bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using zero-inflated and hurdle regression models to analyze schistosomiasis data of school children in the southern areas of Ghana
Authors: Nketia Kojo , de Souza Dziedzom K.
Published: July 2024

Background

Schistosomiasis is a neglected disease prevalent in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world, especially in Africa. Detecting the presence of the disease is based on the detection of the parasites in the stool or urine of children and adults. In such studies, typically, data collected on schistosomiasis infection includes information on many negative individuals leading to a high zero inflation. Thus, in practice, counts data with excessive zeros are common. However, the purpose of this analysis is to apply statistical models to the count data and evaluate their performance and results.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of previously collected data. As part of a modelling process, a comparison of the Poisson regression, negative binomial regression and their associated zero inflated and hurdle models were used to determine which offered the best fit to the count data.

Results

Overall, 94.1% of the study participants did not have any schistosomiasis eggs out of 1345 people tested, resulting in a high zero inflation. The performance of the negative binomial regression models (hurdle negative binomial (HNB), zero inflated negative binomial (ZINB) and the standard negative binomial) were better than the Poisson-based regression models (Poisson, zero inflated Poisson, hurdle Poisson). The best models were the ZINB and HNB and their performances were indistinguishable according to information-based criteria test values.

Conclusion

The zero-inflated negative binomial and hurdle negative binomial models were found to be the most satisfactory fit for modelling the over-dispersed zero inflated count data and are recommended for use in future statistical modelling analyses.
Comparative genomic analysis and optimization of astaxanthin production of Rhodotorula paludigena TL35-5 and Rhodotorula sampaioana PL61-2
Authors: Hoondee Patcharaporn , Phuengjayaem Sukanya , Kingkaew Engkarat , Rojsitthisak Pornchai , Sritularak Boonchoo , Thompho Somphob , Pornputtapong Natapol , Thitikornpong Worathat , Tanasupawat Somboon
Published: July 2024

Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant known to enhance skin, cardiovascular, eye, and brain health. In this study, the genome insights and astaxanthin production of two newly isolated astaxanthin-producing yeasts (TL35-5 and PL61-2) were evaluated and compared. Based on their phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, TL35-5 and PL61-2 were identified as basidiomycetous yeasts belonging to Rhodotorula paludigena and Rhodotorula sampaioana, respectively. To optimize astaxanthin production, the effects of cultural medium composition and cultivation conditions were examined. The optimal conditions for astaxanthin production in R. paludigena TL35-5 involved cultivation in AP medium containing 10 g/L glucose as the sole carbon source, supplemented with 1.92 g/L potassium nitrate, pH 6.5, and incubation at 20°C for 3 days with shaking at 200 rpm. For R. sampaioana PL61-2, the optimal medium composition for astaxanthin production consisted of AP medium with 40 g/L glucose, supplemented with 0.67 g/L urea, pH 7.5, and the fermentation was carried out at 20°C for 3 days with agitating at 200 rpm. Under their optimal conditions, R. paludigena TL35-5 and R. sampaioana PL61-2 gave the highest astaxanthin yields of 3.689 ± 0.031 and 4.680 ± 0.019 mg/L, respectively. The genome of TL35-5 was 20,982,417 bp in length, with a GC content of 64.20%. A total of 6,789 protein-encoding genes were predicted. Similarly, the genome of PL61-2 was 21,374,169 bp long, with a GC content of 64.88%. It contained 6,802 predicted protein-encoding genes. Furthermore, all essential genes involved in astaxanthin biosynthesis, including CrtE, CrtYB, CrtI, CrtS, and CrtR, were identified in both R. paludigena TL35-5 and R. sampaioana PL61-2, providing evidence for their ability to produce astaxanthin.
Investigating the effect of dynamic traffic distribution on network-wide traffic emissions: An empirical study in Ningbo, China
Authors: Zhang Shuichao , Shi Jianan , Huang Yizhe , Shen Hao , He Kangkang , Chen Hongjie
Published: July 2024

Urban road traffic is one of the primary sources of carbon emissions. Previous studies have demonstrated the close relationship between traffic flow characteristics and carbon emissions (CO2). However, the impact of dynamic traffic distribution on carbon emissions is rarely empirically studied on the network level. To fill this gap, this study proposes a dynamic network carbon emissions estimation method. The network-level traffic emissions are estimated by combining macroscopic emission models and recent advances in dynamic network traffic flow modeling, namely, Macroscopic Fundamental Diagram. The impact of traffic distribution and the penetration of battery electric vehicles on total network emissions are further investigated using the Monte Carlo method. The results indicate the substantial effect of network traffic distribution on carbon emissions. Using the urban expressway network in Ningbo as an example, in the scenario of 100% internal combustion engine vehicles, increasing the standard deviation of link-level traffic density from 0 to 15 veh/km-ln can result in an 8.9% network capacity drop and a 15.5% reduction in network carbon emissions. This effect can be moderated as the penetration rate of battery electric vehicles increases. Based on the empirical and simulating evidence, different expressway pollution management strategies can be implemented, such as petrol vehicle restrictions, ramp metering, congestion pricing, and perimeter control strategies.
Impact of social network composition on cognitive decline: Digital Dementia Registry Bavaria (digiDEM Bayern)
Authors: Laininger Lisa , Dietzel Nikolas , Graessel Elmar , Prokosch Hans-Ulrich , Kolominsky-Rabas Peter L.
Published: July 2024

Background

Currently, there is no curative treatment for dementia. The implementation of preventive measures is of great importance. Therefore, it is necessary to identify and address individual and modifiable risk factors. Social isolation, defined through social networks, is a factor that may influence the onset and progression of the disease. The networks of older people are mostly composed of either family or friends. The aim of this study is to examine the influence of social isolation and network composition on cognition over the course of 12 months in people with cognitive impairment.

Methods

Data basis is the multicentre, prospective, longitudinal register study ‘Digital Dementia Registery Bavaria—digiDEM Bayern‘. The degree of social isolation was assessed using the Lubben Social Network Scale- Revised (LSNS-R) and the degree of cognitive impairment using the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), conducted at baseline and after 12 months. Data were analysed using pre-post ANCOVA, adjusted for baseline MMSE, age, gender, education, living situation and Barthel-Index.

Results

106 subjects (78.9 ± 8.2 years; 66% female) were included in the analysis. The mean MMSE score at baseline was 24.3 (SD = 3.6). Within the friendship subscore, risk for social isolation was highly prevalent (42.5%). Though, there was no difference between individuals with higher/ lower risk of social isolation within the friendship-network after adjusting for common risk factors in cognitive decline over time, F (1,98) = .046, p = .831, partial η2 = .000.

Conclusion

The results of this study showed that the risk of social isolation from friends is very high among people with cognitive impairment. However, social isolation does not appear to have a bearing influence on the course of cognition. Nevertheless, it is important for people with cognitive impairment to promote and maintain close social contacts with friends.
Nurses’ perspectives on the provision of self-care management education to patients with heart failure: A qualitative study at Cardiac Hospital, Dar es Salaam Tanzania
Authors: Shirima Peter M. , Mkoka Dickson A. , Iseselo Masunga K.
Published: July 2024

Background

Patients’ education along with a motivation for developing self-care management skills is an essential component in the management of heart failure(HF). Self-care management education has been practiced by nurses in many hospitals. However, there is inadequate evidence for the provision of self-care management education in low-income countries including Tanzania. Lack of self-care management education to patients with HF during discharge is the most common reason for re-admission to hospitals.

Aim

This study aimed to explore nurses’ perspectives focusing on facilitators and barriers to the provision of self-care management education to patients with heart failure at Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Materials and methods

This study used a qualitative descriptive design. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 12 study participants. In-depth interviews were used to collect the data. We used thematic analysis to come up with the themes and sub-themes.

Results

The two major themes emerged from this study; The first theme is “Improved patient quality of life and health outcome” which describes factors that motivate nurses to continue giving self-care management education to heart failure patients. The second theme is “Reduced effective uptake of self-care management education” which describes nurses’perspectives on barriers for providing self-care management education to heart falure patients. Nurses highlight some barriers while providing self-care management education to patients with heart failure including;inadequate knowledge of self-care management among nurses, lack of privacy during the provision of self-care education, poor communication skills among nurses, and lack of learning materials. Also, nurses pointed out facilitators that influence the provision of self-care management education such as increased involvement of family members and the use of peer educators.

Conclusions and recommendations

Poor self-care management for patients with heart failure results in readmission and prolonged hospital stay. Family involvement and the use of peer educators are the key steps in the improvement of self-care management for patients with HF. However, patient cognitive impairment and poverty which contribute to poor health outcomes, should be taken into consideration when planning for discharge for patients with HF. Self-care management education should be part of routine health care.
Comparison of hospitalization events among residents of assisted living and nursing homes during COVID-19: Do settings respond differently during public health crises?
Authors: Maxwell Colleen J. , McArthur Eric , Hogan David B. , Dampf Hana , Poss Jeffrey , Amuah Joseph E. , Bronskill Susan E. , Youngson Erik , Hsu Zoe , Hoben Matthias
Published: July 2024

Background

COVID-19 and resulting health system and policy decisions led to significant changes in healthcare use by nursing homes (NH) residents. It is unclear whether healthcare outcomes were similarly affected among older adults in assisted living (AL). This study compared hospitalization events in AL and NHs during COVID-19 pandemic waves 1 through 4, relative to historical periods.

Methods

This was a population-based, repeated cross-sectional study using linked clinical and health administrative databases (January 2018 to December 2021) for residents of all publicly subsidized AL and NH settings in Alberta, Canada. Setting-specific monthly cohorts were derived for pandemic (starting March 1, 2020) and comparable historical (2018/2019 combined) periods. Monthly rates (per 100 person-days) of all-cause hospitalization, hospitalization with delayed discharge, and hospitalization with death were plotted and rate ratios (RR) estimated for period (pandemic wave vs historical comparison), setting (AL vs NH) and period-setting interactions, using Poisson regression with generalized estimating equations, adjusting for resident and home characteristics.

Results

On March 1, 2020, there were 9,485 AL and 14,319 NH residents, comparable in age (mean 81 years), sex (>60% female) and dementia prevalence (58–62%). All-cause hospitalization rates declined in both settings during waves 1 (AL: adjusted RR 0.60, 95%CI 0.51–0.71; NH: 0.74, 0.64–0.85) and 4 (AL: 0.76, 0.66–0.88; NH: 0.65, 0.56–0.75) but unlike NHs, AL rates were not significantly lower during wave 2 (and increased 27% vs NH, January 2021). Hospitalization with delayed discharge increased in NHs only (during and immediately after wave 1). Both settings showed a significant increase in hospitalization with death in wave 2, this increase was larger and persisted longer for AL.

Conclusions

Pandemic-related changes in hospitalization events differed for AL and NH residents and by wave, suggesting unique system and setting factors driving healthcare use and outcomes in these settings in response to this external stress.
Beyond algorithms: The human touch machine-generated titles for enhancing click-through rates on social media
Authors: Yang Wenyu
Published: July 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize various domains by automating language-driven tasks. This study evaluates the effectiveness of an AI-assisted methodology, called the "POP Title AI Five-Step Optimization Method," in optimizing content titles on the RED social media platform. By leveraging advancements in natural language generation, this methodology aims to enhance the impact of titles by incorporating emotional sophistication and cultural proficiency, addressing existing gaps in AI capabilities. The methodology entails training generative models using human-authored examples that align with the aspirations of the target audience. By incorporating popular keywords derived from user searches, the relevance and discoverability of titles are enhanced. Audience-centric filtering is subsequently employed to further refine the generated outputs. Furthermore, human oversight is introduced to provide essential intuition that AI systems alone may lack. A total of one thousand titles, generated by AI, underwent linguistic and engagement analyses. Qualitatively, 65% of the titles exhibited intrigue and conveyed meaning comparable to those generated by humans. However, attaining full emotional sophistication remained a challenge. Quantitatively, titles emphasizing curiosity and contrast demonstrated positive correlations with user interactions, thus validating the efficacy of these techniques. Consequently, the machine-generated titles achieved coherence on par with 65% of human-generated titles, signifying significant progress and potential for further refinement. Nevertheless, achieving socio-cultural awareness is vital to match human understanding across diverse contexts, thus presenting a critical avenue for future improvement in the methodology. Continuous advancements in AI can enhance adaptability and reduce subjectivity by promoting flexibility instead of relying solely on manual reviews. As AI gains a deeper understanding of humanity, opportunities for its application across various industries through experiential reasoning abilities emerge. This case study exemplifies the nurturing of AI’s potential by refining its skills through an evolutionary process.
Functional diversity in human song
Authors: Colares Lucas , Lopes-Neto Ray Balieiro , Siqueira Alexandre Sampaio de , Leão Camila Ferreira , Castro Arianne Flexa de , Dunck Bárbara
Published: July 2024

Functional diversity–i.e., the diversity of morphophysiological characteristics of species in a biological community–revolutionized ecology in recent decades, shifting the focus of the field from species to ecosystems. While its ecological applications are known, its adaptability to other disciplines, specifically music, is explored here. We retrieved fourteen characteristics of 12,944 songs by the top 100 artists of the 2010s decade on four streaming platforms. Then, we calculated the three main components of functional diversity–richness, evenness, and divergence–to each artist using probabilistic hypervolumes. Furthermore, we investigated to what extent functional diversity and the traits of an artist, its albums and songs has an effect on their popularity across streaming platforms such as Spotify. High functional richness, where an artist’s songs differ greatly sonically, correlated with increased listens of up to 244,300,000. This would lead to estimated profit earnings exceeding $1,000,000 per richness gain. Danceable, highly-energetic, melodic, pop, and, notably, melancholic songs, albums, and artists are more listened to than their counterparts in streaming services. We captured how patterns in human song might reflects the social state of human societies in recent years and demonstrate the potential of applying functional diversity concepts and tools across scientific and economic domains, extending its relevance beyond ecology. By demonstrating applications of state-of-the-art functional diversity metrics using music as a case study, we intent to communicate the often-complex concepts of functional diversity using the familiar realm of music, which is an intrinsic trait of human cultures across the globe.
Association of Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) Use With Severity and Outcomes in Patients With Viral Hepatitis-Associated Acute Liver Failure
Authors: Lee William M. , Barnard Carson , Rule Jody A. , Orandi Babak J. , James Laura P. , Stravitz R. Todd , Durkalski Valerie , Fontana Robert J. ,   for the Acute Liver Failure Study Group
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Acute viral hepatitis (AVH) comprises 11% of acute liver failure (ALF) in North America while acetaminophen (APAP) toxicity represents 46%. The use of APAP to treat prodromal hepatitis symptoms is common. It is unknown if concurrent APAP use impacts liver injury in AVH-induced ALF.

METHODS:

In this prospective, multicenter cohort study, 356 patients meeting criteria for AVH including hepatitis A, B, Epstein-Barr virus, and herpes simplex virus, all leading to ALF (hepatic encephalopathy after acute illness, international normalized ratio ≥1.5), or acute liver injury (acute liver injury, international normalized ratio >2.0, no hepatic encephalopathy) were reviewed for evidence of APAP use: APAP ingestion history or measurement of serum APAP level or APAP-CYS adducts, a specific biomarker released into blood with APAP injury. Patients were grouped by APAP exposure level, from high (measurable APAP levels or toxic APAP-CYS), medium (therapeutic APAP-CYS), low (history of APAP ingestion only and/or barely detectable APAP-CYS), or no exposure recorded.

RESULTS:

Two hundred five of 356 patients (57.5%) with AVH-ALF had evidence of APAP use: 87 out of 356 (24%) demonstrated high or medium exposures. The aminotransferase and bilirubin levels of high/medium group resembled a mixed APAP-viral injury. Mortality was the highest (51.6%, 21.4%, 28.8%, and 30.5%), and transplant-free survival was the lowest (22.6%, 44.6%, 41.5%, and 40.4%) in the high exposure group compared with medium, low, and no exposure groups. However, the specific comparisons of mortality and transplant-free survival between the high exposure and no exposure groups were not statistically different even after adjusting for baseline patient characteristics differences.

DISCUSSION:

APAP use in AVH-ALF is common and may negatively impact outcomes compared with little or no APAP exposure. Prospective studies of the safest and effective dose of APAP to use in patients with AVH are needed.
The Survival Benefit of Reabstinence After Harmful Alcohol Use Following Early Liver Transplant for Severe Alcohol-Associated Hepatitis: A Multicenter ACCELERATE Study
Authors: Dukewich Matthew , Dodge Jennifer L. , Lucey Michael R. , Rice John P. , Shetty Kirti , Jakhete Neha , Im Gene Y. , Weinberg Ethan M. , Hsu Christine , Smith Coleman , Ghobrial R. Mark , Therapondos George , Shoreibah Mohamed , Aryan Mahmoud , Eswaran Sheila , Fix Oren K. , Maddur Haripriya , Terrault Norah , Lee Brian P.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Early (i.e., without mandated period of abstinence) liver transplant (LT) for alcohol-associated hepatitis is the fastest-growing indication for LT in the United States and Europe. Harmful alcohol use after LT is associated with poor outcomes, but the distinction of establishing abstinence after return to drinking (i.e., reabstinence) is understudied. This study aims to characterize the survival outcomes of achieving reabstinence after post-LT harmful alcohol use.

METHODS:

We analyzed early LT recipients from 12 US LT centers between 2006 and 2021. Post-LT alcohol use was characterized as harmful using criteria of “binge” (≥5 [men] or ≥4 [women] drinks in < 24 hours) or “frequent” (≥4 days in one week) by interview or phosphatidylethanol >20 ng/mL. Reabstinence was defined as ≥12 consecutive months without harmful alcohol use after harmful alcohol use.

RESULTS:

Among 347 LT recipients (64% male, median age 43, median Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-Sodium score 38) with median post-LT follow-up of 2.2 years (interquartile interval 1.1–3.6), 276 (80%) recipients had no evidence of harmful alcohol use, 35 (10%) recipients had reabstinence, and 36 (10%) recipients had continued harmful alcohol use without reabstinence. Five-year predicted survival, adjusted for age, sex, and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease-Sodium score, was lowest among LT recipients with continued harmful alcohol use (77%), but similar among those with no harmful use (93%) and reabstinence (94%).

DISCUSSION:

Achieving reabstinence after post-LT harmful alcohol use is associated with similar 5-year post-LT survival compared with those without evidence of post-LT harmful alcohol use. Our findings highlight the importance of early detection and treatment of post-LT alcohol use.
Isolated Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Induced Gastritis Leading to Gastrocolic Fistula Formation
Authors: Shrivastava Samarth , Patel Neha
Published: July 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are important immunotherapeutic tools with known potential for adverse events (immune-related adverse events [irAEs]) in the gastrointestinal system. Although ICI-induced colitis and diarrhea are well documented, irAEs localized to the stomach are less frequently described. The management of most irAEs is suspension of ICI therapy and immune suppression. In rare cases of ICI-induced gastritis, treatment strategies of immune suppression have been scarcely described. To our knowledge, there have been no reported cases of severe ICI-induced gastritis leading to fistula formation. This case report describes a patient with isolated ICI-induced gastritis leading to an ulcer with gastrocolic fistula and his treatment course.
Electrical models of arcs in different applications
Authors: Uhrlandt Dirk , Najam Ammar , Gött Gregor , Methling Ralf , Baeva Margarita , Gortschakow Sergey , Gonzalez Diego
Published: July 2024

The electrical characteristic of arcs sensitively depends on many factors like electrode material and shape, working gas and gas pressure. Arc sheath voltages and electrode resistance have to be considered in particular for shorter arcs. The arc voltage behaviour is important to the switching performance. But its knowledge also allows to estimate the power consumption of the arc and the heat transferred to the electrodes. Arc voltage models are easy to integrate in power grid simulations and benefitial for the design of arc power sources. Whereas specific arc voltage models are available meanwhile for many examples, there are still knowledge gaps for arcs in a wide range of parameters. This paper provides a review of recently developed electric arc models for high and low voltage switching as well as for welding with the focus on vacuum arcs, short arcs and arcs at low current.
O laboratório de ensino de Matemática como espaço potente para ações de ensino, pesquisa e extensão
Authors: Xavier Ana Cláudia Molina Zaqueu
Published: July 2024

Apresentar algumas ações realizadas no Laboratório de Ensino de Matemática (LEM) da Faculdade de Matemática (FAMAT) da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU), campus Santa Mônica, e como elas contemplam ações de ensino, pesquisa e extensão, são objetivos desse trabalho. Para isso, dialogamos sobre como temos compreendido o LEM, ou seja, como um espaço que se caracteriza por sua versatilidade e possibilidades plurais de ações vinculadas ao ensino, pesquisa e extensão e apresentamos suas três frentes de trabalhos, a saber: (1) Ensino: aulas de componentes curriculares vinculadas tanto ao currículo da Licenciatura em Matemática quanto do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ensino de Ciências e Matemática (PPGECM) - Mestrado Profissional e “LEM de portas abertas”; (2) Pesquisa: Grupo de estudos sobre o Clube de Matemática, o qual está alicerçado em princípios da Teoria Histórico-Cultural, desenvolvimento de iniciações científicas (IC) e trabalhos de conclusão de curso (TCC); e Extensão: (3) oficinas e minicursos voltados para estudantes de graduação e professores da rede, “EXPOLEM” e “LEM itinerante”. Por fim, concluímos, sobretudo a partir da análise de questionários eletrônicos, que esse trabalho junto ao LEM têm propiciado vivências significativas para os envolvidos, estimulado a consciência de inacabamento do processo formativo, importância do trabalho em grupo, do intercâmbio de saberes e práticas e ciência de que a formação se dá nos mais diversos espaços que não, apenas, os institucionalizados.
Measurement of Factors Influencing Village Financial Statements Quality
Authors: Kewo Cecilia Lelly , Kewo Stella Theodora
Published: July 2024

Village finance is in the spotlight of the Republic Indonesia government, where there are many problems with village finance, from budgeting to financial reporting. This cannot be separated from the large disbursement of village funds from the central government to improve village welfare. This study aims to analyze the impact of competency factors, internal controls, and accounting information systems factors on the quality of village financial statements. With a population of 227 villages, this study collected samples from 138 villages through simple random sampling. The data that has been collected is then measured by Structural Equation Modeling – Partial Least Square with an alpha of 5%. The results show that the competencies have a positive significant effect on the quality of village financial statements. Likewise, internal control and accounting systems each positively affect the quality of village financial statements. This research has implications for local governments to increase training for village apparatus, expand internal control socialization and improve infrastructure related to computers and internet networks.
¿Y si la vida fuera un sueño? Reflexiones desde la filosofía de Zubiri
Authors: Alberdi Sudupe Jesús , Alberdi Páramo Íñigo
Published: July 2024

La vida no es más que un sueño. Desde Heráclito y Parménides hasta la actualidad, esta hipótesis de que solamente vivimos en los sueños en los que nos sueña un supuesto espíritu o voluntad universal, ha merecido una atención filosófica en distintos momentos históricos. Si así fuera, no somos sino espectros en un mundo soñado. Todo es sueño. Heráclito distingue ese mundo propio de cada cual, en el que nos sumergimos al dormir y en el que soñamos, de otro mundo en gran medida compartido con otras personas cuando estamos despiertos. Siendo así, alternamos la vida en dos mundos, en sueños, pero también en vigilia. Zubiri habla de procesos humanos de irrealización de los contenidos aprehendidos en la formalidad de realidad que nos es dada en aprehensión primordial. Es la construcción provisional de contenidos de mundos irreales, pero siempre desde una realidad en la que ya estamos instalados. Soñar, fantasear, construir espectros y ficciones, son algunas modalidades de esa irrealización. Pero vivimos solamente en un mundo, en la realidad, y es en ella y desde ella como podemos fantasear y soñar. A nuestro entender, la primera hipótesis metafísica de que toda la vida no sea sino un sueño puede recibir al menos dos críticas. Por una parte, es una idea que se basa en la atribución, en la extrapolación discutible, de una capacidad humana, la de poder soñar o fantasear, a instancias metafísicas extrahumanas que nos sobrepasan, sean Brahman, o espíritu, o voluntad universal. Por otro lado, pensemos si algunos caracteres tan determinantes de las entrañas de nuestra vida encarnada, como el dolor y el sufrimiento, algunas formas de amor, o la firme confianza en una promesa personal recibida, por citar algunos, ¿son solo ensoñaciones? Si estas críticas fueras ciertas, la vida sería algo más que un sueño.
La locura de Iñigo de Loyola y Don Quijote en «Vida de Don Quijote y Sancho»
Authors: García Menéndez José Alipio
Published: July 2024

Realizamos una lectura comentada de la obra de Miguel de Unamuno Vida de Don Quijote y Sancho para analizar la comparación de las locuras que presenta entre el ingenioso hidalgo y la Vida de Íñigo de Loyola narrada por su biógrafo el padre Pedro de Rivadeneira. Se contrapondrán las dos locuras como reflejo de lo fuera de lo común del alma de un pueblo, que le llevó a crear un imperio, y también la del vasco que en el fondo son la misma, pues éstas se encuentran plasmadas en el alma española. Además, hemos tratado de poner de manifiesto la locura del propio Unamuno con su afán de inmortalidad que consigue ocupar un lugar en la vida de la fama junto con los personajes analizados, que ya la habían logrado con anterioridad y gracias a no ser lo que se entiende por personas juiciosas que son las que no logran construir nada interesante en la vida.
Virtud cívica y sentido común. Las citas a los «Disticha Moralia» de Miguel Verino en «La Pensadora Gaditana» (1763-1764).
Authors: Canterla Cinta
Published: July 2024

El objeto de este trabajo es evidenciar el uso, todavía en el siglo XVIII, de los Disticha Moralia de Miguel Verino en las argumentaciones morales y políticas. En concreto, poner de manifiesto las citas recurrentes a los mismos que aparecen en La Pensadora Gaditana —una publicación periódica semanal escrita por una filósofa, Beatriz Cienfuegos, en Cádiz, entre 1763 y 1764—, donde se los utiliza para argumentar a favor de la virtud cívica en el contexto de un nuevo republicanismo de corte mercantil, prolegómeno de un pensamiento liberal específicamente español. Este pensamiento moral y político se desarrolla, antes que en ningún otro sitio, en el espacio de la opinión pública, esto es, en la prensa periódica.
Le Paradis retrouvé à Louvain-la-Neuve. Inventaire préliminaire des microfilms de manuscrits du Fonds René Draguet-CSCO, suivi d’un Appendice sur les manuscrits syriaques du Centre d’Études sur Grégoire de Nazianze
Authors: Atas Nicolas , Biuzzi Carlo Emilio , Gomiero Giovanni , Schmidt Andrea B.
Published: July 2024

René Draguet, orientaliste renommé du siècle dernier, fut secrétaire général du CSCO (Corpus Scriptorum Christianorum Orientalium) de 1948 à 1980. À la suite de son décès en 1980, ses archives furent en partie léguées à la maison d’édition du CSCO, Peeters, à Louvain (Belgique). Parmi ces archives, quatre boîtes en carton contenant des microfilms de manuscrits furent léguées par la maison d’édition Peeters à l’Institut Orientaliste de l'UCLouvain (Louvain-la-Neuve) à la fin des années 1990. Le fonds Draguet, qui n’était auparavant connu que d'un nombre restreint de chercheurs, fut inventorié de manière systématique entre août et décembre 2023. Il conserve des reproductions de plus de 500 manuscrits (répartis sur environ 1300 microfilms), principalement en grec et en syriaque, mais également en latin, arménien, éthiopien, copte, géorgien et arabe. Cet inventaire préliminaire vise à mettre en lumière la richesse et l'importance de ce fonds qui nécessitera des analyses et des études supplémentaires dans les années à venir. Cet inventaire est suivi d’un Appendice inventoriant les microfilms de manuscrits du Centre d’Études sur Grégoire de Nazianze, également conservés par l’UCLouvain à Louvain-la-Neuve.
ERT / IP Survey for Exploration of Galena, Sphalerite, Pyrite and Sulphide Minerals at Benue Trough, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Geology, Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, Omonefe Francis , Ebong Christopher Unyime ,   Transition Minerals International Limited, Abuja, Nigeria
Published: July 2024

AGIUSA's SuperSting R8 multi-electrode system and a three-phase automated voltage-regulated generator were used to measure the natural potential, chargeability, and subsurface resistivity at Ikenyi Izzi in the southern Benue trough. A dipole-dipole array with 20-meter gaps between the dipoles was used. We carried out data inversion using RES2DINV and Zond software, and made topographic correction using GPS elevation data. Through the use of resistivity and chargeability models, the research identified unique geological characteristics using resistivity and chargeability models. The resistivity values varied between 32 and 2818 Ωm, with zones of low resistivity suggesting conductive materials such as galena, sphalerite, pyrite, and sulphide minerals, and zones of high resistivity standing for resistant materials. Disseminated galena, sphalerite, pyrite, or sulphide minerals were indicated by zones with high chargeability values, which varied from 0 to 700 milliseconds. The main conclusion is the discovery of many mineralized zones with notable differences in chargeability and resistivity, which point to possible ore resources. Galena, sphalerite, pyrite, and sulphide mineralization were detected in 10 profiles out of the 12 profiles of zones of interest, including Zone A (100–250 milliseconds IP and 350–800 Ωm resistivity), Zone B (200–350 milliseconds IP and 230 Ωm resistivity), and Zone C (300–500 milliseconds IP and 300-500 Ωm resistivity). The results of this study show that resistivity and IP data can be useful in geophysical exploration plans that aim for areas with lots of mineral resources.
Right ventricular diastolic adaptation to pressure overload in different rat strains
Authors: Axelsen Julie S. , Andersen Stine , Ringgaard Steffen , Smal Rowan , Lluciá‐Valldeperas Aida , Nielsen‐Kudsk Jens Erik , de Man Frances S. , Andersen Asger
Published: July 2024

Different rat strains are used in various animal models of pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular (RV) failure. No systematic assessment has been made to test differences in RV response to pressure overload between rat strains. We compared RV adaptation to pulmonary trunk banding (PTB) in Wistar (W), Sprague Dawley (SD), and Fischer344 (F) rats by hemodynamic profiling focusing on diastolic function. Age‐matched male rat weanlings were randomized to sham surgery (W‐sham, n = 5; SD‐sham, n = 4; F‐sham, n = 4) or PTB (W‐PTB, n = 8; SD‐PTB, n = 8; F‐PTB, n = 8). RV function was evaluated after 5 weeks by echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and invasive pressure‐volume measurements. PTB caused RV failure and increased RV systolic pressures four‐fold in all three PTB groups compared with sham. W‐ and SD‐PTB had a 2.4‐fold increase in RV end‐systolic volume index compared with sham, while F‐PTB rats were less affected. Diastolic and right atrial impairment were evident by increased RV end‐diastolic elastance, filling pressure, and E/e' in PTB rats compared with sham, again F‐PTB the least affected. In conclusions, PTB caused RV failure with signs of diastolic dysfunction. Despite a similar increase in RV systolic pressure, F‐PTB rats showed less RV dilatation and a more preserved diastolic function compared with W‐ and SD‐PTB.
The influence of oral contraceptives on the exercise pressor reflex in the upper and lower body
Authors: Pereira T. J. , Edgell H.
Published: July 2024

Previous research has demonstrated that oral contraceptive (OC) users have enhanced cardiorespiratory responses to arm metaboreflex activation (i.e., postexercise circulatory occlusion, PECO) and attenuated pressor responses to leg passive movement (PM) compared to non‐OC users (NOC). We investigated the cardiorespiratory responses to arm or leg metaboreflex and mechanoreflex activation in 32 women (OC, n = 16; NOC, n = 16) performing four trials: 40% handgrip or 80% plantarflexion followed by PECO and arm or leg PM. OC and NOC increased mean arterial pressure (MAP) similarly during handgrip, plantarflexion and arm/leg PECO compared to baseline. Despite increased ventilation (VE) during exercise, none of the women exhibited higher VE during arm or leg PECO. OC and NOC similarly increased MAP and VE during arm or leg PM compared to baseline. Therefore, OC and NOC were similar across pressor and ventilatory responses to arm or leg metaboreflex and mechanoreflex activation. However, some differences due to OC may have been masked by disparities in muscle strength. Since women increase VE during exercise, we suggest that while women do not display a ventilatory response to metaboreflex activation (perhaps due to not reaching a theoretical metabolite threshold to stimulate VE), the mechanoreflex may drive VE during exercise in women.
Decompositions of Inequality and Poverty by Income Source
Authors: Urban Ivica , Bezeredi Slavko , Leventi Chrysa
Published: July 2024

There is ample empirical literature on the contributions of different income sources to total income inequality. In contrast, studies estimating the contributions of income sources to income poverty are scarce. This paper presents a new decomposition of the Foster–Greer–Thorbecke poverty index, based on a marginal approach previously employed to decompose income inequality. We apply these marginal decompositions to data for 15 EU countries and classify six income sources according to their impact on inequality and poverty. Our results indicate that there are significant differences in the contributions of income sources to poverty compared to their respective contributions to inequality.
Helicobacter pylorieradication therapy for children
Authors: Rysbekov Kairat , Abrakhmanova Sagira , Satybaeva Rashida , Starosvetova Yekaterina , Kushugulova Almagul
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The research aims to investigate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on the efficacy ofHelicobacter pylorieradication therapy and to find new drug combinations for the eradication of the bacterium.

Methods

A total of 128 children participated in the research. They were distributed under the following criteria: group A were children who tested positive forH. pyloriand were treated with the standard so-called triple therapy including vitamin D; group B were children who tested positive forH. pyloriand received the standard triple therapy without including vitamin D in the treatment; and group C were children who tested negative forH. pylori. After endoscopic examination, additional venous blood samples were taken from the children to determine vitamin D levels. A controlled study was carried out 45 days after the initial treatment.

Results

The overall success rate of eradication therapy was 84.1 %. In group A, the success rate of treatment was 93.5 %, contrary to group B, where the success rate was 75 %. Although there was a difference in the percentage ofH. pylorieradication therapy in the main group compared to the control group, there was no significant difference in group B. The success rate of eradication is p=0.082.

Conclusions

Following the research results, the addition of vitamin D to the standard triple therapy regimen forH. pylorihad no effect. It can therefore be concluded that vitamin D does not significantly increase the efficacy of eradication therapy.
A novel intelligent tool wear monitoring system in ball end milling of Ti6Al4V alloy using artificial neural network
Authors: Rameshchandra Shrimali Mihir , Dikshit Mithilesh K. , Kumar Ajit , Vora Jay J. , Panchal Soumyashree M. , Bandhu Din
Published: July 2024

The geometry and sharpness of the cutting tool have a substantial impact on the final product’s quality. The geometry of cutting edges is altered throughout the machining process, and wear causes the cutting edge to become dull. This causes increased surface roughness, dimensional inaccuracy, cutting forces, chatter, and vibration. The present research focuses on tool wear (Vb) under dry machining conditions during ball end milling of Ti6Al4V alloy. The experiments are conducted using the full factorial design of experiments with three parameters, viz. feed (f), depth of cut (A
t), and rotational speed (S) at three levels. A total of 27 experiments are conducted with one replicate. Artificial neural network (ANN) with 3-18-2-1 architecture is used for the study of the tool wear monitoring (TWM) system. Results revealed that the TWM model is highly adequate, with R
2 = 99.89% and R
2adj = 99.65%. The percentage contribution of A
t is the highest, amounting to 80.6%, followed by feed of 12.46%. The rotational speed has the least contribution to tool wear, amounting to 1.5%. From ANN modeling, R
2 value testing is found to be 0.9974, which is close to unity and reveals that the trained model excellently fitted the testing data. The model accuracy is also found to be 96.46%.
Transforming Artistic Practice: Collingwood, Adorno, and the Diseases of the Mind
Authors: Schaefer Max
Published: July 2024

This paper addresses the views of R.G. Collingwood and Theodor Adorno on the role of amusement and art in what each of them saw as the crisis of contemporary Western civilization. We will begin by showing how the aesthetic theories of Collingwood and Adorno develop out of their shared concerns about the harmful effects of amusement and bad art on the consciousness of human beings. We will argue that a productive dialogue between these two figures clarifies that the value of art consists in its ability to remedy the corruption of the mental and emotional lives of human beings and in helping to fashion a different social and political order. As part of this, we will show how, despite appearances, Adorno’s aesthetic cognitivism and Collingwood’s expression theory of art agree with and complement one another in significant ways. In establishing this point, this work will leave us with an understanding of art that is more comprehensive and better equipped to address the crisis of contemporary Western society.
Compulsive digital use: the risk and link of loneliness among adolescents
Authors: Amran Muhammad S. , Roslan Muhammad Z. , Sommer Werner
Published: July 2024

Purpose of review

The current rise of digital technologies is causing adolescents to spend more time on their digital devices, especially since the lockdown period of the pandemic. Adolescents are among those who are affected by lifestyle changes and are at risk of digital addiction due to the overuse of digital technologies. This opinion paper discusses the possible risk of loneliness among adolescents due to the overuse of digital devices. In this article, we would like to propose the concept of digital abuse and its risk of loneliness, as well as discuss some proposed solutions by referring to recent statistics and research evidence to reduce digital abuse among adolescents.

Recent findings

Evidence from previous studies highlights the association between digital addiction and loneliness among adolescents. Overusing digital devices among adolescents is also associated with various physical and psychological side effects.

Recent findings support the rapid rise of digital device usage among adolescents and its contributions to digital use. More research is needed to support existing interventions, provide early screening, and combat digital addiction to protect adolescents from the risks of loneliness due to the overuse of digital devices.
Suicide risk among adolescents in Sarawak, Malaysia: prevalence and determining factors
Authors: Ying Wong Khung , Rahman Md Mizanur , Kiyu Andrew
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Adolescent suicide is a significant global public health concern. Although numerous studies have investigated factors that influence the risk of suicide among adolescents around the world, limited data are available in the Malaysian context, especially among the diverse ethnic communities of Sarawak. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with the risk of suicide among adolescents in Sarawak, Malaysia.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,344 adolescents in Sarawak using face-to-face interviews. Hierarchical binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors that determine the risk of suicide among adolescents.

Results

Two predictive models were constructed. Both models revealed that being female (OR=1.578, 95 % CI: 1.191, 2.092, p=0.001), having Malay ethnicity (OR=1.733, 95 % CI: 1.236, 2.429, p=0.001) and having a disease significantly increased the risk of suicide (OR=1.895, 95 % CI: 1.221, 2.942, p=0.004). In particular, Model 2, which showed a better fit, found that occasional religious practice (OR=1.610, 95 % CI: 1.126, 2.303, p=0.009), poor parental relationships (OR=1.739, 95 % CI: 1.035, 2.922, p=0.037) and higher addiction (OR=1.015, 95 % CI: 1.008, 1.022, p=0.001), depression (OR=1.919, 95 % CI: 1.241, 2.968, p=0.003), and stress (OR=2.707, 95 % CI: 1.689, 4.340, p=0.001) scores were significantly associated with an increased risk of suicide.

Conclusions

This study sheds light on multiple factors that contribute to the risk of suicide among adolescents in Sarawak. These findings underscore the importance of holistic prevention strategies, including psychological and social dimensions, to mitigate the risk of suicide in this population. Further research is warranted to understand the complex interplay of these factors and guide the development of targeted interventions.
Vague Disagreements: Vagueness Without Arbitrary Stipulation
Authors: Magnell Elsa
Published: July 2024

According to Ruth Chang (2002, 2022), incommensurability in hard cases cannot be cases of vagueness. This is because vagueness, unlike hard cases, can always be resolved by arbitrary stipulation, leaving no resolutional remainder or substantive disagreement. Contrary to this, I argue that Chang’s argument fails because proponents of the vagueness view are in no way necessarily committed to the claim that vagueness always can be resolved by arbitrary stipulation. In fact, there seems to be no reason to assume that vagueness could not accommodate our intuitions about resolutional remainder and substantive disagreements in a satisfying way. If we want a simple theory, and if at least some incommensurability is vagueness, this could then be a reason for understanding incommensurability as vagueness; and perhaps even rejecting parity.
Numerical analysis of cathodic protection of a Q355ND frame in a shallow water subsea Christmas tree
Authors: Ju Shaodong , Liu Yuming , Yin Qishuai , Wang Xing , Wang Shiqiang , Jiang Zitao , Deng Siyao
Published: July 2024

This study develops a 3D model of a Christmas tree using cathodic protection technology and conducts numerical simulations on the Q355ND framework of a shallow Christmas tree. The boundary element method is employed for modeling, examining the distribution of protection potentials under varying corrosion layer breakage rates, anode numbers, and positions. The influence of sacrificial anode parameters on the cathodic protection effect of the Christmas tree is also investigated. The findings reveal that when the breakage rate of the anticorrosion layer reaches 35 % during Christmas tree operation, the sacrificial anode fails to provide complete protection. However, if the coating breakage rate is 10 %, reducing the number of anodes by six can still achieve a protection potential of −850 mV. Thus, it is imperative for Christmas trees to maintain a corrosion protection layer breakage rate below 35 %. Beyond this threshold, sacrificial anodes exhibit minimal effectiveness in preserving their integrity.