bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Instagram y marketing político. Campaña electoral de Vox en 2019.
Authors: Sánchez Hunt Marta , de Aguilera Miguel
Published: April 2023

El uso de las redes sociales con fines de comunicación política se ha generalizado en los últimos años, en paralelo con la crecida presencia en nuestras vidas de dichas redes. En este trabajo nos vamos a centrar en el uso que ha hecho Vox de las redes sociales para acercarse a los votantes y conseguir el mayor número de seguidores de todos los partidos integrantes del panorama electoral nacional del año 2019. La red específica empleada por Vox para su marketing político ha sido Instagram. Instagram es una red social de gran implantación entre ciertos sectores de la población, en especial entre los jóvenes en edad de votar y cada vez son más numerosos los estudios que se hacen sobre su uso en la comunicación política. En este trabajo buscamos encontrar algunas de las claves que expliquen cómo el uso de esa red por Vox, un partido hasta entonces con muy escasa presencia en la vida pública contribuyó a que ese actor político irrumpiese con fuerza en la escena española, siendo el partido político con más seguidores en Instagram durante las dos campañas electorales de 2019. Examinamos las características de los mensajes de Vox en Instagram durante los dos procesos electorales al Parlamento español de 2019, comparando ambas campañas. El estudio de ese caso, aplicando el análisis de contenido a sus mensajes, permite observar que Vox ha sido capaz de generar su propia agenda sin contar con apenas presencia en los medios de comunicación convencionales. Las publicaciones demuestran una intención clara de personalización del partido y de mostrar una posición de igualdad ante el ciudadano. Los mensajes buscan incidir emocionalmente en sus posibles votantes, así como posibilitarles una sensación de cercanía. En la segunda campaña se nota el avance en la profesionalización del departamento de comunicación, tras aumentar su presupuesto al conseguir representación política, haciendo más publicaciones, de más calidad y con más postproducción.
La escritura de la historia prehispánica en Colombia. La obra de Ernesto Restrepo Tirado, 1892-1944
Authors: Calderón Patiño Sol Alejandra
Published: April 2023

A través del análisis de la obra de Ernesto Restrepo Tirado, esta investigación se enfoca en entender cómo se escribió la historia prehispánica en Colombia a finales del siglo XIX y principios del XX. Este texto examina el contexto intelectual en el que Restrepo Tirado produjo su obra historiográfica, y para ello se determinó su itinerario biográfico, se describió y reflexionó acerca del proceso de elaboración de sus obras y se analizó su representación sobre los grupos prehispánicos colombianos y su relación con el debate del momento sobre “raza”, “civilización” y “barbarie”. Esta es la primera investigación que aborda con profundidad a este autor, su obra y el momento de su escritura, cuando en diferentes países de América Latina se planteó la necesidad de dar un peso temporal a la historia nacional mediante el reconocimiento de la historia prehispánica, para lo cual en el desarrollo del ejercicio histórico se comenzaron a usar las antigüedades como fuentes arqueológicas, práctica que terminó dando pie a la formalización de la antropología y la arqueología como campos científicos.
Mutaciones de la piedra. Pensar el monumento desde Colombia
Authors: Vargas Álvarez Sebastián
Published: April 2023

Mutaciones de la piedra aborda los monumentos conmemorativos y procesos de monumentalización en el país como un objeto de estudio a partir de una triple perspectiva: teórica, historiográfica y legislativa. De esta forma, se espera contribuir a la construcción de una historia cultural de los monumentos colombianos en tiempos en los que las nociones comunes de historia, patrimonio y nación se encuentran en constante debate y redefinición.
The Influence of Media Capabilities on Knowledge Contribution in Online Communities
Authors: Liao Gen-Yih , Huang Tzu-Ling , Dennis Alan R. , Teng Ching-I
Published: April 2023

Online communities (OCs) have historically focused on building knowledge repositories, but as OCs add more synchronous communication, it is important to understand how different communication capabilities influence user commitment, individual growth, and knowledge contribution. We studied 452 members of a popular OC in Taiwan and found that both connectivity (direct user-to-user interaction) and communality (knowledge repositories) influence member commitment, but connectivity has a stronger influence than communality on knowledge contribution and individual growth. We also found that four media capabilities (transmission velocity, parallelism, symbol sets, and reprocessability) have strong influence on both connectivity and communality. These findings suggest that managers of OCs should add software capabilities that help OC members find like-minded members, enable instant messaging among members, and provide richer communication beyond simple text messages.
Uniform Mixed Equilibria in Network Congestion Games with Link Failures
Authors: Bilò Vittorio , Moscardelli Luca , Vinci Cosimo
Published: April 2023

Motivated by possible applications in fault-tolerant selfish routing, we introduce the notion of uniform mixed equilibrium in network congestion games with adversarial link failures, where agents need to route traffic from a source to a destination node. Given an integer [Formula: see text], a ρ-uniform mixed strategy is a mixed strategy in which an agent plays exactly ρ edge-disjoint paths with uniform probability; therefore, a ρ-uniform mixed equilibrium is a tuple of ρ-uniform mixed strategies, one for each agent, in which no agent can lower her cost by deviating to another ρ-uniform mixed strategy. For games with weighted agents and affine latency functions, we show the existence of ρ-uniform mixed equilibria and provide a tight characterization of their price of anarchy. For games with unweighted agents, we extend the existential guarantee to any class of latency functions, and restricted to games with affine latencies, we derive a tight characterization of the price of anarchy and the price of stability.

Funding: This work was partially supported by the INdAM-GNCS and the Italian MIUR PRIN 2017 Project ALGADIMAR “Algorithms, Games, and Digital Markets.”
Complications after autotransplantation of a maxillary canine: a case report and literature review
Authors: Fernando Sancia , Ravindra Vinya , Kumar Mahesh
Published: April 2023

Autotransplantation is the positioning of a tooth in the same individual, from a donor site to an extraction site or a surgically prepared socket. A case report involving a previously transplanted maxillary canine, which later presented with complications, is discussed. We explore the indications, surgical planning and technique, associated risk factors and long-term outcomes for the transplantation of canines.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Understanding the indications and surgical requirements for canine transplantation should optimise case selection and complication management.
Short stature and stunting in Indonesia: problems and innovative alternative solutions
Authors: Hamid Agus Rizal Ardy Hariandy
Published: April 2023

[No abstract available]
Designing Prostitution Policy
Authors: Wagenaar Hendrik , Amesberger Helga , Altink Sietske
Published: April 2023

This is one of the few books that explicitly focuses on the formulation, process and outcomes of prostitution policy. While the debate on prostitution focuses on broad regulatory regimes, the central premise of this book is that the outcomes of prostitution policy are in fact determined by local policy making. The book provides a detailed analysis of the challenges and pitfalls of designing and implementing prostitution policy in Austria and the Netherlands, with a focus on the major cities in these countries. The analysis shows that prostitution policy is challenged by the stigma attached to prostitution, the moral contestation around prostitution, the paradoxes of migration, as well as the inherent lack of data about prostitution. Locally we found that processes of regulatory drift and agency capture reversed originally progressive policy goals to result in a repressive form of regulation aimed at controlling and rolling back prostitution. These processes were strongly shaped by a dominant neo-abolitionist discourse that conflated prostitution with trafficking. Neo-abolitionist inspired regulation had the effect of ignoring the considerable labour exploitation in the domain of prostitution and contributed to the erosion of sex workers’ human rights. The authors propose to replace ‘fighting trafficking’ by ‘fighting exploitation’ to establish improved working conditions and labour rights for sex workers. Drawing on experiences from around the world, the authors argue for collaborative policymaking as a strategy for an effective and humane prostitution policy. That implies entering into a dialogue with, and the inclusion of, sex workers advocacy organizations in the formulation and implementation of prostitution policy.
Ultrathin silicon wafer defect detection method based on IR micro-digital holography
Authors: Lai Benlin , Zhang Yongan , Zhang Changxing
Published: April 2023

Ultrathin silicon wafers are key components of wearable electronic devices and flexible
electronics. Defects produced during the preparation process of
ultrathin silicon wafers have a great influence on the electronic
performance. A high-precision, nondestructive, and rapid damage
detection method is urgently needed. IR digital holography has the
advantage of being insensitive to visible light and environmental
interference. In addition, micro-holography can achieve micro-target
scaling with large range scaling. An ultrathin silicon wafer defect
detection method of IR micro-digital holography is proposed in this
paper for what we believe is the first time. Using the proposed defect
detection method based on holography, the detection accuracy reached
the submicron level.
Design and analysis of polygonal mirror-based scan engines for improved spatial frequency modulation imaging
Authors: Scarbrough Daniel , Cottrell Seth , Czerski John , Kingsolver Ian , Field Jeff , Bartels Randy , Squier Jeff
Published: April 2023

Spatial frequency modulation imaging (SPIFI) is a structured illumination single pixel imaging technique that is most often achieved via a rotating modulation disk. This implementation produces line images with exposure times on the order of tens of milliseconds. Here, we present a new architecture for SPIFI using a polygonal scan mirror with the following advances: (1) reducing SPIFI line image exposure times by 2 orders of magnitude, (2) facet-to-facet measurement and correction for polygonal scan design, and (3) a new anamorphic magnification scheme that improves resolution for long working distance optics.
Numerical investigation of a Ge1-xSnx-on-AlN waveguide and its sensing mechanism for the detection of trace gases in the mid-infrared regime
Authors: Kumar Harshvardhan , Pandey Ankit Kumar
Published: April 2023

This work reports the integration of a Ge1−xSn
x
-on-AlN optical waveguide (WG) on SiO2 substrate to facilitate mid-infrared (MIR) trace gas detection. Here, the proposed structure makes use of Ge1−xSn
x
in the core of the WG and the AlN cladding; this enables the effective guidance and confinement of a broad spectrum of MIR light waves within the GeSn WG. The gas detection mechanism of the device is based on the evanescent wave field component of a guided mode to examine particular molecular absorption/trace gas characteristics of the upper cladding environment. The designed WGs exhibit high power confinement (∼90%) and low propagation loss of 0.61–1.18 dB/cm at λ=4.3−4.74µm with x=6% in the Ge1−xSn
x
core. We also discuss the capability of the proposed WG to detect trace gases such as CO, CO2, and N2O. The results show that the minimum detectable concentrations (Cmin) of these gases are ∼0.42, 0.12, and 0.16 ppm, respectively, for x=6%. These encouraging results enable a new sensor platform for GeSn-based MIR trace/atmospheric gas detection.
Photochromic engineering of radiative decay rate in plasmon–emitter coupling
Authors: Aruldoss Reegan , Adam Pierre-Michel , Gérard Davy , Baudrion Anne-Laure
Published: April 2023

The development of advanced plasmonic applications is centered on the achievement of active devices. Active plasmonic nanostructures exhibiting tunable resonances have the potential to provide smart materials with a wide range of applications in optoelectronics, including sensing and logic operations. Here, we use finite-difference time-domain simulations to compare the optical properties of nanocones and nanocylinders embedded in two different states of a photochromic medium, first considering a plane wave illumination and then a point dipole one. We show that the photochromic transition induces strong coupling behavior for both illuminations, and it allows a nanocone to effectively enhance one emitter’s emission at one wavelength and quench another emitter at a different wavelength.
266 nm ultraviolet communication under unknown interference using UVC micro-LED
Authors: Ding Yifan , Zhang Yubo , Yu Huabin , Gong Chen , Sun Haiding , Xu Zhengyuan
Published: April 2023

Ultraviolet C (UVC) micro light-emitting diode (LED) can achieve symbol communication rate up to 100Msps at distance 40 meters without transmitter-side lens to guarantee certain communication mobility. We consider what we believe to be a new scenario where high speed UV communciation is realized under unknown low-rate interference. The signal amplitude properties are characterized, and the interference intensity is categorized into three cases, namely weak, medium and high interference intensity. The achievable transmission rates for the three cases are derived, where the achievable transmission rate for medium interference intensity can approach those in weak interference intensity and strong interference intensity cases. We provide Gaussian approximation and related log-likelihood ratio (LLR) calculation, which are fed into the subsequent message-passing decoder. In the experiment, the data is transmitted with symbol rate 20 Msps under unknown interference with symbol rate 1 Msps, received by one photomultiplier tube (PMT). Experimental results show that the proposed interference symbol estimation approach shows negligibly higher bit error rate (BER) compared with those with perfect knowledge on the interference symbols.
Shear polaritons from transformation optics
Authors: Jie Shanshan , Xue Shuwen , Yang Zhiwei , Ge Zixun , Bao Qiaoliang , Zhu Shan , Chen Huanyang
Published: April 2023

Natural in-plane hyperbolic crystals (such as α-MoO3) and natural monoclinic crystals (such as β-Ga2O3) have recently drawn great research focus. Despite their obvious similarities, however, these two kinds of materials are usually studied as separate topics. In this Letter, we explore the intrinsic relationship between materials like α-MoO3 and β-Ga2O3 under the framework of transformation optics, providing another perspective to understand the asymmetry of hyperbolic shear polaritons. It is worth mentioning that we demonstrate this novel, to the best of our knowledge, method from theoretical analysis and numerical simulations, which maintain a high degree of consistency. Our work not only combines natural hyperbolic materials with the theory of classical transformation optics, but also opens new avenues for future studies of various natural materials.
0.017 nm, 143 ps passively mode-locked fiber laser based on nonlinear polarization rotation
Authors: Li Weixi , Huang Zinan , Xiao Xiangpeng , Yan Zhijun , Luo Siyu , Song Yingxiong , Jiang Chen , Liu Yunqi , Mou Chengbo
Published: April 2023

Mode-locked lasers with ultra-narrow spectral widths and durations of hundreds of picoseconds can be versatile light sources for a variety of newly emergent applications. However, less attention seems to be given to mode-locked lasers that generate narrow spectral bandwidths. We demonstrate a passively mode-locked erbium-doped fiber laser (EDFL) system that relies on a standard fiber Bragg grating (FBG) and the nonlinear polarization rotation (NPR) effect. This laser achieves the longest reported pulse width (to the best of our knowledge) of 143 ps based on NPR and an ultra-narrow spectral bandwidth of 0.017 nm (2.13 GHz) under Fourier transform-limited conditions. The average output power is 2.8 mW, and the single-pulse energy is 0.19 nJ at a pump power of 360 mW.
Generation of a vortex point adjustable vortex array based on decentered annular beam pumping
Authors: Chen Kongtao , Xu Lixu , Ni Aodong , Tang Jiale , Yi Kaiwen , Jia Fuqiang , Qiao Dun , Li Kang , Copner Nigel
Published: April 2023

An adjustable optical vortex array (OVA) based on decentered annular beam pumping has been demonstrated in an end-pumped Nd:YVO4 laser. This method allows for not only the transverse mode locking of different modes, but also the ability to adjust the mode weight and phase by manipulating the position of the focusing lens and axicon lens. To explain this phenomenon, we propose a threshold model for each mode. Using this approach, we were able to generate optical vortex arrays with 2–7 phase singularities, achieving a maximum conversion efficiency of 25.8%. Our work represents an innovative advancement in the development of solid-state lasers capable of generating adjustable vortex points.
Influences of Mn2+/Eu3+ dopants on the microstructures and optical properties of glass-embedded CsPbBr3 quantum dots
Authors: Li Yunbo , Li Wei , Yu Yunlong , Zheng Chan
Published: April 2023

All inorganic CsPbX3 (X = Cl, Br, I) perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) exhibit excellent photoelectric properties, such as high photoluminescence quantum yield, exceptional defect tolerance, and a long carrier diffusion length. However, their poor stability limits their applications. In this study, CsPbBr3 PQDs were precipitated in a phosphate glass matrix by a melt quenching method. The influences of Mn2+ and Eu3+ dopants on the microstructure and optical properties of CsPbBr3 PQDs glass were investigated in detail. The DSC and XRD results reveal that Mn2+/Eu3+ can act as a nucleating agent to promote the precipitation of CsPbBr3 PQDs in the glass matrix and optimize its microstructure. Simultaneously, PL spectra shows that appropriate Mn2+/Eu3+ doping concentration can enhance the optical performance of CsPbBr3 PQDs glass. The luminescence intensity increases by 46.9% and 44.3%, respectively, with the additions of these dopants. Finally, Mn2+ and Eu3+ single-doped CsPbBr3 PQDs glass is proved to have excellent broadband UV spectral response characteristics, indicating its potential application for photoelectric detection.
Directional, multi-beam, and compact wavefront transformers based on 3-D near-zero refractive index metamaterial
Authors: Marishwari M. , Madhavamoorthi S. , Meena R. , Asrafali B. , Subramanian V. , Ouyang Z. , Yogesh N.
Published: April 2023

Optical wavefront transformation is essential for communication and power transfer applications across all electromagnetic spectra. In this work, we report directional multi-beam compact wavefront transformers which convert cylindrical wavefronts into finite-aperture directional beams based on near-zero refraction in 3-D metamaterial at terahertz frequencies. For this purpose, a near-zero-index metamaterial (NZIM) with three-dimensional functionality is realized, and its effective material parameters are retrieved. Near-zero refraction in NZIM is verified through the uniform phase maintenance inside the multiple stacked NZIM layers. By embedding a cylindrical wavefront source inside NZIM configurations, uni-, bi-, and quad-directional wavefront transformers are realized. The results were compared and verified against the ideal cases.
The Distribution of Foxp3 and CD68 in Preeclamptic and Healthy Placentas: A Histomorphological Evaluation
Authors: Ersoy Canillioglu Yasemin , Senturk Gozde Erkanli , Sahin Hakan , Sahin Sadik , Seval-Celik Yasemin
Published: April 2023

Preeclampsia is a complication of pregnancy that affects 3–5% of pregnancies and is one of the major causes of maternal/neonatal mortality and morbidities worldwide. We aimed to investigate the distribution of Foxp3+ regulatory T-cells and CD68+ Hofbauer cells in the placenta of preeclamptic and healthy pregnant women with a special focus on correlating these findings with placental histology. Decidua and chorionic villi of the placenta obtained from healthy and preeclamptic pregnancies were evaluated in full-thickness sections. Sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and Masson’s trichrome and immunostained for Foxp3 and CD68 for histological analyses. The total histomorphological score for placentas was found to be higher in preeclamptic placentas than that in the controls. The CD68 immunoreactivity was higher in the chorionic villi of preeclamptic placentas than that in the controls. The immunoreactivity of Foxp3 was found widely distributed within the decidua in both the groups and did not differ significantly. Interestingly, Foxp3 immunoreactivity in the chorionic villi was found mainly in the villous core and, to a lesser extent, in the syncytiotrophoblasts. We found no significant relation between Foxp3 expressions and morphological changes observed in preeclamptic placentas. Although extensive research is being carried out regarding the pathophysiology of preeclampsia, the findings are still controversial.
A sense of commitment to activity on Facebook: Evidence from a web-based paradigm
Authors: Brozzo Chiara , Michael John
Published: April 2023

The present study was designed to test whether actions on Facebook such as commenting on others’ posts can create a sense of commitment to continue performing similar actions in the future. Across four online experiments, we found evidence that regularly commenting on others’ Facebook posts generates a sense of commitment to commenting on similar posts in the future, leading people to feel worse about not commenting on a post if they have done so regularly in the past than if they have not done so, and leading them to expect a Facebook friend to be more disappointed if they do not comment when there has been this previous history of commenting. These findings may contribute to illuminating the feelings associated with social media use, including its compulsive aspects and its effects on well-being.
Daily reference evapotranspiration prediction for irrigation scheduling decisions based on the hybrid PSO-LSTM model
Authors: Jia Weibing , Zhang Yubin , Wei Zhengying , Zheng Zhenhao , Xie Peijun
Published: April 2023

The shortage of available water resources and climate change are major factors affecting agricultural irrigation. In order to improve the irrigation water use efficiency, it is necessary to predict the water requirements for crops in advance. Reference evapotranspiration (ETo) is a hypothetical standard reference crop evapotranspiration, many types of artificial intelligence models have been applied to predict ETo; However, there are still few in the literature regarding the application of hybrid models for deep learning model parameters optimization. This paper proposes two hybrid models based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) and long-short-term memory (LSTM) neural network, used to predict ETo at the four climate stations, Shaanxi province, China. These two hybrid models were trained using 40 years of historical data, and the PSO was used to optimize the hyperparameters in the LSTM network. We applied the optimized model to predict the daily ETo in 2019 under different datasets, the result showed that the optimized model has good prediction accuracy. The optimized hybrid models can help farmers and irrigation planners to make plan earlier and precisely, and can provide valuable information to improve tasks such as irrigation planning.
Health services costs for ovarian cancer in Australia: Estimates from the 45 and Up Study
Authors: Goldsbury David E. , Vassallo Amy , Weber Marianne F. , Steinberg Julia , Webb Penelope M. , DeFazio Anna , Canfell Karen
Published: April 2023

Introduction

There have been significant advancements in risk identification and treatment for ovarian cancer over the last decade. However, their impact on health services costs is unclear. This study estimated the direct health system costs (government perspective) for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer in Australia during 2006–2013, as a benchmark prior to opportunities for precision-medicine approaches to treatment, and for health care planning.

Methods

Using cancer registry data, we identified 176 incident ovarian cancers (including fallopian tube and primary peritoneal cancer) in the Australian 45 and Up Study cohort. Each case was matched with four cancer-free controls on sex, age, geography, and smoking history. Costs were derived from linked health records on hospitalisations, subsidised prescription medicines and medical services to 2016. Excess costs for cancer cases were estimated for different phases of care relative to cancer diagnosis. Overall costs for prevalent ovarian cancers in Australia in 2013 were estimated based on 5-year prevalence statistics.

Results

At diagnosis, 10% of women had localised disease, 15% regional spread and 70% distant metastasis (5% unknown). The mean excess cost per ovarian cancer case was $40,556 in the initial treatment phase (≤12 months post-diagnosis), $9,514 per annum in the continuing care phase and $49,208 in the terminal phase (up to 12 months before death). Hospital admissions accounted for the greatest proportion of costs during all phases (66%, 52% and 68% respectively). Excess costs were higher for patients diagnosed with distant metastatic disease, particularly during the continuing care phase ($13,814 versus $4,884 for localised/regional disease). The estimated overall direct health services cost of ovarian cancer in 2013 was AUD$99million (4,700 women nationally).

Conclusion

The excess health system costs of ovarian cancer are substantial. Continued investment in ovarian cancer research, particularly prevention, early detection and more effective personalised treatments is necessary to reduce the burden of disease.
Primary care providers’ perceived barriers to obesity treatment and opportunities for improvement: A mixed methods study
Authors: Oshman Lauren , Othman Amal , Furst Wendy , Heisler Michele , Kraftson Andrew , Zouani Yousra , Hershey Cheryl , Cho Tsai-Chin , Guetterman Timothy , Piatt Gretchen , Griauzde Dina H.
Published: April 2023

Background

Primary care patients with obesity seldom receive effective weight management treatment in primary care settings. This study aims to understand PCPs’ perspectives on obesity treatment barriers and opportunities to overcome them.

Study design

This is an explanatory sequential mixed methods study in which survey data was collected and used to inform subsequent qualitative interviews.

Settings and participants

PCPs who provide care to adult patients in an academic medical center in the Midwestern US.

Methodology

PCPs (n = 350) were invited by email to participate in an online survey. PCPs were subsequently invited to participate in semi-structured interviews to further explore survey domains.

Analytic approach

Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Interviews were analyzed using directed content analysis.

Results

Among 107 survey respondents, less than 10% (n = 8) used evidence-based guidelines to inform obesity treatment decisions. PCPs’ identified opportunities to improve obesity treatment including (1) education on local obesity treatment resources (n = 78, 73%), evidence-based dietary counseling strategies (n = 67, 63%), and effective self-help resources (n = 75, 70%) and (2) enhanced team-based care with support from clinic staff (n = 53, 46%), peers trained in obesity medicine (n = 47, 44%), and dietitians (n = 58, 54%). PCPs also desired increased reimbursement for obesity treatment. While 40% (n = 39) of survey respondents expressed interest in obesity medicine training and certification through the American Board of Obesity Medicine, qualitative interviewees felt that pursuing training would require dedicated time (i.e., reduced clinical effort) and financial support.

Conclusions

Opportunities to improve obesity treatment in primary care settings include educational initiatives, use of team-based care models, and policy changes to incentivize obesity treatment. Primary care clinics or health systems should be encouraged to identify PCPs with specific interests in obesity medicine and support their training and certification through ABOM by reimbursing training costs and reducing clinical effort to allow for study and board examination.
Epidemiology and patients’ self-reported knowledge of implantable medical devices: Results of a cross-sectional survey in Hungary
Authors: Hölgyesi Áron , Tóth Barbara , Kozlovszky Miklós , Kuti József , Weszl Miklós , Balázs György , Baji Petra , Kovács Levente , Gulácsi László , Zrubka Zsombor , Péntek Márta
Published: April 2023

Background

Implantable medical devices (IMDs) are medical instruments embedded inside the body. Well-informed and empowered patients living with IMDs are key players of improving IMD-related patient safety and health outcomes. However, little is known about IMD patients’ epidemiology, characteristics, and current awareness levels. Our primary aim was to investigate the point and lifetime prevalence of patients living with IMDs. Patients’ IMD-related knowledge and determinants of IMDs’ impact on their life were also explored.

Methods

An online cross-sectional survey was conducted. Respondents’ IMD history, whether they received instructions for use and IMD’s overall impact on life were recorded by self-reports. Patients’ knowledge about living with IMDs was assessed on visual analogue scales (VAS, 0–10). Shared decision-making was analyzed by the 9-item Shared Decision Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q-9). Descriptive statistics and subgroup comparisons between IMD wearers were performed for statistical differences. Significant determinants of IMD’s overall impact on life were examined in linear regression analysis.

Results

In the total sample (N = 1400, mean age 58.1 ±11.1; female 53.7%), nearly one third of respondents were living with IMD (30.9%; 433/1400). Among them, the most frequent IMDs were tooth implants (30.9%) and intraocular lens (26.8%). Mean knowledge VAS scores were similar (range: 5.5 ±3.8–6.5 ±3.2) but differences by IMD types were observed. Patients who received instructions for use or reported better impact on life indicated higher self-reported knowledge. Regression confirmed that patients’ knowledge was significant predictor of IMD’s impact on life, but this effect was overwritten by the SDM-Q-9.

Conclusions

This first comprehensive epidemiological study on IMDs provides basic data for public health strategy planning alongside the implementation of MDR. Improved self-perceived outcomes were associated with higher knowledge hence education of patients receiving IMD deserves consideration. We suggest to investigate further the role of shared decision-making on IMD’s overall impact on patients’ life in future prospective studies.
Adoption of social networking sites among older adults: The role of the technology readiness and the generation to identifying segments
Authors: Ramírez-Correa Patricio E. , Arenas-Gaitán Jorge , Rondán-Cataluña F. Javier , Grandon Elizabeth E. , Ramírez-Santana Muriel
Published: April 2023

Older adults can take advantage of social networking sites (SNS). However, SNS are not without the access gap among elders. Assuming that the data are homogenous within the same population may not be precise in social science research. What is known about the heterogeneous nature of older people? Considering this issue and the lack of research to help reflect the heterogeneity of elderly users of technologies, this study aims to identify segments in the use of SNS by the elderly. Data were collected from older Chilean adults. Cluster analysis suggested different profiles of adult users regarding the Technology Readiness Index. We used a hybrid multigroup partial least squares-structural equation model, including the Pathmox algorithm, to identify segments in the structural model. Based on the technology readiness profiles and the generation, we identified three segments with different determinant effects to explain the intention to use SNS: independent elder, technological-apathetic elder, and technological-eager elder. The contributions from this study are triple. First, this study helps to better understand how the elderly adopt information technology. Second, this study complements the existing corpus of research on using the technology readiness index in the elderly population. Third, we used an innovative method to segment users in the acceptance technology model.
Role of vitamin D3 on IL-17 expression in colon and improvement of colonic mucosa in an inflammatory bowel disease mice model
Authors: Paramitha Fiona , Wibowo Satrio
Published: April 2023

Background Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an inflammation due to a Th1/Th2 regulatory imbalance and a Th17/Treg transformation imbalance which then releases inflammatory mediators, such as interleukin-17. The administration of vitamin D has the potential to prevent the inflammation in IBD.
Objective To evaluate a possible role of vitamin D3 in reducing IL-17 expression and colonic mucosal repair in an IBD mice model.
Methods The study used male BALB/c mice, 8-10 weeks old, weighing 20-25 grams, divided randomly into five groups with 8 mices in each group. The experimental mice were given 5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) on days 1-7 to induce colitis, and then were given vitamin D3 on days 8-14. Group 1 was the control group; Group 2 was given 5% DSS; Group 3 was given 5% DSS and vitamin D3 0.2 mcg/25 g body weight; Group 4 was given 5% DSS and vitamin D3 0.4 mcg/25 g body weight; and Group 5 was given 5% DSS and vitamin D3 0.6 mcg/25 g body weight. On day 15, the mice underwent euthanasia and colonic retrieval. Parameters assessed were IL-17 expression (immunohistochemical, with monoclonal antibody against IL-17) and colonic histology improvement, using the mouse colitis histology index (MCHI) score.
Results The IL-17 expression measured by immunohistochemistry increased significantly in only 5% DSS group. There was a significant decrease in MCHI scores in the groups given vitamin D3, where the greater the dose of vitamin D3 given, the lower the MCHI score. Interleukin-17 expression had positive strong correlation with MCHI (r=0.985; P=0.002)
Conclusion The improvement of colonic mucosal damage based on MCHI score was significant in groups given vitamin D3. There is a significant correlation between IL-17 reduction and colonic mucosal repair in IBD mice.
Difference in outcomes of pediatric septic shock after fluid resuscitation according to the Ultrasound-guided Fluid Resuscitation (USFR) and American College of Critical Care Medicine (ACCM) protocols: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Yuliarto Saptadi , Kadafi Kurniawan Taufiq , Septiani Nelly Pramita , Ratridewi Irene , Winaputri Savitri Laksmi
Published: April 2023

Background Sepsis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children. The American College of Critical Care Medicine (ACCM) protocol currently in use in the management of septic shock carries a risk of fluid overload. With the use of ultrasonographic monitoring, the Ultrasound-guided Fluid Resuscitation (USFR) protocol may reduce the incidence of fluid overload and mortality.
Objective To assess the difference in outcomes of fluid resuscitation in pediatric septic shock using the USFR vs. ACCM protocols.
Methods This randomized clinical trial involved 36 subjects randomized equally into the USFR and ACCM groups. After randomization, each subject was given fluid resuscitation starting at 20 mL/kg and repeated every 5-10 minutes as needed, according to the ACCM protocol. After fluid resuscitation was given, patients in the ACCM group were evaluated for clinical signs, liver span, and rhonchi, whereas those in the USFR group underwent USCOM examination for cardiac index (CI), stroke volume index (SVI), and systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI). After 60 minutes, subjects in both groups were re-assessed for clinical signs, USCOM, pulmonary edema using lung ultrasound score (LUS), and liver span. Subjects were blinded as to the protocol they received. We compared 24-hour and 72-hour mortality rates, clinical improvement of shock at 60 minutes, cardiac index (CI), stroke volume index (SVI), and systemic vascular resistance index (SVRI), as well as pulmonary edema and hepatomegaly, between the two groups.
Results At 60 minutes after resuscitation, there were significant differences between the ACCM and USFR groups in the proportion of clinical improvement (0/18 vs. 5/18, P=0.016), pulmonary edema (15/18 vs. 4/18, P<0.001), and hepatomegaly (16/18 vs. 5/18, P<0.001). Mortality rates at 24 hours and 72 hours in the ACCM vs. USFR groups were 17% vs. 12% (P=0.199) and 78% vs. 39% (P=0.009), respectively.
Conclusion The USFR protocol reduces the occurrence of fluid overload and leads to a lower mortality rate at 72 hours compared to the ACCM fluid resuscitation protocol.
Einrichten ist Aneignen
Authors: Menzel Kerstin
Published: April 2023

Kerstin Menzel widmet sich im Rückgriff auf das architektursoziologische Wechselspiel zwischen Materialem und Sozialem den Nutzungspraktiken in einer ostdeutschen Dorfkirche, die wesentlich durch einen Kirchbauverein mitgestaltet wird. Sie rekonstruiert kunstgeschichtlich-touristische, individuell-spirituelle, kinder- und familienbezogene und gottesdienstliche Nutzungslogiken, wie sie sich im Raum darstellen und bestimmte Bewegungen, Tätigkeiten oder Haltungen suggerieren. Die Spannungen zwischen diesen vier Nutzungslogiken werden dann ins Verhältnis gesetzt zum architektonischen Entwurf für eine neue Innenraumgestaltung. Der Beitrag verhandelt die Ambivalenz von Aneignungsprozessen, die eine Erhaltung, Öffnung und weitere Nutzung von Kirchengebäuden im Kontext demographischen Wandels und schwindender Kirchenmitgliedschaft sichern, und die Konflikthaftigkeit und Widerständigkeit dieser Praxis gegenüber professionellen Standards (der Theologie, der Denkmalpflege, der Architektur u.a.).
Reading Race Relationally
Authors: Lieber Marlon
Published: April 2023

What does it mean to write African American literature after the end of legalized segregation? In this study of Colson Whitehead's first six novels, Marlon Lieber argues that this question has permeated the Pulitzer Prize-winning author's writing since his 1999 debut The Intuitionist. Drawing on Pierre Bourdieu's relational sociology and Marxist critical theory, Lieber shows that Whitehead's oeuvre articulates the tension between the persistent presence of racism and transformations in the United States' class structure, which reveals new modes of abjection. At the same time, Whitehead imagines forms of writing that strive to transcend the histories of domination objectified in social structures and embodied in the form of habitus.
Bis auf die Knochen
Authors: Mersmann Jasmin
Published: April 2023

Jasmin Mersmann untersucht die Herkunft von Präparaten, Abgüssen und Röntgenbildern gebundener Füße in wissenschaftlichen Sammlungen, insbesondere der des Anatomen Hans Virchow. In China wurden gebundene Füße in der Öffentlichkeit nie nackt gezeigt. Ausländische Fotografen und Ärzte setzten sich über das Tabu hinweg und befriedigten damit auch eine exotistische Schaulust. Die Beschaffung von Leichenteilen als 'Untersuchungsmaterial' wurde erst durch die Errichtung von Missionskrankenhäusern und die militärischen Interventionen der Imperialmächte im 19. Jahrhundert möglich. Vor allem im Zuge der Opiumkriege und des sogenannten »Boxerkriegs« wurden Füße nach Europa geschafft. Der Beitrag bemüht sich, die Geschichte der größtenteils anonymen Exponate zu rekonstruieren.
Haemosporidian parasites in Antilophia galeata (Aves: Pipridae) in a Cerrado forest fragment
Authors: Ribeiro Paulo Vitor Alves , Pires Luís Paulo , Cury Márcia Cristina , Melo Celine de
Published: April 2023

Haemosporidian parasites can cause pathogenic infections, leading to death or a reduction in the physical and reproductive abilities of the host. Several studies have identified haemosporidian infections in neotropical bird communities, but few have been conducted in populations, relating the infection to the biological attributes of the species. To determine haemosporidian prevalence in a population of Antilophia galeata and to assess factors that may be associated with parasitaemia, we analysed blood smears of 62 individuals from a Cerrado forest fragment. For each individual, the body mass, length of tarsus, sex, presence/absence of brood patch and feather moult were recorded. In total, 33 (53.2%) individuals were infected with haemosporidian parasites, 32 (51.6%) were infected with Plasmodium spp. and one (1.61%) was infected with Haemoproteus sp. Parasitaemia was not related to seasons, sex, reproduction, moulting or body condition but correlated positively with total leucocyte count, suggesting that individuals may be effective in infection control. This population may be tolerant to haemosporidian parasites because, despite the high prevalence, parasitaemia was low and constant; this is a potentially chronic infection that showed no adverse effects on the parameters analysed in this population.
Mulheres, saúde pública e formação profissional na Era Vargas (1930-1945)
Authors: Campos Paulo Fernando de Souza , Muniz Érico Silva , Campoi Isabela Candeloro
Published: April 2023

A história da educação profissional em saúde permite localizar um movimento importante para a formação em enfermagem no Brasil. Durante o governo de Getúlio Vargas (1930-1945) políticas públicas implementadas impunham a inclusão de mulheres no espaço público e a emergência da atuação de enfermeiros em todas as regiões, esse novo enquadramento formalizou o Programa de Enfermagem proposto pela Fundação Rockefeller ao Ministério da Educação e Saúde (MES) através do Serviço Especial de Saúde Pública (SESP). Registros históricos preservados sobre o movimento remontam a mudanças decisivas na história da enfermagem, as quais, conduzidas por mulheres, impactaram poderosamente na educação profissional feminina.
The Professional and Academic Literature Review: A Framework for Retention Strategies Adopted by Bank Managers
Authors: El Alam Younes , Belkasseh Mohammed
Published: April 2023

Banks’ implementation of managerial strategies motivating teams and addressing employees' needs tends to lower their organization turnover.  Certain bank human resource managers are challenged with finding processes for the purpose of lowering the turnover rate.  The academic study of employee retention has identified some constant elements that retain workers with the same organization throughout time.  The purpose of this study is to inquire into the methods utilized by banking executives to keep their best workers on board.  In this paper, the author will discuss, through the existing academic literature, the framework for the topic of employee turnover by conducting a comprehensive review.  The key words we searched for in the literature include job satisfaction, job dissatisfaction, motivation theories, extrinsic and intrinsic factors, skilled human resource management, the difficulties of retaining key employees, effective methods for doing so, employee attrition, and Herzberg's two-factor theory.  Four major themes were discussed in the literature review, supported by the motivation (intrinsic factors)-hygiene (extrinsic factors) theory, comprising: conceptual frameworks, what drives people to work, what keeps them there, and how to reduce staff turnover.
Challenges Faced in The Application of Reflective Practice on The Public Health Teaching and Learning Process by The Lecturers in Selected Universities in Lusaka and Copperbelt Provinces of Zambia
Authors: Namonje Elizabeth , Halwiindi Hikabasa , Zyambo Cosmas , Simui Francis , Muleya Gistered
Published: April 2023

This study explored challenges faced in the application of reflective practice on the public health teaching and learning process by the lecturers in selected universities in Lusaka and Copperbelt Provinces of Zambia. The study rids on a case study design to generate evidence on challenges faced. Data was collected from a total sample of 32 participants. The study found that too much workload by lecturers, large number of students in class, limited time with a semester system, limited resources for teaching staff and students, shortage of teaching staff and  lack of teaching qualifications and experience amongst teaching staff were among challenges that affected lecturers’ ability to reflect on their teaching . Equally, it was found that lecturers refusing to be evaluated, cultural lag among older lecturers and differences in backgrounds among teaching staffs had a negative implication on lecturers’ ability to reflect on their teaching. The study concluded that despite reflective teaching practice being an important strategy for promoting quality teaching and learning, higher learning institutions have not paid much attention on impediments to reflective teaching. Therefore, the study recommends that Education standards officers should continue to maintain standards in Universities and Colleges to control over enrolments and overcrowding in classes so that the lecturers can teach efficiently and effectively so that students can benefit fully from the lecturers.
Connecting Chemical Worlds
Authors: Rutjes Floris
Published: April 2023

It will still take a few more months before I can officially welcome you to IUPAC|CHAINS 2023, but since the preparations are already in full swing, it feels like we are getting close to the event. Behind the scenes we work hard to receive you all in the World Forum in The Hague from 20-25 August this year. We feel honoured that the Royal Netherlands Chemical Society (KNCV) was given the opportunity to host this year’s IUPAC World Chemistry Congress. To create a better national exposure, we joined forces with the Dutch Research Council (NWO), host of the annual CHAINS chemistry congress in the Netherlands, to ensure that we can turn this event into a great success!
Anxiolytic effects of vestibular stimulation: an update
Authors: Kumar Goothy Sai Sailesh , McKeown Jason
Published: April 2023

The vestibular system inhibits both HPA and SAM axis and contributes to the management of anxiety. Both direct and indirect pathways exist in the inhibition of the HPA and SAM axis. In this review article, the authors describe various pathways through which the vestibular system can regulate the HPA and SAM axis activity. Lastly, the authors highlight the need of starting translational research work in this field. Rocking is soothing and this is a universal fact that babies in the swing will calm down and sleep. These soothing effects of vestibular stimulation may be due to the inhibition of cortical and subcortical structures. Vestibular stimulation may be able to manage anxiety through its connections with multiple brain areas. There is a need to undertake translational research in this area to establish strong scientific evidence and recommend implementation of the vestibular stimulation in the management of anxiety.
The Holotic Structure of the Ideas of Unity, Identity and Finality
Authors: Alvargonzález David
Published: April 2023

In this paper, I touch on the holotic structure of the ideas of unity, identity and finality, using the word “holotic” to refer to a theory that includes both partonomic (or mereological) wholes and taxonomic (or diairological) wholes. In the second section, I expound on two classifications of wholes and two classifications of the types of parts I deem relevant to the ideas of unity, identity and finality. In the third and fourth sections, I discuss how these three ideas acquire different significance depending on the type of totalities and parts involved.