bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Male Reproduction and Health after Recovery from COVID‐19 Infection
Authors: Sun Xiangyang , Li Jian , Sheng Lianbing , Liu Song , Wang Ganggang , Shi Zhida
Published: May 2024

Objective. To study the reproductive hormones, semen quality, psychology, and sexual function of childbearing age men after recovery from Corona Virus Disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) infection. Materials and Methods. We recruited 387 men of childbearing age who recovered from COVID‐19 infection and underwent prepregnancy health checks at the Reproductive Center of Shandong Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January to March 2023 as study subjects. Routine semen analysis and reproductive hormones were performed. The clinical symptoms, anxiety, depression, erectile function, and premature ejaculation questionnaire were investigated during the COVID‐19 infection period. A control group of 226 men of childbearing age who were not infected with COVID‐19 between August 2022 and October 2022 were selected based on questionnaire responses, reproductive hormones, and semen parameters. Results. The main clinical symptoms during COVID‐19 infection of the 387 research subjects were fever (342/387, 88.37%), muscle pain (155/387, 40.05%), anosmia (124/387, 32.04%), cough (106/387, 27.39%), throat pain (53/387, 13.70%), nausea and vomiting (16/387, 4.13%), and testicular discomfort (5/387, 1.29%). The rates of anxiety and depression were 11.37% (44/387) and 32.82% (127/387), respectively; erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) of the research subjects were accounted for 32.30% (125/387) and 6.98% (27/387). The IEF‐5 score (P < 0.001) decreased significantly compared to the control group, while the PHQ‐9 score (P < 0.001), the rate of increased ED (P < 0.001), and the rate of depression increased (P < 0.001). There were statistically significant differences in liquefaction time (P < 0.05), the progressive sperm motility (P < 0.05), total sperm motility (P < 0.05), the rates of progressive sperm motility <32% (P < 0.05), and total sperm motility <40% (P < 0.05) between the 1 month, the 2 months after recovery from COVID‐19 and controls. Circular cell counts (P < 0.05) at 2 and 3 months were lower than in the controls. No changes in reproductive hormones before and after recovery from infection. Conclusion. COVID‐19 infection exacerbates depression and ED. It has a sustained effect on sperm motility and liquefaction time in men. The effects of COVID‐19 infection on semen persist for approximately 2 months, with recovery occurring in the third month. Reproductive hormone levels do not appear to be continuously affected after recovery from COVID‐19.
Hepatitis B Virus X Protein Represses Expression of Tumor Suppressor PTPN18 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Zhenyu , Yu Wei , Li Huoming , Shi Juanyi , Meng Shiyu , Yan Yongcong , Chen Ruibin , Liu Haohan , Wang Jie , Sun Jian , Xiao Zhiyu , Zhang Jianlong
Published: May 2024

HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents the prevalent form of HCC, with HBx protein being a crucial oncoprotein. Numerous members of the protein tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor (PTPN) family have been confirmed to be significantly associated with the occurrence and progression of malignant tumors. Our group previously identified the involvement of PTPN13 in HCC. However, the roles of other PTPNs in HCC require further investigation. In this study, we found that PTPN18 expression was significantly downregulated within HCC tissues compared with adjacent nontumor and reference liver tissues. Functionally, PTPN18 exerted inhibitory effects on the proliferation, migration, invasion, and sphere-forming capability of HCC cells while concurrently promoting apoptotic processes. Through phospho-protein microarray screening followed by subsequent validation experiments, we identified that PTPN18 could activate the p53 signaling pathway and suppress the AKT/FOXO1 signaling cascade in HCC cells. Moreover, the HBx protein mediated the repression of PTPN18 expression by upregulating miR-128-3p. Collectively, our study unveiled the role of PTPN18 as a tumor suppressor in HBV-related HCC.

Implications: Our findings revealed that PTPN18 might be a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for HBV-related HCC.
Lung Microbiome in Lung Cancer: A New Horizon in Cancer Study
Authors: Kashyap Pragya , Dutt Naveen , Ahirwar Dinesh K. , Yadav Pankaj
Published: May 2024

Lung cancer is the second most prevalent cancer worldwide and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Recent technological advancements have revealed that the lung microbiome, previously thought to be sterile, is host to various microorganisms. The association between the lung microbiome and lung cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis is complex and contradictory. However, disruption in the homeostasis of microbiome compositions correlated with the increased risk of lung cancer. This review summarizes current knowledge about the most recent developments and trends in lung cancer–related microbiota or microbial components. This article aims to provide information on this rapidly evolving field while giving context to the general role of the lung microbiome in lung cancer. In addition, this review briefly discussed the causative association of lung microbiome with lung cancer. We will review the mechanisms by which lung microbiota influence carcinogenesis, focusing on microbiota dysbiosis. Moreover, we will also discuss the host–microbiome interaction as it plays a crucial role in stimulating and regulating the immune response. Finally, we will provide information on the diagnostic role of the microbiome in lung cancer. This article aims to offer an overview of the lung microbiome as a predictive and diagnostic biomarker in lung cancer.
Three-Year Outcomes With Fractional Flow Reserve–Guided or Angiography-Guided Multivessel Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Puymirat Etienne , Cayla Guillaume , Simon Tabassome , Steg Philippe Gabriel , Montalescot Gilles , Durand-Zaleski Isabelle , Ngaleu Siaha Fabiola , Gallet Romain , Khalife Khalife , Morelle Jean-François , Motreff Pascal , Lemesle Gilles , Dillinger Jean-Guillaume , Lhermusier Thibault , Silvain Johanne , Roule Vincent , Labèque Jean-Noel , Rangé Grégoire , Ducrocq Grégory , Cottin Yves , Blanchard Didier , Charles Nelson Anaïs , Djadi-Prat Juliette , Chatellier Gilles , Danchin Nicolas ,   for the FLOWER-MI Study Investigators
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

In patients with multivessel disease with successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction, the FLOWER-MI trial (Flow Evaluation to Guide Revascularization in Multivessel ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) showed that a fractional flow reserve (FFR)–guided strategy was not superior to an angiography-guided strategy for treatment of noninfarct-related artery lesions regarding the 1-year risk of death from any cause, myocardial infarction, or unplanned hospitalization leading to urgent revascularization. The extension phase of the trial was planned using the same primary outcome to determine whether a difference in outcomes would be observed with a longer follow-up.

METHODS:

In this multicenter trial, we randomly assigned patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction and multivessel disease with successful percutaneous coronary intervention of the infarct-related artery to receive complete revascularization guided by either FFR (n=586) or angiography (n=577).

RESULTS:

After 3 years, a primary outcome event occurred in 52 of 498 patients (9.40%) in the FFR-guided group and in 44 of 502 patients (8.17%) in the angiography-guided group (hazard ratio, 1.19 [95% CI, 0.79–1.77];
P
=0.4). Death occurred in 22 patients (4.00%) in the FFR-guided group and in 23 (4.32%) in the angiography-guided group (hazard ratio, 0.96 [95% CI, 0.53–1.71]); nonfatal myocardial infarction in 23 (4.13%) and 14 (2.56%), respectively (hazard ratio, 1.63 [95% CI, 0.84–3.16]); and unplanned hospitalization leading to urgent revascularization in 21 (3.83%) and 18 (3.36%; hazard ratio, 1.15 [95% CI, 0.61–2.16]), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although event rates in the trial were lower than expected, in patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction undergoing complete revascularization, an FFR-guided strategy did not have a significant benefit over an angiography-guided strategy with respect to the risk of death, myocardial infarction, or urgent revascularization up to 3 years.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT02943954.
Mapping the Ecological Terrain of Stroke Prehospital Delay: A Nationwide Registry Study
Authors: Dhand Amar , Reeves Mathew J. , Mu Yi , Rosner Bernard A. , Rothfeld-Wehrwein Zachary R. , Nieves Amber , Dhongade Vrushali A. , Jarman Molly , Bergmark Regan W. , Semco Robert S. , Ader Jeremy , Marshall Brandon D.L. , Goedel William C. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Smith Eric E. , Saver Jeffrey L. , Schwamm Lee H. , Sheth Kevin N.
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Delays in hospital presentation limit access to acute stroke treatments. While prior research has focused on patient-level factors, broader ecological and social determinants have not been well studied. We aimed to create a geospatial map of prehospital delay and examine the role of community-level social vulnerability.

METHODS:

We studied patients with ischemic stroke who arrived by emergency medical services in 2015 to 2017 from the American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines-Stroke registry. The primary outcome was time to hospital arrival after stroke (in minutes), beginning at last known well in most cases. Using Geographic Information System mapping, we displayed the geography of delay. We then used Cox proportional hazard models to study the relationship between community-level factors and arrival time (adjusted hazard ratios [aHR] <1.0 indicate delay). The primary exposure was the social vulnerability index (SVI), a metric of social vulnerability for every ZIP Code Tabulation Area ranging from 0.0 to 1.0.

RESULTS:

Of 750 336 patients, 149 145 met inclusion criteria. The mean age was 73 years, and 51% were female. The median time to hospital arrival was 140 minutes (Q1: 60 minutes, Q3: 458 minutes). The geospatial map revealed that many zones of delay overlapped with socially vulnerable areas (https://harvard-cga.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=08f6e885c71b457f83cefc71013bcaa7). Cox models (aHR, 95% CI) confirmed that higher SVI, including quartiles 3 (aHR, 0.96 [95% CI, 0.93–0.98]) and 4 (aHR, 0.93 [95% CI, 0.91–0.95]), was associated with delay. Patients from SVI quartile 4 neighborhoods arrived 15.6 minutes [15–16.2] slower than patients from SVI quartile 1. Specific SVI themes associated with delay were a community’s socioeconomic status (aHR, 0.80 [95% CI, 0.74–0.85]) and housing type and transportation (aHR, 0.89 [95% CI, 0.84–0.94]).

CONCLUSIONS:

This map of acute stroke presentation times shows areas with a high incidence of delay. Increased social vulnerability characterizes these areas. Such places should be systematically targeted to improve population-level stroke presentation times.
Learning Islam through the Senses
Authors: Flaskerud Ingvild
Published: May 2024

This article discusses how the visual and embodied storytelling methods of the theater may be used in the formation of Islamic knowledge. Examining productions staged by young women in Oslo in the tradition of the Twelver Shia theater, taʿziyeh/shabih, during commemorative rituals, I ask: How did producers and actors perceive theater to generate knowledge? How were visual and embodied storytelling methods used in conveying religious knowledge? What kind of knowledge was generated? Inspired by theater theory and post-structuralist semiotics, the analysis shows that the theater had transformative qualities that could contribute to cultural transmission, education, and moral and spiritual development. Knowledge was produced through sensorial communication, thinking, and understanding, and was held to emerge from the spectators’ and actors’ aesthetic and affective experiences, in addition to their abilities to create emotional relations with holy protagonists and the divine. The learning outcome was therefore presented as open-ended and invited young spectators and actors to take responsibility and reflect on how to act and respond in our time.
Crimean Tatars in the Digital Age
Authors: Muratova Elmira
Published: May 2024

This article focuses on how the digital age has affected the Crimean Tatar religious authorities in the emerging cyber-Islamic environment. I argue that despite government restrictions, the internet remains a safe space for public debate and for challenging Muslim authorities in Crimea. I also argue that although online media have allowed traditional Muslim authorities in Crimea to improve communication within their organization and expand their audiences, they have become a platform for challenging their hierarchies, structures, ideologies, and texts. First, the structure of the Crimean Muslim community is outlined. I then describe the Crimean cyber-Islamic environment, before using social-media analysis and interviews with Muslim leaders to analyze the situation in the Crimean Tatars’ cyber-Islamic environment, with a focus on their religious authorities.
“Just for the Sake of Giving It:” An Exploration of Elementary Teachers’ Beliefs About Homework Practices
Authors: Dobbs Christina L. , Leider Christine Montecillo , Bempechat Janine , Jimenez-Silva Margarita
Published: May 2024

Homework is a common practice in US schools, with much discussion of its potential benefits and drawbacks. But there is more to learn about the complexities of teachers’ beliefs about homework’s purpose, benefits, and challenges. This interview study with elementary teachers uses a beliefs framework to explore beliefs and their influence on perceptions of homework. Findings reveal a web of tensions around homework broadly, with teachers holding complex and even contradictory beliefs about homework and its usefulness. These tensions relate to the array of individuals with an investment in homework, their workloads, and goals to support diverse students equitably.
Changes in State Laws on Suicide Prevention Training for School Staff, 2002-2022
Authors: Rosenblum Kyle , Dunphy Christopher , Wang Jing , Frantz Kessa , Hulkower Rachel , Wong Sharon
Published: May 2024

Objectives:

Youth suicide is an urgent public health problem. Gatekeeper training aims to prevent suicide by training people to identify warning signs and make referrals to appropriate services. Many states in the United States have enacted gatekeeper training laws (GTLs) to train school staff in suicide prevention. The objectives of this study were to describe the development of a dataset on GTLs and use the dataset to summarize trends in uptake of GTLs from 2002 through 2022 as well as differences in characteristics (eg, frequency and duration of training) of GTLs.

Methods:

We used publicly available legal databases from all 50 states and the District of Columbia to conduct a policy surveillance assessment of GTLs. We cross-checked data with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s 2022 Suicide Prevention in Schools (K-12) issue brief and used Westlaw Edge to conduct a sensitivity analysis. We included the following data in the full dataset: type of laws (encouraged, mandatory, or conditional mandatory), date passed, effective date, frequency of training, and length of training.

Results:

In 2022, 49 states and the District of Columbia had GTLs, 31 of which were mandatory laws. In 2002, only 6 states had such laws, and none were mandatory.

Conclusion:

The growing proliferation of laws on suicide prevention training for school staff warrants evaluation of the laws’ effectiveness. Our policy surveillance data may be used to better understand the role of these laws in a school-based approach to youth suicide prevention.
Unraveling opportunism in platform-mediated work within the Nordic working life model: An institutional complexity perspective
Authors: Nilsen Marie , Finnestrand Hanne , Kongsvik Trond
Published: May 2024

The Nordic working life model (NWLM) promotes ‘good work’ on societal and workplace levels. However, this model is now challenged by emerging business models in the platform economy. This study investigates how digital labor platforms respond to conflicting institutional logics and how platform-mediated work intervenes with the inherent logic of the NWLM. The authors examine platform business strategies and their implications for working environment regulations, co-determination, and collective bargaining. Empirical data comprising 50 interviews with food delivery workers, platform managers, union representatives, employer association representatives, and occupational health and safety regulators from the Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority were analyzed by applying institutional complexity as a theoretical framework. The findings illustrate that a high degree of institutional complexity provides companies with discretionary space, which they utilize to achieve legitimacy and competitive advantages. The authors introduce the term institutional opportunism to describe how adaptation is performed. The study reveals that the platform economy, characterized by workers with limited experience of and knowledge about working life and strong market pressures, poses a challenge to the NWLM.
The Contribution of Fillers Used in the Correction of Malar Depression to Visual Quality and Quality of Life
Authors: Oğuz Oğuzhan , Bayar Muluk Nuray , Öztürk Zeynel , Yagci Tarik , Cingi Cemal
Published: May 2024

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the contributions of the filler procedure performed in the malar region to the patient’s appearance as visual quality and quality of life. Methods: A total of 72 patients who underwent a malar filler procedure between March 2022 and March 2023 were included in the study. Each patient received a 2 cc injection of hyaluronic acid filler, with 1 cc administered on the right and 1 cc on the left. Photos before the malar filler procedure and photos taken in the first month after the procedure for individuals included in the study were independently evaluated by 2 physicians. Change criteria were rated on a scale of 1 to 5 as follows: (1) no change, (2) slight change, (3) moderate change, (4) significant change, and (5) very significant change. The satisfaction of the patients related to the malar filler procedure was evaluated by a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scale of 1 to 10 (0 showing no satisfaction, 10 showing maximum satisfaction). Results: Physicians evaluated the visual appearance of the patients as a “very significant change” in all patients (100%). Of the 72 patients, 66 (91.6%) expressed satisfaction with the procedure, while 6 (8.4%) found the treatment insufficient and requested further interventions. Conclusion: Hyaluronic acid fillers applied to the malar region caused patient satisfaction in 91.6%. However, a few patients requested further interventions. Patients’ requests for unnecessary operations should be noted and treated with caution since they may lead doctors in the wrong direction.
Investigation of the Effects of Allicin on the Nasal Mucosa
Authors: Öztürk Zeynel , Bayar Muluk Nuray , Oğuz Oğuzhan , Pinarbaşli Mehmet Özgür , Güngör Enes , Arik Deniz , Bal Cengiz , Cingi Cemal
Published: May 2024

Objectives: We investigated the effects of allicin on nasal mucosa via an experimental study. Methods: In the study, 16 male New Zealand Albino (2.5-4.5 kg) rabbits were used. The right nasal passages of the 8 rabbits were included in the control group (Group 1, n = 8), and the right nasal passages of the 8 different rabbits were included in the study group (Group 2, n = 8). In the study group (Group 2), a Merocel tampon soaked in Allicin (Alli Tech; Dulwich Health) (0.5 mg/kg). In the control group (Group 1), a Merocel tampon soaked in serum physiologic was placed in the right nasal passage for 3 days (first to third days of the study). On the fourth day, nasal mucosa was excised and histopathological examinations were performed. Results: Our results showed that there were no significant differences in terms of bleeding, congestion, inflammation, calcification, and seromucous gland density between the study and control groups ( P > .05). In light microscopic evaluation, moderate density of lymphocytic cells beneath the surface epithelium and, further down, seromucous gland structures, dense seromucous glands, and occasional ductal structures were observed in the study group. Congested vascular structures beneath the respiratory epithelium and adjacent to a thick-walled vascular structure, coarse calcification is observed in the control group. Conclusion: It has been demonstrated that the Allicin-soaked Merocel pack does not have adverse effects on rabbit nasal mucosa, and it does not lead to mucosal bleeding, congestion, inflammation, and calcification, and changes in the seromucous gland density. Considering the antibacterial and antiviral effects of allicin, it is appropriate to plan research in humans to evaluate its use in nasal packs applied during epistaxis, septoplasty, rhinoplasty, and endoscopic sinus surgery.
Development of a Ramayana-based Counseling Module for Persons with Common Mental Health Disorders
Authors: Kurhade Chhaya Shantaram , Jagannathan Aarti , Varambally Shivarama , Shivana Sushrutha , Sudhir Paulomi , Gangadhar B. N.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Common mental health disorders (CMDs) affect nearly 10% of the population, with the majority (80%) remaining untreated. Culturally relevant counseling approaches can be a means to reach many untreated persons. We describe the development and validation of a socioculturally relevant counseling module based on the Ramayana for persons with CMDs.

Methods:

The study employed an exploratory research framework to design the counseling module. The module underwent a comprehensive review of the Valmiki Ramayana to ensure its cultural relevance. Content validation was performed by mental health professionals from the field of Indian psychology. Concurrently, a panel of 15 experts from diverse backgrounds in Indian psychology validated the counseling module based on the Ramayana.

Results:

Based on the results of expert interviews ( n = 15), the counseling techniques, encompassing concepts, anecdotes, and narratives, were finalized. These interviews also contributed to the refinement of the counseling module. The primary objective of the content validation process was to systematically assess the appropriateness, accuracy, and practicality of the various components within the module. The content validation demonstrated that all items contained within the module exceeded the established threshold of p = .59.

Conclusions:

The developed counseling module based on the Ramayana is feasible to be implemented as a sociocultural intervention for persons with CMDs. By assisting persons to enhance coping abilities and improve overall well-being, this module offers a valuable resource for mental health intervention in the Indian sociocultural context. It fosters a culturally sensitive and practical approach to address the diverse mental health needs of the population.
Decoration of carbohydrate nanocomposite with silver nanoparticles for highly efficient adsorption of methylene blue and antimicrobial against human pathogens
Authors: Saleh Ahmed K. , Jame Rasha , Alotaibi Fatimah A. , Abdelaziz Mahmoud A. , Omer Noha
Published: May 2024

The current study aims to prepare carbohydrate nanocomposite based on 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO) oxidized cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) /chitosan chloride (Ch) decorated with silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) and designed as (TEMPO/CNF/Ch/Ag-NPs) that was investigated as antimicrobial materials and applied as efficient sorbent. CNF was prepared from cellulose through TEMPO oxidation-mechanical defibrillation technique. Anionic CNF and Ch were ironically interacted to prepare novel sustainable ionic nanofibers films. Ag-NPs having approximately 20 nm were prepared in situ to decorate the ionic fibers. The effects of experimental parameters including media pH (3.0–8.0), contact time (10–120 min), and initial methylene blue (MB) concentration (50–800 ppm) on the adsorption behavior of MB onto nanocomposite films were evaluated. The results exhibited similar and fast adsorption kinetic, as illustrated by the pseudo-second-order model. The adsorption results were best suited by the Langmuir isotherm model, and the maximum adsorption capacity for the TEMPO/CNF/Ch and TEMPO/CNF/Ch/Ag-NPs nanocomposite was 369 and 432 mg/g, respectively, at the optimized media pH of 7 with a contact time of 60 min at 88 to 90 mg/g of MB. In kinetic studies, the pseudo-second-order model for nanocomposite films provided the best fit (R2 = 0.98), than pseudo-first-order model (R2 = 0.82 and 0.77). The TEMPO/CNF/Ch and TEMPO/CNF/Ch/Ag-NPs nanocomposite retains 73 and 69% of its initial adsorption performance towards MB after five consecutive runs. The formed nanocomposite showed excellent efficacy against Escherichia coli (14.3 ± 0.57 mm), followed by Candida albicans (12 ± 1 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (11.3 ± 1.15 mm), and Streptococcus mutans (10.6 ± 1.15 mm), and their antimicrobial activity was enhanced by the incorporation of Ag-NPs. The formed nanocomposite might find applications in industrial and biomedical fields.
Territorializing the air: Border-crossing air pollution and the geopolitics of atmospheric science in East Asia
Authors: Kim Sungeun
Published: May 2024

This paper analyzes how the atmospheric science of transboundary air pollution was employed as a technopolitical strategy to secure a nation’s volumetric territory. In South Korea, border-crossing particulate matter from China has emerged as a controversial diplomatic concern. The Korean government heavily funded atmospheric science to monitor the transboundary incursion and quantify the amount of Chinese influence. The geoscience of polluted air was mobilized to restore the nation’s aerial sovereignty when transboundary materiality threatened its political authority to regulate atmospheric territory. The paper further examines how nationalistic science was challenged by an international air quality survey called KORUS-AQ, a study co-organized by NASA and Korea’s National Institute for Environmental Research. Korean experts used the joint mission with NASA to verify the transboundary impact on Seoul’s air quality and hold China responsible. US scientists, however, challenged this nation-centered vision by highlighting the underestimated domestic sources of air pollution. As a result, the aerial survey did not generate a unilateral understanding of nature but produced multiple and even contrasting territorial imaginations on a single airshed. Atmospheric science, I argue, functioned as a geopolitical arena where different visions on volumetric governance were enacted and competed.
From securitisation to martialisation: Logistics of humanitarian protection in Brazil’s Amazon
Authors: Virginio Francis Portes , Garvey Brian , Stewart Paul
Published: May 2024

The association between logistics and militarised humanitarianism is expanding as a strategy for managing migrants' productive and reproductive lives. In Brazil, despite a progressive humanitarian visa policy, the national army remains responsible for the logistics of a severely underfunded humanitarian operation in Brazil’s Amazon. This study, based on participatory action research with 300 migrants, introduces the notion of martialisation to show political and socioeconomic dimensions that are juxtaposed in the military logistics of humanitarian zones and subsequently experienced as a dominant structuring process of exploitation. These are securitization of migration linked to at once the deepening of market liberalism and the normalisation of military intervention within productive and reproductive processes. Findings show that the military leadership in Brazil’s humanitarian response reveals a multi-scalar phenomenon of military rule that contributes to sustaining the repressive labour regime in Brazil’s Amazon. It articulates the structures of labour subordination with the micromanagement of reproductive measures by which migrants are controlled, exploited, and dispossessed of their rights. The conclusion makes the case for the collective organization of migrants in pursuit of transformative action.
Study on the thermal insulation property of lanthanum–cerium oxide coatings
Authors: Zeng Shenghao , Wang Zhoufu , Ma Yan , Liu Hao , Wang Xitang
Published: May 2024

Functional fillers with low thermal conductivity and high near-infrared reflectance play a vital role in high temperature thermal insulation coatings and make an outstanding contribution to achieving efficient comprehensive thermal insulation. In this work, the thermal insulation and bonding properties of lanthanum–cerium oxide (LCO) coatings were regulated by composition design. The effects of the La/Ce mole ratio on phase composition, the thermal conductivity and near-infrared reflectivity of LCO coatings were investigated systematically. The results showed that coating with a La/Ce mole ratio of 1:1 possess the excellent thermal insulation properties (ΔT ≈ 115°C) due to the formation of a LCO solid solution and a lanthanum phosphate mesophase with low thermal conductivity and high near-infrared reflectivity. In addition, the mortise and tenon structure was formed between the coating and the substrate, which led to the remarkable bonding properties. The LCO coating offers excellent thermal insulation properties and broad application prospects in the fields of high temperature and energy conservation.
The effect of excessive gas to blood ratios in an ECMO oxygenator
Authors: Shaw Michael , Cross Nigel , Richardson Rebecca , Crook Richard , Thirulchelvam Timothy , Issitt Richard W
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Oxygenators for paediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) are required to operate over a wide range of flow rates, in a patient group ranging from neonates through to fully grown adolescents. ECMO oxygenators typically have a manufacturer’s stated maximum gas: blood flow rate (GBFR) ratio of 2:1, however, many patients require greater ratios than this for adequate CO2 removal. Mismatches in GBFR in theory could result in high gas phase pressures. These increased pressures in theory could cause the formation of gross gaseous microemboli (GME) placing the child at higher risk of neurological injury.

Methods

We evaluated 6 paediatric and 6 adult A.L.ONE™ ECMO oxygenators and assessed their gas phase pressures and GME release, in an ex vivo setting, in GBFR ratios up to greater than 2, across a range of gas flow (1L – 10 L/min) rates with a fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) content of 50% and 100%.

Results

There were no increases above 10 mmHg observed in gas phase pressures in GBFR >= 2:1 in either adult or paediatric oxygenators. Laboratory examination of GME activity demonstrated a small increase in post-membrane GME release over the study period. GME release was unaffected by FiO2 setting or gas flow rate, with a maximum volume of < 6 µL in both paediatric and adult oxygenators.

Conclusions

In an ex vivo setting, increasing GBFR above 2:1 in a paediatric oxygenator, and to a GBFR of 2:1 in an adult oxygenator did not significantly increase gas phase pressures, and no oxygenator membrane rupture was observed. There were no associations between gas flow rates and GME production.
Robust Statistical Estimation for Capture-Recapture Using Administrative Data
Authors: Chipperfield James O. , Chu Randall , Zhang Li-Chun , Baffour Bernard
Published: May 2024

The first key use of a nation’s Census is to count its resident population. A Census will have counting errors, often referred to as over-coverage and under-coverage. So it is common practice in many countries to conduct an independent count of its residents, a so-called coverage survey, and estimate or adjust for these counting errors within the capture-recapture framework. In recent times, many censuses and coverage surveys have faced challenges in counting the population efficiently and effectively due to rising costs, declining response rates, and respondent burden. This has led to a shift toward exploring the role that administrative registers could play in counting the population within the capture-recapture framework. Administrative registers are relatively inexpensive and can have high coverage of a nation’s population. This paper explores methods to overcome common problems with the use of administrative registers within this framework, including linking errors and scoping the register to only capture residents. These methods are empirically assessed in the context of the Australian population.
The effect of chord duration on the relative salience of chord-type and voicing changes
Authors: Jimenez Ivan , Kuusi Tuire , Ojala Juha , Harrison Peter
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the effect of chord duration on the relative salience of chord-type and voicing changes. Participants ( N = 111) with varying levels of musical training were presented with sequences of five block chords on the piano and asked to indicate which chord sounded most different. Each sequence consisted of three identical chords and two oddballs, one with a voicing change and one with a chord-type change. All possible chord-type pairings between standard and oddball formed of major, minor, dominant seventh, major seventh, and minor seventh chords were tested. In addition, each sequence of five chords was tested using three chord duration conditions (500, 1,000, and 1,500 ms), and the durations were pseudo-randomized throughout the experiment. Chord-type changes became more salient with longer durations and this effect could be seen for all participants regardless of their levels of musical training. However, with higher level of musical training, chord-type changes became more salient across all duration conditions. Leman’s model of tonal contextuality suggests that the effect of duration in our experiment could be explained by sensory mechanisms related to echoic memory. The potential contribution of other factors to the effect of duration is discussed.
The effect of differentiated video presentations of choral performances on aesthetic responses of undergraduate choral and instrumental ensemble musicians
Authors: Robinson Charles R , Keown Daniel J
Published: May 2024

Research examining affective response to media modalities including film, television, gaming, video streaming, and virtual reality is expanding. This study examined aesthetic responses to choral performances presented in two contrasting video formats (stationary and produced). Volunteer undergraduate students ( N = 94) enrolled in ensembles (choral, n = 45; instrumental, n = 49) indicated their aesthetic responses to choral performances of Ēriks Ešenvalds’ “Only in Sleep” by manipulating a Continuous Response Digital Interface (CRDI) dial. Participants viewed video performances of two ensembles, one of which was digitally altered to allow for use of the same audio content for both videos. CRDI data were used to create temporal line graphs depicting participant responses to each video and indicated similar shapes with more intense aesthetic response to the produced video. Statistical analysis of cumulative mean responses to each performance found a main effect of video format (stationary vs. produced) and a video format × presentation order interaction. Initial exposure to each video garnered a more intense response than that of the second video, and the produced video elicited greater magnitude than the stationary perspective video. Findings support further examination of video and other media, studying differentiated impact on aesthetic response to music performances.
A novel dynamic stiffness matrix for the nonlocal vibration characteristics of porous functionally graded nanoplates on elastic foundation with small-scale effects
Authors: Rai Saurabh , Gupta Ankit
Published: May 2024

The present paper deals with the development of a dynamic stiffness matrix to evaluate the free vibration response of functionally graded nanoplate (FG-nP) resting on the Winkler-Pasternak elastic foundation. The complete mathematical modeling of the dynamic stiffness matrix for nanostructures is given for the first time. The equation of motion for rectangular FG-nP plates supported on an elastic foundation is derived using Hamilton’s principle in conjunction with nonlocal elasticity theory. The non-local theory is incorporated to account for the size effect in the small-scale plate. The effective material property of the porous FG-nP has been calculated using three recently developed models of porosity. The developed dynamic stiffness matrix is solved using the Wittrick-Williams algorithm to extract the natural frequencies of the FG-nP. The variation of natural frequencies with the change of numerical values, such as nonlocal parameter, aspect ratio, elastic foundation parameters, and porosity volume fraction is analyzed. The validity and accuracy of the results are confirmed through comparison with the available literature. The use of non-local theory in dynamic stiffness analysis is shown to be effective in predicting the natural frequency of the FG-nP on a Winkler-Pasternak elastic foundation, providing new insights into the dynamic behavior of small-scale structures.
Inertia, Progress, or Regress? Observing and Explaining Heterogenous Tech Firm Demographic Diversity Trajectories
Authors: Han JooHee , Tomaskovic-Devey Donald
Published: May 2024

Tech firms are under strong pressure to increase their demographic diversity. While activists and scholars have tended to treat the sector as homogenously hostile to women and racialized minorities, recent theory on organizational inequalities stresses heterogeneity in firm-level inequality regimes. Beginning with an inductive exploration of variation in executive, managerial, and professional workforce trajectories, we find that between 2008 and 2016 most Tech firms show little change, but that there are also significant clusters of firms that were becoming either much more or much less diverse for all three occupational levels. We model these trajectories as a function of firm visibility, the regulation of federal contractors by the U.S. Department of Labor, and leadership composition. Multinomial logistic regression models show that firms with an increasing (decreasing) diversity pattern in managerial and executive positions are also more likely to become more (less) diverse in their much more numerous professional jobs. Managers are more influential than executive in this regard. Regulatory pressure is associated with increased executive diversity trajectories, but not with managerial or professional trajectories. We conclude that increased Tech diversity is possible but requires leadership, particularly at the middle manager level. In addition, regulatory and visibility pressures primarily produce symbolic shuffles in top jobs.
Epoxy/polymercaptan microcapsules composite: Synthesis, mechanics, and self-healing behavior
Authors: Deng Xiaocui , Li Zhennan , Yang Jingang , Li Xing , Xu Qinming , Li Gang , Yuan Qingmei
Published: May 2024

To enhance the longevity of materials, minimize maintenance expenses, and optimize material performance. The wall material employed in this study was urea-melamine-formaldehyde (UMF), and a dual microcapsule self-healing system was established by synthesizing two distinct microcapsules of epoxy resin and polymercaptan via an in situ polymerization technique. Moreover, the reaction conditions were optimized. The reaction parameters were as follows: core-shell ratio of 2:1, surfactant concentration of 0.6 g/L (sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS): Arabic gelatin (GA) = 2:1), polymerization pH = 3.5, stirring rate of 700r/min. Then, the two microcapsules (The mass ratio of the two microcapsules is 1:1) were added to the epoxy resin matrix at 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, and 12.5 wt% to prepare the resin matrix with self-healing properties. The conical double cantilever beam (TDCB) was used to test the mechanical properties of the matrix. The results showed that the matrix with microcapsule content of 10 wt% had relatively better comprehensive properties, and the self-healing rate was 49.87% at room temperature. These findings provide valuable insights and potential for advancing the development of self-healing materials.
L’accessibilité alimentaire : Une approche par l’expérience vécue des étudiants décohabitants
Authors: Garcia Karine , Rodhain Angélique , Gourmelen Andrea , Masson Josselin
Published: May 2024

Cet article a pour objectif de comprendre l’accessibilité alimentaire des étudiants décohabitants dans une optique à la fois objective et perçue, en considérant l’ensemble de l’offre alimentaire les concernant. A partir d’une méthodologie qualitative s’appuyant sur des entretiens menés auprès de 24 étudiants décohabitants, d’acteurs du territoire, de responsable d’organisme universitaire et d’observations de terrain, cette recherche montre un décalage entre accessibilité objective (AO) et accessibilité perçue (AP) en ce qui concerne l’offre de magasins alimentaires alors qu’une meilleure convergence est observée sur la question des repas hors domicile. Les résultats révèlent que l’offre alimentaire à proximité de leurs lieux de vie (étude, habitation, trajets) ne fait souvent pas partie de l’ensemble de considération des étudiants. En outre, ces derniers font face à des conflits entre les trois dimensions de l’AP (financière, physique et cognitive). Ils réagissent à ces conflits par des stratégies d’adaptation différentes selon leur niveau de littéracie alimentaire et urbaine. Afin d’améliorer l’accessibilité alimentaire, il est nécessaire d’adopter une approche intégrée selon les types de littéracie.
Multi-Family Housing Environment and Physical Activity: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Hegde Manasa Vigneshwar , Park Seokyung , Zhu Xuemei , Lee Chanam
Published: May 2024

Objective

To identify environmental features of multi-family housing (MFH) and their surrounding neighborhoods that influence residents’ physical activity (PA).

Data Source

Articles published between January 2000 and September 2023 were identified from major social science, medical, health, behavioral science, and urban studies databases.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

Studies were included if they (a) were empirical studies published in peer-reviewed journals and written in English; (b) focused on the MFH environment or the surrounding neighborhood; and (c) had at least one PA outcome.

Data Extraction

Data was extracted regarding the study objective, location, study sample, research design, results related to MFH and neighborhood environment, and limitations.

Data Synthesis

Descriptive summary of study characteristics and analysis to identify emerging themes at three spatial scales (i.e., building, site , and neighborhood).

Results

Findings from 35 identified articles revealed factors influencing MFH residents’ PA. On the building level, typology (apartment, townhouse) and tenure (public, market rent) showed contrasting correlations with PA in different age groups. On the site level, the presence of PA facilities and safe, walking-friendly environments promoted PA. On the neighborhood level, safety, quality of PA and pedestrian infrastructure, upkeep, air quality, aesthetics, neighborhood satisfaction, street connectivity, walkability, land use mix, density, and public transport promoted PA.

Conclusion

Study findings highlight the importance of the MFH environments in promoting PA, especially in older adults and young children. With increasing housing demand, understanding diverse MFH typologies and the impact of interventions on multi-spatial scales can help promote healthy and activity-friendly communities.
Diabetes Care in A Safety Net Hospital: Impact of a Pharmacist Transitional Care Service
Authors: Murray Shanelle M. , Traynor Laura M. , Carli Larissa , Rhodes Heather , Brigino Ann M. , Wikelius Rajani M.
Published: May 2024

Background: Diabetes is associated with increased risk of hospital readmission and imposes a significant economic burden on patients and healthcare systems. Literature suggests that pharmacist-led transitions-of-care (TOC) services reduce hospital readmissions and improve patient outcomes and data within safety-net hospitals is limited. Methods: This was a single-center evaluation to assess the impact of pharmacist-led diabetes TOC services on hospital readmissions among diabetes patients vs standard care (SC). The evaluation included patients admitted from 11/1/2021-2/28/2022 and 10/19/2022-2/28/2023 who had a primary diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, were admitted for a diabetes-related reason, or were seen by the endocrine consult service during admission. The primary outcome was 30-day readmissions. Secondary outcomes included time to readmission, readmission diagnosis, changes in HbA1c, completion of follow-up visits, and number of pharmacist interventions at follow-up. Results: There were 109 patients included (TOC n = 65; SC n = 44) and 13.8% (9/65) of TOC and 18.2% (8/44) of SC patients readmitted within 30 days ( P = .235). Average time to readmission was 15.3 days in the TOC and 10.4 days in the SC cohorts. There were no diabetes-related readmissions in the TOC cohort. Over 60% (5/8) of readmissions in the SC cohort were diabetes-related. The average change in HbA1c was −2.5% in the TOC cohort and −1.2% in the SC cohort, P = .046. Approximately 51% of TOC patients completed an outpatient follow-up visit and nearly 70% of those patients had an intervention made at that time. Conclusion: Pharmacist-led diabetes TOC services within a safety-net hospital may reduce hospital readmissions and improve clinical outcomes.
‘Change here for…’: Understanding progress in business and human rights through legal entanglement
Authors: Morochovič Tomáš
Published: May 2024

Progress in the business and human rights space can be quite a fickle thing to assess. Despite intensive norm development, many observers emphasise elements of stagnation within the field. This article argues that much of the frustration is caused by the dominance of a linear understanding of progress which is fixated on the dichotomy between soft and hard forms of regulation. This, in turn, obscures much of the dynamism within the field. To better account for progress within the business and human rights space, the article suggests a shift of framing from a linear conception of regulatory change to one that understands the field as an entangled normative network characterised through the connections between norms. By using the norm of human rights due diligence as an example, the article highlights the nuanced developments and linkages between various instruments, systems, and actors that evidence intense norm-making activity within the business and human rights space. The on-going normative-discursive exchange between stakeholders produces a norm that is constituted through an iterative process of entanglement.
Finite-time consensus of heterogeneous unmanned aerial agents in network with fixed and switching topology
Authors: Pal Madhumita
Published: May 2024

A finite-time consensus protocol is presented in this paper for a network of connected heterogeneous agents with fixed and switching topology. In this study, two cases directed networks with fixed topology and directed networks with switching topology are examined. Convergence analysis for both the cases are presented. An independent tracking controller, which assures that an agent follows an ideal trajectory designed by sliding mode based consensus control, is devised. Agents stability are independent of the distributed consensus algorithm. Under the proposed control methodology, the measurement vectors of heterogeneous agents converge to the agreement value in a finite amount of time. The comparison results with the existing works show the proposed algorithm’s improved performance in terms of convergence time in presence of disturbances.