bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation and photo-fatigue behaviour of UV-sensitive photochromic systems produced using electrospinning
Authors: Solanki Utkarshsinh B , Viková Martina , Holec Pavel , Erben Jakub , Vik Michal
Published: July 2024

This research aimed to create a UV sensor using photochromic pigment in nonwoven form and analyse its fatigue resistance under continuous ultraviolet (UV) light. The photochromic polymeric matrices consist of a photochromic pigment, a polymer, and a photo stabilizer, which enhance the stability of the photochromic systems under light exposure. As a base matrix, we used polyvinyl butyral. Then, we added different amounts of the photochromic pigment 5-chloro-1,3,3-trimethylspiro [indoline-2,3′-(3H) naphtho (2,1-b) (1,4)-oxazine]. We produce photochromic nonwovens by electrospinning a polymeric matrix solution with varying pigment concentrations. The study aimed to create a UV sensor with photochromic nanofibers that are very sensitive to light. It also tested how well it can degrade under continuous UV radiation by looking at its photo fatigue resistance under constant UV irradiation for its final use as a UV sensor material. Using FTIR, CRM, SEM, and XRD techniques, this study investigates the physiochemical properties and photodegradation behaviour of photochromic nonwovens and writes a report on it. The photo-light stability of photochromic materials is a major problem concerning its external stimuli in different substrate forms. It also looks at how well they resist photo-chemically towards the UV light. The fatigue resistance measurements were carried out using a FOTOCHROM3 spectrophotometer under continuous UV irradiance using two different modes. This study evaluated and reported their photodegradation behaviour in cyclic and continuous UV irradiance modes. The tests showed that the prepared photochromic system works well with photostability and can go through more than 20 exposure cycles, each with 100 min of UV light and intensity equal to 1/3 of the sun’s rays on a clear day. Given the PVB applications in our daily lives, it can serve as a UV sensor in numerous industrial applications. Photochromic nanofibers possessing excellent photosensitivity hold immense promise as optical rewritable devices and colourimetric-based UV sensors.
The Size and Structure of the Gender Gap in Economic Evaluations
Authors: Condon Meghan , Wichowsky Amber
Published: July 2024

Gender gaps in partisanship, vote choice, and opinion are well documented in the American electorate. In 2016, men’s and women’s subjective economic evaluations—of their own circumstances and the broader economy—also diverged considerably. We investigate the size, structure, and explanations of this gap. Drawing on cross-sectional and panel data, we show that the gap widened to historic levels following Trump’s election, driven by increased optimism among white men and decline among women of color. Though partisan and objective economic differences across race-gendered groups contribute, they do not fully explain the widening divide. We hypothesize that Trump’s election altered Americans’ understanding of the socioeconomic hierarchy, producing new divides in subjective status perceptions. Gendered and racialized divides in subjective perceptions combined with partisanship and economic circumstances to re-open the gender gap in economic attitudes.
Arts-Based Methods in Migration Research. A Methodological Analysis on Participatory Visual Methods and Their Transformative Potentials and Limits in Studying Human Mobility
Authors: Moralli Melissa
Published: July 2024

In the last decades, the growing use of participatory methodologies and creative methods in migration research has opened innovative ways to collect, analyze, and disseminate data. These approaches encourage experimental, interdisciplinary, and collaborative work through artistic methods to study human mobility and expand the community of inquiry and interpretation, often intervening in contexts of social injustice and exclusion. This article is intended as a reflection on the potentialities and limits of the use of arts-based methods in migration research. The contribution opens with a review of how participatory visual methods have been framed in the field of migration studies. The second part explores an example of a collaborative study that adopted photovoice and sensory mapping to reflect on the concept of “welcoming spaces”. Finally, it analyses arts-based methods as a potential space for social change, focusing on three main dimensions: collective learning, relational aesthetics, and knowledge co-construction.
Chemically reactive non-Newtonian fluid flow through a vertical microchannel with activation energy impacts: A numerical investigation
Authors: Roja Ajjanna , Srilatha Pudhari , Khan Umair , Ishak Anuar , Verma Anjali , Rekha Javare Gowda , Siddiqui Md Irfanul Haque
Published: July 2024

This work examines the second law analysis of an electrically conducting reactive third-grade fluid flow embedded with the porous medium in a microchannel with the influence of variable thermal conductivity, activation energy, viscous dissipation, joule heating, and radiative heat flux. A suitable non-dimensional variable is included into the governing equations to transform them into an ensemble of equations that are devoid of dimensions. The acquired equations are then tackled using the Runge Kutta Felhberg 4th and 5th order (RKF-45) approach in conjunction with the shooting methodology. Through comparison with the current results, the numerical results are verified, which provides a good agreement. From the present outcomes, it is established that the entropy generation is supreme for the viscous heating constraint, variable thermal conductivity, Frank Kameneski, heat source ratio parameter and third-grade fluid material constraint. The Bejan number boosts up with larger values of activation energy, and Frank Kameneski constraint and the decreasing nature is noticed for increasing third-grade material parameter, viscous heating parameter. With magnetism, the fluid’s velocity slows down because of a resistive force. A similar impact in the channel on velocity is noticed for larger third-grade fluid, activation energy parameter, and Frank-Kameniski parameters and increasing behavior is noticed for variable thermal conductivity, and permeability parameter. Further, it is cleared that the variable thermal conductivity assumption in the channel plate leads to a significant under prediction of the irreversibility rate.
Multi-objective optimization of vehicle body B-pillar lower joints based on crashworthiness analysis
Authors: Du Xuejing , Chen Zhenzhen , Song Jiali , Wang Zhanyu
Published: July 2024

The joints in an automobile’s body structure are crucial in bearing loads and transmitting stresses, thereby significantly affecting the body’s rigidity. To effectively improve body rigidity and crashworthiness, this study employed a sensitivity analysis to identify the critical joints among the nine joints of a specific sport utility vehicle (SUV) body. Following regulatory requirements, collision simulations were performed, revealing that the joint below the B-pillar exhibited the most significant deformation. Thus, using the material and thickness of the B-pillar’s lower joint as design variables, experimental samples were generated by the design of experiment (DOE). A multi-objective optimization for the B-pillar’s lower joint model was conducted using the response surface method and the simulated annealing algorithm to determine the final optimized solution. The optimization results showed a 9.31% increase in body bending stiffness, an 11.37% increase in torsional stiffness, and reduced intrusion at various points on the B-pillar, effectively enhancing the body’s rigidity and crashworthiness.
An Inclusional-Dialogic Approach to Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Vass Eva
Published: July 2024

My research looks into collaborative learning and co-creativity in educational contexts. This paper presents my research trajectory towards inclusional-dialogic perception, discernment, and expression. I understand this phenomenon as thinking from presence: a natural inquiry process that is immersive, dialogic, and inherently embodied; a creative dialogue between self and habitat. I combine Natural Inclusionality and dialogism as my philosophical foundations. Importantly, I extend the notion of thinking from presence to the research inquiry itself, broadening the scope of scientific explorations of experience. Thus, the inquiry becomes a dance in between extraspection (outward perception) and introspection (inward sensing), brought together in an empathic second perspective. The natural inclusional approach entails a move away from the logic and language of definition into the logic and language of flow. This article discusses how fluid logic has shaped my research approach and my writing, with three emergent features. First, the inquiry and its documentation constitute an open-ended and serendipitous dialogue with the phenomena in focus. Second, research analysis and writing moves away from the predominance of the textual, recognizing that the translation of the experience into language is not an unavoidable necessity. It also underlines the significance of the visual and poetic expression of philosophy, methods, and findings, fusing science and art into partnership. Third, the disseminative writing is immersive. It openly brings forth an interplay between subjective and objective. My own lived, personal experience of the researched phenomena is a central layer of experiential meaning making, affording contemplative insight. Centering my research approach around the notion of thinking from presence is not a purely epistemological issue. It speaks to the nature of reality and captures the overarching desire to contribute to a deeper human understanding of the self in the context of its natural neighborhood.
Down syndrome-associated leukaemias: current evidence and challenges
Authors: Mason Nicola R. , Cahill Hilary , Diamond Yonatan , McCleary Karen , Kotecha Rishi S. , Marshall Glenn M. , Mateos Marion K.
Published: July 2024

Children with Down syndrome (DS) are at increased risk of developing haematological malignancies, in particular acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia and acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. The microenvironment established by abnormal haematopoiesis driven by trisomy 21 is compounded by additional genetic and epigenetic changes that can drive leukaemogenesis in patients with DS. GATA-binding protein 1 ( GATA1) somatic mutations are implicated in the development of transient abnormal myelopoiesis and the progression to myeloid leukaemia of DS (ML-DS) and provide a model of the multi-step process of leukaemogenesis in DS. This review summarises key genetic drivers for the development of leukaemia in patients with DS, the biology and treatment of ML-DS and DS-associated acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, late effects of treatments for DS-leukaemias and the focus for future targeted therapy.
Recent advances in enhancing thermoelectric performance of polymeric materials
Authors: Mulla Rafiq , Chapi Sharanappa
Published: July 2024

The inherent low thermal conductivity, low cost, and flexibility of polymeric materials make them potential candidates for thermoelectric applications. Their eco-friendliness and mechanical flexibility are useful for the design of portable and flexible self-powered electronics. However, the heat-to-electrical power conversion efficiency, also known as the figure-of-merit (ZT), of polymer TE materials is low. Research efforts are in progress to enhance the thermoelectric performance of polymers and to find new kinds of polymer composites. Recent research innovations, such as chemical doping of polymers, development of nanocomposites and hybrid composites, and nanostructuring have significantly changed the thermoelectric properties of the polymeric materials. In this article, we summarize the recent developments and achievements in polymer materials for thermoelectric applications.
Lactic acid-facilitated surface modification of nanocellulose extracted from Borassus flabellifer leaves
Authors: Chakraborty Ankit , Ghalsasi Pradnya , Radha P
Published: July 2024

Nanocellulose (NC) is revolutionizing the world of biopolymers. This research investigated the use of NC as an additive in polymer composites to enhance their structural and physio-chemical properties. The NC was extracted from Borassus flabellifer leaves and modified with lactic acid (LA). The leaves consisted of 62.2% cellulose, 15.8% hemicellulose, and 12.2% lignin by weight %. Alkali treatment was applied to obtain NCs with an average particle size of 317 nm. Characterization techniques, including SEM, FTIR, and XRD, are employed to evaluate the effectiveness of surface modification. The successful surface modification of NC with LA was confirmed by the presence of LA functional groups. XRD analysis revealed the crystalline nature of both the NCs and surface-modified NCs (SMNCs), with a higher crystalline index for the SMNCs (48.27%) than for the NCs (42.78%). The lower water absorption potential of SMNCs suggests their potential for use in biopolymer composites, demonstrating promising applications in materials science.
AI for learning unleashed: Pioneering generative AI in education at the University of Miami
Authors: Gregory Robert Wayne , Narang Simran
Published: July 2024

The University of Miami (UM) is at the forefront of integrating generative AI into education, spearheaded by Ann M. Olazábal, Interim Dean of the Miami Herbert Business School. This case study explores the dynamic landscape of AI adoption at UM, highlighting both the innovative potential and ethical challenges. The university has embraced AI tools like Adobe Firefly and Copilot, aiming to enhance learning experiences and internal processes. However, the misuse of AI for academic dishonesty poses significant dilemmas. The case contrasts two MBA students' approaches to AI: Alex, who uses AI to shortcut his studies, and Jordan, who leverages AI to deepen her understanding and enhance her learning. The narrative underscores the need for ethical AI use and the importance of fostering critical thinking and creativity. Ann’s strategic vision includes forming an AI task force to explore AI’s organizational impacts and potential use cases, such as a smart assistant for student curriculum planning and an AI-powered entrepreneurship lab. The case concludes with a discussion on balancing innovation with academic integrity and the challenges of centralized IT governance. The case serves as a foundation for classroom discussion including a comprehensive examination of the opportunities and risks associated with generative AI in higher education.
Acute Constipation and A Stercoral Perforation: A Case Report
Authors: Flores Martha , Moughnyeh Mohamad M. , Lekanides Athena , Parker Lisa
Published: July 2024

Stercoral perforation typically arises as a sequela of chronic constipation and can lead to bowel perforation due to fecal impaction. While uncommon, maintaining a high clinical suspicion in the appropriate setting is crucial. We present a case report involving a 52-year-old female with no history of chronic constipation, who presented with an unexplained large bowel obstruction. Subsequent extensive diagnostic workup revealed stercoral perforation, necessitating diagnostic laparoscopy and sigmoidectomy. This case underscores that while stercoral perforation can be life-threatening, clinical stability permits the use of minimally invasive techniques without compromising patient safety or health.
Community Gynaecology Service Oxfordshire: How a local women’s health hub improved access to menopause care
Authors: Shah Anupa , Barber Katie
Published: July 2024

The Women’s Health Strategy 2022 aims to improve access to Women’s Healthcare needs, with menopause care being a key component to optimise. This strategy encourages the ‘expansion of women’s health hubs around the country and other models of “one-stop clinics,” bringing essential women’s services together to support women’.1 A service evaluation was completed at a local women’s health hub in Oxfordshire to review referrals for specialist menopause care. The hub managed 75.1% (970/1291) of referrals in-house at the point of triage. Of these 970 menopause consultations, 10.7% (104/970) were referred onwards for secondary care management, with the remainder 89.3% (866/970) managed within the women’s health hub. The service evaluation shows successful application of a local women’s health hub in improving access to menopause care.
Aortic Aneurysm Mimicking Inferior ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: A Case Report
Authors: Alhatemi Ahmed Qasim Mohammed , Aziz Ezzat Mohammed Hussain , Al-Yaseen Amjed Hussein Alwan , Hashim Hashim Talib , Abduljabbar Zaid Haitham , Sultan Salwan Qahtan , Abdulhussain Tiba Khalid , Abdulhussain Rand
Published: July 2024

Here, we report a rare case of a 22-year-old female presenting with recurrent chest pain mimicking inferior ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) but ultimately attributed to an aortic aneurysm. Despite facing initial challenges in diagnosis, such as normal troponin levels and temporary electrocardiogram (ECG) changes, advanced imaging showed a large mass in the chest pressing on the right coronary artery. Prompt multidisciplinary intervention, including surgical resection of the aneurysm, led to successful management and improved outcomes. This case highlights the importance of considering unusual etiologies in atypical presentations of myocardial infarction, necessitating comprehensive evaluation and collaboration among various specialties for optimal patient care.
Four Dimensions of Brand Storytelling: Framework for Managing and Analyzing Online Brand Stories
Authors: Zimand-Sheiner Dorit
Published: July 2024

Corporate brand storytelling is gaining significance as social media and company websites become crucial avenues for consumer engagement. As part of an effort to create engagement with the brand story across all platforms, the current article suggests combining myths’ elements. Adopting the literary approach to myths, this paper defines myth as a narrative that holds significance among its followers. Based on previous research, this paper proposes a corporate brand storytelling model encompassing story, meaning, ritual, and transmedia dimensions. To assess how leading corporate brands use storytelling elements across their online platforms a quantitative content analysis was performed. Four key insights were derived from the study. First, storytelling should be systematically managed and studied according to our model. Second, rituals and transmedia are underutilized in integrating and disseminating brand storytelling. Third, storytelling should extend beyond paid advertising to achieve desired outcomes. Lastly, the incorporation of mythmaking and storytelling highlights the significance of cultural aspects, urging multinational brands to integrate local cultural elements.
The Structuration of Positive Communication Experiences: The Case of the Great Resignation
Authors: Williams Elizabeth A. , Linvill Jennifer S. , Ojeda-Hecht Emeline , Cosgrove Meghan R. , Buzzetta Autumn , Konkel Abby
Published: July 2024

The Great Resignation and COVID-19 pandemic are two extended crises marked by organizational change and employee turnover. This study examines the positive organizational communication experiences that influenced employee retention during this time of organizational crisis. Data for this research were collected through 25 semi-structured interviews and analyzed using a phronetic iterative approach. Through the use of structuration theory, the findings indicated that participants’ positive experiences of organizational communication transformed into reasons to stay with their workplaces during a time of extended crisis. Participants identified how organizational structures were reaffirmed or changed as employees and leaders utilized different resources and created new rules for interaction. Findings of this study show how positive organizational communication experiences can mitigate negative experiences and strengthen employee retention. During crises, organizations and their leaders should focus on fostering connection, belonging, and open communication among all employees.
Gastrointestinal Tolerance of Formula-Fed Infants During the Immediate Postnatal Period in Saudi Arabia: An Observational Study
Authors: Hays Nicholas P. , Alenazi Rasha , Al-Zaatreh Reham , Lavalle Luca , Sameer Moustafa , Sroda Inez , Vissers Yvonne , Mizyed Mohammad
Published: July 2024

Objective. Feeding intolerance during the early postnatal period can be distressing for families. To assess this, infants (n = 150) of mothers who had previously decided to exclusively or partially formula feed were enrolled ≤24 hours after birth. Methods. Infants were fed with a single ready-to-feed, 100% partially hydrolyzed whey protein-based formula until discharge, in accordance with standard hospital practice. Parents recorded daily the presence/severity of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms/behaviors, rated from 0 (never) to 5 (always). A validated questionnaire was completed at discharge to evaluate symptoms of GI discomfort; scores can range from 0 to ~140 (lower scores indicate fewer symptoms). Results. Mean ± SD daily scores ranged from 0.12 ± 0.40 (fussiness/irritability) to 1.26 ± 0.90 (spitting up), indicating that GI symptoms/behaviors occurred, on average, “never” or “almost never.” Mean GI discomfort scores were also very low (9.9 ± 7.4). Conclusion. These results indicate that the ready-to-feed formula was very well accepted and well tolerated during this period among healthy newborns in Saudi Arabia.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Anemia in Children Aged 6 to 59 Months in the Eastern Region of Burkina Faso
Authors: Ouédraogo Ousmane , Compaoré Ella Wendpouigoudinkondo Rakièta , Ouédraogo Ousmane , Kiburente Mediatrice , Dicko Mamoudou Hama
Published: July 2024

Background. Anemia in children aged 6 to 59 months is a public health problem in Burkina Faso with a prevalence well above the 40% estimated by WHO globally for this age group. Aim. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and associated factors of anemia in children aged 6 to 59 months. Methods. This was a cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study. The rapid diagnostic test “hemocue” was used to measure the hemoglobin level in the blood of 486 children aged 6 to 59 months. The cut-off point for any anemia was a hemoglobin level of less than 11.0 g/dL. The chi-square test was used to analyze the anemia prevalence differences in different characteristic groups, and the multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between the household and sociodemographic characteristics and anemia in children. The data was processed using the SPSS software. Results. Nine out of 10 children were anemic, with a prevalence of 90.9%. Prevalences were high in both Gnagna and Gourma, respectively 89.9% and 91.6%. The results of the bivariate analysis showed that the age of the child, the household head education level and the participation of the mother in activities to prevent malnutrition were significantly associated with anemia. In multivariate analysis, children aged 6 to 12 months were 3 times more likely to have anemia than children aged over 36 months. Those aged 13 to 36 months were twice as likely to have anemia as those aged over 36 months. Conclusion. There was a need to strengthen anemia interventions taking into account the age of children.
The border spectacle during the pandemic: A bottom-up political economy of media within the American border regime
Authors: Gabrielli Lorenzo , Varela-Huerta Amarela
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the ‘border spectacle’, namely the production and diffusion of images of immigration, in contemporary digital journalism to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic public health crisis overlapped with the dual semantics of illegalisation/victimisation of migrants. This article addresses a gap in the field of political economy of the border spectacle, conducting a bottom-up analysis of the socio-economic and material conditions under which visual narratives of migration and borders are produced and diffused in the case of Mexico. The methodology combines virtual ethnography and in-depth biographical/life stories interviews with three female reporter/photojournalists covering migration issues in Mexico and the Americas and producing accounts that differs significantly from the hegemonic iconography of migration. By analyzing the data collected between 2020 and 2021, we explore the extreme violence, precariousness and health risks, as well as strategies of self-support characterising these media professionals’ experiences. The analysis helps understand the rationale behind the political economy of the media during the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown in Mexico, as well as how the media’s structural frame exposes, amplifies and mediates migration in terms of ‘infectious’ and, therefore, a threat to national communities already vulnerable to the virus. Finally, we highlight the conflict between the purpose of the reporters, who want to provide empathetic, first-hand accounts of migration, on the one hand, and the commercial interests of mainstream media, which tends to seek to follow a hegemonic framing, make some of these images viral to create moral panic against migrants, on the other.
Process Optimization for Coating of Acanthus Ilicifolius Extract on Silk Sutures
Authors: Sivanesan Natarajan , Ariharasudhan S , V Ramesh Babu , Santhanam Sakthivel
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the optimization of process parameters for coating silk sutures with Acanthus ilicifolius leaf extract. The increasing awareness of surgical site infections is a critical concern associated with the use of sutures in medical procedure undertaking. Our study aimed to assess the impact of three crucial coating factors, namely extract content, temperature, and duration, on the mechanical and antibacterial characteristics of silk sutures braided together. Through Box–Behnken design, in conjunction with the response surface approach, we conducted a thorough analysis to refine the model. The result showed that extract concentration directly influences both antimicrobial activity and elongation, while temperature and time primarily affect tensile strength and bending stiffness. To achieve the maximum tensile strength, minimum breaking elongation, minimum bending stiffness, and lower friction, all while maintaining the important antimicrobial efficacy of the sutures, this study emphasizes the use of response surface methodology in optimizing coating parameters for A. ilicifolius leaf extract on silk sutures. The response models are developed on the complex relationships between these parameters and the properties of the sutures.
Successful Closure of an Idiopathic Macular Hole With Topical Therapy After Failed Surgery
Authors: Mazzeo Thiago José Muniz Machado , Barbosa Gabriel Castilho Sandoval , Filho Renato Silva , Freire Raimunda Cristina Mendonça , Machado Cleide Guimarães , Vieira Gomes André Marcelo
Published: July 2024

Purpose: To describe the successful closure of an idiopathic macular hole (MH) with topical therapy after surgery failed. Methods: A case report was evaluated and prospective literature review performed. Results: After surgery to correct an MH in a 57-year-old female patient failed, topical therapy was initiated. MH closure was successful using this modality. Conclusions: There are few reports in the literature describing successful closure of an idiopathic full-thickness MH with topical therapy after initial surgery fails. This reinforces the importance of the “hydration” hole in this disease. Characterization with optical coherence tomography may help determine which patients could benefit from topical treatment for MH closure and avoid costly and invasive surgical procedures.
Investigating the improvements in morphometric and mechanical properties of mild steel coated with polymer-based hybrid nano composites
Authors: Gujjar Sandeep V , Joshi Sharad G , Hunashyal AM , Jeevan Rao H , Perumalla Janaki Ramulu
Published: July 2024

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the coexistence of polymers and nanoparticles, demonstrating improved mechanical and corrosion resistance characteristics when applied to mild steel surfaces. For this investigation, various polymer-based hybrid nanocomposite combinations were considered. Combinations of nanomaterials, such as multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTS), zinc oxide (ZnO), cerium oxide (CeO2), silicon oxide (SiO2), and graphene oxide nanoparticles (GO), as well as polymers including polyester, phenolic, epoxy, and polyurethane were employed. Mild steel samples covered with hybrid nano composites underwent 3.5% NaCl immersion and standard Salt Spray (Fog) test method ASTM B117:2016 to evaluate their corrosion resistant qualities. Tensile strength test (A370:2017) and hardness test [IS 101(Part-5, Sec.2):1988] were performed and determined the mechanical properties. An ideal proportion of polymer and nanoparticles combination that results in both enhanced mechanical and corrosion resistance characteristics was determined in this study. From the obtained results, epoxy resin has been exhibited a 97% corrosion resistance, with a 10% increase in tensile strength around 700 mg of surface hardness. The MSPS3 recorded with the highest of all the combination values of 89% corrosion resistance, 400 mg of surface scratch hardness and 25% increased tensile strength. In case of MZPU2, 80% corrosion resistance, 25% increased tensile strength with 600 mg of surface hardness. Whereas MGPH1 shown 69% anticorrosion, 600 mg of scratch hardness and 27% rise in tensile strength. With these outputs, this research can be applied to various materials for different engineering applications.
Cherished sons and considerate daughters? Claims to resettlement housing in the urbanizing Eastern China
Authors: Sun Yining , Song Jing
Published: July 2024

China’s urbanization has led to massive demolition and resettlement projects on the edge of the expanding cities, moving affected villagers into resettlement housing. This study examines the consequent changes in family property structures, focusing on how resettlement housing was redistributed between sons and daughters. This study draws on fieldwork in the suburban area of an expanding city in Shandong, Eastern China, and analyzes in-depth interviews about how resettlement housing was divided in families that had (1) both sons and daughters, (2) sons only, and (3) daughters only. The findings suggest that the sons’ privilege in receiving housing properties was more salient in families with more children (three children or above) and with both sons and daughters. In small families (with one or two children) or daughter-only families, it was more likely for siblings’ needs and daughters’ contributions to be mentioned in the division of properties; when daughters adjusted their family roles, such as assuming the role of the ‘heir,’ their negotiation for inheritance rights changed. Built on studies about how local governments and rural communities have ignored or reproduced gender inequality in property structures in urbanization, this study illustrates how gendered access to housing varies across family structures.
Analysis of macular thickness and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in various ABO and Rh blood groups
Authors: Shanbezadeh Effat , Vasaghi-Gharamaleki Behnoosh , Nabovati Payam , Koochakzadeh Leili , Khabazkhoob Mehdi
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To determine the association between ABO and Rh blood groups with retinal structural indices including macular thickness and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted using convenience sampling in a tertiary referral eye hospital in Tehran, Iran. Study participants were referred to the hospital laboratory to test their blood group. Ocular examinations were performed including measurement of visual acuity, auto-refraction, subjective refraction, and slit-lamp biomicroscopy. Retinal imaging was carried out using Spectral-domain OCT under dilated papillary conditions.

Results

Three hundred and twenty-eight individuals were recruited in this study. Of these, 219 (60.7%) were female and the mean age of the participants was 63.29 ± 5.57 years (range: 56 to 83 years). According to the multiple linear regression model, the global peripapillary RNFL thickness [coefficient: -3.05 (95% CI: -5.30 to -0.74);P = 0.010] and peripapillary RNFL thickness in the superior [coefficient: -4.65 (95% CI: -8.40 to -0.89),P < 0.001] and inferior [coefficient: -4.00 (95% CI: -7.81 to -0.19);P = 0.040] quadrants were significantly thinner in individuals with blood type B compared to those with other ABO blood groups. The average [coefficient: 12.69 (95% CI: 4.12–21.64);P = 0.004) and central [coefficient: 16.21 (95%: 6.44–25.97);P = 0.001) macular thicknesses were significantly thicker in AB group compared to other blood groups. The average macular thickness was significantly thinner in Rh + compared to the Rh- group [coefficient: -8.33 (95% CI: -15.4 to -1.25);P = 0.021].

Conclusion

Retinal structural indices may be related to blood groups implying a genetic linkage. Considering the lack of consistency among various studies, larger trials are needed to explore the effect of ABO and Rh grouping on peripapillary RNFL and macular thicknesses.
Hypothermia in preterm infants admitted to low-resource neonatal units in northern Nigeria: an observational study of occurrence and risk factors
Authors: Sanni Usman Abiola , Usman Fatima , Ogunkunle Taofik Oluwaseun , Adamu Adamu Sa’idu , Lamidi Audu Isah , Lawal Taslim Olatunde , Bello Surajudeen Oyeleke , Na’uzo Aliyu Mamman , Ibrahim Tajudeen Lanre , Naphtal Nyirimanzi , Shehu Sa’adatu , Jibrin Abdullahi , Farouk Zubaida Ladan , Bashir Muhammad Faruk , Adedeji Idris Abiodun , Abdulsalam Mohammed , Abdullahi Yakubu , Imam Abdulazeez
Published: July 2024

Background

Hypothermia is an important cause of morbidity and mortality among preterm and low-birth-weight neonates. In resource-constrained settings, limited referral infrastructure and technologies for temperature control potentiate preterm hypothermia. While there is some documentation on point-of-admission hypothermia from single center studies, there are limited multicenter studies on the occurrence of hypothermia among preterm infants in resource-limited-settings. Therefore, we conducted a multicenter study to determine the prevalence and risk factors for hypothermia at the time of admission and during the first 72 h after admission in northern Nigeria.

Method

We carried out a prospective cohort study on preterm infants admitted to four referral hospitals in northern Nigerian between August 2020 and July 2021. We documented temperature measurements at admission and the lowest and highest temperatures in the first 72 h after admission. We also collected individual baby-level data on sociodemographic and perinatal history data. We used the World Health Organization classification of hypothermia to classify the babies’ temperatures into mild, moderate, and severe hypothermia. Poisson regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for moderate-severe hypothermia.

Results

Of the 933 preterm infants enrolled, 682 (72.9%) had hypothermia at admission although the prevalence of hypothermia varied across the four hospitals. During the first 24 h after admission, 7 out of every 10 babies developed hypothermia. By 72 h after admission, between 10 and 40% of preterm infants across the 4 hospitals had at least one episode of moderate hypothermia. Gestational age (OR = 0.86; CI = 0.82–0.91), birth weight (OR = 8.11; CI = 2.87–22.91), presence of a skilled birth attendant at delivery (OR = 0.53; CI = 0.29–0.95), place of delivery (OR = 1.94 CI = 1.13–3.33) and resuscitation at birth (OR = 1.79; CI = 1.27–2.53) were significant risk factors associated with hypothermia.

Conclusion

The prevalence of admission hypothermia in preterm infants is high and hypothermia is associated with low-birth-weight, place of delivery and presence of skilled birth attendant. The prevalence of hypothermia while in care is also high and this has important implications for patient safety and quality of patient care. Referral services for preterm infants need to be developed while hospitals need to be better equipped to maintain the temperatures of admitted small and sick newborns.
Causes of death in individuals with lifetime major depression: a comprehensive machine learning analysis from a community-based autopsy center
Authors: Nunes Paula Villela , Mancine Livia , Neves Beatriz Astolfi , Leite Renata Elaine Paraizo , Nascimento Camila , Pasqualucci Carlos Augusto , Lafer Beny , Salvini Rogerio , Suemoto Claudia Kimie
Published: July 2024

Background

Depression can be associated with increased mortality and morbidity, but no studies have investigated the specific causes of death based on autopsy reports. Autopsy studies can yield valuable and detailed information on pathological ailments or underreported conditions. This study aimed to compare autopsy-confirmed causes of death (CoD) between individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) and matched controls. We also analyzed subgroups within our MDD sample, including late-life depression and recurrent depression. We further investigated whether machine learning (ML) algorithms could distinguish MDD and each subgroup from controls based on their CoD.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive analysis of CoD in individuals who died from nontraumatic causes. The diagnosis of lifetime MDD was ascertained based on the DSM-5 criteria using information from a structured interview with a knowledgeable informant. Eleven established ML algorithms were used to differentiate MDD individuals from controls by simultaneously analyzing different disease category groups to account for multiple tests. The McNemar test was further used to compare paired nominal data.

Results

The initial dataset included records of 1,102 individuals, among whom 232 (21.1%) had a lifetime diagnosis of MDD. Each MDD individual was strictly paired with a control non-psychiatric counterpart. In the MDD group, the most common CoD were circulatory (67.2%), respiratory (13.4%), digestive (6.0%), and cancer (5.6%). Despite employing a range of ML models, we could not find distinctive CoD patterns that could reliably distinguish individuals with MDD from individuals in the control group (average accuracy: 50.6%; accuracy range: 39-59%). These findings were consistent even when considering factors within the MDD group, such as late-life or recurrent MDD. When comparing groups with paired nominal tests, no differences were found for circulatory (p=0.450), respiratory (p=0.790), digestive (p=1.000), or cancer (p=0.855) CoD.

Conclusions

Our analysis revealed that autopsy-confirmed CoD exhibited remarkable similarity between individuals with depression and their matched controls, underscoring the existing heterogeneity in the literature. Future research should prioritize more severe manifestations of depression and larger sample sizes, particularly in the context of CoD related to cancer.
Associations of fish oil with cardiovascular disease events: results from the Taiwan longitudinal study in aging
Authors: Chen Hsiu-Chuan , Tai Chi-Jung , Huang Jing-Yang , Kuo Tsu-Ann , Huang Yuan-Der , Yen Chi-Hua , Lee Meng-Chih
Published: July 2024

Background

The effectiveness of fish oil in preventing cardiovascular events is still debating. Some studies indicate a correlation between the use of fish oil supplements and reduced mortality or decreased incidence of stroke. However, other studies show no significant association between fish oil intake and stroke prevention, indicating an ongoing debate. This study aimed at exploring which subjects may benefit more from fish oil supplementation.

Methods

This study utilized the data obtained through face-to-face interview from the Taiwan Longitudinal Study in Aging (TLSA). A total of 3,652 participants were included from the 2003 baseline data, after excluding patients with pre-existing ischemic heart disease or stroke. Participants were divided into two groups based on whether taking fish oil supplement or not. Participants were followed until 2015, estimating and comparing the all-cause mortality and cumulative incidence rate of stroke between both groups.

Results

The results of the 12-year longitudinal study showed that the cumulative incidence rate of stroke in the fish oil supplementation group was 5.7%, compared to 7.7% in the non-supplemented group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the crude hazard ratio for stroke was significantly lower in the fish oil supplementation group (HR = 0.686;95% CI 0.476–0.987). However, after adjusting potential confounders, the adjusted risk of stroke was lower only for the diabetic patients supplemented with fish oil (aHR = 0.123; 95% CI 0.016–0.930) compared to non-diabetic patients (aHR = 0.917; 95% CI 0.616–1.364).

Conclusion

This study suggests that there is an association between fish oil supplementation and a lower cumulative incidence rate of subsequent stroke among diabetic patients.
Development and validation of radiology-clinical statistical and machine learning model for stroke-associated pneumonia after first intracerebral haemorrhage
Authors: Zhang Wenru , Zhou Ying , Xu Liuhui , Qiu Chaomin , Luo Zhixian , Jiang Zhenghao , Tao Xinyi , Wu Yingjie , Yao Shishi , Huang Hang , Wang Xinshi , Yang Yunjun , Lin Ru
Published: July 2024

Background

Society is burdened with stroke-associated pneumonia (SAP) after intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH). Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) complicates clinical manifestations of stroke. In this study, we redefined the CSVD burden score and incorporated it into a novel radiological-clinical prediction model for SAP.

Materials and methods

A total of 1278 patients admitted to a tertiary hospital between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2019 were included. The participants were divided into training and testing groups using fivefold cross-validation method. Four models, two traditional statistical models (logistic regression and ISAN) and two machine learning models (random forest and support vector machine), were established and evaluated. The outcomes and baseline characteristics were compared between the SAP and non-SAP groups.

Results

Among the of 1278 patients, 281(22.0%) developed SAP after their first ICH. Multivariate analysis revealed that the logistic regression (LR) model was superior in predicting SAP in both the training and testing groups. Independent predictors of SAP after ICH included total CSVD burden score (OR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.03–1.54), haematoma extension into ventricle (OR, 2.28; 95% CI, 1.87–3.31), haematoma with multilobar involvement (OR, 2.14; 95% CI, 1.44–3.18), transpharyngeal intubation operation (OR, 3.89; 95% CI, 2.7–5.62), admission NIHSS score ≥ 10 (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.42–3.01), male sex (OR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.16–2.52), and age ≥ 67 (OR, 2.24; 95% CI, 1.56–3.22). The patients in the SAP group had worse outcomes than those in the non-SAP group.

Conclusion

This study established a clinically combined imaging model for predicting stroke-associated pneumonia and demonstrated superior performance compared with the existing ISAN model. Given the poor outcomes observed in patients with SAP, the use of individualised predictive nomograms is vital in clinical practice.
Sagittal slope angle of lateral atlantoaxial articulation is associated with the severity of basilar invagination with atlantoaxial dislocation and predicts reduction degree after surgery
Authors: Sheng Xia-Qing , Peng Zi-Han , Ding Chen , Wang Bei-Yu , Hong Ying , Chen Peng-Fan , Meng Yang , Liu Hao
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate (1) lateral atlantoaxial articulation (LAA) morphology in patients with basilar invagination (BI) with atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD) and healthy individuals and its relationship with the severity of dislocation and (2) the effect of the LAA morphology on reduction degree (RD) after surgery.

Methods

In this retrospective propensity score matching case-control study, imaging and baseline data of 62 patients with BI and AAD from 2011 to 2022 were collected. Six hundred thirteen  participants without occipitocervical junctional deformity served as controls. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used for analysis.

Results

The age, BMI and sex did not differ significantly between the two groups after propensity score matching. Sagittal slope angle (SSA) and coronal slope angle (CSA) was lower and greater, respectively, in the patient group than in the control group. A negative SSA value usually indicates anteverted LAA. Regression analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between SSA and severity of dislocation. However, no relationship was found between CSA and the severity of dislocation. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that minimum-SSA emerged as an independent predictor of satisfactory reduction (RD ≥ 90%). The ROC curve demonstrated an area under the curve of 0.844, with a cut-off value set at -40.2.

Conclusion

SSA in patients group was significantly smaller and more asymmetric than that in the control group. Dislocation severity was related to SSA but not to CSA. Minimum-SSA can be used as a predictor of horizontal RD after surgery.
Clinical and radiographic results of locking plate with medial support screw in Proximal Humerus fracture – the more, the better?
Authors: Lim Jun-Hyuk , Hwang Jaeyeon , Kim Sungmin , Kim Myung-Sun
Published: July 2024

Background

The calcar of the proximal humerus is a fundamental structure for medial humeral column support. This study aimed to assess the outcome of osteosynthesis across cases of unstable proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) with medial calcar comminution, following treatment with a PHILOS locking plate and medial support screw (MSS).

Methods

Between January 2010 and December 2018, we retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of 121 cases of osteosynthesis for PHFs with medial column disruption. For the medial support, at least one oblique screw was inserted within 5 mm of the subchondral bone in the inferomedial quadrant of the humeral head. All patients were categorized into two groups: 26 patients in the single MSS group, and 95 in the multiple MSS group. Follow-up after at least an year involved clinical and radiographic outcome evaluations, and correspondingly measuring the Constant-Murley score, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder scale, pain visual analogue scale (VAS), major complications, neck-shaft angle (NSA), humeral head height (HHH), and the eventual time to bone union. Risk factors for the major complications were assessed by multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

The cohort’s mean age was 64.4 ± 15.4 years, and the mean follow-up duration was 19.5 ± 7.6 months. At the final follow-up, between the single MSS and multiple MSS groups, no significant differences in the Constant-Murley score (p = 0.367), UCLA score (p = 0.558), VAS (p = 0.571), time to bone union (p = 0.621), NSA loss (p = 0.424), and HHH loss (p = 0.364) were observed. The incidence of complications (p = 0.446) based on the number of MSS were not significantly different. The initial insufficient reduction after surgery (of NSA < 125°) was found to be a significant risk factor for post-surgical complications.

Conclusions

To treat unstable PHFs, the use of at least one MSS along with a locking plate system is sufficient to achieve satisfactory outcomes. Successful operative treatment using a locking plate for PHF treatment is inherent in anatomical fracture reduction, coupled with medial column support.