bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Appraising the impact of COVID-19 on trading volume of selected vessel types in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Olapoju Olabisi Michael
Published: September 2023

The emergence and diffusion of coronavirus (COVID-19) have brought a lot of impacts on various spheres of human endeavours including maritime trading. This paper explores the effect of the lockdown on maritime port calls for selected vessels in the sub-Saharan African (SSA) regions (East, Middle, South, and West Africa). The study utilizes port calls data of the maritime profile of the global economies obtained from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development Statistics between 2018 and 2021. Data include port calls for liquid bulk carrier, liquefied petroleum gas, dry bulk carrier, dry break bulk carrier, roll-on-roll-off, and container carrier. The analysis of data involves the use of exploratory technique to reveal dimensions of performance by various carriers across the regions. The results picture the kind of response of port calls in all the regions akin to the response from other regions of the world. However, the study observes that though responses to COVID-19 lockdown across the globe were similar, SSA regions were slow in recovering from the decline in port calls when compared to the developed and some rapidly developing economies of the world due to the region’s lack of economic resilience. Thus, since ports have been identified as vulnerable to economic, social, institutional, and environmental shocks, and to dynamic and highly unpredictable demand for port services, policymakers of various nationals in the SSA may need to examine the patterns of performance of vessels in the regions to manage trade flows more effectively as a way of responding to future dynamics in maritime trade in the region.
A mixed method analysis of the Botswana schistosomiasis control policy and plans using the policy triangle framework
Authors: Gabaake Kebabonye P. , Lucero-Prisno Don Eliseo , Thakadu Olekae T. , Phaladze Nthabiseng A.
Published: September 2023

Background

The present goal of the World Health Organization (WHO) 2021–2030 roadmap for Neglected Tropical Diseases is to eliminate schistosomiasis as a public health problem, and reduce its prevalence of heavy infections to less than 1%. Given the evolution and impact of schistosomiasis in the Ngamiland district of Botswana, the aim of this study was to analyze the control policies for the district using the Policy Triangle Framework.

Methods

The study used a mixed method approaches of an analysis of policy documents and interviews with 12 informants who were purposively selected. Although the informants were recruited from all levels of the NTD sector, the analysis of the program was predominantly from the Ngamiland district. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s approach to content analysis.

Results

The study highlights the presence of clear, objectives and targets for the Ngamiland control policy. Another theme was the success in morbidity control, which was realized primarily through cycles of MDA in schools. The contextual background for the policy was high morbidity and lack of programming data. The implementation process of the policy was centralized at the Ministry of Health (MOH) and WHO, and there was minimal involvement of the communities and other stakeholders. The policy implementation process was impeded by a lack of domestic resources and lack of comprehensive policy content on snail control and no expansion of the policy content beyond SAC. The actors were predominately MOH headquarters and WHO, with little representation of the district, local level settings, NGOs, and private sectors.

Conclusions

The lack of resources and content in the control of environmental determinants and exclusion of other at-risk groups in the policy, impeded sustained elimination of the disease. There is a need to guide the treatment of preschool-aged children and develop national guidelines on treating foci of intense transmission. Moreover, the dynamic of the environmental transmissions and reorientation of the schistosomiasis policy to respond to the burden of schistosomiasis morbidity, local context, and health system context are required.
Data-driven next-generation smart grid towards sustainable energy evolution: techniques and technology review
Authors: Ahsan Faiaz , Dana Nazia Hasan , Sarker Subrata K. , Li Li , Muyeen S. M. , Ali Md. Firoj , Tasneem Zinat , Hasan Md. Mehedi , Abhi Sarafat Hussain , Islam Md. Robiul , Ahamed Md. Hafiz , Islam Md. Manirul , Das Sajal K. , Badal Md. Faisal R. , Das Prangon
Published: September 2023

Meteorological changes urge engineering communities to look for sustainable and clean energy technologies to keep the environment safe by reducing CO2 emissions. The structure of these technologies relies on the deep integration of advanced data-driven techniques which can ensure efficient energy generation, transmission, and distribution. After conducting thorough research for more than a decade, the concept of the smart grid (SG) has emerged, and its practice around the world paves the ways for efficient use of reliable energy technology. However, many developing features evoke keen interest and their improvements can be regarded as the next-generation smart grid (NGSG). Also, to deal with the non-linearity and uncertainty, the emergence of data-driven NGSG technology can become a great initiative to reduce the diverse impact of non-linearity. This paper exhibits the conceptual framework of NGSG by enabling some intelligent technical features to ensure its reliable operation, including intelligent control, agent-based energy conversion, edge computing for energy management, internet of things (IoT) enabled inverter, agent-oriented demand side management, etc. Also, a study on the development of data-driven NGSG is discussed to facilitate the use of emerging data-driven techniques (DDTs) for the sustainable operation of the SG. The prospects of DDTs in the NGSG and their adaptation challenges in real-time are also explored in this paper from various points of view including engineering, technology, et al. Finally, the trends of DDTs towards securing sustainable and clean energy evolution from the NGSG technology in order to keep the environment safe is also studied, while some major future issues are highlighted. This paper can offer extended support for engineers and researchers in the context of data-driven technology and the SG.
Development of a patient-reported outcome (PRO) measure to assess patient perceptions of simplicity and complexity of treatment for type 2 diabetes
Authors: Stewart Katie D. , Matza Louis S. , Patel Hiren , Boye Kristina S.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Treatments for type 2 diabetes vary widely in their complexity. The simplicity or complexity of a treatment regimen may have an impact on patient preference, treatment adherence, and health outcomes. The purpose of this qualitative study was to develop two draft patient-reported outcome instruments focusing on patients’ experience with simplicity and complexity of treatment for type 2 diabetes.

Methods

The instruments were developed in a series of steps: gather information to support development of a concept elicitation interview guide (literature review and expert interviews), concept elicitation interviews with patients (N = 30), cognitive interviews with patients (N = 20), and a translatability assessment.

Results

In concept elicitation interviews, patients with type 2 diabetes reported a range of treatment attributes that influence their perceptions of treatment simplicity and complexity, such as injection devices, medication preparation, dose timing, dose frequency, ease of taking the correct dose, flexibility of dose schedule, remembering to take medication, and food requirements. Two draft questionnaires were developed based on the literature review, expert interviews, and concept elicitation interviews with patients. Revisions were made to these draft instruments based on qualitative interviews with patients and translatability assessment.

Discussion

The qualitative research conducted in this study supports the content validity of two newly developed instruments, the Simplicity of Diabetes Treatment Questionnaire (Sim-Q) and the Simplicity of Diabetes Treatment Questionnaire-Comparison (Sim-Q-Comp), designed to assess the simplicity and complexity of diabetes treatment from the patient’s perspective.
The role of parametric feature maps to correct different volume of interest sizes: an in vivo liver MRI study
Authors: Jensen Laura Jacqueline , Kim Damon , Elgeti Thomas , Steffen Ingo Günter , Schaafs Lars-Arne , Hamm Bernd , Nagel Sebastian Niko
Published: September 2023

Background

Different volume of interest (VOI) sizes influence radiomic features. This study examined if translating images into feature maps before feature sampling could compensate for these effects in liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

T1- and T2-weighted sequences from three different scanners (two 3-T scanners, one 1.5-T scanner) of 66 patients with normal abdominal MRI were included retrospectively. Three differently sized VOIs (10, 20, and 30 mm in diameter) were drawn in the liver parenchyma (right lobe), excluding adjacent structures. Ninety-three features were extracted conventionally using PyRadiomics. All images were also converted to 93 parametric feature maps using a pretested software. Agreement between the three VOI sizes was assessed with overall concordance correlation coefficients (OCCCs), while OCCCs > 0.85 were rated reproducible. OCCCs were calculated twice: for the VOI sizes of 10, 20, and 30 mm and for those of 20 and 30 mm.

Results

When extracted from original images, only 4 out of the 93 features were reproducible across all VOI sizes in T1- and T2-weighted images. When the smallest VOI was excluded, 5 features (T1-weighted) and 7 features (T2-weighted) were reproducible. Extraction from parametric maps increased the number of reproducible features to 9 (T1- and T2-weighted) across all VOIs. Excluding the 10-mm VOI, reproducibility improved to 16 (T1-weighted) and 55 features (T2-weighted). The stability of all other features also increased in feature maps.

Conclusions

Translating images into parametric maps before feature extraction improves reproducibility across different VOI sizes in normal liver MRI.

Relevance statement

The size of the segmented VOI influences the feature quantity of radiomics, while software-based conversion of images into parametric feature maps before feature sampling improves reproducibility across different VOI sizes in MRI of normal liver tissue.

Key points

• Parametric feature maps can compensate for different VOI sizes.

• The effect seems dependent on the VOI sizes and the MRI sequence.

• Feature maps can visualize features throughout the entire image stack.

Graphical Abstract
A buffer overflow detection and defense method based on RISC-V instruction set extension
Authors: Liu Chang , Wu Yan-Jun , Wu Jing-Zheng , Zhao Chen
Published: September 2023

Buffer overflow poses a serious threat to the memory security of modern operating systems. It overwrites the contents of other memory areas by breaking through the buffer capacity limit, destroys the system execution environment, and provides implementation space for various system attacks such as program control flow hijacking. That makes it a wide range of harms. A variety of security technologies have been proposed to deal with system security problems including buffer overflow. For example, No eXecute (NX for short) is a memory management technology commonly used in Harvard architecture. It can refuse the execution of code which residing in a specific memory, and can effectively suppress the abnormal impact of buffer overflow on control flow. Therefore, in recent years, it has also been used in the field of system security, deriving a series of solutions based on NX technology, such as ExecShield, DEP, StackGuard, etc. However, these security solutions often rely too much on the processor architecture so that the protection coverage is insufficient and the accuracy is limited. Especially in the emerging system architecture field represented by RISC-V, there is still a lack of effective solutions for buffer overflow vulnerabilities. With the continuous rapid development of the system architecture, it is urgent to develop defense methods that are applicable to different system application environments and oriented to all executable memory spaces to meet the needs of system security development. Therefore, we propose BOP, A new system memory security design method based on RISC-V extended instructions, to build a RISC-V buffer overflow detection and defense system and deal with the buffer overflow threat in RISC-V. According to this method, NX technology can be combined with program control flow analysis, and NX bit mechanism can be used to manage the executability of memory space, so as to achieve a more granular detection and defense of buffer overflow attacks that may occur in RISC-V system environment. In addition, The memory management and control function of BOP is not only very suitable for solving the security problems in the existing single architecture system, but also widely applicable to the combination of multiple heterogeneous systems.

Graphical abstract
Sperm genetic abnormality testing in recurrent pregnancy loss cases: a narrative review
Authors: Peng Li-fan
Published: September 2023

Background

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), which mostly is of unknown etiology (unexplained RPL, uRPL), is defined as three or more consecutive spontaneous abortions. Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a problem affecting up to 5% of women of childbearing age due to many factors.

Results

The underlying cause is complicated, and the etiology of over 50% of RPL patients is unclear. So far, studies on the etiology of RPL have focused on women, and little attention has been paid to the role of sperm in the development and progression of the disease. Many clinical studies have shown that sperm genetic material and embryonic development potential are closely related to pregnancy outcome. The formation and development of sperm, the combination of sperm and oocyte, and the implantation and development of fertilized oocyte are regulated by chromosome and genes. Because the genome of embryo is provided by sperm, the abnormality of sperm chromosome number and structure, sperm DNA integrity, gene mutation, and epigenetic abnormality may lead to RPL.

Conclusions

This article reviews the advances in the studies of the role of sperm genetic abnormalities in RPL, hoping to contribute to the prediction, diagnosis, and treatment of RPL in the future.
Primary pancreatic Ewing sarcoma with metastases on FDG PET/CT
Authors: Singh Man Mohan , Verma Shashwat , Kakkar Lavish , Thakur Priyamedha Bose , Deswal Satyawati , Maurya Malti Kumari , Sharma Akanksha
Published: September 2023

Background

Ewing sarcoma (ES) is a highly aggressive malignant tumor most commonly affecting long bones. Extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma (EES) is a malignant tumor with aggressive behavior carrying bad prognosis with pancreas being an extremely rare primary site. We present a case of histopathologically proven EES of the pancreas in a young female who presented with abdominal pain. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F FDG PET/CT) is a useful modality for detecting distant metastases in EES. It helps in diagnosis, localizing the primary, its extension, optimal treatment planning and evaluation of response to standard treatments available.

Case presentation

An 18-year-old female presented with complaints of progressive abdominal pain and distention since 6 weeks. Physical examination was suggestive of a solid large mass in the upper left abdomen and decreased breath sounds with dullness in the left lower lung fields. On Contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) imaging, a large heterogeneously enhancing mass was seen arising from pancreas along with retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy. A moderate sized left sided pleural effusion with atelectasis of lower lobe of left lung was also noted. Histopathological analysis was suggestive of pancreatic ES following which the patient underwent five cycles of chemotherapy. Following this, she underwent 18F FDG PET/CT which showed hypermetabolic large mass arising from body and tail of pancreas with areas of internal necrosis along with left adrenal metastasis, retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy, a massive left pleural effusion and compressive atelectasis of left lower lobe. The patient expired within a week following PET/CT.

Conclusions

EES most often presents in the late stage of the disease with vague symptoms. Timely diagnosis and initiation of treatment is of utmost importance considering the aggressiveness of the tumor. Establishing a diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma is especially difficult when the mass is arising from the pancreas. Imaging, histopathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) play a key role in accurate diagnosis of such masses. 18F FDG PET/CT can be useful for detecting local and distant spread, operability, treatment planning and evaluation of response to chemotherapy.
Prediction of the compressive strength of lightweight concrete containing industrial and waste steel fibers using a multilayer synthetic neural network
Authors: Nejati Faezeh , Mansourkia Ashkan
Published: September 2023

The use of waste and industrial steel fibers as part of the materials used in concrete can increase resistance and reduce cost and air pollution. It also saves energy. One of the important measures for technical inspections and assessment of the existing condition of structures, especially bridges, which is the most important communication factor, is to check the compressive strength. Considering that the calculation of compressive strength in the laboratory is done with the intervention of human power and is undoubtedly affected by human error, we decided to use it through.

Predicting the mechanical properties of concrete reinforced with steel fibers based on artificial neural network models without the need to conduct any laboratory studies will save money in construction projects. Unlike classical methods in statistical theories, neural networks do not require any specific model or function along with limiting assumptions to linearize problems.

For this purpose, this research was done with the aim of compensating this problem and with the aim of building a neural network with high accuracy that can make the desired predictions with the least error. In this research, this modeling was done using artificial neural networks (ANN) and Levenberg algorithm. The data used to train the neural network was collected from 45 different mixing schemes. Then the compressive strength of the sample is determined experimentally. The parameters considered for the ANN inputs are the values of steel fiber, water, water-cement ratio, cement and superlubricant. The objective data of this study included the compressive strength of each of these mixing designs at the ages of 7, 28 and 60 days. Then, to design the neural network, 75% of the data were considered as training data, 15% as target data and 15% as validation data. The compressive strength of concrete samples made from waste steel fibers increases. One of the reasons for this result is the placement and uniform distribution of fibers in the cement matrix, or in other words, the optimal amount of desired fibers in concrete. For experimental information and data, results can be seen with the help of neural network in data analysis. It was observed that the validation is correlated with a correlation coefficient above 99% and the constructed neural network has sufficient accuracy and validity.
CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of the ubiquitin variant UbKEKS reveals a role in regulating nucleolar structures and composition
Authors: Frion Julie , Meller Anna , Marbach Gwendoline , Lévesque Dominique , Roucou Xavier , Boisvert François-Michel
Published: September 2023

Ubiquitination is a post-translational modification responsible for one of the most complex multilayered communication and regulation systems in the cell. Over the past decades, new ubiquitin variants and ubiquitin-like proteins arose to further enrich this mechanism. Recently discovered ubiquitin variant UbKEKS can specifically target several proteins and yet, functional consequences of this new modification remain unknown. Depletion of UbKEKS induces accumulation of lamin A in the nucleoli, highlighting the need for deeper investigations about protein composition and functions regulation of this highly dynamic and membrane-less compartment. Using data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry and microscopy, we show that despite not impacting protein stability, UbKEKS is required to maintain a normal nucleolar organization. The absence of UbKEKS increases nucleoli's size and accentuate their circularity while disrupting dense fibrillar component and fibrillar centre structures. Moreover, depletion of UbKEKS leads to distinct changes in nucleolar composition. Lack of UbKEKS favours nucleolar sequestration of known apoptotic regulators such as IFI16 or p14ARF, resulting in an increase of apoptosis observed by flow cytometry and real-time monitoring. Overall, these results identify the first cellular functions of the UbKEKS variant and lay the foundation stone to establish UbKEKS as a new universal layer of regulation in the ubiquitination system.
Beam theory predicts muscle deformation and vertebral curvature during feeding in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Jimenez Yordano E. , Camp Ariel L.
Published: September 2023

Muscle shortening underpins most skeletal motion and ultimately animal performance. Most animal muscle generates its greatest mechanical output over a small, homogeneous range of shortening magnitudes and speeds. However, homogeneous muscle shortening is difficult to achieve for swimming fish because the whole body deforms like a bending beam: as the vertebral column flexes laterally, longitudinal muscle strain increases along a medio-lateral gradient. Similar dorsoventral strain gradients have been identified as the vertebral column flexes dorsally during feeding in at least one body location in one fish. If fish bodies also deform like beams during dorsoventral feeding motions, this would suggest the dorsal body (epaxial) muscles must homogenize both dorsoventral and mediolateral strain gradients. We tested this hypothesis by measuring curvature of the anterior vertebral column with XROMM and muscle shortening in 14 epaxial subregions with fluoromicrometry during feeding in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). We compared measured strain with the predicted strain based on beam theory's curvature–strain relationship. Trout flexed the vertebrae dorsally and laterally during feeding strikes, yet when flexion in both planes was included, the strain predicted by beam theory was strongly and significantly correlated with measured strain (P<0.01, R2=0.60). Beam theory accurately predicted strain (slope=1.15, compared with ideal slope=1) across most muscle subregions, confirming that epaxial muscles experience dorsoventral and mediolateral gradients in longitudinal strain. Establishing this deformation–curvature relationship is a crucial step to understanding how these muscles overcome orthogonal strain gradients to produce powerful feeding and swimming behaviours.
Evaluating the implementation of adult smoking cessation programs in community settings: Protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Mitchell Remai , O'Grady Kerry-Ann , Brain David , Tyack Zephanie
Published: September 2023

Background

Morbidity and mortality due to tobacco smoking is a public health crisis predicted to rise in coming years with the growing global population. Smoking cessation programs are an important tool to support service users to quit smoking. Understanding implementation processes and associated contextual factors influencing uptake of smoking cessation programs may help enhance service delivery, service user engagement, and cessation outcomes.

Objectives

The objective of this review is to evaluate the implementation of smoking cessation programs for adult smokers aged 18 years or older.

Rationale

Whilst the effectiveness of smoking cessation programs has been thoroughly investigated, there is limited research examining the implementation of programs in practice. This scoping review will provide novel information by evaluating the implementation of smoking cessation programs including acceptability, fidelity, scalability, and sustainability.

Inclusion criteria

This review will include the implementation of smoking cessation programs for adults aged 18 years or older, who are daily smokers of tobacco-based cigarettes, accessing a community-based service for smoking cessation support.

Methods

A search of research databases Medline, CENTRAL, Embase, and Web of Science will be undertaken, in addition to searching for grey literature for potential studies for inclusion. Hand searches of included articles will also be performed. Data will be extracted into a spreadsheet and ordered into predetermined categories based on the inclusion criteria, intervention, implementation strategies and implementation outcomes. Implementation outcomes including acceptability, cost, and scalability will provide the framework for reporting outcomes.

Conclusions

This scoping review will evaluate the implementation of smoking cessation services to adults in the community. An evidence map highlighting current knowledge will be developed, contributing to the body of literature on community-based smoking cessation programs. Evidence gaps will be identified, providing direction for future research and service delivery internationally.
Platelet indices and neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio as a predictive tool in acute sickle cell vaso-occlusive crisis: A study protocol
Authors: Khurana Kashish , Mahajan Satish
Published: September 2023

Platelet indices and the neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio are newly emerging indicators of systemic inflammation in chronic diseases, such as hemoglobinopathies. The objectives of this study include estimation of platelet indices and neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio in sickle cell disease (SCD) patients with and without vaso-occlusive crisis. This cross-sectional study will be conducted in the Department of Medicine at a tertiary care teaching hospital situated in the rural area of Wardha district. The participants will include patients of SCD older than 14 years of age attending the sickle cell clinic. We hypothesize the use of neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet indices as clinically significant predictive markers in acute sickle cell vaso-occlusive crisis.
Surveillance of respiratory viruses at health facilities from across Kenya, 2014
Authors: Murunga Nickson , Nyawanda Bryan , Nyiro Joyce U. , Otieno Grieven P. , Kamau Everlyn , Agoti Charles N. , Lewa Clement , Gichuki Alex , Mutunga Martin , Otieno Nancy , Mayieka Lilian , Ochieng Melvin , Kikwai Gilbert , Hunsperger Elizabeth , Onyango Clayton , Emukule Gideon , Bigogo Godfrey , Verani Jennifer R. , Chaves Sandra S. , Nokes D. James , Munywoki Patrick K.
Published: September 2023

Background: Acute respiratory illnesses (ARI) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally.  With (re)emergence of novel viruses and increased access to childhood bacterial vaccines, viruses have assumed greater importance in the aetiology of ARI. There are now promising candidate vaccines against some of the most common endemic respiratory viruses. Optimal delivery strategies for these vaccines, and the need for interventions against other respiratory viruses, requires geographically diverse data capturing temporal variations in virus circulation.

Methods: We leveraged three health facility-based respiratory illness surveillance platforms operating in 11 sites across Kenya. Nasopharyngeal (NP) and/or oropharyngeal (OP) specimens, patient demographic, and clinical characteristics were collected in 2014 from individuals of various ages presenting with respiratory symptoms at the surveillance facilities. Real time multiplex polymerase chain reaction was used to detect rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza virus, human coronaviruses (hCoV), and adenoviruses.

Results: From 11 sites, 5451 NP/OP specimens were collected and tested from patients. Of these, 40.2% were positive for at least one of the targeted respiratory viruses. The most frequently detected were rhinoviruses (17.0%) and RSV A/B (10.5%), followed by influenza A (6.2%), adenovirus (6.0%) and hCoV (4.2%). RSV was most prevalent among infants aged <12 months old (18.9%), adenovirus among children aged 12–23 months old (11.0%), influenza A among children aged 24–59 months (9.3%), and rhinovirus across all age groups (range, 12.7–19.0%). The overall percent virus positivity varied by surveillance site, health facility type and case definition used in surveillance.

Conclusions:  We identify rhinoviruses, RSV, and influenza A as the most prevalent respiratory viruses. Higher RSV positivity in inpatient settings compared to outpatient clinics strengthen the case for RSV vaccination. To inform the design and delivery of public health interventions, long-term surveillance is required to establish regional heterogeneities in respiratory virus circulation and seasonality.
The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC): a 2022 update on the enrolled sample of mothers and the associated baseline data
Authors: Major-Smith Daniel , Heron Jon , Fraser Abigail , Lawlor Deborah A. , Golding Jean , Northstone Kate
Published: September 2023

The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) is a prospective birth cohort, based in and around Bristol, UK, established to explore genetic and environmental factors impacting health and development. 14,541 pregnancies were initially recruited from 20,248 eligible pregnancies. As the G1 (Generation-1) offspring turned 7 years of age, children from eligible pregnancies who had not been enrolled into the study were invited to take part. The enrolment status of these additional G1 offspring (n=913) has been well-documented. Here we provide an updated description of the ALSPAC G0 (Generation-0) mothers study cohort (which includes newly enrolled mothers), their associated pregnancies and the mz data file that defines this cohort. At the time of writing there are 14,833 unique mothers enrolled in ALSPAC, with 15,447 associated pregnancies enrolled. The update to the mz file also includes new variables to assist researchers when using mothers’ data whilst accounting for non-independence between data related to multiple pregnancies (i.e., women with more than one pregnancy in the study).
The genome sequence of the painted nomad bee, Nomada fucata (Panzer, 1798)
Authors: Falk Steven , Monks Joseph ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: September 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Nomada fucata (the painted nomad bee; Arthropoda; Insecta; Hymenoptera; Apidae). The genome sequence is 264.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 8 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 22.06 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 10,173 protein coding genes.
Różewiczowski „zwrot ku rzeczom”?
Authors: Filipowicz Anna
Published: September 2023

Artykuł porusza problem ontologicznego statusu rzeczy w poemacie Áladerrida Tadeusza Różewicza (tom: Kup kota w worku). Na przykładzie motywu starych butów poety autorka bada rolę przedmiotów codziennego użytku w konstruowaniu społeczno-kulturowej tożsamości człowieka. Stawia przy tym tezę o ich sprawczości w rozumieniu koncepcji Alfreda Gella, Brunona Latoura czy Bjørnara Olsena, którzy postulują dowartościowanie materii jako równoprawnej z ludzkim sprawcą formy istnienia. W myśl ich filozofii przedmiotów nie sposób uznawać jedynie za bierne narzędzia i świadków działań ludzkiego podmiotu, stanowią one bowiem aktywnych współuczestników i współtwórców naszego życia, wywołujących w nim rzeczywiste skutki. Skłania to autorkę artykułu do pytań o możliwość odczytania Różewiczowskich realiów w perspektywie „zwrotu ku rzeczom”, z uwzględnieniem wykraczających poza antropocentryczny horyzont kodów – epistemologicznych, ontologicznych i etycznych. Sprzyja temu zwłaszcza inspirowanie się poety malarstwem Vincenta van Gogha, którego obrazowane po wielokroć buty miały, według krytyków, wyraźnie mediacyjny charakter, stając się dla artysty sposobem „przemierzania świata” i jego rozumienia.
When a Shift in the Approach Makes Sense
Authors: Crismer Paul G.
Published: September 2023

In 2012, following the subprime mortgage crisis, the Dexia group, a Franco- Belgian financial institution, was dismantled. Sybille van Steenberghe, people management director of Dexia at the time, was tasked with finding a way to make sense of having a career in a company destined to close.
Appreciative Inquiry: The Movement of Living, Season 2
Authors: Pagès Jean
Published: September 2023

In the bilingual February 2023 issue of AI Practitioner, French-speaking practitioners and consultants interviewed each other, recalling difficulties encountered and solutions found by breaking out of the usual problem-solving ways of thinking. In this issue, they interview their clients to record their perceptions of and experiences with Appreciative Inquiry.
The Harmony Project: The Appreciative Inquiry Approach Shaking Up Management Practices
Authors: Haeck Hélène , Bergevin Jacinthe , Blaquière Josée
Published: September 2023

How could we not be discouraged when, as soon as we proposed the Appreciative Inquiry approach, we faced a wall of resistance that created pressure to fall back on a more traditional problem-solving approach familiar to all? How could we give our clients the confidence to dare to go in search of dreams to improve efficiency and the work climate on construction sites? Small-scale experimentation, patience and generous listening and mutual respect made all the difference in the story.
Use of Fresh Pumpkin Fruits for Producing Chicken Sausage Suggests Functional Properties
Authors: Haddad Moawiya A. , Al –Dalain Sati Y. , Al-Fraihat Ahmad H. , Parisi Salvatore , Parisi Carmelo , Arabiat Shereen , Alqaraleh Samer Y.
Published: September 2023

Pumpkin has particular health properties for patients suffering from chronic diseases as it is considered an excellent and low-cost source of phytochemicals, antioxidant properties, vitamins and minerals, anti-inflammatory properties, and low in calories. This study aimed to fortify chicken sausage with various ratios (15, 30, and 45%) of fresh pumpkin pulp to prevent lipid oxidation during cold storage. Sensory evaluation indicated that the sample fortified with 30% pumpkin is the most favorite and nearest to the control sample. It improved taste and texture as compared to other treatments. Its moisture contents were higher than that of the control group, leading to minimizing the caloric value (25%). Seventeen amino acids were found that were similar to the control sample. Still, the ratio between total essential amino acids and total amino acids in fortified samples was 1.04-fold higher compared to the control sample. A similar trend was also detected when the ratio between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids was calculated. Results showed that this new product has functional, healthy properties for patients suffering from chronic diseases.
Antioxidant Properties of Coconut-Sugar Instant Coffee Beverages Produced using Red Palm Oil and Coffee Powder
Authors: Dwiyanti Hidayah , Setyawati Retno , Siswantoro Siswantoro , Krisnansari Diah
Published: September 2023

Free radicals increase in oxidative stress that cause the degenerative diseases. Fortunately, dietary antioxidants reduce oxidative stress. Dietary sources of antioxidants include coffee (a popular drink among people) and red palm oil (RPO, a compound that high in antioxidant such as beta carotene and tocopherol). This study examined the nutritional profile of instant coffee beverages (ICB) formulated with different RPO and coffee powder concentrations. RPO was added at 0.3%, 0.4%, and 0.5%. The coffee powder was added at 6%, 8%, and 10%. The beverages were analysed three times. Outcomes were a percentage of DPPH inhibition, tocopherol content, total phenolic content, beta-carotene, also water content. Analysis of variance were used in analysis of data obtained and Duncan multiple range tests was followed if there were significantly different. Higher coffee concentrations corresponded to higher total phenolics and DPPH inhibition percentages but lower tocopherol and beta-carotene. Increased RPO increased beta-carotene and tocopherol content. The coffee drink with an RPO of 0.4% and coffee powder of 8% had the best chemical profile. This antioxidant-rich ICB had the following characteristics: moisture of 5.33%, beta carotene of 704.83μg/100g, total phenol of 2.88%, DPPH of 77.55%, and tocopherol of 0.71%. An ICB enriched with RPO could become a functional health drink and antioxidant source.
E amanhã será como ontem: o perfil dos beneficiários do Peam-JF (MG)
Authors: Rocha Bruna Atalaya de Almeida , Arbia Alexandre Aranha
Published: September 2023

O direito à moradia é, teoricamente, uma conquista constitucional concernente a todo cidadão. Sua efetivação torna-se porta de entrada para o exercício de outros direitos, como o direito à vida, à saúde, à educação, à cultura e ao lazer. Porém, as cidades brasileiras revelam um cenário em que o acesso à moradia segura não é uma realidade generalizada. Tendo por pano de fundo o debate sobre o direito à moradia, este artigo tem por objetivo explicitar o perfil dos beneficiários do Programa Especial de Auxílio Moradia no município de Juiz de Fora, instrumento público de intervenção direta sobre as consequências do fenômeno da espoliação urbana. Para isso, foi realizada pesquisa documental dos processos ativos na Secretaria Municipal de Assistência Social, permitindo demonstrar que os beneficiários são, como esperado, as camadas trabalhadoras historicamente condenadas à marginalização social, econômica e política no Brasil. Palavras-Chave: direito à moradia; auxílio moradia; políticas públicas de habitação.
Abstinência sexual como política pública? Governo Bolsonaro e a (des)educação em sexualidade
Authors: Paiva Sabrina Pereira , Brandão Elaine Reis
Published: September 2023

O artigo analisa as políticas sexuais do governo J. Bolsonaro, com o foco na política de educação em sexualidade, especialmente a prevenção da gravidez na adolescência. Utiliza fontes documentais e bibliográficas, produzidas sobre e no decorrer da referida gestão federal. Incorpora produções que tematizam a educação em sexualidade, especialmente durante o período citado. Os documentos foram extraídos de fontes públicas, de organizações governamentais e não governamentais. A análise demonstrou a “preservação sexual” como panaceia para alta incidência de gestação na adolescência, construindo estratégias fundamentadas em uma perspectiva ultra(neo)liberal, familista, teocrática e conservadora. Esta política, antipluralista e antidemocrática, retira do âmbito público/coletivo o debate sobre os vários fatores que envolvem a gestação nesta faixa etária, desconsiderando as hierarquias e violências de várias ordens (entre os gêneros, raciais, classe, identidades sexuais) que atravessam as vidas de jovens e adolescentes no Brasil. Palavras-Chave: educação sexual; abstinência sexual; direitos sexuais e reprodutivos; sexualidade; governo Bolsonaro.
Putting the joy back into teaching early years
Authors: Allingham Sue
Published: September 2023

Sue Allingham, author, trainer and consultant, discusses some of the latest news stories and headlines about the sector, encouraging us all to put more joy into our practice to allow young children to enjoy learning.
Using nature to grow emotional intelligence in early years
Authors: Robinson Sallianne
Published: September 2023

Offering a different persecutive on nursery furnishings, Sallianne Robinson, parenting coach and senior manager at Outdoor Owls, discusses Forest School and the benefits outdoor learning has on young children's personal, social and emotional learning, allowing them to develop emotional intelligence for life.
Beis Surrenders £1.6BN R&D Funding to Treasury
Authors: Bradshaw Melissa
Published: September 2023

The Central Government Supply Estimates 2022-23 has revealed that the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has returned £1.6bn of R&D funding to the Treasury.
Closure Of Coke Ovens Threatens Up To 260 Jobs At British Steel
Authors: Ford Jason
Published: September 2023

Up to 260 jobs could be lost at British Steel’s integrated steelmaking site in Scunthorpe site following the company’s proposal to close its coke ovens.
Industry Needs A Coherent Long Term Strategy
Authors: Phipson Stephen
Published: September 2023

Stephen Phipson, CEO of Make UK calls for an industrial strategy that builds on UK manufacturing’s existing strengths and capitalises on new opportunities.
Why We’re Asking You To Offer Work Experience Placements
Authors: Leevers Hilary
Published: September 2023

Dr Hilary Leevers, Chief Executive of EngineeringUK, explores the changing landscape of work experience and the role it plays in securing the future workforce.
Mitigating Supply Chain Challenges
Authors: WEBBER ROBERT JOHN
Published: September 2023

How to avoid delays and accelerate development cycles with optimised design processes.
All Change – The Evolving Smart Home
Authors: Buckley Jamie
Published: September 2023

The relationship between people and their homes continues to evolve, so what are consumers demanding from products, services and environments?
New ‘Recipes’ Drive The Horticultural Lighting Market
Authors: TYLER NEIL
Published: September 2023

Lighting plays an important role in the horticultural market, driven by new research into spectral distribution and LED technology
Cementing Techniques In Knee Surgery (CeTIKS): a UK expert consensus study
Authors: Hampton Matthew , Balachandar Vivek , Charalambous Charalambos P. , Sutton Paul M.
Published: September 2023

Aims

Aseptic loosening is the most common cause of failure following cemented total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and has been linked to poor cementation technique. We aimed to develop a consensus on the optimal technique for component cementation in TKA.

Methods

A UK-based, three-round, online modified Delphi Expert Consensus Study was completed focusing on cementation technique in TKA. Experts were identified as having a minimum of five years’ consultant experience in the NHS and fulfilling any one of the following criteria: a ‘high volume’ knee arthroplasty practice (> 150 TKAs per annum) as identified from the National joint Registry of England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man; a senior author of at least five peer reviewed articles related to TKA in the previous five years; a surgeon who is named trainer for a post-certificate of comletion of training fellowship in TKA.

Results

In total, 81 experts (round 1) and 80 experts (round 2 and 3) completed the Delphi Study. Four domains with a total of 24 statements were identified. 100% consensus was reached within the cement preparation, pressurization, and cement curing domains. 90% consensus was reached within the cement application domain. Consensus was not reached with only one statement regarding the handling of cement during initial application to the tibial and/or femoral bone surfaces.

Conclusion

The Cementing Techniques In Knee Surgery (CeTIKS) Delphi consensus study presents comprehensive recommendations on the optimal technique for component cementing in TKA. Expert opinion has a place in the hierarchy of evidence and, until better evidence is available these recommendations should be considered when cementing a TKA.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(9):682–688.
Untangling Ethnoracial Underrepresentation in Adland: The Role of Political Bias and the Potential of Multicultural Education
Authors: Spring Robin , Yang Faye
Published: September 2023

Abstract: The United States advertising workforce remains predominantly White with only slight gains in ethnic/racial demographics over the decades. Cultural intelligence is invaluable in the rapidly diversifying US populace; the advertising industry could benefit from a workforce that fully represents the communities they serve. This inquiry seeks to understand why meaningful change is difficult, what factors are involved, and how advertising educators can assist in diversification efforts. Our national survey of US advertising professionals in all fifty states probed topics including the talent pipeline, benefits of diversity, valued skill sets, and political ideology for this study. Findings revealed differences in how self-identified conservatives and liberals viewed these topics, providing a relevant but rarely explored lens. One ideology emerged as more resistant to change, aligning with neuroscience studies addressing unconscious bias as associated with political ideology. Findings also correlate with another study that finds political ideology is indeed a factor in perceptions of ethnic/racial diversity. How political ideology affects diversity in the advertising industry deserves further research. Contact hypothesis suggests educators can counterbalance unconscious bias through multicultural education. Recommendations include a review of multicultural education approaches to update programs with cultural intelligence. The implication is that advertising educators can better equip the next generation for a multicultural marketplace while creating a path for consequential diversification in the advertising workforce.
Fighting Cancer “Like a Girl” and Taking It “Like a Man”: Examining Gender Stereotypes in Online Breast and Prostate Cancer PSAs
Authors: Zhang Weilu , Rodgers Shelly , Tsou Ting-Hao , Belobrovkina Evgeniia
Published: September 2023

Abstract: This research examines the frequency and nature of gender stereotype portrayals of both women and men in cancer narrative public service announcements (CNPSAs). A content analysis was conducted on 338 online CNPSAs (255 breast cancer, 83 prostate cancer) sourced from health organization websites and social media, using established coding categories such as physical traits, gender role behaviors, and occupational status. The results suggest a higher/lower incidence of gender stereotyping in certain categories than previously identified, using odds ratio and societal data for comparison. For instance, women are 10.3 times more likely to be depicted as under 40, 5.1 times more likely to be portrayed as victims rather than heroes, and 6.7 times more likely to be shown in domestic settings, such as a kitchen. There is also notable gender stereotyping when comparing with societal data on cancer diagnoses and mortality. However, this study observes instances of reversed gender roles (e.g., women portrayed as independent, men as emotional) that contradict traditional stereotypes, despite an overall unequal representation of women. By highlighting these issues, this study contributes to research on gender stereotyping in CNPSAs and provides a valuable reference for further analyses.