bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
"We're not all construction workers": Algorithmic Compression of Latinidad on TikTok
Authors: Lutz Nina , Aragon Cecilia
Published: November 2024

The Latinx diaspora in the United States is a rapidly growing and complex demographic who face intersectional harms and marginalizations in sociotechnical systems and are currently underserved in CSCW research. While the field understands that algorithms and digital content are experienced differently by marginalized populations, more investigation is needed about how Latinx people experience social media and, in particular, visual media. In this paper, we focus on how Latinx people experience the algorithmic system of the video-sharing platform TikTok. Through a bilingual interview and visual elicitation study of 19 Latinx TikTok users and 59 survey participants, we explore how Latinx individuals experience TikTok and its Latinx content. We find Latinx TikTok users actively use platform affordances to create positive and affirming identity content feeds, but these feeds are interrupted by negative content (i.e. violence, stereotypes, linguistic assumptions) due to platform affordances that have unique consequences for Latinx diaspora users. We discuss these implications on Latinx identity and representation, introduce the concept of
algorithmic identity compression,
where sociotechncial systems simplify, flatten, and conflate intersection identities, resulting in compression via the loss of critical cultural data deemed unnecessary by these systems and designers of them. This study explores how Latinx individuals are particularly vulnerable to this in sociotechnical systems, such as, but not limited to, TikTok.
Anonymization of Voices in Spaces for Civic Dialogue: Measuring Impact on Empathy, Trust, and Feeling Heard
Authors: Kang Wonjune , Hughes Margaret A. , Roy Deb
Published: November 2024

Anonymity is a powerful component of many participatory media platforms that can afford people greater freedom of expression and protection from external coercion and interference. However, it can be difficult to effectively implement on platforms that leverage spoken language due to distinct biomarkers present in the human voice. In this work, we explore the use of voice anonymization methods within the context of a technology-enhanced civic dialogue network based in the United States, whose purpose is to increase feelings of agency and being heard within civic processes. Specifically, we investigate the use of two different speech transformation and synthesis methods for anonymization: voice conversion (VC) and text-to-speech (TTS). Through a series of two studies, we examine the impact that each method has on 1) the empathy and trust that listeners feel towards a person sharing a personal story, and 2) a speaker's own perception of being heard, finding that voice conversion is an especially suitable method for our purposes. Our findings open up interesting potential research directions related to anonymous spoken discourse, as well as additional ways of engaging with voice-based civic technologies.
Beyond Swipes and Scores: Investigating Practices, Challenges and User-Centered Values in Online Dating Algorithms
Authors: Kang Chowon , Choi Yoonseo , Sohn Yongjae , Lim Hyunseung , Hong Hwajung
Published: November 2024

The reliability of online dating algorithms has sparked considerable debate, particularly regarding skepticism about their excessive emphasis on evaluating and getting evaluated, which often overshadows the quest for authentic romantic connections. To understand the multifaceted influence of dating algorithms on end-users and explore avenues for algorithmic features considering the dynamics of human relationships, we conducted a mixed-methods study comprising in-depth interviews (N = 22) and a metaphoric co-design workshop (N = 12) with active users of online dating platforms. Interviews revealed that users perceive and respond to algorithmic evaluations with varied perceptions and behaviors, often expressing concerns about the emotional burden of constant self-presentation and the pursuit of quantitative assessments over genuine connections. In the design workshop, users envisioned desired algorithmic features to overcome investigated challenges, such as prioritizing personal values, tailored matchmaking, and support for personal growth in relationships. This research contributes to unraveling the complex dynamics of human-algorithm interaction in the context of online dating. By aligning algorithmic functions more closely with user desires and relationship goals, this study paves the way for more meaningful and authentic connections in the digital dating landscape.
Enhancing Conversations in Migrant Counseling Services: Designing for Trustworthy Human-AI Collaboration
Authors: Truong Lucy , Lee Sunok , Sawhney Nitin
Published: November 2024

Migrants often face a complex situation for navigating services and administrative processes to transition and integrate into a new environment. They rely on guidance from service advisors and informal peers like other migrants to assist them. Service advisors try to understand, explore, and resolve migrant concerns through conversational interaction, while often seeking advice from other domain experts. The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI)-mediated communication holds the potential for enhancing communication between migrants and service advisors while leveraging the expertise of service advisors and facilitating migrants' autonomy in the integration process. Our research investigates the social context, mental models, and challenges encountered in guidance counseling for migrants in Finland, while examining what role AI-mediated communication can play in supporting the process. Based on our findings, we propose design implications for improving shared understanding between service advisors and migrants through salient summarization of conversations and creating collaborative visual narratives. Our findings also indicate the crucial role of leveraging peer-based knowledge between (and within) service advisors, domain experts, and migrants, which can be facilitated by AI-based tools. Our exploratory research offers insights into human-centered AI integration in the migration process, as well as the opportunities and challenges of using AI-mediated communication to improve the migrant experience.
Gendered, Collectivist Journeys: Exploring Sociotechnical Adaptation Among Afghan Refugees in the USA
Authors: Batool Amna , Dillahunt Tawanna R , Hui Julie , Naseem Mustafa
Published: November 2024

This paper presents findings from an empirical study that uncovers the economic, psychological, and socio-cultural adaptation strategies used by recent Afghan refugees in a midwestern U.S. state. Through 14 semi-structured interviews conducted between February and April 2023, this study investigates how Afghan refugees utilize technology, tools, and skills in their resettlement process, and builds upon Hsiao et al.'s conceptualization of sociotechnical adaptation. The findings reveal (i) gender and collectivist cultural values play a big role in determining the types of adaptation strategies used by men versus women, (ii) strategic choices in terms of the type of support sought depending on shared versus non-shared identity of host community members, (iii) a notable tension between economic adaptation and preserving socio-cultural values is observed, and (iv) creative, collective solutions by women participants to address economic challenges, contributing to the discourse on solidarity economies in HCI. Key contributions include (a) design implications for technological products that can aid in psychological adaptation, fostering solidarity economies, and creating digital safe spaces for refugees to connect with shared-identity host populations, and (b) policy and program recommendations for refugee resettlement agencies to enhance digital literacy among refugees.
PressProtect: Helping Journalists Navigate Social Media in the Face of Online Harassment
Authors: Han Catherine , Li Anne , Kumar Deepak , Durumeric Zakir
Published: November 2024

Social media has become a critical tool for journalists to disseminate their work, engage with their audience, and connect with sources. Unfortunately, journalists also regularly endure significant online harassment on social media platforms, ranging from personal attacks to doxxing to threats of physical harm. In this paper, we seek to understand how to make social media usable for journalists who face constant digital harassment. To begin, we conduct a set of need-finding interviews with Asian American and Pacific Islander journalists to understand where existing platform tools and newsroom resources fall short in adequately protecting journalists, especially those of marginalized identities. We map journalists' unmet needs to concrete design goals, which we use to build PressProtect, an interface that provides journalists greater agency when engaging with readers on Twitter/X. Through user testing with eight journalists, we evaluate PressProtect and find that participants felt it effectively protected them against harassment and could also generalize to serve other visible and vulnerable groups. We conclude with a discussion of our findings and recommendations for social platforms hoping to build defensive defaults for journalists facing online harassment.
Reimagining Meaningful Data Work through Citizen Science
Authors: Boone Ashley , Rothschild Annabel , Koo Xander , Pfohl Grace , Sheehan Alyssa , DiSalvo Betsy , Le Dantec Christopher A , DiSalvo Carl
Published: November 2024

Data work is often completed by crowdworkers, who are routinely dehumanized, disempowered, and sidelined. We turn to citizen science to reimagine data work, highlighting collaborative relationships between citizen science project managers and volunteers. Though citizen science and traditional crowd work entail similar forms of data work, such as classifying or transcribing large data sets, citizen science relies on volunteer contributions rather than paid data work. We detail the work citizen science project managers did to shape volunteer experiences: aligning science goals, minimizing barriers to participation, engaging communities, communicating with volunteers, providing training and education, rewarding contributions, and reflecting on volunteer work. These management strategies created opportunities for meaningful work by cultivating intrinsic motivation and fostering collaborative work relationships but ultimately limited participation to specific data-related tasks. We recommend management tactics and task design strategies for creating meaningful work for "invisible collar" workers, an understudied class of labor in CSCW.
The Explanation That Hits Home: The Characteristics of Verbal Explanations That Affect Human Perception in Subjective Decision-Making
Authors: Ferguson Sharon , Aoyagui Paula Akemi , Rizvi Rimsha , Kim Young-Ho , Kuzminykh Anastasia
Published: November 2024

Human-AI collaborative decision-making can achieve better outcomes than either party individually. The success of this collaboration can depend on whether the human decision-maker perceives the AI contribution as beneficial to the decision-making process. Beneficial AI explanations are often described as relevant, convincing, and trustworthy. Yet, we know little about the characteristics of explanations that result in these perceptions. Focusing on collaborative subjective decision-making, using the context of subtle sexism, where explanations can surface new interpretations, we conducted a user study (N=20) to explore the structural and content characteristics that affect perceptions of human and AI-generated verbal (text and audio) explanations. We find four groups of characteristics (
Tone, Grammatical Elements, Argumentative Sophistication
and
Relation to User
), and that the effect of these characteristics on the perception of explanations for subtle sexism depends on the perceived author. Thus, we also identify which explanation characteristics participants use to identify the author of an explanation. Demonstrating the relationship between these characteristics and explanation perceptions, we present a categorized set of characteristics that system builders can leverage to produce the appropriate perception of an explanation for various sensitive contexts. We also highlight human perception biases and associated issues resulting from these perceptions.
Enhanced Fuzzy Score-Based Decision Support System for Early Stroke Prediction
Authors: Ben Kahla Mayssa , Kanzari Dalel , Ben Amor Sana , Ayachi Ghannouchi Sonia , Martinho Ricardo
Published: November 2024

According to the Global Health Observatory, stroke ranks second worldwide in causing dementia, right after Alzheimer’s disease. The mortality rate linked to dementia resulting from stroke is high because symptoms are often recognized late, and stroke can be misinterpreted as other brain disorders. Early detection and diagnosis of stroke is crucial. Therefore, increasing awareness of stroke symptoms and implementing preventive measures becomes imperative. Prompt intervention by healthcare professionals can improve outcomes and reduce long-term complications of stroke.

The research introduces an innovative approach for early stroke prediction using a fuzzy scoring-based Decision Support System. This approach encompasses three main modules: Mind map-based Data Modeling, Fuzzy scoring computing, and Machine Learning (ML)-Based Decision System. By incorporating fuzzy logic, the approach extracts valuable knowledge from imprecise and uncertain data. Combining the fuzzy stroke risk model with a ML-based decision support system aims to enhance stroke prediction accuracy and improve preventive measures and patient outcomes. The approach’s effectiveness was validated using real clinical data and tested with various ML classifiers, including K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), Logistic Regression (LR), Decision Tree (DT), Artificial Neural Network (ANN), and Support Vector Machine (SVM). The results showed a strong correlation between stroke cases and computed risk-scoring values.

In comparison to predictions without fuzzy scoring and other related works, the stroke risk prediction using the proposed approach demonstrated higher accuracy, making it a promising method for early stroke detection and prevention.
Ranked Enumeration for Database Queries
Authors: Tziavelis Nikolaos , Gatterbauer Wolfgang , Riedewald Mirek
Published: November 2024

Ranked enumeration is a query-answering paradigm where the query answers are returned incrementally in order of importance (instead of returning all answers at once). Importance is defined by a ranking function that can be specific to the application, but typically involves either a lexicographic order (e.g., "ORDER BY R.A, S.B" in SQL) or a weighted sum of attributes (e.g., "ORDER BY 3*R.A + 2*S.B"). Recent work has introduced any-k algorithms for (multi-way) join queries, which push ranking into joins and avoid materializing intermediate results until necessary. The top-ranked answers are returned asymptotically faster than the common join-then-rank approach of database systems, resulting in orders-of-magnitude speedup in practice.
Viva voce using Objective, Integrated, Clustered Examination Software (VOICES) app: study for formative assessment of medical undergraduate students in physiology
Authors: Somasekhar A. K. , Jagzape Arunita Tushar , Sinha Meenakshi , Sinha Ramanjan
Published: November 2024

Traditional viva voce examination encounters challenges including reliability, objectivity, content validity, time constraints, varying question difficulty levels, inconsistency in questioning among students, the influence of the “halo” effect, and issues with the test environment. Formative oral assessment conducted through the use of the Objective, Integrated, Clustered Examination Software (VOICES) app developed by the National Informatics Center (NIC) successfully addresses the challenges typically associated with traditional viva voce examinations.
Accuracy and reliability of large language models in assessing learning outcomes achievement across cognitive domains
Authors: Teckwani Swapna Haresh , Wong Amanda Huee-Ping , Luke Nathasha Vihangi , Low Ivan Cherh Chiet
Published: November 2024

The advent of large language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT and Gemini has offered new learning and assessment opportunities to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) with education. This study evaluated the accuracy of LLMs in assessing an assignment from a course on sports physiology. Concordance and correlation between human graders and LLMs were mostly moderate to poor. The findings suggest AI’s potential to complement human expertise in educational assessment alongside the need for adaptive learning by educators.
Toxicity of Oils Extracted From the Arils of Blighia sapida (K.D. Koenig) in Wistar Rats
Authors: Nabede Aklesso , Sina Haziz , Mamatchi Mélila , Souho Tiatou , Ouadja Batcha , Hoteyi S. M. Ismaël , Salami Hafiz A. , Adjanohoun Adolphe , Baba-Moussa Lamine , Amouzou Kou’santa
Published: November 2024

Blighia sapida oil, a substance with a rich history of use for its nutritional, therapeutic, traditional, and cosmetic benefits, was the focus of our study. We investigated the impact of consuming edible oil from B. sapida arils on Wistar rats. The crude oil from unripe arils was extracted using cold pressing and then administered to the rats. The toxicity was evaluated according to the OECD method. Notably, there were no signs of food poisoning or adverse effects on the weight and behavior of the rats treated with B. sapida oils. The LD50 of the oil was more significant than 5000 mg/kg of body weight, and hematological and biochemical parameters did not differ significantly from the control group. Rats fed with an oil‐supplemented diet showed an increase in weight compared to the negative control group. No fatty deposits were found in vital organs, and consuming the oil did not affect the immune system or biochemical biomarkers. However, excessive intake of fat may have harmful effects on tissues. Our findings strongly suggest that B. sapida oil is safe for consumption within reasonable limits. The data we present here reveal that the oil derived from B. sapida is suitable for moderate consumption and may offer various health advantages, a potential that warrants further exploration.
Coincidence Point Results for Self‐Mapping With Extended Rational Contraction in Partially Ordered Ultrametric Spaces Using p‐Adic Distance
Authors: Radhakrishnan Balaanandhan , Jayaraman Uma , Hilali Shreefa O. , Kameswari M. , Alhagyan Mohammed , Tamilvanan Kandhasamy , Gargouri Ameni
Published: November 2024

This paper aims to investigate new coincidence point theorems for self‐maps under an extended rational contraction. Our approach uses the p‐adic distance in partially ordered ultrametric spaces. Furthermore, to illustrate our major discoveries, we give a comprehensive numerical analysis. This study expands on prior research in partially ordered ultrametric spaces to provide a more comprehensive understanding of such spaces using rational contraction.
Supplementary file S2 from Pretreatment Tissue TCR Repertoire Evenness Is Associated with Complete Pathologic Response in Patients with NSCLC Receiving Neoadjuvant Chemoimmunotherapy
Authors: Casarrubios Marta , Cruz-Bermúdez Alberto , Nadal Ernest , Insa Amelia , García Campelo María del Rosario , Lázaro Martín , Dómine Manuel , Majem Margarita , Rodríguez-Abreu Delvys , Martínez-Martí Alex , de Castro-Carpeño Javier , Cobo Manuel , López-Vivanco Guillermo , Del Barco Edel , Bernabé Caro Reyes , Viñolas Nuria , Barneto Aranda Isidoro , Viteri Santiago , Massuti Bartomeu , Barquín Miguel , Laza-Briviesca Raquel , Sierra-Rodero Belén , Parra Edwin R. , Sanchez-Espiridion Beatriz , Rocha Pedro , Kadara Humam , Wistuba Ignacio I. , Romero Atocha , Calvo Virginia , Provencio Mariano
Published: November 2024

TCR Clone lists identified in post-treatment samples
Data from Pretreatment Tissue TCR Repertoire Evenness Is Associated with Complete Pathologic Response in Patients with NSCLC Receiving Neoadjuvant Chemoimmunotherapy
Authors: Casarrubios Marta , Cruz-Bermúdez Alberto , Nadal Ernest , Insa Amelia , García Campelo María del Rosario , Lázaro Martín , Dómine Manuel , Majem Margarita , Rodríguez-Abreu Delvys , Martínez-Martí Alex , de Castro-Carpeño Javier , Cobo Manuel , López-Vivanco Guillermo , Del Barco Edel , Bernabé Caro Reyes , Viñolas Nuria , Barneto Aranda Isidoro , Viteri Santiago , Massuti Bartomeu , Barquín Miguel , Laza-Briviesca Raquel , Sierra-Rodero Belén , Parra Edwin R. , Sanchez-Espiridion Beatriz , Rocha Pedro , Kadara Humam , Wistuba Ignacio I. , Romero Atocha , Calvo Virginia , Provencio Mariano
Published: November 2024

AbstractPurpose:
Characterization of the T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire may be a promising source for predictive biomarkers of pathologic response to immunotherapy in locally advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Experimental Design:
In this study, next-generation TCR sequencing was performed in peripheral blood and tissue samples of 40 patients with NSCLC, before and after neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy (NADIM clinical trial, NCT03081689), considering their complete pathologic response (CPR) or non-CPR. Beyond TCR metrics, tissue clones were ranked by their frequency and spatiotemporal evolution of top 1% clones was determined.
Results:
We have found a positive association between an uneven TCR repertoire in tissue samples at diagnosis and CPR at surgery. Moreover, TCR most frequently ranked clones (top 1%) present in diagnostic biopsies occupied greater frequency in the total clonal space of CPR patients, achieving an AUC ROC to identify CPR patients of 0.967 (95% confidence interval, 0.897–1.000; P = 0.001), and improving the results of PD-L1 tumor proportion score (TPS; AUC = 0.767; P = 0.026) or tumor mutational burden (TMB; AUC = 0.550; P = 0.687). Furthermore, tumors with high pretreatment top 1% clonal space showed similar immune cell populations but a higher immune reactive gene expression profile. Finally, the selective expansion of pretreatment tissue top 1% clones in peripheral blood of CPR patients suggests also a peripheral immunosurveillance, which could explain the high survival rate of these patients.
Conclusions:
We have identified two parameters derived from TCR repertoire analysis that could outperform PD-L1 TPS and TMB as predictive biomarkers of CPR after neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy, and unraveled possible mechanisms of CPR involving enhanced tumor immunogenicity and peripheral immunosurveillance.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Dutch Version of the Substance Use Recovery Evaluator (SURE-NL)
Authors: Migchels Charlotte , van den Brink Wim , Zerrouk Amine , Matthys Frieda I.A. , De Ruysscher Clara , Debeer Dries , Vanderplasschen Wouter , Crunelle Cleo Lina
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are an important source of information that allow for a patient-centered assessment. Outcome measurement of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment traditionally focuses on drug use and deficits in functioning, overlooking other aspects of the personal and dynamic process of recovery. The substance use recovery evaluator (SURE) is a PROM developed with service user input to monitor the recovery journey and assess treatment outcomes in people with SUD. The objective of this study was to examine the validity and reliability of the Dutch translation of the SURE, the SURE-NL, for measuring indicators of recovery in Dutch-speaking patients with SUD. Methods: The original SURE questionnaire was translated from English to Dutch using forward-backward translation. A total of N = 171 participants were recruited as part of a naturalistic multicenter study in inpatient (N = 149) and outpatient (N = 22) SUD treatment centers. We examined the factorial structure, reliability, and concurrent and discriminant validity of the SURE-NL. Results: The original 5-factor structure of the SURE showed acceptable fit for the SURE-NL, and internal consistencies of the subscales ranged from 0.61 to 0.76; internal consistency of the total score was 0.83. Concurrent validity was confirmed through positive correlations of the SURE-NL total and subscale scores with the WHOQoL-BREF subscales, but correlations varied depending on subscale and treatment setting, with higher correlations for the outpatient compared to the inpatient subgroup. Discriminant validity was confirmed through low, mostly non-significant correlations between the SURE-NL and the DASS-21. Conclusions: Although the SURE was originally designed for outpatient settings, our findings in a predominantly inpatient sample indicate that the SURE-NL is suitable for assessing personal recovery and recovery capital in Dutch-speaking Belgian patients with SUD. However, subscales should be used and interpreted with caution. Further research is needed with larger Dutch-speaking outpatient samples and the development of a tailored SURE for inpatient settings should be considered.
Detailed Images of Deep Brain Stimulation Leads Using Micro-CT
Authors: Billoud Thomas , Reinacher Peter Christoph , Weigt Moritz , von Elverfeldt Dominik , Demerath Theo , Pichotka Martin
Published: November 2024

Introduction: One of the challenges in directional deep brain stimulation (DBS) is to determine the orientation of implanted electrodes relative to targeted regions. Post-operative images must be aligned with a model of the implanted lead, usually a computer-based model provided by the manufacturer. This paper shows that models can alternatively be obtained by capturing images of individual leads using micro-CT, a high-resolution CT technique. Contrary to computer-aided design models, lead models generated this way provide realistic X-ray contrast and finer details. Methods: We scanned DBS leads from various vendors using a Bruker SkyScan 1276 micro-CT system. To reduce beam-hardening artefacts, samples were scanned at maximum X-ray tube voltage (100 kV) and with copper filtering. Images were made publicly available for download and 3D visualisation. Conclusion: Detailed images of single DBS leads can be generated using standard micro-CT systems. Their use as reference models could improve lead orientation algorithms, in particular those dedicated to X-ray modalities. Furthermore, the possibility to share models online could broaden access for clinical research.
Feasibility and Psychometric Properties of Integrated Care for Older People Screening Tool for Taiwanese (ICOPES-TW) Cognitive Screening Test
Authors: Lin Chung-Ying , Liu Hua-Lin , Yang Yi-Ching , Wang Jung-Der , Li Chung-Yi , Griffiths Mark D. , Liu Li-Fan
Published: November 2024

Background: Intrinsic capacity, a concept proposed by the World Health Organization, includes multidimensions to better understand older adults’ health conditions for successful healthy aging. One of the key dimensions of intrinsic capacity is cognition. The present study aimed to examine if the cognitive test in Integrated Care for Older People Screening Tool for Taiwanese (ICOPES-TW) is a suitable instrument for screening cognition impairment. Methods: Older adults from community or medical center settings in Tainan were recruited (n = 553; mean ± SD age = 75.80 ± 8.32; 60.8% females). All participants were administered the ICOPES-TW cognitive test, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL), and Barthel Index (BI) in an in-person interview conducted by a well-trained research assistant. Results: The ICOPES-TW cognitive test was highly correlated with the MMSE total score (r = −0.752) and moderately correlated with IADL (r = −0.426) and BI scores (r = −0.390). When using a cutoff score of 1 for the ICOPES-TW cognitive test, its accuracy to identify cognitive impairment defined by the MMSE was 60% (sensitivity = 0.98, specificity = 0.41). When using cutoff score of 2, the accuracy was 83% (sensitivity = 0.69, specificity = 0.90). Moreover, the ICOPES-TW cognitive test had similar properties to the MMSE in terms of known-group validity (distinguishing different age and educational level groups). Conclusions: Using ICOPES-TW cognitive test with appropriate cutoff point in different healthcare settings could help providers and researchers quickly identify if an older adult has a cognitive impairment. However, the screening ability of ICOPES-TW cognitive test was deemed fair but future studies are recommended to help improve it.
A transversalidade da paisagem nos processos de planejamento, projeto, gestão e formulação de políticas: uma aproximação ao “Programa de Drenagem Sustentável e Revitalização de Rios Urbanos para a UGRHI 13”
Authors: Ragonha Jéssica , Lima Maria Cecília Pedro Bom de , Schenk Luciana Bongiovanni Martins
Published: November 2024

The planning and management models adopted in contemporary Brazilian cities reveal a lack of articulation between scales and sectors, resulting in urban occupation processes that are not concerned about the environmental attributes of the territory, causing problems such as flood, landslides and erosion of the land. The need to rethink the articulation between scales – from local to regional – and issues – environmental, social, economic, cultural, aesthetic – leads to the identification of Landscape as a potential field of encounter of these universes that hardly dialogue in the planning routine and territory management. Having this proposal as a guiding thread, this article promotes an approach to the “Program for Sustainable Drainage and Revitalization of Urban Rivers for UGRHI 13”, promoted by the Tietê Jacaré River Basin Committee in the interior of the State of São Paulo, envisioning the Landscape as element capable of promoting transit between scales and approaches.
Renal Effects of Combination Phosphodiesterase V Inhibition and Low-Dose B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in Acute Heart Failure: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Hubers Scott A. , Benike Sherry L. , Johnson Bradley K. , McKie Paul M. , Scott Christopher , Chen Horng H.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Cardiorenal dysfunction with impaired cyclic GMP (cGMP) response is common in patients presenting with acute heart failure (HF). Type V phosphodiesterase (PDEV) is known to be upregulated in HF and may explain the dysfunction of renal response. The aim of this study was to determine whether B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) alone or in combination with PDEV inhibition improves renal function and increases urinary sodium and cGMP excretion in acute HF.

METHODS:

This open-label study included 67 patients hospitalized with acute HF and renal dysfunction. Patients were randomized to standard care, low-dose intravenous BNP (0.005 µg/kg per minute), or combination BNP/PDEV inhibition with sildenafil (25 mg q12 hours) for 48 hours. The coprimary end points were the percent change in estimated glomerular filtration rate and blood urea nitrogen from baseline to 48 hours.

RESULTS:

Treatment with BNP and BNP/PDEV inhibitor significantly increased plasma cGMP at 24 hours (+25.6% [+9.8%, +84.7%] and +60.8% [+32.3%, +103.8%] for BNP and BNP/PDEV versus −13.5% [−29.1%, +14.2%] with standard care;
P
=0.001). However, there was no significant change in estimated glomerular filtration rate 0 (−10.8%, +12.7%) for standard care versus 0 (−15.3%, +11.8%) for the BNP group versus –8.8% (−14.3%, +8.3%) for the BNP/PDEV group (
P
=0.60) or blood urea nitrogen −1.4% (−10.7%, +12.0%) for standard care versus –5.9% (−14.6%, +9.4%) for the BNP group versus +6.9% (−5.3%, +18.8%) for the BNP/PDEV group (
P
=0.38) between groups. Hypotension was more common in the BNP/PDEV inhibitor group.

CONCLUSIONS:

BNP and combination BNP/PDEV inhibition increased plasma cGMP in patients with acute HF but did not improve renal function or urinary sodium/cGMP excretion. Our study does not support the use of intravenous low-dose BNP with or without PDEV inhibition to enhance renal function in patients admitted with acute HF.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT00972569.
Discrepancy in the Diagnosis of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction Between Supine Versus Upright Exercise Hemodynamic Testing
Authors: Fudim Marat , Kittipibul Veraprapas , Swavely Ashley , Gray Anna , Mikitka Jeffrey , Young Erin , Dobbin Olivia , Radzom Matthew , Fee Jacqueline , Molinger Jeroen , Patterson Brandy , Battista Perego Giovanni , Badano Luigi P. , Parati Gianfranco , Vachiéry Jean-Luc , Senni Michele , Lanzarone Ettore , Previdi Fabio , Paleari Stefano , Baratto Claudia , Caravita Sergio
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Invasive exercise right heart catheterization is a gold standard in diagnosing heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Body positions during the test influence hemodynamics. However, the discrepancy in HFpEF diagnosis between exercise testing in supine versus upright position is unknown.

METHODS:

We conducted a 2-center prospective study enrolling patients referred for exercise right heart catheterization for HFpEF. We performed a Supright protocol integrating submaximal supine bicycle ergometry (20 W) followed by maximal upright bicycle ergometry with a breath-by-breath oxygen analyzer. HFpEF hemodynamic criteria specific to testing positions were applied. Patients were considered to have concordant HFpEF if they met criteria in both positions or discordant HFpEF if they met criteria only in the supine position.

RESULTS:

Of 36 patients who met HFpEF criteria in supine position, 18 (50%) did not meet criteria in upright position (discordant HFpEF). Discordant HFpEF had less atrial fibrillation (0% versus 55%;
P
<0.001), lower left atrial volume (60±14 versus 77±21 mL;
P
=0.010), and lower H
2
FPEF score (2.1±1.3 versus 5.1±2.3;
P
<0.001). In supine position, pulmonary arterial wedge pressure was lower in discordant HFpEF at rest (15±4 versus 19±7 mm Hg;
P
=0.040). In upright position, pulmonary arterial wedge pressure was lower in discordant HFpEF both at rest (8±4 versus 14±6 mm Hg;
P
=0.002) and at peak exercise (14±4 versus 27±7 mm Hg;
P
<0.001). Pulmonary arterial wedge pressure/cardiac output slope was lower in discordant HFpEF (1.6±1.7 versus 3.6±2.9;
P
<0.001). Maximal workload (46±18 versus 49±24 W;
P
=0.59) or peak oxygen consumption (11.4±2.8 versus 12.9±3.4 mL/[kg·min];
P
=0.15) was similar between groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

Half of patients who met HFpEF criteria in the supine position did not meet the criteria in the upright position. Patients with a discordant HFpEF phenotype had less structural and hemodynamic abnormalities compared with those with concordant HFpEF. A Supright exercise right heart catheterization approach is feasible and merits further investigation to determine the clinical implications of discordant exercise hemodynamic findings in supine and upright positions.
ANK Deficiency-Mediated Cytosolic Citrate Accumulation Promotes Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Wu Hao , Li Zhiqing , Yang Liu , He Lin , Liu Hao , Yang Shiyu , Xu Qinfeng , Li Yanjie , Li Wenqiang , Li Yiran , Gong Ze , Shen Yicong , Yang Xueyuan , Huang Jiaqi , Yu Fang , Li Li , Zhu Junming , Sun Luyang , Fu Yi , Kong Wei
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Disturbed metabolism and transport of citrate play significant roles in various pathologies. However, vascular citrate regulation and its potential role in aortic aneurysm (AA) development remain poorly understood.

METHODS:

Untargeted metabolomics by mass spectrometry was applied to identify upregulated metabolites of the tricarboxylic acid cycle in AA tissues of mice. To investigate the role of citrate and its transporter ANK (progressive ankylosis protein) in AA development, vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC)-specific
Ank
-knockout mice were used in both Ang II (angiotensin II)- and CaPO
4
-induced AA models.

RESULTS:

Citrate was abnormally increased in both human and murine aneurysmal tissues, which was associated with downregulation of ANK, a citrate membrane transporter, in VSMCs. The knockout of
Ank
in VSMCs promoted AA formation in both Ang II- and CaPO
4
-induced AA models, while its overexpression inhibited the development of aneurysms. Mechanistically, ANK deficiency in VSMCs caused abnormal cytosolic accumulation of citrate, which was cleaved into acetyl coenzyme A and thus intensified histone acetylation at H3K23, H3K27, and H4K5. Cleavage under target and tagmentation analysis further identified that ANK deficiency-induced histone acetylation activated the transcription of inflammatory genes in VSMCs and thus promoted a citrate-related proinflammatory VSMC phenotype during aneurysm diseases. Accordingly, suppressing citrate cleavage to acetyl coenzyme A downregulated inflammatory gene expression in VSMCs and restricted ANK deficiency-aggravated AA formation.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our studies define the pathogenic role of ANK deficiency-induced cytosolic citrate accumulation in AA pathogenesis and an undescribed citrate-related proinflammatory VSMC phenotype. Targeting ANK-mediated citrate transport may emerge as a novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategy in AA.
Molecular and morphological characterisation of Ditylenchoides anyae sp. n. (Nematoda: Anguinoidea) from Iran
Authors: Esmaeili Mehrab , Ye Weimin , Subbotin Sergei A.
Published: November 2024

A new species, Ditylenchoides anyae sp. n., recovered from soil in the headland areas of non-cultivated fields in Alborz Province, Iran, is described and illustrated based on its morphological, morphometric, and molecular characters. The new species was characterised by a slender body and length of 784 (663-925) μm (females) and 667-712 μm (males), lip region continuous, stylet length 6.4 (6.0-7.0) μm, lateral fields with four incisures, and excretory pore situated 110 (82-137) μm from the anterior end, median bulb of pharynx fusiform, non-muscular, and non-valvate, isthmus elongate, slender ending at a pyriform basal pharyngeal bulb not overlapping intestine, vulva with distinct and relatively large lateral flaps, a well-developed post-vulval uterine sac, 31.3 (27-35) μm long, a female tail elongate-conoid with pointed terminus; and male with adanal bursa and spicules 21-22 μm long. The new species was characterised using the D2-D3 expansion segments of 28S rRNA, ITS rRNA, and partial 18S rRNA gene sequences. Phylogenetic analyses of the genus Ditylenchoides are given based on the analysis of these genes.
Back to the Future: Möhämmäd Zahir Bigiev and His Journey to Bukhara in the Age of Steam and Print
Authors: Naganawa Norihiro
Published: November 2024

Following Nile Green’s analysis of Muslim travelers heading west, this article probes the nature of the Muslim subjectivities expressed by a Tatar who traveled eastwards to Russia’s new periphery. First, I explore the place of Zahir Bigiev’s A Journey to Mawara’annahr within the growing number of Tatar accounts of westward travels including the hajj at the turn of the century. Second, I compare Bigiev’s travelogue with Esper Ukhtomskii’s From the Kalmyk Steppe to Bukhara to reveal the different imaginary pasts each author experienced in their almost identical itinerary. Third, I examine how these two authors’ imaginary travels “back to the future” functioned to assess Turkestan’s colonial present.
From Regional Islamic Reform to Global Anti-colonialism? Jamaladdin al-Afghani and Russia’s Muslims
Authors: Kemper Michael
Published: November 2024

In Russia’s revolutionary year of 1917, the Muslim journalist and educator Rida’addin b. Fakhraddin (1858–1936) published a biography of Jamaladdin al-Afghani (d. 1897), a person famous for his Pan-Islamic political agitation in many countries of the Middle East and beyond. Fakhraddin’s Tatar-language biography is the central source for studying Afghani’s reception among Russia’s Muslims. I argue that Fakhraddin constructed a sanitized image of Afghani that emphasized the latter’s compatibility with the homegrown movement of Islamic reform (islah) that Fakhraddin himself stood for, and which was shaped by the Kazan theologian Shihabaddin al-Marjani (d. 1889). The article analyzes the transnational links that Fakhraddin established, concluding that Fakhraddin depicted himself as Afghani’s foremost disciple in Russia, in competition with others, and independent of Afghani’s most famous disciple, Muhammad ʿAbduh. At the center of Fakhraddin’s account are his own memories of a meeting he had with Afghani in St. Petersburg in 1888.
Improvement Effect of Vermicompost on Continuous Cropping Obstacle Soil of Cherry Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)
Authors: Deng Xiao , Wu Chunyuan , Li Yi , Tan Huadong
Published: November 2024

The continuous cropping obstacles of cherry tomato are serious in Lingshui county, Hainan Province, China. It is imperative to soil improvement. Vermicompost is one of the most ideal soil amendment. The field experiments were conducted to explore the improvement effect of vermicompost on typical continuous cropping obstacle soil from the viewpoints of yield and quality of cherry tomato, soil chemical properties and micro-ecological environment. After applying vermicompost in cropping obstacles soil of cherry tomato, the yield of cherry tomato was increased by 50.9%, and the contents of soluble sugar and vitamin C were increased by 10.9% to 26.7% and 4.6% to 6.2%, respectively. Those of soil organic matter, available Ca and Mg were increased by 10.8%, 92% and 48.9%, respectively. Those of trace elements Mn, Zn and B were increased by 24%, 16.5% and 41.9%, respectively. The activities of soil urease, acid phosphatase and catalase were enhanced by 41.3%, 20.9% and 24.2%, respectively. Furthermore, the composition of soil microbial community was obviously optimized, with the ratio of bacteria to fungi and the relative abundance of soil beneficial microorganisms being significantly increased after applying vermicompost. In conclusion, the yield of cherry tomato was significantly increased, and the quality of cherry tomato, soil chemical properties and micro-ecological environment were obviously improved after applying vermicompost.
Social legitimisation of social work: Strategies to further professional status and recognition in Nepal
Authors: Yadav Raj , Ghimire Pratiksha , Karki Dilip , Budhathoki Rajita , Gray Mel
Published: November 2024

Despite its three-decade history, social work lacks professional status in Nepal. Drawing on authors’ own critical reflection, this article documents strategies to advance social work’s professional status through a process of social legitimation. Following a brief discussion of social work in Nepal, it reports on issues pertinent to, and efforts, thus far, to professionalise social work noting strategies to advance professional identity, status and recognition in Nepal.
ELT Student Teachers’ Acceptance and Knowledge Base of Integrating Virtual Reality into Task-Based Contexts
Authors: Qiu Xuyan , Lopez-Ozieblo Renia , Yao Xinxin
Published: November 2024

This qualitative study explored the acceptance and knowledge base of English language teaching (ELT) student teachers regarding the incorporation of virtual reality (VR) into oral tasks to promote learner engagement within the framework of task-based language teaching (TBLT). Twenty-six ELT student teachers, pursuing their Master of Arts degree at a university in Hong Kong, were interviewed about their acceptance of VR oral tasks and assessed on their knowledge of task engagement and VR. Content analysis, guided by the technology acceptance model and the technological pedagogical and content knowledge (TPACK) framework, was conducted to analyse their interview data. The findings indicated their acceptance of VR-based oral tasks, based on their overall positive perceptions of VR, and confirmed their existing pedagogical knowledge of task engagement. However, their concerns regarding the effectiveness of VR-based oral tasks were influenced by their insufficient TPACK. The findings highlight their urgent need for professional training, not only to enhance VR experiential opportunities but also to learn how to develop teaching materials that integrate VR.
Influence of Health Literacy on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors in Older Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Shin Sun-Hwa , Won Mi Hwa
Published: November 2024

Background:

Coronary artery disease is a chronic condition that requires continuous adherence to healthy behaviors. Adhering to physical activity and reducing prolonged sedentary behavior are important for the physical health of older patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Health literacy is increasingly recognized as a key factor in secondary prevention for these patients. However, evidence regarding the associations among health literacy, physical activity, and sedentary behaviors for secondary prevention in older patients with coronary artery disease remains limited.

Objectives:

This study aimed to identify the prevalence of limited health literacy and the influence of health literacy on physical activity and sedentary behaviors in older patients with CAD.

Methods:

This study was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from May to December 2022 in South Korea. A total of 186 patients aged 65 and older diagnosed with coronary artery disease participated. Data on health literacy, physical activity, and sedentary behaviors were collected through self-reported questionnaires and electronic medical records.

Results:

The prevalence of limited health literacy in older patients was 66.7%. Hierarchical linear regression revealed that health literacy was a significant determinant of physical activity (β = −0.50, P < .001) and sedentary behaviors (β = 0.58, P < .001) after adjusting for confounding variables.

Conclusions:

Our main findings showed that health literacy can facilitate improvements in physical activity and sedentary behaviors. Health literacy can facilitate health decisions for secondary prevention in older patients with CAD. Thus, healthcare professionals should assess patient health literacy and illness severity when designing secondary prevention programs.
The Oswestry Disability Index is not a good measure for low back pain in adolescents: A Rasch analysis of data from 200 people
Authors: Selhorst Mitchell , Degenhart Todd , Jackowski Michael , Meyer Samuel , Rospert Alexander
Published: November 2024

Objective

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the modified Oswestry Disability Index in adolescents with low back pain through Rasch analysis.

Design

This is a psychometric study.

Setting

Physical therapy clinics of a large pediatric hospital in Columbus, Ohio (United States).

Subjects

Two hundred adolescent patients with low back pain (112 female, 15.4 ± 1.9 years old).

Main measure

The modified Oswestry Disability Index.

Results

The mean modified Oswestry Disability Index score was 17.1 ± 12.1, with scores ranging from 0 to 56 on the 100-point scale. The Rasch person reliability for the Oswestry Disability Index was 0.70, representing minimal acceptable person reliability. The Oswestry Disability Index demonstrated poor item spacing, hierarchy, and targeting of the adolescents’ disability level (>1 logit between person mean and item mean). A significant misfit was observed in three of 10 items. There were significant issues with the functioning of responses on all items of the Oswestry Disability Index. Principal component analysis of residuals revealed a ratio of 5.3:1, demonstrating acceptable unidimensionality.

Conclusion

Due to multiple psychometric issues, the Oswestry Disability should not be used to assess disability in adolescents with low back pain. The Oswestry Disability Index significantly mistargets adolescent ability and only provides an acceptable assessment of the most disabled adolescents.