bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Optimization Algorithm for Motor Design with Adaptive Weights Based on GNN Representation
Authors: Zhang Guojun , Huang Weidong , Zhou Tong
Published: November 2024

Motor design involves multiple complex parameters, and traditional methods rely on experience and experimentation, which are inefficient and difficult to optimize. With the rapid development of emerging industries such as electric vehicles and intelligent manufacturing, the performance requirements for motors are constantly increasing. Optimizing design under multi-objective and multi-constraint conditions has become a key challenge. To address this, this paper proposes a motor design performance optimization algorithm based on Graph Neural Networks (GNN) representation and adaptive weighting. GNN, as a deep learning model capable of handling complex structured data, can model the multi-parameter relationships in motor design and automatically extract key features through its feature propagation mechanism, thus overcoming the difficulty of capturing parameter dependencies with traditional methods. At the same time, Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) provides a powerful global optimization tool that can find the global optimal solution when dealing with complex decision variables and constraints, overcoming the shortcomings of traditional optimization algorithms in terms of global convergence. Moreover, the adaptive weighting mechanism allows the optimization algorithm to dynamically adjust the weights according to the influence of parameters on motor performance, ensuring the accuracy and adaptability of optimization results in different scenarios. Through the organic combination of these three methods, this paper aims to solve the problems of low efficiency, poor global convergence, and inability to dynamically adjust the importance of design parameters in traditional motor design optimization. By introducing advanced machine learning models and optimization algorithms, this work constructs an efficient motor design performance optimization framework.
Sustainable supply chain management in U.S. healthcare: Strategies for reducing environmental impact without compromising access
Authors: Samuel Ajibola Dada  , Faith Chidinma Okonkwo  , Yvonne Makafui Cudjoe-Mensah
Published: November 2024

The U.S. healthcare sector’s supply chain operations are responsible for about 8.5% of all national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In healthcare, traditional supply chain management has focused on cost efficiency to the detriment of environmental considerations leading to higher emissions, waste, and resource depletion. The focus of this study is to investigate strategies for making sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) in the U.S. healthcare system, while reducing environmental impact at minimal cost to patient care quality. The objectives of the study are to evaluate the current state of healthcare supply chains, explore sustainable practices, evaluate emerging technologies, propose an SSCM implementation framework, and explore policy implications. Sustainable supply chain management can be achieved by forming the key strategies: comprehensive waste reduction and recycling programs, adoption of energy efficient transportation and storage solutions, green energy sourcing, and use of data driven inventory management that would help optimize inventory, along with other technologies like blockchain, IoT and artificial intelligence that could achieve transparency and efficiency. The research wouldn't go into specific case studies but would likely look at institutions that have already been able to implement these practices. The findings indicate that considerable environmental footprint reduction of the U.S. healthcare sector is possible without sacrificing access to high quality care through adoption of SSCM practices. But it requires joint efforts from policymakers, healthcare providers and industry partners. The long-term goal is a sustainable, resilient healthcare system that will integrate environmental stewardship with high quality care, that will help mitigate climate change and acknowledge the interdependence of environmental and human health.
Dorgan’s lateral cross pinning for displaced pediatric supracondylar fractures of the distal humerus
Authors: Robin Shrestha
Published: November 2024

Background: Supracondylar humeral fractures are the most common elbow fracturesseen in children. Although closed reduction and percutaneous pin fixation is the treatment of choice for displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children, controversy about which pin configuration is best in treating these fractures is ongoing. Some advocate lateral entry pins only while others advocate medial and lateral entry pins. In this study I utilized Dorgan’s cross lateral technique to fix such fractures which is believed to have the advantages of both the conventional pinning techniques. Objectives:To evaluate the functional and cosmetic outcome and complications of cross lateral pinning. Methods: Thirty cases of supracondylar humeral fractures were treated by closed or open reduction with cross lateral pin fixation under fluoroscopic guidance. The elbow was immobilized for a period of 4 weeks after which the pins were removed and physiotherapy initiated. At the end of 12 weeks the patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically and final results were assessed as per Flynn’s criteria. Results: According to Flynn’s criteria, the cosmetic result in my study was evaluated as excellent in 25 cases (83%) and good in 5 cases (17%) and functional result was evaluated as excellent cases in 23 (77%) and good in 7cases (23%). There were no cases of post operative loss of reduction of fractures. Six cases (20%) had pin tract infection while 24 patients (80%) had no complications at all. Conclusions: Cross lateral method of pinning for treating supracondylar fractures is a useful method of fixation as it gives stabilization like medio-lateral pinning and minimizes the risk of injuring the ulnar nerve like lateral pinning.
Knowledge absorptive capacity of e-commerce firms: The moderating role of industry competition
Authors: Tuan Minh NGUYEN
Published: November 2024

This study examines knowledge absorptive capacity (ACAP) in e-commerce firms, focusing on the moderating role of industry competition (IC). Leveraging Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with data from Vietnamese e-commerce firms, we explore the impact of internal factors, including accumulated knowledge, leadership style, IT capability, knowledge management capability, and organizational structure, on ACAP. Our findings indicate that each factor significantly contributes to enhancing ACAP, with leadership style showing consistently strong effects across different firm sizes. Furthermore, IC amplifies the impact of certain internal factors, especially in medium and large enterprises, emphasizing the importance of accumulated knowledge and leadership in competitive environments. Notably, IT capability, while crucial in medium and large firms, shows limited effects in mega enterprises, suggesting a shift in resource prioritization at higher organizational scales. This study adds to ACAP literature by underscoring the dynamic relationship between competitive pressures and internal resources. Practical recommendations are provided for e-commerce managers to enhance ACAP strategically by aligning resources with market demands. This research highlights the importance of firm size and competitive intensity in shaping the absorptive capabilities crucial for maintaining competitive advantage in fast-evolving markets.
Assessing Narcissistic Patterns: A Comprehensive Approach with the Narcissistic Personality Patterns Test (NPPT)
Authors: Amita Puri  , Poonam Nayar  , Swati Sandhu  , BrahmDeep Sandhu  , Srishti Bhatt  , Meetali Chhabra Arora
Published: November 2024

The Narcissistic Personality Patterns Test (NPPT) is a rigorously designed assessment tool aimed at identifying narcissistic traits across seven key dimensions: grandiosity, attention-seeking, lack of empathy, entitlement, exploitative behavior, envy, and arrogance. This tool bridges the gap in existing measures by providing a multidimensional approach to understanding narcissistic behavior patterns, emphasizing both clinical utility and research applicability. With high reliability and validity, the NPPT offers psychometric strength, allowing practitioners to diagnose narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), guide interventions, and monitor therapeutic progress. Additionally, the NPPT serves as a valuable tool in research settings to explore the impact of narcissistic traits on various psychological and social phenomena. This paper outlines the conceptual foundation, development process, scoring methodology, and implications for the NPPT in enhancing the accurate assessment of narcissistic personality patterns.
A Comprehensive Review of Pfu DNA Polymerase: Extraction, Production and Applications
Authors: Hafiza Amna Farooq  , Umer Ahmed  , Zarfeen Fatima  , Muhammad Tabish
Published: November 2024

Pfu DNA Polymerase, a thermostable enzyme derived from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus, is widely recognized for its high fidelity and strong processivity. Its 3'-5' exonuclease activity makes it indispensable for the correct amplification of both short and complex DNA strands. These biochemical properties of Pfu DNA Polymerase have encouraged considerable advancements in its extraction and production methods. This review covers some of the traditional approaches for purification, including protein purification and affinity chromatography, and updates on recent advances in recombinant gene expression, automated systems of production, and membrane-based technologies. New ways of engineering enzymes have recently been developed, such as CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene optimization, which raised the bar on extraction efficiency to meet emerging demand. Once challenging, Pfu DNA Polymerase production has been significantly streamlined through recombinant expression in E. coli both at a laboratory and commercial scale. The optimization techniques that are involved with IPTG concentration and Response Surface Methodology have increased the yield by up to 30%. Auto-induction means even higher biomass outputs are allowed. Today, applications of Pfu DNA Polymerase span from standard PCR up to advanced clinical diagnostics in the fields of molecular biology, forensic analysis, clinical microbiology, and biotechnology.
Comprehensive review on advanced antipyretic and anti-nociceptic agents: Efficacy; safety and emerging therapies
Authors: Vidya Niwas  , Sanjita Das  , Umar Ashfaque
Published: November 2024

Fever; characterized by an increased core temperature; is a complex physiological reaction to illness involving acute-phase reactants and many physiological; endocrinological; and immunological systems. Antipyretics; chiefly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol; are essential for the management of fever and related discomfort. These medicines primarily function by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes; so diminishing the production of prostaglandin E2 in the hypothalamus and subsequently decreasing the thermal set point. Although paracetamol is acknowledged for its safety when utilized correctly; it presents concerns of hepatic toxicity and overdose; requiring vigilant monitoring; especially in pediatric patients or those with concomitant conditions. Conversely; ibuprofen typically has greater antipyretic efficacy; particularly in pediatric populations; although its application may be constrained by gastrointestinal adverse effects and renal considerations. Recent breakthroughs in this domain concentrate on improving the safety and efficacy of antipyretic drugs; particularly for at-risk populations such as the elderly and children. Innovations like COX-2 selective inhibitors and advanced delivery technologies; including nanomedicine; offer exciting opportunities for enhancing pain management and fever therapy. Future study should emphasize the customization of therapy according to pharmacodynamics; possible drug interactions; and patient attributes to enhance therapeutic results. An interdisciplinary approach is crucial for the appropriate management of fever and pain; enhancing patient welfare and progressing clinical practices in antipyretic and antinociceptive therapies.
Examining the faculty factors influencing Bachelor of Science Nursing (BScN) students’ mentorship in universities in Kenya
Authors: Anne Asiko Okanga
Published: November 2024

Student support is dynamic and requires all-round preparation of faculty as well as their ability to support the learners in navigating the learning environment. This ability can only be understood through understanding the preparation and perception of faculty that can pause a facilitator or inhibiter of the desired end. The aim of the study was to examine faculty factors influencing Bachelor of Science Nursing (BScN) students’ mentorship in universities in Kenya by examining perception of faculty on availability and training on mentorship, assessing the implications of faculty workload and training on student mentorship and evaluating the perception of faculty on BScN student peer mentorship. The study was cross sectional with qualitative approach of data being applied. Study was conducted on faculty in nursing schools at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), Great Lakes University of Kisumu (GLUK), Uzima University and University of East Africa Baraton (UEAB). Results indicated that majority of the participants in the schools did not have requisite training to conduct mentorship and therefore felt inadequately prepared to engage in mentorship. However, majority felt that if peer mentorship structures were put in place and implemented, it would be worth, efficient and effective in supporting learners to socially adjust hence succeed in their academics. In conclusion, training of faculty, faculty workload and faculty perception of peer mentorship influenced student mentorship in universities in Kenya.
The use of assistive technology by visually impaired students
Authors: Taxiarchis Vouglanis
Published: November 2024

The present study examines the use of assistive technology by visually impaired students. Examining research conducted both in Greece and abroad shows that assistive technology can contribute to meeting the needs of visually impaired students, but there are still difficulties and obstacles that should be addressed. It was also seen that assistive technology in the case of students with visual impairments can provide benefits but there can be further development and it is important to integrate it into formal education.
The impact of sleep on neurodevelopmental disorders and the contribution of ICT in improving sleep quality in adolescents and adults
Authors: Maria Lialiou
Published: November 2024

Sleep is an essential process for the human body, contributing to the optimal functioning of the brain and the immune system, aiding in stress management, and overall enhancing quality of life. The relationship between sleep and neurodevelopmental disorders is bidirectional; sleep is influenced by specific disorders, while symptoms of these disorders are exacerbated by sleep problems. This article aims to explore the significance of sleep in the context of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Specific Learning Disorder through a literature review. Additionally, the research concludes that leveraging Information and Communication Technology (ICT), such as virtual reality, digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (DCBT-I), smartphone applications, and the Internet of Things (IoT), can contribute to improving sleep quality in adolescents and adults.
Study on correlation between Vitamin D status and proinflammatory cytokines in children with RSV bronchiolitis
Authors: Gena Stoykova Petkova  , Eleonora Nikolaeva Mineva  , Maria Pavlinova Petkova
Published: November 2024

The objective of our study was to evaluate vitamin D status and serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) alongside the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, in order to investigate their correlation with the incidence and severity of acute RSV bronchiolitis in children. The study included 39 children, aged 1 month to 2 years, divided into two subgroups: children with acute RSV bronchiolitis (n=20) and a control group of healthy children (n=19). No significant difference in vitamin D status was found between the patient and control groups. The patient group exhibited elevated levels of IL-1β and TNF-α compared to healthy children, while IL-6 levels did not differ significantly between the two groups. Correlation analysis demonstrated a positive, statistically significant association between IL-6 and TNF-α. However, no statistically significant correlations were observed between the severity of broncho obstructive syndrome and other indicators, including 25(OH)D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP. Furthermore, no correlation was found between vitamin D levels and any of the cytokines. These findings suggest that while inflammatory markers may play a role in RSV bronchiolitis, vitamin D status does not appear to be a contributing factor to the incidence or severity of the disease in the pediatric population studied.
Left atrial decompression during veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation using a single multi-stage drainage cannula with a transseptal approach: Clinical significance and medical management of LAVA ECMO
Authors: Cody R. Jones
Published: November 2024

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is a life-support treatment used in critically ill patients that temporarily acts as the heart and lungs. It is used in numerous clinical scenarios where the patient’s heart and/or lungs are too sick to work on their own. With ECMO, a patient’s blood is removed from the body and pumped through an artificial lung, where oxygen is added and carbon dioxide is removed. There are two types of ECMO support: VV ECMO and VA ECMO. VV ECMO is used when a patient’s lungs need additional support, and VA ECMO is used when a patient’s heart and lungs need additional support. Although ECMO therapy can be life-saving, it is a supportive therapy, not a disease-modifying treatment. There are numerous techniques and strategies used to implement ECMO, all in which come with their own risks, complications, and possible emergencies. Cannulation strategy is determined by a multitude of factors, such as materials available, patient presentation, concurrent venous/arterial access, specific patient anatomy, clinical diagnosis, provider training, etc. One major complication specific to VA ECMO is left ventricular overload, which can create a lethal cascade of issues for a patient receiving this mode of support. This manuscript will discuss the products and materials needed, cannulation techniques, configurations, and clinical significance of left atrial veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (LAVA ECMO). We will focus on clinical scenarios that allow for LAVA ECMO and unique considerations for this complex cannulation strategy. Additionally, we will address the use of LAVA ECMO in patients where traditional left atrial venting and decompression techniques are contraindicated. Finally, current data pertaining to patient outcomes related to the use of LAVA ECMO will be discussed in length, giving a synopsis of the benefits of using a single multi-stage drainage cannula with a transseptal approach for left atrial decompression in VA ECMO
An Analysis of the Health Literacy Levels of Students in A Public University's Faculty of Health Sciences
Authors: Yildiz Olgun , Şahin Ayşe
Published: November 2024

Aim: This study aimed to assess the health literacy levels of students in the Faculty of Health Sciences at a public university and to investigate the relationships and differences between participants' sociodemographic characteristics and their health literacy levels.
Methods: The study employed a quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational research design. Data were gathered through face-to-face surveys, utilizing a socio-demographic data form and the THLS-32 scale. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS 22.00. Descriptive statistics, including frequency distributions, percentages, standard deviations, and arithmetic means, were calculated. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to evaluate the normality of data distribution, which revealed a non-normal distribution. As a result, non-parametric tests (Mann-Whitney U Test and Kruskal-Wallis H Test) were applied. Correlation analyses were performed using Spearman’s Rho coefficient, and statistical significance was evaluated at a 95% confidence interval with a 5% margin of error.
Results: The findings indicated that 66.3% of participants exhibited sufficient or excellent health literacy levels. Female students had significantly higher TS-AI perceptions than male students. Health Management (HM) students demonstrated higher health literacy levels compared to Emergency Aid and Disaster Management (EADM) students. The highest literacy levels were observed among final-year students, and students with social security had higher TS perceptions than those without.
Conclusion: The study concluded that the health literacy levels of students in the Faculty of Health Sciences were generally high, with significant differences based on gender, department, academic year, and social security status. These findings suggest a need for targeted strategies to improve health literacy, particularly among students in certain departments and those without social security
Facial hair is increasingly associated with dominance, but not trustworthiness in childhood
Authors: Nelson Nicole L. , Mondloch Catherine J. , Dixson Barnaby
Published: November 2024

How face perceptions unfold during ontogeny shapes how humans navigate adult social life. A vast literature implicates variation in sexually dimorphic facial characteristics in guiding judgments relating to suites of key life choices, ranging from partner choices to preferences for leaders. Although growing evidence supports that facial morphology underpins children’s first impressions from faces, whether these impressions influence children’s predictions about others’ behaviour remains unclear. We contrasted the influence of men’s facial hair, a highly sexually dimorphic masculine trait, on children’s explicit (Who looks strong/trustworthy) vs. implicit first impressions (Who do you want to tell your secret to/fight dragons?). While reading a storybook, children (N = 80; 4.5-12.0 years) and adults (N = 134), selected one of two twins (two images of the same identity, one bearded and one clean-shaven) to help them face a challenge requiring either a trustworthy or a dominant social partner. In control tasks, participants selected the strongest and most trustworthy member of each pair and then pointed to which face regions informed their decision. In the implicit task, both the probability of selecting a bearded partner and differential selection of bearded partners as a function of relevant trait increased with age. Selections in the explicit task were more adult-like and age-related changes in which facial cues participants used was surprisingly small. Thus, adult-like patterns in predicting other’s behaviour based on facial cues to trustworthiness and dominance lag behind adult-like patterns in inferring traits based on facial cues, potentially because first impressions are of unreliable.
Sub-clinical traits of ADHD and ASD have similar effects on orientation sensitivity but those effects result from different underlying causes
Authors: VARBANOV VESKO , Overton Paul , Stafford Tom
Published: November 2024

Objectives: Research suggests that ADHD and ASD are similar in sensory processing impairments, however this has not been previously assessed psychophysically. Previous work further suggests that comorbid conditions, especially anxiety, play a role in the relationship between ADHD, ASD and sensory processing. Here, we formally test if orientation discrimination performance is differentially related to the levels of ADHD/ASD traits in a sub-clinical sample and whether anxiety plays a role in that relationship.Methods: We evaluate visual discrimination thresholds in participants exhibiting sub-clinical levels of ADHD or ASD traits through an orientation discrimination task. This is achieved using a method of constant stimuli within a two-alternative forced-choice paradigm, employing an adaptive, randomly interleaved staircase procedure with a one-up-three-down design. We then compare these pre-consciously inferred results to self reported traits of anxiety, ADHD and ASD traits via correlational analysis and further seek to investigate the possible mediating role of anxiety between the traits and the thresholds through a mediation analysis.Results: We find that ADHD and ASD-like traits present with similar levels of sensory processing impairments. However, panic and generalised anxiety are critically involved in and mediate fully or partially only the relationship between ADHD-hyperactive traits and the discrimination thresholds. Such patterns did not present for any of the ASD traits. Conclusions: These findings suggest that ADHD and ASD are separate from each other and that their seemingly similar sensory expressions are only connected via intermediary conditions
Tuning in to the prosody of a novel language is easier without orthography
Authors: Chladkova Katerina , Podlipský Václav Jonáš , Jaruskova Lucie , Simackova Sarka
Published: November 2024

Mastering prosody is a different task for adults learning a second language and infants acquiring their first. While prosody crucially aids the process of L1 acquisition, for adult L2 learners it is often considerably challenging. Is it because of an age-related decline of the language-learning ability or because of unfavourable learning conditions? We investigated whether adults can auditorily sensitise to the prosody of a novel language, and whether such sensitisation is affected by orthographic input. After 5 minutes of exposure to Māori, Czech listeners could reliably recognize this language in a post-test using low-pass filtered clips of Māori and Malay. Recognition accuracy was lower for participants exposed to the novel-language speech along with deep-orthography transcriptions or orthography with unfamiliar characters. Adults can thus attune to novel-language prosody, but orthography hampers this ability. Language-learning theories and applications may need to reconsider the consequences of providing orthographic input to beginning second-language learners.
The Resolution of Affective Reactivity to Stressful Events
Authors: Kaurin Aleksandra , Vize Colin , Wright Aidan G.C.
Published: November 2024

Repeated assessments in everyday life allow for ecologically valid data on dynamic, within-person stress processes. However, typical designs offer little information the immediate shape of affective responses following daily stressors, including the influence of situational and person-level variables. In a combined clinical and community sample (N=248; recruited between 2016 and 2018), we employed a high-density intensive-longitudinal protocol (observations N=1442) to capture the temporal dynamics of affect in response to daily stressful events using a microburst design. Specifically, we implemented an adaptive signal-contingent schedule, where an initial stressor report triggered an intense burst of prompts in 15-minute increments over the course of one hour inquiring about momentary affect. To model affective microtrajectories, we used multilevel structural equation modeling. A piecewise linear model consistently showed the best fit across all indices for both negative and positive affect. Affective responses to momentarily experienced stressors were best captured by a model that allowed for changes in affect trajectories over time (an initial steep decline/increase followed by gradual change), with more stressful situations amplifying these trajectories. Moreover, Extraversion significantly influenced the initial rise in positive affect, leading to more pronounced early changes in those with higher levels of Extraversion. In contrast, Neuroticism had an opposite effect on positive affect, dampening these early changes. Results offer a detailed understanding of daily stress dynamics by providing insights into the immediate and evolving nature of affective responses to stress, with implications for personalized stress management strategies.
De l’ombilic du rêve à l’éthique du désir : Lacan et le renouvellement de la psychanalyse au-delà de l’egopsychology
Authors: GRIECO Anthony
Published: November 2024

Ce travail explore les fondements et les limites de l’interprétation freudienne du rêve, en s’appuyant sur le célèbre rêve d’Irma pour illustrer les tensions théoriques et épistémologiques qui traversent la psychanalyse dès sa naissance. Freud, dans sa quête d’une légitimité scientifique, construit un modèle d’interprétation ancré dans les exigences de la médecine clinique, mais laisse certains aspects du rêve inexplorés, notamment le point de l’ombilic. Ce point obscur, que Freud mentionne mais ne développe pas, sera repris par Lacan comme un lieu théorique essentiel pour articuler la notion du réel et de l’objet a. En s’emparant de ce « reste » freudien, Lacan redonne à la psychanalyse une orientation qui dépasse les logiques de l’ego-psychology pour remettre au centre le désir inconscient et la structure symbolique. Cet article propose ainsi une analyse des apports lacaniens qui, en réinvestissant les zones inachevées de Freud, réinsufflent une dynamique essentielle à la psychanalyse contemporaine.
Beyond Temperature: How the Heat Index 35 Shapes Environmental, Social, and Governance Standards
Authors: Drago Carlo , Leogrande Angelo
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the implications of high HI35 days, which increase the demand for water and energy supplies, overconsumption, and higher emissions induced by cooling demand. Socially, HI35 is associated with health morbidity and loss in labor productivity; hence, policies directed at protection of the well-being of the poor, such as improved access to health care and good working conditions, become increasingly relevant. Extreme heat, besides, accelerates resource competition that may further develop into a civil instability, which affects governance structures. The nation will be assisted in addressing the impacts brought forward by HI35 through resilient infrastructure policy, good governance practice, and sustainable resource management. This paper, therefore, concludes that integrated policy action in ESG will be urgently needed to address the risk from extreme heat and calls for adaptive strategies that move toward environmental sustainability, social equity, and effective governance. Finally, HI35 is helpful to guide policy responses against different and interwoven challenges of extreme heat on sustainable development.
A Narrative Theory of Alienation
Authors: Guhin Jeffrey , Duran Eduardo
Published: November 2024

Narrative and alienation are both important concepts in sociological theory, albeit often ill-defined. We suggest a “narrative theory of alienation” that builds on a renewed interest in alienation to sharpen both concepts, developing the concept of “structural narratives” as “anchors” (Swidler 2001b) for ongoing “active narratives” and actors’ “biographical narratives” about themselves. We distinguish between these three narrative categories, showing how structural narratives situate the temporality and parameters of alienation, thereby providing clarity to some of alienation’s ongoing conceptual problems. In so doing, the authors show how “structural narratives” can provide a theoretical resource to the broader study of narratives and culture. The authors further their argument by referencing various works of literature and social scientific research throughout the text, ending with a more thorough examination of alienation in schools.
Unifying Global Environmental Governance NVivo Research: The Case of Women and Descriptive Representations in Environmental Treaties
Authors: Whitacre Jack , Cegielski Polly
Published: November 2024

NVivo is a qualitative research software. This Research Note surveyed 12 years of publications from two leading environmental policy journals (Global Environmental Politics and Environmental Politics) to uncover NVivo best practices. There are several ways to unify Global Environmental Policy NVivo research, including the use of interrater reliability, as illustrated by a case study on gender and multilateral environmental agreements. One key finding is that only 20 of the 3653 of the International Environmental Agreements Database Project (IEADB) agreements refer to “women” (and only 16 mention “gender”). In contrast, for the same sample, 1431 Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) mention “men”. Furthermore, 35% of the treaties that mention women describe women as environmentally vulnerable. (Note: the inter-rater Cohen kappa score was 0.80, a substantial agreement). This Research Note fills a research need by showing how past global environmental policy research using the NVivo software has not been standardized or drawn upon common methodological sources. These findings confirm that research tools (such as software) are not substitutes for research methodologies.
Modelling Unwarranted Disparities in Sentencing: Distinguishing between Good and Bad Controls
Authors: Pina-Sánchez Jose , Hamilton Melissa , Tennant Peter WG
Published: November 2024

To minimise confounding bias and facilitate the identification of unwarranted disparities, sentencing researchers have traditionally sought to control for as many legal factors as possible. In this article we challenge such approach. Using causal graphs we show how controlling for commonly used variables in the sentencing literature can introduce bias. Instead, we propose a new modelling framework that clarifies which types of controls are necessary to identify different definitions of sentencing disparities. We apply this framework to the estimation of race disparities in the US federal courts and gender disparities in the England and Wales magistrates’ court. We find that the model uncertainty associated to the choice of controls is substantial for gender disparities and for race disparities affecting Hispanic offenders, rendering estimates of the latter inconclusive. Disparities against black offenders are more consistent, although, they are not strong enough to be seen as definitive evidence of racial discrimination.
Emotion recognition deficits in adult ADHD patients: Results from a Temporal Bisection Task.
Authors: Holst Martin Reinhard
Published: November 2024

The attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is marked by the core deficits of inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity; it however also comes with specific social impairments. These impairments have been related to deficits in the recognition of emotional facial expressions, which are exhibited by children as well as adults with ADHD. The aim of the current study was to shed new light on these findings by presenting adults with ADHD and a healthy control group with a Temporal Bisection Task (TBT), a time cognition measure that required the participants to categorise angry and neutral faces of ambiguous durations into a short or a long category. The TBT thus provides an indirect and implicit approach of assessing emotion recognition, based on findings that emotional faces distort temporal judgments compared to neutral faces. While both groups were expected to overestimate angry faces, a less pronounced overestimation was expected for the ADHD group compared to the healthy control group due to their deficits in emotion recognition. The general overestimation of angry faces was found, replicating past results, however there were no group differences in the temporal judgments. The findings are discussed in the light of potential flaws to the theory, most notably the unclear influence of emotion recognition on time cognition, as well as methodological limitations.
Impact of Ancient Water Management Systems on Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability
Authors: Nayee Hardikkumar Vishnubhai
Published: November 2024

Ancient water management practices had a significant influence on agricultural sustainability and productivity, which this article delves into. Mesopotamian, Egyptian, and Indus Valley civilisations, among others, had highly developed systems for managing and distributing water, which greatly improved their agricultural productivity and sustainability in the long run. This study reveals the technical advancements, engineering methods, and ecological tactics that helped these old practices succeed by analysing a variety of systems, from terraced fields and canals to qanats. The study also delves into the monetary and societal effects, showing how efficient water management paved the way for industrial farming and city expansion. By contrasting these ancient systems with modern approaches, the study highlights their continued relevance and offers insights into how they can influence current agriculture and water management tactics. In order to tackle present and future sustainability issues, the study concludes that it is valuable to preserve and learn from old water management systems.
A study on Ethics, Integrity, and Trust in Research: An Interdisciplinary Perspective
Authors: Kumavat Prakashraj P
Published: November 2024

This research article explores the interconnectedness of research ethics, integrity, and trust from several vantage points. This research seeks to expand our knowledge of the complex nature of ethical issues and t heir impact on research integrity and trust by incorporating views from a wide range of disciplines. Autonomy, beneficence, fairness, and non-maleficence are some of the cornerstones of research ethics that are discussed in this article. Informed permission, privacy, conflicts of interest, and the use of human and animal subjects are only few of the ethical issues that are discussed, along with their implications throughout the study process. Research ethics committees, institutional frameworks, and ethical norms are all considered in terms of their respective roles in encouraging ethical behaviour and upholding research integrity. The article also explores the effects of research misconduct and other ethical lapses on public faith in the scientific community and the reliability of research findings. It stresses the significance of research practises that are both open and responsible for building and maintaining credibility. This research article concludes by emphasising the necessity of ethics, integrity, and trust in research, and pointing out the importance of multidisciplinary cooperation, strong supervision systems, and education in promoting and upholding these values.
Оценка потенциала нейробиоуправления для терапии ожирения по данным литературы
Authors: Зияшева А.М. , Датхабаева Г.К.
Published: November 2024

В статье дана оценка перспектив применения технологии саморегуляции функционального состояния мозга с опорой на биологическую обратную связь по параметрам ЭЭГ (ЭЭГ-биоуправление/нейробиоуправление) при лечении ожирения — хронического заболевания, распространенность которого приобрела масштабы мировой эпидемии, являющегося весомым фактором риска таких социально-значимых заболеваний, как болезни системы кровообращения, определённые виды рака, диабет второго типа, а также целого ряда других хронических неинфекционных и инфекционных заболеваний, включая тяжелое течение COVID–19 и его осложнения, и требующего длительной комплексной терапии. Рассмотрена сущность технологии биоуправления на основе биологической обратной связи (БОС), которая заключается в тренировке способности субъекта сознательно управлять определенными физиологическими параметрами своего организма для приведения их значений к оптимальным показателям, соответствующим здоровому функционированию организма в целях улучшения здоровья и работоспособности. Развитие способности к саморегуляции при помощи БОС происходит с опорой на показатели точных приборов, измеряющих тренируемые физиологические параметры, такие как показатели мозговой активности, сердечной деятельности, дыхания, мышечной активности и температуры кожи. Авторами приведено нейробиологическое обоснование целесообразности и эффективности ЭЭГ-биоуправления в терапии ожирения, освещаются применявшиеся протоколы БОС-терапии ожирения и ассоциированных с ним нарушений пищевого поведения, благодаря которым удается путем нейромодуляции оптимизировать паттерны мозговой активности, восстанавливая нейродинамический баланс регуляторных систем, и самостоятельно приводить себя в устойчивое состояние спокойного бодрствования и психологического комфорта, не прибегая для этого к нездоровой пище.
Reflexiones para contribuir a las teorías del desarrollo: Elementos desde una perspectiva de género y feminista
Authors: Sánchez-Ramírez Georgina
Published: November 2024

Sobre teorías del desarrollo mucho se ha escrito, también desde el enfoque de género y desde el feminismo. Sin embargo, las propuestas podrían robustecerse con miras a un modelo más inclusivo y equitativo para las mujeres (mitad de la población y madres de la otra mitad). El objetivo de este trabajo es contribuir —sin ser exhaustivo— a la reflexión sobre la necesidad de seguir analizando otras posibilidades de modelos de desarrollo que no perpetúen la desigualdad en general ni la feminización de la pobreza en particular. La metodología partió de la epistemología feminista y se basó en un análisis desde datos actuales sobre la pobreza de las mujeres, teorías del desarrollo enfocadas en combatir dichos resultados y trabajos con enfoques feministas que colocan una lente para ver otras posibilidades de análisis y acción. Los resultados se dividieron en tres partes: una tesis a partir de cifras, que permiten proponer nuevos caminos; una antítesis en la comparación de las diferencias entre los modelos MED (modelo de desarrollo económico) y GED (el enfoque de género en el desarrollo); y una síntesis propositiva desde el enfoque de género para un Soro Desarrollo. Se concluye la necesidad de seguir con acciones afirmativas en las políticas desde el Estado y en las transformaciones socioculturales (al interior de la vida cotidiana) para lograr revertir el efecto de la violencia machista en el modelo patriarcal que tanto empobrece a las mujeres, a los hombres y a lo no-binario, ya que impide el desarrollo evolutivo de la humanidad.
Estudio de validez y confiabilidad de la escala de irritabilidad: ARI (Índice de Reactividad Afectiva) en población clínica de adolescentes mexicanos
Authors: De la Peña Olvera Francisco Rafael , Rodríguez Delgado Andrés , Soto Briseño Alejandro Irvin , Saad Manzanera Assad Daniel
Published: November 2024

Introducción: La irritabilidad crónica (IC) es un constructo transdiagnóstico. Se ha estudiado a través del Índice de Reactividad Afectiva (ARI) el cual es una de las más comúnmente usadas y estudiadas a nivel global. Objetivos:  Determinar la consistencia interna, la validez del constructo, convergente y divergente, la fiabilidad test-retest y la fiabilidad interinformante, y establecer la prueba diagnóstica para ambas versiones de la escala ARI. Material y métodos: Se evaluaron adolescentes y sus padres, se entrevistaron semiestructuradamente (K-SADS-PL-5) y se completaron los instrumentos para los procesos de validez con los adolescentes y sus padres. Se utilizaron contrastes con ?², correlaciones con r de Pearson y se obtuvieron los valores de la prueba diagnóstica.  Resultados: Se evaluaron 83 adolescentes y sus tutores. Encontramos una alfa de Cronbach de 0.918 en versión ARI adolescentes (ARI-A) y de 0.904 para ARI padre/tutor (ARI-P). El análisis de componentes principales determinó un solo factor explicando una varianza de 79% en ARI-A y 75% en ARI-P. Se encontró fiabilidad test-retest de 0.42-0.67 en ARI-A y 0.35-0.53 en ARI-P. La fiabilidad interinformante global fue de K= 0.24, p=0.002. Las áreas bajo la curva fueron 0.640 para ARI-A y 0.753 para ARI-P. Conclusión: La escala ARI presenta adecuada validez y confiabilidad en la medición de IC en adolescentes mexicanos con psicopatología.
Compensación social e identidad en los adolescentes con trastorno del espectro autista
Authors: Gago Ageitos Ana María , Vicente Alba Javier , Álvarez Pérez Vicente , Garcia Hijano Carmen Mercedes , Vidal Millares María
Published: November 2024

Introducción: En los primeros años de vida, los niños con trastorno del espectro autista (TEA) requieren un diagnóstico y tratamiento adecuados, que incluya la comprensión de las alteraciones del neurodesarrollo comórbidas como el trastorno por déficit de atención o los trastornos de aprendizaje. Mientras que, en la etapa adolescente y adulta, la integración psicosexual, la construcción identitaria y el establecimiento de relaciones interpersonales añaden nuevos retos a la difícil ecuación relacional. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión bibliográfica actualizada que ayude al diagnóstico y tratamiento de los TEA en el tránsito de la adolescencia a la etapa adulta, a través de la comprensión de la variabilidad en la expresión fenotípica de los casos más leves. Métodos: Revisión bibliográfica utilizando PubMed, Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), PsycINFO, y Autism.org con los términos: “camuflaje y autismo”; “compensación social en el autismo”, “identidad sexual en el autismo”, abuso de alcohol en el autismo” desde 2018 hasta el 1.6.2024. Resultados y conclusiones: Se han revisado 277 artículos. Los pacientes con TEA evolucionan en su expresión clínica en relación con factores inherentes al trastorno, pero también relacionados con el contexto social. Así, en la transición a la etapa adulta cobran relevancia las estrategias que ayudan al establecimiento de una identidad personal y social que encaje en una sociedad compleja en la que la imagen, los estereotipos y la asimilación juegan un papel clave. La importancia del conocimiento de estos mecanismos ayuda en el diagnóstico y en el abordaje terapéutico.
Functional characters and ontogenetic structure of populations of Ziziphora clinopodioides (Lamiaceae) at the range border (Republic of Khakasia)
Authors: Barsukova I. N. , Godin V. N. , Cheryomushkina V. A. , Astashenkov A. Y. , Denisova G. R. , Guseva A. A.
Published: November 2024

The object of this study is a characteristic subshrub of Khakasia, Ziziphora clinopodioides (Lamiaceae). The study of functional traits and the structure of the Z. clinopodioides populations at the eastern limit of its distribution (Republic of Khakasia) has been carried out for the first time. The materials were collected in 2022–2023 in true and meadow steppes of the forest-steppe belt. Environmental factors influencing functional traits and the ratio of individuals of different ontogenetic states have been identified. It has been established that disturbed steppes on sandy soils with the presence of stones and low moisture represent the ecological optimum for this species. Under these conditions, the indices of most of the studied functional traits (the number of vegetative shoots per 1 composite skeletal axis, the number of generative shoots with paracladia, the number of paracladia, the number of flowers in paracladia, the number of flowers in the main inflorescence) reach the highest values. In undisturbed steppes on sandy loam soils with moderate moisture, Z. clinopodioides is in unfavorable conditions, and develops individuals with minimal values of functional traits. All the studied populations are normal, complete or incomplete. Left-sided and bimodal ontogenetic spectra are formed in disturbed steppes on sandy soils with the presence of stones and low moisture; in the undisturbed steppe on sandy loam soil with moderate moisture, the spectrum type is bimodal. The density of individuals depends on the degree of soding in the community and anthropogenic load. With an increase in the total projective cover and in the absence of anthropogenic impact, the density of individuals decreases. The causes of restructuring of functional characters and changes in the ontogenetic spectrum of populations of Z. clinopodioides under the influence of various environmental factors at the range border are discussed.