bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presenting and Translating Michael Hartnett/MicheálÓ hAirtnéide (1941-1999)
Authors: Godoy Heleno
Published: May 2024

"The death of any poet of stature is always to be lamented," wrote Joe Humphries in The Irish Times the day after Michael Hartnett's death, on early Wednesday, October 13, 1999, in St. Vincent's Hospital, Dublin. The poet was only 58 years old.A native of Newcastle West, Co. Limerick, son of a house painter and a housewife, Michael Hartnett was locally educated before spending one year, from 1962 to 1963, at University College Dublin, where he studied philosophy and logic. He lived in London and Madrid, Spain, and again in Dublin, during the 1960s, settling down later in Co. Limerick, between 1974 and 1984; in 1985 he moved to Dublin where he spent almost of the rest of his life. He worked for many years in the Department of Posts and Telegraphs and later as a lecturer in creative writing at Thomond College, Limerick. He co-edited the magazine Arena with James Liddy and Liam O'Connor (1963-1965) and worked on a version of the Tao Te Chin while a curator of Joyce's tower at Sandycove. He also co-edited another magazine Choice with Desmond Egan, having also worked as a poetry editor of The Irish Times for a period.
Living Memory
Authors: Clarke Patrick Joseph
Published: May 2024

Creative piece by Patrick Joseph Clarke.
The Language and Literature of the Irish in Argentina
Authors: Delaney Juan José
Published: May 2024

This is a brief account of what happened to the language of the Irish migrants who left their territory and established themselves in Argentina, the curious way they protected their identity by preserving the English language which was not their own, and how fluctuations of the Irish Language reflect the ups and downs of their slow integration into Argentine society. The second part refers to Literature. First in Irish-English and gradually in Spanish, the Irish and their descendants - William Bulfin, Kathleen Nevin, Benito Lynch and Rodolfo Walsh, among others - created a corpus of what can be called "Trish-Argentine Literature." An expanded Spanish version in book-format will be published in Buenos Aires next year.
Rural Change in Ireland
Authors: Mendes Leonardo
Published: May 2024

Davis, John (ed.). Rural Change in Ireland. Belfast: The Institute of Irish Studies, 1999. 228p.
Irish Writers and Reputation - Response to Nicholas Grene
Authors: Mahony Christina Hunt
Published: May 2024

The international reputations of Irish writers are often not a reflection of their reputations at home. Readers outside Ireland have differing conceptions of Ireland which attract and sustain them. Despite its range of innovative approaches and the present-day concerns today's Irish writing addresses, it is perhaps the traditional and celebratory nature of Irish literature that readers abroad look to Irish writing to provide.
Newman by Himself; New Man, by O’Faolain
Authors: Mutran Munira H.
Published: May 2024

John Henry Newman's Apologia Pro Vita Sua (1865) shows the divided self and the search for a spiritual identity. Sean O'Faolain's biography Newman's Way (1952) presents a new man in a larger social context. Self portrait and portrait prove quite different and the examination of the two texts tells much about the frontiers between autobiography and biography.
Research & Teaching; Lasting Union or House Divided?
Authors: Levine Emily J.
Published: May 2024

As a design innovation, the modern university is an institution that unites the advancement of knowledge through research with its dissemination through teaching. Its inception in Germany in the first decade of the nineteenth century inspired an American adaptation that merged the German version with the English undergraduate college to produce a new bundle that would be emulated the world over. The historical view reveals cycles of sustaining innovation in which academic entrepreneurs supplemented the research-teaching synthesis with institutions devoted to one task or the other. Despite these disruptive efforts and continuing evidence of inefficiency, however, the original institutional hybrid remains the dominant model. This essay argues that the university's persistence is best understood as fulfilling a deeper need in American political culture.
The Rise & Restructuring of Yale-NUS College: An International Liberal Arts Partnership in Singapore
Authors: Lewis Pericles
Published: May 2024

Yale University and the National University of Singapore (NUS) agreed in 2011 to open Yale-NUS College, an autonomous liberal arts college within NUS. As the College's first president, I recount in this essay some of the successes and challenges of creating the College, which opened in 2013, and the decision of NUS in 2021 to end the partnership as of 2025. I analyze the College's educational offerings, the political controversies surrounding its establishment and eventual closure, the finances of a small-scale, elite college within a large public university, and the broad social changes that contributed to the College's fate.
A Long & Wrong Road to Globalization: Why Have Japanese Universities Failed in “Catching Up” in the Twenty-First Century?
Authors: Kariya Takehiko
Published: May 2024

This essay examines how universities in non-Western, non-English-speaking countries respond to global competition in higher education, where English has become dominant due to “linguistic imperialism.” I pose critical questions about how these institutions can not only endure but thrive amid global competition, and whether intensified global competition has improved the quality of education. Focusing on Japan, I explore both successful and challenging aspects of globalization in its institutions of higher education. While Japan achieved success in adapting during the late nineteenth century, the emphasis on learning foreign languages, including English, diminished after World War II. The Japanese case illustrates the complex trade-offs between ensuring educational equity and global competitiveness, and highlights the evolving dynamics and challenges faced by universities as well as policymakers in non-English-speaking countries in the global higher-education landscape.
The Socialist Model of Higher Education: The Dream Faces Reality
Authors: Frumin Isak , Platonova Daria
Published: May 2024

This essay explores the socialist model of higher education that originates from early socialist and Marxist thinkers. We contrast this model with Western and Chinese models by focusing on the socialist model's ideals of education as a public good, as free and equal access to instruction, and as a class-based approach to education. Our study of this model employs historical reconstruction and path-dependence analysis to understand the implementation and transformation of these ideals. We discuss early Soviet experiments, the global influence of the model, and its evolution following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. The model's emphasis on state control, specialized training, and production of a skilled workforce is also highlighted. The essay concludes by acknowledging the model's flaws, reflecting on the implications for contemporary higher education, and recognizing its contributions to ideas of social mobility, fair access, and the role of universities in societal development.
The Geopolitics of Academic Freedom: Universities, Democracy & the Authoritarian Challenge
Authors: Ignatieff Michael
Published: May 2024

This essay examines why academic freedom has become a defining issue in the geostrategic competition between liberal democracies and their authoritarian challengers. The growing strategic rivalry between the United States and China is threatening to disrupt, even destroy, academic interchange between liberal and authoritarian societies. At the same time, populist right-wing leaders in Western democracies are attacking university autonomy, as part of a strategy of authoritarian consolidation. Hungary's prime minister Viktor Orbán has pursued an authoritarian takeover of his country's higher-education system while seeking new partnerships with Chinese institutions. Through this essay, I seek to explain why academic freedom faces unprecedented challenges, both within liberal democracies and from authoritarian competitors.
The International University in an Age of Deglobalization
Authors: Westermann Mariët
Published: May 2024

Over the past four decades, American universities and colleges have internationalized so significantly that many are now global knowledge institutions. After a brief survey and categorization of different approaches to internationalization (from enhanced study abroad partnerships to full degree-granting campuses of U.S.-based institutions abroad), the essay presents a case study of NYU Abu Dhabi, which the author helped create as its first provost and later led as its vice chancellor. The analysis focuses on the rationale, challenges, and rewards for U.S. universities to engage seriously abroad, and argues that in the face of deglobalizing headwinds, universities need to strengthen, not attenuate, their efforts to promote research across borders and offer vigorous intercultural education.
Book review: Suvobrata Sarkar, ed., History of Science, Technology, Environment, and Medicine in India
Authors: Roy Tirthankar
Published: May 2024

Suvobrata Sarkar, ed., History of Science, Technology, Environment, and Medicine in India. Routledge, 2023, 350 pp.
Unintended Consequences of Special Education and Consideration of Change
Authors: Taylor Juli L. , Proffitt William A. , Cornett Jake , Sailor Wayne
Published: May 2024

This scholarly review presents a case for transforming special education rather than reauthorizing special education law in its present form and, in doing so, reconceptualizing the inclusion movement to recognize marginalizing influences. A comprehensive review of research, policy reviews, and observations of praxis is undertaken to examine current U.S. special education law. Three unintended consequences are identified: (a) the least restrictive environment provision; (b) incremental successes of the inclusion movement’s emphasis on placement; and (c) the effort to promote racial integration in current special education policy. While unintended consequences cannot be foreseen, the structure of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) has changed little since the 1970s despite evolving praxis and understandings of social justice. This article is intended to facilitate a conversation about a path forward for special education, including whether IDEIA should be reauthorized in its present form, or what form might be taken under alternative policy.
Contributions of the Community-Based Organization Program Funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to Linkage to HIV Medical Care
Authors: Marano-Lee Mariette , Williams Weston , Xu Songli , Andia Jonny , Shapatava Ekaterine
Published: May 2024

Objective:

Linkage to HIV medical care is important in the continuum of HIV care and health outcomes for people with HIV. The objective of this analysis was to identify how the community-based organization (CBO) program contributes to linkage to HIV medical care among people with newly diagnosed HIV in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) HIV testing program.

Methods:

We analyzed HIV linkage-to-care data submitted to CDC from 2019 through 2021. Linkage was defined as confirmation that an individual attended their first HIV medical care appointment within 30 days of their HIV test date. We included in the analysis data submitted from the health department (HD) program that included 61 state and local HDs in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands and the CBO program that included 150 CBOs.

Results:

The CBO program linked a higher proportion of people to HIV medical care within 30 days of diagnosis (86.7%) than the HD program (73.7%). By population group, the proportion linked in the CBO program was higher than the proportion linked in the HD program among men who have sex with men (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.13; P < .001), men who have sex with men/people who inject drugs (PR = 1.29; P < .001), transgender people (PR = 1.28; P < .001), and those reporting no sexual contact or injection drug use (PR = 1.34; P < .001). In the Cox proportional hazards model, time to linkage in the CBO program was significantly shorter than in the HD program (hazard ratio = 0.63; P < .001).

Conclusion:

This analysis shows that the CBO program fills a vital need in linking newly diagnosed HIV-positive people to HIV medical care, which is important in the HIV care continuum and for viral suppression.
Hydrological response to land use land cover and climate variability, and simulation of sediment export and water yield in the catchment Kotri Sindh Pakistan using Soil and Water Assessment tool model
Authors: Chhachhar Rabia , Abbasi Habibullah
Published: May 2024

The water availability concerns have been increasing due to significant impacts of land use land cover change, and climate variability. In terms of developing countries, it is one of the biggest challenges to overcome and manage sustainability in the present and future. This study aims to evaluate the change in hydrological components and simulation of sediment yield and water yield on the large-scale basin of Kotri barrage with a change in runoff due to a change in land use land cover. This study has been done on the watershed as well as the sub-watershed level to have an accurate estimation and simulation by finding the response of hydrological components toward its natural and human-induced factors using the Soil and Water Assessment tool with high-resolution geospatial-temporal inputs over the Kotri catchment. The sediment and water yield were quantified using 42 years of simulation (1981–2022) on the sub-basin level, projected to land use land cover 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2022. The increase in deforestation, agriculture, and settlement areas resulted increase in sediment load in the catchment. The sub-basins 14, 11, 12, and 13, with a high elevation and slope and with less vegetation showed higher sediment load and water yield than the sub-basins with gentle slope and with high natural vegetation cover. The sub-basins 10, 4, and 1 showed high water yield availability compared to basins 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. This may be the result of vegetation differences. However, contained less sediment load than basins 14, 11, 12, and 13. The main objective was to quantify the significant changes affecting catchment and sub-catchment areas, to have a better understanding of the management plan regarding land use land cover. The simulated data was further projected to prediction using machine algorithms (autoregressive integrated moving average) model for precipitation prediction, and (seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average with exogenous factors) model to predict the sediment yield and water yield in the catchment to 2060.
The Current Status and Trends of Research Related to Vestibular Disorders, Vertigo, and Cognitive Impairment in the Elderly Population: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Pan Sijia , Hu Yuanjia , Zhang Huiying , He Yunfan , Tian Chenghua , Lei Jianbo
Published: May 2024

Background: The vestibular system not only supports reflex function at the brainstem level, but is also associated with higher levels of cognitive function. Vertigo due to vestibular disorders may lead to or be associated with cognitive dysfunction. Patients with deficits of both vestibular as well as cognitive function may be at particularly high risk for events like falls or certain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s. Objective: To analyze the current state of research and trends in the global research literature regarding the correlation between vestibular disorders, vertigo, and cognitive impairment. Methods: We utilized Bibliometrix package to search databases including PubMed, Web of Science, etc for search terms. Results: Databases were searched up to December 15, 2022, and a total of 2222 publications were retrieved. Ultimately, 53 studies were included. A total of 261 authors published in 38 journals and conferences with an overall increasing annual growth rate of 6.94%. The most-published journal was Frontiers in Neurology. The most-published country was the United States, followed by Italy and Brazil. The most-published institution was Johns Hopkins University with a total of 13 articles. On performing trend analysis, we found that the most frequent focus of research in this field include the testing of vestibular perception, activation of the brain-related cortex, and the influence of stimulus-triggered vestibular snail reflex on visual space. The potential focal points are the risk of falling and the ability to extract spatial memory information, and the focus of research in recent decades has revolved around balance, falling, and Alzheimer’s disease. Conclusions: Vestibular impairment in older adults affects cognitive function, particularly immediate memory, visuospatial cognition, and attention, with spatial cognition being the most significantly affected. In the future, virtual reality-based vestibular rehabilitation techniques and caloric stimulation could be potential interventions for the treatment of cognitive impairment.
Flipping Sensemaking on its Head: From common sense to sensus communis
Authors: Holt Robin , Wiedner Rene
Published: May 2024

Sensemaking provides a compelling account of how meaning emerges by theorizing the organizational enactment of order. In this paper we question the underlying assumption that making sense is equivalent to ordering. We draw from Hannah Arendt’s work to argue that restricting sense to ordering as a means of addressing practical concerns is limiting, and even dehumanizing, and that the most profound forms of sense may emerge from disrupting rather than restoring order. In questioning the intimacy between sense and order, we also question the commonsense view that organization seeks practical settlements, certainty and reliability. Following Arendt, we pursue the question of what it means to organize for plural opinion-making, a condition she conceptualizes as sensus communis. The upshot is to flip sensemaking on its head: rather than meaning being generated through organizing, and certain types of disruption merely triggering it, sense is made through disruption, with certain types of organizing enabling it.
The European Renewable Energy Sector in Calm and Turmoil Periods: The Key Role of Sovereign Risk
Authors: Constant Karine , Davin Marion , Truchis Gilles de , Keddad Benjamin
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the comparative role of sovereign default risk and several high-frequency macrofinancial indicators that may explain the drop in European renewable energy stocks observed during the 2008 financial crisis and the European debt crisis. We use a two-state time-varying transition probability Markov-switching model to investigate how they impact the bull and bear market trends of renewable stocks. Our main finding is that public financing conditions, captured by sovereign default risks, play a key role in both market regimes, while the other variables affect the renewable energy stocks only in calm or turmoil periods. Moreover, sovereign risk is identified as the main determinant of the European renewable energy stock dynamics in both regimes in the period under review. Finally, we suggest that this effect may be due to the sensitivity of investors to the energy policy uncertainty, entailed by such a pressure on public finances.

JEL Classification: G01, G15, Q42
Journey of an Edupreneur—Design-Thinking Approach
Authors: Shagirbasha Shameem
Published: May 2024

My competitive spirit was well—I felt the adrenaline course through my veins and all of a sudden I had a new purpose in life. I knew that I could do this. The decision was made. I had seized the bull by its horns. However, as luck would have it before I could convert my plans to reality, I had to overcome an unexpected obstacle.

—Professor Bala V. Balachandran

An edupreneur (educational entrepreneur) is defined as ‘a person who has served as an educator prior to organizing a business related to education and has invested time, energy, and capital to create, develop, and market a programme, product, service, or technology to enhance learning’ ( Hess, 2006 ). Edupreneurs can, therefore, be former employees in any educational system, in any position with a constant urge to innovate the education system. They generally think out of the box and do things in an unusual way to accomplish goals. Their vision is to do things better so that society can benefit. This makes them adopt a design-thinking approach.
Investigation of kinetics, thermodynamics, and isotherms of the simultaneous removal of heavy metal ions by activated carbon from cypress fruit
Authors: Al-Ma’abreh Alaa M , AlKhabbas Manal , Alawaideh Samer , Hussein-Al-Ali Samer Hasan , Hmedat Dareen A , Edris Gada , Abuassaf Razan Ataallah , Hamed Mariam A
Published: May 2024

This research investigates the simultaneous removal of lead ion-Pb(II), cadmium ion-Cd(II), and cobalt ion-Co(II) from aqueous solution and real samples using activated carbon (AC-C) synthesized from cypress fruit. The investigation meticulously examines the prompt of several adsorption parameters (pH, adsorbent dosage, temperature, initial concentration, and agitation time) on the effectiveness of heavy metal removal by AC-C. FTIR, SEM, and EDS analyses provide convincing evidence for the effective adsorption of metal ions onto the AC-C surface. Pb(II) performed best at a concentration of 40 mg.L−1 in an acidic solution (pH 5) with 70 mg of adsorbent and 100 min of agitation time. Co(II) and Cd(II) achieved their highest removal rates at a concentration of 90 mg.L−1 in basic solutions (pH 10) with 70 mg of adsorbent and 90 min of agitation time. Under these optimal conditions, AC-C demonstrates remarkable removal efficiencies of 98.68% for Pb(II), 95.60% for Co(II), and 76.45% for Cd(II). Kinetic studies reveal that the adsorption process fits a second-order model for the simultaneous removal of the three metal ions. Additionally, equilibrium data are best characterized by the Langmuir isotherm model, indicating monolayer adsorption of the heavy metal ions mixture. Thermodynamic analysis provides further insights into the adsorption process. The positive enthalpy (ΔH°) confirms the endothermic adsorption of the three ions, and the positive entropy (ΔS°) predicts an unpredictable nature at the solid-solution interface. This study establishes AC-C derived from cypress fruit as a highly effective and promising candidate for the simultaneous removal of Pb(II), Cd(II), and Co(II) from aqueous environments. Its remarkable performance, coupled with the readily available natural resource, paves the way for wider application of AC-C in environmental remediation strategies.
A scoping review of research on second language test preparation
Authors: He Shanshan , Sénécal Anne-Marie , Stansfield Laura , Suvorov Ruslan
Published: May 2024

Test preparation has garnered considerable attention in second language (L2) education due to the significant implications that successful performance on a language test may have for academic advancement, future career opportunities, and immigration prospects. Meanwhile, an overemphasis on test preparation has been criticized for encouraging the cultivation of construct-irrelevant test-taking strategies at the expense of developing general language proficiency. To systematically explore how test preparation has been investigated in the literature, we conducted a scoping review of 66 studies on L2 test preparation. Specifically, this study examined the key characteristics of publications on test preparation, the main themes explored, the study and participant characteristics, as well as the essential aspects of their research methodologies. The results of this review revealed various trends in the literature on L2 test preparation, such as the exclusive focus on English as the target language, the lack of diversity in stakeholders as participants, the dominance of international language tests, and the paucity of experimental studies that utilize advanced statistical techniques. In addition to interpreting the results of our analysis, we discuss the implications of this scoping review and outline several directions for future research on test preparation.
High-resolution vasomotion analysis reveals novel arteriole physiological features and progressive modulation of cerebral vascular networks by stroke
Authors: Zhang Yi-Yi , Li Jin-Ze , Xie Hui-Qi , Jin Yu-Xiao , Wang Wen-Tao , Zhao Bingrui , Jia Jie-Min
Published: May 2024

Spontaneous cerebral vasomotion, characterized by ∼0.1 Hz rhythmic contractility, is crucial for brain homeostasis. However, our understanding of vasomotion is limited due to a lack of high-precision analytical methods to determine single vasomotion events at basal levels. Here, we developed a novel strategy that integrates a baseline smoothing algorithm, allowing precise measurements of vasodynamics and concomitant Ca2+ dynamics in mouse cerebral vasculature imaged by two-photon microscopy. We identified several previously unrecognized vasomotion properties under different physiological and pathological conditions, especially in ischemic stroke, which is a highly harmful brain disease that results from vessel occlusion. First, the dynamic characteristics between SMCs Ca2+ and corresponding arteriolar vasomotion are correlated. Second, compared to previous diameter-based estimations, our radius-based measurements reveal anisotropic vascular movements, enabling a more precise determination of the latency between smooth muscle cell (SMC) Ca2+ activity and vasoconstriction. Third, we characterized single vasomotion event kinetics at scales of less than 4 seconds. Finally, following pathological vasoconstrictions induced by ischemic stroke, vasoactive arterioles entered an inert state and persisted despite recanalization. In summary, we developed a highly accurate technique for analyzing spontaneous vasomotion, and our data suggested a potential strategy to reduce stroke damage by promoting vasomotion recovery.
Reduced oxygen extraction fraction in deep cerebral veins associated with cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Sawan Hasan , Li Chenyang , Buch Sagar , Bernitsas Evanthia , Haacke E Mark , Ge Yulin , Chen Yongsheng
Published: May 2024

Studying the relationship between cerebral oxygen utilization and cognitive impairment is essential to understanding neuronal functional changes in the disease progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). This study explores the potential of using venous susceptibility in internal cerebral veins (ICVs) as an imaging biomarker for cognitive impairment in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients. Quantitative susceptibility mapping derived from fully flow-compensated MRI phase data was employed to directly measure venous blood oxygen saturation levels (SvO2) in the ICVs. Results revealed a significant reduction in the susceptibility of ICVs (212.4 ± 30.8 ppb vs 239.4 ± 25.9 ppb) and a significant increase of SvO2 (74.5 ± 1.89% vs 72.4 ± 2.23%) in patients with RRMS compared with age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Both the susceptibility of ICVs ( r = 0.508, p = 0.031) and the SvO2 ( r = −0.498, p = 0.036) exhibited a moderate correlation with cognitive decline in these patients assessed by the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, while no significant correlation was observed with clinical disability measured by the Expanded Disability Status Scale. The findings suggest that venous susceptibility in ICVs has the potential to serve as a specific indicator of oxygen metabolism and cognitive function in RRMS.
Research on Intelligent Signal Timing Optimization of Signalized Intersection Based on Deep Reinforcement Learning Using Floating Car Data
Authors: Chen Deqi , Xu Tiandong , Ma Siwei , Gao Xixin , Zhao Guiguo
Published: May 2024

Adaptive signal control is a method that dynamically adjusts signal phases based on real-time traffic conditions, aiming to improve the efficiency of intersection light control. However, in practical applications, obtaining complete traffic spatiotemporal states at intersections is challenging given the limited data sources. To address this issue, this paper presents a novel deep reinforcement learning model, namely 3DQN-PSTER, which combines Dueling Deep Q Network, Double Deep Q Network, and Priority SumTree Experience Replay technology. This model effectively extracts traffic states from sampled floating car data (FCD) and achieves optimal timing schemes. To evaluate its performance, the proposed model is tested in a simulated intersection environment using actual intersection data. The model interacts with the environment by adjusting signal phases, updating traffic states, and obtaining optimal timing schemes. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed model exhibits higher convergence efficiency and outperforms benchmark models. When applied, the reinforcement learning single control (RLSC) based on the 3DQN-PSTER model outperforms fixed-time signal control schemes and actuated signal control (ASC) schemes. Even in scenarios with low penetration ratios of FCD, RLSC still significantly outperforms ASC. Therefore, the signal timing optimization method proposed in this paper could greatly enhance intersection operation efficiency in both ideal overall data environments and partial states.
Clinical Features and Therapeutic Process of Sacral Fatigue Fractures in Adolescents
Authors: Hiranaka Yoshiaki , Miyazaki Shingo , Inoue Shinichi , Ryu Masao , Kuroshima Kohei , Yurube Takashi , Kakutani Kenichiro , Tadokoro Ko
Published: May 2024

Background:

Sacral fatigue fractures are a rare injury but should be considered as a differential diagnosis for low back and buttock pain in young adults. Collective reports are limited, most of which have focused on long-distance runners.

Purpose:

To investigate the characteristics of sacral fatigue fractures in adolescents.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

We analyzed patient background characteristics, physical examination and imaging findings, and treatment courses of those diagnosed with sacral fatigue fractures using magnetic resonance imaging.

Results:

Among 34 patients with sacral fatigue fractures, 15 and 19 were male and female patients, respectively, with an age range of 11 to 19 years (mean age, 15.0 years). Almost all patients were athletes, and 29 patients performed their sport ≥5 times a week. Long-distance runners were the most commonly affected, comprising 7 patients, and participants in other common sports such as baseball (6 patients), basketball (4 patients), and soccer (3 patients) were also affected. Physical examination revealed tension sign (Lasègue test) on the affected side in 6 patients and tight hamstrings in 24 patients. Imaging findings included 18 patients with right-side involvement, 12 with left-side involvement, and 4 with involvement on both sides. In 11 patients, spina bifida occulta was observed at S1 and 8 patients had a history of lumbar spondylolysis with 4 patients having concurrent sacral fatigue fractures. Physical therapy was performed concurrently with the cessation of exercise, and return to exercise was permitted if the pain had been relieved after 1 month. All patients returned to sports at a median of 48 days (range, 20-226 days) after symptom onset. However, 2 patients experienced recurrence (1 patient on the ipsilateral side and 1 patient on the contralateral side).

Conclusion:

Sacral stress fractures are not limited to long-distance runners in this population and can manifest as lower back pain or buttock pain in athletes participating in a variety of sports. Although the course of treatment was generally good, the possibility of recurrence must always be considered.
Phosphorus speciation in sewage sludge and their ashes after incineration as a function of treatment processes
Authors: Nilsson Charlotte , Karlsson Stefan , Allard Bert , von Kronhelm Thomas
Published: May 2024

Phosphorus (P) is a key component in agricultural fertilizers, but it is also a scarce resource, why its recycling has been thoroughly investigated and one promising resources is sewage sludge. Because of stricter regulations in terms of sludge disposal, thermal treatment (e.g. incineration) has become an attractive option. The incineration process alters the chemical speciation of P in favour to calcium-associated (apatite, apatite phosphorus (AP)) species, which is preferred for P recovery. In order to achieve qualitatively transformation, it is important to identify limiting or promoting factors. This study reports on the impact of iron, aluminium and calcium on the transformation of iron- and aluminium-phosphate (NAIP) to AP species, assessed by studying sludge and ash from 10 municipal wastewater treatment plants in Sweden. The effect of iron and aluminium added in the treatment processes was also evaluated. The obtained results show that high calcium concentration favours formation of AP species in both sludge and ashes, whereas high concentration of iron and aluminium favours formation of NAIP species in the sludge. The transformation from NAIP to AP species is hampered by aluminium, irrespectively of its origin, whereas no such correlations could be seen for iron. Therefore, in order to enable efficient P recovery from sewage sludge ash, the amount of aluminium added in the treatment process, as well as its concentration in influent streams to the treatment plants, must be limited.
Biodegradable implant of magnesium/polylactic acid composite with enhanced antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
Authors: Qian Yuxin , Wang Xianli , Wang Ping , Wu Jin , Shen Yue , Cai Kunzhan , Bai Jing , Lu Mengmeng , Tang Chunbo
Published: May 2024

Addressing fracture-related infections (FRI) and impaired bone healing remains a significant challenge in orthopedics and stomatology. Researchers aim to address this issue by utilizing biodegradable biomaterials, such as magnesium/poly lactic acid (Mg/PLA) composites, to offer antibacterial properties during the degradation of biodegradable implants. Existing Mg/PLA composites often lack sufficient Mg content, hindering their ability to achieve the desired antibacterial effect. Additionally, research on the anti-inflammatory effects of these composites during late-stage degradation is limited. To strengthen mechanical properties, bolster antibacterial efficacy, and enhance anti-inflammatory capabilities during degradation, we incorporated elevated Mg content into PLA to yield Mg/PLA composites. These composites underwent in vitro degradation studies, cellular assays, bacterial tests, and simulation of the PLA degradation microenvironment. 20 wt% and 40 wt% Mg/PLA composites displayed significant antibacterial properties, with three composites exhibiting notable anti-inflammatory effects. In contrast, elevated Mg content detrimentally impacted mechanical properties. The findings suggest that Mg/PLA composites hold promise in augmenting antibacterial and anti-inflammatory attributes within polymers, potentially serving as temporary regenerative materials for treating bone tissue defects complicated by infections.
Effect of Successful Aging on Technology Acceptance: The Moderating Role of Selection, Optimization, and Compensation Strategies
Authors: Yeh Te-Feng , Chang Yu-Chia , Yang Shang-Yu , Yang Cheng-Chia
Published: May 2024

Successful aging improves the health and well-being of older adults. Positive attitudes toward aging gave rise to more confidence in handling changes in their life in old age, thus reducing their barriers to information technology use often exist among older adults. Therefore, the influence of successful aging and technology use behavior on older adults’ aging process is a crucial research topic. The technology acceptance model was applied in this study to understand the relationship between selective optimization with compensation (SOC) strategies and technology acceptance. Individuals (n = 208) aged 60 years or older who possessed a smartphone but lacked knowledge on how to use it beyond basic operations were recruited from nine community care centers in Taiwan. The participants took part in two group-based (n = 6–7 each) training programs covering smartphone applications (16 hours) and SOC strategies (14 hours) related to smartphone use, with the training period lasting 4.5 months. Surveys were conducted after smartphone application training and after SOC strategy training. The results showed that SOC moderated the relationship between perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and older adults’ AT toward smartphones. All study hypotheses were supported, and the positive attitude toward aging motivates the elderly to utilize smartphones to compensate for aging-related deficits in daily life. The findings herein can be used as a reference for those wishing to encourage older adults to use smartphones in the pursuit of successful aging.
10-Year Cognitive Change in the Faroese Septuagenarian Cohort and Impact of Sociodemographic, Lifestyle, and Health Factors
Authors: Eliasen Eina H. , Weihe Pál , Debes Fróði , Tróndarson Marjun , Petersen Maria Skaalum
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To investigate cognitive change in multiple cognitive domains in a population-based cohort of 713 Faroese older adults.

Methods

Participants were cognitively tested at baseline (70–74 years) and re-evaluated after 10 years. Changes in cognitive performance and the impact of sociodemographic factors, lifestyle, and health conditions were analysed using mixed-effect models. Participants free from dementia were studied in separate analyses.

Results

A significant decline over 10 years was observed in most of the neuropsychological tests. People living in rural areas, married or cohabiting people, people without professional education, slightly older persons, smokers, teetotalers, and people with heart disease and abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG) had a steeper decline in cognitive ability. Conflicting results were found for sex and people with myocardial infarction (MI).

Discussion

There are modifiable factors that contribute to cognitive decline which should be addressed in future public health efforts.
Are the Adivasi Rice Growers of  Sub-Himalayan North Bengal  Efficient Enough? Role of Machine Learning in Farm Business  After COVID-19
Authors: Nandy Anirban , Nandi Poulomi Chaki , Chatterjee Mousumi , Mahato Shankhadeep , Bandyopadhyay Souradipt
Published: May 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic and the consequent lockdown have disrupted the farming communities across the planet; however, the indigenous communities such as the Adivasi people of tea garden areas in India have been hit hard. It becomes more crucial when we talk about marginalized communities. In India, the Adivasi tribe found in the sub-Himalayan North Bengal cultivates folk rice that needs immediate energy-efficient measures as the production has been increased after receiving the geographical indication tag. Energy efficiency estimation often applied a two-step data envelopment analysis model in agricultural production. However, in most of the previous articles, the applications discussed the factors affecting energy use efficiency with rare studies on efficiency prediction. In this article, first, data envelopment analysis was used to estimate the energy efficiency of rice growers, and in the second stage, extreme gradient boosting, a state-of-the-art machine learning algorithm, was employed to derive the key leading efficiency determinants. The findings revealed wide variation among efficient and inefficient rice growers in the first stage and derived the most salient factors predicting energy efficiency in the second stage. The optimal use of energy inputs combined with effective education, better credit delivery mechanism, arable land availability and years of farming experience provided improvement for the future energy use efficiency of the Adivasi farmers. Further, the novel application of extreme gradient boosting as a machine learning algorithm in energy efficiency evaluation suggests decision-making solutions with a prediction accuracy of 80.91%. Moreover, this study aims to assist future researchers in examining and predicting the key leading determinants to affect energy utilization.
Breaking the Silence of Abuse in Children’s Sports: Experiences and Effects of Emotional Abuse Towards Young Athletes in Sweden
Authors: Eliasson Inger
Published: May 2024

Child abuse in sports is a significant threat to the well-being of young athletes. The aim of this study was to create in-depth knowledge of children’s perspectives and relational situations regarding the manifestation and effects of emotional abuse towards athletes in children’s sports. Based on interviews with 15 children aged 12–18 and five coaches, five themes of emotionally abusive interactions were identified: (a) scolding by coaches; (b) negative criticism from coaches and children; (c) expression of aggression and disappointment by coaches; (d) teasing and joking by children; and (e) denial of attention and support from coaches. These interactions lead to emotionally harmful effects for some of the children, which were not always recognized by coaches and were sometimes downplayed. The findings have implications for identifying situations and behaviours that may constitute emotional abuse in children’s sports, paving the way for proactive measures aimed at preventing emotional abuse.
Immunoinformatics-Based Design of Multi-epitope DNA and mRNA Vaccines Against Zika Virus
Authors: Braz Juciene de Matos , Batista Marcus Vinicius de Aragão
Published: May 2024

In this study, we used an immunoinformatics approach to predict antigenic epitopes of Zika virus (ZIKV) proteins to assist in designing a vaccine antigen against ZIKV. We performed the prediction of CD8+ T-lymphocyte and antigenic B-cell epitopes of ZIKV proteins. The binding interactions of T-cell epitopes with major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) proteins were assessed. We selected the antigenic, conserved, nontoxic, and immunogenic epitopes, which indicated significant interactions with the human leucocyte antigen (HLA-A and HLA-B) alleles and worldwide population coverage of 76.35%. The predicted epitopes were joined with the help of linkers and an adjuvant. The vaccine antigen was then analyzed through molecular docking with TLR3 and TLR8, and it was in silico cloned in the pVAX1 vector to be used as a DNA vaccine and designed as a mRNA vaccine.
The continuity of PE-as-sport: Exploring secondary school students' accounts of the meaning and purpose of physical education in England
Authors: Berkshire Matthew , Mason James , Hardwicke Jack
Published: May 2024

Physical education (PE) has long been contested as various discourses compete and conflict on what the subject is and what its purpose ought to be. Within these discussions, less attention has been placed on student accounts of the purpose of compulsory secondary school PE in England, and on the meanings constructed based on experiences of the subject. Therefore, this study sought to build on and extend the insights in this area from the student perspective. Drawing on data generated through six focus groups with 27 students, aged between 11 and 14, we show the obdurate nature of dominant sport discourses within PE in England. The meaning and purpose of PE were largely constructed as sport and positive experiences of PE came mostly from students who enjoyed and participated in sport. PE-as-sport was reported to broadly, and sometimes negatively, influence student experiences based on ability, gender and through lack of choice and autonomy within the subject. We do not conclude with clear ‘practical’ recommendations for change in practice, but instead suggest a continued focus on critically questioning the role of sport in PE amongst practitioners and researchers is necessary.
Design and seismic performance analysis of a novel special-shaped steel tube concrete column steel beam joint
Authors: Liu Chun-yang , Qin Ji-he , Gong Zhen-fan , Wang Hao , Zhou Guang-kai
Published: May 2024

In this study, a novel special-shaped steel tube concrete column steel beam joint is proposed. Bolt connections are used to connect the pre-welded steel beam and the special-shaped steel tube concrete column. Based on the finite element software ABAQUS, we established finite element models of the column-beam joints, and conducted a series of finite element analyses to investigate the influence of various parameters on the seismic performance of the joint. These parameters include the shape and size of the flange hole, the shape and size of the web hole, and thickness of the spliced plate on the flange. The results show that the difference between the finite element analysis and experimental results for bearing capacity and displacement is within 10%. This indicates that finite element analysis can be effectively utilized to study the seismic performance of the joint. Compared to joints with non-spliced beam, the rotational deformation capacity of the joint is reduced when using bolts and spliced plates designed by the equal-strength method. The energy dissipation capacity and ductility deformation capacity of the joints with spliced beams are significantly improved by using elliptical bolt holes in the flange, and plastic hinges are formed in the spliced region. The elliptical holes in the web with varying sizes have little effect on the seismic performance of the joint. The thicknesses of the spliced plate ranging from 6 mm to 8 mm has little effect on the seismic performance of the joint, and a thin spliced plate will reduce the seismic performance of the joint. The study presented in this paper can provide a reference for promoting the engineering application of special-shaped steel tube concrete structures.
Misdiagnosis of Primary Iliac Aneurysmo-Colonic Fistula as a Submucosal Tumor Leading to Delayed Treatment: A Case Report
Authors: Lee Sangho , Hwang Deokbi , Yun Woo-Sung , Huh Seung , Kim Hyung-Kee
Published: May 2024

An aortoenteric fistula (AEF) is an uncommon cause of gastrointestinal bleeding that requires prompt diagnosis and intervention owing to its high mortality rate. Moreover, iliac aneurysmo-colonic fistula is an exceptionally infrequent presentation. We report a unique case of a 71-year-old male presenting with hematochezia, later diagnosed with a primary fistula between a common iliac artery aneurysm and the sigmoid colon. Initially, the patient was misdiagnosed as having a gastrointestinal stromal tumor, leading to delayed and emergent surgical intervention due to massive bleeding 2 days later. This case is particularly notable for its rarity, misinterpretation of the initial diagnosis, complicated surgical procedures, and development of complications including ischemic myopathy. This case highlights the criticality of accurate diagnosis with a high index of suspicion, significance of consultation with a vascular surgeon for vascular abnormalities, and importance of considering ischemic time in the sequence of surgical treatments to ensure timely and appropriate management.