bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Migrant physicians’ unlocking of gateways to practise their knowledge: A qualitative quasi-longitudinal study
Authors: Sturesson Stabel Linda , Öhlander Magnus , Stenfors Terese
Published: March 2023

This study explores the establishment experiences of physicians in the Swedish medical context who have been trained outside the European Union. The study used a qualitative approach with a quasi-longitudinal research design. The data were gathered via 63 semi-structured interviews with migrant physicians at three different periods. The data were analysed using qualitative thematic content analysis, adopting the theory on the context dependence of knowledge, which includes different forms of knowledge as sensitising concepts in the discussion. The MPs perceived themselves as having the medical knowledge (encoded knowledge) needed to work in Sweden. However, they perceived that they needed to develop knowledge of how to use the encoded knowledge in the Swedish medical context. The needed knowledge was thus foremost encultured, embedded, embodied, or embrained. The results are presented in the following themes:medical knowledge; knowledge of the healthcare system and its variations; knowledge of administrative routines; understanding the role as a physician,interaction and hierarchies between physicians and other healthcare staff; understanding the interaction and hierarchies between physicians and patients; and knowledge of the Swedish language. Knowledge, as described in the themes, function as gateways that needs to be unlocked for practising medicine in a new context. Embedded, embrained, embodied, and encultured knowledge interact and are interdependent, and the different forms of knowledge work as gateways to other forms of knowledge, and thus, they open for each other. However, to pass the gateways, managing the common language is important. We conclude that language is an enabler and a key to unlocking gateways to practise.
Time dependency and unique etiology of barotrauma in COVID-19: A retrospective cohort study with landmark analysis and pathological approach
Authors: Kabuto Takafumi , Seo Ryutaro , Miyakoshi Chisato , Shimizu Yuri , Shima Yusuke , Yamashita Daisuke , Hara Shigeo , Hirabayashi Ryosuke , Tomii Keisuke , Takayama Masakazu , Tetsumoto Keisuke , Saito Masao , Hamakawa Hiroshi , Suki Bela , Takahashi Yutaka
Published: March 2023

Background

Barotrauma frequently occurs in coronavirus disease 2019. Previous studies have reported barotrauma to be a mortality-risk factor; however, its time-dependent nature and pathophysiology are not elucidated. To investigate the time-dependent characteristics and the etiology of coronavirus disease 2019-related-barotrauma.

Methods and findings

We retrospectively reviewed intubated patients with coronavirus disease 2019 from March 2020 to May 2021. We compared the 90-day survival between the barotrauma and non-barotrauma groups and performed landmark analyses on days 7, 14, 21, and 28. Barotrauma within seven days before the landmark was defined as the exposure. Additionally, we evaluated surgically treated cases of coronavirus disease 2019-related pneumothorax.

We included 192 patients. Barotrauma developed in 44 patients (22.9%). The barotrauma group’s 90-day survival rate was significantly worse (47.7% vs. 82.4%, p < 0.001). In the 7-day landmark analysis, there was no significant difference (75.0% vs. 75.7%, p = 0.79). Contrastingly, in the 14-, 21-, and 28-day landmark analyses, the barotrauma group’s survival rates were significantly worse (14-day: 41.7% vs. 69.1%, p = 0.044; 21-day: 16.7% vs. 62.5%, p = 0.014; 28-day: 20.0% vs. 66.7%, p = 0.018). Pathological examination revealed a subpleural hematoma and pulmonary cyst with heterogenous lung inflammation.

Conclusions

Barotrauma was a poor prognostic factor for coronavirus disease 2019, especially in the late phase. Heterogenous inflammation may be a key finding in its mechanism. Barotrauma is a potentially important sign of lung destruction.
Teter, M. (2020). Blood Libel. On the Trail of an Antisemitic Myth. Cambridge-Massachusetts: Harvard University Press. 560 pp. ISBN: 978-06-74240933
Authors: Maciel Regalado Cynthia
Published: March 2023

Reseña: Teter, M. (2020). Blood Libel. On the Trail of an Antisemitic Myth. Cambridge-Massachusetts: Harvard University Press. 560 pp. ISBN: 978-06-74240933.
La violencia de la comunidad. Movilizaciones colectivas, luchas antiseñoriales y control del territorio en la sublevación de Toledo de 1449
Authors: López Gómez Óscar
Published: March 2023

En 1449 se produjo en Toledo una de las rebeliones populares de mayor relevancia en la Castilla del siglo XV. Referida por todas las crónicas de la época, en ella el común de la ciudad puso en cuestión tanto la legitimidad gubernativa del rey como los mecanismos de integración en la societas christiana de los nuevos convertidos a la fe católica. Dada la trascendencia de tales hechos, el episodio siempre ha tenido un gran impacto bibliográfico, reseñándose en múltiples publicaciones. La información sobre la revuelta, aun así, suele ser iterativa, viéndose muy condicionada por una metodología con un enfoque centrado en la “cuestión conversa” y por una falta de nuevas fuentes de estudio que obstaculiza el análisis. A tenor de esto, el presente trabajo replantea el punto de vista a la hora de examinar los alborotos, insistiéndose en lo relevante de la cultura política y la opinión pública, y en su naturaleza de alzamiento en comunidad, con rasgos parecidos a los que tendría la sublevación de los comuneros. Por otro lado, se aportan informaciones inéditas que dan frescura al relato de los hechos y que permiten una aproximación más inmediata a lo ocurrido. Y, por último, se abre una vía de estudio sin explorar, la de la participación en los altercados de las villas y aldeas del entorno de Toledo, que rompe con la imagen eminentemente urbana que ha venido ofreciéndose de la sublevación y que multiplica las posibilidades de acercamiento a los disturbios, pasando de lo urbano a lo territorial.
Posar-li fi a les rancors. La firma de paus i treves en València a finals de l’Edat Mitjana (1470-1479)
Authors: Barber Blasco Alberto
Published: March 2023

La violència ha estat sempre present al llarg de la història i les formes per resoldre aquests conflictes han anat variant en la seua forma. El present estudi esbossa de quina manera es personalitzava i es posava fi a la violència interpersonal en la València de finals del segle XV. La metodologia emprada per dur-lo a terme ha sigut mitjançant l’examinació documental d’un tipus de font judicial específica com són les paus i treves. Aquesta recerca ens ha permés conéixer i posar en correlació el nivell d’efectivitat que tingueren els discursos literaris per part d’alguns moralistes, i si es complien les pautes segons les quals es podia fer ús de la violència segons la legislació foral valenciana. A partir de l’anàlisi de les paus i treves que es registraren a la cort del Justícia Criminal s’ha estimat quina era la quantitat de firmes anuals d’aquests pactes en un tribunal públic en comparació amb altres mecanismes d’índole més privada, quins foren els protagonistes que amb major freqüència recorregueren a aquests arbitratges, la seua condició social o el seu ofici, i quins motius els portaren a signar-les. Al mateix temps, s’han agrupat i classificat aquelles paus que foren fetes per individus que pertanyeren al mateix ofici tractant de donar una explicació als motius que pogueren dur-los a enfrontar-se. D’aquesta manera, hem pogut constatar la quotidianitat de la violència que es produïa en un espai urbà com era la ciutat de València, a la qual calia posar-li fi de manera pública acudint a la cort criminal.
Jara Fuente, J. A. (Coord.) (2021). Emociones políticas y políticas de la emoción. Las sociedades urbanas en la Baja Edad Media. Madrid: Dykinson S.L. 229 pp. ISBN: 978-84-1377-954-6 / ISBN electrónico: 978-84-1122-031-6
Authors: Muñoz Gómez Víctor
Published: March 2023

Reseña: Jara Fuente, J. A. (Coord.) (2021). Emociones políticas y políticas de la emoción. Las sociedades urbanas en la Baja Edad Media. Madrid: Dykinson S.L. 229 pp. ISBN: 978-84-1377-954-6 / ISBN electrónico: 978-84-1122-031-6
Red Pilled - The Allure of Digital Hate
Authors: Munn Luke
Published: March 2023

Hate is being reinvented. Over the last two decades, online platforms have been used to repackage racist, sexist and xenophobic ideologies into new sociotechnical forms. Digital hate is ancient but novel, deploying the Internet to boost its allure and broaden its appeal. To understand the logic of hate, Luke Munn investigates four objects: 8chan, the cesspool of the Internet, QAnon, the popular meta-conspiracy, Parler, a social media site, and Gab, the »platform for the people.« Drawing together powerful human stories with insights from media studies, psychology, political science, and race and cultural studies, he portrays how digital hate infiltrates hearts and minds.
Desambiguação do vocábulo jogo a partir de uma análise semântica histórica e o atual contexto de ubiquidade do entretenimento
Authors: Dias Avanço Leonardo
Published: March 2023

O objetivo deste ensaio foi trabalhar a desambiguação de sentidos da palavra jogo. Tal trabalho justifica-se à medida que se toma conhecimento do fenômeno da ubiquidade do entretenimento. Para tanto, situando-se no campo de estudos da transdisciplina Humanidades Digitais, em primeiro lugar, o ensaio traça um panorama geral do fenômeno da ubiquidade do entretenimento no seio de uma sociedade na qual os processos de digitalização evoluem de maneira veloz. Em segunda etapa, analisa processos que tornam a palavra jogo ambígua a partir de estudos da linguagem, bem como lógicas sociais de denominação que subjazem seus usos. Por fim, em terceiro lugar, entendido como fonte etimológica do termo jogo, o vocábulo ludus é abordado a partir de suas lógicas de designação. Como resultados e conclusões, por um lado, foi possível desvelar uma raiz do fenômeno da ubiquidade do entretenimento ao se estudar atuais lógicas sociais de denominação do jogo, ao passo que, por outro lado, descobriu-se que, no atual estágio da era digital, usos do vocábulo jogo vêm recuperando sentidos antes vinculados à palavra ludus, sobretudo quando se considera que, atualmente, o jogo vem desenvolvendo cada vez mais uma noção que o relaciona normalmente com formas de aprendizagem.
Dinâmica da ocupação e formação do território na região do médio Araguaia, no sudoeste tocantinense e a expansão da produção de grãos
Authors: Vergara Roberta Mara de Oliveira , Luz Rodolfo Alves da , Figueroa Fernán Enrique Vergara
Published: March 2023

O artigo apresenta uma reflexão sobre a dinâmica de ocupação e a formação do território na região do médio Araguaia, no sudoeste tocantinense, considerando o papel fundamental e estruturador da agricultura irrigada para a produção de grãos. A disponibilidade de recursos hídricos, possibilitou que a região se tornasse uma das maiores produtoras de grãos, arroz e soja, do Estado e de maior representatividade no contexto nacional. A presente pesquisa, analisou a evolução do uso e ocupação da terra ao longo de 30 anos, no período de 1988 a 2018, considerando que a ocupação pela monocultura de grãos ocorreu no início da década de 1980, época em que não contemplava nenhum estudo de impacto ambiental de médio e longo prazo, para o modelo agrícola adotado. As consequências, como o conflito pelo uso da água, em razão da substituição de áreas florestadas por pastagem e agricultura impactaram o ciclo hidrológico na região, alterando na quantidade e distribuição de chuvas. O conhecimento da dinâmica das transformações ocorridas, possibilita tomadas de decisões e estratégias que vissem a melhor gestão dos recursos hídricos, uma vez que a região depende dos sistemas de irrigação para garantir a produção de grãos.
Territorialização do capital agroflorestal sobre o uso da terra na Região Tocantina do Maranhão, Brasil
Authors: Oliveira Allison Bezerra , Paz Diego Armando de Sousa , Salles José Sérgio de Jesus
Published: March 2023

O objetivo principal do artigo é analisar o processo de territorialização do capital agroflorestal sobre o uso da terra em municípios produtores de eucalipto na Região Tocantina do Maranhão. Metodologicamente, o trabalho foi divido em três etapas: a) geração de dados secundários; b) geração de dados primários; e, por fim, c) o desenvolvimento literário, conjuntamente com a compilação dos resultados, a partir da análise e sistematização dos dados coletados. Os resultados obtidos apontam que há um avanço da fronteira agroflorestal na Região Tocantina do Maranhão, o qual conta com diversos meios de apropriação como compra, arrendamento, especulação, grilagem etc. Dessa forma, criam-se novas condições de uso da terra, que implicam alterações das relações do sujeito no território, subordinando antigas formas de uso ao grande capital agroflorestal.
Trabalho escravo feminino e narrativas de trabalhadoras rurais no Brasil
Authors: Rodrigues Sávio José Dias , Bezerra Amanda Ribeiro
Published: March 2023

Análise das formas de precarização e do aliciamento para o trabalho escravo de mulheres, a partir de dados de resgatadas de trabalho escravo e de relatos de trabalhadoras e suas experiências em situações de migração. Utilizamos revisão bibliográfica em torno da questão de gênero, além de sistematização de dados da Comissão Pastoral da Terra para categorizar e diferenciar trabalhadoras resgatadas de trabalho escravo e entrevistas com trabalhadoras migrantes. Os dados apontam um pequeno número de trabalhadoras que são resgatadas. Essa baixa incidência, tem uma forte relação com uma naturalização de trabalhos precários para mulheres, sobretudo, os trabalhos domésticos. Os relatos apontam situações de trabalho doméstico que reserva à mulher a condição de subalterna.
Vulnerabilidade social, saúde mental, educação e solidariedade no Brasil, em tempos da COVID-19
Authors: Laurentino dos Santos Ivone
Published: March 2023

A crise sanitária mundial, provocada pela COVID-19, afetou a qualidade de vida da população brasileira, causando danos a sua saúde mental. Tal contexto traz para o debate bioético a urgência de implementar políticas públicas que amparem os excluídos sociais. Este estudo tem como escopo a reflexão sobre fenômenos que impactam na saúde mental dos brasileiros, como desigualdade social, marginalização, exclusão e extrema pobreza, corroborando com a criação solidária de mecanismos éticos de proteção para os socialmente mais vulneráveis. Foi feita uma revisão integrativa de literatura, alicerçada no artigo 14 da Declaração sobre Bioética, com foco na condição de não liberdade dos “Condenados da terra”. Evidencia-se a necessidade de uma parceria que coadune a luta por um projeto de educação libertadora, que transforme a saúde mental — de modo a assegurar dignidade a todos — com a proposta de construção de uma bioética interventiva, plural e solidária, habilitada a enfrentar as disparidades sociais que fazem com que os “oprimidos” sofram múltiplas privações e diminuem suas chances de desenvolver plenamente suas habilidades, capacidades e potencialidades.
Mascarilla o mascarada
Authors: Gallego Borghini Lorenzo
Published: March 2023

Por su omnipresencia, la mascarilla se ha convertido en un símbolo de esta época de pandemia. En algunos países, como España, la obligación de llevarla se ha extendido incluso a los espacios abiertos y a las escuelas. Hemos aceptado el sacrificio de cubrir nuestros rostros como medida de contención de la epidemia, es decir, para salvar vidas. Sin embargo, en el momento de adoptar esta medida no había datos suficientes que la justificasen y los datos que van apareciendo parecen corroborar lo que se dijo entonces. Si no hay datos científicos que avalen con rotundidad una medida tan intrusiva, la justificación se desvanece. Debemos exigir que se analicen con sinceridad los datos para aclarar si el sacrificio realmente ha servido de algo.
Limitations to the Implied Powers of International Organizations
Authors: Gadkowski Andrzej
Published: March 2023

The aim of this article is to present the main aspects of limitations to the implied powers of international organizations. The author discusses the most important case law and the position on this topic presented, in particular, by the International Court of Justice. He points to the most salient categories in the catalogue of the limits of implied powers of international organizations.
The Right to Disconnect in the Context of Employees’ Mental Health
Authors: Dolobáč Marcel , Skolodová Katarína
Published: March 2023

The development of technology has a significant impact and creates new requirements in the field of labour-law relations. One of these requirements is the protection of occupational health and safety by preventing the blurring of boundaries between employees’ work and private lives. The most important means which is currently the subject of discussions in the professional community, but also in practice, is the right to disconnect. This paper is devoted exactly to this right, its perception at the level of the institutions of the European Union, and its legal enshrinement in the legislation of the Slovak Republic.
The Qualification of Action in Administrative Justice and its Perils – the Czech Experience
Authors: Svoboda Tomáš , Skládalová Denisa
Published: March 2023

This paper concerns the system of the ‘main’ types of administrative action in the Czech administrative justice, more precisely the qualification of the ‘correct’ type of an action. The boundaries between action types are not always clear, which has consequences for the protection of applicants’ rights in the administrative justice proceedings. The first part of the paper deals with the theoretical level of the problem outlined. The second part deals with some recent changes in Czech case law and proposes possible solutions.
Design and functional preliminary investigation of recombinant antigen EgG1Y162–EgG1Y162 against Echinococcus granulosus
Authors: Zhou Yanxia , Zhao Shangqi , Li Yanmin , Yu Mingkai , Zheng Jia , Gong Qiaoqiao , Cao Chunbao , Ding Jianbing , Zhou Xiaotao
Published: March 2023

In the early stage, our research group cloned Echinococcus granulosus-specific antigen, EgG1Y162, from protoscolex and adult worms of E. granulosus. In order to enhance the immunogenicity of the vaccine, we prepared a recombinant vaccine by tandemly linking EgG1Y162, splicing the protein and linker at the gene level. This approach is expected to improve the immunogenicity of the vaccine by enhancing the molecular weight of the protein and increasing the antigenic epitopes. Bioinformatics was used to predict the physicochemical properties, transmembrane domain, protein structure, and T-/B-cell antigenic epitope of different recombinant proteins, EgG1Y162-linker-EgG1Y162. Finally, the linker sequence, “GGGGSGGG,” which had the least influence on the migration of recombinant protein T/B epitope and can fold normally in series with EgG1Y162, was selected to design the recombinant vaccine. The plasmid was produced using genetic engineering techniques, and the recombinant protein, EGG1Y162-GGGGSGGG-EgG1Y162, was induced to be expressed and purified. EgG1Y162-GGGGSGGG-EgG1Y162 was identified to be correctly expressed with 100% specificity. Compared with EgG1Y162, EgG1Y162-GGGGSGGG-EgG1Y162 was more likely to promote dendritic cell maturation. EgG1Y162-GGGGSGGG-EgG1Y162 was speculated to have the potential to improve antigen immunogenicity by increasing the molecular weight and antigenic epitope.
Effect of pressurized hot water extraction on the resistance of Scots pine sapwood against mould fungi
Authors: Kyyrö Suvi , Altgen Michael , Belt Tiina , Seppäläinen Hanna , Brischke Christian , Heinze Petra , Militz Holger , Rautkari Lauri
Published: March 2023

The effects of pressurized hot water extraction (HWE) treatment on the mould resistance of wood have not been extensively investigated yet. The activity of the mould fungi is dependent on the availability of nutrients. Therefore, the soluble degradation products produced during HWE treatment could affect the wood’s susceptibility to mould growth. Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) sapwood specimens were treated with HWE at 140 °C for 1–5 h. Afterwards, the degradation products were either removed via leaching or the wood was dried without applying the leaching procedure. The surface layer (1.5 mm) was removed from half of the leached and non-leached specimens. The resistance of the specimens against mould growth was tested in an incubation chamber. HWE treated wood showed a higher susceptibility to mould growth when it was neither leached nor subjected to surface removal. The susceptibility of wood to mould fungi depended on the availability of hemicellulose-based degradation products produced during HWE treatment. These degradation products were removable via a leaching procedure, but also by removing the outermost layer of the wood. The results show the relevance of removing HWE degradation products located on the wood surface in improving resistance against mould growth.
Addressing loneliness in the workplace through human-robot interaction
Authors: Busch Melina , Lindermayer Tim , Schuster Klara , Zhang Jonas , von Terzi Pia
Published: March 2023

New work has been a topic for a few years now and the COVID-19 pandemic has brought this trend more into focus, i.e., working remotely became more popular. However, besides various advantages, there is the risk of loneliness in employees, which can negatively affect their work performance and mental health. Research in different domains suggests that social robots could reduce loneliness. Since we were interested in whether and how such findings are transferable to the office context, we developed and tested a concept for a social office robot. More specifically, we first conducted a cultural probes study with white-collar workers to gain information about workplace loneliness and its drivers. Second, we explored design possibilities for a social office robot in a focus group. Based on the results, we created a concrete concept, Luca, which we finally evaluated and optimized with the help of interviews with participants from various industries. The present work contributes to HRI research and practice, e.g., by providing design recommendations for the implementation of a social office robot. Future research could investigate the effectiveness of a social office robot intervention in field studies. Next to implications for research and practice, potential limitations are discussed.
Hot carrier generation in a strongly coupled molecule–plasmonic nanoparticle system
Authors: Kluczyk-Korch Katarzyna , Antosiewicz Tomasz J.
Published: March 2023

In strongly coupled light matter systems electronic energy levels become inextricably linked to local electromagnetic field modes. Hybridization of these states opens new relaxation pathways in the system, particularly important for plasmon decay into single electron states, known as hot carriers. We investigate the influence of the coupling strength between a plasmonic resonator and a molecule on hot carrier generation using first principles calculations. An atomistic approach allows the capture of changes in the electronic structure of the system. We show that hot carriers are not only preferably generated at excitation frequencies matching the new polaritonic resonances, but their energy distribution strongly deviates from the one corresponding to the non-interacting system. This indicates existence of new plasmon decay paths due to appearance of hybridized nanoparticle–molecule states. We observe also direct electron transfer between the plasmonic nanoparticle and the molecule. Therefore, we may conclude, that bringing plasmonic nanostructures in strong interaction with molecules gives the ability to manipulate the energy distribution of the generated hot carriers and opens possibility for charge transfer in the system.
Tiger Amulet inspired high-security holographic encryption via liquid crystals
Authors: Huang Xianjing , Zhu Dong , Zhou Zhou , Chen Kuixian , Zheng Guoxing , Chen Peng , Lu Yan-Qing , Li Zile
Published: March 2023

Due to the precise and continuous regulation of phase, holographic encryption based on metasurfaces and liquid crystals (LCs) has been proposed to encrypt the information by manipulating the wavelength, polarization, etc. However, the security cannot be fully guaranteed since the requirements of decoding methods for these schemes are generally not very strict and vulnerable for exhaustive attack. Furthermore, any part of the hologram stolen may lead to the disclosure of the hidden information regardless of the generation mode of phase delay or the selection of media material, so the security needs to be further improved. Here, inspired by Tiger Amulet, embodying the encryption consciousness of ancient China, we propose a simple but effective encryption method and design a “four-in-one” hologram based on photopatterned LCs. Specifically, the most important encrypted image can only be displayed when the four LC holograms in the same group are spliced into a whole according to the designed order. On the contrary, the camouflage information would be displayed if the holograms are placed in the optical path separately or spliced in wrong order. It is even more interesting that with the LC directors tilted with applied external voltages, the holographic efficiency of the LC hologram will change accordingly. This sets further demanding requirement on the decryption condition and thus increases the encryption security. With the advantages of simple design, high security, and low crosstalk, our encryption scheme has great potential in the fields of information hiding and image encryption.
Evaluation of qSOFA and variation of hematochemical profile in cats naturally infected with feline panleukopenia virus
Authors: Gülersoy Erdem , Erol Büşra Burcu , Ok Mahmut , Sevinç Mutlu
Published: March 2023

Feline panleukopenia (FP) is a fatal viral disease that predisposes cats to sepsis and organ failure. Owing to a wide variety of clinical findings, hematochemical examinations are significant for the determination of early signs of disease-related complications. The aim of this study is to investigate the diagnostic efficacy of certain hematochemical parameters together with quick Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) in cats with FP. A total of 10 healthy and 30 panleukopenic cats were included in this study. Physical examinations revealed that the body temperature was highest in septic panleukopenic cats (p < 0.009) and they had higher qSOFA scores (p = 0.000). Hemogram analysis revealed that leukocyte, lymphocyte, granulocyte, erythrocyte, and hemoglobin levels were lower in non-septic panleukopenic cats compared with the healthy ones (p < 0.030). Also, monocyte and mean corpuscular hemoglobin levels were lower in septic ones (p < 0.048). Serum biochemistry profiling revealed higher blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, total bilirubin, and C-reactive protein levels in panleukopenic cats (p < 0.033). As a result, it was concluded that although the qSOFA is not sufficient to distinguish sepsis in cats, unlike dogs, in order to achieve a positive clinical outcome, when evaluated together with hematochemical variables, it may help in making early diagnosis of FP-related complications.
Effect of functionalized graphene addition on mechanical and thermal properties of high density polyethylene
Authors: Aitbelale Rachid , Timesli Abdelaziz
Published: March 2023

High density polyethylene (HDPE)/graphene nanocomposites were successfully synthesized by compounding of HDPE, as polymer matrix, with hexamethylenediamine functionalized graphene. The resulting nanocomposite was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) techniques. SEM characterization confirmed the good dispersion (homogeneous and uniform) of graphene in the polyethylene matrix. The TGA technique revealed a slight improvement in thermal resistance. Functionalized graphene improved a better thermal stability of HDPE (up to 6 °C) than non-functionalized graphene (up to 2 °C). Mechanical tensile and torsion tests showed that HDPE/functionalized graphene nanocomposites exhibit high tensile strength and low torsional strength compared to HDPE/non-functionalized graphene nanocomposites. Compared to pure HDPE, the Young’s modulus increased by 80% and 30%, whereas, the torsion modulus increased by about 34% and 44% for the HDPE/functionalized and HDPE/non-functionalized graphene, respectively. Regardless of this increase, it can be seen that the torsion modulus of HDPE/non-functionalized graphene is much higher than that of HDPE/functionalized graphene.
Associated health risk assessment due to exposure to BTEX compounds in fuel station workers
Authors: Muda Iskandar , Mohammadi Mohammad Javad , Sepahvad Arefeh , Farhadi Ali , Fadhel Obaid Rasha , Taherian Masoume , Alali Najeh , Chowdhury Shakhawat , Farhadi Majid
Published: March 2023

Objectives

The purpose of this review study was to assess the risk of exposure to BTEX compounds in gas station workers and operators.

Content

The main components of BTEX compounds are Benzene, Toluene, Ethyl benzene and Xylene. Petroleum, coal large quantities in crude oil and its products are the most important sources of BTEX compounds. These compounds have both high solubility (found in surface and underground waters) and evaporate quickly. Gas stations are one of the most important sources of emission of these compounds in communities. Workers who work in these places have a lot of exposure to these compounds. Exposure to these dangerous compounds can cause many problems for workers. This study was a narrative review article. According to different databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Springer, Cochran and Science Direct, 451 articles were retrieved. 55 full-text articles entered into the analysis process. Finally, 32 articles were selected in this study. The search was restricted to English-language papers published between 1 February 1995 and 13 August 2022. The results of our study showed that the carcinogenic risk (ILCR) for gas station workers in Bangkok (1.82 ∗ 10−4 − 2.50 ∗ 10−4), Shiraz (6.49∗10−7 − 1.27 ∗ 10−5), Brazil (1.82 ∗ 10−4), Ardabil (390∗10−6 ± 1884 ∗ 10−6) and Johannesburg (3.78 ∗ 10−4) was high. The non-cancer risk for oil industry workers of Dilijan (Iran) who were exposed to toluene was also reported in the range of 10−6∗176. The health of gas station workers is affected by exposure to BTEX and gasoline vapor emissions. According to the result this study, BTEX compounds cause genotoxic changes, chromosomal and genetic abnormalities.

Summary and Outlook

Genotoxicity at high levels in gas station workers can cause cancerous and non-cancerous risks. Improving the production process of diesel fuel and gasoline in refineries, using periodical examinations of workers and operators at gas and fuel stations, using Euro 4 and 5 fuels, and replacing worn out cars can play an important role in reducing the emission of BTEX compounds and thus reducing health risks and carcinogenic.
Structural analysis of potassium-doped calcium chromite (Ca1−x
K
x
Cr2O4) nanoparticles synthesized by sol-gel method
Authors: Siddiqui Rabia , Rani Malika , Shakoor Abdul , Atiq Shahid , Neffati Riadh
Published: March 2023

Doping of potassium in CaCr2O4 as Ca1−x
K
x
Cr2O4 with x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8, using sol-gel technique, to see the structural changes in a regular and periodic variation of K-ions. XRD pattern shows a reduction in peak intensities of CaCr2O4 after potassium doping, principally owing to bonding with Alkali metal in heat treatment of Ca1−x
K
x
Cr2O4. It revealed that active species might be confined in the non-crystalline phase, thus impeding their reactivity. XRD of grown samples show their cell parameters of hexagonal crystal symmetry. Morphology of samples in SEM, exhibited the introduction of potassium into the medium of transition metal oxide effects in the development of channeled or layered assemblies. Constituents of synthesized material [Ca1−x
K
x
Cr2O4], presenting vibrational stretching of constituent elements as observed in Raman Spectra. The structure of doped sample is predicted favorable for energy storing devices, as having distortion (amorphous linings) in its crystal structure when compared to un doped one, that evident the novelty of this work.
Exploring the Differential Impact of COVID-19 on the Greater Toronto Area: A Literature Review
Authors: Nadesan Praveen
Published: March 2023

As a large urban centre, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) quickly faced the impact of COVID-19. Certain GTA communities referred to as hotspots suffered the most with greater disease transmission and confirmed cases. This literature review explores the differential impact of COVID-19 on GTA communities with regards to hotspot geography, sociodemographic and socioeconomic factors, minority groups, government action, and vaccine distribution. Geographical mapping of COVID-19 hotspots within the GTA revealed an unequal disease burden. These hotspots included individuals of vulnerable sociodemographic groups and lower socioeconomic status. COVID-19's impact on specific minority groups shows that pre-pandemic inequities have been exacerbated. The Canadian government and its municipalities showed a lack of preparation when handling COVID-19. Likewise, inequitable vaccine distribution was noticed in hotspots. Current literature lacks standardization of case count data across the GTA regions, lacks information on multiple sociodemographic factors, and focuses primarily on the City of Toronto. This review established that the inequal burden of COVID-19 demonstrates the ongoing inequities throughout social structures. To effectively control this pandemic, policymakers should use this information to implement equitable changes.
FORMATION OF THE FUTURE PRIMARY SCHOOLTEACHERS’ SCIENCE COMPETENCE UNDER THE CONDITIONS OF THE PEDAGOGICAL PROFESSIONAL COLLEGE
Authors: Borys Uliana
Published: March 2023

The article reveals the peculiarities of the formation of future primary school teachers’ science competence as a basis for professional training. In the system of future primary school teachers’ professional training, a prominent place is given to natural science education. It is noted that the implementation of the State Standard of Primary General Education in Ukraine, in particular the separation of the educational field "Natural Science", poses new tasks for higher education institutions to improve the quality of future primary school teachers’ professional training. It is novice teachers who lay the foundations of students' natural science competence and ensure the formation of those concepts and ideas, which in the process of further education will serve as a basis for studying the subjects of science training (biology, chemistry, geography, physics, astronomy). The formation of the future teachers’ science competence is carried out in the process of studying natural sciences, in particular "Basics of Natural Science", "Methods of Teaching of Natural Science " and other subjects. It is concluded that among the key tasks of students’ professional training is ensuring the appropriate level of theoretical knowledge in the teaching methodology of "Natural Science"; development of practical and methodical skills; mastering the skills to correctly select methods, techniques and means of learning in the process of developing plans-summaries of natural science lessons; formation of pedagogical skills for organizing and managing the learning process in natural science lessons, etc. During these courses, future primary school teachers’ training is carried out through three stages: theoretical, laboratory-practical, educational-research. Types of practices (educational field, pedagogical) are analyzed. The educational and research work in the system of future primary school teachers’ professional training is characterized. Examples of the formation of future primary school teachers’ natural science competence in the Kolomyia Pedagogical College of the Ivano- Frankivsk Regional Council are given.

Keywords: competence, scientific competence, pedagogical conditions, educational trainings, integrated course "I Explore the World", professional training.
El aprendizaje contextual al servicio de la competencia literaria: ecología poética
Authors: Ortiz Aguirre Enrique , Hernández Tijera Ignacio
Published: March 2023

En este artículo, se presenta el aprendizaje contextual como innovación en la didáctica de la Literatura para fomentar la enseñanza-aprendizaje por competencias. Resulta llamativo que la innovación pueda encontrar propuestas que cohesionan el centro educativo con su entorno próximo y que promueven la interdisciplinariedad situando a los discentes en un contexto significativo en el que se desenvuelve lo competencial. Sin duda, además de ser enfoques innovadores, son perspectivas que nos acercan a un auténtico fomento de la lectura y a una mayor proximidad a la naturaleza proteica, pluridimensional y humana que habita en los textos literarios.
La lectura digital y sus conceptos: una propuesta analítica desde la Teoría Fundamentada
Authors: López-Andrada Concepción
Published: March 2023

La lectura digital es un fenómeno en crecimiento debido a la gran cantidad de información disponible en Internet y a la facilidad de acceso que ofrecen los dispositivos móviles y las aplicaciones de lectura. Este artículo examina el enfoque metodológico y el desarrollo analítico de la Teoría Fundamentada para investigar cómo los estudiantes universitarios experimentan y construyen significados mediante la lectura en pantalla. La lectura digital implica el uso de tecnologías de la información para acceder a textos de forma digital y puede tener implicaciones significativas para la forma en que los individuos adquieren y procesan información. Este artículo presenta una propuesta provisional para la investigación de la lectura en su definición más extensa. Es necesario realizar investigaciones que permitan analizar la lectura digital desde diferentes contextos y objetivos, concretamente, en este trabajo se analiza y fundamenta teóricamente el punto de partida de la categoría emergente lectura instrumental en relación con la circulación del conocimiento y el impacto de la lectura digital en el aprendizaje y el desarrollo de habilidades lectoras.
Connecting product design, process, and technology decisions to strengthen the solid hardwood business with a multi-step quality function deployment approach
Authors: Kühle Sebastian , Teischinger Alfred , Gronalt Manfred
Published: March 2023

Hardwood is currently underestimated with respect to its utilisation and its value creation potential. Due to changes in forest management in various countries, hardwood resources will become more important. However, solid hardwood (SH) production capacities, mainly structured as small to medium-sized enterprises (SME), are dropping or have dropped already because of changes in the wood products market. Enhancing the SH sector, the foundation of products, processes, and technology must be better understood. To support the SME SH business, the approach used here focuses on manufacturing processes of the first and secondary downstream industry. A multi-step Quality Function Deployment has been developed to match the manufacturing process with the product architecture, and a Process-Technology Matrix has been added to visualize the influence of technology on the manufacturing process. Both have been applied on three chosen hardwood products which are solid wood panel, parquet, and glued-laminated timber. The main contribution of the paper is a conceptual consideration with a conceptual framework rather than providing comprehensive solutions. Optimization potential exists within the SH manufacturing chain based on alternative the combinations of manufacturing processes and applied technologies.
A novel formaldehyde-free wood adhesive synthesized by straw soda lignin and polyethyleneimine
Authors: Peng Wenyao , Dong Cunjun , An Junjian , Zhang Guangyan , Wang Peng , Xie Yimin
Published: March 2023

To eliminate toxic formaldehyde from wood-based panels, a new formaldehyde-free wood adhesive (named OL/PEI adhesive) was synthesized by a reaction of oxidized lignin (OL) and polyethylenimine (PEI) reaction in the presence of sodium periodate. The curing mechanism of the OL/PEI adhesive was clarified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and solid-state cross-polarization magic angle spinning carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (CP/MAS13C-NMR) spectroscopy. The results showed that the sodium periodate could selectively oxidize wheat straw lignin to produce the ortho-quinone, and then the ortho-quinone in OL could further react with amino groups in PEI to form the OL/PEI adhesive. The as-prepared poplar particleboard was investigated with regard to hot-pressing temperature, the hot-pressing time, the OL/PEI weight ratio, and the dosage of OL/PEI adhesive. Under the optimum conditions, e.g., hot pressing temperature of 180 °C, hot pressing time of 13 min, the OL/PEI weight ratio of 1:1, and the dosage of 10%, OL/PEI adhesive was found to disperse evenly into the voids among the shavings of poplar particleboard, followed by the curing of OL/PEI adhesive using hot-pressing to form tightly bonds between the shavings. The resulting particleboard reached the requirement of mechanical properties (GB/T 4897.3-2003), higher water resistance properties, and better heating resistivity. This study demonstrated a new way to produce a formaldehyde-free wood adhesive with unique properties. This material could replace formaldehyde wood adhesive in wood bonding.
Intradermal suture post-surgical scar in external dacryocystorhinostomy: technique and patient satisfaction survey
Authors: Vadala Giuseppe , Pintor Emanuele Siotto
Published: March 2023

Purpose: Dacryocystorhinostomy surgery may result in significant postoperative scarring. Although other surgical techniques have been developed that achieve a better aesthetic result, the ab externo technique remains the gold standard for this procedure. We developed a telephone survey to evaluate the visual impact of postoperative skin scars associated with ab externo dacryocystorhinostomy. Methods: 470 patients underwent uncomplicated external dacryocystorhinostomy surgery by two consultant surgeons from January 2014 to December 2021. Skin incisions were closed using intradermic continuous suture with prolene 6.0. The exclusion criteria were cases of dacryo-phlegmon and lacrimal sac fistulae with skin maceration. The visual effect of the postoperative scar was evaluated, and the degree of patient satisfaction was measured by a questionnaire with four subjective perceptions of the scar (very good, good, bad, very bad) given by a physician in the first postoperative month. The survey responses were used as the basis for a literature review. Results: The survey received 470 responses (100%) Very good perception of the scar was achieved in 75,8% of patients. There were no other post-operative complications noted from medical records review. Conclusions: Given the small percentage of patients who complained of marked scarring, it should not be the main reason for deciding on the procedure for dacryocystorhinostomy, especially in elderly patients. Therefore, the surgical technique should be considered as a surgically acceptable choice if cosmetic results were selection criteria in the case of total stenosis of the nasolacrimal duct.
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) infection in patients with HTLV-1 infection in Peru - case series
Authors: Gotuzzo Eduardo , Nakazaki Jorge , Mejía Fernando , Montes Martin
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Peru has suffered a prolonged sanitary emergency and has the highest COVID – 19 mortalities per capita in the world. Some risk factors (diabetes, HIV, cardiovascular diseases, etc.) are currently considered by the CDC to develop severe COVID-19 infection. CDC considers as possible risk factors (evidence is mixed), other immunodeficiency conditions, one of them would be infection by HTLV-1 (human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1). It is not known whether subjects with HTLV – 1 infection have a higher risk for severe COVID – 19 disease. Materials and methods: We identified 51 patients with HTLV-1 and COVID-19. The patients recruited for this article belong to the HTLV-1 cohort of the Institute of Tropical Medicine Alexander von Humboldt - Cayetano Heredia Hospital and to the study cohort: "The effect of Strongyloides Stercoralis on HTLV-1 disease progression”. Periodic telemedicine follow-up was carried out on our patients during the lockdown from April 2020 to November 2021, and information related to SARS-CoV-2 infection was recorded. Results: 51 patients from cohorts were diagnosed with COVID-19 during the pandemic between April 2020 and October 2021. The majority are female (29 patients, 56.85%). 76.47% (39 patients) underwent a molecular/PCR, antigenic or serological test; while 23.53% (12 patients) developed symptoms compatible with COVID-19 in a context of family outbreak and positive direct contact. 74.51% (38 patients) developed a mild form of the disease, 15.69% (8 patients) a moderate form and 9.80% (5 patients) were asymptomatic. The most frequent symptoms were general malaise and/or fever (82.35%), headache (80.39%) and cough (76.47%). Discussion: the course of SARS-CoV-2 in patients infected with HTLV-1 follows similar patterns in percentage and symptoms compared to the general population. 81% usually develop a mild condition, while for our data 74.51% did. 14% usually develop moderate to severe disease worldwide, in our cohort, 15.69% developed moderate disease. The patients show a clinical picture similar to what is described in the literature as a common presentation of SARS-CoV-2. American studies show that the most frequent symptoms are headache (76%) and sore throat (65%); in our cohort, 80.39% reported headache and 35.29% sore throat. Conclusion: Patients with HTLV-1 who become infected with SARS-CoV-2 develop mild or moderate disease in similar proportions to the general population. More studies are needed to elucidate the risk of developing severe SARS-CoV-2 disease in patients infected with HTLV-1 and its associated comorbidities.
The Nexus between Time Management Behaviors and Work-Life Balance of Employees
Authors: Shaikh Saba , Khoso Imamuddin , Channa Nizamuddin
Published: March 2023

This research is envisioned to explain the impact of individual time management behaviors on the work-life balance of banking employees. Using the positivist paradigm, a self-administered survey was chosen to collect responses from bank employees across Sindh, Pakistan. The presented hypotheses were supported by quantitative analytical techniques that tested causal links between all constructs. A total of 450 questionnaires were administered, out of which 320 valid responses were analyzed using PLS-SEM. The findings validated that individual time management behaviors do contribute to attaining work-life balance in the banking sector. Results revealed a positive effect of goal setting and priorities, time management mechanics, and organization preference on employees’ work-life balance. Among all, mechanics of time management (MTM) substantially impact achieving work-life balance. This research will aid in the identification of time management practices that are better capable of balancing work and life.JEL Classification: M12How to Cite:Shaikh, S., Khoso, I., & Channa, N. (2023). The Nexus Between Time Management Behaviors and Work-Life Balance of Employees. Etikonomi, 22(1), 119–130. https://doi.org/10.15408/etk.v22i1.22385.