bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Syphilis and Beyond: A Comprehensive Analysis of Associated Infections and Comorbidities in a Five-Year Retrospective Study in the United Arab Emirates (2018-2022)
Authors: Mehdi Poor Nargis Khatoon Hossein , AlDabal Laila Mohamed Jasim Ali , Bashiri Safia , Alneaimi Elham , Almarri Afra Ahmad Abdulla Alshafar , Bayoumy Amani Mohamed Saeid , Omer SalahEldin Hussain , Dsouza Carol Lavina , Moosa Musthafa
Published: April 2024

Objectives
This study explores the clinical characteristics, associated infections, and management outcomes of syphilis within a specific population over the years 2018 to 2022. With a focus on the frequency, clinical manifestations, and co-infections of syphilis, the research addresses a critical gap in understanding the nuanced dynamics of this sexually transmitted infection and its impact on public health.

Methods
The study employs a retrospective analysis of data collected from 2018 to 2022, utilizing three key serological tests (Syphilis AB, RPR/VDRL, and TPHA) to characterize syphilis infections within the population. Clinical manifestations and associated infections, including HIV, HBV, HCV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and HPV, are systematically assessed. Treatment rates and re-infection patterns are also analyzed, providing a comprehensive overview of syphilis epidemiology within the studied timeframe.

Results
The frequency of syphilis, particularly indicated by the Syphilis AB test, exhibited a marked increase in 2020, reaching 96%, suggesting a heightened frequency within the population. RPR/VDRL test results demonstrated consistent frequency, emphasizing the persistent presence of active syphilis infections. Clinical manifestations, such as chancre, skin rashes, alopecia syphilitica, and lymphadenopathy, displayed dynamic patterns over the study years. Co-infection rates varied, with fluctuations observed in HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and HPV, while HBV and HCV showed infrequent but stable frequency. The management of syphilis cases demonstrated commendable treatment rates, but an increase in re-infection rates in 2021 highlights the need for continued vigilance.

Conclusion
This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of syphilis epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and associated infections within the studied population. The results offer valuable insights into the dynamic nature of syphilis and its co-infections, informing public health initiatives and interventions. The findings contribute to our understanding of the epidemiological landscape and underscore the importance of sustained efforts in both prevention and treatment to curb the transmission of syphilis and its associated infections. The study, however, calls for continued vigilance and research to address the evolving trends and challenges in syphilis management within the specified population.
Institutional Efficiency And Financial Performance Of Insurance Companies In Nigeria
Authors: Ogunwale Olurotimi , Akintoye Ishola Rufus , Ogboi Charles , Ogbebor Peter Ifeanyi
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the impact of institutional efficiency on the financial performance of insurance companies in Nigeria covering the period from 2011 to 2022. The study employed an ex-post facto research design, the estimation techniques utilized were feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) on a sample of five insurance companies were taken. The key variables used in the analysis included net profit margin (NPM) as dependent variable and claims processing efficiency (CPE), risk management effectiveness (RME), and regulatory compliance (RC) as independent variables. The findings displayed that claims processing efficiency (β =0.185, p > 0.05) had positive but no significant effect with net profit margin, risk management effectiveness rate (β =105.910, p > 0.05) is positive but not significantly influencing in net profit margin, regulatory compliance also have negative but does not significantly impact net profit margin of the selected insurance companies in Nigeria at 1% level (β =-12.504, p >  0.05). The study thus recommended, among others, that policy maker should encourage insurance companies to adopt measures that enhance institutional efficiency, such as investing in technology, improving risk management practices, and enhancing customer service.
Is the Balance Sheet Expansions of the Central Banks Inadequate? The Case of Japan
Authors: Kurihara Yutaka
Published: April 2024

The Bank of Japan has continued monetary expansion to combat deflation for over twenty years. However, in March 2024, the Bank raised the negative policy interest rate that had lasted eight years and two months. From now on, the Bank should cope with huge balance sheet expansion. Although yield curve control (YCC) has been abolished, long-term interest rates will continue to be controlled to some degree since the Bank will continue to purchase long-term government bonds. New purchases of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have been completed, but the main measures of normalization, such as removing ETFs from the huge balance sheet, will not be implemented easily because of increasing risk of stock prices decreasing. Consequently, there will be some possibilities to lead to a rise in long-term interest rates, a strong yen (a decrease in exports), and also to a decline in stock prices. Empirical analyses are conducted to examine the effects of monetary expansion and the results are positive, however, this study emphasizes the importance of the credibility of central banks.
Poetry Workshop in the Acute Inpatient Psychiatric Setting: Feasible, Acceptable, and Significantly Beneficial
Authors: Thomas-Tran Jane , Thomas-Tran Emily Phu , Eisen Katherine , Kharrazi Neda , Mason Daniel
Published: April 2024

Objective: We investigated the feasibility and acceptability of establishing a therapeutic poetry writing workshop in an acute inpatient psychiatric setting, as well as the impact of participation on measures of mood, hope, and recovery orientation. Methods: Participants were recruited from the inpatient psychiatric units of an academic medical center. As a pre/post measure of effect of the poetry intervention, participants completed the Herth Hope Index (HHI) and the Mental Health Confidence Scale (MHCS) at baseline and follow-up, as well as a Brief Mood Survey (BMS) immediately before and after each instance of participation in the poetry workshop. Student’s t-tests were used to assess for changes on HHI, MHCS, and BMS, as well as to compare the before vs after in these metrics for individuals who attended only one workshop session versus those who attended two or more sessions to assess for dose-dependent effect of the intervention. Workshop participants also optionally completed a satisfaction survey of their qualitative experience of the group. The protocol for leading a workshop is described in detail. Results: There was a statistically significant improvement in multiple subscales of mood according to the pre- and post-measures on the BMS. Results of the HHI indicated a trend toward increased hopefulness. Results of the MHCS showed statistically significant improvement in participants’ confidence in managing day-to-day life with a mental illness. Results of satisfaction surveys indicate that participants had an overwhelmingly positive experience of the group. Conclusions and Implications for Practice: Workshops designed to foster writing and sharing poetry in a group format are likely to be clinically helpful to improve mood for patients in an acute inpatient psychiatric setting. Future research may examine the adaptability of this intervention for outpatient and virtual settings. Impact and Implications: We conducted a poetry workshop for patients in an acute inpatient psychiatric unit. Participation in the workshop even just once provided a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in multiple subscales of mood and confidence in managing day-to-day life with a mental illness. Our study describes in detail the protocol for a mental health clinician to recreate a similar poetry workshop in their own clinic or hospital.
Integrity and Child Maltreatment at Child Care Centers : A Conceptual Paper
Authors: Rahim Nur Rifhan A. , Razali Nur Hanisah Mohamad , Jasmi Zarith Sofia , Abd Halim Siti Noorhaslina , Hassan Nurfarhana , Rahim Nur Syafiqah A.
Published: April 2024

The Department of Social Welfare (JKM) reported 5572 child maltreatment cases until November 2022. According to the Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister, Datuk Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff, the welfare department recorded a total of 336 child maltreatment cases in various categories involving day care centers, register and unregistered nurseries and kindergartens were reported in year 2021 to 2022. Child maltreatment or child abuse is defined as “all forms of physical, emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect or negligent treatment or commercial or other exploitation, resulting in actual or potential harm to the child's health, survival, development, or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power” (World Health Organization, 1999). With alarming statistics nationwide for several years consecutively, child abuse cases have sparks outrage to many; police, media, politicians, authorities, UNICEF representative and Tunku Mahkota of Johor. Taking the concept of IHSAN (care and compassion) under Malaysia MADANI, this study is timely and appropriate. Therefore, this conceptual paper analyzes the concept of integrity and child maltreatment at child care centers in Malaysia
The Influence of Golf Caddies’ Service Justice on the Word-of-Mouth and Golf Tourists’ Behavioral Intention in China
Authors: Pu Zhou
Published: April 2024

Prior studies of service justice’s influence on customer’s behavioral intention and word-of-mouth have been conducted in many fields, such as business and marketing, while the influence in golf tourism marketing needs to be examined. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to analyze the structural relationship among golf caddies’ service justice, word-of-mouth of golf resorts and behavioral intention of golf tourists in China. 417 data were collected by convenient sampling method and analyzed with SPSS and Amos, using correlation analysis, structural equation model analysis and meditation test. The findings supported (a) the positive influence of golf caddies’ service justice on golf resort’s word-of-mouth and golf tourists’ behavioral intention, (b) the positive influence of word-of-moth on behavioral intention and (c) the partial mediating effect of word-of-mouth between service justice and behavioral intention. Hence, the structural relationship above was explored and empirically proved.
Non‐canonical IKB kinases regulate YAP/TAZ and pathological vascular remodeling behaviors in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells
Authors: Aravamudhan Aja , Dieffenbach Paul B. , Choi Kyoung Moo , Link Patrick A. , Meridew Jeffrey A. , Haak Andrew J. , Fredenburgh Laura E. , Tschumperlin Daniel J.
Published: April 2024

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) causes pulmonary vascular remodeling, increasing pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) and leading to right heart failure and death. Matrix stiffening early in the disease promotes remodeling in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs), contributing to PAH pathogenesis. Our research identified YAP and TAZ as key drivers of the mechanobiological feedback loop in PASMCs, suggesting targeting them could mitigate remodeling. However, YAP/TAZ are ubiquitously expressed and carry out diverse functions, necessitating a cell‐specific approach. Our previous work demonstrated that targeting non‐canonical IKB kinase TBK1 reduced YAP/TAZ activation in human lung fibroblasts. Here, we investigate non‐canonical IKB kinases TBK1 and IKKε in pulmonary hypertension (PH) and their potential to modulate PASMC pathogenic remodeling by regulating YAP/TAZ. We show that TBK1 and IKKε are activated in PASMCs in a rat PH model. Inflammatory cytokines, elevated in PAH, activate these kinases in human PASMCs. Inhibiting TBK1/IKKε expression/activity significantly reduces PAH‐associated PASMC remodeling, with longer‐lasting effects on YAP/TAZ than treprostinil, an approved PAH therapy. These results show that non‐canonical IKB kinases regulate YAP/TAZ in PASMCs and may offer a novel approach for reducing vascular remodeling in PAH.
Determination of anthropometric measurements and their application in the development of clothing sizing systems for women in the regions of the Republic of Croatia
Authors: Doležal Ksenija , Brlobašić Šajatović Blaženka
Published: April 2024

The aim of this article is to determine the differences in the physical dimensions of the female body that form the basis of the clothing size system and compare their deviations within the three regions of the Republic of Croatia. Due to the changes in the dimensions and shape of the human body, there is a need to adjust clothing in order to achieve the best possible fit. A systematic consideration of the fit of clothing includes investigation of a number of elements and factors, especially those based on anthropometric knowledge. The results of anthropometric measurements performed on a representative sample determine the body dimensions of the measured population. By sorting and grouping the data of body measurements, clothing sizes are created, with significant differences in body shape and body proportions of individual population groups. In the clothing size system, individual body dimensions define the clothing size and form a scale determined by a norm that prescribes body shape based on two dimensions of girths, where the measurement of bust girth is the basic measurement, and the body height is the dependent variable. This research was carried out on a sample of 940 women from the region of Slavonia, 1,109 women from the region of Dalmatia, and 799 women from the City of Zagreb, classified into seven age groups. The statistical processing of the results, i.e., the method of principal components, the values of the observed body measurements, and the representation of certain categories of bust girth and body size in the measured population of each region were determined.
Thymosin α1 combined with XELOX improves immune function and reduces serum tumor markers in colorectal cancer patients after radical surgery
Authors: Sha Li , Zhang Hao , Zhang Xiwei
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of thymosin α1 combined with XELOX in improving immune function and reducing serum tumor markers in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) after radical surgery. A total of 180 patients who underwent radical surgery for CRC were divided into two groups: an observation group (n = 94) receiving thymosin α1 in combination with XELOX and a control group (n = 86) receiving XELOX alone. Immune function, inflammatory factor levels, serum tumor markers, and quality of life were assessed before and after treatment. Adverse reactions and recurrence rates were compared between the two groups in 1 and 3 years. Following therapy, there was a notable increase in the levels of CD3+, CD4+, and CD4+/CD8+ in all cohorts, particularly in the observation cohort, when compared to pre-therapy levels. Conversely, CD8+ levels decreased across all cohorts, especially in the observation cohort. Additionally, there was an increase in the levels of IL-2 and IFN-γ in the observation cohort, compared to both pre-therapy and control cohort levels, while IL-6 levels decreased. The presence of CEA, CA242, and CA724 reduced significantly across all cohorts following post-therapy, particularly in the observation cohort. Post-therapy, there was a significant increase in the scoring for role, cognitive, social, emotional, and somatic functions in all cohorts, with the most significant improvement observed in the observation cohort. There were no significant differences in the incidence of side effects across cohorts, while neutropenia events were significantly lower in the observation cohort (32.98%) compared to the control cohort (48.84%). The 12-month recurrence rate showed no statistical significance across cohorts, while the observation cohort had a significantly lower three-year recurrence rate (24.47%) compared to the control cohort (59.30%). Thymosin α1 combined with XELOX is effective in improving immune function, reducing serum tumor markers, and minimizing recurrence in CRC patients after radical surgery. This combination therapy may be a promising new direction for the treatment of CRC.
The impact of incorporating waste materials on the mechanical and physical characteristics of tile adhesive materials
Authors: Turki Samer Kareem , Ibrahim Sarmad I. , Almaamori Mohammed H. D.
Published: April 2024

The goal of the investigation is to produce a cement mortar for building units and a high-performance ceramic tile adhesive by using V autoclaved aerated concrete as a partial substitute for cement. The combination consists of sand, crushed limestone, and polymeric additives. The experimental procedures were conducted utilizing contemporary laboratory equipment to facilitate the manufacturing of the product and the subsequent investigation of its characteristics, in accordance with the standards outlined in EN12004 and ASTM C1660. The laboratory tests carried out, which included splitting tensile strength, bonding strength, and open application duration, have demonstrated conformity to the product standards. The raw materials undergo many examinations prior to their utilization in the preparation process. The conducted tests encompassed chemical analysis, X-ray diffraction, and viscosity evaluation. These experiments aimed to ascertain the mixing ratios and determine the optimal quantity of water required for the preparation procedure. A thickness of 3 mm was employed, rendering it very cost-effective and environmentally sustainable due to the utilization of recycled resources. This particular adhesive possesses supplementary characteristics, such as its self-sufficiency on the site, since it is readily used without the need for extra materials, requiring only the addition of the necessary amount of water. Extensive research has been conducted on a range of mix designs and particle sizes for raw materials, together with varying proportions of additives, to determine the optimal ratio that satisfies both criteria and cost considerations. The adhesion strength of the building units was determined to be 7 N/mm2, surpassing the specified value in ASTM C1660. This indicates that the material is deemed successful and meets the required specifications for its application as a mortar for building units, as per the standard stating that an adhesion strength test exceeding 5 N/mm2 is necessary. The evaluation of the characteristics of the material employed as tile adhesive mortar was conducted in accordance with the EN1348 standard, revealing satisfactory compliance with all specified criteria. The application duration of the tile adhesive exceeds 25 min, while its tensile strength surpasses 10 N/mm2, thereby meeting the criteria for classification as a Class A tile adhesive.
Experimental investigation on tensile behavior of CFRP bolted joints subjected to hydrothermal aging
Authors: Chen Hui , Li Mingjie , Shen Zhao , Zhang Yitao , Zhu Youhua , Wu Ye
Published: April 2024

With the help of bolted joints to assemble a complex structure, carbon fiber reinforced polymer composite (CFRP) is widely used in various fields. However, stress concentration around holes at the bolted joints leads to a decrease in bearing capacity. Composites often result in mechanical degradation subjected to a complex hydrothermal environment. Therefore, to study the tensile behavior of CFRP bolted joints subjected to hydrothermal aging, the tensile tests are conducted carefully. The influence of aging time and temperature on tensile strength is investigated based on the response history, strain contour, and failure morphology. The failure mechanism is revealed via digital image correlation technology. Finally, the experimental results demonstrate that the bearing capacity of the structure in hydrothermal aging decreases significantly. Compared with the unaged specimens, the peak force of the specimens aged for 6 weeks at 25°C and 65°C is reduced by 22.79% and 35.63%, respectively. Under both the unaged and aged, the same bearing failure is found in the tensile tests of CFRP single-bolt single-lap joints.
EU Debt Instruments and Fiscal Transparency: The Case of the EU Recovery Fund
Authors: Demir Ahmed , Garmann Sebastian
Published: April 2024

We study the transparency of debts incurred for the EU Recovery Fund. In our opinion, the Recovery Fund lacks transparency at various levels. We find that the Fund implements a hidden transfer scheme that splits member states into net contributors and net recipients. As a result, the national budgets of the EU member states will have to face uncertain future obligations. Finally, we hold that the Fund weakens the European fiscal rules because the debts of the Recovery Fund do not add to the national debt levels. The national debt levels therefore do not show the whole burden.
Detecting heterogeneity of spatial accessibility to sports facilities for adolescents at fine scale: A case study in Changsha, China
Authors: Cheng Shuang , Liu Wuxin , Jiang Wangyang , Li Chen
Published: April 2024

It is crucial for social sustainability that adolescents have access to social sports services fairly. However, there are few research studies on requirements for sports facilities and spatial accessibility of adolescents at a fine scale. Further, identifying the heterogeneity of the relationship between spatial accessibility and other factors and their scales simultaneously would be conducive to reveal the variations of spatial accessibility effectively under the potential scale effect. This research aims to explore the heterogeneity of spatial accessibility to sports facilities at a fine scale in Changsha, China. The Gaussian-based two-step floating catchment area model is first employed to evaluate spatial accessibility. Then, multiscale geographically weighted regression (MGWR) is applied to examine the relationship between spatial accessibility and its associated factors. The mean accessibility in Yuelu District (0.158) is the highest as well, and the standard deviation (0.236) is also the highest one. Both the accessibility (0.019) and its standard derivation (0.029) in Furong District are the lowest. The results show that there is a lack of balance of spatial accessibility for the clusters with different accessibility levels distributed in the study area. Some socio-economic factors, such as housing price and nighttime light intensity, have significant impacts on spatial accessibility for adolescents with spatial and scale heterogeneity by using MGWR. Based on heterogeneous distribution and association, suggestions for promoting spatial accessibility to sports facilities for adolescents are proposed.
Damage evaluation of the austenitic heat-resistance steel subjected to creep by using Kikuchi pattern parameters
Authors: Du Zechen , Risu Na , Zhang Yuetao , Chen Jianguo , Wang Xiao
Published: April 2024

Austenitic heat-resistance steel is widely employed in ultra-supercritical power generation because of its superior performance. This article reports the evaluation of creep damage of a typical Super304H austenitic heat-resistance steel by using the Kikuchi pattern parameters, such as band contrast (BC), mean angular deviation (MAD), and band slope (BS). It was found that the mean BC and MAD values did not show a monotonic changing trend and then an in-depth research that distinguished grain boundary and grain interior regions of Super304H steel was studied, respectively. The results manifested that, with the increase of creep time, both the mean BC and BS values showed a monotonic decreasing trend, while the MAD did not. Besides, compared with the BC, the change amplitude of BS was larger. The results indicate that the BS could be a useful indicator, which can be utilized to evaluate the creep degree of Super304H steel in a quantitative way.
The simulation experiment description markup language (SED-ML): language specification for level 1 version 5
Authors: Smith Lucian P. , Bergmann Frank T. , Garny Alan , Helikar Tomáš , Karr Jonathan , Nickerson David , Sauro Herbert , Waltemath Dagmar , König Matthias
Published: April 2024

Modern biological research is increasingly informed by computational simulation experiments, which necessitate the development of methods for annotating, archiving, sharing, and reproducing the conducted experiments. These simulations increasingly require extensive collaboration among modelers, experimentalists, and engineers. The Minimum Information About a Simulation Experiment (MIASE) guidelines outline the information needed to share simulation experiments. SED-ML is a computer-readable format for the information outlined by MIASE, created as a community project and supported by many investigators and software tools. Level 1 Version 5 of SED-ML expands the ability of modelers to define simulations in SED-ML using the Kinetic Simulation Algorithm Onotoloy (KiSAO). While it was possible in Version 4 to define a simulation entirely using KiSAO, Version 5 now allows users to define tasks, model changes, ranges, and outputs using the ontology as well. SED-ML is supported by a growing ecosystem of investigators, model languages, and software tools, including various languages for constraint-based, kinetic, qualitative, rule-based, and spatial models, and many simulation tools, visual editors, model repositories, and validators. Additional information about SED-ML is available at https://sed-ml.org/.
Epidemiology of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children with acute respiratory infections in Hangzhou during January 2021 to June 2023
Authors: Chen Lin , Huang Shuangshuang , Wang Hao , Cai Fengqing , Peng Zhaoyang , Wang Shanshan
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) is known to be a common pathogen causing human respiratory infections. On December 7, 2022, the Chinese government announced 10 new measures of Prevention and Control of COVID-19, marking the onset of the post-COVID-19 era. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of MP infections among children from January 2021 to June 2023.

Methods

Children with respiratory tract infection were enrolled in the study with fever and one or more respiratory symptoms. A serological diagnosis was confirmed with MP IgM antibodies.

Results

A total of 18,763 patients were enrolled, of whom 4,867 cases were MP-positive, resulting in a positivity rate of 25.9 %. The MP positivity rate increased annually, with 18.6 , 26.7, and 33.2 % in 2021, 2022, and 2023, respectively. The main disease type of MP infection was Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP), with 74.0 , 87.8, and 86.4 % in 2021, 2022, and 2023, respectively. Higher positivity rates were concentrated in children aged 6 years and older, and the positivity rate in children under 1 year of age in 2023 is the largest increase among all age groups.

Conclusions

The positivity rate of MP increased significantly after the adjustment of COVID-19 prevention and control in China, and the most significant increase was seen in the infant group. Effective prevention and control measures should be implemented to reduce the prevalence of MP infection among children aged 6 years older and the infant group (<1 year).
Nanolasers
Authors: Ellis Thomas Charles , Eslami Sahand , Palomba Stefano
Published: April 2024

As the demand for smaller and more compact lasers increases, the physical dimensions of laser diodes are already at the diffraction limit, which impairs this miniaturization trend and limits direct laser integration into photonic and especially nanophotonic circuits. However, plasmonics has allowed the development of a novel class of lasers that can be manufactured without being limited by diffraction, exhibiting ultralow energy consumption, small volumes, and high modulation speeds that could someday compete with their modern macroscale counterparts. Nevertheless, a wide variety of issues create roadblocks for further development and commercial adoption. Here we conduct a monolithic review in which we formulate the definition of a nanolaser, categorize nanolasers, and examine their properties and applications to determine if nanolasers do present a potential technological revolution as they seem to exhibit or are too restricted by the issues that plague them to ever succeed.
Anti-control of Hopf bifurcation for a chaotic system
Authors: Zhang Liang , Han Qin
Published: April 2024

The anti-control of Hopf bifurcation is a method used for bifurcation control. It can be used to realize the occurrence or delay of bifurcation at the specified position to meet the needs of engineering applications. In this study, a 4D chaotic system is studied, and a dynamic state feedback control method is proposed to realize the anti-control of Hopf bifurcation for the system. By adjusting the control parameters of the controller, the system Hopf bifurcation can be generated or delayed at the specified position to realize the anti-control of Hopf bifurcation. This control method avoids complicated calculation processes and has remarkable control effects. Through numerical simulation analysis, the correctness of this control method is verified.
Influence of variable fluid properties on mixed convective Darcy–Forchheimer flow relation over a surface with Soret and Dufour spectacle
Authors: Li Shuguang , Khan Muhammad Ijaz , Ali Shahid , Ullah Khan Sami , Althobaiti Saja Abdulrahman , Khan Ilyas , Alqurashi Faris , Kchaou Mohamed
Published: April 2024

The thermo-diffusion applications of nanofluid subject to variable thermal sources have been presented. The significance of Darcy–Forchheimer effects is attributed. The flow comprises the mixed convection and viscous dissipation effects. Furthermore, the variable influence of viscosity, thermal conductivity, and mass diffusivity is treated to analyze the flow. The analysis of problem is referred to convective mass and thermal constraints. The analytical simulations are proceeded with homotopy analysis method. The convergence region is highlighted. Novel physical contribution of parameters is visualized and treated graphically. It is noted that larger Brinkman number leads to improvement in heat transfer. The concentration pattern boosted due to Soret number. The wall shear force enhances with Hartmann number and variable thermal conductivity coefficient.
Analysis of electrical resistance tomography measurements for fast force localization
Authors: Affortunati Sabrina , Zagar Bernhard G.
Published: April 2024

Safe human-robot collaboration requires the robot to monitor the location and intensity of a potential contact force. This is necessary to avoid a possible risk of injury to humans. The goal of this work is to develop a distributed sensor system that enables spatially resolved force measurement. By covering the entire robot’s surface with an elastic coating with a sufficiently pressure-dependent conductivity, electrical resistance tomography can be used for this purpose. The measurement of the transimpedance makes it possible to localize a force applied between the electrodes and thus increase the spatial resolution of the measuring system. By analyzing the obtained measurements, a fast method, compared to classical electrical resistance tomography, for force localization is proposed. This method is compared to the classical method of electrical resistance tomography. A reduction in the processing time to less than one tenth has been attained with the presented method for the case of force localization only.
Quantification of Gypsum in Soils via Portable X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
Authors: Basham Michelle R. , Cerato Amy B. , Miller Gerald A.
Published: April 2024

This study explores the potential of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) as a rapid, nondestructive, and cost-effective technique for in situ sulfate quantification. Gypsum, the main source of sulfate in soils, reacts with calcium-based stabilizers to form expansive minerals, which reduces the long-term strength of the treated soil. Therefore, accurate detection of sulfate content prior to employing calcium-based chemical stabilization is important to mitigate the possibility of expansive mineral formation and ensure acceptable engineering behavior of the stabilized soil. Portable handheld XRF (PXRF) has shown the ability to estimate gypsum content accurately, utilizing calcium as a proxy. However, detecting sulfur, in the form of sulfite or sulfate remains challenging due to device sensitivity limitations. This research aims to address this limitation and develop a method for direct sulfur detection, enhancing the utility of PXRF for in situ sulfate quantification. Laboratory standards were created with known amounts of gypsum and portions were sent to a commercial laboratory for whole rock analysis. The remainder of the reference standards were used to calibrate several soil library standards within the PXRF. The calibrated PXRF was able to accurately detect the anhydrous form of gypsum, anhydrite (CaSO4), in these reference standards for contents ranging from 0 to 8 %. The proposed XRF-based approach offers the potential to revolutionize sulfate detection in soils, providing a rapid and reliable tool for assessing soil stability and optimizing chemical stabilization efforts. By enabling real-time, on-site analysis, this method holds promise for improving construction practices and reducing the risk of structural damage associated with soils containing sulfate-bearing minerals.
Research on the State-Dependent Hyperbolic Model of the Interface between Spoil Mixture and Concrete
Authors: Wang Xuan , Zhang Lei , Jia Yu , Zhang Jia-sheng , Zhu Wu-jun
Published: April 2024

A series of large-scale direct shear tests were carried out to study the stress-strain relationship of the interface between the spoil mixture and concrete under different roughness conditions. The results showed that roughness significantly affects the shear strength properties and dilatancy characteristics of the interface. Under different roughness conditions, the shear stress ratio and the normal deformation of the interface tend to be stable after larger shear strain, and the interface presents the characteristics of a critical state. With the increase of shear strain, the void ratio of the interface shows the law of transformation from the initial void ratio to a certain stable void ratio. Based on the void ratio prediction formula of the interface, the relationship between roughness and critical state parameters was established, and the interface state parameters were introduced into the hyperbolic model. Finally, a state-dependent hyperbolic model of the interface considering the roughness was established. Importantly, the model can well reflect the shear stress-strain relationship of the interface under different roughness conditions.
DMAIC-v2: A Novel Guide to the Improvement of Industrial Processes
Authors: Nsekuye Jean Bosco , Erramli Othmane , Elouadi Abdelmajid , Gretete Driss , Mushirabwoba Bernard
Published: April 2024

This paper introduces DMAIC-v2, an enhanced approach based on the Six Sigma Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control (DMAIC) methodology aimed at facilitating the improvement of industrial processes in a more efficient and effective manner. DMAIC-v2 expands upon the capabilities of the classic DMAIC to address a wider range of applications effectively and efficiently, including modern equipment and processes. This updated version introduces an innovative methodology for evaluating improvement options by leveraging modeling and simulation techniques. It also incorporates a real-time quality control model for optimizing the effectiveness of quality control in production processes and output products. Furthermore, it introduces an innovative approach for programming and controlling industrial processes using augmented reality, virtual reality, and digital twin technologies. To showcase the effectiveness of DMAIC-v2, this paper presents a case study focusing on the improvement of a twisting system for automotive cables. The case study demonstrates how DMAIC-v2 is effective in reducing variability, minimizing the waste of raw materials, and enhancing the characteristics of the product. This paper serves as a practical guide for improving industrial equipment and production processes to achieve higher-quality products. It provides a roadmap and effective methods for addressing challenges related to industrial processes, including equipment variability, lack of flexibility and smartness, budget constraints, waste of raw materials, and product quality. By following the recommendations presented in this paper, firms can overcome these challenges and enhance their overall performance.
Causal Associations Between the Gut Microbiome and Aortic Aneurysm: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Lv Yan , Shen Dexin , Zhang Ge , Wang Bo , Wang Haiyu , Zhang Jinying , Tang Junnan
Published: April 2024

Background: Observational studies have indicated an association between the gut microbiota and the occurrence and progression of aortic aneurysm (AA). However, the causal relationship between the gut microbiota and AA and its subtypes remains unclear. This study used Mendelian randomization (MR) to gain new insights into the relationship between the gut microbiota and AA, including AA subtypes.

Methods: We used summary data from a genome-wide association study of gut microbiota to determine genetically predicted microbial taxa. Additionally, we predicted causal relationships between the gut microbiota and AA, including AA subtypes. MR was conducted with two-sample MR with the inverse variance weighting, MR-Egger, weighted median, and weighted mode methods to assess the causal relationships. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy were evaluated with the MR-Egger method, Cochran’s Q test, and the MR-PRESSO Global test. The strength of the causal relationships between exposures and outcomes was assessed with Bonferroni correction. The stability of the MR results was evaluated with leave-one-out analyses. Reverse MR analysis was also performed to examine reverse causality.

Results: Through MR analysis, after Bonferroni correction, specific microbial taxa were found to have a causal relationship in AA and its subtypes. Specifically, the phylum Lentisphaerae (OR = 0.82, P = 0.001), class Lentisphaeria (OR = 0.81, P = 0.0028), and family Bifidobacteriaceae (OR = 0.79, P < 0.001) were negatively associated with AA risk, whereas the genus Family XIII UCG001 (OR = 1.33, P < 0.001) was positively associated with AA risk. Regarding subtypes, elevated levels of the genus Bilophila (OR = 1.36, P < 0.001) were closely associated with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) occurrence. Lower levels of the family Bifidobacteriaceae (OR = 0.71, P < 0.001) and phylum Lentisphaerae (OR = 0.81, P = 0.0025), and higher levels of the genus Ruminococcaceae UCG014 (OR = 1.30, P < 0.001) exhibited strong causal relationships with thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA).

Conclusion: Our study suggests that specific components of the gut microbiota have causal effects, either beneficial or detrimental, on AA risk, thus providing potentially valuable biomarkers for early diagnosis and potential therapeutic targets.
Rebels in Diaspora
Authors: Ramírez Mauricio E.
Published: April 2024

San Francisco’s Mission District is well known for its vibrant and diverse Latinx murals that began in the late 1960s. Yet little is known of the few Central American muralists who contributed to its community mural movement in the 1980s and 1990s. The eighties were a pivotal decade in which artists of Central American descent began to participate in creating activist murals representing and critiquing the civil wars then occurring in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Nicaragua. This article provides a new understanding of the roots of Salvadoran American murals that were manifested as a direct response to the US intervention in the Central American civil wars. I examine the history of two artists/muralists of Salvadoran descent: Herbert Sigüenza and Isaías Mata, who painted murals in the Mission District from 1982 to 1992 in solidarity with the Central American liberation movements. Although Sigüenza and Mata relied on individual experiences as visual artists, there are significant parallels between them as they negotiated painting from within the country—the United States—that openly intervened in the Salvadoran civil war. In an era when artists of non–Central American descent were responsible for the majority of murals created in San Francisco in solidarity with Central America, this article presents a thorough examination of the motivations that drove two Salvadoran artists to create their own solidarity murals. I show how Sigüenza and Mata contributed a revolutionary and anti-imperialist perspective in their murals based on their diasporic subjectivity. My sources are archival documents, visual analysis, and oral history interviews conducted with Sigüenza and Mata.
Post-Internet Latinx Art
Authors: Zapata Claudia
Published: April 2024

This Dialogues is a curated discussion of Latinx digital humanities emphasizing digital visual culture and the digital visualization of culture by scholars and artists with diverse backgrounds and projects. Envisioned as a foundational text in the growing Latinx visual digital humanities field, this Dialogues is not striving to be comprehensive. Instead, through its discussion, participants define Latinx digital humanities and visual culture broadly, with authors and artists finding common ground through their decolonial practices and community-based methods, as well as sharing concerns about and resistance to inevitable co-option by capitalism as their respective Latinx digital humanities projects work against community erasure and toward visibility. Contributors also map antecedents and futures for Latinx digital humanities projects of visual culture.
Las estampas religiosas que ilustran algunos libros impresos por el taller tipográfico de María Candelaria de Rivera en Ciudad de México (1732–54)
Authors: Calvo Portela Juan Isaac , Poiré Marcela Corvera
Published: April 2024

In this work we present our research on the religious-themed engravings that illustrate some of the books printed by one of the most important eighteenth-century typographic workshops in Mexico City, that of María Candelaria de Rivera. The chosen topics of the prints must be understood in relation to the content of the books or their paratexts, such that they form a single reality.
La Cooperación Internacional para el Desarrollo en América Latina: Una perspectiva histórica
Authors: Paniagua-Sánchez Adriana
Published: April 2024

Less than ten years after the 2030 Agenda ends, and more than seventy years after the emergence of the first development cooperation strategies, questions and challenges regarding its scope are emerging. This article proposes to recover the historical process of International Development Cooperation (IDC) from 1945 to the present, from the perspective of Latin America and the Caribbean. For which it aims to recover the Latin American contribution in the construction of this process to rethink a cooperation capable of facing present challenges, such as those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and anticipate future situations, as an approach to advance the process of transformation and search for alternatives to generate more equitable structural relations from and for the region without depending on traditional North-South aid.
A Rare Case of Tuberculous Constrictive Pericarditis Due to Disseminated Tuberculosis with Response to Anti-tuberculosis Chemotherapy and Steroids in a Developed City State
Authors: Wang Luokai , Soh Jade , Go Yun Yun , Balakrishnan Iswaree Devi D/O , Ganti Srujana , Tan Min On
Published: April 2024

A 27-year-old man presented with a 1-week history of atypical chest pain and sinus tachycardia. His physical examination was unremarkable. His resting ECG showed sinus tachycardia with widespread T-wave inversion. His initial blood tests show mildly raised troponin T and inflammatory markers and marked raised D-dimer. A CT pulmonary angiogram was performed to exclude pulmonary embolism but incidentally revealed an anterior mediastinal mass. A transthoracic echocardiogram and cardiac MRI showed features of constrictive pericarditis. A video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical biopsy of the anterior mediastinal mass showed thymic tissue with necrotising granulomatous inflammation and an acid-fast bacilli culture was positive to tuberculosis infection. The patient was started on anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy and a 6-week tapering course of oral steroids. A repeat cardiac MRI performed after 6 weeks of treatment showed a significant response to treatment with resolution of constrictive physiology.
The Cherry Tree
Authors: Kingsley Jenny
Published: April 2024

The Cherry Tree is a short story
The Everything but the Squeal-How the Pig Supported Life in Lincolnshire
Authors: Phipps Eric
Published: April 2024

An oral history of life in rural Lincolnshire by a retired butcher with period photographs (early to post-War 20th-century) concerning, especially, the annual pig slaughtering, butchering and preserving of meat undertaken by pig-owning households throughout the county.
The Question of Dog Meat
Authors: Kemasang A R T
Published: April 2024

Without denying that dogs have been raised in Chinese cultures for the purposes of consumption, the author argues that pets have never been on the menu and goes on to identify many instances where dog food or other meats now deemed abhorrent were eaten in the West.
The Eighteenth-century Recipe Book of Sarah St John
Authors: Thick Malcom
Published: April 2024

The article describes the preliminary results of the author's research into the ori­ginal owners of and into the recipes contained in a book --  Sarah St John’s recipe book (early 18th-century) that he recently acquired.
Behold, the Global Translated Bible(s)! Research and Pedagogical Implications
Authors: Dube Musa W.
Published: April 2024

Mother Earth is home to an unprecedented number of translations of the Bible, making it the most widely translated book in the world. The pages of this book have traversed a variety of physical and metaphorical borders, navigating diverse geographical, political, economic, cultural, linguistic, and religious intersections. Across space, time, and cultures, millions of readers have found various reasons to read it through diverse lenses. The Bible was frequently translated and brought to the colonized territories with colonial movements. Regrettably, it was often utilized as a tool for subjugation and dominance. However, the colonized people also used this resource for their own goals. Do contemporary biblical studies have the courage to look upon the tomes and tons of translated Bibles lying upon the surface of Mother Earth? What responsibilities and opportunities does the Global Translated Bible(s) lay upon academic biblical studies? What research questions, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration does it open? What are the pedagogical obligations and implications of acknowledging the Global Translated Bible(s)? In other words, what does faithfulness and unfaithfulness to the translated biblical corpus entail, imply, and demand? This lecture proposes and emphasizes the imperative of mainstreaming the Global Translated Bible(s) into academic biblical studies.