bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shining a Light on the Specimen Room: Enhancing Global Research on Bird Eggs through Standardized Digital Archives
Authors: Cheng Yi-Ru , Tuanmu Mao-Ning
Published: September 2024

Bird egg collections in natural history museums are valuable resources for studies such as how birds’ eggs may evolve under different environmental conditions, providing information that is critical in our changing world and of great interest to scientists. However, the millions of bird egg specimens, many collected over 100 years ago, are often not prioritized in digitized archives. To assess the current status of digitized egg specimens, we examined data available on open-source platforms such as iDigBio, based on the Marini et al. (2020) review of egg collections. Millions of bird egg specimens are preserved in museums worldwide, but only about 21% have been digitally cataloged and made accessible on global platforms, mostly from Western countries. While the technology used for extracting features from digital objects has greatly advanced for studying the size, color and spottiness of eggs (e.g., SpotEgg), the digitized specimens may not be formatted to meet the needs for research, thereby limiting their application. For example, among eight museums with digitized collections, images from six include a scale, but only the Yale Peabody Museum also incorporates a color chart with standardized gray patches for calibration (e.g., Calibrite Color Checker). Furthermore, coordinates obtained through georeferencing are essential for studying environmental influences on egg traits. Yet, fewer than half of the specimens (49%) have been georeferenced. Here we demonstrate how properly digitized specimens—using a dark background, adding a scale, and incorporating a standard color chart in the photo—can be utilized to study the evolution of egg color in birds. We urge the adoption of a standard digitization protocol for bird egg collections, the enhancement of georeferencing for the specimens, and the integration of local databases into global platforms to increase accessibility for the scientific community. These procedures should also be implemented at the early stage of the digitization process to maximize the value of digitized specimens.
Impact of a coastal protection measure on sandy-beach meiofauna at Ahrenshoop (Baltic Sea, Germany): results from metabarcoding and morphological approaches are similar
Authors: Kapshyna Iryna , Veit-Köhler Gritta , Hoffman Leon , Khodami Sahar
Published: September 2024

Sand nourishment is a common and often applied coastal protection measure along the beaches of the German Baltic Sea coast. At the tourist beach of Ahrenshoop, large-scale sand nourishments are completed every five years along a 4-km stretch. The nourishment in question was executed between the end of October 2021 and mid-February 2022. Meiofaunal communities at the beach-water interface were monitored at six stations before (September 2021) and for one year after the impact (March and September 2022, March 2023). To assess the effects of sand nourishment on meiofauna communities, two complementary approaches were employed: whole community metabarcoding and morphological determination and counting of the animals. Both methods produced consistent results regarding community response to disturbance and subsequent recovery. During the period from autumn 2021 to spring 2023, drastic changes in the composition of communities were observed. Directly after the impact, the taxa Acari and Annelida nearly disappeared, abundances of Copepoda decreased substantially, and Platyhelminthes increased notably. The fact that the studied beach held a low diversity may have facilitated that metabarcoding and morphological determination followed the same trend. After initial studies comprising both methods, efficient assessments using only metabarcoding may be considered for comparable sites and situations.
Comparison of soft-computing techniques: Data-driven models for flood forecasting
Authors: Chaudhari Ronak P. , Thorat Shantanu R. , Mehta Darshan J. , Waikhom Sahita I. , Yadav Vipinkumar G. , Kumar Vijendra
Published: September 2024

Accurate flood forecasting is a crucial process for predicting the timing, occurrence, duration, and magnitude of floods in specific zones. This prediction often involves analyzing various hydrological, meteorological, and environmental parameters. In recent years, several soft computing techniques have been widely used for flood forecasting. In this study, flood forecasting for the Narmada River at the Hoshangabad gauging site in Madhya Pradesh, India, was conducted using an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model, a Fuzzy Logic (FL) model, and an Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) model. To assess their capacity to handle different levels of information, three separate input data sets were used. Our objective was to compare the performance and evaluate the suitability of soft computing data-driven models for flood forecasting. For the development of these models, monthly discharge data spanning 33 years from six gauging sites were selected. Various performance measures, such as regression, root mean square error (RMSE), and percentage deviation, were used to compare and evaluate the performances of the different models. The results indicated that the ANN and ANFIS models performed similarly in some cases. However, the ANFIS model generally predicted much better than the ANN model in most cases. The ANFIS model, developed using the hybrid method, delivered the best performance with an RMSE of 211.97 and a coefficient of regression of 0.96, demonstrating the potential of using these models for flood forecasting. This research highlighted the effectiveness of soft computing techniques in flood forecasting and established useful suitability criteria that can be employed by flood control departments in various countries, regions, and states for accurate flood prognosis.
A Comparison of Green, Delta, and Monte Carlo Methods to Select an Optimal Approach for Calculating the 95% Confidence Interval of the Population-attributable Fraction: Guidance for Epidemiological Research
Authors: Lee Sangjun , Moon Sungji , Kim Kyungsik , Sung Soseul , Hong Youjin , Lim Woojin , Park Sue K.
Published: September 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the Delta, Greenland, and Monte Carlo methods for estimating 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the population-attributable fraction (PAF). The objectives were to identify the optimal method and to determine the influence of primary parameters on PAF calculations.Methods: A dataset was simulated using hypothetical values for primary parameters (population, relative risk [RR], prevalence, and variance of the beta estimator ) involved in PAF calculations. Three methods (Delta, Greenland, and Monte Carlo) were used to estimate the 95% CIs of the PAFs. Perturbation analysis was performed to assess the sensitivity of the PAF to changes in these parameters. An R Shiny application, the “GDM-PAF CI Explorer,” was developed to facilitate the analysis and visualization of these computations.Results: No significant differences were observed among the 3 methods when both the RR and p-value were low. The Delta method performed well under conditions of low prevalence or minimal RR, while Greenland’s method was effective in scenarios with high prevalence. Meanwhile, the Monte Carlo method calculated 95% CIs of PAFs that were stable overall, though it required intensive computational resources. In a novel approach that utilized perturbation for sensitivity analysis, was identified as the most influential parameter in the estimation of CIs.Conclusions: This study emphasizes the necessity of a careful approach for comparing 95% CI estimation methods for PAFs and selecting the method that best suits the context. It provides practical guidelines to researchers to increase the reliability and accuracy of epidemiological studies.
Orientation Regulation of Class-switch Recombination in Human B Cells
Authors: Du Likun , Oksenych Valentyn , Wan Hui , Ye Xiaofei , Dong Junchao , Ye Adam Yongxin , Abolhassani Hassan , Vlachiotis Stelios , Zhang Xuefei , de la Rosa Kathrin , Hammarström Lennart , van der Burg Mirjam , Alt Frederick W , Pan-Hammarström Qiang
Published: September 2024

We developed a linear amplification–mediated high-throughput genome-wide translocation sequencing method to profile Ig class-switch recombination (CSR) in human B cells in an unbiased and quantitative manner. This enables us to characterize CSR junctions resulting from either deletional recombination or inversion for each Ig class/subclass. Our data showed that more than 90% of CSR junctions detected in peripheral blood in healthy control subjects were due to deletional recombination. We further identified two major CSR junction signatures/patterns in human B cells. Signature 1 consists of recombination junctions resulting from both IgG and IgA switching, with a dominance of Sµ-Sγ junctions (72%) and deletional recombination (87%). Signature 2 is contributed mainly by Sµ-Sα junctions (96%), and these junctions were almost all due to deletional recombination (99%) and were characterized by longer microhomologies. CSR junctions identified in healthy individuals can be assigned to both signatures but with a dominance of signature 1, whereas almost all CSR junctions found in patients with defects in DNA-PKcs or Artemis, two classical nonhomologous end joining (c-NHEJ) factors, align with signature 2. Thus, signature 1 may represent c-NHEJ activity during CSR, whereas signature 2 is associated with microhomology-mediated alternative end joining in the absence of the studied c-NHEJ factors. Our findings suggest that in human B cells, the efficiency of the c-NHEJ machinery and the features of switch regions are crucial for the regulation of CSR orientation. Finally, our high-throughput method can also be applied to study the mechanism of rare types of recombination, such as switching to IgD and locus suicide switching.
Authentic caring in online professional development for early childhood teachers in South Africa
Authors: Van der Westhuizen Leonie , Hannaway Donna
Published: September 2024

Background: The professional development (PD) of early childhood teachers is of strategic importance in higher education and the profession given the need to improve responsiveness and progress towards millennium goals.Aim: The purpose was to analyse classroom practices and teachers’ experiences of PD programmes, through the theoretical lens of the UNESCO ICT Competency Framework for Teachers to construct an authentic data-based model, which can be used to understand PD challenges and guide decisions about the improvement of education quality.Setting: The study was conducted in Gauteng with teachers from a selection of early childhood centres.Methods: A phenomenological inquiry explored the settings and practices of 23 selected teachers in Gauteng province. Interview and observation data were analysed for content categories and grounded theory articulations.Results: The main finding is that teachers facing everyday educational challenges benefit from school-based support and available media but need additional learning to advance their professional aspirations. The grounded theory analyses of the data highlighted that early childhood practices and articulated development needs are best explained as authentic caring. This was conceptualised metaphorically as garden spaces where careful tending, deliberate planning and various elements of nurturing knowledge may harmoniously be blended. The model extends prevailing theories of PD and the flipped ICT Competency Framework for Teachers.Conclusion: The model of authentic caring is a grounded theory articulation based upon beliefs of practising EC teachers.Contribution: The article provides a comprehensive online teacher professional development framework for EC teachers, emphasising authenticity, care and alignment with global educational standards.
Factors Affecting the Willingness to Take Up IVF among Infertile Women
Authors: Bello Saratu , Oche Mansur , Usman Yunusa Edzu , Tunau Karima Abubakar , Abdullahi Zainab S. , Garba Jamila Abubakar , Umar Amina Gambo , Ibrahim Rukayya , Nasir Asmau M. , Sani Usman Muhammad
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Infertility is defined as the failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. It is a source of distress for couples as societal norms may equate infertility with a failure on a personal, interpersonal, emotional, or social level. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a method of assisted reproduction and may be the only option for couples who cannot have children through natural biological means.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted among infertile women attending the gynecological clinic of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study in design where 203 participants were recruited using a systematic sampling technique. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered, pretested, semi-structured questionnaire, and was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20.

Results:

This study showed over 70% of the respondents and their husbands were willing to take up IVF as a treatment option if the need arises. However, the reason for not being willing to take up IVF in more than 50% of the participants was because it was expensive.

Conclusion:

This study concludes that the majority of the respondents in this study were willing to take up IVF (71.4%) when the need arises as a treatment option. However, the major drawback to the uptake of IVF was cost and religion.
Long-Term Surgical Outcomes of Bilateral Symmetrical Superior Oblique Nasal Tenotomy in Patients of Large A-Pattern Exotropia
Authors: Pandey Pramod Kumar , Singh Anupam , Jayaraj Sreeram , Verma Rupal , Panyala Rakesh , Mittal Sanjeev Kumar , Kumar Barun
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To report the long-term outcomes of bilateral symmetrical superior oblique (SO) nasal tenotomy in patients with large A-pattern exotropia (≥25 prism diopter [PD]).

Methods:

This retrospective study was conducted on 15 patients (aged: 4–28 years) of large A-pattern exotropia. An A-pattern was defined as >10 PD difference between up and down gaze at 6 m by use of the alternate prism cover test. Objective ocular torsion was assessed by fundus photography and subjective torsion by double Maddox rod test. All patients underwent horizontal muscle surgery according to the primary position horizontal deviation and bilateral symmetrical SO nasal tenotomy for A-pattern. Surgical success was defined as postoperative A-pattern of ≤10 PD, the absence of vertical and torsional diplopia, and the absence of V-pattern. The minimum follow-up period was 24 months.

Results:

A total of 15 patients of large A-pattern exotropia (7 males and 8 females) with a mean age of 17.09 ± 7.9 years were included in the study. All patients had bilateral SO overaction of grade +3 or +4 with a mean preoperative A-pattern of 30.3 ± 3.9 PD. At 24 months of follow-up, esotropia in down gaze (V-pattern) was present in four patients with a mean of 11.25 ± 2.5 PD, (range, 10–15 PD). The rest of the 11 patients maintained successful alignment with a mean A-pattern of 3.18 ± 1.17 PD, (range, 2–5 PD). There was significant A-pattern collapse with a mean of 31 ± 9.1 PD after 2 years of follow-up, which was significantly associated with preoperative A-pattern (Pearson correlation, r = 0.7; t[15] = 4.0; P = 0.002). The mean of pre- and postoperative objective ocular torsion was found to be −0.5 ± 4° and −4.8 ± 3.8° with a mean extorsion effect of 4.67 ± 3.85°. There was a statistically significant difference between pre- and postoperative ocular torsion (°) (t [30] = 5.42; P < 0.001), the change in ocular torsion was significantly associated with preoperative torsion (Pearson correlation, r = 0.5; t [30] = 7.2; P < 0.001). None of the patients had subjective torsion on the double Maddox rod test pre- and postoperatively.

Conclusions:

Bilateral symmetrical SO nasal tenotomy is effective in cases with large A-pattern (>25 PD). The reduction of A-pattern and postoperative change in fundus torsion have a positive correlation with preoperative A-pattern and preoperative torsion, respectively.
Evaluation of Histopathologic Findings and Safety of Intravitreal Ketamine Administration on Vitreoretinal Tissue in Rat Model: A Pilot Study
Authors: Sanatkar Mehdi , Nozarian Zohreh , Abdi Parisa , Bazvand Fatemeh
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate the safety and histological findings of intravitreal injection of ketamine in rats.

Methods:

Each rat received a total volume of 0.1 ml of ketamine 0.01 mol/L (5 rats as ketamine group) or a total of 0.1 ml of normal saline 0.9% (5 rats as control group) under general anesthesia in a sterile condition. A histology assessment was performed 1 month after the intravitreal injection.

Results:

Lens opacity, necrosis, and atrophy of retinal layers and optic disc were not seen in five specimens in the ketamine group and five in the normal saline group. There was no inflammation in the vitreous, retinal layers, choroid, optic disc, and optic nerve in both groups.

Conclusion:

Intravitreal injection of ketamine in a special dose has no obvious adverse effect on diverse intraocular tissue.
Clinical Profile of Patients with Hemifacial Spasm at a Tertiary Eye Care Center in South India: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kalher Manisha , Kaushik Madhurima , Vasudevan Haritha , Narendran Siddharth , Mani Karthik Kumar , Ramakrishnan Kavitha , Rangarajan Viji , Shah Virna Mahesh
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To assess the incidence and clinical profile of hemifacial spasm (HFS) and the association between HFS and systemic diseases.

Methods:

This retrospective study was carried out on 85 patients with HFS, presenting at a tertiary eye care center in South India. Demographic and clinical details were recorded for all patients. Of these, the patients who had undergone magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain were analyzed for primary and secondary HFS.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 56.11 ± 12.51 years. The age at onset of HFS was 54.9 ± 12.7 years. The disease duration was 9.51 ± 7.28 years. Male:female ratio was 1:1.17. The right side was involved in 31 patients (36.47%) and the left side in 54 patients (63.52%). MRI was performed in 54 (63.52%) patients and showed neurovascular conflict in 22 (40.74%) patients and space-occupying lesions in 2 (3.70%) patients. Forty-nine (57.64%) patients had primary HFS, while five (5.88%) patients had secondary HFS due to old facial palsy in 3 and space-occupying lesions in two patients. Twenty (23.52%) patients received botulinum toxin A with a good response. Type of HFS had a significant association with hypertension (P = 0.046) while no significant association was present between laterality of HFS and systemic diseases (P > 0.05 each). Multivariate analysis showed a marginally significant association between type of HFS and hypertension (P = 0.057).

Conclusions:

Primary HFS was the main type of HFS with female dominance and predilection for the left side. Hypertension had a relationship with HFS that needs to be investigated further for its causal nature.
Investigating the Effect of Hyoscine and Dexamethasone on Cervical Preparation in Primigravid Women with Term Pregnancy: A Double-blind Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Shabanian Sheida , Danesh Azar , Najafi Saba
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Objective:

Pregnancy outcomes are an important factor in women’s quality of life, and negative experiences have adverse effects on the overall health of the mother and the family. This study was designed and implemented to compare the effects of two drugs, hyoscine and dexamethasone, on cervical ripening and effacement during childbirth.

Methods:

This study was a double-blind randomized clinical trial of 150 patients divided into three groups. The researchers, in the early stage (latent) of labor, gave 8 mg of dexamethasone intravenously to the first group, 20 mg of hyoscine butyl bromide to the second group, and 8 mg of dexamethasone along with 20 mg of hyoscine butyl bromide to the third group.

Findings:

Among the quantitative variables studied (length of labor induction, duration of active stage, first stage and second stage of labor, placental expulsion time, 5- and 10-min Apgar and Bishop score), active stage duration (P = 0.000) and 5-min Apgar (P = 0.042) had statistical differences among the three groups. In addition, the type of delivery (P = 0.003) and the percentage of fetal distress (P = 0.001) in the studied groups had a statistically significant difference, and also, in the third group, the cesarean rate was less than the other two groups.

Conclusion:

Simultaneous injection of hyoscine and dexamethasone in primiparous women can reduce the duration of the active stage of labor without obstetric complications, so its use in the latent stage is suggested.
Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Produced by a Large Congenital Urinary Bladder Diverticulum: Surgical Decision Challenged?
Authors: Boda Bharath Kumar , Gurugubelli Krishna Rao , Darsan S Lal , Moorthy H. Krishna
Published: September 2024

Urinary bladder diverticula represent herniation of the urothelium through muscularis propria of the urinary bladder wall. Bladder diverticula do not contain a defined functional muscularis propria layer and therefore empty poorly with micturition. In the adult, bladder diverticula are often associated with bladder outlet obstruction or neurogenic vesicourethral dysfunction. Congenital bladder diverticula are usually solitary, associated with a smooth-walled bladder, and occur in the absence of bladder outlet obstruction. Bladder diverticula are most often diagnosed incidentally during the evaluation of nonspecific lower urinary tract symptoms or infection. We present the case report of a very large congenital diverticulum of the urinary bladder (probably aggravated by bladder outlet obstruction), presented in a 75-year-old man with symptoms of urinary obstruction, leading to chronic retention, frequency, and recurrent urinary tract infections.
Factors Associated with Chronic Kidney Disease in Jigawa State, Nigeria: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Ibrahim Usman Muhammad , Karkarna Mustapha Zakariyya , Babura Salisu Muazu , Zubairu Zahrau , Namadi Faruk Abdullahi , Shehu Usman Lawal , Ringim Sadiq Hassan , Fitto Luka Buba , Jalo Rabiu Ibrahim , Tsiga-Ahmed Fatimah Isma’il , Sidi Kamalu Shehu , Abdussalam Kabiru , Abdulkarim Ishaq Aliyu , Jibo Abubakar Mohammed
Published: September 2024

Background:

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is becoming an increasing public health problem. A study that reviewed patients receiving treatment in hemodialysis centers reported 79.2% of patients from Jigawa State to be managed for CKD. This study aimed to find the factors associated with CKD among adults from high-burden kidney disease areas of Jigawa State.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive study design that utilized mixed methods (quantitative and qualitative) of data collection (sequential explanatory) was used to study eligible respondents from the four local government areas (LGAs) reported to have a high burden of kidney disease. The modified WHO STEPS questionnaire, key informant interview, and in-depth interview guides were employed to collect information from the eligible selected community members. Multistage and purposive sampling techniques were used, and data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 22.0 with a statistical significance set at P ≤ 0.05. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative interviews.

Results:

The age of the respondents ranged from 18 to 102 years, with a median of 45 (interquartile range = 30–80) years. The period prevalence over the past five years (2018–2023) of having kidney disease in the family was 67 (18.6%), while the point prevalence (currently having a patient with kidney disease) was 51 (14.1%). In terms of the distribution of cases by LGAs, Jahun reported more cases, 33.3% in the family within the last five years, followed by Hadejia 18.7%. In the same vein, respondents from Jahun 28.9% and Hadejia 16.5% reported more current cases of kidney disease in the family. The prevalence of ever had patient with chronic kidney disease in the family was significantly higher among those with systolic hypertension (BP) ≥140 mmHg (29.3%, P < 0.001). Elevated systolic BP was significantly associated with currently having a kidney disease patient (23.3%, P = 0.001). The interviews revealed late presentation and noncompliance to medications among those with risk factors as the perceived facilitators of kidney disease.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of kidney disease was alarming in the high-burden kidney disease areas. The government should develop a sustainable model for mass community screening of risk factors and community-based health insurance to effectively manage all identified cases.
A promising approach for quantifying focal stroke modeling and assessing stroke progression: optical resolution photoacoustic microscopy photothrombosis
Authors: Liang Xiao , Quan Xingping , Geng Xiaorui , Huang Yujing , Zhao Yonghua , Xi Lei , Yuan Zhen , Wang Ping , Liu Bin
Published: September 2024

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202507000-00025/figure1/v/2024-09-09T124005Z/r/image-tiff

To investigate the mechanisms underlying the onset and progression of ischemic stroke, some methods have been proposed that can simultaneously monitor and create embolisms in the animal cerebral cortex. However, these methods often require complex systems and the effect of age on cerebral embolism has not been adequately studied, although ischemic stroke is strongly age-related. In this study, we propose an optical-resolution photoacoustic microscopy-based visualized photothrombosis methodology to create and monitor ischemic stroke in mice simultaneously using a 532 nm pulsed laser. We observed the molding process in mice of different ages and presented age-dependent vascular embolism differentiation. Moreover, we integrated optical coherence tomography angiography to investigate age-associated trends in cerebrovascular variability following a stroke. Our imaging data and quantitative analyses underscore the differential cerebrovascular responses to stroke in mice of different ages, thereby highlighting the technique’s potential for evaluating cerebrovascular health and unraveling age-related mechanisms involved in ischemic strokes.
Augmented Reality and Nursing Care Improvement: Enhancing Patient Outcomes and Nursing Efficiency
Authors: Gomathi B.
Published: September 2024

The advanced technology of augmented reality (AR) is still finding its place in various fields, including healthcare. Much of the discussion of AR in this review article revolves around its potential to improve care in nursing, with particular emphasis on the effects on patient outcomes and work satisfaction among nurses. There are challenges in using conventional approaches to nursing education and clinical skill training, which include the availability of resources and real patients for practice. AR solves these issues by updating the learning mode, as students can immerse in virtually real and actual scenarios in clinical settings for nursing students. These simulations include procedures such as intravenous (IV) line insertion and emergency care, as well as the “skills check” that is presented immediately after providing retention of skills and assurance. In clinical applications, AR can display pertinent patient information, including physical examination data, laboratory data, or patient history, on the surface of the patient’s skin or the side of the bed. This real-time data integration increases the level of accuracy in monitoring, minimizes the possibility of human error occurrence, and increases the workflow rate. Moreover, AR can give step-by-step instructions and snap a clinician back to the key general rules of practice, which is highly essential during stressful conditions, such as in an emergency. However, going beyond the traditional roles of education and decision support, AR can help to optimize patients’ direct care and management activities, including IV-line insertion and wound evaluation. The present technology also has the advantage of giving valuable instruments of patient awareness, thus making patients easily understand even those medical conditions and treatments that may be perceived to be complicated and, therefore, enhance patient compliance with the recommended treatments. The demonstrated possibility to use AR to control the levels of pain and anxiety, along with other advantages, only proves the multifunctional nature of this technology. However, there are some setbacks in AR, such as technical ones, costs, and sufficient training for AR to be utilized optimally. The barriers that need to be overcome are also presented and require improvement for the implementation on a large scale. Further studies and innovations with health-care authorities and technology practitioners are essential for the advancement of AR in nursing care and its capability of enhancing patient well-being and nurses’ productivity.
Adrenaline and Anesthesia - Clinical Review
Authors: Kulandayan Indu , Sivanadiyan Kulandayan
Published: September 2024

Adrenaline or epinephrine is one of the primarily important catecholamines in the general stress response and is manufactured in the adrenal medulla. In stress, it is secreted into the blood circulation and evokes many bodily transformations which prepare the body for the fight or flight response, some of which include tachycardia and hypertension, dilation of the air passages, and mobilization of energy reserves. This catecholamine surge can, however, cause myocardial stress, as evidenced during acute ischemia, hence an implication of increased risk of myocardial injury. In terms of functioning at the molecular level, adrenaline interacts with adrenergic receptors, which trigger intracellular processes associated with the readiness of a body to act fast as well as affecting more general forms of cardiac activity. Adrenaline stimulates beta-adrenergic receptors, enhancing heart rate and contractility, vital under stress but harmful with constant exposure. It is metabolized in the liver and may also cause dysrhythmias when used together with some inhaled anesthesia such as halothane. In anesthesia, adrenaline gets used to increase the local anesthetic action of the drug by constricting blood vessels and thereby increasing the duration and extent of analgesia besides reducing the uptake of the anesthetic into the systemic circulation. The common dose schedule is 1 in 2 lakh of adrenaline which means 5 μ/mL. The usual dose should not increase to 3 μ/kg. Preferably, the dose can be supplemented after 10–15 min. The use of adrenaline also creates a plane to dissect. The duration of action of local anesthetic drug is prolonged following the addition of adrenaline. Epidural test doses detect accidental intravascular catheterization. There is evidence that adrenaline belongs to anesthetic protocols, enabling deeper anesthesia, which, in turn, contributes to more effective outcomes of the surgery and easier recovery. Adrenaline by way of its alpha 2 agonism is likely to increase the effects of local anesthetic drugs and inhalational agents. Still, practitioners must address those benefits against possible side effects since minor, albeit significant, changes in the electrocardiographic characteristics have been recorded with lignocaine–adrenaline mixtures. Adrenaline nebulization is used for acute respiratory conditions like croup postextubation. The dose is 0.5 mg/kg, max 5 mg, diluted in 2–3 mL saline, repeated every 30 min if needed, with monitoring for tachycardia and hypertension. For perioperative anaphylaxis, administer 0.5 mg intramuscular for adults, adjusted by age for children. Hence, adrenaline is extremely useful in local anesthesia because of its vasoconstrictive effects, which must, however, be monitored continuously for patient and operational safety.
Aluminum Alloy, Clad One Side, Sheet 1.25Mn - 0.12Cu (No. 11-0 Brazing Sheet) Annealed
Authors:   AMS D Nonferrous Alloys Committee
Published: September 2024

This specification covers an aluminum alloy in the form of clad sheet from 0.006 to 0.249 inches (0.15 to 6.32 mm), inclusive, in thickness (see 8.6).
Sposoby manifestacji dominacji papieskiej w przestrzeni miejskiej Viterbo podczas uroczystości Bożego Ciała w 1462 roku
Authors: Żak Łukasz
Published: September 2024

The article is dedicated to the architectural works in Viterbo commissioned by the pope Pius II (1458–1464) to prepare the city for the solemnity of Corpus Christi (June 17th 1462). These works will be presented in the context of relations between popes and the capital of Tuscia in the 1450s and 1460s. The aim of the paper is to present their symbolic dimension which was used by the Pope to manifest his domination over Viterbo.
W Galicji i za kordonem. Aktywność polityczna Jana Hupki w czasach Wielkiej Wojny (1914 – 1918). Część I
Authors: Sikorski Tomasz , Wątor Adam
Published: September 2024

The article presents the political activity of Jan Hupka – a Galician conservative, a member of the Conservative Club, then of the National Right Party, an advocate of the orientation towards Austria-Hungary, one of the closest associates of Władysław Leopold Jaworski. Jan Hupka’s area of activity included – first of all – activity within the framework of the Supreme National Committee, bringing humanitarian aid to the population of Galicia and the Kingdom of Poland, coordinating relief efforts for war invalids, legion veterans, widows and orphans of legionaries, as well as creating a network of employment offices, hospitals, health care centers, setting up vocational courses, funding relief for the needy. Jan Hupka’s political contacts with representatives of various political options and participation in the Legions’ recruitment campaign were also analyzed. Also shown is Hupka’s attitude towards the hierarchy of the Church, leaders of leading parties and political camps, as well as the events and processes taking place (e.g., the formation of the Legions, the formation and evolution of the orientation towards Austria-Hungary, the November 5 Act, the “oath crisis”, the rule of the Regency Council, etc.). In addition to discussing Hupka’s political activities, an attempt was made to determine the role he played both in Galician politics and in the milieu of Polish activists seeking opportunities for the rebirth of the Polish state based on an orientation toward the central states. The analysis was based on internally diverse source material (e.g., archival documents, the press, memoirs and diaries). Studies (compact works and scientific articles) played only a supporting role.
QBF Merge Resolution is powerful but unnatural
Authors: Mahajan Meena , Sood Gaurav
Published: September 2024

The Merge Resolution proof system (M-Res) for QBFs, proposed by Beyersdorff
et al. in 2019, explicitly builds partial strategies inside refutations. The
original motivation for this approach was to overcome the limitations
encountered in long-distance Q-Resolution proof system (LD-Q-Res), where the
syntactic side-conditions, while prohibiting all unsound resolutions, also end
up prohibiting some sound resolutions. However, while the advantage of M-Res
over many other resolution-based QBF proof systems was already demonstrated, a
comparison with LD-Q-Res itself had remained open. In this paper, we settle
this question. We show that M-Res has an exponential advantage over not only
LD-Q-Res, but even over LQU$^+$-Res and IRM, the most powerful among currently
known resolution-based QBF proof systems. Combining this with results from
Beyersdorff et al. 2020, we conclude that M-Res is incomparable with LQU-Res
and LQU$^+$-Res. Our proof method reveals two additional and curious features
about M-Res: (i) M-Res is not closed under restrictions, and is hence not a
natural proof system, and (ii) weakening axiom clauses with existential
variables provably yields an exponential advantage over M-Res without
weakening. We further show that in the context of regular derivations,
weakening axiom clauses with universal variables provably yields an exponential
advantage over M-Res without weakening. These results suggest that M-Res is
better used with weakening, though whether M-Res with weakening is closed under
restrictions remains open. We note that even with weakening, M-Res continues to
be simulated by eFrege $+$ $\forall$red (the simulation of ordinary M-Res was
shown recently by Chew and Slivovsky).
Future of Uniform Civil Code in India: Strategies for Effective Implementation and Social Acceptance
Authors: Singh Bhati Dr. Nagendra , Kumar Gehlot Dr. Dinesh
Published: September 2024

The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) remains a contentious and pivotal issue in India's legal and social discourse, aiming to unify personal laws across religious communities under a common civil code. This paper explores strategies for effectively implementing UCC while addressing challenges related to social acceptance in the diverse socio-cultural fabric of India. The introduction provides a comprehensive overview of the historical context and constitutional mandate of UCC under Article 44, highlighting its significance for promoting legal uniformity, gender equality, and social justice. The literature review synthesizes existing scholarship on UCC in India, examining legal precedents, policy debates, and public opinion. It identifies key challenges hindering UCC implementation, including constitutional complexities, religious diversity, federalism, and concerns about minority rights and cultural practices. Building on this foundation, the methodology outlines a qualitative approach incorporating analysis of legal documents, policy documents, court judgments, and insights from stakeholders and experts. It discusses the rationale for selected methodologies to address research questions effectively. Strategies for overcoming implementation challenges are proposed, encompassing legal reforms, public awareness campaigns, community consultations, engagement with religious leaders, and capacity-building for judiciary and legal professionals. These strategies aim to foster dialogue, understanding, and consensus among diverse communities. The paper also examines the role of education, media, civil society, and advocacy groups in promoting social acceptance of UCC. Case studies from other countries provide comparative insights into successful approaches to managing similar legal reforms.
IMPACTO DAS TECNOLOGIAS NO DESIGN INSTRUCIONAL
Authors: Caiado Magno Antonio Cardozo , Almeida Alessandra Barboza Barros , Hungaro Fernanda , Rezende Guelly Urzêda de Mello , Mafra Mackson Azevedo
Published: September 2024

Este artigo abordou o design instrucional (DI) no contexto da integração tecnológica na educação, explorando como as ferramentas digitais, plataformas de aprendizagem online e recursos multimídia podem ser utilizados para enriquecer o processo de ensino e aprendizagem. O objetivo principal foi investigar os impactos dessas tecnologias na personalização, acessibilidade, colaboração e inovação educacional. Utilizando uma metodologia de pesquisa bibliográfica, conforme descrito por Boccato (2006), o estudo analisou dados de fontes secundárias, permitindo uma interpretação crítica de como a tecnologia pode ser efetivamente integrada ao DI para melhorar as experiências educacionais. Autores como Costa, Tani (2023), e Vianna et al. (2012) foram fundamentais para discutir as implicações práticas e teóricas da aplicação das tecnologias no DI. O artigo foi dividido em duas seções principais: a primeira focada na estrutura e significado do DI, e a segunda nos desafios e considerações éticas associados à sua prática no ambiente tecnológico moderno. Concluiu-se que, embora as tecnologias ofereçam oportunidades significativas para a inovação educacional, é essencial abordar os desafios éticos e práticos para garantir que seu uso promova uma educação inclusiva e eficaz. O estudo destacou a necessidade de pesquisas futuras que continuem a explorar o desenvolvimento de estratégias eficazes para a implementação do DI, garantindo que a educação seja transformadora e adaptativa.
CULTURA DIGITAL E EDUCAÇÃO
Authors: Botelho Sandra de Oliveira , Azevedo Celine Maria de Sousa , Nascimento Jeckson Santos do , Corrêa Lenice Lins , Aguiar Maria do Carmo Pereira de
Published: September 2024

O presente artigo teve como objetivo analisar a contribuição da cultura digital na educação como um desafio contemporâneo no ensino-aprendizagem. O método utilizado foi uma pesquisa de revisão de literatura, com base no mapeamento das plataformas de dados Google Acadêmico, Periódicos da CAPES e SCIELO. Referente ao período de 2014 a 2024 as obras encontradas foram fichadas e resumidas para inclusão no texto de discussão. Os resultados apontaram que há uma lacuna entre o potencial das tecnologias e sua aplicação prática na educação, limitando o engajamento dos alunos e a exploração de novas metodologias de ensino. É crucial que o desenvolvimento de habilidades tecnológicas não se restrinja ao uso técnico das ferramentas, mas inclua a formação de cidadãos éticos, críticos e produtivos. Para enfrentar esses obstáculos, são necessárias as colaborações entre educadores, gestores e formuladores de políticas, adotando uma abordagem centrada no aluno. As competências online essenciais para o século XXI incluem alfabetização tecnológica, pensamento crítico, comunicação eficaz, colaboração virtual, criatividade, aprendizado autônomo, adaptabilidade, gerenciamento do tempo, ética na internet e habilidades em programação e análise de dados, preparando os estudantes para os desafios futuros e o mercado de trabalho.
The future begins today: federal project “Professionalitet” in college
Authors: Chernykh N. G. , Bakhtina T. A.
Published: September 2024

.
Justification for the need to introduce a state classification of freight forwarders
Authors: Palamarchuk G. I. , Mikhailov E. V. , Zeitsev D. S.
Published: September 2024

The purpose of the study is to establish criteria for classifying freight forwarders. SWOT and ABC analysis methods were used. Problem areas of the Russian transport services market were identified and a classification option for freight forwarders was developed.

   A restraining factor in the development of any operator company in the Russian market is low trust on the part of customers. Often, in order to attract a large number of customers, firms take on obligations for which they do not have the necessary resources. The creation of a normative classifier of freight forwarders will solve this problem. Thus, customers will receive better information about the services, and operators will be forced to improve the quality of services by increasing the level of customer focus and integrating innovative technologies. Based on the results of the study, an analysis of the transport services market was conducted and a classification option for freight forwarders by levels was proposed, which will allow the state to collect statistical information on the current state of affairs and form a further development strategy on its basis. This work can be used to develop the transport strategy of the Russian Federation.

   The practical significance of the study is an option for amending the current legislation in order to increase the level of interaction between customers and freight forwarding companies.
BAM — Siberian College of Transport and Construction: connected by steel tape
Authors: Chernykh N. G. , Butakova I. V.
Published: September 2024

.
From Traditional-Aged Students to Teenage Fathers: A Qualitative Study of Social Challenges and Experiences of East Asian Second-Generation Teenage Fathers
Authors: Dos Santos Luis Miguel , Lo Ho Fai , Kwee Ching Ting Tany
Published: September 2024

This study aims to investigate East Asian second-generation teenage fathers’ stress and problems resulting from internal factors and external influences in the United States. The relationships between the changes in the teenage fathers’ family structures, social expectations, and experiences of educational and financial challenges during the pregnancy (of their partner) and into the period of their early fatherhood were examined. Based on the Interpretative phenomenological method, ten participants who had experienced stress and problems due to their characteristics as teenage fathers, particularly second-generation East Asian Americans, participated in this study. Three semi-structured interviews, one focus group activity, and one member-checking interview were used to collect in-depth lived stories. Three themes emerged: (1) Cultural characteristics: Detrimental perspectives from family members and the public, (2) Age: The hindrance of youth as a characteristic of teenage fathers, and (3) Career development: The challenges of earning a minimum salary and having an unforeseen career. The findings indicated that counseling services based on patients’ sociocultural backgrounds and practices should be considered to offer effective treatments to ethnic minorities, in this case, East Asian Americans. The results of this study can provide a map for public health researchers to use in refining sex education and sexual health promotion, and the approach can offer a blueprint for capturing the voices of other teenage parents.
Imposter Participants in Online Qualitative Interviews: A Protocol for Trauma-Informed and Equitable Decision-Making
Authors: Klein L. B. , Cruys Caro
Published: September 2024

Imposter participants are an emerging concern in qualitative research due to the recent increase in online recruitment and virtual interviews. Unfortunately, there is limited guidance on how to address imposter participants in an equitable, trauma-informed way. To bridge this gap, we share imposter participant red flags, challenges, and a protocol that provides questions to ask and possible activities to engage in throughout the research process from conceptualization through findings dissemination. We ground this guidance in examples from our recent study with LGBTQ+ (e.g., lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence.
UREĐAJ ZA OPTIMALNO TOPLJENJE KRISTALA U MEDU KORIŠĆENJEM ENERGETSKIH IZVORA
Authors:   University of Criminal Investigation and Police Studies, Belgrade, Mitrović Nikola
Published: September 2024

Uređaj za topljenje kristala u medu predstavlja ključni element u industrijskom procesu dekristalizacije meda. Njegova uloga je osigurati kontrolisano zagrevanje meda na optimalnoj temperaturi od 34 °C do 42,5 °C, što omogućava raspadanje kristala bez gubitka prirodnih svojstava i enzima koji su ključni za kvalitet meda. Kroz ravnomerno i efikasno zagrevanje, uređaj doprinosi homogenizaciji teksture meda i očuvanju njegovih karakteristika. Ova tehnologija omogućava proizvođačima da postignu visok standard kvaliteta u procesu dekristalizacije, čime se osigurava konzistentna i visokokvalitetna ponuda meda na tržištu.