bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IMAGENS DO IMAGINÁRIO INFANTIL: TRAVESSURAS E TRAVESSIAS NA NARRATIVA BÁRBARO (2013), DE RENATO MORICONI
Authors: Luiz Fernando Teixeira , Domingos Juliete Rosa
Published: July 2024

Do livro ilustrado ao livro-imagem, dos precursores até as gerações contemporâneas, o ato de criar está intrinsecamente conectado à sensibilidade artística de transformar construções verbais em ilustrações. É neste entremeio que Renato Moriconi se fixa enquanto artista promissor na história do livro-imagem. Sendo assim, diante do aspecto afetivo, artístico e plurissignificativo das formas não verbais, este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar a linguagem iconográfica de Renato Moriconi, considerando a proposta lúdica e irreverente do autor-ilustrador na construção do livro-imagem Bárbaro (2013). Para tanto, o presente ensaio encontra-se fundamentado, sobretudo, nos estudos voltados à história da ilustração, os quais se debruçam, especificamente, sobre o surgimento do livro-imagem enquanto gênero na literatura infantil e juvenil. No que se refere à análise do potencial estético que constitui a narrativa visual, sublinhamos os pressupostos que abordam o livro-imagem em sua horizontalidade e em sua verticalidade, ou seja, a partir de sua imanência e considerando, igualmente, os elementos intertextuais na construção do sentido.
A METAMORFOSE EM JOGO ELETRÔNICO: UMA ANÁLISE DA OBRA CANÔNICA DE KAFKA ADAPTADA PARA O MUNDO DOS GAMES
Authors: Pereira da Silva Filho João , Pereira Vinicius Carvalho
Published: July 2024

A obra-prima de Kafka, A Metamorfose, parte integrante do cânone literário europeu, vem sendo apreciada e tomada como objeto de estudo ao longo dos anos. No entanto, no atual contexto de mixagem de mídias, em que obras do cânone são revisitadas sob diferentes perspectivas, temos de adaptações dessa obra para um diferente meio: o jogo eletrônico. Com suporte teórico de estudiosos como Néstor Canclini, Florencia Garramuño e Linda Hutcheon, descrevemos, neste artigo, as características do jogo The Metamorphosis, lançado em 2020 pela Izmir Games Collective, e os desafios dessa adaptação intermídia, explorando as perdas e ganhos do processo adaptativo presentes nesse objeto de estudo. Observamos como a narrativa digital permite ao jogador vivenciar a alienação e a angústia do protagonista Gregor Samsa, agora, de maneira mais imersiva e interativa, com recursos e limitações típicas dos videogames.
O INSÓLITO NA TRAMA E NA MATERIALIDADE DO LIVRO-OBJETO GRIFFIN & SABINE
Authors: Gama-Khalil Marisa Martins
Published: July 2024

O artigo apresenta duas abordagens teóricas que nortearão a análise do livro Griffin & Sabine: uma correspondência extraordinária, do escritor e ilustrador britânico Nick Bantock, a saber: teorias acerca do livro-objeto e teorias do insólito. As duas referidas abordagens serão interligadas, em função de o insólito ser trabalhado não apenas na trama ficcional, porém também como instância produtora de sentidos da materialidade do livro.
A POÉTICA DA IMAGEM NA LITERATURA INFANTIL AFRICANA:REFLEXÕES SOBRE O LIVRO DE RECORTES O MENINO NO SAPATINHO, DE MIA COUTO
Authors: Navas Diana , Galvão Ribeiro Ferreira Eliane Aparecida , Simão Gimenes Russo Araceli
Published: July 2024

Observa-se, na produção literária contemporânea preferencialmente endereçada a crianças e jovens, significativa valorização da componente material dos livros. O livro deixa de ser considerado meramente um simples suporte e seus componentes materiais – capa, gramatura do papel, textura, tipografia, cores, diagramação, entre outros – assumem potencial narrativo, revelando-se não como o portador neutro de um conteúdo, mas como um objeto que com ele dialoga. A essa questão dedica-se o presente artigo. Almejamos, a partir da leitura de O menino no sapatinho, de Mia Couto, com ilustrações de Danuta Wojciechowska, e projeto gráfico de Joana Paz e Danuta Wojciechowska, demonstrar como a confluência da tríade de linguagens – texto verbal, ilustração e projeto gráfico – amplia os sentidos suscitados pelo texto literário, demandando uma leitura sinérgica das linguagens compositivas do livro-objeto e contribuindo para a construção de um repertório não apenas literário, mas também imagético e gráfico.
AVENTURA EM AFIADAS PRESAS: HIBRIDISMO, MULTIMODALIDADE E LITERATURA CROSSOVER EM VAMPYRO: O TERRÍVEL DIÁRIO PERDIDO DO DR. CORNÉLIUS VAN HELSING (2008)
Authors: Silvério Martins Lucas , Barbosa Carrijo Silvana Augusta
Published: July 2024

Sendo a literatura uma importante manifestação da cultura e da arte, o trabalho que ora se apresenta tem por objetivo analisar a obra literária Vampyro: o terrível diário perdido do Dr. Cornélius Van Helsing (2008), cuja autoria é atribuída ao próprio Cornélius Van Helsing. Pretendemos, no decorrer das análises que serão apresentadas, refletir sobre a capacidade (ou não) do livro em fomentar a fruição estético-literária dos leitores, analisando, através de suas linguagens verbais e não verbais, se o discurso apresentado se afasta de uma concepção didático-moralizante da literatura. Assim, refletiremos ainda sobre os livros-objeto, a materialidade dessas obras, as multimodalidades que constituem a narrativa, o hibridismo que nela acontece e sua capacidade em ultrapassar barreiras etárias, o que o torna uma obra crossover. Dentre os aportes teóricos selecionados destacamos Calvino (2007), para dissertar sobre a literatura clássica; Oliveira (2008) que argumenta a respeito das ilustrações e Navas (2019) que trata da multimodalidade do livro-objeto, entre outros. Finalmente, percebemos a riqueza de linguagens apresentadas na obra, o que sustenta sua literariedade.
Inside a Family Hub
Authors: Weinstein Nicole
Published: July 2024

Haringey's first family hub has been open for just over a year. Nicole Weinstein visited the setting to find out how it works and the difference it makes to local children, young people and families
Manipulating the menopause: unveiling the benefits, pitfalls and imperatives in a complex landscape
Authors: Dennison Tracey
Published: July 2024

Tracey Dennison discusses the benefits of increased menopause care provision and the pitfalls of unregulated menopause care
Maximise your day, every day: a two part productivity boost for aesthetic nurses
Authors: Haycock Marcus
Published: July 2024

In part one of this two-part series, Marcus Haycock explains why there is no better time to invest in improving your personal time management, goal setting and planning skills as an aesthetic nurse or clinic owner
Learning Curve
Authors: Edwards Chris
Published: July 2024

Do you want machines to create their own PCBs or use AI to help speed up your own decisions?
To Buy or Not to Buy?
Authors: Dinges Nick
Published: July 2024

There are relative merits to both in-house and outsourcing your additive manufacturing. But what are they and which should a manufacturer looking to expand into this space choose?
Diagnostic challenges from conflicting results of tests and imaging
Authors: Yu Run
Published: July 2024

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of clinical care but accurate diagnosis is not easily reached in some cases. In rare instances, even a sophisticated multidisciplinary team at an academic medical center cannot reliably reach an accurate diagnosis after extensive testing and imaging, and has to wait until histological diagnosis or even autopsy results are available. The underlying reason of challenging diagnoses is mostly conflicting data from history, tests, and imaging that point to different diagnoses. In this issue of World Journal of Clinical Cases , Huffaker et al reported such a challenging case of a tricuspid mass in a patient with Li-Fraumeni syndrome. The case by Huffaker et al powerfully illustrates the occasional diagnostic challenges inherent in our current diagnostic approach and the current technology. Clinicians should realize that in rare situations, agnosticism in diagnosis is unavoidable but a treatment has to be initiated so long as the principle of primum non nocere is upheld.
Effect of dietary with Zhibai dihuang pills and gonadotropin-releasing-hormone-analogue on girls with precocious and rapidly progressive puberty
Authors: Wang Xue-Mei , Li Wei , Yang Liu-Qing , Luo Rui , Zhang Chen-Chen
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

At present, the clinical mechanisms underlying precocious puberty remain unclear, making effective intervention for children experiencing this condition and rapidly progressive puberty essential.

AIM

To explore the effects of Zhibai dihuang pills and gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa) on growth and ovarian function in girls with precocious puberty.

METHODS

The clinical data of 84 adolescent girls with precocious puberty and rapidly progressive puberty from February 2017 to August 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Girls were divided into a control group and an observation group, with 42 cases in each group. The control group received diet intervention combined with GnRHa treatment, while the observation group received diet intervention combined with Zhibai dihuang pills + GnRHa treatment. Outcomes such as clinical efficacy, growth indicators, ovarian function, and adverse reactions were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The observation group showed superior clinical efficacy compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Prior to the intervention, no significant differences were found in growth or ovarian function between the groups (P > 0.05). Post-intervention, the observation group exhibited significantly lower rates in growth, height, and bone age, along with reduced levels of progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, prolactin, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions was similar across both groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Combining Zhibai dihuang pills with GnRHa and dietary intervention effectively improves growth, enhances ovarian function, and minimizes adverse reactions in adolescent girls with precocious and rapidly progressive puberty.
Application of buried auricular point combined with Wenjing Sanhan prescription in arteriosclerosis obliterans patients with resting pain
Authors: Li Ya-Ping , Su Tian , Xue Xiao-Li , Shi Huan-Ren , Su Zhi-Hui , Li Jun
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Research on the combined use of ear acupoint embedding beans and warming meridians with cold-dispersing formulas for alleviating resting pain in patients with arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO) remains limited.

AIM

To explore the therapeutic efficacy of auricular point embedding beans combined with Wenjing Sanhan prescription in alleviating resting pain in patients with lower-limb ASO.

METHODS

A total of 100 patients with ASO experiencing resting pain who were treated at our hospital from January 2022 to January 2023 were enrolled. They were randomly allocated into two groups using a double-blind approach. The control group was treated using a warming meridian with a cold-dispersing formula, while the study group received additional treatment with ear acupoint embedding beans. The clinical efficacy, ankle-brachial artery pressure ratio, hemorheological indicators, and traditional Chinese medicine symptom scores were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The clinical efficacy rate in the study group was significantly higher (94.00%) than that in the control group (72.00%, P < 0.05). Moreover, the ankle-brachial artery pressure ratio was significantly higher in the study group after treatment (P < 0.05). Hemorheological parameters, including whole blood viscosity, plasma viscosity (1.83 ± 0.11) mPa/s, fibrinogen levels (3.30 ± 0.21) g/L, platelet adhesion rate (49.87% ± 10.51%), and erythrocyte aggregation index (1.79 ± 0) were improved in the study group compared to the control group. In addition, the scores for decreased skin temperature (1.41 ± 0.26), intermittent claudication (1.30 ± 0.20), and resting pain (1.23 ± 0.31) were significantly lower in the study group than those in the control group (all P < 0.05). The level of oxidative stress in the study group also exhibited significant improvement (P < 0.05), and the levels of inflammatory factors were considerably lower than those in the control group.

CONCLUSION

The combination of ear point embedding beans and Wenjing Sanhan prescription demonstrates promising clinical efficacy in alleviating resting pain associated with ASO.
Osteochondral allografts for the treatment of shoulder instability
Authors: Poursalehian Mohammad , Ghaderpanah Rezvan , Bagheri Nima , Mortazavi Seyed M. J.
Published: July 2024

Aims

To systematically review the predominant complication rates and changes to patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) following osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation for shoulder instability.

Methods

This systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO, involved a comprehensive literature search using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus. Key search terms included “allograft”, “shoulder”, “humerus”, and “glenoid”. The review encompassed 37 studies with 456 patients, focusing on primary outcomes like failure rates and secondary outcomes such as PROMs and functional test results.

Results

A meta-analysis of primary outcomes across 17 studies revealed a dislocation rate of 5.1% and an increase in reoperation rates from 9.3% to 13.7% post-publication bias adjustment. There was also a noted rise in conversion to total shoulder arthroplasty and incidence of osteoarthritis/osteonecrosis over longer follow-up periods. Patient-reported outcomes and functional tests generally showed improvement, albeit with notable variability across studies. A concerning observation was the consistent presence of allograft resorption, with rates ranging from 33% to 80%. Comparative studies highlighted similar efficacy between distal tibial allografts and Latarjet procedures in most respects, with some differences in specific tests.

Conclusion

OCA transplantation presents a promising treatment option for shoulder instability, effectively addressing both glenoid and humeral head defects with favourable patient-reported outcomes. These findings advocate for the inclusion of OCA transplantation in treatment protocols for shoulder instability, while also emphasizing the need for further high-quality, long-term research to better understand the procedure’s efficacy profile.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(7):570–580.
Elijah and Elisha in the Signs of the Gospel of John: Assessing Prophetic Christologies
Authors: Klem Matthew J.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Many interpreters have observed allusions to Elijah and Elisha in the signs of the Gospel of John. Older studies typically evaluated the parallels to determine either John’s use of a signs source, the provenance of the Gospel, or the christology of early Christian communities. But several recent studies taking a more narrative-oriented approach have asked what kind of christology is generated when one reads the signs in light of the miracles of Elijah and Elisha. They have generally concluded that the resulting prophetic christology functions as a stepping-stone toward higher christologies. On the intertextual reading of this article, however, the prophetic chris-tology relates to other christologies not as a stepping-stone but in terms of the theology of prophecy from Kings: the signs of Jesus validate his prophetic authority, and Jesus takes up not only the role of Elijah and Elisha but also the role of the prophets’ God.
Smart (Studies) Now
Authors: Easton Fraser
Published: July 2024

Abstract: "Smart (Studies) Now" rethinks the significance of Christopher Smart for authors, critics, and students. While writers from Frances Burney to Allen Ginsberg have rated this elusive author highly, critical appreciation has lagged, often focusing on his madness, or treating him as a hack who got lucky once. This essay extends attention from the linguistic and formal power of Smart's religious verse to highlight his generic range and cross-corpus coherence. Three imperatives to advance Smart studies are formulated: clarity about Smart's influence on authors across various periods, attention to the value and relevance of his complete corpus, and availability of a robust sample of his poetry and prose for classroom use.
Creatures Who Advocate: An Ecocritical Reading of Jubilate Agno
Authors: Wild Min
Published: July 2024

Abstract: "For I pray God for the ostriches of Salisbury Plain, the beavers of the Medway and silver fish of Thames" ( Jubilate Agno , B153): species extinction in Christopher Smart's unique poem is the focal point of this essay. That the poem's ecstatic scope offers a leveling care for the nonhuman has been acknowledged, but here I argue that it speaks out of abjection: the poet is the supplicant, asking all Earth's creatures to advocate for him before God. Additionally, focusing particularly on the figure of the beaver, I highlight the medieval animal fable as a valid mode of understanding better our animal kin today.
Cooperative Collection Development: Current Practices among ARL Libraries for Area Studies Collections
Authors: Vetruba Brian , Faust David
Published: July 2024

abstract: This study examines cooperative collection development (CCD) for area studies and foreign language collections at Association of Research Libraries (ARL) libraries, based on a 2020 survey. Respondents provided details about cooperative collection initiatives (CCIs) at their libraries and their attitudes toward CCD. Most respondents had a favorable opinion of CCD, citing access to a broader collection of materials and cost savings as primary reasons. Challenges include the work and time involved in managing CCIs. This composite picture of how libraries build collaborative collections and the perceived benefits and challenges of CCD will inform librarians and administrators alike as they consider how best to build area studies and foreign language collections.
Delicate Links: Ephemerality in Web-Based Evidence in Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Authors: Potvin Sarah , Budzise-Weaver Tina , Anders Kathy Christie
Published: July 2024

abstract: This study suggests the need for best practices, specialized tools and standards, and targeted outreach related to Web-based content cited in theses. It analyzes citation practices in a corpus of master’s theses in performance studies published at Texas A&M University from 2012 to 2020. Finding that only a slim majority of Web-based material cited in the theses remains fully functional within a decade of citation, this study confirms that “Web at large” content poses the greatest risk of irretrievable loss. Additionally, it considers actions by student authors that make theses vulnerable to evidentiary loss or change. A deeper understanding of the fragility of Web-based content and the potential for mitigation can inform needed interventions by librarians and other partners in graduate research.
The Aeronautical “You”: Destabilizing Boundaries in Beryl Markham’s West with the Night
Authors: Hoag Ann Catherine
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT: Critical examination of Beryl Markham’s 1942 West with the Night has tended to dismiss her aeronautical memoir as reifying a conservative outlook in its masculine and imperial positionings. Scholarly work on Markham’s text, however, has not fully examined the ways in which her writing contains transgressive depictions of flight that resist binary categorization: flying is neither wholly natural nor man-made, both ancient and of the future, both masculine and feminine. This resistance to clear taxonomies is mirrored in her depiction of a narrative “I” that counters unified determination. She creates an autobiographical subjectivity that is porous, fluid, and shifting with her use of a second person “you.” Engaging with theories of women’s autobiography reveals how Markham challenges the unity of what has functioned as the masculine “I” at the center of men’s autobiography, and complicates the “aeronautical ‘we’”, or the “flying pronoun” that permeates Lindbergh’s writing. Revisiting West with the Night with attention given to Markham’s subversion of oppositions and contesting of the traditional autobiographical subject makes visible the role new technologies can play in the strategies women’s memoirs engage to negotiate representations of selfhood.
Polarization-insensitive terahertz ultra-wideband absorber with an actively tunable bandwidth
Authors: Li Bin , Meng Rui , Hou Ya-Hui , Yang Shu-Hui , Fu Zi-Hao , Liang Jing-Jing , Zhang Li , Li Shao-Bin , Liu Chang-Yin
Published: July 2024

This study presents a novel, to our knowledge, polarization-insensitive terahertz absorber with an actively adjustable bandwidth. The absorber consists of a vertically stacked three-layer structure with target-shaped resonant layers. Its absorption bandwidth is dynamically controlled, exhibiting ultra-broadband characteristics in the metallic phase. The absorber achieves over 90% absorption from 1.8 to 31.7 THz, with a relative bandwidth of 178%. In the insulating phase, the device transforms into a narrowband absorber, showing a precise absorption peak within the 0 to 20 THz frequency range. Notably, this absorber demonstrates polarization-insensitive and wide-angle absorption properties, making it suitable for different application scenarios. Compared to traditional broadband absorbers, the absorber proposed in this study features an ultra-wide absorption bandwidth and switchable operating modes, enhancing its flexibility and adaptability. The excellent performance of the absorber indicates its suitability for various applications, such as sixth-generation (6G) wireless communication, security detection, imaging, military stealth technology, and energy harvesting.
Deep learning combined with attention mechanisms to assist radiologists in enhancing breast cancer diagnosis: a study on photoacoustic imaging
Authors: Li Guoqiu , Huang Zhibin , Tian Hongtian , Wu Huaiyu , Zheng Jing , Wang Mengyun , Mo Sijie , Chen Zhijie , Xu Jinfeng , Dong Fajin
Published: July 2024

Accurate prediction of breast cancer (BC) is essential for effective treatment planning and improving patient outcomes. This study proposes a novel deep learning (DL) approach using photoacoustic (PA) imaging to enhance BC prediction accuracy. We enrolled 334 patients with breast lesions from Shenzhen People’s Hospital between January 2022 and January 2024. Our method employs a ResNet50-based model combined with attention mechanisms to analyze photoacoustic ultrasound (PA-US) images. Experiments demonstrated that the PAUS-ResAM50 model achieved superior performance, with an AUC of 0.917 (95% CI: 0.884 –0.951), sensitivity of 0.750, accuracy of 0.854, and specificity of 0.920 in the training set. In the testing set, the model maintained high performance with an AUC of 0.870 (95% CI: 0.778–0.962), sensitivity of 0.786, specificity of 0.872, and accuracy of 0.836. Our model significantly outperformed other models, including PAUS-ResNet50, BMUS-ResAM50, and BMUS-ResNet50, as validated by the DeLong test (p < 0.05 for all comparisons). Additionally, the PAUS-ResAM50 model improved radiologists’ diagnostic specificity without reducing sensitivity, highlighting its potential for clinical application. In conclusion, the PAUS-ResAM50 model demonstrates substantial promise for optimizing BC diagnosis and aiding radiologists in early detection of BC.
How near-field photon momentum drives unusual optical phenomena: opinion
Authors: Kharintsev S. S. , Battalova E. I. , Mkhitaryan V. , Shalaev V. M.
Published: July 2024

This Opinion article discusses the fundamental role of the near-field photon momentum in processes of light scattering from nanometer-sized clusters including an intriguing case of self-assembled nanostructures that form a long-range translational order but local disorder. Systems exhibiting the so-called crystal-liquid duality enable greatly enhanced light-matter interactions due to the electron-photon momentum matching in the visible wavelength range. This work takes a historical perspective on the exploration of this phenomenon that has been somewhat overlooked by the scientific community and discusses recent advances in the fields of nonlocal photonics and optoelectronics.
Laboratory-confirmed respiratory viral infection triggers for acute myocardial infarction and stroke: Systematic review protocol
Authors: Nguyen Tu Quan , Vlasenko Diana , Shetty Aishwarya N. , Reid Christopher M. , Clothier Hazel J. , Buttery Jim P.
Published: July 2024

Background

Cardiovascular disease contributes substantially to global mortality and morbidity. Respiratory tract infections, particularly influenza, may trigger an increase in the short-term risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and stroke. Recent studies have also linked this risk to other respiratory viruses, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, the pathogen-specific relative contributions, the strength of their associations, and overall public health significance are poorly understood. Assuming causal links, understanding, quantifying, and comparing the effects of different pathogens as triggering factors for acute cardiovascular events is critical to guide future research and prevention. Our aim is to conduct a systematic review to examine the relative effects of laboratory-confirmed respiratory virus infections as triggers for acute myocardial infarction and stroke.

Methods

We will conduct a comprehensive search of Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Ovid Embase, Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science, from inception to the end of March 2024. Studies capturing respiratory viral infection(s) using laboratory-confirmatory methods, incidence of AMI or stroke (ischaemic or haemorrhagic), and those involving human participants in any country, will be assessed for eligibility. We will include the following analytical epidemiological study types: randomised controlled trials, cohort and case-control studies, self-controlled case series, and case-crossover designs. We will not impose restrictions on the date, language, study population, geographical region, or sample size, to minimise the risk of introducing biases. Search results will be screened for eligibility by two independent reviewers, and discrepancies resolved by consensus and/or arbitration by a third reviewer. We will assess the risk of bias among the included studies by adopting the Cochrane Collaboration tools for randomised and non-randomised studies. The overall quality of studies will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. We will examine sources of heterogeneity, and if studies are sufficiently homogeneous, a meta-analysis will be conducted to calculate the pooled effect sizes. Reporting will adhere to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Registration

International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) registration number: CRD42024494997.
What determines the vote-seeking behavior of legislators in South Korea?
Authors: Kim Hanna , Ha Shang E.
Published: July 2024

Pre-existing studies suggest that legislators in small districts tend to be more responsive to the electorate than those in large districts, as accountability is typically clearer in a smaller setting. However, it is not clear whether the relationship between district size and legislators’ constituency-oriented spending holds in other electoral settings (e.g., South Korea), where pork barrel benefits tend to be determined at the administrative unit, not the electoral district. The present study hypothesizes that as the number of legislators in an administrative unit increases, they are less likely to try to appeal to the voters. Additionally, this study examines the moderating effects of partisan homogeneity and legislators’ seniority. The results from the statistical analysis of data from Korean National Assembly members confirm our hypothesis: the number of legislators in an administrative unit turns out to be negatively associated with their vote-seeking behavior. Such a relationship tends to be strong in administrative units co-represented by multiple parties and weak among newly elected legislators.
Investigating medication adherence among Taiwanese patient with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes: A pilot study using the Chinese version of a Two-Part Medication Nonadherence Scale and the NHI MediCloud system
Authors: Lin Ya-Wen , Chen Pei-Chun , Lin Che-Huei , Lin Ming-Hung
Published: July 2024

Background

This pilot study aimed to investigate medication nonadherence among Taiwanese patients with diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia using the Chinese version of the Two-Part Medication Nonadherence Scale (C-TPMNS) and the National Health Insurance (NHI) Medicloud system. The study revealed insights into the factors contributing to nonadherence and the implications for improving patient adherence to medications for chronic conditions. However, the small sample size limits the generalizability of the findings. Additionally, the study identified the need for further research with larger and more diverse samples to validate the preliminary findings.

Methods

The study conducted surveys individuals in central Taiwan who received three-high medications and those who returned expired medications from chain pharmacies. A structured questionnaire including the C-TPMNS was administered, and additional data on medical history and HbA1c, LDL, and blood pressure levels were collected from the NHI Medicloud system. Data analysis was performed using multiple ordered logistic regression and Wald test methods. Setting interpretation cutoff point to determine medication nonadherence.

Results

The study found that 25.8% of participants were non-adherent to prescribed medications. Non-adherent individuals had significantly higher systolic blood pressure (SBP ≥ 140 mmHg) than adherent participants. Non-adherence was also associated with factors such as lower education, single status, living alone, abnormal glucose postprandial concentration, and triglyceride levels. The C-TPMNS demonstrated good reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.816) and validity (area under the ROC curve = 0.72).

Conclusion

The study highlighted the complexity of medication nonadherence with diverse determinants and emphasized the importance of tailored interventions. The findings underscored the need for region-specific research to comprehensively address medication nonadherence, especially focusing on adherence to medications for hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. The study also identified the need for larger, more diverse studies to validate and expand upon the initial findings and emphasized the importance of pharmacist interventions and patient empowerment in managing chronic conditions and improving overall health outcomes.
Perceived warmth and competence predict callback rates in meta-analyzed North American labor market experiments
Authors: Gallo Marcos , Hausladen Carina I. , Hsu Ming , Jenkins Adrianna C. , Ona Vaida , Camerer Colin F.
Published: July 2024

Extensive literature probes labor market discrimination through correspondence studies in which researchers send pairs of resumes to employers, which are closely matched except for social signals such as gender or ethnicity. Upon perceiving these signals, individuals quickly activate associated stereotypes. The Stereotype Content Model (SCM; Fiske 2002) categorizes these stereotypes into two dimensions: warmth and competence. Our research integrates findings from correspondence studies with theories of social psychology, asking: Can discrimination between social groups, measured through employer callback disparities, be predicted by warmth and competence perceptions of social signals? We collect callback rates from 21 published correspondence studies, varying for 592 social signals. On those social signals, we collected warmth and competence perceptions from an independent group of online raters. We found that social perception predicts callback disparities for studies varying race and gender, which are indirectly signaled by names on these resumes. Yet, for studies adjusting other categories like sexuality and disability, the influence of social perception on callbacks is inconsistent. For instance, a more favorable perception of signals like parenthood does not consistently lead to increased callbacks, underscoring the necessity for further research. Our research offers pivotal strategies to address labor market discrimination in practice. Leveraging the warmth and competence framework allows for the predictive identification of bias against specific groups without extensive correspondence studies. By distilling hiring discrimination into these two dimensions, we not only facilitate the development of decision support systems for hiring managers but also equip computer scientists with a foundational framework for debiasing Large Language Models and other methods that are increasingly employed in hiring processes.
Antimicrobial use practices in canine and feline patients with co-morbidities undergoing dental procedures in primary care practices in the US
Authors: Soltero-Rivera Maria , Battersby Ian , Morrison JoAnn , Spofford Nathaniel , Weese J. Scott
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate how the presence of co-morbid conditions influenced antimicrobial usage as presumptive prophylaxis for suspected bacteremia in dogs and cats undergoing dental treatments at primary care veterinary clinics in the United States. In 2020, data was collected from 1076 veterinary clinics across 44 US states. A total of 681,541 general anesthesia dental procedures were conducted on 592,472 dogs and 89,069 cats. This revealed that systemic antimicrobials were administered in 8.8% of dog procedures and 7.8% of cat procedures in the absence of concurrent periodontal disease or extractions. Cefpodoxime, clindamycin, and amoxicillin-clavulanate were the most frequently used antimicrobials in dogs, while cefovecin, amoxicillin-clavulanate, and clindamycin topped the list for cats. Dogs with cardiovascular, hepato-renal, and endocrine co-morbidities, as well as those undergoing concurrent removal of cutaneous or subcutaneous neoplasia, displayed higher antimicrobial use. Similarly, cats with endocrine or hepato-renal disease, retroviral infection (i.e., feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)), and concurrent removal of cutaneous or subcutaneous neoplasia exhibited increased antimicrobial use. Dogs with hepato-renal abnormalities had longer treatment durations compared to those without (10.1 vs. 9.6 days). Conversely, cats with concurrent removal of cutaneous or subcutaneous neoplasia had shorter durations of treatment as compared to those that did not have this procedure performed (8.4 vs 9.2 days). The findings of this study underscore the necessity for further research and collaboration within the veterinary community to develop evidence-based guidelines, promoting responsible antimicrobial use, and advancing the field of veterinary dentistry for enhanced patient outcomes.
Trends over 50 years with liberal abortion laws in the Nordic countries
Authors: Skjeldestad Finn Egil , Gissler Mika , Geirsson Reynir Tómas , Heino Anna , Sigbjörnsdottir Hildur Björk , Akerkar Rupali , Gemzell-Danielsson Kristina , Heikinheimo Oskari , Løkeland Mette
Published: July 2024

Background

During the 1970s the Nordic countries liberalized their abortion laws.

Objective

We assessed epidemiological trends for induced abortion on all Nordic countries, considered legal similarities and diversities, effects of new medical innovations and changes in practical and legal provisions during the subsequent years.

Methods

New legislation strengthened surveillance of induced abortion in all countries and mandated hospitals that performed abortions to report to national abortion registers. Published data from the Nordic abortion registers were considered and new comparative analyses done. The data cover complete national populations.

Results and conclusions

After an increase in abortion rates during the first years following liberalization, the general abortion rates stabilized and even decreased in all Nordic countries, especially for women under 25 years. From the mid-1980s higher awareness about pregnancy termination led women to present at an earlier gestational age, which was accelerated by the introduction of medical abortion some years later. Most terminations (80–86%) are now done before the 9th gestational week in all countries, primarily by medical rather than surgical means. Introduction of routine ultrasound screening in pregnancy during the late 1980s, increased the number of 2nd trimester abortions on fetal anomaly indications without an overall increase in the proportion of 2nd relative to 1st trimester abortions. Further refinement of ultrasound screening and non-invasive prenatal diagnostic methods led to a slight increase in the proportion of early 2nd trimester abortions after the year 2000. Country-specific differences in abortion rates have remained stable over the 50 years of liberalized abortion laws.
Genetic analysis of efficiency-related traits in Boer x Central Highland goats
Authors: Tesema Zeleke , Alemayehu Kefyalew , Getachew Tesfaye , Kebede Damitie , Tilahun Mekonnen , Deribe Belay , Lakew Mesfin , Worku Alebachew Getachew , Taye Mengistie , Gizaw Solomon
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to identify important non-genetic factors and estimate genetic parameters for efficiency-related traits in Boer x Central Highland goats. The genetic parameters were estimated using the Average Information Restricted Maximum Likelihood algorithm using the WOMBAT program fitting animal model. The least-squares means for growth efficiency from birth to 3 months (GE1), 3–6 months (GE2), 6–12 months (GE3), relative growth rate from birth to 3 months (RGR1), 3–6 months (RGR2) and 6–12 month (RGR3) were 294.0 ± 5.06, 36.6 ± 1.20, 44.9 ± 1.81, 1.46 ± 0.01, 0.32 ± 0.01 and 0.19 ± 0.01, respectively. Birth type, blood level, sex of the kid, and year of kidding had a sizable effect on efficiency-related traits. About 18, 3.0, 23, 20, and 12% of the phenotypic variation in GE2, GE3, RGR1, RGR2, and RGR3 was explained by the direct additive genetic effect. Except for RGR3, all investigated traits were under the influence of maternal genetic effect, and maternal heritability ranged from 0.09 to 0.17. The total heritability estimate depicts that slow genetic progress would be expected from selection. Nevertheless, even with this level of heritability, selection for efficiency-related traits would improve the efficiency of chevon production as these traits are economically important traits. Nearly six-months of age was when farmers sold Boer crossbred goats. Therefore, improving the growth efficiency till the marketing age (GE2) in such a scenario could increase the production efficiency.
Prevalence of HBV genotypes among patients attending Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital liver clinic
Authors: Gikunyu Caroline Wangui , Mbogori Elius , Kwena Arthur , Maiyoh Geoffrey K.
Published: July 2024

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) belongs to the genus Orthohepadnavirus, of Hepadnaviridae family, smallest human deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) virus with 3200 bp in a partially double-stranded circular DNA. Globally, about 2 billion people are infected with over 65 million of the chronically infected residing in Africa. Ten HBV genotypes (A-J) have been reported across the globe. Based on the World Health Organization (WHO) African Regions including Kenya have high HBV prevalence rates yet the data on prevalence rates of the various HBV genotypes and their associated biomarkers is very scanty. A cross-sectional descriptive study with purposive sampling was conducted in which a census of patients with chronic Hepatitis B (CHB) with history >6-month were reviewed for eligibility. Demographics data was abstracted from patient files and blood samples drawn for genotyping, viral load using Rotor gene Q Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) equipment, Hepatitis B surface Antigen (HBsAg), Hepatitis B envelope antigen (HbeAg) and Hepatitis B core antibody (Anti-HBc) using Cobas e411 machine. Out of a total of 83 patients, 43 (52%) were eligible; males 29 (67.4%), females 14 (32.6%) with mean ages of 35.1±10.8 and 34.3±9.3 respectively. Genotypes A were 34(79.1%), B were 5(11.6%), C-D were 0 while E-J were 9(20.9%). All cases of genotype B were associated with co-infection of genotype A. Majority were HBeAg negative with HBV DNA >10 IU/ml (81.4% and 86.0% respectively) with distribution among all the genotypes. Across genotypes, viral load mean percentage comparisons were: A vs. A/B = 2600 (p = 0.09), A vs. E-J = 5260 (p = 0.09) and A/B vs. E-J = 200 (p = 0.28). The most prevalent genotype was A followed by mixed co-infection of genotype A/B. Genotype A was associated with HBV DNA viral loads > 10IU/ml and high rates of HBeAg negativity. Genotypes E-J were also detected though not characterized.
Quantifying global redundant fisheries trade to streamline seafood supply chains
Authors: Kuempel Caitlin D. , Arnett Emma , Klein Carissa J.
Published: July 2024

Seafood plays an important role in sustainably feeding the world and is one of the most traded food products globally. However sustainability improvements are often focused on its production (e.g., aquaculture, fishing) rather than trade. Here, we quantify the magnitude and extent of global ‘redundant two-way’ seafood trade–the exchange of the same quantity of the same taxonomic species between two countries–to examine its prevalence and potential implications across the seafood supply chain. We focused on wild-caught seafood trade and found that redundant two-way trade has increased by 43%, between 2000 and 2015, making up 3.2% (7.7 Mt) of global seafood trade during that period. Although most countries were involved in redundant two-way seafood trade (111 of 212 analyzed), the majority occurred between five trade partners: Canada and the United States (15%), Germany and the Netherlands (11.8%); Denmark and Sweden (10.6%); Germany and Denmark (7.1%); and France and Norway (7%). Nearly 50% of redundant trade is made up of just four species including Atlantic herring, Atlantic cod, Skipjack tuna and Atlantic mackerel. While deficiencies in global seafood trade data mask seasonal and product heterogeneity, redundant trade could have implications for meeting conservation and sustainable development goals. Future research should build upon these findings to explore specific environmental, economic, and social implications associated with redundant two-way trade to benefit producers and consumers within the seafood supply chain.
State of energy estimation of lithium-ion battery based on long short-term memory optimization Adaptive Cubature Kalman filter
Authors: Hou Enguang , Song Heyan , Wang Zhen , Zhu Jingshu , Tang Jiarui , Shen Gang , Wang Jiangang
Published: July 2024

State of energy (SOE) is an important parameter to ensure the safety and reliability of lithium-ion battery (LIB) system. The safety of LIBs, the development of artificial intelligence, and the increase in computing power have provided possibilities for big data computing. This article studies SOE estimation problem of LIBs, aiming to improve the accuracy and adaptability of the estimation. Firstly, in the SOE estimation process, adaptive correction is performed by iteratively updating the observation noise equation and process noise equation of the Adaptive Cubature Kalman Filter (ACKF) to enhance the adaptive capability. Meanwhile, the adoption of high-order equivalent models further improves the accuracy and adaptive ability of SOE estimation. Secondly, Long Short-term Memory (LSTM) is introduced to optimize Ohmic internal resistance (OIR) and actual energy (AE), further improving the accuracy of SOE estimation. Once again, in the process of OIR and AE estimation, the iterative updating of the observation noise equation and process noise equation of ACKF were also adopted to perform adaptive correction and enhance the adaptive ability. Finally, this article establishes a SOE estimation method based on LSTM optimized ACKF. Validate the LSTM optimized ACKF method through simulation experiments and compare it with individual ACKF methods. The results show that the ACKF estimation method based on LSTM optimization has an SOE estimation error of less than 0.90% for LIB, regardless of the SOE at 100%, 65%, and 30%, which is more accurate than the SOE estimation error of ACKF alone. It can be seen that this study has improved the accuracy and adaptability of LIB’s SOE estimation, providing more accurate data support for ensuring the safety and reliability of lithium batteries.
Independent variables of pH: Ten Knights of the Hydrogen Ion Kingdom-Part I. A prospective observational study
Authors: Gucyetmez Bulent , Gucyetmez Kaan , Sarikaya Zeynep Tugce , Telci Lutfi
Published: July 2024

CO2, HCO3, SID, and total weak acids have been defined as pH’s independent variables. However, according to Gamble, HCO3 should be equal to the difference between the sum of cations and the sum of anions besides HCO3. Therefore, if this mathematical expression is substituted for HCO3 in the Henderson-Hasselbalch equation, all independent variables of pH can be demonstrated. Our aim is to test this theory in this study. This prospective observational study was conducted between 2019 and 2020. All admitted patients to the intensive care unit who were >18 years old were included. Demographic data, blood gas parameters, albumin, magnesium, and inorganic phosphorus levels, and outcomes were recorded twice (at admission and at the 24th hour). The multivariate linear regression model was used to determine pH’s independent variables. In the multivariate linear regression model, pH was significantly increased by each unit increase in Na, K, Ca, and Mg (mmol L-1). In contrast, pH was significantly decreased by each unit increase in CO2, Cl, lactate, albumin (g dL-1), inorganic phosphorus (mg dL-1), and the strong ion gap. Ten independent variables can accurately predict the changes in pH. For this reason, all ten independent variables should be separately evaluated when interpreting the acid-base status. With this understanding, all algorithms regarding acid-base evaluation may become unnecessary.