bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Samen doen of samen zijn?: over arbeids- en gezinsverantwoordelijkheden en de tijd die partners samen doorbrengen
Authors: Minnen Joeri , Van Tienoven Theun Pieter , Glorieux Ignace , Daniels Sarah
Published: April 2024

Demanding jobs, diligent leisure agenda’s and a devoted family life put pressure on the time partners spend together. A systematic review of the literature shows that this time is defined as the time partners spend on the same activity, ‘do together’, whereas the equally could spend their time on different activities but in each others presence, ‘be together’. Using the Belgian time-use surveys of 1999 and 2005 including 4.043 couples we demonstrate that studying what partners do together results in an underestimation of the time partners are together. We confirm the negative impact of work and family responsibilities on the time partners spent together on the same activities, but also show that family responsibilities coexist with more time partners indeed spent on different activities, but still are together. Doing different things but being together seems a ‘strategy’ for partners with large(r) family responsibilities to come to joint time.
Wetenschap als roeping: een onderzoek naar werkdruk en jobtevredenheid bij academici
Authors: Verbeylen Julie , Glorieux Ignace , Minnen Joeri , Van Tienoven Theun Pieter
Published: April 2024

Higher education has been subject to a number of changes: decreasing resources, increasing number of students, increasing regulation and formalisation... And although there is a growing perception that the nature of academic work is shifting, there is still little known about the outcomes that these changes generate for academic staff. In this article, we are interested in learning more about the workload and job satisfaction of academics. Using the demand-control-support model, we investigate the role of job control and social support in buffering the negative job demands facing academics today. We want to contribute to the ongoing debate on work pressure at the university and provide a greater understanding of the current challenges that universities face. For the analysis, we rely on survey data (n=345) collected among the academic professors at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
Gegenderde organisatie van betaalde arbeid over de week in België
Authors: Van Tienoven Theun Pieter , Glorieux Ignace , Minnen Joeri
Published: April 2024

The way women and men combine paid and family work is usually studied by investigating the amount of time they spend hereon. Such an aggregated approach is insufficient. Firstly, because these combination issues arise due to conflicting temporal orders and, secondly, because part time work and work on atypical working hours are considered to be strategies to cope herewith. The question when people work is more relevant to both arguments. By using the Belgian work grid from 2013 (n=2,316), this contribution shows that an episodic approach, departing from the timing of work, yields much richer insights in the way women and men organise their weekly paid work. Optimal matching analysis allows identifying 12 weekly work patterns and typifying them clearly as ‘male’ and ‘female’ patterns. Men typically organise their weekly paid work in fulltime work patterns whereas women largely organise their weekly paid work in part time work patterns. No evidence for atypical work patterns is found. This contribution shows that certain part time work patterns can be seen as a strategy to combine paid and family work. This only holds for women. Socio-economic and family characteristics do not determine the way men organise their weekly paid work.
Development of madrasah programs based on local potential stem research on the slopes of Mount Muria
Authors: Malichatin Hanik , Prasetyo Dody Rahayu
Published: April 2024

As an effort to instill the love of madrasah students for research and optimize the utilization of local potential on the slopes of Mount Muria, it can be done by developing research-based madrasahs. Through the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematic) research-based madrasah program, it is hoped that the community around the madrasah will better understand how to optimize the local potential. The selected service sample was Madrasah Tsanawiyah (MTs) NU Raden Umar Said located on the slopes of Mount Muria. The service method is carried out in three stages, namely the preparation, implementation, and evaluation stages. The results of the dedication obtained 1) pamelo orange peel waste can be used as a basic material for making soap and biobatteries, 2) the students are enthusiastic about learning STEM research, but the skills to use practicum tools are still low, and 3) the madrasah creates an extracurricular STEM research program based on local potential in Mount Muria. Through this activity, MTs NU Raden Umar Sa'id can become a pioneer of research madrassas on Mount Muria. Thus, it is expected to emulate the surrounding madrassahs.
Upaya meningkatkan motivasi dan hasil belajar siswa melalui pembelajaran fisika model Tubasharing
Authors: Alfatah Arif
Published: April 2024

Penelitian tindakan kelas ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui penerapan model pembelajaran Tubasharing dan peningkatan motivasi dan hasil belajar siswa setelah diterapkan model pembelajaran tersebut. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis diskriptif, yaitu membandingkan hasil belajar (nilai tes Ulangan Harian) antar bab materi fisika dengan indikator kinerja sebelum dan sesudah tindakan, juga menampilkan hasil motivasi siswa. Model penelitian tindakan pada penelitian ini mengacu pada model spiral yaitu perencanaan, pelaksanaan/tindakan, pengamatan, dan pencerminan/refleksi, disingkat tahap P4. Dari hasil penerapan model dan analisis data, bisa disimpulkan bahwa penerapan pembelajaran fisika model Tubasharing secara sederhana adalah dengan mengajak siswa berdiskusi mengurai suatu tema masalah, dengan masing-masing kelompok diskusi dipimpin oleh seorang tutor dari siswa yang telah dipilih, kemudian hasil diskusi tersebut dituangkan secara bersama dalam bentuk mind mapping dan kemudian dishare presentasikan di depan kelas. Penerapan pembelajaran fisika model TUBASHARING mampu meningkatkan motivasi belajar dan hasil belajar siswa.
Mapping the evolution of university-industry collaboration: A systematic literature review from 2000 to 2022
Authors:   Management and Informatics, The University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo, Hajrizi Besart , Berisha Shaqiri Afërdita ,   Management and Informatics, The University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo
Published: April 2024

This research aims to improve knowledge exchange and innovation through collaborations between universities and industries in South-East European Countries (SEECs). The region benefits from better collaboration, and understanding factors such as proximity, motivations, and challenges is crucial. The study begins by suggesting that geographical closeness may influence the strength of university-industry ties and that specific conditions in SEECs may either support or impede these relationships. The paper proposes a new University-Industry Collaboration (UIC) model tailored for SEECs, built upon a review of literature from 2000 to 2022. This review examines factors like location, organizational approaches, types of knowledge exchange, key motivators and barriers, and the evolving role of universities in the region. The study introduces a specialized UIC model that could enhance regional cooperation, emphasizing strategies to overcome barriers and align university and industry goals. By extensively reviewing existing research, the paper contributes valuable insights into UIC in SEECs, aiming to deepen the understanding of these collaborations in the region.
The Influence of Incentive-Based Mobile Fitness Apps on Users’ Continuance Intention With Gender Moderation Effects: Quantitative and Qualitative Study
Authors: Faizah Aaya , Hardian Alifah Fatimah Azzahra , Nandini Rania Devina , Handayani Putu Wuri , Harahap Nabila Cyldea
Published: April 2024

Background

A survey conducted by McKinsey & Company reported that, as of May 2022, as many as 26% of Indonesians had recently started to engage actively in physical activity, 32% undertook regular physical activity, and 9% exercised intensely. The Fourth Industrial Revolution has spurred the rapid development of mobile fitness apps (MFAs) used to track people’s sports activities. However, public interest in using these apps for any length of time is still relatively low.

Objective

In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of incentives (eg, self-monitoring, social support, platform rewards, and external influence) on the use of MFAs and the moderating effect of gender on users’ continuance usage intention.

Methods

The study used a mixed methods approach. Quantitative data were collected through a web-based questionnaire and qualitative data from interviews with 30 respondents. The quantitative data, collected from 379 valid responses, were processed using covariance-based structural equation modeling. The qualitative data were processed using thematic analysis. The MFAs included in this research were those used as sports or physical activity trackers, such as Apple Fitness, Strava, Nike Run Club, and Fita.

Results

The results of the data analysis show that 3 groups of incentives, namely, self-monitoring, platform rewards, and external influence (with the exception of social support), affect the perceived usefulness of these apps. Gender was also shown to moderate user behavior in relation to physical activity. The study showed that women were more likely to be motivated to exercise by social and external factors, while men paid greater attention to the tracking features of the app and to challenges and rewards.

Conclusions

This research contributes to the field of health promotion by providing guidance for MFA developers.
Home-Based Connected Devices Combined With Statistical Process Control for the Early Detection of Respiratory Exacerbations by Patients With Cystic Fibrosis: Pilot Interventional Study With a Pre-Post Design
Authors: Le Roux Enora , Ursino Moreno , Milovanovic Ivana , Picq Paul , Haignere Jeremie , Rault Gilles , Pougheon Bertrand Dominique , Alberti Corinne
Published: April 2024

Background

Currently, patients with cystic fibrosis do not routinely monitor their respiratory function at home.

Objective

This study aims to assess the clinical validity of using different connected health devices at home to measure 5 physiological parameters to help prevent exacerbations on a personalized basis from the perspective of patient empowerment.

Methods

A multicenter interventional pilot study including 36 patients was conducted. Statistical process control—the cumulative sum control chart (CUSUM)—was used with connected health device measures with the objective of sending patients alerts at a relevant time in order to identify their individual risk of exacerbations. Associated patient education was delivered. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected.

Results

One-half (18/36) of the patients completed the protocol through the end of the study. During the 12-month intervention, 6162 measures were collected with connected health devices, 387 alerts were sent, and 33 exacerbations were reported. The precision of alerts to detect exacerbations was weak for all parameters, which may be partly related to the low compliance of patients with the measurements. However, a decrease in the median number of exacerbations from 12 months before the study to after the 12-month intervention was observed for patients.

Conclusions

The use of connected health devices associated with statistical process control showed that it was not acceptable for all patients, especially because of the burden related to measurements. However, the results suggest that it may be promising, after adaptations, for early identification and better management of exacerbations.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03304028; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03304028
Effects of Background Music on Attentional Networks of Children With and Without Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Case Control Experimental Study
Authors: Mendes Camila Guimarães , de Paula Jonas Jardim , Miranda Débora Marques
Published: April 2024

Background

To sustain performance during a task that requires attention may be a challenge for children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which strongly influences motivation for tasks and has been connected to the level of arousal.

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the effect of musical stimulus on attentional performance in children with ADHD and typically developing children.

Methods

A total of 76 boys (34 with ADHD and 42 typically developing) performed the Attention Network Test (ANT) for children under 2 experimental conditions (with and without music). Four attentional measures were extracted from the ANT. We tested the effect of the experimental condition and its interaction with the group using repeated measures ANOVA.

Results

We found no significant main effects or interactions for the reaction times of the alerting, orienting, and conflict attentional networks of the ANT (all P>.05). Regarding ANT errors, we found a significant main effect for music, with a moderate effect size (F1,72=9.83; P=.03; ηp2=0.06) but the condition×group interaction was not significant (F1,72=1.79; P=.18). Participants made fewer errors when listening to music compared to the control condition.

Conclusions

Music seems not to interfere in the attentional network in children and adolescents. Perhaps background music affects motivation. Future studies will be needed to validate this.

Trial Registration

ReBEC.gov U1111-12589039; https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-8s22sh8
The Use of Digital Technologies in the Promotion of Health Literacy and Empowerment of Informal Caregivers: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Soares Suzete , Hoffmeister Louíse Viecili , Fernandes Maria de Fátima , Henriques Adriana , Costa Andreia
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Informal caregivers (IC) play an important role in the community as health care providers for people who are dependent on self-care. Health literacy contributes to empowerment, better care, and self-management of one’s own health and can be developed using digital technologies.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to map scientific evidence about the use of digital technologies to promote health literacy and the empowerment of ICs.

METHODS

We conducted a scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, and PubMed databases were searched to find primary studies on the theme. Inclusion criteria were based on the Population, Concept, and Context logic. To be selected for analysis, studies must have involved informal or family caregivers aged ≥18 years who provide care to dependent persons and who have access to the internet and digital devices (computer, smartphone, and tablet). A total of 2 independent researchers (SS and LVH) performed the screening process. This study is part of a main project that was approved by the Ethics Committee for Health of the Regional Health Administration of Lisbon and Tagus Valley (reference 058/CES/INV/2022).

RESULTS

A total of 9 studies were included in the review. The analysis of the studies showed that ICs use digital tools, such as computers and smartphones, with smartphones being the preferred tool. ICs use the internet to access information; manage home tasks; communicate with relatives, their peers, and health care professionals; and take part in forums. Due to difficulties in leaving their houses, forums are highly valued to preserve human connections.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of digital technologies to convey clear, objective, reliable, and accessible information is a strategic action for promoting health literacy and for contemplating the variable care needs of ICs. By working with ICs in the development of new technologies, researchers are building a new tool that meets ICs’ needs.
The Depth Estimation and Visualization of Dermatological Lesions: Development and Usability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Parekh Pranav , Oyeleke Richard , Vishwanath Tejas
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Thus far, considerable research has been focused on classifying a lesion as benign or malignant. However, there is a requirement for quick depth estimation of a lesion for the accurate clinical staging of the lesion. The lesion could be malignant and quickly grow beneath the skin. While biopsy slides provide clear information on lesion depth, it is an emerging domain to find quick and noninvasive methods to estimate depth, particularly based on 2D images.

OBJECTIVE

This study proposes a novel methodology for the depth estimation and visualization of skin lesions. Current diagnostic methods are approximate in determining how much a lesion may have proliferated within the skin. Using color gradients and depth maps, this method will give us a definite estimate and visualization procedure for lesions and other skin issues. We aim to generate 3D holograms of the lesion depth such that dermatologists can better diagnose melanoma.

METHODS

We started by performing classification using a convolutional neural network (CNN), followed by using explainable artificial intelligence to localize the image features responsible for the CNN output. We used the gradient class activation map approach to perform localization of the lesion from the rest of the image. We applied computer graphics for depth estimation and developing the 3D structure of the lesion. We used the depth from defocus method for depth estimation from single images and Gabor filters for volumetric representation of the depth map. Our novel method, called red spot analysis, measures the degree of infection based on how a conical hologram is constructed. We collaborated with a dermatologist to analyze the 3D hologram output and received feedback on how this method can be introduced to clinical implementation.

RESULTS

The neural model plus the explainable artificial intelligence algorithm achieved an accuracy of 86% in classifying the lesions correctly as benign or malignant. For the entire pipeline, we mapped the benign and malignant cases to their conical representations. We received exceedingly positive feedback while pitching this idea at the King Edward Memorial Institute in India. Dermatologists considered this a potentially useful tool in the depth estimation of lesions. We received a number of ideas for evaluating the technique before it can be introduced to the clinical scene.

CONCLUSIONS

When we map the CNN outputs (benign or malignant) to the corresponding hologram, we observe that a malignant lesion has a higher concentration of red spots (infection) in the upper and deeper portions of the skin, and that the malignant cases have deeper conical sections when compared with the benign cases. This proves that the qualitative results map with the initial classification performed by the neural model. The positive feedback provided by the dermatologist suggests that the qualitative conclusion of the method is sufficient.
Efficacy of Laser Acupuncture on Zanzhu (BL02) for Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Lau Kain-chi , Lee Yu-chen , Tien Peng-Tai
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including dry-AMD and wet-AMD, is a common cause of blindness in the elderly population (above 60). However, there has not been effective treatment for dry-AMD so far. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture, practiced for over 2500 years in China, has gained popularity in Western countries as a complementary therapy. Also, a meta-analysis conducted by our team in 2023 shows that acupuncture is significantly more effective than interventions of the control groups, and that the most frequently selected acupuncture points in the literature, excluding those with incomplete data, were Jingming (BL01) and Zanzhu (BL02). As traditional needle acupuncture is invasive, lowering patients’ willingness to undergo the treatment, Jingming (BL01) is contraindicated for laser acupuncture to prevent eye injury due to its location, we suggest further investigation into the efficacy of laser acupuncture on Zanzhu (BL02).

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this study is to determine whether the experimental group (laser acupuncture) exhibits a greater average change in Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) in comparison to the control group (sham laser acupuncture).

METHODS

This study is a single-center, investigator-initiated, assessor-blinded, parallel randomized controlled trial. 30 participants would be enrolled. This study consists of 15 visits, which are divided into 1 screening visit, 12 treatment visits, and 2 survey visits in chronological order. Over the 12 treatment visits in 4 weeks, both groups would receive interventions three times a week. Laser acupuncture with the wave of 808nm and the output power of 100mw would be performed on bilateral BL02 for 3 min. On the other hand, the control group would receive sham laser acupuncture with the wave of 0nm and the output power of 0mw on the same acupoints for 3 min. The frequency of interventions would be recorded during the trial. The primary outcomes are Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA). The outcomes would be mostly assessed at visits 1, 13 and 14. All data would be analyzed with SPSS Statistics V.21 after completely collected.

RESULTS

This study was approved by the institutional review board of China Medical University Hospital (Approval No. CMUH112-REC2-141). The first participant was enrolled on 25 January 2024. Participant recruitment has not been complete so far. The obtained results would be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our samples and with the parameters and methods used, we can observe the efficacy of BCVA change provided by laser acupuncture at 808 nm in comparison with that of the control group.

CLINICALTRIAL

This study was registered on the ClinicalTrials.gov on 17 February 2024. (Registration No. NCT06264947)
Evaluating Parenting Stress and Identifying Influential Factors in Caregivers of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Children (Preprint)
Authors: Chen Yuan
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Caregivers of deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) children often face unique challenges that significantly impact their parenting stress levels. These challenges can be amplified by various factors, which if not identified and addressed, can lead to increased stress and potential negative impacts on both the caregiver and child's well-being. It is therefore imperative to identify and understand these stressors specific to caregivers of DHH children and influential factors to provide effective support and interventions.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop the Chinese Family Stress Scale (CFSS), a tool specifically designed to assess parenting stress in caregivers of DHH children. It also sought to identify the key stressors and contributing factors that lead to heightened stress levels in these caregivers.

METHODS

This study was conducted online and involved 257 caregivers of DHH children aged 0-12 years. Participants completed the CFSS via an internet-based platform to assess their parenting stress levels. Factors such as speech intelligibility, oral language use, self-compassion, and social support were examined online for their influence on parenting stress.

RESULTS

The CFSS showed good reliability and validity, affirming its efficacy in assessing parenting stress among these caregivers. The study identified key stressors, including financial issues, discipline, education concerns, medical care, and safety. In addition, the study found that elevated parenting stress was significantly associated with poor speech intelligibility of the child, inadequate oral language use, negative aspects of self-compassion, and insufficient social support. This underscores the influence these factors have on the stress levels experienced by caregivers of DHH children.

CONCLUSIONS

The CFSS is an effective tool for assessing parenting stress in caregivers of DHH children. The study provides valuable insight into the factors that influence elevated parenting stress. It highlights the need for interventions to focus on improving children's communication skills, enhancing caregiver self-compassion, and bolstering social support networks. In doing so, it paves the way for more targeted and effective support for caregivers of DHH children, potentially reducing their stress levels and improving their overall quality of life.
Exploring Phishing Awareness and User Behavior: A Survey-based Investigation
Authors: Kudalkar Mahesh , Singh Janhavi , Singh ShanuKumar
Published: April 2024

Abstract: Phishing attacks remain a significant threat to internet users, exploiting vulnerabilities in human behaviour to deceive individuals into divulging sensitive information. Understanding user awareness of these attacks and their responses is crucial for developing an effective environment. This paper presents findings from a survey-based study aimed at assessing public awareness of phishing attacks and evaluating user responses. The survey explored participants' familiarity with phishing, knowledge levels, encounter frequencies, security practices, and responses to suspicious emails. Additionally, participants were queried about their experiences with phishing awareness training and their interest in receiving further education on the topic. The results provide insights into the current landscape of phishing awareness among internet users, highlighting areas of strength and vulnerability. These findings contribute to the ongoing efforts to enhance internet security and mitigate the risks posed by phishing attacks. The implications of the study's findings for cybersecurity education, awareness campaigns, and the development of anti-phishing tools are discussed.
Standards for science communication in extended and virtual reality: a model for XR/VR based on London Charter and Seville Principles
Authors: Rubio Tamayo Jose Luis , Wuebben Daniel Lewis , Gertrudix Manuel
Published: April 2024

Videos featuring research results, laboratory tutorials, and online webinars are fundamental tools for disseminating science and boosting scientific impact. However, extended reality (XR) video technologies, which include virtual reality (VR), represent new challenges for scientists and science communicators. XR and VR can enhance, bend, or distort the reality surrounding scientific facts. The London Charter and Seville Principles are standards for computer-based visualization and reconstruction in a virtual reproduction of heritage sites and research in domains such as archaeology. Here, we develop a similar set of standards for the representation of scientific results in XR and VR and clarify the use of implicit XR and VR elements such as storytelling, setting, agency, interactivity, and other factors. Finally, the authors propose a framework XR/VR Model of Science Representation and Communication, derived from the context and other frameworks for representing information in virtual environments.
Participacão infantil na divulgacão científica em biodiversidade
Authors: Kei Sato Marcelo , Bizerra Alessandra F.
Published: April 2024

Este trabalho investiga as regulacões e os modos de participacão de crianças na co-producão de mídias “radio” e “audiovisual”, no contexto de um projeto de conservacão do papagaio-do-peito-roxo, envolvendo diferentes atores locais. Com bases nos Estudos Culturais e com foco em acões participatórias, foram analisados registros audiovisuais das acões de co-criacão e seus produtos. Emergiram quatro modos principais de participacão infantil: (1) contextualizado, (2) simbólico, (3) técnico-estético e (4) identitário. Essa pesquisa constitui um importante passo, ainda que inicial, na sistematizacão de um diálogo entre as áreas de pesquisas e práticas de divulgação científica participatória, os estudos da infância e a conservacão da biodiversidade.
Multiple climatic effects on kingbirds (Tyrannus spp.) clutch and egg sizes along a continental scale
Authors: Assis Marcelo , Heming Neander , Marini Miguel Ângelo
Published: April 2024

AIM: Changes in bird clutch and egg sizes across geographical gradients
are issues often debated among ecologists, where latitudinal cline is a
central issue in several discussions. There is an understanding that
these patterns are primarily driven by climatic characteristics, where
latitude acts as a proxy. Many studies attempt to analyse local climatic
factors causing variation in life history traits but face methodological
limitations. Here, as few studies have been able to, we achieve a robust
dataset that covers a large territorial extent to answer this main
biogeographical question. LOCATION: American continent (New World).
METHODS: We approached the geographically widespread Tyrannus genus
(kingbirds) and collected breeding data from 35 scientific egg
collections in South and Central America, USA, and Europe. After several
data checking layers, including spatial, temporal and taxonomic
checking, we analysed the relationship between kingbird’s clutch and egg
sizes with different climatic scales. RESULTS: The analyses of 1358
clutches and 4750 eggs confirmed that kingbird’s clutch and egg sizes
increase towards the poles. Both breeding traits vary according to main
climates, regional sub-climates, and local temperature and precipitation
conditions. Regions with more climatic variation had the largest
clutches, but sites with colder winters did not have the largest
clutches. Tyrannus egg size increased in environments with less extreme
dry periods. The increase of egg size with latitude can be explained by
the significant relationship between larger eggs with sites with lower
temperatures. MAIN CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest a robust
correlation of residual variation in breeding traits with climatic
conditions at both regional and local levels. Highly locally adapted
species using climatic parameters as cues should also respond to
interannual weather variations. With current discussions about climate
change’s effects on ecosystems, the insights provided in this work can
assist in understanding how species will cope under future climate
scenarios.
A Comparison of Climate-Driven Deep Learning Ensemble and SWAT+ Models for Daily Streamflow Simulation in the Niger River Basin, West Africa
Authors: Idolor Jefia , Adediji Aderemi , Idowu Peter Adebayo
Published: April 2024

Streamflow monitoring is very important for planning and management of
water resources in watersheds, and their prediction accuracy is crucial
for decision-making. The Niger River Basin is a transboundary resource,
shared by nine West African Countries and Algeria and, a large portion
of the population rely on the basin for rain-fed agriculture and
hydropower. Over the years, the basin’s streamflow regime has been
altered due to climate change, drought, desertification and
establishment of Dams. This research describes a novel Deep Learning
framework comprised of Bidirectional-Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM)
requiring Antecedent Precipitation Index (API) and meteorological
variables, preprocessed using Normal Quantile Transform (NQT) as input
drivers and, compared with the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT+)
for streamflow prediction. NQT-API-LSTM which considers catchment
wetness and seasonality, was forced with reanalyzed climate (1979–2021)
while, SWAT+ was driven with biophysical data and reanalyzed climate
(2010–2020). The very high performance of both NQT-API-LSTM and SWAT+
models showed the models were reliable and can predict regulated flows
with reasonable certainty. However, NQT-API-LSTM outperformed SWAT+ at
Lokoja watershed and, realistically captured the influence of seasonal
climate and regional groundwater dynamics from upstream catchments
including the Sahara Desert on the Benue, Guinean, Sahelian and Sudan
Flood. Overall, NQT-API-LSTM could be used successfully for
watershed-scale streamflow prediction without the need for continuous
ground support data, a benefit for sparsely gauged West African River
Basins, while SWAT+ could be used as an alternative, particularly, to
evaluate the watershed’s response to land use/land cover changes.
Comparative evaluation of titanium-prepared platelet-rich fibrin with and without herbal extract: A histological study
Authors: Gummaluri Shiva , Gurumoorthy Kaarthikeyan , Damera Trinath , Boddeda Anusha , Kodem Tejaswi , Lekkala Sivaram
Published: April 2024

Background/Aim. Injecting herbal extract into platelet concentrates is one of the newer treatment protocols, which enables platelet concentrates to act as sustained drug delivery (DD) systems. Histological analysis of titanium-prepared platelet-rich fibrin (T-PRF) injected with herbal extract, could help assess the appearance (pattern) and structural changes of T-PRF. The aim of the study was to evaluate the appearance of the fibrin network, cellularity, and fibrin border area of T-PRF alone and T-PRF injected with herbal extract. Methods. A total of 40 histological slides were prepared from 10 mL of blood from each patient, 20 with T-PRF alone and 20 with T-PRF+herbal extract. The slides were divided into a group consisting of T-PRF injected with neem gel (test group) and a group consisting of T-PRF alone (control group). The preparation protocol was made according to Bank-roft?s manual adapted for light microscopy. Results. Regarding the fibrin network features (dense vs. loose), no statistical significance was found among the studied groups (p = 0.172). A statistically significant difference was shown in the packeting (p = 0.018) and layered (p = 0.028) patterns of the fibrin network, and there was no statistically significant difference in the scattered (p = 0.749) pattern among the examined groups. Cellularity and cell pattern values were not statistically significantly different for both groups (p = 1.00, p = 0.3111, respectively). Moreover, the values determined for red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets were not statistically significantly different (p = 0.147), as well as for the fibrin border area between cells and meshwork (p = 0.206). Conclusion. The obtained results could be useful for the development of a new treatment strategy in dentistry, by utilizing T-PRF with incorporated herbal extracts or antibiotics, as a local sustained DD system.
Workload, Audit Quality, and the Attractiveness of the Audit Profession to Early and Midcareer Accountants: The Effects of Organizational Commitment
Authors: de Vries Marlies , Speklé Roland F.
Published: April 2024

A characteristic feature of public accounting is the high workload in busy season. This feature is generally seen as problematic, for it is held to negatively affect both audit quality and the attractiveness of the profession. We argue, however, that these effects are not universal but depend on organizational commitment. We also argue that perceived audit quality is related to one’s interest in the profession. Based on survey data from 366 early and midcareer auditors, we find that if respondents believe audit quality to be lower, they report more negative feelings toward the attractiveness of a continued career in auditing. We also find that auditors’ affective commitment to their employing firm moderates the relationship between busy season workload and perceived audit quality and the loss of appeal of the profession, underscoring the need to take the organizational context into account in the workload debate.

Data Availability: The data are owned by the Nederlandse Beroepsorganisatie van Accountants Young Profs. The AMOS code is available upon request from Roland F. Speklé.
Early Evidence on Critical Audit Matters regarding Environmental, Social, and Governance Sustainability: Trends in ESG Reporting
Authors: Abdel-Rahim Heba , Hollie Dana , Yu Shaokun
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the contents and trends of critical audit matters (CAMs) as they relate to ESG matters (ECAMs). Our examination of the description of ESG matters in ECAMs suggests that the majority of ECAMs fall under measurement issues from environmental liabilities and loss contingencies. To address ECAMs, auditing procedures must assess managerial assumptions by making frequent use of an environmental specialist. Our descriptive analysis suggests that firms that receive ECAMs are more profitable, more likely to have a Big 4 auditor, and have higher litigation risk. Our cross-country comparison suggests a similar trend between ECAMs and their equivalent reports in Europe, as both focus mainly on environmental matters rather than social or governance matters. Overall, our analysis suggests that the issuance of ECAMs represents an important source for discerning a portion of firms’ ESG standings.

Data Availability: Data are available from the public sources cited in the text.

JEL Classifications: M4.
Hipoalbuminemia como causa de Ascitis en pacientes cirróticos
Authors:   Investigador Independiente, Fabara Gavilánez María Isabel , Lescano Solís Silvia Maricela ,   Investigador Independiente, Bayas Bonilla Evelyn Lissette ,   Investigador Independiente, Reinoso Medina Rosario Estefanía ,   Investigador Independiente
Published: April 2024

La cirrosis es una enfermedad del hígado irreversible que puede tener diversas causas. Esta enfermedad puede estar compensada o descompensada. Se considera que está descompensada cuando se presentan síntomas como ictericia, encefalopatía, ascitis, síndrome hepatorrenal o sangrado digestivo debido a la presencia de varices en el esófago y/o el estómago. Los niveles de proteínas viscerales, albúmina, prealbúmina y RBP (proteína unida al retinol) están alterados en los pacientes con cirrosis, independientemente de su estado nutricional. Estas alteraciones se correlacionan mejor con la gravedad de la enfermedad hepática que con la malnutrición. Por lo tanto, la hipoalbuminemia, además de la hipertensión portal, es una causa de ascitis en estos pacientes.
Beyond Luminescence: How Science and Technology are being Revolutionized by Quantum Dots
Authors: HE Ghazi
Published: April 2024

A brief review of quantum dots (QDs), a new class of nanomaterials with profound implications for cutting edge technological developments and research, is provided in this work. The notion of quantum dots is presented, explaining their special characteristics and operation, which originate from several quantum events in these remarkable spherical crystals. Because of their exceptional optical and electrical characteristics, QDs have great promise for a variety of uses. This paper also showcases some of the most widely used QD-based applications in biology and electronics, highlighting their adaptability and potential influence in several domains.
Understanding Ergonomics in Nanotechnology Workspaces: Ergonomics in Nanotechnology
Authors: R Selvin
Published: April 2024

The success of ergonomics in the future will be determined by how well the field handles the difficulties posed by new fields that call for scientific study and how successfully the findings are applied in real-world settings. The field of nanotechnology has advanced more quickly than our understanding of the potential consequences of such advancements. As a result, many of the same questions that surround any new technology are also raised by nanotechnology, such as toxicity and the effects of nanomaterials on the environment. Employees in businesses connected to nanotechnology may be exposed to materials that are specifically manufactured with nanoscale sizes, shapes, and physicochemical qualities. At this time, nothing is known about the main pathways of exposure, the possible exposure thresholds, and the material toxicity of nanomaterials. This finding suggests that both our understanding of nanomaterials and our capacity to guard against the risks associated with nanotechnology are lacking. The employee's brain or other organs may get infected with the nanoparticles due to the nanomaterial's incredibly tiny sizes and properties. Hence, accurate hazard assessment of the relevant work areas should be a part of effective exposure control systems. This review explains about managing nanotechnology exposures in the workplace, as well as other important controls as handling or working with nanotechnologies and nanomaterials, ergonomic approaches which would be effective to improve safety and health issues in the nanotechnology industry.
Inferior Vena Cava Agenesis associated with Deep Venous Thrombosis: Case Report
Authors: Peramos Marina Telles , Da Silva Amanda Fernandes Vidal , Leopoldino Gabriela , Neto Fernando Reis , De Godoy Jose Maria Pereira
Published: April 2024

Inferior vena cava agenesis is a rare congenital venous malformation, with a prevalence ranging from 0.0005 to 1% of the world's population. The present study aims to describe a case of agenesis of the inferior vena cava associated with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in a young patient and the difficulty in maintaining adequate anticoagulation. We report the case of a 22-year-old woman who had her first thrombotic event as a child, in the renal vein, and was anticoagulated. At age 20, she had a thrombotic event in the iliac vein and went back on anticoagulation, but with adequate control of coagulation, the patient decided when to stop and return to anticoagulation without medical advice. The diagnosis of agenesis was confirmed by tomography and phlebography. Currently, she was maintained on anticoagulation and warned about the risks of the disease and inadequate anticoagulation.
Photons in Physics with real Magnetic Charges and the Falsity Existing Notion of Expansion Universe (How Physicists; "Yawn" Real Magnetic Charges, Curved Space and Sentenced the Universe to Expansion)
Authors: Sizov Robert A.
Published: April 2024

The experiments of F. Ehrenhaft as well as the experimental and theoretical studies of the author showed that it is magnetic charges are the direct sources of the magnetic field. Eddy currents of magnetic charges (rotating magnetic dipoles g- - g+) which actually exist in atoms and substance, are untwisted by electric current in conductors, are direct sources of the well-known vortex magnetic field rotH. Together with electric charges, magnetic charges make up the shells of atoms, which are actually electromagnetic, not electronic. It is the electromagnetic shells of atoms that are the sources of the vortex electromagnetic (gravitational) field, which is described by the vortex vector rot[E – H]. The vector character of GF is in many respects similar to the vortex magnetic field, which has been known for hundreds of years, but no one has come up with the version of spatial magnetic waves. Therefore, the notion of gravitational waves, according to the author, is another fake, inspired by crooked physics, in which there is absolutely no representation of the real physics of the gravitational field. The introduction of real magnetic charges into the basic physical representations, as well as the discovery by the author of the World Physical Triad, made it possible to clarify the essence of spinor fields which are flows of elementary particles of the world Energo-medium, which are formed by spinor (charged) particles. In addition, the article proves that the concept of the expansion of the Universe was the result of E. Hubble's erroneous (extremely superficial) perception, back in 1929, of the manifestation of the cosmological redshift of the photon frequency, which he interpreted as a Doppler shift in the frequency of the so-called light waves. The inclusion of real magnetic charges in the physical representations showed that the frequency processes in photons are determined exclusively by the intra-photon physics embedded in into at the moment of formation and cannot be the result of any spatial wave formations in the environment, i.e. the shifts of photonic frequency ∆ω have nothing to do with the Doppler effect and depend only on changes in the translational velocity of their source. In other words, the redshift of the photon frequency under the conditions of the translational motion of their sources is exactly the same, both in the case of the source moving to the observer, and in the case of its movement at the same speed away from the observer. As for the violet shift of the photon frequency, this is an unambiguous sign of the rotational dynamics of photon source, and in the case of combined motion of source (translational and rotational), the mechanism of photon frequency pulsations is possible.
Penciclovir pharmacokinetics after oral and rectal administration of famciclovir in African elephants (Loxodonta africana) shows that effective concentrations can be achieved from rectal administration, despite lower absorption
Authors: Griffioen John A. , Fayette Melissa A. , Proudfoot Jeffry S. , Howard Lauren L. , Papich Mark G.
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the pharmacokinetics of famciclovir and its metabolite penciclovir following a single dose administered orally and rectally in African elephants (Loxodonta africana).

ANIMALS

15 African elephants (6 males and 9 females) of various ages.

METHODS

Famciclovir (15 mg/kg) was administered orally or per rectum once, with at least a three-week washout period between administrations. Blood was collected at 13 different timepoints per administration for 6 elephants, occurring between February and March 2020. An additional 9 elephants were sampled at variable timepoints per administration utilizing a sparse sampling design between July 2020 and January 2021. Plasma famciclovir and penciclovir levels were measured via HPLC and fluorescence detection. Pharmacokinetic analysis was completed in the summer of 2021 using noncompartmental analysis and nonlinear mixed-effects modeling.

RESULTS

Famciclovir was not detected in any sample, suggesting complete metabolism. Key pharmacokinetic parameters for penciclovir following oral administration were time to maximum concentration (tmax; 2.12 hours), area under the concentration-versus-time curve (AUC; 33.93 μg·h/mL), maximum observed concentration (Cmax; 3.73 μg/mL), and absorption half-life (t1/2; 0.65 hours). Following rectal administration, the values were: tmax, 0.65 hours; AUC, 15.62 μg·h/mL; Cmax, 2.52 μg/mL; and absorption t1/2, 0.13 hours.

CONCLUSIONS

Famciclovir was rapidly metabolized to penciclovir. Oral administration resulted in slower absorption but higher maximum plasma concentration and higher AUC compared to rectal administration.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

African elephants administered famciclovir via oral and rectal routes resulted in measurable serum penciclovir, and these findings may be utilized by clinicians treating viral infections in this species.
High-Temperature Fatigue Testing of Turbine Blades
Authors: Kopec Mateusz , Kukla Dominik , Wyszkowski Mirosław , Kowalewski Zbigniew L.
Published: April 2024

This paper evaluates the efficacy of a patented grip for high-temperature fatigue testing by establishing the S-N curve for full-scale nickel-based turbine blades under simulated environmental conditions. Initially, a bending test assessed the stress-displacement characteristics of the component. This was followed by a series of fatigue tests at 950°C, using cyclic bending with force amplitudes from 5.2 kN to 6.6 kN and a constant frequency of 10 Hz. The setup, integrating the grip into a standard testing machine, proved effective for high-temperature tests and successfully determined the service life of full-scale components.