bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applying machine learning to explore the association between biological stress and near misses in emergency medicine residents
Authors: Xu Sonnet , Arnetz Judith E. , Arnetz Bengt B.
Published: March 2022

Physician stress is associated with near misses and adverse medical events. However, little is known about physiological mechanisms linking stress to such events. We explored the utility of machine learning to determine whether the catabolic stress hormone cortisol and the anabolic, anti-stress hormone dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), as well as the cortisol to DHEA-S ratio relate to near misses in emergency medicine residents during active duty in a trauma 1 emergency department. Compared to statistical models better suited for inference, machine learning models allow for prediction in situations that have not yet occurred, and thus better suited for clinical applications. This exploratory study used multiple machine learning models to determine possible relationships between biomarkers and near misses. Of the various models tested, support vector machine with radial bias function kernels and support vector machine with linear kernels performed the best, with training accuracies of 85% and 79% respectively. When evaluated on a test dataset, both models had prediction accuracies of around 80%. The pre-shift cortisol to DHEA-S ratio was shown to be the most important predictor in interpretable models tested. Results suggest that interventions that help emergency room physicians relax before they begin their shift could reduce risk of errors and improve patient and physician outcomes. This pilot demonstrates promising results regarding using machine learning to better understand the stress biology of near misses. Future studies should use larger groups and relate these variables to information in electronic medical records, such as objective and patient-reported quality measures.
The economic burden of overweight and obesity in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Malkin Jesse D. , Baid Drishti , Alsukait Reem F. , Alghaith Taghred , Alluhidan Mohammed , Alabdulkarim Hana , Altowaijri Abdulaziz , Almalki Ziyad S. , Herbst Christopher H. , Finkelstein Eric Andrew , El-Saharty Sameh , Alazemi Nahar
Published: March 2022

Context

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in Saudi Arabia has been rising. Although the health burden of excess weight is well established, little is known about the economic burden.

Aims

To assess the economic burden—both direct medical costs and the value of absenteeism and presenteeism—resulting from overweight and obesity in Saudi Arabia.

Settings and design

The cost of overweight and obesity in Saudi Arabia was estimated from a societal perspective using an epidemiologic approach.

Methods and materials

Data were obtained from previously published studies and secondary databases.

Statistical analysis used

Overweight/obesity-attributable costs were calculated for six major noncommunicable diseases; sensitivity analyses were conducted for key model parameters.

Results

The impact of overweight and obesity for these diseases is found to directly cost a total of $3.8 billion, equal to 4.3 percent of total health expenditures in Saudi Arabia in 2019. Estimated overweight and obesity–attributable absenteeism and presenteeism costs a total of $15.5 billion, equal to 0.9 percent of GDP in 2019.

Conclusions

Even when limited to six diseases and a subset of total indirect costs, results indicate that overweight and obesity are a significant economic burden in Saudi Arabia. Future studies should identify strategies to reduce the health and economic burden resulting from excess weight in Saudi Arabia.
Factors predicting incarceration history and incidence among Black and Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) residing in a major urban center
Authors: Harawa Nina T. , Schrode Katrina M. , Daniels Joseph , Javanbakht Marjan , Hotton Anna , Makgoeng Solomon , Ragsdale Amy , Schneider John , Fujimoto Kayo , Bolan Robert , Gorbach Pamina
Published: March 2022

We analyzed data from a cohort of Black and Latino men who have sex with men (MSM) in order to identify correlates of prevalent and incident incarceration, including potential predictors related to their status as sexual and gender minorities (SGMs). Baseline and follow-up self-administered survey data were examined from Los Angeles County participants’ ages 18–45 years at enrollment who were either HIV negative or living with HIV, but recruited to over represent men who used drugs and men with unsuppressed HIV infection. Multivariable logistic regression models were developed to identify predictors of baseline incarceration history and of incident incarceration over study follow-up among 440 and 338 participants, respectively. Older age, Black race, low socioeconomic status, homelessness, stimulant use, and depression symptoms were associated with baseline incarceration history. The only SGM-related factor associated with baseline incarceration history was having experienced violence based on sexual orientation identity. Just one statistically significant, independent positive predictor of incident incarceration was identified: prior incarceration, whereas having four or more friends that could lend money was a statistically significant protective factor against incident incarceration. Fundamental Cause Theory provides a useful framework to explain identified predictors of incarceration. Addressing poverty, housing instability, inadequate access to health care, and their root causes is critical to reducing incarceration rates in this population, as is expanded access to both diversion and anti-recidivism programs and to evidence-based treatment for stimulant use disorders.
Diversity of plant parasitic nematodes characterized from fields of the French national monitoring programme for the Columbia root-knot nematode
Authors: Garcia Nathan , Grenier Eric , Buisson Alain , Folcher Laurent
Published: March 2022

Plant parasitic nematodes are highly abundant in all agrosystems and some species can have a major impact on crop yields. To avoid the use of chemical agents and to find alternative methods to manage these pests, research studies have mainly focused on plant resistance genes and biocontrol methods involving host plants or natural enemies. A specific alternative method may consist in supporting non-damaging indigenous species that could compete with damaging introduced species to decrease and keep their abundance at low level. For this purpose, knowledge about the biodiversity, structure and functioning of these indigenous communities is needed in order to carry out better risk assessments and to develop possible future management strategies. Here, we investigated 35 root crop fields in eight regions over two consecutive years. The aims were to describe plant parasitic nematode diversity and to assess the potential effects of cultivation practices and environmental variables on communities. Community biodiversity included 10 taxa of plant parasitic nematodes. Despite no significant abundance variations between the two sampling years, structures of communities varied among the different regions. Metadata collected for the past six years, characterizing the cultural practices and soils properties, made it possible to evaluate the impact of these variables both on the whole community and on each taxon separately. Our results suggest that, at a large scale, many variables drive the structuration of the communities. Soil variables, but also rainfall, explain the population density variations among the geographical areas. The effect of the variables differed among the taxa, but fields with few herbicide applications and being pH neutral with low heavy metal and nitrogen concentrations had the highest plant parasitic nematode densities. We discuss how these variables can affect nematode communities either directly or indirectly. These types of studies can help to better understand the variables driving the nematode communities structuration in order to support the abundance of indigenous non-damaging communities that could compete with the invasive species.
The value of combining individual and small area sociodemographic data for assessing and handling selective participation in cohort studies: Evidence from the Swedish CardioPulmonary bioImage Study
Authors: Bonander Carl , Nilsson Anton , Björk Jonas , Blomberg Anders , Engström Gunnar , Jernberg Tomas , Sundström Johan , Östgren Carl Johan , Bergström Göran , Strömberg Ulf
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To study the value of combining individual- and neighborhood-level sociodemographic data to predict study participation and assess the effects of baseline selection on the distribution of metabolic risk factors and lifestyle factors in the Swedish CardioPulmonary bioImage Study (SCAPIS).

Methods

We linked sociodemographic register data to SCAPIS participants (n = 30,154, ages: 50–64 years) and a random sample of the study’s target population (n = 59,909). We assessed the classification ability of participation models based on individual-level data, neighborhood-level data, and combinations of both. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were used to examine how reweighting the sample to match the population affected the averages of 32 cardiopulmonary risk factors at baseline. Absolute SMDs >0.10 were considered meaningful.

Results

Combining both individual-level and neighborhood-level data gave rise to a model with better classification ability (AUC: 71.3%) than models with only individual-level (AUC: 66.9%) or neighborhood-level data (AUC: 65.5%). We observed a greater change in the distribution of risk factors when we reweighted the participants using both individual and area data. The only meaningful change was related to the (self-reported) frequency of alcohol consumption, which appears to be higher in the SCAPIS sample than in the population. The remaining risk factors did not change meaningfully.

Conclusions

Both individual- and neighborhood-level characteristics are informative in assessing study selection effects. Future analyses of cardiopulmonary outcomes in the SCAPIS cohort can benefit from our study, though the average impact of selection on risk factor distributions at baseline appears small.
Entre a periferia do prazer e a zona de sacrifício: o turismo como argumento na arena de um conflito socioambiental no litoral do Paraná
Authors: Corbari Sandra Dalila , Azevedo Natália Tavares de , Sampaio Carlos Alberto Cioce , Serafini Thiago Zagonel
Published: March 2022

As zonas costeiras detêm locais privilegiados ou únicos, caracterizando um monopólio espacial de certas atividades, como a industrial-portuária e a turística. Não obstante, as práticas espaciais inerentes a este processo, podem gerar conflitos socioambientais. É o que vem ocorrendo em Pontal do Paraná, litoral paranaense, onde o processo de territorialização industrial-portuária gerou um conflito socioambiental entre atores sociais com diferentes interesses no território e nos bens naturais. Em uma primeira incursão a campo, verificou-se que o turismo era acionado pelos atores sociais como uma estratégia argumentativa para respaldar seus discursos e interesses. Esse foi o fio condutor da presente pesquisa, que foi delineada tendo como objetivo identificar e categorizar o discurso dos atores sociais envolvidos no conflito socioambiental deflagrado pela expansão industrial-portuária, com ênfase no turismo. Para isso, foi realizada uma pesquisa empírica, utilizando-se da pesquisa documental, de entrevistas semiestruturadas e observação. Os dados foram analisados por meio da Análise Textual Discursiva (ATD), pela qual constatou-se a existência de quatro discursos, sendo dois favoráveis à territorialização industrialportuária, um contrário e um categorizado como do “caminho do meio”. Esses grupos, em exceção às comunidades tradicionais, utilizam-se do turismo como argumento legitimador de seus posicionamentos e discursos. De forma geral, verifica-se que há uma disputa entre uma zona de sacrifício e a continuidade de uma “periferia do prazer”.
Rural development and countryside diversification: Study on Rural Tourism practices in the brazilian Pampa biome region
Authors: Cipolat Carina , Bidarte Marcos Vinicius Dalagostini
Published: March 2022

This study analyzed practices of tourism in rural properties in the Brazilian Pampa biome region, taking into account the sustainability element, and analyzing how these actions can promote rural development in the region. It is a qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive research, carried out using the multiple case study method, the data being collected through interviews, and visits/observations, and analyzed through with a categorical content analysis and interpretative analysis. This study concluded that tourism in rural properties is still going to be a planned and structured practice that seeks to meet the visitors’ desires to know the countryside and to experience what the place has to offer, such as fauna, flora, habits, costumes, traditions, and typical gastronomy. In fact, it was found that rural tourism is a viable activity, and an income complement with a development potential to the region. With regard to sustainability, yet some practices still disregard the theme, it was observed that there is a concern related to the maintenance of green areas, to the preservation of fauna and flora, and of water resources. The pluriactivity of rural households can be observed, but, when it comes to thinking about sustainability, a greater synergy stills lacks.
Análise da relação entre capacidade absortiva, inovação em serviços e o desempenho do setor Hoteleiro Catarinense
Authors: Telles Ronaldo , Marinho Sidnei Viera , Sartori Simone
Published: March 2022

O objetivo principal deste estudo é analisar a relação entre a capacidade absortiva, a inovação em serviços e o desempenho do setor hoteleiro catarinense, visto que os determinantes desta relação são incipientes no setor. Inicialmente, foi realizada uma revisão da literatura que levou ao desenvolvimento de um questionário (elaborado em uma escala Likert de sete pontos) validado por especialistas. Três hipóteses foram consideradas, a partir das quais foram propostas dezesseis hipóteses secundárias. Em seguida, foi realizado um survey que envolveu a coleta de dados de 205 hotéis localizados em seis mesorregiões do estado e, em seguida, foi realizada uma análise fatorial exploratória. Como resultados, destacam-se a baixa heterogeneidade entre hotéis – área predominante em negócios - com relações significativas entre capacidade absortiva, desempenho e inovação em serviços para determinadas dimensões. A capacidade absortiva, neste caso, surge por meio da dimensão explotação, principalmente com incentivos à inovação, pesquisa e desenvolvimento e aprendizagem, por exemplo. Além disso, foi possível perceber que a inovação em serviços na dimensão “novos clientes” tem efeito no desempenho da empresa, reforçando a importância do conhecimento do mercado, interação com os clientes e as cadeias produtivas do turismo, à luz da dinâmica e ações organizacionais
Políticas de educação superior e de formação de professores no vulto ideológico da Agência de Avaliação e Acreditação do Ensino Superior (A3ES)
Authors: Ramalho Henrique Manuel Pereira
Published: March 2022

O presente ensaio tem como objetivo analisar e interpretar a influência da Agência de Avaliação e Acreditação do Ensino Superior (A3ES) na formação de professores em Portugal, compreendendo-a no quadro da narrativa da profissionalidade docente de matriz europeísta. O cerne da problemática em questão passa por dirimir a relação que esta instância tem vindo a consolidar com a velha escala do (euro)centralismo político da profissionalização docente. Adotamos uma metodologia de macroanálise de conteúdo sistemática do corpus legislativo de referência. Concludentemente, damo-nos conta de uma perceção da arquitetura da formação docente cada vez mais focalizada numa profissionalização internamente vigiada e externamente estandardizada à escala europeia, sob a capa do espaço europeu do ensino superior.
Paliativos pediátricos en África
Authors: Cárdenas Regina , Gutiérrez Ana , Tuka Marie , Simbu Mabengo Roselyne , Pardo Sáenz José María
Published: March 2022

En este artículo planteamos la necesidad de la imprescindible implantación de estos programas en África. Y que se haga desde la experiencia cultural propia del continente y a la luz de unos principios éticos ajustados a su realidad.
Sedación paliativa en el final de la vida
Authors: Rivas García Francisco
Published: March 2022

La sedación paliativa es una práctica clínica ampliamente asumida y aplicada en situaciones que anticipan el final de la vida. No obstante, a pesar de sus beneficios cuando los síntomas refractarios no tienen otra alternativa, en algunas ocasiones la sedación puede ser fuente de numerosos dilemas bioéticos relacionados con el principio de doble efecto que actúa como una de las herramientas base, en el ámbito de la bioética, sobre las que puede sustentarse la licitud de la sedación en el final de la vida.
Gestión del cuidado en salud en población migrante
Authors: Marina Silva Katia , Balado Calviño María Lourdes , Ferreira Bacciarini Joaquín
Published: March 2022

La población migrante presenta situaciones de salud cada vez más complejas. Las estrategias vigentes en Uruguay no permiten una gestión eficiente de la atención interdisciplinaria para la resolución de casos.

El objetivo del trabajo es identificar estrategias que optimicen la atención en salud de esta población, mediante la gestión interdisciplinaria. Se analizan roles y relaciones entre prestadores y profesionales involucrados en la resolución de un caso complejo.

La construcción de vínculos formales interinstitucionales e interprofesionales y la gestión de casos fueron las estrategias más efectivas. A futuro, se sugiere elaborar e implementar herramientas estandarizadas y difundir experiencias interdisciplinares exitosas.
Reflections on the Emergency Remote Teaching in the Pandemic: Experiences of Pre-Service Teachers
Authors: BİLGİÇ Hatice Gökçe
Published: March 2022

The aim of the study is to find out the experiences of pre-service teachers in … (deleted for blind review) University during the emergency remote teaching process. The study was designed as a case study. Data was collected using an “Evaluation Form” which was developed by the researcher. This form is a survey which was consisted of both open-ended and closed-ended questions. Additionally, observation notes and course records were used to clarify the survey data. Quantitative data was analyzed with descriptive statistics including frequency and percentage. Qualitative data was analyzed with content analysis. Participants were 60 pre-service teachers attending Computer and Instructional Technology Teacher Education Program offered by the Faculty of Education. Based on the results, organization, methods, competency level of the instructor, regular announcements/information, qualified asynchronous content, asynchronous course activities, continuous communication and effective live courses were the issues that support the emergency remote teaching process. On the other hand, deficiency of face-to-face interaction, technical problems, deficiency of motivation, homework and courseload were the issues that obstruct the emergency remote teaching process. Finally, although the students learned during the emergency remote teaching process, they preferred to continue with face-to-face education. However, they preferred to continue with distance education only for some of the courses. This implies that in the future blended education should be planned in higher education institutes.
A Situated Approach to the Understanding of Elusive Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety
Authors: ŞİMŞEK Erdi
Published: March 2022

Although foreign language anxiety, considered as one of the most important negative factors affecting students' foreign language performance, has been receiving interest from researchers for decades, the literature suggests only limited number of studies which ground on dynamic approaches to explore the elusive nature of anxiety. Mainly focussing on the effects of error correction, native/non-native teacher instruction and presence of a video camera on students’ language anxiety in four different lessons, this mixed-method study aims to investigate the elusive foreign language classroom anxiety in as many different ways as possible in order to inspire a follow-up study. During these four lessons, On-line Anxiety and Liking Meter was used so as to observe participants’ levels of anxiety and liking in every 10 minutes, and Overall Anxiety and Liking Questionnaire was administered after each session. Additionally, retrospective interviews were conducted with the participants after each lesson. As it was difficult to have a fully coherent view due to the scope of the study and limited number of participants, several different situations resulting in certain insights were presented. The results suggested that error correction, speaking activities, video recording, low self-esteem and some exogenous factors caused anxiety arousal while task-based activities, ice-breakers ane familiarity with teacher helped to reduce the anxiety. The findings revealed a significantly negative correlation between the anxiety and liking, and there was not any difference between native and non-native teachers in terms of their effects on anxiety.
The Observation of Pre-service Teachers' Argumentation Skills on Different Socioscientific Issues
Authors: CENK Aybike Gökçehan , ERCAN YALMAN Feride
Published: March 2022

In this study, it was aimed to determine the argumentation skills of pre-service science teachers studying at the 4th grade in different socioscientific issues. The study was designed in accordance with the case study, one of the qualitative research methods. In the study involving 8 teacher candidates, the data were obtained by observation method. For data analysis, firstly the observation records were transcribed and then content analysis was performed. The data in the argumentation process were evaluated both in terms of quantity and quality. In terms of quantity, it was seen that teacher candidates had more codes and frequencies in biotechnology and health themes, and less in environment and energy themes. When the argumentation process was examined qualitatively, it was seen that the pre-service teachers could not form arguments by paying attention to all components. It was observed that the pre-service teachers who were partially more successful in finding arguments, evidence and supporting were not equally successful in the rebuttal part. It was also concluded that the participants formed better arguments on socioscientific issues such as global climate change, genetically modified organisms, nuclear energy, organ donation and stem cells, medicine-alternative medicine. It was found that the participants were able to form arguments at a lower level on socioscientific issues such as cloning, euthanasia, space pollution and pandemic vaccine. From this point on, it can be stated that the argument attributes are affected by the subject context. In line with the findings, suggestions were made at the end of the study.
Effectiveness of the Digital and Technological Entrepreneurship Ecosystem in Cameroon
Authors: Dombou Dany R. T. , Ewane Cybele
Published: March 2022

This study aims to investigate the factors associated with the effectiveness of the technological and digital entrepreneurship ecosystem (ECOTECH) in Cameroon. The methodology adopted consists of a range of semi-structured interviews in the ecosystem stakeholders. This was followed by a Pearson correlation analysis of a questionnaire submitted to 117 start-ups. The main results indicate that, the Cameroonian ECOTECH is a young and weakly effective environment. As far as start-ups are concerned, administrative difficulties, the distraction effect (increased involvement in activities not directly related to that of the start-up), and the lack of professionalism are closely linked to their ineffectiveness. Regarding the role of the state, start-ups value at 42.52% effective the efforts made by the government in improving the regulatory framework. The prevalence of the informal sector and the lack of infrastructure are among the reasons of this result. Regarding the role of incubators, although they have limited financial means to carry out their actions, start-ups rate their effectiveness at 63.5%. This result can be explained, among other things, by the interest for start-ups in the technical support and lobbying offered by incubators
Understanding Employee Responses to Lay-Offs; The Ingredients for Successful Outcomes. An example from the Charity Sector in West Africa.
Authors: Coleman Casely Ato
Published: March 2022

This study examines a recent planned organizational change by an international charity organization that resulted in the closure of three country offices and restructure of parts of its regional office which led to the lay-offs of employees within West Africa. Using an integrated model of the Kubler Ross Reaction change model, the flow of information in human resource model and industrial relations systems theory, the study examines the key steps, processes and outcomes that led to a smooth restructuring process in a region where employee lay-offs can result in endless litigation. The study concludes that a successful execution of a planned organizational change that results in office closures and staff lay-offs requires (i) a grieving model to predict, manage and adapt to employees response to change, (ii) flow of information and (iii) conformity to national industrial relations laws and practices.
Analysis of Economic Development Inequality in Polewali Mandar Regency of West Sulawesi Province Indonesia
Authors: Ramli Anwar
Published: March 2022

This study aims to analyze the imbalance of economic development and the relation of factors influencing the level of economic development in Polewali Mandar Regency. This study uses data panels from 2015 to 2019 with the least squares panel method (PLS) and using software eviews 9 for data processing.
     This study uses the Williamson Index and Gini ratio as a dependent variable in describing the condition of economic  development inequality that occurred in Polewali Mandar Regency. Then the variables of infrastructure, investment, labor force, DAU (general allocation of funds) and DAK (special allocation of funds) as independent variables.
     The results stated that the average value of Economic Development inequality based on Williamsons index in the period of 2010-2019 by 0.11. While the infrastructure variables have a negative and significant effect on the imbalance of economic development on the value of 5% with the value of 0.0273 profitability. DAU also has a negative but not significant impact on development imbalance in Polewali Mandar Regency with profitability value of 0.4287. Investment variables, DAK and labor force (labor force participation rate) have a positive effect on variables of  economic development inequality in Polewali Mandar regency. We found that infrastructure and DAU should be improved by the central gogernment, because these variables can reduce the level of income inequality and economic development in Polewali Mandar Regencys.
Automated prediction of low ferritin concentrations using a machine learning algorithm
Authors: Kurstjens Steef , de Bel Thomas , van der Horst Armando , Kusters Ron , Krabbe Johannes , van Balveren Jasmijn
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Computational algorithms for the interpretation of laboratory test results can support physicians and specialists in laboratory medicine. The aim of this study was to develop, implement and evaluate a machine learning algorithm that automatically assesses the risk of low body iron storage, reflected by low ferritin plasma levels, in anemic primary care patients using a minimal set of basic laboratory tests, namely complete blood count and C-reactive protein (CRP).

Methods

Laboratory measurements of anemic primary care patients were used to develop and validate a machine learning algorithm. The performance of the algorithm was compared to twelve specialists in laboratory medicine from three large teaching hospitals, who predicted if patients with anemia have low ferritin levels based on laboratory test reports (complete blood count and CRP). In a second round of assessments the algorithm outcome was provided to the specialists in laboratory medicine as a decision support tool.

Results

Two separate algorithms to predict low ferritin concentrations were developed based on two different chemistry analyzers, with an area under the curve of the ROC of 0.92 (Siemens) and 0.90 (Roche). The specialists in laboratory medicine were less accurate in predicting low ferritin concentrations compared to the algorithms, even when knowing the output of the algorithms as support tool. Implementation of the algorithm in the laboratory system resulted in one new iron deficiency diagnosis on average per day.

Conclusions

Low ferritin levels in anemic patients can be accurately predicted using a machine learning algorithm based on routine laboratory test results. Moreover, implementation of the algorithm in the laboratory system reduces the number of otherwise unrecognized iron deficiencies.
Hardness of surface-densified wood. Part 2: prediction of the density profile by hardness measurements
Authors: Scharf Alexander , Neyses Benedikt , Sandberg Dick
Published: March 2022

The density profile of surface-densified wood has a major influence on the indentation resistance of the material. A method that can predict the density profile in surface-densified wood from measurements of the indentation in a hardness test was established. The combined information of hardness and density profile is expected to better assess the performance of surface-densified wood. Density profile and hardness test data for surface-densified Scots pine have been subjected to a partial least squares analysis to determine the relationship between the indentation depth measured during a hardness test and the density profile measured by X-ray densitometry. Among seven different hardness tests, which varied in test force and indenter geometry, the Brinell method according to the EN 1534 standard showed the highest correlation between the indentation-versus-time curve and the density profile. The mean absolute error for the prediction of density profiles in an external test set was 5–10%, indicating that the method proposed in this study can be used to replace X-ray densitometry in process control and process design.
Utilisation of the X-ray emission of an electron beam capillary for visualisation of the beam-material interaction
Authors: Gach Stefan , Olschok Simon , Jakobs Stefan , Reisgen Uwe
Published: March 2022

Both processes, laser beam welding and electron beam welding, rely on the deep penetration process with the typical metal vapour capillary to achieve welds with in-creasing weld-in depths. With both processes, the capillary is the result of a highly dynamic equilibrium of various opposing forces and influences. To increase the understanding of the fluid-dynamic processes inside and around the vapour capillary, methods are needed for the supervision of the process that can deliver geometrical information with high spatial and temporal resolution and especially from the deeper capillary regions. Gaining this insight will allow the implementation of highly dynamic processes in future capillary models as well as the extension of process windows of the beam welding processes.
Influence of peroxide cross-linking temperature and time on mechanical, physical and thermal properties of polyethylene
Authors: Backens Simon , Ofe Stefan , Schmidt Stefan , Glück Nikolai , Flügge Wilko
Published: March 2022

Polyethylene is a very common liner material for type IV pressure vessels due to its good toughness and easy processing. The property profile of the polymer can be improved by cross-linking thereby changing the nature of the polymer from thermoplastic toward more elastomeric. For this purpose, polyethylene is modified either chemically, using peroxide or silane, or physically by radiation. In the present work, a cross-linkable polyethylene grade that can be processed by rotational molding was peroxide cross-linked under variation of temperature and time. Subsequently, the material was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, tensile tests, notched bar impact tests and permeation measurements. Two of the altogether six parameter combinations investigated did not lead to successful cross-linking resulting in very poor toughness. Stiffness, strength and permeation barrier properties, however, were much better than those of the other series due to higher crystallinity. Mechanical, physical and chemical properties changed significantly by successful cross-linking. The impact strength could be improved by a factor of more than 10. At the same time, significant losses in stiffness, strength and permeation barrier properties had to be accepted. Peroxide induced randomly distributed formation of cross-links above the melting point interfered with formation of crystalline regions upon cooling.
The Effect of the Process Temperature on the Bondability in Diffusion Bonding of AISI 430 with Nodular Cast Iron
Authors: Taskin Mustafa , Ozan Sermin , Kolukisa Sedat
Published: March 2022

The effect of process temperature on the bond-ability of stainless steel AISI 430 and nodular cast iron was studied. The diffusion bonding was investigated experimentally under a protective atmosphere at various temperatures and a prescribed constant pressure blow which would cause macro-deformation. Microstructure examinations were carried out with the help of optical microscopy, SEM and EDS. Hardness values were measured by HV scale under a load of 200 g. At the bond interface cross section, decarburized and dechromised regions were observed on the ductile cast iron side and the stainless steel side respectively. Best mechanical and metallurgical properties were observed for the specimen bonded at 1100 °C process temperature at 15 MPa, for 20 min. As a function of the process temperature elevation, an increase of graphite atoms, migrating towards the interface, and a reduction of graphite atoms at the nodular graphite diameters was noticed.
Film Poetry. Repensando el cine de vanguardia: arte en movimiento y poéticas visuales / Film Poetry. Re-thinking avant-garde cinema: art in motion and visual poetics
Authors: Villaplana Ruiz Virginia , Ortuño Mengual Pedro
Published: March 2022

Este artículo tiene como primer objetivo, agrupar las vanguardias artísticas cinematográficas en tres grandes variables estéticas, “Film-poem como abstracción”, “Film poetry como modelo analítico” y “Film como poesía dialéctica”, relacionadas con las teorías críticas y los escritos de los propios cineastas.  Por una parte se analizan las poéticas de Abel Gance, Germaine Dulac, Marcel L´Herbier, Jean Epstein, Louis Delluc, Marcel Duchamp, Walter Ruttmann, Man Ray y Dziga Vertov.  Un segundo objetivo sería el repaso de la noción de cine de vanguardia mediante las aportaciones de la teoría fílmica elaboradas por Jean Mitry, Bill Nichols, Malcolm Turvey, Vicente Sánchez-Biosca, Bruce Elder y Carlos Tejeda entre otros. Dichos autores nos permiten abordar metodológicamente las distintas dimensiones que caracterizan el Film-poem como abstracción, modelo analítico y como poesía dialéctica. Estos ideales estéticos y filosóficos están vinculados a las experiencias de las artes plásticas y del arte contemporáneo. Del mismo modo, este artículo expone la concepción poética del movimiento de vanguardia interrelacionando obras fílmicas del arte experimental a partir de modelos de representación.
Characterization of some optical and physical properties of As11.2S48.0Sb28.8Te12.0 and As20.8S48.0Sb19.2Te12.0 nanostructured polycrystalline semiconductors
Authors:   Institute of Applied Physics, Str. Academiei 5, MD-2028 Chisinau, R. Moldova, Iaseniuc O. , Iovu M. ,   Institute of Applied Physics, Str. Academiei 5, MD-2028 Chisinau, R. Moldova
Published: March 2022

This work presents the characterization of As-S-Sb-Te nanostructured polycrystalline semiconductors by X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron microscopy (SEM), optical as well as photoelectric methods. The XRD patterns have been shown the presence of amorphous and nanocrystalline phases with the main structural units As2S3, Sb2S3 and Sb2Те3. The IR transmission spectra show a high transparence just with a single weak absorption band about ν=2340 cm-1 caused of the presence of H2S impurity. It was also observed that for the alloys of As11.2S48.0Sb28.8Te12.0 and As20.8S48.0Sb19.2Te12.0, with an increase in the number of As atoms, the transmission in the IR region also increase. The maximum of steady-state photoconductivity for both materials, measured in the linear portion of I-V characteristics, is situated around =0.96 m.
Factors Affecting Digital Financial Literature on Batik SMEs in Banyumas Regency
Authors: Naufalin Lina Rifda , Tohir Tohir
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to analyze the factors that influence the level of digital financial literacy in Batik SMEs in Banyumas Regency in terms of age, education level, and income level. The object of this research was the Batik SMEs, a member of the Berkah Rindang Kinasih Cooperative, which consists of two plasmas with a total of 24 Batik SMEs. The research method used quantitative method with multiple regression analysis Partial T Test and Simultaneous F Test. The data collection technique was in the form of a questionnaire on digital financial literacy variables. The results of the study were training did not partially affect the digital financial literacy variable, motivation did not partially affect the digital financial literacy variable, age did not partially affect the digital financial literacy variable, education level had no effect partially on the digital financial literacy variable and the level of income did not partially affect the digital financial literacy variable. However, the variables of training, motivation, age, education level, and income level simultaneously or simultaneously affected the Digital Financial Literacy variable.
Biomarkers indicating tissue thyroid hormone status: ready to be implemented yet?
Authors: Jansen Heleen I , Bruinstroop Eveline , Heijboer Annemieke C , Boelen Anita
Published: March 2022

Currently, thyroid hormone status is predominantly determined by the measurement of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone and free thyroxine. Although it is assumed that serum thyroid hormone (TH) concentrations within the reference range represent euthyroidism, it is unknown whether this reflects euthyroidism in all tissues (e.g. brain, muscle, bone and liver). To date, no serum marker has been established for clinical use that represents TH status within tissues accurately. However, several biomarkers have been investigated and innovative techniques have been used to unravel new biomarkers. This review provides an overview of proposed serum biomarkers that reflect tissue TH status in humans. Furthermore, we discuss the feasibility of these serum markers in clinical practice.
Evaluation of the Energy Transition in the Process of Renewable Sources Expansion
Authors: Dos Anjos Morjana M. , Costa Antonella L. , Pereira Elizabeth M.D. , De Moura Gustavo N.P.
Published: March 2022

Considering the risks related to energy security and the challenges posed by climate change, this work presents a methodology to investigate energy alternatives to promote an adequate energy transition. Such methodology was applied to a case study, modelling the energy system of the Brazilian State of Minas Gerais to subsidize an energy transition with a view to expanding renewable energies and promoting energy efficiency at the state and municipal levels, as well as combating climate change. Projections, in the 2030-2050 horizon, were made using the tool Long-range Energy Alternatives Planning System (LEAP) to establish a model of energy transition policy for Minas Gerais State. The modelling considered key assumptions based on historical data of demographic and economic origin, which subsidized the elaboration of three scenarios, being a Reference Scenario (REF), a Moderate Energy Transition Scenario (ETM) that aims to contribute to the energy sector goals of the Brazilian Nationally-Determined Contributions – NDC, and an Advanced Energy Transition Scenario (ETA) that goes beyond of NDC's goals. The analysis has shown that current policies are not sufficient to promote the state transition to sustainable energy systems and that this process will depend on the energy policies initiated and implemented in the near future.
Searching for a Definition of Refractory Irritable Bowel Syndrome: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Peng Wen-Yan , Ye Kun , Qin Di , Tang Tai-Chun , Chen Min , Zheng Hui
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims: The pathological mechanism of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is unclarified, which commonly leads to unresponsiveness to conventional treatments. The diagnostic criteria for refractory IBS are not clearly defined. We performed a systematic review to summarize the key points of the definition of refractory IBS in different studies. We also conducted a meta-analysis to explore whether the diverse definitions for refractory IBS affect the therapeutic effect of gut-directed hypnotherapy (GDH).

Methods: We searched OVID Medline, Embase and Cochrane (until September 2020) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) recruiting patients with refractory IBS. We evaluated the definition of refractory IBS through the following aspects: duration of symptoms, unresponsive to dietary intervention, lifestyle modification, pharmacology, psychology, severity assessment and adequate explanation. The effect of the different definitions for refractory IBS on the therapeutic effect of gut-directed hypnotherapy (GDH) was checked by a meta-analysis.

Results: Twenty-one RCTs were finally included. Six (28.6%) out of 21 RCTs recruited patients with symptoms lasting for over 12 months; 8 (38.1%) RCTs reported a prior use of dietary intervention; 1 (4.8%) RCT reported the use of lifestyle modification; 11 (52.4%) RCTs recruited patients who were unresponsive to pharmacology; 2 (9.5%) RCTs recruited patients with no response to psychological therapy ; 5 (23.8%) RCTs had symptoms severity assessment; and 8 (38.1%) RCTs recruited patients who were informed adequately. Despite being tested in trials with heterogeneous definition of refractory IBS, GDH had similar effectiveness when compared with supportive treatment [standardized mean difference (SMD)=-0.69, 95%CI: -0.93 to -0.44)] or waiting-list control (SMD=-0.54, 95%CI: -0.98 to -0.10).

Conclusions: Varied definitions in refractory IBS were common phenomena in clinical studies. Resistance to symptom severity assessment and psychological treatments should be more explicitly defined. Gut-directed hypnotherapy was efficacious for refractory IBS and was not affected by the diversity in the definition of refractory IBS among RCTs.
La percepción de la Inteligencia Emocional en la formación inicial de maestros en Costa Rica
Authors: Retana Alvarado Diego Armando , Casiano Javier Anicasio
Published: March 2022

El objetivo de este estudio es el análisis de la percepción acerca de la Inteligencia Emocional (IE) de futuros maestros costarricenses al comienzo de su formación en Didáctica de las Ciencias. La investigación se llevó a cabo con una muestra incidental de 62 estudiantes matriculados en las asignaturas de Ciencias en la Educación Primaria I y III del Bachillerato en Educación Primaria de la Universidad de Costa Rica. El instrumento consistía en un cuestionario tipo Likert denominado Perfil de Inteligencia Emocional. Los datos se sometieron a análisis descriptivo y análisis factorial exploratorio. Los resultados en la dimensión expresión emocional sugieren dificultades en la expresión y regulación de los sentimientos.
El discurso neoliberal del medio crhoy.com contra el funcionamiento y financiamiento de las universidades públicas en Costa Rica
Authors: Bustos Mendoza Nelson Ivan
Published: March 2022

La presente investigación aborda ocho noticias periodísticas publicadas por el medio digital crhoy.com entre octubre de 2018 y junio del 2020. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar, a través del ACD como herramienta teórica, la posición y el corte ideológico del discurso de estas noticias con respecto al manejo de recursos, el financiamiento y los gastos de las universidades públicas en Costa Rica. Para lograr este trabajo investigativo se utilizó una metodología cualitativa que emplea la fase sintética de aplicaciones de estrategias discursivas recomendadas por la investigadora Neyla Pardo, la metodología de macroproposociones elaboradas por el teórico Teun Van Dick y, finalmente, la supresión léxica que utiliza David Machin y Andrea Mayr. Al finalizar esta investigación, se concluye que las noticias de crhoy.com tienen un corte ideológico neoliberal que obedece a intereses políticos y económicos cuyo fin último es desprestigiar la imagen, el funcionamiento, y el aporte de las universidades públicas. También se puede concluir que crhoy.com suprime y manipula la información en sus notas periodísticas careciendo de objetividad y neutralidad en su quehacer periodístico.
La huella digital y la protección de datos: su impacto en las culturas de alto contexto y alto control de incertidumbre en Latinoamérica
Authors: Quiros Garcia Elizabeth
Published: March 2022

La economía digital de la sociedad del siglo XXI ha enfrentado a la humanidad con una civilización en la que la comunicación y la transmisión de información están mediadas por la utilización de dispositivos tecnológicos. En consecuencia, los sujetos que hacen uso de la red mundial en dispositivos móviles y en sus computadoras dejan su huella digital, y con ella un rastro de datos con la información compartida, las búsquedas realizadas, los correos electrónicos enviados y las aplicaciones descargadas en sus gadgets, principalmente. Los individuos ceden este rastro de datos pasivos de forma no intencionada y, a veces, intencionadamente; sin embargo, de cualquier forma, que se obtenga la información, esto les permite a las empresas, a los anunciantes e incluso a los empleadores crear un perfil de cada usuario en línea que posteriormente puede transformarse en datos más específicos para ser explotados para fines determinados. Esta práctica es enfrentada de manera distintas por diferentes culturas, para las de alto contexto (Edward T. Hall) y las de alto control de la incertidumbre (Geert Hofstede), como la sociedad latinoamericana, el uso de la tecnología para comunicarse y participar en la economía global puede presentar mayores desafíos. Como resultado, pueden enfrentar menos oportunidades de desarrollo y también carecer de las herramientas para comunicarse con mayor precisión.
El «problema indígena» en Severo Martínez Peláez y Mario Payeras
Authors: Quirós Solís Pablo Andrés
Published: March 2022

Severo Martínez y Mario Payeras fueron dos intelectuales guatemaltecos que abordaron distintos aspectos del problema político en su país. Martínez se interesó en el problema de los oprimidos durante la época colonial, como espacio de resistencia y lucha; mientras que Payeras, en sus textos políticos, se preocupó por analizar al indígena para integrarlo en el proyecto guerrillero de Liberación Nacional que él lideró. Esto marca algunas diferencias conceptuales en sus respectivos análisis. Este trabajo busca comprender los abordajes de ambos con el fin de apuntar los usos que dan a la conceptualización del problema indígena. Este artículo es un producto del programa de investigación “C0195 - La Larga Guerra Fría en Costa Rica: estado, populismo socialdemócrata, representaciones y comunismo internacional, 1934-1978”, inscrito en la Vicerrectoría de Investigación por el Centro de Investigaciones Históricas de América Central (CIHAC) de la Universidad de Costa Rica.