bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis and opportunities for vaccination against hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B virus and human papillomavirus: an analysis of the Ontario PrEP cohort study
Authors: McGarrity Matthew W , Lisk Ryan , MacPherson Paul , Knox David , Woodward Kevin S , Reinhart Jeffrey , MacLeod John , Bogoch Isaac I , Clatworthy Deanna , Biondi Mia J , Sullivan Sean T , Li Alan T W , Durrant Garfield , Schonbe Andrew , Ongoiba Fanta , Raboud Janet , Burchell Ann N , Tan Darrell H S
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Populations who seek HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) are disproportionately affected by hepatitis A virus (HAV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human papillomavirus (HPV). We examined immunity/vaccination against these infections among participants in the Ontario PrEP cohort study (ON-PrEP).

Methods

ON-PrEP is a prospective cohort of HIV-negative PrEP users from 10 Ontario clinics. We descriptively analysed baseline immunity/vaccination against HAV (IgG reactive), HBV (hepatitis B surface antibody >10) and HPV (self-reported three-dose vaccination). We further performed multivariable logistic regression to identify characteristics associated with baseline immunity/vaccination. We used cumulative incidence functions to describe vaccine uptake among participants non-immune at baseline.

Results

Of 633 eligible participants, 59.1% were white, 85.8% were male and 79.6% were gay. We found baseline evidence of immunity/vaccination against HAV, HBV and HPV in 69.2%, 81.2% and 16.8% of PrEP-experienced participants and 58.9%, 70.3% and 10.4% of PrEP-naïve participants, respectively. Characteristics associated with baseline HAV immunity were greater PrEP duration (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.41/year, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.84), frequent sexually transmitted and bloodborne infection (STBBI) testing (aOR 2.38, 95% CI 1.15 to 4.92) and HBV immunity (aOR 3.53, 95% CI 2.09 to 5.98). Characteristics associated with baseline HBV immunity were living in Toronto (aOR 3.54, 95% CI 1.87 to 6.70) or Ottawa (aOR 2.76, 95% CI 1.41 to 5.40), self-identifying as racialised (aOR 2.23, 95% CI 1.19 to 4.18), greater PrEP duration (aOR 1.39/year, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.90) and HAV immunity (aOR 3.75, 95% CI 2.19 to 6.41). Characteristics associated with baseline HPV vaccination were being aged ≤26 years (aOR 9.28, 95% CI 2.11 to 40.77), annual income between CAD$60 000 and CAD$119 000 (aOR 3.42, 95% CI 1.40 to 8.34), frequent STBBI testing (aOR 7.00, 95% CI 1.38 to 35.46) and HAV immunity (aOR 6.96, 95% CI 2.00 to 24.25). Among those non-immune at baseline, overall cumulative probability of immunity/vaccination was 0.70, 0.60 and 0.53 among PrEP-experienced participants and 0.93, 0.80 and 0.70 among PrEP-naïve participants for HAV, HBV and HPV, respectively.

Conclusions

Baseline immunity to HAV/HBV was common, and a sizeable proportion of non-immune participants were vaccinated during follow-up. However, HPV vaccination was uncommon. Continued efforts should be made to remove barriers to HPV vaccination such as cost, inclusion in clinical guidelines and provider recommendation.
Global solvability in a three-dimensional self-consistent chemotaxis-Navier–Stokes system with porous medium diffusion
Authors: Liu Chao , Liu Bin
Published: June 2024

This paper mainly deals with a self-consistent chemotaxis-Navier–Stokes system with porous medium diffusion in a three-dimensional (3D) bounded and smooth domain. The novelty here is that both the effect of gravity (potential force) on cells and the effect of the chemotactic force on fluid are considered, which leads to stronger coupling than the usual chemotaxis-fluid model studied in most existing literatures. It is proved that for any suitably regular initial data, the associated no-flux/no-flux/Dirichlet problem possesses at least one global weak solution or global very weak solution. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first result on the global solvability of the 3D self-consistent chemotaxis-Navier–Stokes system with porous medium diffusion. Our results inter alia provide a more in-depth understanding on the chemotaxis-Navier–Stokes system, and significantly improve previously known ones.
Valuations on power series rings in an arbitrary set of indeterminates
Authors: Toan Phan Thanh , Tri Pham Thanh , Vo Thieu N.
Published: June 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be an integral domain and [Formula: see text] be a nonempty (either finite or infinite) set of indeterminates over [Formula: see text]. There are three types of power series rings in the set [Formula: see text] over [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], respectively. In general, [Formula: see text] and the two containments can be strict. In this paper, we show that if [Formula: see text] is a rank one valuation domain with valuation [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] defined by [Formula: see text] is a valuation on [Formula: see text]. Moreover, [Formula: see text] is a prime ideal of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is the valuation domain associated with [Formula: see text]. We also show that, for [Formula: see text], if [Formula: see text] is a valuation domain, then both [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are DVRs. Our results generalize those by Arnold and Brewer in which [Formula: see text] has a single indeterminate. In proving the results, we show that for each [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is completely integrally closed if and only if [Formula: see text] is completely integrally closed.
Study on the Key Parameters Affecting the Power Conversion Efficiency of Cs2AgBiBr6-Based Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Shao Mingyan , Liu Chang , Zhou Lulu , Xia Yuhong , Wang Fei , Shipachev A. M. , Lv Yuzhuo , Liu Yanbing , Lin Chundan , Yang Zhenqing , Aleksander Palaev
Published: June 2024

The lead-free halide double perovskite material A2BB’X6 represented by Cs2AgBiBr6, has higher potential as a photovoltaic material since it has good electronic and optical properties in recent years. However, the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) achieved for solar cells made with Cs2AgBiBr6 as the light-absorbing layer in experiments is only 2.51%. To investigate this phenomenon, we used the Solar Cell Capacitance Simulator (SCAPS) simulation software to build five solar cell models with the structure of FTO/ZnO/Light-absorbing layer/Cu2O/Au based on different light-absorption layer materials. Two reasons causing the low PCE of Cs2AgBiBr6 solar cells were identified. On the one hand, interlayer defects in Cs2AgBiBr6 film synthesis significantly decreased the fill factor (FF), thereby reducing the quantum efficiency (QE). On the other hand, Cs2AgBiBr6’s larger indirect bandgap resulted in a narrower absorption range. Additionally, it was demonstrated that adjusting the material thickness and alloying method could, respectively, improve the two aforementioned issues. When the thickness of the light-absorbing layer material was 300[Formula: see text]nm, the FF increased from 39.88% to 55.01%, resulting in an optimal PCE of 3.88% for the solar cell. Alloying increased the short-circuit current ([Formula: see text]) from 8.44[Formula: see text]mA/cm2 to 21.24[Formula: see text]mA/cm2, leading to a simulated PCE increase of 8.92% for solar cells based on Cs2NaSb[Formula: see text]In[Formula: see text]I6. This work, from the perspective of device simulation, is highly significant for improving the photoelectric conversion efficiency of Cs2AgBiBr6-based perovskite solar cells in experimental settings. It offers new insights for optimizing solar cell efficiency.
Ag–CdS-Coated Cladding-Modified Fiber-Optic Sensor for Detection of NO2 Gas
Authors: Cameron Theoderaj Aaron Kevin , Davis Jacob I. , Chitra M.
Published: June 2024

In this study, a cladding-modified fiber-optic sensor is reported for NO2 gas detection. Monitoring the purity of air is the need of the hour, with the growing technologies. Hence, in this work, Ag-doped CdS is coated over the cladding-removed region of 3[Formula: see text]cm length by Chemical Bath Deposition (CBD) which acts as the gas-sensing medium. Ag–CdS is coated over four fibers each with a different coating duration of 10[Formula: see text]min, 20[Formula: see text]min, 30[Formula: see text]min and 40[Formula: see text]min. Characterization of Ag–CdS is done by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), UV-visible absorption spectroscopy and UV-visible reflectance spectroscopy. The spectral response for different concentrations of NO2 is studied on the four fibers separately, and it is analyzed and compared. The minimum detection limit is 100[Formula: see text]ppm and the response time is 10[Formula: see text]min. Out of the four fibers, Ag–CdS-30 exhibited the best response with a sensitivity of 15.5%. The results are compared with cladding-modified fiber coated with CdS, which was reported previously. The effect of Ag-doping is analyzed.
Mixed Convection Over an Exponentially Stretching Surface with the Effect of Radiation and Reaction
Authors: Sangamesh  , Vinod Y. , Waqas Hassan , Raghunatha K. R. , Nagappanavar Suma Nagendrappa
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the mixed convection on a vertically oriented exponentially stretching surface, considering the exponential distributions of velocity, concentration and temperature. The governing highly nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) are transmuted into highly nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by considering appropriate similarity variables. The highly nonlinear differential equations are solved numerically using the Hermite wavelet method (HWM) in MATHEMATICA 12. The obtained results show excellent agreement with previous studies focusing on different special cases of the problem. A parametric analysis of the physical parameters is shown and illustrative numerical results are presented graphically. The analysis incorporates the radiation, chemical reaction and cross-diffusion effects. The interaction between radiation and chemical reaction is particularly relevant in high-temperature systems, such as combustion, industrial furnaces, photochemistry, polymerization and certain chemical reactions. The results indicate that an increase in radiation enhances the temperature profile in the momentum boundary layer. Higher reaction rate values lead to a decrease in the concentration profile, while an increase in the Dufour value results in increased velocity and temperature and decreased concentration.
Development of a Cu@ERGO-p(L-Lys) Modified GCE Electrochemical Sensor for the Simultaneous Detection of Ascorbic Acid, Dopamine, and Uric Acid
Authors: Atış Hatice Ekin , Turan Kübra , Aydoğdu Tığ Gözde
Published: June 2024

In this work, a sensitive sensing platform was developed using a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) to simultaneously determine AA, DA, and UA. Cu nanostructures, the poly-L-Lysine (p(L-Lys)), and the electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) modified GCE (GCE/Cu@ERGO-p(L-Lys)) was developed via the electrodeposition of Cu and electropolymerization of the ERGO-p(L-Lys). Simultaneous detection makes analysis more efficient and cost-effective by reducing the need for multiple sensors. The GCE/Cu@ERGO-p(L-Lys) was characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and scanning electron microscopy. The limit of detection values for AA, DA, and UA analytes were 0.16, 0.033, and 0.021 μM, respectively, while the linear ranges were 0.53–50.0, 0.11–100.0, and 0.070–0.75 μM. The proposed sensor was found to be applicable for the determination of target analytes in fetal bovine serum samples. The proposed GCE/Cu@ERGO-p(L-Lys) hybrid composite modified electrode is a promising material for simultaneous determination in biological fluids with excellent analytical performance and anti-interference effect.
Construction of rGO and GSH Electrochemical Sensor by Electrodeposition for Naringenin Sensing
Authors: Hu Hui-Ting , Xu Jiang-Tao , Li Bing-Lun , Han Guo-Cheng , Feng Xiao-Zhen , Kraatz Heinz-Bernhard
Published: June 2024

Naringenin (NRG), a flavanone compound present in citrus fruits, has a variety of beneficial physiological active functions such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hypoglycaemic. In this study, an sensor was constructed by electrodeposition and used for the electrochemical study of NRG. Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and glutathione (GSH) showed the ability to synergistically amplify NRG signals and possessed good linearity in the concentration range of 10.00–1200.00 μmol l−1. The linear equation is Ip = 0.0776logc + 0.9353 (R2 = 0.9901), and the limit of detection is 3.33 μmol l−1. The sensor performed well in terms of reproducibility, stability, and selectivity, which in turn enabled the detection of NRG in tomatoes. The average recovery of the sensor is 95.68% to 111.92%, with RSD less than 11.89%. The results were also verified by Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy(UV-vis). Furthermore, density-functional theory was employed to analyse the front track of the NRG, speculating that the NRG underwent a transfer of two electrons and two protons.
Evaluation of Solubility, and Volumetric and Morphological Alterations of Bioceramic Filling Material for Primary Teeth: A New Methodological Approach
Authors: Ochoa-Rodríguez Víctor M. , Coaguila-Llerena Hernán , Fernandes Leandro , B. Solcia Ana B. , Guerreiro-Tanomaru Juliane M. , Tanomaru-Filho Mário , Faria Gisele
Published: June 2024

Objective. To evaluate the solubility and the volumetric and morphological alterations of bioceramic filling material (Bio‐CP) for primary teeth. Materials and Methods. Bio‐CP, Calen thickened with zinc oxide (Calen‐ZO), and with zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) were placed in 1‐ or 2‐mm‐diameter polyethylene tubes and immersed in water or phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) for 30 days. The solubility (mass loss) was assessed using methodology modified from ISO 6876. Filling capacity, volumetric changes, and presence of voids were assessed by microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT). The surface distribution of the chemical elements and the crystalline phases was evaluated by energy scattering X‐ray scanning electron microscopy (SEM‐EDX) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) to detect hydroxyapatite precipitate and components. The Shapiro–Wilk, Kruskal–Wallis, and Dunn’s or two‐way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test were used (α = 0.05). Results. The solubility was ZOE > Calen‐ZO = Bio‐CP. Calen‐ZO and Bio‐CP were more soluble in water than in PBS. All the materials showed greater solubility in 2‐mm tube diameter in both PBS and distilled water, except for Bio‐CP in distilled water, which showed no difference between both tube diameters (1 and 2 mm). Only Calen‐ZO and ZOE were analyzed by micro‐CT, because Bio‐CP separated into two phases during scanning. Calen‐ZO had greater volumetric loss and presence of voids than ZOE in water, but there was no difference in PBS. The hydroxyapatite precipitate on the surface of Bio‐CP and Calen‐ZO was detected after immersion in PBS. Conclusion. Although Bio‐CP had acceptable solubility and filling capacity, its composition did not allow a proper volumetric and void assessment. From a clinical perspective, Bio‐CP has the potential to become a suitable material for root canal filling in primary teeth. Nonetheless, its composition must first be revised to achieve better chemical stability prior to its recommendation.
Patterns of health service use for children with mental disorders in an Australian state population cohort
Authors: Watkeys Oliver J , O’Hare Kirstie , Dean Kimberlie , Laurens Kristin R , Tzoumakis Stacy , Harris MAClinEpi Felicity , Carr Vaughan J , Green Melissa J
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

The rate of mental health services provided to children and young people is increasing worldwide, including in Australia. The aim of this study was to describe patterns of hospital and ambulatory mental health service use among a large population cohort of adolescents followed from birth, with consideration of variation by age, sex and diagnosis.

Methods:

Characteristics of services provided for children with mental disorder diagnoses between birth and age 17.5 years were ascertained for a population cohort of 85,642 children (52.0% male) born between 2002 and 2005, from ‘Admitted Patients’, ‘Emergency Department’ and ‘Mental Health Ambulatory’ records provided by the New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory Health Departments.

Results:

A total of 11,205 (~13.1%) children received at least one hospital or ambulatory health occasion of service for a mental health condition in the observation period. More than two-fifths of children with mental disorders had diagnoses spanning multiple categories of disorder over time. Ambulatory services were the most heavily used and the most common point of first contact. The rate of mental health service contact increased with age across all services, and for most categories of mental disorder. Girls were more likely to receive services for mental disorders than boys, but boys generally had an earlier age of first service contact. Finally, 3.1% of children presenting to mental health services experienced involuntary psychiatric inpatient admission.

Conclusions:

The extent of hospital and ambulatory-based mental healthcare service among children emphasises the need for primary prevention and early intervention.
A Note on Evaluation of Polytomous Item Locations With the Rating Scale Model and Testing Its Fit
Authors: Raykov Tenko , Pusic Martin
Published: June 2024

A procedure is outlined for point and interval estimation of location parameters associated with polytomous items, or raters assessing studied subjects or cases, which follow the rating scale model. The method is developed within the framework of latent variable modeling, and is readily applied in empirical research using popular software. The approach permits testing the goodness of fit of this widely used model, which represents a rather parsimonious item response theory model as a means of description and explanation of an analyzed data set. The procedure allows examination of important aspects of the functioning of measuring instruments with polytomous ordinal items, which may also constitute person assessments furnished by teachers, counselors, judges, raters, or clinicians. The described method is illustrated using an empirical example.
Type VI Collagen Deficiency Causes Enhanced Periodontal Tissue Destruction
Authors: Komori T. , Kram V. , Perry S. , Pham H.T. , Jani P. , Kilts T.M. , Watanabe K. , Kim D.G. , Martin D. , Young M.F.
Published: June 2024

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a fibrillar connective tissue that lies between the alveolar bone and the tooth and is composed of highly specialized extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules and a heterogeneous population of cells that are responsible for collagen formation, immune response, bone formation, and chewing force sensation. Type VI collagen (COL6), a widely distributed ECM molecule, plays a critical role in the structural integrity and mechanical properties of various tissues including muscle, tendon, bone, cartilage, and skin. However, its role in the PDL remains largely unknown. Our study shows that deficiency of COL6 impairs PDL fibrillogenesis and exacerbates tissue destruction in ligature-induced periodontitis (LIP). We found that COL6-deficient mice exhibited increased bone loss and degraded PDL in LIP and that fibroblasts expressing high levels of Col6α2 are pivotal in ECM organization and cell-ECM interactions. Moreover, COL6 deficiency in the PDL led to an increased number of fibroblasts geared toward the inflammatory response. We also observed that cultured COL6-deficient fibroblasts from the PDL exhibited decreased expression of genes related to collagen fiber turnover and ECM organization as well as migration and proliferation. Our findings suggest that COL6 plays a crucial role in the PDL, influencing fibroblast function in fibrillogenesis and affecting the immune response in periodontitis. These insights advance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying PDL maturation and periodontal disease.
The Grief Cycle: Investigating the Influence of Cycling on Grief Outcomes in Individuals who have Experienced a Bereavement
Authors: Williams Jane , Wingfield Harriet , Chater Angel Marie
Published: June 2024

Background

There is a lack of research that investigates the influence of physical activity on grief outcomes. This research aimed to examine the influence of cycling on grief outcomes in individuals who have experienced a bereavement.

Method

Semi-structured interviews with 14 participants ( n = 8 males; age M = 47.5 years) who engaged in cycling behaviour and had experienced a bereavement. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to guide analysis.

Results

Four key themes were generated, providing: an (1) Embodied experience of cycling, within the 2) Cycling community, helping to provide support, alongside the (3) Nature connectedness, which led to 4) Post traumatic growth, following bereavement.

Conclusion

Evidence suggests that cycling can provide an opportunity for a physical challenge, an immense connection to nature and a community of support from likeminded individuals. These therapeutic qualities of cycling should be considered for future interventions and add novel findings to the area of cycling, bereavement and grief.
An Examination of Ecological Factors Predicting Depressed Mood Among Adolescents
Authors: Doty Jennifer , Grajo Nicolette Corley , Fenton Melissa Pearman , Pierre Beatrice F. , Johns Tracy L.
Published: June 2024

From a developmental perspective, the increase in depressive symptoms among adolescents over the past decade is of great concern due to the risk of long-term mental health problems extending into adulthood. Informed by the Multicultural Social Justice Framework, we examined multi-level, ecological risk and protective factors of depressive symptoms among adolescents. Data were leveraged from the Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey ( N = 9,717) to examine adolescent reported depressive symptoms, individual risk-taking, family factors, school engagement and involvement, community disorganization and safety, and district level factors. We stratified by race to examine differential associations between risk and protective factors and depressive symptoms among Asian, Black, and Latinx youth. Results indicate that individual and family risk and family protection were associated with depressive symptoms. School and community factors were directly related and interacted with individual and family factors, particularly among Black and Latinx youth. Findings imply the need to examine both proximal and systemic factors.
Incentives and Operations of Medicaid Managed Care Plans in New York State: Implications for Procurement Design and Market Evolution
Authors: Zewde Naomi , Perez Victoria
Published: June 2024

Several states are considering competitive procurement to help shape Medicaid managed care markets. In New York state, the focus of our study, regulators propose contracts that reward quality improvement and simplify state administration by rewarding plans that operate across several of the state’s 62 counties. This case analysis uses novel regulatory data from New York state, obtained via public records request, to examine incentives underlying Medicaid markets and help inform contracting design. The data report plan enrollment by county and plan spending across administrative activities for all 16 Medicaid plans in New York state for 2018. We examine the counties in which plans operate, profitability, and administrative resource allocation. We compare outcomes by tertile of plan profitability, measured as net income per member-month. Plan profitability ranged widely, with the most profitable plan realizing nearly $30 per member-month while the least profitable 5 plans realized net negative earnings. Operational differences across plan profitability emerged most clearly in administrative spending. The most profitable plans reported greater spending on salaries overall and for executive management, and taxes, while the least profitable plans spent more on operational functions including utilization management/ quality improvement, claims processing, and informational systems. We observe modest differences in county rurality and little in geographic breadth. Procurement design that rewards capacity-building in key administrative functions might impact market evolution, given that on average, highly profitable firms spent less on these activities in New York’s Medicaid managed care market in 2018.
Suicide-Related Outcomes Among Adults in Custody: An Umbrella Review of Systematic Literature Reviews
Authors: Bruno Serena , Andreassi Silvia , Ballarotto Giulia , Carola Valeria , Cimino Silvia , Ciocca Giacomo , Cordella Barbara , Di Trani Michela , Galli Federica , Lai Carlo , Langher Viviana , Limoncin Erika , Tomai Manuela , Velotti Patrizia
Published: June 2024

We conducted a comprehensive umbrella review including all published meta-analyses and systematic reviews on suicide-related outcomes among adults in custody. Eligible studies were searched for in major scientific databases following the PRISMA method up to February 2023. The quality of each study was assessed using the AMSTAR-2 protocol. Twenty studies were included, consisting of 11 meta-analyses and nine systematic reviews. Factors associated with suicide outcomes among individuals in custody were categorized into five domains: clinical status, historical, custodial, criminological, and prevention. However, all systematic studies reported considerable heterogeneity (I2 > 50%–85%). Most systematic literature reviews and/or meta-analyses showed moderate quality based on AMSTAR-2. This umbrella review highlights individual factors (in the clinical status and historical domain), contextual factors (in the custodial and criminological domains), and protective factors (in the prevention domain) to provide a clearer understanding of the prison-related domains involved in the development and maintenance of suicide-related outcomes.
Revisiting Propensity to Serve and Motivations to Enlist: Insights and Implications for Contemporary Military Recruitment Challenges and Research
Authors: Woodruff Todd , Kelty Ryan , Segal David R.
Published: June 2024

As recruitment challenges persist, understanding enlistment motivations remains pivotal in ensuring military readiness and guiding evolving recruitment strategies. This article examines the enduring relevance of the 2006 study “ Propensity to Serve and Motivation to Enlist Among American Combat Soldiers” by Woodruff, Kelty, and Segal and underscores its significance amid contemporary military recruitment challenges. The original article was selected to be profiled as part of the 50th anniversary issue. Building on work by some of the most important names in military sociology, our research underscores the critical importance of understanding the complex interplay of factors influencing enlistment decisions and the effects of declining propensity to serve for all-volunteer militaries. By recognizing the multifaceted nature of enlistment motivations, we emphasize the importance of tailored approaches to attract diverse cohorts of recruits. Our study not only contributes to military sociology and recruiting actions but has also informed policy discussions, stimulated interdisciplinary research, and facilitated the transmission of scholarly knowledge and mentorship to future generations of scholars and leaders.
In Silico Phototoxicity Prediction of Drugs and Chemicals by using Derek Nexus and QSAR Toolbox
Authors: Ahuja Varun , Adiga Perdur Gowrav , Aj Zabiullah , Krishnappa Mohan , Kandarova Helena
Published: June 2024

Phototoxicity testing is crucial for evaluating the potential harmful effects of pharmaceuticals and chemicals on human skin when exposed to sunlight. Traditional in vivo models involving mice, rats, guinea pigs, as well as in vitro assays such as the 3T3 Neutral Red Uptake phototoxicity assay and methods based on the use of reconstructed human epidermis, have been established for phototoxicity testing. While these approaches are extremely valuable, they are costly in terms of both time and resources. Consequently, in silico approaches based on the use of predictive software tools can offer more rapid and cost-effective phototoxicity screening solutions. With this goal in mind, the current study evaluated two in silico tools — Derek Nexus 6.1.0/Derek Knowledge Base 2020 1.0 (Lhasa Limited, UK) and the QSAR Toolbox (v 4.5) developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) — for their capacity to predict the phototoxicity of several substances from diverse classes. Derek Nexus and the QSAR Toolbox were both found to be very useful for predicting the phototoxicity of drugs and other chemicals. Derek Nexus predicted phototoxicity of the compounds, with a sensitivity of 63%, specificity of 93%, Positive Predictive Values of 90% and Negative Predictive Value of 69%, overall accuracy of 77% and balanced accuracy of 78%. The QSAR Toolbox achieved sensitivity of 73%, specificity of 85%, Positive Predictive Value of 85% and Negative Predictive Value of 74%, overall accuracy of 79% and balanced accuracy of 79%. The results show that Derek Nexus and the QSAR Toolbox can be usefully incorporated in the workflow of phototoxicity testing for pharmaceuticals and chemicals.
Amílcar Cabral, Colonial Soil and the Politics of Insubmission
Authors: Carreira da Silva Filipe , Vieira Monica Brito
Published: June 2024

This article discusses the concept of ‘insubmission’. This concept is the cornerstone of Amílcar Cabral’s critical theory. Introduced in his early agronomic writings, it refers to the human species’ refusal to submit to the nature of which we are always a part. The context is the anticolonial critique of traditional European humanism. Insubmission is Cabral’s response to the dehumanizing effects of colonialism and the environmental impact of anthropocentric extractivism that accompanies it. As a linchpin in Cabral’s theoretical framework, insubmission serves to structure and impart meaning to other concepts. Notably, it provides fresh insights into the multifaceted concept of ‘resistance’. Cabral underscores the imperative of combating dehumanization through physical fortitude (physical and armed resistance), intellectual resilience (cultural resistance), and institutional strength (political resistance). Additionally, it emphasizes the necessity of averting environmental catastrophes through a socio-economic development model (economic resistance) underpinned by a resolute ethical commitment to responsible soil conservation practices.
An interactive self-learning system using smartphone app and cards enabling braille touch experience for blindness
Authors: Ardiansah Jevri Tri , Okazaki Yasuhisa
Published: June 2024

This research is conducted to address the challenges faced by individuals with visual impairment (VI) in learning braille through the development and evaluation of an innovative self-learning system. Traditional methods of braille education often rely on resource-intensive one-on-one guidance, which may not be feasible for all due to resource constraints. This study introduces a novel approach that leverages smartphone technology and tangible braille cards to create an engaging and effective self-learning experience. The study’s findings highlight the self-learning system’s effectiveness, evidenced by high ratings in technology acceptance model (TAM) evaluations and interviews with students and teachers, conducted collaboratively at the VI Rehabilitation Center in Malang, Indonesia. As an inclusive educational tool, the system bridges the gap between traditional braille learning methods and modern technological advancements, promoting independence and enhanced literacy for the community with VI.
Incumbents versus circular start-ups in the workwear industry: Organisational and individual drivers and barriers to a circular economy
Authors: Engzell Jeanette , Kambanou Marianna Lena
Published: June 2024

This article analyses the organisational and individual drivers and barriers to the implementation of circular business models (CBM) by incumbents and start-ups in the workwear industry. It is based on a qualitative study of 15 organisations in the Swedish workwear industry. Most incumbents are found to have either long-life models with hybrid elements, such as repair, or access models, while circular start-ups have a larger variety of CBMs, although the most common is gap exploiter. Internal organisational barriers mostly differ between the two groups; however, external organisational barriers are more significant and common, such as the low price of new workwear, a lack of demand and a lack of supporting policies, for example, public procurement. Several organisational drivers are identified, such as opportunities to deliver customer value, textile and digital innovations and environmental concerns. Drivers and barriers are influenced by both type of CBM and type of company. Individual drivers and barriers, which are often overlooked in literature, are found to be important to CBM implementation.
“I Did Not Want to Make a Bigger Deal Out of It than It Was”: A Mixed-Method Study on the Help-Seeking Behavior of Victims of Image-Based Sexual Harassment and Abuse
Authors: Pijlman Valérie , Eichelsheim Veroni , Pemberton Antony , Waardt Mijke de
Published: June 2024

Experiencing image-based sexual harassment and abuse (IBSHA), or the sending of unsolicited nude or sexual images and the nonconsensual taking, sharing, or threats to share nude or sexual images, may have severe consequences for victims’ well-being. While seeking help may be beneficial, not every victim seeks help. Little research has been conducted on IBSHA victims’ help-seeking behavior. Therefore, the present mixed-method study examined the help-seeking behavior of IBSHA victims, particularly the barriers and facilitators to seeking help. The study used data from an online survey ( N = 163) and interviews ( N = 6) among 12-to-25-year-old victims. The quantitative data indicated that the majority of victims disclosed the incident (72.8%), but only a third received help (34.4%). Help-seekers reported greater experienced barriers to help-seeking, when compared to non-help-seekers. The experienced barriers positively predicted victims’ reported help-seeking behavior. From the qualitative data, four types of barriers were identified: (a) individual barriers (e.g., feelings of shame), (b) practical barriers (e.g., affordability of help), (c) interpersonal barriers (e.g., fear of negative reactions from one’s social environment), and (d) sociocultural barriers (e.g., normalization of IBSHA). Moreover, two types of facilitators were identified: (a) individual facilitators (e.g., the impact of victimization) and (b) interpersonal facilitators (e.g., social support). This suggests victims experience multiple barriers, which altogether can influence their help-seeking behavior. As a help-seeking trajectory is complex and unique to the individual, victims may encounter multiple new hurdles along the way. This may explain why help-seekers reported more barriers. The findings and corresponding implications highlight the importance of providing education on IBSHA and help-seeking on various levels in society.
Design and aerodynamic characteristics of variable-geometry hypersonic inlet based on shock wave elimination
Authors: Wu Guangwei , Wang Ziao , Quan Fuxu , Chang Juntao
Published: June 2024

To solve the problem that the control of shock wave elimination is weakened under off-design conditions, the design concept of a variable-geometry inlet scheme that combines the variable-geometry cowl (translating and diagonalizing) with regulating shock wave elimination is introduced in this paper. The variable-geometry inlet is designed by the theories of oblique shock wave and isentropic wave as well as the Oswatitsch theory. Regulatory law of the variable-geometry cowl based on shock wave elimination is obtained by the geometric relationships between cowl compression angle, cowl shock wave angle, and optimal control point or range. Numerical simulations are conducted to investigate flow field characteristics, control mechanism, and working performance of the inlet. Results reveal that expansion waves have a significant impact on the cowl shock wave and boundary layer interaction, and flow separation. Furthermore, variable-geometry inlet with translating and diagonalizing cowl based on the regulation of shock wave elimination effectively controls and even completely eliminates the flow separation. In terms of inlet performance, the total pressure loss of the variable-geometry inlet decreases such that the total pressure recovery coefficients of the translating cowl and diagonalizing cowl inlets are increased by maximum values of 3.39 % and 9.97 %, respectively. However, the mass flow coefficient of translating cowl inlet decreases, whereas that of the diagonalizing cowl inlet is equivalent to that of the fixed-geometry inlet. The working range can be widened by changing the internal contract ratio of the inlet through translating or diagonalizing the cowl. The results confirm that the scheme of variable geometry inlet with diagonalizing cowl is practicable and reliable and has important guiding significance and value for inlet design.
The impact of stretch service goals on unethical behaviors of nurses: A three-wave cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Yali , Shi Haiqing , Feng Taiwen
Published: June 2024

Background

Stretch service goals strive to motivate healthcare practitioners to maintain high quality in service provision. However, little is known about how stretch service goals trigger nurses’ unethical behavior.

Research aim

This study aimed to investigate the influence of stretch service goals on nurses’ unethical behavior, as well as the mediating effects of patient entitlement and nurses’ emotional dissonance.

Research design

A quantitative cross-sectional study is designed.

Participants and research context

We sourced data by conducting a time-lagged three-wave survey study from March to September 2020. Random sampling was used, and data were collected from 422 nurse-patient pairs in Chinese hospitals. Bootstrapping method and structural equation modeling were employed to verify the conceptual model.

Ethical considerations

The study was approved by the designated authority within hospitals and ethical committees.

Results

Stretch service goals are not directly related to nurses’ unethical behavior. Stretch service goals can trigger nurses’ unethical behavior via patient entitlement. Patient entitlement and nurses’ emotional dissonance play a chain-mediating role between stretch service goals and nurses’ unethical behavior.

Conclusions

In the context of the healthcare industry, nurses may engage in unethical behavior due to the pressure of achieving stretch service goals. This study contributes to opening the “black box” of stretch service goals and nurses’ unethical behavior by exploring the chain-mediating effect of patient entitlement and nurses’ emotional dissonance.
Design and experimental evaluation of a novel flow-mode magnetorheological damper without accumulator
Authors: Bui Quoc-Duy , Hoang Long-Vuong , Nguyen Huu-Quan , Nguyen Quoc Hung
Published: June 2024

Researchers in the field of vibration control have shown increasing interest in magneto-rheological dampers (MRDs) in recent years. Conventional flow-mode MRDs typically employ a gas chamber as an accumulator to accommodate volume changes and promote fluid communication. However, this approach introduces manufacturing complexities and raises production costs. To overcome these challenges, we propose a novel configuration for flow-mode MRDs that replaces the accumulator with a structural constraint. This modification leads to a more compact and cost-effective MRD solution suitable for engineering applications. This paper presents an introduction, followed by the configuration and design of the novel MRD for a case study involving a vehicle suspension system. To enhance output performance, we optimize the significant geometry of the damper using the finite element method (FEM), taking into account the damping force, off-state force, and inductive time constant of the damper. Based on the optimal simulation results, we provide a detailed design of the optimized flow-mode MRD without an accumulator for prototype fabrication. To assess the practical performance of the proposed MRD prototype, we conducted experiments on a test rig and engaged in comprehensive discussions based on the obtained results.
Decent Work Among Turkish Working Adults: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Çarkıt Ersoy
Published: June 2024

The present study explores the interrelationship among decent work components via a latent profile analysis among Turkish workers. Using a sample of 596 employees in Türkiye, the latent profile analysis revealed four distinct profiles (highly indecent work, low compensation-low rest, indecent work-low healthcare-dominant, and decent work). The auxiliary variable analysis showed that work volition and social class increased the likelihood of workers’ membership in the decent work group. Economic constraints and marginalization increased the likelihood of workers’ membership in the highly indecent work group. Women were more likely to be members of the indecent work-low healthcare-dominant group, and workers with bachelor’s degrees or higher were more likely to be members of the low compensation-low rest group. In addition, the results showed significant mean differences in the levels of job satisfaction across profile memberships, such that the decent work group had the highest job satisfaction. The results reveal how components of decent work are uniquely configured among Turkish workers and contribute to the growing literature examining how indecent work is experienced around the world. Implications are discussed.
Facilitators of and Barriers to the Therapeutic Nurse–Patient Relationship: Perceptions From Psychiatric Mental Health Nurses
Authors: Curran Mary-Jo , Gannon Ray , Rivera Reynaldo R. , Li Ying , Fitzpatrick Joyce J.
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND:

The therapeutic relationship serves as a cornerstone in psychiatric mental health nursing practice, providing a basis for implementing various interventions.

AIMS:

This study aimed to explore the perspectives of psychiatric mental health nurses regarding factors that facilitate and impede the therapeutic nurse–patient relationship.

METHODS:

A descriptive study was conducted among psychiatric mental health nurses employed at two community psychiatric hospitals in the northeast area of the United States. A list of facilitators and barriers was developed based on an extensive literature review and subsequently validated by three experts in the field of psychiatric mental health nursing. Participants rated these factors on a 10-point scale.

RESULTS:

The study included 74 registered nurses from two psychiatric hospitals, yielding a 24% response rate. The highest-ranked facilitator was awareness that the relationship enables collaborative goal setting with patients. The most significant barrier was insufficient time due to administrative tasks.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study highlights the importance of understanding facilitators and barriers in the therapeutic nurse–patient relationship. Replicating the study nationally on a larger scale among psychiatric mental health nurses is recommended.
Konectom™ cognitive processing speed test enables reliable remote, unsupervised cognitive assessment in people with multiple sclerosis: Exploring the use of substitution time as a novel digital outcome measure
Authors: Scaramozza Matthew , Chiesa Patrizia A , Zajac Lauren , Sun Zhaonan , Tang Minao , Juraver Adrien , Bartholomé Emmanuel , Charré-Morin Julie , Saubusse Aurore , Johnson Sterling C , Brochet Bruno , Carment Loic , Ruiz Marta , Campbell Nolan , Ruet Aurélie
Published: June 2024

Background:

The Konectom™ smartphone-based cognitive processing speed (CPS) test is designed to assess processing speed and account for impact of visuomotor function on performance.

Objective:

Evaluate reliability and validity of Konectom CPS Test, performed in clinic and remotely.

Methods:

Data were collected from people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) aged 18–64 years and healthy control participants (HC) matched for age, sex, and education. Remote test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients, ICC); correlation with established clinical measures (Spearman correlation coefficients); group analyses between cognitively impaired/unimpaired PwMS; and influence of age, sex, education, and upper limb motor function on CPS Test measures were assessed.

Results:

Eighty PwMS and 66 HC participated. CPS Test measures from remote tests had good test–retest reliability (ICC of 0.67–0.87) and correlated with symbol digit modalities test (highest |ρ| = 0.80, p < 0.0001). Remote measures were stable (change from baseline < 5%) and correlated with MS disability (highest |ρ| = 0.39, p = 0.0004) measured by Expanded Disability Status Scale. CPS Test measures displayed sensitivity to cognitive impairment (highest d = 1.47). Demographics and motor function had the lowest impact on CPS Test substitution time, a measure accounting for visuomotor function.

Conclusion:

Konectom CPS Test measures provide valid, reliable remote measurements of cognitive processing speed in PwMS.
Detection of seeded fault and growing fault in rotating machinery under different speed scenarios using adaptive resonance-based signal sparse decomposition
Authors: Sharma Vikas , Kundu Pradeep
Published: June 2024

Detection of seeded faults (SFs) in machinery elements such as gears and bearing has been widely explored, whereas there is limited research considering the growing fault (GF). The literature indexes separate techniques for diagnosing SFs and GFs, because of their nature. No technique yet reported is capable to detect both types of faults. This work proposes a novel adaptive approach and an uncertainty index (UI) to detect both SF and GF. In the proposed approach, the signal is pre-processed by adaptive resonance-based signal sparse decomposition to get low-resonance components (LRCs) and high-resonance components across different decomposition levels. Using the UI, the fault prone LRC is identified based on impulsiveness and complexity content. Afterwards the empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is applied to extract the intrinsic mode functions. The Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)s of the modes extracted from EMD reflected the characteristic frequencies and increased amplitude of sidebands. Lastly, the statistical analysis of the FFTs was performed using the sideband energy ratio to validate the state of faults. The proposed approach when examined for both SFs in gears and GFs in bearings at different conditions, yielded satisfactory results. The proposed approach performance was found to be at least 15% better for incipient fault detection and more than 50% for severe fault conditions.
“The Other Thousand Hours”: A Spinal Cord Injury Self-Management Program Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Kraus Bridget , Lakin Annie , Sherbrooke Natalie
Published: June 2024

People with spinal cord injury experience secondary health conditions (SHCs) at a high rate which impacts life expectancy and functional performance. Self-management (SM) is an evidence-based approach to reduce the negative effects of SHCs, but prior SM programs have not been successful for the spinal cord injury (SCI) population. We sought to describe the experiences of participants completing a group-based telehealth program that is tailored to the SCI population: The Spinal Cord Injury Self-Management (SCISM) Program. We conducted interviews using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis to examine participants’ experiences. Twenty-two participants completed the interviews. Four themes (“A Sense of Community,” “Being Held Accountable,” “I’m Still Learning,” and “Being Proactive Instead of Reactive”) emerged. People with SCI require continued support throughout the chronic stage of SCI particularly at the community level to address mental health as well as the learning and application of SM skills through tailored interventions that foster community and accountability.