bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Strong Turbulence Effects on Laser and Speckle Propagation
Authors: Adansi Richard O. , Rodriguez Arturo , Kumar Piyush , Kumar Vinod
Published: September 2024

Analysis of a strong turbulence effect on electromagnetic wave propagation requires extensive knowledge of the earth’s atmospheric phenomena and Maxwell’s electromagnetic theory of light propagation. Strong atmospheric Turbulence often encounters optical systems’ propagation, causing interference and diffraction. Nonetheless, light propagation through randomly fluctuating media has been an exciting and active area of extensive research over many decades. This research holistically examined Maxwell’s electromagnetic theory of light propagation through unstable medium and its effects (diffraction/interference) on optical systems. Generally, atmospheric Turbulence causes scintillations, beam spreading, phase fluctuations, beam-wander, and jitter that can degrade and limit the performance of imaging and laser systems. However, effectively characterizing strong turbulence effects on electromagnetic wave propagation still needs to be solved.

Additionally, the DE, the U.S. Air Force, and the U.S. Space Force must consider strong and substantial turbulence impacts on optical systems. Therefore, we took a holistic approach to examine the problem and revisit existing mitigation measures for gaps. We discussed the refractive index fluctuation (scintillation), a stimulant of atmospheric Turbulence for optical systems and light propagation.

Similarly, we investigated Refractive Index Structure Function, Dn(r), Power Spectral Density (PSD), and associated atmospheric parameters. Additionally, we examined multi-concept leading to the Refractive Index Structure Function, Dn(r), and different mathematical formulations of Power Spectral Density (PSD). We formulated an analytical approach to a solution of the wave equation by the multiple integrals (involving complex integrands) technique. We investigated and implemented various mathematical and computational algorithms governing strong atmospheric Turbulence and spatial-temporal imaging. We proposed developing a mathematical framework to simulate optical propagation through Turbulence. We identified helpful software for image processing and an Artificial Neural Network to predict phase screen generation via a Large Language Model.
Detection range of a passing submerged emitter of sound in ambient noise
Authors: Oppeneer Victor O. , Schäfke Alexandra , Brooker Daniel , Prior Mark
Published: September 2024

An underwater acoustic detection problem is studied in which the ambient noise present at a receiver is calculated, given information describing environmental conditions, including windspeed, and the positions of nearby ships which act as sources of background noise. The signal, whose detection is sought, is narrowband and transmitted from a source that passes by the receiver along a straight track. Cumulative Probability of Detection (CPoD) is calculated along a series of tracks with increasing closest-point-of-approach distances to the receiver. Two detection ranges are analyzed, a so-called “defender” detection range and an “intruder” detection range. Both are conservative measures associated with CPoD equaling 0.5 during the transit of the submerged vessel. Predictions of the detection range are compared across independent attempts to solve the same problem with different modelling approaches. The spread of results (i.e., the “reproducibility” of the predictions) is discussed and reasons for differences are highlighted. Environmental conditions that strongly affect detection performance are discussed, as is the use of CPoD as a single-valued metric to describe detection performance.
Training-Load Management Ambiguities and Weak Logic: Creating Potential Consequences in Sport Training and Performance
Authors: West Stephen , Shrier Ian , Impellizzeri Franco M. , Clubb Jo , Ward Patrick , Bullock Garrett
Published: September 2024

Background: The optimization of athlete training load is not a new concept; however in recent years, the concept of “load management” is one of the most widely studied and divisive topics in sports science and medicine. Purpose: Discuss the challenges faced by sports when utilizing training load monitoring and management, with a specific focus on the use of data to inform load management guidelines and policies/mandates, their consequences, and how we move this field forward. Challenges: While guidelines can theoretically help protect athletes, overzealous and overcautious guidelines may restrict an athlete’s preparedness, negatively influence performance, and increase injury risk. Poor methods, wrong interpretation of study findings, and faulty logic do not allow for systematic scientific evaluations to inform guidelines. Practical Solutions: Guidelines and mandates should be developed through a systematic research process with stronger research designs and clear research questions. Collaborating with statistical and epidemiological experts is essential. Implementing open science principles and sharing all sports training load data increase transparency and allow for more rapid and valid advancements in knowledge. Practitioners should incorporate multiple data streams and consider individual athlete responses, rather than applying broad guidelines based on average data. Conclusion: Many current training load guidelines and mandates in sports come from good intentions; however, they are arbitrary without sound knowledge of the underlying scientific principles or methods. Common sense guidelines are helpful when there is sparse literature, but they should be careful to avoid arbitrarily choosing findings from weak research. Without precise scientific inquiries, implementing training load interventions or guidelines can have negative implications.
Longitudinal Associations Between Physical Activity and Sleep Duration in Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Bucko Agnes G. , Armstrong Bridget , McIver Kerry L. , McLain Alexander C. , Pate Russell R.
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study examined longitudinal associations between average physical activity (PA) levels in children and their sleep duration, and whether changes in PA levels are associated with their sleep duration. Methods: Data were collected on 108 children at 4 time points: when children were 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of age (44% female, 50% Non-Hispanic White). PA was assessed using accelerometry. Children’s daytime, nighttime, and 24-hour sleep duration were measured with actigraphy. Linear mixed model analyses estimated the associations between average PA levels over time and changes in PA over time, treating each sleep duration variable as an outcome in separate linear mixed model analyses. Results: Children with higher total PA levels slept less during the day compared with children with lower total PA levels over the 2-year period. The strength of the relationship between a child’s PA levels and their 24-hour sleep duration decreased as they approached 24 months of age. Conclusions: The results suggest that while PA may be developmentally beneficial overall, it appears that its relationship with sleep duration is not clinically relevant in very young children.
Defining our worth
Authors: Sharp Susan E.
Published: September 2024

A recent article by Rodino et al. published in the
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
(K. G. Rodino, P. M. Luethy, A. N. Abbott, J. M. Bender, A. R. Eberly, M. Gitman, A. Leber, and J. Dien Bard, J Clin Microbiol 62:e00359-24, 2024,
https://doi.org/10.1128/jcm.00359-24
) hones in on clinical consultation as a way for clinical microbiology laboratory directors (CMLDs) to provide evidence of our worth. They relate that, unlike our physician colleagues, we are unable to generate billing for clinical consultations, relative value units, or other metrics that could assist to describe our import. Their study evaluated consultations performed by CMLDs as a way to underscore our importance as a key member of the healthcare team.
Lipidomic analyses reveal distinctive variations in homeoviscous adaptation among clinical strains of
Acinetobacter baumannii
, providing insights from an environmental adaptation perspective
Authors: Dessenne Clara , Ménart Benoît , Acket Sébastien , Dewulf Gisèle , Guerardel Yann , Vidal Olivier , Rossez Yannick
Published: September 2024

Acinetobacter baumannii
is known for its antibiotic resistance and is increasingly found outside of healthcare settings. To survive colder temperatures, bacteria, including
A. baumannii
, adapt by modifying glycerophospholipids (GPL) to maintain membrane flexibility. This study examines the lipid composition of six clinical
A. baumannii
strains, including the virulent AB5075, at two temperatures. At 18°C, five strains consistently show an increase in palmitoleic acid (C16:1), while ABVal2 uniquely shows an increase in oleic acid (C18:1). LC-HRMS2 analysis identifies shifts in GPL and glycerolipid composition between 18°C and 37°C, highlighting variations in phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylglycerol (PG) lipids. ABVal2 shows increased PE with C18:1 and C16:1 at 18°C, but no change in PG, in contrast to other strains that show increased PE and PG with C16:1. Notably, although
A. baumannii
typically lacks FabA, a key enzyme for unsaturated fatty acid synthesis, this enzyme was found in both ABVal2 and ABVal3. In addition, ABVal2 contains five candidate desaturases that may contribute to its lipid profile. The study also reveals variations in strain motility and biofilm formation over temperature. These findings enhance our understanding
of A. baumann
ii’s physiological adaptations, survival strategies and ecological fitness in different environments.

IMPORTANCE

Acinetobacter baumannii
, a bacterium known for its resistance to antibiotics, is a concern in healthcare settings. This study focused on understanding how this bacterium adapts to different temperatures and how its lipid composition changes. Lipids are the building blocks of cell membranes. By studying these changes, scientists can gain insights into how the bacterium survives and behaves in various environments. This understanding improves our understanding of its global dissemination capabilities. The results of the study contribute to our broader understanding of how
Acinetobacter baumannii
works, which is important for developing strategies to combat its impact on patient health.
Monitoring CO
2
, CO and CH
4
, affected or not by ventilation and anthropogenic activities, in the galleries of the Underground Research Laboratory (URL) of Meuse/Haute-Marne
Authors: Keita S. , Vinsot A. , Berthe G. , Lundy M. , Garcia B.
Published: September 2024

The alternation between periods of ventilation and non-ventilation of the galleries in the Meuse/Haute-Marne Underground Research Laboratory (URL) within the Callovian–Oxfordian argillaceous rock affects the contents of CO
2
, CO and CH
4
in atmospheric air. Monitoring the evolution of the gas composition in the galleries was conducted over a period of about 4 months. Two models of IR laser spectroscope (Picarro) were used, one to measure CO
2
, CO and CH
4
concentrations and the other to measure CH
4
isotopic compositions. The results show a night and day periodicity with the highest concentrations at night-time and the lowest during the daytime in the URL. Long-term monitoring of these gases at the surface shows the same evolution, but with different amplitudes. Moreover, in the URL, a weekday and weekend or holiday periodicity were superimposed. The concentrations of CO
2
in the galleries are influenced by human activities and ventilation. During working days, the galleries are ventilated, and human activities increase the CO
2
concentrations. Conversely, during weekends and holidays, CO
2
concentrations decrease owing to the cessation of ventilation and human activities, and consumption of CO
2
by concrete carbonation. The data analysis confirms a CH
4
source from the rock and reveals compelling evidence of CO sources that probably originate from rock and/or gallery engineered structure materials. Despite the difficulties in quantifying local sources and sinks of these gases, this study demonstrates the feasibility of obtaining valuable insights into their variability. This study provides information on potential sources and sinks of CO
2
, CO and CH
4
in this context.
An Operational Quality Model of Embedded Software Aligned with ISO 25000
Authors: Argotti Yann , Kenfaoui Yasmine , Baron Claude , Abran Alain , Esteban Philippe
Published: September 2024

Embedded systems omnipresent in everyday life and industry are mainly composed of hardware and software that must comply with a number of standards and regulations. However, there is no consensus on the quality characteristics and subcharacteristics of embedded software. This article presents the steps for modeling an operational quality model for embedded software aligned with the ISO 25000 series of quality models for traditional computer systems. From a literature review composed of 40 studies on quality modeling for embedded systems and software, 85 of the most frequent quality characteristics and subcharacteristics were first identified, including a subset of 16 referenced or cited in at least 25% of the literature. Next, the design of a quality model for embedded software aligned with the ISO 25000 series was proposed with 13 characteristics and 27 subcharacteristics. The operational aspect of this quality model for embedded software is addressed next through a set of measures and measurement functions from ISO 25000 to aggregate the results of the quantification of the characteristics and subcharacteristics. A survey involving 25 embedded software specialists is presented next to gauge, using Fleiss's Kappa criteria, their agreement with the proposed quality model. Furthermore, the computed importance weights derived from the survey participants’ individual opinions were compared with those derived from an analysis of 40 embedded software studies, bolstering the credibility of the model. The results of this study suggest that the proposed quality model can serve as a framework for evaluating and understanding the quality characteristics across diverse expertise levels. Furthermore, the convergence between the survey and the literature strengthens the model's credibility by anchoring it in both established literature and practitioners’ agreements.
Exploring the Effects of Self-Overlapping Spaces on Distance Perception and Action Judgments
Authors: Payne Jordan , Robb Andrew
Published: September 2024

Self-overlapping spaces, also known as impossible spaces, are a design mechanic in virtual reality (VR) that allows a user to naturally walk through an environment that is larger than the physical space available to them. Prior work has focused on generating these spaces and evaluating when their self-overlapping nature is detectable. Comparatively, little work has evaluated how the self-overlapping nature of these spaces impacts users’ spatial understanding and whether any misperceptions carry over into altered action judgments. We present a study evaluating how self-overlapping spaces influence action judgments related to relative distances within the virtual environment. Participants were presented with a variety of self-overlapping spaces and, after exploring them, were asked to judge which of the two locations was closer to their current position in the environment. Participants’ were more likely to make correct decisions as the relative difference in distance between the two locations increased; however, this effect was affected by both the amount of overlap present in a particular environment and by the relative position from which they made their decision.
Towards Analysing Cache-Related Preemption Delay in Non-Inclusive Cache Hierarchies
Authors: Fischer Thilo Leon , Falk Heiko
Published: September 2024

The impact of preemptions has to be considered when determining the schedulability of a task set in a preemptively scheduled system. In particular, the contents of caches can be disturbed by a preemption, thus creating context-switching costs. These context-switching costs occur when a preempted task needs to reload data from memory after a preemption. The additional delay created by this effect is termed
cache-related preemption delay
(CRPD). The analysis of CRPD has been extensively studied for single-level caches in the past. However, for two-level caches, the analysis of CRPD is still an emerging area of research. In contrast to a single-level cache, which is only affected by direct preemption effects, the second-level cache in a two-level hierarchy can be subject to
indirect interference
after a preemption. Accesses that could be served from the L1 cache in the absence of preemptions, may be forwarded to the L2 cache, as the relevant data was evicted by a preemption. These accesses create the
indirect interference
in the L2 cache and can cause further evictions. Recently, a CRPD analysis for two-level non-inclusive cache hierarchies was proposed. In this article, we show that this state-of-the-art analysis is unsafe as it potentially underestimates the CRPD. Furthermore, we show that the analysis is pessimistic and can overestimate the indirect preemption effects. To address these issues, we propose a novel analysis approach for the CRPD in a two-level non-inclusive cache hierarchy. We prove the correctness of the presented approach based on the set of feasible program execution traces. We implemented the presented approach in a
worst-case execution time
(WCET) analysis tool and compared the performance to existing analysis methods. Our evaluation shows that the presented analysis increases task set schedulability by up to 14 percentage points compared with the state-of-the-art analysis.
Accuracy of Ultralow-Dose Photon-counting CT in the Detection of Lung Changes after Lung Transplant
Authors: Milos Ruxandra-Iulia , Lechner Lisa , Korajac Aida , Kifjak Daria , Watzenböck Martin Luther , Tamandl Dietmar , Strassl Andreas , Stuempflen Marlene , Beer Lucian , Weber Michael , Jaksch Peter , Muraközy Gabriella , Hielle-Wittmann Elisabeth , Kovacs Zsofia , Hoetzenecker Konrad , Prosch Helmut
Published: September 2024

Ultralow-dose photon-counting CT yielded appropriate image quality to show anatomic structures and detect interstitial lung abnormalities, thus indicating its usefulness as a tool for long-term follow-up after lung transplant.
Review—Nanotechnology-Based Biosensors for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Goswami Akul , Garg Sandini , Bhatt Ekta , Chaudhary Vishal , Dang Shweta
Published: September 2024

Biosensors are inevitable tools for biomedical applications, including disease diagnosis, monitoring, and drug management. Integrated with nanotechnology, these biosensors have improved patient outcomes by providing rapid diagnosis, strategic prognosis, and remote access, decreasing the burden of present-day healthcare facilities. Due to enhanced surface-to-volume ratio and tunable physicochemical properties of nanomaterials, nanotechnology-based biosensors have emerged as transformative tools in the biomedical sector, offering unparalleled sensitivity and specificity for detecting and analyzing biological molecules for targeted disease diagnosis. This review explores the advancements in biosensor technology, emphasizing the integration of various nanomaterials, including metal nanoparticles, carbon nanomaterials, and quantum dots, to enhance device performance in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, and stability. We discuss the operational principles of different biosensor types- such as electrochemical, optical, solid-state, and DNA-based sensors and their applications in healthcare, from early disease detection to personalized treatment management. Moreover, the review delves into the challenges, alternate solutions, and future prospects of biosensor development, highlighting the role of artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and 5 G communication in creating next-generation smart biosensors for healthcare applications.
Harnessing Lignocellulolytic and Electrogenic Potential: Insights from Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 and Cellulomonas Strains on Lignocellulosic Biomass
Authors: Molla Animut Assefa , Mishyn Vladyslav , Bernet Nicolas , Bouchez Théodore , Besaury Ludovic , Abdellaoui Sofiene
Published: September 2024

The biodegradable and renewable nature of lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) has gained significant interest in recent years. This study explores the lignocellulolytic and electrogenic potential of Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, Cellulomonas fimi ATCC 484, and Cellulomonas biazotea NBRC 12680 on LCB. Two strategies were tested: assessing strains LCB degradation ability under non-electrochemical and electrochemical conditions. Strain selection was based on literature, and bioinformatical analyses were conducted to predict CAZymes and carbohydrate degradation pathways. Cellulomonas strains have a potential to degrade LCB due to high CAZyme count and specific metabolic pathways. Strains growth capacity on LCB was evaluated by culturing without electrodes on LCB for 12 days, showing superior growth on wheat bran compared to wheat straw. Enzymatic assays indicate laccase activity in all strains, highest in C. biazotea NBRC 12680 (11.66 IU). The strains ability to form electrogenic biofilms on carbon cloth anodes polarized at +0.2 V (vs Ag/AgCl) was evaluated. The results indicate that bioanodes can function with wheat bran (max current density: 14.92 mA m−2), with voltammograms showing redox activities. Attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy shows lignin and protein degradation in both electrochemical and non-electrochemical experiments. These findings suggest potential use of these strains in electro-microbial systems with LCB.
Chemical Oxidation-Induced Degradation in Gas Diffusion Layers for PEFC: Mechanisms and Performance Implications
Authors: Edjokola J. M. , Heidinger M. , Niroumand A. M. , Hacker V. , Bodner M.
Published: September 2024

Gas Diffusion Layers (GDLs) are integral in polymer electrolyte fuel cells, facilitating gas and water transport while providing structural support. However, their susceptibility to chemical degradation significantly impacts their functionality over extensive periods of time. This study investigates the mechanisms of GDL degradation, focusing on chemical oxidation. Accelerated stress testing, which involves immersing GDL in Fenton’s reagent for 24 h, is used. Ex-situ analysis reveals changes in surface properties, including a 3% reduction in contact angle, from 15% to only 9% remaining fluorine on the surface, and OH group presence in GDLs exposed to Fenton’s reagent. In-situ methods are used to study the impact of GDL degradation on fuel cell performance. Polarization curve reveals a 17% performance enhancement in aged GDLs, with a corresponding 19% decrease in voltage loss due to oxygen transport resistance at a high current observed via transient limiting current analysis. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy reveals a 51% reduction in mass transport resistance, providing insights into structural alterations, such as pore widening and increased hydrophilicity. Despite these improvements, aged GDL demonstrates substantial degradation under high humidity, leading to water management challenges and voltage instability. This is attributed to the loss of fluorine, as indicated by the ex situ analysis.
The pH-sensitive translocation of V-ATPase in the small airway of cystic fibrosis pigs
Authors: Villacreses Raul , Thornell Ian M. , Li Xiaopeng , Mather Steven E. , Urbano Jimena , Stoltz David A. , Zabner Joseph
Published: September 2024

In this study, we describe that vacuolar-type H+ ATPase (V-ATPase) internalizes when the airway surface liquid (ASL) pH in pig small airways is less than 7.10. Furthermore, we found that V-ATPase is not localized to the apical membrane in the small airways of newborn cystic fibrosis pigs.
Descending motor drive does not interact with muscle metaboreflex for ventilation regulation during rhythmic exercise in healthy humans
Authors: Gomes Felipe S. , Lopes Thiago R. , Bruce Richard M. , Silva Bruno M.
Published: September 2024

Voluntary (i.e., with descending motor drive) and involuntary (i.e., no descending motor drive) plantar flexion elicited similar ventilatory responses when postexercise circulatory occlusion was or was not used in an upper limb. These results indicate that the descending motor drive component of the central command and the muscle metaboreflex do not interact to regulate pulmonary ventilation during rhythmic exercise, which suggests that a supposed interaction between central command-muscle metaboreflex is more complex than previously thought.
Clinical Outcomes after Implantation of a Novel Binocular Complementary Extended Depth-of-Focus Intraocular Lens Compared to Bilateral Low Near-Add Multifocal Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Ivellio-Vellin Hannah , Ruiss Manuel , Hienert Julius , Georgiev Stefan , Pilwachs Caroline , Fisus Andreea , Findl Oliver
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Nowadays, patients expect to be less spectacle dependent at all distances after cataract surgery. However, all intraocular lens (IOL) models that currently offer this function can also have negative visual effects. Aim of this study was therefore to compare the visual function performance of a novel and a conventional IOL solution for multifocality. Methods: Patients scheduled for bilateral cataract surgery were randomized to receive one of two different IOL combinations: either a binocular complementary extended depth-of-focus IOL set or a low near-add MIOL. Patients had visual acuity (VA) assessment at distance, intermediate, and near as well as evaluation of contrast sensitivity, halometry, and reading performance. Results: In total, 56 eyes of 28 patients were enrolled. At 6 months, there were no statistically significant differences in binocular VA between the ARTIS SYMBIOSE and the AT LARA. Contrast sensitivity, measured binocularly, at 1.5 cycles per degree under photopic conditions without glare was 1.54 logCS with the ARTIS SYMBIOSE and 1.43 logCS with the AT LARA (p = 0.046), under mesopic conditions with glare at 1.5 and 3 cycles per degree 1.31 logCS and 1.28 logCS with the ARTIS SYMBIOSE, respectively, compared to 0.58 logCS and 0.51 logCS with the AT LARA (p = 0.002; p = 0.006). Binocular halos and reading performance between both groups were similar. Conclusion: There were no significant differences between both groups in VA at different distances, reading ability, or halometry. The contrast sensitivity at low spatial frequencies was better in the ARTIS SYMBIOSE group under photopic conditions without glare as well as mesopic conditions with glare, which could potentially improve quality of vision with these IOLs, especially under mesopic conditions.
Half-Life and Clearance of Cardiac Troponin I and Troponin T in Humans
Authors: Kristensen Jonas Henrik , Hasselbalch Rasmus Bo , Strandkjær Nina , Jørgensen Nicoline , Østergaard Morten , Møller-Sørensen Peter Hasse , Nilsson Jens Christian , Afzal Shoaib , Kamstrup Pia Rørbæk , Dahl Morten , Bor Mustafa Vakur , Frikke-Schmidt Ruth , Jørgensen Niklas Rye , Rode Line , Holmvang Lene , Kjærgaard Jesper , Bang Lia Evi , Forman Julie , Dalhoff Kim , Jaffe Allan S. , Thygesen Kristian , Bundgaard Henning , Iversen Kasper Karmark
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND:

Cardiac troponin (cTn) is key in diagnosing myocardial infarction (MI). After MI, the clinically observed half-life of cTn has been reported to be 7 to 20 hours, but this estimate reflects the combined elimination and simultaneous release of cTn from cardiomyocytes. More precise timing of myocardial injuries necessitates separation of these 2 components. We used a novel method for determination of isolated cTn elimination kinetics in humans.

METHODS:

Patients with MI were included within 24 hours after revascularization and underwent plasmapheresis to obtain plasma with a high cTn concentration. After at least 3 weeks, patients returned for an autologous plasma retransfusion followed by blood sampling for 8 hours. cTn was measured with 5 different high-sensitivity cTn assays.

RESULTS:

Of 25 included patients, 20 participants (mean age, 64.5 years; SD, 8.2 years; 4 women [20%]) received a retransfusion after a median of 5.8 weeks (interquartile range, 5.0–6.9 weeks) after MI. After retransfusion of a median of 620 mL (range, 180–679 mL) autologous plasma, the concentration of cTn in participants’ blood increased 4 to 445 times above the upper reference level of the 5 high-sensitivity cTn assays. The median elimination half-life ranged from 134.1 minutes (95% CI, 117.8–168.0) for the Elecsys high-sensitivity cTnT assay to 239.7 minutes (95% CI, 153.7–295.1) for the Vitros high-sensitivity cTnI assay. The median clearance of cTnI ranged from 40.3 mL/min (95% CI, 32.0–44.9) to 52.7 mL/min (95% CI, 42.2–57.8). The clearance of cTnT was 77.0 mL/min (95% CI, 45.2–95.0).

CONCLUSIONS:

This novel method showed that the elimination half-life of cTnI and cTnT was 5 to 16 hours shorter than previously reported. This indicates a considerably longer duration of cardiomyocyte cTn release after MI than previously thought. Improved knowledge of timing of myocardial injury may call for changes in the management of MI and other disorders with myocardial injury.
Young Marx’s Treatise on Christian Art and the Bonn Notebooks
Authors: Kangal Kaan
Published: September 2024

There are episodes in Marx’s life that go unnoticed or that are considered insignificant in Marxian scholarship. A case in point is that Marx wrote a treatise on Christian art between 1841 and 1842 and a group of excerpts (the Bonn Notebooks) on the history of religious art that resulted from it. The treatise and the accompanying notebooks are either completely absent from Marx biographies and studies on young Marx or they are mentioned only in passing; if the notebooks are considered at all, one portion is usually singled out while the rest is effectively ignored. The present piece traces Marx’s motives for occupying himself with religious art as well as his interests, shifting from Christian, Greek and Egyptian arts to fetishism and idolatry. This study intends to highlight that young Marx was more involved in questions concerning the political culture of aesthetics than we usually think. The Bonn Notebooks provide access to a more vivid image of Marx in this regard than previous scholarship has suggested.
Basil’s Interpretation of Anger in Light of Greco-Roman Philosophy
Authors: Yam Colten Cheuk-Yin
Published: September 2024

Basil’s Homily against Anger is one of a few early Christian writings devoted to the topic of anger. This homily thus offers important insight into how early Christians interpreted and tempered anger, but it has not yet received adequate scholarly attention. The close reading of the homily and comparison of it with various proposals for controlling anger in the Greco-Roman philosophical tradition offered here expand the understanding of early Christian teachings about this powerful emotion. The focus is on the ways in which Basil’s reasoning is consistent with Greco-Roman philosophical attitudes regarding anger as well as the distinctive features of his Christian-oriented proposal for controlling anger.
Building “Something That Lasts”
Authors: Ben David Noa
Published: September 2024

This article analyses Jewish reactions to post-Holocaust hostility and discrimination in Norway, through three case studies: (1) Trials against Nazis and Norwegian collaborators in the National Legal Purge of the immediate postwar years. (2) The 1960 ‘Swastika Epidemic,’ characterized by graffiti on properties and threats against Jewish individuals, which prompted Jewish community efforts to promote an anti-racist bill. (3) The trial against neo-Nazi high school teacher Olav Hoaas in 1976, among the first to be convicted in accordance with the new Article 135a of the law against incitement to racial hatred. Using archival records from the Jewish community and press material, this study explores how the actors defined and developed response strategies against antisemitism. The article explains the integrationist function of combatting antisemitism, as individuals asserted themselves as part of the national community by defending Norway’s democratic values. It highlights collective action and alliances in countering antisemitism, marking Norway as an early example legislating against racism in Europe after 1945.
‘Data as the New Oil’
Authors: Gbeassor Léa Agnès
Published: September 2024

The digital technology sector promotes digitalisation as a greener way to engage in capitalist processes that ensure economic progress. This narrative is misleading as components of the digital sector, such as digital devices, data centres, but also the Internet, are not in fact immaterial but require large amounts of natural resources and often even human labour for their construction and powering. These extractivist practices are based on colonial views and mechanisms, which persist into today. The Afrofuturist movie Neptune Frost (2021) addresses this topic by telling the story of a group of coltan miners in Burundi. Additionally, the movie engages with yet another form of extractivism, namely the exploitation of personal data, which economists also treat as a natural resource. This paper thus examines these various forms of extractivism as they are portrayed in Neptune Frost, including the depicted ways of resisting them.
A new species and new records of the subtribe Lebinthina (Grylloidea, Eneopterinae, Lebinthini) from Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: BAHOY DAPHNE CAYLE M. , SABANG AIRA MAE M. , TAN MING KAI , NUÑEZA OLGA MACAS , ROBILLARD TONY
Published: September 2024

A new species of Falcerminthus is described from Zamboanga del Norte in western Mindanao: Falcerminthus hispidus sp. nov. We also present a new locality record for Falcerminthus parvus (Baroga-Barbecho & Robillard, 2020) in the south of Mindanao, i.e., South Cotabato, Lake Sebu; and Lebinthus luae Robillard & Tan, 2013 in Mindanao.
An Adaptation Effect in Bilingual Adults Who Stutter Suggests Their Motor Learning is Influenced by Language Factors
Authors: Vedanayagam Jasper Priences , Maruthy Santosh
Published: September 2024

Stuttering is progressively reduced when persons who stutter repeatedly read the same text. This reduction has been recently attributed to motor learning with repeated practice of speech-motor sequences. In the present study, we investigated the adaptation effect of 17 bilingual adults who stutter (BAWS). We asked these participants to complete a particular paradigm of reading passages with a 30-minute break between them. Participants were Kannada-English speaking BAWS. We split them into two groups of eight and nine participants, respectively who read in counter-balanced order two passages written in the Kannada and English languages. The averaged data from the two groups resulted in a typical adaptation curve for the five readings when read separately in both languages. When there was a switch from readings in Kannada to readings in English, there was a significant increase in the percentage of syllables stuttered. This increase in dysfluencies reduced the adaptation effect from repeated reading. These findings support the hypothesis that motor learning plays a crucial role in stuttering adaptation when participants read the same passage repeatedly in any language, but the shift in the language read suggests an interference in motor learning. Collectively, our results highlight an interaction effect between motor learning and language proficiency, seen by increased dysfluencies and a reduced adaptation effect in bilingual speakers.
Assessing Evidence-Based Disability Inclusion Policy and Practices to Promote Employment of People With Disabilities in the Workplace: Scale Development and Validation
Authors: Chan Fong , Iwanaga Kanako , Tansey Timothy N. , Ditchman Nicole , Wehman Paul , Wu Jia Rung , Chen Xiangli
Published: September 2024

There is a strong commitment in the United States and the European Union to better support people with disabilities in the competitive labor market, where disability inclusion is widely viewed as a social imperative and underscored in policies, such as the European Union’s Disability Inclusion Policy and Strategy 2020–2030, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act. However, there is a lack of readily available strategies and tools for rehabilitation counselors to collaborate effectively with businesses and organizations in assessing their progress toward these inclusion goals. To address this need, the Disability Inclusion Profiler (DIP23) was developed to assess disability inclusion policies and practices. This study aimed to examine the factor structure, reliability, and validity of the DIP23 in a sample of 466 human resources managers. Exploratory factor analysis indicated a two-factor measurement structure: (1) Executive Level and (2) Middle Management and Staff Level Disability Inclusion Policies. Both factors demonstrated strong internal consistency and correlated with employment rates of people with disabilities. The DIP23 is a psychometrically sound measure for rehabilitation counselors to help organizations assess their disability-inclusive climate and identify areas of strengths and areas needing improvement to increase disability representation in the workplace.
Drivers of return of Sri Lankan migrants in the skill spectrum from the Gulf region
Authors: Ekanayake Anoji
Published: September 2024

For Sri Lankan migrant workers in the Gulf region, returning home is an irrevocable aspect of their migration journeys as Gulf countries do not provide any pathways for permanent settlement. However, the circumstances surrounding their return vary from one migrant worker to another and depend on a range of interconnected and interdependent factors. This paper, based on a survey of 205 returnee migrant workers and in-depth interviews with 21 returnees, assesses these reasons for return.
Improved Binaural Hearing Effects and Sound Source Localization in Listeners with Simulated Unilateral Conductive Hearing Loss: Effect of a Bone Conduction Device
Authors: Yu Chongxian , Wang Wenqian , Jiang Yuan , Zhang Xiaoming , Liu Yanyan , Wang Ping , Ni Xin , Zhong Mei , Liu Yujie , Liu Yehai
Published: September 2024

Objectives: It has been proven that patients with unilateral conductive hearing loss (UCHL) may encounter typical problems associated with asymmetric hearing, especially in challenging listening environments. In this study, we aimed to determine how UCHL affects speech recognition under multisource competing environments and the ability of sound source localization, as well as whether assistance with a bone conduction device (BCD) can confer hearing benefits in such listening tasks. Design: Acquired UCHL was simulated using an earplug combined with an earmuff in 10 listeners (mean age: 29.9 ± 4.77 years) with bilateral normal hearing (NH), and a within-subject repeated-measures design was used to compare hearing results among three listening conditions: NH (both ears open, C1), unilateral plug (UP) (simulated UCHL, C2), and UP + BCD (simulated UCHL aided with a BCD, C3). The speech reception threshold (SRT) of summation, squelch, and head shadow (HS) effects and the mean absolute error of sound source localization were used as markers for binaural hearing abilities. Results: BCD assistance (C3) improved the summation and HS effects in all listeners with simulated UCHL, resulting in a lower (i.e., better) SRT than that observed in C2; however, no significant differences in squelch effects were observed between C2 and C3. Notably, most listeners exhibited more accurate sound source localization in C3 than in C2. Further, BCD assistance mainly improved localization accuracy when the noise stimuli were presented at low intensities and on the hearing-impaired (plugged) side, suggesting that the benefits of BCD for sound localization are not based on the reacquisition of binaural processing. Conclusions: The current results have clinical implications for the promotion of BCDs in patients with UCHL, especially those with acquired UCHL who are unable to undergo surgery.
“Future Uncertain!” — Dispossession by Mining and Young Men - Mining Company Engagements in Eastern India
Authors: Dash Minati
Published: September 2024

A protracted movement emerged in Southern Odisha, eastern India, in 1993 that stalled for over 18 years India’s first private bauxite mining project, Utkal Alumina International Limited, in Kashipur. The movement went through several ups and downs and finally declined in 2010. The project involved the dispossession of 32 villages. The movement’s decline coincided with many young villagers turning to the mining company to obtain low-paying jobs and paltry benefits. Most of the villagers who did this were earlier at the forefront of the movement. This article explores why and how these young, semi-educated, and dispossessed men from Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes responded to this situation. It critically explores their actions and utilizes the sociological concept of responsibilization to understand the actions of these young men facing acute uncertainty about their futures in a context where their existing and familiar economic and social world was rapidly dissolving before their eyes.
Training Needs Analysis for Medical Students in Assessing Cognitive Functioning: An Observational Study
Authors: Bohra Arwa , Jyotsna Mili , Pereddy Sai Dheeraj Gowtham Reddy , Sampath Ananyan , Rozatkar Abhijit R , Coulter Rober WS , Gupta Snehil
Published: September 2024

Backgrounds:

Research shows that medical students’ knowledge and skills concerning the assessment of cognition in various neuropsychiatric conditions (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia) are unsatisfactory. This research aims to conduct a training needs analysis (TNA) for medical students to identify and refer patients with neuropsychiatric conditions.

Methods:

The study comprised two phases. First, developing a TNA toolkit to assess training needs in clinical tasks related to cognitive function assessment (by adopting the Hennessy–Hicks TNA toolkit); and second, through a self-reported survey, their training needs in cognitive function assessment were assessed. Data analysis involved calculating training gaps, importance scores, performance scores, training scores, and organization scores for various clinical tasks-stratified participants’ study year; for training needs and trends, factor analysis and post-hoc analyses were conducted.

Results:

A total of 153 medical students from a tertiary care center participated in the survey. The participants rated their performance lower than the perceived importance of tasks, indicating a need for improvement in all competencies ( P < .01). Pre–final-year students had the highest training needs, particularly in accessing literature, planning, and organizing care for patients with cognitive impairment, performing mental status examination, screening patients for cognitive deficits, and counseling them/caregivers about interventions ( P < .01). Factor analysis identified a single dominant factor, suggesting a correlation among these skills.

Conclusion:

Pre–final-year students require targeted training, whereas students beyond this stage can benefit from special training modules and awareness of available resources for cognitive assessment. The findings also suggest the importance of a hybrid approach involving training and organizational modifications.
Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Psychometric Properties of Hindi Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale in University Nursing Students
Authors: Aachal  , Kumar Rajesh , Bahurupi Yogesh
Published: September 2024

Background:

Rosenberg’s Self-esteem Scale (RSES) has been widely used without proper translation, cultural adaptation, and testing psychometric properties in Indian studies. The study aimed to translate and culturally adapt the 10-item Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale into Hindi and find psychometric properties.

Material and Methods:

We have translated the scale using World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Using a cross-sectional design, the translated scale was administered to 143 undergraduate nursing students randomly selected. Content validity index (CVI) was used to assess content validity. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) with principal axis factoring was used to estimate the construct validity. Cronbach’s alpha (α) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were used to check internal consistency and test re-test reliability.

Results:

The S-CVI for the Hindi RSES was 0.98. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) (=0.79), and Bartlette’s test for sphericity was significant ( χ2= 425.06, df = 45, P < .001). EFA extracted three common factors, explaining 62.62% of the total variance. The factor loading of all items suggests a good representation of their underlying construct; all items >0.47, except item 1 (= –0.373). The test re-test, an ICC was r = 0.76 ( P < .001), and Cronbach’s alpha (α) after deletion of item 1 was 0.81, suggesting excellent reliability.

Conclusion:

The Hindi Rosenberg self-esteem scale is a psychometrically tested scale to assess self-esteem in the Hindi-speaking adult population. These findings provide empirical judgment for using the translated Hindi RSES to measure self-esteem among the adult population. The authors recommend verifying the psychometric properties in a more extensive and varied population.
Dietary protein intake and its association with physical fitness test among older adults with pre-sarcopenia and sarcopenia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Nazri Nurul Syahidah , Mohd Yusoff Nurul Nadhirah , Vanoh Divya
Published: September 2024

Background

Low protein intake and physical inactivity are factors that associated with muscle deterioration and poor physical performance among older adults.

Aim

To assess the association between dietary protein intake and physical fitness tests among older adults with pre-sarcopenia and sarcopenia.

Methods

A total of 110 older adults were recruited through a convenience sampling method. Data including sociodemography, anthropometry, body composition, medical history, and dietary protein intake were obtained through the interview-administered method.

Results

Most of the subjects have low household income (<RM 3030) (90%), Malay ethnicity (66.4%), and are married (64.5%). 74.55% of the subjects were pre-sarcopenic, whereas 25.45% were sarcopenic. Those with sarcopenia were mostly underweight (± 21.78 kg/m2), whereas those with pre-sarcopenia had a slightly higher Body Mass Index (BMI) (± 27.30 kg/m2). Both men and women did not meet the dietary protein requirement (± 43.86 g/ day) based on the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) of 2017. Moreover, both pre-sarcopenic and sarcopenic subjects have reduced functional ability. Although no significant differences were found in the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score, those with sarcopenia had poorer physical performance than those with pre-sarcopenia (82.1% versus 69.5%). Apart from that, there was a significant association between the 2-min step test (2MST) and dietary protein intake among those with pre-sarcopenia ( r-value = 0.252).

Conclusion

In conclusion, lifestyle interventions among older adults are important, including ensuring adequate protein intake and encouraging appropriate physical activity to enhance muscle mass, strength, and performance to improve their daily life efficiency and quality of life.