bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital afterlife: challenges and technological innovations in pursuit of immortality
Authors: Ouhnni Hamid , Ziti Soumia , El Bouchti Karim , Meryam Belhiah , Lagmiri Souad Najoua
Published: November 2024

Digital immortality, the idea of endless life and ultimate happiness in a virtual afterlife, has become a subject of human fascination. This article reports the results of a comprehensive research project focused on identifying the challenges and potential options related to digital immortality. Analyzing 39 relevant studies, our research concentrates on two main themes: the barriers to achieve the digital immortality and the tools created to preserve digital memories. Our findings reveal that the challenges associated with digital immortality are deeply rooted in legal, ethical, and social issues. Importantly, our focus is the challenges related to digital content left by the deceased, its collection method, and integrity in digital immortality research, as content forms the basis for achieving this objective. Furthermore, the research highlights the need for more advanced technology, as the number of studies is limited and current progress is primarily future-oriented. However, our analysis demonstrates that the digital content left by the deceased is paramount, as it constitutes the raw material for achieving digital immortality.
Four quadrant operation of bidirectional DC-DC converter for light electric vehicles
Authors: Ann Sam Caroline , Jegathesan Varghese
Published: November 2024

This paper discusses the closed-loop control of a bidirectional full bridge DC-DC converter which aids in the four-quadrant operation of an electric vehicle (EV). Several topologies of bidirectional converters have been recently investigated for optimizing vehicle performance. The bidirectional converters with buck and boost modes of operation aid the four-quadrant operation of drives. The proposed bidirectional converter aids buck and boost modes of operation in both forward and reverse directions of the drive. The buck/boost operation in the forward direction is suitable to operate the traction drive in motoring mode. Also, the buck/boost operation in the reverse direction aids the drive to operate in charging mode. The performance analysis of the bi-directional converter-fed EV drive is done using MATLAB/Simulink software. The different modes of operation of the converter which is utilized for the four-quadrant operation of the drive are validated using a 12-60V hardware prototype. DSP TMS2837D controller is used to control the bi-directional converter and the code generation for the controller is done in MATLAB-DSP integrated platform. The hardware results validate theoretical analysis and simulation studies.
Natural smart home automation system using LSTM based on household behaviour
Authors: Susantok Mochamad , Ahmad Po’ad Farhana , Joret Ariffuddin , Hilwa Salsabillah Maulina
Published: November 2024

A smart home automation system (SHAS) utilizing data-driven learning is an advanced internet of things (IoT) application aimed to learn household behavior to prevent miniatur circuit breaker (MCB) trips due to overload. Unlike traditional deterministic methods, this study leverages a layered AI model, featuring real-time data collection, long short-term memory (LSTM) based learning, and an automatic control system. The LSTM classification model generates precise ON/OFF control signals sent to IoT smartplugs, optimizing appliance usage and reducing the risk of electrical overload. Data from smartplug sensors, including appliance status and environmental factors like power consumption, temperature, and humidity, were collected every minute over three months, yielding 80,818 data points. The system's performance was evaluated on three appliances: Air Conditioner, Television, and Water Pump Machine. Results showed high accuracy for Television at 98% and Water Pump Machine at 97.6%, with slightly lower accuracy for Air Conditioner at 81.9%. This demonstrates the system's effectiveness in real-world applications. The scalability and adaptability of the Natural SHAS model to different appliances and environments mark a significant advancement in smart home automation, offering a practical solution for preventing electrical overload and improving household energy management.
Deportation of constant amplitude impulsive outlier (CAIO) through novel repetitive new switching-based median filtering approach
Authors: Patanavijit Vorapoj , Thakulsukanant Kornkamol
Published: November 2024

This research paper nominates a novel repetitive new switching-based median filtering approach (R-NSBMF) for outlier deportation on computer numerical pictures that are surpassingly subverted by constant amplitude impulsive outlier (CAIO) or Salt & Pepper noise. This approach reestablishes the outlier numerical pictorial feature (which has the minimum amplitude or the maximum amplitude) by the median filter of the finite impulse response (FIR) linear predictor of all the non-outlier numerical pictorial feature in the calculating numerical pictorial division under the repetitive groundwork. The proposed R-NSBMF approach is investigated on numerous computer numerical pictures (Girl, Lena, Pepper and F16) on spacious outlier percentage and the proposed R-NSBMF approach exposes admirable outlier-deportation numerical pictures than the mean filter (mf), standard median filter (SMF), adaptive median filter (AMF), weight median filter (WMF) and original NSBMF and it professes admirable peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and pictorial quality.
Design and evaluation of performance metrics of a pentaband broadband microstrip patch antenna for mm wave applications
Authors: Jana Subhasis , Kumar Singh Raj , Mamta Kumari
Published: November 2024

This paper reports design and results of a microstrip patch antenna for broadband application in the millimeter wave communication with multiband features. Electromagnetic solver high-frequency structure simulator (HFSS) is employed to measure the effectiveness of the electromagnetic properties and electrical behaviour of the antenna. The proposed microstrip patch antenna (MPA) can be easily fabricated on a single substrate using standard photolithography process to attach the radiating element and feed lines to the dielectric material. On a 4.93 mm×5.86 mm metallic patch, over FR4 epoxy substrate with dielectric constant 4.4 and loss tangent 0.03, two L-shaped slots are placed along with a few micro slots of varied dimensions, and the antenna is fed with microstrip feedline with resistive load termination of 50 Ω. Pentaband resonant frequencies are realized in the K-band at 13.6 GHz, 23.2 GHz, 29.68 GHz, 32.96 GHz, and 38.56 GHz, with minimum return loss of
 -23.17 dB, bandwidth 2.32 GHz, omnidirectional radiation pattern, and maximum reported gain of 4.5 dB. The designed antenna achieved good electromagnetic radiation properties and electrical behaviour, and is a good choice for broadcasting over short distances, surveillance and monitoring, wireless sensor backhauls and telecommunication in the K-band networks.
Integrating blockchain, internet of things, and cloud for secure healthcare
Authors: Kumaran K Senthur , Khekare Ganesh , Athitya M Thanu , Arulmozhivarman Aakash , Pranav M Arvind , Chidambaram N Hiritish
Published: November 2024

This research paper shows a decentralized healthcare architecture using the integration of internet of things (IoT), blockchain, and cloud to improve speed up tuple broken security as well as scalability. Real time health information (e.g., pulse rate, sugar level) from patients is captured by IoT devices and preprocessed at the fog computing layer to securely send them to a cloud platform. Immutability and transparency Patient health records recorded by blockchain solutions are highly irreversible due to the underlying technology, while smart contracts take care of data integrity and privacy. The cloud layer delivers storage that scales and works, also including real-time analytics to access patient data from anywhere for healthcare providers while the core helps manage long-term information architecture. It does so by automating healthcare workflows and taking some of the manual interventional processes out such that care delivery becomes even more efficient. Together, these technologies provide a secure, efficient, patient-centered healthcare system whose architecture can easily support future needs in remote patient monitoring and inter-institutional collaboration, responding to emerging demands from modern healthcare systems.
Patient Perceptions of Emerging Gene Therapies for Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Schopp Emma M. , Okwara Leonore , Tichnell Crystal , Turriff Amy , Murray Brittney , Barth Andreas S. , Calkins Hugh , Jamal Leila , James Cynthia A.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

No disease-specific therapy currently exists for arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), a progressive cardiogenetic condition conferring elevated risk for ventricular arrhythmias, heart failure, and sudden cardiac death. Emerging gene therapies have the potential to fill this gap. However, little is known about how adults with ARVC, or any other inherited cardiomyopathy or arrhythmia syndrome, appraise the risks and benefits of gene therapy research and which considerations may influence their decisions about clinical trial participation.

METHODS:

Twenty adults with clinically diagnosed and gene-positive ARVC participated in semi-structured interviews that explored perceptions of gene therapy and hypothetical decision-making for gene therapy clinical trial participation. Interview transcripts were qualitatively coded and analyzed.

RESULTS:

Participants expressed enthusiasm for gene therapy with varied levels of personal interest in trial participation. Although clinical severity appeared to be associated with an elevated interest in early trial participation, participants anticipated weighing both personal and trial-specific factors including life stage, trial stage, risks, benefits, participation burden, study leadership, and anticipated cost of future gene therapy. Adaptation to living with ARVC and involvement in the ARVC patient community were also relevant to decision-making about trial participation. Potential ethical concerns included unquestioning trust in clinical teams collaborating on industry-led trials and vulnerability of those recently diagnosed or with high perceived severity of ARVC symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS:

Several characteristics of the individual and trial warrant consideration during the informed consent process. Insights from this study may affect trial planning and communication with participants who have inherited cardiac conditions.
Unraveling Comorbidities Contribution to Cardiac Diastolic Dysfunction and Heart Failure
Authors: Villalba-Orero María , López-Olañeta Marina , Campos-Olmo Belén , Jimenez-Carretero Daniel , Sánchez Lucía , Sánchez-Cabo Fátima , Ausiello Antonella , Cañas-Álvaro Rodrigo , Camafeita Emilio , Vázquez Jesús , García-Pavía Pablo , Pascual-Figal Domingo , Lara-Pezzi Enrique
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a major public health problem characterized by multiple simultaneous comorbidities whose specific contribution is challenging to disentangle in humans, leading to a generalized therapeutic approach that may not account for the underlying pathology.

METHODS:

We followed distinct mouse models of major HFpEF comorbidities for 2.5 years to unveil their specific contribution to the syndrome.

RESULTS:

All comorbidities contributed to HFpEF through partially distinct routes. Aging alone resulted in HFpEF in old age, with delayed left ventricular relaxation and kidney fibrosis. Obesity induced a faster deterioration of relaxation associated with enlarged left ventricle and liver fibrosis. Hypertension caused delayed ventricular relaxation independent from structural changes that preceded left atrial dilatation linked to aortic stiffness and increased fibrosis in myocardium and kidney. Chronic intermittent hypoxia led to HFpEF and relaxation impairment associated with pulmonary hypertension. Hyperglycemia accelerated diastolic dysfunction and HFpEF onset associated with reduced arterial flow and left ventricular remodeling. Therefore, the pathological substrates contributing to HFpEF included cardiac and noncardiac alterations with differential features for each comorbidity. Critically, the characteristics linked to diastolic dysfunction and HFpEF across the various comorbidities agreed with phenogroups observed in human patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

The identification of time-dependent pathological features provides a comprehensive picture of HFpEF progression associated with each comorbidity.
Bütünleştirici kendilik farkındalığı ve empati algılanan stresi yordar mı?: Psikoloji ve Mühendislik Bölümü Öğrencileri ile Karşılaştırmalı Bir Çalışma
Authors: Uysal Mehmet , Gökkaya Füsun , Çıvgın Umut
Published: November 2024

Bu araştırma üniversitelerin psikoloji ve mühendislik bölümleri son sınıf öğrencilerinin bütünleştirici kendilik farkındalığı, empati ve algılanan stres düzeylerinde herhangi bir farklılaşmanın olup olmadığının incelenmesi amacıyla gerçekleştirilmiştir. Çalışmanın örneklemi üniversitelerin son sınıf psikoloji ve bazı mühendislik bölümleri öğrencilerinden oluşmuştur. Çalışma verileri psikoloji ve mühendislik bölümlerinin son sınıflarında öğrenim gören 361 üniversite öğrencisinden toplanmıştır. Katılımcıların 207’si (%57,3) psikoloji bölümü, 154’ü (%42,7) mühendislik bölümü son sınıf öğrencisidir. Çalışmanın bulgularına göre bölümler arasında empati, kendilik farkındalığı ve algılanan stres düzeylerine ilişkin anlamlı farklılıklar saptanmıştır. Korelasyon analizi sonuçlarına göre algılanan stres ile empati ve kendilik farkındalığı arasında negatif yönlü anlamlı ilişki saptanmıştır. Ayrıca algılanan stres düzeyi mühendislik bölümü öğrencisi olma tarafından pozitif yönde, bilişsel empati tarafından ise negatif yönde yordanmıştır. Araştırmanın sonuçları, ilişkili alanyazın ışığında tartışılmış ve çeşitli öneriler sunulmuştur.
Metaverse’ün Turizme Yansımaları: Paydaş Perspektifi
Authors: Aslan Ahmet
Published: November 2024

Bu çalışma, turizm paydaşlarının bakış açısından Metaverse'ün turizm endüstrisi üzerindeki etkisini ortaya koymayı amaçlamaktadır. Daha açık bir ifadeyle bu çalışma, turizm endüstrisindeki paydaşların Metaverse kavramını nasıl değerlendirdiğini ve Metaverse teknolojisinin turizm sektöründe nasıl bir etki yaratabileceği konusundaki düşüncelerini araştırmayı amaçlamaktadır. Bu çalışma, nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden biri olan keşfedici araştırma özelliklerini taşımaktadır. Bu nedenle çalışmada amaçlı örnekleme yöntemi kullanılmıştır ve 18 katılımcıyla yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme formu kullanılmıştır. Araştırma kapsamında katılımcılardan elde edilen verilerden en sık tekrar eden kelime frekanslarını belirleyebilmek için Voyant Tools yazılım programı kullanılmıştır. Kelime bulutu incelendiğinde en sık kullanılan kelimenin “sanal” olduğu görülmektedir. Bunu sırası ile “turizm”, “metaverse” ve “dijital” kelimeleri takip etmiştir. Çalışmanın bulgularına göre, otel işletmeleri Metaverse’ü tanıtım için kullanabilir, turist rehberleri macera gerektiren alanlarda bu teknolojiden faydalanabilir ve yiyecek-içecek işletmeleri restoranlarda yemeği tanıtmak için menülerde kullanabilir. Metaverse teknolojisinin etkilerinin kongre etkinlikleri ile tarihi ve kültürel destinasyonlarda görüleceği düşünülmektedir. Destinasyon yöneticileri, sanal etkinlikler ve festivaller düzenlenerek destinasyonların tanıtımı yapılabilir. Engelliler için ürüne ulaşım sağlayamama durumunda sanal etkinlikler ile gerçeğe yakın bir deneyim sunulabilir.
Türkiye Türkçesinde Emir Kipli Ad Tamlamaları
Authors: Alibekiroğlu Sertan
Published: November 2024

Türkçede ad tamlamaları söz dizimi, söz öbekleri ve şekil bilgisinin önemli kuruluşlarındandır. Türleri hakkında bazı tartışmalar olmakla birlikte ad tamlamalarının tamlayan ve tamlanan unsurlarının her ikisinde ad soylu sözcükler bulunduğu ise kesin bir kabuldür. Oysa Türkiye Türkçesinde belirtisiz ad tamlaması kuruluşunda olmasına rağmen tamlayan kısmında 2. teklik kişi emir kipinde / yalın bir fiilin yer aldığı “vur emri, kalk borusu, gel işareti” vb. şeklinde kurulmuş olan söz öbekleri de bulunmaktadır. Bu tür söz öbeklerinin türü ve öbekler arasındaki yeri hakkında Türkiye Türkçesi gramer çalışmalarında açıklamalar bulunmamaktadır. Bu çalışmada Türkiye Türkçesi söz öbekleri arasında tamlayan kısmında 2. teklik şahıs emir kipinde / yalın halde bir fiil ve tamlanan kısmında 3. teklik kişi iyelik eki bulunduran bir adın bulunduğu söz öbeklerinin durumu incelenmiş, öbekler arasındaki yeri tespit edilmeye çalışılmıştır.
Katalan Özgürlük Hareketini Futbol ile Okumak Barcelona Fc ve Kimlik İnşası
Authors: Yılmaz Özgür , Altun Erdoğan
Published: November 2024

Çalışmada, FC Barcelona'nın Katalan kimliği ve bağımsızlık hareketi arasındaki ilişki Aşağıdan Tarih yaklaşımıyla karşılaştırmalı tarihsel analiz yoluyla incelenmektedir. Kulüp, 29 Kasım 1899'da Joan Gamper tarafından kuruldu ve hızla Katalan kimliğinin önemli bir sembolü haline geldi. Başlangıcından itibaren Katalan milliyetçiliği ve bağımsız hareketiyle iç içe olan FC Barcelona bölgenin sosyo-politik dinamiklerini etkilemiş ve yansıtmıştır. Özellikle Franco rejimi döneminde, Katalan kültürünün baskı altına alındığı süreçte, Barcelona Katalan kimliğinin korunmasında ve yeniden canlanmasında kritik rol oynamıştır. Makale ayrıca, 2010 sonrası dönemde Katalonya'daki bağımsızlık hareketinin güçlenmesiyle birlikte FC Barcelona'nın bağımsızlık yanlısı duruşunu ve bu duruşun sembolik ve pratik desteklerini ele almaktadır. Karşılaştırmalı tarihsel analiz, FC Barcelona'nın sportif başarıları ve kültürel önemi üzerinden Katalan kimliğinin inşasına ve güçlendirilmesine nasıl katkı sağladığını detaylandırmaktadır. FC Barcelona'nın Katalan kimliği ve bağımsızlık mücadelesindeki rolünü derinlemesine anlaşılması hedeflenmektedir. Sonuç olarak çalışmada Katalan özgürlük hareketinin, kimlik aidiyeti için önemli bir spor dalı olan futbol ve Barcelona futbol kulübünün tarihi ile eş zamanlı olarak okunabileceği görülmektedir.
Interactions between Javan slow lorises (Nycticebus javanicus) and domestic and wild carnivores in an anthropogenic landscape in Java, Indonesia
Authors: Nekaris K.A.I. , Balestri M. , Hedger K. , Campera M. , Adinda Esther , Ahmad Nabil , Imron M.A. , Manson S. , Saepurohman Ferryandi , Nijman V.
Published: November 2024

With increasing replacement of native forests with agriculture, it is important to understand the factors allowing non-human primates to persist, including interactions with potential predators. For small-bodied nocturnal primates, smaller carnivores and domestic dogs that often characterise agroforestry landscapes may be a particular threat, especially for primates like slow lorises, which rely on canopy connectivity and are particularly vulnerable on the ground. We present data collected over 12 years in Indonesia. During a long-term study on Javan slow lorises, we used ad libitum sampling to record 703 instances of slow lorises in proximity to wild small carnivores (Javan palm civets, small Indian civets, Sunda leopard cats, Javan ferret badgers) and interactions with small carnivores (62) and domestic dogs (58) respectively. Most of these interactions were neutral or affiliative, including sharing canopy bridges and sleeping sites. Two negative interactions occurred between lorises and wild carnivores; five potential predation events were linked to dogs. Lorises were less active and more vigilant when carnivores were present. A WhatsApp® group facilitated data collection, increasing detail of observations, especially on interactions with domestic dogs. We saw an overall decline in small carnivores, especially nearer to the village, which could be linked to competition with domestic dogs. A better understanding of the role of dogs in this changing landscape is vital.
Ficophagus fengi n. sp. (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae), an associate of Ficus concinna in China
Authors: Zeng Yongsan , Zhang Dayuan , Giblin-Davis Robin M. , Roberts Joseph A.
Published: November 2024

A new nematode species was recovered from the figs of Ficus concinna from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan province, P.R. China. It is described herein as Ficophagus fengi n. sp. and is characterised by possessing the combined characters of a short post-uterine sac (6.4-9.7 μm or 0.4-0.5 VBD long), an excretory pore located near head, amoeboid sperm, three pairs of subventral papillae on the male tail, rounded male tail tip without mucron, presence of gubernaculum (apophysis)-like structure, a rose-thorn-shaped spicule without a terminal cucullus, a rostrum with a slightly pointed tip, a conoid female tail with a small finger-like tip, and absence of crustaformeria. Ficophagus fengi n. sp. was separated from other sequenced species by differences in the partial small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene and D2-D3 expansion segments of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene. Phylogenetic analysis with LSU D2-D3 expansion segment sequences suggested that F. fengi n. sp. is clustered in a single highly supported monophyletic clade with F. virens and is sister to F. virens.
Included but Not Inclusive
Authors: Coombs Emily C. , Maroney Meredith R. , Brown Heather M. , McMorris Carly A.
Published: November 2024

Recent research has highlighted increased gender diversity among Autistic individuals, particularly those raised as girls. Femme theory challenges traditional femininity, offering an inclusive, intersectional lens on identity. This study uses femme theory to critique literature on the sexual and gender experiences of Autistic individuals feminized by their sex assigned at birth or gender (women, girls, females) and feminine others, examining the association between gender norms and feminine Autistic experiences. Researchers conducted a critical content analysis of qualitative articles published on the experiences of Autistic individuals on the feminine spectrum from three prominent Autism journals (2019–2022), using femme theory to analyze dominant narratives and themes. Findings revealed two overarching themes: divergenceand alignment with femme theory. Key themes included inadequate examination of femininity, limitations in discussing gender diversity, and recognition of intersectionality. The study calls for more inclusive language, challenging stereotypes, and incorporating diverse perspectives. Future research should adopt broader, intersectional approaches to better represent feminine Autistic experiences.
Chaos creator: Misinformation inoculation in information literacy instruction
Authors: Goodsett Mandy
Published: November 2024

Combating the spread of misinformation is a struggle that has inspired considerable research in the fields of psychology, education, political science, and information science, among others. Such research has found that “prebunking” or “inoculation” techniques—strategies that reduce the acceptance of misinformation before one has encountered it—have had marked success. However, there is little evidence that librarians are deliberately employing inoculation techniques in their information literacy (IL) instruction. Via a quasi-experimental study, this research explores the effect of prebunking techniques in an IL instruction session on undergraduate students’ ability to recognise misinformation. The prebunking techniques are delivered through a competitive game called Chaos Creator, based on the Bad News game developed by researchers at Cambridge University. Results of the study show that misinformation inoculation techniques are more effective than the popular source evaluation tool, the CRAP test, in helping students identify misinformation. However, misinformation inoculation techniques can backfire, causing students to become overly sceptical of trustworthy messages.
A mindfulness-based information literacy framework for the current information environment
Authors: Hannah Matthew N. , Hoewe Jennifer , Sistek Hanna , Kim Taeik , Goldwasser Dan
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a new information literacy (IL) framework, based around mindfulness, that is suited for the contemporary informational environment. This framework results from a weeklong interdisciplinary dialogue among scholars, theorising and incorporating mindfulness as a significant aspect of healthy information seeking and interpretation. Our framework builds on existing IL frameworks but encourages information consumers to recognise their emotional responses and political biases while providing reminders that information always contains political components. By doing so, this framework updates existing IL guidelines to better reflect the current era of rising polarisation and affective media consumption. We present a mindfulness framework for IL that combines mindfulness practices with critical thinking in addressing the emotional impact of mis/disinformation and conspiracy theories on the current information society.
Long-Term Reoperation Rates Following Pancreatoduodenectomy for Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Chi , Lu Lauren , Hanson Kristine , Sultan Ahmer , Starlinger Patrick , Smoot Rory , Kendrick Michael L. , Truty Mark , Warner Susanne G. , Thiels Cornelius
Published: November 2024

Background

Short-term outcomes after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) are well-studied, but long-term reoperation rates and their indications remain poorly characterized.

Methods

A single-center retrospective chart review was performed on patients who underwent PD for pancreatic adenocarcinoma between 1/2011 and 12/2021. Reoperations occurring >90 days after PD were dichotomized to being related or unrelated to the index PD or pancreatic adenocarcinoma. The Kaplan-Meier analysis estimated the incidence of long-term reoperation at 1 and 5 years postoperatively.

Results

Six-hundred twenty-eight patients were included. The 5-year incidence of any additional operation >90 days after PD was 30.0% (95% CI 23.2-36.2%), and the 5-year incidence of any long-term related reoperation was 21.2% (95% CI 15.0-26.8%). The most common indications for reoperations by 5-year incidence were cancer recurrence (12.8%, 95% CI 7.6-17.7%), incisional hernia (6.2%, 95% CI 2.6-9.7%), small bowel obstruction (1.3%, 95% CI 0.2-2.4%), and leak, fistula, or infection (1.0%, 95% CI 0.1-2.0%). Of the examined risk factors, only 90-day reoperation was found to be predictive of long-term related reoperations ( P = 0.02). Additionally, the 5-year incidence of endoscopic or interventional radiology procedures was 20.2% (95% CI 14.5-25.4%). However, 40.9% (95% CI 33.6-47.3%) of patients required additional surgery or procedures of any kind between 90 days and 5 years after PD.

Discussion

Within 5 years of PD, one in three patients required additional surgery, and one in five had operations for related indications. Related reoperative indications included recurrence, hernia, PD-specific complications, and small bowel obstruction. However, the rates of each of these reoperations were relatively low.
‘I Should Have Known Better’: Adolescent Decision-Making, Alcohol Use, and Delinquency
Authors: Yap Jamie , Brezina Timothy , Timmer Anastasiia
Published: November 2024

Prior research indicates that young people who engage in thoughtful and reflective decision-making (TRDM) are less prone to criminal and delinquent behavior, although certain factors (e.g., stress, lack of sleep) can undermine the crime preventive effect of TRDM. We build on this research by examining the possibility that adolescent alcohol use may also undermine the relationship between TRDM and youth crime. Drawing on data from a nationally representative sample of adolescents, we conduct negative binomial regression analyses and test for interaction effects between TRDM and alcohol use. The results indicate that frequent heavy drinking tends to weaken the crime preventive effect of TRDM, although no such effect emerged when the sheer frequency of alcohol was the focus of our analyses. Implications for adolescent decision-making, alcohol use, and crime prevention are discussed.
Reorienting Through the Body: The Correlation Among Self-Transcendent Emotion Experiences and Interoceptive Awareness
Authors: Hlava Patty , Elfers John , Bieber Jeremy , Maitra Suruchi , Burge Candy , Howard Andrea , Carbajal Rosario , Jamieson Mark , Casey Amy
Published: November 2024

The primary research question guiding this study was: In what ways do self-transcendent emotion-experiences (awe, gratitude, compassion, and forgiveness) correlate with interoceptive awareness? Two studies were implemented in 2024 to conduct the inquiry. The first was a correlational study involving a measure of interoceptive awareness and assessments of awe, gratitude, compassion, and forgiveness. We recruited two diverse demographic samples of survey respondents ( n = 441 and n = 443) to determine what correlations might generalize to a broad population. Bivariate correlational analysis revealed strong correlations among total scores and specific subscales of interoception and self-transcendent emotion-experience. In a second study, an informed grounded theory approach explored what theories might explain the correlation. We conducted 45 interviews, each exploring the somatic felt sense of a profound experience of awe, compassion, gratitude, or forgiveness. The resulting analysis elicited themes of attuning, witnessing, and reorientation associated with a greatly expanded sense of self. Results revealed transcendent emotions to be a profoundly embodied experience correlating with high levels of interoceptive awareness.
Becoming an Active Bystander in Music Education
Authors: Abramo Joseph Michael
Published: November 2024

In this article, I provide advice to music educators on how to intervene when they witness acts of overt interpersonal discrimination as well as more subtle forms of discrimination, including microaggressions. Many music educators have identified systemic barriers to inclusion and stressed the importance of choosing and creating culturally responsive repertoire, curriculum, and instruction. Less explored, however, is what steps music educators can take when they witness discriminatory acts by students or other adults, which is often referred to as being an “active bystander.” I begin by defining different forms of interpersonal discrimination, including microaggressions and acts of what researchers call “aversive racism” as well as why these discriminatory acts are harmful. I then describe what researchers suggest are effective strategies to intervene in these forms of discrimination, and I provide examples of music educators actively addressing acts of discrimination by students and adults.
Research on wearing behavior of fibers in a rotor by numerical simulation and experimental verification
Authors: Li Fengyan , Zhang Dingtiao , Wang Qianru
Published: November 2024

The spinning rotor is a key element for rotor spinning, but fibers will wear when they move in the spinning rotor. In this paper, a model of fiber and spinning rotor was established to investigate the wearing properties of fibers and rotor wall influenced by stripping velocities, Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio. The simulation results indicate that the wear degree of fibers gradually increases with increasing stripping velocity, Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio. During the fibers’ movement in a rotor, there exists a stress concentration zone on processed fibers. The damage degree of the spinning rotor wall increases with stripping velocity and also varies depending on the differences in fiber properties. Taking the fibers from the stripping point as experimental samples, the surface wear of damaged fibers is observed by scanning electron microscopy, and the decrease in fiber strength with stripping velocity is measured. The experimental results show a good agreement with simulations. The research in this paper provides a preliminary guide for the selection of fiber raw materials and optimization of process parameters in rotor spinning, which in turn improves the physical properties of rotor yarn.
Effect of base fabric and raising cycles on mechanical properties, subjective hands and preference of ultra-fine fiber suede
Authors: Roh Eui Kyung
Published: November 2024

As the ethical movement against animal products continues to gain momentum, ultra-fine fiber suede has become a popular alternative to leather. The key to successfully replacing the emotional appeal of natural leather lies in creating a unique appearance and hand with the ultra-fine fibers used in suede. In this paper, the preferred hand of suede among consumers was analyzed by examining the combination of suede’s base fabric and raising cycles. The results showed that both the raising cycles and base fabric had an effect on its mechanical properties, subjective hands, and overall preference of suede. However, the influence of the base fabric was greater than that of the raising cycles, and there was no significant difference after four cycles. The knitting type and fineness of the base fabric directly affected the mechanical properties of suede. Ultimately, our subjective evaluation of 50 female experts showed a preference for soft and warm suede fabric. Additionally, the results found that the base fabric has a more significant impact on increasing smoothness, hand preference, and preference for jackets than raising cycles. Therefore, when selecting a base fabric, it is important to consider the intended use of the suede. For example, gray weft-knits should be used for density and elasticity, while gray warp-knits are better for dimensional stability.
Rhythmic engagement therapy improved drug use abstinence better than cognitive behavioural therapy among individuals with substance use disorder
Authors: Ezenwa Michael Onyeka , Nwankwo Nelson Ifedili
Published: November 2024

Relapse is a major public health concern in the treatment of substance use disorder. Identifying effective and affordable management of relapse is important for reducing significant disruptions in the long-term recovery plan and potential frustrations for patients and their caregivers. The present randomised clinical control study explored the effect of rhythmic engagement therapy (RET), a non-pharmacological intervention, in preventing relapse among polydrug users re-admitted to a public rehabilitation facility. The study also compared the effectiveness of this intervention with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). This research was conducted at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency facility in Onitsha, Nigeria. Thirty participants (10 per group), aged 18 to 60 years ( M = 31.47; SD = 9.02), were sampled for the study. These were randomly assigned into CBT and RET treatment groups, while the third group was the control. Data were collected using the Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) and the Short Alcohol Dependence Data Questionnaire (SADD) before and after the intervention that lasted for 3 (three) months. The result from DAST revealed a significant mean difference in the comparative effects of RET and CBT in relapse prevention. Clients who received RET showed a significantly greater reduction in relapse compared to the CBT group with a large effect size (η2), F(2, 26) = 33.88, p < .001; Cohen’s d = .723. Also, the result from SADD showed that there was a significant main effect of RET and CBT interventions on relapse after the pretest was controlled, at F(2, 26) = 25.13, p < .001 with a moderate effect size (Cohen’s d = .659). This study recommends incorporating these intervention methods into routine treatment techniques for substance use relapse management and draws attention to further research on RET.
Unfolding spiritual understanding through artistic creation: Findings of the Laboratory of Art and Spirituality
Authors: Gómez-Rincón Carlos Miguel , Reinoso-Chávez Natalia , Estrada-Barrios Corina
Published: November 2024

This article presents the results of the Laboratory of Art and Spirituality (LAS), in which a group of seven Colombian artists investigated, over a period of 10 months, how artistic creation contributes to understanding spiritual experiences. The research-creation methodology involved spaces of spiritual practice, artistic exploration, and autoethnographic reflection. With the help of these spaces, the artists produced various materials that were subsequently analyzed using a hermeneutic phenomenological orientation. As a result, we developed a model of artistic understanding based on the idea that meaning-making is a process of unfolding meaning that goes through different interpretative moments or loci (experience, the creative process, the artwork, the artist’s life, and autoethnographic reflection). This model entails five meaning-making mechanisms: perception, knowing-how, emotional understanding, seeing-as, and perceiving mystery. The article aims to let the artists speak for themselves, disclosing in their journals and dialogues these fundamental structures of spiritual understanding through artistic creation.
Cross-Cultural Fairness of the PCL: SV: A New Zealand Analysis
Authors: Botha Ryan , Nichols Tara , Polaschek Devon L. L.
Published: November 2024

Several studies have investigated the predictive validity of the Hare Psychopathy Checklists (PCL); however, the majority have used North American samples. The PCL can inform important decisions about people’s futures and therefore it is imperative to validate its psychometric properties within the jurisdictions it is used, particularly for Indigenous and non-European populations. In New Zealand, Botha and Polaschek (2023) concluded that the PCL: Screening Version (PCL:SV; Hart et al., 1999) demonstrated cross-ethnic predictive invariance using traditional discrimination statistics. The present study extends on this research by reporting on a novel statistic for assessing fairness in risk tool performance, cross-area under the curve (xAUC), as well as error rate balance and predictive parity of the PCL:SV for the prediction of any and violent 5-year recidivism outcomes in European and Māori subsamples ( n = 288). In contrast to previous research, we found discrepancies, between European and Māori, on xAUC, error rate balance, and predictive parity.
Enhancing comparability in early child development assessment with the D-score
Authors: van Buuren Stef , Eekhout Iris , McCray Gareth , Lancaster Gillian A. , Waldman Marcus R. , McCoy Dana C. , Gladstone Melissa , Cavallera Vanessa , Dua Tarun , Black Maureen M. ,   GSED Team
Published: November 2024

The lack of a valid and interpretable score to track early child development over time is a primary reason for neglecting child development in policymaking. Many instruments exist, but there is no accepted method for comparing their scores across different ages, samples, and instruments. This paper aims (1) to enhance the Development Score (D-score), a unidimensional scale for early child development, to compare measurements across ages, samples, and instruments, (2) to develop a conversion key that enables the transformation of measurements obtained from existing instruments into a D-score, and (3) to investigate two new measures designed to optimize the quantification of the D-score. Study 1 gathered data from 51 sources in 32 countries among 66,075 children using 18 instruments with 2,211 items. Subject matter experts used the output of the Study-1 true score equating model to create the Global Scales for Early Development Short Form (GSED SF) and Long Form (GSED LF). Study 2 collected additional data on the GSED LF and GSED SF in three countries among 4,374 children. The Study-2 model enables the conversion of measurements into a D-score for 20 different instruments. We propose the D-score as a unifying evaluation unit to reduce fragmentation, simplify measurement, and enhance comparability.
A systematic review of differential item functioning in second language assessment
Authors: Chen Xueliang , Aryadoust Vahid , Zhang Wenxin
Published: November 2024

The growing diversity among test takers in second or foreign language (L2) assessments makes the importance of fairness front and center. This systematic review aimed to examine how fairness in L2 assessments was evaluated through differential item functioning (DIF) analysis. A total of 83 articles from 27 journals were included in a systematic review. The findings suggested that classical DIF techniques were dominant in use, particularly Rasch-based methods, the Mantel–Haenszel procedure, item response theory (IRT) approaches, logistic regression, and SIBTEST, but emerging methods such as DIF analysis based on cognitive diagnostic models were also identified. Most DIF studies examined manifest grouping variables such as gender and language background and were based on assessments of receptive language skills such as reading and listening comprehension. DIF analyses were mostly conducted in an exploratory fashion and causes of DIF were often justified on speculative rather than empirical grounds. In addition, the quality of DIF analyses was undermined by suboptimal reporting practices. Our results suggest the need to improve current DIF practices, to consider alternative DIF detection methods aligning with emerging views of measurement bias, and to adequately account for the heterogeneity of L2 test takers. The findings have implications for test design and use, fairness, and validity in L2 assessments.
Psychedelic risks and benefits: A cross-sectional survey study
Authors: Goldy Sean P , Du Benjamin A , Rohde Julia S , Nayak Sandeep M , Strickland Justin C , Ehrenkranz Rebecca , Levine Michael , Barrett Frederick S , Yaden David B
Published: November 2024

Background:

As classic psychedelics’ therapeutic potential is studied and their popularity continues to rise, it is important to establish their relative risks and benefits. Previous surveys have tended to use convenience sampling on social media, select participants who have had either extremely positive or negative effects, and have not compared the risk/benefit profile of psychedelics to other substances.

Aims:

To address these limitations, we gathered samples from an opt-in panel service using quota-based sampling to approximate demographics representing US Census data, did not pre-specify positive or negative experiences, and compared experiences with psychedelics to those with cannabis.

Methods:

We conducted two studies, one using a between-subjects design ( n = 743) and one using a within-subjects design ( n = 514), in which participants recruited from an opt-in panel service reflected on prior experience with psychedelics or cannabis and indicated self-reported risks and benefits associated with their experience.

Results:

Results indicated that first or most memorable psychedelic experiences were associated with greater acute challenging effects and persisting negative effects than first or most memorable cannabis experiences, but psychedelic experiences were also associated with greater positive acute and persisting effects. Common predictors of negative and positive acute and persisting effects with psychedelics included various experience qualities (e.g., dose level, presence of others) and individual differences (e.g., religiosity, personality), though only to a small degree.

Conclusions:

These findings on psychedelic experiences provide a more nuanced characterization of risks and benefits and their predictors.
Prevalence and risk factors of malnutrition among patients receiving hemodialysis in a tertiary level hospital in Mauritius
Authors: Fagoonee Kevin , Chinien Ganessen , Munnohur Neelesh
Published: November 2024

Objective

In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of malnutrition and its associated risk factors among patients undergoing hemodialysis in a tertiary hospital in Mauritius.

Methods

We enrolled 250 participants in this cross-sectional single-center study. A modified Malnutrition–Inflammation Score (MIS) questionnaire was used. We collected and analyzed data pertaining to patients’ medical and hemodialysis details.

Results

Among the 250 enrolled participants, 136 (54.4%) were male patients. Participants had been undergoing hemodialysis for a mean duration of 5.67 ± 4.66 years. Malnutrition was present in 108 (43.2%) participants, and 176 patients (70.4%) had diabetes mellitus, which was found to be a significant predictor of malnutrition. There was a significant correlation between malnutrition and the number of years a participant had been under hemodialysis, as well as female sex. A significant variation in MIS values was found among different age groups. Participants with malnutrition had lower body mass index and hyponatremia.

Conclusions

Malnutrition is an important issue, particularly among women, patients who have been on hemodialysis for an extended period, those with older age, and patients with diabetes mellitus.
Characterizing chest pain in patients with acute coronary syndrome at Vietnam National Heart Institute: a case-control study
Authors: Nguyen Lan Anh , Pham Nhat Minh , Pham Manh Hung , Thi Hong Nhung Nguyen , Thi Hoai Nguyen , Huu Tuan Nguyen
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to distinguish chest pain characteristics between patients with and without acute coronary syndrome (ACS) at Vietnam National Heart Institute.

Methods

A case-control study using a structured chest pain assessment questionnaire was performed to examine pain characteristics.

Results

Smoking, a history of heart attack, and a family history of cardiovascular disease were associated with increased ACS-related chest pain risk. Patients without ACS more frequently reported left or central chest pain, mild discomfort, pain triggered by activity, and relief with rest or nitroglycerin. ACS-related chest pain was more often characterized by pain radiating to the back, a sensation of tightness or severe discomfort, gradual intensity increase, occurrence at rest or with minimal exertion, and accompanying sweating. No significant sex differences were found in ACS-related chest pain symptoms.

Conclusions

Targeted assessment of chest pain features—such as pain radiation, pressure sensation, symptom escalation, duration, activity triggers, and relief factors—could improve public awareness and support the development of educational resources on ACS and non-ACS symptoms.
Biglycan promotes tumour proliferation and invasion in human colon cancers
Authors: Lu Biyan , Zhu Ying , Li Guangliu , Xu Yongqiang , Wen Chuangyu , Ye Weibiao
Published: November 2024

Objective

To investigate the role of biglycan (BGN) in colon cancer progression.

Methods

The association between BGN mRNA levels and the survival time of patients with colon cancer was analysed by referencing data from the Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was conducted to explore gene sets and pathways associated with BGN. In vitro analyses were undertaken in HCT116 cells to analyse cell proliferation, migration, invasion, cell cycle control and apoptosis. GSEA, Western blot analysis and small interfering RNAs were used to explore the molecular mechanisms of BGN in colon cancer cells.

Results

Analysis of the pairs of tissues from colon cancer patients showed that BGN protein levels were higher in colon cancer tissues compared with adjacent non-tumour tissues. High BGN levels were significantly associated with shorter survival times. BGN knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion; and induced cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase and promoted apoptosis in HCT116 cells. GSEA found that BGN might affect tumour progression via the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathway.

Conclusion

BGN might promote colon cancer progression via the MAPK signalling pathway and could be a potential target for future novel therapeutic strategies.