bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Between “Empowering” and “Blaming” Mechanisms in Developing Political/Economic Responses to Climate Change
Authors: Ruiu Maria Laura , Ruiu Gabriele , Ragnedda Massimo
Published: February 2023

This conceptual paper reviews four dimensions of the climate change (CC) debate concerning perception, framing, and political and economic dimensions of CC. It attempts to address the question posed by sociological research as to what can be done to reduce the social forces driving CC. In doing so, it attempts to uncover mechanisms that delay or prevent the social change required to combat CC. Such mechanisms call into question the Ecological Modernization Theory's assumption that modern societies embrace environmental sustainability with no radical intervention to change the social, political, and economic order. It specifically considers how the representation of CC as a distant phenomenon, in both temporal and physical terms, might contribute to social disengagement. A reflection on the interdependencies among science, political economy, media, and individual perceptions guides this paper. All these social forces also shape the CC discourse in diverse ways according to the evolution of the phenomenon over time (in scientific, but also in political and economic terms) and in relation to its spatial dimension (global/national/local). The variety of climate discourses contributes to increasing political uncertainty; however, this is not the only factor that generates confusion around the CC. Multiple and contrasting information might trigger a “blaming/empowering game” that works at various levels. This mechanism simultaneously promotes the necessity for sustainable development and perpetuates “business as usual‐oriented” practices. Implementing sustainable development is therefore constantly undermined by a difficulty in identifying “heroes” and “devils” in the context of CC.
Serologic reactivity of unidentified specificity in antenatal testing and hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn: The BEST collaborative study
Authors: Lu Wen , Ziman Alyssa , Yan Matthew T. S. , Waters Allison , Virk Mrigender Singh , Tran Ann , Tang Hongying , Shih Andrew W. , Scally Edel , Raval Jay S. , Pandey Suchi , Pagano Monica B. , Shan Hua , Moore Carmel , Morrison Douglas , Cormack Orla , Fitzgerald Joan , Duncan Jennifer , Corean Jessica , Clarke Gwen , Yazer Mark
Published: February 2023

Background

The clinical significance of serologic reactivity of unidentified specificity (SRUS) in pregnancy is not clear based on available literature. The aim of this study is to determine if SRUS is associated with hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN).

Study Design and Methods

Retrospective data were collected from eight institutions over an 11‐year study period (2010–2020), when available (5/8 sites). The outcome of the pregnancies with SRUS—no, mild, moderate, or severe HDFN—was determined.

Results

SRUS was demonstrated in 589 pregnancies. After excluding those with incomplete data, a total of 284 pregnancies were included in the primary HDFN outcome analysis. SRUS was detected in 124 (44%) pregnancies in isolation, and none were affected by HDFN. Of 41 pregnancies with SRUS and ABO incompatibility, 37 (90%) were unaffected, and 4 (10%) were associated with mild HDFN. Of 98 pregnancies with SRUS and concurrent identifiable antibody reactivity(s), 80 (81%) were unaffected, and 19 (19%) were associated with mild to severe HDFN. There was 1 case of mild HDFN and 1 case of severe HDFN in the 21 pregnancies with SRUS, ABO incompatibility, and concurrent identifiable antibody reactivity(s), and 19 (90%) were unaffected by HDFN. Among all patients with repeat testing, newly identified alloantibodies or other antibodies were identified in 63 of 212 (30%) patients. Although most were not clinically significant, on occasion SRUS preceded clinically significant antibody(s) associated with HDFN (3%, 5/188).

Conclusion

The antenatal serologic finding of SRUS in isolation is not associated with HDFN but may precede clinically significant antibodies.
Noncardiogenic pulmonary edema in small animals
Authors: Unger Karin , Martin Linda G.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To review various types of noncardiogenic pulmonary edema (NCPE) in cats and dogs.

Etiology

NCPE is an abnormal fluid accumulation in the lung interstitium or alveoli that is not caused by cardiogenic causes or fluid overload. It can be due to changes in vascular permeability, hydrostatic pressure in the pulmonary vasculature, or a combination thereof. Possible causes include inflammatory states within the lung or in remote tissues (acute respiratory distress syndrome [ARDS]), airway obstruction (post‐obstructive pulmonary edema), neurologic disease such as head trauma or seizures (neurogenic pulmonary edema), electrocution, after re‐expansion of a collapsed lung or after drowning.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of NCPE is generally based on history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging. Radiographic findings suggestive of NCPE are interstitial to alveolar pulmonary opacities in the absence of signs of left‐sided congestive heart failure or fluid overload such as cardiomegaly or congested pulmonary veins. Computed tomography and edema fluid analysis may aid in the diagnosis, while some forms of NCPE require additional findings to reach a diagnosis.

Therapy

The goal of therapy for all types of NCPE is to preserve tissue oxygenation and reduce the work of breathing. This may be achieved by removing the inciting cause (eg, airway obstruction) and cage rest in mild cases and supplemental oxygen in moderate cases and may require mechanical ventilation in severe cases.

Prognosis

Prognosis is generally good for most causes of veterinary NCPE except for ARDS, although data are scarce for some etiologies of NCPE.
Prophylactic use of a lyophilized platelet product for rhinoscopic diagnosis and treatment of sinonasal aspergillosis in a dog with a P2Y12 platelet receptor mutation
Authors: Van Vertloo Laura R. , Portanova Alexandra Z. , Donnini Elle K. , Hale Anne S. , LeVine Dana N.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To describe the periprocedural use of a lyophilized platelet product during rhinoscopic diagnosis and treatment of sinonasal aspergillosis in a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog with a P2Y12 platelet receptor disorder.

Case Summary

After the development of severe epistaxis, a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog was diagnosed with thrombopathia secondary to a P2Y12 receptor gene mutation. Concurrent primary nasal disease was also suspected due to persistent mucopurulent nasal discharge. One month after the initial presentation for epistaxis, the dog was readmitted for workup of nasal disease. Computed tomography of the head showed turbinate lysis and regional lymphadenopathy. Because of concern for a high risk of bleeding in a thrombopathic patient subjected to rhinoscopy and nasal biopsies, a lyophilized platelet product was administered prior to the procedure. Rhinoscopic exam revealed fungal plaques consistent withAspergillusspp. that were later confirmed on fungal culture to beAspergillus fumigatus. Rhinoscopic biopsies were performed as well as debridement of the fungal plaques, followed by topical administration of clotrimazole solution. Bleeding was minimal during and after the procedure, and the dog recovered uneventfully.

New or Unique Information Provided

This is the first report of the prophylactic use of lyophilized platelets in a thrombopathic patient undergoing an invasive procedure with potential for significant hemorrhage. Minimal bleeding occurred during the procedure, suggesting that lyophilized platelets could be used for the prevention of bleeding in thrombopathic patients undergoing invasive procedures.
COMPARISON OF CANOPY COVER EFFECTS ON RAINFALL INTERCEPTION LOSS IN TROPICAL FOREST WITH HOMOGENOUS AND MIXED TREE SPECIES
Authors: Abu Bakar Azinoor Azida , Abd Latif Zulkiflee , Lee Wei-Koon
Published: February 2023

This study was designed to determine the canopy cover, c of the tropical forest and explore its effects on the interception loss amount. The study area was a reserved forest Lagong Hill Forest Reserve, Kepong, Selangor, Malaysia, where two plots with an area of 400 m2 (20 m x 20 m) each have been set up to collect the data. In order to determine the measured interception loss, rainfall, throughfall, and stemflow data have been measured on site. The tree with a diameter at breast height (dbh) of more than 10 cm was selected in collecting the stemflow data. Twenty-five (25) locations have been chosen for the digital hemispherical photographs to be taken. The forest standing of the study area has been visualised by Stand Visualization System (SVS) method, and WinSCanopy 2009a and RGBFisheye.exe application software has been used to obtain the canopy cover values. In this study, the correlation between canopy cover and interception loss were obtained for both plots. It is found that the Lagong Hill Forest Reserve varied has a compact canopy density with canopy cover up to 95%. This condition will affect the canopy interception loss value ranging from 24.83% up to 64.72%.  The canopy cover and interception loss correlation denote that the interception loss amount reduces whilst the canopy cover increases.
CHARACTERISATION OF HIGH PURITY RICE HUSK SILICA SYNTHESISED USING SOLVENT-THERMAL TREATMENT WITH DIFFERENT CONCENTRATION OF ACID LEACHING
Authors: Abdul Salim Zainathul Akhmar Salim , Ismail Hanafi , Hassan Aziz , Che Ismail Nor Hafizah , Hashim Faiezah
Published: February 2023

In recent years, research on bio-based materials, such as rice husk is steadily gaining momentum. Despite their huge developmental potential, rice husks are often left unutilised following the harvesting season, wasting a natural wealth that could be explored. Their high silica content makes them potential fillers to replace commercial precipitated silica in the polymer industry, composites and building materials for construction. In this study, highly pure silica with small particle size and high surface area was extracted from rice husks via solvent-thermal treatment, followed by leaching with different concentrations of hydrochloric acid (HCl). This treatment method was modified from TAPPI T204 (2007) and TAPPI T264 (1997) standards, which are used for wood extraction in the pulp and papermaking industry. By using this method, rice husk silica (RHS) that was leached with 1.0 M HCl recorded the highest particle purity with 99.99% of SiO2 content and the highest BET surface area of 234.25 m2/g compared with RHS leached with 0.01 M, 0.1 M, 2.0 M, and 3.0 M HCl. All RHS samples were in the amorphous state following incineration at 700°C for 4 hours. This proved that RHS synthesised by solvent-thermal treatment method can be further developed as one of the alternatives to commercial silica in the market.
A NOVEL HYBRID MODEL OF REINFORCED CONCRETE DEEP BEAMS WITH CURVED HYBRIDIZATION
Authors: Mohammed Shakir Qasim , Hannon Hawraa Khalid
Published: February 2023

In the present study, a new model of hybrid deep beams has been proposed and discussed. Six specimens are tested experimentally with two types of loading which are one-point and two-point loading and two hybridization models for concrete section. It is aimed from this study to search for the optimum distribution of the concrete types of the hybrid deep beams such that the lowest cost and weight to be reached with keeping the capacity without significant reduction. All specimens had the same dimensions, overall span of 1700 mm, 180 mm wide and 450 mm overall depth and the same steel reinforcement details. Results showed an increase in the capacity in the horizontal and the arched hybrid model by 27.6% and 39%, respectively, with one-point system. Moreover, toughness, enhanced by 44% and 131% for the two models respectively whereas, stiffness enhanced by 6.5% and 34.2% respectively and ductility enhanced by 0% and 31.2% respectively. For tests under two point loads, capacity enhanced by 34% and 36.9%, respectively, Toughness increased by 188% and 301% respectively. Stiffness enhanced by 7.5% and 29.4% respectively. Ductility enhanced by 40.3% and 95.1% respectively.
THE INFLUENCE OF THE CHANNEL BED RECTANGULAR CONFIGURATION ON SEDIMENT TRANSPORTATION
Authors: Mohammed Pirot Omed , Harun Sobri
Published: February 2023

Sediment transport is the movement of organic and inorganic particles caused by gravity, a moving fluid’s force, the wind, and ice motion. Sediment deposition degrades dams’ safety, leading to environmental pollution and channel area reduction. This study describes the effect of the weir height and spacing of used and non-used rectangular configuration structures on sediment transport rates in an open channel. This project was created using a rectangular open channel (30 cm wide and 60 cm deep). A sharp-crested weir was installed in the channel, and the rectangular wooden configurations were fixed in specific locations on each weir to reduce the bedload transportation rate and sediment motion. The weir heights were different (0.25B, 0.35B, 0.45B, and 0.55B, where B is the channel width). Also, the spacing between the baffle blocks (S) was set to 4Y, 8Y, 12Y, and 16Y, where Y was the maximum water depth without installing blocks and weirs. The results showed that the maximum transported bedload for the lowest weir was 1.4 kg/min, but only 4.4 × 10-3 kg/min was transported for the weir 16.5-cm high with baffle blocks. Using long baffle blocks yielded a worse result than using no blocks. The sediment-transport rate increased to 1.66 kg/min for the 7.5-cm weir due to block configurations. In conclusion, the obtained result contradicts the predicted result, as using baffle blocks increased the sediment transportation rate.
CELL IMMOBILIZATION FOR CYCLODEXTRIN PRODUCTION: MINI REVIEW
Authors: Baharudin Nurul Nabila Huda , Che Man Rohaida , Abdul Manas Nor Hasmaliana , Ahmad Rabi'atul Adawiyah , Mohd Zakaria Nur Nadia
Published: February 2023

Cell immobilization has been applied in various industries, including chemical manufacturing, food, pharmaceutical, and textile. Recently, innovations in cell immobilization techniques and support materials have been put forward for application in high value-added chemical biosynthesis, such as cyclodextrin (CD). The techniques, support materials, and process parameters of cell immobilization play important roles in achieving high CD yield. This review should help one choose the correct cell immobilization technique and support for a CD biosynthesis setup. Previously, CD biosynthesis utilized free cells, even though they present difficulties such as the low product yield, cell lysis, unstable plasmid, and non-reusable cells. This review highlights how the problems that arise from free-cell bioreactors could be mitigated by cell immobilization. The process conditions of cell immobilization for CD production are also presented.
QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF ELECTRICAL CURRENT EFFECT ON MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGE TISSUE INTENSITY
Authors: Ain Khusnul , Choridah Lina , Kurniadi Deddy , D. Garnadi Agah , Mukhayyar Utriweni , Hendra Setyawan Nurhuda
Published: February 2023

Recent studies in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) aim to improve image quality while reducing scan time. Electrical current injection in the form of magnetic resonance electrical impedance tomography (MREIT) is believed to be affecting image quality and scan time thus can improve the possibility of becoming a non-chemical contrast agent in MRI. This study will observe and analyze the effect of electrical current injection on a phantom object to determine whether there is a different tissue image intensity.  A thigh of lamb was used as a biological tissue phantom. The scan was performed on both T1and T2-weighted without and with an electrical current injection of 0.5 mA Electrical current injection decreased mean of tissue image intensity on T1-weighted images on both muscle (1759 vs 794) and bone (2752 vs 1550) (p<0.05). On the other hand, the electrical current increased mean of tissue image intensity on T2-weighted images on both muscle (303 vs 897) and bone (579 vs 1499) (p<0.05). There is also a difference in tissue image intensity on both T1 and T2-weighted images with and without electrical current injection on bone and muscle. The implication of this difference in image quality is a subject for further study.
ONTOLOGICAL, FULLY PROBABILISTIC KNOWLEDGE MODEL FOR HUMAN ACTIVITY RECOGNITION
Authors: Foudeh Pouya , Salim Naomie
Published: February 2023

Efficiency and scalability are obstacles that have not yet received a viable response from the human activity recognition research community. This paper proposes an activity recognition method. The knowledge model is in the form of ontology, the state-of-the-art in knowledge representation and reasoning. The ontology starts with probabilistic information about subjects’ low-level activities and location and then is populated with the assertion axioms learned from data or defined by the user. Unlike methods that choose only the most probable candidate from sensor readings, the proposed method keeps multiple candidates with the known degree of confidence for each one and involves them in decision making. Using this method, the system is more flexible to deal with unreliable data, readings from sensors, and the final recognition rate is improved. Besides, to resolve the scalability problem, a system is designed and implemented to do reasoning and storing in a relational database management system. Numerical evaluations and conceptual benchmarking prove the proposed system feasibility.
MODIFICATION OF PROTON PUMP MEMBRANE USING POLYVINYLPYRROLIDONE (PVP) FOR POTENTIAL TOTAL ALKALINITY SENSING
Authors: Ahmad Mariani , Ahmad Azrilawani , Omar Tuan Fauzan Tuan , Zuki Hafiza Mohamed , Mohd Ariffin Marinah
Published: February 2023

Total alkalinity is one of the important parameter in the regulation of seawater carbonate chemistry system to determine the capacity of water to neutralize acid.  In this paper, a new proton pump membrane was successfully modified using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a supporting material due to its excellent chemical properties. The surface morphology of the membrane was thoroughly studied using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), which showed the presence of pore structure, ascribed to the presence of low molecular weight of PVP. The absorption of membrane was studied using Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometer, where the peak appeared at 539 nm-1. The functional group of the modified membrane was analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and the spectra showed almost similar between modified membrane with PVP and without PVP. The electrochemical behaviour of the membrane was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) using gold (Au) electrode and the resulting voltammogram showed that the modified membrane with PVP has higher current reading compared to the membrane without PVP, indicating that there is redox reaction occured during the immobilization. The condition and perfomance of modified proton pump membrane with PVP was compared and analyzed.
HPTLC PROFILING AND FTIR FINGERPRINTING COUPLED WITH CHEMOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF MALAYSIAN STINGLESS BEE PROPOLIS
Authors: Mohd Badiazaman Ainur Awanis , Mohd Khamsah Suryati , Md Zin Nur Basyirah , Mohamad Habsah , Aziz Ahmad Nazif
Published: February 2023

Propolis is a natural substance produced by the bees to protect their hive. The present work reports the utilization of chemical profiling and fingerprinting combined with multivariate analysis for discrimination of the geographical origin of Malaysian stingless bee propolis. High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) has been performed to profile the chemical composition of Geniotrigona thoracica propolis from different localities in East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia namely Besut, Terengganu (BST), Dungun, Terengganu (DGN), Lundang, Kelantan (LDG), Tanah Merah, Kelantan (TM) and Gua Musang, Kelantan (GM). The obtained HPTLC profiles showed the presence of flavonoids, phenolics and terpenoids in propolis. The chemical fingerprinting was obtained through Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Chemometric analysis on FTIR dataset using principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) have classified the propolis into three major groups according to their sampling locations. Chemical fingerprinting analysis on the functional group via FTIR and chemometric revealed that the locations of propolis have direct correlation with the chemical composition, thus affecting the biological activities of propolis.  Both chemical marker and chemical fingerprinting analysis are important tools in propolis standardization.
RADIATION CHARACTERISTIC OF CLOUD BASED MAGNETOMETER FOR VEHICLE DETECTION
Authors: Yee S. K. , Teoh M. C. , Abidin Z. Z. , Dahlan S. H. , Anuar M. R. , Tee K. S. , Lim D. , See C. H. , Zhang H. , Zheng Y. , Soon C. F.
Published: February 2023

A traffic sensing and monitoring system based on a magnetometer is proposed to work with Arduino pro-mini and nRF24L01 to mitigate traffic congestion problems. As vehicles pass through the magnetometer buried underground, the microcontroller processes the magnetic field changes and transmits them by the nRF24L01 transceiver for data analysis. A MIFA antenna resonating at 2.4 GHz is incorporated in the transceiver module for transmission purposes. The performance of this antenna is simulated by using COMSOL commercial software. Approximate 7 dB of return loss enhancement is found when taper design is applied to the antenna.  Since the antenna is designed to radiate at 2.4 GHz, its antenna gain is the highest (1.22 dBi) in this frequency too. The simulated 3D and 2D gain patterns have shown that this antenna is radiating omnidirectional, suitable for transmitting signals in all directions. This is further validated by the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) measurement, which indicates a similar trend of signal strength for all locations at a distance below 40 m (-87 dBm). When the distances increase beyond 40 m, the RSSI at the direction closer to the traffic flow drops significantly compared to the other directions where 30 dBm of variation is detected at 100 m.
The Epics Reinterpreted: Highlighting Feminist Issues While Sustaining Deep Motif
Authors: M C Priyadarshini , A Prakash , P Revathi , R Siva
Published: February 2023

This article explores revisionist works based on the Ramayana and Mahabharata twin epics and looks at the voices of female protagonists. The main emphasis has been on the way that authoritative texts are utilized to create cultural hegemony on purpose for a particular impact. The article also highlights the power of stories and demonstrates how the textual politics in the retelling is directed towards achieving different outlines, especially the modern ideals of liberty, equality, and individuality. By providing a thorough study of the social and psychological struggles of epic women, the view also strikes at the fact that women encounter similar issues for generations. The review explores how Indian society’s patriarchal framework and social construction mistreated the epic heroines and how these elements still have an adverse effect on women in the present era. Their resistance patterns are used to classify and organize them.
Grayscale Digital Light Processing Gradient Printing for Stress Concentration Reduction and Material Toughness Enhancement
Authors: Forte Connor T. , Montgomery S. Macrae , Yue Liang , Hamel Craig M. , Qi H. Jerry
Published: February 2023

Avoiding stress concentrations is essential to achieve robust parts since failure tends to originate at such concentrations. With recent advances in multimaterial additive manufacturing, it is possible to alter the stress (or strain) distribution by adjusting the material properties in selected locations. Here, we investigate the use of grayscale digital light processing (g-DLP) 3D printing to create modulus gradients around areas of high stress. These gradients prevent failure by redistributing high stresses (or strains) to the neighboring material. The improved material distributions are calculated using finite element analysis. The much-enhanced properties are demonstrated experimentally for thin plates with circular, triangular, and elliptical holes. This work suggests that multimaterial additive manufacturing techniques like g-DLP printing provide a unique opportunity to create tougher engineering materials and parts.
Analysis of a Soft Bio-Inspired Active Actuation Model for the Design of Artificial Vocal Folds
Authors: Shariati Azadeh , Wurdemann Helge A.
Published: February 2023

Phonation results from the passively induced oscillation of the vocal folds in the larynx, creating sound waves that are then articulated by the mouth and nose. Patients undergoing laryngectomy have their vocal folds removed and thus must rely on alternative sources of achieving the desired vibration of artificial vocal folds. Existing solutions, such as voice prostheses and the Electrolarynx, are limited by producing sufficient voice quality, for instance. In this paper, we present a mathematical analysis of a physical model of an active vocal fold prosthesis. The inverse dynamical equation of the system will help to understand whether specific types of soft actuators can produce the required force to generate natural phonations. Hence, this is referred to as the active actuation model. We present the analysis to replicate the vowels /a/, /e/, /i/, and /u/ and voice qualities of vocal fry, modal, falsetto, breathy, pressed, and whispery. These characteristics would be required as a first step to design an artificial vocal folds system. Inverse dynamics is used to identify the required forces to change the glottis area and frequencies to achieve sufficient oscillation of artificial vocal folds. Two types of ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) actuators are used to assess their ability to produce these forces and the corresponding activation voltages required. The results of our proposed analysis will enable research into the effects of natural phonation and, further, provide the foundational work for the creation of advanced larynx prostheses.
Self-Thermal Insulation of Containers by the Precipitation and Formation of a Gas Film at the Walls for Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Arias Francisco J. , De Las Heras Salvador
Published: February 2023

In this study, consideration is given to a novel idea for thermal storage enhancement by the passive thermal self-insulation of the inside walls of containers when they are deliberately coated by nucleation sites and the working fluid is supersaturated with a certain gas. Here, it is proposed that a gas film blanketing the inside surfaces of the container may be promoted by previously supersaturating the working fluid in which the heat is to be stored (e.g, molten salts, water, etc) and covering the surface with nucleation sites. The last achievements in micro/nano surface modification allow the control in number and roughness of the surface with nucleation sites near to its critical radius for nucleation which translates into a vigorous gas precipitation even working at relatively low supersaturation rates. Utilizing a simplified geometrical and physical model, an expression for the average thickness of the film gas and the heat transfer coefficient was derived.
Radio-frequency magnetron sputter deposition of ultrathick boron carbide films
Authors: Bayu Aji L. B. , Shin S. J. , Bae J. H. , Engwall A. M. , Hammons J. A. , Sen-Britain S. T. , Mirkarimi P. B. , Kucheyev S. O.
Published: February 2023

The deposition of thick B4C films with low residual stress by conventional direct-current magnetron sputtering is accompanied by the formation of dust particulates contaminating the target, chamber, and substrates and leading to the formation of nodular defects in films. Here, we demonstrate that the formation of particulates is greatly reduced during radio-frequency magnetron sputtering (RFMS). We systematically study properties of B4C films deposited by RFMS with a substrate temperature of 330 °C, a target-to-substrate distance of 10 cm, Ar working gas pressure in the range of 4.5–12.0 mTorr (0.6–1.6 Pa), and substrate tilt angles of 0°–80°. All films are x-ray amorphous. A columnar structure develops with increasing either Ar pressure or substrate tilt. For columnar films, the column tilt angle decreases with increasing Ar pressure, which we attribute to a corresponding increase in the width of the distribution of impact angles of deposition flux. In contrast to the Keller–Simmons rule, the deposition rate increases with increasing Ar pressure, which suggests a better coupling of the RF energy to the plasma processes that lead to target sputtering at higher pressures. There is a critical substrate tilt angle above which the total residual stress is close to zero. This critical substrate tilt angle is ∼0° for an Ar pressure of 12 mTorr (1.6 Pa). The lower residual stress state, necessary for depositing ultrathick films, is characterized by a larger concentration of nanoscale inhomogeneities and decreased mechanical properties. Based on these results, RFMS deposition of 60-μm-thick B4C films is demonstrated.
Teaching Electric Fields with a Simulation and Game
Authors: Countryman Colleen , Mburu Ted Karanja , Rodelli Liana
Published: February 2023

Electric fields are a notoriously difficult concept for introductory physics students. Because of their lack of tangibility, electric fields are often perceived as being abstract and challenging to grasp.
Getting More Out of Midterm Assessments
Authors: Rieger Georg W. , McIver Jess , Mazabel Silvia , Cooper Sean , Lichtenberg Gerwald
Published: February 2023

An important reason for providing midterm assessments is to give students early feedback on their progress. Ideally, students will carefully analyze their performance and use the feedback provided to adjust their study strategies or approaches to engaging with the course materials. In our experience, however, only a small fraction of students seek advice from instructors or advisors after an unsatisfactory performance. Research has shown that many students have negative perceptions of office hours, and some students find them inconvenient or have misconceptions about the purpose of office hours. In addition, it is difficult for instructors to provide detailed and individualized advice to a large number of students in a weekly office hour. To address this challenge, we automatically provide additional grades that inform students on their performance in four basic question categories that are related to levels in Bloom’s taxonomy. We also provide a table with specific recommendations for how to improve in each of these categories. These recommendations are based on experience: from conversations with students, we have learned that unsatisfying performance can often be traced back to a lack of effective exam preparation. Many students study by reading solutions to in-class activities or homework rather than reworking problems. We also noticed that struggling students often fail at a fundamental level: they tend to read definitions superficially as symbols instead of interpreting them and exploring their meaning.
Discussing Electricity Based on the Video This Might Shock You: Downed Power Line
Authors: Denardin Luciano
Published: February 2023

This article presents suggestions for discussing electricity concepts such as electrostatic shielding, potential difference, and electric field based on the educational video This Might Shock You: Downed Power Line by Puget Sound Energy (PSE).
The Resting Breathing Rate of the Dinosaur Plateosaurus trossingensis via Conservation of Energy
Authors: Lee Scott , Slowiak-Morkovina Justyna
Published: February 2023

Conservation of energy is one of the foundations of science, and in this paper, we use this principle to estimate the resting breathing rate of the dinosaur Plateosaurus trossingensis (see Fig. 1). Animals produce the energy necessary for life via chemical reactions in which biomolecules (such as glucose) react with oxygen to release CO2, H2O, and energy. The metabolism is determined from the animal’s reported mass growth curve (the mass of the animal as a function of age during its juvenile growth) using a model based on conservation of energy. The metabolism reveals the rate at which oxygen is used by the animal. The efficiency of oxygen extraction is assumed to be the same as observed in modern birds (which have a very efficient “one-way” breathing modality and are direct descendants of dinosaurs). Using the estimated concentration of oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere during the Late Triassic period yields the amount of air that P. trossingensis breathed each minute. Finally, the tidal volume (the volume of air inhaled in each breath) was used to calculate its resting breathing rate. This exercise has been used in introductory and intermediate courses on thermal physics, and the students find it empowering (and fun) to be able to gain this insight into the physiology of a dinosaur.
Mind Control Helmet: A Fun Demonstration about Sound and Electromagnetism
Authors: Eff-Darwich Antonio , Yanes-Gómez Adán
Published: February 2023

Loudspeakers are devices that create sound, controlling the interaction between a permanent magnet and an electromagnet induced by a varying electric current in a coil. The physics behind loudspeakers makes them popular educational resources to discuss the principles of electromagnetism and the generation of sound waves. This same idea also applies to electric motors and generators. In this work, we combine electric motors and loudspeakers to build a set of headphones, which are presented to preservice primary school teachers as a “mind control helmet,” to demonstrate the basic ideas of electromagnetism and sound physics, but also the nature of science.
Reduced Mortality among COVID-19 ICU Patients after Treatment with HemoClear Convalescent Plasma in Suriname
Authors: Bihariesingh-Sanchit R. , Bansie R. , Ramdhani N. , Mangroo R. , Bustamente D. , Diaz E. , Fung A Foek C. , Thakoer I. , Vreden S. , Choudhry Z. , van ‘t Wout A. B. , Diavatopoulos D. A. , Nierich A. P.
Published: February 2023

This study compares mortality and other endpoints between intensive care unit COVID-19 patients treated with convalescent plasma plus standard of care (CCP), and a control group of patients hospitalized in the same medical ICU facility treated with standard of care alone (SOC) in a low- and middle-income country (LMIC) setting using bedside donor whole blood separation by gravity (HemoClear) to produce the CCP. It demonstrates a significant 65% survival improvement in HemoClear-produced CCP recipients (HR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.19 to 0.66;
P
= 0.001).
Draft Genome Assembly of
Stutzerimonas
sp. Strain S1 and Achromobacter spanius Strain S4, Two Syringol-Metabolizing Bacteria Isolated from Compost Soil
Authors: Brink Daniel P. , Larsson Elin M. , García-Hidalgo Javier , Helgadóttir Helga , Gorwa-Grauslund Marie F.
Published: February 2023

Two bacterial strains able to use syringol as a sole carbon source were isolated from compost. The isolates, named S1 and S4, were sequenced using the Illumina platform. The final assemblies contained 4.2 Mbp, 63% GC, and 3,912 genes for S1 and 6.2 Mbp, 64% GC, and 5,503 genes for S4.
Host Hybridization Dominates over Cohabitation in Affecting Gut Microbiota of Intrageneric Hybrid
Takifugu
Pufferfish
Authors: Jin Xingkun , Zhu Haoyong , Shi Yan , Chen Ziwei , Wang Yaohui , Gui Jian-Fang , Zhao Zhe
Published: February 2023

Microbial symbionts are of great importance for macroscopic life, including fish, and yet little is known as to how the normal balance within the fish holobiont is maintained and how it responds to the biotic and/or abiotic influences. Through gut microbiota profiling, we show that host intrageneric hybridization and cohabitation can impose a strong disturbance upon pufferfish gut microbiota.
Supplemental Material: Shearing-enhanced deep fluid circulation induces seismic anisotropy in the lower crust at slow-spreading oceanic ridges
Authors: Zhou Baojun , Liu Junlai , al. et
Published: February 2023

Methods and supplemental figures and tables. 
Diagnosis and treatment strategies of the multiligament injured knee: a scoping review
Authors: Makaram Navnit S , Murray Iain R , Geeslin Andrew G , Chahla Jorge , Moatshe Gilbert , LaPrade Robert F
Published: February 2023

Objective

To map the current literature evaluating the diagnosis and treatment of multiligament knee injuries (MLKIs).

Design

Scoping review.

Data sources

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews and Arksey and O’Malley frameworks were followed. A three-step search strategy identified relevant published literature comprising studies reporting on at least one aspect in the diagnosis or treatment of MLKI in adults. Data were synthesised to form a descriptive analysis and thematic summary.

Results

Overall, 417 studies were included. There was a substantial chronological increase in the number of studies published per year, with 70% published in the last 12 years. Of included studies, 128 (31%) were narrative reviews, editorials or technical notes with no original data. The majority of studies (n=239, 57%) originated from the USA; only 4 studies (1%) were of level I evidence. Consistent themes of contention included clinical assessment, imaging, operative strategy, timing of surgery and rehabilitation. There was a lack of gender and ethnic diversity reported within patient groups.

Conclusions

There remains insufficient high-level evidence to support definitive management strategies for MLKI. There is considerable heterogeneity in outcome reporting in current MLKI literature, precluding robust comparison, interpretation and pooling of data. Further research priorities include the development of expert consensus relating to the investigation, surgical management and rehabilitation of MLKI. There is a need for minimum reporting standards for clinical studies evaluating MLKI.
Effectiveness of synchronous teleconsultation for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Jianxin , Ji Xinxin , Xie Jieying , Lin Kai , Yao Mi , Chi Chunhua
Published: February 2023

The popularity of teleconsultation during the COVID-19 pandemic enabled increased accessibility for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, previous studies did not distinguish between synchronous and asynchronous teleconsultation. We evaluated the effectiveness of synchronous teleconsultation for patients with T2DM. We searched Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Library and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews,ClinicalTrials.gov, and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform databases from inception to July 2021. All included studies were randomized controlled trials of synchronous teleconsultation for adults with T2DM compared with usual care. Reviewers independently extracted data and used the Cochrane tool to evaluate risk of bias. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models. A pooled mean difference for both HbA1c (%) and body mass index (BMI) (kg/m2), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (mm Hg), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (mm Hg), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol) (mg/dL) were calculated. Patient-reported outcomes, such as depression, medication adherence, and quality of life, were also assessed. A total of 9807 abstracts were identified and 27 trials were included. Synchronous teleconsultation significantly resulted in greater decrease in HbA1c compared with usual care group (n=8746, 0.35, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.49, I2=73%, p<0.001). No significant effects on BMI (n=699, 0.08 kg/m2, 95% CI −0.54 to 0.69), SBP (n=5512, 1.32 mm Hg, 95% CI -0.09 to 2.73), DBP (n=2898, 0.17 mm Hg, 95% CI −1.18 to 1.52), or LDL-cholesterol (n=5276, 3.21 mg/dL, 95% CI −1.75 to 8.17) were found. The effect of teleconsultation in improving patient-reported outcomes was uncertain. Thus, synchronous teleconsultation could be an alternative to usual care. Systematic review registration is PROSPERO CRD42021267019.
Cohort profile: A Québec-based plasma donor biobank to study COVID-19 immunity (PlasCoV)
Authors: Germain Marc , Lewin Antoine , Bazin Renée , Dieudé Mélanie , Perreault Josée , Boivin Amélie , Grégoire Yves , Renaud Christian
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The long-term humoral immunity to COVID-19 is not well understood owing to the continuous emergence of new variants of concern, the evolving vaccine-induced and infection-induced immunity, and the limited duration of follow-up in previous studies. As the sole blood service in Québec (Canada), Héma-Québec established a COVID-19-focused biobank (‘PlasCoV’) in April 2021.

Participants

As of January 2022, the biobank included 86 483 plasma samples from 15 502 regular donors (age range=18–84 years, females=49.7%), for an average of 5.6 donations per donor. Nearly two-thirds (65.6%) of biobank donors made at least two donations, with many donors having provided samples prevaccination and postvaccination (3061 (19.7%)) or preinfection and postinfection (131 (0.8%)), thus allowing for longitudinal studies on vaccine-induced and infection-induced immunity.

Findings to date

A study that used PlasCoV samples revealed that previously infected individuals who received a single dose of the BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine exhibited the strongest immune response. By contrast, SARS-CoV-2-naïve individuals required two vaccine doses to produce a maximal immune response. Furthermore, the results of a four-phase seroprevalence study indicated that the antinucleocapsid (N) response wanes rapidly, so that up to one-third of previously infected donors were seronegative for anti-N.

Future plans

Donations from individuals who consented to participate before 1 October 2022 will be collected up until 31 March 2023. This plasma biobank will facilitate the conduct of longitudinal studies on COVID-19 immunity, thus helping to provide valuable insights into the anti-SARS-CoV-2 immune response and its persistence, and the effects of vaccination and variants on the specificity of the anti-SARS-CoV-2 immune response.
Comparison of factors associated with postpartum depression from two cohorts of nurses: the Korea Nurses’ Health Study and the Nurses’ Health Study 3
Authors: Kim Oksoo , Kim Bohye , Kim Su-Young , Cho Eunyoung , Lee Hea Young , Cha Chiyoung , Bae Nohyun , Kim Minjoo , Lee Dong Hoon , Chavarro Jorge E , Park Hyun-Young , Kim Sue
Published: February 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to identify whether differences exist in postpartum depression (PPD) in US and Korean nurses and its related factors. Identifying occupational and personal factors that underlie potential differences will be helpful for women’s occupational health.

Methods

Baseline and postpartum survey data from employed nurses in the Korea Nurses’ Health Study and Nurses’ Health Study 3 (1244 Korean; 2742 US nurses) were analysed. Postpartum data collection was done via online survey. PPD was analysed based on cultural validation from prior studies using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (cut-off of 10 for Korea and 13 for USA); depressive symptoms prior to pregnancy and childbirth, general characteristics and sleep satisfaction were also measured. Descriptive statistics, χ2tests and t-tests and multivariate ordinal logistic regression analysis were performed.

Results

45.9% of Korean participants had clinical symptoms of PPD (≥10), whereas US participants presented with 3.4% (≥13). Prior depressive symptoms were also higher in Korean participants (22.5%) compared with their US counterparts (4.5%). Prior depressive symptoms and poor sleep satisfaction were significant risk factors of PPD in both cohort groups, and vaginal birth was an additional influencing factor in Korean participants.

Conclusions

Differences in PPD rates and related factors suggest the role of stress, cultural variation and differing work systems. Nurses and other women shift-workers noted to have depressive symptoms before and during pregnancy and exhibit PPD symptoms should especially be followed closely and offered supportive mental health services that include greater flexibility in returning to work.
Prevalence and outcomes of pediatric surgical conditions at Connaught Hospital in Freetown: a retrospective study
Authors: Kwasau Henang , Kamanda Juliana , Lebbie Aiah , Cotache-Condor Cesia , Espinoza Pamela , Grimm Andie , Wright Naomi , Smith Emily
Published: February 2023

Background

Sub-Saharan Africa experiences a disproportionate amount of pediatric surgical disease, with 80% of children lacking access to timely, affordable, and safe surgical care. This study aims to characterize the burden of disease and outcomes of pediatric surgical conditions at Connaught Hospital, the main pediatric referral hospital in Sierra Leone.

Methods

This retrospective and hospital-based study included children up to 15 years old who were operated on between 2015 and June 2016 at Connaught Hospital in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to characterize the distribution of disease and compare all variables against age category and mortality.

Findings

A total of 215 patients were included in this study of which 72.5% (n=132) were male and 27.5% (n=50) were female. Most of the patients were diagnosed with congenital anomalies (60.9%; n=131). However, infection was the leading diagnosis (60.5%; n=23) among patients aged 5–10 years (n=38). Inguinal hernia was the leading condition (65.0%; n=85) among patients presenting with a congenital anomaly. The condition with the highest mortality was infections (17.0%; n=8), followed by other conditions (9.1%; n=2) and congenital anomalies (3.1%; n=4). Based on the results of this study, over 7000 children with inguinal hernias remain untreated annually in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

Conclusion

This study quantifies the burden of surgical disease among children, a foundational step toward the prioritization of pediatric surgical care in national health agendas, the development of evidence-based interventions, and the strategic allocation of resources in Sierra Leone.
Braiding Indigenous knowledge systems and Western-based sciences in the Alberta oil sands region: A systematic review
Authors: Wilcox Alana A. E. , Provencher Jennifer F. , Henri Dominique A. , Alexander Steven M. , Taylor Jessica J. , Cooke Steven J. , Thomas Philippe J. , Johnson Lydia R.
Published: February 2023

The braiding of Indigenous knowledge systems and Western-based sciences offers insights into ecology and has emerged as a way to help address complex environmental issues. We reviewed the publicly available ecological research involving the braiding of Indigenous knowledge systems and Western-based sciences to support collaborative work in the Alberta oil sands region of Canada. We conducted a systematic review, coding for 78 questions in six categories: (1) literature search and bibliographic information; (2) research themes; (3) study setting and design; (4) knowledge systems; (5) power relationships, colonization, and ethical considerations in research; and (6) benefits and challenges of braiding. We identified six articles that braided knowledge, with those articles focusing on environmental management and monitoring for impacts of industrial activity in northern Alberta. Researchers used a broad range of approaches to gather Indigenous knowledge and scientific data and identified multiple challenges (e.g., asymmetries of power, resource availability, and funding) to research. Our findings show that more support is needed to foster, promote, and disseminate interdisciplinary collaborative work involving braiding. Additional support is also required to address Indigenous community research needs related to the assessment of environmental impact and reclamation, as well as the understanding of ecological threats across the region.