bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Significantes na fala de crianças e pais acerca da constipação intestinal funcional
Authors: Motta Claudia  dos Reis , Silva Luciana Rodrigues , Castro Hélio de
Published: January 2024

Objetivo: analisar, em 140 entrevistas, os significantes nas falas de crianças e pais acerca do sintoma da constipação intestinal funcional (CIF). Como a constipação na criança revela a subjetividade da mãe, do pai e/ou da crise do casal (ex-casal) parental? Estudo prospectivo-qualitativo, com quatorze crianças, utilizando a técnica Psicanalítica. Os pacientes foram encaminhados pelo setor de Gastroenterologia e Hepatologia Pediátricas (UFBA). As narrativas dos pacientes revelaram ideias inconscientes referentes à pulsão anal, à relação da criança com as fezes, denunciaram como a CIF na criança evidencia a subjetividade da mãe, relação controle mãe-filho, crise do casal (ex-casal) parental, função paterna frágil. O código lúdico-discurso, instrumento fundamental na pesquisa, apareceu 126 vezes. Os pacientes que aderiram ao tratamento (n=10) apresentaram melhora significativa; sete obtiveram a cura do sintoma.
O conceito de controle de sistema a eventos discretos aplicado na manufatura de tanque de hidrogênio
Authors: Rocha Sofia Lopes Suesdek , Oura Soitiro
Published: January 2024

Atualmente, a emissão de gases de efeito estufa pela humanidade é um tópico crítico para o aquecimento global, criando a necessidade do desenvolvimento de tecnologias mais sustentáveis. No âmbito de meios de transporte, destacam-se os veículos movidos a hidrogênio, projeto que surgiu há algumas décadas, mas ainda não foi implementado rotineiramente, principalmente pela necessidade de tanques específicos para armazenamento do gás no veículo. Dessa maneira, o presente trabalho busca descrever e modelar as etapas essenciais de fabricação de um tanque de hidrogênio, seguindo como referência os utilizados nos carros Toyota Mirai. Partindo da descrição por meio de Redes de Petri, as principais características e os requerimentos de uma planta de fabricação de tanques de hidrogênio foram esquematizados, traduzindo o modelo para Ladder, ao final.
Asymmetric Dimethylarginine Enables Depolarizing Spikes and Vasospasm in Mesenteric and Coronary Resistance Arteries
Authors: Ng Yu Y. Hanson , Dora Kim A. , Lemmey Hamish A.L. , Lin JinHeng , Alden James , Wallis Lillian , Donovan Lucy , Shorthose Oliver , Leiper Fiona C. , Leiper James , Garland Christopher J.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:

Increased vasoreactivity due to reduced endothelial NO bioavailability is an underlying feature of cardiovascular disease, including hypertension. In small resistance arteries, declining NO enhances vascular smooth muscle (VSM) reactivity partly by enabling rapid depolarizing Ca
2+
-based spikes that underlie vasospasm. The endogenous NO synthase inhibitor asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is metabolized by DDAH1 (dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase 1) and elevated in cardiovascular disease. We hypothesized ADMA might enable VSM spikes and vasospasm by reducing NO bioavailability, which is opposed by DDAH1 activity and L-arginine.

METHODS:

Rat isolated small mesenteric arteries and myogenic rat-isolated intraseptal coronary arteries (RCA) were studied using myography, VSM intracellular recording, Ca
2+
imaging, and DDAH1 immunolabeling. Exogenous ADMA was used to inhibit NO synthase and a selective DDAH1 inhibitor, N
G
-(2-methoxyethyl) arginine, to assess the functional impact of ADMA metabolism.

RESULTS:

ADMA enhanced rat-isolated small mesenteric arteries vasoreactivity to the α
1
-adrenoceptor agonist, phenylephrine by enabling T-type voltage-gated calcium channel-dependent depolarizing spikes. However, some endothelium-dependent NO-vasorelaxation remained, which was sensitive to DDAH1-inhibition with N
G
-(2-methoxyethyl) arginine. In myogenically active RCA, ADMA alone stimulated depolarizing Ca
2+
spikes and marked vasoconstriction, while NO vasorelaxation was abolished. DDAH1 expression was greater in rat-isolated small mesenteric arteries endothelium compared with RCA, but low in VSM of both arteries. L-arginine prevented depolarizing spikes and protected NO-vasorelaxation in rat-isolated small mesenteric artery and RCA.

CONCLUSIONS:

ADMA increases VSM electrical excitability enhancing vasoreactivity. Endothelial DDAH1 reduces this effect, and low levels of DDAH1 in RCAs may render them susceptible to endothelial dysfunction contributing to vasospasm, changes opposed by L-arginine.
Shifting From Active to Passive Monitoring of Alzheimer Disease: The State of the Research
Authors: Popp Zachary , Low Spencer , Igwe Akwaugo , Rahman Md Salman , Kim Minzae , Khan Raiyan , Oh Emily , Kumar Ankita , De Anda‐Duran Ileana , Ding Huitong , Hwang Phillip H. , Sunderaraman Preeti , Shih Ludy C. , Lin Honghuang , Kolachalama Vijaya B. , Au Rhoda
Published: January 2024

Most research using digital technologies builds on existing methods for staff‐administered evaluation, requiring a large investment of time, effort, and resources. Widespread use of personal mobile devices provides opportunities for continuous health monitoring without active participant engagement. Home‐based sensors show promise in evaluating behavioral features in near real time. Digital technologies across these methodologies can detect precise measures of cognition, mood, sleep, gait, speech, motor activity, behavior patterns, and additional features relevant to health. As a neurodegenerative condition with insidious onset, Alzheimer disease and other dementias (AD/D) represent a key target for advances in monitoring disease symptoms. Studies to date evaluating the predictive power of digital measures use inconsistent approaches to characterize these measures. Comparison between different digital collection methods supports the use of passive collection methods in settings in which active participant engagement approaches are not feasible. Additional studies that analyze how digital measures across multiple data streams can together improve prediction of cognitive impairment and early‐stage AD are needed. Given the long timeline of progression from normal to diagnosis, digital monitoring will more easily make extended longitudinal follow‐up possible. Through the American Heart Association–funded Strategically Focused Research Network, the Boston University investigative team deployed a platform involving a wide range of technologies to address these gaps in research practice. Much more research is needed to thoroughly evaluate limitations of passive monitoring. Multidisciplinary collaborations are needed to establish legal and ethical frameworks for ensuring passive monitoring can be conducted at scale while protecting privacy and security, especially in vulnerable populations.
Processionary Caterpillars at the Edge of Complexity
Authors: Collard Philippe
Published: January 2024

This article deals with individuals moving in procession in real and artificial societies. A procession is a minimal form of society in which individual behavior is to go in a given direction and the organization is structured by the knowledge of the one ahead. This simple form of grouping is common in the living world, and, among humans, procession is a very circumscribed social activity whose origins are certainly very remote. This type of organization falls under microsociology, where the focus is on the study of direct interactions between individuals within small groups. In this article, we focus on the particular case of pine tree processionary caterpillars (Thaumetopoea pityocampa). In the first part, we propose a formal definition of the concept of procession and compare field experiments conducted by entomologists with agent-based simulations to study real caterpillars’ processionaries as they are. In the second part, we explore the life of caterpillars as they could be. First, by extending the model beyond reality, we can explain why real processionary caterpillars behave as they do. Then we report on field experiments on the behavior of real caterpillars artificially forced to follow a circular procession; these experiments confirm that each caterpillar can either be the leader of the procession or follow the one in front of it. In the third part, by allowing variations in the speed of movement on an artificial circular procession, computational simulations allow us to observe the emergence of unexpected mobile spatial structures built from regular polygonal shapes where chaotic movements and well-ordered forms are intimately linked. This confirms once again that simple rules can have complex consequences.
Live Coding Machine Learning: Finding the Moments of Intervention in Autonomous Processes
Authors: Paz Iván , Knotts Shelly
Published: January 2024

Machine learning (ML) deals with algorithms able to learn from data, with the primary aim of finding optimum solutions to perform tasks autonomously. In recent years there has been development in integrating ML algorithms with live coding practices, raising questions about what to optimize or automate, the agency of the algorithms, and in which parts of the ML processes one might intervene midperformance. Live coding performance practices typically involve conversational interaction with algorithmic processes in real time. In analyzing systems integrating live coding and ML, we consider the musical and performative implications of the “moment of intervention” in the ML model and workflow, and the channels for real-time intervention. We propose a framework for analysis, through which we reflect on the domain-specific algorithms and practices being developed that combine these two practices.
Individual and gender inequality in computer science: A career study of cohorts from 1970 to 2000
Authors: Lietz Haiko , Jadidi Mohsen , Kostic Daniel , Tsvetkova Milena , Wagner Claudia
Published: January 2024

Inequality prevails in science. Individual inequality means that most perish quickly and only a few are successful, and gender inequality implies that there are differences in achievements for women and men. Using large-scale bibliographic data and following a computational approach, we study the evolution of individual and gender inequality for cohorts from 1970 to 2000 in the whole field of computer science as it grows and becomes a team-based science. We find that individual inequality in productivity (publications) increases over a scholar’s career but is historically invariant, whereas individual inequality in impact (citations), albeit larger, is stable across cohorts and careers. Gender inequality prevails regarding productivity, but there is no evidence for differences in impact. The Matthew Effect is shown to accumulate advantages to early achievements and to become stronger over the decades, indicating the rise of a “publish or perish” imperative. Only some authors manage to reap the benefits that publishing in teams promises. The Matthew Effect then amplifies initial differences and propagates the gender gap. Women continue to fall behind because they continue to be at a higher risk of dropping out for reasons that have nothing to do with early-career achievements or social support.
Harvesting the Rain: The Adoption of Environmental Technologies in the Sahel
Authors: Aker Jenny C. , Jack B. Kelsey
Published: January 2024

Many agricultural and environmental technologies require upfront investments. This may deter adoption, particularly in settings characterized by information liquidity and credit constraints. We test for these barriers to the adoption of an agricultural technique that helps address land degradation in Niger. We find little evidence that liquidity or credit constraints deter adoption: instead, providing farmers with training increases the share of adopters by over 90 percentage points. Conditional or unconditional cash transfers have no additional effect. Adoption increases agricultural output and reduces land turnover in the longerterm. In our setting, training provides both specific technical knowledge and addresses behavioral constraints.
Adaptation to the Fourth Industrial Revolution among Generation Y in Rural Africa
Authors: Oki Olukayode Ayodele , Uleanya Chinaza , Fikisi Sesona
Published: January 2024

The study investigates adaptation to the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) among the rural youth in Qunu, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The broad focus on 4IR in job creation is its impact on youth skills development, and an important question is how rural youth benefit from 4IR opportunities. With few studies conducted on the topic of youth skills development in the context of 4IR, an investigation of the problems faced by the rural youth in Qunu in accessing emerging technologies was deemed to be of value. Mixed-method research was employed with a sample of 44 young people living in Qunu. Data was analysed using themes. The findings of this study indicate that the respondents had inadequate knowledge about 4IR and the opportunities it offers. Also, little is being done to improve the skills of the youth, though they show interest in improving their IT skills.
The desert wolf-spider genus Xenoctenus: two endemic species from the Brazilian Caatinga, and a redescription of the type-species, X. unguiculatus (Araneae: Xenoctenidae)
Authors: FAUSTINO-MAGALHAES MAYARA D. , PIACENTINI LUIS N. , SANTOS ADALBERTO J.
Published: January 2024

The Caatinga is a nucleus of seasonally dry tropical forest (SDTF) known as a hotspot of diversification and endemism. Despite its importance, this biome is still insufficiently sampled, resulting in extensive knowledge gaps regarding its species richness and composition. In this study we report two species of Xenoctenidae that are endemic to, and widely distributed in the Caatinga. We redescribe and illustrate Odo vittatus (Mello-Leitão, 1936), the only xenoctenid species previously known from the Caatinga. We transfer this species to Xenoctenus Mello-Leitão,1938, a genus currently known from six species restricted to Argentina, Bolivia, and Colombia. We also newly describe the male of Xenoctenus vittatus comb. nov. and provide new records of this species, which was hitherto known only from the type-locality, throughout the Caatinga and nearby semiarid vegetation formations. We also describe and illustrate a new species, Xenoctenus kaatinga sp. nov., based on males and female specimens collected throughout the Caatinga. Additionally, we propose diagnostic characters for Xenoctenus and redescribe the type-species, X. unguiculatus.
5. “The Divine Style”
Authors: Dobbs-Allsopp F. W.
Published: January 2024

The book’s final chapter turns to an examination of stylistic elements in Whitman’s verse that derive (ultimately) from the plain style of the KJB’s prose. The point of departure is Robert Alter’s Pen of Iron: American Prose and the King James Bible, in which the author argues for the existence of an “American prose style” among major American novelists that descends from the KJB. Whitman as a poet is not considered by Alter, and yet, there are ways in which the style of Whitman’s poetry, especially in the early editions of Leaves, shares much with the prose style charted by Alter, albeit in a nonnarrative mode and with a decidedly political bent—an American prose style poeticized and politicized. The chapter begins by tracing Whitman’s self-denominated “plate-glassy style” back, first, to the plain style of the KJB and, ultimately, to William Tyndale (d. 1536), the first to translate the Hebrew and Greek of the Bible into English and the primordial source of the stylistic distinctiveness of the KJB’s prose. The main body of the chapter surveys leading elements of Whitman’s style that may be tied to the KJB, including his use of parallelism, parataxis, the periphrastic of-genitive, and the cognate accusative. The important difference of poetry in how and what is inherited from the prose tradition of the KJB and how that inheritance may manifest itself is also stressed. What Whitman helps to illuminate, in light of Alter’s identification of an American prose style devolved from the KJB, is the possibilities for that style beyond the narrative mode. Next, the place of prose in Whitman’s poetry is taken up, arguing that Whitman may be viewed properly as participating in the prose tradition that Alter identifies, even if in the end Whitman’s poetic style diverges, strikingly in places, from that of the novelists in the tradition. The chapter closes by emphasizing Whitman’s political investment in his style. For Alter the term “American” in the subtitle of his book serves chiefly as a descriptor of nationality and to delineate a style of written prose characteristic of novelists with this nationality. For Whitman, by contrast, “American” as a descriptor is always thoroughly politicized. As the poet culls stylistic elements from the prose of the KJB and reinscribes them in his “great psalm of the republic” (LG, iv), he saturates them with political “stuff” such that upon reading (and rereading) they are themselves political acts of consequence and incitements toward still other such acts. The poet’s biblical borrowings are part and parcel of the political alchemy that charges his “barbaric yawp.”
Transgenic Approach for Investigating MyoD Function and Testicular Injection as a Method for Producing Transgenic Livestock
Authors: Li Wei , Zheng Mengmeng , Liang Youchen , Chen Guohong , Li Bichun , Jin Kai
Published: January 2024

Skeletal muscle, as the primary component of the animal musculoskeletal system, holds significant economic value for land animals in terms of food production. Skeletal muscle satellite cells (SMSCs) play a critical role as myo-specific stem cells in muscle growth and regeneration. These
cells have shown great potential in clinical trials for treating Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Volumetric Muscle Loss. However, the majority of SMSCs remain in a quiescent state within their muscle fiber niche, making it challenging to harvest a sufficient quantity for clinical applications.
In this study, we successfully obtained a large number of goat SMSCs (gSMSCs) with typical characteristics and myo-differentiation ability by modifying the conventional trypsin digestion method. Subsequently, we cloned and modified the MyoD gene, transferring it into goat skin fibroblasts.
Remarkably, the MyoD-eGFP-expressing goat skin fibroblasts acquired the ability of myo-differentiation and fused with either each other to form myotubes or fused with the intrinsic myotubes previously formed by gSMSCs. Considering the process of muscle damage regeneration, the incorporation
of external fibroblasts in the regeneration process can facilitate the connection of disrupted muscle fibers, thereby accelerating the regeneration time. However, this approach may lead to reduced strength and contractility of the regenerated muscle. Another strategy to expedite muscle regeneration
in Volumetric Muscle Loss involves overexpression of MyoD in the damaged muscle or ectopic expression in skin fibroblasts. To further investigate the in vivo biological function of MyoD, transgenic mice and goats were generated via testicular injection, demonstrating a high success
rate.
Attribution of the August 2022 Extreme Heatwave in Southern China: Role of Dynamical and Thermodynamical Processes
Authors: Gong Hainan , Ma Kangjie , Hu Zhiyuan , Dong Zizhen , Ma Yuanyuan , Chen Wen , Wu Renguang , Wang Lin
Published: January 2024

We estimate that anthropogenic forcing caused half of the observed temperature anomaly during the August 2022 heatwave in southern China. Thermodynamical processes, especially soil moisture–SAT feedback, amplified the heatwave.
Association Between Preoperative Long-Term Poor Sleep Quality and Postoperative Delirium in Elderly Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery: A Multi-Center Observational Study
Authors: Huang Zhilian , Huang Chengfeng , Deng Yanfang , Lu Hao , Shi Lifang
Published: January 2024

Background

Delirium is a common complication in elderly patients after cardiac surgery, and sleep disorders have been suggested as a potential risk factor. However, few studies have explored the link between long-term preoperative poor sleep quality and postoperative delirium (POD) in this population. This study aimed to investigate the association between preoperative sleep quality and POD in elderly cardiac surgery patients.

Methods

The study enrolled 194 patients aged 60 years or older who underwent cardiac surgery. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) objectively assessed preoperative sleep quality, while the Confusion Assessment Method screened for POD. The measurable outcomes encompassed the identification of risk factors associated with POD, while the secondary outcomes focused on factors influencing levels of consciousness. The statistical analysis is logistic regression analysis.

Results

Patients with POD had a higher prevalence of preoperative sleep disorders and higher PSQI scores than those without delirium (12.9 ± 5.1 vs 7.8 ± 3.4, P = .007). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the number of months with high PSQI scores and age were significantly associated with POD. The predictive ability of the number of months with high PSQI scores for POD was .762 (95% CI: .671-.854). Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that preoperative sleep disorder was a significant predictor of exacerbation of POD ( P < .05).

Conclusion

This study suggests that long-term poor preoperative sleep quality, as assessed by the PSQI, is associated with an increased risk of POD in elderly patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
Disseminated Histoplasmosis Causing Temporally and Spatially Discrete Gastrointestinal Perforations in an HIV-Negative Patient
Authors: Zaskey Michael , Burns Bracken
Published: January 2024

Histoplasma capsulatum is a dimorphic fungi endemic to the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys. Immunocompetent persons who become infected are generally asymptomatic or present with mild symptoms. Symptomatic disease is seen primarily in immunocompromised patients with pulmonary manifestations being the most common presentation. We present a case of a young HIV-negative male who required 4 exploratory laparotomies over the course of 4 months during 2 hospitalizations due to discrete perforations of the ileum and jejunum caused by biopsy-proven gastrointestinal histoplasmosis despite maximal medical therapy as well as a gastric perforation.
The Effect of Beta-Blocker Post-Myocardial Infarction With Ejection Fraction >40% Pooled Analysis From Seven Arabian Gulf Acute Coronary Syndrome Registries
Authors: Al-Bawardy Rasha , Alqarawi Wael , Al Suwaidi Jassim , Almahmeed Wael , Zubaid Mohammad , Amin Haitham , Sulaiman Kadhim , Al-Motarreb Ahmad , Alhabib Khalid
Published: January 2024

The use of beta-blockers (BB) in reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) post-myocardial infarction (MI) is associated with reduced 1-year mortality, while their role in patients with mid-range and preserved LVEF post-MI remains controversial. We studied 31,620 patients who presented with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) enrolled in seven Arabian Gulf registries between 2005 and 2017. Patients with LVEF ≤40% were excluded. The remaining cohort was divided into two groups: BB group ( n = 15,541) and non-BB group ( n = 2,798), based on discharge medications. Patients in the non-BB group were relatively younger (55.3 vs. 57.4, P = .004) but higher risk at presentation; with higher Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) score (119.2 vs 109.2, P < .001), higher percentage of cardiogenic shock (3.5 vs 1.4%, P < .001), despite lower prevalence of comorbidities, such as hypertension and hyperlipidemia. BB use was associated with lower 1-year mortality in a multivariate logistic regression analysis, adjusting for major confounders [adjusted odds ratio (OR): 0.71 (95% CI 0.51–0.99)]. This remained the case in a sensitivity analysis using propensity score matching [adjusted OR: 0.34 (95% CI 0.16–0.73)]. In this study, using Arabian Gulf countries registries, the use of BB after ACS with LVEF >40% was independently associated with lower 1-year mortality.
Pathophysiology and Genetic Associations of Varicose Veins: A Narrative Review
Authors: Chen Tao , Liu Peng , Zhang Chenguang , Jin Song , Kong Yuhu , Feng Yanan , Sun Ziqiang
Published: January 2024

Varicose veins (VVs) have a high prevalence worldwide and have become a major medical burden. Their pathophysiology involves a complex interplay of inflammation and tissue remodeling, and current treatment is limited by its impact on the pathophysiological mechanisms. In addition, despite clear environmental factors, family history is an important risk factor, suggesting a genetic component to the risk of developing VVs. Our understanding of the pathogenesis of these diseases has benefited greatly from the expansion of population genetic studies, from pioneering family studies to large genome-wide association studies; we now find multiple risk loci for each venous disease. This review considers the pathophysiology of VVs, highlighting the current state of genetic knowledge. We also propose future directions for research.
Hepatoprotective Effect Assessment of C-Phycocyanin on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Rat Model by Using Photoacoustic Spectroscopy
Authors: Lizeth Alvarado-Noguez Margarita , Vanessa Blas-Valdivia , María del Rocio Thompson-Bonilla , Margarita Franco-Colín , Damián Jacinto-Méndez , Alfredo Cruz-Orea , Edgar Cano-Europa , Placido Rojas-Franco
Published: January 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary neoplasia of the liver with elevated mortality. Experimental treatment with antioxidants has a beneficial effect on the experimental models of HCC. Arthrospira maxima (spirulina) and its phycocyanin have antitumoral action on different tumoral cells. However, it is unknown whether phycocyanin is the responsible molecule for the antitumoral effect on HCC. Photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) stands out among other spectroscopy techniques for its versatility of samples analyzed. This technique makes it possible to obtain the optical absorption spectrum of solid or liquid, dark or transparent samples. Previous studies report that assessing liver damage in rats produced by the modified resistant hepatocyte model (MRHM) is possible by analyzing their blood optical absorption spectrum. This study aimed to investigate, by PAS, the effect of phycocyanin obtained from spirulina on hepatic dysfunction. The optical absorption spectra analysis of the rat blood indicates the damage level induced by the MRHM group, being in concordance with the carried out biological conventional studies results, indicating an increase in the activity of hepatic enzymes, oxidative stress, Bax/Bcl2 ratio, cdk2, and AKT2 expression results, with a reduction in p53 expression. Also, PAS results suggest that phycocyanin decreases induced damage, due to the prevention of the Bax, AKT2, and p53 altered expression and the tumor progression in a HCC rat model.
Inefficiencies and bias in first job placement: The case of professional Asian nationals in the United States
Authors: Kramer Amit , Han Kwon Hee , Kim Yun Kyoung , Kramer Karen Z.
Published: January 2024

We study whether the quality of the first job is lower for professional Asian nationals than for non-Asian nationals in the USA. With over a million professionals from Asia entering the US labor market in the past decade, a potential under placement may be both inefficient and discriminatory. We collected data on all newly hired assistant professors of management in research-intensive (R1) universities in the USA between 2010 and 2021. We focus on the quality of the university into which first hires are placed and examine whether first-job placement quality is lower for individuals who were born in East, South and Southeast Asia. We find that the quality and quantity of publication record are positively related to the quality of the placement and that Asian nationals have higher performance. However, Asian nationals are placed at lower-quality universities relative to their peers. Further, Asian nationals require a strong performance signal, in the form of first or second authorship on a publication to narrow the placement gap. Our results are explained by a combination of direct bias against applicants of Asian nationality and a requirement of a higher performance “burden of proof” from these applicants, compared to peers who are non-Asian nationals.
University Students’ Experiences and Reflection on Their Transition to HyFlex Learning During Post-COVID Times
Authors: Adi Badiozaman Ida Fatimawati , Ling Voon Mung , Ng Adeline
Published: January 2024

The complexities involved in HyFlex teaching and learning prompt us to consider what we know about university students’ experiences as they transition into this new pedagogical approach post-pandemic. As part of a larger mixed-methods study, this paper focuses on the qualitative phase, which investigated HyFlex learning (HL) experiences of 17 students from six higher education institutions to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how HL is viewed, the challenges faced and what competencies shaped their engagement with HL. The results show that students’ experience is influenced by instructors’ HL competence in synchronous and asynchronous aspects of the classroom and students’ e-learning self-efficacy. Students’ agentic competence, developed and augmented during the pandemic, was illustrated in their reported strategies (i.e., problem-solving, decision-making, self-regulation, and adaptability) engaging within the HL environment. The findings lead to practical implications and identify the need to improve HL delivery. Suggestions for future research are also provided.
A curious case of expanded dengue syndrome
Authors: Ahmed Muzeer , Wasim Muhammad Arsalan , Kazi Abdul Nafey , Akber Hiba , Sheikh Maheen , Patel Muhammad Junaid
Published: January 2024

Dengue fever (DF) primarily presents with fever, headache, malaise, bleeding manifestations and haemoconcentration. World Health Organization (WHO) classifies DF according to levels of severity: (a) without warning signs; (b) with warning signs, such as abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fluid accumulation, mucosal bleeding, lethargy, liver enlargement, increasing haematocrit and thrombocytopenia; and (c) severe dengue with severe plasma leakage, severe bleeding or organ failure. Atypical clinical presentations of DF are defined as expanded dengue syndrome: this includes renal, cardiac, hepatic or cerebral damage. We report such a severe case where a young man developed acute kidney injury, acute fulminant liver failure and acute pancreatitis secondary to DF, but recovered.
Location-Matching Adaptive Testing for Polytomous Technology-Enhanced Items
Authors: Kang Hyeon-Ah , Arbet Gregory , Betts Joe , Muntean William
Published: January 2024

The article presents adaptive testing strategies for polytomously scored technology-enhanced innovative items. We investigate item selection methods that match examinee’s ability levels in location and explore ways to leverage test-taking speeds during item selection. Existing approaches to selecting polytomous items are mostly based on information measures and tend to experience an item pool usage problem. In this study, we introduce location indices for polytomous items and show that location-matched item selection significantly improves the usage problem and achieves more diverse item sampling. We also contemplate matching items’ time intensities so that testing times can be regulated across the examinees. Numerical experiment from Monte Carlo simulation suggests that location-matched item selection achieves significantly better and more balanced item pool usage. Leveraging working speed in item selection distinctly reduced the average testing times as well as variation across the examinees. Both the procedures incurred marginal measurement cost (e.g., precision and efficiency) and yet showed significant improvement in the administrative outcomes. The experiment in two test settings also suggested that the procedures can lead to different administrative gains depending on the test design.
‘Once a finger is pointed at you, that part of you has gone’: The completion of Horizon programme in the community and carceral citizenship for men with sexual convictions
Authors: Fowler Andrew , Brown Peter , Bickley Thomas
Published: January 2024

This study presents an analysis of the experiences of 15 men convicted of sexual offences, from England and Wales, who have completed the Horizon treatment programme in the community, facilitated by The Probation Service. We found that whilst men felt initially coerced into the programme, finishing the programme was experienced as a significant loss of support. Beyond the programme, the men described the constraints on their citizenship, difficulty accessing support, and rejection in society due to their offence. We conclude by discussing the limitations of personal rehabilitation, the need for social rehabilitation, including tailored support beyond the programme, the importance of user voice and a ‘community integration paradox’.
Breaking the cycle of violence: The church as a space for dialogue towards restorative reconciliation, justice, and forgiveness in Naga society
Authors: Jamir Chongpongmeren
Published: January 2024

Political conflicts thrive on a cycle of violence, the short-circuiting of which is essential for lasting peace. The essay argues that it requires more than a political solution to usher in lasting peace. Breaking the cycle of violence once and for all requires a restorative experience of reconciliation. While many stakeholders are at play towards bringing a solution to the political impasse in Naga society, the essay argues that Naga churches have a vital role to play, by providing an alternative to the geopolitical solutions and offering a space for dialogue, reconciliation, and restoration.
Gradient Cr–AlN composite coating prepared on alumina-forming austenitic steel
Authors: Zhang Fujian , Feng Ke , Wang Shuigen , Guo Ning
Published: January 2024

A gradient composite coating of Cr–AlN with an outer Cr-rich layer and an inner AlN-rich layer was deposited on the alumina-forming austenitic (AFA) steel surface by pack-cementation chromising. The phase composition, element distribution, and microstructure of the coating were characterised and analysed. The microhardness and the friction and wear performance at 600 °C were tested. The results show that the outer Cr-rich layer mainly consists of a polycrystalline Cr–Fe solid solution and a small amount of Cr2C and (Cr, Fe)2N1− x particles. The inner layer contains plenty of AlN particles with different sizes dispersed on the Cr–Fe solid solution. The formation of AlN particles is closely related to the spontaneous chlorination and nitridation reaction. The addition of Y2O3 particles in the encapsulated powder promotes the uniformity of Cr plating and the growth of AlN particles. The gradient composite coating remarkably improves the microhardness and high-temperature wear resistance of AFA steel.
Effects of Er2(SO4)3 doping on characteristics of MAO coating
Authors: Sun Fengyu , Lan Xinyue , Wang Ping
Published: January 2024

To research the impact of various Er2(SO4)3 additions on the TC11 alloy's micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coating, the MAO coating was tested and examined using scanning electron microscopes (SEM), X-ray diffractometers (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and electrochemical workstations. The findings demonstrate that the addition of Er2(SO4)3 raises the oxidation voltage, improves the uniformity of the discharge, reduces the dimension of the discharge micropores on the surface, and increases the density and thickness of the coating. The coatings contain the Er element, which appears as Er2O3, and it helps to refine the grain size, which encourages the formation of hard phases like anatase TiO2 and rutile TiO2 and enhances the coatings’ hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. At an amount of 1.5 g L−1, the Er2(SO4)3 enhanced the overall performance of the coating.
Experimental analysis of surface integrity in electro-discharge coating process
Authors: Mazarbhuiya Rashed Mustafa , Rahang Maneswar
Published: January 2024

Utilising electro-discharge machining, powdered metallurgical tool materials are applied to coat the surface pattern-wise. The tool undergoes a thorough blending process followed by hydraulic pellet press. Essential evaluations encompass the determination of material deposition rate, tool wear rate, surface roughness, microhardness, layer thickness and wear rate. Characterisations confirm the presence of tool constituents, provide insights into its constituent's composition and reveal the formation of tungsten carbides on the uppermost surface of the deposit. Significantly, a substantially higher deposition rate of 4.9 mg/min is achieved when a compact load of 10 tons and a peak current of 2.5A are applied. Notably, the top surface exhibits a microhardness of 330.5 HV, while the base material maintains a hardness level of 98.7 HV. The maximum thickness of the deposited layer reaches 293.68 μm under identical conditions. These hard materials serve to mitigate the specific wear rate effectively.
Machine learning approach towards laser powder bed fusion manufactured AlSi10Mg thin tubes in laser shock peening
Authors: Stránský Ondřej , Tarant Ivan , Beránek Libor , Holešovský František , Pathak Sunil , Brajer Jan , Mocek Tomáš , Denk Ondřej
Published: January 2024

The industry's demand for intricate geometries has spurred research into additive manufacturing (AM). Customising material properties, including surface roughness, integrity and porosity reduction, are the key industrial goals. This necessitates a holistic approach integrating AM, laser shock peening (LSP) and non-planar geometry considerations. In this study, machine learning and neural networks offer a novel way to create intricate, abstract models capable of discerning complex process relationships. Our focus is on leveraging the certain range of laser parameters (energy, spot area, overlap) to identify optimal residual stress, average surface roughness, and porosity values. Confirmatory experiments demonstrate close agreement, with an 8% discrepancy between modelled and actual residual stress values. This approach's viability is evident even with limited datasets, provided proper precautions are taken.
Low current density electropolishing and corrosion resistance study of 304 stainless steel
Authors: Zhu Q. Q. , Li H. Y. , Wang Y. , Wang Z. W. , Zhou Z. Q. , Shu C. H.
Published: January 2024

In response to the challenge posed by electrical breakdown occurrences during the conventional current density electrolytic polishing of large-scale stainless steel workpieces, this investigation delved into the parameters of low current density electrolytic polishing process. The study scrutinised the surface morphology and corrosion resistance of 304 stainless steel, employing tools such as metallographic microscopy, a roughness gauge, and an electrochemical workstation. Within a sulphuric acid–phosphoric acid-based electrolyte characterised by a volume ratio of 1:2, the optimal mass concentration ratio of salicylic acid and saccharin was ascertained to be 3:3. By configuring the process parameters to 10 A dm−2 and 20 min, outcomes of electrolytic polishing were obtained that stood on par with the conventional current density approach. The stainless steel surface exhibited a surface roughness measuring a mere 0.08 µm and characterised by a corrosion current density of 1.907 × 10−8 A cm−2 and a corrosion potential of −0.0965 V.
The biological role and future therapeutic uses of nitric oxide in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, a narrative review
Authors: Brinkley Lindsey , Brock Michael A , Stinson Griffin , Bilgili Ahmet , Jacobs Jeffrey P , Bleiweis Mark , Peek Giles J
Published: January 2024

Background

Nitric oxide (NO) is a gas naturally produced by the human body that plays an important physiological role. Specifically, it binds guanylyl cyclase to induce smooth muscle relaxation. NO’s other protective functions have been well documented, particularly its protective endothelial functions, effects on decreasing pulmonary vascular resistance, antiplatelet, and anticoagulation properties. The use of nitric oxide donors as vasodilators has been known since 1876. Inhaled nitric oxide has been used as a pulmonary vasodilator and to improve ventilation perfusion matching since the 1990s. It is currently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for neonates with hypoxic respiratory failure, however, it is used off-label for acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute bronchiolitis, and COVID-19.

Purpose

In this article we review the currently understood biological action and therapeutic uses of NO through nitric oxide donors such as inhaled nitric oxide. We will then explore recent studies describing use of NO in cardiopulmonary bypass and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and speculate on NO’s future uses.
More than the sum of its parts—A constructivist grounded-theory study on specialist palliative care during crises like the COVID pandemic
Authors: Wikert Julia , Bausewein Claudia , Hodiamont Farina
Published: January 2024

Background:

The COVID pandemic is an example of a crisis challenging healthcare systems worldwide. The impact of the pandemic on providing high-quality palliative care calls for a deeper understanding of specialist services during crises. This is essential in preparation for further crises.

Aim:

To develop a conceptual understanding of the impact of the pandemic on specialist palliative care as an example for arising future crises.

Design:

Qualitative interview study across Germany, following a constructivist grounded theory methodology.

Setting/participants:

Eleven semi-structured interviews with experts with overarching knowledge of structures and processes in specialist palliative care between 05–07/2020 and between 02–06/2021, 23 semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals working in a specialist palliative care setting.

Results:

The complex system of palliative care provision during crises has properties that cannot be understood as separated parts of the care process. The pandemic led to unique structural and processual challenges characterized by interconnectedness, uncertainty, dynamic, underlying dilemmas, and unclear long-term goal. In response to the pandemic, teams experienced different phases, which enhanced adaption, innovation, and progress within complex care situations. Creative strategy approaches and dynamic responsiveness facilitated innovative development and could lead to long-lasting improvement within services. Availability of information, transparent communication, comprehensible instructions, participation in decision-making, and search for solutions contributed to teams’ proactive development throughout the pandemic.

Conclusion:

Addressing the complex problems in specialist palliative care caused by crises requires system thinking and a learning mindset. This can facilitate teams to overcome the crisis and move forward rather than bounce back to normal.
Progress and applications of (Cu–)Ag–Bi–I semiconductors, and their derivatives, as next-generation lead-free materials for photovoltaics, detectors and memristors
Authors: Zhu Huimin , Turkevych Ivan , Lohan Hugh , Liu Pengjun , Martin Robert W. , Massabuau Fabien C. P. , Hoye Robert L. Z.
Published: January 2024

The search for efficient but inexpensive photovoltaics over the past decade has been disrupted by the advent of lead-halide perovskite solar cells. Despite impressive rises in performance, the toxicity and stability concerns of these materials have prompted a broad, interdisciplinary community across the world to search for lead-free and stable alternatives. A set of such materials that have recently gained attention are semiconductors in the CuI–AgI–BiI3 phase space and their derivatives. These materials include ternary silver bismuth iodide compounds (Ag aBi bI a+3 b), ternary copper bismuth iodide Cu–Bi–I compounds and quaternary Cu–Ag–Bi–I materials, as well as analogues with Sb substituted into the Bi site and Br into the I site. These compounds are comprised of a cubic close-packed sub-lattice of I, with Ag and Bi occupying octahedral holes, while Cu occupies tetrahedral holes. The octahedral motifs adopted by these compounds are either spinel, CdCl2-type, or NaVO2-type. NaVO2-type Ag aBi bI a+3 b compounds are also known as rudorffites. Many of these compounds have thus far demonstrated improved stability and reduced toxicity compared to halide perovskites, along with stable bandgaps in the 1.6–1.9 eV range, making them highly promising for energy harvesting and detection applications. This review begins by discussing the progress in the development of these semiconductors over the past few years, focusing on their optoelectronic properties and process–property–structure relationships. Next, we discuss the progress in developing Ag–Bi–I and Cu–Bi–I compounds for solar cells, indoor photovoltaics, photodetectors, radiation detectors and memristors. We conclude with a discussion of the critical fundamental questions that need to be addressed to push this area forward, and how the learnings from the wider metal-halide semiconductor field can inform future directions.
Trichomoniasis and retesting in Durham County, North Carolina, United States, 2021 - 2022
Authors: Jenks Jeffrey D. , Ryan Emily , Stancil Candy , Harris Kimberly , Hester Lizeth , Carrico Savannah , Mortiboy Marissa , Zitta John-Paul
Published: January 2024

Background

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends universal retesting within 3 months after treatment of Trichomonas vaginalis infection given high rates of persistent infection or reinfection, or if this is not possible, within 12 months following treatment. Data is lacking on how often this is actually done.

Methods

We analyzed the demographic and clinical characteristics, rate of return for the recommended retesting, concordance between wet prep and nucleic acid amplification testing, and percent positivity for T. vaginalis on repeat vaginal specimens at a local public health department in Durham, North Carolina, United States.

Results

Of 193 females treated for trichomoniasis between March 1, 2021 – May 31, 2022, 83% were Black or African American and 44% between the ages of 20 and 29 years. Of these individuals, 32% had retesting performed within 3 months and 50% within 365 days after treatment. Females between the ages of 20 and 29 years were more likely to return for retesting than those between the ages of 30 and 39 years. Of those who returned for retesting, 10% were positive on repeat testing.

Conclusion

In this study, 50% of females diagnosed with trichomoniasis completed retesting within 365 days. Improved scheduling of clients at the time of trichomoniasis treatment and improved identification in our electronic health record of individuals diagnosed with trichomoniasis within the prior year would likely improve retesting rates. Given the high prevalence of trichomoniasis, expanded screening of asymptomatic females in settings where this is feasible may be warranted.
Young Adults’ Perceptions of Intergenerational Solidarity and Conflict: The Renegotiation of Compliance with Restrictions During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Visser Kirsten , Mollenhorst Gerald , Schutjens Veronique , Vullings Isabelle
Published: January 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, mitigating behaviour moved into the moral domain, and compliance with restrictions became tied to issues of intergenerational solidarity. Little is known about young people’s experiences with and attitudes towards coping with COVID-19 restrictions or about the role of intergenerational solidarity and conflict in their compliance. An analysis of 20 in-depth interviews with young adults (aged 18–24) in Dutch cities revealed a profound impact of the restrictions on their lives. Most tried to comply on moral grounds, particularly care and loyalty. But they felt that the impact on their own lives was not taken seriously and that young people were stereotyped as inconsiderate and perceived as flouting regulations. However, when the restrictions were prolonged, some participants renegotiated the ways in which they complied.