bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuromodulation of safety and surprise in the early stages of infant development: affective homeostatic regulation in bodily and mental functions
Authors: Clarici Andrea , Bulfon Matteo , Radin Yvonne , Panksepp Jaak
Published: June 2024

Developing a sense of internal safety and security depends mainly on others: numerous neuromodulators play a significant role in the homeostatic process, regulating the importance of proximity to a caregiver and experiencing feelings that enable us to regulate our interdependence with our conspecifics since birth. This array of neurofunctional structures have been called the SEPARATION DISTRESS system (now more commonly known as the PANIC/ GRIEF system). This emotional system is mainly involved in the production of depressive symptoms. The disruption of this essential emotional balance leads to the onset of feelings of panic followed by depression. We will focus on the neuropeptides that play a crucial role in social approach behavior in mammals, which enhance prosocial behavior and facilitate the consolidation of social bonds. We propose that most prosocial behaviors are regulated through the specific neuromodulators acting on salient intersubjective stimuli, reflecting an increased sense of inner confidence (safety) in social relationships. This review considers the neurofunctional link between the feelings that may ultimately be at the base of a sense of inner safety and the central neuromodulatory systems. This link may shed light on the clinical implications for the development of early mother-infant bonding and the depressive clinical consequences when this bond is disrupted, such as in post-partum depression, depressive feelings connected to, addiction, neurofunctional disorders, and psychological trauma.
A critical need for the concept of matrescence in perinatal psychiatry
Authors: Athan Aurelie M.
Published: June 2024

The concept of matrescence, akin to adolescence but for mothers, has gained increasing attention in perinatal psychiatry, marking a paradigm shift towards understanding the holistic development of mothers. Matrescence encompasses the myriad psychological, social, cultural, and existential changes which occur as women transition into motherhood. Despite advances in maternal mental health, a bias towards pathologizing maternal experiences persists in research and practice. This commentary advocates for the integration of matrescence into perinatal psychiatry, drawing from the work of Dana Raphael and contemporary scholarship. Matrescence offers a strengths-based framework that acknowledges both the challenges and opportunities of motherhood, emphasizing the normative aspects of a mother’s self-development. By adopting matrescence terminology and nosology, clinicians and researchers can enhance traditional psychiatric classifications. Additionally, matrescence underscores the importance of considering ecological systems and historical factors in maternal well-being, highlighting the need for comprehensive and compassionate healthcare services. Embracing matrescence as a fundamental concept in perinatal psychiatry holds promise for improving maternal mental health outcomes and promoting the flourishing of mothers worldwide.
Development and validation of a nomogram for suicide attempts in patients with first-episode drug-naïve major depressive disorder
Authors: Liu Junjun , Tong Ruixiang , Lu Zhaomin , Wang Zhiye , Wang Yangchun , Liu Yang , Yuan Hsinsung , Jia Fengnan , Zhang Xiaobin , Li Zhe , Du Xiangdong , Zhang Xiangyang
Published: June 2024

Objective

The risk of suicide can be decreased by accurately identifying high-risk suicide groups and implementing the right interventions. The aim of this study was to develop a nomogram for suicide attempts (SA) in patients with first-episode drug-naïve (FEDN) major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods

This study undertook a cross-sectional analysis of 1,718 patients diagnosed with FEDN MDD, providing comprehensive clinical data from September 2016 to December 2018. Data on anthropometric and sociodemographic factors were gathered, and the severity of depression and anxiety was evaluated using the 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD-17) and the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), respectively. Additionally, thyroid hormone levels, lipid profile parameters, and fasting blood glucose (FBG) were measured. Suicide attempt (SA) history was verified based on an amalgamation of medical records, patient interviews, and family interviews. Participants were randomly divided into a training group (70%, n = 1,204) and a validation group (30%, n = 514). In the training group, LASSO analysis and multivariate regression were used to identify variables associated with SA. A nomogram was then constructed using the identified risk factors to estimate the likelihood of SA within the training group. To assess the accuracy, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was utilized, and calibration plots were employed to evaluate calibration. Additionally, decision curve analysis (DCA) was performed to assess the precision of the model. Finally, internal validation was carried out using the validation group.

Results

A practical nomogram has been successfully constructed, incorporating HAMD, HAMA, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb), and systolic blood pressure (SBP) parameters, to estimate the probability of SA in Chinese patients diagnosed with FEDN MDD. The pooled area under the ROC for SA risk in both the training and validation groups was found to be 0.802 (95% CI: 0.771 to 0.832) and 0.821 (95% CI: 0.774 to 0.868), respectively. Calibration analysis revealed a satisfactory correlation between the nomogram probabilities and the actual observed probabilities. The clinical applicability of the nomogram was confirmed through decision curve analysis. To enhance accessibility for clinicians and researchers, an online version of the nomogram can be accessed at https://doctorjunjunliu.shinyapps.io/dynnomapp/.

Conclusions

We constructed and validated a nomogram for the early detection of FEDN MDD patients with a high risk of SA, thereby contributing to the implementation of effective suicide prevention programs.
NARP-related alterations in the excitatory and inhibitory circuitry of socially isolated mice: developmental insights and implications for autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Yamaguchi Yasunari , Okamura Kazuya , Yamamuro Kazuhiko , Okumura Kazuki , Komori Takashi , Toritsuka Michihiro , Takada Ryohei , Nishihata Yosuke , Ikawa Daisuke , Yamauchi Takahira , Makinodan Manabu , Yoshino Hiroki , Saito Yasuhiko , Matsuzaki Hideo , Kishimoto Toshifumi , Kimoto Sohei
Published: June 2024

Background

Social isolation during critical periods of development is associated with alterations in behavior and neuronal circuitry. This study aimed to investigate the immediate and developmental effects of social isolation on firing properties, neuronal activity-regulated pentraxin (NARP) and parvalbumin (PV) expression in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), social behavior in juvenile socially isolated mice, and the biological relevance of NARP expression in autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Methods

Mice were subjected to social isolation during postnatal days 21–35 (P21–P35) and were compared with group-housed control mice. Firing properties in the PFC pyramidal neurons were altered in P35 socially isolated mice, which might be associated with alterations in NARP and PV expression.

Results

In adulthood, mice that underwent juvenile social isolation exhibited difficulty distinguishing between novel and familiar mice during a social memory task, while maintaining similar levels of social interaction as the control mice. Furthermore, a marked decrease in NARP expression in lymphoblastoid cell lines derived from adolescent humans with ASD as compared to typically developing (TD) humans was found.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the role of electrophysiological properties, as well as NARP and PV expression in the PFC in mediating the developmental consequences of social isolation on behavior.
Effectiveness of a mHealth platform-based lifestyle integrated multicomponent exercise (PF-Life) program to reverse pre-frailty in community-dwelling older adults: a randomized controlled trial study protocol
Authors: Li Na , Huang Feng , Wang Nan , Lin Siyang , Yuan Yin , Zhu Pengli
Published: June 2024

Background

Pre-frailty represents an ideal window of opportunity to potentially prevent frailty and disability. Early and effective interventions to delay or reverse pre-frailty are public health imperative. The present trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness and underlying mechanisms of mobile health (mHealth) platform-supported lifestyle-integrated multicomponent exercise (PF-Life) to reverse pre-frailty in community-dwelling older adults.

Methods

This is an open-label, prospective, two-arm parallel randomized controlled trial with allocation concealment and outcome assessment blinding. We aim to recruit 140 pre-frail community-dwelling older adults who will be randomized into two groups. The control group will receive a health education program, while the intervention group will receive PF-Life training as planned for 1 year. The proportion of pre-frailty, functional performance (muscular strength, aerobic capacity, flexibility, and balance), body composition, and physical activity will be measured at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 12-month follow-up. Inflammatory biomarkers will also be collected to explore the underlying mechanisms.

Discussion

This is the first study to evaluate the effects of a novel digital lifestyle-integrated multicomponent exercise for pre-frail older people. The results of this trial will provide much-needed information on the short-and long-term effects of PF-Life based on functional performance and body composition. Meanwhile, inflammatory biomarkers and physical activity levels will be used to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of PF-Life. The findings from this trial will provide evidence for the effectiveness of lifestyle multicomponent exercise intervention supported by the mHealth platform that may reverse or even halt the onset of frailty.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=176477, identifier ChiCTR2200063431.
Correlation of death anxiety with coping strategies among Palestinian women with breast cancer: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ahmead Muna , Shehadah Feda , Abuiram Issa
Published: June 2024

Background

Death anxiety and maladaptive coping accompany breast cancer diagnoses. The coping mechanisms and death anxiety among Palestinian patients with breast cancer have not been studied.

Aim

To assess the prevalence of death anxiety and its relationship with coping strategies among Palestinian women with breast cancer who are treated in Beit Jala Governmental Hospital in Bethlehem.

Method

A cross-sectional design was used, and 214 breast cancer patients who visited the Beit Jala Governmental Hospital in Bethlehem were recruited. Templer's Death Anxiety Scale and the Brief COPE Scale were used. To investigate the relationship between coping strategies and death anxiety, frequency, percentages, chi-square tests, and Pearson's correlation tests were utilized.

Results

The results indicated that 58.40% of the patients experienced death anxiety. The participants who used positive reframing (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.487, p = < 0.026), self-blame (AOR = 1.309, p = < 0.023), and religion (AOR = 1.260, p = < 0.031) as coping mechanisms were more likely to experience death anxiety. Conversely, the participants who adopted substance use (AOR = 0.657, p < 0.005) and active coping (AOR = 0.629, p < 0.007) as coping strategies had a lower likelihood of experiencing death anxiety.

Conclusion

The study revealed that breast cancer patients tended to use a combination of functional and emotional coping strategies and that a significant proportion of these patients (58.4%) experienced symptoms of death anxiety. This study emphasizes the significance of screening for death anxiety and understanding the coping strategies utilized by the patients. Gaining this understanding will assist in identifying patients who need more guidance and support.
An improved Dijkstra cross-plane image encryption algorithm based on a chaotic system
Authors: Hou Pijun , Wang Yuepeng , Shi Ziming , Zheng Pan
Published: June 2024

While encrypting information with color images, most encryption schemes treat color images as three different grayscale planes and encrypt each plane individually. These algorithms produce more duplicated operations and are less efficient because they do not properly account for the link between the various planes of color images. In addressing the issue, we propose a scheme that thoroughly takes into account the relationship between pixels across different planes in color images. First, we introduce a new 1D chaotic system. The performance analysis shows the system has good chaotic randomness. Next, we employ a shortest-path cross-plane scrambling algorithm that utilizes an enhanced Dijkstra algorithm. This algorithm effectively shuffles pixels randomly within each channel of a color image. To accomplish cross-plane diffusion, our approach is then integrated into the adaptive diffusion algorithm. The security analysis and simulation results demonstrate that the approach can tackle the issue of picture loss in telemedicine by encrypting color images without any loss of quality. Furthermore, the images we utilize are suitable for both standard RGB and medical images. They incorporate more secure and highly sensitive keys, robustly withstanding various typical ciphertext analysis attacks. This ensures a reliable solution for encrypting original images.
Knowledge boundaries for implementation of quality improvement interventions; a qualitative study
Authors: Lyng Hilda Bø , Strømme Torunn , Ree Eline , Johannessen Terese , Wiig Siri
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Implementation and adoption of quality improvement interventions have proved difficult, even in situations where all participants recognise the relevance and benefits of the intervention. One way to describe difficulties in implementing new quality improvement interventions is to explore different types of knowledge boundaries, more specifically the syntactic, semantic and pragmatic boundaries, influencing the implementation process. As such, this study aims to identify and understand knowledge boundaries for implementation processes in nursing homes and homecare services.

Methods

An exploratory qualitative methodology was used for this study. The empirical data, including individual interviews (n = 10) and focus group interviews (n = 10) with leaders and development nurses, stem from an externally driven leadership intervention and a supplementary tracer project entailing an internally driven intervention. Both implementations took place in Norwegian nursing homes and homecare services. The empirical data was inductively analysed in accordance with grounded theory.

Results

The findings showed that the syntactic boundary included boundaries like the lack of meeting arenas, and lack of knowledge transfer and continuity in learning. Furthermore, the syntactic boundary was mostly related to the dissemination and training of staff across the organisation. The semantic boundary consisted of boundaries such as ambiguity, lack of perceived impact for practice and lack of appropriate knowledge. This boundary mostly related to uncertainty of the facilitator role. The pragmatic boundary included boundaries related to a lack of ownership, resistance, feeling unsecure, workload, different perspectives and a lack of support and focus, reflecting a change of practices.

Discussion

This study provides potential solutions for traversing different knowledge boundaries and a framework for understanding knowledge boundaries related to the implementation of quality interventions.
Studying Great Apes and Cultural Diversity To Understand the Human Mind
Authors: Sánchez-Amaro Alejandro , Eirdosh Dustin , Haun Daniel
Published: June 2024

Psychologists want to understand how the human mind is extraordinary among animal minds and where the unique aspects of human minds and behaviors come from. To build scientific understanding of human minds, we must study the wide range of humans across cultures, to know what all humans have in common and which aspects of human minds are diverse. However, this is not enough—studying humans across cultures tells us how humans think and act, not how they are unique among animals. To understand how humans are similar and different from other animals, we must study other animals too, especially our close primate relatives, the great apes, who have minds that are similar to ours in many, but not all, ways. So, to understand human minds and behaviors, researchers should study humans and non-humans at a scale that allows us to explore the origins of the similarities and differences of minds and behaviors across our world today.
On manipulation by emotional AI: UK adults’ views and governance implications
Authors: Bakir Vian , Laffer Alexander , McStay Andrew , Miranda Diana , Urquhart Lachlan
Published: June 2024

With growing commercial, regulatory and scholarly interest in use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to profile and interact with human emotion (“emotional AI”), attention is turning to its capacity for manipulating people, relating to factors impacting on a person’s decisions and behavior. Given prior social disquiet about AI and profiling technologies, surprisingly little is known on people’s views on the benefits and harms of emotional AI technologies, especially their capacity for manipulation. This matters because regulators of AI (such as in the European Union and the UK) wish to stimulate AI innovation, minimize harms and build public trust in these systems, but to do so they should understand the public’s expectations. Addressing this, we ascertain UK adults’ perspectives on the potential of emotional AI technologies for manipulating people through a two-stage study. Stage One (the qualitative phase) uses design fiction principles to generate adequate understanding and informed discussion in 10 focus groups with diverse participants (n = 46) on how emotional AI technologies may be used in a range of mundane, everyday settings. The focus groups primarily flagged concerns about manipulation in two settings: emotion profiling in social media (involving deepfakes, false information and conspiracy theories), and emotion profiling in child oriented “emotoys” (where the toy responds to the child’s facial and verbal expressions). In both these settings, participants express concerns that emotion profiling covertly exploits users’ cognitive or affective weaknesses and vulnerabilities; additionally, in the social media setting, participants express concerns that emotion profiling damages people’s capacity for rational thought and action. To explore these insights at a larger scale, Stage Two (the quantitative phase), conducts a UK-wide, demographically representative national survey (n = 2,068) on attitudes toward emotional AI. Taking care to avoid leading and dystopian framings of emotional AI, we find that large majorities express concern about the potential for being manipulated through social media and emotoys. In addition to signaling need for civic protections and practical means of ensuring trust in emerging technologies, the research also leads us to provide a policy-friendly subdivision of what is meant by manipulation through emotional AI and related technologies.
Does acute aerobic exercise enhance selective attention, working memory, and problem-solving abilities in Alzheimer's patients? A sex-based comparative study
Authors: Ben Ayed Ines , Ammar Achraf , Aouichaoui Chirine , Mezghani Nourhen , Salem Atef , Naija Salma , Ben Amor Sana , Trabelsi Khaled , Jahrami Haitham , Trabelsi Yassine , El Massioui Farid
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of acute aerobic exercise on certain cognitive functions known to be affected by Alzheimer's disease (AD), with a particular emphasis on sex differences.

Methods

A total of 53 patients, with a mean age of 70.54 ± 0.88 years and moderate AD, voluntarily participated in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: the experimental group (EG), which participated in a 20-min moderate-intensity cycling session (60% of the individual maximum target heart rate recorded at the end of the 6-min walk test); and the control group (CG), which participated in a 20-min reading activity. Cognitive abilities were assessed before and after the physical exercise or reading session using the Stroop test for selective attention, the forward and backward digit span test for working memory, and the Tower of Hanoi task for problem-solving abilities.

Results

At baseline, both groups had comparable cognitive performance (p > 0.05 in all tests). Regardless of sex, aerobic acute exercise improved attention in the Stroop test (p < 0.001), enhanced memory performance in both forward (p < 0.001) and backward (p < 0.001) conditions, and reduced the time required to solve the problem in the Tower of Hanoi task (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in the number of movements. In contrast, the CG did not significantly improve after the reading session for any of the cognitive tasks (p > 0.05). Consequently, the EG recorded greater performance improvements than the CG in most cognitive tasks tested (p < 0.0001) after the intervention session.

Discussion

These findings demonstrate that, irrespective to sex, a single aerobic exercise session on an ergocycle can improve cognitive function in patients with moderate AD. The results suggest that acute aerobic exercise enhances cognitive function similarly in both female and male patients, indicating promising directions for inclusive therapeutic strategies.
Economic sustainability of local food producers: a mixed methods study
Authors: Helgheim Berit Irene , van der Linden Natasha , Teryokhin Sergei
Published: June 2024

Introduction

This study investigates local food producers’ economic sustainability by examining the impact of six variables: external and internal barriers, the number of economic operators, the imbalance of power, the number of distribution options, and waste.

Methods

The investigation uses mixed methods of questionnaires and interviews. The data was collected using a self-completed questionnaire, which was answered by 57 local food producers across Norway, and four semi-structured interviews with professionals in the food industry. The quantitative data was analyzed with the use of partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), and the qualitative data was analyzed using a thematic analysis.

Results

The study has statistically confirmed three out of eight hypotheses. The three hypotheses show that when the number of economic operators in the supply chain increases and also imbalances in the sales channels increase. Additionally, the imbalance of power in the sales channels has a negative effect on economic sustainability, and external barriers have a negative effect on the imbalance of power in the sales channels. The interviews supported seven of the hypotheses, although four of them were not supported.

Discussion

The empirical evidence presented in this study indicates that the lack of balance within the supply chain exerts a substantial influence on the economic sustainability of local food producers. By adopting a comprehensive approach, this research demonstrates that a more holistic perspective leads to enhanced economic sustainability. Additionally, it elucidates the diverse ways in which various factors impact the economic sustainability of local food produce.
Fifty years of Teikei: the evolution of the movement’s ten principles and its impact on alternative food initiatives in Japan
Authors: Kondo Chika , Zollet Simona , Kobayashi Mai , Yamamoto Nami
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Japan’s teikei movement, recognized as a source of inspiration for Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) in Western countries, is now entering its fifth decade. Built upon trust and shared values, teikei has continued to rely on mutually supportive relationships between organic producers and consumers. The movement’s commitments were originally articulated through the ten principles of teikei, which offer a roadmap to create food systems based on solidarity principles going beyond market transactions. Despite a decline in numbers, teikei groups continue to operate in the midst of societal shifts that are altering food practices and consumption patterns. These changes have had an impact on the implementation of the ten principles and on the power dynamics between producers and consumers.

Methods

This research investigates how such shifts have affected the development of alternative food systems in Japan, the evolution of teikei as a social movement, and the tensions that arise from contrasting notions of agri-food system alterity rooted in decommodified relationships versus market-based transactions. We employ the ten principles as a framework to investigate the transformations of some representative teikei groups over time, and identify three types of shifts: relational, operational, and ideological. These shifts show how different teikei actors have been engaging in realizing the vision of building sustainable agri-food systems through alternative market relations.

Results

The shifts also underscore the fluid and situated nature of agri-food system alterity within historical, geographical, and cultural relational spaces. The current variations of teikei configurations and the progressive diversification of approaches to address the challenges of upholding the original principles demonstrate the movement’s adaptability over time. However, they also demonstrate the necessity to strike a compromise between conflicting needs.

Discussion

The development of the teikei movement is not only important from an historical and geographically-situated perspective, but also as a dynamic and evolving experiment in the potential and challenges of active food citizenship. The democratic decision-making processes embedded within teikei principles and practices offer a valuable model for understanding how individuals enact their food citizenship and contribute to ongoing transformation of the agri-food system. Simultaneously, these shifts also serve as a warning against how democratic principles can be eroded by conventionalization and neoliberalization, and about the assumptions that arise during the process of building alternative agri-food systems, such as gendered labor.
Development of a software system for surgical robots based on multimodal image fusion: study protocol
Authors: Yuan Shuo , Chen Ruiyuan , Zang Lei , Wang Aobo , Fan Ning , Du Peng , Xi Yu , Wang Tianyi
Published: June 2024

Background

Surgical robots are gaining increasing popularity because of their capability to improve the precision of pedicle screw placement. However, current surgical robots rely on unimodal computed tomography (CT) images as baseline images, limiting their visualization to vertebral bone structures and excluding soft tissue structures such as intervertebral discs and nerves. This inherent limitation significantly restricts the applicability of surgical robots. To address this issue and further enhance the safety and accuracy of robot-assisted pedicle screw placement, this study will develop a software system for surgical robots based on multimodal image fusion. Such a system can extend the application range of surgical robots, such as surgical channel establishment, nerve decompression, and other related operations.

Methods

Initially, imaging data of the patients included in the study are collected. Professional workstations are employed to establish, train, validate, and optimize algorithms for vertebral bone segmentation in CT and magnetic resonance (MR) images, intervertebral disc segmentation in MR images, nerve segmentation in MR images, and registration fusion of CT and MR images. Subsequently, a spine application model containing independent modules for vertebrae, intervertebral discs, and nerves is constructed, and a software system for surgical robots based on multimodal image fusion is designed. Finally, the software system is clinically validated.

Discussion

We will develop a software system based on multimodal image fusion for surgical robots, which can be applied to surgical access establishment, nerve decompression, and other operations not only for robot-assisted nail placement. The development of this software system is important. First, it can improve the accuracy of pedicle screw placement, percutaneous vertebroplasty, percutaneous kyphoplasty, and other surgeries. Second, it can reduce the number of fluoroscopies, shorten the operation time, and reduce surgical complications. In addition, it would be helpful to expand the application range of surgical robots by providing key imaging data for surgical robots to realize surgical channel establishment, nerve decompression, and other operations.
Effects of season and sex on the concentrations of fecal glucocorticoid metabolites in captive and free-ranging endangered mountain gazelles (Gazella gazella)
Authors: Karaer Mina Cansu , Kankılıç Tolga , Tavşanoğlu Çağatay , Cotman Marko , Čebulj-Kadunc Nina , Dovč Alenka , Snoj Tomaž
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The aim of our study was to measure fecal glucocorticoid metabolite (FGM) concentrations in captive and free-ranging male and female mountain gazelles (Gazella gazella) during their circannual cycle. In addition, FGM concentrations were used to track the intensity of the adrenocortical response in mountain gazelles during the same period.

Methods

Fecal samples were collected from the ground in the Hatay Mountain Gazelle Wildlife Development Area in the Hatay Province of Türkiye (36°32’ N, 36°32′ E) in each season of the year (December, April, July, September). The sex of the animals was determined by detecting the SRY gene of the Y chromosome in DNA isolated from the fecal samples. FGM was extracted from dried fecal samples with methanol, and its concentration was measured using a previously partially validated ELISA.

Results and discussion

The results indicate that season is the most important factor explaining the variability in FGM concentrations in mountain gazelles. In animals of both sexes, the highest concentrations of FGM were observed in September. The values were significantly higher in the captive population, perhaps due to unpredictable stress. In July, FGM concentrations were low in both populations. As a result of the overall analysis across seasons, the comparison of FGM concentrations between captive and free-ranging animals revealed higher concentrations in captive animals only in September but not in other seasons, although higher concentrations have been previously reported for several wild captive species. Due to predation risk, the presence of offspring can be considered a critical point in the biological cycle for the welfare of free-ranging mountain gazelles, as suggested by the higher FGM concentrations in the free-ranging population in July. The high number of visitors could be a challenge for mountain gazelles in captivity, as indicated by higher FGM concentrations during September. Sex had no effect on the FGM concentrations of either population.
Temporal–spatial variability of grazing behaviors of yaks and the drivers of their intake on the eastern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Yang Xiaoqian , Daraz Umar , Ma Jianguo , Lu Xingxin , Feng Qingshan , Zhu Huaide , Wang Xiao-Bo
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Grassland-livestock balance is an important principle of sustainable development of grassland livestock production and grassland ecosystem health. Grassland degradation becomes more serious at global scales and especially at the area that is sensitive to climate change and human activities. Decreases in pasture biomass and shifts in plant community composition in degraded grasslands can largely affect grazing behaviors of livestock. Up to date, however, it is unclear that whether livestock behaviors change across spatial and temporal scales and what key factors are to shape observed behavioral patterns of livestock.

Methods

Here, yak behaviors including grazing, rumination and walking on the eastern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP) were monitored by a continuous visual observation, to investigate temporal and spatial variations of grazing behavior of yaks (Bos grunniens); based on the data from public database in the past 18 years, a meta-analysis was conducted to examine the main factors that affect grazing behaviors and intake of yaks.

Results

We showed that grazing behaviors of yaks differed significantly within hours, among hours of each day and among days as well as across different observation sites. Intake rate of yaks was higher in the morning than in the afternoon, but walking speed showed an inverse trend compared with intake rate. Resting, altitude, the mean annual precipitation (MAP), the mean annual temperature (MAT), forage ash, yak age and season were the main predictors for yak intake, and forage and yak individual characteristics had direct effects on grazing behaviors and intake of yaks.

Discussion

The findings confirm that grazing behaviors of yaks can vary even at small temporal scales and regional scales, which is closely related to the shift in forage quality and biomass caused by environmental changes. The study suggests that multiple factors can be responsible for the variation in livestock behaviors and shifts in behavioral patterns may consequently lead to positive or negative feedback to grassland ecosystems through plant-animal interactions.
Undetection of vector-borne viruses in equids of Galapagos Islands
Authors: Zanella Gina , Beck Cécile , Valle-Casuso José-Carlos , Anthony Madeline , Cruz Marilyn , Vélez Alberto , Vinueza Rommel Lenin , Gonzalez Gaëlle
Published: June 2024

Domestic species, including equids, were introduced in the Galapagos Islands in the XIX century. Equine vector-borne diseases are circulating in South America but their occurrence in the Galapagos Island was unknown. The objective of this study was to detect the occurrence of West Nile virus (WNV), Usutu virus (USUV) and equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) in the four Galapagos Islands raising equids if they were present at a prevalence >1%. Serum samples were collected from 411 equids belonging to 124 owners from April to July 2019. All the results were negative to the ELISA tests used suggesting that WNV, USUV and EIAV are not circulating in the equine population of the Galapagos Islands.
An Exploration of Moral Identity's Role in Mitigating the Impact of Despotic Leadership on Organizational Culture and Organizational Agility in the Public Sector of Pakistan
Authors: Latif Zahid , Riaz Adnan , Mahmood Saira , Hameed Raja Mazhar
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the mitigating role of moral identity (Ml) in the relationship between despotic leadership (DL) and organizational agility (OA) while considering the intervening role of organizational culture (QC). This study examines the relations that are based on the integration of social identity theory (SIT), social learning theory (SLT), and social exchange theory (SET). Data is collected using a questionnaire survey from 271 employees from different public sector organizations in Pakistan. The data analysis is conducted through SPSS, MPlus, and AMOS. The findings suggest that DL has a significant but negative relationship with OA. The study findings also uncovered that DL has a significant and negative impact on the OC that significantly but positively predicts OA. Furthermore, the results revealed that MI moderates the relationship between DL and OC, such that a high level of moral identity weakens this relationship, hence followers with high moral values will be less influenced by the despotic leaders. This study theoretically as well as practically contributes to the existing literature. Limitations and future directions are also discussed.
Socioeconomic Development: The Role of Impact Investments and CPEC
Authors: Khan Noureen , Ahmed Jamshed
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the modes of impact investing to overcome the socioeconomic challenges of Pakistan. A descriptive analysis of different social indicators for the period 2006 to 2017 is conducted which includes health, education, tourism, vocational training, agriculture, and access to water. Each socioeconomic indicator is examined as a possible mode of impact investment. This study reports that a better alignment of impact investing in the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) will offer maximum development. The study recommends the most efficient and effective ways to achieve the greater goal of a prosperous Pakistan. The author strongly recommends the policymakers of CPEC to focus on impact investing along with conventional investment plans to combat the socioeconomic challenges in Pakistan.
De lo que era el Líber. Una mirada analítica a LIBER Madrid 2017 con Argentina como país invitado de honor
Authors: García Naharro Fernando
Published: June 2024

A diferencia de otros países, la denominada como Feria Internacional del Libro de España (LIBER) actualmente no es tan popular e incluso podríamos decir que se encuentra en pleno proceso de redefinir qué rol debe jugar en el campo editorial español e internacional. A pesar de ello, LIBER encuentra todavía buena acogida entre los distribuidores españoles e iberoamericanos. De todo ello dará cuenta este artículo, apoyándose tanto en documentación y entrevistas como en fuentes diversas recabadas a lo largo de un trabajo de campo realizado en LIBER Madrid durante los meses finales de 2017. Una edición de la feria que contó además con Argentina como país invitado de honor, cuya presencia será también analizada aquí pormenorizadamente.
La preservación digital sistémica. Propuesta metodológica a partir de la documentación de experiencias en Colombia
Authors: Sáenz-Giraldo Andrés
Published: June 2024

La preservación digital sistémica representa un enfoque archivístico y estratégico necesario para su comprensión integral y para garantizar la continuidad del patrimonio digital, el acceso y la disponibilidad de los documentos electrónicos y objetos digitales a largo plazo. La propuesta metodológica de preservación digital que se presenta se basa en la sistematización de experiencias de consultoría y asesoría desarrolladas por el Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencia de la Información (CICINF) de la Escuela Interamericana de Bibliotecología de la Universidad de Antioquia (Medellín, Colombia). Esta sistematización presenta la metodología de consultoría, bajo un enfoque cualitativo, el cual se caracteriza por la interacción universidad-sector-estado, el trabajo interdisciplinario, la sustentación teórica, la valoración y estimación de propuestas acorde con los contextos institucionales. Algunos de los resultados enmarcan la importancia del diagnóstico, la política, el plan, los proyectos, el programa y los procesos de preservación digital y la necesidad de documentar las prácticas, en tanto este es un tema especializado que requiere un nivel de profundidad adecuado en relación con los contextos sociales y tecnologías que cambian y se transforman permanentemente.
La política cultural local en debate. La red de Bibliotecas Públicas de Barcelona, su valor social y sus contradicciones
Authors: Klein Ricardo , Rius-Ulldemolins Joaquim
Published: June 2024

Este artículo tiene como objetivo analizar el desarrollo y la gestión de las políticas culturales locales, con un enfoque específico en la red de Bibliotecas Públicas de Barcelona. Esta nueva mirada en la política cultural busca integrar la cultura local y movilizar comunidades, impulsada por la priorización de la gobernanza del sistema cultural. Dentro de este contexto, entre las iniciativas que abrazan esta nueva perspectiva, se destaca el papel que desempeñan las bibliotecas como espacios privilegiados para fomentar una “cultura común”, fortaleciendo la cohesión social y generando valor en el ámbito social. El desafío que implica para estas instituciones adaptarse a nuevos roles, como centros de “hacedores de cultura” y promotores del consumo digital, es esencial. Para el análisis, se plantean dos enfoques principales. Primero, se examina el valor social de las bibliotecas desde la perspectiva de su gestión directiva, explorando cómo este concepto se integra en su día a día y su relevancia como puntos de encuentro comunitario en Barcelona. Segundo, se evalúa el impacto de las políticas institucionales y las demandas laborales en el funcionamiento de estas bibliotecas, considerando su aplicación en el contexto específico de estas instituciones culturales. Para llevar a cabo este análisis, se emplea una perspectiva cualitativa. Como resultado, se ha podido concluir que la política pública de bibliotecas en Barcelona debe contar con una participación ciudadana activa y real para ser efectiva, entendiendo que la democratización cultural implica no solo el acceso físico, sino también un compromiso activo de la comunidad. Se observa que la administración pública implementa una política “top down” muy marcada, contrastando con el trabajo cotidiano de gestión de las bibliotecas. A pesar de los esfuerzos para fortalecer el valor social de estos equipamientos, surgen desafíos, como la precariedad en presupuesto y recursos humanos, que limitan el desarrollo efectivo de la política. Los bibliotecarios desempeñan un papel vital como mediadores culturales, pero la brecha entre la proyección pública y la realidad operativa destaca la necesidad de abordar los desafíos laborales y sociales que enfrentan las bibliotecas en su funcionamiento diario.
MOOC y otros dispositivos de instrucción en línea de bibliotecas universitarias argentinas a partir de la pandemia de COVID-19
Authors: Blanco Nancy , De Pedro Gabriela , Bentivegna Nancy , Cápula Federico , Gregui Carolina , Pisano Silvia Luisa
Published: June 2024

Se propone una investigación acerca de la participación de las bibliotecas universitarias del ámbito público y privado de Argentina en el uso y la gestión de los cursos en línea masivos y abiertos (MOOC) y de otros dispositivos de instrucción en línea a partir de la pandemia de COVID-19. En función de los resultados obtenidos por el equipo de investigación en un proyecto previo sobre la misma temática, se aplicará un estudio exploratorio, multi metodológico y no experimental con el objetivo de conocer el rol de las bibliotecas universitarias con relación al dictado de MOOC y de otros dispositivos de instrucción en línea en el período de la pandemia y la pospandemia, con énfasis en los programas ofrecidos de forma gratuita y abierta. A su vez, se explorará en qué medida las bibliotecas bajo análisis se encuentran vinculadas con los servicios de tecnología de la universidad y se estudiarán los mecanismos de almacenamiento, difusión y preservación digital de los MOOC y otros dispositivos de instrucción en línea.
حرية العمل الخيري في دولة الكويت من وجهة نظر عينة قيادات الجمعيات الخيرية والمبرات والفرق التطوعية
Authors: عبدالرزاق خليفة الشايجي  , سامر رضوان أبو رمان
Published: June 2024

سعت الدراسة إلى تحقيق مجموعة من الأهداف، تمثّل أبرزها في: التعرف إلى مدى مواكبة البيئة التنظيمية لممارسة العمل الخيري داخل دولة الكويت، ومدى وجود قيود مفروضة على تلك الممارسة، خاصة فيما يتعلق بالعمل الخيري العابر للحدود، وأيضًا معرفة مدى مواكبة البيئة السياسية والاقتصادية والاجتماعية، فضلاً عن استشراف مستقبل العمل الخيري الكويتي.
وقد استخدمت الدراسة أداة استطلاع الرأي لعدد من قيادات الجهات والمبرات والفرق التطوعية للإجابة عن أسئلة حول حرية العمل الخيري في الكويت، وذلك من خلال التطبيق على عينة قصدية من 102 خلال الفترة ما بين يناير- يوليو 2020، باستخدام رابط إلكتروني خاص للاستمارة.
وكان من أبرز نتائج الدراسة‏ ما يلي:
عبَّر ما يقارب نصف المستجيبين (46.5%) عن أن ‏إجراءات تأسيس الجمعيات والمبرات الخيرية سهلة، ويرى أكثر من (55%) من العينة أن متطلبات ‏التأسيس أيضًا سهلة، لكن (55.5%) لم يوافقوا على التزام الإدارة المختصة بالرد على طلب التأسيس بالوقت المحدد في القانون، ورأوا أن ذلك ‏لا يتم بالتساوي بين الجهات المختلفة‎.‎ وعن أفضلية العمل تحت مظلة الجمعيات والمبرات الخيرية عبِّر 56.9% من العينة عن ‏رفضهم لذلك، ولكن رأى أكثر من نصف المستجيبين بقليل (51%) وجود قيود قانونية تتعلق بانضمام ‏البعض إلى الجمعيات والمبرات الخيرية‎.‎ ويرى (47.5%) أن ‏إجراءات حل الجمعيات والمبرات الخيرية متوافقة مع اللوائح، وبالتالي فهي شفافة ونزيهة، ووافقت نسبة ‏‏(63.4%) من العينة على أن قرار حل الجمعيات والمبرات الخيرية يخضع لإشراف قضائي.إلى أما عن مدى كون البيئة مشجعة لممارسة العمل الخيري بحرية أم لا داخل دولة الكويت، فقد ‏رأت غالبية العينة في الدراسة (69.6%) من العينة أن الظروف السياسية تُشكِّل بيئة ملائمة ‏لممارسة العمل الخيري بحرية في الدولة، واعتبرت نسبة (86.3%) أن الظروف الاقتصادية بيئة ملائمة، ‏وأن المجتمع الكويتي ملئ بقيم العمل الخيري، وأن القيم الاجتماعية الأساسية داعمة لممارسة العمل ‏الخيري بنسبة (98%).‏

الكلمات المفتاحية: العمل الخيري، الجمعيات الخيرية، المبرات، الفرق التطوعية، البيئة السياسية، البيئة الاجتماعية والثقافية، التطوع، غير ربحي، مجتمع مدني.
وسائل حفظ الإنسان في السنة النبوية
دراسة موضوعية -الصحيحان أنموذجا-
Authors: محمد عزيز العازمي
Published: June 2024

أُعد هذا البحث « وسائل حفظ الإنسان في السنة النبوية» لدراسة الوسائل النبوية التي من خلالها يتضح جليا الاعتناء النبوي بالإنسان على اختلاف مشاربه ومآربه، وذلك من خلال استنباطها من أصح الكتب بعد كتاب الله، وهما البخاري ومسلم، مستخدما المنهج الاستنباطي، القائم على بذل أقصى جهد عقلي ونفسي، بهدف استخراج قوانين تربوية، مستنبطة من أدلتها التفصيلية، ومن ثم استخدمت هذا المنهج بهدف استخراج الوسائل النبوية وطرق استخدامها في عصرنا الحاضر. وفي هذه الدراسة بيان لدور السنة النبوية، ومكانتها الريادية، في الحفاظ على الإنسان، من خلال المجالات الآتية: مجال التنشئة، والمجال الخُلقي، والمجال العقلي، والمجال النفسي، والمجال الاجتماعي. وأيضا الريادة في الوسائل النبوية في الحفاظ على الإنسان. وهي: وسائل إيجابية إصلاحية، ووسائل تربوية مؤثرة. ونتج عن هذا البحث: كيفية الاستفادة من الوسائل التي استخدمها النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم في عصرنا الحاضر.
الولاء والبراء
المفهوم والأحكام والآثار من خلال سورة الممتحنة
Authors: جمعان ظاهر الحربش
Published: June 2024

يتناول هذا البحث مفهوم الولاء والبراء وصلته بالإيمان من خلال دراسة تحليلية تطبيقية في سورة الممتحنة؛ فقد تناولت السورة حكم الولاء والبراء مع أصناف الكفار حربيهم وغير الحربي، وقد يكون من الصنفين ذوي قرابة، في تفصيل مهم، كما أن سبب نزول هذه السورة يرجع للموقف من هذين الصنفين من الكفار، وحكم من خالف مفهوم الولاء والبراء فصرف ظاهرًا فعلًا من أفعال الولاء للكافر المحارب، وحكم المودة والإحسان لغير المحارب، ثم موقف النبي من الصحابي الذي أفشى سرًّا من أسرار المسلمين وجيشهم للكفار المحاربين، ومن فعله، وهذا الموقف أضاف ضوابطَ شرعيةً مهمة للحكم على الفعل والفاعل والفرق بينهما، وأن إغفال هذه الضوابط مع من له قدم راسخة في الإسلام قد يؤدي إلى خطأ في الحكم، وينزلق بصاحبه إلى تكفير مسلم، فالإسلام عقد ثبت بيقين فلا يزول إلا بيقين، واليقين يقتضي تحقق الشروط وانتفاء الموانع. كما أن هذه الأحكام المستنبطة من هذه الآيات لم تحمل أحكامًا مجردة بالنهي غير المبرر، بل كانت مشفوعة بمبرراتها التي تخاطب العقل والوجدان والفطرة السليمة، من خلال مناداة المخاطب من أصحاب الفضل والسبق بالإيمان وإن وقع منه هذا الخطأ الجلل، كما أن الآيات حملت توجيهًا مهمًّا للتفريق بين المحارب وغير المحارب، وأن المسلم مطالب بالعدل والبر والقسط مع غير المحاربين. إن هذا التوازن الذي نزلت به آيات سورة الممتحنة يدلُّ دلالة قاطعة على ربانية هذه الرسالة وجمعها بين المثالية والواقعية.