bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound-Induced Impedance Reduction in Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Im Ganghyeok , Barnes Derek , Lu Wei , Popa Bogdan-Ioan , Epureanu Bogdan I.
Published: October 2023

We report a discovery that the internal impedance of pouch-type lithium ion batteries with polymer electrolytes can be significantly reduced by ultrasound waves applied at constant temperature. By precluding any temperature effect from ultrasound heating, the observation reveals an innovative mechanism to dynamically improve battery performance in operando. The reduction is 16.9% at room temperature, highlighting the great potential for extending lifespan and enhancing energy efficiency. The reduced impedance also increases the usable capacity by 16.3% at room temperature and 53.4% at low temperature, enabling accelerated charging without overheating. The increased effectiveness of ultrasound at low temperatures improves the performance of batteries that degrade under such conditions. This impedance reduction is reversible and can be tuned by the ultrasound power. A potential mechanism is proposed to understand the process, which is supported by molecular dynamics simulations.
Simulation Study on Stress-Strain and Deformation of Separator Under Battery Temperature Field
Authors: Xie Chengming , Yang Runjie , Liu Fengqin , Hu Tao , Zhao Hongliang
Published: October 2023

Understanding the thermal stress, thermal strain, and deformation law of separators under a battery temperature field significantly improves battery safety. This article analyzes the temperature field distribution characteristics of an NCM523 soft pack lithium-ion battery under different discharge rates, and the thermal stress, strain, and deformation laws of the separator in the battery temperature field are evaluated through numerical simulation. The results show that the tabs have the lowest temperature in the battery, and the highest temperature is observed in the middle lower part of the center section of the cell. At a constant external temperature of 300 K and a discharge rate of 0.5 C, the maximum temperature of the battery at the end of discharge is 302.402 K. As the discharge rate increases, the maximum temperature of the battery gradually increases. The distribution of the thermal stress and thermal strain of the separator is related to the distribution of the battery temperature field; where the battery temperature is high, the thermal stress and thermal strain of the separator are large. The largest deformation of the separator occurs in the corner region. Moreover, with increasing discharge rate, the expansion of the separator increases.
Revealing the Mechanism Behind Sudden Capacity Loss in Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: He Meinan , Wampler Charles , Hector Louis G. , Dato Michael , Kolluri Suryanarayana , Amine Khalil , Su Chi-Cheung , Cai Mei
Published: October 2023

Rechargeable Li-metal batteries (LMBs) are attractive energy storage candidates for electric vehicles (EVs) because they offer higher energy density than batteries built with intercalation electrodes. However, one of the main barriers to the commercial deployment of LMBs has been their relatively short cycle life. Re-designing the electrolyte system shows promise in achieving acceptable cycle life, but even so, the resulting cells display a challenging end-of-life (EOL) behavior: a sudden capacity loss. Herein, we report a new method for analyzing voltage profiles during cycling to distinguish between the capacity loss originating from the loss of cathode capacity vs growth in cell resistance. This analysis reveals that sudden capacity loss was preceded by acceleration in the rate of growth of cell resistance, and cycling of multiple cells showed that this phenomenon is sensitive to the initial quantity of electrolyte in the cells. In contrast, the cathode capacity degraded at a constant rate independent of the electrolyte quantity. Combining this evidence with post-analysis of harvested electrolyte and electrodes, we conclude that neither the loss of active lithium nor the loss of active cathode material was the primary source of sudden capacity loss; instead, consumption and decomposition of electrolyte causes the drastic capacity loss at EOL.
An Exploration of the Effectiveness of Different Intensity Protocols of Modified Constraint-Induced Therapy in Stroke: A Systematic Review
Authors: Psychouli Pavlina , Mamais Ioannis , Anastasiou Charalambos
Published: October 2023

Purpose. To examine the effectiveness of different modified Constraint-Inuced Therapy (mCIMT) protocol intensities on upper extremity motor function in adults with hemiplegia. Methods. A search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO, and Cochrane Library for articles published between April 2010 and December 2021. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Studies were excluded if they used a sample of less than five, mCIMT in combination with other therapy, and/or if they were not written in English. Methodologic quality was assessed using the Cochrane collaboration risk of bias tool–2. Results. Thirty-six RCTs with a total of 721 participants were included. Most researchers followed a moderate to low protocol intensity in terms of total treatment time and moderate to high intensity with regard to restriction time. Almost all of the upper limb motor function measures showed statistically significant improvements (

p
<
.05

) after mCIMT, irrespective of the protocol’s intensity, but there was lack of high-quality studies. Statistically significant improvements did not always translate to clinical importance. Conclusions. Low-intensity CIMT protocols may result in comparable improvements to more intensive ones but caution has to be taken when drawing conclusions due to high risk of bias studies.
Compliance with National and International Guidelines in the Treatment of Nonmotor Symptoms in Late-Stage Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Rosqvist Kristina , Odin Per
Published: October 2023

Background. National as well as international Parkinson’s disease (PD) treatment guidelines are available to guide clinicians. Previous research has shown that nonmotor symptoms (NMS) are pronounced in late-stage PD and has suggested that current treatment is insufficient and could be improved. Objectives. The aim of this study was to investigate to which degree the national and international treatment guidelines are followed in the treatment of NMS in late-stage PD. Methods. This Swedish cohort was part of the Care of Late-Stage Parkinsonism (CLaSP) study. Late-stage PD was defined as Hoehn and Yahr stages IV-V in “on” and/or ≤50% on the Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scale. NMS were assessed with the NMS scale (NMSS), cognition with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and depressive symptoms with the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-30). Symptomatic individuals were defined as ≥ 6 on an item of the NMSS; for dementia, a cutoff of ≤18 on the MMSE; for depression, a cutoff of ≥10 on the GDS. Results. All 107 participants exhibited NMS to various degrees and severities; the median NMSS score was 91. Among symptomatic individuals, for depressive symptoms, 37/63 (59%) were treated with antidepressants; for hallucinations and delusions, 9/18 (50%) and 5/13 (38%) were treated with antipsychotics; and for dementia, 9/27 (33%) were treated with rivastigmine and 1 (4%) was treated with donepezil. For orthostatic hypotension, 11/19 (58%) with lightheadedness and 7/8 (88%) with fainting were treated with antihypotensives; for sialorrhea, 2/42 (5%) were treated with botulinum toxin; and for constipation, 19/35 (54%) were treated with laxatives. For insomnia, 4/16 (25%) were treated with hypnotics, and for daytime sleepiness, 1/29 (3%) was treated with psychostimulants. Conclusions. The present analyses suggest a need for clinicians to further screen for and treat NMS. Optimizing treatment of NMS according to the national and international treatment guidelines may improve symptomatology and enhance quality of life in late-stage PD.
Sodium Metabisulfite-Induced Hematotoxicity, Oxidative Stress, and Organ Damage Ameliorated by Standardized Ginkgo biloba in Mice
Authors: Wairimu Nancy Wambui , Wairagu Peninah , Chepukosi Kennedy W. , Obiero George F. , Okanya Patrick W. , Isaac Alfred Orina , Nyariki James Nyabuga
Published: October 2023

Sodium metabisulfite (SMB) is a biocide and antioxidant agent generally used as a preservative in food and beverage industries but can oxidize to harmful sulfite radicals. A standardized Ginkgo biloba (EGb-761) has demonstrated potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which is beneficial for the treatment of diseases that exhibit oxidative stress and inflammation. The present study sought to investigate the putative ameliorative effects of EGb-761 against SMB-induced toxicity in mice. Thirty-two male Swiss white mice were randomized into control, SMB-treated, SMB + EGb-761-treated, and EGb-761-treated groups. EGb-761 (100 mg/kg/day) and SMB (98 mg/kg/day) were administered by gastric gavage for 40 days. Oral administration of EGb-761 restored SMB-induced decrease in body weight and prevented SMB-induced thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis, and anemia. Furthermore, EGb-761-treatment protected against SMB-induced liver and kidney injury depicted by decreased serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, creatinine, urea, uric acid, and albumin. Furthermore, EGb-761 treatment attenuated SMB-driven dyslipidemia and metabolic acidosis. Besides, EGb-761 supplementation abrogated SMB-driven oxidative stress as depicted by stabilized reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in the brain, liver, kidney, spleen, heart, and lungs. SMB induced a significant increase of tissue levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), serum nitric oxide (NO), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) which were abrogated by EGb-761 treatment. In conclusion, these results deepen our understanding of EGb-761 in light of various detrimental effects of SMB-driven toxicities. These findings provide a novel approach that can be optimized for preventing or treating exposure due to SMB toxicity.
Optimization Conditions of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction for Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity from Rubus alceifolius Poir Leaves
Authors: Tran Chi Hai , Nghiem Minh Tri , Dinh Anh Minh Trinh , Dang Thi Thuy Nga , Van Do Thi Thuy , Chu Thi Nga , Mai Tien Hung , Phan Van Man
Published: October 2023

Rubus alceifolius Poir (R.A. Poir) leaves are rich in phenolic compounds, offering many health benefits due to their incredible antioxidant potential. In this study, conditions for the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity from R.A. Poir leaves were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). This methodology assessed the effects of ultrasound power (

X

1

: 100-500 W), extraction temperature (

X

2

: 30-60°C), and extraction time (

X

3

: 5-55 min). The optimized UAE conditions were then compared with conventional extraction methods (Soxhlet extraction: SE and maceration extraction: ME) for extracting total phenolics. A phenolic profile using GC-MS and antioxidant activity (ABTS) was also compared. According to the RSM, the best conditions for UAE to extract the highest total polyphenol content and ABTS radical scavenging activity were 320 W ultrasound power, 40°C extraction temperature, and 35.5 min sonication duration. Under these optimal conditions, the TPC and antioxidant activity reached 16.68 mg GAE/g dm and 21.9 mg TE/g, respectively, closely aligning with the predicted values. The UAE extraction technique proved to be more efficient in extracting phenolics and antioxidant capacity (ABTS (2,2

′

-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid)) radical scavenging activity, and enzyme inhibition) compared to the conventional extraction methods (SE and ME). A GC-MS analysis identified 12 components, including 5 phenolics and 3 flavonoids, which likely contribute to the antioxidant activity. Consequently, the UAE method improved extraction efficiency within a shorter time frame, suggesting that UAE is a promising, efficient, and ecofriendly technology for extracting bioactive compounds from R.A. Poir leaves.
Artificial Intelligence Application in Bioethanol Production
Authors: Owusu Winnie A. , Marfo Solomon A.
Published: October 2023

Energy consumption from biofuels against fossil fuels over the past few years has increased. This is due to the availability of these resources for production of different forms of energy, and the environmental benefit in the utilization of these resources. Ethanol fuel production from biomass is a complex process of known challenges in the area of handling, optimizing, and future forecasting. The existence of modelling techniques like artificial intelligence (AI) is, therefore, necessary in the design, handling, and optimization of bioethanol production. The flexibility and high accuracy of artificial neural network (ANN), a machine learning technique, to solve intricate processes is beneficial in modelling pretreatment, fermentation, and conversion stages of a bioethanol production system. This paper reviews various AI techniques in bioethanol production giving emphasis on published articles in the past decade.
Mutual‐Attention Net: A Deep Attentional Neural Network for Keyphrase Generation
Authors: Duan Wenying , Rao Hong , Duan Longzhen , Wang Ning
Published: October 2023

Neural keyphrase generation (NKG) is a recently proposed approach to automatically extract keyphrase from a document. Unlike the traditional keyphrase extraction, the NKG can generate keyphrases that do not appear in the document. However, as a supervised method, NKG is hindered by noise. In order to solve the problem that the existing NKG model does not consider denoising the source document, in this work, this paper introduces a new denoising architecture mutual‐attention network (MA‐net). Considering the structure of documents in popular datasets, the multihead attention is applied to dig out the relevance between title and abstract, which aids denoising. To further accurate generation of high‐quality keyphrases, we use multihead attention to compute the content vector instead of Bahdanau attention. Finally, we employ a hybrid network that augments the proposed architecture to solve OOV (out‐of‐vocabulary) problem. It can not only generate words from the decoder but also copy words from the source document. Evaluation using five benchmark datasets shows that our model significantly outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art ones currently in the research field.
Supplementary Table 3 from Integrated Molecular Characterization of Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms: An NCI Cancer Moonshot Precancer Atlas Pilot Project
Authors: Semaan Alexander , Bernard Vincent , Wong Justin , Makino Yuki , Swartzlander Daniel B. , Rajapakshe Kimal I. , Lee Jaewon J. , Officer Adam , Schmidt Christian Max , Wu Howard H. , Scaife Courtney L. , Affolter Kajsa E. , Nachmanson Daniela , Firpo Matthew A. , Yip-Schneider Michele , Lowy Andrew M. , Harismendy Olivier , Sen Subrata , Maitra Anirban , Jakubek Yasminka A. , Guerrero Paola A.
Published: October 2023

Correlation between PDAC molecular suptypes and 1q amplification in TCGA data
Supplementary Figure 2 from Integrated Molecular Characterization of Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms: An NCI Cancer Moonshot Precancer Atlas Pilot Project
Authors: Semaan Alexander , Bernard Vincent , Wong Justin , Makino Yuki , Swartzlander Daniel B. , Rajapakshe Kimal I. , Lee Jaewon J. , Officer Adam , Schmidt Christian Max , Wu Howard H. , Scaife Courtney L. , Affolter Kajsa E. , Nachmanson Daniela , Firpo Matthew A. , Yip-Schneider Michele , Lowy Andrew M. , Harismendy Olivier , Sen Subrata , Maitra Anirban , Jakubek Yasminka A. , Guerrero Paola A.
Published: October 2023

Comparison of SNVs, CNAs and neoepitopes in LG and HG IPMNs
Supplementary Figure 1 from Integrated Molecular Characterization of Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms: An NCI Cancer Moonshot Precancer Atlas Pilot Project
Authors: Semaan Alexander , Bernard Vincent , Wong Justin , Makino Yuki , Swartzlander Daniel B. , Rajapakshe Kimal I. , Lee Jaewon J. , Officer Adam , Schmidt Christian Max , Wu Howard H. , Scaife Courtney L. , Affolter Kajsa E. , Nachmanson Daniela , Firpo Matthew A. , Yip-Schneider Michele , Lowy Andrew M. , Harismendy Olivier , Sen Subrata , Maitra Anirban , Jakubek Yasminka A. , Guerrero Paola A.
Published: October 2023

Schematic representation of the strategy employed
FIGURE 3 from Integrated Molecular Characterization of Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms: An NCI Cancer Moonshot Precancer Atlas Pilot Project
Authors: Semaan Alexander , Bernard Vincent , Wong Justin , Makino Yuki , Swartzlander Daniel B. , Rajapakshe Kimal I. , Lee Jaewon J. , Officer Adam , Schmidt Christian Max , Wu Howard H. , Scaife Courtney L. , Affolter Kajsa E. , Nachmanson Daniela , Firpo Matthew A. , Yip-Schneider Michele , Lowy Andrew M. , Harismendy Olivier , Sen Subrata , Maitra Anirban , Jakubek Yasminka A. , Guerrero Paola A.
Published: October 2023

Inferred evolutionary trajectory derived from CNAs. Cases showing linear (A) and branched (B) evolution are depicted. For each case, evolutionary tree and segmentation plots are shown with HapLOHseq calls represented in lavender background. Branches are drawn to scale based on the number of CNA events. Chromosomal aberrations associated to the branch with the largest HG clone are shown. Red indicates gains and blue losses. Patient IDs highlighted in red indicate cases with coexisting PDAC. SNVs associated with each branch are labeled. Red arrow labels the branch with larger HG clone.
An Open-Label, Uncontrolled, Single-Arm Clinical Trial of Tofacitinib, an Oral JAK1 and JAK3 Kinase Inhibitor, in Chinese Patients with Keloid
Authors: Chen Jun-Yi , Feng Qing-Lan , Pan Hui-Hui , Zhu Ding-Heng , He Ren-Liang , Deng Cheng-Cheng , Yang Bin
Published: October 2023

Background: The keloid treatment is still a thorny and complicated clinical problem, especially in multiple keloids induced by wound, severe burn, ethnic background or cultural behaviors, or unexplained skin healing. Mainstream treatments have limited efficacy in treating multiple keloids. As no oral treatment with painlessness and convenience is available, oral treatment strategies should be formulated. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and therapeutic mechanism of oral tofacitinib in keloid patients. Methods: We recruited the 7 patients with keloid scars and prescribed 5 mg of tofacitinib twice a day orally with a maximum follow-up of 12 weeks. The Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS), the Vancouver scar scale (VSS), ANTERA 3D camera, and the DUB Skin Scanner 75 were used to assess the characteristics of the lesion. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate collagen synthesis, proliferation, and relative molecular pathways. Moreover, the effects of tofacitinib were assessed on keloid fibroblast in vitro. Results: After 12 weeks of oral tofacitinib, significant improvement in POSAS, VSS, and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores was observed (p < 0.05). The volume, lesion height, and dermis thickness of the keloid decreased (p < 0.05). Moreover, significant decreases in the expression of collagen I, Ki67, p-STAT 3, and p-SMAD2 were observed after 12 weeks of administration. In vitro experiments suggested that tofacitinib treatment inhibits fibroblast proliferation and collagen I synthesis via suppression of STAT3 and SMAD2 pathway. Conclusion: Tofacitinib, a new candidate oral drug for keloid, could reduce keloid lesion volume by inhibiting collagen synthesis and inhibiting fibroblast proliferation, and alleviate itch and pain to obtain a better life quality.
An emotion recognition system: bridging the gap between humans-machines interaction
Authors: Nouman Ahmed , Iqbal Hashim , Saleem Muhammad Khurram
Published: October 2023

Human emotion recognition has emerged as a vital research area in recent years due to its widespread applications in psychology, healthcare, education, entertainment, and human-robot interaction. This research article comprehensively analyzes a machine learning-based six-emotion classification algorithm, focusing on its development, evaluation, and potential applications. The study aims to assess the algorithm's performance, identify its limitations, and discuss the importance of selecting appropriate image descriptors for accurate emotion classification. The algorithm achieved an overall accuracy of 92.23\%, showcasing its potential in various fields. However, the classification of specific emotions, particularly ``excited'' and ``afraid'', demonstrated some limitations, suggesting further refinement. The study also highlights the significance of choosing suitable image descriptors, with the manual distance calculation used in the framework proving effective. This article offers insights into developing and evaluating a six-emotion classification algorithm using a machine learning framework, emphasizing its strengths, limitations, and possible applications in multiple domains. The findings contribute to ongoing efforts in creating robust, accurate, and versatile emotion recognition systems that cater to the diverse needs of various applications across psychology, healthcare, robotics, education, and entertainment.
The use of artificial intelligence in interrogation: lies and truth
Authors: Wu Yi-Chang , Liu Yao-Cheng , Huang Ru-Yi
Published: October 2023

Following the development of artificial intelligence technology, a new trend has emerged in which this technology is increasingly used in case investigations. In this study, we developed a lie detection system that can instantly determine whether an interrogee is lying depending on their emotional responses to specific questions. Investigators then use these data, in addition to their personal experiences and case information, to adjust their interrogation strategies and techniques, thereby leading the interrogee to confess and accelerating the investigation process. Our system collects data using OpenFace and performs deep learning using gcForest. Deep learning training was performed using a real-life trial dataset, the Miami University Deception Detection Database, and a bag-of-lies dataset, and their corresponding trained systems achieved a detection accuracy of 95.11%, 90.83%, and 88.19%, respectively.
Robotic inspection and automated analysis system for advanced manufacturing
Authors: Mikhail Maged , Abed Karen
Published: October 2023

Companies have developed various systems to improve their processes. These processes’ focus has been to produce more quantity in less time. To accomplish this task, it is important to also consider defects. Defective products can cause delays in the production line, rework, and the loss of money, time, and resources. This project focused on developing an integrated inspection system. Previous research has been done regarding types of vision systems, in-line inspections, and feedback data collection. A programmable logic controller (PLC) was used to control when the conveyor belt starts and stops. When the object has reached a certain position, the camera detects if the object passed or failed the process. If the object fails, the robot will pick up the bottle and take it out of the line. Human-machine interface (HMI) was also integrated, which shows how many bottles have passed and failed with a light that will indicate if a certain object has passed or failed. Feedback from the inspection process can help solve potential issues from different machines and processes. The testbed was designed, integrated, and tested in the paper to perform a feedback analysis for the production line. The setup consisted of MicroLogix PLC, Fanuc robot LR Mate 200iD and Cognex camera.
Traffic lights time strategy for T-junctions of toll road gate
Authors: Tristono Tomi , Cahyono Setiyo Daru , Aji Seno , Utomo Pradityo , Triono Joko
Published: October 2023

Vehicles wishing to pass on the toll road must diverge from the traffic flow on public roads. The toll road movement consists of low vehicles (LV) and heavy vehicles (HV). The public road movement is a mixed traffic flow consisting of LV, HV, motorcycles, and unmotorized vehicles. Traffic lights are used at the T-junction of the toll road gate for travel safety management. The traffic lights that implement a fixed-time strategy should be optimized for efficiency. This study aims to review the safety of travel management at T-junctions for the toll road gate when adaptive traffic lights are used. The structural complexity of mathematical modeling with Petri net is used to analyze and measure the feasibility study. Results illustrate that the structural complexity of the traffic lights that implement a fixed time strategy equals 0.387. It is equal to 0.489 for the adaptive traffic lights. The structural complexity of adaptive traffic lights is 25% higher than conventional systems that implement a fixed-time strategy. The adaptive traffic lights time strategy is feasible for travel safety for road users. The travel time is efficient and comfortable because the delay is low. Furthermore, traffic lights can adjust to the demand of vehicles queuing.
Implications of Clinical Risk Phenotypes on the Management and Natural History of Atrial Fibrillation: A Report From the GLORIA‐AF
Authors: Romiti Giulio Francesco , Proietti Marco , Corica Bernadette , Bonini Niccolò , Boriani Giuseppe , Huisman Menno V. , Lip Gregory Y. H. ,   the GLORIA‐AF Investigators
Published: October 2023

Background

Clinical risk factors are common among patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), but there are still limited data on their association with oral anticoagulant (OAC) treatment patterns and major outcomes. We aim to analyze the association between clinical risk phenotypes on AF treatment patterns and the risk of major outcomes.

Methods and Results

The GLORIA‐AF (Global Registry on Long‐Term Oral Antithrombotic Treatment in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation) phase 2 and 3 registries enrolled patients with a recent diagnosis of AF between 2011 and 2016. We defined 4 features of clinical risk among patients with CHA
2
DS
2
‐VASc ≥2: elderly individuals (aged ≥80 years), chronic kidney disease (estimated glomerular filtration rate <45 mL/min), history of stroke, and history of bleeding. We analyzed the odds of receiving OAC and the risk of OAC discontinuation and adverse events at follow‐up according to specific combinations and cumulative burden of these features. Primary outcome was the composite of all‐cause death, thromboembolism, and major bleeding. Among 28 891 (mean±SD age, 70.1±10.5 years; 45.5% women) patients included, 10 797 (37.3%) had at least 1 clinical risk feature. OAC use was lower among patients in the elderly group (odds ratio [OR], 0.85 [95% CI, 0.75–0.96]), those with history of both stroke and bleeding (OR, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.35–0.56]), and those with multiple features (OR, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.62–0.82]). Increasing burden of clinical risk features was associated with OAC discontinuation, with highest magnitude in those with ≥3 features (hazard ratio [HR], 1.68 [95% CI, 1.31–2.15]). Groups with increasingly complex clinical risk phenotypes were associated with the occurrence of the primary composite outcome, with the highest figures observed for groups with a history of both stroke and bleeding (adjusted HR, 2.36 [95% CI, 1.83–3.04]) and multiple features (adjusted HR, 2.86 [95% CI, 2.52–3.25]).

Conclusions

In patients with AF, clinical risk phenotypes are multifaceted and heterogenous, and they are associated with differences in stroke prevention and worse prognosis.
A Qualitative Research On the Evaluation of Corporate Feedback Practices in Municipalities as a Citizen Participation Practice
Authors: ÖZDEN Miray
Published: October 2023

The using of the Internet since the beginning of the 2000s has led to an increase in scientific interest in e-participation applications, which are defined as online participation. Feedback applications are areas of receiving comments from users, listening to complaints or presenting suggestions on process design regarding available services. Here, “Write to us”, “Online Chat”, “Like or Dislike Buttons” and “Comment sites” are applications designed to get feedback. It is important how these applications work and how obtained data is stored and interpreted in terms of determining the level of interaction between the municipality and the citizen.

In the study, first of all, citizen participation and e-participation, one of the participation methods, will be explained conceptually. In the study, feedback applications on the websites of 11 District Municipalities, including Tekirdağ Metropolitan Municipality, and communication lines used for feedback will be examined; interviews will be held with the administrative staff who collect and report the feedback, it will be evaluated in which aspects the feedbacks are reflected in the applications. In the study, feedback applications were tested and the work of the information processing units was observed on site, especially as a participant observer. Accessibility of feedback applications, ease of use, response times of municipalities were determined and advantageous aspects for participation were listed.
A House for the Spirit
Authors: Colombo Gabriel Miller
Published: October 2023

This paper highlights the architectural theory and practice of the twentieth-century Dutch Benedictine monk and architect Dom Hans van der Laan as a lens through which to view architecture and urbanism’s underlying spiritual purpose. Van der Laan’s theologically grounded vision of architecture as a sacramental mediator between the human, the natural, and the divine and empirically based rubric by which to achieve that end—through human-centric proportion, polyrhythm, and humble materiality—provide a robust framework for crafting cities and homes that reveal the sacredness inherent in the world. Through an analysis of Van der Laan’s theory and an examination of his exemplary Roosenberg Abbey, the paper illuminates the spatial, sensory, and dimensional qualities currently lacking in many contemporary urban and architectural spaces and presents a set of strategies for adapting them to better support human flourishing.
From Medieval Sacred Art to Modern Photography
Authors: Nader Myrna
Published: October 2023

In this study of image-making, it is argued that from the Middle Ages to the Modern period in Lebanon, coexistence between Christians and Muslims, who maintained contact alternately as a minority or dominant culture, was defined by fundamental ideas about sacred art, namely, the embodiment and depiction of the divine. The central premise holds that in Christianity paintings of a religious character are of importance because they reaffirm belief in the doctrine of incarnation, and thus Christ’s humanity. In Islam, by comparison, such art is idolatrous and deserving of censure. The opposite is asserted: God is invisible, and, therefore, paintings of the divine are impermissible. However, denunciation by Islamic scholars was not absolute; there was no disapproval if imagery did not violate Qur’anic proscription against idol-worship. A more nuanced discussion of the Arab literature demonstrates not only Muslim disavowal and episodes of iconoclasm, but also fascination with and commentary on Christian art. Such views informed Christian-Muslim debate over the value and validity of image-making in Modern-era Lebanon, which was further aroused by European developments in the science of optics, based partly on the works of Arab scientists. The advent of photography offered new ways of seeing the world, and discussion among Lebanese Muslim scholars focused on the efficacy and malevolence of optical technology in Arab society and culture. Outright condemnation of image-making was tempered by views condoning certain artistic practices.
The Prosecutor v Dominic Ongwen: An Examination of the Role of Traditional Justice Mechanisms in International Criminal Justice
Authors: Mushoriwa Linda
Published: October 2023

This paper examines whether traditional justice mechanisms have a place in international trials where the accused has committed core international crimes; through the lens of The International Criminal Court’s approach in the Ongwen case. Trial Chamber ix declined to incorporate the mato oput traditional justice mechanism of the Acholi people of Northern Uganda. The paper argues that although concerns have been raised regarding the application of traditional justice mechanisms in the aftermath of mass atrocities, they can still play a significant role alongside prosecutions for international crimes before international criminal tribunals and the International Criminal Court. It recommends ways in which traditional justice mechanisms can be incorporated into proceedings before the icc and concludes that if the Court is to be a truly universal Court as was envisaged at its inception it ought to holistically consider the issues brought before it, particularly from the Global South.
New orchids in the flora of Vietnam VII (Orchidaceae: tribes Cypripedieae, Cranichideae, Orchideae, and Collabieae)
Authors: AVERYANOV LEONID V. , NGUYEN VAN CANH , VUONG TRUONG BA , NGUYEN KHANG SINH , NURALIEV MAXIM S. , NGUYEN CUONG HUU , ORMEROD PAUL A. , MAISAK TATIANA V. , DIEP DINH QUANG , LYSKOV DMITRY F. , NONG DUY VAN
Published: October 2023

The seventh paper of the series on orchid diversity in Vietnam includes descriptions of four species new to science (Goodyera umbonata, Myrmechis brachyscapa, Rhomboda obcordata, and Vietorchis proboscidea) and five new national records (Calanthe speciosa, Habenaria coultousii, Myrmechis urceolata, Paphiopedilum barbigerum var. barbigerum, and Peristylus affinis). Two new nomenclatural combinations, Rhomboda aurea (≡ Odontochilus aureus) and Odontochilus tonkinensis (≡ Anoectochilus tonkinensis), are proposed. Odontochilus putaoensis described from Myanmar and reported also from China and Laos is synonymized with Odontochilus umbrosus described 22 years earlier from Vietnam. Data on relevant synonyms and etymology are provided, along with morphological descriptions for the newly described species. For the species new to science and for the taxa reported for Vietnam for the first time, the information is given about studied specimens, ecology, phenology, distribution, and conservation status assessed according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, accompanied by brief taxonomic notes and illustrations.
Insect (Hexapoda) Diversity in the Oceanic Archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil: Clusiidae (Diptera)
Authors: RAFAEL JOSÉ A. , MARQUES DAYSE W. A. , LIMEIRA-DE-OLIVEIRA F.
Published: October 2023

For the first time, Clusiidae (Diptera) species are recorded from the oceanic Archipelago Fernando de Noronha, Brazil. They are represented by three genera and seven species: Czernyola fumialula sp. nov., Heteromeringia czernyi Kertész, 1903, Sobarocephala araujoi sp. nov., S. finnilaei Frey, 1918, S. icmbio sp. nov., S. protea Lonsdale & Marshall, 2012, and S. sp. For S. icmbio sp. nov., the aggregation behavior at night was observed on the undersides of broad leaves, females contained an average of 71 eggs, and flight interception traps correlated a positive linear relationship with precipitation seasonally. An illustrated key is presented for all species of the Archipelago.
Effect of mode of delivery on neonatal oxidative stress and dynamic thiol–disulfide homeostasis
Authors: Genc Serife Ozlem , Erdal Huseyin
Published: October 2023

Objective

To evaluate the effect of the mode of delivery on neonatal oxidative stress and dynamic thiol–disulfide homeostasis.

Methods

Sixty women who were followed up in the Obstetrics and Gynecology clinic were included in this prospective study. Cord blood samples were obtained from women who underwent cesarean section (CS) and vaginal delivery (VD). Total oxidant status and total antioxidant status levels were measured by spectrophotometry. The dynamic thiol–disulfide balance was determined by colorimetry.

Results

The total antioxidant status and oxidative stress index levels were higher and total oxidant status levels were lower in the VD group compared with the CS group. Native and total thiol levels were higher while disulfide levels were lower in the VD compared with the CS delivery group, while disulfide levels were higher in the CS group.

Conclusion

These results indicate that disulfide formation leads to decreased antioxidant capacity in women undergoing CS. Monitoring of dynamic thiol–disulfide levels may thus provide clinicians with important information on the oxidative stress status in newborns.
Cultural Correlates of Dating Violence in a Combined Gender Group of Latino College Students
Authors: Terrazas-Carrillo Elizabeth , Sabina Chiara , Vásquez Desi A. , Garcia Ediza
Published: October 2023

Prevalence rates of dating violence (DV) on college campuses are high. The documented effects of DV suggest substantial challenges across all domains of functioning; yet, DV is preventable. The research on risk and preventive factors for Latino college students is limited. This study used the social–ecological model to examine factors associated with DV at the individual, relationship, and societal levels. More specifically, we utilized structural equation modeling to build an acceptable model of physical and psychological intimate partner violence (IPV) experiences for Latino participants based on variables of gender role beliefs, acculturation, attitudes toward violence, and surveillance behavior, while considering development issues. We describe the practice and prevention implications of the study findings. Overall, the model showed excellent model fit (χ2[40] = 52.06, p < .09, root mean square error of approximation = 0.025, comparative fit index = 0.99, Tucker–Lewis Index = 0.98, and a coefficient of determination of 0.04), and several proposed pathways were found to be significant, exhibiting the utility of this model in understanding Latino Dating violence. Maternal education was found to be significantly negatively associated with Mexican orientation (β = −.13, p = .02) and indirectly associated with both DV attitudes and surveillance through Mexican orientation, suggesting protective effects for lower maternal education and higher Mexican orientation. Machismo (β = .18, p = .002) and caballerismo (β = .26, p < .001) were both related to IPV attitudes. Machismo also directly increased the risk of surveillance (β = .21, p < .001) and indirectly increased the risk of physical and psychological victimization through surveillance behavior. Mexican orientation predicted less endorsement of DV attitudes (β = −.16, p < .001) and less surveillance (β = −.09, p = .04). Victimization was predicted by caballerismo (β = −.19, p < .001) and surveillance (β = .33, p < .001).
The Political Limits and Possibilities of the Eucharist: A Theatrical Intervention
Authors: Miller Liam
Published: October 2023

In this article I build on recent critiques of theological accounts of the eucharistic which overextend the practice's potential to form a Christian ethic and alternative polis. In analysing these critiques, often drawing on historical and contemporary cases of Christian malformation and its basis in liturgical practice, I suggest a greater distinction is needed between the practice's ability to raise political consciousness and the necessity of separate material political action. I approach this reconfiguration through appeal to debates on the political efficacy and responsibility of art, focusing in particular on contemporary German theatre director, Thomas Ostermeier and his influential production of Henrik Ibsen's An Enemy of the People. Ostermeier distinguishes theatrical performance from material politics, while still demonstrating how theatre might enact a repoliticisation, provoking audiences to think beyond the story on stage to the world beyond where they live and try to act. Connecting the theological critiques with Ostermeier's work, I offer three areas in which a reconfiguration of the relationship between the Eucharist and Christian ethics might focus: depristinising in practice, disrupting catharsis, and being sent. These theatrical interventions allow for clearer recognition of the practice's ethical and political limits and potential.
A Mediated Moderation Model of Destination Social Responsibility and Residents’ Support for Tourism Development in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-sakkaf Mohammed Alawi , Mohaidin Zurina , Murshid Mohsen Ali , Basendwah Mohammed , Amarneh Saleh
Published: October 2023

Based on stakeholder and social exchange theories, support for tourism development is strongly influenced by destination social responsibility (DSR). Despite the grand intentions, DSR is still being sparingly employed by Saudi destination management, probably because its effects on tourism impacts (economic, socio-cultural and environmental) are still unknown. In the context of Saudi Arabia, this study sought to provide an empirical examination of the relationship between DSR and tourism impacts, which in turn influenced residents’ support for tourism development. The study sample consisted of 452 residents gathered from three main destinations in Saudi Arabia. PLS-SEM was used to analyse the data and test hypotheses. The results indicated a positive relationship between DSR and tourism impacts such as economic, socio-cultural and environmental. Another notable finding was that two tourism impacts mediate the relationship between DSR and support for tourism development. Furthermore, community participation had a statistically significant positive moderating effect on DSR perceptions and support for tourism development. The moderation effect of community participation on this relationship was found to be a theoretical contribution to this study.
In Memory of Norman Denzin
Authors: Noboa Alejandro
Published: October 2023

The author offers a few words in the memory of Norman Denzin, detailing especially Denzin’s impact on qualitative research as a multilingual endeavor.
Topical insulin, a novel corneal epithelial regeneration agent in dry eye disease
Authors: Burgos-Blasco Barbara , Diaz-Valle David , Rego-Lorca Daniela , Perez-Garcia Pilar , Puebla-Garcia Virginia , Fernandez-Vigo Jose Ignacio , Benitez-del-Castillo Jose Manuel , Gegundez-Fernandez Jose Antonio
Published: October 2023

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of insulin eye drops for dry eye disease in reducing corneal staining and improving symptoms.

Methods

In this retrospective case series, patients with dry eye disease treated with off-label use of insulin eye drops were collected. The main inclusion criterion was diagnosis of dry eye disease with epithelial damage and acceptance of the off-label use of topical insulin. Age, sex, type of dry eye disease, time since diagnosis, previous ocular surgeries, concomitant treatment, best corrected visual acuity, symptoms, conjunctival hyperemia and corneal staining were recorded . Data from the 1 and 3-month visit were included.

Results

16 patients (32 eyes) were treated with insulin (14 females and 2 males; mean age 61.3 ± 16.8 years). 12 patients (71%) were also on autologous serum and 10 patients (63%) on cyclosporine. Symptoms were 3.4 ± 1.3 (range 2–5) when scaled from 0 to 5. Mean hyperemia was 1.0 ± 0.9 (range 0–3) and corneal staining was 2.5 ± 1.3 (range 0–5). After 3 months, 5 patients (31%) referred to be much better, 6 (38%) better, 3 (19%) slightly better and 2 patients (13%) were subjectively similar, mean symptoms being 2.3 ± 1.0 (range 1–4; p = 0.001). Hyperemia was 0.3 ± 0.4 (range 0–1) and corneal staining was 1.1 ± 1.0 (range 0–3; both p < 0.001). Topical insulin was well tolerated with no adverse events.

Conclusions

The excellent results presented in these case series illustrate topical insulin as a promising treatment in dry eye disease with refractory epithelial damage.
Color Doppler ultrasound evaluation of arteriovenous grafts for hemodialysis
Authors: Zamboli Pasquale , Punzi Massimo , Calabria Maria , Capasso Marco , Granata Antonio , Lomonte Carlo
Published: October 2023

Although arteriovenous fistula (AVF) continues to be the vascular access of choice for the hemodialysis, arteriovenous graft (AVG) can be the best choice in certain categories of patients and could have several advantages over AVF in a “patient centered approach” to vascular access. In the clinical management of prosthetic fistulas, color Doppler ultrasound (CDU) is the imaging method of choice for identifying stenosis and other AVG complications. In this review, besides highlighting the pivotal role of CDU in the diagnosis of AVG complications, we will underline the key role that ultrasound can play in identifying those stenosis most likely to cause AVG thrombosis. Furthermore, we will emphasize the support that CDU can play in distinguishing the different types of grafts and prosthetic devices such as stent-grafts, in identifying AVG with lower survival, CDU utilities and limitations in the evaluation of freshly-implanted grafts, the different sites available for AVG volume flow measurement and their use based on the configuration of the prosthesis, the time interval elapsed from the surgical intervention and the integrity of the prosthetic walls.
Making time: Knitting as temporal-material entanglement
Authors: Jones Susan
Published: October 2023

This article presents data from interviews with amateur knitters to explore the temporal-material entanglements which constitute meaning-making in everyday life, and the potential of thinking with knitting to better understand these entanglements. It follows three strands which reflect different aspects of the temporal-material in how knitting comes to matter for amateur makers. Firstly, knitters discuss the threads to and from the past which recursively shape their ongoing thinking and feeling about their craft. Secondly, temporal dimensions entwine with the material as participants describe the process of turning threads into a knitted surface. Thirdly, participants’ experiences of un-making and re-making, and the role of ‘stash’, challenge unilinear models of both time and meaning. Thinking with knitting not only re-opens ways of understanding it as a significant meaning-making practice in the present, it also dynamically re-connects us to the past and offers ways of re-imagining the future and how we make this together.
The conflicts of ecological transition on the ground and the role of eco-social policies: Lessons from Italian case studies
Authors: Bonetti Marta , Villa Matteo
Published: October 2023

This paper analyzes the complexity of social-ecological transition policies and processes, focusing on trade-offs and emerging conflicts engendered by combined environmental-social-technological programmes and innovations. To date, there has been only limited focus in the literature on empirical cases, analyzing the ecological transition, distributive effects, social risks and policies to counter them. To help fill this gap, the paper discusses three qualitative case studies as part of a research project on social cohesion in ecological transitions in Tuscany, Italy. In particular, it examines the ongoing transition strategies and practices, bringing out several aspects that highlight the sources of controversies among actors and the contextual variability and complexity of their ‘playgrounds’, namely: (1) the role of time, space and relational patterns, and ensuing problems of governance, coordination and synchronization; (2) the way in which institutional and technological transformations are embedded in trans-contextual relations and conflicts; (3) the role of different sources and kinds of knowledge in supporting or hampering the ecological transitions; and (4) the shifting balances between top-down strategies and regulation, and bottom-up processes of civic associations and social movements. The paper then analyzes the attempts to provide social security by means of more or less explicitly designed eco-social policies and practices, highlighting some relevant lessons learned and methodological recommendations for future sustainable welfare design.