bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Review of Residential Care for Children and Young People with Disabilities: Towards the Development of Quality Indicators
Authors: Alves Sílvia , Lucas Casanova Mariana , Sanches-Ferreira Manuela , Costa Araújo Sérgio , Nobre Lima Luiza , Santos Clara Cruz
Published: October 2024

Considering data that suggests an overrepresentation of children/youth with disabilities in Residential Care Homes (RCH), placing them in a situation of accumulation of risk factors and increased vulnerability, this study presents a systematic literature review (SLR) focused on this target group. Research questions address prevalence rates, characteristics and outcomes of children/youth with disabilities in RCH; characteristics and practices of RCH, and evidence-based interventions; and recommendations to improve practices to support the development of quality indicators to improve the experience of children and young people with disabilities in RCH. Methodology followed PRISMA-P and the protocol was registered with PROSPERO. Five databases were used and 31 studies were included. Results demonstrate the need for clear definitions of disability to ensure consistent data and guide policymaking for RCH. Moreover, results show gaps in research on the experiences of children/youth with disabilities in RCH, and on specific interventions for this population. Based on the recommendations offered by the literature, this SLR contributes to the development of quality indicators that consider the needs of children/youth with disabilities in RCH and promote their participation in all areas of life.
The dry lab microscopist or prompt microscopist: do we need them?
Authors: Braet Filip , Cai Weidong
Published: October 2024

In modern biological microscopy, the explosion of data volume and complexity highlights the urgent need for specialised data management support roles. While traditional microscopy focuses on visual data presentation, the rapid increase in big data acquisition and data mining demands advanced handling and analysis. This gap underscores the need for “dry lab microscopists” or data experts skilled in microscopy data management, software interoperability, and AI-driven solutions. Job markets reflect this demand, pointing to the necessity for dedicated training programs. Integrating these specialists into research institutions is crucial for addressing digital data challenges and maintaining high standards in data integrity and analysis. Their role is essential for advancing research in the data-driven era.
Impact of school leadership on reading literacy in rural China: the differentiated models of principals’ self-report and teachers’ report
Authors: Zhu Haixue , Li Ling , Li Hui
Published: October 2024

The impact of school leadership (SL) on reading literacy (RL) has been extensively examined using either principals' self-reports or teachers' reports. However, principals and teachers might have divergent, even contradictory, views on the path from SL to RL. Therefore, this study aimed to explore and compare the principals’ self-reported and teachers’ reported models with teacher commitment (TC) as a mediator and collaborative culture (CC) as a moderator of the relationship between SL and RL. Whole group sampling was employed to sample the 106 junior middle schools in City X from western China. About 841 teachers from 80 classes/schools were successfully matched with their 3134 students (Mage = 14.84, SD = 0.74, female = 1673, male = 1461), and about 34 principals from 34 classes/schools were matched with their 1223 students (Mage = 15.35, SD = 1.28, female = 647, 52.9%; male = 576, 47.1%). The results indicated that: (1) there were significant differences between principals’ self-reports and teachers’ reports regarding SL and RL; (2) the direct impact of SL on RL was found in the principals' self-reports but not in the teachers’ reports; and (3) an indirect effect of SL on RL with TC as the mediator and CC as the moderator was found in the teachers' report model. The distinctive models in this study demonstrate principals' and teachers' different views on SL's impact on RL and provide empirical evidence to support both the original and the revised Claim # 1.
QUASIM: Quantum Computing Enhanced Service Ecosystem for Simulation in Manufacturing
Authors: Maass Wolfgang , Agrawal Ankit , Ciani Alessandro , Danz Sven , Delgadillo Alejandro , Ganser Philipp , Kienast Pascal , Kulig Marco , König Valentina , Rodellas-Gràcia Nil , Rughubar Rivan , Schröder Stefan , Stautner Marc , Stein Hannah , Stollenwerk Tobias , Zeuch Daniel , Wilhelm Frank K.
Published: October 2024

Quantum computing (QC) and machine learning (ML), taken individually or combined into quantum-assisted ML (QML), are ascending computing paradigms whose calculations come with huge potential for speedup, increase in precision, and resource reductions. Likely improvements for numerical simulations in engineering imply the possibility of a strong economic impact on the manufacturing industry. In this project report, we propose a framework for a quantum computing-enhanced service ecosystem for simulation in manufacturing, consisting of various layers ranging from hardware to algorithms to service and organizational layers. In addition, we give insight into the current state of the art of applications research based on QC and QML, both from a scientific and an industrial point of view. We further analyze two high-value use cases with the aim of a quantitative evaluation of these new computing paradigms for industrially relevant settings.
Teleportation of Qubits in a Kicked Nonlinear Cavity with Ultra-short Pulses via Quantum Noisy Channels
Authors: Barakat Elsayed , Youssef Amr Abd Al-Rahman , El-Kalla I. L. , Abdel-Aty M.
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we delve into the profound ramifications of noise on qubit teleportation between the esteemed figures of Alice and Bob, ruthlessly quantifying the negativity and distance of the transmitted information. Through the invocation of an audacious modification to the Hamiltonian of the Jaynes–Cummings model, incorporating the ferocious power of a kicked cavity and ultra-short laser pulses, we unleash a tempest that unrelentingly shapes the entanglement and quality of the teleported information. Moreover, we fearlessly venture into the treacherous territory of noisy channels, including the formidable adversaries of phase flip and double phase flip channels, as they mercilessly assail the teleported state, engendered by the tumultuous interaction within the unforgiving depths of the kicked cavity, only to be met with our resolute projection.
Biochemical and cytological studies of Typha domingensis used for bioethanol production
Authors: Hafez Rehab M. , Abdel-Rahman Tahany M. A. , Yahia M. Mokhtar , El-Gabry Khadiga I. M. , Wahab Yosra M. M. Abdel
Published: October 2024

Typha domingensis (cattails) is an emergent invasive aquatic macrophyte; it belongs to Typhaceae family inhabiting multiple Egyptian water bodies like rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Due to the scarcity of food, the depletion of fossil fuels, population growth, and increased industrial development, sustainable renewable bioenergy production has gained a lot of attention lately. Typha is an excellent lignocellulosic biomass for biofuel production because it does not compete with food but rather endangers aquatic life and prevents water from flowing through drainage channels and canals, which rises evapotranspiration. Although it is beneficial in phytoremediation, its removal is a necessity due to previous reasons. Chemical pretreatment has been widely used to degrade complex chains of lignocellulosic materials. Enzymatic hydrolysis is used to enhance fermentable sugars production from cellulose. Fermentation process has been conducted by yeast for centuries. Saccharomyces cerevisiae tolerance to ethanol can be increased by mutation; it is induced either chemically, physically, or biologically. Geneticists frequently utilize gamma radiation, one of the physical mutagenesis mechanisms, to change the DNA of microorganisms. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) is concerned with examination and analysis of microstructure morphology and chemical composition. Changes in internal organelles of Saccharomyces cerevisiae after mutation has been tracked using transmission electron microscope (TEM) in order to distinguish between native and mutant yeast and to examine their ultrastructural changes.
Sustainable bioconversion of rice straw into indole-3-acetic acid by Streptomyces coelicoflavus using response surface methodology
Authors: Elsayed Hazem H. , Abdallah Nagwa A. , Amer Shaimaa K.
Published: October 2024

Rice straw is an abundant agricultural waste that poses environmental disposal challenges and can be utilized for biotechnological applications. This study investigates the potential of actinobacteria to enhance rice straw biodegradation and sustainable indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, addressing the need for sustainable agricultural practices. Certain actinobacteria strains can effectively degrade rice straw while optimizing IAA production under controlled fermentation conditions. Twenty actinobacteria isolates were screened for lignocellulolytic enzyme activity, and ten were selected for rice straw biodegradation. IAA production was further optimized using response surface methodology based on temperature, pH, and agitation speed (RPM). Isolate S16 achieved a degradation rate of 68.75%, while S18 produced the highest IAA concentration (1040.625 μg/mL) under optimized conditions (25 °C, pH 9, 160 RPM). The purified IAA significantly improved Medicago sativa L. growth. Furthermore, the 16S rRNA gene sequence of isolate S18 was identified it as Streptomyces coelicoflavus strain NSH24 with accession number PP 320383.1. These findings underscore the potential of actinobacteria to efficiently convert agricultural waste into valuable bioproducts and promote sustainable farming practices. By transforming rice straw into high-value products like IAA, this approach contributes to a circular economy, offering an environmentally friendly solution for biomass utilization and agricultural sustainability.
Reflectie op de brede urologische praktijkvoering
Authors: Mulders Peter F.A.
Published: October 2024

Samenvatting

Voor u ligt het abstractnummer van de najaarsvergadering van de Nederlandse Vereniging voor Urologie in ‘s-Hertogenbosch op 8 november 2024.
Socioeconomic Status, Social Support, and Quality of Life Among Black Adults
Authors: Murphy Elijah R. , Wippold Guillermo M. , Crichlow Zion R.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Socioeconomic status has a pervasive influence on one’s health and quality of life. Social support is known as a factor that can minimize the risk of maladaptive health outcomes while promoting greater quality of life. The purpose of this study was to examine the direct and indirect relationships between perceived socioeconomic status, social support, physical quality of life, and psychological quality of life among Black adults.

Methods

Participants were 304 (118 men, 186 women) adults who identified as African American or Black. Ages ranged from 18 to 75 (Mage = 37.62 years, SD = 12.39 years) and completed a battery of self-report questionnaires on perceived socioeconomic status, social support, physical quality of life, and psychological quality of life.

Results

Structural equation modeling analyses demonstrated that perceived socioeconomic status is associated with greater social support, physical quality of life, and psychological quality of life. Perceived socioeconomic status was also associated with higher physical quality of life and psychological quality of life indirectly through more social support.

Conclusions

These findings provide evidence that perceived socioeconomic status is directly associated with greater quality of life in Black adults. Social support acts as a partial mediator in the relationship between socioeconomic status and quality of life. This research brings to attention the influence that socioeconomic status and social support have on the quality of life of Black adults. These factors are of particular importance when considering social determinants of health in Black communities.
Exploring profiles of engagement in reading, numeracy, writing, and computer skills-use of U.S. adults with low literacy skills
Authors: Tighe Elizabeth L. , Tock Jamie L. , Petscher Yaacov , Kaldes Gal
Published: October 2024

This study uses Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) data to examine latent profiles of engagement in reading, numeracy, writing, and computer skills-use for U.S. adults with low literacy skills. Additionally, we examine how these profiles relate to overall literacy performance and demographic heterogeneity. Results indicate five engagement profiles: High (8%), Average-High (44%), Average-Low (40%), and two generally Low profiles that are most differentiated on numeracy skills-use engagement (5.5%, 2%). High and Average-High engagement profiles had higher probabilities of adults scoring at a higher literacy level than the Average-Low profile and to a greater degree than the lowest engagement profile. Covariates of learning disability status, English speaker status, race, ethnicity, age, and educational attainment were also related to differences in literacy performance and skills-use engagement. Employment status was unrelated to differences in literacy performance and skills-use engagement. Generally, native English speakers, non-learning disabled adults, younger adults, those identifying as non-Hispanic and White, and adults with higher educational attainment (high school/some college and college degree or higher) had higher probabilities of higher literacy performance, particularly in the High and Average-High engagement profiles. Findings have implications for increasing skills-use engagement in daily life to increase literacy performance and suggest differences by demographic characteristics that may be of interest to adult foundational education programs.
Effect of Intercritical Austenitization and Starting Matrix on Martensite Start Temperature and Austenite Carbon Concentration in Ductile Iron
Authors: Machado Harold D. , Garcia-Mateo Carlos , Aristizábal-Sierra Ricardo
Published: October 2024

In this work, the effect of the intercritical austenitization temperature and time, Ni + Cu concentration and starting matrix (fully ferritic or fully pearlitic) on the volume fraction of austenite (fγ), martensite start temperature (Ms) and carbon concentration of the parent austenite (C0) in ductile iron was investigated using standard metallographic techniques and high-resolution dilatometry. The results showed that a fully pearlitic starting matrix gives higher fγ and C0 and lower Ms than a fully ferritic starting matrix at the same austenitization temperature under continuous heating. On the other hand, the austenitization time has an effect on the parameters under study only during the first minutes of intercritical austenitization. Finally, at the same intercritical austenitization temperature, the addition of Ni + Cu increases the volume fraction of austenite.
Interplay Between the MicroRNA miR-152 and Quercetin in the Control of Ovarian Granulosa Cell Functions
Authors: Sirotkin Alexander V. , Fabová Zuzana , Kislíková Zuzana , Loncová Barbora , Bauer Miroslav , Bauerová Maria , Harrath Abdel Halim
Published: October 2024

In the present study, we examined the functional interrelationships between microRNAs and plant polyphenols in the regulation of ovarian cell functions. For this purpose, we compared the basic functions of porcine ovarian granulosa cells with or without transfection with miR-152 mimics that were cultured with or without quercetin. The expression levels of miR-152, cell viability, cell proliferation (accumulation of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, PCNA), apoptosis (accumulation of Bax) and the release of progesterone, estradiol, and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) were analyzed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‒qPCR), the Trypan blue exclusion test, quantitative immunocytochemistry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Transfection of cells with miR-152 mimics increased miR-152 expression, reduced cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, and estradiol output, and promoted the release of progesterone and IGF-I. Quercetin decreased all measured parameters. Moreover, quercetin promoted the effect of miR-152 on cell viability, apoptosis, and estradiol and mitigated the effect of miR-152 on cell proliferation and IGF-I output. For instance, miR-152 mimics promoted the effect of quercetin on cell viability, apoptosis, and estradiol but prevented the effect of quercetin on PCNA. These observations demonstrated the involvement of miR-152 and quercetin in the control of ovarian cell functions and their functional interrelationships, mainly synergism, in the regulation of these functions.
Representation and inequalities involving continuous linear functionals and fractional derivatives
Authors: Jornet Marc , Nieto Juan J.
Published: October 2024

We investigate how continuous linear functionals can be represented in terms of generic operators and certain kernels (Peano kernels), and we study lower bounds for the operators as a consequence, in the space of square-integrable functions. We apply and develop the theory for the Riemann–Liouville fractional derivative (an inverse of the Riemann–Liouville integral), where inequalities are derived with the Gaussian hypergeometric function. This work is inspired by the recent contributions by Fernandez and Buranay (J Comput Appl Math 441:115705, 2024) and Jornet (Arch Math, 2024).
Engineering and design of a last mile novel helmet concept
Authors: Serra G. F. , Fernandes F. A. O. , Noronha E. , de Sousa R. J. Alves
Published: October 2024

Modern society witnessed a remarkable surge in urban mobility with the proliferation of micro-mobility sharing services. However, this transformation has also led to a worrisome increase in severe accidents and injured users. In addition, conventional helmets are significantly lacking in sustainability. This research investigates the feasibility and safety aspects of a novel bicycle helmet concept using cork as a protective liner. In comparison to traditional synthetic foams, cork offers eco-friendly advantages, such as recyclability and superior protection against multiple impacts. The newly proposed helmet is designed to provide enhanced sustainability and convenience, maintaining compliance with the EN 1078:2012+A1 standard whilst offering the capability to flatten for easy storage and transportation. Numerical simulations were conducted to optimise the design concept, and impact tests, in accordance with the European standard, were performed using physical prototypes categorised into three types of design configuration. The results from the standard impact test were outstanding, with the best performing configuration demonstrating a performance 36.8% below the standard’s threshold. This falls within the average performance range of a regular bicycle helmet made entirely of petrol-derived materials. Furthermore, it exhibited safe head injury criterion levels, indicating a minimal risk of severe head injury.
Advances in the use of dexmedetomidine for postoperative cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Deng Meng , Wang Yuan , Zheng Beibei
Published: October 2024

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction, a common neurological complication in the perioperative period, seriously affects patient survival and prognosis. Its high incidence has made the study of postoperative cognitive dysfunction challenging. Whether the clinical application of dexmedetomidine, a potential neuroprotective drug, can reduce the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction is controversial, although several potential mechanisms by which dexmedetomidine improves postoperative cognitive dysfunction have been identified; therefore, this remains an area in need of further exploration.
A next-generation holistic building design framework: a focus on integrating sustainable and vernacular design principles
Authors: Ayoobi Ahmad Walid , Inceoğlu Mehmet , Inceoğlu Gonca
Published: October 2024

The proliferation of sustainable design approaches and assessment methods has resulted in a vast array of indicators. However, this abundance often leads to confusion during interpretation and application. Additionally, rapid urbanization and environmental concerns sometimes overshadow social and economic considerations, emphasizing environmental impact reduction. This study addresses these challenges through an integrated approach that combines a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) with a Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) analysis to provide a holistic model for sustainable building design. The SLR was carried out individually through a relative Structural Query Language (SQL) regarding sustainable building design and vernacular principle. The output of SLR was subjected to DEMATEL model to recognize the holistic indicators interconnection and validate the proposed model. The research identified 23 global indicators for building sustainability worldwide, with five—Energy, Materials & Resources, Sites & Ecology, Indoor Environmental Quality, and Water—emerging as the most prevalent. Additionally, 22 consistently applied indicators in vernacular design practices exhibited significant overlap with those in sustainable design. This model integrated two novel indicators—Vernacular Principles and Social—Culture—with common sustainable building indicators. These primary indicators complement the common and applicable sustainable building indicators, ensuring a balanced approach that considers global contexts. DEMATEL analysis confirmed the validity and interconnection of these indicators, emphasizing the critical role of vernacular principles in achieving true sustainability.
Conceptualizing Africa
Authors: Page Melvin E.
Published: October 2024

A gathering of African intellectuals in 2016—Ateliers de la Pensée I [Workshops of Thought]—aimed to be a “renewal of French-speaking Afro-diasporic critical thinking; it also served as an impetus for generating new perspectives concerning … Africa’s future” (2). Somewhat ironically, the participants—some of whose essays appear in To Write the Africa World—seem to have widely accepted one key idea as a significant part of their thinking: double consciousness. First clearly articulated more than a century before by W.E.B. Dubois, that awareness reverberates through many of their twenty-one collected articles. Yet only one among them, Hourya Bentouhami, actually mentions “DuBois’s reflections” on the subject, describing them “as a strange and painful cognitive disjunction … in the dialogue of the soul with itself”(125). Another contributor, Benaouda Lebdai, instead credits Sudanese born British writer Jamal Maljoub with integrating “his status of being double” as part of his authorial identity (53). Other writers of essays included in the book merely assume an understanding of the concept as fundamental to their thought and, perhaps more importantly, in conveying a concept of Africa to the wider world.
Phonology from the Inside Out: Constructed Language as a Pedagogical Tool
Authors: Sowers-Wills Sara
Published: October 2024

This paper reflects on a project-based curriculum employing constructed languages to teach linguistics, with a focus on phonology. In a special topics linguistics course, nine students were led through the construction of a language. While students in introductory linguistics courses sometimes struggle with phonology, active engagement with a semester-long language construction project endowed these students with the practical motivation to understand (1) what phonology is, (2) how phonological rules work, and (3) why rules surface in the first place. They readily captured generalizations based on natural classes of sounds, recognizing the systematicity of their constructed phonology. Student performance and engagement in this course support the use of constructed languages as a pedagogical tool in linguistics. Because an ongoing project builds in problem-solving opportunities and processual thinking, highlighting relationships among key concepts, students achieve a more comprehensive understanding of core areas in the broader linguistic picture.
Immigration restriction and the transfer of cultural norms over time and boundaries: the case of religiosity
Authors: Galli Fausto , Manzavino Simone , Russo Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

We study the effect of an immigration ban on the self-selection of immigrants along cultural traits, and the transmission of these traits to the second generation. We show theoretically that restricting immigration incentivizes to settle abroad individuals with higher attachment to their origin culture, who, under free mobility, would rather choose circular migration. Once abroad, these individuals tend to convey their cultural traits to their children. As a consequence, restrictive immigration policies can foster the diffusion of cultural traits across boundaries and generations. We focus on religiosity, which is one of the most persistent and distinctive cultural traits, and exploit the 1973 immigration ban in West Germany (Anwerbestopp) as a natural experiment. Through a diff-in-diff analysis, we find that second generations born to parents treated by the Anwerbestopp show higher religiosity.
Agreement with COVID-19 Conspiracy Theories Has Poor Temporal Stability
Authors: Pisl Vojtech , Volavka Jan , Kavalirova Gabriela , Vevera Jan
Published: October 2024

Low temporal stability may complicate the interpretation of survey measures of conspiracy theories (CTs). Current study examines the stability of endorsement of CTs on a popular set of items addressing COVID-19-related CTs. An online survey tapping two CTs about COVID-19 was administered to 179 students of general medicine. The same items were presented twice in March 2022 and once in May 2022. The mean endorsement of the CTs did not differ between March and May. The correlation between answers provided in March and May was low (.5 < r < .7). Most of those reporting agreement with CTs in March reported disagreement in May. Conspiracy believers’ responses did not change between two measurements in March but were different in May, suggesting that the low temporal stability was due to situational factors rather than erroneous or random answers. Poor temporal stability of responses endorsing CTs may problematize interpretation of survey data. Respondents’ endorsement of CTs may be affected by situational factors, inflating agreement with CTs, and correlations with other survey-based measures.
Effects of economic drivers on work health and safety in global supply chains: A discussion of the effectiveness of regulatory strategies and their economic contexts
Authors: Walters David , James Philip , Johnstone Richard
Published: October 2024

Outlining the economic significance of the role of global supply chains (GSCs) in the organisation of the global economy, this paper initially presents some indications of health and safety outcomes in low- and middle-income counties (LMICs) where GSCs source much of the production destined for use in advanced economies. It goes on to discuss the operational dynamics of these chains and the corporate priorities that they reflect, which, it argues, do little to improve the poor work health and safety (WHS) outcomes in LMICs. It then examines evidence for the effectiveness of various private and public regulatory strategies that are claimed to bring about improved health and safety practices and outcomes among GSC suppliers in these countries. The paper critically evaluates this evidence and argues that, while there may be some examples of effective strategies and regulatory practices in particular contexts, their overall influence remains limited. It identifies and discusses the principal reasons for these limitations and concludes that the global regulation of conditions of labour – including WHS – at the end of GSCs falls well short of universal best practice and is, more generally, insufficient to counter the economic forces working against the maintenance of adequate standards of worker protection.
Potential to recover a record of Holocene climate and sea ice from Müller Ice Cap, Canada
Authors: Lilien David Armond , Nymand Niels Fabrin , Gerber Tamara Annina , Steinhage Daniel , Jansen Daniela , Thomson Laura , Myers Madeline , Franke Steven , Taylor Drew , Gogineni Prasad , Lemes Marcos , Vinther Bo Møllesøe , Dahl-Jensen Dorthe
Published: October 2024

Müller Ice Cap sits on Umingmat Nunaat (Axel Heiberg Island), Nunavut, Canada, ~ 80°N. Its high latitude and elevation suggest it experiences relatively little melt and preserves an undisturbed paleoclimate record. Here, we present a suite of field measurements, complemented by remote sensing, that constrain the ice thickness, accumulation rate, temperature, ice-flow velocity, and surface-elevation change of Müller Ice Cap. These measurements show that some areas near the top of the ice cap are more than 600 m thick, have nearly stable surface elevation, and flow slowly, making them good candidates for an ice core. The current mean annual surface temperature is −19.6 °C, which combined with modeling of the temperature profile indicates that the ice is frozen to the bed. Modeling of the depth-age scale indicates that Pleistocene ice is likely to exist with measurable resolution (300–1000 yr m−1) 20–90 m from the bed, assuming that Müller Ice Cap survived the Holocene Climatic Optimum with substantial ice thickness (~400 m or more). These conditions suggest that an undisturbed Holocene climate record could likely be recovered from Müller Ice Cap. We suggest 91.795°W, 79.874°N as the most promising drill site.
The power of the accused: rights mobilization and gender inequality in school workplaces
Authors: Edelman Lauren B. , Wright Allen Micheal , Morrill Calvin , Tyson Karolyn , Arum Richard
Published: October 2024

Law and society scholars have long studied rights mobilization and gender inequality from the vantage point of complainants in private workplaces. This article pursues a new direction in this line of inquiry to explore, for the first time, mobilization from the vantage points of complainants and those accused of violating the rights of others in public-school workplaces in the United States. We conceptualize rights mobilization as legal, quasilegal, and/or extralegal processes. Based on a national random survey of teachers and administrators, and in-depth interviews with educators in California, New York, and North Carolina, we find an integral relationship between gender inequality and experiencing rights violations, choices about rights mobilization, and obstacles to formal mobilization. Compared to complainants, those accused of rights violations – especially male administrators – are more likely to use quasilegal and legal mobilization to defend themselves or to engage in anticipatory mobilization. Actors in less powerful status positions (teachers) most often pursue extralegal mobilization to complain about rights violations during which they engage in rights muting as a means of self-protection; when in more powerful status positions, actors use rights muting as a means of self-protection and to suppress the rights claims of others. This paper concludes with implications for future research on rights mobilization in school workplaces amidst changing political and demographic conditions.
Properties of magnetic turbulence in GRB afterglows
Authors: Derishev Evgeny
Published: October 2024

We present a model-independent way to characterise properties of the magnetic-field turbulence in the emitting regions of Gamma-Ray Burst afterglows. Our only assumption is that afterglows’ synchrotron radiation is efficient. It turns out that the gyroradius of plasma particles must be smaller (with a good margin) than the correlation length of the magnetic-field fluctuations. Such turbulence is essentially non-linear and therefore must be produced by some kind of magnetohydrodynamical instability, likely acting on top of kinetic Weibel instability. We also find that the emitting particles are loosely confined to local magnetic-field structures and diffusion allows them to sample the entire distribution of local magnetisation values. This means that one-zone approach to modelling the afterglow spectra is still valid despite the non-linear nature of the magnetic turbulence. However, the non-linear turbulence may (and likely will) change the synchrotron spectrum of individual electrons.
Perspective on the health effects of unsaturated fatty acids and commonly consumed plant oils high in unsaturated fat
Authors: Petersen Kristina S. , Maki Kevin C. , Calder Philip C. , Belury Martha A. , Messina Mark , Kirkpatrick Carol F. , Harris William S.
Published: October 2024

Epidemiological and clinical trial evidence indicates that n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) intake is cardioprotective. Nevertheless, claims that n-6 PUFA intake promotes inflammation and oxidative stress prevail. This narrative review aims to provide health professionals with an up-to-date evidence overview to provide the requisite background to address patient/client concerns about oils containing predominantly unsaturated fatty acids (UFA), including MUFA and PUFA. Edible plant oils, commonly termed vegetable oils, are derived from vegetables, nuts, seeds, fruits and cereal grains. Substantial variation exists in the fatty acid composition of these oils; however, all are high in UFA, while being relatively low in saturated fatty acids (SFA), except for tropical oils. Epidemiological evidence indicates that higher PUFA intake is associated with lower risk of incident CVD and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Additionally, replacement of SFA with PUFA is associated with reduced risk of CVD and T2DM. Clinical trials show higher intake of UFA from plant sources improves major CVD risk factors, including reducing levels of atherogenic lipids and lipoproteins. Importantly, clinical trials show that increased n-6 PUFA (linoleic acid) intake does not increase markers of inflammation or oxidative stress. Evidence-based guidelines from authoritative health and scientific organisations recommend intake of non-tropical vegetable oils, which contain MUFA and n-6 PUFA, as part of healthful dietary patterns. Specifically, vegetable oils rich in UFA should be consumed instead of rich sources of SFA, including butter, tallow, lard, palm and coconut oils.
A semantic knowledge database-based localization method for UAV inspection in perceptual-degraded underground mine
Authors: Liang Qinghua , Zhao Minghui , Wang Shigang , Chen Min
Published: October 2024

In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been applied in underground mine inspection and other similar works depending on their versatility and mobility. However, accurate localization of UAVs in perceptually degraded mines is full of challenges due to the harsh light conditions and similar roadway structures. Due to the unique characteristics of the underground mines, this paper proposes a semantic knowledge database-based localization method for UAVs. By minimizing the spatial point-to-edge distance and point-to-plane distance, the relative pose constraint factor between keyframes is designed for UAV continuous pose estimation. To reduce the accumulated localization errors during the long-distance flight in a perceptual-degraded mine, a semantic knowledge database is established by segmenting the intersection point cloud from the prior map of the mine. The topological feature of the current keyframe is detected in real time during the UAV flight. The intersection position constraint factor is constructed by comparing the similarity between the topological feature of the current keyframe and the intersections in the semantic knowledge database. Combining the relative pose constraint factor of LiDAR keyframes and the intersection position constraint factor, the optimization model of the UAV pose factor graph is established to estimate UAV flight pose and eliminate the cumulative error. Two UAV localization experiments conducted on the simulated large-scale Edgar Mine and a mine-like indoor corridor indicate that the proposed UAV localization method can realize accurate localization during long-distance flight in degraded mines.
Treatment of human sperm with GYY4137 increases sperm motility and resistance to oxidative stress
Authors: Huang Yan , Gan Runxin , Zhang Min , Lin Dewei , Cheng Yi , Guo Xinyu
Published: October 2024

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been shown to play a significant role in oxidative stress across various tissues and cells; however, its role in sperm function remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of GYY4137, a slow-releasing H2S compound, on sperm damage induced by H2O2. We assessed the effects of GYY4137 on motility, viability, lipid peroxidation and caspase-3 activity in human spermatozoa in vitro following oxidative damage mediated by H2O2. Spermatozoa from 25 healthy men were selected using a density gradient centrifugation method and cultured in the presence or absence of 10 μM H2O2, followed by incubation with varying concentrations of GYY4137 (0.625–2.5 μM). After 24 h of incubation, sperm motility, viability, lipid peroxidation, and caspase-3 activity were evaluated. The results indicated that H2O2 adversely affected sperm parameters, reducing motility and viability, while increasing oxidative stress, as evidenced by elevated lipid peroxidation and caspase-3 activity. GYY4137 provided dose-dependent protection against H2O2-induced oxidative stress (OS). We concluded that supplementation with GYY4137 may offer antioxidant protection during in vitro sperm preparation for assisted reproductive technology.
Characteristics and outcomes of patients with stent implantation for coronary artery lesions caused by Kawasaki disease – insights from second-generation stent implantation
Authors: Ishi Natsuko , Tsuda Etsuko
Published: October 2024

Background:

Adult Kawasaki patients may require intervention for occlusive coronary artery disease. Some adverse effects of first-generation drug-eluting stent implantation with sirolimus have been reported in this population.

Methods:

A total of nine lesions in eight (seven males, one female) patients who underwent stent implantations in this population between 2000 and 2021 were reviewed.

Results:

The age at stent implantation ranged from 31 to 47 years, with a median of 37 years. There were six lesions treated by primary percutaneous transluminal coronary interventions, and three by elective procedures. A coronary aneurysm was found in two lesions, and coronary artery calcification was found in all culprit lesions. The numbers of everolimus-eluting stents, sirolimus-eluting stents and bare metal stents were six, two, and one, respectively. As anti- thrombotic therapy, aspirin, clopidogrel, and prasugrel were given to four, three, and one, respectively. Warfarin was given to five patients. The follow-up ranged from 2 to 12 years, with a median of 4 years. Follow-up angiograms were performed for eight lesions, at 2 to 38 months, with a median of 11 months. The patency of the target vessel was confirmed in all eight vessels. Slight malapposition, and peri-stent contrast staining were found in two lesions each.

Conclusion:

Acute coronary syndrome due to coronary artery lesions caused by Kawasaki disease occurred, even in lesions without any apparent coronary artery aneurysms. In our study, we show safe and efficacious placement of second-generation stent without adverse effects during the short-term follow-up, but long-term follow-up is needed to determine the efficacy and complication.
How to Get Published: the Legal Publishing Process Explained
Authors: O'Neill Sian
Published: October 2024

They say that everyone has a book in them. But how do lawyers and other legal professionals go about getting published? How does the publishing process work and what are the benefits of being published? This article by Sian O'Neill of Globe Law and Business outlines the benefits of being published and how the process works, including generating new ideas, approaching a publisher and the publishing proposal, as well as the production process and what authors can expect in terms of marketing.
Navigating Uncertainty: Rebel Risk Management Strategies during War-to-Peace Transitions
Authors: Anderson Noel , Bertrand Jacques , Pelletier Alexandre
Published: October 2024

This article explores the strategic decision making of armed groups during war-to-peace transitions—critical time frames during which militant leaders must reconcile their commitment to armed survival with the imperative of postwar civilian conversion. We specify the internal organizational risks rebel groups confront, as well as the menu of strategies from which they select, in navigating the uncertainty inherent in these perilous periods. Our approach broadens the analysis of war-to-peace transitions, offering new insights into the question of why rebels sometimes successfully integrate into postconflict politics, economies, and society, while at other times they forgo participation in the postconflict state. It represents the first step in a wider research program—one that promises to open a number of new directions in the study of insurgent organizations, transitional societies, and postwar outcomes.
‘When they’re saying what is completely opposite to what you morally believe’: (in)action on climate change by State authorities and powerful bodies drives moral injury and eco-distress in UK young people
Authors: Zevallos Labarthe Ines , Marks Elizabeth
Published: October 2024

Young people are increasingly distressed by the climate and ecological crises (eco-distress). This has been associated with the failure of people in power to act appropriately, which may cause moral distress and moral injury. We examined this hypothesis by interviewing 13 young adults (19–25 years) in the UK about their climate concerns and perceptions of how State actors and authorities are responding to climate change. Using reflexive thematic analysis, four themes were developed: (1) Climate change is a wicked problem, (2) Moral distress is associated with witnessing acts of omission and commission, (3) Moral distress drives eco-distress, and (4) Opportunities for moral repair. Climate concerns extended to broader concerns about ecological degradation (eco-distress), linked to feelings of moral distress arising from repeatedly witnessing powerful people failing to act on climate change. Eco-distress was also exacerbated by (a) witnessing others in society failing to take appropriate responsibility, (b) realising the limitations of individual action, and (c) being embedded within a culture where personal contribution to climate change is inescapable. In contrast, eco-distress was lessened by seeing authorities engage with the issues morally, and further mitigated by collective, ethical, pro-environmental action. This adds empirical evidence to support the hypothesis that eco-distress involves moral distress and injury arising when State authorities and other powerful bodies engage in wrongful acts and omissions on climate change. We argue that this is affecting the wellbeing of young people and supports the argument that such wrongful (in)action infringes human rights. Clinical implications are discussed.

Key learning aims

(1)

To understand how and why moral distress and moral injury relate to the distress that young people feel about climate change (eco-distress).

(2)

To consider the clinical implications of formulating eco-distress in a way that includes reference to the violation of core moral codes.

(3)

To explore what opportunities exist that could reduce moral distress and support young people.

(4)

To understand how research into moral distress and moral injury in relation to climate change can offer important insight into the relevance of eco-distress to human rights infringements and justice-oriented care.

(5)

To discuss practical solutions that might support moral repair, both in psychotherapy settings and in broader social policy.
Bridging transition pathway with institutions: a theoretical framework of China's climate governance toward carbon neutrality
Authors: Tan Xianchun , Kong Lingsi , Yan Hongshuo , Cheng Yonglong
Published: October 2024

Non-technical Summary

China formally pledged to peak its carbon emissions within 10 years and achieve carbon neutrality within 30 years thereafter. Considering the numerous challenges and difficulties ahead, it is essential for China to strengthen the building of climate governance systems toward carbon neutrality. This paper examines the interactions between elements of China's climate governance system, and develops a theoretical framework for China's climate governance toward carbon neutrality, with a view to providing more comprehensive information for decision-making.

Technical Summary

China's high ambitions to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 make climate governance an urgent issue. Against this background, this paper develops a TAM (‘Target, Actor, Mechanism’) theoretical framework for China's climate governance toward carbon neutrality, intending to provide information for decision-making. This framework, centering on governance actors, is based on two key assumptions: First, the stance of each actor toward a climate action depends on the impact of this action on the actor's objectives and the weight of these objectives to this actor; Second, the most feasible governance mechanism is the solution that can best satisfy actors' objective with the greatest decision-making influence. Applying this framework in case studies involves three major steps: (1) Identifying China's climate governance actions according to transition pathways toward carbon neutrality; (2) Assessing the effects of climate actions on the objective of relevant actors; (3) Obtaining feasible governance mechanisms based on historical institutionalism analysis. By linking different climate governance research methodologies, this theoretical framework can provide decision-makers with more comprehensive information on climate governance.

Social media summary

Integrating quantitative models with institutionalism can bridge the gap between policy formulation and implementation.