bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation into psychological contract in ethically disciplined group: a case study of academics in Chinese higher education
Authors: Fu Yao , Xu Yuan
Published: July 2023

Ethical values and beliefs are increasingly realized as important factors in the operation of psychological contract for their potential role in determining individuals' attitudes toward employment relationships by valuing mutual exchange. However, to incorporate ethical terms into psychological contract analysis is challenging because they are often confused with relational contract, and ethics of professions can be difficult to summarize and interpret. This study has demonstrated how psychological contract operates within academics in Chinese higher education, an occupational group that is typically considered ethically disciplined and culturally bonded to their identity. Here, we designed a questionnaire survey focusing on transactional/relational psychological contract, ethical framework, and job performance, and statistically analyzed the responses to this survey from 230 Chinese higher education academics. It finds that the sample population perceived psychology contact with a relatively low contribution from monetary terms, while a strong correlation was observed between ethics and relational terms. In addition, the influence of emotional and ethical terms on job performance was clearly differentiated in statistics. From analyzing through a mediation model, it suggested an intermediated role of ethics between psychological contract and job performance. Findings in this study have demonstrated that ethically disciplined groups exhibit unique features in both their perceptions of psychological contract and their correlation with ethics and job performance, which is anomalous in other occupations. This study provides a protocol demonstrating the role of ethical framework in the operation of psychological contract, particularly within occupational groups bonded strongly to their identity/profession and constrained by ethics imposed by the society.
Mental well-being and test anxiety among students preparing for the university admission exam during the pandemic
Authors: Yatkin Eleyza , Aral Neriman , Gunes Lugen Ceren , Tosun Selim
Published: July 2023

Objective

The present study attempted to explore any potential association between test anxiety and mental well-being among high school students preparing for the university admission exam in times of the pandemic.

Methods

The sample of this correlational study consisted of 427 senior high school students in Caycuma district of Zonguldak, Turkey. The data were collected online using a demographic information form, the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale, and the Westside Test Anxiety Scale between April–May 2021.

Results

Our findings revealed student gender, paternal education, availability of a personal room and computer, and motivation for online classes to be factors associated with test anxiety. Besides, we discovered parental age, maternal education and employment, the device used for online classes, perceived effectiveness of distance education, and motivation for online classes to be linked with mental well-being among students.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, several factors were discovered to contribute to test anxiety, including student gender, paternal education, availability of a personal room and computer, and motivation for online classes. The findings also suggested some noteworthy factors influencing students’ mental well-being, such as parental age, maternal education and employment, the device used for online classes, perceived effectiveness of distance education, and motivation for online classes. Finally, we uncovered a significant negative association between the participating students’ test anxiety and mental well-being.
Do both the research community and the general public share an interest in the sleep–pain relationship, and do they influence each other?
Authors: Arnison Tor , Zhao Xiang
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Chronic pain and sleep disturbance bidirectionally influence each other in a negative spiral. Although this academic knowledge is known by researchers, it is imperative to bridge it over to the general public because of its applied implications. However, it is unclear how academia and the general public reciprocally shape each other in terms of knowledge of the sleep–pain relationship. The purpose of this study was (1) to assess the longitudinal trajectories of research on the sleep–pain relationship and the general public’s interest in this topic and (2) to examine whether the academic interest leads to the general public’s interest, or vice versa.

Methods

We used a Big Data approach to gather data from scientific databases and a public search engine. We then transformed these data into time trends, representing the quantity of published research on, and the general public’s interest in, the sleep–pain relationship. The time trends were visually presented and analyzed via dynamic structural equation modeling.

Results

The frequency of both published articles and searches soared after 2004. Published research leads to an increased interest in the sleep–pain relationship among the general public but does not predict more published articles. Furthermore, the general public’s interest reinforces itself over time but does not predict published research.

Conclusion

These results are encouraging because it is essential for research on the sleep–pain relationship to reach a broader audience, beyond the walls of academia. However, to prevent a potential alienation between academic and practical knowledge, we encourage openness among researchers to being inspired by the general public’s knowledge of the sleep–pain relationship.
Dual-hemisphere anodal transcranial direct current stimulation improves bilateral motor synergies
Authors: Lee Hanall , Lee Joon Ho , Lee Tae Lee , Ko Do-Kyung , Kang Nyeonju
Published: July 2023

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is one of the non-invasive brain stimulation techniques that can improve motor functions. As bimanual motor actions require high motor cortical activations between hemispheres, applying bilateral anodal stimulation on left and right sides of primary motor cortex (M1) can improve for improvements in bimanual motor tasks. This study investigated which bilateral tDCS protocol effectively improves bimanual hand-grip force control capabilities in healthy young adults. We used three different bilateral tDCS protocols: (a) dual-anodal stimulation on the M1 of bilateral hemispheres (Bi-AA), (b) anodal–cathodal stimulation on the M1 of dominant and nondominant hemispheres (Bi-AC), and (c) sham stimulation (Sham). The results indicated that applying the Bi-AA significantly improved bilateral motor synergies estimated by uncontrolled manifold analysis relative to Sham. However, these differences were not observed in the comparison between Bi-AA and Bi-AC as well as between Bi-AC and Sham. These findings suggest that facilitating motor cortical activations between both hemispheres may be an additional option for advancing interlimb motor coordination patterns.
Abstract Proceedings of the 38th Annual Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology (CAPO) Conference, June 2023
Authors: Traversa Peter , Loiselle Carmen G.
Published: July 2023

On behalf of the Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology, we are pleased to present the Abstracts from the 2023 Annual Conference, titled “Co-designing Psychosocial Oncology: Optimizing Outcomes for All”. The conference was held in Montreal from 20 June 2023 to 22 June 2023. This conference brought together key stakeholders including multidisciplinary professionals from nursing, psychology, psychiatry, social work, spiritual care, nutrition, medicine, rehabilitation medicine, occupational health and radiation therapy for both adult and pediatric populations. Participants included clinicians, researchers, educators in cancer care, community-based organizations and patient representatives. Patients, caregivers and family members presented abstracts that spoke to their role in managing cancer experiences and care. Over one hundred (100) abstracts were selected for presentation as symposia, 20-min oral presentations, 10-min oral presentations, 90-min workshops and poster presentations. We congratulate all the presenters on their research work and contribution.
Quantum Adversarial Transfer Learning
Authors: Wang Longhan , Sun Yifan , Zhang Xiangdong
Published: July 2023

Adversarial transfer learning is a machine learning method that employs an adversarial training process to learn the datasets of different domains. Recently, this method has attracted attention because it can efficiently decouple the requirements of tasks from insufficient target data. In this study, we introduce the notion of quantum adversarial transfer learning, where data are completely encoded by quantum states. A measurement-based judgment of the data label and a quantum subroutine to compute the gradients are discussed in detail. We also prove that our proposal has an exponential advantage over its classical counterparts in terms of computing resources such as the gate number of the circuits and the size of the storage required for the generated data. Finally, numerical experiments demonstrate that our model can be successfully trained, achieving high accuracy on certain datasets.
RIS-Aided Proactive Mobile Network Downlink Interference Suppression: A Deep Reinforcement Learning Approach
Authors: Wang Yingze , Sun Mengying , Cui Qimei , Chen Kwang-Cheng , Liao Yaxin
Published: July 2023

A proactive mobile network (PMN) is a novel architecture enabling extremely low-latency communication. This architecture employs an open-loop transmission mode that prohibits all real-time control feedback processes and employs virtual cell technology to allocate resources non-exclusively to users. However, such a design also results in significant potential user interference and worsens the communication’s reliability. In this paper, we propose introducing multi-reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) technology into the downlink process of the PMN to increase the network’s capacity against interference. Since the PMN environment is complex and time varying and accurate channel state information cannot be acquired in real time, it is challenging to manage RISs to service the PMN effectively. We begin by formulating an optimization problem for RIS phase shifts and reflection coefficients. Furthermore, motivated by recent developments in deep reinforcement learning (DRL), we propose an asynchronous advantage actor–critic (A3C)-based method for solving the problem by appropriately designing the action space, state space, and reward function. Simulation results indicate that deploying RISs within a region can significantly facilitate interference suppression. The proposed A3C-based scheme can achieve a higher capacity than baseline schemes and approach the upper limit as the number of RISs increases.
Design and Fabrication of Broadband InGaAs Detectors Integrated with Nanostructures
Authors: Yang Bo , Yu Yizhen , Zhang Guixue , Shao Xiumei , Li Xue
Published: July 2023

A visible–extended shortwave infrared indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) focal plane array (FPA) detector is the ideal choice for reducing the size, weight and power (SWaP) of infrared imaging systems, especially in low-light night vision and other fields that require simultaneous visible and near-infrared light detection. However, the lower quantum efficiency in the visible band has limited the extensive application of the visible–extended InGaAs FPA. Recently, a novel optical metasurface has been considered a solution for a high-performance semiconductor photoelectric device due to its highly controllable property of electromagnetic wave manipulation. Broadband Mie resonator arrays, such as nanocones and nanopillars designed with FDTD methods, were integrated on a back-illuminated InGaAs FPA as an AR metasurface. The visible–extended InGaAs detector was fabricated using substrate removal technology. The nanostructures integrated into the Vis-SWIR InGaAs detectors could realize a 10–20% enhanced quantum efficiency and an 18.8% higher FPA response throughout the wavelength range of 500–1700 nm. Compared with the traditional AR coating, nanostructure integration has advantages, such as broadband high responsivity and omnidirection antireflection, as a promising route for future Vis-SWIR InGaAs detectors with higher image quality.
On the Security of a PUF-Based Authentication and Key Exchange Protocol for IoT Devices
Authors: Sun Da-Zhi , Gao Yi-Na , Tian Yangguang
Published: July 2023

Recently, Roy et al. proposed a physically unclonable function (PUF)-based authentication and key exchange protocol for Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The PUF protocol is efficient, because it integrates both the Node-to-Node (N2N) authentication and the Node-to-Server (N2S) authentication into a standalone protocol. In this paper, we therefore examine the security of the PUF protocol under the assumption of an insider attack. Our cryptanalysis findings are the following. (1) A legitimate but malicious IoT node can monitor the secure communication among the server and any other IoT nodes in both N2N authentication and N2S authentication. (2) A legitimate but malicious IoT node is able to impersonate a target IoT node to cheat the server and any other IoT nodes in N2N authentication and the server in N2S authentication, respectively. (3) A legitimate but malicious IoT node can masquerade as the server to cheat any other target IoT nodes in both N2N authentication and N2S authentication. To the best of our knowledge, our work gives the first non-trivial concrete security analysis for the PUF protocol. In addition, we employ the automatic verification tool of security protocols, i.e., Scyther, to confirm the weaknesses found in the PUF protocol. We finally consider how to prevent weaknesses in the PUF protocol.
Acoustic Emission Monitoring of Fatigue Crack Growth in Hadfield Steel
Authors: Shi Shengrun , Wu Guiyi , Chen Hui , Zhang Shuyan
Published: July 2023

Evaluating the condition of a Hadfield steel crossing nose using existing inspection methods is subject to accessibility and geographical constraints. Thus, the use of conditional monitoring techniques to complement the existing inspection methods has become increasingly necessary. This paper focuses on the study of acoustic emission (AE) behaviour and its correlation with fatigue crack growth in Hadfield steel during bending fatigue tests. The probability density function for acoustic emission parameters was analysed based on the power law distribution. The results show that a sharp increase in the moving average and cumulative sum of the AE parameter can give early warning against the final failure of Hadfield steel. Two parts (Part 1 and Part 2) can be identified using the change in the slope of duration rate (dD/dN) vs. ΔK plot during the stable fatigue crack growth (FCG) process where Paris’s law is valid. The fitted power law exponent of AE parameters is smaller in Part 2 than in Part 1. The novelty of this research lies in the use of the fitted power law distribution of AE parameters for monitoring fatigue damage evolution in Hadfield steel, unlike existing AE fatigue monitoring methodology, which relies solely on the analysis of AE parameter trends.
The Reliability and Accuracy of a Fall Risk Assessment Procedure Using Mobile Smartphone Sensors Compared with a Physiological Profile Assessment
Authors: Pedrero-Sánchez José-Francisco , De-Rosario-Martínez Helios , Medina-Ripoll Enrique , Garrido-Jaén David , Serra-Añó Pilar , Mollà-Casanova Sara , López-Pascual Juan
Published: July 2023

Falls in older people are a major health concern as the leading cause of disability and the second most common cause of accidental death. We developed a rapid fall risk assessment based on a combination of physical performance measurements made with an inertial sensor embedded in a smartphone. This study aimed to evaluate and validate the reliability and accuracy of an easy-to-use smartphone fall risk assessment by comparing it with the Physiological Profile Assessment (PPA) results. Sixty-five participants older than 55 performed a variation of the Timed Up and Go test using smartphone sensors. Balance and gait parameters were calculated, and their reliability was assessed by the (ICC) and compared with the PPAs. Since the PPA allows classification into six levels of fall risk, the data obtained from the smartphone assessment were categorised into six equivalent levels using different parametric and nonparametric classifier models with neural networks. The F1 score and geometric mean of each model were also calculated. All selected parameters showed ICCs around 0.9. The best classifier, in terms of accuracy, was the nonparametric mixed input data model with a 100% success rate in the classification category. In conclusion, fall risk can be reliably assessed using a simple, fast smartphone protocol that allows accurate fall risk classification among older people and can be a useful screening tool in clinical settings.
GPs’ interest in integrated care for frail older adults and corresponding consulting and prescribing data: qualitative and quantitative analyses of the PAERPA integrated care project
Authors: Calafiore Matthieu , Chazard Emmanuel , Averlant Lorette , Ramez Claire , Sarrazin Fanny , Leveque Nathalie , Dambre Delphine , Verloop David , Defebvre Marie-Marguerite , Di Martino Carla , Beuscart Jean-Baptiste
Published: July 2023

Background

Integrated care pathways can help to avoid unnecessary admissions to hospital and improve the overall quality of care for frail older patients. Although these integrated care pathways should be coordinated by GPs their level of commitment may vary.

Aim

To profile GPs who had participated or had declined to participate in the Personnes Agées En Risque de Perte d’Autonomie (PAERPA) integrated care project (ICP) in the Valenciennois-Quercitain area of France between 2014 and 2019.

Method

A combined qualitative and quantitative analysis of GPs who were participating in or had declined to participate in the PAERPA ICP.

Results

Some GPs were interested in the PAERPA ICP, whereas others were opposed. The 48 qualitative interviews revealed four issues that influenced participation in the PAERPA ICP: 1) awareness of issues in care of older adults and the value of collaborative work; 2) time saving; 3) task delegation; and 4) advantages of coordination. The level of interest in the ICP for frail older adults was indirectly reflected by the data on consulting and prescribing.

In GPs who participated in the PAERPA ICP there was a greater proportion of older (aged ≥70 years) patients (P<0.05), a larger number of consultations per year (P<0.05), a larger number of home visits (P<0.01), relative to GPs who declined to participate.

Conclusion

The level of interest in the PAERPA ICP for frail older adults varied widely among GPs. These findings suggest that commitment to an integrated care pathway could be increased by customising the recruitment strategy as a function of the GP’s profile.
Application of Lean Manufacturing Philosophy to Improve Occupational Safety Results in a Mining Company
Authors: Elida Maria Rafachine  , Fellipe Breno Bergamini  , Luiz Gustavo Gobbi Firmino  , Carlos César Ribeiro Santos  , Jonata Souza Santos
Published: July 2023

The importance of lean manufacturing applications in industrial organizations grows as scientific research points out its main results: productivity increase and waste reduction. When we refer to the direct observation of the work in the safety area, we notice the need for the same efficiency in managing risk scenarios in the activities. The objective of this article is to demonstrate how the Lean Manufacturing philosophy contributes to the understanding and connection of the leaders and also of the executors to the risks associated with the execution of their routine activities in order to mitigate and/or eliminate them. This article was conducted through a case study in a mining company located in Espírito Santo and identifies and analyzes the improvements obtained in process management through the application of the Lean Manufacturing philosophy and its tools, especially FMDS (Factory Floor Management Development System) in the subject of occupational safety. The main result obtained is the reduction of work accidents measured through the Accident Frequency Rate – TRIFR.
Efficient Market Hypothesis: An Exploratory Study of FTSE-100 Stock Market
Authors: Ullah Naqeeb , Asghar Umair
Published: July 2023

The weak form of the efficient market hypothesis posits that stock prices reflect all publicly available information in the market but not undisclosed or private information. To empirically validate the weak form of an efficient market hypothesis, ten years of data from 2012 to 2020 was collected for the (FTSE) Financial Times Stock Exchange Group -100 index. Ordinary least square (OLS) regression was used through SPSS software for statistical tests. The regression tests' findings reveal that the beta coefficient's value is greater than or less than 0 for the lag value of t-1, t-2, t-3, t-4, t-5, t-6, t-7, t-8, t-9, and t-10. Since the value of beta coefficients for all lagged returns of t-1 to t-10 periods is not equal to 0, the efficient market hypothesis is rejected. Thus, this invalidates the efficient market hypothesis. Hence, it can be determined that investors can beat the market by analyzing and evaluating past securities or market index trends. Since past trends predict the future, it can be assumed that stocks or indices will perform similarly.
Capabilities, Benefits, and Role of ChatGPT in Chemistry Teaching and Learning in Vietnamese High Schools
Authors: Nguyen Thuy , Cao Linh , Nguyễn Phong , tran Vu , Nguyễn Phương
Published: July 2023

This paper explores the capabilities, benefits, and role of ChatGPT in Vietnamese chemistry high schools. ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI, has gained attention for its potential applications in various fields, including education. In the context of chemistry education, ChatGPT shows promise as a tool for enhancing teaching and learning experiences. However, it is crucial to evaluate its capabilities and understand the benefits it can bring to the classroom. This paper reviews existing literature and studies on ChatGPT's performance in chemistry education, considering its strengths and limitations. Additionally, the paper discusses the potential benefits of integrating ChatGPT in chemistry classrooms, such as personalized learning support, promotion of critical thinking and inquiry, and assistance in conceptual explanation and understanding.
Near-perfect low-frequency sound absorption in subwavelength H-fractal metamaterials
Authors: Yang Lin , Zhao Ruoxi , Wu Xiaoxiao , Wang Shuxia , Huang Yingzhou , Wang Li
Published: July 2023

We designed and demonstrated the near-perfect low-frequency sound absorption in subwavelength H-fractal metamaterials, in which the absorption peak frequency can be continuously tuned by changing the opening positions. Moreover, the total thickness of the acoustic metamaterial can be decreased to λ/92.2 by increasing the number of openings. The underlying mechanism is ascribed to the impedance matching due to additional couplings from new openings. The experimental results agree well with the numerical analyses, and the proposed method provides a new route for reducing the thickness of sound-absorbing materials, which may find large application demands in the noise control field.
A Groundbreaking Study on Teacher Job Satisfaction, Job Engagement, and Organizational Commitment in India's Hospitality Institutions
Authors: - ANOOP KUMAR , - AKASH INDORA
Published: July 2023

This study aims to examine the levels of job satisfaction, work engagement, and organizational commitment experienced by instructors working in hospitality institutions in India, specifically focusing on the city of Chandigarh. A total of fifty participants voluntarily participated in this research, providing their responses through a carefully designed questionnaire. The questionnaire employed a combination of multiple-choice and Likert scale items to gauge the participants' perceptions of work engagement, satisfaction, and commitment. The survey results revealed that most respondents reported moderate levels of job satisfaction, work engagement, and organizational commitment. However, a significant portion of participants expressed dissatisfaction, disengagement, and a lack of commitment. Notably, factors such as salary, opportunities for professional growth, and management support emerged as crucial indicators influencing work satisfaction, engagement, and commitment.
The overall findings highlight the need for hospitality institutions in Chandigarh to address the factors that impact the job satisfaction, work engagement, and dedication of their teaching staff. These research outcomes can serve as valuable insights for the development of strategies and interventions aimed at enhancing job satisfaction, work engagement, and commitment among instructors in hospitality organizations across India.
Very-high-energy Gamma-Ray Afterglows of GRB 201015A and GRB 201216C
Authors: Zhang Lu-Lu , Ren Jia , Wang Yun , Liang En-Wei
Published: July 2023

Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) 201015A and 201216C are valuable cases where very-high-energy (VHE) gamma-ray afterglows have been detected. By analyzing their prompt emission data, we find that GRB 201216C is an extremely energetic, long GRB with a hard gamma-ray spectrum, while GRB 201015A is a relative subenergetic, soft-spectrum GRB. Attributing their radio–optical–X-ray afterglows to the synchrotron radiation of the relativistic electrons accelerated in their jets, we fit their afterglow lightcurves with the standard external shock model and infer their VHE afterglows from the synchrotron self-Compton scattering process of the electrons. It is found that the jet of GRB 201015A is midrelativistic (Γ0 = 44), surrounded by a very dense medium (n = 1202 cm−3), and the jet of GRB 201216C is ultrarelativistic (Γ0 = 331), surrounded by a moderate dense medium (n = 5 cm−3). The inferred peak luminosity of the VHE gamma-ray afterglows of GRB 201216C is approximately 10−9 erg cm−2 s−1 at 57–600 s after the GRB trigger, making it detectable with the MAGIC telescopes at a high confidence level, even though the GRB is at a redshift of 1.1. Comparing their intrinsic VHE gamma-ray lightcurves and spectral energy distributions with GRBs 180720B, 190114C, and 190829A, we show that their intrinsic peak luminosity of VHE gamma-ray afterglows at 104 s after the GRB trigger is variable from 1045 to 5 × 1048 erg s−1, and their kinetic energy, initial Lorentz factor, and medium density are diverse among bursts.
Main Sequence to Starburst Transitioning Galaxies: Gamma-Ray Burst Hosts at z ∼ 2
Authors: Nadolny Jakub , Michałowski Michał Jerzy , Rizzo J. Ricardo , Karska Agata , Rasmussen Jesper , Sollerman Jesper , Hjorth Jens , Rossi Andrea , Solar Martín , Wróblewski Radosław , Leśniewska Aleksandra
Published: July 2023

Star-forming galaxies populate a main sequence (MS), a well-defined relation between stellar mass (M
*) and star formation rate (SFR). Starburst (SB) galaxies lie significantly above the relation, whereas quenched galaxies lie below the sequence. In order to study the evolution of galaxies on the SFR–M
* plane and its connection to the gas content, we use the fact that recent episodes of star formation can be pinpointed by the existence of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). Here we present sensitive [C i] nondetections of z ∼ 2 ultraluminous infrared (ULIRG) GRB host galaxies. We find that our GRB hosts have similar molecular masses to those of other ULIRGs. However, unlike other ULIRGs, the GRB hosts are located at the MS or only a factor of a few above it. Hence, our GRB hosts are caught in the transition toward the SB phase. This is further supported by the estimated depletion times, which are similar to those of other transitioning galaxies. The GRB hosts are [C i]-dark galaxies, defined as having a [C i]/CO temperature brightness ratio of <0.1. Such a low [C i]/CO ratio has been found in high-density environments (n
H > 104 cm−3) where CO is shielded from photodissociation, leading to underabundances of [C i]. This is consistent with the merger process that is indeed suggested for our GRB hosts by their morphologies.
Raman Scattering by Atomic Hydrogen in Photodissociation Regions: An Alternative to the Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Hypothesis
Authors: Zagury Frédéric
Published: July 2023

Photodissociation regions (PDRs) illuminated by high temperature (T > 104 K) radiation fields display characteristic optical to midinfrared spectral features: emission bands that cluster around the blue limits of hydrogen series, an extended red emission (ERE) in the vicinity of Hα, and a continuum in the infrared part of the spectrum only. The spectral footprint of ERE and its intensity at maximum unequivocally designate Raman scattering by hydrogen of photons near Lyβ as responsible for the feature, thus suggesting PDR spectra be considered Raman spectra. This finding challenges the currently accepted hypothesis that yet-to-be-identified complex carbonaceous molecules, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, are the source of PDRs’ unidentified infrared bands. It has, therefore, significant implications for the field of astrochemistry.
Coats' Disease in a Patient With Cornelia de Lange Syndrome: Management With Laser and Bevacizumab
Authors: Elwood Kevin F. , Fleege Sabrina M. , Bradfield Yasmin S. , Altaweel Michael M.
Published: July 2023

Cornelia de Lange syndrome is a congenital disorder with multisystem abnormalities including multiple ocular findings. The authors report a case of Coats' disease in a patient with Cornelia de Lange syndrome who was successfully treated with laser and intravitreal bevacizumab. This case demonstrates the importance of fluorescein angiography in making the diagnosis and directing treatment and the efficacy of combined laser with intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy for persistent vascular leakage associated with Coats' disease in Cornelia de Lange syndrome.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2023;60(4):e45–e48.]
How Perceived Inclusion Impacts Minority Employees' Organizational Satisfaction in the UAE Banking Industry
Authors: Arman Abdelfatah
Published: July 2023

A quantitative exploratory approach was used for the present study to measure the relationship between minority status and job satisfaction of individuals employed by foreign or UAE-owned banks operating in the UAE and the relationship between minority workers' status and their perception of inclusion in their workgroups. A total of 800 participants were sought for the study. The study indicates that UAE nationals, as an Arab minority in these banking institutions, felt excluded, and this perception affected their satisfaction. The present study reveals a new finding which is that when assessing minority individuals who are employed in UAE-owned banks with minority workers who are employed with foreign-owned banking organizations, those UAE nationals who are employed in UAE-owned banks felt more included and satisfied than their counterparts who are working in foreign-owned banks. Additionally, the study indicates that religious affiliation alone as one dimension of diversity does not increase an employee's job satisfaction. For example, UAE nationals are among Muslim respondents in the UAE banking sector whose Islamic affiliation among other participants represented the majority (n = 529) of the research's participants but since they were an ethnic minority, results demonstrate a negative relationship between religious affiliation and job satisfaction for the prevailing religion among the study's respondents.
Precipitation of Rare Earth Element from Indonesian Coal Fly Ash Using Sodium Sulfate
Authors: Tajayani I Darari , Sutijan Sutijan , Sarto Sarto , Petrus Himawan Tri Bayu Murti , Astuti Widi
Published: July 2023

The rare earth element is a critical element in many industrial sectors. Due to unbalanced supply and demand, it is necessary to look for an alternative source. Coal ash is a waste product of power plant combustion. Previous research revealed that coal ash contained levels of rare earth elements. This research uses coal fly ash from the Paiton power plant. The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of the Na2SO4 concentration, stirring rate, and temperature on the recovery of REE concentrate. The experiment was conducted in four steps: (1) alkaline leaching, the process was carried out for 2 hours at 90°C with fly ash solid to 8 M NaOH solution ratio of 1:4 to break the aluminosilicate bonds. (2) Acid leaching of residue for 4 hours at 90°C in 3 M HCl. (3) Precipitation of residue to remove the impurities such as Fe using 1 M NaOH at pH 5. (4) Precipitation of filtrate from process (3) using Na2SO4 to produce REE concentrate precipitates. The best condition to obtain the highest REE residue is conducting recovery at the concentration of 20% Na2SO4, stirring rate of 500 rpm, and temperature of 50°C, with a yield of 88.72%.
Myxedema Coma: A rare presentation of hypothyroidism
Authors: Liyanaarachchi Sahanie , Perera Charith
Published: July 2023

Myxedema coma is an extreme manifestation of hypothyroidism presenting with altered level of consciousness, hypothermia, bradycardia, hypotension, hypoglycemia, and hypoventilation. It is an endocrine emergency. Now it has become a rare presentation due to early detection and treatment of hypothyroidism. The common precipitating factors like sepsis, myocardial infarction, hypothermia, sedative medications, and surgery should be addressed in a poorly controlled hypothyroid patient as early as possible. Treatment with high dose thyroid hormones and steroids should be started on clinical suspicion even before the laboratory confirmation. We present a case of an 85-year-old woman who presented to the emergency room with one day history of reduced level of consciousness, found to have bradycardia and hypothermia. Her symptoms significantly improved with oral levothyroxine therapy.
Epidemiology of eczema among adolescents aged 13-14 years from Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka: an analytical cross-sectional study
Authors: Thennakoon Sajeewa , Sumanapala Vimansha , Siriwardhana Tharusha , Subhanee Thiweda , Sridharan Sivabalan , Sulakkhana Savithri , Rajapakse Shashanka
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition with characteristic dry, itchy skin with visible lesions. The epidemiology of eczema among adolescents is distinct from that of children and adults.Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study recruited 13-14-year-old adolescents from government secondary schools in the Anuradhapura municipal council area, Sri Lanka. The validated International Study of Asthma and Allergy in Childhood questionnaire was used to assess the epidemiology of eczema including the association with demographic, domestic, dietary and allergen factors.Results: The study sample consisted of 1029 participants(528 male, 501 female) with 826(80.3%) 13-year-olds and 203(19.7%) 14-year-olds. The majority were born in the Anuradhapura district(n=931, 90.5%). One hundred and twenty-eight(12.4%) adolescents have had at least one episode of an itchy rash that was periodical at least for six months and 72(7.0%) had a rash in the preceding year. Most of the adolescents developed these symptoms after 5 years of age(n=55, 76.4%). The prevalence of eczema was 3.2%(n=33, 95%CI 2.1–4.3). Comorbid severe asthma (OR 6.7; 95%CI 3.16-14.07), using kerosene lamps for lighting (OR 6.35; 95%CI 1.79-22.54), having close contact with domestic animals (OR 2.29; 95%CI 1.03-5.09), presence of smokers in the house(OR 2.58; 95%CI 1.04-6.40) and female sex(OR 1.95; 95%CI 0.92-4.12) were independently associated with eczema.Conclusion: The prevalence of eczema among adolescents of the Anuradhapura municipal council area was 3.2% and it is not different from previously reported prevalence in preschool children of the district. Identified independently associated factors could be used for targeted public health interventions.
Bioethics on dialogue
Authors: Palazzani Laura
Published: July 2023

Bioethics is dialogical as a ‘bridge’ between two cultures, scientific culture and humanistic culture and because of pluralism. The article analyzes the different theoretical ways to conceive dialogue in the liberal-libertarian perspective (as negotiation procedures), in the utilitarian vision (agreed calculation of convenience) and personalist view (recognition of the dignity of each human being). Bioethics Committees play a key role, both at national, regional and international levels, engaging in dialogue, considering both interdisciplinarity and pluralism in order to identify (if possible) an ‘ethical mediation’, which should not be reduced to a mere compromise or pragmatic agreement, but as a minimum level (or maximum possible level) of shared ethical principles/values on specific topics. Beyond the institutionalization of Bioethics with the Committees, the role of ‘active citizenship’ and ‘citizen participation’ is growing in importance in bioethics, along with the need to build platforms for dialogue with society (beyond experts), which enable dynamic updating and active interaction between experts and citizens.
Immuno-modulatory Effects of Inactivated Dietzia Maris on the Selected Aspects of Cellular and Humoral Immune Responses in Mice
Authors: Nofouzi Katayoon , Hamidian Gholamreza
Published: July 2023

Background:

The current study is an attempt to register the alterations in the immunological and histological parameters in mice arising from the administration of Dietza maris (D. maris) in order to confirm its protective properties.

Materials and Methods:

Mice underwent 7 days of treatment with three doses of D. maris. Then, animals were scrutinized in terms of body weight, relative weight of organs, delayed type of hypersensitivity (DTH) response, and hemagglutination titer (HT). The determination of villus height, villus width, crypt depth, villus/crypt ratio (V/C), Goblet cells, and intestinal epithelial lymphocyte (IEL) density in villi was carried out.

Results:

A boosted DTH response was observed as a result of bacteria at medium dose. A variation was noted between the hemagglutinin titer of the control group and that of the high-dose group. Crypt depth, villus width, and villus height manifested alterations. High-dose-treated mice demonstrated proliferation of Goblet cells in the villi, whereas both in medium- and high-dose-treated mice, a distribution of IELs in the villus epithelium was noted. Overall, D. maris showed a stimulatory effect on immune functions in mice. Thus, thanks to improved cellular and humoral immunity and the increased quality of intestine function, we believe that D. maris promises novel therapeutic applications in the future.

Conclusion:

The attained findings lend credence to immuno-stimulatory effects arising from the capacity of D. maris to function as immunological adjuvants and to enhance humoral and cellular immunity as well as the intestinal structure and function.
Idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome with hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome: A case report and literature review
Authors: Xu Xu-Tao , Wang Bing-Hong , Wang Qiang , Guo Yang-Jie , Zhang Yu-Ning , Chen Xiao-Li , Fang Yan-Fei , Wang Kan , Guo Wen-Hao , Wen Zhen-Zhen
Published: July 2023

Obstructive jaundice (OJ) is a common problem in daily clinical practice. However, completely understanding the pathophysiological changes in OJ remains a challenge for planning current and future management. The effects of OJ are widespread, affecting the biliary tree, hepatic cells, liver function, and causing systemic complications. The lack of bile in the intestine, destruction of the intestinal mucosal barrier, and increased absorption of endotoxins can lead to endotoxemia, production of proinflammatory cytokines, and induce systemic inflammatory response syndrome, ultimately leading to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Proper management of OJ includes adequate water supply and electrolyte replacement, nutritional support, preventive antibiotics, pain relief, and itching relief. The surgical treatment of OJ depends on the cause, location, and severity of the obstruction. Biliary drainage, surgery, and endoscopic intervention are potential treatment options depending on the patient's condition. In addition to modern medical treatments, Traditional Chinese medicine may offer therapeutic benefits for OJ. A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed for relevant articles published up to August 1970. This review discusses in detail the pathophysiological changes associated with OJ and presents effective strategies for managing the condition.
Representaciones sociales sobre turberas. Una herramienta para la educación ambiental, Tierra del Fuego Argentina
Authors: Fernández Marchesi Nancy , Urciuolo Adriana
Published: July 2023

Las turberas son humedales que han sido reconocidos mundialmente por sus valiosas contribuciones ambientales ya que son uno de los mayores almacenamientos de carbono del mundo, no obstante se ha identificado una ausencia de educación ambiental adecuada sobre estos ecosistemas. En este trabajo, se evaluaron las representaciones sociales que actores locales tienen sobre su importancia. Mediante una encuesta, se consultó en relación a tres aspectos: conocimientos, opiniones sobre el uso productivo y gustos y preferencias de paisajes. Las personas identifican las contribuciones ambientales, sin embargo surge con mucha fuerza la visión antropocéntrica-técnica, en relación a la idea conservación-explotación. Esto podría ser un impedimento para acciones de conservación y requiere contundentes acciones de Educación Ambiental desde un enfoque crítico que ponga énfasis en la incompatibilidad entre explotación y conservación. El gusto por el paisaje de turbera ha mejorado en relación a estudios previos aunque es necesario seguir trabajando en acciones educativas que valoren su belleza y singularidad.

 

Abstract

Peatlands have been globally recognized for their valuable environmental contributions as they are one of the world's largest carbon storage ecosystems. However, a lack of adequate environmental education has been identified in terms of these ecosystems. In this study, we evaluated the social representations that local actors have about their importance. Through a survey, three aspects were consulted: knowledge, opinions on productive use, and landscape preferences. The interviewees recognize the environmental contributions of peatlands, but a strong anthropocentric-technical vision emerges regarding the idea of conservation-exploitation. This idea could be a hindrance to conservation efforts and shows the need to forceful environmental education actions from a critical perspective that emphasizes the incompatibility between exploitation and conservation. Although the taste for peatlands as landscape has improved when compared to previous studies, working on educational actions that value its beauty and uniqueness is further needed.
SNS Use, Depression Symptoms and the Moderating Role of Attachment Amongst Emerging Adults
Authors: Kondratenko Kseniia , Bono Suzanna Awang , Chooi Weng-Tink
Published: July 2023

Accumulating research suggests the positive relationship between Social Network Sites (SNS) use and depression symptoms. However, it is still unclear how the relationship between SNS use and depression develops and what are the contributing factors. The aim of the current study was to investigate the relationship between SNS use, symptoms of depression and attachment styles. Additionally, the study tested the moderation effect of insecure attachment on the relationship between SNS use and depression symptoms. A total of 266 participants aged 18-25 years old, students of a public university in Penang, Malaysia completed an online survey containing SNS use self-report, Bergen’s Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) and Relationship Experiences in Close Relationships – Revised Questionnaire (ECR-R). Findings suggested a significant relationship between SNS use and depression symptoms. Additionally, findings showed that insecure attachment, characterized by attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance, was significantly associated with depression symptoms. It is observed that attachment anxiety was only marginally significant in moderating the relationship between SNS use and depression symptoms. Theoretically, this study suggested the role of attachment as a possible antecedent of depression symptoms, as well as a potential moderator in the relationship between SNS use and depression symptoms. Findings of this study highlight the importance of establishing and nurturing a secure caretaker-child bond which could promote more mental resilience and serve as a buffer to negative SNS use effects.
Química orgánica en contexto y argumentación científica: una secuencia de enseñanza aprendizaje, desafíos y compromisos
Authors: Morales Carla , Salgado Yimmy
Published: July 2023

Actualmente nuestro país presenta niveles de alfabetización científica por debajo de la media de países pertenecientes a la OCDE, visualizar esta realidad nacional nos motiva a colaborar en el desarrollo de competencias científicas, especialmente en la promoción de argumentación. Esta investigación, tiene por objetivo la implementación de una Secuencia bajo el enfoque CTS, específicamente en la competencia de argumentación científica. El diseño e implementación de la SEA permite utilizar al interior del aula metodologías de enseñanza que respondan a las necesidades del entorno, contextualizadas en la obtención y usos de los derivados del petróleo. A su vez, muestra el acercamiento de los estudiantes al conocimiento científico, especialmente en propiedades físico químicas de compuestos orgánicos, y a los niveles de argumentación científica. Con el fin de obtener información para su análisis e identificación, se aplican 6 sesiones de trabajo, de índole grupal, de las cuales contenían un apartado final que permite el trabajo en argumentación científica. Los resultados obtenidos en el desarrollo de la competencia argumentativa de los estudiantes presentan un leve aumento en el nivel de esta competencia, sin embargo, cabe destacar que este aumento es logrado por más del 40 % del estudiantado.
Obstáculos e identidad docente: La clave para construir sentido en los planes de formación
Authors: Mena Esteban , Bravo Paulina , Pérez José Luis
Published: July 2023

En esta investigación daré cuenta de cómo la implementación de una nueva metodología de enseñanza adquiere sentido cuando responde a las necesidades propias del contexto y la importancia que tienen las estrategias que utilizamos quienes trabajamos en formar a los docentes en estas nuevas metodologías. El problema de este proceso investigativo radica en el vago sentido que se ha construido junto a los profesores para lograr la implementación de una nueva metodología denominada "Aprendizaje y Servicio", en especial en la asignatura de biología y ciencias naturales. El foco de mi investigación es la construcción de sentido en 35 profesores de enseñanza escolar. Para lograr esta construcción de sentido he elaborado un plan de cambio en base a la investigación de la identidad docente y los obstáculos que la conforman. La presente investigación acción, es el producto de un estudio profundo del contexto escolar entre los miembros del equipo de investigación acción del Magister en didáctica de las ciencias experimentales de la Universidad Católica de Valparaíso. Este trabajo ha influido en una mejora en el desempeño profesional, entregándole sentido al vínculo que existe entre la enseñanza de las ciencias y el servicio solidario, fortaleciendo mi propia práctica profesional, y por sobre todo, entendiendo la profesión docente como un proceso de investigación constante.