bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of Healthcare Workers on the Attributes of the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response System in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mteliso Farai , Adalier Ahmet , Malunguza Noble J. , Chiyaka Edward T.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To investigate healthcare workers’ perceptions of the integrated disease surveillance and response (IDSR) strategy.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of healthcare workers (HCWs) was conducted from December 2021 to June 2022 to assess their perceptions of the IDSR system attributes.

Results

Of the 409 respondents, 12 (2.9%) reported no prior training on disease surveillance. The IDSR was deemed simple, acceptable, useful, and timely by most participants. There were sharp differences in perceptions of flexibility and simplicity between doctors and the other healthcare professionals. However, acceptability, timeliness, and usefulness were uniformly perceived. Healthcare workers with at least 11 years of experience perceived the usefulness of the IDSR system significantly higher than those with lesser years of experience. However, work experience did not have an impact on HCWs perceptions of the simplicity, timeliness, and flexibility of the IDSR system.

Conclusions

Most healthcare workers have positive perceptions of the IDSR approach. However, there are reservations about how well the system can adapt to changing conditions and demands (flexibility) and how well it simplifies the implementation processes. These findings demonstrate the necessity of adopting cutting-edge strategies for capacity building as well as ongoing professional development of healthcare professionals responsible for the implementation of the IDSR strategy.
Telemedicine: Solutions and Challenges for Health Workers in Rural Indonesia in the Response to the COVID -19 Pandemic
Authors: Saputra Rikas
Published: May 2024

Technology and telemedicine are needed to provide the necessary solutions for public health in rural areas. Lack of stable internet access and digital literacy hinders the effective use of telemedicine. Governments and service providers can work together to extend coverage, increase internet speed in rural areas, and provide training and education to ensure adequate digital literacy.
Hydrothermal carbonization of invasive plant biomass as a tool for its safe utilization and production of artificial humic substances
Authors: Klavins Maris , Ansone-Bertina Linda , Krumins Janis , Purmalis Oskars , Klavina Laura , Vincevica-Gaile Zane
Published: May 2024

Invasive plants may cause significant environmental risks by affecting biological diversity, ecosystem services, agriculture, and forestry. Safe utilization of invasive plant biomass by obtaining new outcome products useful for bioeconomics is a challenging but promising solution. Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) presents a sustainable and cost-effective approach to transforming invasive plant biomass into new products while simultaneously supporting carbon capture aims. This study utilized invasive plants such as lupine [Lupinus polyphyllus Lindl.], Sosnowsky’s hogweed [Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden.], and Japanese knotweed [Polygonum cuspidatum Siebold & Zucc.] as biomass sources for HTC to produce artificial humic substances (AHS). The greatest impact on the yield of AHS (maximum gained yield of 62%) was the duration of the HTC process (up to 6 h) and temperature of the treatment (from 160 up to 250 C), as well as the catalyst used (an alkaline medium is preferable). During the HTC treatment, significant changes in the invasive plant biomass composition occur, as indicated by the removal of labile components of organic matter. The AHS obtained are essentially similar to natural humic matter and have biostimulatory properties; thus, they can be applied in agriculture and other areas of bioeconomics.
Assessment of structuredness of problems in design
Authors: Singh Sanjay , Chakrabarti Amaresh
Published: May 2024

Design problems are wicked in nature. Wicked problems are difficult to understand, formulate and solve. The literature focuses mainly on the characteristics of wicked problems, very little is available to how wicked problems (synonymous to ill-structured) should be formulated to make them well structured. Assessment of wickedness can help designers formulate problems into well-structured. This work proposes a metric for (lack of) structuredness as a measure for the degree to which a design problem is ill-structured. A Delphi-based method as benchmark for validating the metric is also proposed.
Gender differences in design creativity
Authors: Souto Virginia Tiradentes , Fadel Luciane Maria , Spinillo Carla Galvão
Published: May 2024

Gender is a crucial factor for creativity in design. Although the participation and recognition of successful and prominent women in the field of design seems to be increasing, many more men are still recognised and regarded as creative. This paper analyses the gender differences in design creativity. First, a summary of studies on gender differences in creativity in general is presented. It then discusses three critical aspects of gender differences in design creativity. Finally, some ways in which women's creativity can be encouraged and supported are outlined.
Tactility in perception of biobased composites
Authors: Thundathil Manu , Emerson Nicholas John , Nazmi Ali Reza , Shahri Bahareh , Müssig Jörg , Huber Tim
Published: May 2024

Biobased composites - sustainable alternatives to fossil-based materials, could gain better acceptance if their perceptual handicaps could be overcome. This paper considers the role of tactility in contrast with visual stimuli, as well as the perceptual qualities influenced by tactility. The analysis revealed a significant impact of tactility in forming attributes such as naturality, roughness and strength. Attributes like beauty and complexity remain less affected by touch, and more visual-dominant. These findings may help designers in creating desirable products with sustainable materials.
Using the low-tech concept to create scenarios: an analysis of its potential to design for sustainable urban future
Authors: Vallet Flore , Gall Tjark
Published: May 2024

Designers must be equipped with methods to contribute to sustainability transitions. Scenario planning arose as approach to integrate future uncertainties while the low-tech concept promotes technological discernment. This paper looks at how low-tech fuelled scenario planning. Analysing institutional and archetypical scenarios shows a partial integration through high and low-tech extremes. However, more nuanced considerations are lacking. This paper shows that low-tech can bring an interesting dimension to future scenarios and thus contributes to method development for sustainable design.
Design as a practice for implementing complex digital health: preliminary results from an interview study in the Netherlands
Authors: Karlsson Fredrik K. , Pannunzio Valeria , Snelders Dirk , Kleinsmann Maaike S.
Published: May 2024

Challenges in implementing digital health in clinical practice hinder its potential. The complexities posed by implementation could benefit from using design practices. To explore the current role of design practices in digital health implementation, designers in the Netherlands were interviewed. The preliminary results indicate that designers contribute to digital health implementation processes, especially in the early stages. Design practices are mainly used for engaging the users, testing concepts, aligning the ideas of stakeholders, and adapting interventions to fit within the contexts.
The energy performance assessment method to establish the best part build orientation in additive manufacturing
Authors: Mandolini Marco , Sartini Mikhailo , Rossi Marta , Favi Claudio , Marconi Marco
Published: May 2024

The growing use of additive manufacturing (AM) processes pushes research towards studying methods to reduce their environmental impact. The part build orientation is a significant process variable, which can be chosen through the Energy Performance Assessment (EPA), a straightforward method. The paper presents a method for identifying the best part build orientation considering energy consumption. The EPA has been adapted for this purpose, resulting in an approach based on four steps. The method was employed to determine the best printing direction for three parts and two AM technologies.
Optical and mechanical testing of 3D printed parts made of high-viscosity silicone to identify process parameters and design advice for 3D printing and printer development
Authors: Schön Joel , Löffler Robin , Koch Michael
Published: May 2024

The additive manufacturing of parts made from close-to-production materials poses a great challenge. One example are highly viscous silicones, as used in injection moulding. For small production quantities, the manufacturing of injection moulds is uneconomical. This paper presents tensile specimens printed with an in-house developed dispensing system, which are analysed for air cavities (micro-CT scans) and mechanical properties. Based on the results, advice for the design and slicing parameters of parts using high-viscosity silicones in AM by means of material extrusion are developed.
Machine learning-based virtual sensors for reduced energy consumption in frost-free refrigerators
Authors: Alcaraz Alejandro , Ilare Dennis , Mansutti Alessandro , Cascini Gaetano
Published: May 2024

This study explores Machine Learning (ML) integration for household refrigerator efficiency. The ML approach allows to optimize defrost cycles, offering energy savings without complexity or cost escalation. The paper initially presents a State-of-the-Art of ML potential to improve functionality and efficiency of refrigerators. Since frost is the cause of significant energy losses, a ML-based Virtual Sensor was developed to predict frost formation on the evaporator also in low -level refrigerators. The results show the environmental significance of ML in enhancing appliance efficiency.
Assessing text-image patent datasets with text-based metrics for engineering design applications
Authors: Consoloni Marco , Giordano Vito , Fantoni Gualtiero
Published: May 2024

Images provide concise representations of design artifacts and emerge as the primary mode of communication among innovators, engineers, and designers. The advanced of Artificial Intelligence tools which integrates image and textual information can significantly support the Engineering Design process. In this paper we create 5 different datasets combining both images and text of patents and we develop a set of text-based metrics to assess the quality of text for multimodal applications. Finally, we discuss the challenges arising in the development of multimodal patent datasets.
Improving sustainability of additive manufacturing processes based on digital twins – a case study
Authors: Kos Jessica , Schröder Philipp , Trauer Jakob , Endress Felix , Mörtl Markus , Zimmermann Markus
Published: May 2024

Additive manufacturing (AM) became a key technology in the development of innovative products. Advancements have been made to improve economic feasibility. However, ecological sustainability is still an open issue of AM. To improve sustainability, it is crucial to track, visualize, and evaluate emissions along the lifecycle. This paper presents a novel Digital Twin based approach enabling prediction of the product carbon footprint (PCF) and prescriptive measures to improve sustainability. By improving part and process design, a significant PCF reduction was achieved.
The DHSmart model for smart product-service system (smart PSS): dynamic, data-driven, human-centred
Authors: Mirshafiee Nadia , Han Ji , Ahmed-Kristensen Saeema
Published: May 2024

Despite its transformative impact, a systematic approach to Smart PSS development remains elusive. Addressing this, the study introduces a dynamic conceptual model named DHSmart and its accompanying canvas, adaptable to various contexts and technological advancements. Notably, it offers a structured approach to designing ‘Smart’ in Smart PSS, capturing the interplay between data, humans, and smart systems while directing digitalisation that achieves competitive advantage. It also serves as a unifying framework, enabling meaningful interdisciplinary contributions in theory and practice.
Self-optimizing digital factory twin: an industrial use case
Authors: Nigischer Christian , Reiterer Florian , Bougain Sébastien , Grafinger Manfred
Published: May 2024

Digital Twins (DTs) are intended to be utilized for a wide range of applications, promising benefits like visualization, monitoring, simulation and control of a physical system. Not only the development of a DT for a production facility is a time-consuming task, but also to keep the virtual counterpart up to date in the use phase. In this work, the implementation of an industrial-scale DT of an automotive supplier production site based on a Discrete-Event Simulation (DES) model with self-optimization capabilities for easier maintainability and increased simulation accuracy is presented.
On-site analysis of work-related stress to design workers-friendly manufacturing systems
Authors: Blandino Graziana , Colombo Samuele , Montagna Francesca
Published: May 2024

Industry 4.0 is leading to technological advancement in manufacturing and causing changes in tasks performed by operators. This represents a potential trigger of humans' stress and workload. This paper aims to investigate work-related stress in an industrial environment through a real production case study through ECG, EDA, EMG, and respiratory band. From stress physiological indicators analysis, preliminary suggestions for the case study are provided to make the production system more human-centered, according to Industry 5.0. Further studies may test the effect of the recommended actions.
The aesthetics of robot design: towards a classification of morphologies
Authors: Mobed Dean Aaron Ollah , Wodehouse Andrew , Maier Anja
Published: May 2024

Robots are becoming increasingly prevalent in the workplace. As Industry 5.0 pursues human-centric technologies, a greater understanding of what effects aesthetics has on those interacting with robots is needed. This paper sets out robot morphology as a way to characterise key form types, and proposes seven classifications: anthropomorphism, zoomorphism, phytomorphism, artemorphism, functiomorphism, amorphism, and neomorphism. Through an assessment of the current robot aesthetic landscape, design dimensions are identified with examples that can inform future robot design.
User involvement in the design of complex digital tools for employees in a large organisation
Authors: Petyaeva Anya , Goodman-Deane Joy , Clarkson P. John
Published: May 2024

Large organisations are designing complex technology-based tools for their staff to use. In busy workplace environments, it can be difficult to get user input about a design. This paper describes the designer and user interactions in one such organisation, gaining insights that could be useful in other similar settings. The findings are based on a set of interviews with designers and researchers within the organisation. The paper identifies the current practices and constraints involved in understanding and capturing users' needs and discusses potential solutions.
Systems engineering in design practice: a guideline for development service providers
Authors: Burkhardt Maximilian , Warns Tilman , Endepols Sebastian , Bursac Nikola , Ritzer Katharina
Published: May 2024

To handle the increased complexity within the automotive industry, this paper introduces a guideline, which aims to support development service providers to examine the introduction and if applicable support the introduction of systems engineering. The initial verification was performed through applying the guideline at Porsche Engineering as an exemplary service provider. As a result, the success factors "knowledge basis" and "knowledge transfer" have been improved by two points on a 1-5 Likert-scale by introducing a SE process-specific knowledge platform and a defined knowledge transfer.
A tradespace exploration approach for changeability assessment from a system-of-systems perspective: application from the construction machinery industry
Authors: Machchhar Raj Jiten , Toller Melén Carl Nils Konrad , Bertoni Alessandro
Published: May 2024

The rapid development of new technologies such as electrification, autonomy, and other contextual factors pose significant challenges to development teams in balancing competing aspects while developing value-robust solutions. One approach for achieving value robustness is designing for changeability. This paper presents a tradespace exploration from a Systems-of-Systems perspective to facilitate changeability assessment during early design stages. The approach is further demonstrated on a fleet of haulers operating in a mining site.
Investigation of advantages of models and the modelling process by introducing a model evaluation concept
Authors: Schumacher Thomas , Inkermann David
Published: May 2024

Within Model-based Systems Engineering different kinds of model will be created to support the execution of engineering activites. This contribution introduces an evaluation concept which focuses on the model informativity and its usefulness within the modelling process. Thereby, it shall be investigated which advantages the integration of model elements based on different levels of abstraction and a reduction of model formalisation enables. For the model creation the analogue modelling method will be applied, which uses physical (tangible) model elements.
A gamified approach to assessing mental rotation in virtual reality
Authors: Bartlett Kristin Alicia , Palacios-Ibáñez Almudena , Camba Jorge Dorribo
Published: May 2024

We present a new spatial skills assessment tool, the Virtual Reality Mental Rotation Assessment. Results suggest that the gamified immersive experience enabled increased levels of engagement and motivation and the instrument was likely not biased in favor or people with past virtual reality (VR) experience. Using VR did not appear to introduce additional problems beyond those present in a traditional spatial test, as moving one's body to change perspective did not correlate with improved performance. Our findings have implications for training and assessing spatial skills in engineering.
VR headset vs. PC screen as virtual learning tour interface for Chinese architecture heritage investigation
Authors: Chen Yuetong , Hua Min
Published: May 2024

In design education, integrating digital tools has revolutionized pedagogical approaches. This study examines the impact of VR HMDs and PC screens on learning ancient Chinese architecture using a virtual tour. Involving 22 students, it assessed simulator sickness, user experience, and spatial awareness. Results show VR had a more positive spatial learning experience but the same learning outcomes. VR enhances presence but increases simulator sickness. The study underscores VR's potential and limitations in ancient Chinese architectural education, suggesting future research directions.
Conceptualization of an artificial intelligence-assisted tutoring system for teaching technical drawing skills to undergraduate students
Authors: Fastabend Jonas , Müller Benedikt , Roth Daniel , Kreimeyer Matthias
Published: May 2024

In design education, technical drawing training requires a large amount of resources. The aim of this paper is to propose a concept for an artificial intelligence-based tutoring system that partly automates technical drawing education. The educational needs of the students are defined via an error analysis of 100 corrected drawing exercises and the definition of 3 error clusters with 134 different error types. Three sub-concepts with a collection of training exercises are proposed for the tutoring system to mitigate these errors. The resulting concept is validated by a survey with 29 students.
Improving knowledge transfers in student engineering teams through the application of the InKTI – Interdepartmental Knowledge Transfer Improvement method
Authors: Klippert Monika , Stolpmann Robert , Albers Albert
Published: May 2024

Managing knowledge successfully is key for an organization to increase its innovative potential. The InKTI method supports the improvement of knowledge transfers in product and production engineering. To ensure acceptance, applicability, and contribution to success in practice, it is necessary to validate the InKTI method. This paper focuses on evaluating the contribution to success in a Live-Lab study with student engineering teams. Based on the results two consecutive field studies have been conducted to evaluate not only the success but also support, and applicability of the InKTI method.
Towards agile automotive development: benefits, challenges and organizational changes
Authors: Scharold Franziska , Paetzold-Byhain Kristin
Published: May 2024

Agile methods are increasingly being used in automotive development. This research delves into the current state of agile transformation in the automotive industry regarding benefits, challenges, organizational adaptations, and successful measures to establish the agile approach. The results of an online survey reveal that benefits are already evident after 6 months and that challenges are mainly organizational in nature and organizational structures need to be adapted. Main drivers of success are pilot projects on a small scale and top management support as well as training managers.
Developing a method to improve unknown identification and design efforts for environmental transition: a case study in the packaging industry
Authors: Deshoulières Marion , Le Masson Pascal , Weil Benoît
Published: May 2024

Most manufacturing companies have tested and adopted sustainable design methods to navigate their product's environmental transition. While successful at first in enhancing their environmental performance, these companies later struggle to pursue their environmental transition. This entails mastering two critical competencies: identifying transition unknowns, and fostering adequate design efforts. This action research with an innovative design intermediary - which has completed four sustainable packaging missions - reveals the specific design barriers encountered for environmental transition.
What can we learn from outstanding designers? The relationship between design expertise and prototyping
Authors: Jobst Birgit , Thoring Katja , Badke-Schaub Petra
Published: May 2024

This paper contributes with insights regarding design expertise and prototyping. Seven high performers – Outstanding Designers – were interviewed to learn about their prototyping activities. The Outstanding Designers emphasised prototyping for reflection, gaining certainty, and cooperating with clients. They expressed a strong attachment regarding the use of prototyping that results in specific routines. We call this behaviour the Outstanding Designers’ bonding with prototyping. The main insights were synthesised into a model outlining the relation between design expertise and prototyping.
Design methodology for optimal sensor placement for cure monitoring and load detection of sensor-integrated, gentelligent composite parts
Authors: Meyer zu Westerhausen Sören , Kyriazis Alexander , Hühne Christian , Lachmayer Roland
Published: May 2024

Selecting right positions for composite-integrated sensors for monitoring cure during manufacturing and loads during product use presents challenges for engineering design. Since an optimal sensor placement (OSP) methodology for both phases is not emphasised enough in literature, a new methodology is proposed. This methodology is based on a Genetic Algorithm and strain gauges, temperature sensors and interdigitated electrode sensors for cure monitoring and physics-informed neural network-based load detection. Additionally, it includes sensor node positions optimization in a sensor network.
Future-robust product portfolio development: insights into the advancement of product portfolios in companies – an interview study
Authors: Schlegel Michael , Just Markus , Wiederkehr Ingrid , Thümmel Carsten , Kempf Christoph , Koldewey Christian , Dumitrescu Roman , Albers Albert
Published: May 2024

A volatile environment and an increasing number of products along with a growing range of functions pose a challenge for companies when it comes to further development. Existing methods are no longer sufficient to cope with these challenges. In order to develop new methods, the process and challenges in the advancement of product portfolios must be understood. In this paper we conduct an interview study with ten experts to gain a better understanding of the advancement of product portfolios. Triggers, changes and actions are examined and goals and requirements for new methods are derived.
Evaluation of the methodical framework for the management of uncertainty in the context of the integration of sensory functions
Authors: Welzbacher Peter , Witt Sawa Vinzenz , Koch Yanik , Kirchner Eckhard
Published: May 2024

As digitalization progresses, the development and integration of sensory functions in technical systems become increasingly important. Managing uncertainty, especially in the early phase of this process, is crucial to ensure the reliability of the data provided. Therefore, a methodical framework for the identification, analysis and consideration of uncertainty was presented in prior works. In this contribution, the effectivity of the framework is evaluated by applying it to a sensory function for rotational speed and offset measurement of a disk pack coupling using sensor integrating bolts.
The imperative of assessing negative creativity in design: a multi-dimensional approach
Authors: Badke-Schaub Petra , Thoring Katja , Schaub Harald , Mueller Roland M.
Published: May 2024

The paper emphasizes the need to consider negative aspects of creativity, especially in design, where it can have significant societal impacts. It calls for a more comprehensive view of creativity that includes both positive and negative effects and proposes a research approach to assess the potential negative consequences of creative work.
VARIABILITY OF RADIOCARBON RESERVOIR AGE EFFECTS IN LAKES AND RIVERS IN ANATOLIA AND LESSER CAUCASUS
Authors: Fontugne Michel , Hatté Christine , Tisnérat-Laborde Nadine , Ollivier Vincent , Kuzucuoğlu Catherine
Published: May 2024

Multiproxy sedimentary sequence analysis constitutes the basis for reconstructions of past paleoenvironments and climate evolution. These sequences are, for the most part, obtained by coring in lakes, maars or crater lakes whose waters can record volcanic activity or karstic contributions, especially in Eastern Anatolia and the Lesser Caucasus. The reservoir age effect in these geological contexts leads to an apparent aging of the radiocarbon ages which also affects the plants and animals developing in or near these waters and consequently the population consuming them. We present here some results obtained from modern samples taken from Mediterranean, central and eastern Anatolian lakes, from the Van and Sevan lakes and along the Kura River and its tributaries from the Lesser Caucasus. The effect of volcanic CO2 outgassing in the vicinity of maar crater lakes is also discussed.
ABSORPTION AND DISTRIBUTION OF ULTRATRACE EXOGENOUS 14C UREA IN RATS
Authors: Wang Li , Shen Hongtao , Tang Junsen , Zhang Guofeng , Qi Linjie , Chen Dingxiong , Wu Kaiyong , Han Xinyi , Ouyang He , He Yun , Yang Pucheng , Zhang Xue , Xia Chunbo
Published: May 2024

The absorption and distribution of radiocarbon-labeled urea at the ultratrace level were investigated with a 14C-AMS biotracer method. The radiopharmaceutical concentrations in the plasma, heart, liver, spleen, lung, kidney, stomach, brain, bladder, muscle, testis, and fat of rats after oral administration of 14C urea at ultratrace doses were determined by AMS, and the concentration-time curves in plasma and tissues and pharmacokinetic distribution data were obtained. This study provides an analytical method for the pharmacokinetic parameters and tissue distribution of exogenous urea in rats at ultratrace doses and explores the feasibility of evaluation and long-term tracking of ultratrace doses of drugs with AMS.
RADIOCARBON DATING OF HIGHLY DEGRADED AND PROBLEMATIC FOSSIL WOOD: VERIFICATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF VARIOUS PREPARATION METHODS
Authors: Jędrzejowski Maksymilian , Michczyńska Danuta J , Kłusek Marzena , Michczyński Adam , Pawełczyk Fatima , Piotrowska Natalia , Wyss Heeb Karin , Hajdas Irka
Published: May 2024

This paper compares various wood pretreatment methods for highly degraded, and problematic fossil wood extracted from the opencast Szczerców site of the Bełchatów Lignite Mine in Central Poland. The study evaluates the pretreatment methods using both large samples (55–255 g, referred to as series A) and small samples (36–150 mg, referred to as series B). Additionally, all preparation methods were applied to medium-sized samples (approximately 3 g, referred to as series C) with solvent washes in the Soxhlet apparatus. Radiocarbon dating was conducted using the LSC technique (subseries A1) and the AMS technique (subseries A2, series B, and C). The effectiveness and utility of each pretreatment protocol were compared based on 14C measurements and FTIR analysis. Through the conducted research and a multi-criteria analysis, the most effective method for preparing old fossil wood was identified. Our experience indicates that an extended, multistage preparation of highly degraded fossil wood samples, with a 14C concentration near the detection limit of the radiocarbon method, may result in a significant increase in 14C content.
Determination of radiocarbon content in liquid fuel blends by accelerator mass spectrometry and liquid scintillation counting in the Gliwice radiocarbon and mass spectrometry laboratory
Authors: Baranyika Jean Baptiste , Piotrowska Natalia , Michczyński Adam
Published: May 2024

The increase in biobased material usage requires the methods of verification to investigate the actual content of biocarbon in such materials, including liquid fuels. The determination of biocarbon in liquid samples using 14C required adaptation of existing sample preparation methods. In this study, both accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) and liquid scintillation counting (LSC) methods were used to determine the content of 14C in six different liquid fuel blends produced from purely bio-based hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and a 14C-free petrodiesel sample (ON/UF-BC). The results obtained for pure petrodiesel provide background values. The results indicate a good agreement between LSC and AMS, and a linear correlation between the 14C measurement results for blended samples and HVO content affirmed the reproducibility between the two methods. The repeatability of AMS results was tested on 10 aliquots of one of the blends, and the results were deemed reproducible.
SOME COUNTING FORMULAE FOR
$\lambda $
-QUIDDITIES OVER THE RINGS
${\mathbb {Z}}/2^{m}{\mathbb {Z}}$
Authors: MABILAT FLAVIEN
Published: May 2024

The
$\lambda $
-quiddities of size n are n-tuples of elements of a fixed set, solutions of a matrix equation appearing in the study of Coxeter’s friezes. Their number and properties are closely linked to the structure and the cardinality of the chosen set. Our main objective is an explicit formula giving the number of
$\lambda $
-quiddities of odd size, and a lower and upper bound for the number of
$\lambda $
-quiddities of even size, over the rings
${\mathbb {Z}}/2^{m}{\mathbb {Z}}$
(
$m \geq 2$
). We also give explicit formulae for the number of
$\lambda $
-quiddities of size n over
${\mathbb {Z}}/8{\mathbb {Z}}$
.
Chronic administration of hydrolysed pine nut oil to mice improves insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance and increases energy expenditure via a free fatty acid receptor 4-dependent mechanism
Authors: Wargent Edward Taynton , Kępczyńska Małgorzata A. , Kaspersen Mads H. , Ulven Elisabeth Rexen , Arch Jonathan R. S. , Ulven Trond , Stocker Claire Joanne
Published: May 2024

A healthy diet is at the forefront of measures to prevent type 2 diabetes. Certain vegetable and fish oils, such as pine nut oil (PNO), have been demonstrated to ameliorate the adverse metabolic effects of a high-fat diet. The present study investigates the involvement of the free fatty acid receptors 1 (FFAR1) and 4 (FFAR4) in the chronic activity of hydrolysed PNO (hPNO) on high-fat diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance. Male C57BL/6J wild-type, FFAR1 knockout (-/-) and FFAR4-/- mice were placed on 60 % high-fat diet for 3 months. Mice were then dosed hPNO for 24 d, during which time body composition, energy intake and expenditure, glucose tolerance and fasting plasma insulin, leptin and adiponectin were measured. hPNO improved glucose tolerance and decreased plasma insulin in the wild-type and FFAR1-/- mice, but not the FFAR4-/- mice. hPNO also decreased high-fat diet-induced body weight gain and fat mass, whilst increasing energy expenditure and plasma adiponectin. None of these effects on energy balance were statistically significant in FFAR4-/- mice, but it was not shown that they were significantly less than in wild-type mice. In conclusion, chronic hPNO supplementation reduces the metabolically detrimental effects of high-fat diet on obesity and insulin resistance in a manner that is dependent on the presence of FFAR4.
DOWN IN POMPEII: A SEXUAL GRAFFITO IN VERSE (CIL 4.9123)
Authors: Elder Olivia
Published: May 2024

This article revisits a famous graffiti poem from Pompeii (CIL 4.9123). It argues that the poem is both more erotically charged and more cleverly metaliterary than previously recognized; and that this reading of the poem offers new evidence for the literary richness of Pompeii's graffiti culture.
On the smoothness of slowly varying functions
Authors: Peša Dalimil
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we consider the question of smoothness of slowly varying functions satisfying the modern definition that, in the last two decades, gained prevalence in the applications concerning function spaces and interpolation. We show that every slowly varying function of this type is equivalent to a slowly varying function that has continuous classical derivatives of all orders.
Half canal wall down tympanomastoidectomy
Authors: Xin Ying , Song Weiming
Published: May 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study is to analyse the effect of half canal wall down tympanomastoidectomy in the treatment of chronic otitis media or cholesteatoma.

Method

In this retrospective study, the half canal wall down tympanomastoidectomy technique was used at our hospital for chronic otitis media or cholesteatoma removal in 265 adult patients, representing 271 operated ears, with an average follow-up time of 8.4 years.

Results

The post-operative cavities were slightly wider and straighter in 91.9 per cent of the ears. Fifteen per cent of the patients needed cavity cleaning every six months, 25 per cent of them needed cavity cleaning every year and 60 per cent of the patients had a self-cleaning cavity. Only one patient with a cleft palate experienced cholesteatoma recurrence in the mesotympanum.

Conclusion

The half canal wall down tympanomastoidectomy technique showed a low-recurrence rate and satisfying operative cavities. The half canal wall down tympanomastoidectomy technique is a good choice for middle ear surgery.
Lost and found: surgical adventures in migratory foreign body cases
Authors: Divya G M , Moideen Sanu P , Sheriff Razal M , Khan Amjad
Published: May 2024

Objective

This observational study investigates migratory foreign bodies in the upper aerodigestive tract, emphasising clinical presentation, assessment and factors contributing to extraluminal migration.

Methods

Conducted across multiple medical centres in India, the study included 15 patients aged 11 to 70 years. Detailed observations, demographic information, clinical history, radiological findings and intra-operative outcomes were compiled.

Results

Fifteen patients presented with varied symptoms. Fish and chicken bones, along with metal wires, were common foreign bodies. Computed tomography scans played a crucial role in diagnosis, confirming extraluminal migration. Neck exploration successfully retrieved foreign bodies in most cases, with varied sites of impaction.

Conclusion

Migratory foreign bodies, although rare, pose significant challenges for otolaryngologists. Early recognition, thorough diagnosis and meticulous neck exploration, is crucial for effective management, preventing severe complications. This study adds valuable insights to the understanding of migratory foreign bodies, contributing to the existing literature in otolaryngology practice.
Opaque morphology and phonology: Historical prefixes in English
Authors: Dabouis Quentin , Fournier Jean-Michel
Published: May 2024

In most of the literature on English phonology, historically prefixed words such as contain, respect or submit are seen as having no morphological structure synchronically. However, such words were treated as complex in the early generative literature and are still analysed in that way in part of the literature. In this paper, we seek to review the evidence for the claim that such words are simplex words, which predicts that they should pattern with words with no internal structure in their phonological and morphological behaviours and in psycholinguistic experiments. We show that the evidence does not support that claim and shows that these words should be treated as morphologically complex units, although they differ from words with productive morphology. As these words tend to be partly or entirely opaque semantically, this raises the question of how such structures may be learned. We argue that the recurrence of forms is the main factor leading to their identification and lay out a possible order of acquisition of various morphological structures. Finally, we argue that theories of phonology may account for this by allowing the reference to morphological constituents whose semantics are impoverished.
The performance of machine aesthetics: acoustic reimagining of electronic music
Authors: Stevenson Alex
Published: May 2024

This article explores the emergence of musical performance practices whereby electronic music styles, along with the musical and sonic characteristics inherent in their electronic production, are emulated through live musical performance using acoustic instrumentation. The article draws on Brummett's (1999) concept of ‘machine aesthetics’ to explore the emergence of these practices, whereby musicians emulate sonic and musical attributes of music usually produced by machines, without the use of machines. Utilising semi-structured interviews and musical analysis of records by Abstract Orchestra and GoGo Penguin, the article attempts to contextualise these practices within their broader function in popular music production and performance.
Rethinking peer influence and risk taking: A strengths-based approach to adolescence in a new era
Authors: Allen Joseph P.
Published: May 2024

The ways that psychopathology manifests in adolescence have shifted dramatically over the past twenty-five years, with rates of many externalizing behaviors declining substantially while rates of anxiety and depressive disorders have skyrocketed. This paper argues that understanding these changes requires rethinking the field’s historically somewhat negative views of intense peer connections, peer influences, and adolescent risk-taking behavior. It is argued that intense peer connections are critical to development, and that peer influence and risk taking have important, often overlooked, adaptive components. The shift in observed manifestations of adolescent psychopathology over this period can be viewed at least partly in terms of a shift away from strong peer connections and toward greater risk aversion. Implications for research and intervention based on a focus on the adaptive aspects of peer influences and risk taking are discussed.
Mitochondrial cardiomyopathy: a puzzle for the final diagnosis
Authors: Constante Andreia Duarte , Abreu Susana Martins , Trigo Conceição
Published: May 2024

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in children has diverse causes. Mitochondrial diseases, a rare aetiology leading to cardiomyopathy in 20–40% of affected children, predominantly present as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Diagnosis is challenging due to inconsistent genotype-phenotype correlation, resulting in various clinical presentations. We present a case of a one-month-old infant with severe hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and cardiac tamponade. Genetic diagnosis revealed a Valyl-tRNA synthetase 2 (VARS2) gene mutation, linking it to mitochondrial encephalopathy-cardiomyopathy. This case highlights novel variants and expands the understanding of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy aetiology in infants.
Imaginative elaboration in agenesis of the corpus callosum: topic modeling and perplexity
Authors: Brown Warren S. , Hoard Matthew , Birath Brandon , Graves Mark , Nolty Anne , Paul Lynn K.
Published: May 2024

Objective:

Previous studies have found deficits in imaginative elaboration and social inference to be associated with agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC; Renteria-Vasquez et al., 2022; Turk et al., 2009). In the current study, Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) responses from a neurotypical control group and a group of individuals with ACC were used to further study the capacity for imaginative elaboration and story coherence.

Method:

Topic modeling was employed utilizing Latent Diritchlet Allocation to characterize the narrative responses to the pictures used in the TAT. A measure of the difference between models (perplexity) was used to compare the topics of the responses of individual participants to the common core model derived from the responses of the control group. Story coherence was tested using sentence-to-sentence Latent Semantic Analysis.

Results:

Group differences in perplexity were statistically significant overall, and for each card individually (p < .001). There were no differences between the groups in story coherence.

Conclusions:

TAT narratives from persons with ACC were normally coherent, but more conventional (i.e., more similar to the core text) compared to those of neurotypical controls. Individuals with ACC can make conventional social inferences about socially ambiguous stimuli, but are restricted in their imaginative elaborations, resulting in less topical variability (lower perplexity values) compared to neurotypical controls.
The impact of water quality on children's education: evidence from 39 districts in the Ganges Basin of India
Authors: Islam Md Ohiul , Ghorai Moumita
Published: May 2024

We investigate the effect of water quality on the educational outcomes of children aged 8–11 in 39 districts in five states in the Ganges Basin of India. Using data from the Centre for Pollution Control Board of India and the Indian Human Development Survey (IHDS) 2011–12, we study the effect of water quality in the Ganges Basin on the performance in three test scores. Our evidence suggests that faecal coliform levels in water sources above safety thresholds negatively affect reading and writing test scores. The effects of Nitrate-N and Nitrite-N in the water appear to be weaker compared to those of faecal coliform. The results establish that water pollution caused by excessive presence of faecal coliform is an important environmental factor in determining educational outcomes of children. High levels of faecal coliform in the water could be lowering cognitive abilities of the pollution-affected children through the channel of waterborne diseases.
Healthcare chaplains’ perspectives on working with culturally diverse patients and families
Authors: Bang So Hyeon , Noh Hyunjin , Handzo George , Galchutt Paul , Kwak Jung
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Considering the ethnic, racial, and cultural diversity in the U.S., we aim to explore the experiences of healthcare chaplains as they provide culturally sensitive care to diverse patients and their families.

Methods

This is a qualitative study. Individual interviews were conducted with 14 healthcare chaplains recruited from 3 U.S. chaplaincy organizations.

Results

Thematic analysis with constant comparison yielded 6 themes in the chaplains’ experiences: (1) the diverse roles of chaplains; (2) their high levels of comfort in working with diverse populations, attributed to cultural sensitivity and humility training; (3) cues for trust-building; (4) common topics of diversity, equity, and inclusion discussed; (5) gaps in chaplaincy training; and (6) the importance of collaboration and negotiation with healthcare professionals to accommodate cultural needs.

Significance of results

This research highlights the valuable role of chaplains in providing culturally sensitive care and suggests areas for improving chaplaincy training and education to better serve diverse patient populations.
Foucault, Post-structuralism, and the Fixed “Openness of History”
Authors: Krylova Anna
Published: May 2024

Today, it seems impossible to discuss historians’ encounter with post-structuralist theory, the ensuing triumphant surge of the cultural turn, and the establishment of what scholars have recently called the postcultural historiography without the help of such paramount concepts of post-structuralist analysis as contingency, variability, instability, open-endedness, and so on. Having defined the last forty years of theoretical and methodological developments in history, these nowadays conventional tools of critique and interpretation have grown to become synonymous with the post-structuralist conceptual promise and outcome. This article questions this standard and exceptionally generous account. What if, the article asks, we start our account not with the resolute assertion of the radical contingency and variability of the post-structuralist view of history, but with something more fundamental to it—its own fixed and totalizing presuppositions? To show how an intellectual agenda opposed to fixed and totalizing reasoning can end up operating with fixed and totalizing logics of its own, the essay turns to Michel Foucault and his momentous career, to be traced from the 1960s to the 1980s.
Mediating Spaces: The Scales of Yugoslav Socialist Thought
Authors: Robertson James M.
Published: May 2024

Beginning with its emergence in the 1870s and carrying through to the wars of the 1990s, Yugoslav socialism was animated by various visions of supranational affiliation: from Balkan federalism to communist Slavism to the nonaligned movement and European unification. These projects were examples of what this article terms mediating spaces: strategies of spatial consolidation designed to mediate their constituent nations’ integration into global capitalist modernity. Throughout the long twentieth century intellectuals on the world periphery set out to secure political sovereignty and economic development at a scale between the national and the global. These spatial projects were particularly pronounced in Yugoslavia, where the fragmentation of multiethnic empires made questions of supranational unity especially urgent. Developing the concept of mediating spaces, this article proposes a mode of intellectual history that approaches the global not as the scope of intellectual mobility or the horizon of historical inquiry, but rather as a generative scale of human experience that conditioned the formation of modern radical thought.