bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Audiometric and Self-Reported Outcomes in Patients with Otosclerosis and a Small Air-Bone Gap after Stapes Surgery
Authors: Skarzynski Henryk , Dziendziel Beata , Gos Elzbieta , Skarzynski Piotr Henryk
Published: January 2023

Introduction: The main determinant in deciding on stapes surgery in patients with otosclerosis is the degree of hearing loss, specifically the size of the preoperative air-bone gap (ABG). The debate over the minimum ABG centers on the risk-to-benefit ratio of stapes surgery in patients with small ABG (sABG). The aim of this study was to measure the audiological outcomes and self-assessed satisfaction in a group of otosclerosis patients with an sABG who underwent stapedotomy. Methods: There were 83 patients with preoperative sABG ≤25 dB HL (mean of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 4,000 Hz) included in this study. Audiometry was performed before surgery and 6 months and 12–36 months after surgery. Self-reported patient outcomes before and after surgery were collected using questionnaires. Results: At the 6-month follow-up, the ABG was closed within 10 dB in 63 (78.8%) cases. Preoperatively, tinnitus was present in 70% of patients, of which 66% reported that tinnitus was a moderate or severe problem. Postoperatively, 71% of patients experienced a significant reduction in tinnitus severity and 34% of them reported complete disappearance. The self-report outcomes relating to quality of life and hearing reflected a good level of satisfaction in most patients. Conclusion: The possibility of reducing bothersome tinnitus after stapes surgery, and thus improving the patient’s quality of life, should be taken into account when making a decision on stapes surgery in these patients.
Prevalence of Pathogenic Germline Variants in Women with Non-Familial Unilateral Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Rhiem Kerstin , Zachariae Silke , Waha Anke , Grill Sabine , Hester Anna , Golatta Michael , van Mackelenbergh Marion , Fehm Tanja , Schlaiß Tanja , Ripperger Tim , Ledig Susanne , Meisel Cornelia , Speiser Dorothee , Veselinovic Kristina , Schröder Christopher , Witzel Isabell , Gallwas Julia , Weber Bernhard H.F. , Solbach Christine , Aktas Bariyhe , Hahnen Eric , Engel Christoph , Schmutzler Rita
Published: January 2023

Introduction: International guidelines recommend genetic testing for women with familial breast cancer at an expected prevalence of pathogenic germline variants (PVs) of at least 10%. In a study sample of the German Consortium for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (GC-HBOC), we have previously shown that women with TNBC diagnosed before the age of 50 years but without a family history of breast or ovarian cancer (sTNBC) meet this criterion. The present study investigates the PV prevalence in BRCA1, BRCA2, and nine additional cancer predisposition genes in an extended sTNBC study sample including a cohort of women with a later age at sTNBC diagnosis. Patients and Methods: In 1,600 women with sTNBC (median age at diagnosis: 41 years, range 19–78 years), we investigated the association between age at diagnosis and PV occurrence in cancer predisposition genes using logistic regression. Results: 260 sTNBC patients (16.2%) were found to have a PV in cancer predisposition genes (BRCA1: n = 170 [10.6%]; BRCA2: n = 46 [2.9%], other: n = 44 [2.8%]). The PV prevalence in women diagnosed between 50 and 59 years (n = 194) was 11.3% (22/194). Logistic regression showed a significant increase in PV prevalence with decreasing age at diagnosis (OR 1.41 per 10 years younger age at diagnosis; 95% confidence interval: 1.21–1.65; p < 0.001). The PV prevalence predicted by the model was above 10% for diagnoses before the age of 56.8 years. Conclusion: Based on the data presented, we recommend genetic testing by gene panel analysis for sTNBC patients diagnosed before the age of 60 years. Due to the still uncertain estimate for women with sTNBC diagnosed above the age of 60 years, further studies are needed.
Students’ Resiliency towards Experiencing Tornado
Authors: Banal Ariel L.
Published: January 2023

This study was conducted to find the meaning of resilience for students experiencing tornadoes. To attain the meaning of fear for a person with traumatic injury, to know the common effects of experiencing a tornado. To accomplish the reason for the study, the phenomenological method was used to comprehend and interpret the meaning of experiences of student's life when they experienced a tornado. The learners of one of the leading private schools in the Division of Pampanga-Philippines served as the informants of the study.  Results revealed that the majority of the learners’ state that resiliency is a type of adaptability wherein they were able to adapt to the changes in their surroundings, on how they can stand regardless of what they have encountered, they were able to overcome it and that made them a resilient person. The researchers conducted an interview wherein most of their informants’ state that the fear and trauma they got from experiencing a tornado affects their lives. It can hinder someone from achieving their goals, they fear something they want to try because most of them state that it might happen again, it might cause them danger again, and they overthink just a wind that they think, another tornado will come again. When it comes to the effects of experiencing a tornado, most of them stated that they got scared and traumatized. Despite all the negative effects, tornados changed their perspective on life. It also recommended that parents and teachers provide comfort, counseling, and monitoring of learners' behavior.
Status of Gulayan Sa Paaralan (School Garden) Program in Public Elementary and Secondary Schools of Cawayan, Masbate, Philippines: Basis for Extension Activities
Authors: IBAÑEZ ROGER , Velza Jacob Frederick , Castillo Iris , Bartolay Riza
Published: January 2023

The Department of Education implemented gulayan sa paaralan (school garden) to assist the government in reducing malnutrition in the country. DEBESMSCAT-Cawayan Campus assessed the state of gulayan sa paaralan (school garden) of all public schools in Cawayan, Masbate as part of the evaluation technique to establish the suitable and needed extension services to be delivered. The study employed a descriptive research approach and purposive sampling. In the study, a structured survey questionnaire was used to collect data on the status of the gulayan sa paaralan (school garden) program in the schools. Data showed that the gulayan sa paaralan (school garden) initiative had not yet been adequately implemented for a variety of reasons. Schools utilized bolo to prepare the land, which took several months to complete. Planting supplies and other inputs were unavailable at all times, causing the output to be delayed. The lack of Department of Agriculture assistance for inputs, as well as the lack of training/seminars related to the gulayan sa paaralan (school garden) program, are factors that impede the program's implementation and sustainability. Since school heads did not appropriate funding from the MOOE, all coordinators were obliged to pull money from their purses to fund the gulayan sa paaralan (school garden) initiative. Due to low vegetable output, the gulayan sa paaralan (school garden) program in Cawayan public schools does not make a substantial contribution to combating school malnutrition. The implementing agency should explore a holistic strategy for GPP implementation in schools, with close collaboration with related agencies, stakeholders, and religious monitoring of the program should be strictly observed. The capacity of the school heads and coordinators to lead is a key element to the program's success.
An Assessment of 21st-Century Skills Acquisition of Alternative Learning System (ALS) Senior High School Learners Towards the Development of Capacity Building Program
Authors: Hero Jesson L.
Published: January 2023

The Alternative Learning System (ALS) has been found to be the new way for those who want to continue in their studies despite the challenges and current situation they are facing. Apparently however, there are studies recorded that there is a gap between the 21st-century skills of these ALS learners. With this concern, it becomes the notion of the researcher to describe and assess the 21st-century skills acquisition of enrolled Alternative Learning System Senior High School (ALS SHS) learners in one stand-alone public senior high school in the City of Meycauayan, Bulacan, for the School Year 2022-2023. The researcher made use of quantitative descriptive survey design to assess the 21st-century skills of 41 ALS SHS learners enrolled. Findings revealed that most of the respondents were female; in the age-range of 20-24 years old; and, have a monthly income of less than Php 5,000.00 a month. Alternative Learning System Senior High School (ALS SHS) learners had a moderate level of 21st-century skills acquisition. Furthermore, it showed that there is no significant difference on the 21st-century skills acquisition of ALS SHS learners when group according to gender and age-range, but there is a significant difference on the 21st-century skills acquisition of ALS SHS learners when group according to their socio-economic status (monthly income). For its recommendation, the proposed capacity building program aimed to improve further the Alternative Learning System Senior High School (ALS SHS) learners’ 21st-century learning skills and to jive on the current trends and challenges of 21st-century education despite of their struggles in life.
Resilience of Rubber Farmers' Households Due to Aslide Disaster in the Danau Village, Nalo District, Tantan Merangin Jambi Province
Authors: Irwan Irwan , Zusmelia Zusmelia , Virginia Delia , Amelia Anggun , Siahaan Kevin William Andri
Published: January 2023

The focus of this study is to analyze the resilience of rubber farmer households due to landslides in the lake village, Nalo Tantan sub-district, Merangin Regency, Jambi Province. This study used a qualitative approach with descriptive type, and the informants of this study were carried out by purposive sampling. The informants of this research are rubber farmer households experiencing pressure from landslides. Data collection methods started from in-depth interviews, observation and document data collection. The unit of analysis in this study is at the household level, namely the rubber farmer household. Data analysis was carried out in several stages, namely data collection, data reduction, data study and drawing conclusions, which were referred to in the Miles and Hubermen model. The results of this study indicate that the household life of rubber farmers is included in the lower middle economy . Rubber farmer households continue to survive driven by the lack of capital to find adequate housing to keep living. The problem found by researchers is that there are no other jobs or other skills owned by rubber farmers. The income of rubber farmers can be seen from the amount or nominal amount of money generated from the sale of rubber. The high and low prices of rubber greatly affect production
Small Family Farms, A Review in Indonesian Context
Authors: Purnawan Endar , Brunori Gianluca , Prosperi Paolo
Published: January 2023

This paper addresses a general description of small family farms in Indonesia. Building on a literature review, it sheds light on the significant role of small family farms in Sustainable Development Goals, family farms in Indonesia and their challenges, as well as on the impact of investments oriented to farmers for food security. The reviews indicate that enabling family farmers to fulfill their roles can affect the acceleration of progress across crucial elements of Sustainable Development Goals. Key challenges faced by the farmers include low technology implementation, limited access to finances, farm size fragmentation, infrastructure and market linkage, the climate factor, and availability and accessibility of fertilizers and seeds. In conclusion, this paper highlights the importance of investment in small family farms for improving access to financial services and public goods, strengthening market linkages, enhancing productivity through research and extension, and investing beyond the farm through a rural non-farm economy and a territorial development perspective.
Bartending: Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices among Bar Employees in Selected Resorts in Boracay Island
Authors: Gaviola Manuel A. , Maming Jimmy Bernabe
Published: January 2023

This investigation aims determine the bartenders’ mindset, behaviors, and skills in mixing drinks on Boracay, a popular tourist attraction in the Philippines. The basic random sample approach was used to pick 98 bar personnel from various Boracay resorts as participants. During the data gathering, Domille (2013) Bartender's Test on Knowledge of Bartending as well as the TESDA Self-assessment Guide for the Certificate Program II were used, as well as probability, percentages, average, variance, t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Pearsons r. The interviewees were divided into groups as to their gender, age, socioeconomic status, education level, length of engagement, and monthly compensation. According to the findings, employees in Boracay Island are highly competent, have a positive mindset to bar work, and practice bartending extensively.
Efeitos fisiológicos da hidroterapia em balde em recém-nascidos prematuros
Authors: Da Silva Hullyana Aguiar , Da Silva Karina Candia , Reco Mariane de Oliveira Nunes , Costa Ariele dos Santos , Soares-Marangoni Daniele de Almeida , Merey Leila Foerster
Published: January 2023

Objetivo: Este estudo examinou os efeitos da hidroterapia em balde em parâmetros fisiológicos e ganho de peso em recém-nascidos prematuros hospitalizados. Métodos: Participaram 30 recém-nascidos prematuros estáveis (221,13 ± 2,74 dias de gestação), com pelo menos 1,500 kg de peso corporal com ganho crescente nos últimos dias. A hidroterapia foi administrada em duas sessões em dias alternados, realizada com o recém-nascido em um balde com água aquecida, até as clavículas, durante 10 min. As avaliações foram realizadas três vezes por sessão: pré-intervenção (15 min antes da hidroterapia), pós-intervenção (imediatamente após) e seguimento (30 minutos após). As análises comparativas foram realizadas considerando as variáveis: freqüência cardíaca (FC), freqüência respiratória (FR), saturação de oxigênio (SaO2) e peso corporal (PC). Resultados: Houve aumento do PC dos recém-nascidos de 1983,00 ± 55,70 para 2044,00 ± 57,44 gramas durante as sessões (p <0,001). A FC foi menor no seguimento do que nas medidas pré e pós-intervenção em ambas as sessões (p <0,05). A FR e a SaO2 permaneceram constantes. Conclusões: A hidroterapia em balde com água aquecida pode ter promovido melhor funcionamento comportamental nos recém-nascidos prematuros. Isso pode ter resultado em menor FC. A terapia foi segura, uma vez que os parâmetros fisiológicos e o ganho de peso corporal não foram afetados negativamente.
Abordagem grupal em terapia ocupacional com adultos e idosos no contexto da hospitalização
Authors: Souza Jean Barroso de , Almeida Maria Helena Morgani de , Batista Marina Picazzio Perez , Toldrá Rosé Colom
Published: January 2023

A hospitalização configura-se como condição complexa e potencialmente desencadeadora de sofrimento para a pessoa em processo de adoecimento e para aqueles que a acompanham. O terapeuta ocupacional se utiliza de diferentes abordagens para favorecer a integralidade e humanização do cuidado, sendo uma delas a grupal. Objetivos: Analisar uma experiência grupal desenvolvida pela terapia ocupacional com usuários, familiares/acompanhantes na enfermaria de clínica médica de um hospital universitário. Método: Estudo qualitativo com base na análise de conteúdo temática de documentos, sendo esses prontuários dos usuários participantes de grupos, realizados de junho de 2018 a dezembro de 2019. Resultados: Analisados 22 prontuários dos usuários, a maioria adultos e com equilíbrio entre os sexos. As temáticas do grupo versaram sobre: construção de trabalho colaborativo entre a equipe multiprofissional; expressão de sentimentos e potencialização de vínculos; resgate de atividades, singularidades e projetos de vida; ressignificação e humanização do cotidiano hospitalar. Conclusões: A abordagem grupal evidencia uma prática humanizada em saúde, que favorece o trabalho colaborativo em equipe, o apoio à elaboração do adoecimento e a promoção do bem-estar do usuário. Ao ser adotada e sistematizada, amplia possibilidades e potencialidades de seu uso no contexto da hospitalização.
“Favor a gente não cobra, né?”: Redes de solidariedade na fronteira de Ponta Porã (BR) e Pedro Juan Caballero (PY)
Authors: Nascimento Valdir Aragão do , Banducci Júnior Álvaro
Published: January 2023

As regiões caracterizadas pela cisão de limites físicos e simbólicos, as chamadas fronteiras, congregam em si uma diversidade de fenômenos socioculturais dos mais significativos; notadamente para se pensar as tramas relacionais que têm lugar nesses espaços. O artigo aborda questões pertinentes ao acesso aos serviços de saúde pública na fronteira, por meio do SUS, de Ponta Porã/ BR e Pedro Juan Caballero/ PY por parte de pessoas indocumentadas. A análise centra-se em categorias específicas, como documentados/ indocumentados, dádivas/ contradádivas, solidariedade/ renúncia e amizade/ inimizade. Os dados etnográficos foram obtidos em trabalho de campo realizados nas cidades de Ponta Porã/BR e Pedro Juan Caballero/PY e compreendem os meses de junho e julho de 2016, junho de 2017 e agosto de 2018. Conclui-se que as redes de solidariedade que funcionam na fronteira Brasil/ Paraguai, operacionalizadas pelas dádivas e contradádivas, são imprescindíveis para o acesso da população local, tanto brasileiros quanto paraguaios, aos serviços de saúde prestados pelo SUS.
Itéramãxe: Um coletivo-quilombo que acredita em universidades mais plurais
Authors: Paula Amanda Silva de , Lucio Alessandra Nogueira
Published: January 2023

Nas últimas década, as universidades públicas de todo o Brasil, tem implementado políticas de ações afirmativas em seus processos seletivos de pós-graduações. O que tem possibilitado uma nova cara a esses cursos, contudo, este processo ainda é estranho a muitos deles, pois questões como construção de projetos e o domínio de línguas estrangeiras são os primeiros entraves deste acesso. Com a chegada de novos alunos, surge também novas formas de ampliar a possibilidade de ingresso de tais grupos. Este artigo pretende contribuir e apresentar uma proposta real de democratização do conhecimento e do acesso pleno de grupos minoritários aos cursos de pós-graduação. Portando este artigo relata o surgimento, as inquietações, os processos metodológicos, e os resultados do Coletivo Itéramãxe, que visa através de um programa de mentorias circulares, orí-entar e preparar alunas e alunos aos processos seletivos.
A Unicamp precisa falar sobre cotas: sujeitos, movimentos e disputas
Authors: Ribeiro Bruno Nzinga , Mesquita Tayná Victória de Lima , Lima Stephanie Pereira de
Published: January 2023

No último decênio (2012-2022), vimos os resultados das primeiras experiências das cotas em universidades públicas, consolidadas pela lei n. 12.711 que instituiu a reserva de vagas em instituições federais de ensino superior. Paralelamente, acompanhamos uma grande resistência das universidades estaduais paulistas às cotas e a defesa de uma “inclusão por  mérito”. Neste contexto, revisitamos as trajetórias do Núcleo de Consciência Negra da Unicamp (NCN), organização de estudantes negros que completa 10 anos de existência em 2022, a história do Núcleo de Estudos Negros (NEN), grupo pioneiro na ação coletiva de estudantes negros nos anos 2000, e o “Grupo de Estudos de Feminismos Negros”, iniciativa dos primeiros pós-graduandos cotistas, em 2016. Por fim, discutimos a luta pelas ações afirmativas na Unicamp, mais notadamente o processo de greve que culminou na criação das cotas raciais e do Vestibular Indígena, e a emergências de novas demandas e reivindicações de outros grupos sub-representados.
Força e violência das palavras
Authors: Favret-Saada Jeanne , Mello Cecilia Campello do Amaral
Published: January 2023

A obra de Jeanne Favret-Saada é consagrada ao estudo dos efeitos sociais da anunciação de três termos particulares, em campos muito díspares: feiticeiro, judeu e blasfemo. Elas funcionam dentro de dispositivo acusatório pré-existente à sua enunciação, cuja elucidação é o objeto desta antropologia: a atualização de suas convicções implícitas permite identificar as condições de felicidade dos enunciados, o que permite o sucesso ou fracasso de uma acusação.
What Are Religious Hotspots? An Introduction
Authors: Fibiger Marianne Qvortrup
Published: January 2023

This introductory article outlines the meanings behind and the reasons for suggesting “religious hotspots” as a new analytical concept in the study of religion. The idea of suggesting this concept is not to replace others – for instance, a pilgrimage site, a religious place, a supernatural place, or a storied place – but to broaden the perspective and to emphasize the dynamic, multidimensional, and relational aspects of place, not least concerning how a religious place can be a hotspot for some and a cold one for others, but also how a place can change from being a hotspot to a cold spot and vice versa. Being a heated place, a religious hotspot can also have an unintended effect on people being there. They can either become “infected” by or “cured” of a feeling of religious or spiritual belonging. The concept is a contribution to the growing interest in space and place when analyzing religion, in recognition of how a landscape or a particular religiously legitimized site can be an important element in collective cultural, social, and political meaning-making.
Annotating cognates in phylogenetic studies of Southeast Asian languages
Authors: Wu Mei-Shin , List Johann-Mattis
Published: January 2023

Compounding and derivation are frequent in many language families. As a consequence, words in different languages are often only partially cognate, sharing some but not all morphemes. While partial cognates do not constitute a problem for the phonological reconstruction of individual morphemes, they are problematic for phylogenetic reconstruction based on comparative word lists. We review current practices of preparing cognate-coded word lists and develop new approaches that make the process of cognate annotation more transparent. Comparing four methods by which partial cognate judgments can be converted to cognate judgments for whole words on a newly annotated data set of 19 Chinese dialect varieties, we find that the choice of conversion method has an impact on the inferred tree topologies that cannot be ignored. We conclude that scholars should take great care with cognate judgments in languages in which compounding and derivation are frequent and recommend always assigning cognates transparently.
Comparing Perceptual Effects of Perspectival Convergence in Architectural Images
Authors: Han Eugene
Published: January 2023

This paper examines the correlation between vertical perspectival convergences in architectural images and their perception by monitoring the eye movements of subjects using eye tracking. Participants viewed images of buildings rendered in one of two variants, either with parallel or convergent vertical lines. In order to quantify differences of perception, a number of analyses were conducted, including density-based cluster analysis to determine areas of heightened visual regard, Voronoi subdivision which allowed for comparison of overall fixation areas, comparisons of fixation durations, image preference tests, and verbal comparisons. Eye-tracking recordings were analyzed in the aggregate in order to examine cumulative viewing behaviors. The study found that while differences in viewing behavior were evident within discrete image counterparts and various forms of analyses, perceptual trends regularly converged toward an even balance across testing stimuli. Attentional propensities tended to be guided by image features over the effects of mere perspectival registration.
A new Marasmius species (Agaricales, Marasmiaceae) with sessile basidiomata growing on wood, from Yunnan, China
Authors: ZHANG QIU-YUE , SI JING , LI HAI-JIAO
Published: January 2023

Marasmius yunnanensis, a new species belonging to Marasmius section Marasmius, was found in Yunnan Province, southwestern China. It is characterized by its minute basidiomata, a conchoidal, reniform to semicircular pileus, a short to inconspicuous stipe, complete or incomplete collarium, Rotalis-type and smooth cheilocystidia and pileipellis cells, and ellipsoid basidiospores measuring 8–10 × 5–6.2 μm. It is described, illustrated, and compared with similar taxa according to morphological and molecular data.
The Mount Washington Observatory Regional Mesonet: A Technical Overview of a Mountain-Based Mesonet
Authors: Fitzgerald Brian J. , Broccolo J. , Garrett K.
Published: January 2023

The Mount Washington Observatory Regional Mesonet (MWRM) is a network of 18 remote meteorological monitoring stations (as of 2022), including the Auto Road Vertical Profile (ARVP), located across the White Mountains of northern New Hampshire. Each station measures temperature and relative humidity, with additional variables at many locations. All stations need to withstand the frequent combination of intense cold, high precipitation amounts, icing, and hurricane-force winds in a mountain environment. Due to these challenges, the MWRM employs rugged instrumentation, an innovative radio-communications relay approach, and carefully selected sites that balance ideal measuring environments with station survivability. Data collected from the MWRM are used operationally by forecasters (including Mount Washington Observatory and National Weather Service staff) to validate model guidance, by alpine and climate scientists, by recreationalists accessing conditions in the backcountry, by groups operating on the mountain (Cog Railway, toll Auto Road), and by search and rescue organizations. This paper provides a detailed description of the network, with emphasis on how the challenging climate and terrain of this mountain region impacts sensor selection, site maintenance, and overall operation.

Significance Statement

The mountain environment is a heterogeneous landscape, and interactions between the atmosphere and terrain can cause a wide variety of conditions across time and space. Our network of remote stations at different elevations across the White Mountains allows data users to understand how the weather varies spatially across the mountain range where conditions on higher peaks can be drastically, and dangerously, different. Sharing information about the MWRM can help other groups establish networks in similar challenging environments, and broaden our understanding of weather and climate in mountainous regions.
The Relationship Between Internet Use for Social Purposes, Loneliness, and Depressive Symptoms Among the Oldest Old
Authors: Rennoch Gerlind , Schlomann Anna , Zank Susanne
Published: January 2023

The internet enables communication with social partners and has been found to be related to higher psychological well-being among older adults. Using data from the representative German North Rhine-Westphalia 80+ (NRW80+) study ( n = 1,698, M age = 84.86), we conducted linear regression and mediation analyses to compare levels of loneliness and depressive symptoms of onliners using the internet for social or other purposes with offliners. Oldest old onliners used the internet mostly for social purposes, and this type of internet use was related to a significantly lower level of loneliness and fewer depressive symptoms compared to offliners. The mediation analysis revealed that internet use for social purposes was related to lower levels of loneliness, which in turn was associated with a lower number of depressive symptoms. The findings suggest that internet use for social purposes may help the oldest old to reduce feelings of loneliness and depressive symptoms.
In vivo imaging of cerebral glucose metabolism informs on subacute to chronic post-stroke tissue status – A pilot study combining PET and deuterium metabolic imaging
Authors: Meerwaldt Anu E , Straathof Milou , Oosterveld Wija , van Heijningen Caroline L , van Leent Mandy MT , Toner Yohana C , Munitz Jazz , Teunissen Abraham JP , Daemen Charlotte C , van der Toorn Annette , van Vliet Gerard , van Tilborg Geralda AF , De Feyter Henk M , de Graaf Robin A , Hol Elly M , Mulder Willem JM , Dijkhuizen Rick M
Published: January 2023

Recanalization therapy after acute ischemic stroke enables restoration of cerebral perfusion. However, a significant subset of patients has poor outcome, which may be caused by disruption of cerebral energy metabolism. To assess changes in glucose metabolism subacutely and chronically after recanalization, we applied two complementary imaging techniques, fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) and deuterium (2H) metabolic imaging (DMI), after 60-minute transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) in C57BL/6 mice. Glucose uptake, measured with FDG PET, was reduced at 48 hours after tMCAO and returned to baseline value after 11 days. DMI revealed effective glucose supply as well as elevated lactate production and reduced glutamate/glutamine synthesis in the lesion area at 48 hours post-tMCAO, of which the extent was dependent on stroke severity. A further decrease in oxidative metabolism was evident after 11 days. Immunohistochemistry revealed significant glial activation in and around the lesion, which may play a role in the observed metabolic profiles. Our findings indicate that imaging (altered) active glucose metabolism in and around reperfused stroke lesions can provide substantial information on (secondary) pathophysiological changes in post-ischemic brain tissue.
Multi-Dimensional Recovery and Growth Among the Homeless: A Positive Criminology Perspective
Authors: Ohayon Sarel , Ronel Natti
Published: January 2023

The research literature on the recovery and growth processes of the homeless population is limited and lacking—particularly with regard to the recovery and growth potential of that population, and its recovery capital (RC) dynamics. This qualitative study fills the research gap by examining the recovery process on its various manifestations, the formation of RC, the patterns of coping with distress, and the growth processes experienced. Ten semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with participants from a homeless hostel. The results show how a population with low or depleted RC, in a state of extreme distress, and in the throes of a bottom-up experience, succeeds in developing RC on a personal, social, and spiritual level—and through it, also reaching post-crisis growth. This study yields innovative terminology to describe the coping patterns and their development in three stages— economical coping, liminal stage of resources mustering, and resourceful coping—and a model to explain the phenomenon, and re-conceptualize it.
Multi-source remote sensing data shows a significant increase in vegetation on the Tibetan Plateau since 2000
Authors: Yang Junliu , Xin Zhongbao , Huang Yanzhang , Liang Xiaoyu
Published: January 2023

In recent years, there has been growing concern that vegetation changes on the Tibetan Plateau are associated with climate change (temperature and precipitation) and human activities. This study used six types of remote sensing vegetation data, including GIMMS (Global Inventory Modelling and Mapping Studies) NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) NDVI, MODIS EVI (Enhanced Vegetation Index), SPOT Vegetation (Spot-VGT) NDVI, LAI (Leaf Area Index) and NPP (Net Primary Productivity), and applied the maximum synthesis method, trend analysis, correlation analysis, and multivariate statistical analysis to investigate vegetation change processes since the 1980s. The study showed that the amount of vegetation on the TP had increased significantly since 2000 ( p < .01), especially in the northeastern part of the TP. There was no significant change prior to 2000. The different vegetation data sources varied greatly. Four remote sensing indices, MODIS EVI, Spot-VGT NDVI, LAI, and NPP, showed a significant increase in vegetation from 2000, accounting for 16.18%, 44.55%, 30.44% and 8.94% of the total area, respectively ( p < .05). Multiple data sources provided a more comprehensive understanding, whereas a single data source had substantial uncertainty. Human activities, such as the implementation of large-scale ecological projects, played a dominant role in increasing vegetation, while climate change played a subsidiary role. The MODIS EVI, Spot-VGT NDVI, LAI, and NPP data showed that the area of increased vegetation caused by human activities accounted for 53.51%, 45.68%, 37.52%, and 31.79% of the total area of the TP, respectively. The relative increase from climate change was 10.28%, 17.49%, 13.15%, and 8.82%, respectively. The current study applied multi-source remotely sensed vegetation data, which effectively reduced the uncertainty caused by individual data sources and provided more rigorous and scientific research conclusions.
IFLA’s role in the implementation of the Marrakesh Treaty
Authors: Otike Fredrick , Barát Ágnes Hajdu
Published: January 2023

This article critically analyses the significant role of IFLA in the implementation and adoption of the Marrakesh Treaty in member-state libraries. The challenges and hindrances affecting the implementation of the Treaty are also highlighted. The article establishes that, despite signing the Marrakesh Treaty, the implementation of the Treaty by member states has been met with resistance. The article, however, recognises the significant role that IFLA has played in the implementation of the Treaty, including acting as a representative of libraries globally and in its advisory and advocacy roles and outreach services. Finally, the article discusses and offers various suggestions – for example, IFLA should recruit and incorporate more countries in the association; have wide language diversity; develop competency skills and training; and organise frequent conferences and workshops on the Marrakesh Treaty.
Durations of Dockless E-Scooter Trips Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Austin, TX: An Analysis Using Hazard-Based Duration Models
Authors: Azimian Amin , Jiao Junfeng
Published: January 2023

The pandemic arising from the 2019 coronavirus disease has significantly affected all facets of human life across the world, including economies and transportation systems, thereby changing people’s travel behaviors. This research was aimed at exploring the relationship between socio-economic factors and e-scooter trip durations before and during the pandemic. We developed a hazard-based duration approach and estimated multiple spatial and non-spatial models on the basis of 2019 and 2020 dockless e-scooter data collected from the City of Austin’s Open Data Portal. The results indicated an overall increase in e-scooter trip durations after the pandemic. Moreover, analysis of variables revealed potential changes in users’ behavior before and during the pandemic. In particular, whereas e-scooter trip durations were found to be positively associated with aggregate travel time to work before the pandemic, this trend was reversed during the pandemic. In addition, during the pandemic, e-scooter travel time was positively correlated with the ratio of individuals with bachelor’s degrees or greater to those with associate degrees or lower. However, no specific pattern was observed before the pandemic. Lastly, the results showed the presence of disparities within the study area; therefore, it is vital to extend e-scooter service areas to cover underserved communities.
Scenario-Based Strategic Modeling of Road Transport Demand and Performance
Authors: Asgarpour Sahand , Hartmann Andreas , Gkiotsalitis Konstantinos , Neef Robin
Published: January 2023

Road infrastructure plays an important role in the economic and social development of societies. Thus, it requires effective and timely responses to cope with and embrace uncertain future changes. This study proposes an integrated, scenario-based strategic model which estimates transport demand, network performance, emission, and energy consumption. The model accounts for future economic, behavioral, policy, and technological developments by including four future scenarios and traces the possible changes in transport infrastructure performance. It primarily aims at supporting infrastructure decisions by quantifying a set of network and environmental performance indicators along their spatial–temporal dimension. Moreover, the effects of transport demand and energy transition policies on road performance are considered within each scenario. This model is applied in a case study region covering the main industrial and urban regions of the Netherlands. The discussed results provide insights into the possible infrastructure investments within each scenario and elaborate on the possible effects of policies.
Analysis and MASH TL-5 Crash Testing of a 6 ft-Tall Constant-Slope Barrier with Attached Noise Abatement Wall
Authors: Abu-Odeh Akram , Hammad Ahmad
Published: January 2023

Transportation agencies have become more efficient in maximizing the utilization of roadway space because of financial and regulatory constraints. Safety must manifest itself in all aspects of the transportation infrastructure. One notable challenge is the use of high-speed highways within urban environments. A noise reduction facility, such as a noise abatement wall (NAW), has to be incorporated along the roadway to reduce the traffic-generated noise impact on the urban population. However, adding such a facility requires a minimum 4 ft offset from the barrier per existing American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) standards. These constraints were eliminated in this study through the design of a tall barrier that reduced the interaction between the leaning truck trailer and the NAW to insignificant rubbing. This paper presents the design of the barrier-NAW system, the results of the finite element simulation that verified the performance of the system, and the successful outcomes of the full-scale crash testing according to AASHTO Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware guidelines.
Prognostic and clinicopathologic significance of PLIN2 in cancers: A systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Li Ming-Lin , Luo Han-Yong , Quan Zi-Wei , Huang Le-Tian , Wang Jia-He
Published: January 2023

The relationship between PLIN2 expression and prognosis, and clinicopathological significance of various cancers has been extensively studied, but the results are not completely consistent. This review followed the guidelines for systematic reviews of prognostic factors studies and was reported under the Preferred Reporting Program for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Google Academia for relevant articles up to September 2, 2022, and calculated the pooled hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) to determine the association between PLIN2 expression and the prognosis of various cancers. The meta-analysis ultimately included 17 studies. The quality of all included cohort studies was evaluated using the Quality in Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) tool, and an adaptation of Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) method was used to assess the certainty of the results. High expression of PLIN2 was associated with poorer overall survival (HR  =  1.65; 95% CI  =  1.14, 2.38; P  =  0.008), metastasis-free survival (HR  =  1.48; 95% CI  =  1.12, 1.94; P  =  0.005), progression-free survival (HR  =  2.11; 95% CI  =  1.55, 2.87; P < 0.0005) and recurrence-free survival/relapse-free survival (HR  =  2.21; 95% CI  =  1.64, 2.98; P < 0.0005) in cancers. The clinicopathological parameters of digestive system malignancies suggested that high expression of PLIN2 was notably associated with distant metastasis ( + ) (odds ratio (OR)  =   3.37; 95% CI  =  1.31, 8.67; P  =  0.012), lymph node metastasis ( + ) (OR  =  1.61; 95% CI  =  1.01, 2.54; P  =  0.004), and tumor stage (III–IV) (OR  =   1.96; 95% CI  =   1.24, 3.09; P  =  0.006). In summary, overexpression of PLIN2 is significantly associated with a poor prognosis in various human cancers, especially in respiratory and digestive malignancies. Thus, PLIN2 expression may be a potential prognostic biomarker in cancer patients.
Dynamic stress concentrations around a single fiber break in unidirectional composites: a 3D finite element analysis
Authors: Mutlu Caglar , Sabuncuoglu Baris , Kadioglu F Suat , Swolfs Yentl
Published: January 2023

When a fiber break occurs in longitudinal tension of a unidirectional composite, dynamic stress concentrations arise, which can be different from the ones found considering only static loading. The current paper analyzes the dynamic stress concentration factors (SCF) around a fiber break in unidirectional carbon fiber/epoxy composites. 3D finite element models with random and hexagonal fiber distributions were analyzed to investigate the evolution of stress concentrations as a function of time and position. The results indicate that dynamic effects result in much higher SCFs with a larger effective area around the broken fiber. The increase of SCFs in the closest fibers was determined to be larger for lower fiber volume fractions due to the presence of dynamic effects. Similar to the static case, a lower volume fraction causes higher maximum dynamic SCF in random packings. Results also support the high prevalence of coplanar cluster breaks observed in the experiments.
Durable Suture Technique: A Simple and Versatile Nonsurgical Technique to Create/Reshape Double Eyelid in Asians
Authors: Kim Peter Sang-Hui , Ahn Joon Tae
Published: January 2023

Nonincisional double-eyelid plasty, the Durable Suture Technique, is a popular nonsurgical procedure for creating double eyelids on monolids. We report cases where the Durable Suture Technique was successfully applied to other Asian cosmetic eyelid indications. A series of before-and-after photos of patients who underwent the Durable Suture Technique were shown to demonstrate that it is effective in reshaping and rejuvenating the double eyelids, as well as treating post-blepharoplasty complications. The rationale for applying the Durable Suture Technique in the above nonstandard indications was discussed. The Durable Suture Technique is a versatile, nonsurgical cosmetic eyelid enhancement procedure in Asians.
Out With the Old, in With the New: What Rising Pharmacists Need to Know About Vancomycin Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Adults
Authors: Armstrong Cook Jessica , Pouliot Jonathan , Parker Robin
Published: January 2023

The goal of this commentary is to provide recent pharmacy school graduates and student pharmacists completing APPEs the essential background for correct vancomycin therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in the inpatient setting.
Verdicts on Hans Eysenck and the fluxing context of British psychology
Authors: Pilgrim David
Published: January 2023

An account is provided of the historical context of the work one of the best-known figures in British psychology in the 20th century, Hans Eysenck. Recently some of this has come under critical scrutiny, especially in relation to claims of data rigging in his model of smoking and morbidity, produced from the 1960s to the 1980s. The article places that controversy, and others associated with Eysenck, in the longer context of the shifting forms of epistemological and political legitimacy within British psychology in the past hundred years. Eysenck was both lionised and disparaged during his life and after his death. This account explores that ambiguity in order to discern the challenge for British psychology to maintain disciplinary coherence. An understanding of this fluxing historical picture is guided by the meta-theoretical resource of critical realism.
MiR-3612 targeting THBS1 suppresses nasopharyngeal carcinoma progression by PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhang Qiu , Cui Qianbo , Xu Yu
Published: January 2023

Background

MicroRNA-3612 (miR-3612) is considered a tumor suppressor in different cancers. Nonetheless, its function in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) has yet to be uncovered.

Methods

NPC cells and tissues were tested by means of reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis and western blotting to quantify the expressions of miR-3612 and Thrombospondin 1 (THBS1). Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and scratch experiments were carried out to evaluate the migration and proliferation of NPC cells. NPC cell adhesion was also assessed. The predicted interaction of miR-3612 with THBS1 was verified by means of a luciferase reporter assay. In vivo experiments were also conducted to examine how miR-3612 overexpression affects in vivo tumorigenicity. Lastly, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway status was assessed via western blotting.

Results

MiR-3612 was downregulated in NPC cells and tissues, whereas THBS1 expression showed an opposite trend. The MiR-3612 mimic inhibited the NPC cell proliferation, adhesion, and migration and also inactivated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Furthermore, miR-3612 mimic also hampered NPC tumorigenesis in vivo. MiR-3612 targeted THBS1 and downregulated THBS1 expression. THBS1 offset the miR-3612-overexpression-induced repression of the migration, adhesion, and proliferation of NPC cells via the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway.

Conclusion

MiR-3612 retarded NPC cell migration, adhesion, and proliferation by targeting THBS1 and inactivating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. This provides a novel therapeutic approach for NPC intervention.
Energy harvesting using the edge-state phenomena
Authors: Baxy Ajinkya , Banerjee Arnab
Published: January 2023

Diatomic chain consisting of spring-mass system forms an attenuation bandgap due to the formation of the standing wave when the wavelength matches with the periodicity, known as Bragg-scattering. Edge-state phenomenon can be obtained by breaking the periodicity of the diatomic chain. Owing to this edge state phenomenon, the waves, and in turn the energy, is localized at the point of the asymmetry. In this work, an efficient vibrational energy harvesting technique is proposed exploiting this edge-state energy localization by inserting piezo-electric harvester at the junction of the asymmetry. To illustrate the performance of the proposed harvester under the broad-band noise, voltage-frequency curve for three different diatomic chain configurations, having same mass and stiffness, are analyzed. The performance metric, defined as the area under the voltage-frequency curve, shows 21.5 times higher performance can be obtained just by breaking the symmetry of a conventional diatomic chain. As it is also observed that the attenuation properties of the symmetric and asymmetric chain remain same; thus, the proposed edge-state energy harvester has a significant promise toward simultaneous energy harvesting and vibration control.