bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical insights into the effects of RE doping on the structural, electronic, and optical properties of magnesium clusters
Authors: Lu Xianghang , Gao Feng , Chen Yingying , Jiang Gang
Published: March 2022

Doping of magnesium-based materials with the rare earth (RE) elements allows one to adjust or modify the structures and properties of the materials. In the present work, the structural, electronic, and optical properties of the global minima Mgn (n = 2–10) and MgnX (X = Sc, Y, La, Nd, Gd, n = 1–9) clusters have been examined using the density functional theory (DFT) and the time-dependent DFT. The identified structures show that the RE atoms tend to occupy the center of the surface of the geometries, which enhances their structural stability. Further analyses on average bonding energies, the second-order differences in energy, and HOMO–LUMO gaps indicate that the Mg3Nd cluster is more stable than others. The excellent stability of this cluster is caused by the strong Nd 4f and Mg 2p interactions through the analyses of molecular orbitals. The natural population analyses imply that the electron transfers mainly occur among the s-p-d orbitals in MgnX (X = Sc, Y, La) clusters and the s-d-f orbitals in MgnX (X = Nd, Gd). In addition, the results of the excited-state calculations reveal that the absorption spectra of all MgnX clusters emerge red-shift phenomena compared with that of Mgn, and the absorbance strongest resonances of Mg4X clusters concentrate at visible light region (about 600 nm).
Piracy and the commodification of originality in translation
Authors: Qi Lintao
Published: March 2022

Translation is often considered in relation to the original, as if the original were always singular, fixed, stable, and incontestable. Readers, translators, and publishers, however, may approach the concept of original(ity) from diverse perspectives, conditioned by specific sociocultural contexts. Using Chinese translations of the Australian novel The Thorn Birds as a case study, this article situates its examination of original(ity) in the context of Chinese publishing industries, in which copyright laws and piracy unusually co-exist. The resultant tension between authorized publishers and counterfeiters gives rise to a situation where originality is highly commodified and thus frequently reconstructed. Translation research on original(ity), therefore, must move beyond legal and ethical dimensions to include economic, political, and historical contexts. Original(ity), which may be considered a collective property of both the original(s) and the translation(s), has to be constantly reinterpreted in a given sociocultural context at each new historical moment.
Thermodynamics of the black holes under the extended generalized uncertainty principle with linear terms
Authors: Su He , Long Chao-Yun
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we employ the extended generalized uncertainty principle with linear terms (LEGUP) to investigate the thermodynamics properties of the Schwarzschild and Reissner–Nordström (RN) black holes. Firstly, by constructing the theoretical framework of LEGUP, the minimal temperature of the Schwarzschild black hole and the modified mass–temperature function for the black hole are calculated. Furthermore, the heat capacity function for the Schwarzschild black hole is obtained. After that, we compare LEGUP black hole thermodynamics with EGUP black hole and with the usual forms. Besides, the modification of black hole entropy is discussed, which involves a heuristic analysis of particles absorbed by the black hole. Finally, we derive the LEGUP-corrected temperature, heat capacity and entropy functions of the RN black hole.
The Effect of pH Water on the Concrete Mixtures and Curing Condition on the Compressive Strength of Concrete
Authors: Wicaksono I T , Nurwidayati R
Published: March 2022

This research examined the effect of acid water as a concrete mix material and as a curing system on the compressive strength of concrete. The effect of wet-dry curing conditions in normal and low pH water on the concrete compressive strength was also evaluated. The water pH of 3 and 7 was conducted in this research. Water pH of 3 was obtained by diluting the HCl solution with tap water. The result showed that the concrete compressive strengths with normal water were 26.23, 26.61, 28.31, and 28.31 MPa at 28, 56, 90, and 120 days, respectively. In comparison, concrete mixed with low pH water was 25.48, 26.04, 26.42, and 26.42 MPa at 28, 56, 90, and 120 days, respectively. The wet-dry curing system for normal water concrete mixed reduced the compressive strength at 28 days by 14.39%, 56 days by 18.44%, 90 days by 14.00%, and 120 days by 10.00%. The wet-dry curing with acidic water also decreased the concrete compressive strength. The wet-dry condition breaks the hydration process between concrete and acid water. Wet-dry curing decreased the compressive strength of concrete. The compressive strength at 28, 56, and 90days decreased 16.30, 12.32, and 7.86%, respectively. While at 120 days, the compressive strength on wet-dry curing slightly increased by 1.43% by 0.01%. Wet-dry curing breaks the concrete hydration process with acid water.
Source mapping using OBIA of coconut, a sustainable construction material
Authors: Oraya A F A , Adriatico K K G , Chiu L A
Published: March 2022

This study is centered on automatic mapping approach to identify and count coconut trees in the municipality of San Fernando, Cebu for the purpose of source mapping for viable sustainable construction materials. Through the employment of theories and applications of Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA), a rule set was developed in eCognition Developer to automatically identify and count coconut trees in orchards. The data used in the rule set were the red, green and blue (RGB) spectral bands of the orthophoto with a spatial resolution of 0.50m, and the Normalized Digital Surface Elevation (NDSM) with a spatial resolution of 1.0m. The mapping approach yielded an overall accuracy, user accuracy and producer accuracy of 71.19%, 78.82% and 88.02%, respectively. The run time of automatic detection of the coconut trees in the sampling area was recorded to be 30 seconds, taking a significantly shorter amount of time than visually analysing the area with a recorded time of 90 minutes. The application of the developed rule set to the entire municipality resulted in 96, 099 detected coconut trees with Barangay Cabatbatan having the highest tree count of 36, 621 in a land area of 19.336 square kilometres.
Stabilization of Soft Clay from Bukit Rawi using Portland Composite Cement
Authors: Arifin Y F , Rahmah R F
Published: March 2022

One method for stabilizing soft clay is to mix it with cement. Portland composite cement (PCC) is a cement produced by grinding together portland slag and gypsum with one or more inorganic materials that is suitable for stabilization of soft soils. The purpose of this study was to mix soft clay from Bukit Rawi, Central Kalimantan with PCC, which was then tested for unconfined compression strength (UCS) and the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) to see if it could be used as a road subgrade. Soft soil from Bukit Rawi was mixed with PCC with percentages of 6%, 8%, 10%, and 12% on a dry weight basis. The mixture was tested by Proctor standard compaction to obtain the optimum moisture content and maximum dry density. At these optimum conditions, UCS and CBR tests were carried out. The findings reveal that adding PCC to Bukit Rawi soil enhances UCS and CBR, which were previously 3.47% of CBR and 0.67kg/cm2 of UCS. The addition of PCC with a level of 2‒3% is planned for field application, because it is considered capable of fulfilling the requirements as a subgrade layer with a CBR of 15%. Furthermore, 12 percent PCC is required in the combination as a foundation (minimum 20kg/cm2 of UCS).
Green synthesis of cerium oxide nanoparticles from turmeric and kinds of honey: characterisations, antioxidant and photocatalytic dye degradation activities
Authors: Kalaycıoğlu Zeynep , Geçim Bersu , Erim F Bedia
Published: March 2022

The environmentally compatible and cost-effective green synthesis of cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2-NPs) was performed starting from bioactive natural materials, i.e., blossom, pine, chestnut honey, and turmeric extracts. The sizes, surface charges, morphologies, band gap energies, antioxidant, and photocatalytic activities of the synthesised nanoparticles were examined comparatively. The x-ray diffraction (XRD) studies confirmed the crystallinity and purity of CeO2-NPs. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images indicated that the CeO2-NPs synthesised have spherical shapes. Particle sizes of honey originated NPs changed as 1.23, 2.61, 3.02 nm for the blossom, chestnut, and pine honey, respectively. NPs obtained from turmeric extract had 6.08 nm particle size. The isoelectric points of CeO2-NPs were about 4 when the starting material was blossom and pine honey. For the chestnut honey and turmeric as starting material, the isoelectric points of NPs were about 6 and 9.5, respectively. The band gap energies changed between 2.80-3.21 eV. All green synthesised nanoparticles exhibited high antioxidant activities according to the DPPH method, changing between 32.4 and 64.5 μg ml−1 as IC50 values. Activity values increased in the order of blossom, pine, chestnut honey, and turmeric. All synthesised NPs reflected the literature antioxidant rankings of the starting natural materials. Thanks to the strong redox property of the CeO2-NPs, high degradation efficiencies (between 83.9 and 93.4%) were obtained for MB under UV light irradiation. The natural starting materials used created differences in the physical and activity properties of the NPs. Green synthesis of CeO2-NPs with new natural materials will expand their usage areas.
Impact of MgO spacer layer on microwave performance of MgZnO/ZnO HEMT
Authors: Chaudhary Sumit , Kumar Pawan , Khan Md Arif , Kumar Amitesh , Mukherjee Shaibal
Published: March 2022

This article analyzes the direct current and small-signal parameters of MgZnO/ZnO (MZO) HEMT for microwave application. Further, the impact of the MgO spacer layer on the microwave performance parameters such as transconductance (g
m), cut-off frequency (f
T), maximum oscillation frequency (f
max) and Johnson’s figures of merit (J-FOM) of MZO HEMT has been analyzed. MZO HEMT with MgO spacer results in the enhanced values of two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) density of 7.2 × 1013 cm−2 and g
m of 91 mS mm−1. The values of f
T and f
max exhibit 3-fold enhancement to 5.57 GHz and to 7.8 GHz, respectively, and J-FOM is increased by 2.93 times with the introduction of MgO spacer layer in HEMT structure. Moreover, the impact of MgO spacer is studied on the off-state breakdown mechanism of MZO HEMT. The off-state breakdown voltage (V
br) of MZO HEMT is ∼25 V higher than that for MZO HEMT with an MgO layer. Therefore, there is a trade-off between the microwave performance and the device off-state breakdown voltage. This work is significant for the development of large-area and cost-effective ZnO-based HEMTs for microwave applications.
A Rationale for Micro-textured Breast Implant Augmentation
Authors: Chiemi Julia A , Kelishadi S Sean
Published: March 2022

Background

Textured breast implants have been used in aesthetic breast surgery to decrease rates of malposition and capsular contracture. Recent concerns regarding breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)’s link to textured devices have prompted many physicians to reevaluate their use.

Objectives

The authors aimed to create an algorithm for when to use smooth vs micro-textured breast implants and provide their rationale for when micro-textured implants may be more beneficial.

Methods

In total, 133 patients received primary augmentations performed by a single surgeon from January 2018 to December 2020; 84 patients received smooth implants and 49 patients received micro-textured implants. All surgeries were performed in the dual plane using an inframammary incision. Implant-related complications and scar malposition were recorded and compared between groups.

Results

No significant difference in the prevalence of implant-related complications was found (3.57% for smooth devices and 2.04% for micro-textured devices [P-value 0.621257; 95% CI −0.06100 to 0.007467]). There were no cases of BIA-ALCL. A comparison of scar malposition rates between the smooth and micro-textured groups also revealed no statistically significant difference (15.4% for smooth devices and 8.16% for micro-textured devices [P-value 0.226156; 95% CI −0.1200 to 0.007467]). Patients in the micro-textured group proportionately had more anatomical risk factors for malposition.

Conclusions

Micro-textured breast implants continue to be a safe and effective choice for patients. Micro-textured implants show a trend toward decreased scar malposition, although not statistically significant. Patients at high risk for malposition with micro-textured breast implants give similar results to patients at average risk for malposition with smooth implants.

Level of Evidence: 3
Cationic copolymers that enhance wild-type-specific suppression in BNA-clamp PCR and preferentially increase the Tm of fully matched complementary DNA and BNA strands
Authors: Tachibana Ami , Fujimura Nahohiro , Takeuchi Minoru , Watanabe Koji , Teruuchi Yoko , Uchiki Tomoaki
Published: March 2022

Mutation detection is of major interest in molecular diagnostics, especially in the field of oncology. However, detection can be challenging as mutant alleles often coexist with excess copies of wild-type alleles. Bridged nucleic acid (BNA)-clamp PCR circumvents this challenge by preferentially suppressing the amplification of wild-type alleles and enriching rare mutant alleles. In this study, we screened cationic copolymers containing nonionic and anionic repeat units for their ability to (i) increase the Tm of double-stranded DNA, (ii) avoid PCR inhibition, and (iii) enhance the suppression of wild-type amplification in BNA-clamp PCR to detect the KRAS G13D mutation. The selected copolymers that met these criteria consisted of four types of amines and anionic and/or nonionic units. In BNA-clamp PCR, these copolymers increased the threshold cycle (Ct) of the wild-type allele only and enabled mutation detection from templates with a 0.01% mutant-to-wild-type ratio. Melting curve analysis with 11-mer DNA–DNA or BNA–DNA complementary strands showed that these copolymers preferentially increased the Tm of perfectly matched strands over strands containing 1-bp mismatches. These results suggested that these copolymers preferentially stabilize perfectly matched DNA and BNA strands and thereby enhance rare mutant detection in BNA-clamp PCR.
Non-ST elevation myocardial infarction and ischaemic cardiomyopathy due to extrinsic tumour compression of left internal mammary artery graft-obtuse marginal with fibrosis due to chest wall radiation: a case report
Authors: Mian Mahnoor , Taylor David , Lo Sidney , Leung Melissa
Published: March 2022

Background

Cardiovascular disease and cancer remain the most prevalent conditions worldwide. The relationship between the two is becoming increasingly recognized, with both sharing similar risk factors. Currently, there are no guidelines or substantial data for the management of this subset of patients. This case presents the management of a patient with advanced malignancy and ischaemic cardiomyopathy, exploring the difficult decision making process for revascularization, ensuring an individualized approach is used for each patient.

Case summary

A 68-year-old man with Stage II lung cancer and overall poor prognosis with multiple comorbidities limiting his functional status presented with a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction and ischaemic cardiomyopathy due to extrinsic tumour compression and left internal mammary artery graft-obtuse marginal fibrosis due to chest wall radiation. He had a prolonged admission with the heart team discussions regarding optimal management. He subsequently underwent percutaneous coronary intervention to his native left circumflex chronic total occlusion. He was discharged home on dual antiplatelet and heart failure therapy.

Discussion

This case reflects that the management of patients with cancer and coronary artery disease is complex. Many factors including patient comorbidities adversely impact on prognosis, and treatment goals need to be clearly defined. The evidence in the area is lacking but continues to grow; however, the care for such patients needs to be individualized.
Change in Doctoral Dissertation Topics in Forest Resources from US Universities Over Four Decades
Authors: Wagner Robert G , Bellisario Kristen M , Kong Ningning N
Published: March 2022

Changes in forest resources expertise from 1978 to 2017, as measured by annual number of doctoral dissertations published on twenty topics, were examined. Using the ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global database, titles and abstracts from 11,530 dissertations produced by fifty-six universities in the United States were selected. Automated content analysis and latent Dirichlet allocation were used to identify the optimal number of topic groupings among 7,742 dissertations that met selection criteria. Substantial differences were found in the pattern of publication among the twenty topics over time. The number of dissertations related to forest growth and silviculture; tree seedling propagation, physiology, and regeneration; and forest soil nutrients, ecology, and management declined over the past two decades. Dissertations related to forest wildlife management, including terrestrial wildlife ecology and management; wildlife food and nutrition; and fish ecology and management also declined during the same period. The number of dissertations in the fields of forest policy, politics, and social science; forest modeling, biometrics, and statistics; wood science; forest vegetation ecology; and avian ecology increased during the four decades. Dissertations published in the fields of forest economics, and forest entomology and pathology, remained relatively stable.

Study Implications: We found decreasing production of doctoral dissertations focused on applied forest and wildlife management topics in recent decades. Declining doctoral-level expertise in applied fields after the early 2000s suggest that there may be reduced capacity to address practical problems facing both forest and wildlife managers. This decline also suggests that finding university instructors qualified to teach more applied forest and wildlife courses may have been more difficult over the past decade and possibly into the future. Our analysis indicated that the increased number of dissertations in adjacent sciences supporting forest resources has substantially increased capacity in these areas.
Pediatric Office Emergency Preparedness
Authors: Spanos Stephanie
Published: March 2022

Objective

Preparation is vital to improve resuscitation outcomes for children presenting to the primary care office with emergent conditions. Previous literature has provided recommendations for medications, equipment, and skills necessary to provide appropriate care. Most studies thus far demonstrated offices are unprepared according to those recommendations. We sought to provide an intensive emergency training and preparation curriculum to local primary care pediatric offices to improve their emergency readiness.

Methods

Using a high-fidelity manikin, a simulation instructor team visited several offices and trained teams including physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, medical assistants, front desk staff, and billing/management staff. Two emergency resuscitation simulations were performed per session with education after each scenario. The instructor team taught procedures, provided teamwork training, and provided feedback on medications, equipment, and resuscitation priorities.

Results

Eight primary care pediatric offices participated in the curriculum, 36 training sessions were conducted, and 229 staff were trained. Numerous issues with medications, equipment, teamwork dynamics, and pediatric emergency resuscitation were revealed. There was always significant improvement from the first to the second simulation in each session.

Conclusions

Our intensive emergency training and preparation curriculum experience with local primary care pediatric offices highlighted discrepancies between the perceived level of office preparedness and actual experience during a simulated emergency. Office staff felt more prepared for an emergency after the training, and office medications and equipment were re-evaluated to provide a more efficient and effective resuscitation for their patients.
18F-FDG PET/CT May Predict Tumor Type and Risk Score in Gestational Trophoblastic Disease
Authors: Bezzi Carolina , Monaco Lavinia , Ghezzo Samuele , Mathoux Gregory , Bergamini Alice , Zambella Enrica , Fallanca Federico , Samanes Gajate Ana Maria , Presotto Luca , Sabetta Giulia , Mangili Giorgia , Cioffi Raffaella , Bettinardi Valentino , Gianolli Luigi , Mapelli Paola , Picchio Maria
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in predicting pathological prognostic factors, including tumor type and International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) score, in gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD).

Methods

Retrospective monocentric study including 24 consecutive patients who underwent to 18F-FDG PET/CT from May 2005 to March 2021 for GTD staging purpose. The following semiquantitative PET parameters were measured from the primary tumor and used for the analysis: maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), SUVmean, metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and total lesion glycolisis (TLG). Statistical analysis included Spearman correlation coefficient to evaluate the correlations between imaging parameters and tumor type (nonmolar trophoblastic vs postmolar trophoblastic tumors) and risk groups (high vs low, defined according to the FIGO score), whereas area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the predictive value of the PET parameters. Mann-Whitney U test was used to further describe the parameter’s potential in differentiating the populations.

Results

SUVmax and SUVmean resulted fair (AUC, 0.783; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.56–0.95) and good (AUC, 0.811; 95% CI, 0.59–0.97) predictors of tumor type, respectively, showing a low (ρ = 0.489, adjusted P = 0.030) and moderate (ρ = 0.538, adjusted P = 0.027) correlation. According to FIGO score, TLG was instead a fair predictor (AUC, 0.770; 95% CI, 0.50–0.99) for patient risk stratification.

Conclusions

18F-FDG PET parameters have a role in predicting GTD pathological prognostic factors, with SUVmax and SUVmean being predictive for tumor type and TLG for risk stratification.
18F-FDG PET/CT Findings in a Patient With Primary Prostatic Synovial Sarcoma Combined With Adrenocortical Carcinoma
Authors: Tong Zhenghao , Chen Xueqi , Li Qian , Fan Yan , Zhang Jianhua
Published: March 2022

A 41-year-old man with 1-year history of hypertension was discovered to have a right adrenal mass on abdominal ultrasound. Contrast CT was performed to discriminate malignant from benign tumor, which revealed tumors of right adrenal gland and prostate. 18F-FDG PET/CT scan was performed for lesion characterization, and ruling out any distant metastasis. PET/CT scan showed high uptake in the right adrenal and prostatic lesions, which were surgically approved as adrenocortical carcinoma and primary prostatic synovial sarcoma.
68Ga-FAPI-04 Versus 18F-FDG PET/CT in a Case With Intimal Sarcoma of the Pulmonary Artery
Authors: Dong Aisheng , Zhang Zeyu , Yang Qinqin , Cheng Chao , Zuo Changjing
Published: March 2022

Intimal sarcoma of the pulmonary artery is a rare entity, mimicking acute or chronic pulmonary thromboembolism. We describe 68Ga-FAPI-04 and 18F-FDG PET/CT findings in a case with intimal sarcoma of the pulmonary artery. The intrapulmonary artery tumor showed inhomogeneously increased FDG and FAPI uptake. Compared with FDG PET/CT, FAPI PET/CT more clearly delineated the tumor partially because of a very low background FAPI activity in the walls of the main pulmonary artery and right ventricle, which showed diffuse FDG uptake.
A 68Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CT Imaging Pitfall in Assessing Residual Gastric Cancer Early After Chemotherapy
Authors: af Burén Siri , Tran Thuy A. , Klevebro Fredrik , Holstensson Maria , Axelsson Rimma
Published: March 2022

After neoadjuvant chemotherapy, preoperative imaging with 68Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CT showed a similar level of tracer uptake at the location of the primary tumors in 2 patients with gastric cancer. Postoperative histopathology revealed residual malignant cells only in one of the patients, whereas the elevated FAPI uptake in the other patient correlated to an inflammatory reaction and fibrosis. With this case, we would like to highlight that an increased FAPI uptake in inflammatory and fibrotic tissue early after chemotherapy may represent a potential interpretation pitfall. Further studies evaluating the clinical application of FAPI-PET in assessing residual cancer tissue are warranted.
MIBG Uptake in a Gastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor
Authors: Zheng Kun , Jing Hongli , Liu Yimin , Li Fang
Published: March 2022

MIBG scintigraphy is the imaging choice in the evaluation of pheochromocytoma and neuroblastoma. 131I-MIBG uptake by gastrointestinal stromal tumors was rare. Here we report a case in which an increased 131I-MIBG activity in an endoluminal gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor was noted.
Transformations, symmetries and Noether theorems for differential-difference equations
Authors: Peng Linyu , Hydon Peter E.
Published: March 2022

The first part of this paper develops a geometric setting for differential-difference equations that resolves an open question about the extent to which continuous symmetries can depend on discrete independent variables. For general mappings, differentiation and differencing fail to commute. We prove that there is no such failure for structure-preserving mappings, and identify a class of equations that allow greater freedom than is typical. For variational symmetries, the above results lead to a simple proof of the differential-difference version of Noether’s theorem. We state and prove the differential-difference version of Noether’s second theorem, together with a Noether-type theorem that spans the gap between the analogues of Noether’s two theorems. These results are applied to various equations from physics.
Impact of heat stress on the fitness outcomes of symbiotic infection in aphids: a meta-analysis
Authors: Tougeron Kévin , Iltis Corentin
Published: March 2022

Beneficial microorganisms shape the evolutionary trajectories of their hosts, facilitating or constraining the colonization of new ecological niches. One convincing example entails the responses of insect–microbe associations to rising temperatures. Indeed, insect resilience to stressful high temperatures depends on the genetic identity of the obligate symbiont and the presence of heat-protective facultative symbionts. As extensively studied organisms, aphids and their endosymbiotic bacteria represent valuable models to address eco-evolutionary questions about the thermal ecology of insect–microbe partnerships, with broad relevance to various biological systems and insect models. This meta-analysis aims to quantify the context-dependent impacts of symbionts on host phenotype in benign or stressful heat conditions, across fitness traits, types of heat stress and symbiont species. We found that warming lowered the benefits (resistance to parasitoids) and costs (development, fecundity) of infection by facultative symbionts, which was overall mostly beneficial to the hosts under short-term heat stress (heat shock) rather than extended warming. Heat-tolerant genotypes of the obligate symbiontBuchnera aphidicolaand some facultative symbionts (Rickettsiasp.,Serratia symbiotica) improved or maintained aphid fitness under heat stress. We discuss the implications of these findings for the general understanding of the cost–benefit balance of insect–microbe associations across multiple traits and their eco-evolutionary dynamics faced with climate change.
Let us move beyond word battles and separatism: strategies and concerns regarding universal design in Sweden
Authors: Erdtman Emil , Rassmus-Gröhn Kirsten , Hedvall Per-Olof
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Universal design (UD) is defined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) and adopted in Sweden as a guiding principle for the design of new products, facilities, services, etc. This study aims to contribute to knowledge about UD in practice – how it is conceived, experienced and discussed in Sweden, especially regarding education, working life and housing.

Design/methodology/approach

A group interview and a workshop (immersion into personas and scenarios) with 14 practitioners of inclusion and accessibility from academia, civil society, business and the public sector were analyzed with qualitative content analysis.

Findings

The participating practitioners related UD to a cluster of terms for inclusion and wanted to communicate the reason for UD rather than battling about words. Flexibility was considered openness to the diversity of human conditions and situations combined with individualization capacity including assistance. Short-term demands for access and compliance to minimum standards must be balanced with long-term learning processes. Evaluation, relation-building and dialogs must update and contextualize UD, for example, in relation to categorization.

Originality/value

This study yields an in-depth picture of how the practice of UD is conceived, experienced and discussed among Swedish practitioners of inclusion and accessibility. It elucidates dissonances between experiences and ideals, standardized and flexible design, and the interests of users and institutions. It enhances knowledge of the dilemmas in inclusive and diversity-based practices, as well as the implementation and promotion of UD.
Hycons Renewable Private Limited: decision to accept or reject an equity investment
Authors: Ramdas Rajani , Shankar Nisha
Published: March 2022

Learning outcomes

This study will help students determine the economic value of a firm particularly in case of a small business. The crux of the case is to help students estimate an enterprise value for a company and figure the actual worth of the company to aid in decision-making.

Case overview/Synopsis

This case is about a decision dilemma faced by Shashi Hegde, Director, Hycons Renewable Private Ltd, a company ventured into the production of Bio-CNG. It is about a recent proposal received by the firm from APL Ltd for equity investment with 40% stake in the firm. The case reflects the dilemma faced by small businesses to choose between investment or loss of control. Accepting the proposal will bring in additional funds, whereas the Board loss control on the firm. The case revolves around this dilemma. To help Hegde in this task, he seeks advice from his CFO and his confidant Kumar.

Complexity academic level

This case is most appropriate for a core finance class for both under-graduate and graduate programs.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 1: Accounting and Finance.
Mixed bioconvection stagnation point flow towards a vertical plate in alumina-copper/water
Authors: Zainal Nurul Amira , Nazar Roslinda , Naganthran Kohilavani , Pop Ioan
Published: March 2022

Purpose

According to the previous research, bioconvection has been recognized as an important mechanism in current engineering and environmental systems. For example, researchers exploit this mechanism in modern green bioengineering to develop environmentally friendly fuels, fuel cells and photosynthetic microorganisms. This study aims to analyse how this type of convection affects the flow behaviour and heat transfer performance of mixed convection stagnation point flow in alumina-copper/water hybrid nanofluid. Also, the impact of a modified magnetic field on the boundary layer flow is considered.

Design/methodology/approach

By applying appropriate transformations, the multivariable differential equations are transformed into a specific sort of ordinary differential equations. Using the bvp4c procedure, the adjusted mathematical model is revealed. Once sufficient assumptions are provided, multiple solutions are able to be produced.

Findings

The skin friction coefficient is declined when the nanoparticle concentration is increased in the opposing flow. In contrast, the inclusion of aligned angles displays an upward trend in heat transfer performance. The presence of several solutions is established, which simply leads to a stability analysis, hence verifies the viability of the initial solution.

Originality/value

The current findings are unique and novel for the investigation of mixed bioconvection flow towards a vertical flat plate in a base fluid with the presence of hybrid nanoparticles.
Impact of corporate image on customer loyalty of Islamic banks: the role of religiosity, collectivism, sight cues and CSR
Authors: Aslam Ejaz , Ashraf Muhammad Saleem , Iqbal Anam
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The prime objective of this study is to examine the impact of sight cues and corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities of the Islamic banks on loyalty by improving the corporate image (CI) of the Islamic banks. This study also examines the mediating effect of a CI along with moderating impact of religion and collectivism on loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were obtained through the purposive sampling method by distributing questionnaires among the customers of Islamic banks. A total of 550 questionnaires were surveyed from six full-fledged commercial Islamic banks and eight Islamic windows of the commercial bank in Pakistan using variance-based structural equation modelling (partial least squares) to test the hypothesis.

Findings

The results of the study reflected that sight cues and CSR activities have a significant impact on CI and keeping the customer’s loyalty. Additionally, religion and collectivism also moderate the relationship between CI and loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

From a managerial perspective, the study finding exhibits the significant effect, both directly and indirectly, of religiosity on the loyalty intention of the customers of Islamic banks. Hence, persuading the client that the bank is in complete compliance with (Shariah) will forestall their clients switching to another bank.

Originality/value

This study is unique in its nature because it revealed the factors that lead to customer loyalty towards Islamic banks. The study found sight cues and CSR are the new indicators used to build CIs of Islamic banks.
Analysing the impact of high-tech industry on regional competitiveness with principal component analysis method based on the new development concept
Authors: Deng Shuaijie , Li Baosheng , Wu Ke
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This study explores how to develop high-tech industries in Hunan province and enhance regional competitiveness. Through the comprehensive quantitative analysis of the development status of the high-tech industry in Hunan province, this paper provides a reference for the development of the high-tech industry in China and the world.

Design/methodology/approach

This study constructs a comprehensive evaluation index system of regional competitiveness in Hunan province from the five dimensions of innovation, coordination, green, openness and sharing of the “new development concept.” Through the screening and analysis of relevant economic indicators in Hunan province from 2011 to 2020, the principal component analysis method is used to measure the five development dimensions, verify the hypotheses in the study and finally draw the conclusion.

Findings

Hunan's high-tech industry is positively correlated with Hunan's regional innovation development competitiveness, regional coordinated development competitiveness, regional green development competitiveness, regional open development competitiveness and regional shared development competitiveness. Among them, the promotion effect on innovation development is the best, followed by the promotion effect on green development, coordinated development and shared development dimension. In contrast, the promotion effect on the open development dimension is relatively weak.

Research limitations/implications

The statistical data selected in this study have certain timeliness. At the same time, the current economic environment is affected by the new corona pneumonia epidemic, showing specific particularity. In this context, it is bound to cause changes in the impact of high-tech industries on regional competitiveness. In addition, this paper studies the regional competitiveness of Hunan's high-tech industry from a macro perspective. Although relevant studies are conducted from five dimensions, there is a lack of micro-level research.

Social implications

From five aspects of the new development concept, this study provides suggestions for developing high-tech industries in Hunan province and even China and the path to enhance regional competitiveness.

Originality/value

Up to now, no article measures regional competitiveness with the five development dimensions of new development: innovation, coordination, green, openness and sharing, and quantitatively analyses regional competitiveness on this basis.
The placenta in COVID‐19 infection in pregnancy
Authors: Ville Yves
Published: March 2022

Linked article: This is a mini commentary on Mehreen Zaigham et al., pp. 1361‐1374 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-0528.17132
The double burden of maternal overweight and short stature and the likelihood of cesarean deliveries in South Asia: An analysis of national datasets from Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Pakistan
Authors: Rahman Mosiur , Haque Syed Emdadul , Islam Md. Jahirul , Chau Nguyen Huu , Adam Izzeldin Fadl , Haque Md. Nuruzzaman
Published: March 2022

Background

The aim was to investigate: (a) whether there is an association between the maternal double burden of overweight and short stature and the risk of cesarean delivery and (b) whether socioeconomic status (SES) acts as a moderator in the association between the maternal double burden of overweight and short stature and the risk of cesarean birth (CB).

Materials and methods

The data for this study were obtained from the nationally representative Demographic and Health Survey databases of five South Asian countries. The analyses were based on responses from married women between 15 and 49 years of age. The risk of CB was the primary outcome, while the maternal double burden of overweight and short stature (coexistence of overweight and short stature) was the exposure of interest.

Results

Maternal double burden of overweight and short stature was significantly associated with 179% higher likelihood of undergoing CB in South Asia (SA), with 304%, 200%, 167%, 155%, and 125% higher likelihood of undergoing CB in Nepal, Pakistan, India, Maldives, and Bangladesh, respectively. Findings also demonstrated that mothers belonging to low SES groups with a double overweight and short stature burden were not uniquely disadvantaged.

Conclusions

A significant marker in SA of higher risk of CB is the maternal double burden of overweight and short stature. The negative effect of the maternal double burden of overweight and short stature extends across all economic backgrounds in relation to the risk of CB. It is not limited to poor mothers who suffer from the double burden of overweight and short stature.
Overestimated renal function in patients with liver cirrhosis predicts poor prognosis
Authors: Yoshida Sonoe , Suda Goki , Ohara Masatsugu , Kimura Megumi , Yang Zijian , Maehara Osamu , Fu Qingjie , Hosoda Shunichi , Akinori Kubo , Tokuchi Yoshimasa , Yamada Ren , Kitagataya Takashi , Suzuki Kazuharu , Kawagishi Naoki , Nakai Masato , Sho Takuya , Natsuizaka Mitsuteru , Morikawa Kenichi , Ogawa Koji , Ohnishi Shunsuke , Sakamoto Naoya
Published: March 2022

Aim

A high prevalence of overestimated renal function in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) has been reported; nonetheless, its impact on prognosis remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the impact of overestimated renal function on prognosis in patients with LC.

Methods

An overestimated renal function was defined as a >20% increase in the creatinine‐based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), compared with cystatin C‐based eGFR. LC patients with conserved serum, who were evaluated for muscle atrophy and had proper clinical information were included, and their prognostic factors were analyzed.

Results

A total of 215 consecutive patients with LC were included. The prevalence of overestimated renal function was 29.8% (64/215). Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis revealed that patients with overestimated renal function had a poorer prognosis than those without overestimated renal function (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.217 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.290–3.810; p = 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that overestimated renal function was a significant prognostic factor, irrespective of sex and the presence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed that overestimated renal function was a significant and independent factor predictive of poor prognosis in the entire cohort (HR: 2.050; 95% CI: 1.041–4.037; p = 0.038) and in subgroups classified by Child‐Pugh class A (HR: 2.131; 95% CI: 1.019–4.458; p = 0.044), Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score ≤9 (HR: 2.303; 95% CI: 1.038–5.109; p = 0.04), and presence of HCC (HR: 2.290; 95% CI: 1.128–4.651; p = 0.022).

Conclusion

Overestimated renal function is a significant and independent prognostic factor in patients with LC.
Lipid stability and antioxidant activity of human milk after thermosonication and frozen storage
Authors: Nogueira Janaina Aparecida Vieira , Passos Maria Cristina , Santos Adriana Caroline Resende , Falco Thaís Silva , Breguez Gustavo Silveira , Sanson Ananda Lima , Gandra Kelly Moreira Bezerra , Bearzoti Eduardo , Santos Eleonice Moreira , Parreiras Paola Machado , Menezes Camila Carvalho
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of thermosonication of human milk (HM) followed by frozen storage on its lipid stability, antioxidant activity, and tocopherol content. The treatments investigated in this study corresponded to a factorial structure with additional treatment (control), having processing method and storage time as factors. The additional treatment corresponds to raw milk, with 0 days of storage. The experimental design was the one randomly randomized with three replications. Essential fatty acids and antioxidant activity were conserved by the ferric reducing antioxidant power method but decreased by the 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl method (9%) in both pasteurized and thermosonicated samples. Only tocopherols showed greater degradation with thermosonication. In freezing, regardless of processing, the same behavior was observed for the analyzed parameters, with a reduction in antioxidant activity and tocopherol isoforms. Hexanal increased during storage for up to 30 days (0.87 μL/mL of HM) regardless of processing. Thermosonication of HM proved to be a method similar to slow pasteurization in the studied parameters. It is suggested that further studies should be conducted on the use of ultrasound as an alternative processing technique to the conventional processes adopted by the Human Milk Bank.

Practical Applications

Thermosonication proved to be a method similar to pasteurization in the studied parameters. This study is extremely relevant to assist in the determination of new processing techniques to obtain donated HM with better nutritional quality. It is suggested that further studies should be conducted on the use of ultrasound as an alternative processing technique to the conventional processes adopted by the Human Milk Bank.
Rubbish? Envisioning a sociolinguistics of waste
Authors: Thurlow Crispin
Published: March 2022

(English) As the opening statement in a curated dialogue on Language and Waste, this paper considers what a sociolinguistics of waste might look like. In the first two parts, I provide some general rationale and academic context for starting to notice waste. By avoiding the dirty places and raw lives of waste, sociolinguists obscure two important relations: first, the social worlds of people who live and work with/in waste; second, the social connection between “us” (as makers of waste) and those left to pick up the pieces. I briefly review the isolated precedents in sociocultural linguistics for attending to waste. In the third and fourth parts, I propose at least two ways sociolinguistics can contribute usefully and distinctively to discard studies. I start by offering two empirical vignettes concerned with the discursive creation and destruction of value. In this vein, and orienting to economic sociology, I argue that scholarship on stancetaking can helpfully pinpoint the processes of (e)valuation and valuation by which things are declared unworthy or “waste‐able.” Against the backdrop of these initial propositions, the dialogue continues with commentaries by Jillian Cavanaugh, Annabelle Mooney, and Joshua Reno who contribute their own ideas about approaching waste from a decidedly (socio)linguistic angle.
Medical students' views on the value of trigger warnings in education: A qualitative study
Authors: Nolan Helen A. , Roberts Lesley
Published: March 2022

Background

Trigger warnings—advance notification of content so recipients may prepare for ensuing distress—feature in discussions in higher education. Students' expectations for warnings in some circumstances are recognised, and some educators and institutions have adopted use. Medical education necessitates engagement with potentially distressing topics. Little is known about medical students' expectations regarding warnings in education.

Methods

All students from a 4‐year graduate‐entry UK medical degree programme were contacted via digital message outlining study details and were openly sampled. Qualitative methodology was chosen to explore participant expectations, experiences and meanings derived from experiences. Students participated in semi‐structured interviews exploring perspectives on functions, benefits and drawbacks of trigger warnings in classroom‐based medical education. We analysed interview transcripts using thematic analysis.

Results

Thirteen semi‐structured, qualitative interviews were undertaken. Themes in the following areas were identified: (1) students' experiences influence understanding of trauma and trigger warnings, (2) warnings as mediators of learning experiences, (3) professional responsibilities in learning, (4) exposure to content, (5) professional ethos in medical education and (6) how to issue trigger warnings. Students recognised the term ‘trigger warning’, and that warnings are an accommodation for those affected by trauma. Students' conceptualisation of warnings was influenced by personal experiences and peer interactions both within and outside education. Students expressed both support and concerns about use of warnings and their ability to influence learning, assuming of responsibility and professional development.

Discussion

Diverse student opinions regarding warnings were identified. Most students suggested that warnings be used prior to topics concerning recognised traumas. Incremental exposure to distressing content was recommended. Students should be supported in managing own vulnerabilities and needs, while also experiencing sufficient formative exposure to develop resilience. Greater understanding of trauma prevalence and impacts and underpinnings of warnings amongst students and educators are recommended to optimise education environments and professional development.