bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-Varying Relationship and Volatility Spillovers Among Oil, Gold, Forex and Stock Markets in Indian Context: The Juxtaposition of Global Economic Crisis and COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sahadudheen I. , Kumar P. K. Santhosh
Published: July 2023

This article explores the dynamic interdependencies, returns and volatility spillovers among oil, gold, foreign exchange and equity markets. It also compares how the leading and most active commodity markets, forex and equity markets reacted to each other during the period of the global economic crisis and COVID-19 pandemic. The time-varying relationship between oil and gold, oil and forex and gold and exchange rate is predominantly positive, whereas it is negative for oil and stock price, gold and stock price and exchange rate and stock price. This continues to hold even in the crisis period, except for the oil and stock price relationship during the COVID-19 crisis. However, the degrees of relationship significantly high during both crises. The returns and volatility spillovers obtained from forecasted error variance decomposition based on vector autoregression show that the spillovers among these four markets remained low for the whole period but drastically increased during both crises. Compared to the return spillover, the volatility spillover is strong in the crisis period and was too high during the COVID-19 crisis. The rolling-sample spillover analysis shows that both return and volatility spillovers significantly vary across different periods, and the volatility spillovers are predominant.

JEL Codes: C32, F31, G15, Q40
Predicting Teaching Enjoyment from Teachers’ Perceived School Climate, Self-Efficacy, and Psychological Wellbeing at Work: EFL Teachers
Authors: Zhang Lawrence Jun , Fathi Jalil , Mohammaddokht Farnoosh
Published: July 2023

We tested an assessment model, by which teacher self-efficacy, perceived school climate, and psychological wellbeing at work, might predict teaching enjoyment. We invited a convenience sample of 355 teachers of English as a foreign language (EFL) to respond to four online questionnaires. We used confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to check the scales’ construct validity and structural equation modeling (SEM) to test associations among the variables. Our results showed that teacher self-efficacy, perceived school-climate, and psychological wellbeing were direct predictors of foreign language teaching-enjoyment (FLTE). Teacher self-efficacy affected FLTE indirectly, as induced by psychological well-being. School climate also indirectly influenced FLTE, as mediated by teacher self-efficacy and psychological wellbeing, with school climate a direct predictor of teacher self-efficacy and psychological wellbeing. Teacher self-efficacy directly affected psychological wellbeing. We discuss implications of these findings for teacher-education programs.
The Effect of Yoga Practice on Cervical Tactile Acuity and Body Awareness
Authors: Sarak Kucukosmanoglu Hazal , Coskun Gursoy , Yosmaoglu Hayri Baran
Published: July 2023

Body-mind-based holistic methods of relaxation and improved well-being, such as yoga and meditation, improve body awareness and have often been used to enhance quality of life and the ability to cope with pain. We aimed to compare tactile sensory acuity and body awareness in healthy sedentary individuals who practiced yoga regularly and in control participants who had not practiced yoga. Participants were 60 individuals, aged between 18 and 35 years who were divided into two groups according to whether they had previously practiced yoga. We used the two-point discrimination (TPD) test to determine participants’ tactile acuity, as measured with a digital calliper at the C7, C5, C3, C1 and T1 spinal segments and with the Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ). The TPD measurements of individuals who practiced yoga and meditation had a lower discriminatory threshold compared to those who had not practiced yoga ( p < .001), and the self-reported BAQ score of yoga practitioners was higher than that of the controls ( p < .001). We found a positive correlation between the length of the prior duration of yoga experience and self-reported body awareness ( r = .567, p < .001). There was a significant negative correlation (r = −.379, p = .015) between the C5 segment and the TPD measurements, but not for the other cervical spinal segments ( p > .05). There was a negative correlation between the length of prior yoga practice and the TPD measurements in all cervical segments ( p < .001). The most negative correlation was found at the C7 segment ( r = −.844, p < .001) and the least negative correlation was found at the C3 segment ( r = −.669, p < .001). These data suggest that yoga and meditation practices may improve well-being and diminish pain by increasing body awareness and tactile sensory acuity in the cervical region.
“Things Unseen”: Urban (Dis)placement, Sacred Sensibilities, and Theological Vantage Points
Authors: Smith R. Drew
Published: July 2023

This article explores the ways in which academic institutions in Pittsburgh have positioned themselves around local gentrification dynamics. It pays particular attention to academic facilitations of community-oriented analysis and engagement that attempts to counter gentrification's deformative and deracinating effects and that centers responsiveness to problems stemming from gentrification processes and dynamics as a theological or moral imperative toward seeking the good of the city.
The Parable of the Sower: Rooting out White Supremacy and Institutionalized Racism in the church
Authors: Sales Terrelle B. , Rim Kathy
Published: July 2023

This article highlights the parallels between Camara Jones’ Gardener's Tale allegory and Jesus’ Parable of the Sower to invite reflection regarding White Evangelical Christians’ approach to addressing institutionalized racism faced by African Americans and Blacks in the US and the church. Using an interdisciplinary lens that engages sociology, politics, history, theology and biblical exegesis, this article presents a compelling case for the church to cease the practice of compartmentalizing anti-racist movements as “political” and lead the charge through a missional goal to root out institutionalized racism both within the church and American society.
Management of Adult Laryngeal Hemangioma With Low-Temperature Plasma Radiofrequency Coblation
Authors: OuYang ZhiGuo , Lou Zhengcai
Published: July 2023

Objective: This study investigated the therapeutic effects of low-temperature plasma radiofrequency (LPRF) coblation on adult laryngeal hemangiomas (ALHs) using suspension laryngoscopy. Material and Methods: The clinical data of 23 patients with ALH treated by LPRF coblation were analyzed retrospectively. All patients underwent edge coagulation before ablation resection. Postoperative voice and swallowing were assessed. Results: The 23 ALHs were diagnosed clinically as 6 cavernous hemangiomas and 17 capillary fibroangiomas. All 23 cases achieved success after a single LPRF coblation, and there was no postoperative bleeding, dyspnea, dysphagia, dysphonia, or other complications. None required postoperative tracheotomy. The patients were followed for 1 year without recurrence. Before surgical intervention, only 2 (8.7%) of the 23 patients had mild (n = 1) or moderate (n = 1) dysphagia. Postoperative dysphagia was assessed at the 1- and 3-month follow-ups. At 1 month, 5 (21.7%) of 23 patients had mild dysphagia, including 3 (13.0%) reporting new mild dysphagia. However, at 3 months postoperatively, none of patients had any dysphagia. The mean Voice Handicap Index was 11.2 ± 3.7 preoperatively, 7.1 ± 2.8 at 1 month postoperatively, and 4.8 ± 3.1 at 3 months postoperatively; the mean maximum phonation time was 10.8 ± 3.7 seconds preoperatively and 12.6 ± 1.8 and 14.1 ± 3.9 seconds at 1 and 3 months postoperatively, respectively. Conclusions: LPRF coblation is an effective minimally invasive method for treating ALHs with better voice and swallowing recovery. Edge coagulation before ablation resection may reduce intraoperative bleeding.
The Role of Parent Social Capital and College-Aligned Actions in Explaining Differences in Intergenerational Resource Transfer among Hispanic and White Youth on the Path to College
Authors: Ryan Sarah
Published: July 2023

Background

A growing number of scholars argue that Hispanic—White disparities in college pathways are at least partly attributable to the fact that Hispanic students experience the college preparation and enrollment process differently from their White peers. Recent research suggests that one way in which the process differs between the two groups is in how parent resources, and particularly forms of parent social capital, facilitate college preparation and enrollment.

Purpose

This study examines whether group-level variability in the utility of parent social capital can help explain the recent finding that parent income and education confer greater benefits among White youth, relative to similar Hispanic youth, when it comes to 4-year college enrollment. The study also asks whether engagement in college-aligned actions might mediate the association between parent social capital and college enrollment.

Participants

The study focuses on a nationally representative sample of Hispanic and White 10th graders in 2002 who completed high school expecting to complete a bachelor's degree.

Research Design

The study uses multiple group structural equation modeling techniques and three waves of data from the Education Longitudinal Study of 2002 (ELS: 2002) to test whether forms of parent social capital indirectly influence 4-year college enrollment through an association with college-aligned actions. Multiple group invariance testing is used to test whether associations of interest are measurably different across the two groups.

Conclusions

The results suggest that Hispanic-White differences in the intergenerational transmission of parents’ educational and economic resources can be partly attributed to differences in the functioning of parent social capital. This finding is consistent with the assertion that social capital often serves as a hidden form of capital— and mechanism of stratification— by facilitating the conversion of tangible resources into advantageous outcomes.
Knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards vitamin D and sun exposure of parents of infants and young children and health professionals in New Zealand
Authors: von Hurst Pamela , Mazahery Hajar , Reynolds Esme , Thomson Alexandra , Franklin Mia , Conlon Cathryn
Published: July 2023

Background

Vitamin D deficiency may result in adverse long-term health consequences in adulthood if it occurs during fetal development, infancy and childhood. To effectively improve vitamin D status of infants/toddlers, there needs to be knowledge and awareness of vitamin D among parents and health professionals.

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate parents’ and health professionals’ knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards vitamin D and sun exposure over two timepoints.

Methods

The study was an ecological study over two timepoints (Parents 2009 and 2021; Health professionals 2010 and 2019) and used an online questionnaire.

Results

The analysis included 9834 parents (2009 n = 8032; 2021 n = 1802) and 283 health professionals (2010 n = 193; 2019 n = 90). Parents and health professionals had good knowledge of vitamin D sources, roles and risk factors for deficiency over two timepoints. There were however some confusions regarding the vitamin D content of breast milk, exclusive breastfeeding as a risk factor for deficiency, and ineffectiveness of sun exposure through glass windows in relation to vitamin D synthesis. In 2019, only 37% of health professionals indicated giving advice on supplements for infants/toddlers. Most parents and health professionals believed there was not enough information available to parents regarding vitamin D (>90%) and that skin cancer prevention messages make it difficult to get information about vitamin D across (>70%).

Conclusion

Although parents and health professionals had good knowledge in most areas, knowledge of some specific sources and risk factors for vitamin D deficiency was poor.
Book review: Pallavi Raghavan, Animosity at Bay: An Alternative History of the India-Pakistan Relationship, 1947–1952
Authors: Krishna Yashasvi
Published: July 2023

Pallavi Raghavan, Animosity at Bay: An Alternative History of the India-Pakistan Relationship, 1947–1952 (Noida: HarperCollins Publishers, 2020), xii + 247 pp.
Book review: Mumtaz Alam, Health, Medicine and the Encounter of Cultures in India
Authors: Chaudhary Swapnil
Published: July 2023

Mumtaz Alam, Health, Medicine and the Encounter of Cultures in India (Delhi: Primus Books, 2022), xiii + 246 pp.
Book review: Suvobrata Sarkar, Let There Be Light: Engineering, Entrepreneurship and Electricity in Colonial Bengal, 1880–1945
Authors: Sharma Madhuri
Published: July 2023

Suvobrata Sarkar, Let There Be Light: Engineering, Entrepreneurship and Electricity in Colonial Bengal, 1880–1945 (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2020), xliii + 266 pp.
Book review: Ayan Guha, The Curious Trajectory of Caste in West Bengal Politics: Chronicling Continuity and Change
Authors: Pal Satanik
Published: July 2023

Ayan Guha, The Curious Trajectory of Caste in West Bengal Politics: Chronicling Continuity and Change (Leiden and Boston: Brill, 2022), x + 309 pp.
Book review: Sumantra Bose, Kashmir at the Crossroads: Inside a 21st Century Conflict
Authors: Bhat Mukhtar Ahmad
Published: July 2023

Sumantra Bose, Kashmir at the Crossroads: Inside a 21st Century Conflict (New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 2021), xviii + 352 pp.
Timing to a first relationship among youth: Variability by sexual orientation development
Authors: Mernitz Sara , Hsu Jaime , Bishop Meg D
Published: July 2023

Romantic relationships are developmentally salient across the transition to adulthood, yet the timing to a first relationship for sexual minority youth is largely unknown and is complicated by the developmental timing of sexual orientation development. We use the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health to predict the timing to a first relationship among heterosexual and sexual minority youth, defined as those with same-sex attraction and/or a sexual minority identity. We examine variability across subgroups of youth with a sexual minority status in adolescence only, in adulthood only, or in both developmental periods, and by gender. Participants with lesbian/gay sexual orientations emerging during adulthood delay a first relationship compared to their heterosexual peers. Those with bisexual orientations only in adulthood enter relationships earlier than their heterosexual peers, particularly women. Results suggest that patterns of dating relationship formations differ by distinct developmental contexts of sexual orientation development.
Vascular determinants of hippocampal viscoelastic properties in healthy adults across the lifespan
Authors: Sanjana Faria , Delgorio Peyton L , DeConne Theodore M , Hiscox Lucy V , Pohlig Ryan T , Johnson Curtis L , Martens Christopher R
Published: July 2023

Arterial stiffness and cerebrovascular pulsatility are non-traditional risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease. However, there is a gap in understanding the earliest mechanisms that link these vascular determinants to brain aging. Changes to mechanical tissue properties of the hippocampus (HC), a brain structure essential for memory encoding, may reflect the impact of vascular dysfunction on brain aging. We tested the hypothesis that arterial stiffness and cerebrovascular pulsatility are related to HC tissue properties in healthy adults across the lifespan. Twenty-five adults underwent measurements of brachial blood pressure (BP), large elastic artery stiffness, middle cerebral artery pulsatility index (MCAv PI), and magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), a sensitive measure of HC viscoelasticity. Individuals with higher carotid pulse pressure (PP) exhibited lower HC stiffness (β = −0.39, r = −0.41, p = 0.05), independent of age and sex. Collectively, carotid PP and MCAv PI significantly explained a large portion of the total variance in HC stiffness (adjusted R2 = 0.41, p = 0.005) in the absence of associations with HC volumes. These cross-sectional findings suggest that the earliest reductions in HC tissue properties are associated with alterations in vascular function.
The Biotransformation of Phenylbutazone (Butazolidin ®)
Authors: Faigle J W , Dieterle W
Published: July 2023

In the present paper a review of published work on the metabolic fate of phenylbutazone is given, inclusive of results from very recent radiotracer studies in man.

Phenylbutazone, l,2-diphenyl-3,5-dioxo-4-n-butylpyrazolidine, being a highly lipophilic compound, is readily absorbed following oral administration to man, and is re-eliminated mostly in metabolized form via urine and faeces.

In the biotransformation of phenylbutazone in the human organism two major pathways are involved, i.e. straightforward C-glucuronidation at the 4-position of the pyrazolidine ring and, to a much lesser extent, hydroxylation at one of the phenyl rings or at the n-butyl side chain. Hydrolytic cleavage of the amide bonds in the dioxopyrazolidine ring which, theoretically, would be a possible third pathway of biotransformation, does not take place to any significant extent.

In contrast to man, the animal species studied, namely rat and dog, metabolize phenylbutazone predominantly through hydroxylation. This principal difference in metabolic handling may explain why the elimination rate of the drug from plasma is largely different in these species, the average half-lives being 3—4 hours in rat and dog as compared to about 80 hours in man following single doses.

The enzyme systems that are primarily involved in phenylbutazone metabolism are mono-oxygenases in the animal species considered, and glucuronyltransferase in man. Auto-induction of enzymes, resulting in an enhanced elimination of the drug from plasma in the course of repeated administration, has unequivocally been proven for rat and dog only but not for man.
The Effects of Antacids on the Absorption of Enteric-Coated Phenylbutazone (Butacote)
Authors: Downie W W , Lowe J R , Pickup M E
Published: July 2023

Phenylbutazone bioavailability from an enteric-coated formulation (Butacote) has been studied in normal volunteers following ingestion of a single 200 mg dose with water, aluminium hydroxide and magnesium trisili-cate. No significant alteration in bioavailability of phenylbutazone from Butacote was noted in the presence of the antacids.
Butacote and Naproxen: A Comparison of Effectiveness in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Million R
Published: July 2023

A double-blind crossover trial compared Butacote, 200 mg b.d. with naproxen, 250 mg b.d., each given for four weeks, in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The trial was multicentre, and twenty-six general practitioners admitted forty-eight patients.

Seven patients dropped out: two for technical reasons; one in each treatment group because of exacerbation of symptoms; one because of intolerance of rescue analgesic; and two with gastric intolerance to naproxen.

Both drugs were effective in relieving pain, morning stiffness, and joint tenderness, as compared with the condition before the trial. There was little effect on grip strength or joint size, and no real differences between the two drugs.

The two preparations had a similar frequency and spectrum of side-effects, except that oedema did not occur with naproxen, and rash did not occur with Butacote. Gastro-intestinal upsets were the commonest unwanted effects, but only two patients had to stop treatment for this reason, both while taking naproxen.

Although the doctors preferred each drug on an equal number of occasions, the patients preferred Butacote to naproxen almost twice as often (20:11), particularly when Butacote was given after naproxen. The reason for this divergence of opinions is not obvious.
Adopting a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach to Identify Barriers to Electrification of Urban Freight in India
Authors: Saxena Aditya , Yadav Ankit Kumar
Published: July 2023

The economics and social development of cities depend heavily on urban freight. But, despite its obvious benefits, freight transportation has substantial negative externalities. The electrification of urban freight could help mitigate these. However, there exists a paucity of literature on barriers to the adoption of electric freight in the context of developing countries such as India. The present study intends to bridge this gap. It aims to identify the barriers to the adoption of electric freight vehicles (light commercial vehicles) in urban areas by using a fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP), a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) technique. Based on the opinion of 32 experts, it was found that high capital costs, low driving range, and long charging times are the major obstacles to the adoption of electric freight vehicles in India. The results from the present study will assist government officials in identifying bottlenecks and prioritizing strategies for the promotion of electric freight vehicles in India.
Prognostic significance of N6-methyladenosine-modified related chemotransferase METTL3 in gastric carcinoma: Evidence from meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Chenglou , Wu Qiong , Xu Yan , Ma Jichun , Hu Yongli , Wang Junhong , Gao Zhenhua , Da Mingxu
Published: July 2023

Background

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is known as the research hotspot for tumor epimodification, and its associated methyltransferase-like3 (METTL3) is significantly differentially expressed in gastric carcinoma, but its clinical value has not been summarized. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of METTL3 in gastric carcinoma.

Material and methods

Databases, including PubMed, EMBASE (Ovid platform), Science Direct, Scopus, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, were used to identify relevant eligible studies. The endpoints included overall survival, progression-free survival, recurrence-free survival, post-progression survival, and disease-free survival. Hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to correlate METTL3 expression with prognosis. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed.

Results

Seven eligible studies involving 3034 gastric carcinoma patients were recruited for this meta-analysis. The analysis showed that high METTL3 expression was associated with significantly poorer overall survival (HR  =  2.37, 95% CI 1.66–3.39, P < 0.01) and unfavorable disease-free survival (HR  =  2.58, 95% CI 1.97–3.38, P  < 0.01), as did unfavorable progression-free survival (HR  =  1.48, 95% CI 1.19–1.84, P  < 0.01)/recurrence-free survival (HR  =  2.62, 95% CI 1.93–5.62, P  < 0.01)/post-progression survival (HR  =  1.53, 95% CI 1.22–1.91, P  < 0.01). Subgroup analysis found that high METTL3 expression was associated with worse overall survival in patients with Chinese (HR  =  2.21, 95% CI 1.48–3.29, P  < 0.01), in studies with sample source from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues (HR  =  2.66, 95% CI 1.79–3.94, P  < 0.01), and the reported directly from articles group (HR  =  2.42, 95% CI 1.66–3.53, P  < 0.01). The subgroup analysis that was performed based on sample size, detected method, and follow-up showed the same results.

Conclusions

High expression of METTL3 predicts poor prognosis in gastric carcinoma, indicating promise for METTL3 as a prognostic biomarker. Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero , ID = CRD42023408519
The Consent of the Oppressed: An Analysis of Internalized Racism and Islamophobia among Muslims in Spain
Authors: Gil-Benumeya Daniel
Published: July 2023

Taking as our starting point the premise that all domination mechanisms are based partly on their naturalization and reproduction by the very persons that experience them, this study uses the notion of “internalized racism” to explore how Muslims living in Spain internalize some of the cultural and ideological myths that sustain the racism and Islamophobia they experience, especially in relation to institutional practices of control and discrimination. It contributes an innovative approach to the knowledge of racism in the Spanish context, showing how religious and racialized minorities in Spain understand, perceive, experience, and at times reproduce the discrimination they are subject to, and how Islamophobia is entwined with other forms of racism and exclusion as well as with Spain’s specific historical relationship with Islam. The research is based on qualitative data obtained from eight discussion groups that met between 2019 and 2021 and comprised a total of 61 Muslims resident in various parts of Spain.
When and How Developmental Rewards and Expected Contributions Relate to Emotional Exhaustion Through Work Engagement: The Multilevel Moderating Role of the Leader’s Work Pressure
Authors: Gils Willemijn , Audenaert Mieke , Patient David , Decramer Adelien
Published: July 2023

This study focuses on public secondary schools to examine the extent to which leader-level job demands impact the relationship between employees’ job resources, job demands, and well-being. Specifically, we investigate (1) how teachers’ developmental rewards and expected contributions relate to their work engagement and emotional exhaustion and (2) the role of school principals’ work pressure in this relationship. Building on recent developments in job demands-resources (JD-R) theory, we argue a leaders’ work pressure can trickle down to the employee level. Hierarchical linear analyses reveal that principals’ work pressure moderates the relationship between teachers’ expected contributions and emotional exhaustion. We thus add to JD-R theory by suggesting that employee work outcomes are also shaped by job demands at the leader level. Policies aimed at improving employee well-being should therefore be based on a comprehensive image of the organization that also takes the leader’s job demands into account.
A Case for Systems Change in Special Education
Authors: Taylor Juli , Sailor Wayne
Published: July 2023

With this position paper, we advance the case for reformation of U.S. special education law and praxis. These have undergone mostly incremental changes over the five decades since their inception despite a substantial body of evidence amassed over this period, which points to a major gap between extant policy and praxis, and contemporary cultural ethos and mindset of stakeholders engaged in the mission of special education. We review evidence supporting the need for change, with a particular focus on the continuing practice of segregating students with complex educational support needs. We examine this practice’s contributions to ongoing racial segregation within special education, including intersectionality. We consider the inclusion movement and reasons for its failure to rectify problems with implementing the least restrictive environment mandate in current law. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of mindset and nomenclature as they pertain to students with support needs in considering reformation. Finally, we review relevant theories of systems change and their potential contributions to the process of reformation. We conclude with a suggestion that alternatives to the next reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) be considered in the public policy arena, including a possible conversion of policy and funding to a Title program as one option.
Does exposure to ammonia concentrations lower than the threshold limit value cause acute pulmonary effects?
Authors: Soltanzadeh Ahmad , Adeli Seyyed Hassan , Sadeghi Yarandi Mohsen , Heidari Hamidreza , Mahdinia Mohsen
Published: July 2023

One of the major toxic effects of exposure to ammonia is the resulting pulmonary acute and chronic effects. This study investigated the acute pulmonary effects of exposure to ammonia lower than the recommended threshold limit value (TLV). This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021 in four chemical fertilizer production industries using ammonia as the main raw material. A total of 116 workers who were exposed to ammonia were investigated. The level of exposure to ammonia was measured by NMAM 6016, and the evaluation of pulmonary symptoms and function parameters was done using the American Thoracic Society and European Respiratory Society protocols in four sessions. The paired-sample t-test, repeated measures test, Chi-square, and Fisher’s exact test were run to analyze the collected data. The prevalence rates of pulmonary symptoms, including cough, dyspnea, phlegm, and wheezing, were 24.14, 17.24, 14.66, and 16.38%, respectively, after one exposure shift. It was observed that all pulmonary function parameters were reduced after one exposure shift to ammonia. The results revealed that the parameters of vital capacity, forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), the FEV1/FVC ratio, and peak expiratory flow significantly decreased ( p < 0.05) across four exposure shifts. The findings indicated that exposure to ammonia at concentrations lower than one-fifth of TLV could bring about acute pulmonary effects and reduce pulmonary function parameters, similar to the pattern observed in obstructive pulmonary diseases.
“Last orders, please!”: The disappearance of communicative spaces at universities
Authors: Hess Andreas
Published: July 2023

This paper uses the thick description of one recent experience – the closure of the Common Room Club at University College Dublin – to highlight the gap that exists between rhetoric and reality at institutions of higher education in Ireland and beyond. I argue that common rooms have always been part and parcel of the ‘invisible university’. They provide the infrastructure to support what has been called the ‘lifeworld’, sustaining both the communicative experiences of their members and providing vital venues for visitors who are through them more readily drawn into the communicative life of colleagues. As unique spaces within much larger institutions, common rooms form both a protected shield and also a porous social community against the encroachment of the university system's instrumental action and reasoning. However, recent changes in higher education have accelerated the pace of change and the quest for top-down modernisation. As a reaction, and almost by default, the common room has taken on a new function for faculty, staff and visitors and turned into a place of encounter between people and ideas critical and often opposed to managerialism, bureaucratisation and the mindless emulation of higher education's fads and foibles. At University College Dublin, this new role did not remain unnoticed by the University management and triggered an extreme reaction – enforced closure. My paper closes by dwelling on an important question that points into an uncertain future: is it possible for any institution that purports to be a centre of higher learning to either quell or attempt to ‘manage’ lifeworld experiences and sceptical voices for any length of time? In other words, can a university still fulfil its very function and expect loyalty without allowing ‘voice’ (A. O. Hirschman) to be heard?
Educators’ Perspectives on Training Mechanisms That Facilitate Evidence-Based Practice Use for Autistic Students in General Education Settings: A Mixed-Methods Analysis
Authors: Hugh Maria L. , Pullmann Michael D. , Joshi Mahima , Tagavi Daina M. , Ahlers Kaitlyn , Hernandez Alyssa M. , Locke Jill
Published: July 2023

Educators often feel ill-equipped to support autistic students in general education contexts, although research shows that inclusion in these settings can contribute to positive outcomes. Professional development (PD) in evidence-based practices (EBPs) for autistic students can address this need; however, it is essential to understand the mechanisms by which PD can improve educators’ EBP use. Through an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design (QUAN→ QUAL), the authors gathered quantitative (Phase 1) and qualitative (Phase 2) data from 86 educators (special educators, general educators, and paraeducators) serving autistic students in general education elementary school classrooms. Using survey data on educators’ reported EBP training and use, the authors evaluated the effects of different training types (conference, in-service workshop, pre-service preparation, webinar, coaching/consultation) on educators’ use of EBPs for autistic students. The authors explored educators’ training experiences that facilitated their EBP use. The authors applied an established professional development framework to qualitative interview data to identify how key PD features (active learning, collective participation, content focus, cohesion, and sustained duration) have been accessed by educators and how they describe these as enabling their EBP use. Results demonstrate that pre-service training, in-service district or school-provided workshops, and coaching or consultation predicted EBP implementation. In addition, educators highlighted key PD features that facilitated EBP use, such as active learning. The authors discuss implications and guidance for incorporating these features within existing PD models to enhance EBP use for autistic students.
Interfacial shear strength of surface functionalized and functionalized CNT coated carbon fiber: A single fiber fragmentation study
Authors: Gogoi Rupam , Shankar Uday , Rawat Shweta , Manik Gaurav , Bandyopadhyay Anasuya
Published: July 2023

The compatibility among nonpolar thermoplastics like polypropylene (PP) and carbon fibers (CF) having traditional sizing or coating is challenging. In this study, facile and effective surface functionalization of CF and its subsequent coating with functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were carried out to obtain improved interfacial shear strength (IFSS) which was validated by the single fiber fragmentation test (SFFT). Functional groups, -COOH, -OH, and -NH2, were separately grafted on the CF surface using different chemical routes. Additionally, ultrasonic assisted electrophoretic deposition (EPD) technique was used to coat -COOH, -OH, and -NH2 functionalized CNTs on the sized and surface functionalized CFs. Attenuated total reflection-infrared spectroscopy (ATR-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images confirmed the successful surface functionalization and coating on CF. Neat PP and a blend of PP and maleic anhydride-grafted-styrene ethylene butylene styrene (MA-g-SEBS) were used as two different base polymer matrixes in preparing a total of 26 different SFFT samples. Silane functionalized CF coated with amine functionalized CNTs using ultrasonic assisted EPD process showed IFSS of ∼29 MPa which was an impressive ∼758% higher than pristine CF and highest among all the surface modified CFs. Interestingly, this translated into useful increase of ∼13% in single fiber tensile strength of functionalized and treated CF over and above that of as received CF.
Investigation of low-percentage graphene reinforcement on the mechanical behaviour of additively manufactured polyethylene terephthalate glycol composites
Authors: Bedi Surjeet Singh , Mallesha Vasu , Mahesh Vishwas , Mahesh Vinyas , Ponnusami Sathiskumar Anusuya
Published: July 2023

The current work investigates the influence of graphene on the mechanical properties of additive-manufactured polyethylene terephthalate glycol (Prince Edward IslandTG) composites. To this end, the graphene content is varied by 0.02 wt.%, 0.04 wt.%, 0.08 wt.%, and 0.1 wt.% to obtain different compositions of PETG/graphene composites. The filaments were prepared by mixing the PETG pellets and graphene flakes into the required quantity. Further, the mixture is extruded using a single screw extruder into small filaments with a 1.75 mm diameter. Using fused deposition modelling (FDM), the specimens were 3D printed following ASTM requirements. The fabricated PETG/graphene specimens are assessed for their mechanical properties, such as tensile, compression, flexural and impact characteristics. Finally, the fractography of the tested specimens is analysed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The experimentation of PETG/graphene composites reveals that the optimum mechanical properties can be achieved when PETG is reinforced with 0.04 wt.% of graphene. As opposed to virgin PETG, an increment of 89.71%, 81.76%, 21.60%, and 81.25% is witnessed in the tensile, compression, flexural, and impact strengths of the PETG/0.04 wt.% graphene composite. The outcome of this work is believed to pave the way for broadening the applications of graphene-based composites in electromechanical and smart structure engineering domains.
Vaccine Hesitancy and Attitudes Toward Elite Knowledge in the United States During COVID-19
Authors: Morelock Jeremiah , Michelotti Andressa , Uyen Ly Hoang Minh
Published: July 2023

To be effective, the battle against COVID-19 and other pandemics must address the social dimensions of the crisis. The objective of this study was to assess whether negative attitudes toward elite knowledge were associated with vaccine hesitancy in the United States during COVID-19. Attitudes toward elite knowledge were assessed using three measures: (a) the Epistemological Style Inventory’s ‘naive realism’ subscale, (b) a measure about supporting education to foster understanding of politics, and (c) a populism scale. Vaccine hesitancy was measured using a 9-item adaptation of the Vaccine Hesitancy Scale used by the World Health Organization. Multiple regression results revealed that naïve realism (.184, p < .001) and populism (.356, p < .001) were positively associated with vaccine hesitancy, while support of political education (−.296, p < .001) was negatively associated with vaccine hesitancy. These results indicate that to fully understand vaccine hesitancy, the role of attitudes toward elite knowledge must be considered.
Perceived Neighborhood Conditions, Psychosocial Factors, and Sleep Problems Among Urban and Rural Older Adults in China
Authors: Zhang Dan
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To examine the associations between perceived neighborhood conditions and older Chinese adults’ sleep problems, and whether these associations are mediated by psychosocial factors and moderated by urban-rural residence.

Methods

Data were from the World Health Organization Study on global Ageing and Adult Health. We used OLS, binary, and multinomial logistic regression analyses. Karlson–Holm–Breen decomposition method was used to test mediation effects.

Results

Positively perceived neighborhood social cohesion was associated with fewer insomnia symptoms and decreased odds of poor sleep quality, sleepiness, lethargy, and short sleep duration. Positively perceived neighborhood safety was related to decreased risks of poor sleep quality and sleepiness. Depression and perceived control partially mediated the effects of perceived neighborhood on sleep. Furthermore, the protective effects of neighborhood cohesion against sleep problems were more pronounced among older urban adults than their rural counterparts.

Discussion

Interventions that make neighborhoods safer and more integrated will improve late-life sleep health.
Lifetime estimation and surface degradation of MCCB contact tips due to multiple electrical interruptions
Authors: Nag Mukesh Kumar
Published: July 2023

This paper presents the surface degradation analysis of contact tips of commercial (20A, 110 V) molded case circuit breaker due to multiple electrical interruptions during experimental electrical test. In the experimental electric test, and according to the post arc current observation, the arc voltage and current were categorized. Multiple high-current interruption has been identified, and the phenomena that regulate the interruption failure have been established. Also, post-arc current sprinted for a short period of time (10–200 µs) during multiple electrical interruptions. These interruptions cause the failure of the contact tips of MCCB. The metallurgical changes were also observed on the contact tips. The braze joints between contacts tips and copper base is also affected by thermal and electrical conductivity during the electrical interruptions. The optical microscope reveals the typical metallurgical changes that occur during a breakdown, such as surface degradation, wear, cracks adjacent to the braze interface, oxide layer formation, cracks on the contact tips, and cracks that penetrate into the copper base. The experimental investigation of the factors influencing the post arc current was carried out to learn more about the link between the post arc current and the degradation of the interruption characteristics. This investigation’s primary objective is to explore the interruption performance and failure analysis of commercial MCCBs.
The frequency and duration of side-effects associated with the use of oral metronidazole; A prospective study of VITA trial participants
Authors: Ayinde Oluseyi , Ross Jonathan DC
Published: July 2023

Background

The tolerability of metronidazole is often perceived as being poor and in particular as being a cause of gastrointestinal side effects, but the frequency, severity and duration of adverse effects (AE) is not well characterised. This study assessed the frequency and type of metronidazole associated AEs in women treated for bacterial vaginosis.

Methods

An exploratory study of participants from the lactic acid gel versus metronidazole for treating bacterial vaginosis (VITA) randomised controlled trial. In this sub-study, women aged ≥16 years, diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis and who received oral MTZ (400 mg twice daily, for 7 days) were followed up prospectively over 2 weeks. Baseline demographic and clinical data, and self-reported data on the incidence, time to onset, and duration of AEs were analysed.

Results

155 women were included, of whom 64% (99/155) reported at least one metronidazole AE, including 47% (72/155) who reported gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea and/or vomiting [52/155], abdominal pain [31/154] or diarrhoea [31/154]) mostly within 3 days of starting treatment and resolving within 5 days of onset. Treatment discontinuation occurred in 8% (12/148) overall and AEs were given as the reason for discontinuing in only 3% (4/148).

Conclusion

Overall, metronidazole side effects occurred commonly, but resolved within a few days and had a limited impact on treatment completion.
Mechanisms of Potential Therapeutic Utilization of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in COVID-19 Treatment
Authors: Fang Yuyin , Lao Peizhen , Tang Longqian , Chen Jingyi , Chen Yuxi , Sun Lei , Tan Wenwen , Fan Xingliang
Published: July 2023

The 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has lasted for over 3 years and has seriously affected the regular life trajectory of human beings. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) has caused non-negligible harm to people’s respiratory systems and multiple organs. Although the pathogenesis of COVID-19 has been fully elucidated, there is still a lack of effective and specific treatment for COVID-19. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) or MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) by far have become the most promising candidates in preclinical studies and clinical trials, and MSC-related therapies have shown their potential to treat severe COVID-19. The multidirectional differentiation potential and immunomodulatory function of MSCs have allowed the cells to exert multiple cellular and molecular actions on different immune cells and organs. It is critical to understand the therapeutic roles of MSCs before entering the clinics for COVID-19 and other diseases. This review summarizes the recent progress of particular mechanisms underlying the immunomodulatory and tissue regenerative effects of MSCs toward COVID-19. We focused on discussing the functional roles of MSC-mediated effects on immune cell responses, cell survival, and organ regeneration. Besides, the novel discoveries and recent findings of MSC clinical application in patients with COVID-19 were highlighted. This will provide an overview of the current research on the rapid development of MSC-based therapies not only for COVID-19 but also for other immune-mediated/immune-dysregulating diseases.
NPLs Securitizations, CDS Spreads and Spillover Effect: Evidence from the European Banking System
Authors: Dell’Atti Stefano , Di Tommaso Caterina , Pacelli Vincenzo
Published: July 2023

Using an original bank-level dataset, we test the impact and the spillover effect of non-performing loans (NPLs) securitization announcements on the Credit Default Swap (CDS) spreads of EU banks. We construct a dataset that includes information about NPLs announcements and NPLs securitization characteristics. The final dataset contains 116 NPLs securitization announcements over the period 2012–2020. We find that the NPLs securitization is a credible mechanism for Global Systemically Important Institutions (G-SII) to engage in de-risking activities. The use of a State-backed guarantee reduces the cost of financing and the risk of the ceded loans is incorporated into the CDS spreads. Finally, we find evidence of a spillover effect after the announcement of an NPLs securitization by a G-SII bank. Our results show that the size of the spillover effect is influenced by the banks’ involvement in the NPLs market.
Galactagogue Food Consumption, Perception of Insufficient Milk Supply, and Exclusive Breastfeeding in Chinese Postpartum Women: An Analysis of Repeated Measures
Authors: Shen Quan , Huang Can-Ran , Du Wen-Wen , Li Jun-Yan , Redding Sharon R. , Ouyang Yan-Qiong
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

Little research has explored galactagogue food consumption in China. This study aims to investigate consumption patterns and how they relate to perceived insufficient milk supply and exclusive breastfeeding.

Methods:

Data were collected from postpartum women in China at six time points: baseline demographic questionnaire before hospital discharge (T0), galactagogue food questionnaire at 1 month postpartum (T1), Hill and Humenick Lactation Scale at 6 weeks postpartum (T2), and breastfeeding practices at 1, 2, 3 and 4 months postpartum (T1, T3, T4, T5).

Results:

Of 218 participants who completed the galactagogue food questionnaire, 64.68% were consumers. No association was found between galactagogue food consumption and perceived insufficient milk supply. Consumers were less likely to breastfeed exclusively.

Discussion:

Future research should emphasize a deeper understanding of consumer behaviors and family support in providing professional guidance on postpartum nutrition that considers not only social and cultural experiences but also broader medical aspects.
Predictors of Post-Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Chest Pain Among Coronary Heart Disease Patients
Authors: Abdelhaq Mohammad Jamil , Shajrawi Abedalmajeed Methqal , Ismaile Samantha , Al-Smadi Ahmed Mohammad , Al-Akash Hekmat Yousef , Ashour Ala , Salah Anas , Abu-Safia Ahmad Mohammad
Published: July 2023

Patients who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedure frequently suffer post-PCI chest pain (PPCP). This study aims to identify the changes in PPCP level and investigate the predictors of PPCP among patients with coronary heart disease at three measurement times: on admission (T1), 24 hours post-PCI (T2), and 30 days post-PCI (T3). A repeated-measure design was used. Significant differences were observed in PPCP levels between T1 and T2; between T2 and T3; and between T1 and T3. The predictors of PPCP are (1) high-intensity physical activities duration per week, (2) cardiac enzyme level upon admission, (3) increased ejection fraction, and (4) increased heart rate. The results highlight that identifying predictors of PPCP helps in determining high-risk patients, whereby evidence-based interventions can decrease readmission rates and reduce patient exposure to unnecessary investigations and procedures. More research is needed to explain the changes in PPCP level and to confirm these results.