bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Piracy, Estuaries, and Commerce: Magh Predation in the Northern Bay of Bengal
Authors: China Subham
Published: February 2024

As a postgraduate student at the Department of History, University of Hyderabad, India, I was introduced to Michael Pearson’s scholarship on the Indian Ocean and related studies thereon. While teaching the course “The World of the Indian Ocean,” Professor Rila Mukherjee emphasized Michael Pearson as one of the first to systematically conceptualize the interconnected maritime space of the Indian Ocean, and particularly, in her own work, the Bay of Bengal. Pearson’s many works shaped my research ideas and provided frameworks for my future research interests. In this paper, I will focus on the significant historiographical and conceptual interventions of Michael Pearson and how they shaped the development of my research on magh predation in the northern Bay of Bengal.
The use of seaweed as sustainable feed ingredient for the house cricket (Acheta domesticus): investigating cricket performance and nutritional composition
Authors: Ajdini B. , Biancarosa I. , Cardinaletti G. , Illuminati S. , Annibaldi A. , Girolametti F. , Fanelli M. , Pascon G. , Martinoli M. , Tulli F. , Pinto T. , Truzzi C.
Published: February 2024

The house cricket (Acheta domesticus) is considered one of the most promising farmed insect to be used as novel food, thanks to its attractive nutritional profile and its great taste. To the best of our knowledge, crickets in Europe are reared on soybean meal-rich feed which won’t be sustainable in the long run. Insect producers have shown interest in using more environmentally friendly substrates for cricket’s rearing. Among these, seaweed has been investigated as feed ingredients for insect rearing. However, no studies on crickets are available. We aimed to evaluate the potential use of the alga Palmaria palmata in the diet of house crickets (5%, 10% and 20% of the diet), in terms of insect performances and nutritional composition (protein, lipid, amino acids and fatty acids). Crickets fed seaweed-enriched diets showed good performance parameters (individual weight, cricket yield and survival) compared to crickets fed the control diet without presenting statistically significant differences (), while their nutritional composition changed significantly for some components. Protein content of the crickets increased when more seaweed was added to their diets (), while the fat content decreased (). Also, the amino acid composition of the crickets remained stable between dietary groups, except for histidine, methionine and lysine which increased in crickets fed more seaweed in the diet (, , , respectively). Finally, the presence of seaweed in the diet led to a transfer of the omega-3 eicosapentaenoic acid from the seaweed to the crickets (), which are naturally lacking this fatty acid. Based on this study, we conclude that the red alga Palmaria Palmata is a suitable substrate for cricket mass rearing up to 20 g/100 g of the diet. However, higher seaweed inclusion and longer dietary administration time could affect the nutritional composition of the house cricket differently, therefore they should be investigated.
Gustave Moreau’s Salome and Death of Adonis
Authors: Prejmerean Vasile-Ovidiu
Published: February 2024

This article aims to shed new light on Gustave Moreau’s artistic thought by assessing two drawings: a Salome variant and The Death of Adonis, both chosen because of how their unique iconographies bring to light—and to life—the opposition not only between gazes and genders but also between artist and artwork, divinity and sin, seer and seen, tradition and modernity, and, eventually, life and death. Employing several literary and figurative sources, the article analyzes how Moreau figured these confrontations and shows how he eventually solved them by examining the fascinating narratives the characters’ play of gazes offer the viewer, as well as the drawings’ bearing on Moreau’s understanding of artistic rebirth and (self-)identification through idealism and spirituality.
Comparative Analysis of Abnormal Pregnancy Between Non-Diabetic Pregnant Women and Diabetic Pregnant Women by Using Nanobubbles-Based Ultrasound Images
Authors: Wu Jue , Liu Jun , Ou Hongping , Hao Zheyu
Published: February 2024

Objective: ultrasound imaging based on nanobubbles was used as the examination method in this study. Abdominal examination was performed on patients with and without diabetes during pregnancy, and the examination data between patients in different groups were compared and analyzed.
Methods: 74 pregnant women were selected and enrolled in this study. Thirty-five pregnant women with diabetes were enrolled in the experimental group (Exp group) and 39 pregnant women without diabetes were assigned to the control group (Ctrl group). Results: there were no significant
differences in fetal abdominal circumference, femoral length, and biparietal diameter between the two groups. The liver length and head circumference in the Exp group were higher based on the Ctrl group, with a statistical significance. Moreover, the occurrence probability of abnormal fetal
growth and development indexes in the Exp group was higher and exhibited a statistical significance to that in the Ctrl group. Conclusion: patients with diabetes were more likely to have abnormal pregnancies. It is necessary to adopt color examination for clinical screening of diabetic
pregnant women, so that the life safety of pregnant women and fetus can be guaranteed, reflecting the good application prospect of ultrasound examination.
Efficacy and Safety of Drug-Loaded Microsphere-Based Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization for the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Portal Vein Tumor Thrombus
Authors: Ye Zhaodan , Song Mengchen , Al-Kalei Adel , Wang Wenjing , Cao Guohong
Published: February 2024

In this study, we evaluate the effectiveness and safety of conventional transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (C-TACE) and drug-loaded microsphere-based TACE (DEB-TACE) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accompanied by portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT). A total of 51
HCC patients with PVTT treated at our hospital between August 2016 and December 2021 were collected and retrospectively analyzed. 39 patients were in the DEB-TACE group and 9 patients were in the C-TACE group, after excluding 3 patients. Serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and protein induced by
vitamin K absence or antagonist-II (PIVKA-II) levels were assessed using magnetic nanoparticle-based chemiluminescence immunoassay. The liver function was evaluated before TACE, at 1 month, and at 3 months after treatment. The therapeutic response and intraoperative and postoperative adverse
events were analyzed in two groups. Both TACE treatments effectively reduced tumor thrombus size, tumor count, and PVTT classification, with DEB-TACE demonstrating superior efficacy. The median survival time was slightly longer in the DEB-TACE group (14 months) compared to the c-TACE group
(11 months), but there were no significant differences in the survival curves. Both groups experienced decreased postoperative AFP levels, while PIVKA-II levels remained stable without significant differences between the two groups. The PIVKA-II index exhibited no significant alteration, and
there was no notable disparity observed between the two groups. There were no statistically significant differences observed in liver function and postoperative adverse reactions between the two groups after the operation. In conclusion, the therapeutic effect and safety of DEB-TACE are found
to be equivalent to those of C-TACE.
The Effect of Silk Fibroin/Poly(Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid) Nanofiber Coating on Porous Calcium Phosphate-Based Composites for Osteoporosis Application
Authors: Ren Qiao , Li Qinggui , Qian Ligang
Published: February 2024

This study observed whether the silk fibroin/poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (SF/PLGA) nanofiber membrane three-dimensionally coated with porous calcium phosphate-based composite can promote the proliferation of osteoblasts, thereby improving osteoporosis. The SF/PLGA nanofiber membrane
was used to three-dimensionally coated with the porous calcium phosphate-based composite to analyze proliferation of osteoblasts, hFOB1.19 expressions by Western blot, activity change of hFOB1.19 by CCK-8 assay. The morphology was observed with an electron microscope. Alizarin Red staining
showed that the SF/PLGA nanofiber membrane three-dimensionally coated with porous calcium phosphatebased composite promoted osteogenic differentiation and upregulated the expression of osteogenic related genes. It inhibited adipogenic differentiation and the expression of adipogenic genes.
SF/PLGA composite material promoted the viability of osteoblasts hFOB1.19, upregulatedGLUT3, downregulated the expression of various apoptosis-related proteins in hFOB1.19. SF/PLGA composite material can reduce the apoptosis efficiency of osteoblasts, promote the proliferation of osteoblasts,
and inhibit apoptosis, thereby improving osteoporosis.
The Effect of Silver Nanoparticles on the Electrical Activity of PC12 Quasi-Neuronal Networks and the Comparison of Two Microelectrode Array-Based Neural Signal Analysis Methods
Authors: Zhang Zequn , Meng Chen , Wang Zhigong , Huang Yan , Lü Xiaoying
Published: February 2024

Our research group previously proposed the voltage thresholdmeasurement method (VTMM) based on the microelectrode array (MEA), and used VTMM to prove that PC12 cells, as a simpler cell culture, can be used as an alternative cell model to examine the effects of external factors on cytotoxicity
and electrical excitability of neurons. However, there is no comparison between VTMM and the commonly used MEA neural signal analysis method, and no researchers have used the commonly used analysis method to study the spontaneous electrical signals of PC12 quasi-neuronal networks. This research
aims to compare the characteristics and results of two MEA-based neural signal analysis methods. For the first time, the changes in spike frequency of the PC12 networks after exposure to various concentrations of silver nanoparticles for different durations was studied by means of MEA analysis
method. It is found that due to the low intensity of spontaneous activity of PC12 networks, the commonly used analysis method is not suitable for the study of electrical activity of PC12 networks. Under the action of silver nanoparticles, the results of VTMM are consistent with those of the
commonly used MEA analysis method, and VTMM has the advantages of being suitable for more kinds of neuron networks, short culture time, concise and rapid data analysis.
Preparation and Characterization of Functionalized Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (f-MWCNTs) Incorporated in Gelatin-Based Hydrogel Nanocomposites
Authors: Tarawneh Mou’ad A. , Al Nawafleh Arkan H. , Altarawneh Moaz M. , Garalleh Hakim Al , Afandi Abdulkareem , Maghrabi Louai , Husein Qwasmeh Ahmed Ali , Al Ameryeen Hatem Abdullah , Algnamat Bilal S. , Al-Douri Yarub
Published: February 2024

This study prepared gelatin/functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube (f-MWCNT) nanocomposites with different f-MWCNT concentrations using a simple solution casting method. For each f-MWCNT concentration of the gelatin/f-MWCNT nanocomposites, permittivity parameters were measured
at five different locations on the sample surface. Cole–Cole graphs were obtained by plotting the imaginary permittivity as a function of the real permittivity. The Havriliak–Negami model was used to obtain the value of alpha, since the shape is a quasi-skewed semicircle. The average
relaxation time was τ = 12.6 ps and was roughly constant with the addition of f-MWCNTs. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed increased interactions between the carbon nanotubes and polymers.
Cis-Platinum and CXCR4 siRNA Carried with Cellulose Nanopaper Restrain the Biological Effect of Breast Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Zhang Yang , Wang Jianfei , Dai Hao , Li Ning , Hu Fen , Zhang Bolin , Yang Yiming , Cai Haifeng , Yan Jinyin
Published: February 2024

Cellulose nanopaper (CNP) is a kind of flat foldable film material composed of cellulose nanofibers. Cellulose nanopaper is based on nanocellulose (NC) as the basic unit, with excellent mechanical properties, thermal properties, optical properties and other characteristics, is a high-performance
new material. This study discusses the mechanism of cis-platinum and CXCR4 siRNA carried with CNP in restraining the biological effect of breast carcinoma cells. CXCR4 siRNA carried with CNP was established and identified. The MCF-7 cells were divided into control set, si-CXCR4 set, cis-platinum
set and united set randomly. The proliferative and apoptotic activity, CXCR4 presentation, presentation of EMT, and invasive ability were detected. mRNA and protein expression of CXCR4 was restrained by knockdown of CXCR4 notably. The proliferation was restrained and apoptosis was prompted.
Expression of E-cadherin was increased and Zeb1 presentation was reduced. The invasive ability was restrained. The action was more notable in united set. Breast carcinoma cell proliferation was restrained and the apoptosis was prompted by cis-platinum and CXCR4 siRNA carried with CNP. The
occurrence of EMT and invasion were therefore restrained. The sensibility of breast carcinoma on drugs was elevated.
Antecedents of Workaholism and Work Engagement: A Motivational Perspective in Research on Heavy Work Involvement
Authors: Kusik Diana , Tokarz Aleksandra , Kłosowska Joanna
Published: February 2024

In this perspective article, we propose encompassing the motivational perspective to enrich future studies on two forms of heavy work involvement (HWI): workaholism and work engagement. Based on the holistic definition of motivation, we build a theoretical instrumentation that includes four motivational categories that are presented and characterized by relevant key terms: I. Activation and energy of action; II. Action orientation and action realization; III. Competencies and cognitive processes; IV. Work environment and the context of action. We use these categories in an analysis of the latest contemporary research which has investigated the motivational determinants of both workaholism and work engagement. Our analysis shows that studies in this perspective are in the initial stages; we propose examples of theories and models as well as important precise questions embedded in each I-IV motivation category that can stimulate future research directions. The concluding comments include three main recommendations for future research on HWI.
University Students’ Mindset and Effort Regulation Across the Domains of Nursing and English
Authors: Patterson Donald Glen , Yukhymenko-Lescroart Mariya A.
Published: February 2024

In this study, we examined and compared the beliefs of undergraduate nursing students at a healthcare-focused university in central Japan regarding their abilities to learn English and nursing and sustain effort in their studies. Specifically, the purposes of this research were to learn how Japanese nursing students’ mindsets and effort regulation differed across the domains of English and nursing and to determine the extent to which mindsets can predict students’ effort regulation in these domains. Data were collected through an online questionnaire ( N = 132). We found that students’ mindsets and effort regulation differed across the domains of English and nursing with no significant differences by year of study. Growth mindsets and effort regulation were significantly higher and fixed mindsets were significantly lower in nursing than in English. Mindsets in nursing were found to predict effort regulation in both nursing and English, but mindsets in English were found only to predict effort regulation in English. The findings offer valuable insights into the learning beliefs of Japanese nursing students and may provide ideas about how to better motivate nursing students in their studies. Furthermore, the study contributes to the understanding of how mindsets vary across domains and cultural contexts.
Influence of Mindfulness on Game Addiction-Mediating Role of Emotional Control
Authors: Tharumiya Anurekha K. , P Riniprabha , Sakthivel Karthika , K Janani , Manicka Manikandan M. K.
Published: February 2024

In the past few decades, online games have become immensely popular among the younger generation thus leading to online game addiction. Previous researches acknowledge that mindfulness or present-focused awareness may reduce addiction. Moreover, addiction is found to have an impact on the propensity to respond to the situations in the environment in a way that is acceptable to all the people (emotional control). The present study attempts to study the influence of mindfulness and emotional control on game addiction. For this, 187 college students were selected through the Simple Random Sampling method. Personal Profile Sheet, The Online Game Addiction Scale, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) and The Emotional Control Questionnaire, with four dimensions of Rehearsal, Emotional Inhibition, Aggression Control and Benign control were used to collect the data. The study found a significant gender difference in the level of game addiction where boys being more addicted to online games than girls. Mindfulness shows a significant negative influence over Game Addiction. Among the four dimensions of emotional control, the two dimensions viz., rehearsal and benign control show mediation effect between mindfulness and game addiction. However, the mediating role of emotional inhibition and aggression control was not significantly demonstrative.
Desired Care for Perinatal Bereavement: Meeting the Needs of Mothers After Discharge From the Hospital—a Qualitative Study
Authors: Atashsokhan Giti , Farjamfar Maryam , Khosravi Ahmad , Taher Mahboobe , Keramat Afsaneh
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to investigate the understanding and experiences of mothers who have suffered perinatal loss regarding their needs after being discharged from the hospital. Data were collected through semi-structured face-to-face and telephone interviews using purposive sampling with maximum diversity. The sample included 15 mothers and 6 midwives who had experienced fetal loss and perinatal bereavement. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Conventional content analysis was used to analyze the data. Sampling was conducted from July 2022 to March 2023, continuing until data saturation was reached. The study identified 2 main categories of needs for mothers who have experienced perinatal loss: continuous healthcare (including the Comprehensive Mother Tracking System, provision of psychological welfare, and educational needs) and provision of a support network, including “spouse and family support” and “peer and colleague support.” The primary theme of this study was “Deliberating Care for Grieving Mothers.” The study results indicate that mothers who experience perinatal loss require continuity of care after being discharged. Psychological screening and counseling support are essential for both parents. Considering the significant impact of spousal, familial, and community support on an individual’s life, it is crucial to prepare the community to comprehend and embrace grieving parents.
Decomposition of Healthcare Utilization Inequality in Iran: The Prominent Role of Health Literacy and Neighborhood Characteristics
Authors: Soleimanvandiazar Neda , Mohaqeqi Kamal Seyed Hossein , Basakha Mehdi , Karimi Salah Eddin , Ahmadi Sina , Ghaedamini Harouni Gholamreza , Sajjadi Homeira , Setareh Forouzan Ameneh
Published: February 2024

Unequal utilization in healthcare can potentially affect the right to health. Access to healthcare services and achieving positive health outcomes and health equity are essential principles in promoting human rights. This study aims to assess and analyze socioeconomic-related inequalities in outpatient health services utilization (OHSU) among various socio-demographic subgroups to inform policies that foster health equity. Data were collected through a cross-sectional survey of 1200 households in Tehran, Iran. Inequality in OHSU among the socio-demographic subgroups was calculated by concentration, Wagstaff, and Erigers indices. Decomposition was used to identify the factors contributing to inequality in OHSU. Marginal effect and elasticity were used to calculate the relative absolute shares of socio-demographic variables in the inequality. The rate of OHSU was 63.61% (CI: 60-66.80) which concentrated among households with better socioeconomic status. Based on the results, living in an affluent neighborhood (Relative share (RS): 85.48) and having a disabled member in the household (RS: 6.58) were the most important factors in the concentration of OHSU in favor of the privileged groups. In contrast, very low levels of health knowledge (RS: −83.79) and having basic insurance coverage (RS: −3.92) concentrated OHSU in favor of the lower socioeconomic households. The study was conducted based on survey data, and this may lead to some limitations. Given that this study was a cross-sectional study, we were unable to establish causal relationships between explanatory variables and outpatient health service utilization and its relevant predictors. Households with disabled member(s), as well as a member(s) with chronic diseases, may experience severe inequalities in access to healthcare services. Policies that facilitate access to health services for these households can play a significant role in improving health equity.
Performance in a Balance Test and Prediction of All-Cause Mortality in Community-Dwelling Elderly Ambulatory Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Das Saibal , Bagepally Bhavani S. , Eerike Madhavi , Cherian Jerin J. , Dasgupta Shreyashi , Mathews George , Rao Shailaja
Published: February 2024

Objective: This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the association between an inability to perform a static balance test and mortality in community-dwelling older ambulatory individuals. Methods: PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched for relevant cohort studies. Hazard ratios (HR) were pooled (random-effect model). Meta-regression was performed with independent demographic variables (PROSPERO ID: CRD42022381137). Results: A total of 11,713 articles were screened and 15 were included. An inability to perform a static balance test was significantly associated with a higher risk of mortality irrespective of whether confounding variables were considered [HR, 1.14 (95% CI: 1.07–1.21); p < .001; i2, 87.96% ( p < .01)] or not [HR, 1.11 (95% CI: 1.03–1.20); p = .01; i2, 95.28% ( p < .01)] (both moderate GRADE evidence). Also, this association was correlated with progressive age. Conclusion: An inability to successfully complete a static balance test was significantly associated with a higher risk of mortality among community-dwelling older ambulatory individuals.
Evaluating the Clinical Utility of the MAYSI-2 Among African American Male Juvenile Offenders
Authors: LaBelle Brittany , Gagnon Joseph Calvin , Joyce-Beaulieu Diana , Lane Jodi , Gage Nicholas , Kranzler John , Houchins David E. , Lane Holly B. , McCray Erica D. , Lambert Richard G. , Ball Shelbretta
Published: February 2024

This study examined the clinical utility of the Massachusetts Youth Screening Instrument–Second Version (MAYSI-2) among African American (AA) incarcerated youth and used White incarcerated youth as a comparison group. Data were analyzed for 314 incarcerated youth (193 AA offenders and 121 White offenders) of ages 13–17 years who were adjudicated delinquent from a southeastern United States medium security residential facility. Seven logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) models were built to determine whether the MAYSI-2 subscales accurately identify committed AA male incarcerated youth who have a mental illness diagnosis on file. Analyses also examined how well the MAYSI-2 subscales identify specific mental illnesses among AA-committed male incarcerated youth. Results demonstrated that no MAYSI-2 subscales accurately identified and categorized AA-committed male incarcerated youth who have mental disorders, and only two subscales (Alcohol/Drug Use, Depressed/Anxious) identified and categorized White committed male incarcerated youth who have a mental disorder. Additional results and implications for research and practice are provided.
Infrastructured bodies: Between violence and fugitivity
Authors: Lesutis Gediminas , Kaika Maria
Published: February 2024

This article traces the trajectory of critical geographical scholarship on the body’s intertwinement with infrastructure systems. In doing so, it argues that although the body is not ontologically infrastructure, it can nevertheless enable infrastructure’s functioning – whether by being made into infrastructure of surplus value production or by suturing widening gaps in sub-optimal infrastructure systems. Analysing these dynamics, the article theorises the body as infrastructured – given over to the violence of capital and its infrastructures that subject specifically gendered, racialised, and classed bodies to surplus value extraction and/or abandonment; but also as simultaneously fleeting in its irreversible exposure to this violence.
A study on the thermodynamic characteristics of a mechanical A/C swing angle milling head
Authors: Cui Youzheng , Liu Chengxin , Mu Haijing , Liu Yinfeng , Jiang Hui , Xu Fengxia , Hu Qingming
Published: February 2024

Several studies have evaluated the thermal error modeling and structural characteristics of the swing angle milling head; however, few studies have reported the thermodynamic characteristics of the swing angle milling head. Therefore, based on the thermodynamic theory, the thermodynamic characteristics of the mechanical A/C swing angle milling head of the five axis CNC gantry milling machine are evaluated, and the relevant heating calculation results are obtained. The temperature field distribution and thermodynamic characteristics of the swing angle milling head were simulated and analyzed by using ANSYS Workbench finite element software. In addition, the accuracy and rationality of the finite element simulation results of this study are verified based on the experimental conclusions of other relevant scholars that the maximum temperature of the gear is also mainly distributed near the pitch line of the tooth surface. The research results indicate that the maximum heat generation area inside the swing angle milling head is mainly concentrated on the pitch line of the bevel gear tooth surface of the main spindle execution component, with a maximum temperature of 43.559°C. The maximum thermal deformation is located at the tip of the swing angle milling head, with a maximum thermal deformation of 1.8353 × 10−5 m, this study can provide important theoretical reference and data support for the structural optimization and thermal deformation control of subsequent swing angle milling heads.
Numerical simulation and experimental research on through-mask electrochemical machining of micro-dimple arrays using inner-jet cathodes
Authors: Wang Feng , Wang Tao , He Yafeng , Yu Zhiqiang , Shen Yiming , Kang Min
Published: February 2024

The surface micro-dimple arrays can effectively improve the friction and lubrication performance of moving parts and are widely used in cutting tools and mechanical transmissions. Through-mask electrochemical machining (TMECM) is a process that uses the anodic dissolution principle to remove materials at low temperatures. It is suitable for efficiently processing large-area micro-dimple arrays on metal surfaces. However, the previous TMECM method still suffers from the problem of low processing adaptability. In this paper, a new method for scanning-cathode TMECM by utilizing the fluid dynamic pressure effect was proposed, and the flow field and electric field models of various inner-jet cathodes were developed as well. Through numerical simulations of the flow field and electric field, the flow velocity, electrolyte pressure, and current density distributions for different inner-jet cathodes were investigated to determine an appropriate cathode. Contrasting experiments were conducted to investigate the variations in electrolyte flow states and machining currents for different inner-jet cathodes. Additionally, the changes in micro-dimple dimensions under different machining parameters were investigated. Moreover, the micro-dimple arrays of 385.7 μm in diameter and 111.8 μm in depth, 288.8 μm in diameter and 40.3 μm in depth, and micro-dimple arrays with an etching factor of 1.69 were fabricated, and the results demonstrated the good processing adaptability of the scanning-cathode TMECM.
Delivering and utilising library services during the pandemic disease outbreak: challenges and coping strategies
Authors: Wilfred Josephine , Mwantimwa Kelefa
Published: February 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic caused severe shutdowns, quarantines, closures, cancellations, and other restrictive measures in different countries. Educational institutions such as universities, colleges, and schools were not immune to the devastating effects caused by the pandemic.

Purpose

The present study intended to explore challenges and coping strategies in maintaining access to and use of resources and services in academic libraries during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Research design

To gain familiarity and acquire new insight into how Tanzania academic libraries managed their services during the COVID-19 pandemic exploratory research design was employed. A qualitative approach was mainly used to explore library staff and users’ opinions and experiences on library service provision during the pandemic outbreak.

Data collection methods and analysis

Focus group discussions (FGDs) and face-to-face semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. Data collected through FGD and semi-structured interviews were transcribed and subjected to qualitative data analysis. In particular, thematic analysis was employed in analysing data based on assigned themes.

Results

Generally, the study reveals multiple challenges in delivering library services and resources and their coping strategies. However, most of the coping strategies put forward mainly focused into preventing the pandemic, rather than enhancing access to and use of library services and resources among the users.

Conclusion and recommendations

The study exposes challenges that affected the delivery and use of library services during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, and their coping strategies were known. Proposal to digitize the library collections, invest in the application of digital library solutions and innovations, build capacity in digital competencies among the library staff and users, and increase access and use of open and freely available resources and services appear to be sustainable coping strategies when a pandemic occurs.
Agency, institutions, and welfare chauvinism: Tracing the exclusion of European Union migrant citizens from social assistance in Germany
Authors: Afscharian Dominic , Bruzelius Cecilia , Seeleib-Kaiser Martin
Published: February 2024

What explains welfare chauvinistic policy reform, that is, targeted exclusion of non-citizens from welfare? Existing research suggest that contextual factors like far-right party success, perceived immigration pressures, party ideologies and institutions could spur such reform, but the processes behind reforms remain understudied. This article draws on public policy literature to call attention the critical role of agency and institutions in welfare chauvinist reform. It focuses on a law excluding migrant EU citizens from social assistance in Germany. Through process tracing and inductive reconstruction of the policy process, based on political documents, interviews, media reporting and descriptive statistics, we show that the policy proposal originated from German city administrations; that the city of Hamburg was key in pushing for exclusions; and that Hamburg’s success in doing so crucially depended on the city’s mayor. Several comparable German cities (in terms of party politics and levels of immigration) were equally concerned with ‘welfare immigration’ and complained about problem pressure, but only Hamburg had a committed mayor with the right political networks and institutional resources to lobby for welfare exclusions at the federal level.
Septicemic salmonellosis in suckling piglets resulting from improper intramuscular administration of an oral vaccine
Authors: Menegatt Jean C. O. , Almeida Bruno A. , Perosa Fernanda F. , Castro Lucas T. , Gris Anderson H. , Piva Manoela M. , Silva Emanoelly M. S. , Pavarini Saulo P. , Driemeier David
Published: February 2024

We describe an unusual outbreak of mortality in suckling piglets following the misadministration of an oral vaccine against Salmonella Typhimurium and Salmonella Choleraesuis. Within 3–48 h of vaccination of a batch of ~700 piglets, ~300 developed marked swelling in the dorsal neck region, respiratory distress, fever, recumbency, and apathy. In total, ~100 died, and 4 were submitted for autopsy. Gross and microscopic lesions consisted of focally extensive areas of purple discoloration in the skin of the cervical region, associated with edema and hemorrhage in the subcutis and muscles. Additionally, there was interstitial pneumonia with marked interlobular edema and mild fibrinous pleuritis. Aerobic bacterial culture identified Salmonella Typhimurium (3 cases) and Salmonella Choleraesuis (1 case) in samples of skeletal muscle and lung and from pleural swab samples. Marked immunostaining against Salmonella spp. was observed in the skeletal muscle of the cervical region, as well as in blood vessels and macrophages from the lung, liver, spleen, and kidney. We concluded that inappropriate intramuscular administration of an oral vaccine against Salmonella resulted in septicemia and death in a batch of piglets.
The journey from unrealistic to realistic optimism: Ancient Confucian wisdom in modern business practice
Authors: Chou Sophia Chia-Min
Published: February 2024

The notion of “realistic optimism” seems paradoxical, intertwining the contradictory elements of objective judgment and a positive outlook. Extant research often falls short in analyzing this dilemma and in capturing the cultural nuances. Given Confucianism’s endeavors to reconcile realism and optimism, this paper explores the cultivation of realistic optimism in Confucian classics. Further, an account of a contemporary Confucian merchant is provided to illustrate the enduring relevance of these ancient principles in the contemporary business world. This paper highlights two Confucian approaches that facilitate the development of realistic optimism. Firstly, from a preventive stance, “desire modesty” enhances realism by lowering cognitive dissonance and fosters optimism by reducing external motivation that often hinders creative solutions. Secondly, from a promotive perspective, “discernment clarity” promotes realism by cultivating a strong need for cognition; “meaningful adversity” mitigates pessimistic feelings by reframing hardships; and “sincere creativity” bolsters optimism by inspiring innovative solutions. Overall, this paper underscores the crucial role of culture in shaping realistic optimism by illuminating the profound influence of Confucian teachings in transforming this seeming paradox into a lived reality.
Building Local Capacity in a Low-Resource Setting to Increase Access to Health Care: An Evaluation of Blood Pressure Monitoring Training
Authors: Weir Sarah , May Cassandra , Wills Alexa , Van Zanten Erin , Nesbit Kathryn , Ngalande Alexander , Kanjirawaya Ruth
Published: February 2024

Cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension are common and largely uncontrolled in Malawi. In this low-resource setting, Community Health Workers (CHWs) can increase access to home-based blood pressure (BP) monitoring. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a CHW training focused on BP monitoring and referral criteria, as well as the accuracy of referral decision-making and documentation. The participants were a purposive sample of all active home-based palliative care CHWs at St. Gabriel’s Hospital (n = 60) located in Namitete, Malawi, serving over 250,000 people within a 50 km radius. This was a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted in December 2020 using both quantitative (descriptive, paired t-test) and qualitative (thematic) analysis. Participants showed significantly greater knowledge on the post-test (M = 8.98, SD = 1.213) compared to the pretest (M = 7.96, SD = 1.231), t (54)-5.0557.475, p < .001. All participants who attended both days of training demonstrated competency on a skills checklist in 100% of the rehabilitation and BP monitoring skills taught. Through document analysis of record books, referral decisions for patients with hypertension were 87.57% accurate and 81.07% of entries (n = 713) were complete. Participants reported the lack of both transportation and equipment as barriers to their work. They reported trainings, supplies, and support from the hospital as facilitators to their work. This study shows that BP can be monitored in remote villages, accurate referrals can be made, and stroke prevention education can be provided. These interventions increase the chances of more equitable care for this vulnerable population in a resource-limited setting.
Bridging the Gap: Engaging Black Men in Lung Cancer Research Through Barbershop Collaboration
Authors: Negrete Miguel , Ademiluyi Adeolu , Karayeva Evgenia , Eskridge George , Huggins Matthew , Eskridge Curtis M. , Price Bobby D. , Bendinskas Kestutis G. , Watson Karriem S. , Kim Sage J.
Published: February 2024

Health disparities persist among Black men, notably in the context of lung cancer and stress-related health outcomes. This study explores these disparities through a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach, citizen science, and social network theory, leveraging the expertise and trust of Black barbers as community leaders. The purpose is to understand the nuanced connections between stress and lung cancer in this demographic. Engaging 161 Black men across four Chicago neighborhoods, the study successfully collected hair samples and survey data, emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive recruitment strategies. Findings highlight the effectiveness of the collaboration, showcasing the role of barbershops as community hubs for research. The study concludes by advocating for sustained partnerships with community leaders, emphasizing transparency in research communication, and promoting culturally grounded approaches to address health disparities and enhance research participation among underrepresented populations.
Assessment of Awareness, Attitude, and Consequences of Healthcare Waste Among Health Workers at Health Facilities In Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Nwosu Innocent A. , Ekpechu Joseph O. , Njemanze Vivian C. , Semidara Bukola , Eyisi Emmanuel C. , Ohuruogu Ben , Nwazonobi Patricia E. , Umanah Ubong N. , Clement Willie C. , Aleke Christian O. , Okoli Charles N.
Published: February 2024

Healthcare waste which consists of waste materials generated at healthcare facilities is hazardous to both the environment and human life. However, many people are unaware of the dangers of medical wastes. Previous studies have neglected the assessment of the level of awareness and attitude of health workers toward healthcare waste. Therefore, this study assesses the level of awareness of healthcare workers about the dangers and their attitude toward the waste and its implications. The study, which employed cross-sectional design with 334 participants, was conducted in Southeast Nigeria. Data collection was through questionnaire and in-depth interview guide. Data analyzed through descriptive statistics revealed that the level of awareness of health workers about the dangers of healthcare waste is high; their attitude toward healthcare waste is poor; and that the consequences of mismanaged healthcare waste are devastating. Therefore, healthcare facilities should have a functional waste management policy, train their staff on ways of handling waste and educate the public about dangers of healthcare waste.
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome: A Nationwide Colombian Pediatric Series
Authors: Espitaleta Zilac , Domínguez-Vargas Alex , Villamizar-Martínez Johanna , Carrascal-Guzmán Martha , Guerrero-Tinoco Gustavo , Silva-Díaz Diana , Baquero Richard , Pinto-Bernal Claudia , González-Chaparro Luz , Rojas-Rosas Luisa , Amado-Niño Pilar , Castillo-Arteaga Mariángel , Alvarez-Gómez Yeferson , Arguello-Muñoz Laura , Morales-Camacho William , León-Guerra Oscar , Egea Eduardo , Galeano-Rodríguez Ricardo , Quintero-Gómez Ana , Aroca-Martínez Gustavo , Musso Carlos G.
Published: February 2024

Objectives. Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare complement-mediated kidney disease with genetic predisposition and represents up to 10% of pediatric hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) cases. Few studies have evaluated aHUS in Latin American population. We studied a Colombian pediatric cohort to delineate disease presentation and outcomes. Methods. A multicenter cohort of 27 Colombian children with aHUS were included. Patients were grouped by age at onset. Clinical features were compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Fisher exact tests. Renal biopsy was performed on 6 patients who were suspected of having other renal diseases before aHUS diagnosis. Results. Most patients were male (70%). The onset of aHUS occurred frequently before age 4 years (60%) and followed gastroenteritis as the main triggering event (52%). Age groups showed comparable clinical presentation, disease severity, treatment, and outcomes. Pulmonary involvement (67%) was the main extrarenal manifestation, particularly in the 1 to 7 age group ( P = .01). Renal biopsies were as follows: 3 had membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) type I, one MPGN type III, one C3-glomerulonephritis, and one rapidly progressive GN. Genetic screening was available in 6 patients and identified 2x CFHR5, 2xMCP, 1x ADAMTS13/THBD, and 1x DGKE mutations. A total of 15 relapses were seen, of which 8 (72%) occurred in the 1 to 7 age group. The renal outcome was not significantly different regardless of age group. Conclusion. In our cohort, we observed a relatively high frequency of extrarenal involvement at first presentation represented by pulmonary manifestations. The renal prognosis at initial presentation was worse than in previous reports.
The Sonopet iQ® Ultrasonic Bone Aspirator in Craniofacial Surgery: A Scoping Review and Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Daly Gwendolyn E. , Luh Rebecca A. , Balumuka Darius , Howell Lori K. , Wolfswinkel Erik M.
Published: February 2024

Background:

The Sonopet iQ® Ultrasonic Aspirator is a surgical tool used for the fragmentation and emulsification of bone and soft tissue. Ultrasonic vibrations emulsify bone with cited benefits of decreased damage to surrounding soft tissue and minimal heat dispersion. Despite these potential benefits, there is a paucity of published articles on the safety and efficacy of the Sonopet® in the setting of craniofacial surgery.

Methods:

In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, MEDLINE and Pubmed were searched for articles that studied use of the Sonopet® for osteotomies in the craniofacial setting. Studies exclusively investigating soft tissue aspiration were excluded.

Results:

Out of 61 articles discovered, 22 met inclusion criteria and discussed a total of 816 patients. Of the 22 articles, there were 8 retrospective chart reviews, 7 case series, 5 cadaver models, and 2 case reports. Studies spanned multiple disciplines including otolaryngology, ophthalmology, craniofacial surgery, neurosurgery, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. Despite its frequent use in orthognathic and cranial vault remodeling surgery, only 4 studies described its use in these fields. The most commonly cited benefits of the Sonopet® were enhanced ergonomics and safety, discussed in 20 of the included studies. Eighteen studies claimed the Sonopet® was safer to use in surgically tight spaces compared to traditional drills. Four studies found decreased bone dust generation by the Sonopet® compared to conventional cutting devices. No studies reported an increase in postoperative complications due to the device. The most commonly cited disadvantage was the cost of the device, however, the majority of authors believed the benefits of the device outweighed the increase in cost.

Conclusions:

There is a dearth of research investigating the use of the Sonopet® in craniofacial surgery. Available studies emphasize the ergonomic and safety benefits of the Sonopet® and encourage expanded use of the device despite its cost.
Couvelaire Uterus: Point-of-Care Ultrasonography in the Diagnosis of an Uncommon Obstetric Emergency
Authors: Pina Juan Manuel , Tamagnone Francisco , Cheong Issac , Merlo Pablo , Benay Cristian , Vera Ruben
Published: February 2024

Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) is a key tool in critical care, including obstetric patients in intensive care units (ICUs). Point-of-care ultrasonography can aid in pregnancy diagnosis, fetal assessment, and detection of complications. This case study is based on a 39-year-old pregnant woman, admitted to critical care for preeclampsia. After cesarean delivery, the patient experienced decreased hematocrit levels, renal dysfunction, and uterine tenderness. The POCUS demonstrated uterine atony (inability of the uterus to contract after childbirth), leading to exploratory surgery that confirmed a Couvelaire uterus (CU). Hysterectomy was performed, and histology showed necrosis and bleeding. Couvelaire uterus is a rare complication of placental abruption, caused by placental vascular damage and uterine bleeding. Conservative management and uterine contraction-stimulating drugs are typically used to treat CU. In this case, POCUS provided real-time data for the diagnosis of this obstetric emergency and perhaps other conditions. This report underscores the significance of surveillance and prompt intervention to prevent adverse outcomes for both mothers and infants.
A data-adaptive method for investigating effect heterogeneity with high-dimensional covariates in Mendelian randomization
Authors: Tian Haodong , Tom Brian D. M. , Burgess Stephen
Published: February 2024

Background

Mendelian randomization is a popular method for causal inference with observational data that uses genetic variants as instrumental variables. Similarly to a randomized trial, a standard Mendelian randomization analysis estimates the population-averaged effect of an exposure on an outcome. Dividing the population into subgroups can reveal effect heterogeneity to inform who would most benefit from intervention on the exposure. However, as covariates are measured post-“randomization”, naive stratification typically induces collider bias in stratum-specific estimates.

Method

We extend a previously proposed stratification method (the “doubly-ranked method”) to form strata based on a single covariate, and introduce a data-adaptive random forest method to calculate stratum-specific estimates that are robust to collider bias based on a high-dimensional covariate set. We also propose measures based on the Q statistic to assess heterogeneity between stratum-specific estimates (to understand whether estimates are more variable than expected due to chance alone) and variable importance (to identify the key drivers of effect heterogeneity).

Result

We show that the effect of body mass index (BMI) on lung function is heterogeneous, depending most strongly on hip circumference and weight. While for most individuals, the predicted effect of increasing BMI on lung function is negative, it is positive for some individuals and strongly negative for others.

Conclusion

Our data-adaptive approach allows for the exploration of effect heterogeneity in the relationship between an exposure and an outcome within a Mendelian randomization framework. This can yield valuable insights into disease aetiology and help identify specific groups of individuals who would derive the greatest benefit from targeted interventions on the exposure.