bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A scaling theory to approximate the thermal conductivity of the interphase region in polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Ghadami Hana , Sharifzadeh Esmail , Azimi Neda
Published: August 2023

In this study, De Gennes’s scaling theory was developed to evaluate the variation of distance-dependent thermal properties inside the polymer/particle interphase region based on the molecular characteristics of the polymer matrix and surface adsorption energy. Accordingly, the average thermal conduction coefficient of the region was predicted and used to approximate the overall thermal conductivity of the nanocomposite system. The physical characteristics of the nanoparticle clusters (e.g., size and content) were defined using a specific strategy based on the equilibrium between dispersion and cohesion energies during the preparation of the nanocomposite samples, via melt mixing. Maxwell’s model was also developed and used to predict the thermal conduction coefficient of the polymer/nanoparticle system considering the determinative impact of the polymer/particle interphase region and aggregation/agglomeration phenomenon. It was found that the scaling parameter, defining the polymer/particle interaction strength, increased by almost 50% by increasing the compatibility. This also increased the thermal conductivity of the interphase from 1.401 (W.m-1.K-1) to 3.028 (W.m-1.K-1) in the samples containing compatible nanoparticles. The thermal conductivity of nanoparticle clusters decreased exponentially with increasing the number of involved nanoparticles. The maximum prediction error of the proposed model (6.9%) was 12% less than that of the original Maxwell’s model.
To Lead at 17: Teenage Girls Leadership in the Scouts
Authors: Sheffer Ofir
Published: August 2023

Sparse knowledge has been accumulated thus far on youth mentorship from the perspective of gender and the contribution of such relationships between young women and girls. What is more, leadership development programs barely refer to gender uniformity in mentor relations as a key toward meeting their goals. The objective of the present article is to shed light on woman-teenage girl mentor bonds in leadership development frameworks. To this end, I conducted an ethnographic study of the Hebrew Scouts Youth Movement—a co-ed framework abounding in mentorships. As per my findings, three strategies adopted by female mentors helped their disciples navigate leadership duties in real time and persuaded them to compete for senior positions within the troop: furnishing personal examples; conveying awareness of the difficulties that serving as a leader within the movement entails; and protection-cum-advocacy on behalf of their charges. The study enhances our comprehension of leadership socialization and the power that these ties impart to the girls qua leaders.
Gender, Generations, and Guilt: Defendant Gender and Age Affect Jurors’ Decisions and Perceptions in an Intimate Partner Homicide Trial
Authors: Ruva Christine L. , Smith Kendall D. , Sykes Elizabeth C.
Published: August 2023

Using the context of an intimate partner homicide trial, the study explored the effects of defendant gender and age on mock-jurors’ verdicts, sentences, and culpability ratings—and whether defendant credibility and juror anger mediate these effects. The study used a 2 (Defendant Gender: male vs. female) × 3 (Defendant Age: 25, 45, or 65 years) between-subjects design. Participants ( N = 513 community members) completed the experiment online. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the six Defendant Gender × Age Conditions. Participants read the trial transcripts that included the age and gender manipulations, provided verdicts and sentences, and completed the following measures: culpability, anger, credibility, and manipulation checks. Consistent with our hypotheses mock-jurors were more likely to find the male defendant guilty and give him longer sentences than the female defendant. Additionally, when the defendant was male (vs. female) mock-jurors provided higher anger ratings and rated the defendant as more culpable in the victim’s death. Also consistent with our hypotheses, mock-jurors were more likely to find the youngest defendant guilty and view him as more culpable and less credible than the oldest defendant. The mechanisms responsible for jurors’ biased decisions varied as a function of the extra-legal variable (defendant gender vs. age). The defendant age effect was mediated by defendant credibility and the gender effect by juror anger. A defendant’s right to a fair trial is dependent on a court’s ability to limit extra-legal variables from influencing jurors’ decisions. Understanding the mechanism responsible for such bias is required before the courts can effectively remedy bias.
Study of frequency dependence properties of CCTO-BT/polymer composites
Authors: Mishra Swagatika , Mishra Punyapriya , Mohapatra Deepak Kumar , Mishra Punyatoya , Mishra Dinesh Kumar , Shadangi Krushna Prasad
Published: August 2023

In the current study, the calcium copper titanate (CCTO)/polymer, barium titanate (BT)/polymer, and CCTO-BT/polymer composites with variable volume fractions of CCTO and BT are fabricated using hand lay-up and compression molding processes. The composites are characterized for the frequency dependence on dielectric properties, conductivity, impedance spectroscopy, and electrical modulus. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of CCTO-BT/polymer composite samples confirmed the presence of both CCTO and BT ceramic samples separately. The dielectric properties of hybrid CCTO-BT/polymer composites with 10 vol% CCTO 10 vol% BT, 12 vol% CCTO 8 vol% BT, and 8 vol% CCTO 12 vol% BT was found relatively better than those of the single ceramic filler reinforced polymer composites. AC conductivity analysis shows a significant improvement in the results of hybrid filler-filled CCTO-BT/polymer composites in comparison with single filler-filled polymer composites. Thus, impedance analysis confirms higher insulating properties for 8 vol% CCTO 12 vol% BT and 12 vol% CCTO 8 vol% BT hybrid CCTO-BT/polymer composites with respect to the single and other hybrid ceramic polymer composites. The analysis suggests the hybrid CCTO-BT/polymer composites to be adopted as a possible dielectric material for energy storage devices and other electronic applications.
Manufacturing and testing of Bi-material (Wood-PLA/Carbon-PLA) used for structurally integrated engineering application
Authors: Vellaisamy Murugan , Muthu Kumar Tharun Kumar , Subramaniyan Mohan Kumar
Published: August 2023

Additive manufacturing (AM) has been effectively employed in numerous applications due to its enhanced properties such as cost reduction, faster fabrication, and less material wastage. Fused filament fabrication (FFF) method is one of the most prevalent AM process broadly used for fabricating complex polymeric parts. Wood filler dispersed inside thermoplastic matrix (Polylactic Acid-PLA) is termed as Wood-PLA. Wood-PLA is widely employed in building constructions, fencing, and other structural applications. Whereas, Carbon-PLA is a thermoplastic polymer composed of carbon fiber and PLA. Due to its high strength, light weight, and durable properties, it is employed in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and so on. Bi-materials are multi-functional materials, with unique characteristics at different regions of a part. Due to its unique properties, it is used in different integrated structural engineering applications such as defense, aerospace, energy, and safety gears. Bi-material could be fabricated using FFF through varying the filament after depositing few layers. Fabricated Bi-material exhibited mechanical properties such as tensile strength (16.7 ± 0.08 MPa), compressive strength (51.8 ± 3 MPa), flexural strength (72.1 ± 0.15 MPa), and impact energy (0.910 ± 0.02 J). Hardness value of Bi-material is 76.5 shore-D. The coupon studies revealed that Bi-material possesses better mechanical characteristics than Wood-PLA composites and is on par with Carbon-PLA. This work gives an insight into mechanical behavior of Bi-material (Wood-PLA/Carbon-PLA) under various loads. For microscopic examination (under optical microscopy), the sample was treated using acetone and sandpaper for better revelation of bonding of interface and buckling of layer. The brittle morphologies were observed in the fracture surface of failed sample using scanning electron microscope. The outcome of this study would open up opportunities that help in fabricating integrated structure used in engineering applications.
Evaluation of generalized k-ω turbulence model in strong separated flow estimation of thrust optimized parabolic nozzle
Authors: Afkhami Sina , Fouladi Nematollah , PasandidehFard Mahmoud
Published: August 2023

One of the frequently reported defects of RANS-based turbulence models is overestimation of turbulent kinetic energy production in high speed separated flow problems, which causes significant prediction errors. The correct estimation of such flow in thrust optimized parabolic nozzles extremely depends upon the accurate prediction of the onset of flow separation. In this paper, firstly, the significant error of conventional RANS-based turbulence models is shown to predict the onset of flow separation in this type of nozzles. Then, the prediction accuracy is improved through the modification of the essential parameters of the generalized k-ω (GEKO) turbulence model. It was found that modifying the separation and mixing parameters of the GEKO model to realize the turbulent kinetic energy production resulted in the accurate prediction of onset of flow separation at the extensive range of nozzle pressure ratios. Using this modified model with new coefficients reduced the error of about 30% of the k-ω-sst model in estimating the onset of flow separation. Also, the nozzle pressure value at which the transition from free shock separation (FSS) to restricted shock separation (RSS) occurs is well predicted by this approach. After strengthening the turbulence model, the flow physics has been investigated with increasing and decreasing nozzle chamber pressure. The length of the separation shock and reflected shock waves which impose the presence of FSS or RSS patterns and transitional phenomena are discussed. Our new findings show that unlike the transition from FSS to RSS, the inverse transition from RSS to FSS did not depend on the length of the separation and reflective shocks.
Forecasting of Export Prices of Indian Shrimp: An ANN Approach
Authors: Singh Naorem Dinesh , Sarada C.  , Ramasubramanian V.  , Sivaramane N. , Krishnan M. , Ravichandran S.  , Kiresur V. R. , Gopalakrishnan Badri Narayanan
Published: August 2023

Both internal and external externalities create impediments in price determination. This is more so when a product like the Indian-farmed shrimp is entirely an export commodity. Risk and uncertainty loom large over Indian shrimp farmers at both the farm and end-consumer levels. It becomes necessary to minimize the volatility in forecasted prices to help shrimp farmers stabilize their production strategies reasonably well. Export prices of Indian Pacific white and black tiger shrimp for different count sizes were analysed for developing forecasting models for two major international markets, viz., the United States and Japan. Overall, 16 data sets were compiled for developing appropriate price forecasting models. Models were developed to forecast weekly prices of shrimp exports from India and import prices from the United States and Japan. Out of several artificial neural network (ANN) models attempted, the best ANN models were selected based on the Akaike information criterion. The ANN model captured the fibrillations and fluctuations and gave a close prediction with actual values. Since the forecasted values were accurate and in sync with real data, the values can be expected to give a correct representation of the behaviour of the markets.
The Dynamic Effect of Pandemics on Industrial Production Growth
Authors: Shaik Muneer
Published: August 2023

Using a time-varying parameter-structural vector autoregressive (TVP-SVAR) model, this study investigates the dynamic impact of uncertainty caused by worldwide pandemics on industrial productivity growth. We discover that the coronavirus has a negative influence on industrial production growth rates across economic blocs (i.e., United States, Developed, and Emerging nations). We also discover that, since 2016, there has been a considerable rise in the comovement of industrial production growth rates. We also employ the dynamic volatility connectedness methodology and find that the industrial productivity growth of Emerging nations economic bloc, and DPUI is observed to be net transmitters of volatility, whereas the industrial productivity growth of United States and other developed nations economic blocs are found to be net recipients of volatility throughout the sample periods. Furthermore, we find that the dynamic total connectedness among the variables under study is observed to be very strong and time-varying.

JEL Codes: C15, C58, G15
An Exploratory Study of Bone Health Among Native Hawaiian Women in Rural Hawai‘i
Authors: Morel Rayna K. , Daub Katharyn F. , Gotshalk Lincoln A. , Earle Nancy F. , Wong Yvonne Kealoha
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

The purpose of this study was to obtain baseline data on bone mass density for Native Hawaiian women and to better understand the socio-cultural context for assessing bone health and risk of osteoporosis for this underserved population.

Method:

A sequential mixed-method design guided by Leininger’s Culture Care Theory of Diversity and Universality consisted of two phases: (a) an initial exploratory focus group and (b) dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans and individual interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Results:

Phase a ( n = 12) suggested that Native Hawaiian women have limited knowledge of bone health, but recognize traditional and cultural ways of health. Phase b ( n = 50) showed that Native Hawaiian women have healthy bones, according to the T-score results. The interviews suggested that perspectives of bone health are culturally anchored.

Discussion:

Understanding cultural values and practices are vital for care. Preliminary recommendations for health professionals are included.
The Relationship Between Rape Myths, Revictimization by Law Enforcement, and Well-Being for Victims of Sexual Assault
Authors: Maiorano Nicole , Travers Áine , Vallières Frédérique
Published: August 2023

Relationships between rape myths, revictimization, and postassault well-being were examined in a sample of adult victims of sexual assault ( n = 88). Correlation, multiple regression, and path analyses investigated whether conformity to stereotypes of “real rape” or “real victim” was associated with revictimization and well-being. A possible mediating effect of revictimization on the relationship between rape myth conformity and well-being was assessed. The relationship between specific revictimization behaviors and emotions was also analyzed. Questioning victims’ resistance to the assault was correlated with revictimization emotions. “Real victim” characteristics were associated with well-being, but no mediating effect of revictimization was observed.
One versus two sets of busulfan therapeutic drug monitoring in myeloablative allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant
Authors: Chippendale Lindsey , Freyer Craig W , Carulli Alison , Babushok Daria V , Frey Noelle V , Gill Saar I , Hexner Elizabeth O , Luger Selina M , Martin Mary Ellen , Porter David L , Stadtmauer Edward A , Loren Alison W
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Busulfan is a common component of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (alloHCT) conditioning, however interpatient pharmacokinetic variability can result in enhanced toxicity or increased relapse risk. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) can minimize variability, yet the optimal frequency of TDM is unknown. We compared outcomes for patients with one versus two sets of busulfan TDM during myeloablative conditioning (MAC) prior to alloHCT.

Methods

We analyzed the impact of busulfan TDM frequency and dose adjustments, with the primary outcome being relapse-free survival (RFS). Other outcomes included the incidence of acute and chronic graft versus host disease (GVHD), oral mucositis, pulmonary toxicity, sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), the cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR), and overall survival (OS).

Results

Twenty-two patients underwent one set of sampling while 53 patients underwent two sets. Similar baseline characteristics were observed between the groups. There were no significant differences observed in RFS by day +180 (77.3% vs. 79.2%, p = 1.0), CIR by day +180 (18.2% vs. 17.8%, p = 0.74), or OS ( p = 0.73). The incidences of acute GVHD, chronic GVHD, SOS, and severe mucositis were also similar. In each group, 63% received busulfan dose adjustments after one set, with 52.8% receiving further dose adjustments following the second set.

Conclusion

We observed no significant difference in alloHCT outcomes between patients who underwent one versus two sets of busulfan TDM sampling, suggesting that a single-time TDM and dose adjustment may be adequate to maximize outcomes after MAC alloHCT.
A combined iterative complex eigenvalue method and finite element-boundary element method for acoustic analysis of the railway steel bridge deck damped with constrained layer damping
Authors: Jiang Xihao , Li Haoqing , Li Xiaozhen , Liang Lin
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a combined method to predict structure-borne noise from the railway steel bridge deck damped with constrained layer damping (CLD), in which the frequency-dependent properties of the viscoelastic material are accurately considered through the iterative complex eigenvalue method (ICEM). Then, a 1:4 steel bridge deck model is designed and manufactured, and a series of hammer tests of the CLD-damped steel bridge deck are carried out in a semi-anechoic chamber to verify the proposed method. Then, the noise reduction effect of CLD is discussed in detail. It shows that the overall SPLs at the near field point S-3 and the far field point S-8 are reduced by 7.5 dB and 11.1 dB, respectively, and the noise attenuation rate along with distance is also improved significantly after damped with CLD. Finally, the influences of the key design parameters of CLD on noise reduction are quantitatively analyzed, so as to provide reference for the research and application of CLD in railway bridge engineering.
Exploration of Inflammatory Biomarkers and Psychological Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Among Community Dwelling Adults: A Gender Comparison Study
Authors: Hung Hsuan-Man , Chen Ming-Fu , Lee Huan-Fang , Wang Hui-Ling
Published: August 2023

Patients with rheumatic disease (RD) are at high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is the leading non-communicable chronic disease cause of death worldwide. Inflammatory biomarkers and psychological health status are reliable predictors of CVD in patients with RD. The primary aim of this study was to compare the inflammatory biomarkers and psychological CVD risk factors (CRFs) between a group of community-dwelling adults with RD and CRFs and a group of their peers with CRFs only. The secondary aim of this study was to analyze and compare the collected data by gender in the RD group. Data were collected and analyzed from 355 participants, with the 135 participants with physician-diagnosed RD assigned to the RD group and the remainder ( n = 220) assigned to the comparison group. The measures used included a demographic datasheet, medical information, serum homocysteine (Hcy) levels, high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, and depression and global sleep-quality scale scores. The RD group had higher ratios of hypertension and depression diagnoses than the comparison group. The gender analysis of the RD group found significantly more-severe sleep disturbances in women than men and a significantly higher mean value of Hcy in men than women. The women in the RD group were significantly older, less educated, and less employed than their male counterparts and thus may be presumed to at higher risk of health illiteracy. Gender-tailored interventions to modify the risk factors of CVD identified in this study for patients with RD are recommended.
Comparing face-to-face and videoconference assessment of the Brief Repeatable Battery of Neuropsychological Tests in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Raimo Simona , Santangelo Gabriella , Cropano Maria , Gaita Mariachiara , Ammendola Lidia , Malangone Daniela , Lus Giacomo , Signoriello Elisabetta
Published: August 2023

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic has underlined the need to evaluate cognitive profile via videoconferencing (teleneuropsychology, TeleNP) as a suitable alternative to face-to-face assessment (F-F).

Objective:

To evaluate the feasibility and the reliability of Rao’s Brief Repeatable Battery of Neuropsychological Tests (R-BRB) remote administration in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).

Methods:

Sixty PwMS underwent R-BRB in two conditions: F-F and TeleNP, 1 month apart.

Results:

Cognitive test performance was similar, regardless of the administration type, but visuospatial test performance was better in F-F.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that TeleNP is feasible and highly reliable in MS clinical practice.
‘Not in touch’: Nonverbal communication and frontline perceptions of inter-organizational justice in parole work
Authors: Taylor Micheal P , Ricciardelli Rosemary
Published: August 2023

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 17 parole officers working in Canadian federal correctional services to understand how their perceptions mediate well-being. Our study elucidates dimensions of interactional justice related to three elements of nonverbal communication theory (i.e. haptics, proxemics and kinesics). By centralizing the voices of our participants, we show how nonverbal communication theory mediates organizational citizenship behaviour and the multi-construct concepts of justice. Framing interpretations with how public employees interact, we reflect on the impacts to which correctional workers—as public safety employees—perceive their criminal justice employment. We argue exploration into nonverbal communication, and a deeper understanding of how correctional services govern, may provide structural accountability by closing a loop in organizational knowledge flow.
Technology-Facilitated Abuse Victimization: A Gendered Analysis in a Representative Survey of Adults
Authors: Powell Anastasia , Flynn Asher
Published: August 2023

This study addresses a significant knowledge gap regarding the gendered extent and nature of Technology-Facilitated Abuse (TFA). Drawing on a representative sample of 4,562 Australian adults, the results demonstrate that though prevalence of any lifetime TFA victimization is not specifically gendered, there are clear gendered patterns in the extent and nature of particular types of TFA experienced. Here, women are more likely to report experiencing sexual coercion, as well as intimate partner abuse and co-occurring forms of abuse from the same perpetrator. The results support aspects of the gendered violence thesis and suggest avenues for future research into TFA victimization.
Effect of COVID-19 On the Sexual Activity of Men
Authors: Abedinzadeh Mehdi , Vahidi Serajoddin , Rahavian Amirhossein , Lojje Hossein , Abouei Saied
Published: August 2023

In December 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome COVID-19 was found in China. This virus can affect different organs depending on the coronavirus receptors on the cell surface, which allows the organ to be attacked by the coronavirus. Psychological distress and impaired pulmonary hemodynamics seem to be the cause of decreasing libido or sexual dysfunction after contracting COVID-19. This study was performed to assess the effect of coronavirus on the sexual activity of men. We enrolled 200 men with COVID-19, confirmed by an oropharyngeal sample, who had recovered from the coronavirus for 3 months. These men filled out the International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire for their current and previous sexual status. Then, according to their IIEF-5 score, sexual activity before and after corona infection was compared. The mean age of the participants was 31.5 ±3.2 years. This study showed a significant difference between the IIEF-5 mean scores before and after COVID-19, which were 20.4 and 18.6, respectively ( p = .000). The condition of 56.1% of the patients did not change; however, coronavirus did have a negative effect on 39.6% of the patients. 4.1% of patients reported improvement in sexual performance. 45% of the patients reported no erectile dysfunction (ED) before contracting the coronavirus; while only 27.7% reported no ED after getting COVID-19. Our findings show that COVID-19 could influence the sexual activity of infected men, who also showed a higher ED prevalence after COVID-19 infection; however, hormonal assessment should be observed in the follow-up.
Closed Reduction Percutaneous Pinning Versus Open Reduction With Plate and Screw Fixation in Management of Unstable Proximal Phalangeal Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Gaio Natalie M. , Kruse Lisa M.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Proximal phalanx fractures are common, with surgical fixation indicated for unstable fractures. Traditionally, closed reduction percutaneous pinning (CRPP) resulted in decreased stiffness and tendon irritation compared to open reduction internal fixation (ORIF). We hypothesized that more recent studies would have more similar outcomes to CRPP. The purpose of this study was to compare CRPP and ORIF in terms of range of motion, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores, and complications.

Methods:

Four electronic databases were queried from 2010 to present. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, two independent reviewers performed a two-step review process to identify relevant articles. Patient demographics, total active motion (TAM), DASH, and complications were extracted. The methodological quality of each study included was assessed independently. Meta-analysis was performed for comparative trials.

Results:

Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria including four comparative studies: Thirteen studies included TAM. The weighted average TAM was 228 ± 34° for CRPP and 223 ± 32° for ORIF ( P = .07 with 95% confidence interval (CI), −0.5 to 10.5). Seven studies evaluated DASH scores; weighted average was 8.2 ± 8.9 for CRPP and 11.7 ± 6.5 for ORIF ( P < .01 with 95% CI, 1.8-5.2). Two studies directly compared CRPP to ORIF, favoring ORIF for both TAM with d = 1.07 and DASH with d = 0.23. Rates of tenolysis or hardware removal were higher for ORIF ( P < .01).

Conclusions:

New literature suggests more equipoise with regard to treatment of proximal phalanx fracture with CRPP versus ORIF.

Type of study/level of evidence:

Meta-analysis, Level II.
Time-optimal trajectory planning for autonomous parking of tractor-semitrailer vehicle based on piecewise Gauss pseudospectral method
Authors: Qiu Duoyang , Cheng Minglong , Yang Hao , Dai Yuefang , Wang Yong
Published: August 2023

For the autonomous parking problem of the tractor-semitrailer vehicle, a piecewise Gauss pseudospectral method is proposed as a trajectory planning scheme in this paper. Firstly, the trajectory planning problem is transformed into an optimal control problem by establishing a vehicle kinematics model for the low-velocity scene, the dynamic constraints including the physical constraints, the collision avoidance constraints, and the endpoint constraints. The optimal control problem are discretized into a nonlinear programming problem by piecewise Gauss pseudospectral method according to the movement area during parking process. The shortest time to complete parking is taken as the objective function. The Gauss pseudospectral method is further adopted to solve the nonlinear programming problem in the two parking stages. Three parallel parking conditions with different lengths of parking spaces and three vertical parking conditions with different widths of parking spaces are set for simulation verification based on Matlab/Simulink. The simulation results show that the proposed method can uniformly and effectively solve the trajectory planning problem of the tractor-semitrailer vehicle. Compared with the traditional pseudospectral method, a shorter parking time and a significantly higher convergence rate can be got with the method, which further indicates that the proposed method has good effectiveness and robustness.
Behind the mask: What the eyes can’t tell: Facial emotion recognition in a sample of Italian health care students
Authors: Bani Marco , Russo Selena , Ardenghi Stefano , Rampoldi Giulia , Wickline Virginia , Nowicki Stephen , Strepparava Maria Grazia
Published: August 2023

Wearing a facemask remains a pivotal strategy to prevent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection even after vaccination, but one of the possible costs of this protection is that it may interfere with the ability to read emotion in facial expressions. We explored the extent to which it may be more difficult for participants to read emotions in faces when faces are covered with masks than when they are not, and whether participants’ empathy, attachment style, and patient-centred orientation would affect their performance. Medical and nursing students ( N = 429) were administered either a masked or unmasked set of 24 adult faces depicting anger, sadness, fear, or happiness. Participants also completed self-report measures of empathy, patient-centredness, and attachment style. As predicted, participants made more errors to the masked than the unmasked faces with the exception of the identification of fear. Of note, when participants missed happiness, they were most likely to see it as sadness, and when they missed anger, they were most likely to see it as happiness. A multiple linear regression analysis showed that more errors identifying emotions in faces was associated with faces being masked as opposed to unmasked, lower scores on the empathy fantasy scale, and higher scores on the fearful attachment style. The findings suggest that wearing facemasks is associated with a variety of negative outcomes that might interfere with the building of positive relationships between health care workers and patients. Those who teach student health care workers would benefit from bringing this finding into their curriculum and training.
Utilization of remote e-prescription (Anat) in Saudi Arabia during COVID-19: Factors associated with primary adherence and antibiotic prescription
Authors: Alhassoun Roaa Khaled , AlDossary Sharifah Abdullah
Published: August 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected healthcare systems globally. Various health care technologies have been used to mitigate the risk of disease transmission. Telemedicine is one such technology, and remote consulting and prescribing comprise one of its key aspects. In Saudi Arabia, telephone health services have been widely used through the free Medical Consultation Call Center (937). This platform facilitates medical consultations for all citizens, residents, and visitors. After consultations, healthcare providers are able to issue authenticated e-prescriptions using the Anat platform.

Objectives

To explore the utilization of the Anat remote prescription system in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify the factors associated with antibiotic prescription and primary medication adherence.

Methods

This retrospective analysis included data from the Anat e‑prescription system using a stratified random sample of 25000 prescriptions issued in Saudi Arabia in 2020. Predictive factors related to the patients, practitioners, and prescriptions were identified through bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

Out of 25,000 e-prescriptions, 8885 were dispensed, resulting in a 35.5% primary medication adherence rate. The significant predictors of primary adherence were children, respiratory diseases, and antibacterial drugs. In addition, antibiotics made up 32.1% of the e-prescriptions. The prescription of antibiotics was significantly associated with male sex, children, genitourinary system diseases, and being treated by radiologists.

Conclusions

Almost two thirds 62.2% of e-prescriptions were undispensed, with antibiotic eprescriptions at 32.1%. Findings emphasize the need to enhance primary medication adherence and antibiotic prescription interventions. These findings could aid decision-makers in improving patient-centered e-prescribing practices.
Managing challenging behaviours in adults with traumatic brain injury: A scoping review of technology-based interventions
Authors: Hendryckx Charlotte , Nalder Emily , Drake Emma , Leclaire Éliane , Pituch Evelina , Gouin-Vallerand Charles , Wang Rosalie H , Poulin Valérie , Paquet Virginie , Bottari Carolina
Published: August 2023

Challenging behaviours are one of the most serious sequelae after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). These chronic behaviours must be managed to reduce the associated burden for caregivers, and people with TBI. Though technology-based interventions have shown potential for managing challenging behaviours, no review has synthesised evidence of technology aided behaviour management in the TBI population. The objective of this scoping review was to explore what technology-based interventions are being used to manage challenging behaviours in people with TBI. Two independent reviewers analysed 3505 studies conducted between 2000 and 2023. Studies were selected from five databases using search strategies developed in collaboration with a university librarian. Sixteen studies were selected. Most studies used biofeedback and mobile applications, primarily targeting emotional dysregulation. These technologies were tested in a variety of settings. Two interventions involved both people with TBI and their family caregivers. This review found that technology-based interventions have the potential to support behavioural management, though research and technology development is at an early stage. Future research is needed to further develop technology-based interventions that target diverse challenging behaviours, and to document their effectiveness and acceptability for use by people with TBI and their families.
Pediatrician Burnout Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lucy Caroline A. , Wojtaszek Julie , LaLonde Leah , Bruni Teryn P. , Ham Hannah L. , Sunde Eleah , Lancaster Blake , Maragakis Alexandros
Published: August 2023

Objective:

During the surge of the COVID-19 pandemic, burnout among physicians increased significantly. In the spring of 2023, the COVID national emergency was terminated in the U.S. To investigate whether provider burnout rates have returned to pre-pandemic levels, the current study compared dimensions of burnout among pediatricians pre- and post-pandemic.

Method:

As part of 2 separate behavioral health trainings held at a Midwest academic health center in 2019 and virtually in 2023, data on burnout was collected from 52 pediatricians pre-pandemic and 38 pediatricians post-pandemic. Participants completed an online survey during the trainings and responded to items reflecting 3 dimensions of burnout: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences in pre- and post-pandemic burnout amongst pediatricians in terms of total scores, number of pediatricians who met the clinical cutoff for each dimension, number of cutoffs met, or number of providers reporting elevated burnout on at least 1 dimension ( p > .05 for all comparisons). Participants were 1.77 times more likely to meet the cutoff for emotional exhaustion post-pandemic than pre-pandemic. Over half of providers met this cutoff post-pandemic, compared to only 35% pre-pandemic.

Conclusions:

While post-pandemic rates of burnout among pediatricians appear to be statistically similar to pre-pandemic levels, there appear to be clinically significant differences in emotional exhaustion between groups. With 63% of the post-pandemic group meeting the cutoff score for at least 1 dimension, it is imperative for the healthcare system to consider ways to mitigate burnout.
Design of a Novel Edge-Centric Cloud Architecture for m-Learning Performance Effectiveness by Leveraging Distributed Computing Paradigms’ Potentials
Authors: Mohiuddin Khalid , Fatima Huda , Khan Mohiuddin Ali , Khaleel Mohammad Abdul , Begum Zeenat , Khan Sajid Ali , Hussain Omer Bin
Published: August 2023

This article aims to design a novel edge-centric hierarchical cloud architecture to optimize mobile learning (m-learning) performance during learners executing computation-intensive learning applications. This research adopts the potential of distributed computing paradigms, that is, mobile edge, for improving the effectiveness of m-learning performance in higher education. Edge computing enables computing at the network’s edge and effectively avoids latencies while processing learners’ computational requests. The envisioned architecture was designed on the ETSI MEC ISG protocols and deployed on the university mobile cloud infrastructure. Additionally, a use case was designed, focusing the edge computing’s latency-avoiding ability, and executing it in a real-time environment involving sixteen students from an academic course. The execution results validated the architecture’s contribution, such as tasks executed in the local server, optimized learner privacy, reduced latencies, instant access, lowered bandwidth consumption, and continued tasks’ execution despite the failure of smart nodes. The result influences user acceptance and attracts designers to extend the architecture base focusing on machine learning algorithms (for learning analytics) and blockchain (to prevent malicious attacks) to improve the effectiveness of learning management system performance.
Recurrent episodes of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Vreeburg Yumiko L , Knight Daniel S , Coghlan John G , Ong Voon H , Denton Christopher P
Published: August 2023

Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease characterized by fibrosis and small vessel vasculopathy, which affects various organ systems, such as the heart. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a transient cardiomyopathy in reaction to an emotional or physical trigger. There may be clinical and pathogenetic overlap between Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and primary systemic sclerosis heart disease, and some patients with systemic sclerosis have been diagnosed with recurrent Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Our large systemic sclerosis clinical cohort was reviewed to identify cases diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. The clinical features, laboratory and imaging results were reviewed and evaluated to perform a comparison between cases. We identified five patients with systemic sclerosis, all female (age 68.6 ± 5.7 years), who were diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Two of these patients had recurrent episodes: one case with a history of multiple episodes and the other with one recurrence. Typical features included repolarization abnormalities on the electrocardiogram and transient left ventricular dysfunction observed using echocardiography or cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Our findings build upon previous reports and observations that systemic sclerosis may cause Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. To our knowledge, this is the largest case series of Takotsubo syndrome in patients with systemic sclerosis. This association may provide novel insights into the aetiopathogenesis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy as part of primary systemic sclerosis heart involvement.
Two waves of evolution in the rodent pregnancy-specific glycoprotein (Psg) gene family lead to structurally diverse PSGs
Authors: Kammerer Robert , Zimmermann Wolfgang
Published: August 2023

Background

The evolution of pregnancy-specific glycoprotein (PSG) genes within the CEA gene family of primates correlates with the evolution of hemochorial placentation about 45 Myr ago. Thus, we hypothesized that hemochorial placentation with intimate contact between fetal cells and maternal immune cells favors the evolution and expansion of PSGs. With only a few exceptions, all rodents have hemochorial placentas thus the question arises whether Psgs evolved in all rodent genera.

Results

In the analysis of 94 rodent species from 4 suborders, we identified Psg genes only in the suborder Myomorpha in three families (characteristic species in brackets), namely Muridae (mouse), Cricetidae (hamster) and Nesomyidae (giant pouched rat). All Psgs are located, as previously described for mouse and rat, in a region of the genome separated from the Cea gene family locus by several megabases, further referred to as the rodent Psg locus. In the suborders Castorimorpha (beaver), Hystricognatha (guinea pig) and Sciuromorpha (squirrel), neither Psg genes nor so called CEA-related cell adhesion molecule (Ceacam) genes were found in the Psg locus. There was even no evidence for the existence of Psgs in any other genomic region. In contrast to the Psg-harboring rodent species, which do not have activating CEACAMs, we were able to identify Ceacam genes encoding activating CEACAMs in all other rodents studied. In the Psg locus, there are genes encoding three structurally distinct CEACAM/PSGs: (i) CEACAMs composed of one N- and one A2-type domain (CEACAM9, CEACAM15), (ii) composed of two N domains (CEACAM11-CEACAM14) and (iii) composed of three to eight N domains and one A2 domain (PSGs). All of them were found to be secreted glycoproteins preferentially expressed by trophoblast cells, thus they should be considered as PSGs.

Conclusion

In rodents Psg genes evolved only recently in the suborder Myomorpha shortly upon their most recent common ancestor (MRCA) has coopted the retroviral genes syncytin-A and syncytin-B which enabled the evolution of the three-layered trophoblast. The expansion of Psgs is limited to the Psg locus most likely after a translocation of a CEA-related gene – possibly encoding an ITAM harboring CEACAM. According to the expression pattern two waves of gene amplification occurred, coding for structurally different PSGs.
A study on fractional tumor-immune interaction model related to lung cancer via generalized Laguerre polynomials
Authors: Hassani Hossein , Avazzadeh Zakieh , Agarwal Praveen , Mehrabi Samrad , Ebadi M. J. , Dahaghin Mohammad Shafi , Naraghirad Eskandar
Published: August 2023

Background

Cancer, a complex and deadly health concern today, is characterized by forming potentially malignant tumors or cancer cells. The dynamic interaction between these cells and their environment is crucial to the disease. Mathematical models can enhance our understanding of these interactions, helping us predict disease progression and treatment strategies.

Methods

In this study, we develop a fractional tumor-immune interaction model specifically for lung cancer (FTIIM-LC). We present some definitions and significant results related to the Caputo operator. We employ the generalized Laguerre polynomials (GLPs) method to find the optimal solution for the FTIIM-LC model. We then conduct a numerical simulation and compare the results of our method with other techniques and real-world data.

Results

We propose a FTIIM-LC model in this paper. The approximate solution for the proposed model is derived using a series of expansions in a new set of polynomials, the GLPs. To streamline the process, we integrate Lagrange multipliers, GLPs, and operational matrices of fractional and ordinary derivatives. We conduct a numerical simulation to study the effects of varying fractional orders and achieve the expected theoretical results.

Conclusion

The findings of this study demonstrate that the optimization methods used can effectively predict and analyze complex phenomena. This innovative approach can also be applied to other nonlinear differential equations, such as the fractional Klein–Gordon equation, fractional diffusion-wave equation, breast cancer model, and fractional optimal control problems.
NEXUS trial: a multicenter phase II clinical study evaluating the efficacy and safety of the perioperative use of encorafenib, binimetinib, and cetuximab in patients with previously untreated surgically resectable BRAF V600E mutant colorectal oligometastases
Authors: Kobayashi Shin , Bando Hideaki , Taketomi Akinobu , Takamoto Takeshi , Shinozaki Eiji , Shiozawa Manabu , Hara Hiroki , Yamazaki Kentaro , Komori Koji , Matsuhashi Nobuhisa , Kato Takeshi , Kagawa Yoshinori , Yokota Mitsuru , Oki Eiji , Komine Keigo , Takahashi Shinichiro , Wakabayashi Masashi , Yoshino Takayuki
Published: August 2023

Background

The optimal treatment strategy for resectable BRAF V600E mutant colorectal oligometastases (CRM) has not been established due to the rarity and rapid progression of the disease. Since the unresectable recurrence rate is high, development of novel perioperative therapies are warranted. On December 2020, the BEACON CRC triplet regimen of encorafenib, binimetinib, and cetuximab was approved for unresectable metastatic colorectal cancer in Japan.

Methods

The NEXUS trial is a multicenter phase II clinical study evaluating the efficacy and safety of the perioperative use of encorafenib, binimetinib, and cetuximab in patients with previously untreated surgically resectable BRAF V600E mutant CRM. The key inclusion criteria are as follows: histologically diagnosed with colorectal adeno/adenosquamous carcinoma; RAS wild-type and BRAF V600E mutation by tissue or blood; and previously untreated resectable distant metastases. The triplet regimen (encorafenib: 300 mg daily; binimetinib: 45 mg twice daily; cetuximab: 400 mg/m2, then 250 mg/m2 weekly, 28 days/cycle) is administered for 3 cycles each before and after curative resection. The primary endpoint of the study is the 1-year progression-free survival (PFS) rate and the secondary end points are the PFS, disease-free survival, overall survival, and objective response rate. The sample size is 32 patients. Endpoints in the NEXUS trial as well as integrated analysis with the nationwide registry data will be considered for seeking regulatory approval for the perioperative use of the triplet regimen.

Discussion

The use of the triplet regimen in the perioperative period is expected to be safe and effective in patients with resectable BRAF V600E mutant CRM.

Trial registration

jRCT2031220025, April. 16, 2022.