bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stakeholder assessment for mycotoxin analysis: exploring the demand along the European food supply chain
Authors: Csenki E. , Mikulás V. , Freitag S. , Fomina P. , Hlavatsch M. , Femenias A. , Bosman A.J. , Ruggeri F.S. , Smirnova M. , Salentijn G. , Mizaikoff B. , Krska R. , Scholderer J. , Kohler A. , Kasza G.
Published: February 2024

Mycotoxins are amongst the most prevalent food contaminants leading to serious health implications for humans and animals. Limiting exposure to them within the population remains a pressing food safety challenge. Prevention and timely detection are crucial for minimising mycotoxin contamination in food and feed. Therefore easy-to-use, rapid, eco-friendly and low-cost screening methods are increasingly implemented. Early-stage end-user engagement in the technological development process aids and guides the research towards increased societal impact. To investigate these end-user needs, the limitations of the currently used methods and the expectations towards a novel approach were mapped among stakeholders in a comprehensive survey. Stakeholders along the food supply chain (agricultural, food processing, retail, food safety and control, laboratories) were identified in five European countries and contacted. A total of 63 participants completed the survey, which was followed-up by an interview. The results of the survey revealed that different end-user groups have different priorities. Important limiting factors for agricultural, processing and retail stakeholders of the current methodologies include the complexity of sample preparation, high cost and time-to-results. Complementing the accredited laboratory tests with a pre-screening device would be especially interesting for agricultural producers (87.5% of the participants are interested) and food processors (80%), since there is an increasing demand for on-site detection of contamination. On the other hand, food control authorities and commercial laboratories indicated higher priority towards low quantification limits and multi-compound methods. The time to get the results was found to be more important than the testing cost (important aspect for 74.6 versus 66.7%). Overall, the findings of this study are critical input for end-user-targeted development of novel mycotoxin detection platforms.
Exploring how non-clinical factors in childbirth care shape users’ experiences in public health facilities in rural Chiapas, Mexico: a qualitative study using the WHO health systems responsiveness framework
Authors: Aranda Zeus , Caamal Viviana , Montaño Mariana , Bernal Daniel , Meneses Sergio
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Many Mexicans face barriers to receive delivery care from qualified professionals, especially indigenous and poor sectors of the population, which represent most of the population in the state of Chiapas. When access to institutional delivery care is an option, experiences with childbirth care are often poor. This underscores the need for evidence to improve the quality of services from the user’s perspective. The present study was conceived with the objective of understanding how non-clinical aspects of care shape women’s birthing experiences in public health institutions in Chiapas.

Methods

We conducted an exploratory qualitative study. Data collection consisted in 20 semi-structured interviews to women who had delivered in a public health facility in Chiapas during the last six months prior to the interview. For the design of the interview guide we used the WHO health system responsiveness framework, which focus on the performance of the health system in terms of the extent to which it delivers services according to the “universally legitimate expectations of individuals” and focuses on the non-financial and non-clinical qualities of care. The resulting data were analyzed using thematic analysis methodology.

Results

We identified a total of 16 themes from the data, framed in eight categories which followed the eight domains of the WHO health systems responsiveness framework: Choice of the provider and the facility, prompt attention, quality of basic amenities, access to social support, respectful treatment, privacy, involvement in decisions, and communication. We shed light on the barriers women face in receiving prompt care, aspects of health facilities that impact women’s comfort, the relevance of being provided with adequate food and drink during institutional delivery, how accompaniment contributes positively to the birthing experience, the aspects of childbirth that women find important to decide on, and how providers’ interpersonal behaviors affect the birthing experience.

Conclusions

We have identified non-clinical aspects of childbirth care that are important to the user experience and that are not being satisfactorily addressed by public health institutions in Chiapas. This evidence constitutes a necessary first step towards the design of strategies to improve the responsiveness of the Chiapas health system in childbirth care.
The impact of blood lactic acid levels on retinopathy of prematurity morbidity
Authors: Zhao Congcong , Sun Zhihong , Chen Hongming , Li Kaili , Sun Huiqing
Published: February 2024

Background

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a common disease in premature infants. In recent years, most researchers have used lactic acid as poor prognosis marker in premature infants. This study aims to explore investigate the impact of blood lactic acid levels on ROP.

Methods

A retrospective case-control study was conducted, and infants with severe ROP born with birth weight (BW) ≤ 1500 g and gestational age (GA) ≤ 32 weeks were enrolled from November 2016 to November 2021. Infants without any stage ROP were included as controls and were matched with ROP infants (1:2) by GA and BW. All selected preterm infants were tested for heel terminal trace blood gas analysis within two weeks of life. Changes in blood lactic acid levels in the two groups were compared and analyzed by using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Sensitivity and specificity were analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

There were 79 infants in ROP group, and 158 infants in control group. The levels of blood lactic acid were significantly higher in the ROP group on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 compared with control group (all p < 0.05). The blood lactic acid levels on day 5 was an independent risk factor for ROP (p = 0.017). The area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity were highest on day 5 (AUC 0.716, sensitivity 77.2% and specificity 62.0%, respectively, p < 0.001), and higher on days 1, 3, and 7.

Conclusion

A high blood lactic acid level in the first seven days of life may be associated with increases ROP occurrence in very preterm infants, and suggest blood lactic acid level may impact the occurrence of ROP.
Development of a psychological health promotion intervention for ultra-orthodox Jewish mothers of children with ADHD using the intervention mapping protocol
Authors: Budman Jennifer R. , Maeir Adina
Published: February 2024

Background

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neuro-developmental health condition in children and adolescents, in which its associated behavior manifestations are known to negatively affect members of the family unit, especially mothers. Ultra-orthodox Jewish (UOJ) community is growing globally and mothers of children with ADHD in this community are potentially at risk for negative health outcomes. As the UOJ community is culturally conservative, maintaining a distinct separation from outside influences, they often avoid utilizing public mental health services due to stigma and a lack of culturally sensitive treatments. Thus, this study aimed to develop a theory-driven and culturally appropriate psychological health promotion intervention for these mothers using the Intervention Mapping protocol.

Methods

A mixed-method design was used. Qualitative content analysis was performed on four focus groups (n=25). Additionally, descriptive statistics including the content validity index was used to measure feedback regarding the developed intervention protocol’s relevance, effectiveness, and appropriateness Theoretical models for behavior change, including the Behavior Change Wheel’s COM-B system and the Theoretical Domains Framework, and literature on ADHD in the general population and the ultra-orthodox community were integrated in the process. Intervention components were systematically derived from findings.

Results

Key determinants of health behavior change were identified, resulting in formulating intervention objectives addressing stigma reduction surrounding ADHD, increasing knowledge about the ADHD condition and treatment, awareness of the school systems’ capabilities in meeting the ADHD child’s needs, enhancing mothers’ advocacy skills, and maternal self-care. Intervention? strategies included a group setting, providing information on health consequences, social support, re-attribution, active learning, goal setting, and promoting an identity associated with the desired behavior change. Mothers’ quantitative feedback confirmed the overall relevance, effectiveness, and appropriateness of the interventions’ content (CVIavg= .86, .85, .87).

Conclusions

Intervention Mapping facilitated the development of a culturally sensitive psychological health promotion intervention for ultra-orthodox Jewish mothers of children with ADHD. Further research is warranted to assess intervention feasibility and effectiveness.
Activities used by evidence networks to promote evidence-informed decision-making in the health sector– a rapid evidence review
Authors: Garavito Germán Andrés Alarcón , Moniz Thomas , Mansilla Cristián , Iqbal Syka , Dobrogowska Rozalia , Bennin Fiona , Talwar Shivangi , Khalid Ahmad Firas , Vindrola-Padros Cecilia
Published: February 2024

Background

Evidence networks facilitate the exchange of information and foster international relationships among researchers and stakeholders. These networks are instrumental in enabling the integration of scientific evidence into decision-making processes. While there is a global emphasis on evidence-based decision-making at policy and organisational levels, there exists a significant gap in our understanding of the most effective activities to exchange scientific knowledge and use it in practice. The objective of this rapid review was to explore the strategies employed by evidence networks to facilitate the translation of evidence into decision-making processes. This review makes a contribution to global health policymaking by mapping the landscape of knowledge translation in this context and identifying the evidence translation activities that evidence networks have found effective.

Methods

The review was guided by standardised techniques for conducting rapid evidence reviews. Document searching was based on a phased approach, commencing with a comprehensive initial search strategy and progressively refining it with each subsequent search iterations. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement was followed.

Results

The review identified 143 articles, after screening 1135 articles. Out of these, 35 articles were included in the review. The studies encompassed a diverse range of countries, with the majority originating from the United States (n = 14), followed by Canada (n = 5), Sweden (n = 2), and various other single locations (n = 14). These studies presented a varied set of implementation strategies such as research-related activities, the creation of teams/task forces/partnerships, meetings/consultations, mobilising/working with communities, influencing policy, activity evaluation, training, trust-building, and regular meetings, as well as community-academic-policymaker engagement.

Conclusions

Evidence networks play a crucial role in developing, sharing, and implementing high-quality research for policy. These networks face challenges like coordinating diverse stakeholders, international collaboration, language barriers, research consistency, knowledge dissemination, capacity building, evaluation, and funding. To enhance their impact, sharing network efforts with wider audiences, including local, national, and international agencies, is essential for evidence-based decision-making to shape evidence-informed policies and programmes effectively.
Nanopore targeted sequencing-based diagnosis of central nervous system infections in HIV-infected patients
Authors: Yang Xihong , Zhou Shuilian , Chang Ziwei , Xi Xiaotong , Li Jiahui , Miao Mengjiao , Chen Yaling , Chen Wei , Zhang Hongying , Ding Ran , Hu Zhiliang
Published: February 2024

Background

Early and accurate etiological diagnosis is very important for improving the prognosis of central nervous system (CNS) infections in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients. The goal is not easily achieved by conventional microbiological tests. We developed a nanopore targeted sequencing (NTS) platform and evaluated the diagnostic performance for CNS infections in HIV-infected patients, with special focus on cryptococcal meningitis (CM). We compared the CM diagnostic performance of NTS with conventional methods and cryptococcal polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Methods

This study included 57 hospitalized HIV-infected patients with suspected CNS infections from September 2018 to March 2022. The diagnosis established during hospitalization includes 27 cases of CM, 13 CNS tuberculosis, 5 toxoplasma encephalitis, 2 cytomegalovirus (CMV) encephalitis and 1 Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) encephalitis. The 2 cases of CMV encephalitis also have co-existing CM. Target-specific PCR amplification was used to enrich pathogen sequences before nanopore sequencing. NTS was performed on stored cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples and the results were compared with the diagnosis during hospitalization.

Results

53 (93.0%) of the patients were male. The median CD4 cell count was 25.0 (IQR: 14.0–63.0) cells/uL. The sensitivities of CSF culture, India ink staining, cryptococcal PCR and NTS for CM were 70.4% (95%CI: 51.5 − 84.1%), 76.0% (95%CI: 56.6 − 88.5%), 77.8% (59.2 − 89.4%) and 85.2% (95%CI: 67.5 − 94.1%), respectively. All those methods had 100% specificity for CM. Our NTS platform could identify Cryptococcus at species level. Moreover, NTS was also able to identify all the 5 cases of toxoplasma encephalitis, 2 cases of CMV encephalitis and 1 VZV encephalitis. However, only 1 of 13 CNS tuberculosis cases was diagnosed by NTS, and so did Xpert MTB/RIF assay.

Conclusions

NTS has a good diagnostic performance for CM in HIV-infected patients and may have the ability of simultaneously detecting other pathogens, including mixed infections. With continuing improving of the NTS platform, it may be a promising alterative microbiological test for assisting with the diagnosis of CNS infections.
Dancing and Rapping the Good Life: Sharing Aspirations and Values in Vietnamese Hip-Hop
Authors: Kurfürst Sandra
Published: February 2024

Rap and hip-hop's diverse dance styles have been practiced in Vietnam since the 1990s, shortly after the country's integration into the world economy. What started out as a sphere of popular culture dominated by men was soon appropriated by female artists. The female rapper Suboi, Vietnam's “Queen of Rap,” is internationally renowned, and more and more young women are engaging in dancing on the streets. This article investigates the aspirations of female hip-hop practitioners in Vietnam's major cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. What does leading the good life mean to them, and how do they navigate the ambiguous moral landscape coproduced by authoritarianism and liberalism? Drawing on Aihwa Ong's (2008) concept of self-fashioning and AbdouMaliq Simone's (2019) practices of crafting, harvesting, and detachment, this article examines how young women use hip-hop as a creative device to achieve personal freedom and make a career for themselves. Carving out spaces for themselves in the male-dominated rap industry and dance community, they negotiate existing gender norms in both the music genre and Vietnam's urban society.
Abra a janela
Authors: Monzoni Mario , Nicolletti Mariana
Published: February 2024

Encarar a realidade da emergência climática, com estratégias integradas de prevenção, planos de contingência e fortalecimento de capacidades adaptativas, significa conceber futuros possíveis para a humanidade
Γενετικός προσδιορισμός του μικροβιώματος του βλεννογόνου του στόματος σε ασθενείς με κοινή πέμφιγα
Authors: Ζορμπά Ματίνα
Published: February 2024

Παρότι η επίδραση της δυσβίωσης του μικροβιώματος του στόματος στις αυτοάνοσες ασθένειες έχει διερευνηθεί εν μέρει, ο ρόλος της σε πομφολυγώδεις νόσους όπως η κοινή πέμφιγα είναι ένα εντελώς ανεξερεύνητο πεδίο. Η παρούσα μελέτη έχει ως στόχο να παρουσιάσει τη σύνθεση και τη σχετική αφθονία των μικροβιακών κοινοτήτων τόσο σε υγιή άτομα όσο και σε ασθενείς με στοματικές βλάβες κοινής πέμφιγας. Το Ion Torrent χρησιμοποιήθηκε για την αλληλούχιση σε βάθος του βακτηριακού γονιδίου 16S rRNA σε δείγματα στοματικού επιχρίσματος 15 υγιών ατόμων και 15 ασθενών. Τα αποτελέσματα έδειξαν ότι τα πιο κυρίαρχα φύλα ήταν τα Firmicutes (55,88% μάρτυρες-c έναντι 61,27% ασθενείς-p, τιμή p = 0,002), τα Proteobacteria (9,17%c έναντι 12,33%p, τιμή p = 0,007) και τα Fusobacteria (3,39%c). έναντι 4,09%p, τιμή p = 0,03). Η α-ποικιλομορφία έδειξε σημαντική διαφορά στον αριθμό των γενών μεταξύ ασθενών και μαρτύρων (p value = 0,04). Η β-ποικιλομορφία έδειξε στατιστικές διαφορές στη σύνθεση της μικροβιακής κοινότητας μεταξύ των δύο ομάδων. Το Fusobacterium nucleatum, το Gemella haemolysans και το Parvimonas micra ήταν άφθονα στους ασθενείς με στατιστική διαφορά. Περαιτέρω, παρατηρήσαμε τη χαρακτηριστικό οσμή που εκπέμπουν οι στοματικές βλάβες της κοινής πέμφιγας. Τα περισσότερα αναερόβια βακτήρια που ευθύνονται για τη δυσοσμία του στόματος είναι περιπαθογόνα. Ωστόσο, μόνο το F. nucleatum και το P. micra εντοπίστηκαν σε αφθονία στους ασθενείς μας. Ειδικά το F. nucleatum έχει αναφερθεί πολλές φορές ως υπεύθυνο για την κακοσμία του στόματος. Επιπλέον, τα Streptococcus salivarius και Rothia mucilaginosa, είδη που σχετίζονται κυρίως με την καθαρή αναπνοή, βρέθηκαν σε σχετική αφθονία στην υγιή ομάδα. Κατά συνέπεια, η κακοσμία που παρατηρείται σε ασθενείς με κοινή πέμφιγα μπορεί να αποδοθεί είτε στην αφθονία του F. nucleatum και του P. micra ή/και στα χαμηλότερα επίπεδα του S. salivarius και του R. mucilanginosa σε στοματικές βλάβες.
Formation of the Professional Identity of Medical Students in the Process of Language Training: A Communicative Aspect
Authors: Sivakov Maksim
Published: February 2024

The article considers the communicative aspect of training future medical specialists for professional activity in the context of intercultural interaction. International cooperation in the field of medicine, which has increased due to the social and political importance of healthcare, increases the requirements for the professional language training of medical students, for their professional communication skills in a foreign language. The participation of medical specialists in the programs "Doctors without Borders" and the International Committee of the Red Cross requires future doctors not only proper language training, but also effective communication skills in a professional environment. It is assumed that the formation of the professional identity of medical university students can be effectively implemented if it is focused on the communicative aspect of professional language training.

The purpose of the study is to determine the role of the communicative aspect of the language training of medical university students in the process of forming their professional identity.

The research is based on occupational and linguistic-cultural methodological approaches. The significant role of the communicative aspect in the process of language training in the formation of the professional identity of medical university students is shown. The most important areas of professionally oriented language training are identified and characterized – training in professional communication, accuracy and clarity in the use of medical terminology, consultations with patients, registration of medical documentation and familiarization of future doctors with scientific research in a foreign language. The features of professional communication in the medical field in the context of intercultural interaction are revealed. It is proved that professional language training focused on the study of special medical terminology, cultural aspects, examples of medical documentation, as well as the participation of medical students in research activities contribute to the development of communication skills of future doctors in the process of forming their professional identity.

The prospects for further research may be related to the study of the influence of the digital educational environment of the university on the process of forming the professional identity of medical students in the process of language training.
Research Roundup
Authors: Mendes Aysha
Published: February 2024

Aysha Mendes provides a synopsis and brief review of a selection of recently published research articles that are of interest to community nurses, highlighting key points to keep you up to date; a full reference is provided for those who wish to read the research in more detail
Through the looking glass
Authors: Brill Sheila
Published: February 2024

Sheila Brill shares her personal experiences of maternity services in 1993, drawing comparisons to the Ockenden and Kirkup reports
Misdiagnosis of synovial sarcoma - cellular myofibroma with SRF-RELA gene fusion: A case report
Authors: Zhou Ying , Sun Yi-Wen , Liu Xiao-Yang , Shen Dan-Hua
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Cellular myofibroma is a rare subtype of myofibroma that was first described in 2017. Its diagnosis is often challenging because of its relative rarity, lack of known genetic abnormalities, and expression of muscle markers that can be confused with sarcomas that have myogenic differentiation. Currently, scholars have limited knowledge of this disease, and published cases are few. Further accumulation of diagnostic and treatment experiences is required.

CASE SUMMARY

A 16-year-old girl experienced left upper limb swelling for 3 years. She sought medical attention at a local hospital 10 months ago, where magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 5-cm soft tissue mass. Needle biopsy performed at a local hospital resulted in the diagnosis of a spindle cell soft tissue sarcoma. The patient was referred to our hospital for limb salvage surgery with endoprosthetic replacement. She was initially diagnosed with a synovial sarcoma. Consequently, clinical management with chemotherapy was continued for the malignant sarcoma. Our pathology department also performed fluorescence in situ hybridization for result validation, which returned negative for SS18 gene breaks, indicating that it was not a synovial sarcoma. Next-generation sequencing was used to identify the SRF-RELA rearrangement. The final pathological diagnosis was a cellular/myofibroblastic neoplasm with an SRF-RELA gene fusion. The patient had initially received two courses of chemotherapy; however, chemotherapy was discontinued after the final diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

This case was misdiagnosed because of its rare occurrence, benign biological behavior, and pathological similarity to soft tissue sarcoma.
Enhancing competency of clinical research nurses: A comprehensive training and evaluation framework
Authors: Liu Yang-Xi , Xu Yi
Published: February 2024

The Sun et al 's training program for clinical research nurses (CRNs) in the World Journal of Clinical Cases is a comprehensive and scientific approach. It includes structured frameworks for CRN training, aiming to improve CRN competency. This program emphasizes practical abilities, updates training content, and improves evaluation methods. The cultivation of CRN talents focuses on enhancing the training system, establishing a multifaceted evaluation framework, and continuously refining the training programs. Regular feedback and evaluation are essential to improve CRNs' competency in practical settings.
Enhanced Growth of Green Synthesized Bi2Fe4O9: Nanoparticles Decorated on MWCNT
Authors: Banu A. Afroos , Shafeera N. N. , Kalangadan N , Rafi K. Mohamed , Saravanakkumar D. , Rajaram K , Fowziya S.A. , Mohamed S. Beer , Ayeshamariam A.
Published: February 2024

Bismuth ferrite nanoparticles decorated with multi-walled carbon nanotube nanoparticles were prepared using a Sol-Gel soft chemical approach technique. The synthesis was carried out under green conditions using high-quality acetate precursor salts. The carbon nanotubes were obtained from the germination of chippikalan oyster mushroom. The successful synthesis of the nanoparticles was confirmed by several characterization techniques, including structural, morphological, and optical studies. The nanoparticles were capped with various phytochemicals found in the leaf extract of Murrayakoenigii and Azadirachta indica. The objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of biogenic Bismuth ferrite oxide multiwalled carbon nanotube nanoparticles on the growth of oyster mushrooms. The plant growth parameters such as stem length, breadth, germination spores percentage, spores germination rate, and mean daily germination were observed.
Bis(2-cyanoacetamide) in Heterocyclic Synthesis: Synthesis of Some Bis[2-oxopyridine, 2-iminochromene, Chromeno[3,4-c]pyridine, Benzochromeno[3,4-c]pyridine] Derivatives
Authors: Thabet H. Kh. , Imran Mohd , Imran Mohd , Alaql Saleh , Helal M. H. M.
Published: February 2024

N,N'-(methylenebis(1,4-phenylene))bis-(2-cyanoacetamide) was exploited as a precursor for synthesing some bis (benzylidene 5a-c, pyridines 7, 8, 10a,b, chromene 14, benzochromene 15) derivatives containing diphenyl-methylene spacer via the reaction with each of aromatic aldehydes, pentane-2,4-dione, acetaldehyde/ malononitrile, arylidene-malononitriles, ethyl cinnamates, 2-hydroxybenzaldehyde, and 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde). Bis(chromeno[3,4-c]pyridines 16&18) were synthesized via Michael's addition of malononitrile or ethyl cyanoacetate to bis(chromene) derivative. The newly prepared compound structures were established via ir, NMR spectroscopic data.
Potentially Biodynamic Tin(II) Complexes Derived from Macrocyclic Ligands: Synthesis, Spectral Analysis, In vitro Antibacterial, Antifungal and Brine Shrimp Lethality Evaluation
Authors: Phor Anita , Mamta Mamta , Subhash Subhash , Phor J. S. , Chaudhary Ashu
Published: February 2024

Over the past several years, the predominance of biologically active macrocycles in medicinal chemistry has been increasing. Novel macrocyclic complexes of Sn(II) were synthesized by using macrocyclic ligands derived from various diamine and dicarboxylic acids in the ratio of 2:2. The structures of the obtained complexes were identified by various spectrometric methods such as Fourier transformation infra-red (FT-IR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), electron spray ionization mass spectrometry, and powder X-ray diffraction. The spectral data provided evidence that the macrocyclic ligands acted as tetradentate ligands, forming coordination bonds with Sn(II) ions through the nitrogen atom of the imine (>C=N) group. The coordination complexes exhibited an octahedral geometry around the tin ion, with two chloro groups covalently attached. All of the synthesized compounds were evaluated for their biochemical properties, including antibacterial, antifungal, and Brine Shrimp Lethality. The antimicrobial potential of the macrocyclic compounds was examined against a panel of pathogenic microbes, including bacterial strains (Escherichia coli, Xanthomonas campestris, and Staphylococcus aureus) and fungal strains (Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus niger). The result showed that the macrocyclic complexes have remarkable antimicrobial potential as compared to their corresponding macrocyclic ligands. The positive findings of Brine shrimp lethality of the ligands and their complexes have been discussed.
Impact of Solvent Impurities on Stainless Steel Corrosion in CO2-Saturated NaCl Environments: Mechanisms and Implications
Authors: K R Kanimozhi
Published: February 2024

The presence of solvent impurities can significantly impact the corrosion performance of stainless steel when exposed to CO2-saturated NaCl (Sodium Chloride) solutions. Solvent impurities, originating from various sources, may introduce chemical changes that interact with the metal surface and alter its corrosion resistance. Under simulated flow circumstances, the corrosion performance of stainless steels in the presence of contaminants such Monoethyleneglycol (MEG) and oxygen in a CO2 environment was investigated. Utilizing a rotating cage, the corrosion performance of stainless steel was assessed, and mass loss measurements were used to calculate the corrosion rates. According to the experimental findings, the oxygenated MEG exhibits a very low rate of corrosion. SEM and EDX surface analysis techniques were utilized to examine the corrosion product that had developed on the metal surface.
Fly Ash-based Adsorption for Hexavalent Chromium Removal in Aqueous Systems: A Promising Eco-Friendly Technique
Authors: Yadav Sashi , Yadav Abhilasha , Goyal Gunjan , Dhawan Monika , Kumar Vineet , Yadav Azad , Dhankhar Rajesh , Sehrawat Nitu , Chhikara Sunil Kumar
Published: February 2024

Heavy-metal pollution has been and continues to be significantly influenced by excessive Cr(VI) emissions; recently, there has been a lot of interest in the emergence of a low-cost, secure, and effective technology for removing of Chromium from wastewater. Fly ash has been used in the present study for Hexavalent chromium adsorption. Characterized for their elemental composition, functional groups, and surface morphology, the impacting aspects of the adsorbent were explored. In this study, the chromium adsorption parameters were optimized and the prediction models were strengthened using the response surface methodology (RSM) and box behnken design (BBD). High regression coefficient (R2>0.98), insignificant lack of fit (0.52), high F-value, and low P-value (0.05) were all indicators of the quadratic model's good agreement with the predicted values. Adsorbent dose of 200 mg/100 ml, initial Cr (VI) concentration of 20 mg/L, contact time of 90 min, and pH of 1.0 were the optimal adsorption conditions. The cost-effectiveness, ease of modification, and high efficiency of fly ash make it a promising candidate for large-scale applications in addressing chromium pollution in wastewater.
Chiral ionic Liquid-based Vortex-assisted Enantio-separation of S-(+) and R-(-) Besifloxacin and Evaluation of Zeropoint Energy by Two-phase Liquid-liquid Extraction
Authors: Shankar Eegala Bheema , Naidu Challa Gangu , Devaraju Subramani , Rao K Varaprasada , Ramachandra Bondigalla , Rao Y. Srinivasa , Marok Satwinder S
Published: February 2024

Besifloxacin is a fourth-generation fluoroquinolone and shows significant antibacterial properties, which works well against a range of bacteria. Besifloxacin ophthalmic solution is the name of the specific form of this medication used to treat eye infections. The vortex-assisted chiral ionic liquid method was used for the separation of Besifloxacin isomers. S- Besifloxacin shows antibacterial action in clinical trials. The R-isomer, however, has not shown biological properties in clinical testing through different cell line. The current proposed chiral assay method was developed between a racemic mixture and a chiral selector. The analytical databases affirm that 1, 2 dichloroethane is used as a non-aqueous (organic media) solvent and that 1,3-butyl-3-methylimidazole L-tryptophan ([Bmim] [Ltrp]) opted used as a specific chiral ionic liquid. The developed ionic liquid based chital hplc method was successfully applied to separation and purification of isomers of Besifloxacin in during the process industries in bulk drugs.
The Impact of Citric Acid Hydrolysis on Starch Functionality in Mangifera Indica of Sindoor Variety: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Kaliyappan Rani , Ramanathan Parimalavalli
Published: February 2024

The mango (Mangifera indica) is a significant tropical fruit crop that is cultivated primarily for its pulp. Mango stone kernels were classified as insufficiently utilized foods and were employed as a by-product in food production. The study aimed to modify the starch from mango kernels by acid hydrolysis with citric acid (CAH) and heat treatment (CAHT) at 120°C for 2.5 hours. The extracted starch was characterized using functional (DSC and RVA), chemical (yield, amylose content, amylopectin content, and pasting clarity) analysis and structural properties (SEM, XRD, and FTIR) were analyzed using standard procedures. The results on functional analysis reported that the gelatinization enthalpy and thermal stability of CAH starch were higher, and had lower peak temperatures with increased viscosity. CAH starch had a greater starch yield, pasting clarity was high, and low amylose and amylopectin were found in CAHT starch. Acid hydrolysis had little effect on the granule size or morphology (SEM), and infrared (FTIR) examination showed 16 chemical bands and functional groups. The results of the investigation showed that CAH of Mangifera indica starch had better structural, functional, and chemical properties than CAHT Mangifera indica starch. For the technological process, starch modification with citric acid is preferable, and cross-linking is preferable to esterification alone.
Ultrasound-Assisted Synthesis and Characterization of 5-Carbonitrile-Functionalized tetrahydropyrimidine Derivatives with Evaluation of Their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Suthar Madhuri J. , Kumbhani Jasmin H. , Bhatt Keyur D. , Bishnoi Prakashbhai V. , Chatrabhuji Parimal
Published: February 2024

The green synthesis approach employs ultrasound waves as an effective and environmentally friendly strategy to catalyze chemical reactions. Within this framework, carbonitrile-bearing tetrahydropyrimidine derivatives were successfully synthesized. This involved the reaction of malononitrile, urea or thiourea, and variously substituted aldehydes in the presence of morpholine as a catalyst, conducted in aqueous conditions under ultrasonic irradiation. Notably, this method resulted in elevated reaction yields and significantly reduced reaction times when compared to conventional approaches. The synthesized compounds underwent comprehensive characterization using various spectroscopic techniques, including UV-Vis, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectrometry. This innovative process aligns with the principles of green chemistry, emphasizing efficiency, sustainability, and the reduction of environmental impact in chemical synthesis.
Hacer frente a las crisis con el aprendizaje-servicio: la inclusión escolar de los niños ucranianos refugiados
Authors: Di Masi Diego , Torre Emanuela M. , Ricchiardi Paola , Di Leva Alice
Published: February 2024

El aprendizaje-servicio (ApS) es un enfoque formativo y educativo que integra actividades comunitarias significativas en el currículo académico y ofrece a los estudiantes una forma de aprendizaje que proviene de la participación activa y el compromiso en la comunidad y el trabajo en problemas del mundo real. El interés hacia la implementación de ApS en el contexto universitario está creciendo en los últimos años, empujado, en Italia, también por políticas que refuerzan la Tercera Misión de Educación Superior que invitan a las universidades a abrirse al contexto socioeconómico a través de la transferencia de conocimiento y el compromiso social. El Grupo de Investigación Interdisciplinar en APS de la Universidad de Turín (UniTo) tiene como objetivo mejorar y formalizar los principios de SL en un contexto en el que se llevan a cabo muchas actividades desde hace mucho tiempo. En esta contribución presentaremos un proyecto de ApS diseñado para apoyar a niños ucranianos refugiados en el aprendizaje de la lengua italiana. Los objetivos son desarrollar las habilidades comunicativas y de trabajo en equipo de los estudiantes y facilitar la inclusión de los niños ucranianos en la comunidad local. Los resultados demuestran las repercusiones positivas en la creación de nuevas sinergias entre la instrucción y la investigación y la producción de un impacto en las competencias de los estudiantes y las habilidades blandas en su conjunto. Se describirán las experiencias de los participantes en los programas y se analizarán las repercusiones tanto en las instituciones implicadas como en los estudiantes.
As Ceaseless as the Sea: How Modern Construction Machines Disrupted Canadian Senses and Sensibilities, 1870s–1940s
Authors: Fernandes Gilberto
Published: February 2024

abstract: Since the late nineteenth century, Canada has required modern construction machines for industrial growth. Thanks to their novelty and visibility, these machines entered the Canadian psyche, symbolizing hopes and fears about the relentless transformations of modernity. Metaphors depicting these machines as zoomorphic and monstruous reflected the environmental-technological infrastructures they built, which redefined nature through technologies like trains, ships, and automobiles. This article discusses how Anglo-Canadians, particularly Ontarians, interpreted technology, drawing parallels with the automobile's history. Both had a problematic coexistence with humans as equally empowering and oppressive mobile machines that were imposed on public spaces and constructed as necessary for progress. The builders used the machines' allure to present construction as an inclusive civic spectacle and foster public tolerance for their relentless disruptions. They accomplished this faster than the automobile industry came to dominate the streets, as evidenced by the celebration of "sidewalk superintendents," compared to the contentious reproach of "jaywalkers."
Mie-scattering controlled all-dielectric cavity coupled antenna for bright and directional single-photon emission
Authors: Inam Faraz , Ahamad Mohammed , Shaikh Sughra
Published: February 2024

A deterministic, bright, room-temperature stable single-photon-source (SPS) has been a major demand in the field of quantum-photonics.
Here, using computational and analytical techniques, we showed that the Mie-scattering moments of an all-dielectric cavity-cum-antenna helps in shaping the spontaneous emission process of a point-dipole emitter, the nanodiamond NV$^-$ center here. Our cavity-cum-antenna design comprises of two top and bottom TiO$_2$ cylinders with a sandwiched poly-vinyl-alcohol (PVA) layer enclosing the nanodiamond crystal. The Cartesian multi-polar decomposition (CMD) of the Mie-scattering moments of the sandwiched PVA layer with subwavelength scale thickness showed strong electric-dipole (ED) resonance which resulted in significant field confinement, making the PVA layer to act as a cavity, providing a Purcell enhancement of more than an order-of-magnitude for all dipole orientations. Further, the Mie-scattering moments of the top and bottom TiO$_2$ cylinders were observed to control the radiation pattern of the embedded dipole-emitter. The radiation directionality along the vertical directions was found to be maximum at the Kerker point (electric dipole moment, ED = magnetic dipole moment, MD), the collection efficiency (CE) being about 80\%. This will result in photon collection rates of a few 100 MHz, unachievable till now. Our results are therefore substantial to accelerate the research for generating on-demand SPS for quantum-photonic applications.
Unravelling the skills of data scientists: A text mining analysis of Dutch university master programs in data science and artificial intelligence
Authors: Mol Mathijs J. , Belfi Barbara , Bakk Zsuzsa
Published: February 2024

The growing demand for data scientists in both the global and Dutch labour markets has led to an increase in data science and artificial intelligence (AI) master programs offered by universities. However, there is still a lack of clarity regarding the specific skills of data scientists. This study addresses this issue by employing Correlated Topic Modeling (CTM) to analyse the content of 41 master programs offered by 11 Dutch universities and an interuniversity combined program. We assess the differences and similarities in the core skills taught by these programs, determine the subject-specific and general nature of the skills, and provide a comparison between the different types of universities offering these programs. Our analysis reveals that data processing, statistics, research, and ethics are the core competencies in Dutch data science and AI master programs. General universities tend to focus on research skills, while technical universities lean more towards IT and electronics skills. Broad-focussed data science and AI programs generally concentrate on data processing, information technology, electronics, and research, while subject-specific programs give priority to statistics and ethics. This research enhances the understanding of the diverse skills of Dutch data science graduates, providing valuable insights for employers, academic institutions, and prospective students.
A rumour from ground control: Time, space and fashioned gender identity in David Bowie’s ‘Ashes to Ashes’
Authors: Weaver Ailsa
Published: February 2024

This article aims to identify the fashioned ‘look’ of sound, and the sound of a fashion look, by investigating a significant precedent in the early music video canon: ‘Ashes to Ashes’ (1980), co-directed by David Mallet and David Bowie. The article analyses the three characters that Bowie performs in the video in recognition of three recurring concerns of fashion theory: time, space and masculine sartorial identity. The character of Pierrot is considered through understandings of modernity and postmodernity, including the reciprocal influence of the nostalgic-futurist ‘New Romantic’ movement. The character of Major Tom is evaluated with regard to different understandings of ‘space’ in the music video. Finally, a third persona, a man who inhabits the atmosphere of a padded cell, is looked at in association with Bowie’s legacy in contemporary masculine fashion.
The land keeps the score: Ghosting environments in documentary re-enactments
Authors: Korporaal Astrid N.
Published: February 2024

In this article, I look at environmental agency in Sven Augustijnen’s Spectres (2011) and Joshua Oppenheimer’s The Act of Killing (2012). Both films are structured through re-enactments of political violence that involve perpetrators as protagonists. In this context, I study the traces of disruptions that exceed the agency of human makers and protagonists. I argue that landscapes can ‘ghost’ filmic re-enactments by refusing access or communication. Seen through the lens of decolonial theory, these spectral disobediences connect to the shadow side of rational thought and action. The environmental agencies in these films act as ghosts by pointing to different orders of remembering, resisting a singular view of contested sites of trauma. They push against the framing of truth as a document to be extracted by the camera. I conclude that environments can both store memories and prevent these memories from being retold in seemingly innocent ways. This refusal unfixes the traditional distance between filmmaker, protagonist and environment. It prompts viewers to seek layered truths and healing informed by accountability.
Flagging It Up, Zarina Bhimji, curated by Fiona Bradley, Fruitmarket, Edinburgh, 28 October 2023–28 January 2024
Authors: Walsh Maria
Published: February 2024

Review of: Flagging It Up, Zarina Bhimji, curated by Fiona Bradley, Fruitmarket, Edinburgh, 28 October 2023–28 January 2024
Desafios teóricos e metodológicos à análise do consumo das classes populares brasileiras
Authors: Rodrigues Cavalcanti Alves Ana
Published: February 2024

Este artigo visa discutir alguns dos desafios teóricos e metodológicos envolvidos na análise das práticas de consumo de uma fração das classes populares brasileiras em processo de mobilidade ascendente nas últimas décadas. Para tanto, será apresentado o relato de uma pesquisa qualitativa realizada em Recife, com membros dessa fração de classe, focalizando os desafios que se colocam à construção desse complexo “objeto” e a relevância das ferramentas teórico-metodológicas da sociologia disposicionalista na análise do consumo popular.
Captando a distinção empiricamente
Authors: Bertoncelo Edison , Nicolau Netto Michel
Published: February 2024

Neste artigo, propomos uma discussão sobre como investigar a relação entre distinção, capital cultural e classes sociais empiricamente, com ênfase nas questões metodológicas da pesquisa A Distinção em São Paulo. Após uma análise sobre a forma como Bourdieu e outros autores entenderam a distinção e buscaram apreendê-la empiricamente, mobilizamos a referida pesquisa para demonstrar os ganhos do uso de uma pesquisa multimétodo para esse fim. Para tanto, vamos analisar em mais detalhes como a fase de grupos focais foi mobilizada nesta pesquisa.
A Case Report of Giant Splenic Artery Pseudoaneurysm with Splenic Infarctions
Authors: Yashas Ullas Lokesh  , Anees Dudekula  , Revanth Ravindra Bhat  , Guru Yogendra Muthyala  , Suprith Jaya Shankar
Published: February 2024

The splenic artery is a frequently affected site for pseudoaneurysms, abnormal bulges in the artery wall. Pseudoaneurysms of the splenic artery are typically linked to pancreatic issues, including acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, and the formation of pancreatic pseudocysts.[1,2,3,4] These pseudoaneurysms can rupture into nearby organs, leading to gastrointestinal bleeding.[5] Common symptoms associated with splenic artery pseudoaneurysms include the passage of bloody stools (hematochezia) or dark, tarry stools (melena), vomiting blood (hematemesis), abdominal pain, and a condition known as hemosuccus pancreaticus.[6] In the instance of our patient, hematemesis, anaemia, and stomach pain were observed.[6]

The preferred imaging method for diagnosing splenic artery pseudoaneurysm is CT angiography.[7] Diagnosing a pseudoaneurysm of the splenic artery can be challenging due to its rarity. Still, splenic infarct can provide a valuable diagnostic clue, as was the case similar to our patient.[6]

Pseudoaneurysm of the splenic artery is a relatively rare complication with associated pancreatitis.[1] While pseudoaneurysms can develop in any blood vessel near the pancreas, the splenic artery is most frequently affected, accounting for about 60% of cases due to its proximity to the pancreas.[8] In autopsy studies, the reported incidence of splenic artery pseudoaneurysms ranges from approximately 0.098% to 10.4%.[9] Identifying this less common vascular complication is crucial because it has the potential to rupture and lead to gastrointestinal bleeding.[5]
Educação Assistida por Computador e Psicologia da Aprendizagem
Authors: Goes Keny Lucas da Silva , Costa Jadislene Estevam da Silva , Goes Jadna Cleia Estevam da Silva
Published: February 2024

Este estudo abordou a interação entre Educação Assistida por Computador (EAC) e Psicologia da Aprendizagem, visando compreender seus efeitos no desempenho, engajamento e satisfação de estudantes. Utilizando uma metodologia mista, foram selecionados participantes envolvidos com a EAC, com dados coletados através de questionários e entrevistas. As análises quantitativas indicaram melhorias no desempenho acadêmico e no engajamento dos alunos, enquanto as qualitativas destacaram a valorização da flexibilidade e personalização que a EAC oferece. Desafios como a necessidade de competências digitais e um design instrucional eficiente também foram identificados. Os resultados sugerem que a EAC pode significativamente enriquecer o processo educativo, enfatizando a importância de estratégias pedagógicas que integrem tecnologia de forma eficaz e a necessidade de políticas que facilitam a adoção da EAC, garantindo seu acesso e efetividade para todos os alunos.