bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“But we´re talking about Jonas?!” Danish ECEC Between Quality Cultures
Authors: Togsverd Line
Published: July 2023

The aim of the article is to support critical consideration about what quality is and might be in ECEC. It argues that two different quality cultures – understandings of what quality is, how it may be understood and supported – intersect and create tensions in relation to the ECEC area in Denmark. One is analyzed as influenced by a transnational quality discourse, a specific regime of truth regarding quality as a phenomenon “out there” that must be defined and assessed to improve. This technical-instrumental quality culture needs to be balanced by a quality culture founded in pedagogy as a distinct perspective foundational for ECEC. Drawing on a continental tradition of pedagogy as a human science discipline the article offers a language and understanding of pedagogical qualities. Such qualities refer to the attributes of pedagogy and go beyond what is easily disregarded as subjective in the prevailing quality culture. To identify such pedagogic qualities the article revisits empirical data from a narrative research project that explored pedagogic knowledge at play in ECEC professionals’ practice. The article argues that a critical quality culture founded in thoughtful consideration and ethical balancing of pedagogical qualities is crucial for the sake of the children and our democratic society.
Self-organized communities of children
Authors: Bernstorff Benedicte
Published: July 2023

From a child-centered perspective, this article explores the practices of children’s self-organized play-communities in institutional everyday life in Danish early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings, based on a phenomenological non-participant-observational study with a duration of 16 months involving two kindergartens (Bernstorff, 2021). Drawing on Bourdieu’s reflexive sociology and praxeology, children’s self-organized play-communities are analyzed as a social space, being a field for relations, fights, negotiations with specific admission requirements emerging as accepted values shared by the specific field. The analysis demonstrates that self-organized play-communities are a social space with its own practices of being together expressed through the social language in play linked to and guided by an institutional choreography. Besides, the analysis demonstrates three kinds of different communities of children in self-organized play, viz. the categories: Relational play-communities, Community-oriented play-communities, and Conflictual play--communities, which categories may, however, also overlap into blended categories. The article argues that children’s self-organized play-communities risk being under pressure in the institutional choreography, which in turn affects children’s opportunities for having uninterrupted periods of time and space to self-organized play in their institutional everyday life.
Questioning continuity: On children’s transition from day-care to kindergarten class in Denmark
Authors: Odgaard Ane Bjerre
Published: July 2023

Transition to school is recurrently pointed out as key to children’s immediate well-being at school start, as well as to their long-term educational endeavors. Aspirations towards continuity during transition is a common denominator across research, policy, and practice, in Denmark as well as internationally. This theoretical-conceptual paper problematizes continuity as a fluent or empty signifier within the transition field. This implies that, within transition theory and practice, the question of how continuity may be institutionally organized, as well as professionally facilitated, is a complex issue. By highlighting how Danish transition practices instantiate an ambivalence between a Nordic, child-centered kindergarten legacy from Fröbel, and an Angloamerican approach to academic accomplishments, the question of continuity is theoretically problematized. This leads to a socio-culturally informed discussion of change as a constitutive factor in transition, and of continuity as a matter of children’s trajectories of experience, learning, and development across divergent institutional settings. The findings imply a fundamental questioning of ambitions towards smoothing out transitions as a means for ensuring continuity. This has the implication that, within the fundamentally ambivalent Danish early childhood educational landscape, change and transformation may be valorized, rather than merely problematized. In addition, continuity may be approached as a matter of children’s trajectories of sense-making across diverse institutional settings. This reconceptualization may also inspire international transition practices.
Aesthetic encounters and agency in ECEC: Materiality, intra-action, and sensitive entanglements
Authors: Blomgren Henriette
Published: July 2023

The aim of the article is to analyse aesthetic encounters in Danish early childhood and care (ECEC) centres and create knowledge of and a language for aesthetics as sensitive encounters and vibrant matters between humans and the world. The article thus challenges traditional assumptions about and understandings of aesthetics as simply impression, expression, and rather formal hands-on work (also referred to as ‘aesthetic learning processes’). The article links to fieldwork taking place in two Danish ECEC centres – a kindergarten (3–5-year-olds) and an age-integrated centre for kindergarten groups and nursery groups (0–2-year-olds). The fieldwork is framed as focused ethnography, and the methods used are written and visual field notes (video recording, photos) and interviews with artists who visited the ECEC centres and worked with the pedagogues. In the analysis process, the author revisits the empirical data and dwells on micro-moments that, in the article, are sampled into vignettes. With and through theoretical perspectives related to aesthetics as sensitive, vibrant, intra-active, and entangled encounters with materiality, new insights appear and lead to findings that highlight aesthetics as subtle and informal processes engaging materiality as a symmetric co-player alongside the artists and pedagogues and in support of children’s aesthetic agency.
Youth Religiosity: A Bibliometric Coverage and Quantitative Assesemnt of Internal and External Dimensions
Authors: Petcu Monica , Roman Monica
Published: July 2023

Due to its complex character, the evaluation of the way an individual is religious involves multidimensional approaches, which includes both aspects of creeds and effective manifestation. The exhaustive bibliometric analysis reveals eight main research themes of interest, at the interaction of religiosity and youth. In the context of assessing religiosity, the paper further provides an analysis of the religious phenomenon among Romanian adolescents and young adults. It employs an exploratory factor analysis for identifying the specific religiosity dimensions, and principal components analysis for reducing dimensionality and for a more in-depth analysis. Both adolescents and young adults exhibit a relatively strong level of internal religiosity, which pertains to personal beliefs and faith. Additionally, both groups demonstrate a moderate level of external religiosity, which refers to religious practices and behaviours.
Economic Determinants of Birth Rate in Romania. A Spatial Analysis
Authors: Cimpoeru Smaranda , Pisică Andrei
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this article is to determine the factors influencing the birth rate in Romania, by incorporating explicitly the spatial factor in the proposed models. The study is justified by the dramatic fall of the birth rate over the past three decades. With a negative natural population growth and an increasing number of emigrants, the population will become older and there will be a few million less in the next decades. To achieve the objective, various spatial modelling methods were used, such as Spatial AutoRegressive Model (SAR), Spatial Error Model (SEM), Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) and a spatial panel data model. The data granularity is at the county level for the year 2020. Results show that GDP per capita and the amount of financial support received by families for raising a child have a significant effect on the birth rate. Using a spatial approach for modelling the birth rate, we reveal demographic problems that may exist in certain areas and identify the regions that would require a policy to stimulate birth rates.
The Impact of the Standard of Living on Digital Performance in the European Union
Authors: Bănescu Carmen-Elena , Țiţan Emilia
Published: July 2023

The Digital Economy and Society Index can be considered a complex indicator that measures the digital performance of the European Union. This indicator has undergone some methodological changes, precisely to be permanently aligned with the European Union’s development strategies but especially with technological development. The aim of the paper is to highlight the impact of the standard of living and its components on digital performance at the level of the European Union. Moreover, the paper will analyse the current state of digital performance at the level of the European Union. The results can serve as a policymaking tool to facilitate the implementation of the digitalisation project at the European level.

In this article, hierarchical clustering was used to define groups of countries from the perspective of digitalisation. Ward’s algorithm determined four homogeneous clusters that were presented in the analysis. This approach serves as a hypothesis to test the correlation between digital performance and living standards. Thus, with the help of the linear correlation coefficient, a strong positive relationship was identified between the Human Development Index and the Digital Economy and Society Index. Moreover, at the level of the Human Development Index components, it was identified that individual well-being and education correlate linearly with the Digital Economy and Society Index; therefore, the analysis was completed with a multiple regression to verify this dependence. The last part of the case study is represented by the classic linear regression model, which confirms the hypothesis that living standards influence digital performance.
A Review on Fatigue Performance of Concrete Structures Part I: Loading Parameters, Current Prediction Models and Design Approaches
Authors: Afaghi Mohammad , Anja B. E. Klausen , Arve Øverli Jan
Published: July 2023

This review paper highlights the most fundamental state of knowledge regarding the fatigue of concrete that is available through the literature over the last decades and reveals the areas that are needed for further investigation. The loading factors influencing the fatigue performance and the fatigue life estimation of concrete structures are taken into consideration. This review explores the impact of eight loading parameters on the fatigue life of concrete structures, and we aimed to be succinct in our investigation. Besides, we present a review on the deterministic and probabilistic approaches for fatigue life prediction. For example, in more recent studies, the utilization of machine learning techniques has been shown to outperform the traditional methods. The review gives adequate insight into the approach of some of the main current design codes for fatigue life prediction of concrete.
Assessment of Effective and Minimal Slab Widths for Evaluating the Shear Capacity of RC Overhang Slabs
Authors: José Javier Veganzones Muñoz Dr. , Pacoste Costin , Karoumi Raid
Published: July 2023

The effective width is a relevant parameter for the design of bridge overhang slabs under concentrated loads. Experimental tests have been used to assess expressions for its calculation. However, the load capacity increases with the width until a transition area is reached. Test specimens may have lacked enough width to reach full shear capacity, affecting thus the evaluation of the results. On the other hand, within the transition area, a threshold value has been hypothesized to match the effective width. This paper aims to provide recommendations for minimal widths that guarantee the full capacity of overhang slabs and to assess the calculation of the effective width by means of the threshold value and other formulations. The effect of the edge beam is also considered. A campaign of validated non-linear FE-simulations based on experiments on range of width-span ratios was performed. The results suggest using a width-span ratio of at least 4.0 for slabs without an edge beam and 5.3 for slabs with an edge beam for the experimental practice. The efficiency of the formulation for the effective widths is diffuse and the use of threshold value leads to unsafe predictions. Instead, linear-elastic FE-analyses are recommended for the design practice.
Depression in Sjögren’s syndrome mediates the relationship between pain, fatigue, sleepiness, and overall quality of life
Authors: Costa Tiago , Rushton Stephen P , Watson Stuart , Ng Wan-Fai
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) includes many extra-glandular symptoms such as fatigue, pain, sleepiness and depression, which impact on quality of life (QoL). These symptoms also influence each other and could be linked by autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysregulation. Our aim was to model the role of putative predictive variables, including depression in the relationships between ANS function, fatigue, and QoL in SS.

Methods

Cross-sectional analysis of self-reported data from the multicentre UK primary SS registry. The Composite Autonomic Symptom Scale (COMPASS) was used to assess autonomic function, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) to assess anxiety and depression and the EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ-5D) to assess QoL. Validated scales were used for other clinical variables. Using multiple regression analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM), we investigated how the QoL of people with SS is impacted by the direct and indirect effects of fatigue, sleepiness, depression, symptom burden and ANS function, and their interactions.

Results

Data was obtained for 1046 people with SS, 56% COMPASS completers. Symptoms of ANS dysregulation were common. Participants with ANS dysregulation had more severe depression, anxiety, dryness, fatigue, pain, sleepiness and QoL (P < 0.01 for all). Depression, anxiety, dryness, and pain were independent predictors of ANS function in the multiple regression model (P < 0.05 for all). ANS function could not be included in the SEM. The SEM model had good fit to the data (comparative fit index = 0.998) and showed that, in people with SS, depression mediates the effects of pain, fatigue and sleepiness on QoL.

Conclusion

Our results show that diagnosing and treating depression in people with SS could have direct positive impact on QoL, and significantly ameliorate the impact of fatigue and pain.
Mobilitätswende in Deutschland – E-Mobilität als Mittel der Wahl
Authors: Wisbert Helena Sophie
Published: July 2023

In contrast to other sectors, such as air traffic, the transition towards CO2-neutral mobility in the car sector is within reach, but there is still a long way to go. Now the question arises: What role does e-mobility play in Germany today and in the future? The authors analyse the importance of the model policy in the various market segments, the price development, and the framework conditions as levers for the ramp-up of e-mobility. The article further examines why synthetic fuels will not be able to play any significant role in the decarbonisation of the passenger car sector in the near future. Although the electric car has become mainstream, the conditions for a flourishing market must be created.
Langfristige Herausforderungen für die Verkehrsinfrastruktur in Deutschland
Authors: Hirte Georg , Tscharaktschiew Stefan
Published: July 2023

We discuss future challenges to road transport infrastructure. These are related to maintenance, autonomous transport and the financing of infrastructure. We state that maintenance investments are mainly relevant and necessary to avoid a strong reduction in accessibility; autonomous driving will not allow for the reduction in infrastructure investment. A share of revenue from a kilometer tax and city charges will be used to finance road infrastructure and cross-finance other infrastructure.
Eingebaute Solidarität: „Starke Schultern“ finanzieren Entlastungen in Krisenzeiten
Authors: Isaak Niklas , Jessen Robin , Schmidt Christoph M.
Published: July 2023

In times of exceptionally severe crises, it may be necessary for the state, in the spirit of solidarity, to cushion the financial burdens borne by lower-income households. To do so, it might be necessary to use discretionary policies in addition to automatic stabilizers. High inflation caused by the Russian war of aggression on Ukraine is one such crisis. Since the state has no financial resources of its own, it can only do so - apart from stretching the burden over time - through increased redistribution from upper to lower incomes. What are the effects of this additional government redistribution along the income distribution when considering not only the expenditures for the discretionary relief packages, but also the revenues used for this purpose - which can only be quantified via economic modeling?
Technologische Souveränität: Begriff und Voraussetzungen im transatlantischen Kontext
Authors: Dierker Wolfgang
Published: July 2023

In uncertain geopolitical times, demand is high for political concepts to grasp the unfolding change and give direction. To Europeans and Germans, the presidency of Donald Trump, the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine have all demonstrated how dependent they are from other states and regions in the world. This is particularly true for technology in sectors such as health, energy, defense and digital. In order to reduce these dependencies,”technological sovereignty“ has become a key concept - some say a buzz word - in the political debate in Europe. In this article, we analyse prominent views of technological sovereignty particularly in Germany, and suggest a definition and three-pronged analysis framework to understand the key political challenges in implementing the concept. In today‘s highly connected world order, there is no sovereignty without a measure of interdependence. For Germany and Europe, this translates into a “transatlantic sovereignty“ in close alignment with the USA as a principal partner.
Der Wert von Sicherheit und nationaler Verteidigung
Authors: Lohse Tim , Börger Tobias , Meyerhoff Jürgen , Qari Salmai
Published: July 2023

To assess preferences for measures that strengthen security and defense as a public good, discrete choice experiments are a promising approach. For Germany, such a survey-based experiment reveals a strong preference for the installation of a European air defense system, but also for an increase in the troop size of the German military by 25% as well as the creation of a European army. For these changes, there is an aggregate willingness to pay of approximately 11.5 billion euros. Approval and willingness to pay vary by party preference. However, the reintroduction of compulsory military service is overwhelmingly rejected.
Frauenfußball: Stand und Perspektiven eines (lange) vernachlässigten Sports
Authors: Keller Berndt
Published: July 2023

After a quick look at the history, the paper deals with the beginning of (semi-) professionalisation in the 1990s.The first section describes the advancing commercialisation and its far-reaching consequences since the early 2010s. The second section analyses the economic conditions (spectators, budgets, sale of media rights, sponsors). A brief outlook on development prospects concludes the article.
Pengaruh parenting self-efficacy terhadap keterlibatan orang tua siswa berkebutuhan khusus di SMP inklusif
Authors: Chairunnissa Chairunnissa , Pandia Weny Savitry Sembiring
Published: July 2023

Keterlibatan orangtua siswa berkebutuhan khusus (SBK) dalam pendidikan inklusif merupakan hal yang penting. Persepsi orangtua tentang kemampuannya dalam pengasuhan (parenting self-efficacy) akan menentukan keterlibatan mereka dalam proses pembelajaran anak. Karakteristik SBK di masa remaja memberikan tantangan berbeda bagi orangtua yang dapat mempengaruhi parenting self-efficacy dan bentuk keterlibatannya dalam pendidikan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melihat pengaruh parenting self-efficacy terhadap keterlibatan orangtua SBK di SMP inklusif beserta gambaran dari masing-masing variabel. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif yang pengukurannya menggunakan Self Efficacy for Parenting Task Index (SEPTI) dan Family Involvement Questionnare (FIQ). Jumlah partisipan terdiri dari 192 orangtua. Hasil penelitian melalui uji regresi menunjukkan terdapat pengaruh parenting self-efficacy terhadap keterlibatan orangtua sebesar 51.5 %. Selanjutnya, mayoritas partisipan diketahui memiliki tingkat parenting self-efficacy dan keterlibatan orangtua yang tergolong sedang. Hasil tersebut juga menunjukkan masih terdapat kelompok orangtua yang membutuhkan peningkatan parenting self-efficacy dan keterlibatan orangtua menjadi lebih optimal.
Writing a narrative text in Writing for Information and Enjoyment Class utilising Project Based Learning
Authors: Yeni Rahmawati  , Khusnul Khatimah  , Dzul Rachman
Published: July 2023

The objective of this study was to examine the impact of project-based learning (PBL) on enhancing students' proficiency in narrative writing. The study employed a mixed methods approach, specifically utilising a quasi-experimental design and incorporating writing test and interview as a data collection method.The total sampel was 54 students in experiment and control group. The utilisation of Project-based Learning in the composition of narrative texts yielded more favourable outcomes in enhancing students' writing proficiency, as evidenced by the analysis of data. It has been demonstrated that the value of the t-statistic exceeded the critical value. The results indicated that 44% of students demonstrated improvement according to the established criteria following the intervention. Based on the findings from the interview session, it was observed that students who underwent Project-based Learning (PBL) expressed a sense of satisfaction. This can be attributed to the fact that PBL proved to be effective in assisting students in attaining their writing objectives by the conclusion of the academic term.
Total serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) as an effective predictor for identifying allergic asthma in childhood asthma
Authors: Wang Jianwei , Yang Yujuan , Cao Jiayu , Song Xiaoyu , Guo Jing , Yu Pengyi , Liu Zhen , Zhang Wenbin , Liu Xinyue , Zhang Yu , Song Xicheng
Published: July 2023

Background:Allergic asthma accounts for the majority of childhood asthma and is characterized by elevated total serum immunoglobulin E (tIgE). However, whether tIgE can predict allergic asthma in childhood asthma remains unclear.Objective:The purpose of this study was to identify the potential of tIgE for predicting allergic asthma in childhood asthma and provide a reliable reference value.Methods:Clinical characteristics and the level of tIgE from children with asthma in 2008 (n = 280) and 2018 (n = 479) were retrospectively analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to determine the optimal cutoff points and predictive values of tIgE for diagnosing allergic asthma in childhood asthma in 2008 and 2018, and the diagnosis efficiency of tIgE was validated in 491 children with asthma of 2019.Results:The level of tIgE was significantly lower in 2018 than that in 2008. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed cutoff values of tIgE were 142.50 IU/mL (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.864) and 96.25 IU/mL (AUC = 0.835) for diagnosing allergic asthma in 2008 and 2018, respectively. The level of tIgE from children with asthma in 2019 was similar to that in 2018 but was significantly lower than that in 2008. We further used the cutoff value of tIgE = 96.25 IU/mL to validate the diagnosis efficiency in children with asthma of 2019 and found that the diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity of allergic asthma, and the Youden index reached 76.78%, 76.10%, 78.03%, and 0.540, respectively.Conclusion:The tIgE value is an effective predictor for diagnosing allergic asthma in childhood asthma, with tIgE = 96.25 IU/mL being the recommended limit.
Epinephrine autoinjector prescribing following anaphylaxis presentation to the emergency department
Authors: Acquisto Nicole M. , Bodkin Ryan P. , Vabishchevich Yulia , Falkowski Marek W. , Tuttle Steven Christopher , Jones Courtney MC , Weis Emily , Bingemann Theresa A.
Published: July 2023

Background: Guidelines recommend patients with anaphylaxis are prescribed epinephrine autoinjectors (EAI), carry the EAI with them, and are referred to an allergist. There also are barriers to EAI administration, such as acquiring the medication, having it available, recognizing
when to use it, and administering it appropriately. Objective: The objective was to describe how often patients with anaphylaxis discharged from the emergency department (ED) receive an EAI prescription and allergist referral; also, to assess the frequency of EAI pick-up
by the patient from the outpatient pharmacy, out-of-pocket cost, change in EAI device during dispensing, and if patient training on EAI use and allergist follow-up occurred. Patient-specific factors associated with the occurrence of these variables were investigated. Methods:
This was a retrospective, observational study of adult and pediatric ED patients who presented with anaphylaxis between July and December 2020. Data were collected from medical records and telephone calls to outpatient pharmacies and included patient demographics; ED treatment; EAI prescribing,
EAI pick-up from the outpatient pharmacy, and cost; device changes; EAI training; and allergist referral and follow-up. Data are presented descriptively, and bivariate analyses were used for comparisons between patient-specific factors and incidence of EAI prescribing, patient pick-up, and
allergist referral. Results: A total of 102 patients were included; mean age ± standard deviation 34 ± 7 years, 52% were < 18 years of age; and 54% had a history of allergy and/or anaphylaxis. EAI prescribing occurred in 79% of the patients. Of these, 71%
picked up the EAI from the outpatient pharmacy, the median cost to the patient was $5 (range, $0‐$379), 18% had an EAI device change at dispensing, and 23% received EAI training. Allergist referral occurred in 22%, and 28% followed up with an allergist within 60
days. Presenting symptoms of mucosal edema and respiratory stridor were associated with the occurrence of EAI prescribing. Presenting symptoms of respiratory wheezing, hoarseness, throat itching, skin flushing and allergist referral from the ED were associated with the occurrence of EAI pick-up
from the outpatient pharmacy. Conclusion: Overall, 79% of ED patients with anaphylaxis had an EAI prescribed and 22% had an allergist referral; 71% picked up the EAI from the outpatient pharmacy, EAI dispensing changes occurred, and training was infrequent. Collaboration
between emergency medicine clinicians, allergists, and pharmacists is needed to streamline treatment and follow-up.
Clinical value of serum soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products in evaluating the condition of patients with bronchial asthma
Authors: Hu Huijia , Hu Xiaoyan , Wang Zhuoping , Gao Liping , Jin Jun , Xia Junbo , Huang Linfeng , Li Senhua
Published: July 2023

Objective: This study focused on the clinical value of serum soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) levels in evaluating the severity of bronchial asthma (BA). Methods: Serum sRAGE expression was measured by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assay, eosinophils (EOS) count was measured by using an automatic blood cell counter, and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) was measured by pulmonary function analyzer in 120 patients with BA, 40 patients with non-BA pulmonary disease, and 40 healthy controls. Receiver
operating characteristic curves were used to analyze the clinical value of sRAGE expression levels, EOS counts, and FEV1 level to assess the severity of illness in the patients with BA. Results: Compared with the healthy controls and the patients without BA,
the patients with BA had the lowest serum sRAGE expression level (47.36 ± 6.3 ng/L versus 75.3 ± 6.3 ng/L versus 67.5 ± 5.06 ng/L; p < 0.05), the highest EOS count (231.2 ± 18.3 106/L versus 175.9 ± 15.6 106/L versus 197.8 ±
19.6 106/L; p < 0.05), and the lowest FEV1 level (1.19 ± 0.15 L versus 1.57 ± 0.2 L versus 1.3 ± 0.17 L; p < 0.05). Correlation analysis revealed that the serum sRAGE expression levels were notably negatively correlated with the EOS counts (r
value of ‐0.471, p < 0.05) but significantly positively linked to FEV1 levels (r value of 0.362, p < 0.05). Serum sRAGE expression levels could help in accurately diagnosing patients with severe BA (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) = 0.904),
whereas prediction in the patients with mild BA was achieved by EOS counts (AUC = 0.857). Conclusion: The serum sRAGE level has potential value in diagnosing the severity of BA, which is conducive to identifying patients with severe BA and guiding in development of new
therapeutic strategies.
Peptide immunotherapy for aeroallergens
Authors: Midoro-Horiuti Terumi , Schein Catherine H.
Published: July 2023

Background: Allergen specific immunotherapy (SIT) has been used for more than a century. Researchers have been working to improve efficacy and reduce the side effects. Objective: We have reviewed the literature about peptides immunotherapy for inhaled
allergens. The mechanism of SIT is to induce regulatory T (Treg) cells and to reduce T helper (Th)2 cells to induce class switching from IgE to IgG and induce blocking antibodies to inhibit allergen binding of IgE. Methods: The relevant published literatures on the peptide
SIT for aeroallergens have been searched on the medline. Results: Modification of allergens and routes of treatment has been performed. Among them, many researchers were interested in peptide immunotherapy. T-cell epitope peptide has no IgE epitope, that is able to bind
IgE, but rather induces Treg and reduces Th2 cells, which was considered an ideal therapy. Results from cellular and animal model studies have been successful. However, in clinical studies, T-cell peptide immunotherapy has failed to show efficacy and caused side effects, because of the high
effective rate of placebo and the development of IgE against T-cell epitope peptides. Currently, the modifications of IgE-allergen binding by blocking antibodies are considered for successful allergen immunotherapy. Conclusion: Newly developed hypoallergenic B cell epitope
peptides and computational identification methods hold great potential to develop new peptide immunotherapies.
Shared decision-making, communicating risk, and food allergy in 2023
Authors: Shaker Marcus
Published: July 2023

Background: Across the practice of allergy and clinical immunology, disruptive innovations have accelerated the adoption of shared decision-making (SDM) to improve the health of patients and populations, particularly with regard to food allergy prevention and management of
food allergy and anaphylaxis. Methods: A narrative review was performed to describe recent innovations in shared decision-making, risk communication, and food allergy. Results: Several challenges, primarily related to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
pandemic and misinformation campaigns, have catalyzed adaptations to evolve clinical care. Recent pressures have facilitated the rapid adoption of telemedicine. In 2023, many allergist/immunologists routinely incorporate both in-person and virtual visits to contextually deliver value-based
care to each patient. SDM may occur in a hybrid model that incorporates both in-person and virtual encounters, with many patients experiencing benefit from a combination approach. This may be facilitated by leveraging previsit web-based SDM tools. Whether in person or by telemedicine, effective
risk communication to avoid cognitive overload while appreciating population variation in numeracy is key to competent implementation of SDM. Misinformation continues to disproportionately harm patients who belong to groups that encourage denial of evidence-based medical recommendations and
COVID-19 vaccination intent correlating with sociopolitical factors. Still, strategies to address misinformation that leverage empathy, respect, and expertise can help to mitigate these effects. Physician wellness is a key component to realization of the Quadruple Aim of health care, and the
use of positive framing and appreciative inquiry can help to optimize outcomes and improve value in health care. Conclusion: SDM is an important component to consider when incorporating recent innovations in allergy and clinical immunology care, particularly in the setting
of contextual and conditional medical recommendations. Effective risk communication is critical to SDM that is truly reflective of patient goals and preferences, and can be facilitated through in-person encounters, telemedicine, and hybrid models. It is important to foster physician wellness
as a component of the Quadruple Aim, particularly in the recent pandemic climate of misinformation and denial of evidence-based medicine within large groups of society.
Development of a computer aided decision support system for the design of drip irrigation laterals
Authors: Karatt K. K. Shaheemath , Veerabadran Ravikumar , Kannan Balaji , Duraisamy M. R. , Ganapati Patil Santosh
Published: July 2023

Drip Design Check (DDC) is a powerful software solution designed to assist irrigation system designers in evaluating the effectiveness of their drip irrigation designs for non-uniform slope conditions. The software makes use of recent developments in drip design methods as well as the advancements in software development methodologies for simulating and optimizing the design of laterals. The software features an easy-to-use interface that allows users to input key design parameters, including slope details, discharge rate of drippers, length of lateral, spacing between drippers and pressure head at the inlet of lateral. The software calculates relative pressure head variation (vh) and pressure head values at each outlet. The software evaluates the goodness of the design based on the allowable relative pressure head variation. Simulation of lateral also considers dripper connection losses. Variations in lateral and dripper configurations are handled by the software in line with the intuition of the user’s perceptions. Hence, data input is simple and easy. The software can be used to analyse numerous design alternatives and to identify the most appropriate design. DDC has undergone several tests using different typical sample data and hence its accuracy and reliability are more. Demonstrations were conducted for designers to assess the user friendliness of the drip simulation software, and we received favourable feedback from them. In summary, Drip Design Check is a useful and reliable tool for the irrigation industry to check the goodness of lateral design.
Direct–Indirect Hybrid Strategy for Optimal Powered Descent and Landing
Authors: Spada Fabio , Sagliano Marco , Topputo Francesco
Published: July 2023

A hybrid algorithm to solve optimal control problems is discussed in the present paper and applied to the powered descent guidance (PDG) problem. A reference solution is first obtained via a convex direct solver and is then used as guess for the primal–dual boundary-value problem associated with the initial problem. In this context, a covector mapping theorem is used to map the multipliers of the direct solution to the corresponding discrete costates of the indirect method. Collocation based on hp pseudospectral scheme is employed for the convex direct step, while single shooting is used for the indirect step. A switching-detection technique further equips the shooting. As opposed to the hybrid convex-indirect algorithm, a state-of-the-art purely indirect algorithm is outlined; such approach merges the same single shooting approach with a homotopic continuation. The proposed methods are applied to the pinpoint landing formulation of the PDG, framed in a three-dimensional environment. The results are finally outlined, comparing the proposed hybrid strategy to the purely indirect approach. The outcome highlights the gain in computational times for the hybrid optimization technique over the fully homotopic scheme, demonstrating the validity of the former for landing trajectory optimization purposes.
Existence of Infinitely Many Optimal Iso-Impulse Trajectories in Two-Body Dynamics
Authors: Saloglu Keziban , Taheri Ehsan , Landau Damon
Published: July 2023

The question of how many impulses are necessary to optimize a transfer-type maneuver has remained open for decades. Recently, the introduction of optimal switching surfaces revealed the existence of iso-impulse trajectories with differing numbers of impulses for fixed-time rendezvous maneuvers. In this paper, the multiplicity of minimum-[Formula: see text] impulsive trajectories is studied for long-time-horizon maneuvers. One feature of these trajectories is that many of the impulses are applied at specific positions, which we coin as impulse anchor positions. Leveraging a novel analytic method, it is demonstrated that, under the inverse-square gravity model, multiple-impulse minimum-[Formula: see text] solutions can be generated from a two-impulse solution. In addition to recovering all impulsive solutions of a multirevolution benchmark problem, all solutions are classified, and it is shown that there are infinitely many optimal iso-impulse solutions. Two planet-centric problems are also solved to demonstrate that the proposed method is applicable to different transfer problems in addition to the benchmark problem. The proposed method provides analytic bounds on the lower (required) and upper (allowable) number of impulses for three classes of maneuvers: fixed-terminal-time rendezvous, free-terminal-time rendezvous, and phase-free transfer. A new interpretation of the primer vector for impulsive extremals with phasing orbits is proposed.
Damage Prediction of Buckled Composite Single Stiffened Panel Subject to Static Compression
Authors: Goyal Vijay K. , Pennington Austin , Gagliano Jacob , Lin Shiyao , Waas Anthony
Published: July 2023

The initial flaws in laminated composite structures are susceptible to inter-/intraply damage. Progressive damage analysis tools help the understanding of the mechanisms for damage initiation and growth while assisting in the design, analysis, and sustainment methods. The global–local modeling approach for the single-stringer postbuckled panel evaluated in this effort used Teflon inserts to provide initial “cracks” for model validation. The effort aimed to develop, evaluate, and enhance methods to predict damage initiation, progression, and failure of postbuckled composite hat-stiffened panels using the commercially available software Abaqus. Three methods were considered: the virtual crack closure technique (VCCT), the cohesive zone model (CZM), and enhanced Schapery theory (EST). The VCCT and CZM successfully predicted multiple delaminations. EST works with the CZM to capture delamination and facilitate interactions between interlaminar and intralaminar failures. When comparing the damage morphology against the experimental data produced through the NASA Advanced Composites Project, the present models captured the delamination, matrix, and fiber damage patterns. The VCCT and EST predictions were within 2% of the experimental peak load.
Combustion Intensification Mechanism in a Vortex-Tube Reactive Flow
Authors: Ren Shoujun , Jones William P. , Wang Xiaohan , Tian Bo
Published: July 2023

The combustion intensification mechanism was revealed in a stratified vortex-tube combustor. The results show that a triple-flame structure is formed in this combustor and the peak heat release is located exactly at the triple-point position. The peak heat release rates in the five selected representative cases studied in this paper are all over [Formula: see text]. The stability limit is wide, and the lean stability limit is always lower than 0.2. The decreased mixing length and decreased velocity difference between the fuel and oxidant streams delay the mixing process and then bring about a stratified distribution of species. This is crucial for the generation of a triple-flame structure and the corresponding high species concentration in the vicinity of the reaction zone under lean conditions. The Damköhler numbers on the lines across the triple points were calculated with values above 1.0 in each of the cases, indicating that the species’ transport time is longer than the chemical reaction time. Therefore, the transport flux of species determines the final combustion strength. The synergistic coupling of the flowfield and species field gives rise to a large transport flux of the key species in the vicinity of the reaction zone. The results show that the corresponding fuel transport flux is large, with values all over [Formula: see text]. This is the principal reason for the high combustion intensity in this combustor. The different transport fluxes of the critical species are responsible for the different chemical reaction strengths on the triple point in each of the different cases.
Numerical Investigation of a Pulsed Jet Actuator Having Non-Negligible Switching Time
Authors: Yalçın Özgür , Saliba Georges , Gloerfelt Xavier , Batikh Ahmad , Baldas Lucien
Published: July 2023

An internal unsteady compressible flowfield of a pulsed jet actuator (PJA) is simulated by unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) and large-eddy simulation (LES) frameworks. The PJA’s feedback loops are short enough to have non-negligible jet switching time compared to the oscillation period. The results show that within a range of inlet pressure (which is the only control parameter) where the jet goes from subsonic to supersonic regime, the oscillation frequencies and the exit velocity waveform predicted by LES are in better agreement with the measured data than those predicted by URANS. Although URANS is able to capture the flowfield inside the feedback loops, it fails to predict the exit jet dynamics, unlike LES. This indicates the importance of a proper resolution of turbulence in the interaction region where jet switching occurs. Using LES data, it is found that the total jet switching time remains constant as the inlet pressure changes. It is also found that only the part of the jet switching period that ends at the first moment when the jet attaches to the opposite wall is involved in the oscillation period. Therefore, a new lumped model is proposed to estimate the oscillation frequency, which also explains the trend observed for the low inlet pressure values.
Icarus: An Android-Based Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Search and Rescue Eye in the Sky
Authors:   Asian Institute of Computer Studies, Philippines, Delos Santos Manuel Luis , Dasalla Jerum ,   Philippine State College of Aeronautics, Feliciano Jomar ,   Asian Institute of Computer Studies, Philippines, Cabatay Dustin Red ,   Asian Institute of Computer Studies, Philippines
Published: July 2023

Purpose–The purpose of this paper is to develop an unmanned aerialvehicle (UAV) using a quadcopter with the capability of videosurveillance,mapcoordinates,a deployableparachute with a medicinekit or a food pack as a payload, a collision warning system, remotely controlled, integrated with an android application to assist in search andrescue operations. 2273Method–Applied research for the development of the functional prototype, quantitative and descriptive statistics to summarize data by describing the relationship between variables in a sample or population (Kaur et al., 2018). The quadcopter underwent anevaluation using a survey instrument to test its acceptability using predefined variables to selectrespondents within Caloocan City and Quezon City, Philippines. Results–Demographic profiles and known issues and concerns were answered by 30 respondents. The results were summarized and distributed in Tables 1 and 2.Discussion-In terms of demographic profiles, the number of SAR operators within the specified areas is distributed equally, most are male, single, and within the age bracket of 31 andabove. In issues and concerns, the most common type of search and rescue was groundsearch and rescue. Human error isthe primary cause of most injuries inoperating units. The prototype was useful and everyone agreed, in terms of acceptability, drone technology will improve search and rescue operations. Conclusion–Theinnovative way of utilizing Android anddronetechnologyisanewsteptowardstheimprovementofSARoperations in the Philippines.Recommendations–The LiPo battery must be replaced with a higher capacityand the drone operator should undergo a training course and secure a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).Social Implication -Some people are scared of dronesdue to privacy issuesand fears that theycould be used to spy againstthem.
Nasal encephalocele presenting with snoring in a child – A case report
Authors: Balakrishnan Padmapriya , Babu Thirunavukkarasu Arun
Published: July 2023

Snoring is noisy breathing during sleep and is a symptom of sleep disordered breathing. Persistent snoring is an alarming symptom requiring extensive examination of the oral and respiratory tract. There are various causes of nasal obstruction in children. External nasal examination with nasal speculum and nasal endoscopy helps to identify the origin and nature of nasal mass. We report a case of nasal encephalocele in a 5-year-old male child who presented with snoring.
A Case of Informal Deal: Merger of Turkish Sugar Companies in 1935
Authors: ÇETİNER Özgür
Published: July 2023

Sugar, which causes political tensions, has been the subject of many studies in the history of Turkey. Especially, the first half of the 1930s was a period when this tension was felt the most and the problem was brought to the newspapers and the parliament. The year 1935, when the sugar companies were merged, was a turning point in terms of the debates. The new company established as a result of the merger and the price reduction created a strong legitimization ground for the government. Nowadays, the issue of merger is frequently analyzed in studies on sugar companies. Even today, it is possible to see the affirmative power of the legitimacy ground created in these studies dominated by a developmentalist language. However, the 'merger text' that is the source of the studies in the literature does not have a legal record. Moreover, Law No. 2785, the only legal regulation associated with price cuts and mergers, is neither related to prices nor to mergers. This study argues that the merger of sugar companies was a de facto capitalization transaction, a bargain-based financial operation carried out in the informal field. The illusion created by the aforementioned unrelated law provided a perception of legitimacy to the extent that it rendered invisible the informal bargain with the shareholders of the companies, while on the one hand, it ensured a price decrease accompanied by strict measures. This informal bargaining process, in which the value increases achieved through capitalization were redistributed among shareholders, was formalized through the establishment of Türkiye Şeker Fabrikaları A.Ş.