Internal Organization Research Articles

A multimodal characterization of low-dimensional thalamocortical structural connectivity patterns

The human thalamus is a heterogeneous subcortical structure coordinating whole-brain activity. Investigations of its internal organization reveal differentiable subnuclei, however, a consensus on subnuclei boundaries remains absent. Recent work suggests that thalamic organization additionally reflects continuous axes transcending nuclear boundaries. Here, we study how low-dimensional axes of thalamocortical structural connectivity relate to intrathalamic microstructural features, functional connectivity, and structural covariance. Using diffusion MRI, we compute a thalamocortical structural connectome and derive two main axes of thalamic organization. The principal axis, extending from medial to lateral, relates to intrathalamic myelin, and functional connectivity organization. The secondary axis corresponds to the core-matrix cell distribution. Lastly, exploring multimodal associations globally, we observe the principal axis consistently differentiating limbic, frontoparietal, and default mode network nodes from dorsal and ventral attention networks across modalities. However, the link with sensory modalities varies. In sum, we show the coherence between lower dimensional patterns of thalamocortical structural connectivity and various modalities, shedding light on multiscale thalamic organization.

Comparative Analysis of Routine Clinical Debriefings and Incident Reports: Insights for Patient Safety and Teamwork Enhancement.

Routine Clinical Debriefings (RCDs) have been shown to improve communication, team reflexivity, and safety in clinical settings. When combined with Incident Reports (IRs), RCDs offer a potential tool for enhancing quality improvement frameworks. This study aimed to identify and compare healthcare safety-related information captured through RCDs and IRs in a Belgian emergency department operating across two distinct facilities. This study employed a quasi-mixed-method design with a monostrand conversion approach. Information was collected from 90 RCDs and 263 IRs. Data were analyzed using two frameworks: the World Health Organization's (WHO) Incident Report Classification Grid and the Debriefing and Organizational Lessons Learned (DOLL) Grid. : The findings revealed significant differences in the types of information captured by RCDs and IRs. RCDs predominantly highlighted teamwork, internal organization, and procedural issues, while IRs focused more on care processes, patient concerns, and patient flow. These complementary insights demonstrate the value of integrating RCDs and IRs to create a comprehensive understanding of patient and clinician safety. This study highlights the complementary nature of RCDs and IRs in addressing healthcare safety. RCDs foster team reflexivity and promote open discussions about systemic challenges, directly improving team cohesion, resilience, and learning. Combining RCDs and IRs provides actionable insights for enhancing safety and driving organizational improvements.

Phase separation of a microtubule plus-end tracking protein into a fluid fractal network

Microtubule plus-end tracking proteins (+TIPs) participate in nearly all microtubule-based cellular processes and have recently been proposed to function as liquid condensates. However, their formation and internal organization remain poorly understood. Here, we have study the phase separation of Bik1, a CLIP-170 family member and key +TIP involved in budding yeast cell division. Bik1 is a dimer with a rod-shaped conformation primarily defined by its central coiled-coil domain. Its liquid condensation likely involves the formation of higher-order oligomers that phase separate in a manner dependent on the protein’s N-terminal CAP-Gly domain and C-terminal EEY/F-like motif. This process is accompanied by conformational rearrangements in Bik1, leading to at least a two-fold increase in multivalent interactions between its folded and disordered domains. Unlike classical liquids, Bik1 condensates exhibit a heterogeneous, fractal supramolecular structure with protein- and solvent-rich regions. This structural evidence supports recent percolation-based models of biomolecular condensates. Together, our findings offer insights into the structure, dynamic rearrangement, and organization of a complex, oligomeric, and multidomain protein in both dilute and condensed states. Our experimental framework can be applied to other biomolecular condensates, including more complex +TIP networks.

P-259. Facilitators and Barriers for the Use of Ultraviolet-C Disinfection at VA Hospitals: A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract Background Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) disinfection has been increasingly used to enhance terminal room cleaning and prevent hospital pathogen transmissions. We reported that UV-C implementation in Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals was associated with a 17% reduction in Gram-negative bloodstream infections (BSI), but with a significant facility-level variation. To investigate this variation, we evaluated facilitators and barriers to implementing UV-C disinfection at VA hospitals. Methods We interviewed environmental management services (EMS) leaders, housekeepers, infection preventionists, and multidrug-resistant-organism prevention coordinators at 22 US VA hospitals that used UV-C during the study period. Interviews focused on the context of external and internal environments, organization, tools and technology, tasks, and persons. We conducted a thematic analysis on transcripts. Results 21 of 22 participating VA hospitals report using UV-C as an adjunct to 2-step manual room cleaning. 34 staff completed interviews. The frequency of UV-C disinfection, locations, and rationales for use varied across hospitals. Interviewees reported using UV-C in operating rooms and patient rooms most often. Room use varied (e.g., routine discharge, contact precautions, other reasons). Barriers at some hospitals included leaders’ distrust of manufacturer claims for exposure times, risks, and efficacy; concerns that non-VA data may not apply to the VA context; and a perceived lack of UV-C’s impact on local infection rates. Other barriers include high patient loads requiring fast room turnovers, reduced staffing, equipment and maintenance costs, and competing priorities. Facilitators for UV-C use included COVID-19-related financial resources, collaborative communication between EMS, Nursing, and Infection Prevention, and professional competence and commitment to infection prevention. Conclusion Given the reported barriers and facilitators, a UV-C implementation toolkit informed by VA staff feedback could improve acceptability of UV-C technology for staff and is worth further study. Interprofessional collaboration and leadership support could improve integration of UV-C into environmental cleaning best practices in VA hospitals. Disclosures Michihiko Goto, MD MSCI, Merck: Grant/Research Support

The PSAI Peter Mair Memorial Lecture 2024 Ruling The Void, a decade on: reflections on Peter Mair's legacy

ABSTRACT After briefly rehearsing the arguments set out in Peter Mair's rather downbeat assessment of contemporary democracy, 'Ruling The Void' (2013), I want to focus on two main themes in the book. The first is Mair's claim that party systems have become more convergent: this rather depends on how you measure 'convergence' – manifesto data generally confirm Mair's view, whereas the electoral strength of radical parties points to the polarization of many party systems. I proceed to reflect on the implications of these findings for the quality of party government. Second, I address Mair's claims about the internal organization life of political parties – especially those relating to intraparty democracy. In essence, he saw modern parties as being generally less democratic than they purported to be, but it is far from clear that recent research confirms this claim.

Coalitions, coordination, and contestation: a systematic review of the advocacy coalition framework and its implications for sustainability transitions research

IntroductionAchieving sustainability transitions requires substantial policy changes, often driven by coalitions of actors advocating for institutional change and transformative agendas. While the transitions literature highlights the importance of coalition coordination, the underlying processes remain insufficiently understood. This study explores the Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF) to derive insights into the coordination and dynamics of advocacy coalitions relevant to sustainability transitions.MethodsA systematic review of ACF literature was conducted, encompassing an initial corpus of over 700 articles and refining it to a final set of 45 documents. These documents were analyzed using qualitative coding to identify key factors influencing coalition coordination and to conceptualize coalition dynamics across the phases of sustainability transitions.ResultsThe review identifies four categories of factors shaping coalition coordination: prerequisites for coordination, reasons to coordinate, instrumental factors that influence coordination, and internal organization of coalitions. Additionally, it outlines how coordination patterns evolve across four sustainability transition phases, leading to the development of a typology that integrates dynamics within coalitions and across coalitions with two transition pathways: technological substitution and reconfiguration.DiscussionThis study advances the understanding of the political processes underpinning sustainability transitions by integrating ACF insights into transition studies. It underscores the importance of belief systems, resource access, and trust in fostering effective coalition coordination. The proposed typology offers a conceptual framework to guide future empirical research on coalition dynamics and their role in accelerating sustainability transitions.

Business Strategy Formulation for Internet Service Provider (ISP): A Case Study of Iconnet by PT PLN Icon Plus

Iconnet is a flagship product of Icon Plus designed to generate revenue in a new business line outside the electricity sector with the Beyond kWh concept, through the optimization of the strategic asset of Right of Way (ROW), which includes over 1.5 million electricity poles across Indonesia. This research aims to provide recommendations for developing Iconnet's strategy formulation using a qualitative approach, with data collection through in-depth interviews with three internal company sources and one external source. The analysis involves examining internal and external factors of the company using Internal Factor Analysis (IFAS) and External Factor Analysis (EFAS), which are then combined into a Strategic Factor Analysis Summary (SFAS), followed by SWOT analysis, and evaluation of alternative strategies using the Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM). The results suggest enhancing human resources (HR) quality to improve product quality and customer satisfaction, increasing customer engagement to strengthen customer relationships, and expanding market targets based on a comprehensive customer database analysis. Iconnet formulates a three-year action plan focusing on three main aspects. First, in internal organization, performance evaluation using an analytics dashboard, along with HR competency mapping using AI and digital training programs. Second, in customer interaction, developing personalized service apps, digital marketing, and an integrated customer experience. Third, in supplier interaction, digitizing contracts and vendor evaluation through ERP systems, and collaborating with leading technology suppliers to enhance network and technological innovation.

The Impact of Campus Space on Teacher-Student Social Behaviour: A Comparative Study of Shanxi Yuci No.2 Middle School and UCL Academy

This paper explores spatial differences in campus design and their impact on teacher-student social behaviour, using Space Syntax theory as a framework. School buildings in China are characterized by a strong programme that emphasizes collectivism, order, and functionality, featuring symmetrical layouts and clear boundaries. In contrast, British school buildings prioritize individuality and innovation, with flexible layouts and dispersed functional spaces that encourage outdoor activities and social interaction, fostering independence and creativity. These differences reflect the cultural values and educational philosophies of China and the UK, significantly influencing social behaviour. This paper examines the distinct architectural styles and internal organisation of school buildings in China and the UK through a case study of Shanxi Yuci No.2 Middle School and UCL Academy. By studying these two school cases, this research explores how different educational environments shape teaching methods and student behaviour, providing insights for school design and educational practice.

Ovaries of Lumbricidae earthworms (Annelida, Crassiclitellata), from morphology to ultrastructure

Earthworm (Megadrili) ovaries are paired organs located usually in the XIII segment. So far, only their localization and general morphology are well known. Light, fluorescence, and electron microscopy analyses were carried out to describe ovary histology and ultrastructure in selected representatives of the family Lumbricidae. We studied 12 species from six genera: Aporrectodea, Dendrobaena, Eisenia, Lumbricus, Octolasion, and Proctodrilus. It was revealed that Lumbricidae ovaries are tiny, leaf-like structures with one string consisting of growing oocytes. Morphologically, ovaries can be divided into a proximal part (much wider and attached to the septum) and a distal part (more narrow and containing growing oocytes that form an egg string at the end of the ovary). Ovaries are built from germ cells united into numerous syncytial cysts accompanied by somatic cells. Clustering cells are interconnected via intercellular bridges to the poorly developed central cytoplasmic mass (reticular cytophore). According to the histological and ultrastructural results, ovaries can be divided into three zones. Zone I contains oogonia and early-meiotic cells that are already interconnected into cysts, in which all cells develop synchronously. In zone II, germ cells enter diplotene and lose synchrony; most probably, one cell detaches from the given cyst, continues meiosis, gathers nutrients, grows, and becomes an oocyte, whereas the rest of the cells do not grow and become nurse cells. Zone III consists of growing (vitellogenic) oocytes accompanied by cysts interconnecting nurse cells and enveloped by somatic follicular cells. Such an ovary organization is known as the “Dendrobaena” type. Although there are minor differences in ovary morphology between the studied species, no differences were found in their internal organization. Thus, it is postulated that “Dendrobaena” ovaries are characteristic of all lumbricids. Among earthworms, “Dendrobaena” ovaries occur in hormogastrids and most probably in other families closely related to lumbricids.

Sensi dell’organizzazione testuale interna in Ap 21,12-14

The purpose of this study is to explore the sense of unity and internal organization in Ap 21,12-14 as basis for a right interpretation. After establishing the authentic text through textual criticism, the analysis focuses to the internal organization of Ap 21,12-14, which can be the synthesis of the main aspects visible on the external side of the New Jerusalem: the wall, the 12 gates and the 12 foundations. The construction method of the biblical passage Ap 21,12-14 could reflect a rhetorical intention. The 12 gates, the 12 foundations and the surrounding wall with the following descriptions are indications of a secure, universal and open city that fascinates the faithful. At the same time, the internal organization of the text indicates aspects of the writing style, symbols and imagery used by the author. Article history: Received 10.11.2024; Revised 01.11.2024; Accepted 11.11.2024. Available online: 11.01.2025; Available print: 30.01.2025.

Building Successful DEI Partnerships through Shared Vision and Mutual Understanding

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are critical for organizations to better represent their communities and foster inclusive workplaces, but successful implementation requires extensive coordination and buy-in. This article presents a research-backed framework for building strategic DEI partnerships between internal teams and external organizations, centered on establishing shared goals, cultivating trust, co-developing programs with community input, clearly delineating responsibilities, and measuring impact to drive continuous improvement - an approach that can significantly amplify an organization's DEI efforts by leveraging combined capabilities and a shared commitment to transparency and mutual understanding.

Recent advances in the synthesis and application of biomolecular condensates.

Biomolecular condensates (BMCs) represent a group of organized and programmed systems that participate in gene transcription, chromosome organization, cell division, tumorigenesis, and aging. However, the understanding of BMCs in terms of internal organizations and external regulations remains at an early stage. Recently, novel approaches such as synthetic biology have been used for de novo synthesis of BMCs. These synthesized BMCs (SBMCs) driven by phase separation adeptly resemble the self-assembly and dynamics of natural biomolecular condensates, offering vast potentials in basic and applied research. This review introduces recent progresses in phase separation-induced SBMCs, attempting to elaborate on the intrinsic principles and regulatory methodologies used to construct SBMCs. Furthermore, the scientific applications of SBMCs are illustrated, as indicated by the studies of chromosome structure, pathogenesis, bio-manufacturing, artificial cell design, and drug delivery. The controllable SBMCs offer a powerful tool for understanding metabolic regulations, cellular organizations, and disease-associated protein aggregations, raising both opportunities and challenges in the future of biomaterial, biotechnology, and biomedicine.

Assembleia de Abrantes Headquarters Building by Raul Lino

The Assembleia de Abrantes building, designed in 1923 and intended as the headquarters of a recreational and cultural club, was one of the first and most relevant projects of Raul Lino (1879-1974) in that city. The building was classified in 2014. This paper proposes the study and interpretation of its main architectural and construction features, in order to understand whether there is a correlation between the Casa Portuguesa programme advocated by Raul Lino and the programme of this building designed to house a local club. The methodology that guided this study focused on the analysis of primary and secondary sources (drawings, written architectural documentation, correspondence between the client and the architect, books and other written publications), photographic and geometric surveys and their graphic recording. Existing architectural documents were analysed. The study was also based on Lino’s theoretical reflections on the function and materiality of Portuguese dwellings, published between 1918 and 1933. It can be concluded that there is a correlation between the Casa Portuguesa programme and that of this building, relating to the internal organization of spaces and construction systems. This work enabled the identification and aggregation of project documents dispersed across two documentary funds. The results obtained contribute to the documentation of preliminary studies for future construction work on the Assembleia de Abrantes Headquarters building. This work aims to make an additional contribution to the interpretation and understanding of Raul Lino's architectural work, focusing on the construction perspective.

Inovasi Pengendalian Keuangan: Memperkuat Kinerja Siklus Murabahah KSU Kota Santri Bojong

ABSTRACT KSU Kota Santri Bojong has Murabahah products that are of interest to the community. This financing has operational standards that have been set by the internal organization. However, whether the standard has been implemented as it should. This internal control test aims to determine the extent to which the internal control system is operating. Includes activities of applying as a cooperative member, financing application, verification, financing, installments and repayment. Researchers used adopt observation, interview and documentation methods. Researchers used internal control questions to obtain reinforcing and comparative data. Triangulation is the basis for interpreting the analysis of comparing field facts with standards that should be. The results of this study state that the Murabahah cycle standards have been carried out, but still need improvement. Through the murabahah accounting information system described and field documentation related to the treatment of each stage of the murabahah cycle. KSU Kota Santri faces various challenges, one of which is the separation of functions and digitalization of the murabahah system. Some stages of Murabahah still depend on manual methods, so KSU Kota Santri needs an update that is more effective, efficient, complex and economical.

Reform of the Preliminary Ruling Procedure in the EU Court System

In 2022, the Court of Justice of the European Union announced a new stage of reform of its system. In the face of an increase in the number of cases under consideration it is designed to maintain a professional and thorough approach to disputes resolution while reducing the time of legal proceedings. The changes are based on the new competence of the General Court to deal with requests under preliminary ruling procedure and certain other categories of disputes, as well as obtaining more freedom in matters of internal organization and the establishment of a permanent position of Advocate General. Taking into account the scientific and educational literature already published in Russia on the basics of the Court of Justice of the EU, the authors focused their attention on current issues and prospects for the development of the EU judicial system. The purpose of the article is a doctrinal study of the reasons that led to this reform, an analysis of the final text of the agreed draft regulation, as well as an overview of the measures that were implemented by the European Court of Justice at earlier stages and the reasons why they were insufficient. The authors consider new categories of cases, procedural guarantees to maintain uniformity of judicial practice and the stages of discussion of the draft regulation, which took place in 2023 in the EU institutions responsible for the adoption of the new legislation.

Military order as a legal form of operation of organizational units military administration in the sphere of internal organization

Military order as a legal form of operation of organizational units military administration in the sphere of internal organization

Fan translation of video games in China: The case of Deeptrans

Following the Chinese State Council’s ban on commercial gaming consoles and the rise of computer game piracy, foreign video game companies began to withdraw from investing in Chinese game translations in the early 2000s. In response, fan translation emerged as an alternative for Chinese gamers. ‘Fan translation’ refers to unofficial translations produced by enthusiasts for various types of media. Specifically, fan translation of video games involves online collaboration among players to translate foreign titles, with the goal of providing an accessible and enjoyable experience that stays true to the original content. In light of the growing community of video game fan translators in China, this study offers a comprehensive examination of the phenomenon. The research focuses on the internal dynamics and organization of Deeptrans, a Chinese group dedicated to video game fan translation. The article begins by exploring the challenges and defining characteristics of video game fan translation, supported by a brief literature review due to the limited scholarship available on the subject. Next, the methodology is outlined, detailing a qualitative case study approach that analyzes archival documents produced by Deeptrans members during their translation of the video game X4: Foundations (Egosoft, 2018). The third section presents and analyzes the results, highlighting the methods employed by Deeptrans members to carry out their translation tasks, which align with the concept of a community of practice. This community shares a common interest, set of challenges, and passion for the video game X4: Foundations, fostering a knowledge base that encompasses orientation, linguistic skills, and expertise developed through regular interaction. Members utilize computer tools to collaborate effectively, operating within an informal hierarchy characterized by role division and distributed leadership. Collaborative discussions play a pivotal role, enabling members to support one another and find optimal solutions to the challenges encountered in their work. Through collective participation and regular interactions, individual and practical knowledge becomes objectified and transformed into a shared repertoire. The primary aims of this community of practice are to strengthen group cohesion, improve the efficiency of game translation tasks, and facilitate collective learning. The concluding section of the article revisits the study, providing a deeper understanding of the phenomenon as a whole, including considerations of copyright and translation quality.

The Employee Performance Management of the Regional Technical Implementation Unit (UPTD) of the Animal Health and Veterinary Public Health Center of Seruyan Regency in Improving Public Services.

This research aims to analyze the quality of animal health service management at the Regional Technical Implementation Unit (UPTD) Animal Health Center of Seruyan Regency using the POAC (Planning, Organizing, Actuating, Controlling) management approach. Conducted from June 1 to September 1, 2024, this study employs a qualitative method with descriptive analysis. Data were collected through literature reviews, direct observations, and interviews with staff and management involved in the service delivery process. The findings reveal that the service planning at the UPTD Animal Health Center and Veterinary Public Health has not effectively engaged farmers, which has resulted in a disconnect between the programs offered and the actual needs of the farming community. Although the internal organization of the center is assessed as practical, the accessibility of services for farmers residing in remote areas remains a significant concern that requires attention. The execution of veterinary health services showcases the competence and skills of health workers. However, there are notable deficiencies in communication and the availability of information that hinder effective service delivery. Furthermore, the existing control system does not adequately accommodate user feedback, highlighting an urgent need for enhanced communication channels. Overall, this research aims to provide actionable recommendations to improve the quality of veterinary health services in Seruyan Regency, ultimately fostering a more responsive and user-centered service environment. The insights gained from this study will contribute to the ongoing efforts to align veterinary health services with the community's needs, ensuring better health outcomes for livestock and the farming population.

A cooperation protocol in a liver transplant department

The nursing cooperation protocol developed within the Paul-Brousse hospital's liver transplant department is fully in line with the health establishment's historical dynamic. It formalizes the transfer of skills established some thirty years ago within the internal organization, enabling healthcare professionals to engage in a cooperative approach to better meet patients' needs.

Neuroarchitecture of the Central Complex in the Madeira Cockroach Rhyparobia maderae: Tangential Neurons.

Navigating in diverse environments to find food, shelter, or mating partners is an important ability for nearly all animals. Insects have evolved diverse navigational strategies to survive in challenging and unknown environments. In the insect brain, the central complex (CX) plays an important role in spatial orientation and directed locomotion. It consists of the protocerebral bridge (PB), the central body with upper (CBU) and lower division (CBL), and the paired noduli (NO). As shown in various insect species, the CX integrates multisensory cues, including sky compass signals, wind direction, and ego-motion to provide goal-directed vector output used for steering locomotion and flight. While most of these data originate from studies on day-active insects, less is known about night-active species such as cockroaches. Following our analysis of columnar and pontine neurons, the present study complements our investigation of the cellular architecture of the CX of the Madeira cockroach by analyzing tangential neurons. Based on single-cell tracer injections, we provide further details on the internal organization of the CX and distinguished 27 types of tangential neuron, including three types of neuron innervating the PB, six types of the CBL, and 18 types of the CBU. The anterior lip, a brain area unknown in flies and highly reduced in bees, and the crepine are strongly connected to the cockroach CBU in contrast to other insect species. One tangential neuron of the CBU revealed a direct connection between the mushroom bodies and the CBU.