bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Analysis of Changes and Works of Gayageum Byeonchang in North Korea by Period: With Focus on Joseon Munhak Yesul Nyeongam
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Chun Jumi
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this study is to examine the characteristics of the performance activities of the Gayageum Byeongchang in North Korea from the late 1990s to the present. The information is based on the Joseon Munhak Yesul Nyeongam (The Chosun Literature Art Yearbook), a series of publications that record the whole of activities and achievements of the arts in North Korea. As a result of the study, it is possible to examine the commonalities and differences in performance activities by broadly dividing them into performance classes, events, and themes. As for the performing class, it can be divided into professional art groups and smaller local art groups. Although the professional groups are represented by the likes such as the North Korean People’s Army Orchestra, and the local groups by students and female organizations, the frequency of the activities was found to be equal to each other. The events performed by both professional and local art groups were divided into a mixture of Gayageum Byeongchang, Gayageum Dok Byeongchang, and Gayageum Byeongchang, with Gayageum Byeongchang activities being the largest among them. In particular, the rampant use of electronic music was drastically reduced during this period while the use of ethnic instruments was encouraged in professional art organizations. As a result, the activities of Gayageum Byeongchang, which had been actively using electronic instruments since the 1980s, decreased significantly. The songs that are performed are also different between professional art organizations and local art groups. In sharing common themes of ideological liberal arts teachings and mass propaganda, the performances of local art groups also vary in theme related to each social class within the art groups. Through this study, it can be seen that North Korea’s Gayageum Byeongchang has changed from professional-oriented performances to developing and expanding into smaller local art groups and activities, thereby gaining popularity and universality.
Improvement of Device Characteristics of Low Temperature IGZO Thin-film Transistors through Laser Post Annealing
Authors: Lee Jae-Yun , Tukhtaev Anvar , Yoo Suchang , Kim Yong-Hwan , Choi Seong-Gon , Ryu Heung Gyoon , Jeong Yong Jin , Kim Sung-Jin
Published: July 2022

High-performance thin-film transistors (TFTs) produced at low temperatures are required for ultrahigh- resolution and flexible display applications. The scientific community has been studying unconventional techniques to investigate low voltage flexible devices and low power flexible circuits for the past decade. In particular, metal oxide semiconductors, such as indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO), have made significant progress as amorphous silicon replacements for electronics and commercial displays. On the other hand, developing metal oxide transistors with low processing temperatures remains a difficulty. The hightemperature annealing process causes very instability in the plastic substrate. Here, we introduce IGZO TFTs that shows enhanced electrical properties environmental stability by laser post-annealing. After annealing process, the laser post-annealing process was given at 80 MHz, pulse width 140 fs, for 50 seconds. The improved electrical characteristics of this laser post-annealed IGZO TFTs were: 9.03 cm2/Vs; 2.2×107 on/off current ratio. The IGZO TFT to which laser post-annealing was applied had a flat surface, and it was confirmed that the combination of internal metal and oxygen was urged, and the leakage current problem was improved by suppressing excessive generation of oxygen vacancy. Furthermore, the voltage transfer curve was measured after fabricating the N-MOS logic inverter circuit, this inverter showed a value of 80.8% the total noise margin.
Thermoelectric Transport Properties of Pb(Bi1-xSnx)2Te4 (0≤x≤1) compounds
Authors: Nam Woo Hyun , Lim Young Soo
Published: July 2022

In this study, the effect of Sb incorporation on the thermoelectric transport properties of tetradymite-type Pb(Bi2-xSbx)Te4 (0≤x≤1) compounds is presented. PbBi2Te4 (x = 0) possesses a high electron concentration of ~1.6×1020/cm3 at room temperature and exhibits n-type degenerate semiconductor behavior, in which electrical conductivity decreases and negative Seebeck coefficient increases almost linearly with increasing temperature. For x = 0.5, the electron concentration decreased to ~5.5×1019/cm3 and n-type semiconductor characteristics was observed. When the Sb content increased to x = 1, the majority charge carrier was found to be hole (p ~ 3.3×1019/cm3), thus a change in polarity from n-type to p-type semiconductor was observed. It was suggested that the change in polarity with Sb incorporation observed in this study is due to the formation of a p-type antisite defect, which is formed because the electronegativity of Sb is closer to that of Te than that of Bi. Due to the decrease in charge concentration with the increase in Sb content, it was possible to increase the power factor near room temperature for x = 0.5. However, the overall output factor decreased with increasing x. These results are expected to be helpful in efforts to improve the thermoelectric properties of tetradymite-type homologous compounds through antisite defect control.
Machine Learning Guided Prediction of Superhard Materials Based on Compositional Features
Authors: Nam Chunghee
Published: July 2022

In this study, the mechanical properties of materials were predicted using machine learning to search for superhard materials. Based on an AFOW database consisting of DFT quantum calculation values, the mechanical properties of materials were predicted using various machine learning models. For supervised learning, the entire data was divided into training data and test data at a ratio of 8:2. Since the discovery of superhard materials can be predicted based on the bulk modulus and shear modulus, the bulk modulus was primarily predicted using only the chemical compositional ratio (chemical formula), and then the shear modulus was obtained using the predicted bulk moduli. To obtain good prediction performance, cross-validation and hyper-parameter tuning were carried out. Each characteristic was predicted using XGBoost, one of the ensemble algorithms, and its performance was compared to the treebased machine learning of RandomForest and Support Vector Machine regression using the coefficient of determination (R2) and root-mean-square-error (RMSE) as metrics. For the recently introduced four superhard materials (Mo0.9W1.1BC, ReWC0.8, MoWC2, and ReWB), the results of this study were similar to those of previous studies including the experimental values or the DFT quantum calculations. The shear modulus was underpredicted, which can be understood since structural properties were not considering as a feature in our machine learning models.
Liberalism and the Good Life
Authors: Lefebvre Alexandre
Published: July 2022

Contemporary political philosophers are often uncomfortable with the notion that a conception of the good life can be developed out of liberalism. Liberalism, they say, should remain neutral out of respect for pluralism. Early liberals of the nineteenth century, however, understood their project as a vindication of the good life, along with a diagnosis of what threatens it. This article attempts to build a conception of the good life from liberal values and sensibilities, yet not run afoul of the need to respect pluralism. It draws on early and contemporary liberals, as well as popular culture, to sketch a way of life that is fulfilling and available for us today.
FACTORS AFFECTING CUSTOMER RETENTION IN BATAM HARBOUR BAY CGV CINEMAS
Authors: Mardika Nanda harry
Published: July 2022

This study aims to determine the factors that influence customer retention in CGV. Total of respondents were used in this study were 96 respondents by using purposive sampling technique. The data processing technique used descriptive analysis and multiple linear regression analysis which was processed by using SPSS program. The results showed that customer retention was proven to be positively and significantly influenced by service quality and location. The calculated t value for the service quality variable (X1) -0.747 with a significance value of 0.457 and the t count for the location variable (X2) 4.315 with a significance value of 0.000. The results of the Anova table show that the calculated F value is 14,780 with a significance value of 0.000. The conclusions of this study are (1) service quality has a negative and insignificant effect on customer retention , (2) location has a positive and significant effect on customer retention , and (3) service quality and location simultaneously have a positive and significant effect on customer retention.
Detection of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in the Endocervix of Asymptomatic Pregnant Women. Can STEC Be a Risk Factor for Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes?
Authors: Scalise María Luján , Garimano Nicolás , Sanz Marcelo , Padola Nora Lia , Leonino Patricia , Pereyra Adriana , Casale Roberto , Amaral María Marta , Sacerdoti Flavia , Ibarra Cristina
Published: July 2022

The presence of Escherichia coli in the vaginal microbiome has been associated with pregnancy complications. In previous works, we demonstrated that Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) can produce abortion and premature delivery in rats and that Shiga toxin type 2 (Stx2) can impair human trophoblast cell lines. The hypothesis of this work was that STEC may colonize the lower female reproductive tract and be responsible for adverse pregnancy outcomes. Thus, the aim of this work was to evaluate the presence and prevalence of virulence factor genes from STEC in the endocervix of asymptomatic pregnant women. For that purpose, endocervical swabs were collected from pregnant women during their prenatal examination. Swab samples were enriched in a differential medium to select Enterobacteria. Then, positive samples were analyzed by PCR to detect genes characteristic of Escherichia sp. (such as uidA and yaiO), genes specific for portions of the rfb (O-antigen-encoding) regions of STEC O157 (rfbO157), and STEC virulence factor genes (such as stx1, stx2, eae, lpfAO113, hcpA, iha, sab, subAB). The cytotoxic effects of stx2-positive supernatants from E. coli recovered from the endocervix were evaluated in Vero cells. Our results showed that 11.7% of the endocervical samples were positive for E. coli. Additionally, we found samples positive for stx2 and other virulence factors for STEC. The bacterial supernatant from an isolate identified as E. coli O113:NT, carrying the stx2 gene, exhibited cytotoxic activity in Vero, Swan 71 and Hela cells. Our results open a new perspective regarding the presence of STEC during pregnancy.
Ammonium and Sulfate Assimilation Is Widespread in Benthic Foraminifera
Authors: LeKieffre Charlotte , Jauffrais Thierry , Bernhard Joan M. , Filipsson Helena L. , Schmidt Christiane , Roberge Hélène , Maire Olivier , Panieri Giuliana , Geslin Emmanuelle , Meibom Anders
Published: July 2022

Nitrogen and sulfur are key elements in the biogeochemical cycles of marine ecosystems to which benthic foraminifera contribute significantly. Yet, cell-specific assimilation of ammonium, nitrate and sulfate by these protists is poorly characterized and understood across their wide range of species-specific trophic strategies. For example, detailed knowledge about ammonium and sulfate assimilation pathways is lacking and although some benthic foraminifera are known to maintain intracellular pools of nitrate and/or to denitrify, the potential use of nitrate-derived nitrogen for anabolic processes has not been systematically studied. In the present study, NanoSIMS isotopic imaging correlated with transmission electron microscopy was used to trace the incorporation of isotopically labeled inorganic nitrogen (ammonium or nitrate) and sulfate into the biomass of twelve benthic foraminiferal species from different marine environments. On timescales of twenty hours, no detectable 15N-enrichments from nitrate assimilation were observed in species known to perform denitrification, indicating that, while denitrifying foraminifera store intra-cellular nitrate, they do not use nitrate-derived nitrogen to build their biomass. Assimilation of both ammonium and sulfate, with corresponding 15N and 34S-enrichments, were observed in all species investigated (with some individual exceptions for sulfate). Assimilation of ammonium and sulfate thus can be considered widespread among benthic foraminifera. These metabolic capacities may help to underpin the ability of benthic foraminifera to colonize highly diverse marine habitats.
Controlling Parameters of Benthic Deep-Sea Foraminiferal Biogeography at the Brazilian Continental Margin (11-22°S)
Authors: Saupe Anna , Schmidt Johanna , Petersen Jassin , Bahr André , Dias Bruna Borba , Albuquerque Ana Luiza Spadano , Díaz Ramos Rut Amelia , Grunert Patrick
Published: July 2022

This study presents new quantitative data on benthic foraminifera from three bathymetric transects of the Brazil (11-14°S, 420-1900 m) and Campos (22°S, 430-2000 m) basins. The quantity and quality of organic matter flux as well as substrate properties and hydrodynamic conditions at the sediment-water interface are identified as key parameters controlling assemblage distribution. Based on the total (stained and unstained) fauna, a distinct biogeographic divide between a Globocassidulina subglobosa/crassa assemblage in the Campos Basin and a rosalinid/bolivinid assemblage in the Brazil Basin occurs across the bifurcation of the South Atlantic Central Water into its southward subtropical and northward tropical branches. In the Campos Basin, coarser sediments, increased bottom current activity, and variable nutrient supply favor an assemblage of Globocassidulina subglobosa/crassa, Nuttalides umbonifer and Alabaminella weddellensis. Occurrences of cold-water coral mounds in 870 m provide an ecological niche favoring species such as Alabaminella weddellensis which benefit from trapped nutrients. The Brazil Basin is characterized by increased abundances of Rosalina and Bolivina, while Globocassidulina subglobosa/crassa is comparatively less frequent. Assemblages with G. subglobosa/crassa, Rosalina spp., Bolivina variabilis and Bolivina subreticulata are favored by a relatively high nutrient input at 14°S. Further north, assemblages with Bolivina subreticulata, Bolivina variabilis, Epistominella exigua, G. subglobosa/crassa are located beneath the velocity core of the North Brazil Undercurrent (NBUC), coinciding with more clayey sediments rich in TOC. Occurrences of delicate branching forms such as Saccorhiza ramosa indicate a more stable setting, distal to the main current. Rose Bengal stained (living) specimens are scarce in all three regions, as is typical for deep-sea foraminiferal faunas. Their patterns of species distribution largely reflect those observed for the total fauna.
A Bayesian Modeling Approach to Examine the Role of Testosterone Administration on the Endowment Effect and Risk-Taking
Authors: Votinov Mikhail , Knyazeva Irina , Habel Ute , Konrad Kerstin , Puiu Andrei A.
Published: July 2022

Financial risk-taking and loss aversion are multifaceted phenomena that are the focus of neuroscience, psychology, and economics research. A growing number of studies highlighted the role of hormones (particularly of testosterone) on socio-economic decision-making. However, the effects of testosterone on risk-taking under framing and consumer-based choices and preferences are inconclusive. We investigated the effects of 100 mg testosterone administration on aspects of decision-making within the Prospect Theory framework which is the most used descriptive model of decision-making under risk. We assessed risk-taking under framing and the endowment effect (effect of possession) using Bayesian modeling. Forty men participated in this double-blind placebo-controlled fully-randomized cross-over experiment and performed two tasks. One was a risk-taking task with binary choices under positive and negative framing associated with different probabilities. In the second task participants had to bid money for hedonic and utilitarian items. We observed a significant increase in serum testosterone concentrations after transdermal application. Compared to placebo, testosterone administration increased risk-taking under the positive framing (very large effect size) and decreased under the negative framing (moderate to small). The sensitivity to gain was positive in each framing. Our model showed that decision-making is jointly influenced by testosterone and the trade-off between gains and losses. However, while the endowment effect was more pronounced for hedonic than for utilitarian items, the effect was independent of testosterone. The findings provide novel information on the complex modulatory role of testosterone on risk-taking within the framework of prospect theory and shed light on mechanisms of behavioral economic biases. The proposed models of effects of individual differences in testosterone on risk-taking could be used as predictive models for reference-depended behavior under positive and negative framing with low and high probabilities.
Audiometric Findings in Senior Adults of 80 Years and Older
Authors: De Raedemaeker Kaat , Foulon Ina , Vella Azzopardi Roberta , Lichtert Elke , Buyl Ronald , Topsakal Vedat , Beyer Ingo , Bautmans Ivan , Michel Olaf , Gordts Frans
Published: July 2022

Objective

To examine hearing thresholds in senior adults of 80 years and older and compare this data to the current ISO 7029 reference values.

Design

A descriptive, prospective study testing pure-tone and speech audiometry in senior adults participating in the BUTTERFLY study or the BrUssels sTudy on The Early pRedictors of FraiLtY. A Gerontological study to identify determinants for active aging and for early stages of frailty in the oldest population. Using the formula given by ISO 7028:2017 the median value of hearing was calculated based on the sex and age of the participant and compared to the measured hearing thresholds.

Results

151 senior adults were included. The prevalence of hearing loss was 90.7% (PTA > 20 dB HL). The results were compared to the mean ISO values, calculated for every participant. Both males and females in our study population had worse hearing thresholds than could be expected based on the ISO reference values. In our study population with moderate hearing loss (PTA > 40 dB HL), 38% is underserved in term of hearing restoration healthcare and yet another 38% is unsatisfied with the result of the hearing aids. Given the vast impact on the individual and society, this is a problem in need of our attention.

Conclusion

The ISO 7029 reference values may be an underestimation of hearing loss in senior adults of 80 years and older. Therefore we present a statistical distribution of hearing thresholds on different frequencies related to age and sex that can be used as a baseline for further development of the reference values.
“Title does not dictate behavior”: Associations of formal, structural, and behavioral brokerage with school staff members’ professional well-being
Authors: Rechsteiner Beat , Compagnoni Miriam , Maag Merki Katharina , Wullschleger Andrea
Published: July 2022

Individuals in brokerage positions are vital when further developing complex organizations with multiple subgroups only loosely coupled to each other. Network theorists have conceptualized an individual’s brokerage as the degree to which a person occupies a bridging position between disconnected others. Research outside the school context has indicated for quite some time that an individual’s social capital in the form of brokerage is positively associated with professional development—not only on a collective but also on an individual level. Schools are without any doubt complex organizations with multiple loosely connected stakeholders involved when further developing their educational practice. Thus, it is not surprising that in recent years, the concept of brokerage has gained interest in research on school improvement as well. Up to now, in school improvement research brokerage has been operationalized in different ways: as individuals’ formal entitlement to act as intermediaries (formal brokerage), their position within a social network (structural brokerage), or their behavior when linking disconnected groups of staff members (behavioral brokerage). As these perspectives have often been examined separately, this study, as a first step, aimed to simultaneously assess school staff members’ formal, structural, and behavioral brokerage, and examine their degree of interrelatedness. In a second step, associations of brokerage with professional well-being were analyzed. Even though there is evidence for the positive impact of brokerage on professional development, only little is known about its associations with professional well-being. In a third step, interaction effects were examined when formal brokerage is congruent or incongruent with other facets of brokerage. Based on a sample of 1,316 school staff members at 51 primary schools in the German-speaking part of Switzerland, we conducted both bivariate correlational and multiple-group structural equation modeling analyses. The findings revealed that formal, structural, and behavioral brokerage are interrelated facets. However, formal entitlement did not determine either structural position or behavior. Moreover, brokerage within schools was only partially related to professional well-being. In the discussion section, the study’s key contributions and practical implications are presented in detail.
Exposure to second-hand smoke is an independent risk factor of small airway dysfunction in non-smokers with chronic cough: A retrospective case-control study
Authors: Zhao Bingrong , Bai Lu , Wan Rongjun , Wang Yanan , Qin Ling , Xiao Qiming , Pan Pinhua , Hu Chengping , Jiang Juan
Published: July 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to identify the potential risk factors for small airway dysfunction (SAD) in non-smokers with chronic cough.

Methods

Non-smokers with chronic cough who underwent lung function tests at Xiangya Hospital from May 2019 to May 2020 were enrolled, and divided into the derivation and validation cohorts based on their hospital admission time. SAD was determined based on the presence of at least two of the following three indicators of lung function being less than 65% of predicted: maximal mid-expiratory flow, forced expiratory flow at 50% of forced vital capacity (FVC), and forced expiratory flow at 75% of FVC. Clinical data of these patients were collected. Risk factors for SAD were identified by logistic regression analysis in the derivation cohort and further confirmed in the validation cohort.

Results

In total, 316 patients (152 in the non-SAD group and 164 in the SAD group) were included in the derivation cohort. Compared with the non-SAD group, the SAD group had a higher proportion of female patients (82.3 vs. 59.2%, P < 0.001), was more commonly exposed to second-hand smoke (SHS) (61.6 vs. 27.6%, P < 0.001), and tended to be older (median age, 45.5 vs. 40.0 years old, P = 0.004). The median FVC, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) % pred, FEV1/FVC ratio, and peak expiratory flow (PEF) % pred were slightly lower in the SAD group. Multivariable logistic analysis showed that exposure to SHS was an independent risk factor (OR 4.166 [95% CI 2.090–8.302], P < 0.001) for SAD in non-smokers with chronic cough after adjusting for related variables. In the validation cohort (n = 146), patients with SHS exposure had a relative risk of 1.976 (95% CI 1.246–3.135, P = 0.004) for SAD compared to those without SHS exposure. Multivariable logistic analysis consistently confirmed that exposure to SHS was an independent risk factor (OR 3.041 [95% CI 1.458–6.344], P = 0.003) for SAD in non-smokers.

Conclusions

Exposure to SHS is independently associated with a higher risk of SAD in non-smokers with chronic cough. Reduction in SHS exposure may ameliorate lung function, thus lowering the risk of irreversible airway obstruction.
Case report: Urgent liver pathologies: All in one
Authors: Pavlek Goran , Romic Ivan , Juzbasic Kristina , Alduk Ana Marija , Petrovic Igor , Radojkovic Rudolf , Grbavac Dario , Silovski Hrvoje
Published: July 2022

Ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a well-known serious complication of this most common primary liver malignancy. However, when HCC rupture is associated with other focal liver lesions, the diagnosis and therapy may be very challenging. Correct differentiation of focal liver lesions is of paramount importance for successful treatment. The aim of this report is to present a unique case of HCC rupture complicated with liver abscess, hematoma and portal vein thrombosis. We discuss possible pathophysiological mechanisms and radiologic findings of such clinical scenarios and review literature related to the management of HCC rupture.
Effect of including oilseed grains in bovine diets on fatty acid profile, lipid stability, and sensory aspects of burgers
Authors: Brito Thais Rayane Rios , Valeriano Heitor Henrique Costa , Ítavo Luís Carlos Vinhas , Duarte Marjorie Toledo , Pereira Marília Williani Filgueira , Corrêa Samara Miyaki , Miyagusku Luciana , Araújo Thiago Luís Alves Campos de , Ítavo Camila Celeste Brandão Ferreira , Gomes Rodrigo da Costa , Gomes Marina de Nadai Bonin
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of including different oilseed grains in the diets of cattle on the qualitative and sensory characteristics and fatty acid profile of burger over a storage period of up to 120 days. The soybean diet increased 30% of ether extract in burgers when compared to the control diet. The inclusion of oilseeds in the bovine diet did not change the n-6/n-3 and hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio, as well as the cholesterol levels in the burgers. The smallest flavor and aroma note scores were attributed to burgers produced with meat of bovine fed with cottonseed (4.35 and 4.67, respectively). The sunflower diet resulted in smaller lipid oxidation (1.03 mg/kg). The storage period increased lipid oxidation (0.43 and 1.97 mg/kg of malonaldehyde at 0 and 120 days, respectively). The inclusion of oilseeds in the diet of cattle does not change the ratios of fatty acids in burgers, which are important to human health. It is recommended to use soybean and sunflower grains in cattle diets to improve the sensory quality of burgers. A 30-day storage period is recommended to maintain the flavor and juiciness of beef burgers.
Truth or Lie: Does the DNA Extraction Procedure Really Affect the Insight in Composition and Diversity of Microbial Communities in Saffron Cultivated Soils?
Authors: Voyron Samuele , Maxaieie Victorino Íris Marisa , Caser Matteo , Demasi Sonia , Scariot Valentina , Bianciotto Valeria , Ghignone Stefano , Lumini Erica
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of two of the most commonly used commercial kits for soil DNA extraction regarding the values of the taxonomic diversity of prokaryotes and community composition of saffron (Crocus sativus) cultivated fields. The impact of the QIAGEN-DNeasy PowerSoil Kit (MO) and Macherey-Nagel™ NucleoSpin™ Soil (MN) kit was tested on the soil of an Italian western alpine experimental site located in Saint Christophe (Aosta Valley, AO). Nine biological replicas of bulk soil were collected and analyzed independently with the two kits. 16S rRNA metabarcoding was applied to characterize soil microbial communities. We first noticed that both DNA extraction kits yielded nearly the same number of OTUs: 1284 and 1268 for MN and MO, respectively. Both kits did not differ in the alpha diversity of the samples, while they had an influence on the beta diversity. The comparative analysis of the microbial community composition displayed differences in microbial community structure depending on which kit was used. These differences were especially highlighted at Phylum and Class levels. On the other hand, the fact that, from a functional point of view, our approach did not highlight any differences allows us to state that the results obtained with the two extraction kits are comparable and interchangeable. Based on these results and those in the literature, we could undoubtedly recommend both commercial kits, especially if the soil target microorganisms are prokaryotes and the study focuses on agricultural sites.
Key Concepts to Identify the Role of Orthopedics in Child Development
Authors: Sugimoto Dai , Micheli Lyle J.
Published: July 2022

In order to examine the role of orthopedics in child development, longitudinal study designs are necessary [...]
An Unusual Case of Torticollis: Split Cord Malformation with Vertebral Fusion Anomaly: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Ye Dong Hyun , Kim Da Yeong , Ko Eun Jae
Published: July 2022

We describe the exceptional case of spinal cord malformation, associating neurenteric cyst, and cervical vertebral malformation, initially presenting as torticollis. A 4-month-old child presented with torticollis to the right since birth. A cervical spine X-ray revealed suspicious findings of fusion anomaly, and a cervical spine CT showed extensive segmentation-fusion anomaly with an anterior and posterior bony defect in the C1–6 vertebrae. A cervical spine MRI revealed extensive segmentation-fusion anomaly with an anterior bony defect, and the spinal cord split forward and backward at the C3 level, showing two hemicords. The anterior half of the hemicord and dural sac extended to the right inferior side, towards the upper blind end of esophageal duplication, and the posterior half joined the hemicord at the back and C6 level. After multidisciplinary collaboration, follow-up and conservative treatment were planned. At 12 months, he had developmental delay, and torticollis showed little improvement. No neurological abnormalities have been observed. The patient plans to undergo surgery for the cervical spine fusion anomaly. Cervical spine X-rays should always be performed when assessing a patient with torticollis to rule out cervical vertebral segmentation anomalies, despite the rarity of the condition.
Corrosion Barrier Coatings: Progress and Perspectives of the Chemical Route
Authors: Kordas George
Published: July 2022

Improved corrosion barrier coatings (CBCs) to protect metals will allow future metal structures to operate for extended periods, ensuring improved safety by reducing environmental pollution and maintenance costs. Many production methods and design of corrosion barrier coatings (CBCs) have been developed. This review focuses only on CBCs made with chemistry techniques. These CBCs can be passive and active with remarkable performance. Today, most of the work focuses on the discovery and application of “smart nanomaterials,” which, if incorporated into “passive CBCs,” will turn them into “active CBCs,” giving them the phenomenon of “self-healing” that extends their service life. Today, many efforts are focused on developing sensors to diagnose corrosion at an early stage and CBCs that self-diagnose the environment and respond on demand. In addition, recent technological developments are reviewed, and a comprehensive strategy is proposed for the faster development of new CBC materials.
Sliding-Mode Control of Bidirectional Flyback Converters with Bus Voltage Regulation for Battery Interface
Authors: Ramos-Paja Carlos Andres , Bastidas-Rodriguez Juan David , Trejos-Grisales Luz Adriana
Published: July 2022

Energy storage systems are essential for multiple applications like renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, microgrids, among others. Those systems are responsible of regulating the dc bus voltage using charging-discharging systems which are mainly formed by a power converter and a control system. This work focuses on the control system of a flyback converter. A detailed design procedure of an adaptive sliding-mode controller (SMC) and its parameters is presented. The proposed procedure was validated through simulations which allow to confirm its good performance in terms of global stability providing the desired dynamic of the dc bus voltage regulation.
A Novel Artificial Multiple Intelligence System (AMIS) for Agricultural Product Transborder Logistics Network Design in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS)
Authors: Pitakaso Rapeepan , Nanthasamroeng Natthapong , Srichok Thanatkij , Khonjun Surajet , Weerayuth Nantawatana , Kotmongkol Thachada , Pornprasert Peema , Pranet Kiatisak
Published: July 2022

In recent years, agriculture products have contributed to 28.75% of Thailand’s GDP. China, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam are the main markets for agricultural products. The annual export volume exceeds 119,222 million THB. The majority of them are shipped over Thailand’s land borders to its neighbors. Small and medium-sized farmers make up more than 85% of those who produce agricultural items. Numerous scholars have studied the transportation methods used by the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) nations along the economic corridor, but the majority of them have concentrated on import–export operations involving sizable firms, which are not applicable to the transportation of agricultural products, particularly when attention is paid to small and medium-sized farmers. In this study, mixed-integer programming (MIP) is presented to design an agricultural product logistics network. In order to prolong the lifespan of the container used, the MIP’s primary goal is to maximize the total chain profit while maintaining the lowest container usage possible. The approach was developed to increase small and medium-sized farmers’ ability to compete. Small and medium-sized farmers bring their products to an agricultural product collecting center, also known as a container loading facility. After that, skilled logistics companies distribute the goods. In order to convey the goods to the final clients in neighboring nations, the proper locations of the containing loading centers, the correct transportation option and the borders must be decided. The issue was identified as multi-echelon location–allocation sizing (MELLS), an NP-hard problem that cannot be handled in an efficient manner. To solve a real-world problem, however, efficient techniques must be supplied. AMIS, an artificial multiple intelligence system, was created to address the suggested issue. AMIS was developed with the goal of leveraging a variety of methods for local search and development. There are several well-known heuristics techniques employed in the literature, including the genetic algorithm (GA) and the differential evolution algorithm (DE). With respect to the improved solutions obtained, the computational results show that AMIS exceeds the present heuristics, outperforming DE and GA by 9.34% and 10.95%, respectively. Additionally, the system’s farmers made a total of 15,236,832 THB in profit, with an average profit per container of 317,434 THB and an average profit per farmer of 92,344.44 THB per crop. The container loading center uses 48 containers, with a 5.33 container average per container loading center (CLC). The farmers’ annual revenues were previously less than 88,402 THB per family per year, so we can predict that the new network may increase customers’ annual income by 4.459% for each crop.
The Transformation of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncological and Supportive Care in Canada: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Avery Jonathan , Wong Emily , Harris Christine , Chapman Stacy , Uppal Serena , Shanawaz Shaayini , Edwards Annemarie , Burnett Laura , Vora Tushar , Gupta Abha A.
Published: July 2022

Background: Due to ongoing disparity in the specialized care available to adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer, this study aimed to understand the gaps and barriers to accessing care and preferences on types of solutions at a national Canadian level. Methods: A mixed-methods study involving an online survey and focus groups (FGs) was conducted among AYAs residing in different regions of Canada. Results: There were a total of 174 survey respondents, of whom the majority were between 30–39 years of age (n = 125, 71.8%). Of the 174 respondents, 36 (20.7%) participated in one of seven FGs. Triangulation of the results illustrated that AYAs are not appropriately informed about the long-term health risks of being treated for cancer and where/how to seek support. These results culminated into three themes: (1) the need for AYA relevant and timely information about health risks; by (a) producing health risk-related content with the AYA life stage in mind; (b) providing a guided “map” to help AYAs anticipate what they may experience, and (c) providing checklists to help AYAs navigate their experience; (2) need for tailored and timely supportive care including (a) establishing ongoing check-ins and (b) receiving navigation support, and (3) need for enhanced connections by creating (a) a space to gather, connect and seek mentorship and (b) a hub to access information. Conclusion: AYAs continue to lack sufficient support both during and following cancer and mechanisms are required to ensure longitudinal support is provided across jurisdictions and in all stages of the cancer journey.
Making a Case for the Inclusion of People with Intellectual Disabilities in Higher Education
Authors: Corby Deirdre , King Eilish , Petrie Mary , Reddy Schira , Callan Aisling , Andersen Toff
Published: July 2022

The 21st century to this point has seen increased diversity throughout the student population in higher education. Many stakeholders value this diversity as it enhances the overall education experience for all students. While the number of students with disabilities in higher education is rising, challenges and barriers to participation remain, including for people with intellectual disabilities. The intent of this paper is to make a case for the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities in higher level education. Following the introduction to the topic, the existing literature on inclusion in higher education is explored, and issues such as challenges to inclusion are discussed. We then explain the situation in the Republic of Ireland, detailing how one university-based programme, the Dublin City University (DCU) Ability project, aims to prepare people with intellectual disabilities to move towards employment. The results of a survey sent to the staff in the University (n = 112), exploring their knowledge and views of the project, is then presented. While the project has been well received by learners and their supporters, it was important to identify the views of University staff to promote the future growth and sustainability of the project. The common themes identified were inclusion and diversity, communication issues, and positioning the project in the University’s Strategic Plan. The results contribute to the case for inclusion as university staff indicate their support while acknowledging challenges. These challenges are primarily in the area of communication but also in ensuring that university goals are implemented to provide a diverse and inclusive university community. We make the case that diversity should be valued, and that universities should be a space for all students, including those with intellectual disabilities, to learn and thrive.
Constructal Optimizations of Line-to-Line Vascular Channels with Turbulent Convection Heat Transfer
Authors: Lin Daoguang , Xie Zhihui , Nan Gang , Jiang Pan , Ge Yanlin
Published: July 2022

The multi-scale line-to-line vascular channels (LVCs) widely exist in nature because of their excellent transmission characteristics. In this paper, models of LVCs with turbulent convection heat transfer are established. Based on constructal theory and the entropy generation minimization principle, the constructal optimizations of LVCs with any order are conducted by taking the angles at bifurcations as the optimization variables. The heat flux on the channel wall per unit length is fixed and uniform. The areas occupied by vasculature and the total volumes of channels are fixed. The analytical expressions of the optimal angles, dimensionless total entropy generation rate and entropy generation number (EGN) of LVCs with any order versus dimensionless mass flow rate are obtained, respectively. The results indicate that the dimensionless total entropy generation rate of LVCs with any order can be significantly decreased by optimizing the angles of LVCs, which is significantly more when the order of LVCs is higher. As the dimensionless mass flow rate increases, the optimal angles of LVCs with any order remain unchanged first, then the optimal angles at the entrance (root) increase, and the other optimal angles decrease continuously and finally tend to the respective stable values. The optimal angles of LVCs continue to increase from the entrance to the outlet (crown), i.e., the LVCs with a certain order gradually spread out from the root to the crown. The dimensionless total entropy generation rate and EGN of LVCs first decrease and then increase with the growth of the dimensionless mass flow rate. There is optimal dimensionless mass flow rate, making the dimensionless total entropy generation rate and the EGN reach their respective minimums. The results obtained herein can provide some new theoretical guidelines of thermal design and management for the practical applications of LVCs.
Axisymmetric Fractional Diffusion with Mass Absorption in a Circle under Time-Harmonic Impact
Authors: Povstenko Yuriy , Kyrylych Tamara
Published: July 2022

The axisymmetric time-fractional diffusion equation with mass absorption is studied in a circle under the time-harmonic Dirichlet boundary condition. The Caputo derivative of the order 0<α≤2 is used. The investigated equation can be considered as the time-fractional generalization of the bioheat equation and the Klein–Gordon equation. Different formulations of the problem for integer values of the time-derivatives α=1 and α=2 are also discussed. The integral transform technique is employed. The outcomes of numerical calculations are illustrated graphically for different values of the parameters.
Evolution of Cohesion between USA Financial Sector Companies before, during, and Post-Economic Crisis: Complex Networks Approach
Authors: Stević Vojin , Rašajski Marija , Mitrović Dankulov Marija
Published: July 2022

Various mathematical frameworks play an essential role in understanding the economic systems and the emergence of crises in them. Understanding the relation between the structure of connections between the system’s constituents and the emergence of a crisis is of great importance. In this paper, we propose a novel method for the inference of economic systems’ structures based on complex networks theory utilizing the time series of prices. Our network is obtained from the correlation matrix between the time series of companies’ prices by imposing a threshold on the values of the correlation coefficients. The optimal value of the threshold is determined by comparing the spectral properties of the threshold network and the correlation matrix. We analyze the community structure of the obtained networks and the relation between communities’ inter and intra-connectivity as indicators of systemic risk. Our results show how an economic system’s behavior is related to its structure and how the crisis is reflected in changes in the structure. We show how regulation and deregulation affect the structure of the system. We demonstrate that our method can identify high systemic risks and measure the impact of the actions taken to increase the system’s stability.
Entropy-Argumentative Concept of Computational Phonetic Analysis of Speech Taking into Account Dialect and Individuality of Phonation
Authors: Kovtun Viacheslav , Kovtun Oksana , Semenov Andriy
Published: July 2022

In this article, the concept (i.e., the mathematical model and methods) of computational phonetic analysis of speech with an analytical description of the phenomenon of phonetic fusion is proposed. In this concept, in contrast to the existing methods, the problem of multicriteria of the process of cognitive perception of speech by a person is strictly formally presented using the theoretical and analytical apparatus of information (entropy) theory, pattern recognition theory and acoustic theory of speech formation. The obtained concept allows for determining reliably the individual phonetic alphabet inherent in a person, taking into account their inherent dialect of speech and individual features of phonation, as well as detecting and correcting errors in the recognition of language units. The experiments prove the superiority of the proposed scientific result over such common Bayesian concepts of decision making using the Euclidean-type mismatch metric as a method of maximum likelihood and a method of an ideal observer. The analysis of the speech signal carried out in the metric based on the proposed concept allows, in particular, for establishing reliably the phonetic saturation of speech, which objectively characterizes the environment of speech signal propagation and its source.
Does Corruption Impact Firm Innovation? Evidence from Portugal
Authors: Cerdeira Jorge , Lourenço Diogo
Published: July 2022

This paper aims to analyze the impact of corruption on firm innovation in Portugal, using data from the World Bank Enterprise Surveys on 1062 firms for 2019. We employ regression analysis and instrumental variables techniques to account for endogeneity in the corruption variable. Our results show that corruption fosters innovation in Portugal, regardless of the dependent variable we use to measure innovation. We have also analyzed the effect of corruption on innovation in foreign and domestic firms. While corruption boosts innovation for domestic firms, we found that the effect is not statistically significant for foreign firms. Our conclusions are of interest to policymakers, as any measure intended to fight corruption should consider its impact on firm performance. As this article shows, such an impact need not be negative. Nevertheless, if mitigating the impact of corruption is still intended, our results indicate that measures promoting foreign direct investment could help achieve this.
Effect of CSR on the Financial Performance of Financial Institutions in Kenya
Authors: Muchiri Martin Kamau , Erdei-Gally Szilvia , Fekete-Farkas Mária
Published: July 2022

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is an integral path towards realizing vision 2030 and the sustainable goals of the UN, as well as the sustainable development of individual countries. However, in recent years it has become increasingly clear that these goals cannot be achieved without sustainable corporate practices. Previous research seeking determine the effect of CSR on the financial performance of various institutions have yielded different results, leaving geographical, sectorial, and scholarly gaps. This study aimed to discover the effect of CSR on the financial performance of financial institutions in Kenya, as this country lacks a direct association between CSR and corporate financial performance (CFP). We focused on examining the effect of ethical, charitable, and gender-mainstreaming CSR activities on the financial performance of financial institutions in Kirinyaga County. A study population of 300 employees working in the financial institutions in Kirinyaga County was included, and a sample of 171 participants was selected using stratified and systematic sampling techniques. A causal research design was adopted, and data were analyzed using SPSS software. Questionnaires were administered in person to gather primary data. The study found a strong positive relationship between CSR practices and the financial performance of financial institutions and recommends that firms invest more in ethical, charitable, and gender-mainstreaming CSR activities, as such activities positively influence their financial performance.