bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Approach for Discovering Urban Transport Service Problem Based on Hotline
Authors: Wu Ruo-yu , Shao Chun-fu , Zhuge Cheng-xiang , Wang Xin-yi , Yin Xu-yang
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a methodology for actively discovering knowledge in transport hotline databases by analyzing complaints reported by citizens, aiming to assist transportation management departments in planning actions to investigate and improve service quality. The proposed model uses text mining techniques and applies latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) to identify topics that are related to transportation services. Consequently, we actively analyzed over 230,000 phone calls occurring in a certain province between 1st January and 31st December 2021. Specifically, we actively analyzed nearly 22,000 phone calls about the taxi industry within a selected city, and identified six topics, including lost and found (27.1%), car blocking (20.6%), attitude and behavior (17.1%), online car-hailing (12.8%), illegal operations (11.2%), and fare issues (11.2%). By actively referring to past and ongoing best practices, we actively recommend several policy implications. The proposed method thus actively transforms the service center record into a customer feedback-based assessment system to intently monitor drivers’ professionalism while efficiently addressing customers’ complaints and concerns.
Manufacturer’s Green Financing and CER Decisions under the Carbon Tax Policy and Capital Constraints
Authors: Zhang Yunfeng , Song Tingting , Ma Jingting , Qin Ying
Published: December 2023

This study constructs a two-echelon low-carbon supply chain consisting of a single manufacturer and a retailer. The manufacturer’s initial capital is zero. The study analyzes three financing modes of the manufacturer by using the Stackelberg game model: external financing (the EF mode), internal financing (the IF mode), and trade credit financing (the TC mode). We found that the IF mode is superior to the EF mode while inferior to the TC mode regarding carbon emission reduction (CER), market demand, and the manufacturer’s profit. Additionally, the IF mode is superior to the EF mode regarding the retailer and supply chain’s profits and special to the TC mode only when the loan and deposit interest rate meet the specific conditions. The best financing mode for the manufacturer is the TC mode, but he needs to give some compensation to the retailer in order to make the retailer cooperate with him. The impact of carbon tax rate changes on the equilibrium solutions in the three financing modes is not only related to the change range of the carbon tax rate itself but also closely related to the initial carbon emissions. A high carbon tax rate can help stimulate the cleaner manufacturer to reduce carbon emissions, but a moderate carbon tax rate is more applicable to the polluting manufacturer. A numerical example is given to demonstrate some of the conclusions. Finally, the study provides managerial insights based on the analytical results.
Glycemic Index Values of Stiff Porridge (Ugali) Prepared from Maize, Millet, and Sorghum Flours: Which One for Diabetes Management?
Authors: Amwoma Lorraine , Ebere Rebecca , Arimi Joshua
Published: December 2023

Background. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is increasing worldwide. Knowledge of glycemic index (GI) is important in its prevention and management. The GI measures how rapidly or slowly the blood glucose increases after food consumption. Stiff porridge (ugali) is an African cuisine that can be prepared from various cereal grains and consumed alongside a relish, including milk. The impact of cereal grain type and milk on the GI of ugali is not understood. Objectives. To determine the GI of ugali prepared from maize, millet, and sorghum and establish the impact of fermented milk on the GI. Methods. Proximate composition was determined using the Association of Official Analytical Chemists methods. Moisture, fat, protein, ash, and crude fiber content were determined by oven drying, soxhlet, Kjeldahl, dry ashing, and Hennenberg and Stohmann methods, respectively. Carbohydrate content was determined by difference. The GI was determined using standard procedures (ISO 26642:2010). Blood sugar response curves were generated using Microsoft Excel software. The GI was computed by dividing the incremental area under the curve (IAUC) of test food by the IAUC of glucose and then multiplied by 100. Data were analyzed using GenStat 14th Edition software. Results. Maize ugali had significantly higher carbohydrate content as opposed to millet or sorghum ugali (P<0.05). The GI for plain ugali followed the order sorghum (72) > maize (67) > millet (46). When consumed alongside fermented milk, the GI order was maize (70) > millet (67) > sorghum (57). Conclusion. Millet-based ugali may be used in the management of diabetes. Fermented milk lowers the GI of sorghum ugali and increases the GI of maize and millet ugali.
Response Surface Methodology Process Optimization of Biodiesel Production from Castor Seed Oil
Authors: Angassa Kenatu , Tesfay Embaye , Weldmichael Tsedekech Gebremeskel , Kebede Seble
Published: December 2023

The increasing demand for energy and the depletion of fossil fuel resources has led to the search for an alternative energy source. The search for such alternative fuel sources has oriented biodiesel synthesis as the ultimate alternative energy resource of the future. The purpose of this study was to produce castor oil and optimize biodiesel production using full factorial central composite design (CCD) through the response surface methodology (RSM) approach. The castor oil was extracted using a mechanical press, and free fatty acids were reduced with acid esterification and biodiesel produced through the transesterification process using homogeneous catalysts. The physicochemical properties of extracted castor oil and biodiesel including density, kinematic viscosity, saponification number, free fatty acid, acid number, cetane number, and iodine number were determined. The ideal conditions for producing biodiesel from castor oil are anticipated to be a reaction period of 105 min at a temperature of 50°C, a catalyst loading weight of 1.5%, and a methanol-to-oil ratio of 5 : 1. The biodiesel yield obtained was 95.0%, and the results of the measured parameters of biodiesel were compared with the international standards of the European norms (EN14214) and the American Society Test Material (ASTM) D6751. The weight composition of both fatty acid and methyl ester was determined by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). The study concluded that the results of this research are beneficial in optimizing the parameters for making biodiesel from extracted castor oil.
Production and Characterization of Bricks from Bottom Ash and Textile Sludge Using Plastic Waste as Binding Agent
Authors: Tessema Israel , Fantahun Zena
Published: December 2023

The production of traditional clay bricks consumes a large amount of energy and resources and can lead to the depletion of natural resources like clay. On the contrary, the improper disposal of waste materials such as bottom ash, textile sludge, and plastic waste can lead to environmental pollution and health hazards. Bricks and concrete blocks have been widely used in construction, but the continuous exploitation of raw materials can negatively impact the environment. This study aimed to produce bricks made from municipal solid waste, incinerated bottom ash, and textile sludge, using plastic waste as a binder. It assessed the potential use of these bricks as an alternative material for brick block production. The physical and chemical characteristics of the raw materials were determined using standard test methods. The crushed plastic waste was melted and mixed with dried textile sludge and bottom ash in various ratios, including 1 : 1 : 1, 2 : 1 : 1, 1 : 2 : 1, 1 : 1 : 2, and 1 : 2 : 2 for plastic, municipal incinerated bottom ash, and textile sludge, respectively. The mixed sample was then placed into molds until it dried, and the resulting bricks were tested for compressive strength, water absorption, efflorescence, and leachability. The results indicated that the bricks had suitable physical and chemical properties, with compressive strength ranging from 8.527 to 16.4 MPa and water absorption percentages ranging from 1.3 to 3.4%. Slight efflorescence was observed for the 1 : 2 : 2 ratios. The production of traditional clay bricks consumes a large amount of energy and resources and can lead to the depletion of natural resources like clay. On the other hand, the improper disposal of waste materials such as bottom ash, textile sludge, and plastic waste can lead to environmental pollution and health hazards.
Study on Mechanical Effect and Plastic Zone Distribution of Tunnel Surrounding Rock in the Presence of Various Expansion Approaches
Authors: Duan Bowen , Yang Jun
Published: December 2023

To examine the distribution of the plastic zone of the surrounding rock subjected to various expansion approaches used for the existing tunnels, this article deals with the distribution and thickness of the plastic zone of the surrounding rock subjected to one-sided expansion excavation (1SEE), two-sided expansion excavation (2SEE), and surrounding expansion excavation (SEE). First, the mechanical model of tunnel expansion is established and the initial stress field 1SEE and expansion stress field of tunnel surrounding rock are analyzed. The finite element model of tunnel expansion is developed to examine the plastic zone distribution in the presence of various tunneling approaches. The obtained results reveal that with the growth of expansion size, the plastic distribution area grows, with a maximum increase rate of 138.5%; the difference of each position reduces, with the difference value of each part less than 0.2 m. The plastic zones of 2SEE and SEE approaches are almost symmetrically distributed around the tunnel center line, and the invert and vault of the SEE tunnel are excavated at the same time, the excavation size is the same, and the difference in plastic zone range is small. With the rise of the lateral pressure coefficient, the distribution pattern of the plastic zone changes from X-type to butterfly-type and then to ellipse-type.
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) during Ramadan: Narrative Review of the Published Literature
Authors: Alayed Khalid Mohammed
Published: December 2023

Ramadan fasting, a religious practice observed by Muslims worldwide, involves abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking, and using oral medications from dawn to dusk during the ninth lunar month. Studies have demonstrated that fasting during Ramadan has been shown to increase HDL cholesterol, leptin, adiponectin, and insulin sensitivity, as well as lower several hemostatic risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, it may result in a drop in blood sugar levels, especially in diabetics who are also on blood sugar-lowering medicine. Hypoglycemia, characterized by low blood sugar levels, could also result from fasting during Ramadan. The GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone plays a significant role in regulating glucose metabolism and insulin secretion, and Ramadan fasting can affect its production and release in the gut. Research contributes to our understanding of the utilization of GL-1 medications during Ramadan among patients, broadening therapy alternatives and offering insightful information for well-informed decision-making. Therefore, this narrative review aims to explore the current evidence that studies the safety and efficacy of GLP-1 agonists during Ramadan for nondiabetic and diabetic patients to ensure healthy fasting during Ramadan.
In Vitro Cytotoxicity of Reproductive Stage Withania somnifera Leaf and Stem on HepG2 Cell Line
Authors: Lingfa Lali , Tirumala Aravinda , Ankanagari Srinivas
Published: December 2023

Background. The ayurvedic plant Withania somnifera, a member of the Solanaceae family, has been used as a remedy for diverse health problems, including cancer. Objectives. The objective of this investigation was to conduct a comparative analysis of the in vitro cytotoxic properties of methanolic extracts derived from the leaf, stem, and root of W. somnifera on HepG2 and L929 cell lines. Methods. Methanolic extracts were obtained using the Soxhlet extraction method. To assess the in vitro anticancer action on the HepG2 and L929 cell lines, an MTT assay was performed. Changes in cell morphology were observed using an inverted microscope. Results. The MTT assay results indicated that the leaf, stem, and root methanolic extracts of W. somnifera showed significantly higher in vitro cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells, with IC50 values of 43.06 ± 0.615, 45.60 ± 0.3, and 314.4 ± 0.795 μg/mL than in L929 cell lines with 78.77 ± 0.795, 90.55 ± 0.800, and 361.70 ± 0.795 μg/mL, respectively. The leaf methanolic extract was the most effective, followed by the stem methanolic extract in the HepG2 cell line. Conclusion. The results of our study have confirmed that the methanolic extracts of both the leaf and stem of W. somnifera exhibit significant in vitro cytotoxicity in HepG2 cell lines, while displaying no significant cytotoxicity in the L929 cell line. Furthermore, the data obtained from the MTT assay indicate that the leaf methanolic extract possesses a more potent cytotoxic activity than the stem methanolic extract with respect to the HepG2 cell line. Further studies on the identification and isolation of bioactive metabolites are required to explore the mechanisms underlying their in vitro cytotoxicity.
Liquid Crystal Polymer-Based Flexible Trap Ultra-Wideband Antenna Design
Authors: Wang Xinwei , Xue Zhaoyang , Liang Qing , Xiong Wei , Zhang Zhiyao
Published: December 2023

The wearable ultra-wideband antenna that is appropriate for body area networks is designed and implemented in this article. Stepped circular radiation patches, microstrip feeders, and trapezoidal floors make up the majority of the antenna. Good bending qualities have been attained by using liquid crystal polymer, a flexible material, as a dielectric substrate. An antenna measuring 30 mm × 35 mm × 0.1 mm was designed with two C-shaped slots etched on it to achieve notch function in the 3.20–4.10 GHz and 5.19–5.98 GHz frequency bands. Its working frequency range was 1.96–11.61 GHz, and its specific absorption rate for the human body was less than 2 W/kg. The test findings demonstrate that ultra-wideband body area network systems can be implemented using the antenna impedance and radiation characteristics.
Wetland biodiversity of Ramaroshan Lake complex: a need for conservation
Authors: Tachamo-Shah Ram Devi , Shah Deep Narayan , Sharma Subodh , Sharma Lila , Adhikari Jagan Nath , Rijal Deepak
Published: December 2023

The Ramaroshan Lake Complex, situated in the mid-hills of Sudurpaschim Province, is renowned for its scenic beauty, yet there is a notable dearth of information regarding its biodiversity and ecological status. This study represents the first systematic examination of seasonal variations in water quality parameters and biodiversity encompassing aquatic macroinvertebrates, fishes, birds, herpetofauna, mammals, and macrophytes, as well as the surrounding vegetation within the complex, spanning the winters and summers of 2018 and 2019. Among the twenty water quality parameters investigated, thirteen displayed significant seasonal differences across the lakes (p <0.05), with Batula and Ramaroshan lakes exhibiting elevated nutrient levels. Lamadaya Lake stood out with a highly diverse macroinvertebrate community compared to other lakes, while overall, the study recorded 45 aquatic macroinvertebrate families, three fish species, 79 bird species, 12 herpetofauna species, 12 mammal species, and 26 macrophyte species within the complex. Additionally, the surrounding vegetation comprised 193 distinct plant species. Notably, the complex currently hosts 14 IUCN Red List species, including Near Threatened (5), Vulnerable (5), Critically Endangered (1), and Endangered (3) species, as well as five migratory wetland bird species, underscoring its significance for wildlife conservation. Given the diverse and cross-cutting nature of wetlands, the development of science-based policies and coordinated efforts among central, provincial, and local governments are essential for the preservation and sustainable management of these vital ecosystems.
First report of the longhorn beetle, Rosalia (Eurybatus) formosa (Saunders, 1839) (Insecta: Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) from Mizoram, India
Authors: Amit Rana  , Lobeno Mozhui
Published: December 2023

The present paper records Rosalia (Eurybatus) formosa (Saunders, 1839), a cerambycid or longhorn beetle for the first time from the state of Mizoram in northeastern India. The documentation was done on the basis of two specimens that were collected from the District of Champhai, Mizoram. In this communication, photographs, as well as notes on the morphological features of the species are presented.
Notes on Discospermum sphaerocarpum Dalzell ex Hook.f., a rare species of Rubiaceae (Ixoroideae: Coffeeae) from southern India
Authors: Pramod C. , V.V. Drisya  , A.K. Pradeep  , K.T. Chandramohanan
Published: December 2023

Discospermum sphaerocarpum is a rare species in the tribe Coffeeae of the family Rubiaceae and its occurrence on the Madayippara lateritic plateau of the Kannur district of Kerala, southern India is discussed. This plant is endemic to southern India and Sri Lanka. In Kerala, this species was previously recorded from the low-altitude evergreen forests of Thiruvananthapuram district. The present study gives a detailed description, distribution and figures & images illustrating the diagnostic characters of D. sphaerocarpum for easy identification and conservation.
Psidium schenckianum (Myrtaceae): lectotypification, a new synonym and notes on a typical Caatinga species
Authors: TULER AMÉLIA CARLOS , CONCEIÇÃO LÁZARO HENRIQUE SOARES DE MORAES , COSTA GRÊNIVEL MOTA DA , PROENÇA CAROLYN ELINORE BARNES
Published: December 2023

N/A
Myrcia tenondeporan, a new species of Myrtaceae from the Atlantic Forest in the Serra do Mar Mountains, Brazil
Authors: SANTOS MATHEUS F. , BARRETTO EDUARDO H. P.
Published: December 2023

Myrcia sect. Eugeniopsis is one of the nine sections of Myrcia (Myrciinae, Myrteae, Myrtaceae) and includes mostly species of the current synonym genus Eugeniopsis. Using fieldwork and the analysis of herbarium collections as a basis, we describe here a new species of this section, Myrcia tenondeporan, which is endemic to the Atlantic Forest in the Serra do Mar Mountains. The new species is related to Myrcia vellozoi and Myrcia multipunctata but differs mainly in the leaf shape and size, inflorescence structure and size of floral buds.
Luisia brachyota (Orchidaceae; Epidendroideae) a new species from China: evidence based on morphological and molecular data
Authors: FU HOU-HUA , ZHOU CHENG-YUAN , MA LIANG , LAN SIREN , CHEN SHI-PIN
Published: December 2023

We have described and illustrated a new species, Luisia brachyota (Epidendroideae, Orchidaceae), from south Yunnan, China. Morphological comparisons indicated the new species is similar to L. filiformis and L. cordata, but differs from L. brachyota inflorescences 3-or 5-flowered, lip shorter than petals, hypochile thickly fleshy, epichile cordate adaxially with 7 or 9 papillate longitudinal ridges. Molecular analysis based on the nuclear ribosomal ITS and plastid sequences (matK, rbcL, and trnL-trnF) shows that it is a new species.
Spiraea glabrescens, the legitimate name for Spiraea celtifolia (Rosaceae)
Authors: KOTTAIMUTHU RAMALINGAM , YALATOOR MAHESH
Published: December 2023

N/A
The Megachilidae (Hymenoptera, Apoidea, Apiformes) of the Democratic Republic of Congo curated at the Royal Museum for Central Africa (RMCA, Belgium)
Authors: NKULU ALAIN TSHIBUNGU , PAULY ALAIN , DORCHIN ACHIK , VEREECKEN NICOLAS J.
Published: December 2023

Natural history collections are a cornerstone of entomology, and the conservation of specimens is the essential prerequisite for the development of research into systematics, biogeography, ecology, evolution and other disciplines. Yet, specimens collected during decades of entomological research conducted in less developed countries across Sub-Saharan Africa on pests, beneficial insects and insect biodiversity in general have largely been exported to be permanently preserved in developed countries, mainly in Europe and the United States of America.
This is particularly true for the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s (DRC) diverse wild bee fauna, which has been investigated throughout the colonial period by visiting or resident entomologists and missionaries who have then transferred their collected material primarily to Belgium as part of a wider legacy of scientific exploration and colonialism. Digitizing NHC is one way to mitigate this current bias, by making samples accessible to researchers from the target post-colonial countries as well as to the wider international scientific community.
In this study, we compiled and digitized 6,490 specimens records relevant to 195 wild bee species grouped in 18 genera within the biodiverse family Megachilidae, essentially from the colonial era (i.e., mostly between 1905–1960, with additional records up to 1978), and curated at the Royal Museum for Central Africa in Belgium. We provide a detailed catalogue of all records with updated locality and province names, including 29 species only available as type specimens. We also explore the historical patterns of diversity and distribution across DRC, and we provide a list of the research entomologists involved. This study is an important first step that uses digital technologies to democratize and repatriate important aspects of DRC’s natural heritage of insect biodiversity, to stimulate more contemporary field surveys and modern taxonomic revisions, as well as to identify and characterize research gaps and biodiversity shortfalls in some of the less-explored regions of Sub-Saharan Africa.
Occupational Therapy and Public Safety Personnel: Return to Work Practices and Experiences
Authors: Edgelow Megan , Petrovic Ana , Gaherty Clare , Fecica Agnieszka
Published: December 2023

Background. Public safety personnel (PSP) are frequently exposed to psychological trauma through their work. Evidence shows that worker's compensation claims for work-related psychological injuries are on the rise for PSP. Occupational therapists increasingly provide return to work (RTW) services for this population. Purpose. To explore the therapeutic practices and personal experiences of occupational therapists working with PSP who have work-related psychological injuries. Method. This mixed methods descriptive study included a chart review of available occupational therapy client records from 2016 to 2020 for PSP with work-related psychological injuries from two Ontario companies. Additionally, a web-based self-report survey for Ontario occupational therapists providing RTW services to this same population was available from November 1, 2021 to June 1, 2022. Findings. The chart review included 31 client records and the online survey was completed by 49 Ontario occupational therapists. Therapists commonly provided services in clients’ homes, workplaces, and communities, and focused on functional activities. The evidence base drawn on by therapists was not always occupation-based. Barriers to RTW included challenges with interprofessional collaboration, stigma, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Implications. Occupational therapists are commonly working with PSP with work-related psychological injuries and have the opportunity to contribute to the evidence base for occupational approaches to RTW.
Mental Health in the Shadow of the Holocaust: Psychological Interventions in Jewish Displaced Persons Camps
Authors: Heller Daniel Kupfert
Published: December 2023

This study interrogates the historical methodology that underpins research undertaken by historians writing about mental health in the postwar world. I question their near-exclusive reliance on medical elites’ studies, correspondence and reports, and call instead for a closer analysis of the experiences of front-line workers, including social workers and nurses, to better understand the social, political, cultural, economic and gender dynamics that shape the diagnosis and treatment of civilian wartime trauma. Drawing upon the case reports and correspondence of a psychiatric social worker who counselled Holocaust survivors in a Displaced Persons camp in the American Zone of Allied-occupied Germany, I use this article as an opportunity to rethink how we write about the history of trauma and mental health.
Evaluation of a Workplace Active Rest Program in Office Workers With Comparison of a Prospective and Retrospective Survey
Authors: Lehmann Heidi , Kraus Thomas , Esser André , Krabbe Julia
Published: December 2023

Physical activity-related workplace interventions can be counterstrategies for physical inactivity due to office work. Newly introduced programs should be evaluated for success. This study aimed to evaluate the intervention of a workplace active rest program and to compare a prospective and retrospective design of evaluation. A Germany-wide multicenter evaluation of a 3-month workplace active rest program (30 min, once a week) was carried out at 14 locations with a longitudinal pre/post design by means of an anonymous questionnaire (npre = 405, npost = 369). The participants’ program-related changes in targeted characteristics regarding posture, function, complaints and physical awareness were collected with a questionnaire in a prospective design and afterward retrospectively. The prospective evaluation showed a significant improvement in the target characteristic “postural muscles in the neck area”. In the retrospective survey, all target characteristics improved significantly. There were no differences between locations. The workplace active rest program in this study had positive effects on the perception of postural neck muscle status regardless of prospective or retrospective approach. Selection of survey mode should depend on desired outcome and consecutive influencing factors. In this specific case, retrospective survey could give more indirect information about overall satisfaction with the program and job although being influenced by response bias. Recall bias should be relatively small for shorter time periods assessed. Future studies should account for corresponding bias and specifics of target characteristics regardless of the chosen approach to survey.
Effects of a PRECEDE-PROCEED Model-Based Intervention on Fatigue in Patients With Coronary Heart Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wen Min , Chen Yeshi , Yu Juping , Li Junyi , Wen Xiaohui , OuYang Xinping , He Pingping
Published: December 2023

Objective:

This research aimed to determine how a 12-week PRECEDE-PROCEED model-based intervention affected fatigue in patients with coronary heart disease.

Methods:

This cluster randomized controlled trial recruited participants diagnosed with coronary heart disease at 2 community health centers in China. Participants in the control group (n = 36) received routine health education, whereas those in the intervention group (n = 38) were given a 12-week PRECEDE-PROCEED model-based intervention and routine health education. The intervention consisted of 6 training sessions on coronary heart disease, fatigue, fatigue management, self-management skills and social support. A primary outcome (fatigue) and 4 secondary outcomes (knowledge of fatigue, self-management, quality of life and body mass index) were assessed using the Fatigue Scale-14, Fatigue Cognitive Questionnaire for Patients with Coronary Heart Disease, Coronary Artery Disease Self-Management Scale, Chinese Cardiovascular Questionnaire of Quality of Life, and electronic weighing scale, respectively. Data were collected 3 times over 12 weeks.

Results:

Compared with the control group, the intervention group showed a statistically significant improvement in the level of fatigue (8.72 vs 7.06, P < .001), knowledge of fatigue ( P < .001), self-management skills ( P < .001), and quality of life ( P < .001). However, there was no significant difference in body mass index between the 2 groups ( P = .504).

Conclusions:

The findings suggest that a well-designed intervention based on the PRECEDE-PROCEED model could alleviate fatigue symptoms and increase knowledge of fatigue, self-management skills and quality of life in patients with coronary heart disease.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Cognitive Function, Illness Perceptions, and Immunosuppression Medication Adherence After Heart Transplantation
Authors: Al-Saleh Stacy , Conley Samantha , Pace Thaddeus , Insel Kathleen C.
Published: December 2023

Background:

There are few studies that examine relationships between cognitive function, illness perceptions, and medication adherence after heart transplantation, limiting the development of effective adherence-promoting interventions.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to describe relationships between cognitive function, illness perceptions, and medication adherence among heart transplant recipients.

Methods:

A cross-sectional, observational design was used. Measures included the telephone-Montreal Cognitive Assessment (t-MoCA©), Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Brief Test of Adult Cognition by Telephone, Basel Assessment of Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medications Scale, and the Brief Illness Perceptions Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, point-biserial correlations, Pearson’s correlations, and logistic regression were used to describe relationships.

Results:

Of the 35 participants (mean age: 61 years [SD: 10.3], 71.4% male, 71.4% white), 31.4% (n = 11) were classified as nonadherent to their immunosuppression medications. Higher immediate word recall, indicating better episodic memory (memory for autobiographical and recent events), and higher illness coherence scores were associated with not missing doses of medication. Higher t-MoCA© total scores, indicating normal cognitive function, and lower depression scores were associated with taking medications on time. More than 22% (n = 8) of participants scored less than 19 on the t-MoCA©, an indication of mild cognitive impairment.

Conclusion:

Cognitive impairment may be more common among heart transplant recipients than what is currently recognized, and specific domains of cognitive function were related to medication adherence after transplantation in this study. Future studies should include longitudinal evaluations of cognitive function, depression, and medication adherence. Consideration of these relationships is needed when designing adherence-promoting interventions for this population.
Change in Meaning of Hugh Hefner and Playboy: From Horatio Alger to Sexual Predator
Authors: Beggan James K.
Published: December 2023

Between 1953 and 2023, mass media changed how they cover Hugh Hefner and Playboy magazine. My thesis is that the defining narratives of Hugh Hefner and his famous creation involved five distinct media personas, which were entrepreneur, activist, paradox, tragic figure, and predator. Using key magazine articles as central points of information, I consider how changes in Playboy's success combined with cultural shifts in the structure of feeling, such as fourth-wave feminism and the Me Too movement, to transform the dominant representation of Hugh Hefner from an entrepreneurial Horatio Alger to a salacious predator. Media attention after his death recognizes that Hugh Hefner had a definite but undeniably controversial influence on American life.
Communication and democratic erosion: The rise of illiberal public spheres
Authors: Bennett W Lance , Kneuer Marianne
Published: December 2023

In recent years, many once stable democracies have experienced various degrees of disruptive communication, along with the erosion of core institutions such as the press, elections, courts, and the rights of citizens. We propose a framework to compare the logics of illiberal and liberal democratic communication and contrast traditionally dominant communication norms of tolerance, civility, responsiveness, and reasoned resolution of differences in liberal democracies with transgressions of those norms by illiberal rightwing movements, parties, leaders, and voters. We suggest that unlike ‘counter publics’ that seek inclusion in liberal democratic systems, engagement with illiberal communication creates “transgressive publics” that attempt to exclude others in the process of promoting ethnic and religious nationalism. This framework offers a corrective to recent scholarship on democratic public spheres that focuses mainly on why the ideals of more inclusive and egalitarian communication are ever more remote. We shift the focus to the systematic disruptions of mainstream public communication and the authority of public institutions. Our analysis develops a broader theoretical context in which interactions between illiberal leaders and publics occur, with the aim of understanding national variations in how communication systems contribute to democratic erosion.
Graphic Guidance for Long-Range Transportation Plans
Authors: Peterson Rachel F. , Newmark Gregory L.
Published: December 2023

For more than a half century, federal policy has required metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) to communicate regional priorities through long-range transportation plans (LRTPs). Despite the length of that requirement and the high cost of the associated investments, there are virtually no resources to guide MPOs in graphically communicating these plans to the public. This research reviews 1,502 graphics from a stratified random sample of LRTPs from 20 MPOs across the United States with populations less than 200,000. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted to assess current graphic practices and generate suggestions to guide MPOs in enhancing graphic communication. This review categorizes LRTP graphics into three types (spatial, numeric, and concept), identifies the frequency, components, and uses of each type, and then proposes a set of 26 “core” graphics as a common baseline for all LRTPs.
Ultrafine Particles on Electric, Gas, and Diesel Buses in the Mass Transit Buses of Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Romero Diego Armando Vargas , Grados Cristina Vanesa Durán
Published: December 2023

The concentration of traffic-related air pollutants (TRAPs) inside transport microenvironments takes on relevance today in many megacities with high population density, intense traffic, and prolonged travel times. These conditions can intensify exposure to TRAPs and worsen public health problems. TRAP concentrations in these microenvironments are changing because of the introduction of cleaner technologies. In this study, we compare the ultrafine particles measured inside diesel, gas, and electric buses during their normal operation in Bogotá, Colombia. We used a miniature diffusion size classifier (DiSCmini) to measure ultrafine particle concentrations, average particle size, and the lung-deposited surface area. Our results revealed significantly lower levels of this pollutant inside electric buses. The concentration of ultrafine particles per cubic centimeter is about 41% and 27% lower in electric buses compared to diesel and gas, respectively. The lung-deposited surface area is also lower in electric buses. Nevertheless, the average particle size in electric buses is 10% and 18% smaller compared to diesel and gas, respectively.
Spatio-Temporal Pattern of China’s Urban Network Under the Substitution Effect of High-Speed Rail on Aviation
Authors: Ma Xueguang , Jiang Ce , Zhang Zhao
Published: December 2023

High-speed rail (HSR) and aviation have played an important role in shaping urban connections and building urban networks. However, with the continuous expansion of the scale of HSR, the competition between the two has become increasingly fierce, and HSR has gradually been substituted for aviation in some regions. Therefore, based on HSR flow and airline flow data, we depicted the spatio-temporal evolution pattern of China’s urban network from 2017 to 2021 by constructing the HSR–aviation composite network, then identified the spatial scope and network form of the substitution of HSR for aviation through classifying the four types of segments, and analyzed the influencing factors of this substitution effect. The results showed that the spatial form of the HSR–aviation composite network is “spindle-shaped” and has a right-skewness distribution; the spatial scope of HSR completely or partially substituting for aviation is mainly distributed in the “diamond-shaped” space with Beijing–Shanghai–Guangzhou–Chengdu as the apex; and 0–770 km is the absolute advantage distance range of HSR. Moreover, the scale expansion of the composite network, the comparative advantages of HSR in shaping the urban network, the personal travel preference for HSR, and the distance between cities and city attributes are the main factors that make HSR a substitute for aviation.
Incorporating Environmental Impact Analysis into Louisiana’s Balanced Asphalt Mixture Design
Authors: Elnaml Ibrahim , Dylla Heather , Liu Jun , Mohammad Louay N. , Cooper Samuel B. , Cooper Samuel B.
Published: December 2023

To meet the asphalt pavement industry’s net zero carbon emission goals, increasing reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) levels to greater than 25% is considered a critical tactic. However, many state departments of transportation are cautious in adopting high RAP content into their designs because of durability issues resulting from aged RAP binders. This paper assesses the effectiveness of using the Lewis acid catalyst, FeCl3, in improving the cracking resistance of high-RAP asphalt mixtures to meet Louisiana’s balanced mixture design (BMD) criteria, and lower embodied carbon of asphalt mixtures. Four asphalt mixtures were designed and tested against permanent deformation, intermediate- and low-temperature cracking, and durability. Mixture 1 is conventional, which contains performance grade (PG) 76-22 polymer-modified asphalt binder with no RAP. Mixture 2 is unmodified PG 67-22 and 30% RAP without catalyst. Mixtures 3 and 4 incorporated an unmodified asphalt binder PG 67-22, a catalyst, and 30% and 50% RAP, respectively. A life cycle assessment (LCA) analysis was conducted on asphalt mixtures that complied with Louisiana’s BMD specifications to quantify global warming potential improvements. Because the performance of both mixtures is expected to be similar, the scope of the LCA analysis was limited to only those life cycle stages that are expected to be different, modules A1–A3 (i.e., cradle-to-gate stages). Results showed that the use of FeCl3 can improve asphalt mixtures’ cracking resistance containing high RAP contents, whilst it did not have a negative impact on permanent deformation resistance. Further, the addition of FeCl3 to asphalt mixtures with 30% and 50% RAP levels showed a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 28% and 43.4%, respectively.
How Are E-Scooter Speed-Limiter Settings Associated with User Behavior? Observed Speeds and Road, Sidewalk, and Bike Lane Use in Austin, TX, and Washington, D.C.
Authors: Cicchino Jessica B. , Chaudhary Neil K. , Solomon Mark G.
Published: December 2023

Many cities limit the top speeds of shared e-scooters, but little is known about how these policies affect user behavior. This study measured speeds and observed use of roads, sidewalks, and bike lanes for 2,004 e-scooter riders in Washington, D.C., where shared e-scooters were equipped with speed governors that limited their speed to 10 mph, and Austin, TX, where the limit was 20 mph. At locations without bike lanes, riders in Washington were 51% more likely to ride on sidewalks than in Austin when accounting for environmental and rider characteristics. Over 80% of e-scooter users rode in bike lanes in both cities when they were available. Although the mean riding speed on sidewalks was not significantly higher in Austin than in Washington, demonstrating self-regulation of speed on sidewalks, the percentage of e-scooter riders traveling on sidewalks at speeds ≥10 mph (41% in Austin versus 17% in Washington) or ≥15 mph (9% in Austin versus <1% in Washington) was higher in Austin. Increased sidewalk riding associated with setting shared e-scooter speed limiters to 10 mph could potentially lead to more interactions with pedestrians, but lower e-scooter speeds at the high end of the distribution may mitigate injury risk to them. Bike lanes could provide space for e-scooters to ride where their speeds would more closely match other users. Future refinements to technology to identify sidewalk riding more accurately could potentially allow maximum e-scooter speeds to be adjusted to mix with pedestrians on sidewalks and cyclists in bike lanes.
Book review: Sudit Krishna Kumar and Suvobrata Sarkar, Contextualizing the Body: An Indian Experience
Authors: Dubey Sushim
Published: December 2023

Sudit Krishna Kumar and Suvobrata Sarkar, Contextualizing the Body: An Indian Experience. New Delhi: Manohar Publisher, 2021, ₹1,650, ISBN: 9789 390035540.
Book review: Dipesh Chakrabarty, The Climate of History: In a Planetary Age
Authors: Kumar Mayank
Published: December 2023

Dipesh Chakrabarty, The Climate of History: In a Planetary Age. New Delhi: Primus Books: 2021, vi + 284 pp., ₹995, ISBN: 9789390737543 (Hardback).
Modulation of immunosuppressive effect of rapamycin via microfluidic encapsulation within PEG-PLGA nanoparticles
Authors: Wu Weiqian , Liu Ruilai , Guo Jiahao , Hu Zhihuan , An Chenjing , Zhang Yan , Liu Tengyuan , Cen Lian , Pan Yukun
Published: December 2023

The high hydrophobicity and low oral availability of immunosuppressive drug, rapamycin, seriously limit its application. It was thus aimed to develop a PEG-PLGA based nano-loading system for rapamycin delivery to achieve improved bioavailability with sustained effects via a novel microfluidic chip and manipulation of the hydrophobic PLGA chain length. PDMS based microfluidic chip with Y shape was designed and PEG-PLGA polymers with different PLGA chain length were used to prepare rapamycin nano-delivery systems. Dendritic cells were selected to evaluate the immunosuppressive effect of the nanoparticles including cytotoxicity assay, dendritic cell activation, and cytokine levels. The effects of different PEG-PLGA nanoparticles on the immunomodulatory properties were finally compared. It was shown that PEG-PLGA could be successfully used for rapamycin encapsulation via microfluidics to obtain nano-delivery systems (Rapa&P-20 k, Rapa&P-50 k and Rapa&P-95 k) ranging from 100 nm to 116 nm. The encapsulation efficiency was ranged from 69.70% to 84.55% and drug loading from 10.45% to 12.68%. The Rapa&P-50 k (PLGA chain length: 50 k) could achieve the highest drug loading (DL) and encapsulation efficiency (EE) as 12.68% and 84.55%. The encapsulated rapamycin could be gradually released from three nanoparticles for more than 1 month without any noticeable burst release. The Rapa & P nanoparticles exhibited enhanced immunosuppressive effects over those of free rapamycin as shown by the expression of CD40 and CD80, and the secretion of IL-1β, IL-12 and TGF-β1. Rapa&P-50 k nanoparticles could be the optimal choice for rapamycin delivery as it also achieved the most effective immunosuppressive property. Hence, this study could provide an efficient technology with superior manipulation to offer a solution for rapamycin delivery and clinical application.
Past-Year Mental Illness Diagnosis and E-cigarette Use Status Among a College-Aged Sample: Findings From the National College Health Assessment (2017-2019)
Authors: Do Elizabeth K. , Aarvig Kathleen , Panigrahi Gargi , Hair Elizabeth C.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To examine associations between past-year mental illness (MI) diagnoses and e-cigarette use status.

Design

Data were obtained from the National College Health Assessment, a nationally recognized cross-sectional survey of university students.

Setting

Participants were recruited from 2-year and 4-year public and private universities across the United States from 2017-2019.

Subjects

The analytic sample included 277 291 university students.

Measures

Self-reported past-year MI diagnosis, binarily coded, served as the primary predictor. The outcome was e-cigarette use status (never, noncurrent, and current user).

Analysis

Multinomial logistic regression models were used to estimate relative risk ratios (RRR) of e-cigarette use, as predicted by past-year MI diagnoses, age, race/ethnicity, sex and gender, sexual identity, geographic region, and other combustible tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana use.

Results

Compared to those who had never received any MI diagnosis in the past year, those who did had a 16% higher relative risk (RRR = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.11, 1.20) of being a noncurrent e-cigarette user and a 33% higher relative risk (RRR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.28, 1.38) of being a current e-cigarette user. Schizophrenia, substance use or addiction, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses demonstrated the strongest associations with noncurrent and current e-cigarette use.

Conclusion

Results suggest the need to screen young adults for e-cigarette use and mental health indicators to facilitate early detection and timely intervention for at-risk university students.
Relationship Between Patient Activation and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Self-management and Clinical Outcomes in Saudi Arabian Primary Care Setting
Authors: Almutairi Nasser , Gopaldasani Vinod , Hosseinzadeh Hassan
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) self-management is a comprehensive approach that individuals with T2DM employ to manage and control their condition. Patients’ activation, “an individual’s knowledge, skill, and confidence for managing their health and health care”, has been used as a major driver of self-management. This study aimed to assess the relationship of patient activation with T2DM self-management and clinical outcomes.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Subjects

Patients with type T2DM who age 18-years and older.

Setting

The primary care centers in Saudi Arabia.

Measures

Patient activation measure (PAM) and the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA).

Analysis

Descriptive statistic, T-test, One-way ANOVA test, Chi-square test, and linear and logistic regressions were performed.

Results

A total of 398 patients, mostly male (54.9%) with a mean age of 53.2 (±10.7) years old participated in the study. The participants’ mean of Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was 8.4% (±1.7%) and most of them (74.5%) had an uncontrolled HbA1c level (>7% %). The mean patient activation score was 55.9 (±13.5). 24.4% were at [PA1], 26.7% at [PA2], 37.4% at [PA3], and 11.5% at [PA4]. Patient activation level was positively associated with better glycemic control and self-management behaviors including diet, physical activity, blood glucose self-testing, foot care, and smoking ( P < .05) but not with adherence to medication.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal a positive association between patient activation level and enhanced glycemic control and self-management behaviors and suggest that patient activation-informed self-management interventions are more likely to yield promising health outcomes.