bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge and awareness of stroke in the United Arab Emirates: a cross-sectional study of the general population
Authors: Jirjees Feras , Al-Obaidi Hala , Barakat Muna , Kharaba Zelal , AlSalamat Husam , Khidhair Zainab , Alfoteih Yassen , Eltayib Eyman , Mansour Sara , Hallit Souheil , Malaeb Diana , Hosseini Hassan
Published: September 2023

Background: The study aimed to assess stroke knowledge among the general population in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and determine the factors associated with stroke awareness among people. 

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the UAE between September and November 2021. The general population has self-administered an online bilingual survey (Arabic and English) distributed via social media platforms. The questionnaire covered general knowledge about stroke risk factors, consequences of stroke, and responding to somebody with acute stroke attack.  

Results: A total of 545 surveys were completed, with more than half of the participants being female (58.5%), married (55.4%) and employed (59.4%). The majority were less than 50 years old (90.5%) and had a university degree (71.0%). Many of the participants (70.8%) had a good general knowledge of stroke; however, around 20% of the participants were able to recognize all symptoms and risk factors of stroke. The most common sources of stroke-related information were the internet/social media (53.6%). Females were better able to correctly identify at least one stroke symptom and outcome than males (p=0.008). University education has significantly affected participants' ability to identify early stroke symptoms (p=0.001) correctly. In addition, diabetic people were more likely to recognize at least one stroke outcome than non-diabetic people (p=0.039). 

Conclusions: The knowledge of stroke was good among highly educated people and females. However, the awareness of all stroke risk factors, symptoms, consequences and risk factors was inadequate among the general population of the UAE. Thus, there is still a gap between recognition of the relevant stroke and taking action among people.
A commentary on the National Medical Licensing Examination in Vietnam: why, what, who and how
Authors: Ha Thuy Minh
Published: September 2023

As a result of increasing societal demands and economic development, the number of medical schools in Vietnam has increased significantly over the past decade. In order to ensure physician competency, it is imperative that medical training meets a minimal threshold before entering clinical practice. The prospects of the National Medical Licensing Exam (NMLE) have been discussed extensively and are expected to be instrumental in influencing curriculum reform, thus enhancing the quality of medical education. This paper discusses briefly why NMLE is necessary for Vietnam, what should be considered when establishing it, who could be the responsible organization, and how good practices can be learned and used as personal recommendations for educators and policymakers.
Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of dairy waste: effect of temperature and initial acidity on the composition and quality of solid and liquid products
Authors: Khalaf Nidal , Shi Wenxuan , Fenton Owen , Kwapinski Witold , Leahy J.J.
Published: September 2023

Background: Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of dairy processing waste was performed to investigate the effect of temperature and initial pH on the yield and composition of the solid (hydrochar) and liquor produced. All hydrochars met the EU requirements of organo-mineral solid fertilizers defined in the Fertilizing Products Regulation in terms of phosphorus (P) and mineral content.

Methods: Laboratory scale HTC was performed using pressurized reactors, and the products (solid and liquid) were collected, stored and analyzed for elemental composition and nutrient content using Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry (UV-Vis) and other analytic techniques.

Results: Maximum hydrochar yield (60.67%) was observed at T=180℃ and pH=2.25, whereas the maximum P-recovery was 80.38% at T=220℃ and pH=4.6. The heavy metal content of the hydrochars was mostly compliant with EU limitations, except for Ni at T=220℃ and pH=8.32. Meanwhile, further study of Chromium (Cr) species is essential to assess the fertilizer quality of the hydrochars. For the liquid product, the increase in temperature beyond 200℃, coupled with an increase in initial acidity (pH=2.25) drove P into the liquor. Simultaneously, increasing HTC temperature and acidity increased the concentration of NO 3 - and NH 4 + in the liquid products to a maximum of 278 and 148 mg/L, respectively, at T=180℃ and pH=4.6. Furthermore, no direct relation between final pH of liquor and NH 4 + concentration was observed.

Conclusions: HTC allows for the production of hydrochar as a potential fertilizer material that requires further processing. Adjusting HTC conditions enhanced P-recovery in the hydrochar, while retrieving higher nitrate concentrations in the liquid product. Optimizing HTC for the production of qualified hydrochars requires further treatment of Cr content, studying the availability of P in the products and enhancing the hydrochar yield for economic feasibility.
Understanding Syrian migration in Lebanon: a methodological framework
Authors: Trovato Maria Gabriella , Al-Akl Nayla , Ali Dana
Published: September 2023

Background: Wars, crises, and climate change are just a few of the worldwide concerns that have resulted in the forced relocation of millions of people. After 12 years of conflict in Syria, millions of Syrians are still displaced in the neighbouring countries, and their conditions have worsened due to the economic and socio-political crisis of the region. This paper reports on a study conducted in Lebanon as part of the EU Horizon-funded project ADMIGOV – Advancing Alternative Migration Governance. It describes the methodological framework used to study Syrian migration in Lebanon and sheds light on the phenomenon's patterns, challenges, and impacts.

Methods: In our study, we opted for a mixed method. It is built on a large corpus of primary data collected over the course of years of intensive, in-depth fieldwork and the author's immersion in the community. Alongside observations, quantitative and qualitative phone interviews were conducted to obtain the perceptions of displaced Syrians living in informal tented settlements in rural Lebanon and an incomplete building in the city of Saida. This interview data is accompanied by primary and secondary data sources, including the findings of other European research projects, statistics from UNHCR and IOM, and academic and press articles.  

Results: Our research revealed the difficulties Syrians displaced in Lebanon encounter while navigating the challenging situation they are trapped in. The weakness of public institutions and their failure to guarantee the observance of basic human rights has compromised displaced safety. Moreover, even though the development interventions and aid assistance have been necessary for Syrians' survival, they proved inadequate and insufficient, evidencing the inefficiencies of most projects.

Conclusions: The findings contribute to an enriched understanding of the situation of Syrians in Lebanon and offer insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers working in the field of forced migration and humanitarian responses.
Tadeusz Różewicz w Sudetach
Authors: Browarny Wojciech
Published: September 2023

Artykuł przedstawia teksty literackie autora Wodospadu Szklarki oraz główne wątki jego twórczości i biografii związane z tymi górami. Autor artykułu omawia powojenne doświadczenia i wiersze Różewicza, ale również jego późne utwory o tematyce karkonoskiej powstające na przełomie XX i XXI wieku. Celem tej analizy jest historyczna i regionalistyczna rekonstrukcja poetyki jego dzieł, które są dialogiem z topografią, przeszłością oraz materialnym i symbolicznym dziedzictwem Sudetów i Przedgórza Sudeckiego. Analizie prowadzonej w artykule towarzyszą pytania badawcze. Jakie relacje łączyły twórczość literacką Różewicza o tematyce sudeckiej oraz jego biografię z procesem polonizowania Sudetów? Które z istotnych składników historii, tradycji i dziedzictwa kulturowego tych gór pisarz włączył do swoich utworów? Autor artykułu w swoim opisie sięga po geokrytykę, łącząc ją z perspektywą historyczną i tzw. nowym regionalizmem. Głównym wnioskiem wynikającym z przeprowadzonej analizy jest stwierdzenie, że integralna twórcza obecność Różewicza w Sudetach polegała na świadomym, kreowanym przez poetę, powiązaniu jego pisarstwa i biografii z przyrodą, kulturą i społecznym życiem regionu.
An Encounter with Jean-Christophe Barralis: Appreciative Inquiry and Vitality
Authors: Pagès Jean
Published: September 2023

Jean-Christophe Barralis describes, for Jean Pagès, his first encounter with Appreciative Inquiry and how he rediscovered, through shared storytelling, a liberating lightness and resonance that remains with him even today, years later.
Shape-Constrained Regression Using Sum of Squares Polynomials
Authors: Curmei Mihaela , Hall Georgina
Published: September 2023

Shape-Constrained Regression Using Algebraic Techniques

How can one fit a multivariate polynomial to data points in such a way that this polynomial is guaranteed to have certain shape constraints, such as convexity or monotonicity in some of its variables? In “Shape-constrained regression using sum-of-squares polynomials,” M. Curmei and G. Hall propose a hierarchy of semidefinite programs to address this problem. They show that polynomial functions that are optimal to any fixed level of our hierarchy form a consistent estimator of the underlying shape-constrained function, which generates the data points. As a by-product of the proof, they establish that sum-of-squares-convex polynomials are dense in the set of polynomials that are convex over an arbitrary box. They further demonstrate the performance of the regressor for the problem of computing optimal transport maps in a color transfer task and that of estimating the optimal value function of a conic program. A real-time application of the latter problem to inventory management contract negotiation is presented.
Strengthening the Growth of Probiotic Lactobacillus casei subsp. rhamnosus TISTR 047 and Texture of Pressurized Corn-Milk Yoghurt using Whey Protein Concentrate and Xanthan Gum
Authors: Sangkam Jintanaporn , Chaikham Pittaya , Baipong Sasitorn , Wongsewasakun Pathai , Apichartsrangkoon Arunee
Published: September 2023

The objective of this research was to investigate the effects of whey protein concentrate (WPC; 3.5%, 7%, and 14%, w/v) and xanthan gum (0.05, 0.1 and 0.2%, w/v) supplementation on the promoting of probiotic growth and the improving of texture characteristics of corn-milk yoghurt treated with ultra-high pressure (HPP). The corn-milk with WPC were HPP treated at 500 MPa for 10 min at room temperature, then inoculated with 5% (w/v) of yoghurt starter culture (a mixed culture of Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus) and 5% (w/v) of probiotic Lactobacillus casei subsp. rhamnosus TISTR 047 cells, and then incubated at 43 °C for 48 h. Each treatment was taken for microbiological and physicochemical qualities at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24 and 48 h. A control corn-milk yoghurt was prepared as described, but without addition of WPC. Increasing amount of WPC led to the increase in viscosity, total titratable acidity and the viable number of L. casei subsp. rhamnosus TISTR 047. The optimum incubation time for corn-milk yoghurt production was 6 h. Addition of 7% WPC to corn-milk was selected to incorporate with different levels of xanthan gum. The results indicated that, after fermentation, the optimum level of xanthan gum addition should be 0.1%, since this level could improve syneresis and water holding capacity as well as appropriate viscosity. Results obtained suggest that a novel yoghurt produced from HPP corn-milk added with WPC (7%) and xanthan gum (0.1%) could be considered as one of the potential probiotic foods which could deliver benefits to consumers.
Physical Methods for Reduction of Aflatoxins Exposure in Groundnuts in Some Low-Income Countries: A Review
Authors: Mshanga John Pancras , Makule Edna Edward , Ngure Francis Muigai
Published: September 2023

Aflatoxin (AF) is a powerful carcinogen primarily produced by some strains of the fungus Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, which frequently infest nuts and cereal crops. Groundnuts are among the most widely studied substrates of Aspergillus spp., growth and AF contamination. Aflatoxin contamination is a significant public health concern since chronic exposure is linked to causing carcinogenicity, teratogenicity, hepatotoxicity, estrogenicity, neurotoxicity, childhood growth impairment, and immunotoxicity in humans and animals. Acute exposure to AF contamination is associated with fatal aflatoxicosis due to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and convulsions. Good agricultural practices, control of plant diseases, and favourable storage conditions can limit AF contamination yet do not guarantee complete elimination. Looking for an effective technique to reduce AF to an acceptable regulatory limit has been a great subject among researchers. Physical methods like manual visual sorting, screening, density, roasting, dehulling, winnowing, and decortication can reduce AF contamination while maintaining the quality of the kernel and render the kernels harmless to humans and animals compared to AF degradation by chemicals. Therefore, the present review article found that physical removal/visual sorting efficiently lowered the mean AF content commonly used in low-income countries. We briefly enumerated the effectiveness of various common physical methods in reducing post-harvest AF contamination in groundnuts, particularly their percentage AF reduction and outsort/loss, sufficient AF reduction evidence, feasibility, and scalability. We also highlighted the merits and demerits of these methods and essential information that could be helpful for further investigation.
Ethnopharmacology of Botanical Galactagogues and Comprehensive Analysis of Gaps Between Traditional and Scientific Evidence
Authors: Thakur Monika , Khedkar Renu , Singh Karuna , Sharma Vatsala
Published: September 2023

The functional potential of plants and plant-based components have been used in different cultures since time immemorial to promote milk production in women. Conditions like agalactia or insufficient production of breast milk due to various barriers intended to be a greater risk of weight loss for neonates and prompting for supplementation of infant formula. Multiple plants are traditionally used worldwide as galactagogues during the lactation period. This study aims to extract information on traditionally used galactagogue plants and compare their ethnopharmacological evidence with scientific evidence. This will help to understand the gaps in the ethnopharmacological and scientific data and thus provide future research information.Information on traditional and scientific studies was collected and analyzed on galactagogues. The ethnopharmacological data of the focused plant species were analyzed for part used, formulations, and region of its uses. All cultures traditionally used natural products as galactagogue from times immemorial, and due to scientific advances, these have also been seen as commercial products. However, because of the limited studies, it is of interest to standardize the doses, and composition of bioactive components and study the mechanism of action, its side effects, and interaction with food. This is a forward-looking research area that could be projected for manufacturing herbal formulations for lactating mothers.
Sociodemographic Variables Associated with the Prevalence of Insulin Resistance Using a Non-Invasive Score System Among Adults in the Makkah Region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bukhari Hassan Mazher
Published: September 2023

Insulin resistance is considered as one of the significant causes of morbidity and mortality as it might develop diabetes, heart, and renal diseases. To investigate the prevalence of Insulin resistance in the Makkah region in Saudi Arabia and the related risk sociodemographic Method: An online valid questionnaire was collected from a random sample of only Saudi 1514 adults; non-Arabic speakers and non-Saudi were excluded. The related sociodemographic data was gathered. The insulin resistance risk score was conducted using a non-invasive easy scoring system based on Lindstrom and Tuomilehto's study18. In total, 70% of the sample had a lower risk level, and only about 14% with higher risk compared to 16% with no risk. Individuals at a higher risk of insulin resistance were males, with high-income levels (≤10,000SR) and elementary education. The most common risk of insulin resistance was at a moderate risk level for males with high income and lower education levels.
Growth Inhibition of Phytopathogenic Penicillium Citrinum and Penicillium Expansum by Some Indian Culinary Spices
Authors: Bhatia Mamta , Sharma Alka
Published: September 2023

Penicillium citrinum and Penicillium expansum are primarily associated with the spoilage of wide variety of fruits and derived food products. Increasing demand of consumers for preservative (synthetic) free food has led the researchers to explore natural substances for controlling spoilage and pathogenic microbes. Past researches have demonstrated the antimicrobial activities of spices. Present study was undertaken to assess the growth inhibitory activities of aqueous extracts (AEs), essential oils (EOs) and powdered (PD) forms of 10 spices towards P. citrinum (MTCC2553) and P. expansum (MTCC2006). PD spices were evaluated for their growth inhibitory potential using spice agar method. Impregnated paper disc method was followed for the antifungal screening of AEs and EOs, while broth dilution method was opted for the determination of their minimum inhibitory concentrations. Results revealed that AEs of all the spices were found ineffective, whereas PD forms of three spices, namely, Cinnamomum cassia (Blume), Cuminum cyminum and Syzygium aromaticum, significantly arrested the growth of both the fungal strains. Nevertheless, EOs of Allium sativum, Brassica juncea, C. cassia (Blume), C. cyminum, Mentha piperita, Ocimum sanctum and S. aromaticum, exhibited remarkable antifungal activities against both the fungi. P. citrinum was more susceptible as compared to P. expansum, towards tested substances. According to our results, PD spices, being cheap and safe, may be persued as ‘green antimicrobials’ along with spice EOs, for in vivo studies to extend the shelf life of fruits and their processed products. Therefore, this study would prove a great help to the agricultural sector and food processing industry.
Underutilized Cashew Apple Fruit: Its Utility and Development as a Source of Nutrients and Value Added Products in Tanzania
Authors: Aluko Angela , Makule Edna , Kassim Neema
Published: September 2023

The tropical cashew tree, Anacardium occidentale L., has remarkable potential. The tree produces the pseudo-fruit known as the cashew apple and nuts. The apple is sweet, juicy, and loaded with dietary fiber, phytonutrients, minerals, and vitamin C. Despite having high nutritional content, the cashew apple is neglected in low-technological nations like Tanzania, primarily because of negligence over the well-known nut, its perishability, and its astringent taste. Contrarily, cashew apples are processed into various goods in high-income nations where food processing and technology improvements have been realized. Cashew apple products include juice, syrup, wine, alcohol, dietary fiber extracts, and animal feed. However, inadequate technologies and skills for postharvest handling and value addition have led to a considerable loss of cashew apples, contributing to pronounced food and nutrition insecurity. This review documents the production of cashew apples in Tanzania and reveals the fruit's critical underutilization and potential nutrition and economic opportunities. This documentation may call for interventions to create awareness of the importance of cashew apples in social-economic, food, nutrition and health, empower locals, and invite new processing technologies to diversify and extend shelf-life. The ultimate goal is to promote the utilization of this abandoned nutritious fruit. Such approaches may reduce postharvest losses and impact food and nutrition security and the social-economic empowerment of smallholder farmers.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration Risks Linked with Indian Dietary Fat Consumption Patterns
Authors: Chande Prema , Thakur Renu , Danish Shaikh Mohd
Published: September 2023

Background: The prevalence of age-related macular degeneration in India is lower than in America and Europe at 0.61 to 1.9%. Studies have shown that dietary patterns and consumption of certain food groups can influence the prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) in a given population. Aim: This study's goal was to evaluate the impact of dietary fat and food consumption patterns in Indians with ARMD and compare it to age-matched healthy individuals. Methodology: 90 patients from a Mumbai ophthalmology outpatient clinic who were above 50 years were recruited to participate in the research. The participants were divided into groups of those with and without ARMD based on the fundus assessment. For each of the meals, a food frequency questionnaire was utilized to record the common foods that all of the individuals ate. They were asked to remember the foods they had just ingested. Based on consumption patterns, some were grouped as vegetarians who had only plant-based foods and others as non-vegetarians who consumed meat, fish and eggs. Using a conversion table created for Indian meals, the intake of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids was quantified. The information was then analyzed between those with and without ARMD. Results: 45/90 people were in the control group, and among the 45 cases. The amount of MUFA consumed was 44.29+26.00 and 40.53+17.18 and PUFA consumed was 35.57+26.34 and 43.61+ 27.27 by the cases and controls discretely. With regard to dietary fats, there was no statistically significant difference between them p=0.05. Further, the food types consumption was analysed and it showed that 13% of the cases were vegetarians whereas 47% of the controls were vegetarians. 12% of the servings consumed in the cases had meat whereas only 3% of the servings contained meat among the controls. The control group consumed 1.7% servings of fish whereas the cases consumed 0.59%. Conclusion: The present study results show that Indians consume foods rich in PUFA which could lower the risk of ARMD. The results further indicate that subjects who consumed more vegetarian foods and were lower on meat were at a reduced risk to develop ARMD.
Assessment of the Adequacy of the Energetic Contribution of the Macronutrients Determined in the Local Infant Flours Sold in Ouagadougou to the Needs of Children Aged 6 to 23 Months
Authors: Bougma Sanogo , Zio Souleymane , Semporé Judith Nomwendé , Bougma Sibiri , Waongo Blaise , Agbokou Wassiou Koffi Apéali , Ouédraogo Henri Sidabéwindin , Ouattara Laurencia Toulsoumdé Songré- , Savadogo Aly
Published: September 2023

Breast milk becomes insufficient from the sixth month of a child's life, considering the quality and quantity, and must be supplemented with nutritionally dense foods. Thus, introducing adequate complementary foods in the child's diet is essential for his development. Very few studies have looked at the compliance of local infant flours with compositional standards. The objective was to evaluate the macronutrient adequacy of local infant flours sold in Ouagadougou for the needs of children aged 6-23 months. Nutritional parameters were determined using reference methods. The modeling was performed using Excel 2016 software. Fats content ranged from 6.16g to 16.76g, proteins from 6.18g to 22.08g, carbohydrates from 63.4g to 70.96g, and energy values from 406.02 kcal/100g to 458.92 kcal/100g. The modeling showed that the contributions of the different nutrients to the overall energy value of 70% of the local infant flours were by the recommendations. The energy contributions of fats and proteins were mainly high. Respectively 75% and 95% of local infant flours evaluated meet the recommendations, while all the infant flours evaluated showed carbohydrate energy contributions within the recommendations. The overall quality assessment showed that the overall energy values of the evaluated local infant flours were within the WHO guidelines.
Comparing Efficiency of Green Methods for Surimi Skin and Bone Gelatin Extraction
Authors: Khushboo Khushboo , Kaushik Nutan , Widell Kristina Norne , Slizyte Rasa , Kumari Asha
Published: September 2023

Globally, the surimi processing industry produces a large amount of by-products in the form of head and viscera, skin, bones, scale, etc. The aim of this study was to assess the combined biomass of pink perch skin and bones obtained from the surimi industry as a potential source of raw material for gelatin production and identify a green method of gelatin extraction by comparing four green processes. Four green gelatin extraction processes were compared for their gelatin extraction efficiency. Among the four processes, process 1 and process 2 comprised of two-step extraction viz pre-treatment with NaCl and extraction with hot water. Process 3 and process 4 comprised of single-step wherein pre-treatment and extraction were done simultaneously with acidic water using acetic acid. The gelatin extraction efficiency was determined based on the yield and L-hydroxyproline content of the extracted gelatin. Further, the extracted gelatin was characterized for their proximate and amino acid composition. The acetic acid based single-step method was found to be more efficient in the extraction of gelatin than the NaCl pretreatment method. The gelatin extracted with this method had a higher yield (4.2%), protein content (79.6%), and imino acid (27.3%) content than the NaCl pretreatment method, which had 1.51% gelatin yield, 48.1% protein content, and 13.1% imino acid content. The results suggested that the single-step extraction method can be effectively utilized for the extraction of gelatin from pink perch skin and bones combined biomass. This study provides a method for the valorization of the surimi industry by-product into a high value product with potential application in various industries.
Looking at the impact of digital technology in the home on language and literacy in early years
Authors: Flewitt Rosie , Arnott Lorna
Published: September 2023

Rosie Flewitt, professor of Early Childhood Communication at Manchester Metropolitan University and Dr. Lorna Arnott, senior lecturer and director of Early Years at The Strathclyde Institute of Education, outline their ongoing research project Toddlers, Tech and Talk which looks at how children under three years old are currently using digital devices in the home, and how their experiences with technology shape their early language learning and literacy.
Book Reviews
Authors: Barclay Meg
Published: September 2023

Meg Barclay, educational consultant and early years reviewer for the School Library Association, reviews a book which explains how to build different outdoor structures for children to play with using recycled wooden pallets. The picture books help support the understanding the world area of learning, as well as introduce readers to what life is like for someone with autism and help to reassure those who may have sleep anxiety.
How to support childminders and reverse the number leaving the sector
Authors: Maltman Tina
Published: September 2023

Following reports that the number of childminders fell by 20 per cent between 2019 and 2022, Tina Maltman, executive director of Childminding UK, outlines her thoughts on how to combat this situation and provide better support to childminders to help stem the number of people leaving the profession.
Hydrogen Retrofit for Prince MADOG UK Research Ship
Authors: Wade Andrew
Published: September 2023

A UK consortium will equip Bangor University’s Prince Madog research vessel with a hydrogen-electric hybrid propulsion system.
Midlands On The Up According To Annual Salary Survey
Authors: Excell Jon
Published: September 2023

Engineers working in the Midlands and East Anglia are amongst the most well paid and contented engineering professionals in the UK, according to The Engineer’s latest salary survey, which was published last month (March 2023).
Sky Blue Thinking
Authors: Wade Andrew
Published: September 2023

Coventry is leading the charge on a new type of lightweight rail system that could shake up public transport in the UK and beyond.
Restarting Civilisation
Authors: Powell Gareth L.
Published: September 2023

With the recent popularity of shows such as The Walking Dead and The Last of Us, our resident science fiction author, Gareth L. Powell, asks what roles there will be for engineers in such a strange and dangerous new world.
Passive Push for Reliability
Authors: Edwards Chris
Published: September 2023

The demands of electric vehicles are among those putting a bigger focus on component reliability. Changes in design, simulation and test are making it possible.
Taming The ‘Wild West’
Authors: SIMSKY MARIA
Published: September 2023

How to get the most out of correction services using an agnostic receiver, when there is so little standardisation. By MARIA SIMSKY
Access Denied
Authors: Edwards Chris
Published: September 2023

Memory exploits still top the charts but help is on the way, though it might involve a wait for the hardware to arrive.
Compromise and complicity: partnership and interdependence in a global challenges research collaboration
Authors: Palladino Mariangela , Jeffery Laura , Benslimane Dounia , Arfaoui Olfa
Published: September 2023

This article contributes to debates on international collaborations by examining contradictions between the decolonial turn and the UK’s Global Challenges Research Fund which imposed Global North leadership on Global South partners. Through the lenses of compromise and complicity, the article explores how collaborators strive to work together equitably within the constraints of a UK government Official Development Assistance funding scheme. Drawing on focus group discussions with members of a research team, the article traces, first, their engagement with political and institutional constraints and, second, their articulation of collaborative compromise and productive complicity. The article foregrounds the generative potential of complicity as a productive concept that can help partners to navigate the challenges of interdependence and partnership entailed in North–South, South–South, cross-sector and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Breakdown of one-to-one correspondence between the photoelectron emission angle and the tunneling instant in the attoclock scheme
Authors: Guo Li , Zhao Meng , Quan Wei , Liu XiaoJun , Chen Jing
Published: September 2023

Attoclock is a promising chronoscopy of the ultrafast dynamics of atoms and molecules in intense laser fields. The attoclock procedure is established based on the one-to-one correspondence between the photoelectron emission angle and the tunneling instant at each photoelectron kinetic energy for ionization of atoms and molecules subject to elliptically polarized strong laser fields. In this work, our joint theoretical and experimental study demonstrates that this correspondence could be broken down for photoelectrons emitted in a direction close to the minimum yield. Two trajectories with different tunneling instants and different initial velocities are found to correspond to a specific final momentum of the photoelectron in this direction, and a multi-peak structure appears in the photoelectron kinetic energy spectrum that can be attributed to interference between these two trajectories. Our work is essential for a deeper understanding and further development of the attoclock scheme.
Why don’t Americans trust university researchers and why it matters for climate change
Authors: Alvarez R. Michael , Debnath Ramit , Ebanks Daniel
Published: September 2023

Scientists have developed a strong consensus that Earth’s climate is changing and that human activities play an important role in these changes. However, current research shows that in the United States, there is significant partisan polarization on climate change and its causes, leading to climate denialism. In this paper, we shed light on the political and social determinants of climate action. Using a May 2022 nationally representative survey of American registered voters (n = 2,096), we examine the multivariate correlates of trust in university research and opinions about climate change. Our results confirm that segments of the American electorate do not believe climate change is a problem for the United States and that climate change is not a consequence of human activities. But we also show that part of the problem regarding climate denialism is a lack of trust in university research. We argue for a comprehensive four-stage research strategy based on the empirical results. First, more research must be done to understand who trusts or distrusts university research on climate change and who is persuadable. Second, more research is needed on climate communication framing and messaging. Third, additional research on appropriate messaging is necessary. Finally, we need to develop a culture of trust in climate research and how it is communicated across society.
Weekly primaquine for radical cure of patients with Plasmodium vivax malaria and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
Authors: Taylor Walter R. J. , Meagher Niamh , Ley Benedikt , Thriemer Kamala , Bancone Germana , Satyagraha Ari , Assefa Ashenafi , Chand Krisin , Chau Nguyen Hoang , Dhorda Mehul , Degaga Tamiru S. , Ekawati Lenny L. , Hailu Asrat , Hasanzai Mohammad Anwar , Naddim Mohammad Nader , Pasaribu Ayodhia Pitaloka , Rahim Awab Ghulam , Sutanto Inge , Thanh Ngo Viet , Tuyet-Trinh Nguyen Thi , Waithira Naomi , Woyessa Adugna , Dondorp Arjen , von Seidlein Lorenz , Simpson Julie A. , White Nicholas J. , Baird J. Kevin , Day Nicholas P. , Price Ric N.
Published: September 2023

Background

The World Health Organization recommends that primaquine should be given once weekly for 8-weeks to patients with Plasmodium vivax malaria and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, but data on its antirelapse efficacy and safety are limited.

Methods

Within the context of a multicentre, randomised clinical trial of two primaquine regimens in P. vivax malaria, patients with G6PD deficiency were excluded and enrolled into a separate 12-month observational study. They were treated with a weekly dose of 0.75 mg/kg primaquine for 8 weeks (PQ8W) plus dihydroartemisinin piperaquine (Indonesia) or chloroquine (Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Vietnam). G6PD status was diagnosed using the fluorescent spot test and confirmed by genotyping for locally prevalent G6PD variants. The risk of P. vivax recurrence following PQ8W and the consequent haematological recovery were characterized in all patients and in patients with genotypically confirmed G6PD variants, and compared with the patients enrolled in the main randomised control trial.

Results

Between July 2014 and November 2017, 42 male and 8 female patients were enrolled in Afghanistan (6), Ethiopia (5), Indonesia (19), and Vietnam (20). G6PD deficiency was confirmed by genotyping in 31 patients: Viangchan (14), Mediterranean (4), 357A-G (3), Canton (2), Kaiping (2), and one each for A-, Chatham, Gaohe, Ludhiana, Orissa, and Vanua Lava. Two patients had recurrent P. vivax parasitaemia (days 68 and 207). The overall 12-month cumulative risk of recurrent P. vivax malaria was 5.1% (95% CI: 1.3–18.9) and the incidence rate of recurrence was 46.8 per 1000 person-years (95% CI: 11.7–187.1). The risk of P. vivax recurrence was lower in G6PD deficient patients treated with PQ8W compared to G6PD normal patients in all treatment arms of the randomised controlled trial. Two of the 26 confirmed hemizygous males had a significant fall in haemoglobin (>5g/dl) after the first dose but were able to complete their 8 week regimen.

Conclusions

PQ8W was highly effective in preventing P. vivax recurrences. Whilst PQ8W was well tolerated in most patients across a range of different G6PD variants, significant falls in haemoglobin may occur after the first dose and require clinical monitoring.

Trial registration

This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01814683).
Exploring the prevalence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes in PAP smear samples of women in northern region of United Arab Emirates (UAE): HPV Direct Flow CHIP system-based pilot study
Authors: Odeh Heba Issa , Al-badi Sara Rashid , Karima Basma , Saeed Takrim Abdulwali , Rahamathullah Nazeerullah , Ibrahim Eman Hassan , Ismail May Khalil , Arshad Khan Zahra
Published: September 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence of low and high-risk HPV genotypes in PAP smear samples of women in northern region of the UAE using HPV direct flow CHIP method.

Methods

A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted between September 2021 to April 2022. A total of 104 liquid-based cervical cytology samples were obtained from women aged 20–59 years attending the Gynaecology out-patient department of Thumbay University Hospital and other hospitals of Northern Emirates of UAE, processed for the routine cytological examination to identify and differentiate morphological changes of the PAP smear samples. HPV genotyping was performed using HPV direct flow CHIP method.

Results

In total, 112 HPV genotypes were detected in 63 women (60.57%) included 18 abnormal cytological and 45 normal epithelial samples. 63 LR and 49 HR HPV genotypes were identified in all the 63 positive samples. Highest rate of infection with multiple LR and HR HPV genotypes were detected in women aged 40–49 years (25.9%) and 20–29 years (23.5%). Infection by HPV6 (13.46%), HPV11 (9.61%), HPV16 (9.61%), HPV62/81 (7.69%) and HPV45 (7.69%) were the most common genotypes. A moderate increase than expected incidence of HPV45 and 62/81 (7.69%) were detected. Co-infection with multiple low and high-risk genotypes is present in 20.2% cases; in that, HPV6 (15.9%) was the most common followed by HPV62/81 (12.7%) and HPV16 (11.11%). The prevalence of HPV18 was found to be 1.6%.

Conclusion

The genotypes 6, 45, 16, 11, 67, 62/81 were the most common HPV infections in the women between the age group of 21 and 59-years-old. A moderate increase of HPV45, 62/81 and much less prevalence of HPV18 were detected in the study population. 43.27% of the normal epithelia were positive to different low and high-risk HPV genotypes. This finding highlights the importance of molecular genotyping of HPV to emphasize the cervical screening triage.
The workplace masking experiences of autistic, non-autistic neurodivergent and neurotypical adults in the UK
Authors: Pryke-Hobbes Amber , Davies Jade , Heasman Brett , Livesey Adam , Walker Amy , Pellicano Elizabeth , Remington Anna
Published: September 2023

Masking entails hiding or concealing one’s traits during social interactions. Research suggests that masking is particularly common for autistic people, though many non-autistic people also conceal aspects of their identity. Existing research has identified the key motivations and consequences of masking. No research to date, however, has considered how this might be affected by the social context in which masking is employed. This study compared the masking experiences of 285 autistic, 88 non-autistic neurodivergent and 99 neurotypical adults within a context in which masking is expected to be highly prevalent, namely the workplace. We used reflexive thematic analysis to explore the motivations, consequences, and contextual differences of workplace masking compared to other social contexts. Workplace masking was considered by participants in all three groups to be an adaptive response to a range of socially grounded workplace challenges and was usually employed as a strategy to safeguard against the threat of negative social and employment outcomes. Our non-autistic neurodivergent and autistic participants, however, reported experiencing unique pressures to mask, given the limited understanding of neurodiversity in workplaces and society more broadly. These findings have important implications for the wider masking literature and for workplace practice.
Tourism during health disasters: Exploring the role of health system quality, transport infrastructure, and environmental expenditures in the revival of the global tourism industry
Authors: Xiong Yu , Tang Xiaohan
Published: September 2023

Tourism is one of the most important promoters of sustainable development in many nations and regions around the globe. Tourism expansion has been a significant contributor to social and economic growth, particularly in developing economies. It is, however, vulnerable to all kinds of health crises and natural disasters, no matter how small they are. The primary purpose of this study is to acquire an empirical understanding of the effects of health crises and disasters on international tourism. The SYS-GMM was used to examine the impact of health calamities and crises, carbon footprints from transportation, and green finance on the tourism of 51 countries between 2007 and 2020. The results showed that health crises and natural disasters have a big effect on international tourism. Alternatively, the presence of eco-friendly and secure transportation at tourist destinations has a positive effect on the tourism industry. The results also showed that environmental expenditures have positive short- and long-term effects on international tourism. Furthermore, the sensitivity of travelers to health crises and natural disasters varies over the short and long term. The study also showed that compared to normal times, international tourism dropped by more than 67% during COVID-19. Consequently, this research assists us in comprehending, predicting, and preventing the potential adverse effects of COVID-19 and other similar economic, health disasters and crises that could occur in the future and harm the tourism industry.
Functional fitness, lifestyle and demographic factors as predictors of perceived physical and mental health in older adults: A structural equation model
Authors: Navarra Giovanni Angelo , Tabacchi Garden , Scardina Antonino , Agnese Massimiliano , Thomas Ewan , Bianco Antonino , Palma Antonio , Bellafiore Marianna
Published: September 2023

Over the past 50 years, socioeconomic development has brought a reduction in birth rates, an increase in life expectancy and consequently in the elderly population. For this reason, there has been an increasing focus on physical and mental health of the elderly, promoting the concept of healthy aging. The aim of this study was to explore the associations between perceived physical and mental health of older adults and a variety of determinants, such as demographic factors, physical functional fitness, physical activity level, adherence to the Mediterranean diet and anthropometric indices, through a structural equation modeling (SEM). A cross-sectional observational study involved 208 elderly (24 men and 184 women) over the age of 60, fully independent and autonomous. Perceived physical and mental health were assessed with the Short Form 12 questionnaire. Basic sociodemographic information was collected; anthropometric features were directly measured, functional fitness was assessed with the Senior Fitness Test, and physical activity level was determined through the International Physical Activity Questionnaire; adherence to Mediterranean Diet (MD) was also collected through the MEDAS questionnaire. The SEM analysis revealed that functional fitness, which was a latent variable of the model described by the six administered fitness tests, was a strong predictor both of perceived physical and perceived mental health in the sample of elderly. Physical activity level was as predictor of the perceived physical component, but not of the mental health, while score of metabolic equivalent task did not result a predictor, as well as the sociodemographic factors and adherence to MD. The present findings suggest that it would be strongly recommended for elderly subjects to engage in physical activity specifically targeted to aged populations, in order to enhance their fitness abilities and enable them to improve the perception of their own health status.
The ∆Pv-aCO2/∆Ca-vO2 ratio as a predictor of mortality in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome related to COVID-19
Authors: Sánchez Díaz Jesús Salvador , Peniche Moguel Karla Gabriela , Reyes-Ruiz José Manuel , Pérez Nieto Orlando Rubén , Escarramán Martínez Diego , Zamarrón López Eder Iván , Calyeca Sánchez María Verónica
Published: September 2023

Objective

To evaluate the central venous-to-arterial carbon dioxide difference combined with arterial-to-venous oxygen content difference (∆Pv-aCO2/∆Ca-vO2 ratio) as a predictor of mortality in patients with COVID-19-related severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Methods

Patients admitted to the intensive care unit with severe ARDS secondary to SARS-CoV-2, and invasive mechanical ventilation were included in this single-center and retrospective cohort study performed between April 18, 2020, and January 18, 2022. The tissue perfusion indexes (lactate, central venous oxygen saturation [ScvO2], and venous-to-arterial carbon dioxide pressure difference [∆Pv-aCO2]), anaerobic metabolism index (∆Pv-aCO2/∆Ca-vO2 ratio), and severity index (Simplified Acute Physiology Score II [SAPSII]) were evaluated to determine its association with the mortality through Cox regression analysis, Kaplan-Meier curve and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

One hundred fifteen patients were included in the study and classified into two groups, the survivor group (n = 54) and the non-survivor group (n = 61). The lactate, ScvO2, ∆Pv-aCO2, and ∆Pv-aCO2/∆Ca-vO2 ratio medians were 1.6 mEq/L, 75%, 5 mmHg, and 1.56 mmHg/mL, respectively. The ∆Pv-aCO2/∆Ca-vO2 ratio (Hazard Ratio (HR) = 1.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06–1.29, p = 0.001) was identified as a mortality biomarker for patients with COVID-19-related severe ARDS. The area under the curve for ∆Pv-aCO2/∆Ca-vO2 ratio was 0.691 (95% CI 0.598–0.774, p = 0.0001). The best cut-off point for ∆Pv-aCO2/∆Ca-vO2 ratio was >2.14 mmHg/mL, with a sensitivity of 49.18%, specificity of 85.19%, a positive likelihood of 3.32, and a negative likelihood of 0.6. The Kaplan-Meier curve showed that survival rates were significantly worse in patients with values greater than this cut-off point.

Conclusions

The ∆Pv-aCO2/∆Ca-vO2 ratio could be used as a predictor of mortality in patients with severe ARDS secondary to SARS-CoV-2.