bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation of salivary hs-CRP With conventional cardiovascular risk markers and hba1c in prediabetic subjects
Authors: Bedi Dr. Gautam , Acharya Sourya
Published: May 2024

Prediabetes has attracted considerable attention because it increases the risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Prediabetes is also associated with obesity and dyslipidemia. Chronic low-grade inflammation is a crucial element in the clinical course of metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a biomarker of inflammation that tends to increase in patients with diabetes and prediabetes. Most serological markers of diabetes are detected using invasive techniques that cause anxiety and pain. Therefore, the use of noninvasive techniques for frequent biomarker monitoring is necessary. Salivary diagnostics is an upcoming field for sensitive biomarker detection, such as hs-CRP. HbA1C is a valuable glycemic risk marker and has proven to be a reliable test of time. Both HbA1C and CRP play pivotal roles in diabetes and prediabetes. hs-CRP is a measure of CRP level with greater accuracy. The lower limit of its measurement is 0.01 mg/L and the measurement is more than100 times as sensitive than the CRP measurement (lower limit 5 mg/L). Therefore, our study aimed to evaluate and establish a relationship between these factors in prediabetics. Since metabolic syndrome and prediabetes are the cause and effect of each other, correlating anthropometric measurements and lipid profile with HbA1C and hs-CRP will be our focus.
El derecho a la vivienda como derecho a la propiedad privada financiada
Authors: López-Castro Yira
Published: May 2024

Este capítulo presenta una aproximación descriptiva a la relación entre la propiedad habitacional, el derecho a la vivienda y el endeudamiento en las decisiones de constitucionalidad y en la legislación sobre adquisición de vivienda. Para alcanzar ese propósito, este texto se divide en cuatro partes. La primera analiza la jurisprudencia constitucional que ha protegido a la propiedad privada con la justificación de estar defendiendo el derecho a la vivienda (1).La segunda parte analiza un antecedente jurisprudencial que se aproximó al derecho a la vivienda desde la tenencia en el contrato de leasing habitacional (2). En tercer lugar, el texto analiza las normas de protección al comprador de vivienda, las cuales protegen al adquirente con independencia de que este emplee la vivienda para su uso habitacional (3). Por último, se propone pensar el derecho a la vivienda desde diversas formas de tenencia para ofrecer alternativas de protección a la población no propietaria (4).
Las piezas de la Corte Constitucional: una defensa del pluralismo
Authors: Pulido-Ortiz Fabio Enrique , González Niño Gabriela
Published: May 2024

En este trabajo, nos proponemos analizar un punto que vincula los enfoques interpretativo e institucional: los criterios y mecanismos para la conformación de las Cortes. En el derecho público actual, se ha desarrollado una pretensión de consolidar el constitucionalismo dialógico, esto es, una visión según la cual las decisiones judiciales constitucionales deben adoptar mecanismos de cooperaciones para resolver casos complejos o de profundos desacuerdos morales. Subrayamos la necesidad de dos tipos de diálogos: un diálogo externo con otros órganos jurídicos y un diálogo interno referido a la necesidad de articular mecanismos dialógicos entre las distintas visiones de los jueces que integran los tribunales. La tesis central es que el diálogo interno debe diseñar mecanismos para combinar tanto el pluralismo disciplinar como el pluralismo interpretativo, y así garantizar el acceso a la justicia de toda la sociedad.
Control constitucional en Colombia: ¿un rol activo del juez constitucional en lo que le conviene?
Authors: Morales Barreto Sergio Andrés
Published: May 2024

Este capítulo busca reconstruir las principales nociones y argumentos, a favor y en contra, del control judicial de las leyes, destacando las tesis que sostienen que una parte fundamental de dicho control (para algunos la única justificable) es depurar los procedimientos democráticos de toma de decisiones. Además, se resaltará la distinción entre las reglas o los parámetros que controlan el procedimiento o formación de las leyes y los que controlan su contenido explicando la relación de estas con el concepto de fuerza normativa de la ley. Finalmente, se formula una visión teórica del control constitucional en Colombia: cuanto mayor fuerza normativa tengan las leyes, menor capacidad tiene la Corte Constitucional para anularla, lo cual trae como consecuencia que, si la Corte fortalece el contenido de los derechos y de las libertades contenidos en la Constitución, entonces la Corte perderá capacidad para configurar las reglas del procedimiento democrático.
Workplace Automation and Corporate Liquidity Policy
Authors: Bates Thomas W. , Du Fangfang , Wang Jessie Jiaxu
Published: May 2024

Using an occupational probability of computerization, we measure a firm’s ability to replace labor with automated capital. Our evidence suggests that the potential to automate a workforce enhances operating flexibility, allowing firms to hold less precautionary cash. To provide evidence for this mechanism, we exploit the 2011–2012 Thailand hard drive crisis as an exogenous shock to the cost of automation. In addition, the negative relation between prospective automation and cash holdings is greater for firms with a lower expected cost of worker displacement and greater labor-induced operating leverage.

This paper was accepted by Lukas Schmid, finance.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2021.03902 .
Poor cyber hygiene puts the UK at risk
Authors: Mansfield-Devine Steve
Published: May 2024

The UK's businesses and charities could be sitting ducks, according to the Government's latest ‘Cyber Security Breaches Survey’. Too many organisations are failing to deploy even the most basic cyber security measures. Equally, few are prepared for the new wave of AI-driven attacks or the consequences of being breached.
Left to right maxima in Dyck prefixes
Authors: Knopfmacher Arnold , Blecher Aubrey
Published: May 2024

In a Dyck path, a peak which is strictly (weakly) higher than all the preceding peaks is called a strict (weak) left-to-right maximum. By dropping the restrictions for the path to end on the $x$-axis, one obtains Dyck prefixes.We obtain explicit generating functions for both weak and strict left-to-right maxima in Dyck prefixes.The proofs of the associated asymptotics make use of analytic techniques such as Mellin transforms, singularity analysis and formal residue calculus.
Width-k Eulerian polynomials of type A and B: the \gamma-positivity
Authors: Abdelmaksoud Marwa Ben , Adel Hamdi
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we introduce some new generalizations of classical descent and inversion statistics on signed permutations that arise from the work of Sack and Ulfarsson [18], and called k-width descents and k-width inversions of type A [8]. Using the aforementioned new statistics, we derive new generalizations of Eulerian polynomials of type A, B and D. We establish also the $\gamma$-positivity of the Eulerian "width-k" polynomials. Referring to Petersen's paper [16], we give a combinatorial interpretation of finite sequences associated with these new polynomials using quasi-symmetric functions and a partition P.
Prediction of Treatment Response and Effect on Clinical Manifestations for Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus of Sleep Related Breathing Disorders
Authors: Jeon Ji-Ye , Lee Yonghyun , Hah Hyungseok , Lee Ho-Won , Park Ki-Su , Kang Kyunghun
Published: May 2024

Objectives: Sleep disorders and normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) are increasingly important issues observed in neurological disorders. However, the correlation between these diseases has not been sufficiently studied. Thus, we discuss the correlation between sleep disorders and the clinical features of NPH. Methods: Overall, 40 patients with idiopathic NPH were included in the study. To evaluate the sleep disorders and psychiatric problems, surveys were administered, including the 36-Item Short Form Survey, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Berlin Questionnaire, STOP-Bang Questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire, and the REM Sleep Behavior Disorder Screening Questionnaire. To evaluate the severity of dementia and ataxia, all of the patients completed the Korean mini-mental state examination; Korea frontal assessment battery score, amd unified Parkinson’s disease rating scale-motor scores before and after cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage. The Pearson’s chi-square test, independent Student’s t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, and linear regression analysis were used to analyze the relationship between sleep disorders and symptom improvement after CSF drainage. Results: Of the 40 patients, 21 patients had poor sleep quality (PSQI>5), 8 patients had insomnia (ISI≥8), 11 patients had daytime sleepiness (ESS≥11), 9 (STOP-Bang≥3) to 13 (Berlin≥2 categories) patients had sleep apnea, 13 patients were anxious (HAS≥8), and 27 patients were depressed (HDS≥8). A linear regression analysis showed that sleep apnea was significantly correlated with cognitive function, and insomnia was correlated with cognitive, motor, and frontal lobe functions. Additionally, patients with severe sleep apnea demonstrated a greater recovery of cognitive function after CSF drainage. Conclusions: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is closely related to the clinical symptoms and treatment effectiveness of NPH. The diagnosis and proper treatment of OSA is expected to improve the prognosis of patients with NPH.
Between Nationalism and Internationalism: Robert Weltsch and the Colonial Dilemma in World War II Palestine
Authors: Kabalek Kobi
Published: May 2024

Abstract: This article proposes that the marginality of World War II in the historiography of Zionism and Israel is based on a historical perspective that shaped contemporaries' evaluation of reality and framed postwar historiography. Through the wartime writings of Robert Weltsch, I argue that this historiographic absence draws on a dilemma: Should Britain's colonized populations continue their fight for independence from British rule during the war or support the empire in the world conflict against the Axis? The dilemma expressed a tension between the colonial aspects of the Yishuv and its reliance on the British Empire, on the one hand, and its anticolonial struggle for independence from the British, on the other. This article examines the Yishuv's wartime dilemma using the distinction Weltsch made between a narrow perspective, which he associated with World War I's legacy of self-determination, and a broad international view.
“Who That Be?”: The Perils of Purchasing Illuminated Fragments through Online Catalogs at Auction:
Authors: Azzarello Stephanie
Published: May 2024

Abstract: This essay analyses the pitfalls of auction catalogs’ descriptions of fragments and cuttings. Through an in-depth examination of a cutting sold through Sotheby’s in 2009, the author deconstructs the way in which such fragments are attributed to well-known scribes or illuminators. The cutting was initially ascribed to the so-called Murano Master, but an investigation of the style and artistic features of the fragment challenges this assumption. The essay critically assesses the illumination of the Sotheby’s cutting to contextualize the role of the artist attribution, artistic quality, and provenance of fragments in auction catalogs.
Resequencing the Beauvais Missal: A Progress Report
Authors: Davis Lisa Fagin
Published: May 2024

Abstract: The Beauvais Missal is a late-thirteenth-century manuscript originally created in France. After changing owners multiple times, it was finally dismembered by a New York dealer, Philip Duschnes, in the 1940s. Single leaves were then later sold by Duschnes and Otto Ege to numerous individuals and institutions. This study traces the fate of those fragments as well as the attempts at a digital reconstruction of the Missal. At the same time, using the story of the quest to virtually reunite Missal’s leaves, this essay provides us with a glimpse into the development of fragmentology-related digital tools and methodologies. The status of singular leaves’ identification is reviewed and an overview of the artistic style and writing of the manuscript is provided. This overview allows for a reflection of the nature of digital remediation.
Cirights: Quantifying Respect for All Human Rights
Authors: Mark Skip , Filippov Mikhail , Cingranelli David
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT: The CIRIGHTS Data Project scores a representative sample of all internationally recognized human rights. In this article, we use CIRIGHTS scores to discover global patterns in government respect for human rights. The findings show that worker rights, including the right to form a trade union and bargain collectively, are among the least protected human rights. The right to be protected from torture is also among the least protected rights, but, on average, other physical integrity rights—protection from extrajudicial killing, political imprisonment, and disappearance—are among the most protected rights. We introduce an Overall Human Rights Protection Index for all countries, which shows that nearly two-thirds of the world's countries score less than 65 on the 100-point scale. A heat map shows that countries tend to have similar index scores if they share an international border. We discuss the implications of these patterns for future research and policymaking.
Hận: The Haunt of Home, Vietnamese Refugee Melancholia, and the Challenges to Asian American Critiques
Authors: Nguyen-Dien Giang
Published: May 2024

Abstract: Based on writings of first-generation Vietnamese refugees, this article explores hận (a deep hatred and resentment, or a haunting anguish) through the lens of melancholia to uncover the convergence and divergence of Vietnamese refugee politics and Asian American politics. I argue that hận exposes the double forces and geographies of violence (by/in both the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the United States) that produce the constraints that refugee free wills are not just pushing against, but are also bound by, resulting in the divergence between first-generation Vietnamese refugee politics and Asian American anti-imperialism and decolonization politics.
Adaptive Political Economy: Toward a New Paradigm
Authors: Yuen Ang Yuen
Published: May 2024

The conventional paradigm in political economy routinely treats living, complex, adaptive social systems as machine-like objects. This treatment has driven political economists to oversimplify big, complex social processes using mechanical models, or to ignore them altogether. In development, this has led to theoretical dead ends, trivial agendas, or failed public policies. This article proposes an alternative paradigm: adaptive political economy. It
recognizes that social systems are complex, not complicated; complexity can be ordered, not messy; and social scientists should be developing the concepts, methods, and theories to illuminate the order of complexity, rather than oversimplifying it. The author illustrates one application of adaptive political economy by mapping the coevolution of economic and institutional change. This approach yields fresh, important conclusions that mechanical, linear models of development have missed, including that market-building institutions look and function differently from market-sustaining ones.
Mask 3D parameter optimization for improving imaging contrast of plasmonic lithography
Authors: He Jianfang , Ding Huwen , Wei Yayi , Ye Tianchun
Published: May 2024

Based on plasmonic lithography (PL) technology, and aiming at the special nano-optical effect of metal/dielectric multilayer composites and mask three-dimensional (M3D) effect, a method for optimizing mask parameters is proposed. As a common analytic formula, the optical transfer function method has been introduced to analyze the imaging process. In order to include the M3D effect, FDTD is used to quantitatively calculate the PL imaging results, and the aerial image (AI) intensity and the light intensity contrast of AI in the photoresist layer can be obtained. The simulation results suggest that the imaging resolution and light intensity contrast can be improved by optimizing the M3D parameters such as the sidewall angle, thickness, and material of the mask absorber. For the line space test pattern with critical dimension = 150 nm and pitch = 300 nm, the results indicate that the optimal sidewall angle is 40°, resulting in an increase in the light intensity contrast of 344%. The light intensity contrast with a mask thickness of 70 nm is improved by 11% when compared to a mask thickness of 60 nm. The use of Ta and opaque MoSi on glass as the mask absorber material improves the light intensity contrast to varying degrees compared to the Cr mask.
Broadband amplification and thermal lensing in a combination of Yb:YLF and Yb:YAG crystals
Authors: Mironov Evgeniy A. , Kuznetsov Ivan I. , Palashov Oleg V. , Morozov Oleg A. , Naumov Alexander K.
Published: May 2024

Broadband amplification of laser radiation in a combination of Yb:YLF and Yb:YAG crystals was demonstrated. It was shown that, with the input spectrum width of 20 nm, the width at the output spectrum can reach 17 nm. A thermal lens induced in the Yb:YAG crystal is partially compensated by the lens in the Yb:YLF crystal due to the different signs of the ∂n/∂T coefficients of the crystals. The thermal lens in the Yb:YLF crystal in the thin and thick (“long-the-side pumped”) rod geometries was studied theoretically and experimentally. An analytical model of thermally induced phase distortions in uniaxial crystals caused by the piezo-optical effect was developed for the thin-rod geometry.
Quantitative assessment whole-rock iron content in magnetite protolith based on terahertz time-domain spectroscopy: publisher’s note
Authors: Zhang Mingrui , Zheng Zhiyuan , Zhang Tong , Zhang Siqi , Huang Ren , Zheng Xiaodi , Shen Junfeng , Huang Haochong , Zhang Zili
Published: May 2024

This publisher’s note serves to correct errors in Appl. Opt. 63, 2528 (2024)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.517400.
Negative reflection and total internal reflection at the internal surface of lithium niobate crystal
Authors: Sain Priyank , Hegde Gopalkrishna , Talabattula Srinivas
Published: May 2024

In this paper we analytically find out the expression for the wave vector and Poynting vector in the reflection domain for negative uniaxial material. We investigate the impact of the optical axis rotation and incident angle on the wave vector and Poynting vector reflected from the internal surface of lithium niobate crystal when the light is propagating from the denser anisotropic medium to the rarer isotropic medium. We derive the Brewster angle condition and discuss the walk-off between TE and TM polarized light. We explore where the wave vector and Poynting vector are parallel after reflection. In further analysis, we look into the phase differences between ordinary and extraordinary reflected light after total internal reflection from the internal surface of lithium niobate crystal. The necessary conditions for linear polarization and circular polarization have been established. The impact of optical axis orientation is also taken into consideration. The refractive index for the isotropic material for the desired polarization response has been found as 2.18, 2.1, and 2.03 at 632 nm, 1550 nm, and 3500 nm, respectively.
High-precision spatiotemporal three-dimensional ultrashort pulse synchronization with optical Kerr effect
Authors: Zhang Tianyu , Xu Yingming , Liu Wenfeng , Fan Wei , Liu Cheng , Sun Mingying , Zhu Jianqiang
Published: May 2024

In studying the interaction of multiple ultrashort pulses with matter, high requirements are put forward for spatiotemporal synchronization accuracy. Limited by the response time and bandwidth of existing devices, the synchronization of multiple ultrashort pulses still faces significant difficulties. By observing the transient phenomena of the optical Kerr effect, high-precision, three-dimensional (x, y, t) synchronization of ultrashort pulses at different angles was achieved. In the optical Kerr effect, the polarization state of the signal pulse changes only when it coincides with the pump pulse, at which point the signal pulse passes through the analyzer. The changes in the intensity and phase of the signal pulse is positively correlated with the degree of spatiotemporal coincidence. In this study, 10-ps pulses were used in the experiments. By observing the intensity and phase distribution of the signal pulses, a time synchronization accuracy between two pulses of less than 1 ps and spatial synchronization accuracy of ±125 µm and ±3 µm in the x and y directions, respectively, were achieved. Moreover, the synchronization of two pulses at an angle of 90 ° was measured, further proving that the method can achieve the spatiotemporal synchronization of pulses with large angles. Therefore, this method has important application prospects in the study of multi-beam interactions with matter and other ultrafast physical phenomena.
Experimental anonymous quantum conferencing
Authors: Webb Jonathan W. , Ho Joseph , Grasselli Federico , Murta Gláucia , Pickston Alexander , Ulibarrena Andres , Fedrizzi Alessandro
Published: May 2024

Anonymous quantum conference key agreement (AQCKA) allows a group of
users within a network to establish a shared cryptographic key without
revealing their participation. Although this can be achieved using
bipartite primitives alone, it is costly in the number of network
rounds required. By allowing the use of multi-partite entanglement,
there is a substantial efficiency improvement. We experimentally
implement the AQCKA task in a six-user quantum network using
Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger (GHZ)-state entanglement and obtain a
significant resource cost reduction in line with theory when compared
to a bipartite-only approach. We also demonstrate that the protocol
retains an advantage in a four-user scenario with finite key effects
taken into account.
Programmable meta-holography dynamics enabled by grating-modulation
Authors: Rao Runlong , Wan Shuai , Li Zhe , Shi Yangyang , Li Zhongyang
Published: May 2024

Towards next-generation intelligent display devices, it is urgent to find a cheap and convenient dynamic optical control method. Conventional gratings are widely used as cheap diffractive elements due to their effective optical control capabilities. However, they are limited within multi-function or complex optical modulation due to the lack of accurate control of the amplitude/phase at pixel-level. Here, a metasurface-assisted grating-modulation system is originally proposed to achieve switchable multi-fold meta-holographic dynamics. By incorporating metasurfaces with traditional gratings and tuning their relative coupling positions, the modulation system gains the optical modulation capability to realize complex optical functionalities. Specifically, by varying the grating periods/positions relative to the metasurface, 2–8 holographic image channels are programmed to be dynamically exhibited and switched. The proposed metasurface-assisted grating-modulation approach enjoys cost-effective convenience, strong encoding freedom, and facile operation, which promises programmable optical displays, optical sensors, optical information encryption/storage, etc.
An interpretable framework to identify responsive subgroups from clinical trials regarding treatment effects: Application to treatment of intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Ling Yaobin , Tariq Muhammad Bilal , Tang Kaichen , Aronowski Jaroslaw , Fann Yang , Savitz Sean I. , Jiang Xiaoqian , Kim Yejin
Published: May 2024

Randomized Clinical trials (RCT) suffer from a high failure rate which could be caused by heterogeneous responses to treatment. Despite many models being developed to estimate heterogeneous treatment effects (HTE), there remains a lack of interpretable methods to identify responsive subgroups. This work aims to develop a framework to identify subgroups based on treatment effects that prioritize model interpretability. The proposed framework leverages an ensemble uplift tree method to generate descriptive decision rules that separate samples given estimated responses to the treatment. Subsequently, we select a complementary set of these decision rules and rank them using a sparse linear model. To address the trial’s limited sample size problem, we proposed a data augmentation strategy by borrowing control patients from external studies and generating synthetic data. We apply the proposed framework to a failed randomized clinical trial for investigating an intracerebral hemorrhage therapy plan. The Qini-scores show that the proposed data augmentation strategy plan can boost the model’s performance and the framework achieves greater interpretability by selecting complementary descriptive rules without compromising estimation quality. Our model derives clinically meaningful subgroups. Specifically, we find those patients with Diastolic Blood Pressure≥70 mm hg and Systolic Blood Pressure<215 mm hg benefit more from intensive blood pressure reduction therapy. The proposed interpretable HTE analysis framework offers a promising potential for extracting meaningful insight from RCTs with neutral treatment effects. By identifying responsive subgroups, our framework can contribute to developing personalized treatment strategies for patients more efficiently.
“For a man to go to hospital, then that would be his last option”: A qualitative study exploring men’s experiences, perceptions and healthcare needs in the implementation of Universal Health Coverage in Kenya
Authors: Mokua Sharon N. , Ombogo Lorraine , Mathu David , Otambo Prisca , Nyandieka Lilian , Onteri Stephen N. , Mbuka Schiller J. , Kariuki James , Ahmed Ismail , Wanjihia Violet , Mutai Joseph , Bukania Zipporah
Published: May 2024

The achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) requires equitable access and utilization of healthcare services across all population groups, including men. However, men often face unique barriers that impede their engagement with health systems which are influenced by a myriad of socio-cultural, economic, and systemic factors. Therefore, understanding men’s perspectives and experiences is crucial to identifying barriers and facilitators to their healthcare-seeking behaviour under UHC initiatives. This qualitative study sought to explore men’s perceptions, experiences, healthcare needs and potential strategies to inform an impartial implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Kenya. The study employed a qualitative research design to investigate men’s healthcare experiences in 12 counties across Kenya. Thirty focus group discussions involving 296 male participants were conducted. Men were purposively selected and mobilized through the support of health facility-in-charges, public health officers, and community health extension workers. Data was coded according to emergent views and further categorized thematically into three main domains (1) Perspectives and experiences of healthcare access (2) Socio-cultural beliefs and societal expectations (3) Desires and expectations of health systems. Findings revealed complex sociocultural, economic, and health system factors that influenced men’s healthcare experiences and needs which included: masculinity norms and gender roles, financial constraints and perceived unaffordability of services, lack of male-friendly and gender-responsive healthcare services, confidentiality concerns, and limited health literacy and awareness about available UHC services. Our study has revealed a disconnect between men’s needs and the current healthcare system. The expectations concerning masculinity further exacerbate the problem and exclude men further hindering men’s ability to receive appropriate care. This data provides important considerations for the development of comprehensive and gender-transformative approaches challenging harmful masculine norms, pushing for financial risk protection mechanisms and gender-responsive healthcare delivery attuned to the unique needs and preferences of men.
Effects of olfactory and/or gustatory stimuli on feeding of preterm infants: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Deping , Lu Qizhen , Li Li , Wang Xiaofeng
Published: May 2024

Aim

To evaluate the effect of olfactory and/or gustatory stimulation interventions on feeding outcomes in preterm infants.

Methods

We conducted systematic searches across various academic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, the Chinese Biomedical Literature Service System, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, the Wanfang Database, and the Wipu Database. These searches aimed to identify randomized controlled trials investigating the impact of olfactory and/or gustatory stimulation on preterm infants. The search period spanned from the inception of the databases until December 2022. Two independent evaluators autonomously reviewed the literature, extracted pertinent data, assessed the quality of the included studies, and conducted a meta-analysis using RevMan 5.3 software.

Results

A total of 7 randomized controlled trials or quasi-experimental studies were included, with a total of 871 participants. Olfactory and gustatory stimulation demonstrated a reduction in the time to full enteral feeds in preterm infants when compared to usual care (MD = -1.60 days; 95% CI = -2.31, -0.89; p<0.0001). No substantial evidence was identified regarding the influence of olfactory and gustatory stimulation on the duration of gastric tube placement, length of hospitalization, incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis, or occurrence of spontaneous bowel perforation in preterm infants.

Conclusions

Olfactory and gustatory stimulation show potential benefits for preterm infants. However, due to the low to very low level of certainty associated with the available data, our ability to assess the effects is limited. Further trials and studies are essential to enhance our understanding of the mechanisms and effectiveness of olfactory and gustatory stimulation therapies.
Sex differences in health-related quality of life and poverty risk among older people living with HIV in Spain: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Nuño Néstor , Martínez Alberto , Martínez Susana , Cobos Marta , Hernández Juan Sebastián , Polo Rosa
Published: May 2024

Background

Current antiretroviral therapies have increased the life expectancy of people living with HIV (PLHIV). There is, however, limited evidence regarding the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and living conditions of older people living with HIV (OPLHIV) in Spain.

Methods

We implemented a self-administered online questionnaire to identify sex differences in HRQoL and poverty risk among Spanish OPLHIV (PLHIV ≥50 years). Participants were contacted through non-governmental organisations. We used the standardised WHOQoL-HIV BREF questionnaire and the Europe 2020 guidelines to estimate HRQoL and poverty risk respectively. The statistical analysis included multivariable generalised linear models with potential confounding variables and robust estimates.

Results

The study included 247 OPLHIV (192 men and 55 women). On the WHOQoL-HIV BREF questionnaire, men scored higher on 84% of items and in all six domains. Women had significantly lower HRQoL in five domains: physical health (β: -1.5; 95% CI: -2.5, -0.5; p: 0.002), psychological health (β: -1.0; 95% CI: -1.9, -0.1; p: 0.036), level of independence (β: -1.1; 95% CI: -1.9, -0.2; p: 0.019), environmental health (β: -1.1; 95% CI: -1.8, -0.3; p: 0.008), and spirituality/personal beliefs (β: -1.4; 95% CI: -2.5, -0.3; p: 0.012). No statistical differences were found in the domain of social relations. Poverty risk was considerable for both men (30%) and women (53%), but women were significantly more likely to experience it (OR: 2.9; 95% CI: 1.3, 6.5; p: 0.009).

Conclusion

The aging of PLHIV is a public health concern. Our findings indicate that HRQoL and poverty risk among Spanish OPLHIV differ significantly by sex. Spain should, therefore, implement specific policies and interventions to address OPLHIV needs. The strategies must place a high priority on the reduction of sex inequalities in HRQoL and the enhancement of the structural conditions in which OPLHIV live.
Induced abortion in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Haile Teklehaimanot Gereziher , Abraha Teklehaymanot Huluf , Gebremeskel Gebreamlak Gebremedhn , Zereabruk Kidane , Welu Tesfay Hailu , Grum Teklit , Asres Negasi
Published: May 2024

Background

One of the main factors contributing to maternal morbidity and mortality is induced abortion. The WHO estimates that over 44 million induced abortions take place annually around the world. The majority of these abortions—about 50%—are unsafe, significantly increasing maternal morbidity and contributing to 13% of maternal deaths. Thus, this review aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of induced abortion and its associated factors in Africa.

Methods

To find literature on the prevalence of induced abortion and its associated factors, a thorough search of the internet databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, African Journals Online, and Google Scholar was conducted. The data were extracted using a structured method of data collection. Software called STATA 14 was used to do the analysis. funnel plot and Egger regression test were used to evaluate potential publication bias. I2 statistics and Cochrane’s Q were used to measure the heterogeneity at a p-value < 0.05.

Results

976 studies were found through a thorough search of electronic databases. Finally, 46 full-text abstract papers were included in this study. The estimated pooled prevalence of induced abortion was 16% (95% CI: 13%-19%). According to the sub-group analysis, most studies were conducted in Ethiopia, and the pooled prevalence was 19% (95% CI: 10%–30%). Similarly, the subgroup analysis by year of study showed that the prevalence of induced abortion was 39% (95% CI: 17%–64%) among studies conducted in 2019.

Conclusion

The results of this study thus imply that the pooled prevalence of induced abortion is higher than that of earlier studies that were published in some nations. the data from this study are needed to support reproductive and adolescent health programmers and policymakers and to formulate recommendations for future clinical practice and guidelines.
Comparative evaluation of the diagnostic accuracies of four different malaria rapid diagnostic test kits available in Ghana
Authors: Aninagyei Enoch , Deku John Gameli , Yemofio Keren Trishia , Quainoo Ekua , Ntiri Kofi Adjei , Yaro Evelyn , Essandoh Priscilla , Agbogli Hubert Kwame , Asmah Richard Harry
Published: May 2024

Malaria rapid diagnostic test (mRDT) kit is one of the techniques for diagnosing malaria. Due to its inherent advantages over the microscopy technique, several brands of the kit have flooded malaria endemic countries, without prior in-country evaluation. Two of such mRDT kits are Oscar (India) and Standard Q (Korea Republic). In this study, the performance of Oscar and Standard Q mRDT kits were compared to First Response (India) and CareStart (USA) mRDTs, which have been evaluated and deployed for use approved by the Ministry of Health (MOH). In this comparative study, whole blood samples were collected from patients suspected of malaria. Plasmodium falciparum was detected in each sample using nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR), microscopy and the four mRDTs. The sensitivities, specificities, accuracies, positive and negative predictive values and accuracies of the mRDTs were determined using nPCR as a reference technique. Kappa statistic was used to determine the level of agreement among the techniques. Two hundred (200) blood samples were analyzed in this study. The overall detection rates of P. falciparum by microscopy, First Response, CareStart, Oscar-PfHRP2, Standard Q mRDT kits and nPCR were 31.5%, 34.5%, 33.5%, 32%, 31% and 43% (x2 = 6.1, p = 0.046), respectively. The accuracies of CareStart and First Response were comparable (90.5% vs. 89.5%). Further, comparing their sensitivities, Oscar-PfHRP2 was 74.4% (95% confidence interval (CI): 63.9–83.2) while that of Standard Q was 72.1% (95% CI: 61.4–81.2), with comparable accuracies (Oscar-PfHRP2–89% and Standard Q -88%). Apart from First Response that was 98.3% specific, the others were 100% specific. Kappa test revealed perfect diagnostic agreement (κ = 0.90–0.98) among the four mRDTs. That notwithstanding, Oscar-PfHRP2 agreed better with CareStart (κ = 0.94) and First Response (κ = 0.92) compared to the agreement between Standard Q and, CareStart (κ = 0.92) and First Response (κ = 0.90). Taken together, the diagnostic performance of the four mRDT kits were statistically similar. That notwithstanding, new mRDT kits should be evaluated prior to deployment for use.
Characteristics of a transgender and gender-diverse patient population in Utah: Use of electronic health records to advance clinical and health equity research
Authors: Ho Tiffany F. , Zenger Brian , Mark Bayarmaa , Hiatt Laurel , Sullivan Erika , Steinberg Benjamin A. , Lyons Ann , Spivak Adam M. , Agarwal Cori , Adelman Marisa , Hotaling James , Kiraly Bernadette , Talboys Sharon
Published: May 2024

Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) people, individuals whose gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth, face unique challenges in accessing gender-affirming care and often experience disparities in a variety of health outcomes. Clinical research on TGD health is limited by a lack of standardization on how to best identify these individuals. The objective of this retrospective cohort analysis was to accurately identify and describe TGD adults and their use of gender-affirming care from 2003–2023 in a healthcare system in Utah, United States. International Classification of Disease (ICD)-9 and 10 codes and surgical procedure codes, along with sexual orientation and gender identity data were used to develop a dataset of 4,587 TGD adults. During this time frame, 2,985 adults received gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) and/or gender-affirming surgery (GAS) within one healthcare system. There was no significant difference in race or ethnicity between TGD adults who received GAHT and/or GAS compared to TGD adults who did not receive such care. TGD adults who received GAHT and/or GAS were more likely to have commercial insurance coverage, and adults from rural communities were underrepresented. Patients seeking estradiol-based GAHT tended to be older than those seeking testosterone-based GAHT. The first GAS occurred in 2013, and uptake of GAS have doubled since 2018. This study provides a methodology to identify and examine TGD patients in other health systems and offers insights into emerging trends and access to gender-affirming care.
A new method based on melatonin-mediated seed germination to quickly remove pesticide residues and improve the nutritional quality of contaminated grains
Authors: Li Lingyun , Li Baoyan , Qu Henghua , Tian Shan , Xu Zimeng , Zhao Lulu , Li Xueqin , Liu Baoyou
Published: May 2024

In the present study, we attempted to use melatonin combined with germination treatment to remove pesticide residues from contaminated grains. High levels of pesticide residues were detected in soybean seeds after soaking with chlorothalonil (10 mM) and malathion (1 mM) for 2 hours. Treatment with 50 μM melatonin for 5 days completely removed the pesticide residues, while in the control group, only 61–71% of pesticide residues were removed from soybean sprouts. Compared with the control, melatonin treatment for 7 days further increased the content of ascorbic acid (by 48–66%), total phenolics (by 52–68%), isoflavones (by 22–34%), the total antioxidant capacity (by 37–40%), and the accumulated levels of unsaturated fatty acids (C18:1, C18:2, and C18:3) (by 17–30%) in soybean sprouts. Moreover, melatonin treatment further increased the accumulation of ten components of phenols and isoflavones in soybean sprouts relative to those in the control. The ability of melatonin to accelerate the degradation of pesticide residues and promote the accumulation of antioxidant metabolites might be related to its ability to trigger the glutathione detoxification system in soybean sprouts. Melatonin promoted glutathione synthesis (by 49–139%) and elevated the activities of glutathione-S-transferase (by 24–78%) and glutathione reductase (by 38–61%). In summary, we report a new method in which combined treatment by melatonin and germination rapidly degrades pesticide residues in contaminated grains and improves the nutritional quality of food.
How might we begin to explore a version of drama therapy that celebrates disability?
Authors: Hodermarska Maria , Duke Marielle , Hodeib Lynn
Published: May 2024

Within this editorial, the three co-editors explore their connection to this issue through global, personal and identity-based perspectives. The editors introduce their connection to and passion for disability justice, while acknowledging the challenges surrounding creating this issue during multiple mass disabling events. Editors also introduce the pieces found within the journal with a brief synopsis of each, exploring their connection to disability justice within the field of drama therapy and the larger structures of oppression that define and determine how we approach disability and debility justice within mental health systems.
Navigating disability justice in the world of drama therapy: A roundtable
Authors: Sayre Dana , Duke Marielle , Way Courtney
Published: May 2024

This roundtable discussion explores the lived experience of three drama therapists who identify as disabled, chronically ill and/or neurodivergent. Within this dialogue, therapist–researchers explore the impact of ableism within the field as well as the unique experience of being a disabled/chronically ill/neurodivergent therapist existing within our current healthcare system. These authors represent just three out of a myriad of experiences.
PARADE: Celebrating Community in Action
Authors: Brunner Nick
Published: May 2024

Review of: PARADE: Celebrating Community in Action

Washington Square Park, New York, 7 May 2023
Hard yards, vulnerable bodies: Tenderness in two recent prison films from Argentina and Chile
Authors: Bollig Ben
Published: May 2024

Prison literature from Latin America has been a topic of growing interest for literary scholars of and from the region in recent years. This reflects wider attention in cultural studies dedicated to ‘heterotopias’ or ‘other spaces’, while building on the work of sociologists who have studied prisons and prison reform in countries there. Less has been written, however, about films set in penitentiaries. Building on recent work (Podalksy) that examines the depiction of feelings and emotions in cinema, as well as writing on depictions of the Latin American jail on page and screen (Whitfield, Aguilar) this article addresses the cinematic portrayal of a perhaps unlikely feeling, tenderness, in two prison films from the Southern Cone, one fictional, El Príncipe (Sebastián Muñoz, Chile, 2019), and one documentary, Rancho (Pedro Speroni, Argentina, 2021). In both films, feelings traverse the body–mind divide and cross between people, while portrayed with what we shall argue is a form of filmic tenderness.
Invasión silenciosa: la primatología de Imanishi y el sesgo cultural en la ciencia
Authors: De Waal Frans B. M.
Published: May 2024

Cuando se trata de nuestra relación con la naturaleza, no hay forma de escapar de la tensión entre percepción y proyección. A menudo, lo que descubrimos en la naturaleza es lo que antes pusimos en ella. En consecuencia, la forma en que los naturalistas han contribuido a la misión de ‘la humanidad ha de conocerse a sí misma’, sólo puede entenderse en el contexto del cristal con que se mire el espejo de la naturaleza. Dado que no nos es posible quitarnos los cristales de esas gafas, la segunda mejor opción que nos queda es comparar otras alternativas.
Image Encryption using Parallel Computing
Authors: Gurumukhi Amit , Inamdar Dr. Fatima , Bhamare Susmit , Deshmukh Abhishek , Butala Om
Published: May 2024

This study explores the use of parallel computing, particularly GPU acceleration, in image encryption. It investigates how parallel processing techniques can improve encryption algorithms ' speed and efficiency, especially for handling large-scale images and multiple files simultaneously. The research aims to quantify performance improvements and identify key challenges in implementing parallel image encryption systems through theoretical analysis and practical experimentation.
Innovation and Sustainability in Engineering & Technology: Revolutionizing the Future of Education through Virtual Labs
Authors: Hasan Mona
Published: May 2024

This paper discusses the importance of incorporating sustainable and innovative Virtual labs into engineering and technology education. It highlights the benefits of this approach in preparing students for the future and promoting sustainable practices in their future careers. Virtual labs are revolutionizing the future of education by leveraging collaboration technology to create a global classroom. Virtual labs help students learn new material and interact with their peers, attending classes from anywhere in the world. They can receive the highest quality teaching delivery possible. Virtual labs provide a platform for developing students' manual skills, making them equivalent to learning improvements in general engineering labs when it comes to developing students' laboratory skills. Virtual labs have become increasingly popular in recent years, while also meeting the requirements of school districts across the country.Virtual labs are transforming the way we teach and learn subjects, offering students the opportunity to attend live classes and provide active learning opportunities. They also allow students to learn at their own pace and access their entire distributed workforce, making it easier to collaborate and generate innovative solutions. Virtual labs are transforming the educational sector by using ICT tools, making it feel like they are face-to-face with students. Virtual labs have revolutionized the educational sector, helping students understand complex theoretical concepts in subjects like engineering and physics. 'Engineering Tomorrow' labs, providing students with guided experiences and impactful applications in engineering.This paper shows the applications of Virtual labs in several Engineering fields. Experiments can be conducted using virtual labs. Virtual labs have proven to be effective in teaching and learning, and in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. As the world becomes increasingly digitized, students can learn and innovate from anywhere in the world.
Comparison of Blockchain and Authenticated key agreement in IOT authentication
Authors: HOODA ADITYA , CHUGH JATIN , CHOUDHARY DR. SARIKA
Published: May 2024

IoT for smart home automation implies utilizing internet-connected devices with sensors and actuators controlled through a centralized system. Also to make sure only the verified user use these services some authentication techniques are developed. In this paper we will compare some of the authentication technique used i.e blockchain and mutual key agreemen