bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of Methodological Readiness of Undergraduates of the Psychological and Pedagogical Direction for Mediation in Conditions of Blended Learning
Authors: Ivanov N.A. , Smolyaninova O.G. , Smolyaninov A.A.
Published: November 2023

The article presents the problem of conceptualization of the phenomenon of «methodical readiness for mediation» as a special case of professional readiness of a teacher-psychologist to implement mediation in education. The results of a pedagogical experiment on the formation of methodological readiness of undergraduates in conditions of blended learning are described. The main idea of the study is that methodological training is a propaedeutics of professional readiness for mediation in general. The organization of the educational process is based on the principles of practice-oriented and event-based approaches and involves immersion of undergraduates in the basics of mediation in a blended learning environment. The features of the formation of methodological readiness for mediation in conditions of blended learning, based on the principle of humanitarization, ensuring the innovative use of the mediation approach in educational practices, are determined. 92 undergraduates of the Siberian Federal University (SibFU), studying under the programs of the psychological and pedagogical master's degree in 2020-2023, took part in the experimental work. Methodological materials in the field of mediation developed and implemented by SibFU undergraduates during their professional training are presented.
Effect of in vitro Incubation Time and Drying on Genomic DNA Extracted from Bovine Ear Tissue Samples
Authors: Gohil Tejas , Donthula Sandeep Kumar , Parmar Bhumika , Poojara Hardik , Limbachiya Pankaj , Sudhakar A.
Published: November 2023

Background: Use of ear punch samples as a competent source of nucleic acids from bovines, gained momentum around two decades ago, as their collection is quite easy and can be transported with minimal quantities of preservatives at ambient conditions. However, the auricular cartilage makes them more resistant to lysis, resulting in poor genomic DNA yields. The objective of the current study was to investigate whether drying can enhance the gDNA yields from ear tissue samples as a few past experiments gave an unanticipated good gDNA yields from completely dried tissue samples. Methods: Upon receipt, ear tissue samples of the cattle and buffaloes were kept at room temperature for different time intervals (in vitro incubation) and then dried at various temperatures prior to gDNA extraction, with commercially available gDNA extraction kits from two manufacturers (MN and QIAGEN). The extracted gDNA samples were assessed with spectrophotometry, flourometry and agarose gel electrophoresis for concentration, purity and integrity. Result: gDNA yields were gradually increasing in parallel to in vitro incubation time till 250 days and after that there was a decline. Further, gDNA yields were significantly higher for ear tissue samples that were not dried prior to extraction, which did not comply with the past experimental observations. Fluorometry-based quantifications revealed that drying of ear tissue samples at greater than 50°C temperatures reduced double-stranded DNA, however up to 50°C the gDNA yield increased, indicating the tissue samples can be safely transported up to 50°C in the TSUs.
EL APRENDIZAJE PRACTICO DEL DERECHO EN UN ESPACIO VIRTUAL
Authors: Torrubia Chalmeta Blanca
Published: November 2023

Este es el quinto semestre en que la asignatura Practicum se imparte en el Grado de Derecho de la Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC). Puede decirse que el modelo está consolidado, si bien en permanente evolución. La adaptación a Bolonia supuso un esfuerzo pedagógico por parte de los Estudios de Derecho dirigido a transformar el aprendizaje práctico en el ámbito del Derecho de modo que quedaran cumplidos los objetivos de aquel plan. El presente trabajo pretende mostrar el funcionamiento y la situación actual de la asignatura Practicum. También recoge una valoración de la asignatura desde el punto de vista de las personas que están implicadas en su docencia (dentro de los Estudios de Derecho, Profesores Responsables y Técnica docente, además de los Consultores) y de los estudiantes que la han cursado (también de los profesionales licenciados por la UOC). El modelo pedagógico del Practicum está basado en la simulación de una pasantía en un bufete virtual en el que el Consultor asume el rol de abogado encargado de formación y el estudiante asume el rol de pasante. Para ello, se cuenta con una interfaz que muestra la fotografía de un despacho real. Los elementos gráficos de este despacho (teléfono, bandeja, biblioteca, etc.) permiten acceder a los distintos aplicativos típicos de un aula virtual de la UOC.
Elevated serum apolipoprotein E level associated with poor prognosis of patients with acute omicron variant COVID-19 infection
Authors: Shi Cong , Ma Chao , Ma Ruishuang , Zhu Ting , Ge Xiaoqin , Xie Rongrong , Tao Qingsong , Gong Shengping
Published: November 2023

Background: The SARS-CoV-2 virus is responsible for the human disease known as COVID-19. This virus is capable of generating a spectrum of infections ranging from moderate to severe. The omicron variant is currently the predominant mutant strain of the pandemic on a global scale. Serum apolipoprotein E (ApoE) inhibits inflammation by preserving immune regulatory function. Nonetheless, the relationship between serum ApoE and clinical prognosis in omicron remains elusive.
Methods: A cohort of 231 patients with omicron was studied retrospectively to determine the prognostic usefulness of blood ApoE levels upon diagnosis. All patients were observed for 65 days, with death as the primary outcome. Based on their ApoE levels, the patients were categorized into two groups: individuals with elevated ApoE levels and those with lower ApoE levels. In order to do statistical comparisons, the log-rank test was utilized, and the Kaplan-Meier method was utilized in order to estimate survival rates. Cox hazard models, both univariate and multivariate, were employed to examine the prognostic relevance.
Results: According to our research, omicron had significantly greater ApoE levels. In mild-to-moderate and severe cases, the study identified a statistically significant variation in ApoE levels. Procalcitonin (PCT), Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels were found to be considerably higher, and the absolute count of CD3 lymphocyte, absolute count of CD8 lymphocytes was found to be fewer in people with high levels of ApoE. Additionally, there was a drop in overall survival that is statistically significant (OS, P < 0.0001) for patients with greater ApoE levels. Multiple Cox proportional hazards regression analysis indicates that (P = 0.022), an elevated ApoE level, specifically more than 49.8 mg/L, was determined to be an adverse and independent prognostic factor of overall survival in patients with omicron.
Conclusion: The level of serum ApoE at the time of initial diagnosis was substantially connected to the severity and prognosis of omicron. Consequently, we propose that ApoE might be a poor prognostic factor in individuals afflicted with the omicron variant.
Hippopotamus Optimization Algorithm: A Novel Nature-Inspired Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Amiri Mohammad Hussein , Hashjin Nastaran Mehrabi , Montazeri Mohsen , Mirjalili Seyedali , Khodadadi Nima
Published: November 2023

The novelty of this article lies in introducing a novel nonparametric metaheuristic technique named the Hippopotamus Optimization (HO) algorithm. The HO is conceived by drawing inspiration from the inherent behaviors observed in hippopotamuses, showcasing an innovative approach in metaheuristic methodology. The HO is conceptually defined using a trinary-phase model that incorporates their position updating in rivers or ponds, defensive strategies against predators, and evasion methods, which are mathematically formulated. It attained the top rank in 132 out of 161 benchmark functions in finding optimal value, encompassing unimodal and high-dimensional multimodal functions, fixed-dimensional multimodal functions, as well as the CEC 2019 test suite and CEC 2014 test suite dimensions of 10, 30, 50, and 100 and Zigzag Pattern benchmark functions, this suggests that the HO demonstrates a noteworthy proficiency in both local search and exploitation, as well as in global search and exploration. Moreover, it effectively balances exploration and exploitation, supporting the search process. The performance of the HO consistently surpassed that of the top 3 algorithms in achieving optimal value, except for 29 functions. However, although it did not exhibit strong convergence in these 29 functions, the standard deviation for them was lower than the other investigated algorithms, illustrating its ability to manage the functions effectively. In light of the results from addressing four distinct engineering design challenges, the HO has effectively achieved the most efficient resolution while concurrently upholding adherence to the designated constraints. The Wilcoxon signed test demonstrates that HO exhibits a notable and statistically significant advantage over the investigated algorithms in effectively addressing the optimization problems examined in this study.
Whole transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed key RNA profiles in primary Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Wang Guangyu , Liu Zhenyu , Zhang Junning , Yang Xueli , Feng Zhihui , Zhang Biao , Pan Xiaoping , Li Chunhong , Tang Yuhan , Dai Yong , Hou Xianliang
Published: November 2023

Background
The pathogenesis of Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is complex and no definite conclusions have been reached. Accumulating evidence suggests that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are involved in the pathogenesis of pSS. However, regulatory mechanisms of ncRNAs in pSS are not fully elucidated, including mRNAs, circRNAs, lncRNAs and miRNAs.
Results
In this study, whole blood samples of 3 pSS patients and 3 healthy individuals were collected, which were sequenced by whole transcriptome sequencing to identify differentially expressed mRNAs, lncRNAs, circRNAs, and miRNAs. Compared to the healthy control group, we identified 205 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEMs), 543 DE lncRNAs (DELs), 28 DE circRNAs (DECs) and 18 DE miRNAs (DEmiRs) in the pSS group. In addition, GO and KEGG analysis showed that these differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, NF-kappa B signaling pathway, B cell receptor signaling pathway, calcium signaling pathway, ECM-receptor activation and VEGF signaling pathway. Furthermore, the constructed ceRNA networks suggested that several miRNAs might be a crucial role in the pathogenesis of pSS.
Conclusions
These results provide date support for exploring the key ncRNAs and signaling pathways in pSS. The mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA/circRNA network may contribute to the insight into the pathogenesis of disease.
Syntheses and Biological Activities of Calix[4]resorcinarene Derivatives Modified by Sulfonamides
Authors: Wang Qing , Sun Meng , Zhou Xin-Min , Ye Xiao-Dan , Jia Ai-Quan , Zhang Qian-Feng
Published: November 2023

Calixarenes are a diverse class of macrocyclic compounds, and the calix[4]resorcinarenes studied in this paper are one of the special subgroups. The calix[4]resorcinarene derivatives with the introduction of sulfonic and sulfonamides groups at C-2 positions were synthesized and characterized by IR and 1H NMR spectroscopies. The compounds synthesized in the paper were used for antibacterial and antitumor tests. The results showed that in terms of antimicrobial activity calix[4]resorcinarenes and their derivatives showed bacteriostatic activity against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, with compound 4c being the most effective: the MIC value for E. coli was 6.25 mg/mL and for S. aureus was 1.56 mg/mL. In terms of antitumor activity, calix[4]resorcinarenes and their derivatives showed strong inhibitory effects on the three tumor cells selected for the experiment. Among them, the survival rate of A549 was 76.03% in the presence of 40 µM 1d, and the survival rates of HepG2 and MDA-MB-321 were 28.66% and 65.39% in the presence of 40 µM 2d, respectively.
Diurnal dynamics of different circadian transcription modules in Chinese Pine needles and roots during dormancy introduction
Authors: Yang Junhe , Qu Kai , Wang Huili , Bian Liming , El-Kassaby Yousry A. , Li Wei
Published: November 2023

Winter dormancy ensures temperate zone’s trees proper response to environmental changes and enhances their adaptability. In northern hemisphere, conifers’ dormancy is induced by short-day and cold temperature. Previous studies have revealed that TFL2 is a key regulator involved in conifers’ bud set and growth cessation during the dormancy-induced phase. Based on the annual expression profile analysis of PtTFL2 in Chinese pine (Pinus tabuliformis Carr.), we identified key time nodes for dormancy initiation in autumn. To provide insight of the diurnal transcriptome dynamic in needles and roots during dormancy introduction, RNA-seq was performed at 12 consecutive time points in 24 hours under natural environment in Chinese pine. Interestingly, we found that both needles and roots have rhythmic oscillatory genes, even though the roots could not receive light signals directly. We constructed the transcription factor (TF) co-expression networks of needles and roots and in the core TF modules, we identified 10 hub genes in each. Revealed a network associated with the putative core clock genes (PtCCA1, PtPRR4, PtGI, and PtTCP42), which were also isolated, suggesting that they are important in the circadian regulation of the transcriptome. Regulatory network analysis identified key TFs associated with dormancy and cold acclimation in two tissues. Our results provide new insights into the molecular regulatory mechanisms involved in pine dormancy.
INTEGRATION OF ART ELEMENTS IN STEM FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING ISLAMIC EDUCATION TO DISABLED STUDENTS IN MALAYSIA
Authors:   AkademiPengajian Islam Kontemporari, UniversitiTeknologi MARA, Shah Alam., Munirah Yahaya Amiratul , Bahti Zakaria Hajarul ,   InstitutPerguruanKampusIlmu Khas, Kuala Lumpur., Nafhatun Md Shariff Nur ,   AkademiPengajian Islam Kontemporari, UniversitiTeknologi MARA, Shah Alam., Asmadi Yakob Mohd ,   AkademiPengajian Islam Kontemporari, UniversitiTeknologi MARA, Shah Alam., Moidin Shofiyyah ,   AkademiPengajian Islam Kontemporari, UniversitiTeknologi MARA, Shah Alam.
Published: November 2023

This study discusses about teaching and learning method of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematic) in the Islamic education of disabled students in Malaysia, specifically those with vision, hearing, and cerebral palsy problems. The stress on using STEAM method as teaching and learning Islamic education has become important to transform knowledge of the 21st century and should be acquired and practiced by students at all levels including disabled students. The objective of this study is to examine the teaching and learning methods of STEAM in the elements of Islamic education on disabled students specifically those disabled in vision and hearing, and cerebral palsy. This study will also analyze the challenges of applying teaching and learning STEAM, and its mechanisms and application on disabled students. The study is a case-study qualitative research. The data collection methods include library study on the primary and secondary sources of data on disabled students in elements of Islamic education. This study employed semi-structure interviews in which the interviewees are teachers teaching Islamic education to students having cerebral palsy. While the data analysis will apply methods of inductive and deductive document analysis. Based on the research findings, a special STEAM curriculum will be developed to assist understanding of applying teaching and learning methods of STEAM on Islamic education for disabled students to ensure the effectiveness of assessment mechanism to these disabled students. The elements of Islamic education will be selectively focused as to the challenges faced by disabled students at this COVID-19 endemic time. Thus it is significant to develop the STEAM curriculum in teaching and learning method which will produce more effective human capital and mechanism of assessment.
PREVALENCE OF COMPLICATIONS AND DEGREE OF SATISFACTION IN CURRENT IUD USERS
Authors:   Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology,UCMS and GTB Hospital., a Bhanupriya , Tyagi Natasha ,   Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital, New Delhi, 110095, India.
Published: November 2023

Background: Satisfaction rate for Copper Intra uterine device (Cu-IUD) is still under research because of the complications related to IUD. Cu-IUD is very effective means of contraception but only 1.5% of married women between age 15-49 years use it owing to the myths associated with IUD.The aim of the study is to find the satisfaction rate among IUD users and assess the prevalence of complications in currently IUD using women in low resource settings. Material and Methods: It was a cross sectional observational study conducted in Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Total 200 IUD users were interviewed for the complications and satisfaction associated with IUD usage, using predesigned performaover two months period. Wilcoxon Mann Whitney U test and Chi-Squared test were used for continuous and categorical variables. Results: Out of 200 women, 179 (89.5%) were satisfied and 21(10.5%) were unsatisfied with IUD use. Total 87 (43.5%) women had complications which were present in 70/179 (39.1%) women who were satisfied versus 17/21(81%) women in non-satisfied group (p value<0.001). Majority of women (61/80) had bleeding related complications only for initial 6 months.26/87(29.9%) women opted for treatment for IUD related complications and 14(53.8%) got relief. The women who wanted removal of IUD were 18/200 (9%) out of which there were only 8 women who opted for IUD removal because of complications. Conclusion: Majority of the women were satisfied with their IUD. Although, the overall complication rate seems high in IUD users but it was significantly less in satisfied group.
STUDY OF PHYSICAL AND LUMINESCENCE PROPERTIES ND IONS - DOPED TE-W-PB GLASSES
Authors:   Department of Physics, Madhyanchal Professinal University, Ratibad, Bhopal, India., Pandey Rajiv , Sharma A. K. ,   Department of Physics, Madhyanchal Professinal University, Ratibad, Bhopal, India., F. Ansari Ghizal ,   Department of Physics, Madhyanchal Professinal University, Ratibad, Bhopal, India.
Published: November 2023

New Te-W-Pb oxide base glasses codoped with neodymium oxide have been prepared by traditional melt and quench method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) is done for the confirmation of glassy structure of samples. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) gives the information of thermal properties of prepared glasses. Raman spectra are studied to get structural information of glasses. The spectroscopic properties of Nd3+ were examined. Infrared emission at 878, 1062, and 1339 nm were seen during stimulation at 804 nm using a diode laser.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE COMBINATION OF TECHNOLOGY WITH ERGONOMICS FOR ESTIMATION OF CORRECT POSTURE BASED ON PYTHON
Authors: Antonio da Costa Souto Thiago , de Souza Peixoto Lucas , Guilherme Menezes da Costa Luiz , Augusto da Paz Elleres Pablo
Published: November 2023

This article outlines the main diseases caused by repetitive strain or poor posture with emphasis on the public that works in the area of information technology (IT), which for the reason that the workday is composed of 8 hours a day in a continuously seated position, has become the focus of the same. In order to improve the well-being of these professionals, a low-cost solution model will be presented to assist in the estimation of posture while performing activities during working hours, since injuries, in the work environment of the type of professional in question, are commonly due to the lack of an ergonomic approach. In order to achieve the proposed objectives, an application was developed that makes use of AI to capture posture and judge whether it is correct or incorrect in relation to the test parameters. To substantiate the ideas explained in this article, a research was carried out using the prototype to verify the classification of the posture of the group of selected people, it was noted that of the group of 15 people, 8 of them presented the correct posture representing 53% of the candidates interviewed and 7 people were with bad posture which makes up 47% of the total candidates. It is noted that a large number of people have poor posture, which can cause unwanted illnesses or injuries in the future.
Bioactive Natural Leads and Traditional Herbal Plants in the Management of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Brief Review
Authors: Chauhan Sonia , Sharma Sakshi , Mazumder Rupa , Sharma Nidhi
Published: November 2023

:

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic relapsing disorder that causes chronic inflammation
and ulcers in the GIT. Depending upon the location, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease come
under IBD. The exact etiology of IBD is still unknown. Over 8 lakhs of people were affected by
inflammatory disease yearly, and the death rate increased daily. Depending upon the severity of the
disease, JAK inhibitors, anti-TNF agents, and immunosuppressants can be used to manage ulcerative
colitis and Crohn's disease. However, these treatments have been associated with harmful adverse
effects, which cannot be ignored. To treat inflammatory diseases safely, various herbal medicines
and their bioactive are preferred as game changers. Recently, the effectiveness of herbal plants has
been recommended as the treatment against IBD, as shown by various in vivo models and clinical
trials. The various herbal plants reported in the literature include gallic acid, lupeol, and curcumin
aloe vera. This review focused on medicinal plants' anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-ulcer
properties. Over 1.2 million healthcare practitioners are using herbal bioactive and have the advantages
of lower side effects. Therefore, it is estimated that in Europe, the demand for plant-based
products/formulations has risen by millions in 2020, showing the current position of herbal-based
products in consumer health awareness.
Using SWARA II for Subjective Evaluation of Transport Emissions Reduction Policies
Authors: Keshavarz-Ghorabaee Mehdi
Published: November 2023

Background:

Transportation is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating the implementation of effective policies to mitigate its environmental impact. The use of Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methods is crucial for evaluating policies that aim to reduce transport emissions and for assigning importance or prioritization to various options. These techniques are valuable because they allow for unbiased and thorough evaluations of policies in a systematic way.

Objective:

This study aims to address the evaluation of transport emissions reduction policies, while considering varying levels of budget constraints.

Methods:

An MCDM technique, called SWARA II (Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis II), is presented to evaluate the effectiveness of different policies across three budget scenarios. This study provides a framework for addressing the challenges associated with transport emissions reduction policies.

Results:

The evaluation results show that at a low and medium-budget level mode, increasing active and public transport trip share and reducing trip demand could be a feasible policy for implementation. As a result of the analyses, the weight of this criterion is 0.207 at the low-budget level and 0.204 at the medium-budget level. Moreover, switching from fossil-fuelled vehicles to low or zero-emission vehicles is a suitable policy at the high-budget level. This criterion has a weight of 0.247, according to the results.

Conclusion:

This study offers insights into the evaluation of transport emissions reduction policies while considering the impact of varying budget levels. The findings contribute to the development of informed policy strategies that optimize emission reduction efforts within financial constraints.
Implementation of Federal Constituency Projects and the Development of Infrastructure in Kogi State (2012-2022)
Authors:   Federal University Lokoja, Adekeye Joseph Adeshola , Ofoma Chinedu Valentine
Published: November 2023

This paper assesses the impact of the implementation of federal constituency projects on the development of infrastructure in Kogi State from 2012 to 2022. The main objective of the study was to determine the contributions of federal constituency projects to the development of economic and social infrastructure in each Senatorial District of Kogi State. Methodologically, a descriptive survey was adopted for the purpose of data collection, analysis and interpretation. Out of 321 questionnaire administered to selected respondents in the 3 Senatorial Districts of Kogi State, 302 were completed and returned appropriately. Data collected were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) as a tool for data presentation and hypotheses test. Also, the study made use of secondary data sourced from Tracka, journal articles, empirical studies, newspaper publications among others. The findings of the study reveal that the implementation of federal constituency projects has significantly impacted on the development of economic and social infrastructure in some communities in Kogi State while others are yet to benefit. However, the level of constituency projects implementation in Kogi State from 2012-2022 is a far cry from annual budgetary allocation and specifications. This paper therefore recommends that members of each respective constituency in Kogi state must be carried along from the period of project initiation to its completion so as to hold all relevant stakeholders accountable for any lapses. Likewise, the press and Civil Society Organizations are to ensure that legislative oversights are properly carried out in order to ascertain whether project implementation is in line with approved budget.
The impact of IT governance and administrative information quality on decision-making in the banking sector
Authors: Alaqla Mohammed Farag
Published: November 2023

This study aims to investigate the impact of the relationship between information technology (IT) governance and administrative information quality on decision-making in the banking industry. The study is motivated by the increasing importance of IT in the banking sector and the need to ensure the quality and reliability of administrative information. The study uses a quantitative research design, and the data was collected from 197 respondents working in different Saudi Arabian banks. This study’s findings indicate a significant positive relationship between IT governance and administrative information quality in the banking industry. Furthermore, the study found that administrative information quality significantly impacts decision-making in the banking industry. The study concludes that effective IT governance and the provision of high-quality administrative information are critical factors in improving decision-making in the banking industry. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the importance of IT governance and administrative information quality in the banking industry and how they can contribute to improved decision-making processes. The findings of this study have implications for banks and their management in terms of developing effective IT governance practices and improving the quality of administrative information.
Comparing reinforcement learning algorithms for a trip building task: A multi-objective approach using non-local information
Authors: Gobbi Henrique , dos Santos , Bazzan Ana
Published: November 2023

Using reinforcement learning (RL) to support agents in making decisions that consider more than one objective poses challenges. We formulate the problem of multiple agents learning how to travel from A to B as a reinforcement learning task modeled as a stochastic game, in which we take into account: (i) more than one objective, (ii) non-stationarity, (iii) communication of local and non-local information among the various actors. We use and compare RL algorithms, both for the single objective (Q-learning), as well as for multiple objectives (Pareto Qlearning), with and without non-local communication. We evaluate these methods in a scenario in which hundreds of agents have to learn how to travel from their origins to their destinations, aiming at minimizing their travel times, as well as the carbon monoxide vehicles emit. Results show that the use of non-local communication reduces both travel time and emissions.
Diabetes Distress and Associations With Demographic and Clinical Variables: A Nationwide Population-Based Registry Study of 10,186 Adults With Type 1 Diabetes in Norway
Authors: Hernar Ingvild , Cooper John G. , Nilsen Roy M. , Skinner Timothy C. , Strandberg Ragnhild B. , Iversen Marjolein M. , Graue Marit , Ernes Tony , Løvaas Karianne F. , Madsen Tone V. , Lie Silje S. , Richards David A. , Ueland Grethe Å. , Haugstvedt Anne
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE

To estimate diabetes distress prevalence and associations with demographic and clinical variables among adults with type 1 diabetes in Norway.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In this nationwide population-based registry study, the 20-item Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID-20) questionnaire was sent to 16,255 adults with type 1 diabetes. Linear regression models examined associations of demographic and clinical variables with distress.

RESULTS

In total, 10,186 individuals (62.7%) completed the PAID-20, with a mean score of 25.4 (SD 18.4) and 21.7% reporting high distress. Respondents endorsed worrying about the future and complications as the most problematic item (23.0%). Female sex, younger age, non-European origin, primary education only, unemployment, smoking, continuous glucose monitoring use, more symptomatic hypoglycemia, reduced foot sensitivity, treated retinopathy, and higher HbA1c were associated with higher distress.

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes distress is common among adults with type 1 diabetes and associated with clinically relevant factors, underlining that regular care should include efforts to identify and address distress.
The Acute Effects of Real-World Physical Activity on Glycemia in Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes: The Type 1 Diabetes Exercise Initiative Pediatric (T1DEXIP) Study
Authors: Riddell Michael C. , Gal Robin L. , Bergford Simon , Patton Susana R. , Clements Mark A. , Calhoun Peter , Beaulieu Lindsey C. , Sherr Jennifer L.
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE

Data from the Type 1 Diabetes Exercise Initiative Pediatric (T1DEXIP) study were evaluated to understand glucose changes during activity and identify factors that may influence changes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In this real-world observational study, adolescents with type 1 diabetes self-reported physical activity, food intake, and insulin dosing (multiple-daily injection users) using a smartphone application. Heart rate and continuous glucose monitoring data were collected, as well as pump data downloads.

RESULTS

Two hundred fifty-one adolescents (age 14 ± 2 years [mean ± SD]; HbA1c 7.1 ± 1.3% [54 ± 14.2 mmol/mol]; 42% female) logged 3,738 activities over ∼10 days of observation. Preactivity glucose was 163 ± 66 mg/dL (9.1 ± 3.7 mmol/L), dropping to 148 ± 66 mg/dL (8.2 ± 3.7 mmol/L) by end of activity; median duration of activity was 40 min (20, 75 [interquartile range]) with a mean and peak heart rate of 109 ± 16 bpm and 130 ± 21 bpm. Drops in glucose were greater in those with lower baseline HbA1c levels (P = 0.002), shorter disease duration (P = 0.02), less hypoglycemia fear (P = 0.04), and a lower BMI (P = 0.05). Event-level predictors of greater drops in glucose included self-classified “noncompetitive” activities, insulin on board >0.05 units/kg body mass, glucose already dropping prior to the activity, preactivity glucose >150 mg/dL (>8.3 mmol/L) and time 70–180 mg/dL >70% in the 24 h before the activity (all P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Participant-level and activity event-level factors can help predict the magnitude of drop in glucose during real-world physical activity in youth with type 1 diabetes. A better appreciation of these factors may improve decision support tools and self-management strategies to reduce activity-induced dysglycemia in active adolescents living with the disease.
High speed laser cutting of ultrathin metal foils for battery cell production
Authors: Ascari Alessandro , Angeloni Caterina , Liverani Erica , Fortunato Alessandro
Published: November 2023

Laser-based manufacturing has become a key enabling technology in the production of batteries and battery cells for the e-mobility field. Several applications, in fact, have already been industrialized, such as laser-based welding, cutting, stripping, and cleaning. Among all those technologies, laser cutting, in particular, has to deal with several very stringent constraints: the presence of highly reflective materials (aluminum and copper), very low thicknesses (6–12 μm), on-the-fly processing, and high quality of the cutting surface. According to those considerations, the present paper deals with the application of remote cutting of 12 μm thick aluminum and 6 μm thick copper foils by means of a galvo scanner and two different fiber laser sources: single mode constant wave and nanosecond pulsed wave ones. The experimental activity is devoted to understanding the feasibility of the process and to point out the pros and cons of the two different lasers involved. The cutting edges are analyzed by means of optical and SEM microscopy, in order to characterize cutting quality. The process is also characterized in terms of maximum achievable speed in order to understand the limits of both lasers and galvo scanning systems.
Social Network Platforms and Digital Games for Refugee Students in Transit
Authors: Konstantinou Iossif
Published: November 2023

The article is based on ethnographic research carried out in Eleonas refugee camps in Athens, Greece, from February 2019 to March 2020. Based on in-depth interviews with fifteen male and female Syrian refugee parents, the article studies the use of smartphone devices, network applications, and the digital games “Feed the Monster” and “Antura and the Letters” as essential tools of an informal educational process. Digital mobile devices dominate the everyday life of Syrian students in the camp, redefining the way they keep and reform family ties at a distance. They share experiences, comments, and photos. At the same time, digital games on smartphones are a powerful educational tool by providing children with multiple opportunities to have access to knowledge and acquire skills from different learning areas, such as language, mathematics, and science. Additionally, they encourage children to determine issues of the world around them as they share and negotiate different social and cultural experiences through their play. The interaction between play and learning is of primary importance for preschool and early school students since it contributes to the highest level of learning with the greatest degree of assimilative capacity. In this complex and ever-changing context, the article attempts to raise further questions regarding the use of digital games as part of a daily ritual play, an informal educational process, and a linguistic interaction within the family context.
Give Peace a Chance!
Authors: Witting-Schön Matthias
Published: November 2023

Der vorliegende Essay beschäftigt sich mit der internationalen Friedensarbeit Carl Rogers, die besonders die letzten zehn Jahre seines Lebens prägte. Seine Arbeit im Dienste des Abbaus von Spannungen in politischen Krisen, brachte ihm 1987 eine Nominierung zum Friedensnobelpreis ein. Der Essay spannt einen biographischen Bogen von den ersten Begegnungen Carl Rogers mit dem Zweiten Weltkrieg in seiner Beratertätigkeit für die U. S. Air Force bis zu seinen vielbeachteten Friedensbemühungen mit dem Instrument der Personzentrierten Encounter-Gruppe im Nordirland-Konflikt, in Südafrika, der Sowjetunion sowie in der Zentralamerika-Krise. Daniel Barenboims „The West Eastern Divan Orchestra“ wird als zeitgenössisches Friedensprojekt, das die Grundannahmen von Carl Rogers zur Konfliktlösung bestätigt, vorgestellt. Persönliche Reflexionen des Autors ergänzen die Arbeit.
Hängt das Selbsterleben von Patient*innen in der Psychotherapiestunde mit ihrem Bindungsmuster zusammen?
Authors: Seidler Klaus-Peter , Höger Diether
Published: November 2023

Von der Bindungstheorie werden unterschiedliche Strategien beschrieben, wie Menschen aufgrund früherer Bindungserfahrungen aktuelle Situationen von Bedrohung oder (innerer) Not emotional und interpersonell bewältigen. Dabei werden eine sichere, deaktivierende und hyperaktivierende Strategie und entsprechende Muster von sicherer, unsicher-vermeidender und unsicher-ambivalenter Bindung unterschieden. Die Studie geht der Frage nach, ob das Selbsterleben von Patient*innen in der Therapie-stunde in Abhängigkeit von ihrem Bindungsmuster unterschiedlich ausfällt. Es wird angenommen, dass dieses für Patient*innen mit sicherem Bindungsmuster unproblematischer bzw. positiver als für Patient*innen mit unsicherem Bindungsmuster ausfällt und bei den unsicheren Bindungsmustern durch unterschiedliche Merkmale gekennzeichnet ist. Zudem wird davon ausgegangen, dass sich die erwarteten Unterschiede insbesondere in der Therapieanfangsphase zeigen. Untersucht wurden die ersten 15 Therapiestunden von 55 Patient*innen in Personzentrierter Einzelpsychotherapie. Das Bindungsmuster wurde anhand des Bielefelder Fragebogens zu Klientenerwartungen (BFKE) und das stundenbezogene Selbsterleben anhand des Bielefelder Klienten-Erfahrungsbogen (BIKEB) erhoben. Die ersten fünf Stunden wurden als Therapieanfangsphase zusammengefasst und mit den folgenden Stunden verglichen. Die statistische „Analyse“ (H- und Wilcoxon-Test) bestätigen die Hypothesen weitgehend, wobei die Ergebnisse insbesondere aufgrund der kleinen Stichprobengröße als vorläufig zu betrachten sind. Es werden ausführliche Hinweise in Hinblick auf weiterführende Studien gegeben und Empfehlungen für die therapeutische Praxis ausgeführt.
Die Entdeckung des Ich
Authors: Lukits Gerhard
Published: November 2023

Welchen Schritt hat das Kind in seinem Bewusstsein vollzogen, wenn es mit ca. 2–3 Jahren erstmals „Ich“ sagt, und was symbolisiert es damit? Diese Frage untersucht der Autor anhand der These, dass sich das Kind mit dem ersten „Ich“ seines unmittelbaren Erlebens als einheitlicher Organismus gewahr geworden ist. Nachdem sich das Kleinkind bereits zuvor im Selbst-Bild als Einheit entdeckt hätte, habe es nun auch ein Bewusstsein für sein unmittelbares Dasein gewonnen, also eine „Theory of Organism“ hervorgebracht. Diese Sichtweise lässt die „Theory of Mind“, die das Kind laut aktueller Entwicklungspsychologie in diesem Alter gebildet hätte, in einem umfassenderen Licht erscheinen.Von diesem entwicklungspsychologisch-phänomenologischen Ausgangspunkt her leitet der Autor einen Ich-Begriff für die personzentrierte Theorie ab, den er vom Begriff des Selbstkonzepts absetzt: Auf der Ebene des Ich, das dem Organismus ent-spricht, redet demnach ein Mensch nicht über sich, sondern er spricht aus sich heraus. Die sich daraus ergebende Anforderung an die therapeutische Praxis, auch auf einen deutungsbzw. bezeichnungsfreien Raum für den Ausdruck von Klientinnen zu achten, ist ein weiteres wichtiges Thema des Artikels.
Cold-induced urticaria in children: A multicenter, retrospective cohort study
Authors: Karabag Citlak Hilal , Azkur Dilek , Kavas Yildiz Yuksel , Demirel Ali Can , Kot Hakan , Vezir Emine , Kilic Mehmet , Usta Guc Belgin , Kilic Mehtap , Yakici Nalan , Kocabas Can Naci , Dibek Misirlioglu Emine , Civelek Ersoy , Orhan Fazil
Published: November 2023

Background: Studies of cold-induced urticaria (ColdU) in pediatric patients are limited and not well characterized. Objective: The objective of the study was to investigate the characteristics of ColdU in children. Methods: A multicenter,
retrospective chart review was performed in children ages ≤18 years diagnosed with ColdU at 11 pediatric allergy and immunology centers in Turkey between September 1, 2010, and August 31, 2022. Results: A total of 83 children with ColdU were included, 54.2% were girls,
and the mean age of symptom onset was 8.8 years. The median duration of ColdU at the time of diagnosis was significantly higher in the girls than in the boys (1.0 years [0.0‐13.8 years] versus 0.3 years [0.0‐15.0 years]; p = 0.007). All the patients underwent an ice cube test,
and 71.1% were found positive (typical ColdU). The mean ± standard deviation age of onset was significantly higher in the patients with typical ColdU versus atypical patients (9.4 ± 4.5 years versus 7.3 ± 4.5 years; p = 0.041). Swimming alone and in combination with the
wind were significantly the most reported triggers in patients with cold-induced anaphylaxis (ColdA) when compared with patients with ColdU and with nonanaphylactic symptoms (70.0% versus 28.9% [p = 0.022], and 50.0% versus 4.1% [p < 0.001], respectively). Only patients with other chronic
urticaria were found to be associated with the development of typical ColdU (p = 0.036). The median total serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) was significantly higher in typical ColdU than in atypical patients (72.5 IU/mL [3.86 ‐ 2500 IU/mL] versus 30.0 IU/mL [0.83 ‐ 1215 IU/mL]; p
= 0.007); however, total serum IgE differences were not found to affect ColdU resolution between the two groups (p = 0.204). The resolution was documented in 30.4%. Conclusion: Those who were boys and had a positive ice cube test result could have an association with earlier
onset of ColdU. Those swimming alone on a windy day were at highest risk for ColdA. It is still unclear what characteristics are associated with the resolution of ColdU, and this warrants further investigation.
Allergy immunotherapy for allergic fungal respiratory diseases
Authors: Nelson Harold S.
Published: November 2023

Background: Allergy immunotherapy (AIT) with fungal extracts is not as straight forward as that with other inhalants. The complexities relate to the number of airborne fungal spores, the limited data on the exposure to the spores of individual species of fungi and their clinical
importance, the poor quality of the fungal allergen extracts that are available for the diagnosis and treatment, and the lack of controlled studies establishing dosing and efficacy of AIT with fungal extracts except for Alternaria. Objective: The objective was to review
what is known with regard to the role of fungi in causing allergic respiratory diseases as well as the evidence that exists for the role of AIT as a treatment for these conditions. Methods: A search was conducted of PubMed, textbooks, known articles on immunotherapy with
fungal extracts, and references derived from these primary sources. Results: Nine immunotherapy studies that used Alternaria or its major allergen Alt a 1 and two studies that used Cladosporium herbarum were identified. When a good quality extract was administered in adequate
doses, immunotherapy with Alternaria was as effective as that with other inhalant allergens. There was a suggestion of efficacy with a specially prepared Cladosporium extract, but systemic reactions were common and limited the tolerated dose. The use of immunotherapy as an adjunct treatment
for allergic fungal sinusitis is briefly reviewed, but controlled trials are lacking. Conclusion: Fungal immunotherapy should largely be limited to Alternaria alternata and perhaps C. herbarum. Under conditions of demonstrated exposure to a particular species of fungus
and with symptoms that correlate with that exposure as well as availability of an apparently potent extract of that fungus to which the patient is sensitive that fungus may be considered for immunotherapy. Fungal (mold) mixes should not be used for diagnosis or therapy.
Impact of COVID-19 measures on exacerbation rates and healthcare visits in US asthma patients
Authors: Karcher Helene , Schoenberger Matthias , Rayban Tejaswini , Kelly Caoimhe , Heaney Andrew , Mackay Alexander
Published: November 2023

Objective: To compare exacerbation rates and healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) in real-world patients in the United States who had moderate-to-severe asthma on medium- or high-dose inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting β2-agonist therapy at different stages
before and after the pandemic. Methods: This noninterventional, retrospective study described demographics, exacerbations, HCRU, and medication use in patients from a US-wide healthcare claims database in 4 consecutive years anchored around March 15, 2020 (start date of
the first emergency health measures against coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19], or the first lockdown, in the United States, termed “restriction onset” hereafter). Four cohorts of patients potentially eligible for moderate-to-severe asthma clinical trials at the beginning (index)
of each of four 1-year periods (March 15, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, respectively) were built. Exacerbations, healthcare visits, and asthma medication use were counted in the 1-year period after the index for each cohort. Results: The prevalence of patients with one or more
exacerbation per year decreased by 10.00% in the first year after the restriction onset compared with the year before and attenuated over time to 6.37% in the second year. The proportion of inpatient, emergency department, and physician's office visits remained stable over the time periods
evaluated for all patients and those patients who experienced one or more exacerbations. Asthma treatment of patients who experienced one or more exacerbations also remained stable over the 4 years. Conclusion: The effect of COVID-19 public health measures on asthma exacerbation
rates might have affected clinical trials being run during this period and should be considered in their analysis. Asthma clinical trials run under pandemic hygiene restrictions should consider lower exacerbation frequency in their study design, while treatment and healthcare visits seem unchanged.
Prevalence and bidirectional association between rhinitis and urticaria: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Shu-Ying , Lv He-Qun , Zeng Chun-Li , Peng Yong-Jun
Published: November 2023

Background: Rhinitis, allergic rhinitis in particular, and urticaria are both common diseases globally. However, there is controversy with regard to the correlation between rhinitis and urticaria. Objective: To examine the accurate association between
rhinitis and urticaria. Methods: Three medical literature data bases were searched from data base inception until January 11, 2022. The prevalence and association between rhinitis and urticaria were estimated by meta-analysis. Quality assessment was performed by using the
Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. Pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and pooled prevalence were calculated by using random-effects models. Results: Urticaria prevalence in patients with rhinitis was 17.6% (95% CI, 13.2%‐21.9%). The pooled prevalence
of rhinitis was 31.3% (95% CI, 24.2%‐38.4%) in patients with urticaria, and rhinitis prevalence in patients with acute urticaria and chronic urticaria was 31.6% (95% CI, 7.4%‐55.8%) and 28.7% (95% CI, 20.4%‐36.9%), respectively. Rhinitis occurrence was significantly associated
with urticaria (OR 2.67 [95% CI, 2.625‐2.715]). Urticaria and rhinitis were diagnosed based on different criteria, possibly resulting in a potential error of misclassification. Conclusion: Rhinitis and urticaria were significantly correlated. Physicians should be
cognizant with regard to this relationship and address nasal or skin symptoms in patients.