bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensory encoding and memory in the mushroom body: signals, noise, and variability
Authors: Parnas Moshe , Manoim Julia E. , Lin Andrew C.
Published: June 2024

To survive in changing environments, animals need to learn to associate specific sensory stimuli with positive or negative valence. How do they form stimulus-specific memories to distinguish between positively/negatively associated stimuli and other irrelevant stimuli? Solving this task is one of the functions of the mushroom body, the associative memory center in insect brains. Here we summarize recent work on sensory encoding and memory in theDrosophilamushroom body, highlighting general principles such as pattern separation, sparse coding, noise and variability, coincidence detection, and spatially localized neuromodulation, and placing the mushroom body in comparative perspective with mammalian memory systems.
What do the mushroom bodies do for the insect brain? Twenty-five years of progress
Authors: Fiala André , Kaun Karla R.
Published: June 2024

In 1998, a special edition ofLearning & Memorywas published with a discrete focus of synthesizing the state of the field to provide an overview of the function of the insect mushroom body. While molecular neuroscience and optical imaging of larger brain areas were advancing, understanding the basic functioning of neuronal circuits, particularly in the context of the mushroom body, was rudimentary. In the past 25 years, technological innovations have allowed researchers to map and understand the in vivo function of the neuronal circuits of the mushroom body system, making it an ideal model for investigating the circuit basis of sensory encoding, memory formation, and behavioral decisions. Collaborative efforts within the community have played a crucial role, leading to an interactive connectome of the mushroom body and accessible genetic tools for studying mushroom body circuit function. Looking ahead, continued technological innovation and collaborative efforts are likely to further advance our understanding of the mushroom body and its role in behavior and cognition, providing insights that generalize to other brain structures and species.
Design study of a low emittance complex bend achromat lattice
Authors: Song Minghao , Shaftan Timur
Published: June 2024

Light sources worldwide have experienced rapid growth in the last decades, pushing toward higher brightness with lower emittance to meet growing demands from the user community. The quest for higher brightness motivates the development of low-emittance ring lattices. At this point, all fourth-generation storage ring light sources employ variations of the multibend achromat (MBA) lattice. In this paper, we discuss an extension of this approach, known as complex bend achromat lattice in relation to the future NSLS-II upgrade. A detailed approach for the lattice design will be described and the developed lattice will be presented. The advantages of using our complex bend approach are evident in reaching a natural emittance as low as 23 pm at a beam energy of 3 GeV, providing a straight section of 8.4 m for long insertion devices, and acquiring a ratio of about 50% of free space with respect to the ring circumference. The design includes the use of permanent magnets largely reducing the need for power supplies. Our new approach provides an extension to the MBA concept for the next-generation light source lattice design.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
X-ray phase-contrast tomography of cells manipulated with an optical stretcher
Authors: Burchert Jan-Philipp , Frohn Jasper , Rölleke Ulrike , Bruns Hendrik , Yu Boram , Gleber Sophie-Charlotte , Stange Roland , Busse Madleen , Osterhoff Markus , Salditt Tim , Köster Sarah
Published: June 2024

X-rays can penetrate deeply into biological cells and thus allow for examination of their internal structures with high spatial resolution. In this study, X-ray phase-contrast imaging and tomography is combined with an X-ray-compatible optical stretcher and microfluidic sample delivery. Using this setup, individual cells can be kept in suspension while they are examined with the X-ray beam at a synchrotron. From the recorded holograms, 2D phase shift images that are proportional to the projected local electron density of the investigated cell can be calculated. From the tomographic reconstruction of multiple such projections the 3D electron density can be obtained. The cells can thus be studied in a hydrated or even living state, thus avoiding artifacts from freezing, drying or embedding, and can in principle also be subjected to different sample environments or mechanical strains. This combination of techniques is applied to living as well as fixed and stained NIH3T3 mouse fibroblasts and the effect of the beam energy on the phase shifts is investigated. Furthermore, a 3D algebraic reconstruction scheme and a dedicated mathematical description is used to follow the motion of the trapped cells in the optical stretcher for multiple rotations.
Study on the screening of marine beneficial bacteria and the inhibition of sulfate-reducing bacteria corrosion in marine oil field produced water
Authors: Wang Jian , Zhang Xinyi , Du Min , Shan Xueyan , Tian Zhiyu
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide ideas and theoretical guidance for green, environmentally friendly and efficient “bacteriostasis with bacteria” technology.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a beneficial strain of bacteria was extracted and purified from marine mud. Weight-loss test, morphological observation and electrochemical test were used to systematically study the effect of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB)-induced corrosion inhibition on X65 steel in simulated offshore oil field production water.

Findings

The results showed that a beneficial strain was selected and identified as Vibrio alginolyticus. Under the condition of co-culture of SRB, the average corrosion rate of X65 steel was significantly reduced. In the mixed bacterial system, the surface of X65 steel samples was relatively flat, and the structure of biofilm and corrosion product film was dense. The number of corrosion pits, the average diameter and depth of corrosion pits were significantly reduced. The localized corrosion of X65 steel was significantly inhibited.

Originality/value

The complex and changing marine environment makes the corrosion problem of marine steel increasingly severe, and the microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) caused by SRB is particularly serious. The research and development of environmentally friendly corrosion protection technology is a long-term and difficult problem. The use of beneficial microorganisms to control MIC is a green and efficient anticorrosion measure. Compared with terrestrial microorganisms, marine microorganisms can adapt to complex environments, and their metabolites exhibit special biological activities. The use of marine beneficial bacteria can inhibit SRB activity to achieve the corrosion inhibition effect.
How does organizational polychronicity relate to individual adaptive performance? A conservation of resources perspective
Authors: Song Kuntai , Xu Xinyi , Wu Suying , Ni Qing , Zhao Lijing
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effects of organizational polychronicity on individual adaptive performance. Drawing on conservation of resources theory and the perspective of individual differences in pressure perceptions, this study develops a conceptual model to test the mediating role of time pressure and the moderating role of trait regulatory focus in the relationship between organizational polychronicity and individual adaptive performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-wave survey was conducted to investigate a sample of 591 employees who engaged in innovative activities in China. The hypotheses were tested using hierarchical multiple regression and bootstrapping.

Findings

The results show that organizational polychronicity is negatively related to individual adaptive performance via time pressure. Promotion focus weakens the positive relationship between organizational polychronicity and time pressure and the mediating role of time pressure, while prevention focus augments the positive relationship between organizational polychronicity and time pressure and the mediating role of time pressure.

Originality/value

This study reveals the mediating role of time pressure in the relationship between organizational polychronicity and individual adaptive performance, as well as the moderating role of trait regulatory focus in this relationship, thereby deepening our understanding of organizational polychronicity from both a theoretical and a practical perspective.
What makes for digital entrepreneurs? The role of AI-related drivers for nascent digital start-up activities
Authors: Duong Cong Doanh
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Applying the Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) model, this study aims to explore how AI-driven stimuli (e.g. ChatGPT adoption in entrepreneurship and perceived AI competencies) stimulate individuals’ cognitive organisms (e.g. digital entrepreneurial opportunity exploration and exploitation), and how these individually, congruently, and incongruently trigger their behavioral responses (e.g. nascent digital start-up activities).

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing a sample of 1326 MBA students in Vietnam with a stratified sampling approach, multiple linear regression and polynomial regression with response surface analysis were used to test hypotheses.

Findings

The findings reveal that ChatGPT adoption in entrepreneurship and perceived AI competencies have a positive and significant impact on individuals’ digital entrepreneurial opportunity exploration and exploitation, which in turn, positively affects nascent digital start-up activities. Moreover, the study also reports that digital entrepreneurial opportunity exploration and exploitation can be congruently combined with each other to trigger the effects of nascent digital start-up activities.

Practical implications

Some valuable recommendations based on the findings have been provided for practitioners and policymakers.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the academic landscape by validating the SOR model within the context of AI adoption and entrepreneurship. It emphasizes the sequential processes of stimulus, cognitive responses, and behavioral outcomes, shedding light on nuanced effects in the digital entrepreneurial landscape.
Harmonizing visiting performers' motivations and community revitalization at a rural island music festival
Authors: Chiya Amos
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the motivations behind visiting music performers’ attendance at a music festival in the context of a rural Japanese island and how these motivations are connected to community revitalization within the framework of social exchange theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Participant observation and 20 in-depth semi structured interviews were conducted with the visiting musicians at the Kurahashi East-West Music Festival on Kurahashi-jima in Hiroshima Prefecture. A qualitative analysis approach using thematic coding, grounded in social exchange theory, was employed to examine the perspectives of the participants.

Findings

The findings identified seven key themes related to motivation: performing and interacting with fellow musicians, for leisure performing or “fun”, providing a cultural experience to the community, participating for tourism purposes, because of sense of belonging to the destination, to collaborate with a prominent musician, and loyalty and commitment to a performance group. The results demonstrated that leisure performance and musician interaction were the most dominant themes in terms of motivation, while the importance of the other themes varied.

Originality/value

By employing social exchange theory at a micro-level, this study delved deeper into the motivations perceived by visiting performing musicians at music festivals and their implications for community revitalization. The insights gained from this research provide valuable implications for festival organizers, performers and community leaders to tailor music festivals for community revitalization.
Logical analysis of data in predictive failure detection and diagnosis
Authors: Shao Zhixuan , Kumral Mustafa
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to address the critical issue of machine breakdowns in industrial settings, which jeopardize operation economy, worker safety, productivity and environmental compliance. It explores the efficacy of a predictive maintenance program in mitigating these risks by proactively identifying and minimizing failures, thereby optimizing maintenance activities for higher efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

The article implements Logical Analysis of Data (LAD) as a predictive maintenance approach on an industrial machine maintenance dataset. The aim is to (1) detect failure presence and (2) determine specific failure modes. Data resampling is applied to address asymmetrical class distribution.

Findings

LAD demonstrates its interpretability by extracting patterns facilitating the failure diagnosis. Results indicate that, in the first case study, LAD exhibits a high recall value for failure records within a balanced dataset. In the second case study involving smaller-scale datasets, enhancement across all evaluation metrics is observed when data is balanced and remains robust in the presence of imbalance, albeit with nuanced differences in between.

Originality/value

This research highlights the importance of transparency in predictive maintenance programs. The research shows the effectiveness of LAD in detecting failures and identifying specific failure modes from diagnostic sensor data. This maintenance strategy exhibits its distinction by offering explainable failure patterns for maintenance teams. The patterns facilitate the failure cause-effect analysis and serve as the core for failure prediction. Hence, this program has the potential to enhance machine reliability, availability and maintainability in industrial environments.
Nonlinear observer-based impedance control of a fully-actuated hexarotor for accurate aerial physical interaction
Authors: Wang Chang , Jiao Ran , Zhang Jianhua
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Fully-actuated unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are a growing and promising field of research, which shows advantages for aerial physical interaction. The purpose of this paper is to construct a force sensor-denied control method for a fully-actuated hexarotor to conduct aerial interaction with accurate force exerted outward.

Design/methodology/approach

First, by extending single-dimension impedance model to the fully-actuated UAV model, an impedance controller is designed for compliant UAV pose/force control. Then, to estimate the interaction force between UAV end-effector and external environment accurately, combined with super-twisting theory, a nonlinear force observer is constructed. Finally, based on impedance controller and estimated force from observer, an interaction force regulation method is proposed.

Findings

The presented nonlinear observer-based impedance control approach is validated in both simulation and environments, in which the authors try to use a fully-actuated hexarotor to accomplish the task of aerial physical interaction finding that a specified force is able to be exerted to environment without any information from force sensors.

Originality/value

A solution of aerial physical interaction for UAV system enabling accurate force exerted outward without any force sensors is proposed in this paper.
Evaluating the readiness of healthcare administration students to utilize AI for sustainable leadership: a survey study
Authors: Movahed Mohammad , Bilderback Stephanie
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper explores how healthcare administration students perceive the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in healthcare leadership, mainly focusing on the sustainability aspects involved. It aims to identify gaps in current educational curricula and suggests enhancements to better prepare future healthcare professionals for the evolving demands of AI-driven healthcare environments.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilized a cross-sectional survey design to understand healthcare administration students' perceptions regarding integrating AI in healthcare leadership. An online questionnaire, developed from an extensive literature review covering fundamental AI knowledge and its role in sustainable leadership, was distributed to students majoring and minoring in healthcare administration. This methodological approach garnered participation from 62 students, providing insights and perspectives crucial for the study’s objectives.

Findings

The research revealed that while a significant majority of healthcare administration students (70%) recognize the potential of AI in fostering sustainable leadership in healthcare, only 30% feel adequately prepared to work in AI-integrated environments. Additionally, students were interested in learning more about AI applications in healthcare and the role of AI in sustainable leadership, underscoring the need for comprehensive AI-focused education in their curriculum.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited by its focus on a single academic institution, which may not fully represent the diversity of perspectives in healthcare administration.

Practical implications

This study highlights the need for healthcare administration curricula to incorporate AI education, aligning theoretical knowledge with practical applications, to effectively prepare future professionals for the evolving demands of AI-integrated healthcare environments.

Originality/value

This research paper presents insights into healthcare administration students' readiness and perspectives toward AI integration in healthcare leadership, filling a critical gap in understanding the educational needs in the evolving landscape of AI-driven healthcare.
Occasions, motivations and expressions of grace at work
Authors: O'Connell David , Adams Mara Fitzgibbons
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study builds upon previous research on grace in the workplace, using scholarship from the fields of psychology, business ethics, philosophy and religion with the purpose of clarifying how people experience grace in their work, when it happens, why it happens and what are the affective outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from employed adults in the USA. Research questions were explored using qualitative and quantitative methods.

Findings

Working from a conceptual framework linking the occasions of grace, the reasons for grace-giving and the resulting sentiments, the design and findings of a mixed methods study are presented. The results clarify how individuals from various work environments, demographic groups and spiritualties enact and react to grace-giving at work.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to organizational change and workplace spirituality literatures by unpacking what precipitates workplace grace episodes, what is the nature of the interpersonal exchanges and individuals’ affective responses. This approach allows us to better understand what happens in the specific moments of grace and how grace-giving might be encouraged.
College students’ consumption behaviour in internet celebrity economy under We Media environment: a study among Malaysian and Chinese students
Authors: Moorthy Krishna , Runxuan Lin , Chun T'ing Loh , Jing Yii Kwang
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the variables affecting college students’ consumption behaviour in the context of the internet celebrity economy and the We Media environment.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, five independent variables − perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, attitude, We Media environment and internet celebrity marketing, as well as one mediating variable, consumption intention, are used to analyse college students’ consumption behaviour.

Findings

This study concluded that all five independent variables have positive relationships with the consumption intention and that the consumption intention also has a positive relationship with the consumption behaviour.

Originality/value

This study expanded the technology acceptance model and theory of planned behaviour model, which could provide insights for future research on consumption intention and behaviour. In addition, this study gives guidance for businesses considering to join this new industry in the internet celebrity economy.
Measuring agility in local government agencies
Authors: Jabnoun Naceur
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper develops an instrument of organizational agility. The instrument is utilized to assess the extent to which Ras Al Khaimah government agencies have adopted agility and to examine its impact on the achievement of strategic outcomes and employee satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The dimensions of agility are determined using factor analysis. The reliability of the dimensions is tested based on the Cronbach alpha coefficient, while the predictive validity of the instrument is assessed using correlation and multiple linear regression analysis. The extent to which Ras Al Khaimah government agencies adopted the dimensions of agility is assessed using one-sided T-test, and the difference between the levels of adoption of the dimensions is determined using one-way ANOVA. The relationships between agility the dependent variables of achieving strategic outcomes and employee satisfaction are assessed using multiple linear regression.

Findings

The paper determined two valid and reliable dimensions of organizational agility, namely leadership and strategic sensitivity and resource fluidity. Culture, a third reliable dimension found through factor analysis was found to influence agility indirectly. Government agencies have adopted the two dimensions that are found to increase the achievement of strategic outcomes and employee satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

This paper provides a valid and reliable measure for assessing organizational agility. This measure includes both enablers and capabilities. It adds to the limited empirical research on agility, particularly in the Arab world. The paper focused on local government agencies and its findings may not be applicable in other sectors.

Practical implications

The measure can serve as an effective agility self-assessment tool for organizations, enabling them to identify areas for improvement and specific practices they need to adopt to enhance their agility. This, in turn, allows them to become more responsive to changes, achieve strategic outcomes and improve employee satisfaction.

Originality/value

This paper has important research and practical implications. It provides a valid and reliable measure of organizational agility with both enablers and capabilities. This measure can help organizations become agile and achieve higher strategic outcomes and employee satisfaction.
Oxidative stability of avocado oil blended with different levels of ultrasonic extract of Chlorella vulgaris under different temperatures
Authors: Alsayari Shahd A.A. , F.M. Ali Rehab , Althwab Sami A. , Almujaydil Mona S.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the oxidative stability of avocado oil (AO) at various temperatures, using butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) as an artificial antioxidant and different concentrations of ultrasonic extract of Chlorella vulgaris.

Design/methodology/approach

Extracts of C. vulgaris were obtained using four solvents: water, acetone, ethanol and 80% ethanol-aqueous. Standard techniques were used to conduct qualitative phytochemical screening of the extracts. The extracted samples were analyzed for total phenolics, total flavonoids, antioxidant activity and phenolic compound fractionation. Some physicochemical parameters of AO treated with various concentrations of C. vulgaris ultrasonic extract compared to a 200 ppm BHT and exposed to different temperatures were measured.

Findings

The highest phenolic, flavonoids content and antioxidant activity was achieved by 80% ethanolic extract of C. vulgaris . The results showed that exposure of AO to high temperatures led to significant changes in the oil's physicochemical properties. These changes increased as the temperature increased. On the other hand, adding 80% ethanolic extract of C. vulgaris into AO reduced the effect of heat treatment on the change in physicochemical properties.

Originality/value

Adding 80% ethanolic extract of C. vulgaris into AO can potentially reduce the impact of heat treatment on the alteration of physicochemical properties.
Application and prospective of sand-type 3D printing material in rock mechanics: a review
Authors: Yu Chen , Tian Wei
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the application of 3D printing technology, particularly using sand-type materials, in the creation of artificial rock models for rock mechanics experimentation.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a comprehensive analysis, this research explores the utilization of 3D printing technology in rock mechanics. Sand-type materials are specifically investigated for their ability to replicate natural rock characteristics. The methodology involves a review of recent achievements and experimentation in this field.

Findings

The study reveals that sand-type 3D printing materials demonstrate comparable properties to natural rocks, including brittle characteristics, surface roughness, microstructural features and crack propagation patterns.

Research limitations/implications

While the research establishes the viability of sand-type 3D printing materials, it acknowledges limitations such as the need for further exploration and validation. Generalizability may be constrained, warranting additional research to address these limitations.

Originality/value

This research contributes insights into the potential application of sand-type 3D printing materials in indoor rock physics experiments. The findings may guide future endeavors in fabricating rock specimens with consistent structures for practical rock mechanics applications.
ExMove: An open‐source toolkit for processing and exploring animal‐tracking data in R
Authors: Langley Liam P. , Lang Stephen D. J. , Ozsanlav‐Harris Luke , Trevail Alice M.
Published: June 2024

Ongoing technological advances have led to a rapid increase in the number, type and scope of animal‐tracking studies. In response, many software tools have been developed to analyse animal movement data. These tools generally focus on movement modelling, but the steps required to clean raw data files from different tracking devices have been largely ignored. Such pre‐processing steps are often time‐consuming and involve a steep learning curve but are crucial for the creation of high‐quality, standardised and shareable data. Moreover, decisions made at this early stage can substantially influence subsequent analyses, and in the current age of reproducibility crisis, the transparency of this process is vital.

Here we present an open‐access, reproducible toolkit written in the programming language R for processing raw data files into a single cleaned data set for analyses and upload to online tracking databases (found here: https://github.com/ExMove/ExMove). The toolkit comprises well‐documented and flexible code to facilitate data processing and user understanding, both of which can increase user confidence and improve the uptake of sharing open and reproducible code. Additionally, we provide an overview website (found here: https://exmove.github.io/) and a Shiny app to help users visualise tracking data and assist with parameter determination during data cleaning.

The toolkit is generalisable to different data formats and device types, uses modern ‘tidy coding’ practices, and relies on a few well‐maintained packages. Among these, we perform spatial manipulations using the package sf.

Overall, by collating all required steps from data collection to archiving on open access databases into a single, robust pipeline, our toolkit provides a valuable resource for anyone conducting animal movement analyses and represents an important step towards increased standardisation and reproducibility in animal movement ecology.
Short‐stature trees: Need for expanded knowledge on stand dynamics for their ecological and silvicultural management
Authors: Paritsis Juan
Published: June 2024

Research Highlight discussing: Fajardo, A., Moreno‐Meynard, P. & Soto, D. P. (2024). Forest stand dynamics of a short‐stature tree species: Ecological knowledge for sustainable forest management. Journal of Applied Ecology, https://doi.org/10.1111/1365‐2664.14662.

Oliver stand dynamics conceptual model of tree stand succession was designed for tall trees but is not necessarily applicable to short‐stature tree species, which represent a large proportion of forests/woodlands worldwide.

The South American short tree/shrub Nothofagus antarctica is a persuasive example of a short tree species that can benefit from an alternative conceptual model on stand dynamics. It also illustrates the high variability in stand dynamics observed in many short‐stature trees.

Stand dynamics of short‐stature trees remain generally understudied, hindering their management and silvicultural use. Although generalisations may not be feasible due to the continuum of growth forms and succession dynamics of short trees, there is an urgent need to increase our knowledge for their sustainable management.
Maternal and neonatal outcomes among spontaneous vaginal births occurring in or out of water following intrapartum water immersion: The POOL cohort study
Authors: Sanders Julia , Barlow Christy , Brocklehurst Peter , Cannings‐John Rebecca , Channon Susan , Cutter Judith , Hunter Billie , Jokinen Mervi , Lugg‐Widger Fiona , Milosevic Sarah , Gale Chris , Milton Rebecca , Morantz Leah , Paranjothy Shantini , Plachcinski Rachel , Robling Michael
Published: June 2024

Objective

Warm water immersion during labour provides women with analgesia and comfort. This cohort study aimed to establish among women using intrapartum water immersion analgesia, without antenatal or intrapartum risk factors, whether waterbirth is as safe for them and their babies as leaving the water before birth.

Design

Cohort study with non‐inferiority design.

Setting

Twenty‐six UK NHS maternity services.

Sample

A total of 73 229 women without antenatal or intrapartum risk factors, using intrapartum water immersion, between 1 January 2015 and 30 June 2022. The analysis excluded 12 827 (17.5%) women who received obstetric or anaesthetic interventions before birth.

Methods

Non‐inferiority analysis of retrospective and prospective data captured in NHS maternity and neonatal information systems.

Main outcome measures

Maternal primary outcome: obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) by parity; neonatal composite primary outcome: fetal or neonatal death, neonatal unit admission with respiratory support or administration of antibiotics within 48 hours of birth.

Results

Rates of the primary outcomes were no higher among waterbirths compared with births out of water: rates of OASI among nulliparous women (waterbirth: 730/15 176 [4.8%] versus births out of water: 641/12 210 [5.3%]; adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.97, one‐sided 95% CI, −∞ to 1.08); rates of OASI among parous women (waterbirth: 269/24 451 [1.1%] versus births out of water 144/8565 [1.7%]; aOR 0.64, one‐sided 95% CI −∞ to 0.78) and rates of the composite adverse outcome among babies (waterbirth 263/9868 [2.7%] versus births out of water 224/5078 [4.4%]; aOR 0.65, one‐sided 95% CI −∞ to 0.79).

Conclusion

Among women using water immersion during labour, remaining in the pool and giving birth in water was not associated with an increase in the incidence of adverse primary maternal or neonatal outcomes.
Equity in water resource management: A theoretical dynamism
Authors: Higgs C. J. , Hill T. R. , Meissner R.
Published: June 2024

As elusive as the concept of equity may be, it has nevertheless been placed at the heart of global water policy. Yet inequities in access to water and participation in water resources management persist all over the world. The global water crisis is one of inequitable access rather than availability. This critical review explores equity and equality in water resources management through multiple lenses, considering its numerous philosophical underpinnings, and offers a definition of ‘water equity’. We suggest that human rights, procedural and distributive equity (social justice), and cultural, socioeconomic, and political elements (context) are the pillars of water equity. The inter‐relatedness between them and causal effects of each of the pillars are exposed, as are cross cutting features. This contribution to the theoretical interpretation of ‘water equity’ suggests that it is a complex dynamism, a complexity of interrelated features that are constantly in flux. Acknowledging the inherent characteristics of water equity will greatly facilitate its actualisation.
Investigation into the efficiency of diverse N‐linking oligosaccharyltransferases for glycoengineering using a standardised cell‐free assay
Authors: Lehri Burhan , Atkins Elizabeth , Scott Timothy A. , Abouelhadid Sherif , Wren Brendan W. , Cuccui Jon
Published: June 2024

The application of bacterial oligosaccharyltransferases (OSTs) such as the Campylobacter jejuni PglB for glycoengineering has attracted considerable interest in glycoengineering and glycoconjugate vaccine development. However, PglB has limited specificity for glycans that can be transferred to candidate proteins, which along with other factors is dependent on the reducing end sugar of glycans. In this study, we developed a cell‐free glycosylation assay that offers the speed and simplicity of a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ determination. Using the assay, we tested the activity of eleven PglBs from Campylobacter species and more distantly related bacteria. The following assorted glycans with diverse reducing end sugars were tested for transfer, including Streptococcus pneumoniae capsule serotype 4, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium O antigen (B1), Francisella tularensis O antigen, Escherichia coli O9 antigen and Campylobacter jejuni heptasaccharide. Interestingly, while PglBs from the same genus showed high activity, whereas divergent PglBs differed in their transfer of glycans to an acceptor protein. Notably for glycoengineering purposes, Campylobacter hepaticus and Campylobacter subantarcticus PglBs showed high glycosylation efficiency, with C. hepaticus PglB potentially being useful for glycoconjugate vaccine production. This study demonstrates the versatility of the cell‐free assay in rapidly assessing an OST to couple glycan/carrier protein combinations and lays the foundation for future screening of PglBs by linking amino acid similarity to glycosyltransferase activity.
ESAIC focused guideline for the use of cardiac biomarkers in perioperative risk evaluation: Endorsement by the Scandinavian Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine
Authors: Rehn Marius , Chew Michelle S. , Kalliomaki Maija , Olkkola Klaus T. , Sigurðsson Martin Ingi , Møller Morten Hylander
Published: June 2024

Background

The Clinical Practice Committee of the Scandinavian Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine endorses the clinical practice guideline “ESAIC focused guideline for the use of cardiac biomarkers in perioperative risk evaluation.” The guideline can provide guidance to Nordic anaesthesiologists on the perioperative use of cardiac biomarkers in patients undergoing non‐cardiac surgery.
Systematic reduction in seed rain of large‐seeded and endozoochorous species in pastures compared to forests along a tropical elevational gradient
Authors: Acosta‐Rojas Diana Carolina , Barczyk Maciej K. , Espinosa Carlos Iván , Tinoco Boris A. , Neuschulz Eike Lena , Schleuning Matthias
Published: June 2024

Questions

How do seed rain biomass and richness change from old‐growth tropical forests to pastures at different elevations? How do seed mass and seed dispersal mode change from forests to pastures across these elevations? What implications do these changes have for the recovery of deforested areas in tropical mountains?

Location

Old‐growth montane forests and livestock pastures along an elevational gradient (1,000–3,000 m a.s.l.), located at Podocarpus National Park, San Francisco Reserve and surrounding agricultural lands, Andes of southern Ecuador.

Methods

We collected seed rain for a 3‐month period using 324 traps installed at eighteen 1‐ha plots across elevations. Half of the traps were installed in nine 1‐ha forest plots, and the other half in nine 1‐ha pasture plots. For each trap, we identified the seeds and measured seed rain biomass and richness. We also recorded seed traits and calculated community‐weighted means of seed mass and seed dispersal mode (proportion of endozoochory).

Results

Forests received a higher seed rain biomass than pastures, but only at the lowest elevation. Seed rain richness did not differ between habitat types at all elevations. Community‐weighted means of seed mass and the proportion of endozoochorous species declined from forests to pastures, especially at the lower elevations.

Conclusions

Although seed rain biomass and richness were overall similar between forests and pastures, large‐seeded and endozoochorous species were generally poorly represented in the seed rain of pastures compared with that of forests. These findings show that biomass and richness of seed rain may be insufficient to quantify the restoration potential of natural seed rain in deforested areas. Information on seed traits, such as seed mass and seed dispersal mode, is important to optimize restoration efforts towards the regeneration of diverse old‐growth forests along elevational gradients in tropical mountains.
Boron neutron capture therapy delays the decline in neurological function in a mouse model of metastatic spinal tumors
Authors: Fujikawa Yoshiki , Kawabata Shinji , Tsujino Kohei , Yamada Hironori , Kashiwagi Hideki , Yagi Ryokichi , Hiramatsu Ryo , Nonoguchi Naosuke , Takami Toshihiro , Sasaki Akinori , Hu Naonori , Takata Takushi , Tanaka Hiroki , Suzuki Minoru , Wanibuchi Masahiko
Published: June 2024

Metastatic spinal tumors are increasingly prevalent due to advancements in cancer treatment, leading to prolonged survival rates. This rising prevalence highlights the need for developing more effective therapeutic approaches to address this malignancy. Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) offers a promising solution by delivering targeted doses to tumors while minimizing damage to normal tissue. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of BNCT as a potential therapeutic option for spine metastases in mouse models induced by A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells. The animal models were randomly allocated into three groups: untreated (n = 10), neutron irradiation only (n = 9), and BNCT (n = 10). Each mouse was administered 4‐borono‐L‐phenylalanine (250 mg/kg) intravenously, followed by measurement of boron concentrations 2.5 h later. Overall survival, neurological function of the hindlimb, and any adverse events were assessed post irradiation. The tumor‐to‐normal spinal cord and blood boron concentration ratios were 3.6 and 2.9, respectively, with no significant difference observed between the normal and compressed spinal cord tissues. The BNCT group exhibited significantly prolonged survival rates compared with the other groups (vs. untreated, p = 0.0015; vs. neutron‐only, p = 0.0104, log‐rank test). Furthermore, the BNCT group demonstrated preserved neurological function relative to the other groups (vs. untreated, p = 0.0004; vs. neutron‐only, p = 0.0051, multivariate analysis of variance). No adverse events were observed post irradiation. These findings indicate that BNCT holds promise as a novel treatment modality for metastatic spinal tumors.
Synthesis and anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 activity of amino acid modified cephalotaxine derivatives
Authors: Si Min , An Meidi , Xia Zhaomin , Mo Xiaoxue , Lu Jiayu , He Huaizhen , Wang Cheng
Published: June 2024

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2) pandemic has triggered a significant impact on global public health security, it is urgent to develop effective antiviral drugs. Previous studies have found that binding to ACE2 is a key step in the invasion of SARS‐CoV‐2 into host cells, so virus invasion can be inhibited by blocking ACE2, but there are few reports on this kind of specific inhibitor. Our previous study found that Harringtonine (HT) can inhibit the entry of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike pseudovirus into ACE2h cells, but its relatively high cytotoxicity limits its further development. Amino acid modification of the active components can increase their solubility and reduce their cytotoxicity. Therefore, in this study, seven new derivatives were synthesized by amino acid modification of its core structure Cephalotaxine. The target compounds were evaluated by cell viability assay and the SARS‐CoV‐2 spike pseudovirus entry assay. Compound CET‐1 significantly inhibited the entry of pseudovirus into ACE2h cells and showed less cytotoxicity than HT. Molecular docking results showed that CET‐1 could bind TYR83, an important residue of ACE2, just like HT. In conclusion, our study provided a novel compound with more potential activity and lower toxicity than HT on inhibiting the SARS‐CoV‐2 spike pseudovirus infection, which makes it possible to be a lead compound as an antiviral drug in the future.
Clinical versus fixed warfarin dosing and the impact on quality of anticoagulation (The ClinFix trial)
Authors: Fahmi Amr M. , El Bardissy Ahmed , Saad Mohamed Omar , Elshafei Mohamed Nabil , Bader Loulia , Mahfouz Ahmed , Kasem Mohamed , Abdelsamad Osama , Elzouki Abdelnasser , Aquilante Christina L. , Mraiche Fatima , Soaly Ezeldin , El Madhoun Ihab , Asaad Nidal , Arabi Abdulrahman , Alhmoud Eman , Elewa Hazem
Published: June 2024

Different dosing strategies exist to initiate warfarin, most commonly fixed warfarin dosing (FWD), clinical warfarin dosing (CWD), and genetic‐guided warfarin dosing (GWD). Landmark trials have shown GWD to be superior when compared to FWD in the EU‐PACT trial or CWD in the GIFT trial. COAG trial did not show differences between GWD and CWD. We aim to compare the anticoagulation quality outcomes of CWD and FWD. This is a prospective cohort study with a retrospective comparator. Recruited subjects in the CWD (prospective) arm were initiated on warfarin according to the clinical dosing component of the algorithm published in www.warfarindosing.org. The primary efficacy outcome was the percentage time in the therapeutic range (PTTR) from day 3 to 6 till day 28 to 35. The study enrolled 122 and 123 patients in the CWD and FWD, respectively. The PTTR did not differ statistically between CWD and FWD (62.2 ± 26.2% vs. 58 ± 25.4%, p = 0.2). There was also no difference between both arms in the percentage of visits with extreme subtherapeutic international normalized ratio (INR) (<1.5; 15 ± 18.3% vs. 16.8 ± 19.1%, p = 0.44) or extreme supratherapeutic INR (>4; 7.7 ± 14.7% vs. 7.5 ± 12.4%, p = 0.92). We conclude that CWD did not improve the anticoagulation quality parameters compared to the FWD method.
Post‐tropical cyclone Fiona and Atlantic Canada: Media framing of hazard risk in the Anthropocene
Authors: Straub Adam M.
Published: June 2024

Post‐tropical cyclone Fiona made landfall in Nova Scotia, Canada, in September 2022 with the force of a Category 2 hurricane. Using ‘risk society’ as an analytical framework, and Thomas A. Birkland's ‘focusing event’ concept, this paper seeks to understand how publics construct risk in the context of climate change and how institutions engage with those narratives. A qualitative content analysis of 439 newspaper articles from across Canada reveals that most media provide a superficial description of hazard impacts. When media are critical, they connect Fiona to climate change, other extreme events, social vulnerability, and systemic inequality. In response to Fiona and industry trends, insurance representatives indicate a withdraw from covering low‐probability, high‐consequence events owing to ambiguity in risk analysis and financial interests, complicating hazard relief. Political actors' rhetoric is strong—delivering relief in unprecedented ways and offering new adaptive policy. However, a history of unfulfilled political promises to act on climate change elicits scepticism from media sources.
Gender perspective on intercultural competence: Communication and student self‐perceptions in higher education
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Santiuste Elba , Ritacco‐Real Maximiliano
Published: June 2024

This study is focused on the analysis of online intercultural competence from a gender perspective. It uses online communications and student self‐perceptions to explore similarities and differences. Videoconferencing was used as a tool for communication in higher education. A quantitative and qualitative methodologies were applied, including quantifying content analysis. The sample consisted of pairs of university students. The results show very similar scores between men and women in communication and self‐perception in affective aspects. Statistical differences were found in the behavioural communication and in cognitive self‐perception. Communications of negative nature are scarce in both groups. This study helps to understand the similarities and differences in students' communication and self‐perception in an intercultural online context.
Torturous withdrawal: Emotional compulsion in addiction
Authors: Krieger Arthur
Published: June 2024

Withdrawal involves emotional pain that motivates much addictive behavior. In this paper, I argue that the emotional pain of withdrawal compels much addictive behavior. Researchers have noticed this possibility but it is widely underappreciated. Among philosophers, only Hanna Pickard has discussed emotional compulsion in addiction, and the emotional aspect of withdrawal has been almost completely neglected. Accounts of emotional compulsion in the philosophical literature (from Tappolet, Elster, and Furrow) probably do not capture how the distress of withdrawal compels, so I propose a more suitable account of “pathodoxastic” compulsion in addiction. On this account, the emotional pain of withdrawal compels when it undermines the ability to believe that one can continue to endure it, and therefore the ability to intend abstinence.
Love's realism: Iris Murdoch and the importance of being human
Authors: Jamieson Lesley
Published: June 2024

Defenders of two Rationality Views of love—the Qualities View and the Personhood View—have drawn on Iris Murdoch's philosophical writings to highlight a connection between love and a “realistic” perspective on the beloved. Murdoch does not inform the basic structure of these views—she is rather introduced as a supplement who shows that in love, we pay accurate, nuanced, unguarded, and unflinching attention to the other. In this paper, I contend that these authors have failed to see that Murdoch offers a distinct view of love and is inappropriate to enlist as an ally. This is in large part because they have missed the full sense of what Murdoch means by connecting love and realism. I contend that for Murdoch, to love someone means seeing them in light of a realistic vision of what it means to be human; this includes an appreciation of the limits of freedom, the formative influence of personal history, and the nature and extent of our differences from one another. This helps us to see why Murdoch variously describes loving attention as realistic, compassionate, tolerant, and extremely difficult. It also sheds light on some important and familiar ways that we criticize one another's grounds for love.