bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Flipped Classroom: Enhancing Students’ Learning in Teaching Calculus
Authors: Cablas Engr. Joven C.
Published: June 2023

Educators have faced difficulties in efficiently teaching within the present regular school system. State, university, and college officials have been pressed to shift from face-to-face classes to teaching methodologies that address the constraints of the traditional method of instruction. Digital natives, also known as modern educators, spend more class time connecting with students and filling learning gaps with technological tools. To assist the development of learning, they began using interactive movies, interactive in-class activities, and video conference technologies. This includes utilizing a Flipped Classroom. This effort determined the effect of employing the flipped classroom technique in teaching Calculus in order to solve the issues experienced in teaching Mathematics during the new normal. The study included 20 first-year Electrical and Mechanical Engineering students who were enrolled in the second semester of the academic year 2019-2020 students whose problem-solving abilities and Calculus ability were assessed using a researcher-created test. A One-Group Pretest-Posttest Experimental Design was used by the researcher. The experimental study used four sessions of video instruction during pandemic season before the online class interactions. The researchers feel that flipped classrooms are appropriate for teaching Calculus since slow learners can watch the video repeatedly until they understand the material. As a result, assignments in the classroom focused on collaborative learning. As seen by the posttest findings, the use of the flipped classroom technique helped students enhance their problem-solving skills and mastery of solving Calculus issues. Thus, the flipped classroom method was found to be helpful in improving students' problem-solving skills and performance in Calculus among Guimaras State College's College of Engineering and Industrial Technology students.
Students’ and Employers’ Perceptions of Employability Skills in Uganda
Authors: Tagulwa Elvaida Agnes , Owino Philip , Muwonge Francis , Kaahwa Maria Goretti
Published: June 2023

The study evaluated employability skills as they were perceived by students of Kyambogo University and employers. The population comprised of students and employers. Students were from the faculty of science and the sample size consisted of 226 students from six departments. The employers were from organisations where these students do their industrial training. The sample size of the employers consisted of 19 participants from thirteen organisations. The specific objective of the study was to evaluate students’ and employers’ perceptions of employability skills. Employability skills were evaluated basing on their categorisation: professional skills, personal skills, and interpersonal skills (Byrne, 2022; Yorke & Night, 2007; Chowdhury & Miah, 2019). Quantitative results revealed that there was a statistically significant difference in the perceptions of important employability skills between students of Kyambogo University and employers (P=0.00 < 0.05). Statistical and qualitative analysis gave important employability skills as theoretical knowledge and skills, creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship, positive attitude, and collaboration and team work.  Strategies to enable students acquire employability skills include: job market analysis, collaboration and partnerships with local industries to do research; provide enough practicals and field studies. It was therefore recommended that Kyambogo University should develop collaboration and partnerships with local industries to do research.
Editors’ Commentary on the 2023 ESH Management of Arterial Hypertension Guidelines
Authors: Whelton Paul K. , Flack John M. , Jennings Garry , Schutte Alta , Wang Jiguang , Touyz Rhian M.
Published: June 2023

Clinical practice guidelines are ideally suited to the provision of advice on the prevention, diagnosis, evaluation, and management of high blood pressure (BP). The recently published European Society of Hypertension (ESH) 2023 ESH Guidelines for the management of arterial hypertension is the latest in a long series of high BP clinical practice guidelines. It closely resembles the 2018 European Society of Cardiology/ESH guidelines, with incremental rather than major changes. Although the ESH guidelines are primarily written for European clinicians and public health workers, there is a high degree of concordance between its recommendations and those in the other major BP guidelines. Despite the large number of national and international BP guidelines around the world, general population surveys demonstrate that BP guidelines are not being well implemented in any part of the world. The level of BP, which is the basis for diagnosis and management, continues to be poorly measured in routine clinical practice and control of hypertension remains suboptimal, even to a conservative BP target such as a systolic/diastolic BP <140/90 mm Hg. BP guidelines need to focus much more on implementation of recommendations for accurate diagnosis and strategies for improved control in those being treated for hypertension. An evolving body of implementation science can assist in meeting this goal. Given the enormous health, social, and financial burden of high BP, better diagnosis and management should be an imperative for clinicians, government, and others responsible for the provision of health care services. Hopefully, the 2023 ESH will help enable this.
Description of Ektaphelenchus phoenicis n. sp. (Rhabditida: Ektaphelenchinae), a morphological and molecular phylogenetic study
Authors: Keramat Mojtaba , Mahboubi Zeinab , Atighi Mohammad Reza , Pourjam Ebrahim , Abolafia Joaquín , Alghanimi Saif Abdulhussin , Pedram Majid
Published: June 2023

A new species of Ektaphelenchinae was recovered from the bark of a dead date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) tree, and from a soil sample collected from the rhizosphere of gramineous grasses in Iraq and Iran, respectively. It was assigned to the genus Ektaphelenchus mainly by the lack of a functional anus and rectum, and having a conical posterior body end (tail) in female, not ending to a filiform tip, and males lacking a bursa. The recovered populations were described based on morphological and molecular data. Ektaphelenchus phoenicis n. sp. is characterised by 346-441 μm long females, having three lines in lateral field, a 12.3-15.8 μm long stylet with wide lumen lacking basal knobs or swellings, high lip region separated from the rest of body by a depression, metacorpus elliptical with refractive valve plates almost in the middle to slightly posterior, excretory pore posterior to metacorpus, postvulval uterine sac (PUS) 9.3-14.8 μm long, usually containing sperm, posterior body end (tail) with ventrally bent distal end, males common in population with seven precloacal + cloacal + caudal papillae and slightly elevated cloacal lips under SEM, appearing as a differentiated flap-like structure under LM. The new species was morphologically compared with typologically similar species of Ektaphelenchus with a similar body size, namely: E. golestanicus, E. oleae and E. taiwanensis; a similar female posterior body end, namely: E. cupressi, E. kanzakii, E. prolobos and E. riograndensis; and E. goffarti having a similar postcloacal structure. The phylogenetic relationships of the new species with other relevant genera and species were reconstructed using near full length sequences of small and D2-D3 expansion segments of large subunit (SSU and LSU D2-D3) rDNA. In both inferred phylogenies, the newly generated sequences of Ektaphelenchus phoenicis n. sp. occupied a placement inside a maximally supported clade including sequences of three genera Ektaphelenchus, Ektaphelenchoides and Devibursaphelenchus.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomal miR-126 Inhibits Colon Cancer by Targeting PLEXIN-B2
Authors: Liu Zongfeng , Jia Yuanji , Guo Lijun , Feng Meng , Qi Ying , Wang Shukun , Sun Chenglin
Published: June 2023

Recent studies demonstrated that bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) can be recruited to the tumor microenvironment, and exosomes secreted by BMSCs have new function in the intercellular communication of human cancer. To explore the effects of human BMSCs-derived exosomal miR-126 on
the proliferation, migration and invasion of colon cancer. BMSCs were transfected with mimic and inhibitor of miR-126, respectively. Then after BMSCs treated with mimic or inhibitor, we isolated exosomes from BMSCs. The viability, migration and invasion ability of Colon cells were detected
via methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay and Transwell assay, respectively. The targeting relation between miR-126 and plexin-B2 (PLXNB2) was verified by using bioinformatics analysis and dual luciferase reporter assay. The expressions of PLXNB2 and related proteins in Colon cells were
determined by Western blot. miR-126 expressed higher in exosomes from BMSCs, compared with control group. Moreover, overexpression of miR-126 inhibited cell viability, migration and invasion. In addition, Exosomal miR-126 lead to targeted inhibition of PLXNB2 in Colon cells. What’s more,
according to the analysis of exosome content, miR-126 could mediate the inhibitory effect of exosomes on HCT116 and SW620 cells via negative regulating of PLXNB2. The results of our study showed that BMSCs-derived exosomal miR-126 could inhibit cell viability, cell migration and cell invasion.
Edaravone-Delivering PVA-Chitosan Nanofibrous Wound Dressings Promote Diabetic Wound Healing Through Modulation of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Chang Jing , Rohani Saeed
Published: June 2023

In the current study, edaravone was loaded into electrospun PVA/chitosan wound dressings to develop a potential wound care material for diabetic wounds. Different in vitro studies were performed to characterize the dressings. In vivo study was carried out in a rat model
of diabetic wound healing. Study showed that the nanofibrous membranes prevented bacterial penetration and showed no toxicity toward skin fibroblast cells. In vivo study showed that edaravone-loaded wound dressings had the highest rate of wound closure and formation of new epithelium
compared with other groups. Gene expression study showed that TNF-a and GP-x genes tissue expression was significantly downregulated in the rats treated with edaravone-delivering wound dressings, implying that these dressings have modulated oxidative stress and inflammation in diabetic wounds.
Exosomal microRNA-146a-5p from Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Preventing H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress Injury in Human Keratinocyte Cell Line by Modulating SHC SH2 Domain-Binding Protein 1
Authors: Gao Xinyu , Li Zhihua , Duan Dong , Wu Wei , Wang Jingwei , Xu Xiaohan , Fan Hao , Li Pandeng
Published: June 2023

Exosomes secreted by adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ADMSC) may function as novel candidates for wound healing. Here, we isolated the exosomes from ADMSCs and authorized by electron microscope (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis, as well as western blotting assay. The effects
of ADMSC-derived exosomes on the growth and migration of human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) treated with H2O2 were studied. Flow cytometry was applied for measuring cell apoptosis. Migration was evaluated by wound healing and Transwell assays. Reverse transcription-quantitative
polymerase chain reaction examined miRNAs and SHC SH2 domain-binding protein 1 (SHCBP1) expression. The integration between miR-146a-5p and SHCBP1 was estimated by dual-luciferase reporter analysis. The results revealed that ADMSC-derived exosomes promoted H2O2-treated
HaCaT cell growth, migration, and invasion. miR-146a-5p-silenced ADMSC suppressed the regulation of the exosomes on the biological behaviors of HaCaT cells. SHCBP1 was determined and verified to be a target of miR-146a-5p. Moreover, SHCBP1 inhibition abrogated the miR-146a-5p-mediated cellular
processes. In conclusion, ADMSC-derived exosomes carrying miR-146a-5p could protect HaCaT cells from injury by negatively regulating SHCBP1 expression.
Construction of a Novel RNA Prognostic-Predicting Model for Rectum Adenocarcinoma by Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Zhu Longjuan , Lu Xiaoling , Jiao Chunjing , Gu Na , Zhu Yajun
Published: June 2023

We aimed to construct and validate a prognostic-predicting model of rectum adenocarcinoma (READ) based on RNA-binding protein-related genes (RBPGs) by bioinformatics and statistical analysis. We obtained the expression matrix containing 1542 RBPGs from the RBPDB database through the
R package. Then, 126 differentially expressed RBPGs (DE-RBPGs) were obtained by differential expression analysis between groups, among which 63 down-regulated genes and 63 up-regulated genes. Next, Ribonucleoprotein complex biosynthesis and assembly were the primary biological processes (BP)
identified by the Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment study, cytoplasmic translation, ncRNA processing, ncRNA and rRNA metabolic process. The functions of cellular components (CC) were closely related to organellar and mitochondrial ribosomes and their subunits, spliceosomal complex, mitochondrial
matrix and ribonucleoprotein granule. Then, we put 126 DE-RBPGs into the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, showing the mutual regulation between each DE-RBPGs. In addition, eight prognostics DE-RBPGs (PDE-RBPGs) were identified by Cox regression analysis, among which DIS3L,
EFTUD2, FAM98B, IREB2, NOP58, PDCD7 and STRBP were low-risk PDE-RBPGs (HR less than 1), while GTF3A was a high-risk PDE-RBPG (HR greater than 1). A prognosis model consisting of two PDE-RBPGs (EFTUD2 and FAM98B) was finally optimized. The results of the study
of the Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve and the survival analysis revealed that the prognostic-predicting model constructed by us could accurately predict the grouping and prognosis of READ patients. The above results further elucidated the important molecular functions, key
biological pathways and gene (protein) interactions of DE-RBPGs. The prognostic-predicting model constructed by us can accurately predict the patients with READ, which is very valuable as a guide for READ early clinical evaluation and therapy.
‘Quitlink’: Outcomes of a randomised controlled trial of peer researcher facilitated referral to a tailored quitline tobacco treatment for people receiving mental health services
Authors: Baker Amanda L , McCarter Kristen , Turner Alyna , Segan Catherine , Castle David , Brophy Lisa , Borland Ron , Kelly Peter J , Bonevski Billie , Baird Donita , Filia Sacha , Attia John , Szwec Stuart , Palazzi Kerrin , White Sarah L , Williams Jill M , Wrobel Anna L , Ireland Andrew , Saxby Karinna , Ghijben Peter , Petrie Dennis , Sweeney Rohan
Published: June 2023

Objective:

The aim of this study was to test the effectiveness of a tailored quitline tobacco treatment (‘Quitlink’) among people receiving support for mental health conditions.

Methods:

We employed a prospective, cluster-randomised, open, blinded endpoint design to compare a control condition to our ‘Quitlink’ intervention. Both conditions received a brief intervention delivered by a peer researcher. Control participants received no further intervention. Quitlink participants were referred to a tailored 8-week quitline intervention delivered by dedicated Quitline counsellors plus combination nicotine replacement therapy. The primary outcome was self-reported 6 months continuous abstinence from end of treatment (8 months from baseline). Secondary outcomes included additional smoking outcomes, mental health symptoms, substance use and quality of life. A within-trial economic evaluation was conducted.

Results:

In total, 110 participants were recruited over 26 months and 91 had confirmed outcomes at 8 months post baseline. There was a difference in self-reported prolonged abstinence at 8-month follow-up between Quitlink (16%, n = 6) and control (2%, n = 1) conditions, which was not statistically significant (OR = 8.33 [0.52, 132.09] p = 0.131 available case). There was a significant difference in favour of the Quitlink condition on 7-day point prevalence at 2 months (OR = 8.06 [1.27, 51.00] p = 0.027 available case). Quitlink costs AU$9231 per additional quit achieved.

Conclusion:

The Quitlink intervention did not result in significantly higher rates of prolonged abstinence at 8 months post baseline. However, engagement rates and satisfaction with the ‘Quitlink’ intervention were high. While underpowered, the Quitlink intervention shows promise. A powered trial to determine its effectiveness for improving long-term cessation is warranted.
Efficacy of Child Abuse Evaluations for Infants With Possible Subdural Hemorrhage Identified on Cranial Ultrasound Completed for Macrocephaly
Authors: Jude Gabrielle , Slingsby Brett , Cassese John A. , Schroeder Christian , Moore Jessica , Barron Christine
Published: June 2023

Abusive head trauma (AHT) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality for infants. Determining when to pursue a complete physical abuse evaluation can be difficult, especially for nonspecific findings or when a child appears clinically well. This retrospective study of 7 cases sought to describe the presentation, evaluation, and diagnoses for infants with abnormal subdural collections identified on cranial ultrasound for macrocephaly, and to determine how frequently AHT is diagnosed. The results of this study showed that while each patient presented due to asymptomatic macrocephaly, the extent of the workup varied greatly. In addition, no infants had suspicious injuries for abuse during the initial evaluation or the year following. In summary, among the 7 patients seen for asymptomatic macrocephaly with possible subdural hemorrhage, there were very inconsistent child abuse workups. There needs to be a standardized clinical guideline for this specific patient population involving a child abuse pediatric evaluation.
Can nationalism and group conflict explain cultural and economic threat perceptions? Cross-sectional and longitudinal evidence from the ISSP (1995–2013)
Authors: Callens Marie-Sophie , Meuleman Bart
Published: June 2023

This article examines how nationalism, together with group conflict factors (namely, immigrant group size and economic conditions), affects ethnic threat perceptions over a period of almost 20 years across European and non-European countries. For this purpose, we analyze three rounds (1995, 2003, and 2013) of the International Social Survey Program (ISSP) National Identity Module using societal growth curve models. Our findings contribute to the ongoing discussion on the contextual drivers and dynamics of threat perceptions in various ways. First, our models show that nationalism is a highly relevant factor in explaining cultural as well as economic threats. However, nationalist attitudes operate purely at the individual level, as no effect of the group-level aggregate of nationalism is found. Second, the growth curve models make it possible to disentangle longitudinal effects (describing how threat perceptions evolve within countries) from cross-sectional patterns (describing the stable differences between countries). The longitudinal effects of group conflict variables deviate from the cross-sectional effects and are mostly insignificant. Given that these longitudinal effects are the litmus test for a causal interpretation, we must conclude that we find little to no evidence for the dynamic claims of group conflict theory. Finally, we detect an interaction between nationalism and labor market conditions: The impact of unemployment rates on threat perceptions is found to be contingent on the nationalist attitudes of individuals.
Childhood experiences and dissociation among high school students in China: Theoretical reexamination and clinical implications
Authors: Fung Hong Wang , Geng Fulei , Yuan Danyan , Zhan Nalan , Lee Vincent Wan Ping
Published: June 2023

Background:

Dissociation remains a controversial topic in terms of its prevalence, cross-cultural validity, and relationship with childhood trauma and adversities.

Aims:

This study investigated the prevalence of dissociative symptoms and probable dissociative disorders among Chinese high school students and tested the trauma model of dissociation.

Methods:

A total of N = 1,720 high school students completed standardized measures of positive and adverse childhood experiences (PCEs and ACEs), dissociation, depression, and anxiety.

Results:

The prevalence rates of dissociative symptoms and (probable) DSM-5 dissociative disorders (DDs) were 11.2% and 6.9%, respectively. Dissociation was a reliable construct (ICC = .682 to .752, p < .001) and was moderately correlated with general psychopathology ( r = .424 with depressive symptoms, r = .423 with anxiety symptoms). Participants with a probable DD reported more ACEs, fewer PCEs, and more mental health symptoms than those without a probable DD. ACEs were significantly associated with dissociative symptoms (β = .107, p < .001) even after controlling for age, depressive, and anxiety symptoms. PCEs moderated the relationship between ACEs and dissociative symptoms.

Conclusions:

This is the first report of the prevalence of dissociative symptoms and probable DSM-5 DDs among nonclinical children. We provide cross-cultural evidence that dissociation is a reliable and valid clinical phenomenon associated with psychopathology in children across cultures. The findings partly support the trauma model of dissociation. This study contributes to the limited literature on dissociation in children. It also offers empirical data to facilitate the ongoing controversy about (childhood) trauma and dissociation. Our findings imply that dissociation is cross-culturally associated with childhood adversities, but trauma is not the only, sufficient cause. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed.
Anxiety, depression and social support of LGBTIQ during COVID-19 in Kerala, India
Authors: Das Harisankar Kannankott , Govindappa Lakshmana
Published: June 2023

Background:

It is reported that the marginalised and underprivileged sections suffer bitter consequences in the event of calamities and pandemics. The present study aims at assessing the level of anxiety, depression and social support of the LGBTIQ communities during the COVID-19. Since the ‘LGBTIQ’ community is an integral part of society, it is necessary to study these psychological dimensions in the face of multiple waves of the pandemic in the country.

Aim:

The study aims to measure the anxiety, depression and social support of LGBTIQ during COVID-19 in Kerala.

Method:

The study followed descriptive research design and using snowball sampling, total of 106 respondents were interviewed from the urban and rural areas of Kerala. The researchers used the ‘DASS21’ to assess anxiety and depression and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support to assess social support.

Results:

Approximately half (44.3%) of the participants were experiencing severe or extremely severe levels of depression. At the same time, many of them had episodes of anxiety disorder at much higher levels (41.5%) than the other members of society. Perceived social support was negatively correlated with depression, anxiety and stress, while depression, anxiety and stress showed a positive correlation with each other.

Conclusion:

Common mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and stress were largely prevalent in the LGBTIQ community during COVID-19, who found the social support inadequate and suffered from other social and economic problems. There is a need to address these issues among this population.
Effect of a gap on the open hole tension strength of carbon fiber reinforced plastic laminates
Authors: Suemasu Hiroshi , Aoki Yuichiro , Tateishi Yasutomo , Sugimoto Sunao , Nakamura Toshiya
Published: June 2023

Tensile tests of quasi-isotropic laminates with a circular open hole, which include a gap in the hole area, were conducted to demonstrate the effect of the gap on the strength. The test showed that the reduction in the open-hole strength owing to the gap was less significant than that in the no-hole tensile strength. A two-dimensional mechanical model of quasi-isotropic laminates with an arbitrary inclined gap was proposed and analytically solved to obtain a closed-form expression for the stress concentration. An approximate expression was provided as the sum of the global uniform stress field and the local stress field near the open hole, which was solved based on a complex variable method. The present analytical solution agrees well with the corresponding two-dimensional finite element solutions. The solution indicated that the stress increase owing to the gap is limited at the stress concentration area. The analytical results were consistent with the experimental results.
Investigating microstructural features of the carbon nanotube-aluminum hybrid active plate on diffusion induced stresses in the bilayer electrode with initial stretching
Authors: Ansari Reza , Hassanzadeh-Aghdam Mohammad K , Pouyanmehr Roozbeh , Umer Usama , Haider Abidi Mustufa , Alkhalefah Hisham
Published: June 2023

Various types of batteries are produced to support years of service for implantable medical devices. Evaluation of internal stresses in nanoparticle-contained electrodes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is a fundamental step toward enhancing their durability. In this research, diffusion induced stresses (DISs) in the bilayer electrode consisted of the carbon nanotube (CNT)-aluminum (Al) nanocomposite active plate bonded to the current collector are investigated. Modeling the DIS is performed by applying the initial stretching on the CNT-Al active plate. Effective properties of CNT-filled Al nanocomposites are calculated using micromechanics models in which the formation of interfacial carbide between the Al and CNT is considered. The role of important microstructural features including amount, length, diameters, curved structure and dispersion type of CNTs, and the thickness and property of interphase in DISs is examined to provide design insights for LIB electrodes. The blending of straight CNTs with a high aspect ratio significantly reduces the tensile stress in the current collector, both compressive and tensile stresses in the nanocomposite active plate and especially the stress drop at the collector/plate interface. Moreover, the DISs can be alleviated by the formation of a stiff and thick interphase between the Al and nanotubes. The CNT-contained electrode with a stretched active plate exhibits lower internal stresses.
The Intersection of Equity Pedagogy and Technology Integration in Preservice Teacher Education: A Scoping Review
Authors: Weisberg Lauren , Dawson Kara
Published: June 2023

Teacher education programs play a crucial role in developing teachers’ equity/social justice mindsets and technology integration knowledge and expertise. Scholars have advocated for merging these two areas to support common curricular goals and access unique learning benefits. However, little is known about how equity pedagogy and technology integration intersect in preservice teacher (PST) education. This scoping review aims to expand knowledge and understanding at this intersection with the goal of developing a foundation for future research and practice. Findings revealed that relevant studies focused on two main styles of pedagogy: (a) leveraging technology to teach about equity and social justice (i.e., tech-infused equity pedagogy), and (b) adopting a critical stance toward technology’s roles in schools and society (i.e., digital equity pedagogy). We provide a detailed description of these pedagogies and present useful systems of classification for related studies. We also present key implications of this work for PST education practice, policy, and scholarship.
Livestock solutions to regenerate soils and landscapes for sustainable agri-food systems transformation in Africa
Authors: Paul Birthe K , Mutegi James K , Wironen Michael B , Wood Stephen A , Peters Michael , Nyawira Sylvia S , Misiko Michael T , Dutta Sudarshan K , Zingore Shamie , Oberthür Thomas , Notenbaert An M O , Cook Simon
Published: June 2023

Agri-food systems approaches have gained international recognition over the last years. The role of livestock—both in mixed crop-livestock and pastoral systems—in sustainable agri-food systems transformation remains contested. In this review paper we present new analyses of original data from an international livestock expert survey, a quantitative search in Web of Science, and a literature review to unravel the potential for livestock systems to sustainably transform agri-food systems through regenerating soils and restoring degraded landscapes. We (i) illustrate how livestock is important for people and planet alike; (ii) review how to harness livestock's potential for rehabilitation of soils and landscapes; (iii) demonstrate successful case studies of livestock solutions such as improved forages for cut-and-carry systems and grazing management; and (iv) identify four critical steps required for lasting change at continental scale. We conclude that livestock solutions can be key catalysts for sustainable agri-food systems transformation that merit accelerated public and private investments. More research is needed to develop concrete, operational and practical livestock solutions, and measure, monitor and report their contributions and progress toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Improving Secondary Student Classroom Behavior With an IGC
Authors: Speight Renee , Welsh-Young Nancy
Published: June 2023

It is important classroom teachers have efficient tools to support student demonstration of expected classroom behaviors as contextually inappropriate behavior can impede learning. This is of particular importance in secondary settings given overreliance on punitive strategies (e.g., suspension). Interdependent group contingencies have been shown to be effective with students and can be efficiently integrated into existing classroom management systems. In this article, we provide a process to support practitioners in developing an interdependent group contingency for their secondary classrooms. Steps and considerations for adolescent learners with diverse characteristics are provided to support teacher implementation.
Automatic temporal clothing deformation prediction: applicable to variable shape and motion
Authors: Shi Min , Zhuo Xinru , Mao Tianlu , Zhu Dengming , Shao Xinyan
Published: June 2023

Simulating temporal three-dimensional (3D) deformations of clothing worn by the human body is a core technology in computer graphics that plays a vital role in various fields, such as computer games, animation, and movies. Physics-based simulation and data-driven methods are two mainstream technologies used to generate clothing deformation. However, when it is necessary to quickly generate clothing animations of different body shapes and motions, the existing methods cannot balance efficiency and effectiveness. In this paper, we present a learning-based method, given human body shape and motion, which automatically synthesizes temporal 3D deformations of clothing in real-time. A temporal framework based on the transformer is designed to capture the correlation between clothing deformation and shape features of the moving human body, as well as the frame-level dependency. A feature fusion strategy is an innovation used to fuse the two features of shape and motion. We also perform post-processing on the penetration of clothing and the human body, generating collision-free cloth deformation sequences. To evaluate the method, we build a human motion dataset based on the large-scale public human body dataset AMASS, and further develop a clothing deformation dataset. We qualitatively and quantitatively demonstrate that our approach outperforms existing methods in terms of temporal clothing deformation with variable shape and motion, as well as producing realistic deformation at interactive rates.
Finite element analysis on global and local deformation behavior of 3D spacer fabric
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Hu Hong , Kyosev Yordan , Liu Yanping
Published: June 2023

Three-dimensional spacer fabric is a type of one-piece sandwich structure consisting of two outer layers and vertical and inclined spacer monofilaments. It behaves like a cushioning material, having linear, plateau, and densification stages under compression. This article elucidates the compression mechanism of a typical spacer fabric in terms of global deformation, local deformation, and internal contact behavior of spacer monofilaments through finite element simulation. While the linear stage is post-buckling of spacer monofilaments with tight constraints, the plateau stage is a combination of post-buckling, torsion, rotation, and contact of spacer monofilaments. The densification stage is attributed to the contact between spacer monofilaments and outer layers, which decreases the effective length to bear the load and enhances the constraints on the spacer monofilaments. The vertical spacer monofilaments with almost triple the normal strains of the inclined ones contribute more to compression resistance.
Structural design of single functional jersey with moisture comfort based on yarn combination
Authors: Yu Xuliang , Cong Honglian , Liang Xinhua , Dong Zhijia
Published: June 2023

Yarn property and structure design play a decisive role in the sweat, evaporation and heat dissipation comfort of single jersey. However, single jerseys also tend to exhibit limited moisture comfort properties, even with the use of high-performance fibers or specific structures. They also have some common phenomena such as backflow and the poor isolation of sweat, making the garment feel uncomfortable when worn. To enhance the moisture comfortable feeling of single jersey, the fabric is formed from a yarn combination of 75 dtex/288 f and 50 dtex/14 f polyesters, and the fabric structure with rapid moisture conduction is formed through the structural design. Through the research method of this paper, the single jersey ensures an excellent capillarity effect, and the outer surface of the fabric shows a large loop structure. In contrast, the inner surface is supported by yarn without contact with the skin. Furthermore, the fabric contains three pathways to transfer sweat outward, including a multistage bifurcated transmission system, which aids in the improvement of fabric moisture conduction, penetration and prevention. In the various tests, compared with plain structure, the single jersey of this design scheme exhibits a 1.98-fold larger loop size. It contains an effective sweat transmission pathway, which improves fabric air permeability and water permeability. In addition, the water repellent effect of the fabric is improved by 26.56%, with the inner surface of the fabric remaining dry within 3 s, even in the presence of heavy sweating. It is expected that the structural and material optimization designs of the single jersey can provide a promising method for functional textiles.
Indigenous technique to develop sponge for endo vaccum therapy in post-operative anastomotic leak: A case report
Authors: Reddy Raya Venkatesh , Musunuri Balaji , Rajpurohit Siddheesh , Naveena Kumar AN , Shetty Shiran
Published: June 2023

Oesophageal anastomotic leaks are serious complications with high mortality (20–50%) 1 especially in the post-operative setting of malignant disease. They occur in 5–30% of cases, 1 usually presenting with severe mediastinal sepsis. Revision surgery has been replaced by the use of endoscopic stents, clips, glue and vacuum therapy. The latter is the simplest and least liable to further complication. As an endo sponge was not commercially available, we introduced a self-made bed-side endo sponge, with evident success.
Aetiology and clinical spectrum of gastric outlet obstruction in North West India
Authors: Maharshi Sudhir , Sharma Deepak , Sharma Shyam Sunder , Sharma Kamlesh Kumar , Pokharna Rupesh , Nijhawan Sandeep
Published: June 2023

Our study to evaluate the aetiological and clinical spectrum of gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) in North-west India showed malignant cause (54.9%) was more common than benign (45.1%). Common causes of malignancy were gall bladder (37.5%), gastric (31.8%) and pancreatic carcinoma (19.6%); commonest benign causes were opioid abuse (29%), peptic ulcer disease (21.6%), ingestion of corrosives (20.2%) and chronic pancreatitis (12.3%).
“The Box Has Become an Indispensable Part of My Life”: A Case Study of Victoria Cannabis Buyers Club and its Consumption Space
Authors: Gagnon Marilou , Payne Alayna , Walsh Zach , Guta Adrian , Strike Carol
Published: June 2023

Community-based models of cannabis cultivation, distribution, and consumption—such as cannabis clubs—have been documented across Europe, North America, South America, and New Zealand since the 1990s. For the most part, these models have a history of operating outside existing legislation and regulations. Jurisdictions that have legalized cannabis have approached community-based models in opposite ways (eliminate vs. regulate). Canada legalizing cannabis has resulted in more stringent enforcement and concerted efforts to close these models despite documented health and social benefits. This paper presents a case study of the Victoria Cannabis Buyers Club (VCBC) and its consumption space—The Box. We conducted a survey of VCBC members to explore four domains: demographics, cannabis consumption, access to and use of The Box, and the impact of its temporary closure due to COVID-19. From the survey data ( n = 104), descriptive statistics were generated and three conceptual avenues were identified. The majority of respondents were 40 years old and older and identified as White (European descent) cisgendered men and women. The majority reported an income of $40,000 or less and a housing status that prevented them from smoking. Close to 75% of our sample consumed cannabis multidaily for therapeutic purposes primarily, but also for a mix of recreation, social, spiritual, and traditional healing purposes. Smoking was the preferred mode of consumption. Respondents accessed The Box daily or weekly. Reasons and benefits for using The Box fell into three categories: public health, harm reduction, and wellness perspectives. Conceptually, we found that The Box acted as a therapeutic space and offered a much-needed consumption space for smokers. We also identified a need to unpack the concept of safety. Overall, the survey reinforces the need for an equity-informed approach to community-based models and cannabis consumption spaces in Canada.
Observer-based event-triggered control for continuous-time switched linear parameter-varying systems
Authors: Lv Jiaxiao , Wang Yue-E , Wu Di
Published: June 2023

This paper researches the interval observer–based event-triggered control of switched linear parameter-varying (LPV) systems, which involve unknown external disturbance and measurement noise. First, we offer an event-triggering condition and a controller which are correlated with state estimations. Then, by analyzing the relationship between switching sequences and sampling sequences, we model the resulting systems as switched time-delay systems. It deserves to note that the mismatches of the switching signal for the controllers and the systems may occur due to the sampling of switching signal. Using the merging switching signal technique and the multiple Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional method, and thinking over both synchronous and asynchronous switching of the systems and the controllers, we acquire relevant conditions which are used to realize the stability of the whole switched LPV closed-loop systems under the mode-dependent average dwell time (MDADT) switching. Next, we give a specific algorithm to design the controller gains. Finally, a numerical example is provided to verify the superiority of the outcomes.
Optimal guaranteed cost control of discrete-time uncertain systems subjected to state saturation nonlinearity
Authors: Srivastava Aditi , Negi Richa , Kar Haranath
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the optimal guaranteed cost (GC) control problem for uncertain discrete-time (DT) systems with state saturation nonlinearities via static-state feedback. The parameter uncertainties in the system state and input matrix are considered to be norm bounded. Utilizing Lyapunov theory and sector-based characterization of saturation nonlinearities, a novel criterion for the existence of GC controllers is proposed. The criterion is expressed in the framework of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) and is thus computationally tractable. The proposed GC controllers make the closed-loop (CL) system asymptotically stable and ensure an adequate level of performance for all admissible parameter uncertainties. To design an optimum GC controller, a convex optimization problem with LMI constraints is formulated. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is illustrated by examples.
The dynamics shaping experiences and prospects of employer coordination in a Liberal Market Economy: The case of Scotland
Authors: Simms Melanie
Published: June 2023

Without structures of employer coordination, it is difficult to develop and deliver effective and legitimate labour market policy. This article theorises the conditions under which employer coordination occurs in a context usually described as a Liberal Market Economy. An explanatory framework of employer coordination is developed arguing that there are structural, institutional and ideational factors that facilitate and hinder coordination. The framework is applied to an empirical analysis of the Scottish context where devolution means that the Scottish Government has taken a different approach to issues of regulating work, emphasising the policy importance of ‘fair work’. Empirical material was collected through interviews with employers’ organisations (EOs) and other key stakeholders. The article extends existing theorisation by demonstrating that the pressures that facilitate and hinder employer coordination are dynamic and contested.
Parental regulation of parent and child screen-based device use
Authors: Lunkenheimer Erika , Dunning Emily D. , Diercks Catherine M. , Kelm Madison R.
Published: June 2023

Media use and screen time show both positive and negative effects on child development. Parents’ behaviors, perceptions, and regulation of parent and child screen-based device (SBD) use may be critical understudied factors in explaining these mixed effects. We developed the Parent Screen-Based Device Use Survey (PSUS) to assess parental use of multiple SBDs (e.g., computers, phones, and TVs) and tested its factor structure across two United States samples of mothers of children aged 2–6 years (total N = 402). Subscales captured parental SBD use related to Discipline, Limit-Setting, Involvement, Child Care, Family Norms, Self-Regulation, Dysregulation, and Parenting Support, and showed good factor loadings and internal reliability. Validity was tested in relation to parent distress, parent executive function problems, and child behavior problems. Parental limit-setting and involvement were either unrelated to or related to fewer parent and child problems, whereas parental use of SBDs for self-regulation, child care, discipline, support, and family activities, as well as parents’ more dysregulated use, were related to more parent and child problems. The PSUS holds promise in addressing the parental mechanisms that underlie media effects on child development.
Extending Meta-Organization Theory: A resource-flow perspective
Authors: Bor Sanne , Cropper Steve
Published: June 2023

Meta-organization theory has shied away from a systematic consideration of the complexities and consequences of resource acquisition patterns, instead assuming member organizations furnish the resources their associations require. The theory reflects empirical enquiry, which has focused primarily on the most visible form of resources, the association’s finance budget and staffing. This paper develops a conceptual framework to show the wider range of ways in which meta-organizations acquire resources and presents a resource-flow perspective. We utilize insights from resource dependency theory to specify two dimensions of resource flow. The first addresses the source of resources, distinguishing those acquired from the meta-organization’s membership from those acquired from external interests. The second concerns whether the meta-organization secures control over the use and allocation of acquired resources, or not. We identify four resource flows utilizing these two dimensions: member resourcing, associational resourcing, contributed resourcing and generated resourcing, and discuss how each resource flow relates to meta-organizational activity, highlighting when a particular flow can be expected. The resource-flow perspective allows us to adapt existing typologies to define a conceptual space onto which variations among meta-organizations can be mapped. This space focuses on the expected level of resource engagement of members in the meta-organization and the extent of resource contribution from interests in the meta-organization’s environment. Finally, we discuss areas for development of the resource-flow perspective and its potential to support future research.
Rethinking Posthumanist Subjectivity: Technology as Ontological Murder in European Colonialism
Authors: Dekeyser Thomas
Published: June 2023

This paper centres the colonial pre-histories of ‘the digital’ to complicate posthumanist theorisations of subjectivity. Posthumanism helpfully undercuts human exceptionalism by presenting subjectivity as always-already co-constituted by technology. However, this paper argues that it insufficiently engages the human as the historico-political effect of negating the assumed non-technological colonial Other. Focusing on liberal humanism between the 16th and 19th centuries, the paper theorises the modern human as bound up in ‘technological onticide’. The presumed absence of technology became a (theo-centric, ratio-centric, bio-centric) measure of the Other’s sub-humanity, at the same time as this Other was expected to be humanised through its technologisation. An emphasis on technological onticide complicates universalist theories of subjectivity that take it as always a matter of human-technology co-constitution. The paper argues that, to confront the legacies of ontological murder, conceptual room needs to be made for inhuman, counterhuman or unhuman theories of subjectivity.
Association between Helicobacter pylori seropositivity and hypertension among adults in Northern Sudan: a community-based case–control study
Authors: Hassan Ahmed A , Ahmed Bashir E , Osman Osman E , Adam Ishag
Published: June 2023

Objective

The association between Helicobacter pylori and hypertension is unclear. Herein, we aimed to investigate the association between H. pylori and hypertension among adults in Sudan.

Methods

We conducted a community-based case–control study (175 participants in each arm) in the Wad Hamid district in northern Sudan. Cases comprised adults with hypertension and controls were non-hypertensive adults. We assessed participants' data using a questionnaire. We also conducted rapid H. pylori antibody tests and binary and linear regression analyses.

Results

Multivariable logistic regression revealed age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03–1.07), female sex (AOR 5.50, 95% CI 2.36–12.80), and body mass index (AOR 1.12, 95% CI 1.07–1.17) were significantly associated with hypertension. Moreover, compared with controls, a significantly higher number of patients with hypertension were positive for H. pylori (82/175, 46.9% vs. 46/175, 26.3%). H. pylori seropositivity was associated with systolic blood pressure (coefficient 3.811), diastolic blood pressure (coefficient 3.492), mean blood pressure (coefficient 3.599), and hypertension (AOR 3.15, 95% CI 1.82–5.46).

Conclusion

Our study revealed a significant positive association between H. pylori seropositivity and hypertension. This finding supports literature recommending the eradication of H. pylori to prevent hypertension and its complications.