bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Model uncertainty quantification of a degradation model of miter gates using normalizing flow-based likelihood-free inference
Authors: Zeng Jice , Todd Michael D. , Zhao Zhao , Hu Zhen
Published: October 2024

Degradation modeling is essential for failure prognostics of miter gates and subsequent risk-informed maintenance or operational decision-making. Typically, degradation models are formulated based on certain assumptions and simplifications and may not fully capture the complexity of underlying degradation mechanisms. Even minor errors in such models may lead to significant discrepancies in failure prognostics due to error accumulation over time. Aiming to improve the accuracy of the degradation model and ensure reliable failure prognostics, this article proposes a degradation model updating framework for miter gates using normalizing flow-based likelihood-free inference, accounting for both model parameter uncertainty and model form uncertainty (i.e., model bias). The proposed work consists of two phases: the offline training phase and the online updating phase. During the offline training phase, the unknown model bias term is modeled as a random noise with uncertain standard deviation. Synthetic data are then generated using a physical model based on prior knowledge of the uncertain model parameters and model bias. The synthetic data are utilized to train an inference model, which has a summary network for data compression and a conditional invertible neural network for parameter estimation. In the online updating phase, the trained inference model uses strain observations to obtain posterior samples. The Gaussian mixture model and dual particle filter techniques are utilized to recursively update posterior samples, thereby improving the estimation accuracy. Subsequently, model bias is inversely estimated using the degradation model, which uses the updated model parameters and the gap length from the inference model. Following that, a regression model is constructed to correct the biases inherent in the simplified degradation model. This process is implemented iteratively over time to perform continuous model updating and failure prognostics. Results of a case study demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed framework in reducing both model parameter uncertainty and recovering model biases and thereby improving the accuracy of failure prognostics of miter gates.
Entire loosening stage monitoring of bolted joints via nonlinear electro-mechanical impedance spectroscopy
Authors: Lu Runye , Shen Yanfeng
Published: October 2024

This article proposes a nonlinear electro-mechanical impedance spectroscopy (NEMIS) methodology for the entire loosening stage monitoring of bolted joints. Unlike the conventional electro-mechanical impedance spectroscopy (EMIS) implemented in the frequency domain, NEMIS utilizes a temporal interrogating signal to procure the developed nonlinear impedance spectrum. It can harness the structural resonance information akin to the conventional EMIS, while concurrently capturing the contact acoustic nonlinearity (CAN) features with only one solitary Piezoelectric Wafer Active Sensor (PWAS). To elucidate the underlying principles of NEMIS, a comparative analysis juxtaposing the conventional EMIS, nonlinear ultrasonic techniques, and the proposed NEMIS was conducted. Subsequently, a reduced-order analytical model was established to simulate the rough contact interfaces of the bolted joints under various looseness states. Parametric studies were carried out to demonstrate the resonance deviation and nonlinear features resulting from the bolt looseness. Ultimately, the experimental implementation of NEMIS for the entire loosening stage monitoring of the bolted joint was performed compared with the conventional EMIS method. It was proved that NEMIS could detect both the incipient bolt loosening at an embryo stage and severe loosening of the bolted joint at the terminal period, integrating the continuous monitoring capability of conventional EMIS and the sensitivity of nonlinear ultrasonic methodology. The quantification on the severity of bolt loosening was accomplished via both linear and nonlinear damage indices, exhibiting a consistent trend with the gradations of bolt looseness. The article culminates in a summary, concluding remarks, and suggestions for future work.
The effect of embroidery parameters on the signal transmission performance of microstrip line
Authors: Zhang Yaya , Tu Huating , Zuo Yuxin , Zhang Linmei , Bai Jing , Luo Qiulan , Li Ping , Chen Zihan
Published: October 2024

With the rapid development of embroidered electronics, the research on microstrip lines as important connecting devices is crucial. Although the proposed research has explored the influence of embroidery parameters on some electrical properties of embroidered electronics, it is difficult to design and fabricate embroidered microstrip lines (EMLs) with specific transmission performance based on existing research. Therefore, in order to better design and fabricate EMLs with good transmission performance, the effect of embroidery parameters on their transmission performance needs further exploration. In this work, relevant models to simulate their transmission performance was proposed. Firstly, considering the cases where the conductive yarn is only distributed on the fabric surface as well as in both the surface and the thickness direction of the fabric, two geometry models are constructed to simulate the path of the conductive yarn in the embroidered conductor strip. Based on this, the transmission performances of the EML are simulated and analyzed. Then, two different sets of embroidered conductor strips were manufactured to fabricate microstrip line, and their transmission performance was tested to verify the rationality and accuracy of the above simulation model. Finally, based on simulation analysis and experimental testing, the influence of stitch spacing and stitch length on the transmission performance of EMLs are investigated, and the prediction bias of the models is analyzed. It is believed that the proposed model will provide a theoretical basis for the design of EMLs.
Paeoniflorin Inhibits Atrial Fibrosis and Atrial Fibrillation in Angiotensin II-Infused Mice Through the PI3K-Akt Pathway
Authors: Ji Yaqiong , Ning Zhongping
Published: October 2024

Objective: The investigation aimed to analyze the effect of Paeoniflorin (PF) on the initiation of atrial fibrosis and atrial fibrillation (AF) induced by angiotensin II (Ang II) and explore its associated underlying mechanism. Introduction: PF has anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and hypolipidemic properties. However, the protective effect of PF against atrial fibrosis and AF remains unclear. Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice aged 8-10 weeks, with 40 individuals, were subjected to subcutaneous infusion of either saline or Ang II at a dosage of 2.0 mg/kg/day. Furthermore, PF at a dosage of 100 mg/kg/day was administered through gavage once daily for 28 days. Morphological, histological, and biochemical examinations were undertaken. AF was elicited through in vivo transesophageal burst pacing. Results: PF treatment significantly improved AF in Ang II-infused mice. In addition, PF attenuated cardiac hypertrophy, atrial fibrotic area, atrial apoptosis and oxidative stress in Ang II-induced mice. The effect of PF on the PI3K-Akt pathway reduced the expression of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (p-PI3K) and Phosphorylated Akt (p-Akt) in Ang II-induced mice. Conclusion: PF may, therefore, avert Ang II-induced atrial fibrosis and AF by inhibiting the PI3K-Akt pathway.
Internationalisation for higher education: International coordinators’ perspectives on challenges and virtual exchange
Authors: López Cirugeda Isabel , López Campillo Rosa María , Sánchez Ruiz Raquel , Pérez-Segura José Jaime
Published: October 2024

International outlook constitutes, together with teaching, research, and knowledge transfer, one of the university core missions. Spain remains as a preferred destination for outbound mobilities, which constitutes an opportunity in terms of international rankings. Vice-Rectorates are designing strategies to retain this flow of international students, as well as to promote outbound mobilities. The present piece of research is a qualitative study based on Deyo’s Qualitative Social Constructionist Inquiry (2018), a semi-structured interview. Such design was supervised by experts and approved by the Ethics Committee of Social Studies. Results address the viewpoints of 17 international coordinators of the Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, based on four different campuses. The sample was made in terms of convenience, as it is the authors’ institution. Questions concentrate on coordinators’ understanding of the goals and needs of study abroad programmes, together with the needs of international students, their main challenges, and the role of the three communicative subcompetences of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages on these programmes, and more specifically their connection with the Theory of Identity Development (Chickering and Reisser, 1993), to help determine the strengths and weaknesses of such mobilities. Results reveal important information in relation to both the role of international coordinator and the effects these exchanges have on the students. Considering the former aspect, the answers evinced that this job post requires more attention in terms of training, tasks specification, recognition, and assistance. Regarding the latter, the responses highlight multiple benefits derived from these exchanges; in particular, the development of personal and social abilities to be more independent to solve problems, to collaborate with other people from different backgrounds, to communicate in a foreign language, and to expand their worldview. Nonetheless, the answers also show that this experience could be further enriched by academic, social, and emotional support for the students. In this line, the study suggests a set of recommendations and seeks for alternative instances to reach the goals of international exchange, such as excellence, equity, or education innovation (European Commission, 2021) by means of virtual exchange in COIL programmes such as eTwinning.
Advanced combination therapy: is it the best way to break the therapeutic ceiling?
Authors: Wetwittayakhlang Panu , Lakatos Peter L.
Published: October 2024

Current therapeutic strategies for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have reached a plateau in the rates of response and/or remission achieved with a single therapeutic agent. Consequently, the advanced combination therapy (ACT) strategy has emerged as a novel treatment concept for IBD. ACT involves the use of two different targeted therapies, whether biologic or small molecules, with the primary goal of overcoming the therapeutic plateau. Real-world evidence is accumulating among patients undergoing ACT, especially those dealing with concurrent IBD and extraintestinal manifestations or grappling with medically refractory IBD. The recently conducted VEGA study, a randomized clinical trial, has provided crucial insights by demonstrating that the short-term combination of dual biological agents can lead to superior disease control compared to single agents in patients diagnosed with ulcerative colitis (UC). This suggests that ACT holds promise as a therapeutic option to enhance disease control effectively. However, there is still limited evidence of ACT in UC patients who have proven refractory to biologic therapy and patients with Crohn’s disease. This review aims to discuss whether ACT represents the optimal approach for overcoming the therapeutic ceiling in IBD.
The impact of industry 5.0 on supply chain performance
Authors: Nazarian Hamideh , Khan Sharfuddin Ahmed
Published: October 2024

The transformative potential of Industry 5.0 (I5.0) to enhance supply chain performance (SCP) has become a compelling focus for numerous supply chain (SC) managers. This research explores the profound impact of I5.0 on SCP, highlighting three key dimensions: Efficiency, Visibility, and Responsiveness. It illuminates the dynamic interplay among these dimensions, demonstrating that improved visibility leads to heightened responsiveness and efficiency. While the enabling technologies of I5.0 hold significant potential for diverse applications, this study zeroes in on seven I5.0 technologies identified as highly impactful within the SC context. A closed-ended questionnaire was employed to collect 105 valid responses from managers, experts, and practitioners who are well-versed in I5.0 within the SC domain. Data analysis was performed using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4. The findings reveal both positive direct and indirect relationships between I5.0 and SCP, emphasizing how I5.0 reshapes performance dynamics and can expedite the adoption of I5.0.
Evolving Normative Dynamics: Understanding China's Varied Approaches to Overseas Corporate Social Responsibility in the Belt and Road Initiative Era
Authors: Lin Yue
Published: October 2024

China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is nowadays a global development initiative, with which China pursues a new international identity as a “responsible major country.” The inadequate fulfilment of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in BRI partner countries however has tainted the BRI's cooperative “win–win” principle and sparked external legitimacy crises. This study explores how Chinese policymakers respond to overseas CSR challenges in the realms of environmental and societal responsibility. By integrating both constructivist and rationalist elements, we employ three key variables to facilitate cross-case comparisons. Our analysis reveals that China has favoured a parallel overseas CSR governance system that allows for tailored responses to specific contexts. China's nuanced approaches to international CSR standards reflect rational decisions influenced by issue-specific domestic–international normative fit, perceived legitimacy of the relevant international regime, and the significance of each issue to China's global status. This research offers insights into China's contextualised engagement with international CSR norms in the BRI era.
Examining the influence of social anxiety biases on emotion recognition for masked versus unmasked facial expressions
Authors: Uribe Sofía , Meuret Alicia E
Published: October 2024

Preliminary evidence suggests reductions in emotion recognition accuracy to mask-wearing faces compared to no-mask-wearing faces in healthy volunteers. In socially anxious individuals, who tend to interpret positive or neutral facial expressions as more negative, emotional decoding biases might be even more compromised. This study aimed to replicate and extend previous findings on the impact of mask-wearing on emotion recognition in a Western sample while also examining the impact of social anxiety symptom severity. One hundred eleven university students completed a computerized emotion recognition task depicting gender and race-balanced faces, each modeling one of the six basic emotions and a neutral expression, with and without a medical mask. Using repeated measures ANOVAs and ANCOVAs, we investigated the effect of facemask condition and social anxiety severity on emotion recognition performance. Consistent with earlier research, the results of this study replicated the finding that wearing face masks led to decreased accuracy in emotion recognition across all emotions tested. Contrary to expectations, social anxiety symptoms did not moderate this effect. Despite the observed reduction in emotion recognition accuracy associated with mask-wearing, socially anxious individuals did not appear to be at a higher risk of experiencing impaired emotion recognition compared to their less anxious counterparts.
Psychological and physiological health outcomes of virtual reality-based mindfulness interventions: A systematic review and evidence mapping of empirical studies
Authors: Wieczorek Alissa , Schrank Florian , Renner Karl-Heinz , Wagner Matthias
Published: October 2024

Objective

In the past two decades, mindfulness, rooted in Buddhist traditions, has gained considerable scientific interest. Virtual reality (VR) technology, in particular head-mounted displays, offers immersive experiences and is examined in this systematic review in terms of VR-based mindfulness interventions and their effects on psychological and physiological health outcomes.

Methods

Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta Analyses guidelines, a systematic search was conducted with the following search terms: [(mindful* OR “meditat*”) AND (“virtual reality” OR “VR”) AND (health OR physio* OR psycho* OR mental OR physical)]. Considering critiques of methodological quality in existing systematic reviews, this study adopts Boell and Cecez-Kecmanovic’s hermeneutic approach, critically evaluating research outcomes.

Results

Psychological benefits include improved anxiety, mindfulness, emotions, disease patterns, affect, stress, (presleep) arousal, meditation and others. Physiological effects focus on neurobiological markers, heart rate/heart rate variability, pain, blood pressure, cortisol and galvanic skin resistance. Evidence mapping shows that more research has been conducted in the last 6 years, particularly by North American and South Korean authors, and points to gaps in study methodology. In addition, attention regulation is identified as a primary mindfulness mechanism in VR scenarios, often in nature-based virtual environments, with mainly single-session studies lasting 5 or 10 minutes.

Discussion

Critical mapping reveals the need for additional studies to support and extend initial findings in this emerging research field. Methodologically, there is a call for more true-experimental studies to enhance rigor. From a content perspective, VR protocols are currently still strongly characterized by single-session interventions, which makes it especially difficult to make a dose–response statement regarding long-term effects.

Conclusion

In summary, the studies provide important initial findings on psychological and physiological effects of VR-based mindfulness interventions on health. In addition, the need for more methodologically rigorous studies was emphasized, along with other methodological adjustments that must be carefully considered in the planning of future studies.
Smartwatch-based algorithm for early detection of pulmonary infection: Validation and performance evaluation
Authors: Chen Yibing , She Danyang , Guo Yutao , Chen Wenjuan , Li Jing , Li Dan , Xie Lixin
Published: October 2024

Background

The proliferation of smart devices provides the possibility of early detection of the signs of pulmonary infections (PI). This study validates a smartwatch-based algorithm to monitor the risk of PI in adults.

Methods

An algorithm that runs on smartwatches was developed and tested in 87 patients with PI and 408 healthy subjects. The algorithm examines heart rate variability, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, body temperature, and cough sound. It was embedded into the Respiratory Health Study app for a smartwatch to detect the risk of PI and was further validated in the hospital. Doctors diagnosed PI using a clinical evaluation, lab tests, and imaging examination, the gold standard for diagnosis. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the algorithm predicting PI were evaluated.

Results

In all, 80 patients with PI and 85 healthy volunteers were recruited to validate the accuracy of the algorithm. The area under the curve of the algorithm for predicting PI was 0.86 (95% confidence interval: 0.82–0.91) ( P < 0.001). Compared to the gold standard, the overall accuracy of the algorithm was 85.9%, the sensitivity was 81.4%, and the specificity was 90.4%. The algorithm for heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and body temperature had an accuracy of 68.2%, and the accuracy of the algorithm including cough sound was 82.6%.

Conclusion

Our wearable system facilitated the detection of risk of PI. Multi-source features were useful for enhancing the performance of the lung infection screening algorithm.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry of the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform of the World Health Organization ChiCTR2100050843; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj = 126556
Social networks in China: A thematic review of guanxi scholarship in the past decade
Authors: Li Xiaoguang , Bian Yanjie
Published: October 2024

This paper is a thematic review of the theoretical analysis and empirical research carried out by sociologists about guanxi networks in the past decade. Among other topics of sociological interest, the authors have chosen to focus on five aspects of guanxi networks in China: diverse theoretical approaches, changing trends, causal inference, positive and negative effects, and relationally altered social stratification. In each of these aspects, the authors synthesize the main points and conclusions of both Chinese- and English-language publications, while providing a concise discussion on the directions of future research of sociological significance and highlighting potential avenues for further exploration in the field.
Outcomes and Risk Factors for Morbidity and Mortality of Systemic-to-Pulmonary Shunts in a Tertiary Hospital in Thailand
Authors: Kadeetham Khunthorn , Samankatiwat Piya
Published: October 2024

Objectives

A systemic-to-pulmonary shunt is the palliation of choice for many children with cyanotic congenital heart disease. However, significant morbidity and mortality related to these procedures and the postoperative course still exists. We aim to report our outcomes of systemic-to-pulmonary shunts as well as to define certain risk factors for adverse events.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively collected data from the electronic medical records of Ramathibodi hospital from January 01, 2013, to April 30, 2024. Demographic data, operative, and postoperative details were collected and reviewed. Inclusion criteria included patients whose primary operation was a systemic-to-pulmonary shunt. Exclusion criteria were patients diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and whose medical record data were missing significant information.

Results

There were initially 56 patients eligible for our study. After exclusion, the total number of patients enrolled was 42. Overall the results were excellent, with only one operative mortality, no discharge mortality, and four reinterventions. Outcomes between different shunt types, shunt sizes, surgical approaches, and diagnoses were statistically similar.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that systemic-to-pulmonary shunts are a safe and reliable procedure based on our results at a tertiary hospital in Thailand. We emphasize meticulous surgical techniques as well as utilization of proper and reproducible postoperative care protocols to optimize patient outcomes.
Transparency Uncorked: Leveraging Blockchain to Tackle International Wine Fraud
Authors: Gopalakrishna Pillai Souji , Ngcobo-Onunkwo Patience , Al Rooq Yousef
Published: October 2024

This multiple case study unveils the global wine fraud challenge through five hypothetical cases, exposing the impact of consumption and collector fraud on the industry’s reputation and financial losses. This case study prioritizes technological solutions to effectively mitigate wine fraud. Delving into current limitations, it scrutinizes whether blockchain, with its decentralized, tamper-proof ledger, can be a game-changer. The integration of RFID, NFC, QR codes, and IoT into blockchain fortifies security and enhances traceability. The study highlights how adopting blockchain in the wine industry could initiate a paradigm shift, promoting integrity, transparency, and renewed consumer trust.
Mediterranean Diet adherence, physical activity level, and quality of life in patients affected by thyroid diseases: Comparison between pre- and post-lockdown assessment
Authors: Corrias Silvia , Fosci Michele , Galletta Maura , Boi Francesco , Baghino Germana , Oppo Alessandro , Pigliaru Francesca , Melis Marietta , Rodia Rossella , Pani Angelo , Piras Carolina , Deledda Andrea , Puglia Lorenzo , Loviselli Andrea , Velluzzi Fernanda
Published: October 2024

Background:

SARS-CoV-2 pandemic resulted in lifestyle change of world’s population because of the measures adopted by governments to contain the virus spread.

Design and Methods:

This study examined whether lockdown impacted anthropometric indices, Mediterranean Diet (MD) adherence, Physical Activity Level (PAL), and Quality of Life (SF-12) in a cohort of 116 patients (96 F, aged 57.2 ± 13.1 years) affected by thyroid disorders. Before lockdown, data were collected during the endocrinological examination; after lockdown they were collected through a tele-phone interview (via video call).

Results:

Data revealed an overweight condition in 59% of patients, with no significant differences between the two observations (BMI values: 26.5 ± 4.9 vs 26.6 ± 4.9 kg/m2), whereas waist circumference values significantly increased over time (93.3 ± 12.6 vs 94.4 ± 12.5 cm; p = 0.003). Moreover, a lower adherence to the MD (PREDIMED score: 7.3 ± 1.8 vs 7.0 ± 1.8; p = 0.003) and a significant increase of sitting time (6.4 ± 3.2 h/die vs 9.0 ± 4.2; p < 0.001) were observed. A not significant decrease in PAL, which revealed a sedentary condition in pre- and post-lockdown (648 and 562 METs/week respectively), was found. The SF-12 score did not show relevant changes between the two observations.

Conclusion:

Our study highlights that patients with thyroid diseases are often sedentary and exhibit a high prevalence of over-weight, underscoring the need for a systematic anthropometric evaluation and, at times, lifestyle interventions.
Low Preoperative Albumin Levels Significantly Associated with Increased Risk of Wound Infection and Bleeding After Panniculectomy
Authors: Griffin Fiona S. , Stead Thor S. , Zeyl Victoria G. , Mehrzad Raman , King Victor A. , Kalliainen Loree K.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Panniculectomy is recognized to have a high complication rate with up to 56% of patients having postoperative wound healing problems. As they are generally elective procedures, surgeons have the chance to optimize preoperative variables. We reviewed the relationship between preoperative serum albumin and BMI with short-term postoperative panniculectomy complications. Methods: Patients undergoing panniculectomy between January 2005 and December 2019 were identified via CPT code 15830 from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP). Multivariate logistic regression was performed on intra/postoperative bleeding and postoperative wound infection against preoperative serum albumin, diabetes status, age, body mass index (BMI), and smoking status. Odds ratios were adjusted for comorbidities. We established statistical significance at p value <0.01. Results: Out of 1472 patients, 69 sustained intra/postoperative bleeding and 31 suffered wound infection. Lower preoperative albumin levels (R2 = 16.3%, p < 0.0001) and elevated BMI (R2 = 9.4%, p < 0.0001) were both significantly associated with increased likelihood of wound infection. For every 1 g/dL decrease in albumin, patients’ odds of bleeding increased 1.85 (OR = 1.85, CI 95%= [1.14–2.99]) times, and odds of wound infection increased 5.03 (OR = 5.03, CI 95%= [2.78–9.10]) times (p < 0.0001). BMI and albumin were weakly correlated (r = -0.28) suggesting each had independent effects on complications. Conclusion: In patients undergoing panniculectomy, preoperative albumin level is significantly inversely associated with postoperative bleeding and wound complications. More research is needed to evaluate whether proactively optimizing albumin may reduce complications.
Music Therapy for Pain and Anxiety Reduction in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Procedures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol
Authors: Miller Megan S. , Rath Caroline D. , Moeschle Sarah G. , Hargrove Teresa , Cho Alina , Chen Peng , Six-Means Amy
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Many children undergo invasive and noninvasive procedures in the pediatric medical setting, which can be associated with pain and anxiety. Both pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions are currently being used to minimize pain and anxiety in pediatric patients in the medical setting. Music therapy is an evidence-based, cost-effective, and nonpharmacological service administered by a board-certified music therapist which may reduce pediatric pain and anxiety during procedures. We will undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis that will comprehensively analyze the quantitative publications that detail the effects of music therapy on pediatric pain and anxiety for patients undergoing invasive or noninvasive medical procedures. Method: This protocol is reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) statement and is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (Prospero; CRD42023474635 ). A three-step, iterative search strategy will include (1) an initial scoping search, (2) development and execution of a comprehensive search strategy, and (3) a search for additional publications. Procedures for disagreements among reviewers and the article screening process are outlined. Statistical analyses including analysis of outcomes and sensitivity analysis has been determined. A plan for critical appraisal of sources using the Grading Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) and quality of evidence using the Outcome Reporting Bias in Trials (ORBIT) of evidence is also present in this protocol. Conclusion: This protocol is presented with the intention to execute and publish results of this systematic review and meta-analysis to help inform clinical practice and future research.
Synthesis and Application of Dendritic Waterborne Polyurethane with Long Alkyl Chains and Silicone Chains as a Fluorine-Free Water Repellent
Authors: Zhao Chengang , Zhu Yuwen , Li Rong
Published: October 2024

With environmental and health issues being raised, researchers have shifted their study from fluorinated to fluorine-free waterproof agents. However, most of the reported fluorine-free water repellents exhibit a significant drawback in their poor stability and durability of water repellency. In addition, the use of higher concentrations in these repellents results in the fabric becoming stiff, which negatively impacts the hand of the treated fabrics. To address these issues, dendrimer-like waterborne polyurethane prepolymers were initially synthesized using isophorone diisocyanate, polytetrahydrofuran, N-methyldiethanolamine, and trimethylolpropane as the primary materials. In this synthesis, sorbitan tristearate served as the dendrimer-like blocking agent, while single-ended bis-hydroxypropyl silicone oil was employed as functional monomers to enhance the hand and water repellency of the prepolymers. Then, dendrimer-like waterborne polyurethane was finished on the cotton fabric using a pad–dry–cure procedure. The test results showed that the water contact angle of dendrimer-like waterborne polyurethane film increased from 104.28° to 107.00° with the content of single-ended bis-hydroxypropyl silicone oil increasing, and the water contact angle of dendrimer-like waterborne polyurethane-finished fabrics reached 148.6° alone with a standard spray test rating of 90–95. In addition, the water contact angle of dendrimer-like waterborne polyurethane-finished fabrics was still greater than 140° even after five standard washes. The single-ended bis-hydroxypropyl silicone oil addition facilitated similar hand to the original fabric in dendrimer-like waterborne polyurethane-finished fabrics with high concentrations, surpassing market water repellents. This work is of great significance for improving the stability and durability of water repellency, and the hand of waterborne polyurethane fluorine-free water repellents in the textile industry.
An analytical approach for evaluation of conveyor exit strategies in open-pit mines
Authors: Paricheh Morteza , Osanloo Morteza , Rahmanpour Mehdi
Published: October 2024

Transportation is the most expensive task in deep open-pit mining operations. An In-Pit Crushing and Conveying (IPCC) system, as an alternative to the conventional shovel-truck system, requires precise planning to avoid wasting high capital expenditures on trucks. The decision to fit a conveyor system into the pit design is challenging and needs to be addressed in the literature. Further optimisation of the IPCC system requires choosing an appropriate conveyor exit strategy. Conveyor exit schemes include a Dedicated Ramp Slot (DRS), an Existing Ramping System, an inclined tunnel and High-Angle Conveyors (HAC). This paper provides an analytical approach to compare the cost of different conveyor exit strategies in open-pit mines. The results indicate that for a depth up to 100 m, the Present Value of Cost (PVC) for the DRS is the least. For the cases deeper than 300 m, the HAC has the least PVC. Sensitivity analysis showed that for the depths between 100 and 300 m, a more accurate and detailed definition of parameters is needed. Besides, in most cases, the HAC provides the lowest payback period and the highest internal rate of return among the alternatives.
From men's violence to an ethic of care: Ecofeminist contributions to green criminology
Authors: Burrell Stephen R , Pedersen Cassie
Published: October 2024

Green criminology has made important contributions to criminological inquiry by highlighting the destructive impact of humans on the more-than-human world. However, it often adopts a gender-neutral lens that overlooks the disproportionate role of men and masculinities in perpetrating green harms. This paper places green criminology into critical dialogue with ecofeminism, arguing that harms against the environment and nonhuman animals are inextricably gendered and should be understood as interconnected forms of men's violence. Ecofeminist insights reveal that violence against the more-than-human world is rooted in hierarchical dualisms, whereby humans are placed separate from and above nature, and the masculine is defined as superior to the feminine. This hierarchical logic enables men to view others in detached, instrumental ways and serves to legitimise acts of men's violence. But just as ecofeminism provides green criminologists with a productive framework for understanding men's violence against the environment and nonhuman animals, it also provides a means of moving beyond this violence. It does this by advocating for an ethic of care that unravels hierarchical modes of thinking and promotes more harmonious relationships between humans and the more-than-human world. By building caring, egalitarian relationships with other living beings (and with their own emotional selves), it is harder for men to act in violent, dominating ways towards others, providing the foundation for more sustainable, interdependent ways of being.
Sleep, dietary intake and physical activity changes with onset of shift work in intern paramedics
Authors: Crowther Meagan E. , Ferguson Sally A. , Adams Robert J. , Reynolds Amy C.
Published: October 2024

Paramedic work is associated with high staff turn-over, insufficient sleep and adverse health outcomes. Our understanding of the relationship between paramedic work and the health behaviours that may precede adverse health outcomes is limited, as few longitudinal studies have examined health behaviours in workers before they commence on the road work. Such research is needed to inform evidence-based recommendations specifically for new paramedics. The current observational cohort study examined self-reported sleep, dietary intake and physical activity in 21 intern paramedics: 15 female and 6 male (median age: 23.0 years [interquartile range (IQR): 4.0]) from an Australian ambulance service. A subset of participants ( n = 16) provided fasting blood samples for cardiometabolic markers (cholesterol, triglycerides and fasting glucose). Data were collected quarterly (pre-shift work, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months and 12 months post commencement). Linear mixed models showed that the first 12 months of shift work were associated with poorer sleep quality ( p = .036), consumption of fewer kilojoules ( p = .026), reduced saturated fat consumption ( p = .005) and lower sodium ( p = .043) and sugar ( p = .038) intake. There were significant increases in leisure time physical activity ( p = .008). This study shows negative changes in sleep quality and improvements in diet and leisure time physical activity during the first 12 months of paramedic work. Individual differences observed in this study, and ongoing suboptimal dietary intake, highlight a need for larger studies with more participants and a focus on personalised strategies for new recruit paramedics.
Single-screw extrusion performance for LLDPE resin as a function of compression ratio
Authors: Jin Lin , Spalding Mark A. , Chaudhary Amit K. , Ayala Marcos , Kodjie Stephen L.
Published: October 2024

High-quality polyethylene film and sheet must be free of solid polymer fragments and degraded resin. Moreover, the products must be produced at high rates to minimize conversion costs. Thus, the extruder must produce a homogenous extrudate at the proper discharge temperature and pressure. The screw design and process operating parameters are key. A key screw design parameter is the compression ratio. This paper experimentally studies how the compression ratio affects a linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) resin extrusion process. A 2.8 compression ratio screw was optimal for LLDPE resin. Significant solid polymer fragments were observed in the extrudate for 2.8 to 3.6 compression ratio screws at 110 rpm and higher. For 2.0 and 2.4 compression ratio screws at less than 50 rpm, the internal pressures in the extruder were relatively low. At screw speeds 50 rpm and higher, the specific rates for all screws were higher than the calculated specific rotational rate, creating negative axial pressure gradients in the metering sections.
Risk factor analysis and prediction model construction for contralateral central lymph node metastasis in unilateral papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Qin Jihao , Fang Xiaowen , Liang Chenxi , Li Siyu , Zeng Xueyu , Jiang Hancheng , Chen Zhu , Li Jie-Hua
Published: October 2024

Objective

To investigate contralateral central lymph node metastasis (CCLNM) in patients with unilateral papillary thyroid carcinoma (UPTC). To provide a reference for clinical decision-making, a prediction model for the probability of CCLNM was established.

Method

The clinicopathological data of 221 UPTC patients who underwent surgical treatment were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the independent risk factors for CCLNM according to clinicopathological characteristics, construct a prediction model to construct a visual nomogram, and evaluate the model.

Results

According to univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, sex (P = 0.01, OR: 3.790, 95% CI: 1.373–10.465), extrathyroidal tumor extension (ETE) (P = 0.040, OR: 6.364, 95% CI: 1.083–37.381), tumor diameter (P = 0.010, OR: 3.674, 95% CI: 1.372–9.839) and ipsilateral central lymph node metastasis (ICLNM) (P < 0.001, OR: 38.552, 95% CI: 2.675–27.342) were found to be independent risk factors for CCLNM and were used to construct a nomogram for internal verification. The ROC curve had an AUC of 0.852 in the training group and an AUC of 0.848 in the verification group, and the calibration curve indicated that the prediction probability of the model was consistent with the actual probability. Finally, the analysis of the decision curve showed that the model has good application value in clinical decision-making.

Conclusion

Sex, ETE, tumor size, and ICLNM emerged as independent risk factors for CCLNM in UPTC patients. A predictive model was therefore developed, harnessing these variables to enable an objective, personalized estimation of CCLNM risk. This tool offers valuable insights to inform surgical planning and optimize treatment strategies for UPTC management.
Simulating the methodological bias in the ATLS classification of hypovolemic shock: a critical reappraisal of the base deficit renaissance
Authors: Heldeweg M. L. A. , Heldeweg T. T. R. , Stohlmann J. A. H. , Freire Jorge P. , Boer R. , Schwarte L. A. , Schober P.
Published: October 2024

Background

The Advanced Trauma Life Support classification (ATLS) of hypovolemic shock is a widely used teaching and treatment reference in emergency medicine, but oversimplifies clinical reality. A decade ago, a landmark study compared vital parameters to base deficit (BD) in trauma patients. The investigators concluded that BD had higher accuracy to detect the need for early blood product administration. BD was subsequently introduced in the ATLS shock classification and has since been widely accepted as a laboratory standard for hypovolemia. The aim of this study is to investigate whether a methodological bias may have inadvertently contributed to the study’s results and interpretation.

Methods

In the current study, we replicate the original study by simulating a cohort of trauma patients with randomly generated data and applying the same methodological strategies. First, a predefined correlation between all predictor variables (vital parameters and BD) and outcome variable (transfusion) was set at 0.55. Then, in accordance with the methods of the original study we created a composite of ATLS parameters (highest class amongst heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and Glasgow Coma Scale) and compared it with BD for resulting transfusion quantity. Given the preset correlations between predictors and outcome, no predictor should exhibit a stronger association unless influenced by methodological bias.

Results

Applying the original imbalanced grouping and composite allocation strategies caused a systematic overestimation of shock class for traditional ATLS parameters, favoring the association between BD and transfusion. This effect persisted when the correlation between BD and transfusion was set substantially worse (rho = 0.3) than the correlation between ATLS parameters and transfusion (rho = 0.8).

Conclusions

In this fully reproducible simulation, we confirm the inadvertent presence of methodological bias. It is physiologically reasonable to include a metabolic parameter to classify hypovolemic shock, but more evidence is needed to support widespread and preferred use of BD.
A smartphone app for preschool wheezing and reliability of medical history collection
Authors: Ullmann Nicola , Fracchiolla Adriana , Boni Alessandra , Negro Valentina , Porcaro Federica , Di Marco Antonio , Tripodi Salvatore , Cutrera Renato
Published: October 2024

Background

The use of mobile applications helps improving self-management in adolescents with asthma. However, no evidence is available for children with preschool wheezing. In addition, we have no data on the reliability of medical history collected at visits. The first aim was to assess the feasibility of a smartphone app in the management of preschool wheezing; secondly we aimed to evaluate the reliability of anamnestic data collected during face-to-face medical interviews.

Methods

Children with recurrent wheezing, age between 25 and 72 months, were randomly assigned to the intervention group, provided with a smartphone app for symptoms monitoring and asthma attack treatment, or to the control group, with a written action plan. At follow-up medical history was collected and the asthma control test and a clinical questionnaire were completed. App acceptability was also explored. Respiratory symptoms, medication and utilization of healthcare resources were collected. Plus, medical information obtained from the paper questionnaires was compared with data daily recorded by the app.

Results

We enrolled 85 preschool children with recurrent wheezing: 43 assigned to the intervention and 42 to the control group. The average (SD) adherence to e-Diary compilation was 60 (15)%. The acceptance and usability of the intervention was favorable as 70% and 93% of participants in the intervention arm described the app as ‘’simple and intuitive’’ at Visit1 (after 3 months from enrollement) and Visit2 (3 months later than Visit1), respectively and 95% and 98% found it useful in symptoms management. There were no significant differences between the two groups in clinical outcomes. At Visit1, the cACT median score (IQR) was 23,5 (21–25) for the control group (42 patients) and 23 (21–24) for the intervention group (43 patients). At Visit2 (41 controls and 42 in the intervention group) it was 25 (24–25) and 24 (24–25), respectively. Secondary analysis of data from the intervention group showed higher incidence of daily symptoms recorded by the app in comparison with the paper questionnaire, suggesting that collection of retrospective medical history may not be completely reliable.

Conclusions

The smartphone app is usable and acceptable by families of preschool wheezers. Future controlled trial are needed to prove an impact on clinical outcomes or its efficacy in a telemedicine program. Finally a daily questionnaire could provide physicians with a more reliable clinical picture as reflected better daily asthma symptoms than the written retrospective questionnaire filled at clinical visit.
Estimation of Vs30 and site classification of Bhaktapur district, Nepal using microtremor array measurement
Authors: Prajapati Roshan , Dhonju Salim , Bijukchhen Subeg Man , Shigefuji Michiko , Takai Nobuo
Published: October 2024

The severe damage observed in the Kathmandu Basin, Nepal, during past earthquakes necessitates a thorough study of the seismic behavior of the basin sediments. As the shear-wave velocity is directly related to the elastic shear modulus of the material, it is essential to determine it to incorporate the behavior of the soil in the design of the structure. Hence, we determined average shear-wave velocity in upper 30 m (Vs30) of soil in Bhaktapur district in the eastern part of the Kathmandu Basin at 73 observation points, employing two methods involving the use of non-invasive microtremor array measurements (MAMs). These MAMs are widely used for determining subsurface soil characteristics by analyzing the ambient vibrations of the ground. The first method involves inversion using a genetic algorithm, and the second is a method for obtaining Vs30 directly from the dispersion curve. We found that Vs30 in the southeastern part of the study area was higher than that in other parts. Conversely, Vs30 in the western region was lower. The calculated Vs30 values were used to classify the sites. The elevated eastern and southeastern areas with high Vs30 were categorized as dense soil or soft rock, whereas the areas with low Vs30 that had suffered significant damage during the 2015 Gorkha earthquake were classified as soft soil sites.

Graphical Abstract