bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on educational transformation in African higher education: a systematic literature review on rural universities
Authors: Ajani Oluwatoyin Ayodele , Maphalala Mncedisi Christian
Published: December 2023

COVID-19 was a pandemic that hit the global world in late 2019, and by 2020 the international sectors were grounded with lockdowns. The lockdowns restricted human movement and gatherings to control the fast-rising waves of the deadly virus across the globe. The education system was significantly impacted as schools were shut down. Thus, academic activities conventionally face-to-face in African learning institutions were suspended for months before teaching and learning was transited to online, amidst many challenges, prospects and opportunities. Hence, this systematic literature review investigates the multifaceted impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on educational transformation within African higher education, especially rural universities in the South African context. The review synthesises peer-reviewed articles, reports, and studies published from early 2020 to the present, analysing the challenges institutions face, innovative strategies employed, and potential long-term implications. The findings highlight the rapid shift to online learning, equity and inclusivity concerns, pedagogical innovations, assessment modifications, faculty development initiatives, and mental health considerations. The review underscores the pandemic's role in accelerating educational change and promoting the adoption of technology-enhanced learning in African higher education while also emphasising the importance of addressing digital disparities and ensuring educational equity.
Fekete-Szego and Zalcman Functional Estimates for Subclasses of Alpha-Convex Functions Related to Trigonometric Functions
Authors: Marimuthu Krishnan , Jayaraman Uma , BULBOACA TEODOR
Published: December 2023

In this study we introduce the new classes $\mathcal{M}_{\alpha}(\sin)$ and $\mathcal{M}_{\alpha}(\cos)$ of $\alpha$-convex functions associated with sine and cosine functions. Also, we obtain the initial coefficient bounds for the first five coefficients of the functions that belong to these classes. Further, we determine the upper bound of Zalcman functional for the class $\mathcal{M}_{\alpha}(\cos)$ for the case $n=3$, showing that the Zalcman conjecture holds for this value. Moreover, the problem of the Fekete-Szeg\H{o} functional estimate for these classes is studied.
Transforaminal Endoscopic Lumbar Lateral Recess Decompression for Octogenarian Patients
Authors: Ahn Yong , Jung Jun Hyeok
Published: December 2023

The incidence of radiculopathy due to lumbar spinal stenosis has been on the increase in the aging population. However, patients aged 80 years hesitate to undergo conventional open surgery under general anesthesia because of the risk of postoperative morbidity and adverse events. Therefore, less invasive surgical alternatives are required for the elderly or medically handicapped patients. Transforaminal endoscopic lumbar lateral recess decompression (TELLRD) may be helpful for those patients. This study aimed to demonstrate the efficacy of TELLRD for treating radiculopathy in octogenarian patients. A total of 21 consecutive octogenarian patients with lumbar foraminal stenosis underwent TELLRD between January 2017 and January 2021. The inclusion criterion was unilateral radiculopathy, which stemmed from lumbar lateral recess stenosis. The pain source was verified using imaging studies and selective nerve blocks. Full-scale lateral canal decompression was performed using a percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic approach under local anesthesia. We found the pain scores and functional status improved significantly during the 24-month follow-up period. The clinical improvement rate was 95.24% (20 of 21 patients) with no systemic complication. In conclusion, endoscopic lateral recess decompression via the transforaminal approach is practical for octogenarian patients while reducing the medical risks of aggressive open surgery.
Optimizing Forest Fire Prediction: A Comparative Analysis of Machine Learning Models through Feature Selection and Time-Stage Evaluation
Authors: Khosravi Hamed , Shafie Mohammad Reza , Raihan Ahmed Shoyeb , Syed Md Asif Bin , Ahmed Imtiaz
Published: December 2023

Despite being considered as natural components of many ecosystems, forest fires pose significant threats to the environment and human health. In order to ensure public safety and effective fire suppression planning, it is necessary to develop reliable prediction models to mitigate forest fire danger. These models should account for specific environmental conditions. The advent of big data in recent years has opened new avenues for improving forest fire predictions. Machine learning techniques, surpassing traditional forecasting methods, have shown significant promise in this area. By applying the Cross-Industry Standard Process for Data Mining (CRISP-DM) methodology to a real-world dataset, this paper explores the application of machine learning approaches to understand forest fire patterns and predict fire danger. We consider six distinct time stages and incorporate feature selection to refine our predictions. It is important to note that forest fire behavior models are not universally effective due to geographical variations in data. Nevertheless, advanced decision-making techniques are vital in forest fire management. Our research presents a systematic exploration of the topic, comparing various machine learning models, thereby providing a comprehensive baseline for future investigations in this crucial environmental arena.
Study on Failure Energy per Unit Area of Concrete Specimens Based on Minimum Energy Dissipation Theory
Authors: Liang Xinyu , Wu Zengbiao
Published: December 2023

In order to study the strength changes of concrete specimens under different loading conditions, based on the principle of minimum energy dissipation and from the Angle of concrete failure energy per unit area, the finite element numerical simulation software was applied to concrete specimens with different failure modes of tension, compression, bending and torsion, and the double-broken line damage constitutive model was adopted to simulate and analyze the failure forms of concrete specimens under different loading conditions. The failure area and failure energy of each specimen during loading were quantitatively calculated under each failure mode, and the relationship between the failure area and failure energy consumed under different failure modes was analyzed. The results show that under different failure modes, the failure area of concrete specimens is different, the energy consumed during failure is different, and the strength is different. However, in the process of failure, no matter how the failure mode changes, the failure energy W per unit area remains unchanged and is a constant, which is related to the physical properties of concrete itself.
Relapses and Serious Infections In Patients with Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder Treated with Rituximab: A Swedish Cohort Study
Authors: Carlsson Olof , Jonsson Dagur Ingi , Brundin Lou , Iacobaeus Ellen
Published: December 2023

Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) is a rare immune-mediated relapsing-remitting disease of the central nervous system. The usage of rituximab, to prevent NMOSD relapses, is common in Sweden, but the knowledge on long-term efficacy and risk for severe infections are limited. We performed a retrospective cohort study with medical chart review of rituximab-treated NMOSD patients at the Karolinska University Hospital, Sweden, to assess the occurrence of relapses and severe infectious events (SIE). Furthermore, we collected data on CD19+ lymphocyte, and IgG levels during therapy. A total of 42 NMOSD patients; 24 with aquaporin -4 antibodies (AQP4+), eight with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies (MOG+) and 10 with absence of antibodies (double-seronegative) were included. During a mean treatment time of 4.4 years, 37% AQP4+, 75% MOG+, and 60% double-seronegative patients experienced 1 relapse. SIEs were common with 46% of AQP4+, 25% of MOG+, and 40% of double-seronegative patients affected. Incomplete CD19+ lymphocyte suppression did not predict a relapse and there was no correlation between IgG levels and SIEs. In conclusion, our data demonstrated a high risk for both relapses and SIEs in rituximab-treated NMOSD patients highlighting the need for close clinical vigilance of disease activity and infections during treatment.
The NLRP3 Inflammasome as a Pathogenic Player Showing Therapeutic Potential in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Its Comorbidities: A Narrative Review
Authors: Chen Po-Ku , Tang Kuo-Tung , Chen Der-Yuan
Published: December 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease characterized by chronic synovitis and progressive destruction of cartilage and bone. RA is commonly accompanied by extra-articular comorbidities. The pathogenesis of RA and its comorbidities is complex and not completely elucidated. Assembly of NLRP3 inflammasome activates caspase-1, which induces the maturation of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 and leads to cleavage of gasdermin D with promot-ing pyroptosis. Although the available therapeutic agents are effective for RA treatment, their high cost and increased infection rate are causes for concern. Recent evidence revealed the components of NLRP3 inflammasome as potential therapeutic targets in RA and its comorbidities. This nar-rative review summarizes the current research evidence regarding the pathogenic role and the therapeutic potential of NLRP3 inflammasome in RA and its comorbidities.
Areas covered. We searched the MEDLINE database using the PubMed interface and reviewed English-language literature on NLRP3 inflammasome from 2000 to 2023. Its pathogenic role and therapeutic potential in RA and its comorbidities are the focus of this review.
Expert opinion. NLRP3 inflammasome may play a critical role in both innate and adaptive im-munity, and its dysfunction contributes to the pathogenesis of RA and its comorbidities. Conse-quently, the components of NLRP3 inflammasome signaling represent promising therapeutic tar-gets, and ongoing research might lead to the development of new, effective treatments for RA and its comorbidities.
A Complete Pipeline for Heart Rate Extraction from Infant ECG
Authors: Mason Harry T. , Martinez-Cedillo Astrid Priscilla , Vuong Quoc C. , Garcia-de-Soria M. Carmen , Smith Stephen , Geangu Elena , Knight Marina I.
Published: December 2023

Infant electrocardiograms (ECG) and heart rates (HR) are very useful biosignals for psychological research and clinical work, but can be hard to analyze properly, particularly long form (≥5 minutes) recordings taken in naturalistic environments. Infant HRs are typically much faster than adult HRs, and so some of the underlying frequency assumptions made about adult ECGs may not hold for infants. However, the bulk of publicly available ECG approaches focus on adult data. Here, existing open-source ECG approaches are tested on infant datasets. The best performing open-source method is then modified to maximize its performance on infant data (e.g., including a 15Hz high pass filter, adding local peak correction). The HR signal is then subsequently analyzed, developing an approach for cleaning data with separate sets of parameters for the analysis of cleaner and noisier HR. A Signal Quality Index (SQI) for HR is also developed, providing insight into where a signal is recoverable and where it is not, allowing for more confidence in analysis performed on naturalistic recordings. The tools developed and reported in this paper provide a base for future analysis of infant ECG and related biophysical characteristics. Of particular importance, the proposed solutions outlined here can be efficiently applied to real-world large datasets.
Estimation of Household-Level Economic Penalties Resulting From Climate Change-Induced Events Among the Coastal Fisher of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Md. Shahidul , Islam Md. Jahirul , Haque Md. Mansurul
Published: December 2023

Climate change-induced (CCI) calamities have immense negative impacts on coastal fishers’ livelihoods by damaging and losing their household and fishery-related assets. This study aimed to determine household-level economic penalties due to CCI calamities of the coastal fisher and other coastal fishery actors of Bangladesh. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 338 coastal fisher and other coastal fishery actors living in 11 coastal districts using a random sampling technique. Results showed that the males outnumbered females [84.6% vs. 15.4%], with almost all (99.1%) living below the poverty line. Findings also showed that the coastal fisher and other coastal fishery actors had to struggle against at least three (3.12 ± 1.28) CCI catastrophes in the past five years and the yearly estimated household-level or individual partial financial penalties using ECLAC (United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean) methodology of the studied population was around BDT 18,121 (±14,367). CCI incidences such as increased number of disaster found very much significantly associated with domestic asset damage (95% C.I., χ2 = 17.75, p = <0.001) and loss in fisheries (95% C.I., χ2 = 20.72, p= <0.001]. Similarly, medium to high severity of disasters (95% C.I., χ2 = 5.24, p= 0.030) and increased winter cold shock (95% C.I., χ2 = 4.83, p= 0.032) were also significantly associated with the impoverished status of coastal fishers of Bangladesh. Climate-resilient coastal management and livelihood improvement policies implementing by the relevant authorities could reduce impending economic penalties for coastal fishing communities.
Efficacy of different types of exercise therapies in patients with stable COPD: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Shuai Zhihao , Xiao Qionghua , Ling Yutong , Yao Ting , Zhang Yong , Zhang Yanxia
Published: December 2023

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a prevalent and intractablechronic airway disease. At present, COPD is one of the diseases with the highest morbidity and mortality in the world and places a heavy economic burden on patients and society. As the most common form of pulmonary rehabilitation, exercise therapy is a very effective treatment for patients with COPD, but remains underutilized worldwide. This systematic review was designed to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of different exercise therapies (including traditional Chinese exercises) in patients with stable COPD.
Methods: Published articles were searched in sevenEnglish and Chinese databases from inception to May 2023. Two investigators independently conducted study selection and data extraction. Stata 14.0 was employed for data synthesis and analysis. The effect size was evaluated using the mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Quality assessment for each study was based on the Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) Tool in RevMan 5.4.
Results: The results of the network meta-analysis, which included 83 randomized controlled trials, showed that the best treatments for each outcome, based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curve, were breathing combined with resistance training (FVC, FEV1, CAT and mMRC), Wuqinxi (FEV1% and FEV1/FVC), Tai Chi (SGRQ, total and SGRQ, impact), Liuzijue (SGRQ, symptoms and SGRQ, activity), and Baduanjin (6MWD).
Conclusions: Breathing combined with resistance training and some traditional Chinese rehabilitation therapies (Wuqinxi, Baduanjin, Tai Chi, and Liuzijue) have shown comparative benefits for lung function, exercise capacity, and quality of life. Nevertheless, the blinded methods of the included studies could not be implemented and their methodological quality was not generally high. Additionally, there is a lack of clinical studies on the direct comparison of different exercise therapies. Therefore, further high-quality head-to-head RCTs are essential.
Additive genotoxic effects in cord blood cells upon indirect exposure to chemotherapeutic compounds crossing an in vitro placental barrier
Authors: Velazquez Carolina , Loier Lien , Struys Ilana , Verscheure Eline , Persoons Leentje , Godderis Lode , Lenaerts Liesbeth , Amant Frédéric
Published: December 2023

Prenatal exposure to toxins can adversely affect long-term health outcomes of the offspring. Though chemotherapeutics are now standard of care for treating cancer patients during pregnancy, certain compounds are known to cross the placenta and harm placental tissue. The consequences for the fetus are largely unexplored.Here we examined the responses of newborn cord blood mononuclear cells in tissue culture to two chemotherapeutic drugs, cyclophosphamide and epirubicin, when either directly exposed to these drugs, or indirectly after crossing a placenta trophoblast bilayer barrier. Cord blood mononuclear cells exposed to the conditioned media obtained from cyclophosphamide-exposed trophoblast barriers showed a significant 2.4-fold increase of nuclear ROS levels compared to direct exposure to cyclophosphamide. Indirect exposure to epirubicine-exposed trophoblast barriers not only enhanced nuclear ROS levels but also significantly increased the fraction of cord blood cells with double strand breaks, relative to directly exposed cells. Neither apoptosis nor proliferation markers were affected in cord mononuclear blood cells upon direct or indirect exposure to cyclophosphamide or epirubicin.Our data suggests that trophoblast cells exposed to cyclophosphamide or epirubicine may induce an indirect ‘bystander’ effect and can aggravate genotoxicity in the fetal compartment.
WITHDRAWN: CT Imaging-based Radiomics Predicts the Therapeutic Efficacy of 89 Sr in Treating Tumor-Induced Bone Metastases
Authors: Fang Danzhou , Fan Yongzeng , Xiao Yaofeng , Xu Zhenchun , Zhou Shunhao , Tian Yan , Shi Feng , Xia Yuwei , Yuan Gengbiao , Xiang XiaoJiao
Published: December 2023

Background
Bone metastasis is a frequent complication in advanced malignancies, leading to severe pain and reduced quality of life. Radiopharmaceuticals like Strontium-89 (89Sr) are commonly used to treat bone pain and metastasis. This study explores the potential of radiomics analysis in predicting the effectiveness of 89Sr treatment for patients with bone metastases.
Methods
The study analyzed clinical and imaging data from 146 patients with bone metastases, specifically focusing on two types of lesions: osteolytic and osteoblastic. Pain relief is judged by the ladder on which the patient takes painkillers. For osteolytic lesions, a Bagging Decision Tree machine learning model was employed for outcome prediction, while the XGBOOST model was utilized for osteoblastic lesions. Both models leveraged radiomics features extracted from these lesions to improve predictive accuracy. Model performance was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and calibration curves.
Results
In this study, the effective rate of osteolytic metastasis was 58.33%, and the treatment rate of osteolytic metastasis was 62.16%.The Bagging Decision Tree model demonstrated excellent performance in the training set for osteolytic lesions, achieving an AUC of 0.991, though it showed a slightly reduced AUC of 0.889 in the test set. For osteoblastic lesions, the XGBOOST model yielded robust results, with AUC of 0.970 in the training set and 0.958 in the test set.
Conclusion
89Sr is not only effective for osteoblastic bone metastasis, but also for osteolytic bone metastasis. This study demonstrates the value of radiomics analysis in accurately predicting the efficacy of 89Sr treatment in bone metastases. This approach aims to more precisely forecast treatment responses, aiding in the optimization of patient care strategies.
Unveiling the mechanism of diachronic changes and regional characteristics differences in the built environment of traditional villages from the perspective of color data: Evidence from Macheng City, China
Authors: TAN Gangyi , CHEN Zhanxiang , XUE Miao , JIA Yanfei
Published: December 2023

Traditional villages hold a vital place in Chinese vernacular built heritage continuation with their colors being a significant constituent of the built environment. While digital technology has advanced our understanding of built environment, current research pays attention on how color influences the environment, often overlooking temporal changes and regional differences, especially neglects color protection measures. This study establishes an diachronic image dataset using national traditional villages in Macheng City, Hubei Province. By using of K-Means and CIEDE2000 algorithms, we analyze color characteristics differences among 4 regions in Macheng City in 2022. And, we select five year’ s diachronic image data of Dongyuan Village (2017–2022) to elucidate the color changes mechanisms. The results show that: (1) Elements influenced by the government, construction techniques dissemination, and environmental factors exhibit regional similarity, while the color of wall differs significantly. (2) Dongyuan Village underwent color corrections beneficial aligned with government policies, while the color data stabilizes with minimal change in the surrounding environment. This study enhances our comprehension of traditional village color and regional characteristics changes, contributing to effective measures for the preservation of these culturally significant built heritage.
Blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) as potential mechanical vectors of the protozoan cyst and helminthic eggs in Kashmir Himalaya, India
Authors: Dar Tanveer Ahmad , Mir Altaf Hussain
Published: December 2023

Blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are an important group of non-biting flies that are potential mechanical vectors of protozoan and helminthic pathogens. The present study was carried out to isolate and identify protozoan cysts and helminthic eggs transmitted by the blowflies. Surveys were conducted at six different sites viz. butcher shops, fish markets, garbage piles, water bodies and open vegetation in Kashmir Himalaya. The flies were collected with the help of a sweeping net and using day old beef liver as bait from March 2021- March 2023. A total of 968 blowflies were collected, out of which 83 were found carrying at least one protozoan cyst and helminthic egg with six identified species of parasites. Garbage piles were recorded with the highest number of positive cases (10.81%) while human habitation had the highest transmission rate (3.3%). Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) were reported with the highest number of parasitic cyst and ova (one protozoan cyst and three helminthic eggs) while Ascaris lumbricoides and Entamoeba coli were found to be the abundant parasites reported from the surface of these flies. The number of parasites isolated from the surface of the blowflies was statistically significant (F = 9.073, df = 1 and p˂0.014) indicating a positive association between the number of parasites isolated from blowflies and the collection sites.
Improving Sequential Recommendation Performance with a Hybrid Timed GRU Framework
Authors: Sun Ruoxi , Yan Jun , Ren Fenghui
Published: December 2023

Recently, significant progress has been made in sequential recommendations with deep learning techniques. The key to the sequential recommendation lies in delving into users' sequence interaction histories to discern their preferences, as such continuous behaviours manifest the dynamic evolution of user inclinations. Most existing Recurrent neural network (RNN)-based methods focus solely on item IDs to capture users’ sequential preferences, neglecting the intricate interrelationships among the user-interacted item features when simulating the user's preference dynamic. This oversight causes them to be less adept at capturing the drifts in users' interests at the item or feature level. To address this limitation, we introduce a feature-level modelling framework into the traditional RNN-based sequential recommendation model, effectively utilizing item features on top of methods that rely solely on sequential patterns. Specifically, in our proposed model, users' preferences are constituted by their feature-level and sequential preferences. These two types of preferences are feed into different time-sensitive Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) modules (named 2TGRU) in a parallel structure to study the interrelationships between users, items, and features, highlighting the importance of these two distinct types of preferences in user modelling. We have named this model Hybrid-2TGRU. Validated on three real-world datasets, including movies and Points of Interest (POI), the model's recommendation accuracy, which considers user preferences at the feature level, has been confirmed. Experimental results show that Hybrid-2TGRU effectively combines users' sequential preferences with feature-level preferences, enabling complementary user preference modelling and enhancing recommendation performance.
Evaluation of physical and mechanical properties of epoxy composites filled with bio-fiber derived from bambara nut shell fiber
Authors: Ogah Anselm Ogah , Archibong Friday Nwankwo , Allen Maureen Awele , Nlemedim Peace Ugochinyerem , Ime Jacob Ukeme , Chima Melford Onyemaechi , Igberi Christiana Ogonna
Published: December 2023

In this work, bio-fibre composites work by blending epoxy polymer matrix with hardener and Bambara nut shell fibre (BNS) as a reinforcing filler to investigate the physical, mechanical, thermal and morphological properties of the BNS/epoxy composites. The materials herein presented have shown an excellent mechanical performance in terms of tensile, flexural, impact and hardness properties. The study shows that the maximum mechanical properties of the composites are achieved at 15 wt%, as evidenced by the SEM. The study also proved that increasing filler loading from 5-35wt% decreased the thermal properties compared to the control sample A, as evidenced by TGA/DTG. Differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) analysis demonstrated that increasing filler loading caused a drastic increase in Tg and Tm, which led to the composites becoming brittle.
Comparative study of Phytochemicals, antioxidant and antibacterial activity of Phlogacanthus thyrsiformis Nees. and Justicia adhatoda Linn
Authors: Ningthoujam Teresa , Singh Yengkhom Abinash , Laldingliani TBC , Singh Saikhom Herojit , Kumar Awadhesh
Published: December 2023

Phlogacanthus thyrsiformis Nees. and Justicia adhatoda Linn., belongs to the family Acanthaceae and is a traditional medicinal plant native to Asia and widely used in medicine of Siddha, Ayurveda, Unani, homeopathy and naturopathy. The present study addresses the comparative study of phytochemicals, antioxidant, antibacterial activity and GC-MS analysis of matured dried leaves of Phlogacanthus thyrsiformis Nees. and Justicia adhatoda Linn., using crude extracts of acetone and methanol. The phytochemical analysis shows the presence of glycosides, tannins, proteins, triterpenoids, saponins, phenols and flavonoids in both plant extracts. Ferric chloride reducing power and DPPH radical scavenging assay were also performed to test the antioxidant activity and the IC50 value was also calculated and a positive result was obtained. The crude extracts were also tested against three gram negative and two gram-positive bacteria. All extracts showed dose-dependent antibacterial activity. GC-MS chromatogram analysis of the crude extracts revealed multiple peaks indicating the presence of numerous phytochemical compounds. The result clearly shows that more compounds were identified in Justicia adhatoda Linn. methanolic extract. In this comparative study, methanol extract was found to have more activity in testing phytochemical, antioxidant and antibacterial activity and J.adhatoda Linn. has greater potential medicinal value compared to P.thyrsiformis Nees.
Resim Sanatında Sarı Renk Örneği Üzerinden Rengin Anlamlarına Bakış
Authors: Aldoğan Altay
Published: December 2023

Tarih öncesi çağlardan beri kullanıldığı bilinen sarı renk, günümüze dek sayısız sanat eserinde birçok farklı anlama gelecek şekilde kullanılmıştır. Ancak bu araştırmada sarı rengin anlamlarının neler olduğundan öte, anlam çeşitliliğini oluşturan unsurlar üzerinde durulmuştur. Bu çeşitliliği vurgulamak amacıyla konu ile ilgili seçilen resim sanatından örnekler, özellikle sarı renk-eser ilişkisi açısından değerlendirilerek renk-anlam ilişkisinin sorgulanması sağlanmıştır. Betimsel yöntemin kullanıldığı bu araştırmada; sarı renk kullanımından hareketle seçilen eserler, bu eserlerin sanatçıları ve ait oldukları dönem hakkında literatür taraması yapılmış, elde edilen bilgiler ışığında sarı renge yüklenen anlamlardaki çeşitlilik öne çıkarılmış ve bu çeşitliliğin nedenleri açıklanmaya çalışılmıştır. Bu araştırmada, sarı renk örneğinden hareketle bir renge yüklenen anlamın; zaman zaman rengin kendisinden bağımsız olduğu, onu gören kişi, zaman, mekân, durum, kültür, koşul gibi birçok değişkene bağlı olarak değer kazandığı sonucuna varılmıştır.
PROJETO BRINEQUO: FOMENTANDO SUSTENTABILIDADE E INCLUSÃO SOCIAL EM ATIVIDADES DE ENSINO E EXTENSÃO
Authors: Santos Adriane Shibata , Dickie Isadora , Cavalcanti Anna Luíza Moraes de Sá , Pfeiffer Karla
Published: December 2023

O Projeto Integrado Brinequo, vigente desde 2018, integra atividades de ensino, pesquisa e extensão na instituição de ensino superior (IES) Univille e tem por objetivo desenvolver brinquedos lúdico-educativos que serão utilizados no tratamento e na reabilitação de pessoas com deficiência (PCD) e como estímulos para idosos. Foi aplicada uma abordagem participativa, e as atividades de ensino e extensão envolveram acadêmicos de duas turmas do curso de Design da Univille na disciplina Design, Ética e Sustentabilidade. Adotou-se a metodologia de aprendizagem ativa crowd-design em um processo participativo realizado de maneira assíncrona por meio de uma plataforma online denominada Cria Junto.Como resultado das atividades de ensino e extensão, criaram-se vinte jogos lúdico-educativos – dos quais nove são para o público de pessoas com deficiência e onze para o público idoso –, que foram doados a instituições parceiras. Este artigo é uma versão estendida do artigo aprovado e apresentado no evento Ensus 2023
Extending cBioPortal for Therapy Recommendation Documentation in Molecular Tumor Boards: Development and Usability Study
Authors: Renner Christopher , Reimer Niklas , Christoph Jan , Busch Hauke , Metzger Patrick , Boerries Melanie , Ustjanzew Arsenij , Boehm Dominik , Unberath Philipp
Published: December 2023

Background

In molecular tumor boards (MTBs), patients with rare or advanced cancers are discussed by a multidisciplinary team of health care professionals. Software support for MTBs is lacking; in particular, tools for preparing and documenting MTB therapy recommendations need to be developed.

Objective

We aimed to implement an extension to cBioPortal to provide a tool for the documentation of therapy recommendations from MTB sessions in a secure and standardized manner. The developed extension should be embedded in the patient view of cBioPortal to enable easy documentation during MTB sessions. The resulting architecture for storing therapy recommendations should be integrable into various hospital information systems.

Methods

On the basis of a requirements analysis and technology analysis for authentication techniques, a prototype was developed and iteratively refined through a user-centered development process. In conclusion, the tool was evaluated via a usability evaluation, including interviews, structured questionnaires, and the System Usability Scale.

Results

The patient view of cBioPortal was extended with a new tab that enables users to document MTB sessions and therapy recommendations. The role-based access control was expanded to allow for a finer distinction among the rights to view, edit, and delete data. The usability evaluation showed overall good usability and a System Usability Scale score of 83.57.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates how cBioPortal can be extended to not only visualize MTB patient data but also be used as a documentation platform for therapy recommendations.
Evaluating the Clinical Use and Utility of a Digital Support App for Employees With Chronic Pain Returning to Work (SWEPPE): Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Turesson Christina , Liedberg Gunilla , Björk Mathilda
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

The digital app SWEPPE (sustainable worker, a digital support for persons with chronic pain and their employers) was developed to improve the support of people with chronic pain in their return-to-work process after sick leave and includes functions such as the action plan, daily self-rating, self-monitoring graphs, the coach, the library, and shared information with the employer.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to describe the use of the smartphone app SWEPPE among people with chronic pain who have participated in an interdisciplinary pain rehabilitation program.

METHODS

This is a case study including 16 people participating in a feasibility study. The analyses were based on user data collected for 3 months. Quantitative data regarding used functions were analyzed with descriptive statistics, and qualitative data of identified needs of support from the employer were grouped into 8 categories.

RESULTS

Self-monitoring was used by all participants (median 26, IQR 8-87 daily registrations). A total of 11 (N=16, 69%) participants set a work-related goal and performed weekly evaluations of goal fulfillment and ratings of their work ability. In total, 9 (56%) participants shared information with their employer and 2 contacted the coach. A total of 15 (94%) participants identified a total of 51 support interventions from their employer. Support to adapt to work assignments and support to adapt to work posture were the 2 biggest categories. The most common type of support identified by 53% (8/15) of the participants was the opportunity to take breaks and short rests.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants used multiple SWEPPE functions, such as daily self-registration, goal setting, self-monitoring, and employer support identification. This shows the flexible nature of SWEPPE, enabling individuals to select functions that align with their needs. Additional research is required to investigate the extended use of SWEPPE and how employers use shared employee information.
Moderating Effect of Depression on Glycemic Control in an eHealth Intervention Among Black Youth With Type 1 Diabetes: Findings From a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Ellis Deborah , Carcone April Idalski , Templin Thomas , Evans Meredyth , Weissberg-Benchell Jill , Buggs-Saxton Colleen , Boucher-Berry Claudia , Miller Jennifer L , Drossos Tina , Dekelbab M Bassem
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Black adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) are at increased risk for suboptimal diabetes health outcomes; however, evidence-based interventions for this population are lacking. Depression affects a high percentage of youth with T1D and increases the likelihood of health problems associated with diabetes.

OBJECTIVE

Our aim was to test whether baseline levels of depression moderate the effects of a brief eHealth parenting intervention delivered to caregivers of young Black adolescents with T1D on youths’ glycemic control.

METHODS

We conducted a multicenter randomized controlled trial at 7 pediatric diabetes clinics located in 2 large US cities. Participants (N=149) were allocated to either the intervention group or a standard medical care control group. Up to 3 intervention sessions were delivered on a tablet computer during diabetes clinic visits over a 12-month period.

RESULTS

In a linear mixed effects regression model, planned contrasts did not show significant reductions in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) for intervention adolescents compared to controls. However, adolescents with higher baseline levels of depressive symptoms who received the intervention had significantly greater improvements in HbA1c levels at 6-month follow-up (0.94%; P=.01) and 18-month follow-up (1.42%; P=.002) than those with lower levels of depression. Within the intervention group, adolescents had a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c levels from baseline at 6-month and 18-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

A brief, culturally tailored eHealth parenting intervention improved health outcomes among Black adolescents with T1D and depressive symptoms.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03168867; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03168867
A Novel Collaborative Decision Description Language (CoDeL): for Modelling Personalized Doctor-Patient Shared Decision Making (Preprint)
Authors: Guo XiaoRui , Xiao Liang , Chen Jianxia , Tong Zefang
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Effective shared decision making between patients and physicians is crucial for enhancing healthcare quality and reducing medical errors. But the shared decision making process itself is difficult to understand, and it is not clear where to begin to solve the problems that arise during this interaction.

OBJECTIVE

Therefore, we propose a Collaborative Decision Description Language (CoDel) to help better understand and characterize the interactive process by modeling the common decision scenario, so that each decision process has a reliable theoretical basis and traceability.

METHODS

The CoDel we define consists of four factors: A decision-maker interaction process protocol based on Lightweight Social Calculs (LSC); Using Speech Acts to define the semantic relations in the interaction process; Arguments in semantics guided by clinical guidelines; Incorporate constraints for personality modeling.

RESULTS

Finally, we validate and demonstrate the applicability of our approach in conjunction with the interaction between patients and physicians with atrial fibrillation. In addition, we combine our method with GPT to solve the unexplainability of GPT, and at the same time validate our method and enrich our argument.

CONCLUSIONS

Through the defined decision language, the communication between doctors and patients can be improved.
Spontaneous space closure in patients treated with early extraction of the first permanent molar: a retrospective cohort study using radiographs
Authors: Aldahool Yasser , Sonesson Mikael , Dimberg Lillemor
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To assess the success rate of spontaneous space closure after extraction of the first permanent molar (FPM) in the maxilla and the mandible, and to identify the factors that make spontaneous space closure most favorable in each.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective records-based cohort study was conducted through a search of the database of the Public Dental Service, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, for young adults born between 2000 and 2001, who underwent extraction of one or more FPM between 2006 and 2016. A total of 995 extracted teeth were identified, of which 203 teeth in 155 patients met the inclusion criteria.

Results

Of the 203 extracted teeth, 166 (81.8%) did not receive any orthodontic treatment. The success rate for space closure in orthodontically treated patients was 91.9%. The success rate for spontaneous space closure was 84.3%. All unsuccessful spontaneous space closure in the maxilla occurred in patients older than 12 years. The dental developmental stage of the second permanent molar (SPM) had a statistically significant association with spontaneous space closure in the mandible (P < .001).

Conclusions

The success rate of spontaneous space closure was high (84.3%) and was higher in the maxilla (94.1%) than the mandible (74.1%). Age at time of extraction and dental developmental stage of the SPM were significant factors for successful spontaneous space closure in the maxilla and mandible, respectively.
Figuring Out Life After Covid-19: a Qualitative Study From Sweden
Authors: Larsson Alexandra C. , Törnbom Karin , Sunnerhagen Katharina S. , Palstam Annie , Persson Hanna C.
Published: December 2023

Objective: To obtain a deeper understanding of the daily life experiences of working aged people during the year following hospitalization due to SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), with a focus on function­ing in daily life and return to work. Design: An explorative qualitative study using individual interviews. Subjects: A purposive sample was selected of persons who had received inpatient hospital care, had been discharged approximately 1 year previously and were of working age. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 participants (9 men, 2 women). The interviews were transcribed and analysed with inductive thematic analysis. Results: Four themes were identified. Navigating health, with or without support from healthcare, was described as challenging when managing consequences of COVID-19. Participants struggled with a lack of energy that interfered with daily life. It was a trial-and-error process trying to use familiar strategies in new ways to manage. The return to work process was facilitated by own strategies and support. Conclusion: This study contributes increased knowledge of everyday life experiences of people 1 year following hospitalization due to COVID-19. The lack of energy and a struggle to manage health while navigating the healthcare system emphasize the importance of strengthening personal and organizational health literacy to facilitate the recovery process after severe COVID-19.
Innovations Concerning Diversity Training and Organizational Development Interventions for Police Officers Using Reflection and Talking Circles
Authors: Burrell Darrell Norman
Published: December 2023

The paper explores a management consulting and organizational development intervention focused on employing new and innovative approaches to diversity training for police and law enforcement organizations through real-world interventions that explore human stories, connections, and dialogues as tools for understanding and change. The outcome of this approach is a more dynamic, productive, and constructive way to have more impactful and transformative organizational development and employee discussions, interventions, and training on diversity, inclusion, and cultural competence in law enforcement and all complex organizations. The intent of this discussion is not to reconstitute academic theory, but to influence the world of practice in a way that supports social change, because when applied, community-based research is important and relevant.
Harmonizing Words and Worlds: The Fusion of Content and Language in Modern Education
Authors: Dragomir Isabela-Anda , Niculescu Brânduşa-Oana
Published: December 2023

In today’s globalized era, education stands at the nexus of profound transformation. As the globe shrinks and cross-cultural interactions become the norm rather than the exception, the traditional boundaries between language learning and content subjects are being dismantled. This union is not just a pedagogical trend, but a response to a world where interdisciplinarity and multilingualism are paramount. This article delves into the transformative approach of integrating content and language, spotlighting its significance, evolution, benefits and challenges, and the vast potential it holds in shaping the future of education worldwide. Through this exploration, we will uncover ways in which the successful marriage between content and language is pragmatically reshaping educational paradigms, offering students a richer, more holistic learning experience tailored for the complexities of the modern world.
Durability Assessment for Mortar Containing LDH Additives
Authors: Rizescu Claudiu Eduard , Zaulet Ionut , Gheboianu Anca Irina , Ion Rodica Mariana
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the potential of Layered Double Hydroxides (LDH) as additives to improve the durability and physical properties of cement-based mortars, with a focus on freeze-thaw resistance. Three LDH types—MgAl-LDH, CaAl-LDH, and ZnAl-LDH—were synthesized and incorporated into mortar at a 1/1000 w/w ratio. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (WDXRF) were used to characterize the LDHs, and the effects of the additives on mortar density, water absorption, and durability under 30 freeze-thaw cycles were examined. Results revealed that MgAl-LDH provided the best freeze-thaw resistance, likely due to its smaller crystallite size and enhanced cement hydration. CaAl-LDH offered moderate improvements, while ZnAl-LDH negatively impacted the mortar’s mechanical integrity, leading to higher degradation. The study demonstrates the potential of LDH additives—particularly MgAl-LDH—in improving the durability of cementitious materials, although further optimization is required to enhance long-term performance and resistance to environmental stresses.
The Instrumental Vernacular
Authors: Valk Ülo
Published: December 2023

Written as a response to professor Simon Bronner’s critical analysis of the concept vernacular and its uses, published in the Journal of Ethnology and Folkloristics (2022), the article highlights the functionality of the term ‘vernacular’. It has become a folkloristic category, binding conceptual domains such as ‘folk’ and ‘institutional’, ‘folkloric’ and ‘authored’, ‘oral’ and ‘literary’, ‘belief’ and ‘knowledge’, which have often been set apart in former scholarship. The main focus of the article is on vernacular religion as a concept and methodology, introduced by Leonard N. Primiano in the 1990s, which opened up a new perspective in the study of religions. The article considers ‘vernacular’ as a flexible concept, instrumental in developing folkloristics in its trans-disciplinary dialogues. Projected on the history of folk-loristics as a multilingual field of studies with roots in multiple national, regional and ethnic traditions, vernacular as an outlook enables us to think of folklore as a transcultural concept and disconnect it from colonial legacies.
Faith and Overcoming Trauma in an Evangelical Romani Community
Authors: Slavkova Magdalena
Published: December 2023

This article addresses the role of evangelicalism as a means of overcoming the trauma caused by natural disaster or disease. Using an ethnographic approach, it examines the connection between the beliefs of Roma in the Asparukhovo neigh-bourhood of the Bulgarian city of Varna and the hazards from which they suffered: the flood in June 2014 and Covid-19 during its first wave in 2020. People make sense of tragedy using different interpretations. It is seen as a form of divine punishment, a test for religious people, or it is associated with human negligence. Disaster provokes a variety of reactions among evangelical Christians, ranging from solidarity to distrust. Most importantly, their religious practice provides them with survival tactics and a direction to follow after catastrophe has disrupted their routine.