that improve solubility are found to affect the structural, thermal or flammability performance of resulting foams. This paper presents data on potential methods to obtain robust processing and good perfonnance with the zero ODP blowing agents being considered by the rigid foam industry.
Static Behaviour of a PVC Foam Composite Sandwich Panel
Authors: Martins Ferreira J.A. , Moreira da Costa J.D. , Branco C.M.
Published: June 2024

This paper reports a study on the static and creep behaviour of a new type of sandwich panel manufactured with a PVC foam in the core and two skins of fibre glass composite laminate. The skins and the foam are also linked by a fibre glass tie located in the centre of the panel. A series of experimental tests was performed in four point bending to evaluate the flexural properties and creep behaviour at room temperature. The skins were also tested in monotonic loading in tension and in creep tension. Within the range of crosshead speeds studies, only a slight influence was observed of the stiffness and strength of the skins in tension. The creep strain versus time curves for skins and panels has shown two distinct regions. For both cases, the primary creep was very short. The stiffness parameter E of the panels and skins was evaluated during the creep tests where a linear dependence of creep strain against logarithm of the time was observed.
Challenge to the Production of Low-Density, Fine-Cell HDPE Foams Using CO2t
Authors: Behravesh Amir H. , Park Chul B. , Venter Ronald D.
Published: June 2024

This paper presents an experimental study on the manufacture of low-density fine-cell high density polyethylene (HDPE) foams in extrusion using CO2 as a blowing agent. The strategies adopted to produce low-density, fine-cell HDPE foams were to generate a large number of cells by a rapid pressure drop, to suppress cell coalescence by strengthening the melt via melt temperature control, and to promote expansion by cooling the extrudate surface and blocking the gas escape. A continuous extrusion process has been designed and implemented based on these strategies. The concept of promoting large expansion while preventing cell coalescence to maintain a high cell density has been successfully demonstrated through experiments. Low-density, fine-cell HDPE foams were produced with a expansion ratio in the range of 1.5 - 20 times, a cell density on the order of 108 cells cm-3, and a cell size of the order of 50 µm.
Effcct of Amine Additives on Flexible, Molded Foam Properties
Authors: Zhang X.D. , Bertsch L.M. , Macosko C.W. , Turner R.B. , House D.W. , Scott R.V.
Published: June 2024

It is known that MbOCA [4,4'-methylene-bis(2-chloroaniline)] can improve the modulus of molded foams significantly. Due to a suspected health problem, it is not used in foam production in North America. Evaluation of amine additives with structures similar to MbOCA should provide information on how amine additives change the foam matrix morphology and its mechanical properties. These data could also guide the future design of new amine additives for a MbOCA replacement.

Four additives, MbOCA, DEOA [diethanolamine], Unilink™ 4200 [N,N’-dialkylamino-diphenylmethane] and Unilink™ 4100 [N,N'-di-sec-butyl-p-phenylenediamine] were evaluated in a standard TDI molded foam formulation. A molded foam without any additive was also tested as a reference. In-situ FTIR and modulus development during foaming were used to study the reaction kinetics of the foams. The cured foam matrix morphology was evaluated using IR, SAXS, DMS as well as extraction tests. Compression sets at 75% deflection were measured for all foams.

The data show that amine reactivity plays an important role in foam matrix morphology and final properties. If the amine additive reacts too fast, the urea phase separation will occur very early. This will hinder the gelling reaction and the urea phase will be ineffective in improving hard segment packing. This will lead to a poorer compression set and foam matrix modulus, as in the case of Unilink™ 4100. When its reactivity is lower, the amine additive can get incorporated into the hard segment effectively and increase both hard segment packing and content without significantly affecting the gelling reaction. This will lead to a much improved compression set and higher modulus. This is the case for both Unilink™ 4200 and MbOCA. DEOA can be incorporated into the system, but tends to disrupt hard segment packing and results in foam with much lower hardness.
The Effect of Additives on Microceliular PVC Foams: Part II. Tensile Behaviour
Authors: Kumar Vipin , Wellsr John E. , and Michelle Ma , Montecillo Romano , Kwapisz Robert R.
Published: June 2024

The effect of additives commonly used in PVC processing on the tensile behaviour of microceliular PVC was explored. Microceliular foams were produced from three different PVC formulations - one with a full range of additives, and two others with a minimum of additives. All formulations contained a basic level of internal lubricants required for extrusion. The results show no significant differences in the tensile properties between formulations.

It is concluded that the presence of additives has no detrimental effect on the tensile behaviour of microceliular PVC foams.
Pregnancy complicated by severe osteogenesis imperfecta poses a challenge for the anaesthetist: A case report
Authors: Yu Rou , Zhou Jieshu , Zhu Qing
Published: June 2024

Pregnant women with severe osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) are uncommon, and there are limited data regarding anaesthesia for caesarean section in these high-risk individuals. The presence of anatomical and physiological abnormalities can pose technical challenges for the anaesthetist. This report describes the successful implementation of epidural anaesthesia in a parturient with severe OI. To our knowledge, this is the first documented use of ultrasound-assisted neuraxial anaesthesia and wrist blood pressure monitoring in such patients undergoing caesarean section. Understanding the pathophysiological changes associated with OI is crucial for ensuring safe administration of anaesthesia to these women.
Perceptual task drives later fixations and long latency saccades, while early fixations and short latency saccades are more automatic
Authors: Metzger Anna , Ennis Robert John , Doerschner Katja , Toscani Matteo
Published: June 2024

We used a simple stimulus, dissociating perceptually relevant information in space, to differentiate between bottom-up and task-driven fixations. Six participants viewed a dynamic scene showing the reaction of an elastic object fixed to the ceiling being hit. In one condition they had to judge the object's stiffness and in the other condition its lightness. The results show that initial fixations tend to land in the centre of an object, independent of the task. After the initial fixation, participants tended to look at task diagnostic regions. This fixation behaviour correlates with high perceptual performance. Similarly, low-latency saccades lead to fixations that do not depend on the task, whereas higher latency does.
Labhairt na Gaeilge agus muintearas in Éirinn, i measc Gaeilgeoirí a bhfuil eitneachas agus náisiúntachtaí éagsúla acu
Authors: Watson Iarfhlaith , Posocco Lorenzo
Published: June 2024

Réamhfhocal

Sa staidéar píolótach seo rinneamar iniúchadh ar an gceangal atá ann idir labhairt na Gaeilge agus muintearas, ag díriú go sonrach ar chainteoirí Gaeilge ó chúlraí eitneacha agus/nó náisiúnta éagsúla i bPoblacht na hÉireann. Ghlac daoine, a raibh náisiúntachtaí agus eitneachtaí éagsúla acu, rannpáirt sa staidéar. Trí thaighde cáilíochtúil (ag amharc trí lionsa an náisiúnachais) rinneamar imscrúdú ar an gceist an dtugann labhairt na Gaeilge le mothú do dhaoine gur Éireannaigh iad. Ag an am céanna rinneamar scrúdú ar an eispéireas a bhí acu le daoine a bhí ag iarraidh iad a dhúnadh amach. Taispeánann ár dtorthaí an ról cumasaithe atá ag an nGaeilge do dhaoine ó chúlraí éagsúla, ag cuidiú leo imeascadh sa tsochaí, ag cuidiú leo cur i gcoinne an choimhthithe nó an chiníochais, agus i gcoinne daoine a cheistíonn cén fáth a bhfuil siad in Éirinn. Mar sin féin, d’fhéadfadh teannas a bheith ann idir Éireannaigh bhána agus iad siúd ó chúlraí éagsúla atá ina gcainteoirí Gaeilge, rud a thógann ceisteanna tábhachtacha maidir le coimhlintí agus toradh na gcoimhlintí sin. Tugann an staidéar seo bunléargais ar chúrsaí agus leagann sé béim ar an ngá atá le tuilleadh imscrúdaithe a dhéanamh sa réimse seo.
Comparative Digital Political Communication: Comparisons Across Countries, Platforms, and Time
Authors: Boulianne Shelley , Larsson Anders O.
Published: June 2024

Comparative communication research needs to catch up to other disciplines. In this special issue and the associated International Communication Association preconference, we focus on comparative work related to digital political communication. This introduction argues that comparative digital political communication needs to consider comparisons across various dimensions, including countries, platforms, and time, whereas existing comparative communication research focuses on country or territorial comparison. We highlight the six submissions’ approaches to comparative work. Each submission provides at least one of these three dimensions of contrast. We conclude with a discussion of enduring gaps in this field of research, such as the lack of studies using time as a dimension of comparison. Time is crucial for understanding ever-changing digital media platforms. We also conclude by discussing some ongoing challenges in political communication research.
Design and dynamic analysis of the scissor deployable mechanism used in the drill for replicating ice cores from the borehole wall
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Cao Pinlu , Cui Guoqing , Wang Han , Yin Qilei
Published: June 2024

The deep ice cores preserved within the polar ice sheets hold a wealth of valuable information, and the demand for ice cores in related scientific research is on the rise. Thus, the replication of ice cores from the borehole wall holds significant importance. However, current methods face limitations such as difficulties in whipstock retrieval, extended auxiliary working hours, structural complexity, and the necessity of ice core depth calibration. To address this, this study proposes a novel method for replicating ice cores from the borehole wall utilizing a thermal coring drill bit. The design and dynamic analysis of the scissor deployable mechanism employed to drive the drill bit movement were thoroughly examined through theoretical and simulation studies. The motion characteristics of the drill bit during the replication coring process and the stress–strain behavior of the scissor rods were determined and validated through drill bit movement experiments, demonstrating a maximum error of 10%. The findings reveal that the mechanism can meet the strength requirements across three operating stages: horizontal drilling, vertical coring, and ice core recovery, with maximum loads of approximately 284 N, 749 N, and 970 N, respectively. Increasing the thickness of the scissor rods and reducing their length can augment the load-bearing capacity of the structure. Additionally, the speed transmission characteristics derived from the scissor mechanism can offer theoretical support for the drill's control system.
Social issues relating to Vladimir Bekhterev’s concept of reflexology: a hitherto underestimated aspect of his work
Authors: Engmann Birk
Published: June 2024

This article investigates the diversity of social and political assertions in the work of Vladimir M Bekhterev. Its findings reveal that he drew social and political conclusions based on his doctrine of reflexology. Moreover, he propagated the use of statistical investigations by scientific and governmental institutions to estimate the social and healthcare needs of the population. These conclusions accord with Bekhterev’s desire for a transformation of society that would bring continued progress to people’s social and living conditions. Additionally, the findings of this research work also support the idea that Bekhterev should be regarded as an important protagonist of neuroethics, a relatively recent field of research.
Unearthing the pressures: An assessment of the sustainability focus and supply chain management practices adopted by global oil and gas titans
Authors: Okeke Augustine , Rahim Lukman Jimoh
Published: June 2024

This study aims to explore the influence of institutional pressures on the global oil and gas industry's prioritisation of sustainability and supply chain management (SCM) practices. This study conducted a thorough analysis of 15 prominent oil and gas companies across Europe, Asia and America over a span of 10 years. The study employed a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative content analysis of annual reports with quantitative analysis of variance to assess the companies’ commitment to sustainability practices in response to different institutional pressures. The findings uncovered notable variations in the prioritisation of economic, social, environmental and stakeholder sustainability across different continents. The study also highlighted various institutional pressures that impact these companies, including regulatory demands, Paris Agreement objectives and non-governmental organisation expectations. Notably, these companies displayed different levels of responsiveness to these pressures, which impacted their SCM and sustainability strategies. This research also highlights the intricate relationship between institutional pressures and sustainability within the oil and gas industry. This implies that companies should develop strong sustainability strategies that align with external pressures to improve their competitive advantage. For policymakers, the study suggests the development of more robust regulatory frameworks that consider the varying sustainability practices across different regions. Furthermore, it promotes the need for additional research to investigate the effectiveness of these strategies in real-world applications, establishing a foundation for well-informed policy choices that support a sustainable future in the oil and gas industry.
Point estimation of the 100p percent lethal dose using a novel penalised likelihood approach
Authors: Ma Yilei , Su Youpeng , Wang Peng , Yin Ping
Published: June 2024

Estimation of the 100 p percent lethal dose ([Formula: see text]) is of great interest to pharmacologists for assessing the toxicity of certain compounds. However, most existing literature focuses on the interval estimation of [Formula: see text] and little attention has been paid to its point estimation. Currently, the most commonly used method for estimating the [Formula: see text] is the maximum likelihood estimator (MLE), which can be represented as a ratio estimator, with the denominator being the slope estimated from the logistic regression model. However, the MLE can be seriously biased when the sample size is small, a common nature in such studies, or when the dose–response curve is relatively flat (i.e. the slope approaches zero). In this study, we address these issues by developing a novel penalised maximum likelihood estimator (PMLE) that can prevent the denominator of the ratio from being close to zero. Similar to the MLE, the PMLE is computationally simple and thus can be conveniently used in practice. Moreover, with a suitable penalty parameter, we show that the PMLE can (a) reduce the bias to the second order with respect to the sample size and (b) avoid extreme estimates. Through simulation studies and real data applications, we show that the PMLE generally outperforms the existing methods in terms of bias and root mean square error.
Public perception of new plant breeding techniques and the psychosocial determinants of acceptance: A systematic review
Authors: Paleologo Michele , Lanubile Alessandra , Camardo Leggieri Marco , Graffigna Guendalina , Gomarasca Paolo , Barello Serena
Published: June 2024

Advancements in New Plant Breeding Techniques have emerged as promising tools for enhancing crop productivity, quality, and resilience in the face of global challenges, such as climate change and food security. However, the successful implementation of these techniques relies also on public acceptance of this innovation. Understanding what shapes public perception and acceptance of New Plant Breeding Techniques is crucial for effective science communication, policymaking, and the sustainable adoption of these innovations. The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize existing research on the public perception of New Plant Breeding Techniques applied to food crops and explore the psychosocial determinants that influence acceptance. Twenty papers published between 2015 and 2023 were included on various New Plant Breeding Techniques and their reception by the general public. Determinants affecting the acceptance of food crops derived from New Plant Breeding Techniques were categorized into six areas: sociodemographic factors, perceived benefits and risks, attitudes toward science, communication strategies, personal values, and product characteristics.
Career Metaphors and Significant Childhood Experiences in Social Entrepreneurs’ Career Choice
Authors: Cohen Hilla , Baruch Oshrit Kaspi , Katz Hagai
Published: June 2024

This article examines the role of childhood experiences and metaphors in social entrepreneurs’ (SEs) career choice processes through a psychoanalytic lens. Metaphors are a unique projective tool to explore SEs’ subconscious processes. A total of 104 in-depth semi-structured interviews and 24 in-depth life-story interviews with SEs were conducted based on psychoanalytic theories emphasising family dynamics, childhood experiences and mental processes. The SEs were asked about significant childhood experiences and for a metaphor that describes their occupation. The metaphors they chose were justice fighter, caregiver, creator, leader and martyr. Thematic analysis showed specific recurrent significant negative childhood experiences, especially loneliness, family crisis and abuse and feeling lost, among others. Analysis revealed strong correspondence between specific metaphors and childhood experiences. Interpreted through a psychoanalytic lens, these findings denote compensation processes that underlie career choices and offer a deeper understanding of how and why SEs choose, develop and narrate their careers. In conclusion, using such psychoanalytical tools is recommended in SEs’ career training.
Integrative Functions of the Hypothalamus: Linking Cognition, Emotion and Physiology for Well-being and Adaptability
Authors: Goel Mansi , Mittal Aayushi , Jain Vijaya Raje , Bharadwaj Akshay , Modi Shivani , Ahuja Gaurav , Jain Ankur , Kumar Kaushal
Published: June 2024

Background

The hypothalamus, a small yet crucial neuroanatomical structure, integrates external (e.g., environmental) and internal (e.g., physiological/hormonal) stimuli. This integration governs various physiological processes and influences cognitive, emotional, and behavioral outcomes. It serves as a functional bridge between the nervous and endocrine systems, maintaining homeostasis and coordinating bodily functions.

Recent advancements in the neurobiology of the hypothalamus have elucidated its functional map, establishing a causal relationship between its responses—such as respiration, sleep, and stress—and various physiological processes. The hypothalamus facilitates and coordinates these complex processes by processing diverse stimuli, enabling the body to maintain internal balance and respond effectively to external demands. This review delves into the hypothalamus’s intricate connections with cognition, emotion, and physiology, exploring how these interactions promote overall well-being and adaptability.

Key Message

Targeted external stimuli can modulate hypothalamic neuronal activities, impacting the physiological, cognitive, and emotional landscape. The review highlights non-invasive techniques, such as controlled breathing exercises, optimized sleep architecture, and stress management, as potential methods to enhance hypothalamic function. Ultimately, this comprehensive review underscores the multifaceted role of the hypothalamus in integrating signals, maintaining homeostasis, and influencing cognition, emotion, and physiology.
Knowledge, Adherence, and Satisfaction With Warfarin Therapy and Associated Factors Among Outpatients at University Teaching Hospital in Ethiopia
Authors: Tadesse Tamrat Assefa , Yadeta Dejuma , Chelkeba Legese , Gebremedhin Amha , Fenta Teferi Gedif
Published: June 2024

Anticoagulation management using warfarin is challenging in clinical practice. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, adherence, and satisfaction with warfarin therapy and associated factors among outpatients at the Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. An interview-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 350 patients receiving warfarin therapy at cardiac and hematology clinics of TASH. Anticoagulation knowledge assessment (AKA) questionnaires assessed the patients’ warfarin knowledge. Adherence to warfarin was evaluated using the Morisky Green Levine Scale (MGLS), and patient satisfaction with warfarin therapy was assessed using the 17-item anticlot treatment scale (ACTS). Binary logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with the outcome variables, and p < .05 was used as the cut-off point to declare a significant association. The mean AKA score was 59.35  ±  13.04% (10.68  ±  2.34 correct answers), and 82 (23.4%) of participants achieved a passing score. Based on the MGLS, 192 (54.9%) study participants adhered well to warfarin. The mean level of satisfaction was 53.67  ±  8.56, with mean scores of 41.93  ±  7.80 and 11.74  ±  2.43 in the ACTS burden and benefit subscales, respectively. One hundred eighty-four (52.6%) patients were satisfied with warfarin therapy. The absence of hyperthyroidism was significantly associated with poor knowledge of warfarin therapy (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 4.28, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–18.22). Those living with family had a 56% lower chance of poor warfarin adherence (AOR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.21–0.93) than those living alone. This study shows room for improvement in patient knowledge, adherence, and satisfaction with warfarin therapy.
Testing a Brief Quitline Intervention for Tobacco Cannabis Co-Users: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Carpenter Kelly M. , Walker Denise D. , Mullis Kristina , Berlin Helena M. , Short Etta , Javitz Harold S. , Carlini Beatriz H.
Published: June 2024

Background: Tobacco cannabis co-use is common and becoming more prevalent. Frequent and heavy users of cannabis may struggle to quit smoking. Quitlines offer free cessation treatment in the United States and 25% of quitline callers may also be cannabis users. The present paper describes a randomized pilot study of a tailored intervention for cannabis and cigarette co-users. The intervention combines the quitline smoking cessation treatment with a motivational enhancement therapy-based cannabis intervention. Methods: The randomized pilot study was conducted within four state-funded quitlines with quitline coaches as interventionists. 102 quitline callers who were cannabis and cigarette co-users were randomized to receive treatment as usual (TAU) or the new Quitline Check-Up (QLCU) intervention. Outcomes were collected 90 days post-randomization. Primary outcomes included feasibility and acceptability of delivering the QLCU in the quitline setting. Secondary outcomes included 7-day point prevalence tobacco abstinence, past 30-day cannabis use, and Cannabis Use Disorder Identification Test scores.

Results: Study participants were heavy cannabis users, averaging 25 days of use in the past 30; nearly 70% used at a level considered hazardous. Fidelity ratings indicated coaches were successful at delivering the intervention. Treatment engagement was high for both groups (TAU m = 3.4 calls; QLCU m = 3.6 calls) as was treatment satisfaction. Intent-to-treat quit rates (with survey non-responders classified as smokers) were 28.6% for the TAU control group and 24.5% for the QLCU group ( P = .45). Discussion: Hazardous cannabis use rates were high in this sample of tobacco cannabis co-users calling quitlines to quit smoking. The intervention for co-users was acceptable and feasible to deliver. No improvements in tobacco cessation outcomes were observed. Pragmatic intervention development within a real-world clinical setting can streamline the intervention development process. More research is needed on tobacco cannabis co-users and who can benefit from a tailored intervention. Registered: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04737772, February 4, 2021.
Autistic adults in China and the Netherlands: Proxy-reported community integration and life satisfaction
Authors: Liu Fangyuan , Begeer Sander , Hoekstra Rosa A , Wang Chongying , Scheeren Anke M
Published: June 2024

Despite an estimated population of 10 million autistic individuals, there is still a significant lack of research on autistic adults in China. This study aimed to investigate the extent and factors influencing community integration (employment, independent living and friendship) and life satisfaction among young autistic adults in China, and compare them with an autistic adult sample with similar characteristics (58%–63% with a reported IQ below 70) from the Netherlands. Data were collected via online surveys to the caregivers of 99 young autistic adults (18–30 years) in China and 109 in the Netherlands, because the autistic adults were not able to fill in the survey independently. Autistic adults in both countries were reported to have limited community integration, as indicated by low rates of employment, limited independent living and few close friendships. Proxy-reported life satisfaction of autistic adults seemed relatively low in both countries, but even lower in Chinese adults, possibly due to limited awareness and acceptance of autism in China, inadequate or inaccessible support services, higher parenting stress, or general cross-country differences in well-being. In general, the findings indicate a common challenge faced by autistic adults with high support needs in both China and the Netherlands.

Lay abstract

Even though there are about 10 million Chinese autistic individuals, we know little about autistic adults in China. This study examined how well young autistic adults in China integrate into their communities (such as having a job, living independently and having friends) and how satisfied they are with their lives as reported by their caregivers. We compared them to autistic adults with similar characteristics (such as high support needs) from the Netherlands. We included 99 autistic adults in China and 109 in the Netherlands (18–30 years). In both countries, autistic adults were reported to have a hard time fitting into their communities. They often had no work, did not live on their own and had few close friends. Also, in both countries, caregivers reported that autistic adults felt low satisfaction with their life. Chinese adults were less satisfied with their life than Dutch adults, as indicated by their caregivers. This could be because of a lack of support for autistic adults in China, higher parental stress in Chinese caregivers, or general cross-country differences in happiness. Only in the Dutch group, younger compared with older adults fitted better into their communities, and adults without additional psychiatric conditions were reported to have higher life satisfaction. Country was a significant predictor of independent living only, with Dutch participants more likely living in care facilities than Chinese participants. In conclusion, our study shows that autistic adults with high support needs generally face similar challenges in both China and the Netherlands.
Nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy dataset(NDRD): A database for diabetic retinopathy screening research and deep learning evaluation
Authors: Liang Xing , Wen Haiqi , Duan Yajian , He Kan , Feng Xiufang , Zhou Guohong
Published: June 2024

Objectives: In this article, we provide a database of nonproliferative diabetes retinopathy, which focuses on early diabetes retinopathy with hard exudation, and further explore its clinical application in disease recognition. Methods: We collect the photos of nonproliferative diabetes retinopathy taken by Optos Panoramic 200 laser scanning ophthalmoscope, filter out the pictures with poor quality, and label the hard exudative lesions in the images under the guidance of professional medical personnel. To validate the effectiveness of the datasets, five deep learning models are used to perform learning predictions on the datasets. Furthermore, we evaluate the performance of the model using evaluation metrics. Results: Nonproliferative diabetes retinopathy is smaller than proliferative retinopathy and more difficult to identify. The existing segmentation models have poor lesion segmentation performance, while the intersection over union ( IOU) value for deep lesion segmentation of models targeting small lesions can reach 66.12%, which is higher than ordinary lesion segmentation models, but there is still a lot of room for improvement. Conclusion: The segmentation of small hard exudative lesions is more challenging than that of large hard exudative lesions. More targeted datasets are needed for model training. Compared with the previous diabetes retina datasets, the NDRD dataset pays more attention to micro lesions.
Mechanism study on the interaction effects of shaking table array-test structure
Authors: Zhang Xiangyi , Wang Juke
Published: June 2024

To study the interaction mechanism of shaking table-test structure in shaking table test, an analytical model of shaking table array-test structure was established. Based on the analytical model, the influence of structure damping, frequency, and shaking table output on the accuracy of shaking table test was analysed. The analysis showed that compared with the actual frequency and theoretical response of the test structure, the measured structure frequency is decreased by 6.3%, and the peak value of seismic response of test structure is amplified 1.96 times. The interaction leads to 32% reduction of the waveform reproduction performance of shaking table. At the structure frequency and its surrounding frequency bands, the amplitude–frequency characteristic of shaking table is amplified 5.26 times, and the phase lag is 122.38° in the phase–frequency characteristic of shaking table. Based on the above results, it was indicated that the method that taking the output of shaking table as the input of structure will cause significant accuracy reduction when the interaction cannot be ignored. Finally, suggestions were given to improve the accuracy of shaking table test.
Dynamics analysis and chatter control of a polishing and milling nonideal flexible manipulator
Authors: Lima Jeferson J , Balthazar José M , Ribeiro Mauricio A , Tusseti Angelo M , Kudra Grzegorz , Awrejcewicz Jan
Published: June 2024

Some robots are designed to be lightweight and flexible, enabling them to access small and challenging paths in various applications. These features enable robots to collaborate with humans in performing specific production tasks. However,the movement of the flexible manipulator can become self-excited when handling a cutting tool on a workpiece, which can lead to a control problem. This article presents a control solution for lightweight robotic manipulators with rotating tools, such as polishing and milling, using smart actuators. The control discretization method is also introduced to facilitate integration into digital controllers. The paper starts by describing the governing equations of the non-ideal flexible manipulator for polishing and milling and analysing its dynamic behavior. Subsequently, models for the controllers of the DC motor-only actuators and the hybrid (shape memory alloy and DC motors) actuators were formulated using shape memory alloy and a suboptimal control scheme known as the discrete state-dependent Riccati equation. The coupled system was analysed dynamically, and it was observed that it exhibits chaotic behavior. The results suggest that incorporating smart actuators into the motor group of the system could decrease the positioning error of the manipulator and significantly reduce the oscillation of the robot’s end-effector.
Place, space and time: A topological perspective of a forest school-based educational mode of existence
Authors: Unsworth Ruth
Published: June 2024

This paper explores the question: ‘how do teachers shape children’s connections to forest places and establish educational ways of being and knowing (an educational mode of existence) during Forest School sessions?’. A Forest School ‘movement’ has grown in popularity in Europe over the last decade, alongside a marked expansion in the field of learning outside the classroom (LOTC). Part of this movement has focused on the importance of developing children’s relationship with nature. However, little literature speaks to how child-nature relationships manifest, nor implications for educational ways of being (and knowing). This paper steps outside of popularised notions of ‘nature deficit disorder’ to reimagine Forest Schooling as intentional construction of a specific educational mode of existence, reliant upon careful evolution of children’s connections to forest places. The term ‘place’ is necessarily complicated in this paper, arguing that only through recent developments in (social) topological perspectives and theories of modes of existence can we begin to fully understand place connection. Drawing on ethnographic data, this paper argues for greater focus on intersections between materiality and meaning constructed in multidimensional time and space in establishing educational modes of existence and related place connections.
Teaching Students About Race and Racism: Navigating Dimensions of Political Ideology
Authors: Long Kelly
Published: June 2024

This teaching case explores the complexities of teaching students about race and racism, a struggle complicated by political efforts to restrict the discussion of critical educational theories. It emphasizes the political ideologies that faculty must consider as they teach in an academic setting. The case narrative illuminates the complexity of diverse and divisive political ideologies that veer from scholarship into emotion. This case offers questions for further reflection on solutions to these challenges.