bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Equilibrium, kinetic, and thermodynamic study of Direct Yellow 12 dye adsorption by biomass-derived porous graphitic activated carbon
Authors: Reddy Y. Subba , Jose T. Jaison , Dinesh B. , Kumar R. Naresh , Kumar P. Sampath , Kaviyarasu K.
Published: March 2024

Competent treatment techniques were explored to curb the environmental pollution of dye-laden wastewater. In the current study, eucalyptus biomass contemplated as agricultural waste is translated into eucalyptus graphitic activated carbon (EPGAC) using ZnCl2 at 600 °C in the N2 atmosphere. The present investigation illustrated awareness about the nature of EPGAC’s dye elimination by employing Direct Yellow 12 dye (DY12) as a model dye. EPGAC was characterized using multiple characterization tools such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Boehm titrations, pHzpc, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area analysis techniques. Electron micrographs disclosed the availability of high pore density for the adsorption of DY12 dyes. BJH analysis reported the distribution of mesopores having a 3 nm diameter on the EPGAC surface. Further, the surface area available for adsorption per gram of the adsorbent is estimated as 178.35 m2 employing BET analysis. XRD and Raman’s data revealed the graphitic nature of EPGAC. Influences of adsorbent parameters such as EPGAC mass, initial dye concentration, contact time, solution pH, and temperature on the eviction of DY12 by EPGAC were examined to achieve a deeper insight into the adsorption mechanism. The optimum EPGAC adsorbent dose was found to be 0.15 g. The equilibrium was attained at 120 min for DY12 dye. Pseudo-second-order kinetics entirely relates to the perfect fit associated with the investigational results. The aptness of the equilibrium data relevant to the Langmuir adsorption isotherm eventually recommends a maximum unilayer adsorption capacity of 42.01 mg/g for EPGAC. Thermodynamic studies further reveal the spontaneous, endothermic, and chemisorption nature of adsorption. Adsorbent viability was established through stability and recyclability studies carried out up to 5 run cycles with 0.15 g of EPGAC. Adsorption mechanisms were explained considering hydrogen bonding, π-π interactions, and electrostatic interactions, ultimately confirming the adsorption tendency displayed by EPGAC for the eviction of DY12 dye present in industrial wastewater.
ISU and Superleague judgments: sports governance in the market-driven era
Authors: Agafonova Rusa
Published: March 2024

Sport is becoming more and more attractive for private entities that desire to launch and exploit their own competitions outside the calendar (and control) of international federations. Today, breakaway leagues appear in different disciplines with increasing frequency. This poses a problem for sports governing bodies (SGBs) as they see in the newcomers a threat to the sporting values, purely mercantile intentions, and freeriding. Acting as regulators – and gatekeepers – of their respective disciplines, SGBs tend to hinder the entrance of third-party organisers. And, by doing it, they often fall under competition law scrutiny. The judgments in the ISU and Superleague cases in December 2023 became the legal apex of the confrontation between SGBs and breakaway leagues. The Court opted for an efficiency-oriented, economic approach. But will SGBs sustain the challenge of the new, market-driven principles of sports governance?
The impact of the rulings of 21 December 2023 on the structure of EU sports law
Authors: Weatherill Stephen
Published: March 2024

The three rulings of 21 December 2023 make three changes to the way we understand the structure of EU sports law. I examine all three in this paper, but I do not think any of the changes are radical. Things have changed – but not much, and the fundamentals of EU sports law, nurtured by the Court in case law that commenced in 1974, are untouched by the Court’s latest three rulings. To be clear: my concern in this paper is only with the structure of EU sports law. For UEFA, and in particular for its power to act as a ‘gatekeeper’ through a system of prior approval for new competitions offered by third parties, things have changed a lot, but that is a separate issue.
Pushing a Square Pin into a Round Hole? Intellectual Property Challenges to a Sustainable and Circular Economy, and What to Do About It
Authors: Calboli Irene
Published: March 2024

It is old news that the world is facing growing environmental problems related to industrial manufacturing and waste management. Finally, consumers are demanding change due to the increasing threat of climate change, and industries are being forced to adapt. Repairing, reselling, upcycling, and recycling existing products are key activities to promote sustainability and a circular economy, but current intellectual property (IP) rules may stand in the way when these activities are not conducted by, or with the consent of IP owners. This opinion argues that IP cannot be used to prevent a greener and more sustainable economy. Instead, it needs to incentivize circular activities in the interest of everyone. New approaches, including bolder interpretation of existing limitations and exceptions, and adoption of new exceptions, are essential to rethink IP to support a sustainable future.
Responses of plant diversity and soil microorganism diversity to nitrogen addition in the desert steppe, China
Authors: Ye He , Hong Mei , Xu Xuehui , Liang Zhiwei , Jiang Na , Tu Nare , Wu Zhendan
Published: March 2024

Nitrogen (N) deposition is a significant aspect of global change and poses a threat to terrestrial biodiversity. The impact of plant-soil microbe relationships to N deposition has recently attracted considerable attention. Soil microorganisms have been proven to provide nutrients for specific plant growth, especially in nutrient-poor desert steppe ecosystems. However, the effects of N deposition on plant soil microbial community interactions in such ecosystems remain poorly understood. To investigate these effects, we conducted a 6-year N-addition field experiment in a Stipa breviflora Griseb. desert steppe in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, northern China. Four N treatment levels (N0, N30, N50, and N100, corresponding to 0, 30, 50, and 100 kg N/(hm2•a), respectively) were applied to simulate atmospheric N deposition. The results showed that N deposition did not significantly affect the aboveground biomass of desert steppe plants. N deposition did not significantly reduce the alfa-diversity of plant and microbial communities in desert steppe, and low and mediate N additions (30 and 50 kg N/(hm2•a)) had a promoting effect on them. The variation pattern of plant Shannon index was consistent with that of the soil bacterial Chao1 index. N deposition significantly affected the beta-diversity of plants and soil bacteria, but did not significantly affect fungal communities. In conclusion, N deposition led to co-evolution between desert steppe plants and soil bacterial communities, while fungal communities exhibited strong stability and did not undergo significant changes. These findings help clarify atmospheric N deposition effects on the ecological health and function of the desert steppe.
Digital Media and Developing Brains: Concerns and Opportunities
Authors: Hutton John S. , Piotrowski Jessica Taylor , Bagot Kara , Blumberg Fran , Canli Turhan , Chein Jason , Christakis Dimitri A. , Grafman Jordan , Griffin James A. , Hummer Tom , Kuss Daria J. , Lerner Matthew , Marcovitch Stuart , Paulus Martin P. , Perlman Greg , Romeo Rachel , Thomason Moriah E. , Turel Ofir , Weinstein Aviv , West Gregory , Pietra Pamela Hurst-Della , Potenza Marc N.
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

The incorporation of digital technologies and their use in youth’s everyday lives has been increasing rapidly over the past several decades with possible impacts on youth development and mental health. This narrative review aimed to consider how the use of digital technologies may be influencing brain development underlying adaptive and maladaptive screen-related behaviors.

Recent Findings

To explore and provide direction for further scientific inquiry, an international group of experts considered what is known, important gaps in knowledge, and how a research agenda might be pursued regarding relationships between screen media activity and neurodevelopment from infancy through childhood and adolescence. While an understanding of brain-behavior relationships involving screen media activity has been emerging, significant gaps exist that have important implications for the health of developing youth.

Specific considerations regarding brain-behavior relationships involving screen media activity exist for infancy, toddlerhood, and early childhood; middle childhood; and adolescence. Transdiagnostic frameworks may provide a foundation for guiding future research efforts. Translating knowledge gained into better interventions and policy to promote healthy development is important in a rapidly changing digital technology environment.
Exploring the Potential Role of the Genus Kudoa (Myxosporea: Kudoidae) as an Emerging Seafood-Borne Parasite in Humans
Authors: Shamsi Shokoofeh , Barton Diane P.
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

This article reviews and summarises the recent findings on emerging seafood-borne parasites, Kudoa spp., that have received comparatively little attention in the literature.

Recent Findings

Currently, two species, namely, K. hexapunctata and K. septempunctata, have been identified as causing infections in humans. However, it is worth noting that the existing nomenclature and methods for identifying Kudoa spp. may undergo substantial changes as more effective identification techniques are developed. This implies the possibility of additional species capable of infecting humans. The symptoms induced by these parasites in humans, such as vomiting and diarrhoea, can easily be confused with similar symptoms caused by other pathogens like viruses or bacteria. Consequently, misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis is quite common. Moreover, new hosts and expanded distribution patterns are being discovered on a regular basis.

This review sheds light on the potential of Kudoa spp. to cause diseases in humans, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive seafood safety measures to ensure responsible seafood consumption. Further investigation into these lesser-known parasites is warranted to better understand their prevalence, distribution, and pathogenicity in seafood-related infections.
Patologie tiroidee istologicamente verificate in donne operate per cancro della mammella: una revisione della letteratura
Authors: Vignati Barbara , Citterio Olivia , Cristofaro Carlo , Famà Fausto , Dionigi Gianlorenzo , Zanghi Guido , Frattini Francesco
Published: March 2024

Sommario

Il cancro alla mammella e quello alla tiroide sono di comune diagnosi nelle donne. Il fenomeno dei due tumori che si verificano in modo sincrono o asincrono è ben noto e riconosciuto in letteratura. Tale associazione non è sorprendente in quanto entrambe le malattie sono a predominanza femminile, con un picco di incidenza postmenopausale simile. I potenziali meccanismi sono complessi e vari. Ormoni, l’autoimmunità e la predisposizione genetica sono fattori significativi e condivisi che influenzano i due tumori. Sono stati anche esaminati nella letteratura le terapie eseguite per il primo cancro e altri fattori legati alla vita. Questa Rassegna mira a esporre la relazione tra cancro alla mammella e alla tiroide e suggerisce che i medici dovrebbero monitorare adeguatamente il secondo cancro ogni volta che si verifica il primo cancro.
STO-CVAE: state transition-oriented conditional variational autoencoder for data augmentation in disability classification
Authors: Bang Seong Jin , Kang Min Jung , Lee Min-Goo , Lee Sang Min
Published: March 2024

The class imbalance problem occurs when there is an unequal distribution of classes in a dataset and is a significant issue in various artificial intelligence applications. This study focuses on the severe multiclass imbalance problem of human activity recognition in rehabilitation exercises for people with disabilities. To overcome this problem, we present a novel human action-centric augmentation method for human skeleton-based pose estimation. This study proposes the state transition-oriented conditional variational autoencoder (STO-CVAE) to capture action patterns in repeated exercises. The proposed approach generates action samples by capturing temporal information of human skeletons to improve the identification of minority disability classes. We conducted experimental studies with a real-world dataset gathered from rehabilitation exercises and confirmed the superiority and effectiveness of the proposed method. Specifically, all investigated classifiers (i.e., random forest, support vector machine, extreme gradient boosting, light gradient boosting machine, and TabNet) trained with the proposed augmentation method outperformed the models trained without augmentation in terms of the F1-score and accuracy, with F1-score showing the most improvement. Overall, the prediction accuracy of most classes was improved; in particular, the prediction accuracy of the minority classes was greatly improved. Hence, the proposed STO-CVAE can be used to improve the accuracy of disability classification in the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation and to provide suitable personal training and rehabilitation exercise programs.
Cytopathology image analysis method based on high-resolution medical representation learning in medical decision-making system
Authors: Li Baotian , Liu Feng , Lv Baolong , Zhang Yongjun , Gou Fangfang , Wu Jia
Published: March 2024

Artificial intelligence has made substantial progress in many medical application scenarios. The quantity and complexity of pathology images are enormous, but conventional visual screening techniques are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and subject to some degree of subjectivity. Complex pathological data can be converted into mineable image features using artificial intelligence image analysis technology, enabling medical professionals to quickly and quantitatively identify regions of interest and extract information about cellular tissue. In this study, we designed a medical information assistance system for segmenting pathology images and quantifying statistical results, including data enhancement, cell nucleus segmentation, model tumor, and quantitative analysis. In cell nucleus segmentation, to address the problem of uneven healthcare resources, we designed a high-precision teacher model (HRMED_T) and a lightweight student model (HRMED_S). The HRMED_T model is based on visual Transformer and high-resolution representation learning. It achieves accurate segmentation by parallel low-resolution convolution and high-scaled image iterative fusion, while also maintaining the high-resolution representation. The HRMED_S model is based on the Channel-wise Knowledge Distillation approach to simplify the structure, achieve faster convergence, and refine the segmentation results by using conditional random fields instead of fully connected structures. The experimental results show that our system has better performance than other methods. The Intersection over the Union (IoU) of HRMED_T model reaches 0.756. The IoU of HRMED_S model also reaches 0.710 and params is only 3.99 M.
MXenes for Bioinspired Soft Actuators: Advancements in Angle-Independent Structural Colors and Beyond
Authors: Iravani Siavash , Varma Rajender S.
Published: March 2024

Soft actuators have garnered substantial attention in current years in view of their potential appliances in diverse domains like robotics, biomedical devices, and biomimetic systems. These actuators mimic the natural movements of living organisms, aiming to attain  enhanced flexibility, adaptability, and versatility. On the other hand, angle-independent structural color has been achieved through innovative design strategies and engineering approaches. By carefully controlling the size, shape, and arrangement of nanostructures, researchers have been able to create materials exhibiting consistent colors regardless of the viewing angle. One promising class of materials that holds great potential for bioinspired soft actuators is MXenes in view of their exceptional mechanical, electrical, and optical properties. The integration of MXenes for bioinspired soft actuators with angle-independent structural color offers exciting possibilities. Overcoming material compatibility issues, improving color reproducibility, scalability, durability, power supply efficiency, and cost-effectiveness will play vital roles in advancing these technologies. This perspective appraises the development of bioinspired MXene-centered soft actuators with angle-independent structural color in soft robotics.
Kinetic-Thermodynamic Promotion Engineering toward High-Density Hierarchical and Zn-Doping Activity-Enhancing ZnNiO@CF for High-Capacity Desalination
Authors: Ma Jie , Xing Siyang , Wang Yabo , Yang Jinhu , Yu Fei
Published: March 2024

Despite the promising potential of transition metal oxides (TMOs) as capacitive deionization (CDI) electrodes, the actual capacity of TMOs electrodes for sodium storage is significantly lower than the theoretical capacity, posing a major obstacle. Herein, we prepared the kinetically favorable ZnxNi1 − xO electrode in situ growth on carbon felt (ZnxNi1 − xO@CF) through constraining the rate of OH− generation in the hydrothermal method. ZnxNi1 − xO@CF exhibited a high-density hierarchical nanosheet structure with three-dimensional open pores, benefitting the ion transport/electron transfer. And tuning the moderate amount of redox-inert Zn-doping can enhance surface electroactive sites, actual activity of redox-active Ni species, and lower adsorption energy, promoting the adsorption kinetic and thermodynamic of the Zn0.2Ni0.8O@CF. Benefitting from the kinetic-thermodynamic facilitation mechanism, Zn0.2Ni0.8O@CF achieved ultrahigh desalination capacity (128.9 mgNaCl g−1), ultra-low energy consumption (0.164 kW h kgNaCl−1), high salt removal rate (1.21 mgNaCl g−1 min−1), and good cyclability. The thermodynamic facilitation and Na+ intercalation mechanism of Zn0.2Ni0.8O@CF are identified by the density functional theory calculations and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring, respectively. This research provides new insights into controlling electrochemically favorable morphology and demonstrates that Zn-doping, which is redox-inert, is essential for enhancing the electrochemical performance of CDI electrodes.
Do Peers Influence the Development of Individuals’ Social Skills? The Potential of Cooperative Learning and Social Learning in Elementary Schools
Authors: Hank Corinna , Huber Christian
Published: March 2024

Promoting social skills in addition to teaching curricular content is challenging for elementary-school teachers. Teaching methods that implicitly foster social skills could support teachers and students alike. Peer influence and social learning, as a mediating peer-influence mechanism, could be beneficial. If peers can show their social skills in class, students with lower social skills could adopt their skillset. An intervention study investigating the peer influence effect of cooperative learning on the development of social skills was conducted with 558 students (Mage = 8.66; 49,3% female) of 26 classes. Over the course of four weeks Cooperative Learning was implemented daily in intervention classes to determine the effects of peer influence as well as additional effects of Cooperative Learning on the development of social skills. The results suggest that students with low social skills can benefit from Cooperative Learning if they are taught in highly socially skilled classes. The article discusses possibilities to enrich Cooperative Learning to benefit all students.
Underrepresented Caregivers in Research on Prenatal Alcohol Exposure: A Meta-Analysis and Scoping Review
Authors: Rennie Samantha , Budhoo Caelan , Theule Jennifer , Hanlon-Dearman Ana , Ward Michelle , Cheung Kristene
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Families of children with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) are diverse, raising children through birth, adoption, or fostering, including kinship care. Research has shown that caregivers of children with PAE often experience unique difficulties with parenting, which may differ across types of caregivers. Understanding the range of needs of these families is critical for program development; therefore, it is important to know which caregivers are represented in this research and how.

Methods

The current meta-analysis and scoping review examined the demographic characteristics of caregivers and children included in quantitative PAE caregiver-related research. Systematic database searches using key terms led to the inclusion of 15 relevant studies involving 593 participants in total.

Results

Most caregivers in the studies were adoptive parents, female, middled-aged, White, partnered, had obtained a high school education or higher, and resided in the United States. Most studies included caregivers of school-aged children diagnosed with FASD. Most studies recruited participants through pre-established lists and databases, collected data in person and for research purposes, and studied parenting stress. Attempts to study differences in representation based on research methods were unsuccessful due to a lack of differences within the literature.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that (a) non-adoptive parents, (b) caregivers who were male, non-White, non-partnered, less educated, and living outside of the United States, and (c) caregivers of adolescents, and caregivers raising children with PAE who have not received an FASD diagnosis are currently underrepresented in the research; however, this literature is limited and requires further research.
Structural, thermal, surface, and electrical properties of Bi2O3 ceramics co–doped with Er–Ho–Tb rare earths
Authors: Balci Murat
Published: March 2024

Face–centered cubic–Bi2O3 (δ–phase) material is a better ion conductor when compared to other types of solid electrolytes that have been declared in the literature due to its anion–defective crystal configuration, and hence it can be a promising solid electrolyte choice for intermediate temperature SOFC applications. In this research, Er–Ho–Tb co–doped Bi2O3 compounds were successfully synthesized by the solid–state reaction method and characterized using the XRD, TG & DTA, FPPT, and FE–SEM techniques. Apart from sample 4Er4Ho4Tb, each sample became stable with a cubic δ–phase at room temperature, according to XRD patterns. The DTA curves revealed no exothermic or endothermic peaks, implying a phase change in the constant heating cycle. The conductivity of Ho–rich compositions was higher than that of others, confirming the impact of cation polarizability on conductivity. In addition, at 700 °C, the sample 4Er8Ho4Tb with 1:2:1 content ratios had the highest conductivity of 0.29 S/cm. The porosity on the grain boundaries increased with doping, leading to higher grain boundary resistance, which could be responsible for the conductivity drop.
Variable frequency microwave induced CO2 Boudouard reaction over biochar
Authors: Ren Jurong , Jiang Jianchun , Wang Jia , Yuan Xiangzhou , Wang Ao
Published: March 2024

The Boudouard reaction presents promising application prospects as a straightforward and efficient method for CO2 conversion. However, its advancement is hindered primarily by elevated activation energy and a diminished conversion rate. This study employed a microwave reactor with a variable frequency as the initial approach to catalyze the CO2 Boudouard reaction over biochar, with the primary objective of producing renewable CO. The study systematically investigated the influence of various variables, including the heating source, microwave frequency, microwave power, gas hourly space velocity (GHSV), and carrier gas, on the conversion of CO2 and the selectivity towards CO. The experimental findings indicate that under static conditions, with a fixed microwave frequency set at 2450 MHz and 100 W microwave power, the Boudouard reaction did not initiate. Conversely, a CO2 conversion rate of 8.8% was achieved when utilizing a microwave frequency of 4225 MHz. Under this unique frequency, further elevating the microwave power to 275 W leads to the complete conversion of CO2. Furthermore, a comparative analysis between microwave and electrical heating revealed that the CO production rate was 37.7  μmol kJ−1 for microwave heating, in stark contrast to the considerably lower rate of 0.2  μmol kJ−1 observed for electric heating. Following the reaction, the biochar retained its robust 3D skeleton structure and abundant pore configuration. Notably, the dielectric constant increased by a factor of 1.8 compared to its initial state, rendering it a promising microwave-absorbing material.

Graphical Abstract
Habitat fragmentation erodes taxonomic and functional diversity of waterbird communities of the South Pacific coast of Mexico
Authors: Santos-Tovar Alfonso , Ramírez-Bastida Patricia , Navarro-Sigüenza Adolfo G. , Paz Horacio , Ruiz-Rodríguez Amira , Vázquez-Reyes Leopoldo D.
Published: March 2024

We characterize the taxonomic and functional diversity of waterbird communities in mangrove forests of 23 coastal lagoons in the southern Mexican Pacific coast, to evaluate the hypothesis of decline of taxonomic and functional richness of waterbird communities in the face of loss of natural habitat cover and increased fragmentation. We quantified patterns of land use cover, considering the heterogeneity of natural and anthropized vegetation cover as a proxy for human-caused fragmentation, and used generalized linear models to explore the relationship between these two covers with the taxonomic richness and functional richness of bird communities. Results show that both aspects of biodiversity positively relate to larger natural habitat areas, while higher fragmentation values have a negative effect on them. Our results suggest that habitat loss and fragmentation of vegetation cover negatively affect the diversity of waterbird communities and can compromise their link to ecosystem functioning processes in coastal lagoons, by decreasing their functional diversity.
Fostering students’ participation in the implementation of the sustainable development goals at higher education institutions
Authors: Filho Walter Leal , Trevisan Laís Viera , Dinis Maria Alzira Pimenta , Ulmer Nico , Paço Arminda , Borsari Bruno , Sierra Javier , Salvia Amanda
Published: March 2024

Students are central actors at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Whereas much can be achieved by the active participation of students in sustainability affairs, it is unclear what is the current level of students’ knowledge and engagement regarding the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) around the world, as well as which initiatives are being undertaken by HEIs on this matter. In order to address this research gap, this study investigated the current status of students’ knowledge and participation in initiatives aimed at the implementation of the UN SDGs. A comprehensive research methodology was carried out by means of a bibliometric analysis, case studies, and a survey involving a sample of 602 students from 53 countries. For the bibliometric analysis, data were analysed with the support of the VOSviewer software, while quantitative data analysis was performed with the support of IBM SPSS Statistics. The study shows that the participation of students in SDGs activities is associated with the commitment level of the HEIs to the implementation of the SDGs. In addition, the fact that students have taken a course or have a discipline related to the SDGs, plays a significant role in the SDGs implementation process. Moreover, the findings reveal that graduate students are more familiar with the SDGs than their undergraduate peers. The analysed HEIs case studies also demonstrate the commitment to sustainable development (SD) through different initiatives being pursued at different levels and scopes. Based on the results, the study provides recommendations on a set of specific measures that may be implemented to increase HEIs students’ interest and engagement in SD.
Academic incivility and bullying as risks for suicide, self-destructive behaviors, and harm to others
Authors: Jones Jessica L. Tinstman , Campbell Laurie O. , Haugen Jaimie Stickl , Sutter Claudia C.
Published: March 2024

Bullying and academic incivility are significant public health issues associated with serious mental health outcomes and harmful behaviors for both perpetrators and victims. In this quantitative study, academic incivility and prior bullying experiences related to suicidality, self-destructive behaviors, and harm to others were explored. Higher education students (N = 534) reported their experiences with bullying and academic incivility and subsequent coping responses related to suicidal ideation, self-injury, substance misuse, and intent to harm others through self-report using the 34-item Coping Responses for Academic Incivility Scale (CRAIS). Findings of the study indicate that students who experienced bullying in K-12 education or academic incivility in higher education, especially those reporting being a bully or bully-victim, were more likely to endorse suicidalideation, self-destructive behaviors, and harm to others than participants who had not. Individuals who experienced both bullying and academic incivility demonstrated the greatest risk of these outcomes. The serious nature of these outcomes on physical and mental health indicates a need for proactive policies and procedures to address these behaviors and enhanced screening and treatment for affected individuals.
Group cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for university students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): a feasibility study
Authors: Ingibergsdóttir Sylvía , Lárusdóttir Marta Kristín , Kaas Merrie Jean , Svavarsdottir Erla Kolbrun
Published: March 2024

Coping with academic demands can be challenging for university students with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Treatment can help them cope and prevent related mental health issues. The present study aimed to investigate the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial for group Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), including the use of an app for CBT homework assignments, and to explore the effects of CBT for university students with ADHD. University students (n = 36) participated in the first phase of the study, involving the design of an app to present CBT homework assignments, by evaluating prototypes of the app along with the development team. In the second phase, a pre- vs. post-test design was used. Students with ADHD (n = 7) were offered manual-based CBT once a week for 6 weeks using the app or a paper manual to do the homework, as preferred. University students who took part in the development of the app noted that they would rather use the app than a printed manual. On the other hand, participants in the CBT feasibility study preferred doing homework on paper rather than using the developed app. They all found group CBT and the key elements in the CBT manual helpful. The findings suggest that providing group CBT for university students with ADHD through 6 sessions is feasible and assessing its effects in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) is feasible. Such treatment might improve coping with ADHD symptoms and related mental health issues. Further studies on the development of an app supporting CBT are needed.

Trial registration Registry name: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for University Students with Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). URL: https://register.clinicaltrials.gov. Registration number: NCT 04714866.
Ethics in the Governance of Data and Digital Technology: An Analysis of European Data Regulations and Policies
Authors: Eke Damian , Stahl Bernd
Published: March 2024

Addressing ethical concerns is among the fundamental motivations for the development of policies and regulations for data and digital technologies. In the last few years, the European Commission has issued a number of policies, regulations and legislative proposals for socially desirable and legally compliant data governance for technologies which have ethical implications. What is not obvious, however, is whether and in what way ethics are included explicitly in the way these policies and regulations are created and implemented to address data governance challenges. Given the increasing amount of available digital data, its use for AI and other purposes and the growing amount of regulatory activity around data, this paper explores the role ethics plays in these documents. We examined eight of these documents to map the ethical concerns and justifications underlining their provisions, the ethical principles they promote and the implementation approaches recommended. Our analysis shows that the current EU data governance policy landscape can be read from an ethical perspective as being grounded in ethical thinking, typically expressed in terms of human rights, aware of likely concerns, based on well-established principles and in the process of being codified in regulation, legislation and institutions. However, the practical implementation of these principles, for instance how conflicts among these principles can be resolved, remain unclear.
Exploring autonomy support and learning preference in higher education: introducing a flexible and personalized learning environment with technology
Authors: Fujii Atsunori
Published: March 2024

Learner autonomy is particularly important in higher education, where students are fully responsible for their own learning. Despite this, there is a lack of research on aspects of autonomy support in higher education compared with that of primary and secondary education. To address this gap, this study explored autonomy support and learning preference in higher education, introducing a flexible and individualized learning environment with technology after the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey was conducted among 849 Japanese university students to gather their perceptions about autonomous support, learning preferences (face-to-face or distance), use of learning strategies, and academic performance (grade point average). Correlations were identified between certain variables: for example, perceived autonomy support, class format preference, and grade point average. The scores of different scales were compared among the subject groups. Autonomy support provided by instructors included explaining the lesson’s outline to students. A few teachers provided opportunities for students to select learning methods, teaching materials, and assignment content; yet, few instructors seemed to truly understand students’ learning needs. Although many participants took face-to-face courses, students’ learning preferences were evenly split between face-to-face and distance learning courses. Students who strongly preferred face-to-face learning performed well regardless of instructional format. Students with a little preference for distance education performed well, especially in distance education courses. Students with no preference performed the worst. This study suggests that a learning environment that provides students with options to suit their diverse learning preferences is beneficial and that introducing “hybrid-flexible” courses and feedback for students’ learning strategies has the potential to promote learner autonomy in higher education.
Psychosocial outcomes in mothers and fathers of chronic critically ill children: a national prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Grandjean Chantal , Rahmaty Zahra , Perez Marie-Hélène , Ramelet Anne-Sylvie ,   the OCToPuS Consortium, Lauria Anne-Laure , Polito Angelo , Bochaton Nathalie , Trachsel Daniel , Marston Mark , Schnidrig Silvia , Humpl Tilman , Rogdo Bjarte , Wild Ellen , Neuhaus Thomas , Stalder Sandra , Brotschi Barbara , von Arx Franziska , Schlüer Anna-Barbara , Riedel Thomas , van Kleef Pascale
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Hospitalization of a child in PICU affects the psychological health and functioning of their family. In case of prolonged or repeated hospitalizations, sources of stress and family needs evolve, which leads to new challenges for families. To date, little is known about changes in the health of chronic critically ill (CCI) children’s family. We aimed to identify and compare psychosocial outcomes of mothers and fathers of CCI children overtime and the associated factors of better family functioning.

Methods

This national prospective longitudinal study was conducted in eight paediatric intensive care units in Switzerland. Outcome measures included perceived stress, PICU sources of stress, and family functioning using validated standard questionnaires. Family members with a CCI child completed self-reported questionnaires during PICU hospitalization, at discharge and 1 month later.

Results

A total of 199 mothers and fathers were included. Our results show high levels of stress experienced by parents throughout and after the hospitalization. Sources of stress are mainly related to child appearance and emotional responses and parental role alteration. Family functioning is low throughout the hospitalization and significantly decreased after 30 days of hospitalization (p = 0.002). Mothers experience higher physical and emotional family dysfunction than fathers after PICU discharge (p = 0.05). Family dysfunction is associated with pre-existing low child’s quality of life.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the importance of reducing the negative impact of PICU stay on parents’ psychosocial outcomes, through early emotional parental support, and appropriate response to their individual needs throughout and after PICU hospitalization.
Systematic assessment on the remediation of Bisphenol A in the global environments: a mixed method analysis of research outputs
Authors: Mohammed Jibrin Ndejiko , Okaiyeto Kunle , Haruna Saidu , Wan Dagang Wan Rosmiza Zana , Oguntibeju Oluwafemi O. , Ekundayo Temitope Cyrus
Published: March 2024

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine-disrupting compound and a mutagenic agent that poses health hazards to living organisms, making it a global contaminant. Several remediation techniques have been reported in the literature, however, a mixed-method science mapping analysis of research trends on BPA is still lacking. The present study aimed to investigate global research trends in BPA remediation. Published research papers on BPA remediation indexed in Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus between 1992 and 2021 were analysed qualitatively and quantitatively using science mapping algorithms including Rstudio, bibliometrix package and R Version 4.2.1. The thematic areas were determined using k-means clustering of the author-keywords while Porter’s stemming algorithm was used to stemmed inflectional terms to their roots. Overall, 640 documents were published by 1903 authors with 2.07 authors/article and 0.336 article/author, 4.31 co-authors/article, an annual growth rate of 17.35% and a collaboration index of 2.99. Research productivity increased from 1 article in 1992 to 93 articles in 2021. The citations of the topmost 23 articles ranged from 365 to 109 and the total citation per year ranged from 45.6 to 27.3. China (n = 267, 41.7%), Japan (n = 53, 8.3%), USA (n = 33, 5.2%) and Korea (n = 28, 4.4%) were respectively the top four countries based on the total of published articles and overall citation. There were 48 relevant keywords dominated by Bisphenol A, adsorption, biodegradation, and peroximonosulphate. The present analysis identifies research accomplishment, focus and gaps on Bisphenol A remediation and offer the researchers the information needed to forecast future research priorities that can help policymakers and governments to internationalize collaborations and create research curricula that can remediate BPA on a global scale.
PET Imaging in Dementia: Mini-Review and Canadian Perspective for Clinical Use
Authors: Juengling Freimut , Wuest Frank , Schirrmacher Ralf , Abele Jonathan , Thiel Alexander , Soucy Jean-Paul , Camicioli Richard , Garibotto Valentina
Published: March 2024

PET imaging is increasingly recognized as an important diagnostic tool to investigate patients with cognitive disturbances of possible neurodegenerative origin. PET with 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose ([18F]FDG), assessing glucose metabolism, provides a measure of neurodegeneration and allows a precise differential diagnosis among the most common neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia or dementia with Lewy bodies. PET tracers specific for the pathological deposits characteristic of different neurodegenerative processes, namely amyloid and tau deposits typical of Alzheimer’s Disease, allow the visualization of these aggregates in vivo. [18F]FDG and amyloid PET imaging have reached a high level of clinical validity and are since 2022 investigations that can be offered to patients in standard clinical care in most of Canada.

This article will briefly review and summarize the current knowledge on these diagnostic tools, their integration into diagnostic algorithms as well as perspectives for future developments.
Preserving and progressing: Tensions in the gendered politics of military conscription
Authors: Stachowitsch Saskia , Strand Sanna
Published: March 2024

After all-male universal conscription had been deactivated in many European countries in the post-Cold War era, the past decade has seen a surprising reversal of this trend, with several countries reactivating, voting to retain, or even extending military conscription to women. Due to the strong historical link between conscription and the formation of hierarchical gender orders, this paper conducts a feminist analysis of debates on conscription in Sweden and Austria and asks how gender served to legitimise the ‘return’ of mandatory military service. We find that a neoliberal, individualistic discourse legitimised Sweden’s gender-neutral conscription as an efficient and progressive model that presents as competitive, while the Austrian all-male model was justified on the basis of conservative, communitarian sentiments of fostering responsible male citizens and preserving a solidaric national community. Moreover, while conscription was envisioned as strengthening Swedish defence and war preparedness, conscription in Austria was rather associated with containing militarism and preventing involvement in armed conflict. Despite these differences, we suggest that hierarchical notions of masculinity and femininity, intersecting with classed and racialised dichotomies, served to render conscription acceptable and even appealing in both cases.
Inequality on the frontline: A multi-country study on gender differences in mental health among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Czepiel Diana , McCormack Clare , da Silva Andréa T.C. , Seblova Dominika , Moro Maria F. , Restrepo-Henao Alexandra , Martínez Adriana M. , Afolabi Oyeyemi , Alnasser Lubna , Alvarado Rubén , Asaoka Hiroki , Ayinde Olatunde , Balalian Arin , Ballester Dinarte , Barathie Josleen A.l. , Basagoitia Armando , Basic Djordje , Burrone María S. , Carta Mauro G. , Durand-Arias Sol , Eskin Mehmet , Fernández-Jiménez Eduardo , Frey Marcela I. F. , Gureje Oye , Isahakyan Anna , Jaldo Rodrigo , Karam Elie G. , Khattech Dorra , Lindert Jutta , Martínez-Alés Gonzalo , Mascayano Franco , Mediavilla Roberto , Narvaez Gonzalez Javier A. , Nasser-Karam Aimee , Nishi Daisuke , Olaopa Olusegun , Ouali Uta , Puac-Polanco Victor , Ramírez Dorian E. , Ramírez Jorge , Rivera-Segarra Eliut , Rutten Bart P.F. , Santaella-Tenorio Julian , Sapag Jaime C. , Šeblová Jana , Soto María T. S. , Tavares-Cavalcanti Maria , Valeri Linda , Sijbrandij Marit , Susser Ezra S. , Hoek Hans W. , van der Ven Els
Published: March 2024

Healthcare workers (HCWs) were at increased risk for mental health problems during the COVID-19 pandemic, with prior data suggesting women may be particularly vulnerable. Our global mental health study aimed to examine factors associated with gender differences in psychological distress and depressive symptoms among HCWs during COVID-19. Across 22 countries in South America, Europe, Asia and Africa, 32,410 HCWs participated in the COVID-19 HEalth caRe wOrkErS (HEROES) study between March 2020 and February 2021. They completed the General Health Questionnaire-12, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and questions about pandemic-relevant exposures. Consistently across countries, women reported elevated mental health problems compared to men. Women also reported increased COVID-19-relevant stressors, including insufficient personal protective equipment and less support from colleagues, while men reported increased contact with COVID-19 patients. At the country level, HCWs in countries with higher gender inequality reported less mental health problems. Higher COVID-19 mortality rates were associated with increased psychological distress merely among women. Our findings suggest that among HCWs, women may have been disproportionately exposed to COVID-19-relevant stressors at the individual and country level. This highlights the importance of considering gender in emergency response efforts to safeguard women’s well-being and ensure healthcare system preparedness during future public health crises.
Old Epistemic Vices and Islamophobia in Martha Nussbaum's The New Religious Intolerance
Authors: Alsayyed Tasneem
Published: March 2024

Martha Nussbaum in her The New Religious Intolerance (2012) commits several old forms of epistemic vice including exclusion, orientalism, and colonial discourse. Unsurprisingly, as a result, her text contributes to the production of ignorance about Muslims and Muslim women despite her intention of combating Islamophobia. In this article, I specifically critique Nussbaum's anti-burqa-ban arguments and her pro-airport-profiling stance. To do so, I draw on the work of Audre Lorde and other feminist scholars and scholars of color to express the harms of excluding Muslim voices and misusing Western/white voices in their place. Recalling Edward Said, Marilyn Frye, and María Lugones, I argue that Nussbaum's text is a classic example of orientalism and various forms of colonial discourse.
The NIH-Moderna Vaccine: Public Science, Private Profit, and Lessons for the Future
Authors: Morten Christopher J.
Published: March 2024

This commentary highlights the scientific history of the NIH-Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and corroborates Sarpatwari’s theme of private capture of value created by the public. The commentary also identifies missteps by the Trump and Biden Administrations and offers policy recommendations: better contracts with and incentives for pharmaceutical manufacturers and a not-for-profit “public option” for pharmaceutical development.