bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel technique for forecasting the optimal production of a wind generator installed at any geographical point located within a very large area
Authors: Agbomahena Bienvenu Macaire , Didavi Kossoko Babatoundé Audace , Agbokpanzo Richard Gilles
Published: April 2023

The need to integrate renewable energy sources into the energy mix is felt because of the many advantages they offer over fossil fuels, notably in terms of environmental protection and more uniformly distributed availability. The intermittent and stochastic ones, such as wind power, present many problems to network operators due to the volatile nature of their output power. This work presents a new technique for optimally forecasting the power output of a wind turbine installed at any geographic point located within a very large area. Once the study area is defined, it is gridded and optimally sampled in order to have a truly representative number of geographical points. The study area is then divided into sub-areas by grouping the samples by similarity of variation of meteorological parameters (wind speed and direction). For each sub-area, the optimal production periods are then identified and used for forecasting the power output. The forecasting technique used combines the LSTM model for forecasting meteorological parameters and the linear model for approximating the power curves of wind turbines. The technique was applied to the Beninese territory on which 90 sub-zones were formed. A 12 h forecasting of wind speed, wind direction and wind power were presented for one of the sub-areas. The clustering results gave a Silhouette score of at least 0.99. The wind speed and direction forecasting gave (0.34 m/s, 7.8 rad) and (93%, 70%) for RMSE and R2, respectively.
Reimagining Education in Global Radiotherapy: The Experiences and Contribution of Rayos Contra Cancer
Authors: Yorke Afua A. , Carlson Caroline , Koufigar Sharareh , Zhu Hong , Li Benjamin
Published: April 2023

PURPOSE

Technology advancements ushered in a new era of how we reimagine our human interaction, with videoconferencing becoming commonplace in educational, professional, and social settings. These tools became the new paradigm in online/virtual education for all institutions around the world. Particularly in global health, where the traditional norm for support relied on traveling and onsite visits, we face a ripe opportunity for innovation.

METHODS

From 2019 to present, Rayos Contra Cancer has conducted remote operations by organizing the efforts of volunteer educators and moderators who are radiotherapy professionals or trainees from across the United States and other parts of the world. On average, each program consists of 17 virtual sessions. The hour-long sessions are conducted over Zoom and include didactics, question-and-answer dialogue with participants, and sample cases. The educators are seasoned and accomplished radiation oncologists, physicists, dosimetrists, and radiation therapists who teach single or multiple topics in a program. Participants are radiotherapy professionals or trainees affiliated with a radiotherapy clinic in a low- and middle-income country.

RESULTS

The number of participant clinics ranged from 2 to 120 per program. Our combined programs have resulted in over 2,000 unique participants spanning approximately 500 unique centers in 54 countries with the support of over 200 unique educators and moderators from centers in 18 countries.

CONCLUSION

When the world shut down, we were forced to reimagine how we approached global health education. Our data show tremendous growth year to year and from one curriculum to another. The feedback from our participants demonstrates that our approach is an effective way to engage practitioners in radiotherapy centers with fewer resources.
Working, Low Income, and Cancer Caregiving: Financial and Mental Health Impacts
Authors: Bradley Cathy J. , Kitchen Sara , Owsley Kelsey M.
Published: April 2023

PURPOSE

Approximately 6 million people provide caregiving to people diagnosed with cancer. Many must remain employed to support their household and to have access to health insurance. It is unknown if caregiving for a spouse diagnosed with cancer is associated with greater financial and mental stress relative to providing care for a spouse with different conditions.

METHODS

Health and Retirement Study (2002-2020) data were used to compare employed caregivers, younger than age 65 years, caring for a spouse diagnosed with cancer (n = 103) and a matched control group caring for a spouse with other conditions (n = 515). We used logistic regression to examine a decrease in household income, increase in household debt, stopping work, and a new report of a mental health condition over a 4-year period, adjusting for socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, and health insurance status. Subanalyses stratified estimations by median household income.

RESULTS

Around a third of cancer caregivers reported they stopped working (35%) and had an increase in household debt (30%). Cancer caregivers in households below the median household income were more likely to report decreased income (13.4 percentage points [pp]; P < .10), increased household debt (14.5 pp; P < .10), and stopping work (18.8 pp; P < .05) than similar noncancer caregivers. Mixed results were found for a change in mental health domains. The results were robust to multiple sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSION

Cancer caregivers from low-income households were more likely to increase debt and incur work loss compared with noncancer caregivers in similar households. Policies such as paid sick leave and family leave are needed for this strained and important population who have financial and employment responsibilities in addition to caregiving.
Testicular Dysfunction in 47,XXY Boys: When It All Begins. A Semilongitudinal Study
Authors: Pozza Carlotta , Sesti Franz , Tenuta Marta , Spaziani Matteo , Tarantino Chiara , Carlomagno Francesco , Minnetti Marianna , Pofi Riccardo , Paparella Roberto , Lenzi Andrea , Radicioni Antonio , Isidori Andrea M , Tarani Luigi , Gianfrilli Daniele
Published: April 2023

Objective

Klinefelter syndrome is the most common chromosomal disorder in males and the most common cause of hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. We describe the natural history of testicular dysfunction in patients with Klinefelter syndrome through the integration of clinical, hormonal, and quantitative ultrasound data in a life-course perspective.

Design

Prospective semilongitudinal study.

Methods

We included 155 subjects with 47,XXY karyotype (age range: 7 months-55 years) naïve to testosterone replacement therapy. Subjects were divided according to pubertal stage and age group (transition age and adults). Serial clinical, hormonal, and testicular ultrasound (US) assessments were performed.

Results

Testicular development progresses until Tanner stage 4, with subsequent regression, whereas Sertoli and germ cell impairment is not hormonally detected before Tanner stages 3-4, as reflected by normal inhibin B values until stage 4 and the fall in the inhibin B/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio thereafter. The testosterone/luteinizing hormone ratio peaks during Tanner stages 2-3 and declines from Tanner stage 4 onward, preceding the development of overt hypogonadism. US echotexture progressively worsens until transition age, reflecting ongoing gonadal compromise, whereas quantitative US echotexture measures and the presence of both hypoechoic lesions and microlithiasis independently and significantly predict a lower circulating testosterone level.

Conclusions

The findings from this large prospective study contribute to our understanding of the natural history of testicular dysfunction in Klinefelter syndrome, underlining the importance of quantitative testicular US in infancy and childhood, as well as during pubertal development and transition age, for the optimal care of Klinefelter syndrome patients.
Impaired Physical Performance in X-linked Hypophosphatemia Is not Caused by Depleted Muscular Phosphate Stores
Authors: Kara Johannes Alexander Serhan , Zange Jochen , Hoffman Fabian , Tank Jens , Jordan Jens , Semler Oliver , Schönau Eckhard , Rittweger Jörn , Seefried Lothar
Published: April 2023

Context

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is a rare genetic disease, characterized by renal phosphate wasting and complex musculoskeletal manifestations including decreased physical performance.

Objective

To characterize muscular deficits in patients with XLH and investigate phosphate stores in muscles.

Methods

Case–control study (Muscle fatigability in X-linked Hypophosphatemia [MuXLiH]) with a 1-time assessment at the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, from May to December 2019, including patients with XLH cared for at the Osteology Department, University of Wuerzburg. Thirteen patients with XLH and 13 age/sex/body weight–matched controls aged 18-65 years were included. The main outcome measure was 31P-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P-MRS)–based assessment of phosphate metabolites in the soleus muscle at rest. Further analyses included magnetic resonance imaging–based muscle volume measurement, laboratory testing, isokinetic maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), fatigue testing, and jumping mechanography.

Results

By means of 31P-MRS, no significant differences were observed between XLH and controls regarding phosphate metabolites except for a slightly increased phosphocreatine to inorganic phosphate (PCr/Pi) ratio (XLH: 13.44 ± 3.22, control: 11.01 ± 2.62, P = .023). Quadriceps muscle volume was reduced in XLH (XLH: 812.1 ± 309.0 mL, control: 1391.1 ± 306.2 mv, P < .001). No significant differences were observed regarding isokinetic maximum torque (MVC) adjusted to quadriceps muscle volume. Jumping peak power and jump height were significantly reduced in XLH vs controls (both P < .001).

Conclusion

The content of phosphoric compounds within the musculature of patients with XLH was not observed to be different from controls. Volume-adjusted muscle strength and fatiguability were not different either. Reduced physical performance in patients with XLH may result from long-term adaptation to reduced physical activity due to skeletal impairment.
A Prospective, Randomized Comparison of the Classical Altemir’s Method With the Newer Seldinger’s Technique of Submental Intubation
Authors: S P S Aswin Ram , Bhatia Nidhi , Jain Kajal , Gupta Tarush , Hazarika Amarjyoti
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND:

Submental intubation performed using the classical Altemir’s technique is a well-accepted, safe technique for providing optimal operating field to the maxillofacial surgeon, in cases where either nasotracheal or orotracheal intubation is impossible. We propose a new, percutaneous Seldinger’s technique of submental intubation as an interesting alternative to the classical Altemir’s technique, wherein a percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy kit is used to dilate the submental tract, instead of bluntly dissecting it. We hypothesized that Seldinger’s technique would be associated with reduced procedure time and minimal scar formation in patients with maxillofacial fractures.

METHODS:

We enrolled 60 patients scheduled to undergo maxillofacial injury fixation under general anesthesia. After consent, the cohort was randomly allocated to undergo submental intubation by either the classical Altemir’s technique or Seldinger’s technique. As our primary objective, we noted the time taken to complete the procedure of submental intubation. Our secondary objectives were the components of primary outcome, such as disconnection/apnea time, bleeding, and technical difficulties during the procedure. We also observed for complications such as presence of salivary fistula/infection at hospital discharge and scar characteristics at 1- and 3-month follow-up.

RESULTS:

The median time for performing submental intubation in the Seldinger group was significantly lower than that in the Altemir group (170.5 [136.5–256.0] seconds vs 220.0 [205.5–289.0] seconds; P value, .040). The median disconnection time was also significantly lower in the Seldinger group (12.0 [10.8–20.0] seconds vs 19.0 [15.0–23.0] seconds; P value, .036). Furthermore, significant bleeding was absent in nearly 53.8% of the study participants in the Seldinger group as compared to 25.9% in the Altemir group. At follow-up, there was no evidence of differences in scar characteristics between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

Seldinger’s technique is associated with shorter procedure time and reduced apnea time due to easier and better tract formation, thus minimizing the effort required to exteriorize the endotracheal tube. Furthermore, as dilation reduces tissue damage, Seldinger’s technique is associated with significantly less procedural bleeding. Thus, Seldinger’s technique can be safe, easy, and faster to perform compared with the classical Altemir’s technique of submental intubation in patients with maxillofacial trauma.
Prediction of Acute Myocardial Injury in Noncardiac Surgery in Patients at Risk for Major Adverse Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Events: A Multivariable Risk Model
Authors: Mases Anna , Beltrán de Heredia Sandra , Gallart Lluís , Román Lorena , Bosch Laia , Núñez Maria , Rueda Mireia , Recasens Lluís , Sabaté Sergi
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND:

The best use of perioperative cardiac biomarkers assessment is still under discussion. Massive postoperative troponin surveillance can result in untenably high workloads and costs for health care systems and potentially harmful interventions for patients. In a cohort of patients at risk for major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs), we aimed to (1) determine whether preoperative biomarkers can identify patients at major risk for acute myocardial injury in noncardiac surgery, (2) develop a risk model for acute myocardial injury prediction, and (3) propose an algorithm to optimize postoperative troponin surveillance.

METHODS:

Prospective, single-center cohort study enrolling consecutive adult patients (≥45 years) at risk for MACCE scheduled for intermediate-to-high-risk noncardiac surgery. Baseline high-sensitivity troponin T (hsTnT) and N-terminal fragment of pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), as well as hsTnT on the first 3 postoperative days were obtained. The main outcome was the occurrence of acute myocardial injury. Candidate predictors of acute myocardial injury were baseline concentrations of hsTnT ≥14 ng/L and NT-proBNP ≥300 pg/mL and preoperative and intraoperative variables. A multivariable risk model and a decision curve were constructed.

RESULTS:

Of 732 patients, 42.1% had elevated hsTnT and 37.3% had elevated NT-proBNP levels at baseline. Acute myocardial injury occurred in 161 patients (22%). Elevated baseline hsTnT, found in 84% of patients with acute myocardial injury, was strongly associated with this outcome: odds ratio (OR), 12.08 (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.78–19.42). Logistic regression identified 6 other independent predictors for acute myocardial injury: age, sex, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <45 mL·min−1·1.73 m−2, functional capacity <4 METs or unknown, NT-proBNP ≥300 pg/mL, and estimated intraoperative blood loss. The c-statistic for the risk model was 77% (95% CI, 0.73–0.81). The net benefit of the model began at a risk threshold of 7%.

CONCLUSIONS:

Baseline determination of cardiac biomarkers in patients at risk for MACCE shortly before intermediate- or high-risk noncardiac surgery helps identify those with the highest risk for acute myocardial injury. A baseline hsTnT ≥14 ng/L indicates the need for postoperative troponin surveillance. In patients with baseline hsTnT <14 ng/L, our 6-predictor model will identify additional patients at risk for acute myocardial injury who may also benefit from postoperative surveillance.
Analytic Narratives in Political Economy
Authors: Skarbek David , Skarbek Emily
Published: April 2023

Analytic narratives combine rational choice theory—often extensive-form, game-theoretic models—and qualitative evidence to understand historical and institutional questions in political economy. This article begins by characterizing the features of analytic narratives that distinguish this method from others in economics and political science. Analytic narratives gained prominence in the 1990s as the result of several factors, including the development of game theory, a turn away from general equilibrium theorizing, and the increasing interest in institutions and economic history. Based on the initial responses and subsequent methodological debates, four criticisms of analytic narratives are discussed: those based on claims to originality, the value of rational choice theory, case studies and external validity, and the merits of qualitative evidence. As the article argues, differing disciplinary approaches and perspectives generated many of these criticisms. Nevertheless, from a methodological perspective, analytic narratives remain an effective and distinctive method for analyzing the political economy of institutions.
A Smithian Reading of Chilean Free Banking
Authors: Paganelli Maria Pia
Published: April 2023

In the second half of the nineteenth century, the Chilean free banking system worked similarly to how Adam Smith describes the eighteenth-century free banking system in Scotland. The characteristics of free banking that Smith identifies as conductive of successful outcomes—free entry, unlimited liability, and convertibility on demand—are present in both Scotland and Chile. And the Chilean system failed for similar reasons to the worries Smith had about the Scottish system: inconvertibility, legal tender, involvement with government borrowing, and lobbying. The Chilean experience of free banking appears to follow Smith's account of free banking.
Perturbing the muscle work loop paradigm to unravel the neuromechanics of unsteady locomotion
Authors: Sponberg Simon , Abbott Emily , Sawicki Gregory S.
Published: April 2023

Muscle function during movement is more than a simple, linear transformation of neural activity into force. The classic work loop technique has pioneered our understanding of muscle, but typically only characterizes function during unperturbed movement cycles, such as those experienced during steady walking, running, swimming and flying. Yet perturbations away from steady movement often place greater demands on muscle structure and function and offer a unique window into muscle's broader capacity. Recently, studies in diverse organisms from cockroaches to humans have started to grapple with muscle function in unsteady (perturbed, transient and fluctuating) conditions, but the vast range of possible parameters and the challenge of connecting in vitro to in vivo experiments are daunting. Here, we review and organize these studies into two broad approaches that extend the classic work loop paradigm. First, in the top-down approach, researchers record length and activation patterns of natural locomotion under perturbed conditions, replay these conditions in isolated muscle work loop experiments to reveal the mechanism by which muscle mediates a change in body dynamics and, finally, generalize across conditions and scale. Second, in the bottom-up approach, researchers start with an isolated muscle work loop and then add structural complexity, simulated loads and neural feedback to ultimately emulate the muscle's neuromechanical context during perturbed movement. In isolation, each of these approaches has several limitations, but new models and experimental methods coupled with the formal language of control theory give several avenues for synthesizing an understanding of muscle function under unsteady conditions.
The acute effect of respiratory muscle training on microcirculation in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Katsoula Christina , Karatzanos Eleftherios , Rovina Nikoleta , Routsi Christina , Vasileiou Ioannis , Papadopoulou Elektra , Briasoulis Alexandros , Nanas Serafeim , Vasileiadis Ioannis
Published: April 2023

Background: Patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) present microcirculation alterations and vascular endothelial dysfunction. Exercise training programs have been shown to improve the functional status of these patients, however less is known yet about the acute systemic effect of exercise on peripheral muscle microcirculation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the acute effect of a respiratory muscle exercise bout on the microcirculation of non-exercising muscles (systemic effect).
Materials and Methods: Thirty-four (30♂/4♀) stable CHF patients, with a mean age of61.4±9.2 years, ejection fraction (EF): 33.9±7.8%, maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP): 78.2±27.1 cmH2O, VO2max: 17.5±4.05 ml/kg/min, VE/VCO2 slope: 32.7±6.4 and a New York Heart Association classification (NYHA) ≥ ΙΙ participated in the study. Microcirculatory assessment was performed at rest and immediately after the respiratory exercise program (5 sets/10 repetitions, training load: 60% of MIP). Basal tissue oxygen saturation (StO2),oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and reperfusion rate (RR) were measured utilizing near-infrared spectroscopy(NIRS) at the thenar muscle along with the vascular occlusion test (VOT).
Results: RR (%/min), following the release of vascular occlusion, as well as OCR (%/min) increased after the respiratory exercise program (from 3.4±1.6 to 3.9±1.7, p=0.007, and from 12.7±3.8 to 13.2±3.9, p=0.021 respectively), whereas the corresponding basal StO2values difference did not reach the level of statistical significance (from 85.5±6.4. to 84.7±6.2, p=0.065).
Conclusions: In the present study, concerning patients with CHF, after an acute respiratory exercise bout, dynamic microcirculatory indices assessed by NIRS in peripheral, non-exercising muscles, were significantly altered.
Spatial variation of summer microphytoplankton and zooplankton communities related to environmental parameters in the coastal area of Djerba Island (Tunisia, Eastern Mediterranean)
Authors: REKIK AMIRA , GUERMAZI WASSIM , KMIHA-MEGDICHE SALMA , SELLAMI IKBEL , PAGANO MARC , AYADI HABIB , ELLOUMI JANNET
Published: April 2023

In the present study, we investigated the effects of pollution and anthropization on the summer distribution of phyto-zooplanktoncommunities in relation to environmental factors in the coastal zone of DjerbaIsland. On the basis of chemical factors, theDjerba coasts can be divided into two parts: the Western Area (WA), characterized by high values of nitrogen forms of nutrients,with higher N/P ratio, and the Eastern Area (EA), poorer in inorganic nitrogen with an N/P ratio lower than the Redfield ratio (16).Strong differences in terms of plankton communities were also observed between these two areas. Bacillariophyceae was the most important microphytoplankton group in the WA whereas the proportion of Cyanobacteria was higher in the EA. High Cyanobacteria abundance in the EA may be linked to high DIP concentration. In the WA, the Bacillariophyceae Chaetoceros, Coscinodiscus, Grammatophora, Navicula and Pinnularia reached high abundance in relation with their good adaptability to adverse conditions. Copepods were the most abundant zooplankton present in the WA (54–100% of total zooplankton abundance), whereas other zooplankton were always dominant (60–90%) in the EA. The small pollution-tolerant Calanoid copepod Paracalanus parvus was dominant in the WA, illustrating its affinity for highly eutrophic sites. Despite human pressure and industrial activities, the coastal waters of Djerba showed a wide diversity of microphytoplankton and zooplankton.
Spatio-temporal variation of the invasive copepod Oithona davisae in the zooplankton community of Kavala harbour
Authors: KOURKOUTMANI POLYXENI , LOUFI KATERINA , KALANTARIDOU GEORGIA , KARAGIANNI AIKATERINI , MICHALOUDI EVANGELIA
Published: April 2023

Non-indigenous species (NIS) are one of the anthropogenic effects greatly threatening biodiversity and ecosystem services. Ports and harbours are among the most susceptible environments for the arrival and establishment of these species since ballast waters represent a common pathway for NIS arrivals. However, relevant studies are limited. One of the few studies dealing with the zooplankton community of a harbour and reveals the presence of the widely distributed NIS Oithona davisae is presented in this paper, with special mention to the spatiotemporal variation of the species. The invader, O. davisae, a significant contributor to the zooplankton community, confirmed its thermophilic character and showed better development in the inner part of the harbour as well as patterns of coexistence with competing native species.
A2TEA: Identifying trait-specific evolutionary adaptations
Authors: Stöcker Tyll , Uebermuth-Feldhaus Carolin , Boecker Florian , Schoof Heiko
Published: April 2023

Background: Plants differ in their ability to cope with external stresses (e.g., drought tolerance). Genome duplications are an important mechanism to enable plant adaptation. This leads to characteristic footprints in the genome, such as protein family expansion. We explore genetic diversity and uncover evolutionary adaptation to stresses by exploiting genome comparisons between stress tolerant and sensitive species and RNA-Seq data sets from stress experiments. Expanded gene families that are stress-responsive based on differential expression analysis could hint at species or clade-specific adaptation, making these gene families exciting candidates for follow-up tolerance studies and crop improvement.

Software: Integration of such cross-species omics data is a challenging task, requiring various steps of transformation and filtering. Ultimately, visualization is crucial for quality control and interpretation. To address this, we developed A2TEA: Automated Assessment of Trait-specific Evolutionary Adaptations, a Snakemake workflow for detecting adaptation footprints in silico. It functions as a one-stop processing pipeline, integrating protein family, phylogeny, expression, and protein function analyses. The pipeline is accompanied by an R Shiny web application that allows exploring, highlighting, and exporting the results interactively. This allows the user to formulate hypotheses regarding the genomic adaptations of one or a subset of the investigated species to a given stress.

Conclusions: While our research focus is on crops, the pipeline is entirely independent of the underlying species and can be used with any set of species. We demonstrate pipeline efficiency on real-world datasets and discuss the implementation and limits of our analysis workflow as well as planned extensions to its current state. The A2TEA workflow and web application are publicly available at: https://github.com/tgstoecker/A2TEA.Workflow and https://github.com/tgstoecker/A2TEA.WebApp, respectively.
Sugar content and erosive potential of commonly prescribed Orodispersible tablets- An in vitro study.
Authors: Anand Lahari , Pentapati Kalyana , Shenoy Revathi , Yelleti Geethika , Kumar Saurabh
Published: April 2023

Background: Dental caries is a major non-communicable disease of public health concern caused due to freely available dietary sugars. We aimed to compare the sugar content and erosive potential with duration of use and drug classes of orodispersible tablets (ODTs). 

Methods: We conducted an in vitro evaluation of the total sugar content (TSC), Potential of Hydrogen (pH), solubility, and Titratable Acidity (TA) of commonly prescribed 62 ODTs. TA was measured by titrating the samples with known amount of. 0.1N sodium hydroxide (NaOH) with phenolphthalein indicator and pH was determined by digital pH meter. TSC was evaluated by phenol sulphuric acid. Solubility was assessed by filtration. 

Results: Out of the 62 ODTs, majority were Antimicrobials (n=30). One-quarter of the ODTs (26%) had a mean pH below ≤5.5. No significant difference was seen in the mean pH with respect to different drug classes (p=0.082) and duration of use of ODTs. A significant difference was seen in the mean percentage solubility with respect to drug classes (p<0.001). Antimicrobials had the least percentage of solubility as compared to other drug classes. Antiemetics and proton pump inhibitors (24.33 ± 17.34) had significantly higher mean percentage sugar content than Antimicrobials (23.25 ± 17.16). No significant difference was seen in the mean TSC with respect to various drug classes (p=0.718) and between the duration of use of drugs (P=0.568) respectively. No significant difference was seen in the mean percentage TA with respect to drug class (p=0.123) and duration of use of drugs (p=0.424). 

Conclusion: Overall, we can conclude that one in four ODT formulations had a pH below 5.5 (critical pH).  Only one ODT formulation did not have a sugar content. No difference was seen in the mean pH, sugar content, and TA with respect to duration of use of drugs and drug classes.
Experiences of domestic violence prevention interventions and gender equality promotion work: a qualitative study of Nirdhar Groups in rural India
Authors: Hayter Mark , Lee Amanda , Dixit Anuprita , Rasalpurkar Sandeep , Fewings Heidi , Ali Parveen , Whitfield Clare , Giridhari Sneha , Kabra Pratyush , Rayamane Kranti , Ovseiko Pavel , Ahankari Anand
Published: April 2023

Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) against women in India is a serious concern. To address this, community-based interventions to facilitate sustained change at local levels have been implemented in 37 villages by the Halo Medical Foundation (an NGO working in the Maharashtra state of India). This qualitative study of community led alliances (known as Nirdhar Groups) evaluates the experiences of these ‘community citizen groups’. Participants from 12 villages from the project area participated in qualitative focus group discussions. Nirdhar Groups used local interventions to address priorities such as safe and equal access to education and healthcare. They offered education to address financial oppression and used community pressure and ‘Responsible Couples’ as mechanisms for change, to instil ‘fairness, gender equality, kind and compassionate community values’ and a variety of techniques to reduce DVA. The drivers for change included role modelling, empowerment of women in communities and a focus on changing cultural practices for present and future generations. This paper reveals how local interventions empower communities to address gender disparities and DVA.
Assessment of the antibacterial effect of Barium Titanate nanoparticles against Staphylococcus epidermidis adhesion after addition to maxillofacial silicone
Authors: Kareem Yasir Mohammed , Hamad Thekra Ismael
Published: April 2023

Background: Maxillofacial silicones are the most popular and acceptable material for making maxillofacial prostheses, but they are not perfect in every sense. To enhance their effectiveness, more improvements to their properties are required, such as their antimicrobial efficiency.

This study assess the antibacterial effect of barium titanate nanoparticles in various percentages against staphylococcus epidermidis biofilm adhesion after addition to maxillofacial silicone.

Methods: Barium titanate nanoparticles were added into VST-50 platinum silicone elastomer in four weight percentages (0.25wt%, 0.5wt%, 0.75wt% and 1wt%). 50 specimens were prepared and categorized into five groups; one control group and four experimental groups. All conducted data was statistically analyzed using (one-way ANOVA) analysis of variance, and Games-Howell multiple comparison test (significant level at p < 0.05). Shapiro-Wilk and Levene’s tests were used, respectively, to evaluate the normal distribution and homogeneity of the data.

Result: One-way ANOVA test revealed a highly significant difference between all groups, and Games-Howell test revealed a highly significant difference between the control group and the four experimental groups. The 0.25wt% and 0.5wt% groups revealed a highly significant difference between them and with the (0.75%wt and 0.1%wt) groups. While the 0.75wt% group revealed a significant difference with 1wt% group.

Conclusions: The addition of barium titanate to VST-50 maxillofacial silicone enhanced the antibacterial activity of silicon against Staphylococcus epidermidis, and this activity seems to be concentration dependent. FTIR analysis demonstrated no chemical interaction between the Barium Titanate and the VST-50 maxillofacial silicone elastomer. SEM pictures show that the barium titanate nanopowder was effectively dispersed inside the maxillofacial silicone matrix.
The genome sequence of the Crescent Bell, Epinotia bilunana (Haworth, 1811)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Hammond James ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: April 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Epinotia bilunana (the Crescent Bell; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Tortricidae). The genome sequence is 659.0 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 28 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.4 kilobases in length.
Theoretical and methodological foundations of the development of an economic entity based on the stakeholder approach
Authors: Lihtarova Ol'ga , Stepanova T. , Nikiforova E. , Mihalenok N.
Published: April 2023

The monograph examines the theoretical and methodological foundations of the development of an economic entity based on meeting the requirements of stakeholders (stakeholders), taking into account the fact that they are able to exert a significant influence on the organization in question from the point of view of socio-economic relations or, on the contrary, be influenced by the organization in question.
The main attention is paid to the solution of the following research tasks: identification of the conceptual foundations of the formation of the system of development of an economic entity based on the stakeholder approach; theoretical and methodological foundations of the development of an economic entity based on the stakeholder approach; development of a methodological paradigm (model) of analysis and evaluation of the development of an economic entity based on the stakeholder approach; improvement of criteria for analysis and evaluation of sustainable development of an economic entity based on based on the requirements of stakeholders.
For students, postgraduates and teachers of economic universities and faculties, as well as a wide range of readers interested in economic development issues.
Fundamentals of accounting
Authors: Sigidov Yuriy , Horuzhiy Lyudmila , Kulikova Lidiya , Kostyukova Elena
Published: April 2023

The textbook defines the place of accounting in the management system, justifies its principles, tasks, functions, and indicates the main groups of users of accounting information. The issues related to the balance generalization of the facts of economic life are considered, the economic content of the double entry and its significance are revealed. Special attention is paid to the objects of accounting, their classification. The procedures of accounting and accounting reporting, the order of regulatory regulation of accounting in Russia are described.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
It is intended for students of economic specialties, teachers and students of the system of postgraduate and additional professional education.
Legal regulation of veterinary services
Authors: Aliev Ruslan , Lisica Valeriy
Published: April 2023

At the present stage of legal regulation of the provision of veterinary services, it is necessary to highlight the main directions in scientific development and specification, namely: the concept of "provision of veterinary services" as an object of civil rights; legal features of an animal as an object of civil rights; the ratio of activities for the provision of veterinary services and measures for the implementation of state veterinary control and supervision; the concept and characteristics of the contract provision of veterinary services. These directions are the basis of this work.
The monograph is intended for researchers, postgraduates and specialists engaged in the study of topical issues of private law, as well as for anyone interested in the subject of this publication.
Decoding puppy behaviour
Authors: Winter Lorna
Published: April 2023

To celebrate National Puppy Day, Lorna Winter breaks down the five most common ways puppies communicate with us through their body language, and the best way to respond.
Remote consultations in orthodontics: factors to consider for success
Authors: Seager Leonie , Deeming Guy
Published: April 2023

Remote consultations in orthodontics were quickly thrust to the forefront of the orthodontic profession during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. With the UK public now accepting telephone consultations and various video applications as a convenient and secure method of communication, it seems likely that, even after the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic have dissipated, increased use of remote consultations will continue to be seen as desirable. It is therefore important that orthodontists, and any other orthodontic staff who have been delegated the task of being involved in teleorthodontics ensure they are aware of the limitations as well as the benefits of teleorthodontics. They should also be able to demonstrate competence in how to effectively and appropriately carry out teleorthodontic appointments remotely with patients.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: It is likely that patient expectations surrounding traditional face-to-face consultations will change as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the opportunity to investigate and explore new ways of working should be embraced. Working through the considerations that must be taken at each stage of the remote consultation as well as the use of appropriate checklists will ensure that the risk of human error is reduced, while undertaking remote consultations in orthodontics.
TESSITURAS NA EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL: APRENDIZAGEM E CONTEXTOS TECNOLÓGICOS PREVISTOS NA BNCC
Authors: Cabral Nataly Cordeiro de Abreu , Peixoto de Azevedo Pedrosa Stella Maria
Published: April 2023

Este artigo tem o objetivo de examinar como os contextos de aprendizagem devem ser apresentados na Educação Infantil, especialmente no que se tange à oferta de ambiência tecnológica. Com o intuito de alcançar o objetivo proposto foi realizada uma pesquisa exploratória nos documentos oficiais, em especial na Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC), que regulamentam essa etapa de ensino no Brasil e uma revisão sistemática de trabalhos acadêmicos produzidos nos últimos 5 anos, tendo sido definidos os descritores “Educação Infantil”, “aprendizagem”, “currículo” e “tecnologia”, considerando-se flexões de número, sempre que pertinente. O mapeamento realizado permitiu verificar que o processo de construção de saberes pode ser enriquecido quando as vivências propostas têm significado para o público-alvo e que as tecnologias, enquanto forma de linguagem, podem auxiliar nesse processo. Acredita-se que os resultados desse levantamento, contribuirão para discussões relacionadas à Educação Infantil.
Digitalisation and self-perpetuation
Authors: Nicklich Manuel , Pfeiffer Sabine
Published: April 2023

It is evident from current debates that an important new trend associated with digitalisation is the emergence of new processes, with wholly new qualities, which can be regarded as a form of ‘self-perpetuation’ (Verselbständigung). This article introduces the concept of self-perpetuation, the topic of this special issue, with the aim of clarifying it, making it visible in academic debates about digitalisation and examining its usefulness as an analytical tool. The contributions to this volume discuss conceptual as well as empirical aspects of this development. In addition to providing critical accounts of how self-perpetuation emerges and illustrating some of the barriers to its expansion, these articles also examine aspects of the discourses that have accompanied its historical development as well as providing glimpses into how these dynamics could be redirected in a more emancipatory fashion in the future. Taken together, these contributions demonstrate the importance of the concept of self-perpetuation for deepening our understanding of digitalisation, both as a social phenomenon and as a topic of academic research.
Governed by digital technology?
Authors: Klur Konstantin , Nies Sarah
Published: April 2023

Digitalisation is often associated with the domination of technology over humans. This article aims to develop a concept of self-perpetuation that illuminates the relationship between technology and social domination instead of focusing only on technological properties. Drawing on Marx’s concept of real subsumption and interviews in industrial companies, we analyse specific forms of self-perpetuation that take place in the digitalised working world. In doing so, we critically examine the diagnosis of digital Taylorism which assumes a comprehensive elimination of the subjectivity of workers. In contrast, we show that digital technology allows for other forms of domination based on the flexibility of living labour.
In control or out of control?
Authors: Bardmann Mona-Maria , Ruiner Caroline , Künzel Laura , Klumpp Matthias
Published: April 2023

Self-reliant digital systems (SDS) can adapt to changing circumstances and environments, evaluate complex situations, make decisions and optimise processes. In this context, work processes also change, since SDS are controlled by workers but are also partly out of control, that is, processing information independently and without worker influence. It can be expected that handling and interacting with SDS impact workers’ perception of autonomy and control and their interrelationship. This paper focuses on these developments at airports and is based on 24 interviews with airport and flight staff. The findings point to a difference between objective control and the perception of control. Moreover, we identify autonomy-enhancing and autonomy-restricting forms of control in contexts using SDS. In this sense, the article contributes to clarifying autonomy and control in the specific context of SDS at airports and conceptualising the interrelation of autonomy and control.
Brewster-coupling-based thin film filter design for wide-angle high-efficiency phosphor emission
Authors: Wen Xin , Lenef Alan , Raukas Madis , Klotzkin David
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we propose a bandpass filter design method for laser
activated remote phosphor (LARP) usage. This design uses the Brewster
angle as the passband instead of a wavelength passband. Two advantages
are found with this design. First, the transmittance at the Brewster
angle is naturally 100%, which is optimal. Second, the stop band
reflectance with a wide angular range is better compared to the
dichroic filter in a LED-phosphor model. We design two optical thin
film filter samples to enhance the extraction efficiency of YAG:Ce
phosphor with the same design criteria, objective function, and
optimization algorithm. With 50-layer designing, the optical losses
for LARP are 23.7% and for LED-phosphor are 26.0%.
Equalization equal gain combining for a single-input to multiple-output underwater wireless optical communication system under a Gaussian beam
Authors: Yang Yi , Qiu Xiaofen , Zhang Jianlei , Nie Huan , He Hanyu , Min Zhanwang
Published: April 2023

In this study, we examined the performance of an underwater wireless
optical communication (UWOC) system employing a single-input to
multiple-output (SIMO) scheme and proposed an equalization equal gain
combining (EEGC) algorithm for it under Gaussian beam conditions.
Furthermore, based on a Yue spectrum with the instability of oceanic
water stratification and a finite outer scale, we derived the closed
analytical formulas for the scintillation index and spatial coherence
radius in weak oceanic turbulence for a Gaussian beam, from which we
could obtain the threshold of the detector spacing and the strength of
oceanic turbulence. We then derived the closed-form formula for the
upper bound average bit error rate of the EEGC SIMO system with ON-OFF
keying modulation by using the hyperbolic tangent distribution
function. Our simulations demonstrate two issues if oceanic water
stratification is treated as a steady state: the performance of the
diversity receiver system will be significantly underestimated in
salinity-dominated weak oceanic turbulence channels and will be
significantly overestimated in temperature-dominated weak oceanic
turbulence channels. Additionally, the SIMO system performance
improvement using the proposed EEGC algorithm was more evident with
increasing detector spacing, and the EEGC algorithm reduced the impact
of the layout of the avalanche photodiode arrays on the UWOC system
performance, in contrast to the equal gain combining algorithm.
Assessment of hepatitis B vaccination status and hepatitis B surface antibody titres among health care workers in selected public health hospitals in Kenya
Authors: Mwangi Irene Ann , Wesongah Jesca O. , Musyoki Victor Moses , Omosa-Manyonyi Gloria S. , Farah Bashir , Edalia Laura Gwahalla , Mbuchi Margaret
Published: April 2023

Healthcare workers (HCWs) have a significant occupational risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Vaccination remains the most effective measure recommended to avert the risk. However, there’s limited information on hepatitis B vaccine uptake rates and the seroprotection status of HCWs, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to assess hepatitis B vaccination status and also seroprotection status of HCWs in three selected public hospitals in Kenya. This was a cross-sectional study carried out among HCWs at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), Naivasha and Mbagathi County hospitals. Data on participants’ demographics and hepatitis B vaccination status was collected using an interviewer-guided questionnaire. Blood samples were collected and tested for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B surface antibodies (anti–HBs), and hepatitis B core antibodies (anti–HBc) using Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay technique. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Graph pad prism. Of the 145 eligible HCWs, 120 (82.8%) were vaccinated, with 77 (53.1%) having received the recommended three doses. Three quarters (108/145) of the vaccinated HCWs were seroprotected (titres ≥10 mIU/ml) against HBV infection, while 16.6% were non–responders (titres <10 mIU/ml). Vaccination with more than two doses and HBV exposure were significantly associated with anti-HBs titre levels (P<0.05). HCWs who received less than 2 doses of the vaccine were 70% less likely to have high anti-HBs titre levels (aOR, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1–0.8; P = 0.013). Nearly all HCWs were vaccinated against hepatitis B virus. The majority of all HCWs were seroprotected against hepatitis B virus but a number of them had an insufficient immunity to the virus despite vaccination or prior exposure. There’s need to sensitize HCWs and enforce mandatory full vaccination as per the recommended vaccination schedule.