bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association between shift work exposure and cognitive impairment among middle-aged and older adults: Results from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA)
Authors: Khan Durdana , Edgell Heather , Rotondi Michael , Tamim Hala
Published: August 2023

Background

Shift work, especially rotating and night shift work, has been linked to a wide range of detrimental health outcomes. Occupational factors like shift work and their potential impact on cognitive functions have received little attention, and the evidence is inconclusive. The objective of our study is to explore associations between shift work exposure and cognitive impairment indicators based on comparisons with the normative standards from the Canadian population.

Methods

Cross-sectional analyses were performed using baseline Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging database, including 47,811 middle-aged and older adults (45–85 years). Three derived shift work variables were utilized: ever exposed to shift work, shift work exposure in longest job, and shift work exposure in current job. Four cognitive function tests were utilized, Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Tests (immediate and delayed) representing memory domain, and Animal Fluency, and Mental Alteration, representing the executive function domain. All cognitive test scores included in study were normalized and adjusted for the participant’s age, sex, education and language of test administration (English and French), which were then compared to normative data to create “cognitive impairment’ variables. Unadjusted and adjusted multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine associations between shift work variables and cognitive impairment individually (memory and executive function domains), and also for overall cognitive impairment.

Result

Overall, one in every five individuals (21%) reported having been exposed to some kind of shift work during their jobs. Exposure to night shift work (both current and longest job) was associated with overall cognitive impairment. In terms of domain-based measures, night shift work (longest job) was associated with memory function impairment, and those exposed to rotating shift work (both current and longest job) showed impairment on executive function measures, when compared to daytime workers.

Conclusion

This study suggests disruption to the circadian rhythm, due to shift work has negative impact on cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults and this warrants further investigation.
Empirical analysis of the impact of the digital economy on the green transformation of manufacturing: Evidence from China
Authors: Jia Chunjie , Shang Meng , Cao Junwei , Liu Yu
Published: August 2023

In this study, the entropy method and the Super-SBM model with unexpected output are used at first to calculate the digital economy development index and the level of green transformation in manufacturing. Then, a range of multi-dimensional empirical methods, including fixed effects models, threshold models, and mediation models, are applied to analyze the characteristics shown by the impact of digital economy development on the green transformation of manufacturing. The research results are obtained as follows. Firstly, the digital economy contributes significantly to promoting the green transformation of manufacturing after excluding the macro-system environmental effects, conducting such robustness tests as stepwise regression and introducing instrumental variables. Secondly, there is a nonlinear relationship between the development of the digital economy and the green transformation of manufacturing with an increasing marginal effect. Lastly, it is revealed through mechanism analysis that the digital economy promotes the green transformation of manufacturing by enhancing the capabilities of green technological innovation and rationalizing industrial upgrading, with the partial mediation effects reaching 21.2% and 21.8%, respectively. Despite the contribution of digital economy to the advanced upgrading of industries, there is no mediation effect exhibited. In addition to confirming the path of achieving the green transformation of manufacturing through the digital economy, these results also guide the government on how policies can be formulated and improved to grow the digital economy and promote the green transformation of manufacturing.
Risk of incident cardiovascular diseases at national and subnational levels in Iran from 2000 to 2016 and projection through 2030: Insights from Iran STEPS surveys
Authors: Ebrahimi Hedyeh , Masinaei Masoud , Aminorroaya Arya , Aryan Zahra , Mehdipour Parinaz , Rostam-Abadi Yasna , Ahmadi Naser , Saeedi Moghaddam Sahar , Pishgar Farhad , Ghanbari Ali , Rezaei Nazila , Takian Amirhossein , Farzadfar Farshad
Published: August 2023

Background

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in developing countries. CVD risk stratification guides the health policy to make evidence-based decisions.

Aim

To provide current picture and future trend of CVD risk in the adult Iranian population.

Methods

Nationally representative datasets of 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, and 2016 STEPwise approach to non-communicable diseases risk factor surveillance (STEPS) studies were used to generate the 10-year and 30-year risks of CVD based on Framingham, Globorisk, and World Health Organization (WHO) risk estimation models. Trend of CVD risk was calculated from 2000 until 2016 and projected to 2030.

Results

In 2016, based on Framingham model, 14.0% of the Iranian, aged 30 to 74, were at great risk (≥20%) of CVD in the next 10 years (8.0% among females, 20.7% among males). Among those aged 25 to 59, 12.7% had ≥45% risk of CVD in the coming 30 years (9.2% among females, 16.6 among males). In 2016, CVD risk was higher among urban area inhabitants. Age-standardized Framingham 10-year CVD risk will increase 32.2% and 19%, from 2000 to 2030, in females and males, respectively. Eastern provinces had the lowest and northern provinces had the greatest risk.

Conclusions

This study projected that CVD risk has increased from 2000 to 2016 in Iran. Without further risk factor modification, this trend will continue until 2030. We have identified populations at higher risks of CVD to guide future intervention.
Impairment of visual and neurologic functions associated with agrochemical use
Authors: Jiménez Barbosa Ingrid Astrid , Rodríguez Alvarez Martha Fabiola , Bernal Bechara Laila Cristina , Khuu Sieu K.
Published: August 2023

To determine whether exposure to occupational levels of agrochemicals is associated with a range of low- (contrast and colour) and higher-level visual functions, particularly the detection of global form and motion coherence. We compared the performance of workers exposed to occupational levels of pesticides and non-exposed individuals on visual tasks that measured colour discrimination (Farnsworth Munsell 100 and Lanthony D15 desaturated) and the contrast sensitivity function (1–16 cpd). Global form and motion detection thresholds were measured using Glass-pattern and global dot motion stimuli. Neurotoxicity symptoms and biological markers associated with pesticide exposure were quantified using the Q16 modified questionnaire and via tests for levels of acetylcholinesterase in blood and substance P from the tear film, respectively. Workers exposed to pesticides had significantly more neurotoxic symptoms than non-exposed workers. No significant difference between groups for acetylcholinesterase levels was found, but there was a significant group difference in Substance P. The exposed group also had significantly poorer contrast sensitivity, colour discrimination and higher coherence detection thresholds for global form and motion perception. Exposure to occupational levels of agrochemicals in workers with signs of neurotoxicity is associated with low and high visual perception deficits.
Medical malpractice in Oman: A 12-year retrospective record review
Authors: AlBalushi Amal A. , Al-Asmi Abdullah , Al-Shekaili Waleed , Kayed Rana Rafiq , Islam M. Mazharul , Ganesh Aishwarya , Al-Adawi Samir
Published: August 2023

Background

There is a paucity of studies documenting medical malpractice litigation in countries of the Arabian Gulf, such as Oman.

Objectives

To describe the characteristics of malpractice claims, the outcomes decided by the medical liability committee, and predictors of medical errors.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study that reviewed medical malpractice cases registered in Oman over a 12-year period (2010–2021) with the medical liability committee, known as the Higher Medical Committee (HMC). Descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including multiple logistic regression techniques, were used for data analysis.

Results

Between 2010 and 2021, the HMC registered 1284 medical malpractice cases, out of which 1048 were fully investigated. The number of registered cases increased during this period. These cases included those raised by Omani nationals and expatriates, with a majority (86%) raised by Omani complainants. Two-thirds (67%) of the cases involved adult complainants aged 18–60 years. About 43% of the cases were from the urban Muscat region, and 68% were related to public hospitals. The most common specialties involved were obstetrics and gynecology (20.1%), internal medicine (19.7%), surgery (17.6%) and orthopedics (13.8%). Half (51%) of the appeals or grievances were dismissed because they were not preceded by medical negligence or malpractice. The average waiting time to initiate the investigation was 10 months. Errors were more common among non-Omani complainants and cases related to private hospitals. Significant predictors of errors included nationality (i.e. Omani vs. non-Omani), the referring institution, the medical specialty and the type of health institution involved, and the waiting time to initiate the investigation.

Conclusion

To date, the number of cases of medical malpractice in Oman is lower compared to international trends, although there has been an upsurge in recent years. More research using a more robust methodology is warranted to contextualise the factors that contribute to this upward trend, as well as the preponderance in urban settings and among certain demographic populations.
Task-based explanation for genre effects: Evidence from a dependency treebank
Authors: Wang Yixin , Jingyang Jiang
Published: August 2023

In task-based second language (L2) writing research, genre effects on linguistic features are usually explained by either task complexity hypothesis or differences in communicative demands. The basic distinction between the two explanations is determined by whether cognitive factors are at work. To date, the actual causes for L2 learners’ different linguistic features in different genres are still unclear. Aiming at providing empirical evidence for explaining the mechanism of genre effects, this investigation uses dependency-grammar-based measures to examine the role of cognitive factors in L2 argumentative, narrative, and descriptive writings. A total of 540 compositions from three different proficiency groups of English as a foreign language learners were collected, and their mean dependency distances and their distributions of dependency distance were calculated. It was found that in all proficiency groups of compositions, dependency distance distributions of five types showed significant differences between genres. Since dependency distance reflects cognitive load, those five dependency types were able to show that cognitive factors are at play in the writing process. Among the five types, the phrasal dependency relation types could reveal genre effects regardless of learners’ language proficiency, and clausal dependency relation types might pinpoint learners’ threshold of perceiving task complexity. The findings suggest that genre effects on linguistic features in L2 writings may result from different cognitive demand imposed by writing tasks with different genres, and genre effect may exhibit variation among different proficiency groups.
Statistics anxiety and predictions of exam performance in UK psychology students
Authors: Hunt Benjamin W. , Mari Tyler , Knibb Graeme , Christiansen Paul , Jones Andrew
Published: August 2023

Background

Statistics anxiety is common among social science students. Despite much evidence examining statistics anxiety and test performance, little research has explored the role of student self-prediction on test performance in a higher education setting.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between statistics anxiety and both students’ self-prediction of their future exam performance and actual test performance on a formal statistics assessment at undergraduate level in psychology students in the UK.

Method

Using a cross-sectional design, two hundred and two students were required to complete Statistics Anxiety Rating Scales, the Mathematical Prerequisites for Psychometrics Scale, and provided self-predicted test performance scores. Test performance data was obtained from a formal statistics assessment.

Results

As predicted, we demonstrated statistics test anxiety to be negatively associated with self-predicted performance. Additionally, we found statistics anxiety was positively associated with test performance.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the complex relationship between statistics anxiety and test performance, suggesting there may be an optimal level of anxiety for performance in statistics assessments.

Implications

The results we report have implications for psychology research methods and statistics instructors who may wish to incorporate the findings into statistics instruction modules in order to assuage high levels of statistics anxiety and foster student well-being.
Architecture and Music: Morphological and Expresive Compositional Synergies and their Applicaitions in University Campuses
Authors: Campos Calvo-Sotelo Pablo , Aguirre Díez Carlos
Published: August 2023

Este artículo se basa en una investigación centrada en las sinergias entre elementos compositivos en Música y Arquitectura. El estudio se centra en fuentes de composición innovadoras desde la Música, que se enfrenta a procesos de creación similares a los de la Arquitectura. Las relaciones compositivas y de génesis artística que existen entre la Música y la Arquitectura son diversas y han sido analizadas tradicionalmente, pero existe la necesidad de actualizarlas. Para ello, el texto explora dos estrategias compositivas contemporáneas: la expresividad y la morfología. Tomándolos como vehículos para canalizar sinergias, se establecen relaciones entre composiciones musicales y arquitectónicas, ilustrándolas con dos parejas: dos melodías innovadoras y dos campus universitarios emblemáticos (Universidad de Virginia y Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México-UNAM). La razón de elegir este tipo de proyectos es que, por su tributo a la dimensión espacio-temporal, los campus tienen vínculos sugerentes con composiciones musicales, que pueden inspirar futuras pautas de diseño.
Aprendizaje colaborativo en educación superior: Laboratorio de cambio
Authors: Vásquez Astudillo Mario , Pires Vargas Bolzan Doris , Hollweg Powaczuk Ana Carla
Published: August 2023

El estudio aborda la relevancia de la teoría de la actividad histórico-cultural como fundamento y guía para el trabajo pedagógico en la asignatura sobre el Laboratorio de Cambio. El objetivo es valorar las dimensiones del diseño pedagógico en sus perspectivas investigativa e intervencionista. El enfoque de la investigación es mixto. La muestra es no probabilística intencional. Los datos son obtenidos a través de cuestionarios. Las dimensiones estudiadas son la actividad de aprendizaje; los sujetos participantes; objeto; herramientas; comunidad de aprendizaje; normas y reglas definidas por profesores y estudiantes; división del trabajo. Los resultados muestran que la implicación en el Laboratorio de Cambio promueve el compromiso efectivo de sus miembros, favoreciendo la activación del aprendizaje, acuerdos de colaboración y autorregulación. Se enfatiza la dimensión subjetiva e intersubjetiva, las contradicciones en los sistemas de actividad como motor de cambio y desarrollo. Se destaca el rol mediador de los profesores, activando dispositivos que conducen a la autosocioconstrucción del conocimiento, a partir de la constante evaluación y reorganización de las acciones desarrolladas.
Infecciones periamigdalinas en el área de salud de León los años previos a la pandemia, durante la misma y posterior a ella. Estudio de un periodo de 6 años
Authors: Rodríguez-García Ana , Fernández-Cascón Sara , Pérez-Álvarez Andrea , Martín-Villares Cristina , Manzanares-López-Rendo Carmen , Álvarez-Álvarez Ignacio
Published: August 2023

Introducción y objetivo: La COVID-19 ha tenido diversas consecuencias para el sistema sanitario de salud. Centrándonos en nuestro Servicio de Otorrinolaringología, hemos observado un descenso en la aparición de infecciones periamigdalinas (IPA). El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar aspectos epidemiológicos de las IPA a lo largo de un período de 6 años. Método: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo y longitudinal con datos obtenidos del registro hospitalario informatizado de León durante un período de 6 años. Resultados: Un total de 327 pacientes fueron incluidos, prepandemia 201 (61.47%), en pandemia 64 (19.54%) y postpandemia 62 (18.96%), con una disminución de 48.58% en la incidencia de IPA. Discusión: Encontramos resultados similares a los analizados en otras series sobre la incidencia de los abscesos periamigdalinos durante la pandemia, sin embargo, tenemos una mayor estancia media hospitalaria en los ingresos por dicha patología. Conclusiones: La pandemia ha repercutido y cambiado la forma de atender ciertas patologías. En nuestro caso, en lo referente a los abscesos periamigdalinos observamos un claro descenso.
A könyvtárak médiatudatossága és az olvasóvá nevelés stratégiái a közösségi média segítségével
Authors: Szabó Dóra , Dani Erzsébet
Published: August 2023

A technikai vívmányok rohamos fejlődése a könyvtár- és információtudományt, a közgyűjtemények működését is sok értelemben átalakították, megváltoztatták. Mindezeken túl az infokommunikációs technikák számtalan új lehetőséget biztosítanak a könyvtáraknak a mindennapi működésben, a szolgáltatások fejlesztésében és szélesítésében, a könyvtárhasználói és olvasói kör bővítésében. Témánk kontextusában ugyanis a könyvtár egyik fontos lényege (az általános könyvtári szolgáltatások kínálatán túl) az olvasással megvalósuló érzelmi állapot létrehozásának segítése, annak a motivációnak az erősítése, amely olvasásra ösztönöz.Napjainkban az olvasóvá nevelés (egyre nehezebb) feladatát a hagyományos módszereken túl digitális lehetőségek is segítik, melyeknek egyik platformja az életünk szerves részévé vált közösségi média. Az interaktív közegben nagy sikernek örvendő influenszer-tevékenység széleskörű fogyasztói elérést biztosít, mely által a hatásuk felerősödik, s ezáltal az internet ezen szereplői a könyvtárak bizonyos szolgáltatásait is segíthetik. Mindezek fényében a következő kérdésekre keressük a választ: Hogyan lehet a közösségi média és influenszerek segítségével az embereket olvasásra vagy könyvtárba járásra ösztönözni? Hogyan tudják a könyvtárak hatékonyan támogatni az olvasást és az információs műveltséget egy gyorsan változó világban, ahol a digitális eszközök terjedése és fejlődése megállíthatatlan? A könyves influenszerek milyen mértékben és hogyan járulhatnak hozzá az olvasóvá neveléshez, illetve jelenleg van-e bármilyen együttműködési gyakorlatuk a közkönyvtárakkal?Jelen tanulmányban szeretnénk bemutatni a Katona József Könyvtár (Kecskemét) közösségi média platformjait, azok eredményességét. A könyvtár jó gyakorlatait mélyinterjúkkal tervezzük kiegészíteni, melyeket hazai könyves influenszerekkel fogunk elvégezni, annak érdekében, hogy hozzájáruljunk az irodalmi és kulturális mediációhoz, és hogy bemutassuk akét ágens közötti lehetséges metszéspontokat.
Analysis of shrinkage stresses arising during polymerization of orthodontic adhesive systems
Authors: Małkiewicz Konrad , Krasowski Michał , Bartczak Jakub , Radziejewska Marta , Bociong Kinga
Published: August 2023

The aim of the study was to evaluate the shrinkage stress during cross-linking of compositeorthodontic adhesive systems. The elastic-optical method was used for shrinkage stress analysis. Basedon the obtained results, basic statistics were determined, including averages and standard deviations.For the comparative analysis of the mean values, the Tukey HSD test was used at the significance levelα = 0.05. The average value of shrinkage stress during cross-linking ranged from 7.2 to 11.5 MPa.
Dziedzictwo kulinarne polsko-czesko-niemieckiego pogranicza (na przykładzie gwarowych nazw klusek)
Authors: Świtała-Trybek Dorota , Przymuszała Lidia
Published: August 2023

Celem artykułu jest pokazanie dziedzictwa kulinarnego polsko-czesko-niemieckiego pogranicza na przykładzie śląskich nazw klusek. W tekście analizie poddano 75 gwarowych leksemów, omawiając ich pochodzenie i motywację. Wyróżniono kilka grup motywacyjnych: nazwy odnoszące się do sposobu przyrządzania potrawy; nazwy nawiązujące do jej głównego składnika; nazwy wskazujące na właściwości organoleptyczne klusek (kolor, kształt, konsystencja) oraz na ich związek z regionem czy państwem. Część przykładów nazw klusek to pożyczki z języka niemieckiego i języka czeskiego, wskazujące na wspólne dziedzictwo kulinarne.

   Bazę materiałową niniejszego tekstu stanowią dawne i nowsze źródła etnograficzne, słowniki gwarowe oraz materiały terenowe zebrane w ostatnich kilku latach na obszarze dwóch województw: śląskiego i opolskiego.
Reduced reactive hyperemia of the brachial artery in diabetic patients assessed by repeated measurements: The FMD‐J B study
Authors: Masaki Nobuyuki , Adachi Takeshi , Tomiyama Hirofumi , Kohro Takahide , Suzuki Toru , Ishizu Tomoko , Ueda Shinichiro , Yamazaki Tsutomu , Furumoto Tomoo , Kario Kazuomi , Inoue Teruo , Koba Shinji , Takemoto Yasuhiko , Hano Takuzo , Sata Masataka , Ishibashi Yutaka , Node Koichi , Maemura Koji , Ohya Yusuke , Furukawa Taiji , Ito Hiroshi , Higashi Yukihito , Yamashina Akira , Takase Bonpei
Published: August 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major cause of microvascular dysfunction. However, its effect on blood flow patterns during ischemic demand has not been adequately elucidated. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that microvascular dysfunction in patients with T2DM manifests as brachial reactive hyperemia (BRH), defined as the ratio of peak blood flow velocities in a brachial artery before and after forearm cuff occlusion. The study enrolled 943 subjects (men, n = 152 [T2DM] and n = 371 [non‐T2DM]; women, n = 107 [T2DM] and n = 313 [non‐T2DM], respectively) with no history of cardiovascular disease. Semiautomatic measurements were obtained three times at 1.5‐year intervals to confirm the reproducibility of factors involved in BRH for each sex. An age‐adjusted mixed model demonstrated attenuated BRH in the presence of T2DM in both men (p = 0.022) and women (p = 0.031) throughout the study period. Post hoc analysis showed that the estimated BRH was significantly attenuated in patients with T2DM regardless of sex, except at baseline in women. In multivariate regression analysis, T2DM was a negative predictor of BRH at every measurement in men. For women, BRH was more strongly associated with alcohol consumption. Repeated measurements analysis revealed that T2DM was associated with attenuated postocclusion reactive hyperemia.
PDE5 inhibitors: breaking new grounds in the treatment of COVID-19
Authors: Varghese Ryan , Digholkar Gargi , Karsiya Jainam , Salvi Sahil , Shah Jeenam , Kumar Dileep , Sharma Rohit
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Despite the ever-increasing occurrences of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases around the world, very few medications have been validated in the clinical trials to combat COVID-19. Although several vaccines have been developed in the past quarter, the time elapsed between deployment and administration remains a major impediment.

Content

Repurposing of pre-approved drugs, such as phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, could be a game-changer while lessening the burden on the current healthcare system. Repurposing and developing phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors could extrapolate their utility to combat the SARS-CoV-2 infection, and potentially aid in the management of the symptoms associated with its newer variants such as BF.7, BQ.1, BQ.1.1, XBB.1.5, and XBB.1.16.

Administration of PDE5 inhibitors via the oral and intravenous route demonstrates other potential off-label benefits, including anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects, by intercepting several pathways. These effects can not only be of clinical importance in mild-to-moderate, but also moderate-to-severe SARS-CoV-2 infections. This article explores the various mechanisms by which PDE5 inhibitors alleviates the symptoms associated with COVID-19 as well as well as highlights recent studies and findings.

Outlook

These benefits of PDE5 inhibitors make it a potential drug in the physicians’ armamentarium in alleviating symptoms associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, adequate clinical studies must be instituted to eliminate any untoward adverse events.
Investigations on Case Hardening of an Additive Manufactured Steel 20MnCr5 (via PBF-LB/M)
Authors: Mallow S. , Schmitt M. , Gebauer M. , Stockburger R. , Reich M. , Kessler O.
Published: August 2023

As an additive manufacturing process, powder bed fusion of metals using a laser beam (PBF-LB/M) enables the near-net-shape production of complex components in a single step. In combination with case hardening, it will thus be possible in the future to produce lightweight, functionally integrated transmission components characterized by high-strength surface layers with a sufficiently tough component core. However, the process-related new initial conditions resulting from very high solidification rates in PBF-LB/M may mean that case hardening of PBF-LB/M materials with standard parameters achieves different case hardening results than have been usual in the past. This hypothesis was investigated in the present work using the case hardening steel 20MnCr5 (material number 1.7147) after successful development of industry-relevant PBF-LB/M parameters. Besides the convincing results regarding microstructure, hardness and carbon depth profiles, case hardening with standard parameters led to irregular grain growth due to holding at high temperatures for several hours during carburization.
Bounding the probabilities of benefit and harm through sensitivity parameters and proxies
Authors: Peña Jose M.
Published: August 2023

We present two methods for bounding the probabilities of benefit (a.k.a. the probability of necessity and sufficiency, i.e., the desired effect occurs if and only if exposed) and harm (i.e., the undesired effect occurs if and only if exposed) under unmeasured confounding. The first method computes the upper or lower bound of either probability as a function of the observed data distribution and two intuitive sensitivity parameters, which can then be presented to the analyst as a 2-D plot to assist in decision-making. The second method assumes the existence of a measured nondifferential proxy for the unmeasured confounder. Using this proxy, tighter bounds than the existing ones can be derived from just the observed data distribution.
A Comparative Study of the Military Tactics of the Mongol Empire and Goguryeo Kingdom (Goryeo)
Authors: Jang Jaehyuk , Kim Kisun
Published: August 2023

The study is conducted as a comparative study of military tactics of the powers representing different regions and time periods throughout human history. Despite the differences in circumstance and time, common success factors are identified in the military tactics of the two great powers. Based on these success factors, it is possible to compare the military tactics of these armies using the following common criteria: basic tactical unit system, strategic flexibility, tactical mobility, and strategic planning. The Mongol Empire and Goguryeo Kingdom had long been the dominant military powers in their regions. Also, during the Goryeo Dynasty, which succeeded Goguryeo, the Mongolian army invaded Goryeo and used there creative military tactics. Especially, the Mongol army was one of the greatest in human history, and through its power and military skill, led to the magnificent growth of the Mongol Empire. Thus, this study identifies the success factors of the Mongol military tactics through comparison with Goguryeo military tactics.
Precarious Professionals: The Impact of Neoliberalism on the Workforce of the Nonprofit Human Service Sector
Authors: Hyde Cheryl
Published: August 2023

Forty years of neoliberal policies and protocols, such as privatization, austerity measures, and managerialism, has pushed the U.S. human service sector to the brink of collapse. This commentary delineates the impact of neoliberalism on nonprofit human service agencies. Specific attention is paid to the untenable working conditions of professional frontline staff, who are tasked with providing much needed programs and services to often vulnerable populations. Worker strategies for coping with and fighting against neoliberalism, both individual and collective, are delineated. This piece concludes with some suggestions for more systemic responses to ameliorate and challenge neoliberalism’s impact on the human service sector workforce, although additional strategies are also needed.
Comportamiento espacial de roya del cafeto en Amatepec, Estado de México
Authors: Ramírez Dávila José Francisco , Pérez-Constantino Aurelio , Gutiérrez-Rodríguez Francisco , Pérez-López Delfina de Jesús
Published: August 2023

El café es un cultivo importante en la economía mundial; sin embargo, la roya ocasionada por el hongo Hemileia vastatrix es uno de los problemas fitosanitarios más comunes que limita su producción y llega a causar la muerte de plantas en infecciones altas. Por lo anterior, el presente estudio tuvo como objetivo establecer el comportamiento espacial de las poblaciones de roya del café para contribuir en el estudio de la dinámica espacial de la roya. El estudio se realizó en Amatepec, Estado de México, de septiembre de 2020 a agosto de 2021. Los muestreos fueron quincenalmente en cuatro parcelas de 0.5 h cada una. A través de la geoestadística se obtuvo una distribución espacial en agregados, modelos esféricos y mapas de distribución con focos de infección, así como una dependencia espacial alta. Se concluye que con este tipo de investigaciones se puede identificar y pronosticar el comportamiento de la roya en cafetales, la relación del ciclo biológico de la enfermedad y la fenología del cultivo dentro del proceso epidemiológico.
Postscript to “‘Tears on the Flowers’: Worldwide Natural Experiments of Art Healing,” (2020), CAET, 6(1)
Authors: McNiff Shaun
Published: August 2023

Three years after the publication of “‘Tears on the Flowers’: Worldwide Natural Experiments of Art Healing” at the inception of the global COVID pandemic, this Postscript reflects upon the 2020 article’s discussion of issues related to natural experiments in art-based research within the present context.
Artist Spotlight: A Tribute to the Work of Sylvia Magogo Glasser: Dancer, Dance Educator, Choreographer, Social Activist, and Visionary
Authors: Speiser Vivien
Published: August 2023

It is a great honor to offer this article as a tribute to the enduring impact of Sylvia Glasser’s breakthrough accomplishments in promoting dance education and performance in the South African context. This article is based upon interviews with Sylvia, who currently lives in Sydney, Australia, as well as some of her colleagues and former students. In addition, it draws upon writings, websites, and articles that describe her work. I am struck by the humility of this extraordinary and numinous person who has influenced several generations of performers, students, educators, and dancers. She has challenged and broken down stereotypes and barriers during the apartheid years in South Africa and has irrevocably changed the landscape of South African dance with her introduction of the methodology of Afro-Fusion into the dance world beginning in the late 1970s. As the founder of the Moving into Dance Mophatong (MID) Training Program and Dance Company, Sylvia was the CEO, the fundraiser, the choreographer, and the driving force behind this momentous accomplishment. Along the way, she gathered and trained a group of accomplished dancers, educators, administrators, and choreographers. The work of MID continues and remains a living and iconic force in contemporary dance in South Africa today.
The prevalence of group B streptococcal infection during intrapartum period among high-risk group in labour
Authors: Nasr Bayan , Alalaf Shahla
Published: August 2023

Background and objective: Pregnancy associated Group B streptococcal infection is a well-established cause of significant neonatal morbidity and mortality. A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of Group B streptococcal infection among women presenting in labor at different ages and gestational ages and its correlation with different risk factors. Methods: Vaginal swab and urine sample for culture from 150 women having risk factors and being in labor and having risk of developing Group B streptococcal infection from 2nd of November 2020 to 2nd of December 2021. Results: The prevalence of Group B streptococcal infection among risky group women during labor in Maternity Teaching Hospital was 8%. The rate of agreement between the vaginal swab results and urine culture results was 92%. There was no significant association between urine culture results with age, parity and prolonged rupture of membrane. A significant high rate of infected urine in culture was found among women with a very extreme preterm gestational age (p value 0.049), and it was also significant among women with pyrexia (p value 0.001). Conclusion: The prevalence of Group B streptococcal infection among high-risk group of women during labor in Maternity Teaching Hospital of Erbil city was 8%.
Latissimus dorsi muscle free flap for management of large complex wound
Authors: Miran Abdlrahman
Published: August 2023

Background and objective: Dealing with a large complex wound is very challenging, and latissimus dorsi flap through history has been used as its very variable and flexible in the form of pedicle or free flap in the coverage of those large complex wounds as its large, well perfused, and flexible in configuration. The study aimed to evaluate the versatility of use and viability of latissimus dorsi free flap for coverage of large complex wounds in different parts of the body. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted from 2012 to 2019 in Erbil Rizgary teaching hospital, Rozhawa emergency hospital, and PAR private hospital, Kurdistan region, Iraq on 22 cases, (20) male (90.9%), and (2) female (9.1%), all with a large complex wound in different sites of the body that latissimus dorsi free flap in the form of myocutaneous mainly and only one with muscle free flap. Results: The complex large wounds ranged from (22*15 cm – 35*20 cm) indifferent sites of the body, (18) from the lower limb,(3) from the forearm and (1) from the scalp, from those 22 cases, we had 17 cases that survived totally(77.2%), and 5 failure cases (22.7%) those were from leg who associated with tibial bone fracture gestilo type 111B and C and large soft tissue defect with or without vascular injury, and in regard to flaps out of 22 cases 5 of them presented with total necrosis (55.6%), one case with partial necrosis(11.1%), and 3 cases with partial skin graft loss (33.33%), that managed conservatively, in all cases donor site closed primarily with few morbidities as happened in 5 cases (22.7%) like bleeding in 3 cases (60.0%) and stoppage needed operation theater, one case (20.0%) with seroma, and one with minor wound dehiscent (20.0%), that both managed conservatively. Conclusion: The latissimus dorsi myocutaneous free flap is the reliable, flexible and highly recommended for large soft tissue defect reconstruction in different sites of the body especially those associated with extensive bone damage.
Conversion rate and the probable factors for conversion from laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy
Authors: Salahaddin Muhammed Balen , Muhammed Dewana Azhy , Saeed Ahmed Baderkhan
Published: August 2023

Background and objective: In western countries, the incidence of Cholelithiasis is found to be more than 10% in general populations. After performing the first successful laparoscopic cholecystectomy (L.C.) in Germany by Muhe in 1986, it rapidly became the procedure of choice in treating symptomatic gall stone. L.C. has a lot of advantages, including minimal trauma, rapid recovery, less analgesic requirement with a good esthetic outcome, however even in the hands of a best surgeon still there is a small percentage of conversion to open laparotomy, some risk factors has been recognized as a reason for the conversion to open laparotomy. This study aims to evaluate the rate with the underlying risk factors that increase the chance of conversion to open cholecystectomy. Methods: A total of 1400 patients for whom L.C. was attempted, 54 were enrolled in this prospective study from January 2014 to January 2020. The exclusion criteria were malignancy or existence of gallbladder polyps detected pathologically. Patient demographics, indications for cholecystectomy, concomitant diseases, and histories of previous abdominal surgery were collected. The rates of conversion to open cholecystectomy with the underlying reasons for conversion were analyzed. Results: The overall rate of conversion to open cholecystectomy was 3.86% (54 patients). Out of 54 cases nearly two-thirds (61.1%) of the patients (33) were males and 38.9% of the patients (21) were females. Male: female ratio is 1.57:1. In the study sample, the conversion rate among obese (14/54) patients was 25.9% compared with the rate of 74.1% among non-obese (40/54) patients. Out of 3.86% of the conversion rate, 2.86% were non-obese and 1% were obese patients. The commonest etiology for conversion was thickened gall bladder due to severe gall bladder inflammation with fibrosis (21 patients) 38.9% followed by Acute cholecystitis (8 patients) 14.8%, then fibrosis (7 patients) 13% with aberrant anatomy at the calot’s triangle (6 patients) 11.1%. Conclusion: A thickened gall bladder was found to be the commonest risk factor for conversion to open cholecystectomy, the conversion from L.C. to O.C. should not be regarded as a failure of the procedure or as a complication, rather it should be regarded as a prudent maneuver for achieving the desired objective namely safe removal of the gall bladder.
Investigation of mechanical, thermal and water absorption behaviour of MWCNT’s with AL2O3 reinforced polymer composite
Authors: Varunkumar T. , Jayaraj M. , Sivakumar R. , Manikandan N.
Published: August 2023

In this work, composite materials were developed using compression moulding method, which the composition of M2A1C (Epoxy + 2 wt % MWCNT +1 wt % Al2O3), M2A1.5C (Epoxy + 2 wt % MWCNT +1.5 wt % Al2O3) and M2A1C (Epoxy + 2 wt % MWCNT +2 wt % Al2O3). From the composition, M2A1.5C had improved the mechanical properties of 30%, 24% and 28% in tensile strength, flexural strength and impact strength, respectively, compared to the M2A1C. From the thermo-gravimetric examination, the critical change was happened during increasing of Al2O3, however, the M2A1.5C had a significant improvement within the residual mass and maximum temperature decomposition with compared to other composites. Hydrophobicity decreased in the M2A1C composition, due to the low density of the material in the composite. The study is exploring ways to improve the polymer-metal matrix hybrid composite materials to make them lighter and more affordable, as well as easier to use in light load applications.
A comprehensive study on Ni-Doped cobalt ferrites for optical response and anti-bacterial activity
Authors: Ullah F. , Ahmad I. , Zaib S. , Abrar M. , Khalil M. , Ebdah M. A. , Ramay S. M. , Saleem M.
Published: August 2023

In the current study, Ni doped CoFe2O4 nanoparticles were fabricated using well-known hydrothermal method. The structural, morphological, optical, and antibacterial activity were analyzed through the latest analytical techniques. The Fd-cubic spinel crystal structure was observed with variations in crystallite sizes and lattice parameters of synthesized samples. The growth of spherical and uniform nanoparticles with the presence of expected elements are observed from field emission scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-rays analysis, respectively. A broad absorption band was shown in UV-visible absorption spectroscopy in the wavelength range of 200-320 nm. A significant increase in the energy band gap was observed from 2.98 eV to 3.56 eV as the concentration of dopant increased from 2% to 6%. The antibacterial activities of the samples were investigated against Staph aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and E. Coli through the well-known Agar well diffusion method. The pure and Ni-doped CoFe2O4 exhibits a maximum zone of inhibition (3-25 mm), proposing that these materials are efficient against bacterial resistance. Further, the enhancement in value of the inhibition zone by substitution of Ni at cobalt sites recommended that it is a potential candidate for biomedical applications and can be highly effective against the high resistance of different bacteria.
Metformin rescues migratory deficits of cells derived from patients with periventricular heterotopia
Authors: Bressan Cedric , Snapyan Marta , Snapyan Marina , Klaus Johannes , di Matteo Francesco , Robertson Stephen P , Treutlein Barbara , Parent Martin , Cappello Silvia , Saghatelyan Armen
Published: August 2023

Periventricular neuronal heterotopia (PH) is one of the most common forms of cortical malformation in the human cortex. We show that human neuronal progenitor cells (hNPCs) derived from PH patients with a DCHS1 or FAT4 mutation as well as isogenic lines had altered migratory dynamics when grafted in the mouse brain. The affected migration was linked to altered autophagy as observed in vivo with an electron microscopic analysis of grafted hNPCs, a Western blot analysis of cortical organoids, and time‐lapse imaging of hNPCs in the presence of bafilomycin A1. We further show that deficits in autophagy resulted in the accumulation of paxillin, a focal adhesion protein involved in cell migration. Strikingly, a single‐cell RNA‐seq analysis of hNPCs revealed similar expression levels of autophagy‐related genes. Bolstering AMPK‐dependent autophagy by metformin, an FDA‐approved drug, promoted migration of PH patients‐derived hNPCs. Our data indicate that transcription‐independent homeostatic modifications in autophagy contributed to the defective migratory behavior of hNPCs in vivo and suggest that modulating autophagy in hNPCs might rescue neuronal migration deficits in some forms of PH.
Erythropoietin-mediated cardioprotection in hearts subjected to ischemia reperfusion
Authors: Vélez Débora Elisabet , Mestre Cordero Victoria Evangelina , Hermann Romina , de las Mercedes Fernández Pazos María , Reznik Federico Joaquín , Sánchez Lucia , Marina Prendes María Gabriela
Published: August 2023

Several studies provide evidence that erythropoietin (EPO) could play an important role in the recovery of the heart subjected to ischemia–reperfusion. In this regard, it has been suggested that EPO could be involved in protein kinase B (Akt) activation as a cell survival protein. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of EPO on the Akt/glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β) pathway in the presence or absence of wortmannin (W, Akt inhibitor) and its relationship with mitochondrial morphology and function preservation in ischemic-reperfused rat hearts. EPO improved the functional recovery of the heart subjected to ischemia–reperfusion, reduced the release of CK and the infarct size, and promoted preservation of the mitochondrial structure. Moreover, it reduced tissue lactate content and preserved glycogen in order to prevent ischemia. The results showed greater Akt activation, accompanied by preservation of swelling and mitochondrial calcium retention capacity, as well as an increase in ATP synthesis capacity. These results were accompanied by an inhibition of GSK-3β, suggesting regulation of Akt on the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. All these beneficial effects exerted by acute treatment with EPO were prevented by W. The present study provided novel evidence that EPO not only enhances intrinsic activation of Akt during myocardial ischemia–reperfusion but also promotes GSK-3β inhibition, contributing to mitochondrial structure and function preservation.
Rising antibiotic resistance: growing concern
Authors: Singh Neha , Bange Khushboo
Published: August 2023

In the 20th century, antibiotics were regarded as a "wonder drug," but due to overuse, bacteria have become resistant to them, giving rise to highly resistant superbugs that can live in the presence of drugs intended to stop them from multiplying. There are several mechanisms behind antimicrobial resistance. Antibiotic resistance can typically be acquired by drug-susceptible bacteria by genetic mutation or gene transfer, with horizontal gene transfer (HGT). Antibiotic resistance can be prevented by using them targeted in their least concentration. Making nano biomolecules could improve antimicrobial therapy's effectiveness and address problems with current methods of infection control. Antimicrobial peptides, bacteriophage therapy, probiotic therapy, and the use of phytochemicals are all essential antibiotic alternatives that should be employed to limit antibiotic consumption. Implementing new regulations, reviving research projects, and pursuing crisis management strategies all require coordinated efforts.
Нефлуктуаційний механізм появи міжвузлових атомів у деформованому кристалі
Authors: Bulavin L.A. , Zabashta Yu.F. , Lazarenko M.M. , Vergun L.Yu. , Hnatiuk K.I. , Alekseev O.M. , Kovalchuk V.I.
Published: August 2023

Пропонується механiзм появи мiжвузлових атомiв, вiдповiдно до якого згаданi атоми з’являються в результатi дiї стискаючих деформацiй. Показано, що поява мiжвузлових атомiв вiдбувається, коли вiдносна об’ємна деформацiя перевищує деяке критичне значення. Розрахована рiвноважна концентрацiя мiжвузлових атомiв, якi з’являються внаслiдок запропонованого механiзму. Характерною особливiстю останнього є швидке, протiкаюче зi швидкiстю звуку, встановлення вказаної концентрацiї.
Вплив температури та хімічного потенціалу на термодинамічний коефіцієнт −(dV/dP)T води
Authors: Bulavin L.A. , Rudnikov Ye.G.
Published: August 2023

На основi iснуючих лiтературних даних проведенi розрахунки з подальшим аналiзом температурних та хiм-потенцiальних залежностей термодинамiчного коефiцiєнта −(dV/dP)T для води у станi рiдини. Проведено порiвняння знайденого коефiцiєнта для води та аргону. З урахуванням принципу вiдповiдних станiв пiдтверджено iснування областi термодинамiчної подiбностi мiж ними. Разом з тим, iснує область термодинамiчних параметрiв, в якiй зазначена подiбнiсть мiж водою та аргоном не спостерiгається. Показано, що для води iснує особлива температура (42,0 ±0,2) ∘C, за якої крива температурної залежностi термодинамiчного коефiцiєнта −(dV/dP)T уздовж лiнiї рiвноваги рiдина–пара проходить через мiнiмум. Вказана особливiсть приводить до особливостi поведiнки термодинамiчного коефiцiєнта −(dV/dP)T води, чого не спостерiгається для аргону. Показано, що для води iснує особливе значення хiмiчного потенцiалу, за якого крива хiмпотенцiальної залежностi термодинамiчного коефiцiєнта −(dV/dP)T уздовж кривої спiвiснування рiдина–пара також має мiнiмум. Крiм того, у потрiйнiй точцi води термодинамiчний коефiцiєнт −(dV/dP)T як функцiя хiмiчного потенцiалу досягає максимального значення.