bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Culture and self-construal in the age of globalization: an empirical inquiry based on multiple approaches
Authors: Li Kang , Wang Fengyan , Pi Zhongling
Published: March 2024

Introduction

There are three main types of culture in human society, namely, individual-oriented, relationship-oriented and social-oriented cultures. In history, there are two main positions on the relationship between culture and self-construal: the cultural determinist position and the interaction position. After analyzing literature critically, we propose that the interaction position is more persuasive than the cultural determinist position. A self-construal model was constructed from an interactionist and polycultural perspective, pointing out the relationship between three cultures and self-construal. We argue that individuals interacting with cultures in the context of globalization can develop a more integrated self-construal. The present study proposes the existence of polycultural self-construal, and aimed to explore how self-construal factors relate to cultures.

Methods

Three approaches—psychological tests, priming with cultural icons and content analysis—were used to explore mechanisms between cultures (individual-oriented, relationship-oriented, and social-oriented cultures) and self-construal. In Study 1, we recruited 460 undergraduate students as participants through campus advertising to complete three psychological tests, namely, the Cultural Identity Scale (CIS), the Marlowe-Crowne Social Approval Scale (MC-SDS), and the Polycultural Self-construal Scale (PSCS). In Study 2, we created icon materials that could prime the three cultures. The experimental process was divided into two stages: priming and measurement. First, 165 participants were presented with icon materials on the computer screen to activate the corresponding culture, and then they were asked to complete the PSCS. In Study 3, the experimental procedures were followed as for Study 2. Then the Ten Statements Test (TST) was used. Each of the 178 participants gave 10 different responses to the question of “Who am I?.” Each participant’s “I am …” narratives were qualitatively processed using content analysis.

Results

The individual-oriented culture mainly affects the individuality and equality factor of self-construal. The relationship-oriented culture mainly impacts the relationality factor of self-construal, while the social-oriented culture mainly affects the collectivity and equality factors of self-construal. There were no significant differences in the effects of the three cultures on the autonomy factor of self-construal. The multi-components of the polycultural self-construal are difficult to interpret based on one culture type. All three cultures have specific and shared effects on human self-construal.
A tool for assessing sexual knowledge of people with Intellectual disabilities in Norway
Authors: Svae Gøril Brevik , Zachariassen Peter , Fjeld Wenche , Søndenaa Erik
Published: March 2024

Background

Previous research has shown that people with intellectual disabilities have limited sexual knowledge, which can be essential for developing positive sexuality. This study aimed to check the validity and reliability of an assessment tool (SexKunn) for measuring the sexual knowledge of people with intellectual disabilities in Norway. Further, we aimed to identify potential knowledge gaps among the participants and highlight their potential impact

Methods

37 people with intellectual disabilities completed one assessment. 20 participants then completed a retest. Clinicians’ (n=23) views on the assessment tool were measured to obtain face validity. Positive and negative agreement analysis was used to identify potential dimensions in the data.

Results

A weighted Cohen’s kappa for the test and retest of the overall scores was considered to be substantial. The clinicians described an acceptable face validity regarding high positive value scores and low negative burden scores. They also suggested improvements. The study identified that the participants lacked knowledge about female genitals, hygiene, appropriate touching/sexual acts with friends/intimate partners, and contraception.

Conclusions

The SexKunn is a feasible assessment tool to measure sexual knowledge in people with intellectual disabilities. A lack of sexual knowledge of people with intellectual disabilities may violate their sexual rights.
Differences in predictive factors for post-traumatic stress disorder encompassing partial PTSD and full PTSD: a cross-sectional study among individuals exposed to the November 13, 2015 Paris attacks
Authors: Berthail Benoit , Trousselard Marion , Lecouvey Gregory , Le Roy Barbara , Fraisse Florence , Peschanski Denis , Eustache Francis , Gagnepain Pierre , Dayan Jacques
Published: March 2024

Background

When faced with a surge of physically injured individuals, especially following a traumatic event like an attack, frontline practitioners prioritize early triage. Detecting potential psychological injuries soon after such events remains challenging. Some individuals might develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) according to DSM-V criteria. Others may exhibit PTSD symptoms without meeting full diagnostic criteria, termed partial or sub-syndromal PTSD, a less-explored area in literature. This study aims to identify predictive factors for both full and partial PTSD.

Method

In a cohort of victims of the 2015 Paris attacks, multinomial logistic regressions explored predictive factors for partial or full PTSD status 8 to 18 months post-attacks. Analyses considered pre, peri, and posttraumatic factors chosen from literature review and univariate analysis within each group.

Results

Within the cohort, 50 individuals showed no signs of PTSD, 35 experienced partial PTSD, and 30 presented with full PTSD. After logistic regression, risk factors associated with full PTSD included a history of trauma (OR = 1.30, CI [1.02-1.66], p < 0.05), the intensity of peri-traumatic physical reactions (OR = 1.22, CI [1.09-1.36], p < 0.001), the difficulties in suppressing intrusive thoughts (OR = 1.11, CI [1.02-1.21], p < 0.013). Only the intensity of peri-traumatic physical reactions emerged as a risk factor for partial PTSD (OR = 1.13, [CI 1.02-1.24], p < 0.001).

Discussion

This study revealed that a history of trauma, the intensity of peri-traumatic physical reactions (e.g., tachycardia, trembling, flushes, numbness.), and the difficulties in suppressing intrusive thoughts constitute risk factors for the development of full PTSD. Moreover, the study identified that only the intensity of peri-traumatic physical reactions emerged as a risk factor for partial PTSD. These findings seem to underscore the significance of peri-traumatic experiences in influencing the development of post-traumatic stress symptoms.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the significance of examining peri-traumatic reactions in PTSD development, suggesting its potential as a straightforward screening tool for post-traumatic stress disorder. It also underscores the influence of prior traumatic experiences, before de novo traumatization, in shaping vulnerability to PTSD and illuminates the crucial role of compromised control of intrusive thoughts that could perpetuate PTSD.
Old tech but not low tech: telephone-based treatment provision for substance use
Authors: Walton Mary R. , Kang Augustine W. , DelaCuesta Courtney , Hoadley Ariel , Martin Rosemarie
Published: March 2024

The future of telemedicine for substance use treatment hangs by a thread, as the United States awaits approval of proposed regulations and laws to increase care access in light of the 2022 Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services revisions allowing for audio-only care. Telemedicine improves patient care access and outcomes. Audio-only telemedicine can be an effective and viable modality for individuals without technology resources (devices, internet services, and literacy), those with reduced telehealth service utilization (Black individuals or those with unstable housing, who are older, with low income, or with low education), and those living in rural locations. Studies suggest that telephone visits for buprenorphine treatment are well-accepted by patients and providers, making telephone visits essential in care access to reduce disparities. Telephone counseling for patients in substance use treatment is convenient, flexible, and empowering and can augment therapeutic alliances and treatment goals. Both providers and patients advocate for patient-centered hybrid care to include telephone-only treatment, which enhances service productivity and care access; reduces no-show rates, costs, and stigma; and is sustainable. Numerous solutions can expand technology access, proficiency, assimilation, and trust. Despite being “old” technology, the telephone remains an essential resource for substance use treatment.
Identifying key mental health and improvement factors in hospital administrators working from home using a DEMATEL-based network analysis model
Authors: Shu Sheng , Zhu Jie , Shi Wenqing , Chuang Yen-Ching , Liu Chao , Lu Hongsheng
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To identify the key mental health and improvement factors in hospital administrators working from home during COVID-19 normalization prevention and control.

Methods

The survey was conducted from May to June 2023, and the practical experiences of 33 hospital administrators were collected using purposive sampling. The study examined a set of mental health factor systems. The relationship structure between the factors was constructed using the Decision-making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method. Finally, the structure was transformed using the influence weight of each factor via the DEMATEL-based Analytic Network Process.

Results

Regarding influence weight, the key mental health factors of hospital administrators are mainly “lack of coordination,” “time management issues,” and “work-life imbalances.” The influential network relation map shows that improvements can be made by addressing “improper guidelines,” “laziness due to being at home,” and “job insecurity” because they are the main sources of influence. The reliability level of the results for the network structure and weight was 98.79% (i.e., the gap was 1.12% < 5%).

Conclusion

The network analysis model based on DEMATEL proposed in this study can evaluate the mental health factors of hospital administrators during the pandemic period from a multidimensional and multidirectional perspective and may help improve mental health problems and provide suggestions for hospital administrators.
Study protocol and rationale of “the UP project”: evaluating the effectiveness of active breaks on health indicators in desk-based workers
Authors: Cristi-Montero Carlos , Martínez-Flores Ricardo , Espinoza-Puelles Juan Pablo , Favero-Ramirez Laura , Zurita-Corvalan Natalia , Cañete Ignacio Castillo , Leppe Jaime , Ferrari Gerson , Sadarangani Kabir P. , Cancino-López Jorge , Hernandez-Jaña Sam , Farias Tuillang Yuing , Lemes Vanilson Batista , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Fernando , Brand Caroline
Published: March 2024

Background

Excessive sedentary time has been negatively associated with several health outcomes, and physical activity alone does not seem to fully counteract these consequences. This panorama emphasizes the essential of sedentary time interruption programs. “The Up Project” seeks to assess the effectiveness of two interventions, one incorporating active breaks led by a professional and the other utilizing a computer application (self-led), of both equivalent duration and intensity. These interventions will be compared with a control group to evaluate their impact on physical activity levels, sedentary time, stress perception, occupational pain, and cardiometabolic risk factors among office workers.

Methods

This quasi-experimental study includes 60 desk-based workers from universities and educational institutes in Valparaiso, Chile, assigned to three groups: (a) booster breaks led by professionals, (b) computer prompts that are unled, and (c) a control group. The intervention protocol for both experimental groups will last 12 weeks (only weekdays). The following measurements will be performed at baseline and post-intervention: cardiometabolic risk based on body composition (fat mass, fat-free mass, and bone mass evaluated by DXA), waist circumference, blood pressure, resting heart rate, and handgrip strength. Physical activity and sedentary time will be self-reported and device-based assessed using accelerometry. Questionnaires will be used to determine the perception of stress and occupational pain.

Discussion

Governments worldwide are addressing health issues associated with sedentary behavior, particularly concerning individuals highly exposed to it, such as desk-based workers. Despite implementing certain strategies, there remains a noticeable gap in comprehensive research comparing diverse protocols. For instance, studies that contrast the outcomes of interventions led by professionals with those prompted by computers are scarce. This ongoing project is expected to contribute to evidence-based interventions targeting reduced perceived stress levels and enhancing desk-based employees’ mental and physical well-being. The implications of these findings could have the capacity to lay the groundwork for future public health initiatives and government-funded programs.
The Study of Adolescent Resilience (SOAR): a research protocol
Authors: Tannenbaum Karen , McMaster Hope Seib
Published: March 2024

Background

Adolescence is a particularly sensitive period of development for military-connected youth, given the socioemotional and physical changes that occur against the backdrop of the military career of their parent(s). Military-connected adolescents face unique stressors relative to their civilian counterparts, such as military relocations, parental absence due to deployments and trainings, and parental military-related physical and mental injury. These stressors may change family dynamics and disrupt social support networks, which can have lasting implications for adolescent health and well-being. At present, very little is known about how the current generation of military-connected adolescents are faring regarding their psychological and physical health, academic achievement, and educational or career aspirations. As part of the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to military families, the U.S. Department of Defense pledged to address these major knowledge gaps by supporting the Study of Adolescent Resilience (SOAR). SOAR's longitudinal design provides a powerful tool for evaluating the effects of military family life on adolescent well-being into early adulthood.

Methods and design

SOAR is embedded within the larger Millennium Cohort Study, the first U.S. population-based prospective study to investigate long-term health effects of military service among active duty service members. Nearly 40,000 Millennium Cohort participants with adolescent children were invited to complete a web-based self-report survey that included items across interpersonal, socioenvironmental, and health domains, among others. Military parents provided referral information for their adolescent child and another primary parental figure, when available, to be invited to SOAR. This approach allowed survey data to be linked between these three family members (service member, spouse, and adolescent) to promote a comprehensive, family systems-based understanding of military-connected adolescent experiences and determinants of health, risk, and resilience.

Discussion

Research findings will shed light on the enduring impact of military life on adolescents and the nature of associations between military-specific experiences and psychosocial health and well-being. Further, this research will assess modifiable risk and protective factors that may elucidate differences in military-connected adolescent psychosocial development and physical health, academic achievement, and educational and military career aspirations over time.

Conclusions

Findings gleaned from this research will be used to inform existing policy and programs designed to promote adolescent resilience.
Relationship between Timed Up and Go performance and quantitative biomechanical measures of balance
Authors: Tendolkar Prasad , Ibironke Oluwaseun , Marchesi Giorgia , De Luca Alice , Squeri Valentina , Nolan Karen J. , Pilkar Rakesh , Karunakaran Kiran K.
Published: March 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) impairs sensory–motor functions, with debilitating consequences on postural control and balance, which persist during the chronic stages of recovery. The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test is a reliable, safe, time-efficient, and one of the most widely used clinical measures to assess gait, balance, and fall risk in TBI patients and is extensively used in inpatient and outpatient settings. Although the TUG test has been used extensively due to its ease of performance and excellent reliability, limited research has been published that investigates the relationship between TUG performance and quantitative biomechanical measures of balance. The objective of this paper was to quantify the relationship between biomechanical variables of balance and the TUG scores in individuals with chronic TBI. Regression models were constructed using six biomechanical variables to predict TUG scores. The model that conservatively removed gait speed (i.e., TUG-1/GS) gave the best results, achieving a root-mean-square error of ∼±2 s and explaining over 69% of the variability.
“The Gems of Water”: a co-created scientist-citizen approach for water quality monitoring
Authors: Cacciatori Caterina , Mariani Giulio , Comero Sara , Marin Daniela , Cabrera Maria , Bon-Tavarnese Jennifer , Gaggstatter Joel , Tavazzi Simona , Maffettone Roberta , Myers Jackie , Pettigrove Vincent , Gawlik Bernd Manfred
Published: March 2024

To better understand local water quality pollution by organic contaminants and how it affects communities around the world, “The Gems of Water” project aims to build a co-creative global scientist-citizen approach, actively engaging citizens and connecting them to scientists and to advanced water monitoring tools. The project applies the Stir Bar Sorptive Extraction technique with an advanced wide-screening method, used to assess the occurrence of agrochemicals, industrial compounds and pharmaceuticals in surface and groundwaters. In collaboration between Coral Conservation and the Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission, a study was conducted to identify contamination patterns which could be affecting the coral reef by investigating water quality in local rivers in the south Caribbean region of Costa Rica, an area characterized by agricultural activities linked to bananas production. Coral Conservation is a youth-led non-governmental organization focused on activities for the conservation and protection of the coral reef. Sampling locations for the study were jointly determined with members of the Coral Conservation group and included 13 sampling points from 3 different rivers and 2 wells. The pilot study allowed evaluation of the workflow for scientist-citizen collection of water quality data, whereby participants from the local community conduct sampling and extraction activities, while the wide-screening analysis of about 230 contaminants is performed at the JRC Water Laboratory. Considering the lessons learned through the Costa Rican pilot case, in this paper we discuss the elements required for successful scientist-citizen projects. Challenges are described and outlooks provided to improve citizens’ engagement projects and others participatory water quality monitoring activities. “The Gems of Water” project contributes to data collection of rarely monitored compounds in rural and remote areas through a scientist-citizen approach, addressing knowledge gaps on water quality and building bridges between science and society. The outlook is for such an innovative approach to support bottom-up management actions which can lead to alternative solutions in water quality management.
Optimal Matching with Matching Priority
Authors: Cannas Massimo , Sironi Emiliano
Published: March 2024

Matching algorithms are commonly used to build comparable subsets (matchings) in observational studies. When a complete matching is not possible, some units must necessarily be excluded from the final matching. This may bias the final estimates comparing the two populations, and thus it is important to reduce the number of drops to avoid unsatisfactory results. Greedy matching algorithms may not reach the maximum matching size, thus dropping more units than necessary. Optimal matching algorithms do ensure a maximum matching size, but they implicitly assume that all units have the same matching priority. In this paper, we propose a matching strategy which is order optimal in the sense that it finds a maximum matching size which is consistent with a given matching priority. The strategy is based on an order-optimal matching algorithm originally proposed in connection with assignment problems by D. Gale. When a matching priority is given, the algorithm ensures that the discarded units have the lowest possible matching priority. We discuss the algorithm’s complexity and its relation with classic optimal matching. We illustrate its use with a problem in a case study concerning a comparison of female and male executives and a simulation.
Uniform Oxide Layer Integration in Amorphous IGZO Thin Film Transistors for Enhanced Multilevel-Cell NAND Memory Performance
Authors: Xiang Zeyang , Wang Kexiang , Lu Jie , Wang Zixuan , Jin Huilin , Li Ranping , Shi Mengrui , Wu Liuxuan , Yan Fuyu , Jiang Ran
Published: March 2024

In this work, the implementation of HfZrO layers for the tunneling, charge trapping, and blocking mechanisms within the device offer benefits in terms of programmability and data retention. This configuration has resulted in a memory device that can achieve a significant difference in threshold voltage of around 2 V per memory level. This difference is crucial for effectively distinguishing between multiple levels of memory in MLC applications. Additionally, the device operates at low programming voltages below 14 V. Furthermore, the device showcases impressive endurance and data retention capabilities, maintaining a large memory window over extended periods and under varying temperature conditions. The advancement in the a-IGZO-based memory device, characterized by its uniform oxide stacking, presents a viable solution to the industry’s requirement for memory storage options that are efficient, dependable, and economical.
Bio-Chemoinformatics-Driven Analysis of nsp7 and nsp8 Mutations and Their Effects on Viral Replication Protein Complex Stability
Authors: Subong Bryan John J. , Ozawa Takeaki
Published: March 2024

The nonstructural proteins 7 and 8 (nsp7 and nsp8) of SARS-CoV-2 are highly important proteins involved in the RNA-dependent polymerase (RdRp) protein replication complex. In this study, we analyzed the global mutation of nsp7 and nsp8 in 2022 and 2023 and analyzed the effects of mutation on the viral replication protein complex using bio-chemoinformatics. Frequently occurring variants are found to be single amino acid mutations for both nsp7 and nsp8. The most frequently occurring mutations for nsp7 which include L56F, L71F, S25L, M3I, D77N, V33I and T83I are predicted to cause destabilizing effects, whereas those in nsp8 are predicted to cause stabilizing effects, with the threonine to isoleucine mutation (T89I, T145I, T123I, T148I, T187I) being a frequent mutation. A conserved domain database analysis generated critical interaction residues for nsp7 (Lys-7, His-36 and Asn-37) and nsp8 (Lys-58, Pro-183 and Arg-190), which, according to thermodynamic calculations, are prone to destabilization. Trp-29, Phe-49 of nsp7 and Trp-154, Tyr-135 and Phe-15 of nsp8 cause greater destabilizing effects to the protein complex based on a computational alanine scan suggesting them as possible new target sites. This study provides an intensive analysis of the mutations of nsp7 and nsp8 and their possible implications for viral complex stability.
Entanglement Phase Transitions in Non-Hermitian Kitaev Chains
Authors: Zhou Longwen
Published: March 2024

The intricate interplay between unitary evolution and projective measurements could induce entanglement phase transitions in the nonequilibrium dynamics of quantum many-particle systems. In this work, we uncover loss-induced entanglement transitions in non-Hermitian topological superconductors. In prototypical Kitaev chains with onsite particle losses and varying hopping and pairing ranges, the bipartite entanglement entropy of steady states is found to scale logarithmically versus the system size in topologically nontrivial phases and become independent of the system size in the trivial phase. Notably, the scaling coefficients of log-law entangled phases are distinguishable when the underlying system resides in different topological phases. Log-law to log-law and log-law to area-law entanglement phase transitions are further identified when the system switches between different topological phases and goes from a topologically nontrivial to a trivial phase, respectively. These findings not only establish the relationships among spectral, topological and entanglement properties in a class of non-Hermitian topological superconductors but also provide an efficient means to dynamically reveal their distinctive topological features.
The Influence of Corrosion Processes on the Degradation of Concrete Cover
Authors: Szweda Zofia , Skórkowski Artur , Konečný Petr
Published: March 2024

In this work, two methods were used to accelerate the corrosion of concrete. In the first method, chloride ions were injected into the concrete using the migration method. The moment of the initiation of the corrosion process was monitored using an electrochemical method of measuring polarization resistance. In the next step, the corrosion process was accelerated by the electrolysis process. Changes on the sample surface were also monitored using a camera. In the second method, the corrosion process of the reinforcing bar was initiated by the use of the electrolysis process only. Here, changes occurring on the surfaces of the tested sample were recorded using two web cameras placed on planes perpendicular to each other. Continuous measurement of the current flowing through the system was carried out in both cases. It was assumed that in conditions of natural corrosion, a crack would occur when the sum of the mass loss of the reinforcing bar due to corrosion reached the same value in tcr(real) (real time) as it reached in the tcr (time of cracking) during the accelerated corrosion test. The real time value was estimated for C1 concrete with cement CEM I. The estimated value was tcr(real) = 1.1 years and for C2 concrete with cement CEM III, tcr(real) = 11.2 years. However, the main difference that was observed during the tests was the nature of the concrete cracks. In the case of the C1 concrete sample, these occurred along the reinforcing bar, while in the C2 concrete, the failures occurred on a perpendicular plane transverse to the direction of the reinforcing bar.
Synthesis and Characterisation of 4D-Printed NVCL-co-DEGDA Resin Using Stereolithography 3D Printing
Authors: Halligan Elaine , Tie Billy Shu Hieng , Colbert Declan Mary , Alsaadi Mohamad , Zhuo Shuo , Keane Gavin , Geever Luke M.
Published: March 2024

The design and manufacturing of objects in various industries have been fundamentally altered by the introduction of D-dimensional (3D) and four-dimensional (4D) printing technologies. Four-dimensional printing, a relatively new technique, has emerged as a result of the ongoing development and advancements in 3D printing. In this study, a stimulus-responsive material, N-Vinylcaprolactam-co-DEGDA (NVCL-co-DEGDA) resin, was synthesised by Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing technique. The N-Vinylcaprolactam-co-DEGDA resins were initiated by the Diphenyl (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide (TPO) photoinitiator. A range of Di(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (DEGDA) concentrations in the NVCL-co-DEGDA resin was explored, ranging from 5 wt% to 40 wt%. The structural properties of the 3D printed objects were investigated by conducting Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Additionally, the 3D printed samples underwent further characterisation through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and swelling analysis. The results revealed an inverse relationship between DEGDA concentration and Tg values, indicating that higher concentrations of DEGDA resulted in lower Tg values. Additionally, the pulsatile swelling studies demonstrated that increasing DEGDA concentration prolonged the time required to reach the maximum swelling ratio. These findings highlight the influence of DEGDA concentration on both the thermal properties and swelling behaviour of 3D printed samples.
Effect of Ishige okamurae Extract on Osteoclastogenesis In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Cho Su-Hyeon , Kim Hyun-Soo , Ahn Juhee , Ryu Bomi , Jea Jun-Geon , Lee Kyubin , Kim Kyunghwan , Ahn Ginnae , Lee WonWoo , Choi Kyung-Min , Kim Kil-Nam
Published: March 2024

We demonstrated the effect of Ishige okamurae extract (IOE) on the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-promoted osteoclastogenesis in RAW 264.7 cells and confirmed that IOE inhibited RANKL-induced tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity and osteoclast differentiation. IOE inhibited protein expression of TRAP, metallopeptidase-9 (MMP-9), the calcitonin receptor (CTR), and cathepsin K (CTK). IOE treatment suppressed the expression of activated T cell cytoplasmic 1 and activator protein-1, thus controlling the expression of osteoclast-related factors. Moreover, IOE significantly reduced RANKL-phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). It also reduced the RANKL-induced phosphorylation of NF-κB and nuclear translocation of p65. IOE inhibited Dex-induced bone loss and osteoclast-related gene expression in zebrafish larvae. HPLC analysis shows that IOE consists of 3.13% and 3.42% DPHC and IPA, respectively. Our results show that IOE has inhibitory effects on osteoclastogenesis in vitro and in vivo and is a potential therapeutic for osteoporosis.
Upper Limb Prostheses by the Level of Amputation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Segura Diego , Romero Enzo , Abarca Victoria E. , Elias Dante A.
Published: March 2024

This review article aims to provide an updated and comprehensive overview of the latest trends in adult upper limb prostheses, specifically targeting various amputation levels such as transradial, transmetacarpal, transcarpal, and transhumeral. A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases, including IEEE Xplore, MDPI, Scopus, Frontiers, and Espacenet, covering from 2018 to 2023. After applying exclusion criteria, 49 scientific articles (33 patents and 16 commercial prostheses) were meticulously selected for review. The article offers an in-depth analysis of several critical aspects of upper limb prostheses. It discusses the evolution and current state of input control mechanisms, the number of degrees of freedom, and the variety of grips available in prostheses, all tailored according to the level of amputation. Additionally, the review delves into the selection of materials used in developing these prostheses and examines the progression of technology readiness levels. A significant focus is also placed on the evolution of prosthesis weight over the years for different amputation levels. Moreover, the review identifies and explores critical technological challenges and prospects in upper limb prostheses. Finally, the article culminates with a conclusion that encapsulates the key findings and insights on the advancements and ongoing developments in this field.
Raw Spectral Filter Array Imaging for Scene Recognition
Authors: Askary Hassan , Hardeberg Jon Yngve , Thomas Jean-Baptiste
Published: March 2024

Scene recognition is the task of identifying the environment shown in an image. Spectral filter array cameras allow for fast capture of multispectral images. Scene recognition in multispectral images is usually performed after demosaicing the raw image. Along with adding latency, this makes the classification algorithm limited by the artifacts produced by the demosaicing process. This work explores scene recognition performed on raw spectral filter array images using convolutional neural networks. For this purpose, a new raw image dataset is collected for scene recognition with a spectral filter array camera. The classification is performed using a model constructed based on the pretrained Places-CNN. This model utilizes all nine channels of spectral information in the images. A label mapping scheme is also applied to classify the new dataset. Experiments are conducted with different pre-processing steps applied on the raw images and the results are compared. Higher-resolution images are found to perform better even if they contain mosaic patterns.
A Foggy Weather Simulation Algorithm for Traffic Image Synthesis Based on Monocular Depth Estimation
Authors: Tang Minan , Zhao Zixin , Qiu Jiandong
Published: March 2024

This study addresses the ongoing challenge for learning-based methods to achieve accurate object detection in foggy conditions. In response to the scarcity of foggy traffic image datasets, we propose a foggy weather simulation algorithm based on monocular depth estimation. The algorithm involves a multi-step process: a self-supervised monocular depth estimation network generates a relative depth map and then applies dense geometric constraints for scale recovery to derive an absolute depth map. Subsequently, the visibility of the simulated image is defined to generate a transmittance map. The dark channel map is then used to distinguish sky regions and estimate atmospheric light values. Finally, the atmospheric scattering model is used to generate fog simulation images under specified visibility conditions. Experimental results show that more than 90% of fog images have AuthESI values of less than 2, which indicates that their non-structural similarity (NSS) characteristics are very close to those of natural fog. The proposed fog simulation method is able to convert clear images in natural environments, providing a solution to the problem of lack of foggy image datasets and incomplete visibility data.
1/f Noise Mitigation in an Opto-Mechanical Sensor with a Fabry–Pérot Interferometer
Authors: Nelson Andrea M. , Sanjuan Jose , Guzmán Felipe
Published: March 2024

Low-frequency and 1/f noise are common measurement limitations that arise in a variety of physical processes. Mitigation methods for these noises are dependent on their source. Here, we present a method for removing 1/f noise of optical origin using a micro-cavity Fabry–Pérot (FP) interferometer. A mechanical modulation of the FP cavity length was applied to a previously studied opto-mechanical sensor. It effectively mimics an up-conversion of the laser frequency, shifting signals to a region where lower white-noise sources dominate and 1/f noise is not present. Demodulation of this signal shifts the results back to the desired frequency range of observation with the reduced noise floor of the higher frequencies. This method was found to improve sensitivities by nearly two orders of magnitude at 1 Hz and eliminated 1/f noise in the range from 1 Hz to 4 kHz. A mathematical model for low-finesse FP cavities is presented to support these results. This study suggests a relatively simple and efficient method for 1/f noise suppression and improving the device sensitivity of systems with an FP interferometer readout.
Damage Detection in Glass Fibre Composites Using Cointegrated Hyperspectral Images
Authors: Długosz Jan , Dao Phong B. , Staszewski Wiesław J. , Uhl Tadeusz
Published: March 2024

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is a remote sensing technique that has been successfully applied for the task of damage detection in glass fibre-reinforced plastic (GFRP) materials. Similarly to other vision-based detection methods, one of the drawbacks of HSI is its susceptibility to the lighting conditions during the imaging, which is a serious issue for gathering hyperspectral data in real-life scenarios. In this study, a data conditioning procedure is proposed for improving the results of damage detection with various classifiers. The developed procedure is based on the concept of signal stationarity and cointegration analysis, and achieves its goal by performing the detection and removal of the non-stationary trends in hyperspectral images caused by imperfect lighting. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method, two damage detection tests have been performed on a damaged GFRP specimen: one using the proposed method, and one using an established damage detection workflow, based on the works of other authors. Application of the proposed procedure in the processing of a hyperspectral image of a damaged GFRP specimen resulted in significantly improved accuracy, sensitivity, and F-score, independently of the type of classifier used.
Magneto-Priming of Seeds Decreases the Saline Effect of Wastewater Irrigation on Broccoli Germination and Seedling Growth
Authors: Gutierrez Julio , Alonso Francisco , Alvarez Jose , Carbonell María Victoria , Martinez Elvira , Florez Mercedes , Delgado María del Mar , Franco Brenda Katherine , Hernandez-Aguilar Claudia
Published: March 2024

Crop plant varieties exhibit diverse reactions when subjected to wastewater irrigation in terms of seed germination, seedling development, and overall productivity. Magneto-priming, which involves treating seeds with an appropriate magnetic field, is gaining popularity as the preferred technique due to its effectiveness and environmentally friendly characteristics for improving seed vigour, growth, and plant yield. In this study, magneto-primed and non-primed broccoli seeds were irrigated with distilled or wastewater and kept under observation for a 10-day period to record seedling growth. A laboratory study was conducted to evaluate the impact of magneto-priming on broccoli seeds with a homogeneous stationary magnetic-field strength of 5.9 mT for 1 h. They were irrigated with two types of water: distilled and wastewater. Another test was performed to evaluate the effect of 1-h and 2-h magneto-priming on seed germination when seeds were irrigated with wastewater. From the results, the broccoli seedlings irrigated with distilled water grew higher and heavier than the ones irrigated with wastewater, probably due to the significant amounts of salts in organic wastewater. Nonetheless, the saline effect of wastewater was ameliorated when seeds were previously magneto-primed. All the germination parameters of broccoli seeds irrigated with wastewater were significantly reduced when seeds were magneto-primed for both periods.
Stop in Time: How to Reduce Unnecessary Antibiotics in Newborns with Late-Onset Sepsis in Neonatal Intensive Care
Authors: De Rose Domenico Umberto , Ronchetti Maria Paola , Santisi Alessandra , Bernaschi Paola , Martini Ludovica , Porzio Ottavia , Dotta Andrea , Auriti Cinzia
Published: March 2024

The fear of missing sepsis episodes in neonates frequently leads to indiscriminate use of antibiotics, and prescription program optimization is suggested for reducing this inappropriate usage. While different authors have studied how to reduce antibiotic overprescription in the case of early onset sepsis episodes, with different approaches being available, less is known about late-onset sepsis episodes. Biomarkers (such as C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, interleukin-6 and 8, and presepsin) can play a crucial role in the prompt diagnosis of late-onset sepsis, but their role in antimicrobial stewardship should be further studied, given that different factors can influence their levels and newborns can be subjected to prolonged therapy if their levels are expected to return to zero. To date, procalcitonin has the best evidence of performance in this sense, as extrapolated from research on early onset cases, but more studies and protocols for biomarker-guided antibiotic stewardship are needed. Blood cultures (BCs) are considered the gold standard for the diagnosis of sepsis: positive BC rates in neonatal sepsis workups have been reported as low, implying that the majority of treated neonates may receive unneeded drugs. New identification methods can increase the accuracy of BCs and guide antibiotic de-escalation. To date, after 36–48 h, if BCs are negative and the baby is clinically stable, antibiotics should be stopped. In this narrative review, we provide a summary of current knowledge on the optimum approach to reduce antibiotic pressure in late-onset sepsis in neonates.
The Benefits and Barriers of Providing Non-Pharmacological Pain Relief to Women in Labour during COVID-19: A Qualitative Study of Midwives in South Africa
Authors: Parkies Limakatso Elizabeth , Murray Daphne , Okafor Uchenna Benedine
Published: March 2024

Pregnancy is an exceptional event in a woman’s life. As a result of the intense pain associated with childbirth, women require encouragement and support during this crucial phase. Midwives play a crucial role in the maternal care paradigm, managing labour pain alongside ensuring the mother and baby’s safety during the labour process. This study explored midwives’ perspectives concerning the utilisation and barriers of non-pharmacological labour pain reduction methods during COVID-19 in Matjhabeng Municipality hospitals in South Africa’s Free State Province. Ten midwives participated in a semi-structured interview wherein the audio was recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data were analysed using Tesch’s approach for open-coding data analysis. Midwives’ experiences with non-pharmacological therapeutic options for relieving labour pain were varied. They used mobilisation techniques, warm bathing, deep breathing exercises, back massaging, and psychological support. Midwives affirmed that non-pharmacological labour pain interventions were poorly implemented because of staff shortages, heavy workload, and COVID-19 regulations at the time. In efforts to address the obstacles in managing labour pain and alleviate the pain of women during labour, midwives recommended the provision of education and advocacy, the employment of additional midwives and auxiliary staff, and improvement in hospital infrastructure. Due to staff shortages, heavy workloads, and COVID-19 restrictions that limit birth companions, non-pharmacological pain reduction methods are not properly implemented. Health education; employing additional midwives, professional doulas, and students; and improving health infrastructure are midwives’ concerns. Prioritising midwife training in non-pharmacological labour pain management is crucial for delivering the best possible care during childbirth.
A Gender-Aware Analysis on the Feminization of Entertainment Industry in Japan
Authors: Villa Anderson V.
Published: March 2024

This manuscript reexamines the institutionalization of the feminization of migration industry in the Philippine-Japan migration stream through a gender-aware approach. It interrogates on the reasons why Filipina migrants made their way out of the Philippines, through regular and illicit channels, to a host country like Japan despite its restrictive immigration policies. The study unpacks on the common notion that along with active state facilitation, Filipino women migrants’ mobility or those who are engaged in “nightwork” is basically mediated through the entertainment industry. This research is a product of long engagements with the respondents and various key-informants of NGOs and club owners from 2010 to 2015. The findings reveal that women migrants are able to exploit the migration industry as their personal network in alleviating their precarious status. The researcher agrees that the institutionalization of the migration through the entertainment industry from the Philippines to Japan perpetuates an exploitative woman-dominated migration stream. However, in most instances, Filipina migrants capably exploit their personal or community network formation which could also be found in the nightwork industry.
IMPLEMENTASI METODE TSUKAMOTO PADA ANALISIS PREDIKSI HASIL KELAPA SAWIT
Authors: Harahap Mawaddah , Nababan Siska Yanti
Published: March 2024

Tanaman kelapa sawit merupakan tanaman yang banyak dikebunkan oleh perusahaan-perusahaan yang besar, baik pemerintahan maupun swasta. Perkebunan sawit merupakan salah satu sektor perkebunan unggul yang mengalami perkembangan yang cukup pesat. Dari perkebunan dapat dihasilkan komuditi ekspor terbesar setelah subsektor pertambangan minyak dan gas serta kehutanan. Oleh karena itu tujuan dari pengembangan aplikasi ini yaitu untuk menghasilkan prediksi hasil kelapa sawit dari metode Fuzzy Inference System Tsukamoto. Logika Fuzzy adalah salah satu cabang ilmu kecerdasan buatan untuk membangun system cerdas. Logika Fuzzy sering digunakan dalam pemecahan masalah yang menjelaskan system bukan melalui angka-angka, melainkan secara linguistik atau variabel-variabel yang mengandung ketidakpastian/ketidaktegasan. Penelitian ini menggunakan Fuzzy Inference System Tsukamoto untuk memprediksi hasil kelapa sawit. Setelah melakukan pengujian menggunakan metode tsukamoto maka mendapatkan hasil akurasi tertinggi 97,58% dan akurasi terendah adalah 11,72%.
Determination of Psychosocial Symptoms of Children aged 6-12 years Hospitalized after Surgery
Authors: Karaarslan Duygu , Ergin Dilek
Published: March 2024

Objective: This research was conducted to examine the psychosocial symptoms of children aged 6-12 years who were hospitalized after surgery.

Materials and Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted in the pediatric surgery service of a university hospital between September 2022 and February 2023. The sample of the study consisted of 124 children aged 6-12 years who were hospitalized for at least three days after surgery. Data; Descriptive statistics obtained with the “Child and Parent Descriptive Form” and “Psychosocial Symptoms Identification in the Hospitalized Children” were evaluated with the “Mann Whitney U” and “Kruskal Wallis H” tests.

Results: In the research was found, the mean age of the children was 8.28 ± 2.15, 63.7% of them were “male”, 82.3% of them were hospitalized for more than “5 days or more”, and 75% of them were hospitalized for the “first time” experience. It was determined that 79% of the children had the experience of having an operation for the "first time", 96.8% of them were psychologically affected during the postoperative hospital stay, and 61% of them had "bad" compliance with the postoperative treatment process.

Conclusion: Psychosocial symptoms are observed in children hospitalized after surgery, and the child's gender, age, length of hospital stay, previous hospitalization and surgery experience are important determinants. The pediatric nurse should be aware of the experiences and emotions of the children in this process, should be able to define their psychosocial symptoms and plan interventions.