bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk and Protective Factors for COVID‐19 Infection among Pregnant Women with Sickle Cell Trait
Authors: Aldecoa Kim Abbegail Tan , Arsene Camelia , Krishnamoorthy Geetha , Chng Tiffany , Cherry Garrett , Chowdhury Nabila , Clark Ryan , Deeb Dana , Deptula Lisa , Dietz Grey , Eto Ewomamobuho , Golston Victoria , Lawson Landon , Mbionwu Chioma , Okponyia Obiefuna , Orejuela Jennifer , Qipo Thomaidha , Raut Sumit , Goodman Judie
Published: June 2024

Pregnant women and individuals with sickle cell trait (SCT) and underlying comorbidities are both independently more vulnerable to severe illness from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) compared to nonpregnant women and those without SCT. However, our understanding of the specific factors influencing susceptibility to COVID‐19 infection among pregnant women with SCT is currently constrained by limited available data. This study aims to determine the risk and protective factors that influence the likelihood of COVID‐19 infection in this population. A retrospective analysis was done among 151 women with SCT in the reproductive age group. Multivariable analysis was performed to determine the various factors affecting COVID‐19 infection among pregnant women with SCT. The study found that COVID‐19‐vaccinated pregnant women with SCT had a 90% lower risk of contracting COVID‐19 and were 9 times more likely to have a COVID‐19 infection if they had a history of pulmonary conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The present study further emphasizes the importance of the COVID‐19 vaccine in preventing infection and safeguarding the health of pregnant women with SCT, particularly those with underlying comorbidities.
An Epiphrenic Diverticulum with Previous Perforation Excised Laparoscopically
Authors: Yadav Amitabh , Nundy Samiran
Published: June 2024

An epiphrenic diverticulum (ED) is a rare pseudodiverticulum commonly located at the lower end of the oesophagus. Surgical treatment is only required in patients with worsening dysphagia or repeated chest infection due to microaspirations, and most patients are now treated with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) using the laparoscopic or thoracoscopic approach. Laparoscopic surgery is considered difficult in the presence of previous perforation of the diverticula owing to the intraperitoneal and mediastinal adhesions and is associated with an increased incidence of complications. We were able to perform a laparoscopic transhiatal resection safely on a patient who had a large ED with a wide neck and dense abdominal and mediastinal adhesions due to previous localized perforation.
Kinetic Models of Changes in Astaxanthin, Moisture, and Total Aerobic Microbial in Seasoning Powder from Acetes during Storage at Different Conditions
Authors: Thuy Cao Xuan , Vu Ngoc Duc , Nhi Tran Thi Yen , Tran Thanh Truc , Long Tran Bach , Tram Ho Thi Ngoc , Van Thinh Pham , Pham Binh An
Published: June 2024

Currently, a limited understanding of how packaging and storage conditions affect product quality is a major factor contributing to the short shelf life of seasoning powder products. To address this problem, the objective of this study was to explore the impact of four types of packaging and different temperature conditions (ranging from 5 to 45°C) during 110 days of storage on product quality, specifically the moisture content, astaxanthin content, and total aerobic microbial count. The packaging materials investigated included aluminum film‐coated polyethylene bags (Al/PE bag), kraft paper‐coated polyethylene bags (PE/kraft paper bag), polyethylene terephthalate (PET bottle), and glass bottles. Kinetic models of degradation astaxanthin, moisture absorption, and aerobic microbial growth were developed. The results indicated that PET bottles were the most effective packaging material to maintain the moisture content and astaxanthin levels. Furthermore, temperatures between 5 and 15°C were found to be optimal for the preservation of astaxanthin content, the stabilization of moisture content, and the inhibition of microbial growth. At the same time, first‐order, Peleg, and Gompertz models are suitable for describing the mechanism of transformation for astaxanthin, moisture, and microbial aerobic growth with a value of R2 > 0.9. These findings provide valuable information for selecting the appropriate packaging and storage conditions that can extend the shelf life of seasoning powder products.
Occurrence of Salmonella in Fresh Foods Sold in the City of Nampula, Northern Mozambique
Authors: Machamba Almeida Abudo Leite , Chaves Celso Raul Silambo , Amisse Laura , Macaza Brígida , Boaventura Cecília , Presse Isac Joaquim , Salamandane Acácio
Published: June 2024

Salmonellosis, an infectious disease caused by the Salmonella species, encompasses a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from mild self‐limiting gastroenteritis to severe systemic infections. It affects millions of people annually, causing immense morbidity and economic losses worldwide. This study aims to evaluate the occurrence of Salmonella in water and raw foods, focusing on meat, fish, shellfish, and vegetables consumed in the city of Nampula, north of Mozambique. A total of 81 samples of meat, fish and shellfish, vegetables, and water were collected from nine of the ten municipal markets in Nampula City. Salmonella detections were performed according to ISO 6579‐1. A chi‐square test was performed in the Python programming language to detect associations between positive samples and market localization. The results showed a high frequency of Salmonella. From the total sample, 38.5% were Salmonella positive. Fresh vegetables were the most contaminated samples, followed by fish, shellfish, raw meat, and water. The outcomes of this study did not find an association between the sample collection location and the test results for Salmonella. In this study, serovars of Salmonella were not identified which hinders the association of Salmonella occurrence with diseases. Consequently, we propose that the next study should focus on detecting the serotypes of Salmonella strains.
Figure S1: Accuracy of Feature-Specific Classifiers from Deep-Learning Model for Tumor-Type Prediction Using Targeted Clinical Genomic Sequencing Data
Authors: Darmofal Madison , Suman Shalabh , Atwal Gurnit , Toomey Michael , Chen Jie-Fu , Chang Jason C. , Vakiani Efsevia , Varghese Anna M. , Balakrishnan Rema Anoop , Syed Aijazuddin , Schultz Nikolaus , Berger Michael F. , Morris Quaid
Published: June 2024

For each broad category of features present within our training set, we trained individual models using the same training regime as GDD-ENS. Results are shown across these categories, represented by a circle. We then iteratively combined and retrained models, adding these broad feature groups in decreasing order of the accuracy of their individual model, represented by an X. The X corresponding to the category indicated on the X-axis corresponds to the accuracy of the model trained on all categories to the left of it. The model trained on all the features has the highest accuracy overall on held-out data. CN; Copy Number.
A Descriptive Diagnosis or a Causal Explanation? Accuracy of Depictions of Depression on Authoritative Health Organization Websites
Authors: Kajanoja Jani , Valtonen Jussi
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Psychiatric diagnoses are descriptive in nature, but the lay public commonly misconceives them as causal explanations. It is not known whether this logical error, a form of circular reasoning, can sometimes be mistakenly reinforced by health authorities themselves. In this study, we investigated the prevalence of misleading causal descriptions of depression in the information provided by authoritative mental health organizations on widely accessed internet sites. Methods: We searched for popular websites managed by leading mental health organizations and conducted a content analysis to evaluate whether they presented depression accurately as a description of symptoms, or inaccurately as a causal explanation. Results: Most websites used language that inaccurately described depression as a causal explanation to depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Leading professional medical and psychiatric organizations commonly confound depression, a descriptive diagnostic label, with a causal explanation on their most prominently accessed informational websites. We argue that the scientifically inaccurate causal language in depictions of psychiatric diagnoses is potentially harmful because it leads the public to misunderstand the nature of mental health problems. Mental health authorities providing psychoeducation should clearly state that psychiatric diagnoses are purely descriptive to avoid misleading the public.
Evaluation of Allergic Reactions and Tolerance with Fruit and Vegetable Allergy in Children
Authors: Şirin Seda , Özkan Kırgın Burcu , Özmen Serap , Akelma Zülfikar
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Despite the increasing prevalence of fruit and vegetable allergies in childhood over the past decades, the clinical course of reaction types and tolerance remain unclear. Our aim was to evaluate the clinical course, demographic characteristics, and tolerance rate of allergic reactions induced by fruits or vegetables. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study on patients who presented with suspected allergic reactions to fruit or vegetables. We used patient records to identify demographic data, skin prick test, prick-to-prick test, and oral food challenge test results and laboratory findings. Results: The study included 78 children with a median age of 61.5 months. Class 1 and 2 allergies were found in 65 and 13 cases, respectively. The most common allergens were potato (21.8%), banana (15.4%), peach (14.1%), and tomato (12.8%). Clinical symptoms included urticaria (75.6%), oral allergy syndrome (15.4%), angioedema (7.7%), and anaphylaxis (1.3%). Thirteen children achieved tolerance, while 61.7% did not. The median time to tolerance was 13.5 months after diagnosis, with a minimum of 9 months. Significant differences in reaction type, clinical presentation, pan-allergy to aeroallergens, and serum total IgE levels were found between the tolerant and non-tolerant groups (p = 0.006, 0.009, 0.005, and 0.001, respectively). Conclusion: This is the first study to provide guidance on the tolerance rate and resolution time of fruit and vegetable allergies based on demographic and diagnostic parameters. Further research is needed to deepen our understanding of fruit and vegetable allergy.
Comparison of the Efficacy of Omalizumab and Mepolizumab in Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease
Authors: Cihanbeylerden Melek , Tuncay Gülseren , Kayıkçı Hazal , Damadoglu Ebru , Karakaya Gül , Kalyoncu Ali Fuat
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-exacerbated respiratory disease (N-ERD) is heterogeneous in both phenotypes and endotypes. Due to insufficient head-to-head comparison studies, it is hard to decide which biological to initiate. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of omalizumab and mepolizumab which can be used in the treatment of patients with severe eosinophilic asthma diagnosed with N-ERD. Methods: The population of this observational, cross-sectional study comprised of N-ERD patients who received omalizumab or mepolizumab for at least 6 months for severe asthma. Outcomes included the asthma control test (ACT), and sino-nasal outcome test scores (SNOT-22), blood eosinophil counts at initiation of biological treatment (T0, baseline) and at the end of 6th months (T6). Adverse effects related to biological treatment and changes of oral corticosteroids dose was recorded. Results: The study included a total of 22 patients, of whom 11 received mepolizumab and 11 received omalizumab. The change in ACT, SNOT-22, eosinophil counts, and adverse effects related to biologicals were similar at T6 (p = 0.606, p = 0.168, p = 0.05, p = 0.053, respectively). However, when examining the SNOT-22 and ACT based on the cumulative distribution curve (SUCRA), mepolizumab (SUCRA value: 0.61, 0.72, respectively) demonstrated greater efficacy compared to omalizumab (SUCRA value: 0.19, 0.35, respectively). The oral corticosteroids discontinuation rate was similar between the two groups (p = 0.05). Conclusion: We found both omalizumab and mepolizumab to be effective in treatment; however, we determined that mepolizumab may have a potential superiority in efficacy.
Therapeutic Inhibition of
LincRNA-p21
Protects Against Cardiac Hypertrophy
Authors: Wang Yi , Zhang Mingming , Wang Rong , Lin Jing , Ma Qing , Guo Haipeng , Huang Huihui , Liang Zhuomin , Cao Yangpo , Zhang Xiaoran , Lu Yao Wei , Liu Jianming , Xiao Feng , Yan Hualin , Dimitrova Nadya , Huang Zhan-Peng , Mably John D. , Pu William T. , Wang Da-Zhi
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND:

Cardiac hypertrophy is an adaptive response to pressure overload aimed at maintaining cardiac function. However, prolonged hypertrophy significantly increases the risk of maladaptive cardiac remodeling and heart failure. Recent studies have implicated long noncoding RNAs in cardiac hypertrophy and cardiomyopathy, but their significance and mechanism(s) of action are not well understood.

METHODS:

We measured
lincRNA-p21
RNA and H3K27ac levels in the hearts of dilated cardiomyopathy patients. We assessed the functional role of
lincRNA-p21
in basal and surgical pressure-overload conditions using loss-of-function mice. Genome-wide transcriptome analysis revealed dysregulated genes and pathways. We labeled proteins in proximity to full-length lincRNA-p21 using a novel BioID2-based system. We immunoprecipitated lincRNA-p21-interacting proteins and performed cell fractionation, ChIP-seq (chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing), and co-immunoprecipitation to investigate molecular interactions and underlying mechanisms. We used GapmeR antisense oligonucleotides to evaluate the therapeutic potential of
lincRNA-p21
inhibition in cardiac hypertrophy and associated heart failure.

RESULTS:

lincRNA-p21
was induced in mice and humans with cardiomyopathy. Global and cardiac-specific
lincRNA-p21
knockout significantly suppressed pressure overload-induced ventricular wall thickening, stress marker elevation, and deterioration of cardiac function. Genome-wide transcriptome analysis and transcriptional network analysis revealed that
lincRNA-p21
acts
in trans
to stimulate the NFAT/MEF2 (nuclear factor of activated T cells/myocyte enhancer factor-2) pathway. Mechanistically, lincRNA-p21 is bound to the scaffold protein KAP1 (KRAB-associated protein-1).
lincRNA-p21
cardiac-specific knockout suppressed stress-induced nuclear accumulation of KAP1, and KAP1 knockdown attenuated cardiac hypertrophy and NFAT activation. KAP1 positively regulates pathological hypertrophy by physically interacting with NFATC4 to promote the overactive status of NFAT/MEF2 signaling. GapmeR antisense oligonucleotide depletion of lincRNA-p21 similarly inhibited cardiac hypertrophy and adverse remodeling, highlighting the therapeutic potential of inhibiting
lincRNA-p21
.

CONCLUSIONS:

These findings advance our understanding of the functional significance of stress-induced long noncoding RNA in cardiac hypertrophy and demonstrate the potential of
lincRNA-p21
as a novel therapeutic target for cardiac hypertrophy and subsequent heart failure.
Extracellular vesicles and glycans
Authors: Janković Tamara , Janković Miroslava
Published: June 2024

Graphical abstract
Highlights
• Biological fluids contain nano-sized particles called extracellular vesicles
• Extracellular vesicles properties reflect the physiological and pathological state of the parent cells
• Extracellular vesicles as analytes are suitable for use in liquid biopsy-based real-time diagnostics
• Glycans, complex oligosaccharides, are distinct components of extracellular vesicles membrane and cargo
• Mapping extracellular vesicles glycans is of importance for finding new composite biomarkers
The investigation of biomarkers is constantly evolving. New molecules and molecular assemblies, such as soluble and particulate complexes, emerged as biomarkers from basic research and investigation of different proteomes, genomes, and glycomes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), and glycans, complex carbohydrates are ubiquitous in nature. The composition and structure of both reflect physiological state of paternal cells and are strikingly changed in diseases. The EV-associated glycans, alone or in combination with soluble glycans in related biological fluids, used as analytes, aim to capture full complex biomarker picture, enabling its use in different clinical settings. Bringing together EVs and glycans can help to extract meaningful data from their extreme and distinct heterogeneities for use in the real-time diagnostics. The glycans on the surface of EVs could mark their subpopulations and establish the glycosignature, the solubilisation signature and molecular patterns. They all contribute to a new way of looking at and looking for composite biomarkers.
Comparative study on the quality control effectiveness of AI-PBRTQC and traditional PBRTQC model in identifying quality risks
Authors: Zeng Xianfei , Wen Dongmei , Li Bin , Dong Xucai , Meng Xi
Published: June 2024

Graphical abstract
Highlights
• Establish optimal patient-based real-time quality control models for different analytes based on patient-based real-time quality control real-time intelligent monitoring platform
• Clinical application effect of artificial intelligence patient-based real-time quality control real-time intelligent monitoring platform in identifying real-world quality risks
IntroductionWe compared the quality control efficiency of artificial intelligence-patient-based real-time quality control (AI-PBRTQC) and traditional PBRTQC in laboratories to create favorable conditions for the broader application of PBRTQC in clinical laboratories.
Materials and methodsIn the present study, the data of patients with total thyroxine (TT4), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total cholesterol (TC), urea, and albumin (ALB) over five months were categorized into two groups: AI-PBRTQC group and traditional PBRTQC group. The Box-Cox transformation method estimated truncation ranges in the conventional PBRTQC group. In contrast, in the AI-PBRTQC group, the PBRTQC software platform intelligently selected the truncation ranges. We developed various validation models by incorporating different weighting factors, denoted as λ. Error detection, false positive rate, false negative rate, average number of the patient sample until error detection, and area under the curve were employed to evaluate the optimal PBRTQC model in this study. This study provides evidence of the effectiveness of AI-PBRTQC in identifying quality risks by analyzing quality risk cases.
ResultsThe optimal parameter setting scheme for PBRTQC is TT4 (78-186), λ = 0.03; AMH (0.02-2.96), λ = 0.02; ALT (10-25), λ = 0.02; TC (2.84-5.87), λ = 0.02; urea (3.5-6.6), λ = 0.02; ALB (43-52), λ = 0.05.
ConclusionsThe AI-PBRTQC group was more efficient in identifying quality risks than the conventional PBRTQC. AI-PBRTQC can also effectively identify quality risks in a small number of samples. AI-PBRTQC can be used to determine quality risks in both biochemistry and immunology analytes. AI-PBRTQC identifies quality risks such as reagent calibration, onboard time, and brand changes.
Pets of Precarity: The Agency of Excessively Cutified Companion Animals
Authors: Krylova Katya
Published: June 2024

Validated by neoliberal cultures primarily as affective laborers whose purpose is to evoke sentiment and commitment, companion species became subject to cuteness engineering. This process involves altering the biological makeup and behavioral traits of animals toward exaggerated infantilism to enable specific emotional experiences for humans. Within the framework of postmodern critical theory and cuteness studies, this research explores miniaturization and neotenization in the breeding and representation of companion animals to rethink ethical concerns tied to the production techniques and marketing of excessively miniature pets. Engaging with expertise from disciplines including human-animal studies, ethics, and industrial design, this paper considers several aesthetic and affective paradoxes of contemporary pet-making to speculate upon their role in shaping our attitudes toward nonhuman animals in general.
Erratum: MEL C. CAMELO & MARCUS A.N. COELHO (2024) A new species of Anthurium (Araceae) from the canga vegetation of the Serra dos Carajás, Pará, Brazil. Phytotaxa 652 (2): 142–148.
Authors: CAMELO MEL C. , COELHO MARCUS A.N.
Published: June 2024

N/A
Morphological and multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of two new species of Phyllosticta (Phyllostictaceae, Botryosphaeriales) from Southwestern China
Authors: GONG CUI-LING , WU HAI-XIA , LI JIN-CHEN , SONG JIA-YU
Published: June 2024

Phyllosticta is an important genus of pathogenic fungi with worldwide distribution. Phyllosticta species also occur as endophytes and saprobes on various plant hosts. Multi-gene phylogenetic analysis based on sequence data of ITS, LSU, TEF1 and morphological evidence supported the introduction of two new species, which were isolated from dead leaves in China. Phylogenetically, the new species, P. savannaensis and P. ovalina, formed two well-separated lineages in the Phyllosticta capitalensis and Phyllosticta cruenta species complexes, respectively. P. savannaensis is closely related to P. capitalensis, but formed a separate branch (BS= 100%/BYPP= 1.0), while P. ovalina and P. hubeiensis clustered together with high support (BS= 100%/BYPP= 1.0). Both new species exhibited the typical characteristics of the genus Phyllosticta but could be distinguished from closely related species. P. savannaensis can be differentiated from the sexual stage of other Phyllosticta species by the length to width ratio of the ascospores and shape of appendages. The ascospores of P. ovalina are oval, which distinguish it from other species of Phyllosticta.
Social work and mutuality
Authors: Kochi Yasufumi , Yokoi Teruo
Published: June 2024

The faculty students are required to interview their grandparents about a month after starting at the university. Embracing the ‘not-knowing’ attitude in social work allows for better relationships with clients as students are brought closer to the world in which the client lives.
Lethal Gram-negative sepsis in healthy pigs during anaesthesia with contaminated propofol
Authors: Maaland Marit G , Oropeza-Moe Marianne , Nes Silje K , Myrland Frode , Ersdal Cecilie , Oveland Nils P
Published: June 2024

Two healthy Landrace pigs anaesthetized with propofol suffered rapid onset of fatal sepsis. Clinical signs included severe arterial hypotension, loss of peripheral oxygenation, low end-tidal CO2, clinical onset of pulmonary oedema and cardiac dysfunction. Gross and histopathological examination revealed loss of vascular integrity with severe lung oedema and congestion, haemorrhages in several organs and fluid leakage into body cavities. Large numbers of Gram-negative bacteria, primarily Klebsiella sp., were present in the anaesthetic infusion containing propofol and were also cultured from internal organs of both pigs. The propofol was likely contaminated by bacteria after inappropriate handling and storage in the operating room. This report illustrates the potential for severe nosocomial infection when applying propofol in animals and humans and may serve as a reminder of the importance of strict aseptic practice in general, and specifically in the handling of this anaesthetic agent.
The role of a Medical Examiner Service in an acute NHS hospital: Perspectives from doctors and next of kin
Authors: Carpenter Katie , Stammers Katie , Payne-James Grace , Parapanos Louise , Payne-James Jason
Published: June 2024

A new Medical Examiner system was introduced in England and Wales in 2019 to scrutinise all non-coronial deaths. The three key roles of independent Medical Examiner scrutiny are to establish accurate causes of death, determine whether coronial referral is required and identify any care concerns. This is the first published service evaluation exploring the views of doctors and next of kin with whom Medical Examiner Services interact. The aims were to understand whether the Medical Examiner Service was achieving its three main roles. Surveys were sent electronically to the qualified attending practitioners, and by post to the next of kin, of a consecutive series of deceased patients reviewed by an acute NHS hospital Medical Examiner Service in the East of England. Recruitment took place over a five month period in 2023. Results are based on 100 returned surveys from doctors (response rate 35%) and 179 completed by next of kin (response rate 65%). Findings suggest the Medical Examiner Service was successfully achieving its three key roles and well received by both doctors and next of kin. Service user feedback is clearly important as Medical Examiner Services continue to develop into the statutory phase during 2024, when they are anticipated to review approximately 400,000 deaths per annum in England and Wales. This study demonstrates such feedback is not only useful for service development, but also eminently possible.
Effect of Time Pressure on Informal Advice Relations Across Organizational Units: Evidence from a study of collaboration within a Formula One racing team
Authors: Parker Andrew , Lomi Alessandro , Zappa Paola
Published: June 2024

Informal advice relations across units in an organization are beneficial for knowledge sharing and problem solving. Prior research suggests that despite their benefits, there are costs to informal advice relations across units. However, the mechanisms by which these costs are mitigated remain unclear. We theorize that this lack of clarity is because work factors have not been sufficiently considered. We examine one such work factor, specifically time pressure, and develop a cost-based explanation for how time pressure influences cross-unit advice relationships. We investigate two time-pressure levels. In the first, work is conducted under lower time pressure, and there is less likelihood of a negative outcome. In the second, work is conducted under higher time-pressure conditions, and there is a greater likelihood of a negative outcome. We theorize that under lower time-pressure conditions, the costs of advice relations across units are mitigated by reciprocal advice relationships. However, under higher time pressure, the cost of informal advice relations across units is higher owing to the need for quick coordination of advice, and these costs are mitigated by reciprocal advice relationships in conjunction with cross-unit formal workflow relationships. To test our hypotheses, we examine the informal advice network and formal workflow network in lower and higher time-pressure conditions among 118 members of the Information Technology and Systems division of a Formula One racing team. Our results indicate that under lower time-pressure conditions, reciprocal advice ties are sufficient to overcome costs. However, under higher time-pressure conditions, cross-unit advice ties are facilitated by reciprocal advice ties embedded in the workflow ties between units. Thus, our findings have implications for how knowledge is managed and how problems are solved in organizations.
Deformation of Flexible Polyether Polyurethane Foams with Bimodal Cellular Structure
Authors: Dementjev A.G.
Published: June 2024

Structural and mechanical properties of light-weight flexible polyether polyurethane foams with bimodal cellular structures are discussed. The formation of a two level cellular structure (β- and α-, respectively from 0.1 to 0.6 and from 3 to 12 mm in diameter) were considered.

Compressive stress-strain curves of flexible foams with monomodal and bimodal cellular structures were evaluated for a wide range of strain rates. The Dementjev-Tarakanov 14-sided model of polyhedron structure was used in calculations using the elastic parameters method.

This paper discusses research and develops a method of calculation of heterogeneity and deformation of flexible foams reviewing the results of laboratory and calculation investigations.
Thermal Conductivity of Polyurethane (PUR) Rigid Foam Boards after Storage at 23°C and 70°C
Authors: Albrecht W. , Zehendner H.
Published: June 2024

During a special research programme at FIW in Munich the change in thermal conductivity over time (ageing) of Polyurethane rigid foam boards was studied . PUR boards with flexible diffusion open facings, such as paper and glass fleece, and blown with pentane or with HCFC 14 lb, were examined.

The natural ageing at 23°C over 5 years was compared with the ageing over 25 or 39 weeks at 70°C.

In summary, it was observed that the 70°C storage for 25 or 39 weeks represents a lower rate of accelerated ageing of thermal conductivity than 5 years storage at 23°C; an even lower increase was measured between weeks 25 and 39.
The Use of On-Line Rheometry to Characterize Polymer Melts Containing Physical Blowing Agents*
Authors: Gendron R. , Correa A.
Published: June 2024

The application of on-line rheometry is considered with particular reference to polymer melts plasticized by physical blowing agents. Experimental investigations were performed on polystyrene containing 0-15 wt% of HCFC-142b or HFC-134a or 0-5 wt% of carbon dioxide at various temperatures and shear rates. It was shown that results could be used to indicate the solubility limit and related to the glass transition temperature.

Rheological modelling and data fits were compared indicating that a time/ temperature-composition (i.e. relative concentrations of polymers/blowing agent mixtures) superposition principle was valid. The model was extended to consider effects using a semi-crystalline polymer (polypropylene).

It was concluded that an on-line retum-to-stream process control rheometer could satisfactorily measure and monitor mixtures of polymers and physical blowing agents used in thermoplastic foam extrusion. Appropriate viscosity measurements could be directly linked to a number of critical variables.
Fig leaf from the Middle Siwalik sediments of eastern Nepal with implication on biogeography and palaeoclimate
Authors: Adhikari Purushottam , Bhatia Harshita , Khatri Dhan Bahadur , Sadanand  , Srivastava Gaurav , Mehrotra R. C. , Paudayal Khum N.
Published: June 2024

The Siwalik flora is important in understanding the orogeny of the Himalayas and the resulting climate change. Though the fossil records from the eastern Himalayan Siwalik of Nepal are sparse, we report a fossil leaf impression/ compression of Ficus precunea Lakhanpal from the Middle Siwalik (upper Miocene–lower Pliocene) sediments of eastern Nepal. The characteristic leaf venation pattern and morphological details suggest its strong affinity with the extant species of F. semicordata Buch.-Ham. ex Sm. The fossil assemblage indicates the presence of seasonal forests during the depositional period in the region.
Microstructure analysis of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer laminates subjected to self-heating and fatigue strengthening under tension-tension fatigue loading
Authors: Qiao Liang , Zhou Ling , Zuo Jiale , Ding Xiang , Wu Donglin , Li Xingqi , He Xiaoshu , Wu Qiong
Published: June 2024

In this study, tensile-tensile fatigue testing of unidirectional (UD) carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) prepreg laminates was performed. Two types of specimens (open-hole and unopened-hole ones) were examined at different stress levels to elucidate the impact of fatigue damage on their static strength at different numbers of cycles. The effect of internal heat generation during fatigue on the life of unopened-hole CFRP laminates was analyzed by observing the changes in the microstructure of specimens. The results revealed that the difference in fatigue life between unopened specimens with and without cooling at 70% ultimate tension stress (UTS) level was about 88 times. In the open-hole CFRP laminates, the residual tension strength (RTS) after increases and then decreases with the number of fatigue cycles, and the interface debonding was a significant cause of fatigue strengthening. Open-hole specimens were shown to withstand continuous cycling under severe loads at 5% above their ultimate stress levels. Therefore, the fatigue damage extension of the open-hole laminates can be slowed down under intensive cycling at high stress levels, ensuring good fatigue performance of the material.
The climate battles of ideas: Minority discourses in readers’ comments to climate change articles in the Portuguese press
Authors: Monteiro Ramos Nuno , Castro Paula
Published: June 2024

Today, the dominant climate change discourses affirm its anthropogenic nature and the urgency for policies. However, minority discourses remain active in the worldwide debate, refining arguments beyond simple denial—as shown regarding formal/official discourses of the United States and European far-right parties. This makes it necessary to examine the public understanding of climate change in everyday, informal minority discourses, looking at how they work for broadening societal space for “quarantining” the transformative potential of climate change meanings/policies. For this, we analyze readers’ comments on climate change articles from two Portuguese newspapers, drawing from the frameworks of neutralization techniques and meaning barriers. Findings show that although denial of anthropogenic climate change remains, discursive efforts concentrate on person-stigmatizing depictions of climate change actors, delegitimized as “elites” in populist vocabularies, reflecting a consistent alignment between everyday discourses and those of the United States and European official far-right. We discuss the functions this pattern may have for the growth of climate change minority positions.
Affects of Objectivity: Decision-Making Practices in the Dutch Asylum Procedure
Authors: Hertoghs Maja
Published: June 2024

This article explores the pursuit of objectivity in the Dutch asylum procedure, where asymmetrical forms of intimacy and techniques of suspicion are used to gather sensitive information from asylum applicants and evaluate their case files. Firstly, I examine the procedural design and how objectivity is pursued in producing distance, detachment, and the rotation of several Immigration and Naturalization Department (IND) officers in and out of applications. Secondly, I focus on the authority granted to a specific kind of trained IND subjectivity, well-versed in a critical and intuitive reading of the ever-suspected asylum applicant. By analysing the entanglement of objectivity and subjectivity, this study contributes to existing scholarship on the interplay between emotions and legal judgment, as well as to scholarship on borders and bureaucratic practices within contexts of heightened control and securitization. By doing so I challenge the notion of ‘emotion management’ as a means to enhance objectivity, arguing that pursuing objectivity in these state practices is not merely managed affective work; more crucially, it privileges affects of suspicion.
Amy Coney Barrett is Not Enough: How Descriptive and Substantive Representation Shape Trust and Legitimacy of the Federal Courts
Authors: Chen Philip , Savage Amanda
Published: June 2024

Public trust and perceptions of institutional legitimacy are vital to the functioning of the federal court system, and recent work challenges the long-standing belief that these attitudes are relatively stable in the populace. We posit that one threat to perceptions of trust and legitimacy is the lack of representation for women in the federal judiciary. Using a series of experiments, we show that, while women desire descriptive representation, this is an insufficient condition for preserving support for the institution. Substantive representation on issues critical to women leads to significantly increased trust and legitimacy and lowered perceptions of institutional bias among women. While female judges may bring their own social identities to bear in their decision-making, our work suggests that efforts to diversify the federal judiciary, while important, are unlikely to bolster public support for the courts if the new judges and justices fail to substantively represent the communities of interest.
Outer retina and choroid as potential imaging markers for evaluation of neural impairment in early type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Zheng Gu , Li Jin , Zhou Yue , Gao Hongjian , Wan Ni , Wu Chaoming , Chen Feng , Zhou Rong , Shen Meixiao , Lu Fan , Wang Yuanyuan
Published: June 2024

Purpose

To quantify the presence of early structural alterations in the outer retinal layer and choroid among healthy subjects and diabetic patients with no or mild diabetic retinopathy, and to establish the correlation between the measured structural parameters and retinal sensitivity.

Methods

In total, 31 eyes from subjects with type 2 diabetes and 29 eyes from healthy subjects were enrolled. Optical coherence tomography was used to measure outer retina layers and choroid, while microperimetry was used to characterize the changes of visual function in a 6-mm diameter area at macula. Quantitative analysis of structural and functional changes was performed between groups and the structure-function correlations were determined.

Results

The thickness of myoid and ellipsoid zone, choroid and the mean retinal sensitivity were significantly smaller in diabetic group than that in controls (all P values < 0.05). Besides, thinner choroid and outer retina was associated with the decreased retinal sensitivity，especially in diabetic patients ( r = 0.377, P = 0.048; r = 0.401, P = 0.034; respectively). Final multiple regression models showed the outer retinal thickness (ORT) ( P = 0.033), choroidal thickness ( P = 0.003) and the interaction between ORT and choroidal thickness ( P = 0.001) were significant predictors to retinal sensitivity.

Conclusions

Thinning of choroid and outer retina were significantly correlated with reduced retinal sensitivity, which indicate outer retina and choroid might be potential imaging markers for evaluation of visual function related to neural impairment in type 2 diabetic patients without or in the early stage of diabetic retinopathy.
Digital divide in the Middle East and North Africa: Introduction to the special issue
Authors: Muschert Glenn W , Ragnedda Massimo
Published: June 2024

Despite having high literacy rates and a robust digital infrastructure, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region still faces digital inequalities. This collection of articles explores the complexities of digital disparities within MENA, taking into account cultural, economic, and historical factors. Each article in this section examines the impact of digital inequality on society, the economy, and culture, emphasizing the need for context-specific approaches. The goal of this thematic issue is to encourage international study and address social challenges stemming from digital divides in MENA by critically discussing digital disparities and their effects.
Chasing scorpions across North Africa: Ethical reflections on life story research with Sub-Saharan migrants
Authors: Wilson-Forsberg Stacey , Beggar Abderrahman
Published: June 2024

In this Research Note, two researchers present their reflections on the ethical challenges they encountered while collecting life stories of sub-Saharan migrants in Morocco and the Disputed Territory of Western Sahara. The reflections are based on field notes and excerpts from unedited transcripts of daily debriefing sessions that the researchers undertook together. The sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed into written notes. The materials reveal their thoughts and feelings as they grappled with the ethics of keeping their research participants (“Narrators”) safe, working with community organizations on the ground, attempting to conduct interviews as humanely as possible, while also managing and concealing their own emotions.
We are all Sentenced: The Lived Experience of Mothers With an Adult Incarcerated Daughter
Authors: Tadros Eman , Dignam Christopher , Grosholz Jessica , Welshhans Emily
Published: June 2024

The vast majority of research on the impact of familial incarceration focuses on its effect on children, even though one in eight adults in the United States has had a child in prison. While some studies have examined the lived experiences of mothers with an incarcerated adult son, no research has explored the effect of an adult daughter’s incarceration on their mother. Using in-depth interviews with four mothers who have adult daughters in prison, this study finds that these mothers were significantly affected by their daughter’s incarceration. They experience painful emotions, face significant barriers and challenges, and highlight the pressing need for mental health services. Along with other prior works, our findings can be used to inform policy and clinical recommendations for those working with and advocating for incarcerated populations and their impacted loved ones.
Community Building Through Screen Sharing: Community Screening as Cultural Practice in Postmillennial Hong Kong and Beyond
Authors: Wu Helena
Published: June 2024

Community screenings in this study are understood as the exhibition of moving images outside conventional theatres and commercial circuits. Based on fieldwork observations and interviews conducted between January 2019 and January 2020 with film workers, community groups, and venue providers who knitted together a rhizomatic community screening network in Hong Kong, this paper explores the (self-)making of urban cultural space by way of the reinvention of “screens” and the rebuilding of a place-based, people-centred community with ethical concerns for small businesses, artists, craftspeople, workers, and members of the public during the first two decades of postmillennial era. The paper concludes with some observations about the phenomenal shift in not only the mode, but also the site of film dissemination from Hong Kong to overseas diasporic communities before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and following the emigration wave in the 2020s.
Conditioning of Motor Evoked Responses After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Effects of Stimulus Intensity
Authors: Rodriguez Kazandra M. , Moon Jungsun , Krishnan Chandramouli , Palmieri-Smith Riann M.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Operant conditioning of motor evoked torque (MEPTORQUE) can directly target the corticospinal pathway in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. However, it remains unclear whether operant conditioning can elicit short-term improvements in corticospinal excitability and whether these improvements are influenced by stimulus intensity.

Hypothesis:

Quadriceps MEPTORQUE responses can be upconditioned in a single session and will elicit short-term adaptations in corticospinal excitability, with higher stimulus intensities eliciting greater effects.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled laboratory study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 2.

Methods:

Thirty-six participants were assessed during a single session of an operant conditioning protocol. Participants were randomized into 1 of 3 groups for stimulus intensity used during operant conditioning based on the participant’s active motor threshold (AMT: 100%, 120%, and 140%). Quadriceps MEPTORQUE amplitude was evaluated during a block of control transcranial magnetic stimulation trials (CTRL) to establish baseline corticospinal excitability, and 3 blocks of conditioning trials (COND) during which participants trained to upcondition their MEPTORQUE. MEPTORQUE recruitment curves were collected to evaluate the effect of operant conditioning on acute corticospinal adaptations.

Results:

Participants with ACL reconstruction could upcondition their MEPTORQUE in a single session ( P < 0.01; CTRL, 17.27 ± 1.28; COND, 21.35 ± 1.28 [mean ± standard error [SE] in N·m]), but this ability was not influenced by the stimulus intensity used during training ( P = 0.84). Furthermore, significant improvements in corticospinal excitability were observed ( P = 0.05; PRE, 687.91 ± 50.15; POST, 761.08 ± 50.15 [mean ± SE in N·m %AMT]), but stimulus intensity did not influence corticospinal adaptations ( P = 0.67).

Conclusion:

Operant conditioning can elicit short-term neural adaptations in ACL-reconstructed patients. Future operant conditioning paradigms may effectively use any of the 3 stimulus intensities studied herein.

Clinical Relevance:

Operant conditioning may be a feasible approach to improve corticospinal excitability after ACL reconstruction.
Understanding the need for pediatric neurodevelopmental services among households in western Kenya: A population-based study
Authors: Eastes Kaytlin , Oyungu Eren , Jerop Carolyne , Ombitsa Ananda Roselyne , Kigen Barnabas , McHenry Megan S
Published: June 2024

Introduction:

Existing estimates of rates of childhood disability in Kenya are based on data with important limitations. Individual-level data on childhood disability at the local level is also lacking, leaving critical knowledge gaps for clinical and programmatic development.

Objectives:

We aimed to estimate the rates of children at-risk for disability, examine the external factors related to risk of childhood disability, and gain a better understanding of the challenges experienced by children at-risk for disabilities and their families within western Kenya.

Methods:

We conducted a small, cross-sectional randomized community survey to assess the rates of childhood disability across six administrative locations in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya, and to understand the experiences of these children and their caretakers.

Results:

Rate of childhood disability in Uasin Gishu county was estimated to be 5%, with the most common disabilities being mood disorders. Caretakers reported several barriers to accessing treatment for their children at-risk of having disabilities, including financial concerns and lack of transportation.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest a need for improved access to care in this region, including addressing significant barriers to accessing care such as stigma and socioeconomic challenges. These community-level data will inform the development of future infrastructure and programming for this population.
Change in disease burden associated with influenza and air pollutants during the COVID-19 pandemic in Hong Kong
Authors: Liu Yanwen , Jingyu Xie , Cihan Cai , Tsang Hilda , Lu Shuya , He Daihai , Yang Lin
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to estimate the variation in disease burden associated with air pollutants and other respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We adopted a machine learning approach to calculate the excess mortality attributable to air pollutants and influenza, during the pre-pandemic and pandemic period.

Results

In the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were 8762 (95% confidence interval, 7503–9993), and 12,496 (11,718–13,332) excess all-cause deaths in Hong Kong. These figures correspond to 117.4 and 167.9 per 100,000 population, and 12.6% and 8.5% of total deaths in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Compared to the period before the pandemic, excess deaths from all-causes, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, pneumonia and influenza attributable to influenza A and B significantly decreased in all age groups. However, excess deaths associated with ozone increased in all age-disease categories, while the relative change of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particular matters less than 10 µm (PM10) associated burden showed a varied pattern.

Conclusions

A notable shift in disease burden attributable to influenza and air pollutants was observed in the pandemic period, suggesting that both direct and indirect impacts shall be considered when assessing the global and regional burden of the COVID-19 pandemic.