bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient-reported outcome measures in an outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy program: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Burch Andrea R , Ledergerber Bruno , Ringer Martin , Zinkernagel Annelies S , Eberhard Nadia , Kaelin Marisa B , Hasse Barbara
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the improvements in the mean Short Form-36 (SF-36) score (95% CI) from predischarge to postdischarge among prospective participants of a Swiss Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) programme using Patient Reported Outcomes.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

A public tertiary care hospital in Switzerland.

Participants

Patients enrolled in the University Hospital Zurich’s OPAT programme between October 2020 and September 2022. They were interviewed predischarge (interview 1) and 7–14 days postdischarge (interview 2) using a shortened, four-domain version of the validated SF-36) questionnaire, complemented by four additional questions gauging patient satisfaction.

Co-primary outcomes

The primary outcomes were the scores in four domains of the SF-36 questionnaire.

Results

33 patients participated in the study. Univariate analysis revealed substantial improvement in three of the four SF-36 domains. Specifically, participants reported improvements in the mean SF-36 score (95% CI) from interviews 1 to 2 for ‘emotional role’ (24.2 (5.0–43.5)), ‘social functioning’ (22.0 (95%CI 10.8 to 33.2)) and ‘emotional well-being’ (11.9 (95%CI 5.6 to 18.2)). Furthermore, 97% of patients would recommend OPAT to others.

Conclusion

Patients experienced significant improvements in Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) while enrolled in OPAT and the programme yields high patient satisfaction. Hospitals considering new OPAT programmes should include both patient satisfaction and HRQoL impact in their argument repertoire for the introduction of OPAT.
How to personalise cognitive–behavioural therapy for chronic primary pain using network analysis: study protocol for a single-case experimental design with multiple baselines
Authors: Hofmann Verena Eunike , Glombiewski Julia Anna , Kininger Felicitas , Scholten Saskia
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for chronic primary pain (CPP), but effect sizes are small to moderate. Process orientation, personalisation, and data-driven clinical decision-making might address the heterogeneity among persons with CPP and are thus promising pathways to enhance the effectiveness of CBT for CPP. This study protocol describes one approach to personalise CBT for CPP using network analysis.

Methods and analysis

A single-case experimental design with multiple baselines will be combined with ecological momentary assessment (EMA). Feasibility and acceptance of the study procedure will be demonstrated on a sample of n=12 adults with CPP in an outpatient clinic. In phase A, participants complete 21 days of EMA, followed by the standard diagnostic phase of routine clinical care (phase B). Person-specific, process-based networks are estimated based on EMA data. Treatment targets are selected using mean ratings, strength and out-strength centrality. After a second, randomised baseline (phase A'), participants will receive 1 out of 10 CBT interventions, selected by an algorithm matching targets to interventions, in up to 10 sessions (phase C). Finally, another EMA phase of 21 days will be completed to estimate a post-therapy network. Tau-U and Hedges’ g are used to indicate individual treatment effects. Additionally, conventional pain disability measures (Pain Disability Index and the adapted Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale) are assessed prior, post, and 3 months after phase C.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical considerations were made with regard to the assessment-induced burden on the participants. This proof-of-concept study may guide future studies aiming at personalisation of CBT for CPP as it outlines methodological decisions that need to be considered step by step. The project was approved by the local ethics committee of the psychology department of University Kaiserslautern-Landau (#LEK-457). Participants gave their written informed consent prior to any data assessment and app installation. The results of the project will be published, presented at congresses, and relevant data will be made openly accessible via the Open Science Framework (OSF).

Trial registration number

NCT06179784.
Syndemic approach to chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease and educational level: a longitudinal cohort study in northwest Italy
Authors: Dansero Lucia , Milani Lorenzo , Gnavi Roberto , Macciotta Alessandra , Destefanis Cinzia , Gilcrease Winston , Sciascia Savino , Ricceri Fulvio
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) represent significant public health challenges, linked to an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and influenced by socioeconomic disparities. This longitudinal study investigates the interplay between socioeconomic position (SEP), measured as educational level, CKD/ESRD and CVD using the syndemic framework.

Methods

We used data from the Piedmont Longitudinal Study to establish CKD and ESRD cohorts and to identify incident CVD between January 2013 and December 2017. The educational level was retrieved from census data. We applied an accelerated failure time model to explore the relationships between CKD/ESRD, CVD and educational level with all-cause mortality and emergency room (ER) acuity.

Results

The CKD cohort included 44 220 individuals, with 12 341 deaths and 15 440 ER admissions. The ESRD cohort included 4021 subjects, experiencing 1303 deaths and 1640 ER admissions. After adjusting for confounders, the combination of CKD, low educational level and incident CVD was associated with increased all-cause mortality (time ratios (TR) 0.07, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.08) and ER acuity (TR 0.16, 95% CI 0.14 to 0.17) compared with those with higher education. Instead, patients with ESRD with incident CVD and high educational level had the highest increase in mortality (TR 0.08, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.14) and ER acuity (TR 0.20, 95% CI 0.1 to 0.30).

Conclusions

Patients with CKD with low educational levels and incident CVD may represent a ‘syndemic’, associated with higher mortality and ER acuity. Our study highlights a potential link between these conditions and socioeconomic disparities, suggesting the need for multifaceted approaches.
Syphilis prevalence among a large regional online postal self-sampling STI testing service (OPSS)
Authors: Day Sara Louise , Collins Jessica , Spate Jonathan , Jones Sophie , Ashano Efejiro , Asboe David
Published: December 2024

Objectives

In England, infectious syphilis diagnoses have reached the highest annual number since 1948. Fifty per cent of syphilis testing is now provided through online postal self-sampling sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing services (OPSS). To reduce the burden of syphilis, we need to understand the syphilis prevalence and transition to treatment rates among service users of OPSS. This report aims to estimate syphilis prevalence among people accessing Sexual Health London (SHL), a regional, National Health Service (NHS)-funded OPSS.

Methods

Demographic, STI concurrency, sexual behaviour data and case outcomes were collected from SHL service users who received testing for syphilis between 8 March 2022 and 30 June 2023. Data were analysed to identify syphilis prevalence and transition to care rates.

Results

458 520 syphilis tests were performed for 267 780 service users. 12 870 (2.8%) results were reactive. Their assigned case outcomes comprised: 10 048 (78.1%) past adequately treated syphilis; 971 (7.5%) treated for active syphilis; 1293 (10.1%) SHL results did not subsequently confirm and 558 (4.3%) had an unknown final outcome. Of unique users, 0.4% (940/267 780) received syphilis treatment at least once. They were: 89.3% aged ≥25 years, 87.3% male, 83.7% gay/bisexual. Co-infections identified were: chlamydia (14%), gonorrhoea (13.3%) and previously undiagnosed HIV (1.5%). 36.1% (339) took pre-exposure HIV prophylaxis, 30.1% engaged in sex parties/group sex and 26.8% had sex under the influence of drugs/alcohol. Individuals aged ≥35 years, of non-female gender, gay/bisexual, from indices of multiple deprivation (1–5) and from certain racially minoritised communities were statistically more likely to require treatment for syphilis than the overall testing population (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Estimated syphilis prevalence (0.4%) was comparable to rates within national sexual health clinics and the demographic characteristics of those most affected by syphilis were also similar. Further work is required to improve the integration between NHS OPSS and sexual health clinics and to enable OPSS to more accurately input data on treatment and diagnoses towards national surveillance statistics.
Palliative surgery in metastatic gastric cancer: analysis (2007–2021)
Authors: Theakarajan Rajendran , B G Vageesh , M N Saravanan , Agarwal Anil
Published: December 2024

Objective

Patients with metastatic gastric cancer (MGC) may require palliative surgery to manage complications such as obstruction or bleeding. While the role of stenting in MGC is clear, the role of palliative surgery in MGC shows conflicting results.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed clinical data of patients with MGC treated at our institution between January 2007 and December 2021. The clinical outcomes of patients who underwent palliative surgery are analysed in this review.

Results

Gastrojejunostomy (GJ) and palliative gastrectomy were performed in 48 and 28 patients, respectively. The median overall survival in the GJ and palliative gastrectomy groups were 9.25 and 11.25 months, respectively (p=0.21). On subgroup analysis, we found that the patients who were diagnosed with MGC intraoperatively had better survival compared with preoperatively diagnosed patients even though it was statistically not significant. The complication rates following GJ and palliative gastrectomy were 6% and 7%, respectively.

Conclusion

Both palliative gastrectomy and GJ offer similar results to endoscopic stenting, as reported in the literature. Surgical palliative options continue to be relevant in selected cases due to lower rates of repeat interventions and reduced hospital visits, making them a one-time solution for patients, especially in resource-constrained settings.
Advanced MicroRNA delivery for lung inflammatory therapy: surfactant protein A controls cellular internalisation and degradation of extracellular vesicles
Authors: Kim Miji , Park Sujeong , Lee Nayoung , Kim Dohyun , Kim Dongwoo , Jin Yang , Lee Seon-Jin , Hong Jung Joo , Lee Heedoo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Alveolar macrophages (AMs) are the first line of defence against pathogens that initiate an inflammatory response in the lungs and exhibit a strong affinity for surfactant protein A (SP-A). Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as a promising drug delivery platform due to their minimal cytotoxicity. However, precise targeting of specific cell types and the rapid lysosomal degradation of EVs within recipient cells remain persistent challenges.

Method

In this study, we explored the biological significance of SP-A-EVs as novel drug delivery systems for combating lung inflammation. We first verified that respiratory EVs express SP-A receptor (SP-R210), facilitating the conjugation of SP-A with EVs. The delivery efficiency, cellular internalisation pathways and therapeutic effects were evaluated using an in vivo mouse model.

Results

SP-A-EVs were robustly internalised into AMs both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, our investigation revealed that the toll-like receptor 4-mediated endocytosis pathway was employed for the uptake of SP-A-EVs, significantly delaying their degradation compared with natural EVs, which primarily followed the conventional lysosomal degradation pathway within AMs. In a functional study, we successfully loaded anti-inflammatory microRNA (let-7b) into SP-A-EVs, leading to the suppression of AM activation and the alleviation of lung inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide.

Conclusion

These findings underscore the potential of SP-A-EVs as highly effective drug delivery systems for targeted therapeutics in lung-related disorders, capitalising on the strong affinity between AMs and SP-A and the modulation of cellular internalisation.
Spontaneous Lorentz symmetry-breaking constraints in Kalb–Ramond gravity
Authors: Junior Ednaldo L. B. , Junior José Tarciso S. S. , Lobo Francisco S. N. , Rodrigues Manuel E. , Rubiera-Garcia Diego , da Silva Luís F. Dias , Vieira Henrique A.
Published: December 2024

In this work, we study timelike and lightlike geodesics in Kalb–Ramond (KR) gravity around a black hole with the goal of constraining the Lorentz symmetry-breaking parameter l. The analysis involves studying the precession of the S2 star periastron orbiting Sgr A* and geodesic precession around the Earth. The ratio of precession frequencies for General Relativity (GR) and KR gravity is computed, with Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) results providing a parameter range for the spontaneous symmetry-breaking of

$$-0.185022 \le l \le 0.060938$$

-
0.185022
≤
l
≤
0.060938

. Utilizing the geodesic precession frequency from the Gravity Probe B (GP-B), the l parameter is further constrained to

$$-6.30714 \times 10^{-12} \le l \le 3.90708 \times 10^{-12}$$

-
6.30714
×

10

-
12

≤
l
≤
3.90708
×

10

-
12

, which is consistent with the Schwarzschild limits. Moreover, for timelike geodesics, the innermost circular orbit (ICO) and innermost stable circular orbit (ISCO) are determined and analyzed to illustrate the impact of the symmetry breaking term. Zoom-whirl obstructions are compared with the Schwarzschild solution. Lower and upper limits of the photon sphere for lightlike geodesics are established to demonstrate the influence of KR gravity on the photon sphere. Additionally, the shadow radius is determined for two observers, one situated at a finite distance from the KR black hole, and the other located at an infinite distance, to constrain the symmetry-breaking parameter l, with comparisons made to EHT results. The bounds for l derived from constraints on the photon sphere radius for lightlike geodesics yield

$$-0.0700225 \le l \le 0.189785$$

-
0.0700225
≤
l
≤
0.189785

using EHT data. The findings of this paper align with experimental results in the

$$l \rightarrow 0$$

l
→
0

limit.
Multistability and its control in a Van Der Pol oscillator coupled with Duffing oscillator through the velocity
Authors: Xiong Yongyong , Shi Yongge , Chen Jingwen , Njitacke Zeric Tabekoueng , Jiang Donghua , Wu Jianhua
Published: December 2024

Self-sustained electromechanical transducers are generally built using coupled oscillators made of Van Der Pol and Duffing. In this paper, the complex dynamics of a Van Der Pol oscillator coupled with the Duffing (VDPCD) oscillator through the velocity is investigated. By exploiting nonlinear analysis techniques, several nonlinear phenomena uncovered in such types of systems are found. Among others, we have broken symmetry inducing multistability in the coupled oscillators, the phenomenon of coexisting bubble bifurcations. By employing Helmholtz’s theorem, a Hamilton energy function for the coupled model was derived. Furthermore, the famous theory of the linear augmentation method, based on the unstable equilibria of the uncontrolled model, is exploited to control the multistability of the coupled oscillators toward a regulator or a chaotic regime. A PSpice circuit was used to perform a circuit experiment, from which the results of the multistability exhibited by the coupled oscillators were further supported. At last, a microcontroller board-based experimental circuit was constructed, and the findings were corroborated by the results of the study.
What If I’m Wrong? Team Performance and Trustworthiness When Modeling Risk-Sensitivity in Human–Robot Collaboration
Authors: Smith Mason O. , Zhang Wenlong
Published: December 2024

To achieve effective coordination in human–robot teams, robots must have an accurate model of human decision-making (i.e., theory of mind) to predict human actions and plan appropriate supplemental strategies. However, humans are often assumed to be approximately rational decision-makers which is not always the case, especially when faced with risky or uncertain decisions. Recent works in human–robot interaction have begun to address this by implementing risk-sensitive models of human behavior to characterize an individual’s risk-sensitivity. However, little attention is given to the following question: what happens when the robot makes the incorrect inference about human risk-sensitivity? Failure to consider this may lead to ineffective coordination and degradation of perceived trustworthiness in the robot. In this article, we adopt a popular risk-sensitive model based on Cumulative Prospect Theory, where model accuracy is varied in the robot’s theory of mind when interacting with either a risk-averse (pessimistic) or risk-seeking (optimistic) human. We designed a joint-pursuit game where the human and robot are conditioned with different (assumptions of) human risk-sensitivity in a 2

\( \times \)

2, between-subject study. Results from both simulated and human experiments showed that team performance was decreased and perceived trustworthiness in the robot was negatively impacted when the robot made the incorrect assumption of human risk-sensitivity. Overall, this work shows that risk-sensitive models can be used to great effect but only if we remain diligent to the fact that misspecification can lead to negative outcomes.
Enhancing the Effectiveness of STLs for GPUs via Bounded Model Checking
Authors: Deligiannis Nikolaos , Faller Tobias , Rodriguez Condia Josie Esteban , Cantoro Riccardo , Becker Bernd , Sonza Reorda Matteo
Published: December 2024

Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) are becoming widespread, even in safety-critical applications. In that case, it is imperative to guarantee that the probability of producing critical failures due to hardware faults is lower than a given threshold. To detect possible permanent hardware faults as soon as they appear during the operational phase (e.g., due to aging), Software Test Libraries (STLs) have gained significant traction as a widely adopted test solution due to their effectiveness in terms of fault detection capabilities, test application time, and flexibility. However, a major drawback of this solution is the lack of automation in the STL generation phase. As a result, high manual labor is required for their generation. This becomes even more arduous in complex architectures that require in-depth knowledge to cover hard-to-test faults. In this article, we introduce a methodology based on Bounded Model Checking to support the generation and improvement of stuck-at-oriented STLs for hard-to-test units in GPUs, showing that we can enhance the test coverage achieved by pre-existing STLs while also identifying a set of functionally untestable faults. To experimentally validate the proposed method’s effectiveness, we use the
FlexGripPlus
GPU model to target two hard-to-test units, one medium to low complexity sub-unit and one high complexity sub-unit, as study cases. For both units, we had pre-existing STLs written for the stuck-at model. Resorting to the proposed method, the STLs’ test coverage was increased by 9.57% and 2.19%, respectively. In addition, the method also identified a significant number of functionally untestable faults.
Promotive Effect of Organic Acids on the Dispersion of Ceria Slurry and the Removal Rate of TEOS in Chemical Mechanical Polishing
Authors: Qin Sihui , Liu Min , Zhang Baoguo , Xian Wenhao , Cui Dexing , Liu Shitong
Published: December 2024

In this study, the effect of organic acids (formic acid, acetic acid, and lactic acid) on the material removal rate (MRR) of TEOS films was investigated. The results showed that formic acid was an effective dispersant for CeO2 slurry. When adding formic acid to the slurry, the average particle size of CeO2 was reduced to 172.5 nm and the Zeta potential was increased to 47.6 mV. Consequently, the MRR of TEOS improved from 408.3 to 695.5 nm min−1 with a surface roughness of 0.16 nm. The MRR of the pattern wafer was increased from 575.1 to 941.6 nm min−1. Molecular dynamics simulation indicated that the oxygen atom attached to the double bond in the carboxyl group serves as the primary electrophilic reaction site. The double electric layer was thickest between formic acid and CeO2, resulting in the best dispersion of CeO2 slurry, which was conducive to improving the MRR of TEOS. The polishing effect of formic acid was verified by adding polyethylene glycol, enhancing the MRR of TEOS was 1351.2 nm min−1.
Data sheet 1 from Single-Cell Analysis of Bone Marrow CD8+ T Cells in Myeloid Neoplasms Reveals Pathways Associated with Disease Progression and Response to Treatment with Azacitidine
Authors: Tasis Athanasios , Papaioannou Nikos E. , Grigoriou Maria , Paschalidis Nikolaos , Loukogiannaki Catherine , Filia Anastasia , Katsiki Kyriaki , Lamprianidou Eleftheria , Papadopoulos Vasileios , Rimpa Christina Maria , Chatzigeorgiou Antonios , Kourtzelis Ioannis , Gerasimou Petroula , Kyprianou Ioannis , Costeas Paul , Liakopoulos Panagiotis , Liapis Konstantinos , Kolovos Petros , Chavakis Triantafyllos , Alissafi Themis , Kotsianidis Ioannis , Mitroulis Ioannis
Published: December 2024

Data Sheet 1
Investigating Organizational Loyalty in Maritime Companies among Generation X and Millennials Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equa-tion Modeling
Authors: Dui Rayan P. , Paredes Miguel Paolo L.
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to study job security, social stimulation, and oppor-tunity to use one’s abilities as factors that influenced Gen X (ages 36-54) and Millennial (ages 21 to 35) employees’ organizational loyalty as part of a particular organization. Understanding organizational culture is cru-cial when examining loyalty among Gen X and Millennial seafarers in maritime companies. It has been recognized as a vital factor contributing to the success of business operations. Recently, many initiatives have been implemented to promote workforce development. Employers rec-ognize that their workforce directly affects financial performance, and understanding organizational loyalty across generations is crucial for ensuring this. Sixty seafarers from three Philippine Manning agencies were asked to answer surveys and participate in follow-up interviews as needed to investigate the variables. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and multigroup analysis (PLS-MGA) were used to analyze the gathered respondent data. The findings indicated that social stimulation and the opportunity to use one’s abilities were both groups' most significant predictors of loyalty. The subsequent PLS-MGA showed that job security was particularly a significant predictor for Gen X employees, while it was not a significant predictor for Millennials. The implications show that predictors of loyalty can change depending on the age of the seafarers. Therefore, it is recommended that leaders of the different Philippine manning agencies develop customized strategies for cultivating loyalty from Gen X and millennial employees. must ensure that employees understand a clear path for growth and development, and they should actively pursue these plans. Moreover, management can enhance social connections by forming partnerships and collaborating with maritime stakeholders. This approach can foster positive interac-tions among the various marine stakeholders.
Decoupage as an art therapy technique in human functioning in late adulthood.
Authors: Miłek Katarzyna , Figaj Magdalena
Published: December 2024

The article presents research on the use of decoupage as an art therapy technique among the residents of a social welfare home. The technique used here is described along with its location in the history of art therapy. The author establishes the definition, goals and functions that this field of therapy fulfills in human life, with particular focus on the impact in late adulthood. The research was conducted in the Nursing Home in Gniezno on the basis of an interview questionnaire and a survey conducted among seniors living in the Social Welfare Home. The research was preceded by conducting classes using the decoupage technique.
Oral Communication Skills of the Students of Osias Colleges, Inc.
Authors: Salagan Aurea C.
Published: December 2024

The study employed a descriptive design to gather baseline data on respondents' oral communication skills in English. The results revealed that the majority of respondents were female, aged 19-24, who primarily spoke Tagalog and Ilokano at home, and were mainly in their second and third years of study. Utilizing a 5-point Likert scale for assessment, the findings indicated that respondents were rated as "good" across various dimensions of oral communication, including audience engagement, context, transactional and interper-sonal skills, medium of exchange, and paralinguistics. This overall rating suggests that while their skills are adequate, there is consid-erable potential for improvement to enhance their competitiveness in the job market.As a result, the study underscored the need for a program aimed at strengthening students' oral communication skills in English, with an intervention proposed for review and implementation in the upcoming academic year. Recommendations for program heads and school administrators included incorporating these findings into curriculum evaluations and policy development. Regular curriculum mapping is essential to ensure that course objectives align with the enhancement of students' English oral communication skills. Addi-tionally, it is recommended that training programs focused on im-proving these skills be made available, and that language teachers engage in professional development seminars to refine their in-structional techniques. Furthermore, increasing the number of in-teractive classroom activities is advised to further cultivate stu-dents' oral communication abilities in English.
Commitment, Focus, Synergy: The Workplace Forces Cementing the Continuous Quality Improvement
Authors: Santiago Lilia M.
Published: December 2024

Sustaining school effectiveness for accreditation is a big job. There is no better way however for the stakeholders than to accept the challenge because for them, passion to education is priceless. This paper therefore, is presented to evaluate the results of the formal visit conducted by Phil-ippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accredi-tation (PACUCOA) to the Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) Program of Osias Colleges, Inc. (OCI) Tarlac City. The descriptive research design was utilized involving documentary analysis, questionnaires and check-list. There were three (3) workplace forces: Commitment, Focus and Synergy that were described among the School Accreditation Team (SAT) which revealed that the SAT’s Commitment is positive, Focus is very often and Synergy is good. The compliance to the recommendations of PACUCOA is a self-assessment described as Very Likely which means that OCI has a high degree of compliance. An Action Plan is proposed to enhance quality assurance and level of accreditation, address the weak-nesses and grab opportunities for continuous quality improvement.
Exploring Teachers' Educational Philosophies: A Comparative Analysis Based on Geographic Classifications
Authors: Cabiles Roldan C.
Published: December 2024

This qualitative phenomenological research explores the lived experiences of key informants through in-depth interviews and participant observation. The teacher-participants, who work in three geographical areas, were identified by the Department of Education (DepED) in the Schools Division Office of Albay. The study is grounded in the phenomenological concepts and principles of Husserl (1859-1938) and Heidegger (1889-1976), along with the Reflection-Action perspective of Freire (1921-1997), to capture the essence of their experiences. Due to the global health crisis caused by COVID-19, data collection utilized virtual platforms such as Facebook Messenger, Google Meet, Zoom, and phone calls, in addition to face-to-face interviews when possible. Health protocols mandated by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF), including mask-wearing, social distancing, and the use of hand sanitizer, were strictly followed to ensure safety. The findings indicate that teachers from rural, urban, and coastal areas reflect various educational philosophies such as essentialism, humanism/existentialism, pragmatism/progressivism, reconstructionism, constructivism, idealism, behaviorism, and perennialism. Some teacher-participants from rural and coastal areas also exhibit positivism, influenced by their expertise in mathematics and science. These educational philosophies enhance their coping mechanisms and teaching competencies to adjust to the local cultural realities.
Optimizing Call Center Productivity through Key Work Environment Factors
Authors: Soyangco Philippe R. , Riva Ma. Reinadel D. , Narsico Peter G. , Niere Marvin Ian E. , Narsico Lalaine O.
Published: December 2024

This study aims to enhance productivity by fostering a business environment where workers can thrive, similar to a well-functioning ecosystem. It investigates whether factors such as workers' aptitude, training, tools and technology, workload, workplace relationships, working conditions, employee well-being, and satisfaction with compensation positively impact productivity. The study focused on call center agents in Cebu Province, Philippines, with an estimated population of 200,000. Using a Cochran calculation, a sample size of 384 respondents was determined, accounting for a 5% margin of error and a 95% confidence level. Due to challenges in reaching participants, convenience sampling was employed, yielding 385 completed surveys, exceeding the minimum required. Data was collected through a descriptive survey with simple, close-ended questions, validated by call center agents and demonstrating high reliability (Cronbach’s alpha of 0.967). The weighted mean for each predictor and the dependent variable was calculated, and linear regression analyses examined the relationships between predictors and productivity. Additionally, ANOVA within the context of linear regression assessed the significance of these relationships. The findings revealed that the eight identified predictor variables collectively received an average score of 3.277 out of 4.0 from call center agents. All eight predictors—employee aptitude, work training, tools and technology, workload, satisfaction with compensation, employee well-being, working conditions, and workplace relationships—were significant indicators of productivity and explained a portion of the variance in the dependent variable. These results emphasize the need to enhance activities and policies related to all predictor variables, as each significantly impacts productivity. Notably, working conditions and job training received the highest ratings, indicating strong employee satisfaction in these areas. However, urgent attention is needed in addressing employee well-being and satisfaction with compensation, which received the lowest ratings.
Harnessing Workforce Diversity for Enhanced Employee Performance: Strategic Insights for Capacity Building
Authors: Anthony Katherine D. , Trajico Kathleen D.
Published: December 2024

Diversity, a consequence of evolution and globalization, has prompted businesses to reevaluate their organizational structures. This shift has created opportunities for management to harness the valuable perspectives and ideas of diverse employees, which serve as catalysts for success in the intricate and ever-changing business environment. Consequently, the primary objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between employees' perceptions of diversity practices within the organization and their influence on employee productivity, engagement, and performance. Furthermore, the study seeks to ex-plore effective strategies for managing workforce diversity. The ma-jority of respondents belong to the age group of 41 years and above, are female, and are Tagalog employees. Respondents unanimously acknowledged that various diversity practices have a positive impact on employee productivity and overall organizational performance. However, significant organizational challenges such as resistance to change, communication barriers, and resource constraints hinder the successful implementation of diversity programs and, consequently, employee performance. However, there was no significant variation in the influence of diversity practices on employee productivity and overall performance across demographic groupings, such as age, gen-der, and ethnicity. The most effective diversity integration strategies employed within the organization involved regular diversity training programs and the involvement of all employees in diversity initia-tives. Furthermore, integrating diversity into employee performance leads to heightened employee satisfaction and a sense of belonging. Employees become more proactive in their roles when they feel in-cluded and valued within the organizational culture, resulting in ele-vated employee engagement levels in organizations that actively sup-port and promote diversity and inclusion. Furthermore, the integra-tion of diversity in employee engagement leads to diverse perspec-tives that contribute to improved decision-making and enhanced work outputs. The measurement and evaluation framework developed by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for Diversity Management has been adapted to assess the impact of diversity initiatives on employee performance. The three-module training program was designed to help small busi-nesses develop inclusive cultures and enabling work environments as well as strategies for bringing in, managing, and retaining a diverse workforce.
Nota sobre a distribuição geografica dos Culicideos (Diptera) de São Paulo (Brasil)
Authors: Antunes P. C. de Azevedo , Lane J.
Published: December 2024

Apresentamos nestas notas a relação dos mosquitos encontrados em Porto Martins, Salto de Avanhandava, Itanhaem, São Sebastião, Guaratinguetá e Juquiá.
Alguns aspectos epidemiologicos do "Tifo exantematico de S. Paulo"
Authors: Vieira Francisco Borges , Mesquita Mario
Published: December 2024

Como descjassemos colaborar neste Cougresso e, na ausencia de uma secção dedicada á higiene por um lado, presos á unidade do tema na ~ecção de Biologia por outro lado, reso!vt'mos, com os poucos informes que possuímos sobre casos de febre ~xantematica que, desde Outubro óe 1929 vêm ocorrendo nesta Capital, tentar um estudo epidemiologico, embora modesto, afim de, pelos caracteres apresentados no co_njunto, apreciar o seu comportamento e relacioná-los ás conclusões de trabalhos experimentais e clínicos que, tão brilhantemente, vêm apresentando in· vestigadores paulistas como Lemos Monteiro, Tolcdo Piza, Luiz ·Sales Gomes, Juvenal R. Meyer, Flavio For_c;eca, Carvalho Lima, Alcides Prado e outros, orientados, em parte, pelo grande espírito de Rocha Lima, meetre incontestavel, neste assunto, como em outros mais.
O Bacteriófago nas águas dos rios e Reservatórios do Abastecimento público da cidade de São Paulo
Authors: Assunção Lucas de , Rodovalho Otávio
Published: December 2024

A descoberta de agentes bacteriolíticos filtráveis e transmissíveis, é aquisição que ainda se pode dizer recente.
Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Aortic Stenosis: Early Cell and Matrix Regression 2 Months Post-Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Bennett Jonathan , Thornton George D. , Nitsche Christian , Gama Francisco F. , Aziminia Nikoo , Gul Uzma , Shetye Abhishek , Kellman Peter , Davies Rhodri H. , Moon James C. , Treibel Thomas A. , Adams Benjamin , Ambekar Shirish , Aktuerk Dincer , Awad Wael , Baumbach Andreas , Bhattacharyya Sanjeev , Di Salvo Carmelo , Kolvekar Shyamsunder , Lall Kulvinder , Lawrence David , Lopez-Marco Miss Ana , Lloyd Guy , Kennon Simon , Manisty Charlotte , Mathur Anthony , Mravljak Rok , Mullen Michael , Oo Aung , Ozkor Mick , Pierce Iain , Roberts Neil , Sheikh Amir , Shipolini Alex , Uppal Rakesh , Wong Phooi Kit , Yates Martin , Yap John
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

In aortic stenosis, the myocardium responds with left ventricular hypertrophy, which is characterized by increased left ventricular mass due to cellular hypertrophy and extracellular matrix expansion. Following aortic valve replacement (AVR), left ventricular hypertrophy regression occurs, but early cellular and extracellular dynamics are unknown.

METHODS:

Patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis undergoing surgical or transcatheter AVR were prospectively recruited. Pre- and early post-AVR cardiac magnetic resonance imaging assessed left ventricular remodeling, global longitudinal strain, and T1 mapping to determine extracellular volume fraction and volume of cellular and extracellular compartments.

RESULTS:

In all, 39 patients (aged 71.4±9.8 years, male 79%, aortic valve peak velocity 4.4±0.5 m/s) underwent cardiac magnetic resonance before and at median 7.7 weeks post-AVR. Left ventricular mass index reduced significantly by 15.4% (
P
<0.001*), primarily driven by cellular compartment regression (18.7%,
P
<0.001*), with a smaller reduction in the extracellular compartment (7.2%,
P
<0.001*). This unbalanced regression led to an apparent increase in extracellular volume fraction (27.4±3.1% to 30.2±2.8%;
P
<0.001*). Although there was no significant change in global longitudinal strain post-AVR, an increase in extracellular volume fraction was associated with worsening of global longitudinal strain (Pearson r=0.41,
P
=0.01). Mode of intervention (transcatheter versus surgical) did not influence the above myocardial parameters post-AVR (all
P
>0.05). The asterisk in
P
values indicates a statistical significance of <0.05.

CONCLUSIONS:

Within 8 weeks of AVR for aortic stenosis, substantial left ventricular hypertrophy regression occurs involving both cellular and extracellular compartments, demonstrating the early myocardial adaptability to afterload relief. Cellular compartment regression is greater than extracellular regression, leading to an apparent increase in extracellular volume fraction. Mode of intervention did not affect degree of reverse remodeling, indicating that both are effective at resulting beneficial changes post-AVR.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.isrctn.com
; Unique identifier: NCT04627987.
Picking Up a Friend along the Way: A′-Movement through the v/VP Region in Avatime
Authors: Major Travis , Torrence Harold
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the nature of successive cyclicity. Based on novel data from Avatime, this paper provides further evidence that successive cyclic A′-movement obligatorily transits through the vP region of all clauses between the extraction site and the landing site of the wh-expression. Evidence comes from pied-piping patterns related to wh-movement and pieces of complex verbal idioms.
The Uncanny: New Directions
Authors: Ataria Yochai
Published: December 2024

This paper delves into the concept of the uncanny, a theme that has fascinated scholars across multiple disciplines, including psychology, philosophy, literature, and film studies. The study’s primary goal is twofold: to examine the theoretical foundations of the uncanny as explored by Jentsch, Freud, and Heidegger, and to propose a new perspective on the uncanny within the context of modern technological and urban developments. The paper argues that urban, technologically advanced environments foster conditions in which the uncanny can easily emerge, and suggests that the adoption of a techno-scientific worldview plays a central role in the rise of uncanny experiences. Through an analysis of Hoffmann’s The Sandman, this paper revisits classical theories of the uncanny and connects them with contemporary realities. Jentsch’s emphasis on cognitive uncertainty, Freud’s exploration of repressed traumatic memories, and Heidegger’s focus on the broader atmospheric conditions of the uncanny are all examined. The paper concludes by reflecting on how urbanization, technological dependency, and scientific reductionism contribute to a profound sense of alienation, increasing the likelihood of uncanny experiences in the modern world.
Searching for the identity of Podisus Herrich-Schäffer, 1851 (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae): examination of type specimens leads to taxonomic updates and description of five new species
Authors: Brugnera Ricardo , Sampaio Vinícius , Campos Luiz Alexandre , Grazia Jocelia
Published: December 2024

The Asopinae are a group of stink bugs (Pentatomidae) distinctive by having predatory feeding habits, preying on other insects, especially larvae of butterflies, moths, and beetles. Many species are common, and due to their alimentary strategies, some are objects for application in biological control programs. Podisus Herrich-Schäffer is the most diverse genus of Asopinae, distributed in the Neotropical and Nearctic regions, and their species have received attention in applied studies since the second half of the 20th century. However, the systematics of Podisus is still overlooked, and the lack of robust taxonomic information and poor species delimitation lead to misidentifications. We searched for the type specimens of Podisus deposited in the NHMUK, NHRS, MNHN, and RBINS collections in order to validate the taxonomic status of the species, and to proceed with the necessary taxonomic updates. We propose four new synonymies: Podisus volxemi Distant new junior synonym of Podisus crassimargo (Stål); Ornithosoma rivierei Kormilev and monotypic genus Ornithosoma Kormilev as new junior synonyms of Podisus semialbus Walker and genus Podisus respectively. Podisus dufouri Bergroth and Podisus punctiger Stål are revalidated, and Podisus cornutus (Dallas) is treated as species inquirenda. Five new species are described and fully illustrated: Podisus amboroensis Brugnera, sp. nov., Podisus awajun Brugnera, sp. nov., Podisus bororo Brugnera Grazia, sp. nov., Podisus guarani Brugnera & Grazia, sp. nov., and Podisus quechua Brugnera & Sampaio, sp. nov.. We highlight the importance of the examination of type material, historical specimens, and descriptions in the taxonomy of Podisus, and suggest caution in the identification of species due to the expressive number of incongruences found in previous studies.
Imagining Closure as a Proprioceptive Problem
Authors: Rossmanith Kate
Published: December 2024

This essay aims to advance theorisations of ‘closure’ as an emotion concept, and to offer new understandings of the relationship between emotion and imagination, including how such a dynamic might be studied. In justice contexts, ‘closure’ operates clumsily as both a legal outcome and an emotional expectation, an imagined affective state. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork and interviews with people who work in, and who are caught up in, the justice system, the essay deploys approaches from phenomenological anthropology and creative writing to show how people’s imagining of ‘closure’ is often experienced proprioceptively, not narratively. It also shows the entanglement of form and method: how the essay form can be deployed in research as a critical imaginative tool.
From Migration Legends to Regional Identity: the Formation of the Ming-Qing State
Authors: Zhao Shiyu , Lu Jenny
Published: December 2024

Recent years have seen extensive discussions on identity issues across various disciplines. Within the field of history, particularly significant are the debates concerning the “New Qing History” in American Sinology and the special issue on James Watson in the American journal Modern China. These discussions are closely tied to the emphasis on diversity and the exploration of the grand unification mechanism in Chinese studies, both domestically and internationally. Migration legends offer a critical lens for examining regional identity, encapsulating the dynamic shifts in regional identities and the historical processes of state formation during the Ming and Qing dynasties, from the 16th to the 18th centuries. Such discussions of identity and state formation should be contextualized within specific historical and spatio-temporal frameworks.
Model-Based Study of Near-Surface Transport in and around Cape Cod Bay, Its Seasonal Variability, and Response to Wind
Authors: Gregory Margaret , Rypina Irina I. , Yoshida Sachiko , Macdonald Alison M.
Published: December 2024

Output from a high-resolution numerical model is used to study near-surface transport in and around Cape Cod Bay using a Lagrangian approach. Key questions include the following: What are the dominant transport pathways? How do they vary in time on seasonal-to-interannual scales? What is the role of wind in driving this variability? Application to a possible release of wastewater into Cape Cod Bay from the recently closed Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station is discussed. Analysis reveals a seasonality in Cape Cod Bay transport patterns, with shorter residence times throughout the bay and an increased probability of outflow waters exiting the bay during spring and summer. Wind-induced Ekman currents are identified as a dominant driver of this variability.

Significance Statement

This study is motivated by a possible release of radioisotope-contaminated wastewater into Cape Cod Bay, a region important to fishing, aquaculture, and tourist industries. The specific aim is to better understand near-surface transport patterns and mechanisms in Cape Cod Bay both in general and within the context of a wastewater release from Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station.
Book review: Reeju Ray, Placing the Frontier in British North-East India: Law, Custom, and Knowledge
Authors: Naorem Deepak
Published: December 2024

Reeju Ray, Placing the Frontier in British North-East India: Law, Custom, and Knowledge. Oxford University Press, 2023, 224 pp.
Diagnosis of the Livelihood Vulnerability from Selected Resettlement Farms in Matabeleland, Zimbabwe
Authors: Nyathi Douglas
Published: December 2024

Burgeoning evidence suggests that rural households face a range of stressors and shocks. Using a qualitative strand, the study examines the drivers of livelihood vulnerability in selected farms in Matabeleland, Zimbabwe. Results insinuate that socioeconomic and historical contingencies are the overriding determinants triggering rural livelihood vulnerabilities to poverty. Erratic rainfall, lack of financial and social capitals in particular, had practically heightened livelihood vulnerabilities to shocks. Livelihoods diversification is used to reduce losses from rain-fed farming, improve the quality of life and manage risk more effectively. The evidence of growing susceptibility also highlights how urgent it is for local communities and government agencies to work together to lower the risk associated with climate change. Specifically, creative and reasonably priced solutions that link dry lands and urban markets are required. The results are useful in developing interventions such as crop diversification and rural income-generating opportunities. Changing climate and livelihood policies for improved well-being and resilient communities should take into consideration the major components responsible for vulnerability along with other environmental, socioeconomic and demographic drivers.