bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-Grade Injury following Testicular Torsion: A Multicenter Study Confirming a Disturbing Possibility
Authors: Cigsar Kuzu Emine Burcu , Tiryaki Sibel , Guney Neslihan , Polatdemir Kamer , Cakir Yasemin , Karagozlu Akgul Ahsen , Toper Muhammed Hasan , Karaguzel Gungor , Ucar Murat , Bassorgun Cumhur Ibrahim , Ozel Seyhmus Kerem , Ozkanli Seyma , Salci Gul , Aydin Mungan Sevdegul , Yilmaz Mehmet Ugur , Aytac Vuruskan Berna , Yagmur Ismail , Tarini Emine Zeynep , Kaba Meltem , Tanik Canan , Canbaz Furkan Adem , Hurdogan Ozge , User Idil Rana , Orhan Diclehan , Atici Ahmet , Gursoy Didar , Yagmurlu Emin Aydin , Enneli Duygu , Kilic Seref Selcuk , Erdogan Seyda
Published: November 2023

Introduction: There is an ongoing debate whether to perform orchiectomy or orchidopexy following testicular torsion (TT) in cases where the testis seems non-viable. The main problem is lack of objective criteria defining testicular viability. The aim of this study was to investigate the grade of injury in orchiectomy specimens obtained from cases of TT and its association with clinical findings. Methods: This multicenter retrospective study involved double-blinded reassessment of the patient files and the pathological specimens using Mikuz classification to analyze the relation between clinical and pathological findings. Results: A total of 289 patient charts from 14 centers were reviewed and 228 were included in this study. Twenty (8.8%) patients had grade 1 injury which refers to reversible injury. The clinical findings of these 20 patients were compared to 208 patients with higher grades of injury. As expected, there was statistically significant difference regarding duration of symptoms (p < 0.001); however, range was wide in both groups (as long as 96 h for grade 1 and as short as 7 h for higher grades). There was no statistically significant difference in any other variable including age (median 14 for both, p = 0.531), symptoms (pain: 19/20 vs. 189/202, p = 0.801; swelling: 13/19 vs. 168/197, p = 0.094), absence of blood flow in Doppler US (15/19 vs. 164/197, p = 0.635), or degree of torsion (median 720° for both, p = 0.172). Conclusion: Our study revealed necessity for better criteria to define viability of testis following TT. Histopathological injury appeared to be reversible even in some patients with more severe perioperative findings, late admission, or high degree of twisting. Our findings support the tendency for testicular fixation instead of orchiectomy as none of the clinical or perioperative findings could be attributed to high-grade injury.
Convergent Anuran Middle Ear Loss Lacks a Universal, Adaptive Explanation
Authors: Womack Molly C. , Hoke Kim L.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Shared selection pressures often explain convergent trait loss, yet anurans (frogs and toads) have lost their middle ears at least 38 times with no obvious shared selection pressures unifying “earless” taxa. Anuran tympanic middle ear loss is especially perplexing because acoustic communication is dominant within Anura and tympanic middle ears enhance airborne hearing in most tetrapods. Methods: Here, we use phylogenetic comparative methods to examine whether particular geographic ranges, microhabitats, activity patterns, or aspects of acoustic communication are associated with anuran tympanic middle ear loss. Results: Although we find some differences between the geographic ranges of eared and earless species on average, there is plenty of overlap between the geographic distributions of eared and earless species. Additionally, we find a higher prevalence of diurnality in earless species, but not all earless species are diurnal. We find no universal adaptive explanation for the many instances of anuran tympanic middle ear loss. Conclusion: The puzzling lack of universally shared selection pressures among earless species motivates discussion of alternative hypotheses, including genetic or developmental constraints, and the possibility that tympanic middle ear loss is maladaptive.
A new species and updates on the Rhagovelia angustipes complex (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Veliidae) in Colombia
Authors: GALINDO-MALAGÓN XIMENA ALEJANDRA , MORALES IRINA , MOREIRA FELIPE FERRAZ FIGUEIREDO
Published: November 2023

Rhagovelia Mayr, 1865 (Hemiptera, Heteroptera, Veliidae) is a diverse genus of small to medium-sized true bugs that live on the surface of the water, preferentially in lotic environments with moderate to strong current. The Rhagovelia angustipes species complex is particularly speciose in Colombia, and has recently been the subject of a revision. Nonetheless, new species of the complex are still being discovered in the country. We present here the description of Rhagovelia andradei sp. nov., collected on the eastern Colombian Andes, new records for three other species, R. calceola, R. gastrotricha and R. molanoi, an updated key, and a summary of the distribution of the complex in the country.
Ethical dilemmas in contemporary psychiatry: Findings from a survey of National Psychiatric Associations in Europe
Authors: Samochowiec Jerzy , Frydecka Dorota , Skonieczna-Żydecka Karolina , Schouler-Ocak Meryam , Carpinello Bernardo , Chkonia Eka , Dom Geert , Falkai Peter , Misiak Błażej , Pinto da Costa Mariana , Wise Jan , de Picker Livia , Vahip Simavi , Wasserman Danuta , Galderisi Silvana , Bieńkowski Przemysław
Published: November 2023

Background

The European Psychiatric Association (EPA) is an organization that speaks on behalf of its individual members and members of National Psychiatric Associations (NPAs). The aim of this study to identify and investigate current contents of ethical codes and practices in the countries belonging to EPA.

Methods

The study is an expert survey sent out to 44 representatives of 30 NPAs covering the following topics: the existence of national bodies dealing with ethical issues in psychiatry, the availability of documents relevant to ethical issues, the types of ethical issues addressed at the national level, and the current and envisaged ethical debates.

Results

Out of 44 experts invited to participate in the study, 31 NPAs from 30 countries responded (response rate 70.45%). In the majority of countries, the general mission statement serves as the main document covering ethical issues in psychiatry. Most frequently, internal documents were reported to address medical malpractice, workplace bullying, plagiarism, academic fraud, sexual abuse, and discrimination/racism. Furthermore, internal documents cover the ethical assessment of potentially controversial procedures, including psychosurgery, euthanasia, and pregnancy termination. The most important topics for debate at the level of NPAs/EPA were associated with violations of clinical practice standards and human rights.

Conclusions

NPAs are active in the field of professional ethics, defining ethical standards related to interactions among professionals and services provided by mental health care professionals. Future collaboration of NPAs, under the umbrella of the EPA, could allow to develop a database of local ethical documents that would be translated into English and accessible to all EPA members.
Approaches to the Middle Cerebellar Peduncle for Resection of Pontine Cavernomas
Authors: Wu Eva M. , Khan Nickalus R. , Sun Matthew Z. , Morcos Jacques J.
Published: November 2023

INDICATIONS: CORRIDOR AND LIMITS OF EXPOSURE:

The expanded retrosigmoid approach with splitting of the horizontal cerebellar fissure provides a more direct and shorter route for central and dorsolateral pontine lesions while minimizing retraction of tracts, nuclei, and cerebellum.
1-4

ANATOMIC ESSENTIALS: NEED FOR PREOPERATIVE PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT:

The middle cerebellar peduncle is partially covered by the petrosal surface of the cerebellum. The horizontal cerebellar fissure (petrosal fissure) divides the petrosal surface of the cerebellar hemisphere into superior and inferior parts. Splitting the petrosal fissure separates the superior and inferior petrosal surfaces and exposes the posterolateral middle cerebellar peduncle (posterior and lateral to the root entry zone of CN5).
1-4

ESSENTIALS STEPS OF THE PROCEDURE:

Expanded retrosigmoid craniotomy is performed, including unroofing of the sigmoid sinus; petrosal fissure is split to expose the posterolateral middle cerebellar peduncle; entry point for resection of the cavernoma is identified; nims stimulator stimulator is used to confirm the absence of tracts and nuclei; myelotomy is performed; and cavernoma and its draining vein (but not the developmental venous anomaly) are removed using a combination of traction and countertraction against gliotic plane.

PITFALLS/AVOIDANCE OF COMPLICATIONS:

Wide splitting of the horizontal cerebellar fissure minimizes retraction or resection of the cerebellum and offers the best angle of attack. Knowledge of brainstem anatomy and use of intraoperative navigation are critical to avoid complications.

VARIANTS AND INDICATIONS FOR THEIR USE:

Far lateral through the middle cerebellar peduncle is a variant that can be used to resect pontine cavernomas if a caudocranial trajectory is preferred.

The patient consented to the procedure and to the publication of her image.
Discrimination and Economic Expectations
Authors: Bazley William , Bonaparte Yosef , Korniotis George , Kumar Alok
Published: November 2023

This paper examines whether perceptions of discrimination affect the economic expectations of U.S. households. We focus on two forms of expectations that play a central role in economic and financial decisions of households: labor income and inflation. Using experimental data, we demonstrate that discrimination generates greater dispersion in household forecasts. It increases subjective expectations of income uncertainty by 8% and inflation uncertainty by 5%. The impact of discrimination is concentrated among racial/ethnic minorities, inducing 12%–16% greater variation in their income uncertainty expectations and 10%–12% greater variation in their inflation uncertainty expectations. Both psychological and emotional factors appear to influence the discrimination–economic expectations relation.

This paper was accepted by David Sraer, finance.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.02276 .
Surface emitting lasers are of interest for various applications such as monolithic two-dimensional arrays and optical interconnects for integrated optics.
Authors: Author Unknown
Published: November 2023

Surface emitting lasers are of interest for various applications such
as monolithic two-dimensional arrays and optical interconnects for
integrated optics. Moreover, surface emitting lasers offer the
advantage of wafer processing and testing. There are several
approaches to achieve surface emitting , they are (i) vertical
resonator cavity, (ii) second-order grating, (iii) 45 degree mirrors
and (iv) parabolic mirrors. Approaches (i) and (ii) have experienced
difficulties and devices with good performance have not been obtained.
Approach (iv) has demonstrated good device performance for GalnAsP/InP
materials. However, this technology (mass transport) cannot be
implemented in GaAlAs/GaAs materials. Therefore, 45 degree mirrors
were chosen for our surface emitting device.
CKD stage-specific utility of two equations for predicting 1-year risk of ESKD
Authors: Zheng Sijie , Parikh Rishi V. , Tan Thida C. , Pravoverov Leonid , Patel Jignesh K. , Horiuchi Kate M. , Go Alan S.
Published: November 2023

Background

The Kidney Failure Risk Equation (KFRE) and Kaiser Permanente Northwest (KPNW) models have been proposed to predict progression to ESKD among adults with CKD within 2 and 5 years. We evaluated the utility of these equations to predict the 1-year risk of ESKD in a contemporary, ethnically diverse CKD population.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adult members of Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC) with CKD Stages 3–5 from January 2008-September 2015. We ascertained the onset of ESKD through September 2016, and calculated stage-specific estimates of model discrimination and calibration for the KFRE and KPNW equations.

Results

We identified 108,091 eligible adults with CKD (98,757 CKD Stage 3; 8,384 CKD Stage 4; and 950 CKD Stage 5 not yet receiving kidney replacement therapy), with mean age of 75 years, 55% women, and 37% being non-white. The overall 1-year risk of ESKD was 0.8% (95%CI: 0.8–0.9%). The KFRE displayed only moderate discrimination for CKD 3 and 5 (c = 0.76) but excellent discrimination for CKD 4 (c = 0.86), with good calibration for CKD 3–4 patients but suboptimal calibration for CKD 5. Calibration by CKD stage was similar to KFRE for the KPNW equation but displayed worse calibration across CKD stages for 1-year ESKD prediction.

Conclusions

In a large, ethnically diverse, community-based CKD 3–5 population, both the KFRE and KPNW equation were suboptimal in accurately predicting the 1-year risk of ESKD within CKD stage 3 and 5, but more accurate for stage 4. Our findings suggest these equations can be used in1-year prediction for CKD 4 patients, but also highlight the need for more personalized, stage-specific equations that predicted various short- and long-term adverse outcomes to better inform overall decision-making.
Household food security access and dietary diversity amidst COVID-19 pandemic in rural Nepal; an evidence from rapid assessment
Authors: K. C. Dirghayu , Shrestha Namuna , Shrestha Rachana , Sunuwar Dev Ram , Poudyal Anil
Published: November 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic led to surging concerns about food insecurity status throughout the world. In response to global and national concerns on food and nutrition security, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and determining factors of household food insecurity and dietary diversity among people from selected rural municipalities of Lalitpur district, Nepal.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 432 households. Pretested structured questionnaires were used to collect socio-demographic characteristics of the participants, household income; influence of COVID-19 on their income and livelihood, household’s access to food and dietary diversity. Food insecurity was measured using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) and the Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS). A multivariable analysis was done using binary logistic regression model following a bivariate analysis to assess the association between the dependent and independent variables.

Results

More than one-third (36%) of the households reported some form of food insecurity. The overall mean score for Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS) was 6.0 (±1.1). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that participants aged 41–64 years (aOR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.21–0.59), those over 64 years (aOR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.07–0.66), as well as those in service occupation (aOR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.06–0.77) were associated with lower odds of HFIAS. Conversely, Participants belonging to a disadvantaged ethnic group (aOR = 2.73, 95% CI: 1.23–6.07), having no education (aOR = 3.70, 95% CI: 1.16–11.71) or primary education (aOR = 3.67, 95% CI: 1.23–9.89), and those suffering from chronic illness (aOR = 3.12, 95% CI: 1.53–6.35) were associated with higher odds of HFIAS. As for HDDS, participants aged 41–64 years (aOR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.28–0.83) were associated with lower odds of HDDS, while participants having no education (aOR = 10.05, 95% CI: 4.05–24.01) were associated with significantly higher odds of HDDS.

Conclusion

Owing to the pandemic, our study showed a substantial prevalence of food insecurity among diverse community residing in rural outskirts of Kathmandu Valley, particularly among disadvantaged ethnic group and people with lower level of education. Interventions targeting these particular groups may help in improving HFIAS and HDDS among them during emergencies.
Exposure to low levels of hydrogen sulphide and its impact on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung function in the geothermal area of Mt. Amiata in Italy: The cross-sectional InVETTA study
Authors: Stoppa Giorgia , Nuvolone Daniela , Petri Davide , Centi Letizia , Nisticò Francesca , Crocetti Emanuele , Barbone Fabio , Voller Fabio
Published: November 2023

Background

The geothermal power plants for electricity production currently active in Italy are all located in Mt. Amiata area in the Tuscany region. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the framework of the regional project “InVETTA—Biomonitoring Survey and Epidemiological Evaluations for the Protection of Health in the Amiata Territories”, using objective measures of lung function to investigate the role of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) in affecting the respiratory health of the population living in this area.

Methods

2018 adults aged 18–70 were enrolled during 2017–2019. Home and workplace addresses of participants were geocoded. Dispersion modelling was used to evaluate the spatial variability of exposure to H2S from the geothermal power plants’ emissions. We estimated average long-term historical exposure to H2S and more recent exposure indicators. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) was defined according to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD). Multivariable logistic regressions were performed to investigate associations between outcome and exposure.

Results

Our findings did not showed any evidence of an association between increasing H2S exposure and lung function impairments. Some risk reductions were observed: a -32.8% (p = 0.003) for FEV1<80% and a -51.7% (p = 0.001) risk decrease for FVC<80% were associated with interquartile increase (13.8 μg/m3) of H2S levels.

Conclusion

Our study provides no evidence that chronic exposure to low levels of H2S is associated with decrements in pulmonary function, suggesting that ambient H2S exposure may benefit lung function.
Sex differences in post-operative outcomes following non-cardiac surgery
Authors: Wu Kai Yi , Wang Xiaoming , Youngson Erik , Gouda Pishoy , Graham Michelle M.
Published: November 2023

It is uncertain whether sex is an independent risk factor for poor outcomes after non-cardiac surgery. We examined sex differences in short- and long-term mortality and morbidity in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery in Alberta, Canada. Using linked administrative databases, we identified patients undergoing one of 45 different non-cardiac surgeries who were hospitalized between 2008 and 2019. Adjusted odds ratios (95% CI) were reported for mortality at 30-days, 6-months, and 1-year stratified by sex. Secondary outcomes including all-cause hospitalization, hospitalization for heart failure (HF), hospitalization for acute coronary syndrome (ACS), hospitalization for infection, hospitalization for stroke, and hospitalization for bleeding were also analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression was adjusted for age, sex, surgery type, the components of the Charlson Comorbidity Index, and the Revised Cardiac Risk Index. We identified 552,224 unique patients who underwent non-cardiac surgery of which 304,408 (55.1%) were female. Male sex was a predictor of mortality at 30-days (aOR 1.25 (1.14, 1.38), p<0.0001), 6-months (aOR 1.26 (1.20, 1.33), p<0.0001), and 1-year (aOR 1.25 (1.20, 1.31), p<0.0001). Similarly, male sex was a predictor of hospital readmission at 30-days (1.12 (1.09, 1.14), p<0.0001), 6-months (aOR 1.11 (1.10, 1.13), p<0.0001), and 1-year (aOR 1.06 (1.04, 1.07), p<0.0001). When the results were stratified by age, the effect of male sex on clinical outcome diminished for age ≥ 65years compared to younger patients. In conclusion, male patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery have higher risks of all-cause mortality and readmission after adjustment for baseline risk factor differences, particularly in those under 65-years-old. The overall incidence of readmission for stroke, bleeding, HF and ACS after non-cardiac surgery was low. The impact of male sex on clinical outcomes decreases with increasing age, suggesting the importance of considering the effect of both sex and age on clinical outcomes after non-cardiac surgery.
Reclaiming tradition, fashioning citizenship: Ankara in contemporary Brazilian Afrocentric fashion
Authors: Maia Dandara
Published: November 2023

This article explores the ways in which fashion consumption shaped the understandings of citizenship and belonging in colonial and postcolonial Nigeria and Brazil. It focuses on ankara, a printed textile that was brought to West Africa by European merchants and Christian missionaries. The article examines how African materials, such as ankara, challenged modern beauty standards and have been used to control people during colonization. In Nigeria, ankara became a symbol of the new Christian citizen, while in contemporary Brazil, it was used to challenge western fashion and celebrate African heritage. The article uses visual art, literature and interviews with fashion designers in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Salvador to show how ankara has become a part of Afrocentric Brazilian fashion. Overall, the study of ankara shows how fashion has been used as a tool of oppression and how its oppressive history is in the process of changing, thanks to modern Afro-Brazilian fashion designers.
I Africanize São Paulo
Authors: Gillam Reighan
Published: November 2023

The essay briefly discusses the use of T-shirts that affirm Black identity in Brazil.
CNIB: Focus on the Future
Authors: ACO CAO
Published: November 2023

In Canada, CNIB is the first place people turn to when they discover they are facing significant vision loss. CNIB helps people regain their independence by providing access to specialized rehabilitation services, innova­tive consumer products, and one of the world's largest libraries for people with print disabilities. Recently, the 88-year-old organization has made some changes, including a new brand and visual identity, as well as an exciting new approach to research.
An interplay between dermatology and ophthalmology: a systematic review and meta-analysis on intense pulsed light therapy for Meibomian gland dysfunction
Authors: Sambhi Raman-Deep Singh , Sambhi Gagan Deep Singh , Malvankar-Mehta Monali
Published: November 2023

Objectives: To examine the effectiveness of intense pulsed light therapy (IPL) in treating Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and dry eye symptoms. Methods: This study was conducted following the PRISMA statement guidelines. Literature sources included MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library and meeting abstracts from COS and ARVO. Articles underwent 3 stages of screening before data extraction and meta-analysis. Results: 493 studies were found. 50 remained after title screening, 23 after abstract screening and 8 progressed to data extraction. Meta-analysis indicated a significant increase in tear break-up time (TBUT) post-IPL in the less than 1-month follow-up (SMD=1.45; CI:[0.33, 2.57]), 1.5–2 months follow-up (SMD=2.08; CI: [1.14, 3.01]), and 3-months follow-up (SMD=3.28; CI:[2.78, 3.78]) groups and a non-significant increase in TBUT in the 6-month follow-up  (SMD=1.90; CI:[-0.18, 3.98]) and at 12-months follow-up (SMD=0.0; CI:[-0.48, 0.48]) groups. Meta-analysis also indicated a significant increase in Schirmer’s test values during the less than 1-month (SMD=0.91; CI:[0.50, 1.31]) and 6-month (SMD=0.65; CI:[0.25, 1.04]) follow-up periods and a non-significant increase in Schirmer’s test values during the 1.5–2 month follow-up period (SMD=0.41; CI:[-0.93, 1.75]). Conclusions: The results suggested a significant increase up to 5-months and a non-significant increase at 6-months post-IPL for TBUT. They also suggested a significant increase in Schirmer’s test values during the less than 1-month and 6-month follow-up periods and a non-significant increase in Schirmer’s test values during the 1-month follow-up period. Ultimately, IPL seems to be a promising therapy for MGD, but we recommend future studies with longer follow-up periods.
Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Series of Cases Optometry Should Not Miss
Authors: Howard Danielle Marie , Curry Jeffery , Wingard Michael
Published: November 2023

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a highly prevalent non-melanoma skin cancer that exhibits potentially lethal behavior when left untreated. With the number of cases rising each year secondary to ultraviolet light exposure, eye care clinicians can expect to encounter many cases of BCC throughout their professional career. Because the lids and periocular adnexa are considered high-risk sun-exposed skin, optometrists are well-positioned to recognize and refer patients for treatment prior to the development of significant cosmetic and life-threatening damage. The following is a presentation of three cases suspicious for BCC in varying facial locations followed by a review of clinical features and appropriate treatment options.
Інтеграція України до Європейського Союзу у контексті розвитку теорії поля П.Бурдьє
Authors: Сокол Майя
Published: November 2023

У статті досліджено шлях інтеграції України до Європейського Союзу у контексті застосування теорії соціального поля французького соціолога П’єра Бурдьє.

Досліджено основний категорійний апарат, поняття агентів, гравців, соціального поля, капіталу. Проведено аналогії із гравцями між Україною та ЄС, а результат інтеграції розглядається з точки зору єдиного поля. Розглянуто основні принципи соціального поля, зокрема взаємний вплив та досягнення власних інтересів агентами поля.

Метою статті є дослідження шляху Європейської інтеграції України з точки зору теорії соціального поля П. Бурдьє.

Актуальність статті обумовлена сучасним становищем України на шляху євроінтеграції, і необхідністю застосовувати дієві інструменти дослідження, прогнозу та аналізу ситуації.

У статті обумовлюється, що теорія П. Бурдьє є дієвим інструментом при дослідженні інтеграції України до ЄС, який дає змогу прогнозувати позитивні і негативні фактори об’єднання, визначає перешкоди і протиріччя в умовах досягнення інтересів агентами поля.

Результатом даної статті є моделювання входження України до ЄС з точки зору теорії П. Бурдьє. Простір об’єднання визнається соціальним полем; Україна та ЄС наділяються властивостями агентів – учасників поля, введеним П. Бурдьє. Зокрема, розглядається характеристика валентності агентів як їх питома вага, та взаємний вплив один на одного як невід’ємний результат взаємодії та базова характеристика поля. Наводяться приклади взаємного впливу двох суспільств у процесі інтеграції в різних сферах, зазначаються можливі позитивні і негативні варіанти інтеграції. Наводяться дані про складність державних систем, які інтегруються, та проектуються шляхи подолання супротиву даних систем змінам, які відбуваються.

Логічно обумовлюється висновок про закономірність і позитивний наслідок входження України до ЄС, підкреслюється ефективність позиції партнерства. Обґрунтовується актуальність подальших досліджень та необхідність більш детального погляду на проблему з точки зору теорії поля.
Arabic Verbal Humor: An Exploration of Non-Observance of Cooperative Principle on Social Media
Authors: Alkaraki Sulaiman Mohammad Shlash , Maros Marlyna , Alias Norhayati Binti
Published: November 2023

This paper explores how Jordanians violated and flouted Grice's Cooperative Principle maxims and the purposes behind their non-observance in creating Arabic humor related to the COVID-19 pandemic on AlMamlaka and Roya Jordanians' Facebook accounts. The study conducted qualitative content analysis on 12 Facebook comments from March to September 2020 and found that Jordanians violated and flouted all the maxims to convey their hidden messages. The analysis revealed that the purposes of the non-observance were to generate implicatures and highlight various issues faced by Jordanians during the pandemic. These issues included government announcements, non-compliance with health guidelines, conspiracy theories about the virus's origin, impacts on family relationships, discomfort from wearing masks, the boredom of lockdown and some geographical areas targeted for their early source of spreading the virus. The findings indicate that humor can serve as an effective tool for highlighting social and political issues. The study recommends exploring the non-observance of cooperative maxims in different contexts and how it affects the interpretation and reception of humor. Overall, the study suggests that humor played a significant role in addressing and discussing the situation in Jordan during the pandemic.
What’s a Name? Uncovering the Heortonyms in Sundanese Ethnicity in West Java: An Ethnolinguistic Study
Authors: Machdalena Susi , Dienaputra Reiza D. , Suryadimulya Agus Suherman , Nugraha Awaludin , Kartika Nyai , Yuliawati Susi
Published: November 2023

This article provides an ethnolinguistic perspective of the names of various types of holidays, celebrations (heortonyms), traditions, and rituals of the Sundanese people. A descriptive qualitative method was employed to collect heortonymic data from written and unwritten sources, observations, electronic sources, in-depth interviews, and literature studies. These data were then analyzed using an ethnolinguistic approach, combining cultural and language aspects through ethnographic methods. In the cultural elements closely related to anthropology, the researchers obtained data on the system and social interaction that prevail in society. Meanwhile, in the language aspects, the data on the form and function of language in society were also gathered. The data were presented by describing the results of the data analysis. The results of this study indicated that Sundanese heortonyms could be divided into religious heortonyms (such as Eid-Al-Adha, Eid-Al-Fitr, and Isra Mi’raj), activities related to Ramadan fasting, activities related to sacred historical events (like Muludan, Rajaban), activities related to work (like the Seren Tahun tradition), activities related to various stages of human life, and practices aimed at avoiding calamities. From the discussion, it was found that these heortonyms, along with the multicultural environment, give rise to loanwords from other languages, especially Arabic. These heortonyms are directly related to history and the construction of worldviews and beliefs and are seen as distinctive language and cultural markers reflecting Sundanese values and identity.
Social–Societal Context Element Changes in Cyberpragmatics Perspective
Authors: Rahardi R. Kunjana
Published: November 2023

This article aims to describe evidence of change to the social–societal context seen from the cyber pragmatic perspective. The substantive data sources were texts on social media in which there were objects and data of this research. The data were collected by using the observation method equipped with note-taking techniques and recording techniques. Data were analyzed by applying the contextual analysis method. We applied the contextual analysis method or the extra lingual analysis method because of the cyberpragmatic perspective of this research with a virtual external context as the main determinant of its meaning. Before the analysis, data that were classified and typified properly were triangulated with the expert and consulted on relevant theories. The results show that the social–societal context element changes occur in the following context elements: (1) setting, (2) participants, (3) ends, and (4) instrumentalities. Setting element changes occurred in the aspects of venue, time, and atmosphere. The instrumental element changed in the aspects of the kinds of tools and the range of errand communication. The participant element changed in the aspects of perception of gender, age, and social status, and the last element, changed in the aspects of monodimensional goal manifestation and multidimensional goal manifestation.
Jordanian Arabic Language Teachers’ Self-Assessment of Their Language Teaching Approach Practices
Authors: Al Khazaleh Tamam Hamdan , Hawamdeh Mohammad F.
Published: November 2023

The present study measured the Arabic teachers’ evaluation degree of their language teaching approaches to reveal any statistically significant differences in the degree of their practices resulting from the variables of gender, educational qualification, and years of experience. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, the researchers developed a questionnaire of 30 items equally distributed to three approach groups: Integrative Approach Practice, Functional Approach Practice, and Communicative Approach Practice. The study sample consisted of 204 female and male Arabic teachers who were selected following the simple random method. The results of the study revealed that the Arabic teachers’ evaluation degree of their language teaching approach practices was high; with the Integrative Approach Practice at the top, followed by the Functional Approach Practice, and finally by the Communicative Approach Practice. However, no statistically significant differences were found in terms of teachers’ educational qualification, gender, or years of experience. The results are pedagogically analyzed, and a number of recommendations were set forth for teaching language and future directions of research.
Genome-to-Treatment and Begin Newborn Genomic Screening: A Review of System Guides for the Acute Management and Newborn Screening Follow-up of Genetic Disorders in Infants and Children
Authors: Smith Laurie , Willis Mary , Feigenbaum Annette , Scharer Gunter , Mardach Rebecca , Hansen Christian , Kingsmore Stephen
Published: November 2023

Many rare genetic conditions have effective interventions; however, without timely implementation, these conditions can progress to severe morbidity and even mortality. For the most relentlessly progressive conditions, a rapid molecular diagnosis alone is not sufficient to improve outcomes in these conditions. Frontline physicians are frequently unfamiliar with many of these conditions and their treatments. Additionally, the field of genetics is rapidly expanding and new conditions along with new interventions are being increasingly described. Here we present a review of the development and use of two linked automated systems developed to help overcome this problem. The first, GTR X (gene to treatment) has been developed to assist with the management of the acutely ill neonate infant or child in the neonatal or pediatric intensive care unit found to have a recognized genetic disease. Subsequently with expansion of newborn screening to potentially involve rapid next generation sequencing of newborns in parallel with the current analyte based newborn screening, we have developed an additional system, BeginNGS, intended to be used with currently available ACTion (ACT) sheets that will address both recommended confirmatory testing and initial interventions, particularly focusing on conditions that are not amenable to conventional newborn screening.
ВИБІР ДЖЕРЕЛА ВИПАДКОВОСТІ ДЛЯ КОМП’ЮТЕРНОГО МОДЕЛЮВАННЯ
Authors: Щербина Юрій , Казакова Надія , Фразе-Фразенко Олексій , Лаптєв Олександр , Собчук Андрій
Published: November 2023

У статті розглядаються проблеми вибору джерела випадковості для комп’ютерного моделювання стохастичних процесів, що використовується для дослідження характеристик потоків подій безпеки в розподілених комп’ютерних мережах, на етапі проектування складних автоматизованих систем та процесів, які мають місце в управлінні виробництвом та інфраструктурними об’єктами. Складовою частиною комп’ютерної моделі є джерело випадковості, яке формує рівномірно розподілений потік випадкових цілих або дійсних чисел. Воно повинно формувати потік рівномірно розподілених чисел і, в той же час, бути економічним з точки зору обчислювальних ресурсів. В роботі надано аналіз простих генераторів псевдовипадкових чисел, в алгоритмі яких використовуються прості комп’ютерні операції. До складу таких генераторів віднесені генератор Фібоначчі з запізненням та запропонований Дж. Марсальєю генератор Xorshift128. Відзначено, що будь-яка нерівномірність розподілення чисел на виході генератора, суттєво впливає на якість процесу, який підлягає моделюванню. На основі результатів проведених досліджень існуючих способів постоброблення вихідних послідовностей, зроблено висновок про те, для забезпечення ефективності алгоритму формування потоку рівномірно роз-поділених псевдовипадкових чисел, процедури додаткового оброблення повинні бути достатньо економічними з точки зору задіяних методів обчислення. Оцінка нерівномірності розподілення числового потоку виконувалась з використанням показника хі-квадрат Пірсона. Для корекції вихідного числового потоку запропоновано і обґрунтовано спосіб екстракції з нього тої його частини, ентропія якої найбільша. Також, обґрунтовано параметри гістограми, що дають хороші результати оцінки вихідного розподілення. Показано, що комбінація простого і економічного генератора псевдовипадкових чисел в сукупності з постобробленням дає хороші результати при мінімальних обчислювальних ресурсах.
Influence of Shortened Tongue Frenulum on Tongue Mobility, Speech and Occlusion
Authors: Dydyk Aldona , Milona Marta , Janiszewska-Olszowska Joanna , Wyganowska Marzena , Grocholewicz Katarzyna
Published: November 2023

(1) The incidence of ankyloglossia ranges from 0.02 to 10.7%. The literature describes the effect of ankyloglossia on selected dysfunctions of the stomatognathic system, however no studies could be found reporting the influence of ankyloglossia on the occurrence of several disorders in a group of subjects. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of lingual frenulum on swallowing, speech, occlusion, and periodontal status; (2) Methods: The subjects were 172 patients, 86 with ankyloglossia (study group) and 86 with normal tongue frenulum (control group). In all subjects, the length of tongue frenulum, the type of swallowing, tongue mobility, occlusion, periodontal status and speech abnormalities were assessed; (3) Results: All subjects from the control group and all those with mild ankyloglossia showed normal tongue mobility. A limited tongue mobility was found in 29.4% subject with moderate and in 70.6% subjects with severe ankyloglossia. Rhotacism was observed in 21.3% subjects with normal frenulum, in 2.1% with mild, 38.3% with moderate, and 38.3% with severe ankyloglossia. Malocclusion or crowding was diagnosed in subjects with mild, moderate and severe ankyloglossia in 7.4%, 33.9% and 20.7% subjects (total 62%), respectively, whereas in the control group - in 21.6% subjects. No abnormalities in the periodontium in the area of the lingual surfaces of the crowns of the lower central incisors were found in any of the examined persons. Among patients with infantile type of swallowing 24.4% had a normal length of the tongue frenulum, 11.1% - mild, 28.9% - moderate, and 35.6 - severe ankyloglossia. Among patients presenting a mature type of swallowing 58.7% had a normal length of the frenulum; (4) Conclusions: 1.A shortened tongue frenulum correlates with “infantile swallowing pattern”. 2. Moderate or severe ankyloglossia significantly limits tongue mobility. 3. Short tongue frenulum is related to speech disorders.
Utilizing Inter-Sectoral Linkages to Drive Economic Transformation: A Theoretical Model for the Extractive Sector
Authors: Weldegiorgis Fitsum , Dietsche Evelyn , Franks Daniel M.
Published: November 2023

This article postulates that, in principle, it is possible (1) to develop linkages between the extractive sector and other economic sectors; (2) for such linkages to contribute to economic diversification; and (3) for economic diversification to potentially drive positive economic transformation. We argue that achieving this three-stepped pathway is impossible without also achieving some level of political and social transformation. Empirically, many resource-rich countries have failed to develop linkages. Or, if they have, the linkages built remain limited to the development of supply chains serving the extractive sector, contributing little to economic diversification. In this article, we refer to limited linkages and dependence on exporting unprocessed minerals as the centripetal force of the extractive sector. This implies that capital investments and economic activities are concentrated around the extractive sector. We propose an alternative theoretical model that strives to foster the centrifugal force of the extractive sector – a term we use to capture the three-stepped pathway. This model is underpinned by multiple factors and their interactions, which are within the purview of the complex state and market relationship (posing as a challenge) and the role of minerals in the global transformation towards a clean energy system (posing as an opportunity).
The Next Frontier in Energy Storage: A Game-Changing Guide to Advances in Solid-State Battery Cathodes
Authors: Machín Abniel , Márquez Francisco
Published: November 2023

As the global community shifts away from fossil fuels towards more environmentally friendly energy alternatives, there is an escalating demand for sophisticated energy storage solutions. Solid-State Batteries (SSBs) have emerged as a promising advancement, presenting a superior substitute to conventional lithium-ion batteries. This review provides an in-depth examination of SSBs, emphasizing their enhanced energy density, safety, and longevity. We evaluate conventional cathode materials, including lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4), and lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4). Additionally, we introduce emerging materials such as sulfides, oxides, and air-based cathodes, discussing their benefits, limitations, and their congruence with solid electrolytes. Special attention is devoted to the structural fine-tuning of cathode ma-terials, investigating approaches like nanostructuring, surface coatings, and composite strategies to counteract issues such as restricted conductivity and structural volatility. The review critically analyzes the electrical and thermal properties of these materials, which are essential for battery safety and efficacy. Moreover, we present a comparative assessment of cathode materials based on performance indicators and identify prevailing research voids and hurdles in the commerciali-zation of SSB cathodes. Concluding, we suggest prospective research directions and innovations, underscoring the revolutionary potential of SSB technologies in paving the way for a sustainable energy horizon.
A Low Complexity Microwave Imaging System for Food Product Inspection through a Symmetry-Based Microwave Imaging Approach
Authors: Bellizzi Gennaro , Buzzin Alessio , Crocco Lorenzo , Mastrandrea Antonio , Zeni Noemi , Zumbo Sabrina , Cavagnaro Marta
Published: November 2023

In food industry, there is a growing demand for cost-effective methods for inline inspection of food items able to non-invasively detect small foreign bodies which may have contaminated the product during the production process. Microwave imaging may be a valid alternative to the existing technologies, thanks to its inherently low-cost and its capability of sensing low-density contaminants. In this paper, a low-complexity microwave imaging system specifically designed to enable the inspection of a large variety of food products is presented. The system consists of two Circularly Loaded Antipodal Vivaldi Antennas, having a very large operative band, from 1 to 15 GHz, thus allowing a suitable spatial resolution for different food products from mostly fatty to high water-content ones. The antennas are arranged in such a way to collect the signal useful to exploit a recently proposed real-time microwave imaging strategy, leveraging the inherent symmetries usually characterizing food items. The system is experimentally characterized, and the achieved results compare favorably with the design specifications and the numerical simulations. Relying on these positive results, a first experimental proof of the effectiveness of the whole system is presented, which confirms its efficacy.
Analgesic Strategies for Urologic Surgery in the Context of an Enhanced Recovery after Surgery Protocol: A Retrospective Study Comparing Erector Spinae Palne Block versus Transversus Abdominis Plane Block
Authors: Micali Marco , Cucciolini Giada , Bertoni Giulia , Gandini Michela , Lattuada Marco , Santori Gregorio , Introini Carlo , Corradi Francesco , Brusasco Claudia
Published: November 2023

Regional anesthesia in postoperative pain management have developed in recent years, especially with the advent of fascial plane blocks. This study aims to compare the ultrasound-guided bilateral erector spinae plane block (ESPB) versus bilateral transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) on postoperative analgesia after laparoscopic or robotic urologic surgery. This was a retrospective observational study; 97 patients (ESPB-group) received bilateral ultrasound-guided ESPB with 20 mL of ropivacaine 0.375% plus 0.5 mcg/kg of dexmedetomidine in each side at the level of T7-T9, and 93 patients (TAPB-group) received bilateral ultrasound-guided TAPB with ropivacaine 0.375% or 0.25%. The primary outcome was post-operative numeric rating scale (NRS) pain score, which was significantly lower in the ESPB-group on postoperative days 0, 2, and 3 (p=0.012, p=0.016 and p=0.004). Concerning the secondary outcomes, consumption of ropivacaine was significantly lower in ESPB-group (p<0.001) and the total amount of analgesic rescue doses was significantly lower in the ESPB-group than TAPB-group in postoperative days from 2 to 4 (1 vs 3, p>0.001). Incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting was higher in the TAPB-group and no block related complications were observed. We conclude that ESPB provide better postoperative pain control with less consumption of local anesthetic and less total rescue analgesic therapies.
Understanding the Origins of Quark charges, Quantum of Magnetic Flux, Planck’s radiation constant and celestial magnetic moments with 4G model of nuclear charge
Authors: U.V Satya Seshavatharam , S Lakshminarayana
Published: November 2023

In our previous published papers, considering 3 large atomic gravitational constants assumed to be associated with weak, strong and electromagnetic interactions, we have proposed the existence of a nuclear charge of magnitude, en=2.95e and developed a nuclear mass formula associated with strong and weak interactions having 4 simple terms and only one energy coefficient. Two important assumptions are, there exists a weak fermion of rest energy 585 GeV and strong coupling constant is the squared ratio of electromagnetic charge and nuclear charge. The aim of this paper is associated with understanding the mystery of quantum of magnetic flux, Planck’s quantum radiation constant and Reduced Planck’s constant. Proceeding further, quark charges, strong coupling constant, nuclear stability, nuclear binding energy, medium and heavy atomic X-ray levels and celestial magnetic moments can be understood in a unified approach. It may also be noted that, by considering integral nature of elementary particle masses, it seems possible to understand the discreteness of angular momentum. Considering our proposed en=2.95e=3e as a characteristic nuclear charge, it seems possible to understand the integral nature of quarks electromagnetic charge. With this idea, neutron, proton and pions decay can be understood very easily. In all the cases, up quark of charge (±2e) seems to play a crucial role with the internal transformation of down quark of charge (±e) and external observable elementary basic elementary particles. It needs further study at fundamental level.