bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Donor blood cultures and outcomes after lung transplantation: a single‐center report
Authors: Hashim Mahmoud , Saleh Rana Ahmed , Abdulqawi Rayid , Albachir Chams Alkhalaf , Aldakhil Haifa , AlKattan Khaled Manae , Almaghrabi Reem Saad , Hamad Alaa , Saleh Waleed , Al‐Mutairy Eid Abdullah
Published: December 2023

Background

Transplanting lungs from donors with positive blood cultures has not been shown to adversely affect survival. There is limited evidence for potential effects on other outcomes, such as hospital course, graft function, and transmission of infection.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included adult patients who underwent lung‐only transplantation for the first time between March 2010 and December 2022. Outcomes of patients whose donors had positive blood cultures within 72 h of transplant were compared to patients whose donors had negative blood cultures.

Results

Twenty‐five (10.8%) of 232 donors had positive blood cultures, including a single, unexpected case with candidemia. The most commonly isolated bacteria were Enterobacter cloacae (n = 5), Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 5), Acinetobacter baumannii (n = 3), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (n = 3), and Staphylococcus aureus (n = 3). Eleven donors had identical bacteria in their respiratory cultures. All patients who were transplanted from donors with positive blood cultures survived beyond 90 days. Positive donor blood cultures were not associated with longer hospital stay, in‐hospital complications, acute cellular rejection, or the achievement of 80% predicted forced expiratory volume in the first second. Probable transmission of donor bacteremia occurred in only two cases (both with S. aureus). These two donors had positive respiratory cultures with the same organism.

Conclusion

The study did not find an increased risk of adverse events when transplanting lungs from donors with positive blood cultures. Allograft cultures may be more predictive of the risk of transmitting infections.

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Emotional expressivity in singing. Assessing physiological and acoustic indicators of two opera singers' voice characteristics
Authors: Sundberg Johan , Salomão Gláucia Laís , Scherer Klaus R.
Published: January 2024

In an earlier study, we analyzed how audio signals obtained from three professional opera singers varied when they sang one octave wide eight-tone scales in ten different emotional colors. The results showed systematic variations in voice source and long-term-average spectrum (LTAS) parameters associated with major emotion “families”. For two of the singers, subglottal pressure (PSub) also was recorded, thus allowing analysis of an additional main physiological voice control parameter, glottal resistance (defined as the ratio between PSub and glottal flow), and related to glottal adduction. In the present study, we analyze voice source and LTAS parameters derived from the audio signal and their correlation with Psub and glottal resistance. The measured parameters showed a systematic relationship with the four emotion families observed in our previous study. They also varied systematically with values of the ten emotions along the valence, power, and arousal dimensions; valence showed a significant correlation with the ratio between acoustic voice source energy and subglottal pressure, while Power varied significantly with sound level and two measures related to the spectral dominance of the lowest spectrum partial. the fundamental.
Prominence effects in vocal iconicity: Implications for lexical access and language change
Authors: Erben Johansson Niklas
Published: January 2024

This paper explores how three cognitive and perceptual cues, vocal iconicity, resemblance-based mappings between form and meaning, and segment position and lexical stress, interact to affect word formation and language processing. The study combines an analysis of the word-internal positions that iconic segments occur in based on data from 245 language families with an experimental study in which participants representing more than 30 languages rated iconic and non-iconic pseudowords. The pseudowords were designed to systematically vary segment and stress placement across syllables. The results for study 1 indicate that segments used iconically appear approximately 0.26 segment positions closer toward the beginning of words compared to non-iconic segments. In study 2, it was found that iconic segments occurring in stressed syllables and non-iconic segments occurring in the second syllable were rated as significantly more fitting. These findings suggest that the interplay between vocal iconicity and prominence effects increases the predictive function of iconic segments by foregrounding sounds, which intrinsically carry semantic information. Consequently, these results contribute to the understanding of the widespread occurrence of vocal iconicity in human languages.
Predictive neural computations in the cerebellum contribute to motor planning and faster behavioral responses in larval zebrafish
Authors: Narayanan Sriram , Varma Aalok , Thirumalai Vatsala
Published: January 2024

The ability to predict the future based on past experience lies at the core of the brain’s ability to adapt behavior. However, the neural mechanisms that participate in generating and updating predictions are not clearly understood. Further, the evolutionary antecedents and the prevalence of predictive processing among vertebrates are even less explored. Here, we show evidence of predictive processing via the involvement of cerebellar circuits in larval zebrafish. We presented stereotyped optic flow stimuli to larval zebrafish to evoke swims and discovered that lesioning the cerebellum abolished prediction-dependent modulation of swim latency. When expectations of optic flow direction did not match with reality, error signals arrive at Purkinje cells via the olivary climbing fibers, whereas granule cells and Purkinje cells encode signals of expectation. Strong neural representations of expectation correlate with faster swim responses and vice versa. In sum, our results show evidence for predictive processing in nonmammalian vertebrates with the involvement of cerebellum, an evolutionarily conserved brain structure.
Numerous optical soliton solutions of the Triki–Biswas model arising in optical fiber
Authors: Liu Zhouding , Hussain A. , Parveen T. , Ibrahim T. F. , Yousif Karrar O. O. , Al-Sinan B. R.
Published: December 2023

A model condition for the propagation of ultrashort pulses in optical fiber frameworks could be established through the extensive generalization of the nonlinear Schrödinger equation introduced by Triki and Biswas. This study uses two significant and effective trustworthy methods to examine the Triki–Biswas (TB) equation. Sardar Subequation Methods (SSM) and the generalized Kudryashov (KUD) method generate solutions for trigonometric, hyperbolic, exponential, and rational functions. These approaches are specifically designed for handling solitary wave patterns, dark-singular-mixed solitons, combined dark-bright solitons, singletons, bright solitons, exponential and rational functions, as well as periodic solitons. All of these solution classes contribute to the physical dynamics of outcomes. These findings represent an innovative extension of the soliton domain within the TB model and are being reported for the first time in our investigation. In addition, Mathematica simulations are used to display the 3D and 2D graphs to explain the identified solutions’ physical dynamics.
Topological quandles up to four elements
Authors: Ayadi Mohamed
Published: December 2023

The finite topological quandles can be represented as [Formula: see text] matrices, recently defined by Nelson and Wong. In this paper, we first study the finite topological quandles and we show how to use these matrices to distinguish all isomorphism classes of finite topological quandles for a given cardinality [Formula: see text]. As an application, we classify finite topological quandles with up to four elements.
Optimizing composition of K4Fe(CN)6-based redox-active electrolyte as a key factor for improving electrochemical performance of rice-husk-derived activated carbon in supercapacitor electrode
Authors: Arkhipova Ekaterina A. , Novotortsev Roman Yu. , Ivanov Anton S. , Stolbov Dmitrii N. , Maslakov Konstantin I. , Savilov Serguei V.
Published: December 2023

Currently, the use of redox-active additives is an effective way to enhance the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors. Despite a lot of publications in the literature, the choice of redox-active electrolyte composition is still unclear. This work focuses on the study of the correlation between the K4Fe(CN)6 fraction (0–0.05 M) in 1 M Na2SO4 and electrochemical characteristics of rice-husk-derived activated carbon (AC). The effect of electrolyte composition was clarified by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge and impedance spectroscopy. The increase in the K4Fe(CN)6 fraction in the electrolyte significantly improved the specific capacitance of AC from 59 up to 288 F/g at a current density of 1 A/g. Nevertheless, despite the fact that the concentrated 0.05 M K4Fe(CN)6–1 M Na2SO4 electrolyte provided excellent capacitance, it led to a high self-discharge and charge transfer resistance, not beneficial for electrochemical applications.
A Corundum Membrane Ni/Ni2+ Reference Electrode for High-Temperature Fluoride Molten Salt
Authors: Li Mei , Yang Mingshuai , Liu Rugeng , Zhang Meng , Huang Chao , Han Wei
Published: January 2024

Molten salts are widely employed as attractive electrolytes in electrolytic refining, extraction and separation of spent fuel, and electrochemical formation of metals and its alloys, etc. However, the high temperature and strong corrosiveness of fluorine molten salt make it difficult to select and establish a stable and reliable reference electrode. To meet this challenge, a new reference electrode for fluorine molten salt was conveniently fabricated by sealing the Ni/Ni2+(NiF2) couple in a commercial corundum tube whose closed end was ground into a membrane (ca. 0.1 mm in thickness) as ion membrane to facilitate ion conduction. The performances of Ni/NiF2 reference electrode were determined by various electrochemical techniques. The results showed that the Ni/NiF2 reference electrode had a good stability tested by CV for 50 h, and the deviation of the potential was 10 mV. The potential deviation of the Ni/NiF2 electrode prepared after different fabricated times and multiple cooling and melting could be controlled within 5 mV, which showed that Ni/NiF2 had a good reproducibility. Furthermore, Ni/NiF2 exhibited a good temperature reversibility and reusability. These findings indicated that the prepared Ni/NiF2 electrode could be a suitable reference electrode for fluoride molten salt.
Design and Analysis of Junctionless-Based Gate All Around N+ Doped Layer Nanowire TFET Biosensor
Authors: Kumar Parveen , Raj Balwinder , Wadhwa Girish , Singh Balwinder , Kumar Raj
Published: January 2024

This work is based on the analysis and designing of Gate All Around N+ doped layer Nanowire Tunnel Field Effect Transistors (NTFET) without junctions for application in biosensor by considering the various bio molecules like uricase, proteins, biotin, streptavidin, Aminopropyl-triethoxy-silane (ATS) and many more with dielectric modulation technique and gate-all-around (GAA) environment. Device sensitivity and tunneling probability is further improved by N+ doped layer (1 × 1020 cm−3). The change in the subthreshold-slope (SS), drain current (ID), transconductance(gm), and ratio of ION/IOFF has been examined to detect the sensitivity of the proposed device by confining various biomolecules in the area of nanocavity. The nanocavity area creates a shield in the source gate of oxide layer and electrodes metal. The Junctionless Gate All Around Nanowire Tunnel-Field-Effect-Transistor (JLGAA-NTFET) shows less leakage current and large control on the channel. The design of JLGAA-NTFET is with high doping concentration and observed higher sensitivity for ATS biomolecule which is suitable for sensor design application.
Revealing the Impacts of the Pandemic on Travel Behavior by Examining Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Surveys
Authors: Varga Zoltán György , Tettamanti Tamás , Esztergár-Kiss Domokos
Published: December 2023

Recently, the topic of travel behavior and social media usage has been widely discussed. The current study specifically focuses on how specific factors, such as the sociodemographic variables, the number of friends, the social media usage, and the ICT usage, influence their travel patterns based on survey results conducted in pre- and post-COVID-19 times. The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic is taken into consideration to better understand the impact of restrictions on travel attitudes. Statistical analysis is carried out to investigate the survey data. The results show that the pandemic has made a huge impact on general travel behavior, especially in terms of transport mode choice shifting towards individual modes, such as car and walking. The location choice of the participants has a significant connection to the available transport mode and the price range of the place, together with the retrieved information from the ICT devices. Based on the results, it can be seen that the pandemic has deepened the number of close friendships, but younger people do not tend to choose trendy places anymore. In addition, the results show that there is no direct connection between the number of friends and the number of meetings, and the daily online meetings have not replaced all personal meetings.
Application of a New Type of Protective Sputum Suction Device in Clinic against Cross‐Infection between Medical Staff and Patients
Authors: Lu Kang , Wu Weizhou , Jin Gaomei , Yang Haixia , Cai Xiaowei , Li Lin , Chen Zanchao , Ren Lin , Guo Baoshuan , Xue Qing-feng
Published: December 2023

Objective. To explore the clinical application of a new type of protective sputum suction device (PSSD) in patients with tracheotomy or tracheal intubation and to evaluate the protective effect of PSSD against cross‐infection between medical staffs and patients. Methods. A novel PSSD was designed which can assist closed sputum suction operation without disconnecting the ventilator. 32 patients with tracheotomy were included to study the protective effect and safety of this device. Patients’ vital signs including heart rate, respiratory rate, mean arterial pressure, and blood oxygen saturation were recorded to compare the influence of open suction and closed suction (performed with this novel device). To verify the antisplash effect of this device on airway secretions, bacterial samples were collected from the hands of the suction operators and the environment near the endotracheal tube orifice before and after the two suction processes. In addition, the satisfaction of the two suction methods was compared through the questionnaire of suction staff. Finally, with the assistance of this device, an attempt was made to complete the bronchoscopy without weaning of ventilator. Results. Compared with open sputum suction, closed sputum suction has a smaller decrease in patients’ blood oxygen saturation (P < 0.05), and no significant differences in other vital signs. Compared with open sputum suction, bacteria from the hands of suction staffs and the surrounding environment of the endotracheal tube were barely detected in closed suction. A questionnaire survey of sputum suction nurses suggested that the satisfaction with use and protective effect of the closed suction were better than open suction. In addition, bronchoscopy can be successfully completed with the assistance of this device, which is not possible for other breathing tubes. Conclusion. This closed sputum suction device has little effect on the oxygen saturation of patients but has excellent protective effects for medical staff against cross‐infection. It has a unique advantage that can assist in completing the fiberoptic bronchoscopy with continuous ventilator‐assisted breathing.
Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Mortality of Patients Presenting with Moderate and Severe Hyponatremia in Emergency Departments
Authors: Farah Randa , Asha Nisreen , Mezher Farah , Maaitah Saja , Abu Al-Samen Fedaa , Abu Abboud Farah , Ajarmeh Salma
Published: December 2023

Background. Hyponatremia is among the most common electrolyte disturbances encountered in clinical practice and is associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. However, there are very limited data on adult cases presenting to emergency departments with hyponatremia. Objectives. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency, clinical characteristics, and outcomes in hyponatremic patients presenting to emergency departments. Methods. This retrospective study analyzed all patients older than 18 years who visited our institution’s emergency department between October 2018 and October 2019 and has a serum sodium (Na) level <130 mmol/L. Results. Among 24,982 patients who visited the emergency department and had a documented serum sodium level, 284 were included. Patients’ median age was 67.13 ± 14.8 years. Younger patients are less likely to develop severe hyponatremia compared to older patients (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.415; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.231–0.743; p=0.003). Asymptomatic hyponatremia and gastrointestinal manifestations were the most common presenting hyponatremia symptoms (33.7% and 24.2%, respectively). Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker (ACE/ARB) use, and spironolactone use (OR = 2.6 and 3.9, 2.3 with a p=0.02, 0.03, and 0.05, respectively) were associated with increased odds of severe hyponatremia. There is no difference in the overall mortality rate within 6 months of presentation between severe and moderate hyponatremia groups (11.1% versus 16.2%, p=0.163). Conclusion. Moderate and severe hyponatremia are not uncommon among patients presenting to emergency departments. Moderate hyponatremia can be asymptomatic with clinical significance. Older patients, use of PPI, use of ACEi/ARBs, and spironolactone use were associated with an increased risk of severe hyponatremia compared to moderate. Further prospective analysis of a larger population is needed to confirm our findings.
Simulation and Analysis of a Split Drill Bit for Pneumatic DTH Hammer Percussive Rotary Drilling
Authors: Shi Yuanling , Li Conghui
Published: January 2024

Reverse circulation impact drilling has the advantages of high drilling efficiency and less dust, which can effectively form holes in hard rock and gravel layer. As integral reverse circulation drill bits used in the conventional down-the-hole (DTH) hammers are only suitable for specific formations, the whole set of DTH hammer needs to be replaced when drilling different formations. In this paper, several types of split drill bits for different drilling technologies are designed. The flow field characteristics of one of the split drill bits is analyzed based on the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method, with four technic parameters considered, which are input flow rate, number of inlet holes, angle of injection exhaust holes, and diameter of injection exhaust holes, respectively. Three parameters are selected as indicators to evaluate the rationality and performance of the split drill bit, which are injection exhaust hole outlet mass flow rate, ratio of the mass flow rate out of injection exhaust holes to the whole inlet mass flow rate, and maximum pressure at the upper end of the split drill bit. According to the CFD analysis results, the above four technic parameters influence the flow rate and pressure in different rules. Considering the injection capacity, pressure loss, and bit strength, inlet holes of 10, injection exhaust holes with an angle of 50°, and injection exhaust holes with a diameter of 12 mm are recommended to obtain ideal reverse circulation. Different types of split drill bits were manufactured, and drilling experiments were carried out in unconsolidated formations. The maximum drilling rate can reach 1.5 m/min in the drilling experiments. The split drill bit proposed in this paper exhibits excellent adaptability for reverse circulation drilling in loose formations.
A New Framework Based on Supervised Joint Distribution Adaptation for Bearing Fault Diagnosis across Diverse Working Conditions
Authors: Liu Chengyao , Dong Fei
Published: January 2024

To address the degradation of diagnostic performance due to data distribution differences and the scarcity of labeled fault data, this study has focused on transfer learning‐based cross‐domain fault diagnosis, which attracts considerable attention. However, deep transfer learning‐based methods often present a challenge due to their time‐consuming and costly nature, particularly in tuning hyperparameters. For this issue, on the basis of classical features‐based transfer learning method, this study introduces a new framework for bearing fault diagnosis based on supervised joint distribution adaptation and feature refinement. It first utilizes ensemble empirical mode decomposition to process raw signals, and statistical features extraction is implemented. Then, a new feature refinement module is designed to refine domain adaptation features from high‐dimensional feature set by evaluating the fault distinguishability and working‐condition invariance of feature data. Next, it proposes a supervised joint distribution adaptation method to conduct improved joint distribution alignment that preserves neighborhood relationships within a manifold subspace. Finally, an adaptive classifier is trained to predict fault labels of feature data across varying working conditions. To prove the cross‐domain fault diagnosis performance and superiority of the proposed methods, two bearing datasets are applied for experiments, and the experimental results verify that the model built by the proposed framework can achieve desirable diagnosis performance under different working conditions and that it apparently outperforms comparative models.
Reading Aloud and the Use of CAS-2 Battery to Assess Cognitive Skills Improvement
Authors: Batini Federico , D’Autilia Benedetta , Barbisoni Giulia , Toti Giulia
Published: January 2024

Background. Research has suggested that exposure to reading can act positively on vocabulary development and other cognitive skills required in the early-school years. This paper presents the results of a quasi-experimental study that analyses the relationship between exposure to reading aloud to children and the development of basic cognitive skills, which are essential from the first days of school for the acquisition of all subsequent learning. This research has two objectives: first, to highlight the benefits of reading aloud in the first years of schooling, with particular reference to cognitive skills; second, to propose the Cognitive Assessment System Second Edition (CAS-2) as an instrument able to monitor and quantify the cognitive effects of this practice. Methods. This research involved a sample of 152 children from primary schools in Italy. After thorough teacher training on the proposed method of reading aloud, the teachers undertook daily reading training for approximately 3 months. The children in the experimental and control groups underwent ex ante and ex post individual administration of the CAS-2 test. A mixed model with a 2 × 2 design was used to verify the effect of the training. Results. With regard to the first aim, this study confirmed the hypotheses by highlighting the benefits of reading aloud training. The results on the Full CAS-2 Scale show significant increases in the experimental group compared to the control group. Furthermore, the improvement of the experimental group is evident in all the sub-dimensions investigated (Planning, Attention, Simultaneous, Successive). Conclusions. These results confirm the effect of reading aloud on cognitive skills development and the sensitivity of the CAS-2 as an instrument to detect its effects. Future research could explore the use of the CAS-2 battery in student populations of higher school grades, as well as observe the stability of the benefits over time.
Propuesta de un Modelo de Gestión para Resultados (GpR) para los Servicios Relacionados al Ministerio de Educación
Authors: Tapia Ortega Victoria Lissette , Treulén Seguel Gissel Valeska
Published: December 2023

La gestión por resultados se plantea como una estrategia centrada en el desempeño del desarrollo y en las mejoras sostenibles en los resultados del país; ello, con el objeto de mejorar la toma de decisiones, incluyendo herramientas prácticas para la planificación estratégica, la programación y ejecución presupuestaria, el monitoreo y la evaluación de los resultados. Específicamente, la gestión por resultados debe centrar su atención en el ciudadano y las necesidades que éste valora para su desarrollo.
Herramienta Tecnológica como Apoyo a Auditoría Interna: Diagnóstico y Propuesta. Caso Estudio: Brinks Chile S.A.
Authors: Parra Garrido Rafael
Published: December 2023

El presente artículo invita a los profesionales relacionados con la profesión de auditoría y a toda persona que requiera contar con una aplicación computacional que les facilite el manejo de la documentación en sus procesos internos para ayudar a la administración y uso de su información. Además, a través del análisis de este artículo, el lector podrá entender aspectos relevantes en los Procesos de Auditorías y el uso relevante de Microsoft Access como herramienta de apoyo y como una potente Base de Datos de bajo costo y simple de configurar incluso por cada usuario. Para lo anterior se proponen algunos conceptos claves según varias fuentes bibliográficas relacionados con los Procesos de Auditoría. Finalmente, el lector será capaz de entender la potencialidad de una herramienta de bajo costo, como Microsoft Access, en los Procesos de Auditorías pero considerando que es una herramienta que cumple con lo básico para ser considerada como herramienta de apoyo, y no como una herramienta para reemplazar a aquellas especializadas que se ofrecen actualmente en el mercado, pero a un mayor costo.
Resúmenes analíticos de las tesis del Programa de Magíster en Contabilidad y Auditoría, cuarta parte
Authors: Caiceo Escudero Jaime , Ulcen Cabrera Carlos
Published: December 2023

Continuando con la difusión de las tesis realizadas en el Programa de Magíster en Contabilidad y Auditoría de la Universidad de Santiago de Chile, iniciada en el número uno de Summa de Arithmetica, a través de resúmenes analíticos para que sirvan de fuente para investigaciones futuras, tanto para alumnos como también para la comunidad científica en general. En esta ocasión se presentan 24 resúmenes analíticos de tesis realizadas entre los años 2009 y 2014. En esta oportunidad se encuentran tesis de dos alumnas extranjeras que han venido a estudiar a Chile, 1 colombiana y 1 panameña. Se agrupan en cinco áreas: Auditoría (2), Contabilidad (11), Control de Gestión (7), Sistemas de Información (3) e Investigación (1); la cantidad en cada área revela el peso que tiene la contabilidad y el control -base de la Auditoría-, dentro del Programa, puesto que si se suman las áreas de Contabilidad, Auditoría y Control de Gestión se obtiene un 83.75% con ese enfoque.Con esta cuarta parte se totalizan 144 resúmenes analíticos del mismo número de tesis realizadas en el Programa desde el año 2002 al 2014.
Supplementary Figure 5 from T cell–Dependent Bispecific Therapy Enhances Innate Immune Activation and Antibody-Mediated Killing
Authors: Besla Rickvinder , Penuel Elicia , Del Rosario Geoff , Cosino Ely , Myrta Szymon , Dillon Mike , Lazar Greg A. , Nickles Dorothee , Spiess Christoph , Yu Shang-Fan , Polson Andrew G.
Published: January 2024

Cytokines produced during TDB-mediated killing alters surface protein expression on macrophages.
Real-Life Experience with Sonidegib for Locally Advanced Basosquamous Carcinoma: A Case Series
Authors: Bocchino Enrico , Cappilli Simone , Palmisano Gerardo , Paradisi Andrea , Piccerillo Alfredo , Di Stefani Alessandro , Peris Ketty
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Basosquamous carcinoma is an uncommon subtype of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), characterized by aggressive local growth and metastatic potential, that mainly develops on the nose, perinasal area, and ears, representing 1.2–2.7% of all head-neck keratinocyte carcinomas. Although systemic therapy with hedgehog inhibitors (HHIs) represents the first-line medical treatment in advanced BCC, to date, no standard therapy for advanced basosquamous carcinoma has been established. Herein, we reported a case series of patients affected by locally advanced basosquamous carcinomas, who were treated with HHIs. Case Presentation: Data of 5 patients receiving HHIs for locally advanced basosquamous carcinomas were retrieved (2 women and 3 males, age range: 63–89 years, average age of 77 years). Skin lesions were located on the head-neck area; in particular, 4 tumors involved orbital and periorbital area and 1 tumor developed in the retro-auricular region. A clinical response was obtained in 3 out of 5 patients (2 partial responses and 1 complete response), while disease progression was observed in the remaining 2 patients. Hence, therapy was interrupted, switching to surgery or immunotherapy. Conclusion: Increasing evidence suggests considering HHIs for large skin tumors developing in functionally and cosmetically sensitive areas, in patients with multiple comorbidities, although their use for basosquamous carcinoma require more exploration, large cohort populations, and long follow-up assessment.
Technical Curriculum Implementation and Evaluation Framework
Authors: Narsico Lalaine O. , Narsico Peter G.
Published: January 2024

This study was a response to unemployment, a pervading social problem. One of the solutions to the problem was the training of a workforce that makes them employable. To implement this solution, efforts from all sectors of society need to align. This study takes off from the vantage point of vocational training centers. Specifically, this was about the formulation and application of a technical curriculum implementation and evaluation framework. It identified curriculum implementation components and their subsequent details from actual curriculum-related practices of a group of vocational training centers. Components were identified through observations, informal interviews, and curriculum-related document reviews. Based on streamlined components, a survey questionnaire was made and was conducted to assess the levels of practice of identified curriculum implementation components in the training centers through the responses of technical directors and instructors. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to test whether there was a significant difference between the ratings from the two groups of respondents. The following items were the conclusions. Curriculum implementation components were streamlined, formulating an alternative cyclical mechanism for vocational training curriculum implementation and evaluation. Competency transfer and competency assessment were emphasized due to their importance in a vocational training program. There was no significant difference in the responses of the two groups of respondents. Finally, it was found that the training centers can still improve at least a level in all components of curriculum implementation which implies the need for all training personnel to address areas of concern.
Health Risk Assessment of AIMS Employees: Basis towards the Development of an Enhanced Wellness Program
Authors: Garibay Marianne , Amonceda Angelina
Published: January 2024

This study explored the relationship between medical and mental health status among Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS) employees, employing statistical analyses such as Pearson correlation coefficients and t-tests. The results indicated a lack of significant correlation between medical and mental health status, suggesting no strong evidence supporting a relationship. Gender differences in health concerns were evident, with female employees reporting significantly higher levels of mental health concerns compared to their male counterparts. However, no substantial gender-based disparity was found in medical health concerns. Civil status also emerged as a significant factor, with single employees exhibiting notably higher mental health concerns than their married counterparts. Medical history included high blood pressure, stomach pain/ulcer, and nose/throat issues, with some reporting alcohol and smoking history. A minority were currently on medications for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. The study highlights the need to address mental health, especially among female employees, and implement strategies to reduce stress and enhance well-being in the workplace at AIMS.

In light of these findings, the study recommended targeted programs addressing mental health concerns among AIMS employees, emphasizing accessibility to counseling services and collaborative efforts with the Human Resource Management Office (HRMO). Additionally, initiatives promoting digital literacy, fitness programs, and team-building activities were suggested. Recognizing the importance of early intervention, the study encouraged employees to consult with healthcare professionals for appropriate diagnosis and treatment measures for managing depression.
Understanding the Role of Organizational Confidence on the Culture of Teacher Leadership in Public Schools in the Philippines
Authors: Santos Ferdinand S.
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to understand the role of organizational trust on the culture of teacher leadership in selected public-schools in the Philippines. The study utilized a qualitative research design involving public-school principals in Schools Division Marikina, Marikina City.  Findings revealed that one of the leading themes that stood out in the responses was that teacher leadership is a skill that needs continuous development. The participants said that teacher leadership is being observed when school tasks are being properly managed and when there is a harmonious work environment in the institution. The most dominant challenges are the reluctance of teachers to accept challenging tasks, low self-confidence, and lack of compassion. Participants shared unique characteristics of leadership empowerment, such as being transparent, honest, responsible, and considerate. The majority of the participants agreed that organizational confidence can be achieved through teacher empowerment. Participants also stated that it is time for the organizational confidence to be established in order to effectively render a good quality education in the Philippines. Findings also revealed that being a good listener is a key factor in advocating teacher leadership and that building a working environment wherein everyone will have their own opportunity to experience leadership is also one the recommendations mentioned by the participants.
A Descriptive-Correlational Study on Personality Traits and Entrepreneurial Intentions of Senior High School Learners
Authors: Clarete Princess Maejoy D. , Mondejar Marlou Antonio D. , Quimba Nel Rose L. , Gaygay Carlos, Jr.
Published: January 2024

Personality traits play a crucial role in shaping theories related to entrepreneurial processes, particularly in terms of entrepreneurial intentions. This study aimed to assess the levels of personality traits and entrepreneurial intentions among Grade 12 students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) senior high school programs, as well as to explore their significant relationships. Employing a descriptive correlational research design, the study involved 211 Grade 12 STEM and HUMSS students selected through stratified random sampling. Conducted via online forms, the results indicated high levels of openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism, alongside elevated entrepreneurial intentions. Additionally, Spearman’s correlation revealed significant relationships between openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion, and agreeableness with entrepreneurial intentions. However, no significant relationship was found between neuroticism and entrepreneurial intentions. Importantly, the study identified relationships between personality traits and entrepreneurial intentions among Grade 12 STEM and HUMSS senior high school learners.
Filipino Work Values and Job Satisfaction among School Heads of Selected Elementary Schools in the Division of Zambales
Authors: Laurenio Jr Welmer A. , Cabal Esmen M.
Published: January 2024

nderstanding work values and their impact on career behavior is crucial in organizational settings. This study aimed to investigate Filipino work values among school heads in selected elementary schools in the Division of Zambales and its relationship to job satisfaction. Utilizing survey questionnaires, data was collected from school head-respondents to assess their work values and job satisfaction levels. Result showed that Filipino work values were rated as highly important by the school head-respondents, and overall job satisfaction was reported to be high. Significant differences in Filipino work values were observed based on various factors. Specifically, environmental work values varied significantly when grouped according to monthly income, familial work values varied significantly based on position/designation and monthly income, and organizational work values differed significantly when grouped according to sex. However, no significant differences in job satisfaction were found when school head-respondents were grouped based on profile variables such as job security, work environment, job responsibilities, and community linkages/attachments. Based on these findings, it is recommended that the Human Resource Management (HRM) Office may consider thorough evaluation of work values prior to promotion of employees. Furthermore, future researchers may conduct further studies on the strategies on Filipino work values and job satisfaction among school heads involving a wider scope of sample and research locale to validate the findings obtained from this study. Understanding and promoting Filipino work values can lead to a more fulfilled and effective school leadership, ultimately benefiting the educational environment and overall school performance.
Designing a New Brand of Islamic Places in the United States: The Hidden Program of Third Spaces
Authors: Mohammed Hassnaa
Published: January 2024

The article critically examines how design is used as a tool to establish a new brand of American Islamic spaces in situated contexts using four strategic mechanisms: (1) Using place as a means of institutionalizing the inclusive vision of the community; (2) Urbanizing the location by moving away from the suburbs, making it accessible to all; (3) Co-designing the space to foster ownership; (4) reflecting a new brand of space through contextually sensitive interiors. Findings suggest that these four community-based mechanisms were used to enact a vernacular brand of Islamic spaces in the US through communicating an inclusive hidden program of space.
Long-term Lease on Waqf Lands in Khorezm: A New Form of Privileges of Sacred Lineages
Authors: Yakubov Qahramon
Published: December 2023

The aim of this paper is to examine the mechanism of long-term lease on religious endowment (waq f) lands in Khorezm. In particular, the primary focus of the present study is twofold. Firstly, it investigates the practice of long-term lease on waq f lands on the basis of rental contracts, as well as other concomitant records from 19th-century Khorezm. Secondly, this study examines the social background of and reciprocal relations between participants, who were involved in long-term lease operations. As becomes evident from the documents under study, the family members of Muḥammad Šarīf Īšān, a prominent figure of the Naqshbandiyyah-Mujaddidiyyah in Khorezm, acted in the capacity of trustee (mutawallī) of waq f properties of the Sayyid Muḥammad Raḥīm Ḫān’s madrasa in Khiva, regularly commissioned and financially supported by the ruler himself, as well as other representatives of the Qonghrat dynasty (1770-1920). Moreover, members of Muḥammad Šarīf Īšān’s family also participated as tenants of occasionally large waq f assets in long-term lease contracts. To this end, this study posits that the employment of long-term lease practice on waq f land was a principal means of providing financial support by the Khivan ruling circles to various Sufi lineages in Khorezm. Thus, the long-term lease operation clearly illustrates yet another pattern of patronage between the ruling dynasty and descendants of a particular Sufi lineage, as well as an additional source of income and financial privilege of the latter.
Taxonomic notes on Brandisia (Orobanchaceae)
Authors: ZHOU ZHUO , CHEN ZHE , GUO ZE-MIN , DO TRUONG VAN , NIU YANG , SUN HANG
Published: January 2024

Field investigations and specimen examination revealed no obvious morphological differences among Brandisia chevalieri Bonati, B. discolor J.D.Hooker & Thomson, and B. scandens Bonati. This observation, coupled with previously established phylogenetic evidence, confirms B. chevalieri and B. scandens as synonyms of B. discolor. The issue concerning the type designation of B. discolor has been sorted out and clarified. A key to the species of Brandisia is also provided.
The Lithuanian Origin of One of the Polish Dialectal Names of Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare L.)
Authors: Waniakowa Jadwiga
Published: January 2024

This article attempts to establish the etymology of the Polish dialectal name czyżma, which refers to common tansy, Tanacetum vulgare L. This name occurs in the Suwałki region. The analysis conducted shows that the Polish dial. czyżma ‘tansy’ and Polish ciżma ‘type of shoe used in the old days’ have nothing to do with each other. The Suwałki dialectal name of tansy is a loanword from Lithuanian. It comes from the Lithuanian čižmà ‘common tansy, Tanacetum vulgare L.’. The Lithuanian form is most likely a derivative of the verb čìžti, and its semantic motivation is the density (compactness) of the plant’s inflorescences or stiffness of its stems.
Sąsiedzi przez Bałtyk. Szwedzi i Kaszubi w prozie Augustyna Necla
Authors: Kuik-Kalinowska Adela
Published: January 2024

W artykule przeprowadzono analizę ujęć Pomorza jako miejsca współistnienia tradycji kulturowych różnych narodów i grup etnicznych. Pomorze w literaturze kaszubskiej opisywane jest jako bogaty kulturowo obszar pogranicza (w tym przypadku słowiańsko-germańskiego bądź też bałtycko-słowiańskiego); także i tutaj można wyznaczyć miejsca, wydarzenia i ośrodki kształtujące oblicze „sąsiedzkie” tych ziem w medium literatury kaszubskiej, a także polskiej czy niemieckiej. Poza czynnikami ściśle historycznymi także niektórzy literaci kreowali tę przestrzeń „styku kultur” jako krainę szczególnie ważną, interesującą poprzez polsko-kaszubsko-niemieckie sąsiedztwo, wojny polsko-szwedzkie, a także wspólnotę egzystencji rybackiej i surowość natury. Szczególnie ważna w tym kontekście jest twórczość kaszubskiego pisarza Augustyna Necla, a zwłaszcza jego polskojęzyczne powieści takie jak: Krwawy sztorm, Złote klucze, Kutry o czerwonych żaglach czy też zbiór W niewoli białych purtków. Podania i gawędy z Wybrzeża.
‘We see they are abandoned’: Social support between people discharged from long-term psychiatric hospitalizations and their neighbors in Argentina
Authors: Murlender Liza , Choe Karen , Fernandez Marina Ayelén , Agrest Martin , Ardila-Gómez Sara Elena
Published: December 2023

Background:

Neighbors are an important component of personal social network (PSN) and despite their peripheral role and being considered as familiar strangers, they typically provide instrumental support. For people who is discharged after long-term psychiatric hospitalizations, neighbors would offer other types of social support and play a different role fostering the process of becoming full member of a given community.

Aims:

To analyze the effects of neighboring on both, those who have had long-term psychiatric hospitalizations and their neighbors.

Method:

Data was collected between 2020 and 2021, including interviews with formal care staff of three housing support experiences in Argentina, and short testimonies from formerly discharged mental health service users living in the community and their neighbors. We analyzed the data using the Framework Method with a focus on the different aspects of social support and equity and reciprocity theories.

Results:

Results suggest that emotional support was a frequent function displayed by neighbors toward people with a history of long-term psychiatric hospitalizations, which differs from typical neighboring relationships.

Conclusions:

Despite reciprocity was observed, users and neighbors displayed an unbalanced helping relationship.
Effect of peach peel on shape memory properties of polylactic acid
Authors: Eroğlu Murat
Published: January 2024

In this study, two different peach peel powders were produced using the sieving process: with fiber (filler-fiber powder) and without fiber (filler powder). To investigate the effects of the prepared powders on the shape memory properties of PLA, PLA/Filler (wt%90 PLA: wt%10 filler) and PLA/Fiber-Filler (wt%90 PLA: wt%10 Fiber-Filler) biocomposite films were prepared by the solvent casting technique. The shape memory properties of the films, such as shape fixity ratio and shape recovery ratio, were determined by the bending test. For the PLA film, the shape fixity ratio is 81 ± 5%. When filler powders are applied, the shape fixity ratio is unaffected. However, when fiber-filler powder is added, the shape fixity ratio drops to 75 ± 1%. The shape recovery ratio for PLA film is 50 ± 7%. The shape recovery ratio increases to 54 ± 4% when filler powder is added. However, the percentage of shape recovery ratio remains the same when filler-fiber powders are added. Shape memory performance can be enhanced by adding peach peel filler powder to the PLA. The peach peel filler can be considered as a cost-effective filler to improve the shape memory properties of PLA-based biocomposites. As a result, peach peel filler reinforced PLA based composite films may be possible low-cost and biodegreadable shape memory material candidates for a variety of industries like aerospace and soft robotics.
The New Age and the awakening of a decolonial consciousness from Mexico
Authors: DE LA TORRE Renée , GUTIÉRREZ ZÚÑIGA Cristina
Published: December 2023

This article underlines another aspect of New Age spirituality developed in Mexico: although emerging from the Global North, it is also a matrix that gives value to those elements excluded by modernity and produces decolonial critiques and deconstructions from the Global South. The authors analyse four strands of neo-Mexican spirituality in which the decolonial perspective is corroborated: (1) the rise of post-national ethnic nations; (2) the criticism of patriarchy and the emergence of ecofeminist spiritualities; (3) the critique of capitalism and the alternatives of sustainable economy; and (4) the consumption of sacred plants and medicines as a spot where the struggle of indigenous ontologies and modern epistemologies takes place.