bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risks and Rewards of Using the TLG for Editing Greek Texts
Authors: Signes Codoñer Juan
Published: July 2024

This contribution considers the limitations of, and the possibilities afforded by, the searching programmes of the Thesaurus Linguae Graecae for editing Greek texts and, particularly, for the establishment of the apparatus fontium. Particular attention is given to the N-grams tool. In addition to some general impressions, the tenth-century historical compilation known as the Theophanes Continuatus, preserved in the manuscript Vat. gr. 167, provides examples for discussion. Specific passages are commented upon to make the argument clear.
Paper Travellers
Authors: Pérez Gallardo Helena
Published: July 2024

The Gabinetto della Grafica of the Biblioteca Apostolica Vaticana preserves an album with views of Rome and Naples and reproductions of sculpture. From these, we make new attributions of the authorship of photographs, completing the catalogue of the work of such important authors as James Anderson, Michael Mang, Tommaso Cuccioni, Robert Rive, Giorgio Sommer and Giuseppe Ninci. We also reflect on the commercial dynamics of photographic firms in the nineteenth century and their important role in the consolidation of models and methodologies that served, from then on, for the construction of histories of architecture and art.
Critical Symposium on Christoforos Bouzanis, Social Imaginary and the Metaphysical Discourse (Abingdon: Routledge, 2023)
Authors: Outhwaite William
Published: July 2024

This is a contribution to a critical symposium on Christoforos Bouzanis, Social Imaginary and the Metaphysical Discourse (Abingdon: Routledge, 2023). It welcomes the author’s discussion of social imag(in)aries, while questioning some aspects of it.
A Social Europe without a Social Conscience
Authors: Vella Mary Grace
Published: July 2024

Founded on the underlying principles of equality, solidarity and cohesion, with economic growth envisioned as a vehicle to social well-being, Europe has emerged as a significant competitor in the global economy. Despite the subsidiarity principle, member states’ social protection systems are increasingly being driven by the European neoliberal agenda. Malta is no exception: its socialist welfare regime, based on strong government interventions and universal provision, has progressively given way to a more regulated, privatised and means-tested model. The globalisation–inequality–social protection nexus suggests that Malta’s high GDP growth and widening inequalities are not reflected in a reciprocal outlay in social protection expenditure. In a context where the social well-being of all is increasingly becoming subordinated to the economic well-being of the few, one questions to what extent the social model has remained a fundamental pillar of the EU and whether, through Europeanisation, Malta is concomitantly losing its social conscience.
The Regime of Enclosed or Semi-Enclosed Seas with Special Regard for the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Scovazzi Tullio
Published: July 2024

unclos Part xi, relating to “enclosed or semi-enclosed” seas, is composed of only two provisions. Art. 122 provides for a definition that lends itself to some perplexities from the logical and terminological point of view. Art. 123 invites the States bordering such seas to coordinate their activities in certain subject matters, namely fisheries, protection of the marine environment and scientific research. In fact, Art. 123 invites bordering States to do something that, in most cases, is already mandatory under other unclos provisions. The poor substantive content of Part ix may be explained considering that it is a compromise result between the position of those States that proposed a special regime for enclosed or semi-enclosed seas and those that preferred to avoid the creation of a new category of seas. While the purpose of Art. 123 is only “promotional”, States bordering some enclosed or semi-enclosed seas have already put in place various forms of regional co-operation. This is the case of cooperation established in the Mediterranean Sea in the fields of protection of the environment (so-called Barcelona Convention system and accobams) and fisheries (General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean). Gaps remain in other fields, such as the protection of underwater cultural heritage, and some questions relating to navigation in certain environmentally sensitive areas still need to be addressed at the world level.
The Right to Water as a Shaping Force in International Economic Law
Authors: Th Müller Andreas
Published: July 2024

While the road leading to the recognition of a human right to water has been rather bumpy, it has nonetheless had a significant impact on international economic law. It operates as a shaping force in international trade law and international investment law as the two main branches of international economic law by incremental change rather than radical transformation. Against this background, the present article seeks to identify where and by virtue of what mechanisms one may expect the most profound and lasting changes in and to international economic law under the impact of the human right to water.
Climate Change, Human Rights, and Private Capital: The Obligation of States to Close the Climate Investment Gap
Authors: Scheu Julian , Wettstein Eva-Maria
Published: July 2024

Climate change affects humanity in many ways, such as rising sea levels, water shortages, agricultural droughts, and the displacement of people. Thus, climate change threatens the enjoyment of human rights. States must therefore put in place effective mitigation and adaptation measures to combat climate change. But since no public budget can finance those transformation efforts, combatting climate change requires large sums of private capital. However, the international community has identified a multi-trillion dollar ‘climate investment gap’. Against this backdrop, the present contribution argues that international human rights obligations call on states to urgently redirect private investment flows into climate mitigation and adaptation measures. The existence of such an obligation and its impact on concrete policy decisions is then illustrated by three practical examples: the announced withdrawal of European states from the Energy Charter Treaty, Austria’s windfall tax on energy profits, and the US Inflation Reduction Act.
Sanctions against Individuals and Investment Law
Authors: Magnússon Finnur
Published: July 2024

The surge in international sanctions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 marks a new development in international law in general and international investment law in particular. This article examines this recent development and the interplay between international sanctions and international investment law. Furthermore, the article discusses whether investment tribunals will rely on WTO jurisprudence when applying ‘essential security’ provisions in individual cases. By providing an examination of sanctions laws in the context of international investment law, the article highlights the complex dynamic between the right of states to limit investments on the basis of national security vis-á-vis the right of investors to enjoy investment protection as prescribed in numerous International Investment Agreements (IIAs).
Species identity crisis among New World members of the genus Heliothrips (Thysanoptera: Thripidae: Panchaetothripinae)
Authors: SILVA LARINNE DE MARIA ROCHA , O’DONNELL CHERYLE A. , LIMA ÉLISON FABRÍCIO BEZERRA
Published: July 2024

Until mid-1990s, Heliothrips was considered a genus without major identification problems, with only H. haemorrhoidalis spread worldwide. More recently, concerns have arisen regarding misidentifications of this pest species around the world, particularly with the description of H. longisensibilis from China and the subsequent records from Argentina and Brazil. Here we consider that species as a new synonym of H. angustior stat. rev., and records of this species under the name H. haemorrhoidalis from the Neotropics (and also India and Thailand) are rectified, whereas in the Nearctic region only H. haemorrhoidalis is present. Both species are widespread, and morphological variations suggest other cryptic species may occur. Heliothrips flamengo sp. n. is described from the Brazilian and Peruvian Amazon Rainforest, and an updated key to the five species of Heliothrips is provided.
The Neotropical genus Lenkothrips (Thysanoptera: Heterothripidae): additions to the faunas of Argentina and Brazil with an updated key to species
Authors: LIMA ÉLISON FABRÍCIO B. , ZAMAR MARÍA I. , GRECO NANCY , ROCCA MARGARITA
Published: July 2024

Lenkothrips is a Heterothripidae genus with five species known only from South America. These species breed exclusively on flowers and exhibit some degree of host specificity. In the present paper, we describe three further species from Argentina (L. moundi sp. n.) and Brazil (L. canastra sp. n. and L. pantanal sp. n.) and provide an updated key to the now eight species of Lenkothrips.
Two new species of Lefroyothrips (Thysanoptera: Thripinae) from China
Authors: LI YAJIN , ZHANG HONGRUI
Published: July 2024

Two new species of Lefroyothrips are described from tropical areas in southern China: L. aliceae sp. n., and L. laurencei sp. n. An illustrated key to the three species of Lefroyothrips from China is also provided. All slide-mounted specimens are deposited at Yunnan Agricultural University.
Further study of the genus Mycterothrips Trybom (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in Japan, with description of a new species and a new record
Authors: MASUMOTO MASAMI , OKAJIMA SHÛJI
Published: July 2024

Mycterothrips albiziae sp. n. is described from Albizia julibrissin in Japan. Mycterothrips auratus is newly recorded from Japan and redescribed, second instar larvae of M. fasciatus and M. japonicus are described for the first time. Host plants and character states variation of some Japanese species of Mycterothrips, an identification key to the Japanese species, and a list of world Mycterothrips species is also provided.
Taxonomic updates on Pachyserica Brenske, 1898 and Serica MacLeay, 1819 reveal 38 new species and new challenges of Sericini systematics regarding DNA barcodes and genus-level diagnostic key characters (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Sericinae)
Authors: AHRENS DIRK , ZHAO MING-ZHI , PHAM PHU VAN , LIU WAN-GANG
Published: July 2024

Here we present updates on the taxonomy and distribution of the genera Pachyserica Brenske, 1898 and Serica MacLeay, 1819 from East Asia. Thirty eight new species are desribed from China, Myanmar, South Korea, and Vietnam: Pachyserica chenchangchini Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. dieuthuyae Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. hoabinhensis Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. motuo Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. natmatoung Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. sanqingshanensis Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. sunfengyii Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. tayyentu Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. tianxuani Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. wangzizhaoi Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. yaonani Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. yinhengi Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, P. zhanbaoxiangi Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, Serica (s. l.) anhua Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (s. l.) camura Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (s. l.) fengxue Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (s. l.) nhiae Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (s. l.) paracallosericoides Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (s. l.) taythien Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (s. l.) wuyishan Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (s. l.) yuechengling Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (Serica) assingi Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) bomi Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) christophreuteri Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) cuona Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) fansipan Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) gongtonggouensis Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) guangxiensis Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) gwangjuensis Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) hongyii Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) jiangda Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) jiulaoci Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) lushui Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) liyitengi Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) qizhihaoi Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) xizang Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, S. (S.) zhamu Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species, and S. (Taiwanoserica) yexiaohani Ahrens, Zhao, Pham & Liu, new species. The lectotype of Pachyserica scalaris Arrow, 1946 is designated and its male genitalia is illustrated. Additional records of 66 other species are provided.
Modeling Nonspherical Hailstones
Authors: Lin Yuzhu , Kumjian Matthew R. , Soderholm Joshua , Giammanco Ian
Published: July 2024

Hail research and forecasting models necessarily involve explicit or implicit—and uncertain—physical assumptions regarding hailstones’ shape, tumbling behavior, fall speed, and thermal energy transfer. Whereas most models assume spherical hailstones, we relax this assumption by using hailstone shape data from field observations to establish empirical size–shape relationships with reasonable degrees of randomness considering hailstones’ natural shape variability, capturing the observed distribution of triaxial ellipsoidal shapes. We also incorporate explicit, random tumbling of individual hailstones during their growth to simulate their free-falling behavior and the resultant changes in cross-sectional area (which affects growth by hydrometeor collection). These physical attributes are incorporated in calculating hailstones’ fall speeds, using either empirical relationships or analytical relationships based on each hailstone’s Best and Reynolds numbers. Options for drag coefficient modification are added to emulate hailstones’ rough surfaces (lobes), which then modifies their thermal energy and vapor exchange with the environment. We investigate how applying these physical assumptions about nonspherical hail to the Penn State hail growth trajectory model, coupled with Cloud Model 1 supercell simulations, impacts hail production and examine the reasons behind the resulting variability in hail statistics. The choice of hailstone size–mass relation and fall speed scheme have the strongest influence on hail sizes. Using nonspherical, tumbling hailstones reduces the number of large hailstones produced. Applying shape-specific thermal energy transfer coefficients subtly increases sizes; the effects of lobes vary depending on the fall speed scheme used. These physical assumptions, although adding complexity to modeling, can be parameterized efficiently and potentially used in microphysics schemes.

Significance Statement

In numerical modeling of hailstorms, we usually consider hailstones to be spherical to simplify calculations, but in nature, hailstones generally are not spheres and can be rather lumpy and have spikes. The purpose of this study is to examine how the model result would change when nonspherical hailstone shape is implemented. We examine the relationship between hailstone shape and physical processes during hail growth in effort to explain why these changes occur and offer insights on how nonspherical hailstone shape may be parameterized in bulk microphysics schemes.
Statistical Postprocessing of Week-1 and Week-2 Precipitation Forecasts over Taiwan
Authors: Chang Hui-Ling , Toth Zoltan , Chou Shih-Chun , Feng Chih-Yung , Lin Han-Fang , Lin Pay-Liam , Hong Jing-Shan , Fong Chin-Tzu , Cheng Chia-Ping
Published: July 2024

The predictability of precipitation is hindered by finer-scale processes not captured explicitly in global numerical models, such as convective interactions, cloud microphysics, and boundary layer dynamics. However, there is growing demand across various sectors for medium- (3–10-day) and extended-range (10–30-day) quantitative precipitation forecasts (QPFs) and probabilistic QPFs (PQPFs). This study uses a novel statistical postprocessing technique, APPM, that combines analog postprocessing (AP) with probability matching (PM) to produce week-1 and week-2 accumulated precipitation forecasts over Taiwan. AP searches for historical predictions that closely resemble the current forecast and create an AP ensemble using the observed high-resolution precipitation patterns corresponding to these forecast analogs. Frequency counting and PM are then separately applied to the AP ensemble to produce calibrated and downscaled PQPFs and bias-reduced QPFs, respectively. Evaluation over a 22-yr (1999–2020) period shows that raw ensemble forecasts from the GEFS of NOAA/NWS/Environmental Modeling Center, collected for the subseasonal experiment, are underdispersive with a wet bias. In contrast, the AP ensemble spread well represents forecast uncertainty, leading to substantially more reliable and skillful probabilistic forecasts. Furthermore, the AP-based PQPF demonstrates superior discrimination ability and yields notably greater economic benefits for a wider range of users, with the maximum economic value increasing by 30%–50% for the week-2 forecast. Compared to the raw ensemble mean forecast, the calibrated QPF exhibits lower mean absolute error and explains 3–8 times more variance in observations. Overall, the APPM technique significantly improves week-1 and week-2 QPFs and PQPFs over Taiwan.

Significance Statement

There are two significant challenges in improving precipitation forecasts beyond a few days in Taiwan. First, large-scale numerical models often struggle with accurately predicting precipitation locations, magnitudes, and providing sufficient detail. Second, probabilistic precipitation forecasts have been unreliable, failing to convey accurate uncertainty information to users. In response to these challenges, this study has developed a relatively simple yet effective technique that corrects the spatiotemporal distribution of predicted precipitation and downscales the forecasts from a 1° to 1-km spatial resolution. Our results demonstrate that this technique significantly alleviates these two issues, resulting in more accurate precipitation forecasts and more reliable probabilistic precipitation forecasts within a 2-week timeframe.
The Roles of Emotion Regulation and Alexithymia in the Relationship Between Sleep and Social Functioning
Authors: Hammer Lillian A. , Bonfils Kelsey A.
Published: July 2024

Poor sleep quality has been tied to worse social functioning outcomes, including greater loneliness, fewer social interactions, and lower social integration. Other factors likely play a role in the relationship between sleep quality and social functioning. Specifically, alexithymia and emotion regulation may serve as moderators in these relationships. Data for this study came from the Pittsburgh Cold Study 3, a publicly available dataset ( N = 213). Participants completed self-report measures including the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Emotional Regulation Questionnaire, Toronto Alexithymia Scale, and four measures of social functioning: Social Network Index, Social Participation Measure, Short Loneliness Scale, and Interpersonal Support Evaluation List for providing support to others. Sleep quality was significantly related to the social functioning variables. Further, the use of the emotion regulation strategy reappraisal significantly moderated the relationship between sleep quality and social participation. Worse sleep quality was related to lower engagement in social activities, only for participants high in use of reappraisal. Additionally, the use of reappraisal significantly moderated the relationship between sleep quality and giving of support. Worse sleep quality was related to less self-reported giving of support to others only for participants high in the use of reappraisal. Results suggest that the use of reappraisal may be an important factor to consider in the relationship between sleep and social functioning. Future work should extend these findings to the general population and a sample of individuals with relevant diagnoses, such as borderline personality or schizophrenia-spectrum disorders.
Testing a Mediation Model of Dispositional Optimism, Mindful Self-Care, and Subjective Well-Being
Authors: Ang Chin-Siang
Published: July 2024

Research consistently demonstrates a positive association between dispositional optimism (DO) and subjective well-being (SWB). This study takes a step forward by exploring potential mechanisms underlying this relationship, with a specific focus on the mediating role of mindful self-care (MSC). We conducted a cross-sectional online survey involving 312 Singaporean adults. Participants completed questionnaires assessing their DO, MSC practices, and overall SWB. Our findings confirmed a significant link between DO and SWB, with individuals exhibiting higher optimism reporting greater well-being. Importantly, the relationship was mediated by MSC, suggesting that optimism motivates individuals to engage in MSC practices, which in turn, enhances SWB. Moreover, DO was linked to all SWB subcomponents, even after controlling for MSC as a mediator. Among the six MSC facets, self-compassion and purpose, supportive relationships, and mindful awareness emerged as significant mediators. This study adds to the growing body of evidence recognizing the positive role of DO and MSC in improving well-being outcomes. It highlights the potential of interventions aimed at cultivating optimism as a promising approach for enhancing mindful self-care practices and ultimately promoting well-being in adults.
Autistic and Non-Autistic Experience of the Sensory Aspects of the Church Service
Authors: Unwin Katy , van Ommen Armand Léon
Published: July 2024

Sensory differences in autism can impact many areas of life, including engagement in church. Fewer autistic people attend church than non-autistic people, with qualitative studies finding that the sensory experience is one reason for this. To date, no quantitative studies have investigated the impact of sensory aspects of the church service on autistic people. In this study, 299 participants from a range of denominations (autistic = 82; self-diagnosed autistic = 61; non-autistic = 156; aged 18–82 years) completed an online questionnaire about their sensory experience within the church. A principal components analysis (PCA) was conducted on the questionnaire data, establishing four statistically derived components, which were then compared between diagnostic groups. We found that autistic people experienced significantly more sensory barriers in church services (“Barriers” Component 1), received/required more accommodations (“Accommodations” Component 3), and felt more connected to God when they felt in control of the sensory and social aspects of the service (“Control” Component 4) than non-autistic people. All participants experienced similar enjoyment of some sensory aspects of the service (“Facilitators” Component 2). We also found evidence that the sensory environment can make attending church difficult, or even limit attendance, in our autistic sample. Recommendations for supporting autistic attendance at, and engagement in, church are made.
The Role of Time in Strategic Human Resource Management Research: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Boon Corine , Jiang Kaifeng , Eckardt Rory
Published: July 2024

Although time is an essential component of the relationships between human resource (HR) systems and their antecedents and consequences, strategic human resource management (SHRM) research has been long criticized for not paying enough attention to the role of time in theory development and research design. To evaluate how the time issue has been addressed in this research field, we reviewed 237 empirical studies on HR systems that incorporated time, using temporal features. We found that while the number of studies incorporating time has increased substantially over time, there is a lack of progress regarding testing and theorizing temporal effects, thus we lack understanding of change or relationships over time. Based on our findings, we offer specific guidance on hypothesizing and theorizing the role of time in SHRM, and we offer suggestions for research design and statistical analyses in temporal research of SHRM. By integrating temporal models, temporal features, and methodologies for testing temporal relationships with SHRM research, this review aims to advance SHRM research to adopt more truly dynamic views to examine HR systems and their antecedents and effects.
Identifying Strategies to Improve Shared Decision Making for Pregnant Patients’ Decisions about Prenatal Genetic Screens and Diagnostic Tests
Authors: Collart Christina , Craighead Caitlin , Yao Meng , Chien Edward K. , Rose Susannah , Frankel Richard M. , Coleridge Marissa , Hu Bo , Edmonds Brownsyne Tucker , Ranzini Angela C. , Farrell Ruth M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Prenatal genetic screens and diagnostic tests are vital components of prenatal care. The first prenatal visit is a critical time in the decision-making process when patients decide whether to use these tests in addition to address a series of other essential prenatal care aspects. We conducted this study to examine the role of a shared decision-making (SDM) instrument to support these discussions.

Methods

We conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial of patients allocated to an SDM tool or usual care at their first prenatal visit. Participants completed a baseline survey to measure decision-making needs and preferences. Direct observation was conducted and analyzed using the OPTION scale to measure SDM during prenatal genetic testing discussions.

Results

Levels of SDM were similar across groups ( P = 0.081). The highest levels of SDM were observed during screening test discussions (NEST 2.4 ± 0.9 v. control 2.6 ± 1.0). Lowest levels were observed in discussions about patients’ preference for risk versus diagnostic information (NEST 1.0 ± 1.1 v. control 1.2 ± 1.3).

Conclusion

Study findings demonstrate the need for targeted patient-focused and provider-focused efforts to improve SDM to enhance patients’ informed decision making about these options. Importantly, patients’ baseline knowledge and attitudes need to be considered given that patients with less knowledge may need more carefully crafted communication.

Highlights

Choices about whether, when, and how to use prenatal genetic tests are highly preference-based decisions, with patients’ baseline attitudes about these options as a major driver in health care discussions. The decision-making process is also shaped by patient preferences regarding a shared or informed decision-making process for medical decisions that are highly personal and have significant ramifications for obstetric outcomes. There is a need to develop targeted efforts to improve decision making and enhance patients’ ability to make informed decisions about prenatal genetic tests in early pregnancy.
A New Approach to Composite Estimation for Repeated Surveys with Rotating Panels
Authors: Merkouris Takis
Published: July 2024

Composite estimation in repeated surveys with rotating panels refers to methods of estimation that exploit correlations in the data in the sample overlap between survey times to improve the precision of estimates. In this article a novel approach to composite estimation is proposed, in which composite regression estimators of current totals for a number of key variables are generated from a simultaneous calibration of the sampling weights of the overlapping samples of the current and previous survey time. In this procedure, in addition to the usual calibration to known population totals, differences of estimates for the key variables based on the full sample and the common sample from the two consecutive times are calibrated to each other. The resulting multivariate composite regression estimator, which is constructed as an approximate best linear unbiased estimator, incorporates effectively information from the samples of both survey times for enhanced estimation efficiency. Unlike other composite regression estimators, the proposed estimator does not require micro-matching of data in the overlap sample, and, therefore, is free of potential issues associated with it. It is also considerably more practical than existing composite regression estimators and the traditional AK-composite estimator.
Cam displacement curve optimization for minimal jerk using search and rescue optimization algorithm
Authors: Todorović Marko , Marković Goran , Bulatović Radovan , Bošković Marina , Savković Mile
Published: July 2024

Polynomials of a degree higher than 8th used for the rise phase of displacement curve of a cam profile were optimized for gaining minimal jerk using the search and rescue optimization algorithm. The algorithm was used to obtain the polynomial coefficients for the polynomials of the higher degree that cannot be calculated by using the analytical approach without adding additional boundary conditions other than displacement, velocity and acceleration in characteristic positions. The degree of the polynomial from which the optimal value of jerk using the optimization algorithm can be obtained was determined, as well as the degree after which the results of the optimization give worse values of the jerk.
Angela Merkel’s journey to conviction leadership during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ramon-Pinat Ezequiel , Esteban Inés
Published: July 2024

Angela Merkel has been Germany’s leader, the locomotive of the European Union, for 16 years. Cultivating a particular style, with a low profile, she was the first female chancellor in the Germanic country. Navigating tensions within her own party, the political rivals that pushed her to reach agreements on the limits and the difficult understanding with other colleagues from states such as Macron, Trump or Putin, she has been avoiding the different crises that have come to the fore. However, the crisis unleashed by the arrival of COVID-19 was different from the previous ones. She is always questioned, in the same way as the rest of the women in key positions, because the leadership traits that are required of leaders are related to those identified with masculinity. However, in managing the pandemic, Merkel was highly valued for exercising another type of profile, as an understanding, kind and fraternal mutti (‘mother’, in German). This article analyses the transition from a ‘masculinized’ leadership of the Teutonic chancellor, in the first stage prior to the pandemic, to the one ‘of convictions’. While at the beginning, she was seen as a transgressor for going beyond the expected gender stereotypes, in the second, she gave way to another feminine in managing the crisis provoked by the explosion of the pandemic. Instead of a warmongering and rational speech, Merkel resorted to a rather emotional and feminine one.
Artistic Autoethnography in Human Resource Development: Deepening Empathy and Affective Understanding to Forward Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice in the Workplace
Authors: Bohonos Jeremy W. , Kwon Chang-kyu , Gerken Lauren , Archer Matthew
Published: July 2024

Artistic ethnography is growing in prevalence across the social sciences and has been used to explore daily lived experiences with marginalization powerfully. This approach, however, has received very little attention in Adult Education and HRD literature. Artistic approaches to autoethnography engage with aesthetics, feelings, and embodied experiences while pushing researchers to consider ways they can work outside of standard social scientific prose style writing and numerical abstraction when creating representations of lived reality. Artistic approaches to autoethnography can enhance all areas of HRD research and practice but hold salience for critical HRD, as its leading proponents have called for an emphasis on “relating,” engagement with the affective domain of workplace injustice, and “radical vulnerability” as we work to imagine and create more just organizations. The purpose of this article is to explore how artistic autoethnography can advance the critical work of HRD by carving out a nurturing space where those living with the daily discomfort of marginalization can finally share their feelings and explore insights that stretch beyond the limitations of standard academic prose.
Mechanisms of hydrogel-based microRNA delivery systems and its application strategies in targeting inflammatory diseases
Authors: Hu Shaorun , Liang Yu , Chen Jinxiang , Gao Xiaojun , Zheng Youkun , Wang Liqun , Jiang Jun , Zeng Min , Luo Mao
Published: July 2024

Hydrogels, composed of three-dimensional polymer networks, are excellent delivery carriers and have been extensively employed in the biomedical field. Inflammation acts as a protective mechanism to prevent harmful substances from entering living organisms, but chronic, long-lasting inflammation can cause oxidative stress, which damages tissue and organs and adversely affects patients’ quality of life. The aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) has been found to play a significant part in the etiology and progression of inflammatory diseases, as suggested by growing evidence. Numerous hydrogels that can act as gene carriers for the intracellular delivery of miRNA have been described during ongoing research into innovative hydrogel materials. MiRNA hydrogel delivery systems, which are loaded with exogenous miRNA inhibitors or mimics, enable targeted miRNA intervention in inflammatory diseases and effectively prevent environmental stressors from degrading or inactivating miRNA. In this review, we summarize the classification of miRNA hydrogel delivery systems, the basic strategies and mechanisms for loading miRNAs into hydrogels, highlight the biomedical applications of miRNA hydrogel delivery systems in inflammatory diseases, and share our viewpoints on potential opportunities and challenges in the promising region of miRNA delivery systems. These findings may provide a new theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of inflammation-related diseases and lay the foundation for clinical translation.
Outcomes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Quadriceps Tendon in Adolescent Athletes at Mean Follow-up of 4 Years
Authors: Dadoo Sahil , Herman Zachary J. , Nazzal Ehab M. , Drain Nicholas P. , Finger Logan , Reddy Rajiv P. , Miller Liane , Lesniak Bryson P. , Musahl Volker , Hughes Jonathan D.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Despite increasing use of quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR), limited data exist regarding its outcomes in high-risk adolescent athletes.

Purpose:

To (1) report the outcomes after QT ACLR in adolescent athletes and (2) identify patient-related and surgery-related factors that may influence failure rates after QT ACLR.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

All patients aged 14 to 17 years who underwent primary anatomic, transphyseal, single-bundle QT ACLR between 2010 and 2021 with a minimum 2-year follow-up were included for analysis. Demographic and surgical data as well as preoperative International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Marx activity scores were collected retrospectively. All patients were also contacted to assess postoperative patient-reported outcomes (PROs), including IKDC and Marx activity scores, and return-to-sports (RTS) data. Outcomes of interest included rates of revision ACLR and ipsilateral complications, contralateral ACL tears, difference in pre- and postoperative PROs, and rates of RTS. Patient and surgical characteristics were compared between groups who required revision ACLR versus those who did not.

Results:

A total of 162 patients met inclusion criteria, of which 89 adolescent athletes (mean age 16.2 ± 1.1 years, 64% female) were included for analysis at mean follow-up of 4.0 years. Postoperative IKDC scores were significantly higher than preoperative scores (88.5 vs 37.5; P < .001), whereas Marx activity scores decreased postoperatively (14.3 vs 12.2; P = .011). Successful RTS occurred in 80% of patients at a mean time of 9.7 ± 6.9 months, and 85% of these patients returned to the same or higher level of sports. The most common reasons for failure to RTS included lack of time (n = 7, 70%) and fearing reinjury in the operative knee (n = 5, 50%). The overall revision ACLR rate was 10% (n = 9), and contralateral ACL tears occurred in 14% (n = 12) of patients. The overall ipsilateral knee reoperation rate was 22.5% (n = 20). No statistically significant differences in patient or surgical characteristics were observed between patients who underwent revision ACLR and those who did not.

Conclusion:

At a minimum 2-year follow-up after QT ACLR, adolescent athletes experienced significantly improved postoperative IKDC scores, high rates of RTS, and low rates of graft failure, despite a relatively high ipsilateral reoperation rate. Surgeons may utilize this information when identifying the optimal graft choice for adolescent athletes who have sustained an ACL injury and wish to return to high level of sporting activities.
Local Women in the Christian Mission History of the Protestant Church in Southeast Sulawesi (Gepsultra), Indonesia
Authors: Susanta Yohanes Krismantyo
Published: July 2024

In the history of Protestant missions, women do not play a significant role in the collective memory. This study endeavors to examine and analyze the involvement of women in the historical records of the Protestant Church mission in Southeast Sulawesi, employing a feminist perspective. The primary thesis of this article posits that the adoption of feminist perspectives is imperative in order to elucidate the interrelated nature of masculine hegemony, Indonesian historiography, and the marginalization of women as individuals who have been excluded from the annals of missionary history and the collective recollection of the Protestant church in Southeast Sulawesi. The article commences with an examination of women and historiography, situated within the framework of feminist discourse. The results indicate that local women deserve to be dubbed missionaries because they serve as missionary heroes, leaders, and cultural bridges.
Exact solutions of a hybrid nanofluid model for the flow across a heated stretching cylinder at a stagnation point
Authors: Usman Muhammad Tahir , Abbas Hashmi Muntazim , Nadeem Sohail , Baig Mirza Naveed Jahangeer , Rashad Muhammad Sami , Alzabut Jehad , Ghazwani Hassan Ali
Published: July 2024

We examined the two-dimensional, Stagnation flow across a thermally extending cylinder and identify the precise analytical solutions. As hybrid nanoparticles, Copper (Cu) and Alumina Oxide solid [Formula: see text] particles are employed with base fluid [Formula: see text]. We added nanoparticles of Copper (Cu) and Alumina Oxide solid [Formula: see text] to the water being that its heat permeability is low. The fundamental fluid’s ([Formula: see text]) thermal efficiency has risen as a result. A computational model of stationary point flow through a heated stretching cylinder is constructed using the theory behind the mechanism of the flow strategy. Carefully considered is the interaction between the impinging stagnation flow and the flow produced by stretching the cylinder’s surface. For this fascinating subject, precise analytical solutions are obtained, and the results are also graphically evaluated. The flow picture is evaluated using streams for any indications of evolved flow stretching or impinging stagnation flow dominating under pressure. A thorough investigation of heat transport is also offered, along with a graphical description of the Nusselt number (Nu). When the stretching cylinder has a lower stretching velocity A, an impinging stagnation flow that is more forceful or completely developed is seen for larger values of the approaching flow pressure parameter. When greater approaching pressure P flow values are applied, stagnation flow dominates over stretching flow. A significant portion of stagnation point flow research takes a numerical approach to the subject; nevertheless, in this work, we seek to present a precise solution to the challenge at hand. Behavior of fluid as stream lines and graphs of velocity profile, temperature profiles are plotted by using Mathematica software.
VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors mediate tactile hindpaw hypersensitivity and carotid artery dilatation induced by PACAP38 in a migraine relevant mouse model
Authors: Guo Song , Rasmussen Rikke Holm , Hay-Schmidt Anders , Ashina Messoud , Asuni Ayodeji A. , Jensen Jeppe Møller , Holm Anja , Lauritzen Sabrina Prehn , Dorsam Glenn , Hannibal Jens , Georg Birgitte , Kristensen David Møbjerg , Olesen Jes , Christensen Sarah Louise
Published: July 2024

Background

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) is a neuropeptide pivotal in migraine pathophysiology and is considered a promising new migraine drug target. Although intravenous PACAP triggers migraine attacks and a recent phase II trial with a PACAP-inhibiting antibody showed efficacy in migraine prevention, targeting the PACAP receptor PAC1 alone has been unsuccessful. The present study investigated the role of three PACAP receptors (PAC1, VPAC1 and VPAC2) in inducing migraine-relevant hypersensitivity in mice.

Methods

Hindpaw hypersensitivity was induced by repeated PACAP38 injections. Tactile sensitivity responses were quantified using von Frey filaments in three knockout (KO) mouse strains, each lacking one of the PACAP-receptors (Ntotal = 160). Additionally, ex vivo wire myography was used to assess vasoactivity of the carotid artery, and gene expression of PACAP receptors was examined by qPCR.

Results

PACAP38 induced hypersensitivity in WT controls (p < 0.01) that was diminished in VPAC1 and VPAC2 KO mice (p < 0.05). In contrast, PAC1 KO mice showed similar responses to WT controls (p > 0.05). Myograph experiments supported these findings showing diminished vasoactivity in VPAC1 and VPAC2 KO mice. We found no upregulation of the non-modified PACAP receptors in KO mice.

Conclusions

This study assessed all three PACAP receptors in a migraine mouse model and suggests a significant role of VPAC receptors in migraine pathophysiology. The lack of hypersensitivity reduction in PAC1 KO mice suggests the involvement of other PACAP receptors or compensatory mechanisms. The results indicate that targeting only individual PACAP receptors may not be an effective migraine treatment.
Characterization, evolution, and abiotic stress responses of leucine-rich repeat receptor-like protein kinases (LRR-RLK) in Liriodendron chinense
Authors: Mu Zhiying , Xu Mingyue , Manda Teja , Chen Jinhui , Yang Liming , Hwarari Delight
Published: July 2024

Background

Liriodendron chinense is susceptible to extinction due to the increasing severity of abiotic stresses resulting from global climate change, consequently impacting its growth, development, and geographic distribution. However, the L. chinense remains pivotal in both socio-economic and ecological realms. The LRR-RLK (leucine-rich repeat receptor-like protein kinase) genes, constituting a substantial cluster of receptor-like kinases in plants, are crucial for plant growth and stress regulation and are unexplored in the L. chinense.

Result

233 LchiLRR-RLK genes were discovered, unevenly distributed across 17 chromosomes and 24 contigs. Among these, 67 pairs of paralogous genes demonstrated gene linkages, facilitating the expansion of the LchiLRR-RLK gene family through tandem (35.82%) and segmental (64.18%) duplications. The synonymous and nonsynonymous ratios showed that the LchiLRR-RLK genes underwent a purifying or stabilizing selection during evolution. Investigations in the conserved domain and protein structures revealed that the LchiLRR-RLKs are highly conserved, carrying conserved protein kinase and leucine-rich repeat-like domians that promote clustering in different groups implicating gene evolutionary conservation. A deeper analysis of LchiLRR-RLK full protein sequences phylogeny showed 13 groups with a common ancestor protein. Interspecies gene collinearity showed more orthologous gene pairs between L. chinense and P. trichocarpa, suggesting various similar biological functions between the two plant species. Analysis of the functional roles of the LchiLRR-RLK genes using the qPCR demonstrated that they are involved in cold, heat, and salt stress regulation, especially, members of subgroups VIII, III, and Xa.

Conclusion

Conclusively, the LRR-RLK genes are conserved in L. chinense and function to regulate the temperature and salt stresses, and this research provides new insights into understanding LchiLRR-RLK genes and their regulatory effects in abiotic stresses.
Anesthetic key points in a patient with a terminal ileum neuroendocrine tumor and a rare carcinoid left heart disease presented for non-cardiac surgery: case report
Authors: Van Ussel Kevin , Leonard Daniel , Watremez Christine , Robu Cristina Bianca
Published: July 2024

Background

Carcinoid tumors are rare neuroendocrine malignancies presenting in an increasing number in our center. The incidence of carcinoid tumors is approximatively between 2.5 and 5 cases per 100,000 people of whom about 50% develop carcinoid syndrome. Once the carcinoid syndrome has developed, a carcinoid cardiomyopathy can occur. Carcinoid heart disease (CaHD) remains a serious and rare complication associated with a significant increase in morbidity and mortality. Although carcinoid tumors have been known and studied for several years, there are still scarce data on the anesthetic management and the peri operative period.

Case presentation

We describe a case of a Caucasian 44-year-old woman with an unusual presentation of left CaHD with an ileal neuroendocrine tumor and liver metastases. Our preoperative somatostatin administration protocol, limit the cardiac damage. The maintenance of stable hemodynamics, the use of balanced anesthetic technique, all along with a good understanding of the pathology, played a major role in the successful management of anesthesia. This case report allows us to introduce our decision algorithm for the management of this type of pathology in our tertiary hospital, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc.

Conclusion

Despite the paucity of data, anesthetic management of patients with carcinoid tumor can be safely performed with effective hemodynamic monitoring and a good understanding of the pathophysiology. Knowledge and application of a clear institutional algorithm for octreotide administration and multidisciplinary consultation at a referral center are essential for the management of these patients.