bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of symptom course in alcohol use disorder
Authors: Conlin William E. , Hoffman Michaela , Steinley Douglas , Vergés Alvaro , Sher Kenneth J.
Published: September 2023

Background

Symptoms often play an important role in the scientific inquiry of psychological disorders and have been theorized to play a functional role in the disorders themselves. However, little is known about the course of specific symptoms and individual differences in course. Understanding the course of specific symptoms and factors influencing symptom course can inform psychological theory and future research on course and treatment.

Methods

The current study examined alcohol use disorder (AUD) criteria to explore how etiologically relevant covariates differentially affected the course of individual criteria. The study examined 34,653 participants from Wave 1 (2001–2002) and Wave 2 (2003–2004) of the National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC), to analyze the extent to which AUD symptom course is predicted by alcohol consumption patterns, family history of alcoholism, the presence of internalizing and externalizing disorders, and race.

Results

The course of all AUD criteria was significantly influenced by these predictors, with the magnitude of the influence varying across different criteria and different aspects of the course (i.e., onset, persistence, recurrence). The strength of the relationship is partially related to the theoretical proximity of a given covariate to AUD symptomatology, with heavy drinking being the strongest and family history of AUD being the weakest. The course of all criteria was strongly associated with the prevalence of the criterion in the overall sample.

Conclusions

The course of AUD criteria is heterogeneous, appearing to be influenced by conceptually proximal predictors, the prevalence of the criterion, and perhaps an underlying common factor. Diagnostic accuracy may be improved by including a criterion related to alcohol consumption. Future work should include exploring the interchangeability of criteria and alternative operationalization of them.
Can work integrated learning deliver employability? International post‐graduate accounting students
Authors: Crawford Vanessa , Brimble Mark , Freudenberg Brett
Published: September 2023

International students studying a Master of Professional Accountancy (MPA), or equivalent postgraduate degree in accounting, in Australia were designed to fill the skills shortage gap for accountants, but employability rates appear low at 25% compared to 75% for domestic graduates. University work integrated learning (WIL) programs have been implemented to provide opportunities to increase employability, yet participation rates for international students appear low. This study uses an exploratory, qualitative approach, with semi‐structured interviews of industry and students, to explore the participation rates, experiences and expectations of stakeholders in relation to WIL. Implications of the findings for stakeholders include preparation programs and simulated WIL opportunities.
Negotiating China's rise: The dynamics of Chinese business associations and the Belt and Road Initiative in Brunei Darussalam
Authors: Hoon Chang‐Yau , Zhao Kaili
Published: September 2023

With an increasingly assertive China and the intensifying influence of the Sinocentre, Chinese overseas who have access to Chineseness can exercise their agentic power in using their cultural capital for economic gains. Beijing has recognised the potential for diasporic Chinese entrepreneurs to contribute to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) given their influence in Southeast Asia's economy. Correspondingly, these entrepreneurs hail the BRI as a strategic opportunity for them to turn their cultural capital into fiscal capital. Considering the increased global connectivity and new Chinese migration geographies led by the BRI, this article examines the case of Chinese business associations in Brunei Darussalam. The heterogenous responses of these ethnic Chinese and their associations to China and the BRI attest to the multiplicity and contestations of Chineseness based on different migration histories and sentiments to their ancestral land. We focus on the dynamics between the old Chinese Bruneian business elites and the more recent Chinese business migrants from Malaysia and China. An investigation of the cultural and economic politics within the Chinese Bruneian business community will provide insights into the modality of Chineseness as an economic asset that can be tactically used by diasporic Chinese entrepreneurs to maintain their social position and to respond to China's economic rise.
Translational bioethics as a two‐way street. Developing clinical ethics support instruments with and for healthcare practitioners
Authors: Metselaar Suzanne
Published: September 2023

This article discusses an approach to translational bioethics (TB) that is concerned with the adaptation—or ‘translation’—of concepts, theories and methods from bioethics to practical contexts, in order to support ‘non‐bioethicists’, such as researchers and healthcare practitioners, in dealing with their ethical issues themselves. Specifically, it goes into the participatory development of clinical ethics support (CES) instruments that respond to the needs and wishes of healthcare practitioners and that are tailored to the specific care contexts in which they are to be used. The theoretical underpinnings of this participatory approach to TB are found in hermeneutic ethics and pragmatism. As an example, the development of CURA, a low‐threshold CES instrument for healthcare professionals in palliative care, is discussed. From this example, it becomes clear that TB is a two‐way street. Practice may be improved by means of CES that is effectively tailored to specific end users and care contexts. The other way around, ethical theory may be enriched by means of the insights gained from engaging with practice in developing CES in a process of co‐creation. TB is also a two‐way street in the sense that it requires collaboration and commitment of both bioethicists and practitioners, who engage in a process of mutual learning. However, substantial challenges remain. For instance, is there a limit to the extent to which a method of moral reasoning can be adapted in order to meet the constraints of a given healthcare setting? Who is to decide, the bioethicist or the practitioners?
Muted responses to heat in a nocturnal tropical rodent
Authors: Breit Ana M. , Kleinhause‐Goldman Gedalyahou Tal , Ikhwan Awang Khairul , Isaac Marcellinus , Tuen Andrew Alek , Levesque Danielle L.
Published: September 2023

We measured the thermoregulatory characteristics of a common, tropical murid rodent, Sundamys muelleri. Subcutaneous body temperatures and evaporative water loss increased at ambient temperatures above 33°C, but no increases in metabolic rate were observed as high as 38.2°C, indicating tropical rodents may be resilient as climate change progresses.

Abstract in Malay is available with online material.
Clinical and histologic evaluation of heterotopic mucosa transpositioning at teeth and dental implants
Authors: Imber Jean‐Claude , Roccuzzo Andrea , Stähli Alexandra , Bosshardt Dieter D. , Muñoz Fernando , Ramseier Christoph A. , Lang Niklaus P. , Sculean Anton
Published: September 2023

Aim

To investigate the healing after heterotopic mucosa transpositioning at dental implants and teeth.

Materials and Methods

One hemimandible per dog (n = 4) was allocated to receive 3 implants (test), whereby 3 premolars on the contralateral side served as controls. After osseointegration, a Z‐plasty was performed on the buccal aspect of the test and control sites to heterotopically move the zone of keratinized tissue (KT) into a region with non‐keratinized tissue (nKT) and vice versa. Clinical measurements were performed before (T0) and at 12 weeks following heterotopic transposition (T1). Thereafter, specimens were processed for histological analysis.

Results

Clinical measurements revealed that at T1, a band of KT was reestablished at teeth (mean: 2.944 ± 1.866 mm), whereas at implants, the transpositioned nKT resulted in a mucosa without any signs of keratinization (mean: 0 mm; p < .0001). At implant sites, the probing attachment level loss was more pronounced compared to tooth sites (−1.667 ± 1.195 mm and −1.028 ± 0.878 mm, respectively; p = .0076). Histologically, the transpositioned nKT, was accompanied by the formation of KT at the tooth but not at implant sites. The supracrestal soft tissues were statistically significantly higher at tooth compared to implant sites (2.978 ± 0.483 mm and 2.497 ± 0.455 mm, p = .0083). The transpositioned KT remained mostly unaltered in its morphological characteristics.

Conclusions

The findings of this study indicate that: (a) transpositioned KT may retain its morphological characteristics; and (b) transpositioned nKM was accompanied by the formation of KT at the tooth but not at implant sites.
The effect of stoma self‐efficacy of people with stoma on their sexual function and satisfaction
Authors: Yilmaz Sezer Neslihan , Aker Menekşe Nazlı , Öner Cengiz Hatice , Ersöz Şiyar , Uçar Serpil
Published: September 2023

Aim

The aim of this research is to determine the effect of stoma self‐efficacy of people with stoma on their sexual function and satisfaction.

Method

This descriptive research was carried out between November 2022 and May 2023. One hundred and forty people with stoma were included in the research. A descriptive information form, a visual analogue scale (VAS) for satisfaction with sexual life, the Stoma Self‐Efficacy Scale (Stoma SE) and the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) were used for the research.

Results

According to the findings of the research, it was established that 90% of the participants had sexual dysfunction according to the ASEX. The average VAS satisfaction with sexual life score was 2.77 ± 3.19, the average Stoma SE Total score was 76.26 ± 19.63 and the average ASEX score was 21.62 ± 7.88. The VAS‐satisfaction with sexual life score of the participants had a positive relationship with the social self‐efficacy score and a negative relationship with the ASEX score. There was a negative relationship between the social self‐efficacy score and the ASEX score of the participants. It has been determined that the social self‐efficacy scores of the participants affect their ASEX and VAS‐satisfaction with sexual life scores.

Conclusion

Development of care self‐efficacy is as critical as the development of social self‐efficacy for people with stoma. Development of social self‐efficacy by people with stoma can contribute to their sexual function and satisfaction with sexual life.
Study on the application of percutaneous closed pleural brushing combined with cell block technique in the diagnosis of malignant pleural effusion
Authors: Wang Kang , Hu Xueting , Chen Yufang , Yi Xinglin , Han Xianfeng , Zhu Duan , Zhu Bingjing , Luo Hu
Published: September 2023

Introduction

This study was to investigate the diagnostic value of percutaneous closed pleural brushing (CPBR) followed by cell block technique for malignant pleural effusion (MPE) and the predictive efficacy of pleural fluid carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations in lung adenocarcinoma patients with MPE.

Methods

All patients underwent closed pleural biopsy (CPB) and CPBR followed by cell block examination. MPE‐positive diagnostic rates between the two methods were compared. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine factors influencing the EGFR mutations. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to analyze the predictive efficacy of pleural fluid CEA for EGFR mutations.

Results

The cumulative positive diagnostic rates for MPE after single and twice CPBR followed by cell block examination were 80.5% and 89.0%, higher than CPB (45.7%, 54.3%) (P < 0.001). Univariate analysis showed that EGFR mutation was associated with pleural fluid and serum CEA (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that pleural fluid CEA was an independent risk factor for predicting EGFR mutation (P < 0.001). The area under the curve (AUC) of pleural fluid CEA for EGFR mutation prediction was 0.774, higher than serum CEA (P = 0.043), but no difference with the combined test (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Compared with CPB, CPBR followed by the cell block technique can significantly increase the positive diagnostic rate of suspected MPE. CEA testing of pleural fluid after CPBR has a high predictive efficacy for EGFR mutation in lung adenocarcinoma patients with MPE, implying pleural fluid extracted for cell block after CPBR may be an ideal specimen for genetic testing.
Serum HMGB1 is a biomarker for acute myocardial infarction with or without heart failure
Authors: Wahid Abdul , Wen Juan , Yang Qiong , Zhang Zhihui , Zhao Xiexiong , Tang Xiaohong
Published: September 2023

This study measured serum high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) levels in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and/or heart failure (HF) and evaluated their relationship with peripheral inflammatory biomarkers and cardiac biomarkers, which have not been reported before. Of the patients, 55 had AMI without HF (AMI−HF), 42 had AMI with HF (AMI+HF), and 60 had HF without AMI (HF−AMI) compared with 50 healthy controls. Blood samples were collected to assess serum HMGB1 levels and blood test‐related inflammatory biomarkers (e.g., erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR], hs‐CRP, uric acid, and white blood cell count) and cardiac biomarkers (e.g., MYO, cTnI, CKMB, CK, NT‐proBNP, LDH, aspartate aminotransferase [AST], and alanine aminotransferase [ALT]). Compared to healthy controls, three groups of patients, especially those with AMI+HF, had significantly higher levels of serum HMGB1. All tested inflammatory biomarkers (except uric acid) were significantly positively correlated with HMGB1 in patients with AMI patients but not in patients with non‐AMI. In addition, all tested cardiac biomarkers (except NT‐proBNP in AMI−HF) were significantly higher in patients with AMI than in control individuals. The levels of MYO, cTnI, CKMB, CK, AST, and ALT were not significantly changed in patients with HF−AMI compared to control individuals, but were still much lower than those in patients with AMI (except ALT). In all patients, the levels of NT‐proBNP, and cTnI were significantly correlated with HMGB1 levels. Except for MYO, LDH, AST, and ALT, all cardiac biomarkers in AMI−HF and AMI+HF showed a significant correlation with HMGB1. Among risk factors, hypertension, diabetes, previous heart disease, and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction showed a significant correlation with HMGB1 in all disease groups.
Comparative assessment of scientific reach and utilization of the International Association of Dental Traumatology 2020 guidelines: An altmetric and citation analysis
Authors: Ravi Mugilan , Tewari Nitesh , Atif Mohammad , Srivastav Sukeshana , Shrivastava Nikhil , Rahul Morankar
Published: September 2023

Background/Aim

The updated version of the International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT) guidelines was published online in May 2020 in the form of four papers. They are extensively used in dental trauma education in textbooks, undergraduate and postgraduate programs, and clinical workshops. Hence, this study aimed to assess the impact, global scientific reach, and utilization of these guidelines through altmetric and citation analysis.

Material and Methods

The protocol was prepared after an expert group discussion. Dimensions database was used to derive the altmetric and citation data on April 10th, 2023. The data was extracted by using a self‐designed pre‐piloted form by two authors independently. The citing articles were further categorized into the type of study and the domains and subdomains of dental traumatology. The VOSviewer program was utilized to explore the correlation between the subdomains and the overlap of citations was assessed by creating a citation matrix.

Results

A total of 552 citations had been collectively received by the four papers. The highest was seen for the guidelines for fracture and luxation in permanent teeth (FL), avulsion in permanent teeth (AV), general introduction (GI), and primary teeth (PT). Dental Traumatology had the maximum number of citing papers for each guideline. They were from 52 countries with English being the commonest language. Overall, the maximum number of citations had been received in narrative reviews (n = 104) and the majority of cited papers were categorized in the therapeutic domains. The most common subdomain for the papers that cited GI, FL, and AV was “treatment protocols in permanent teeth”, while it was “awareness of prevention and emergency management of traumatic dental injuries” for the papers that had cited PT.

Conclusions

This analysis highlighted that the IADT 2020 guidelines are globally popular resources, which are widely used by the researchers across specialities and are intended towards clinical application.
Question answering over knowledge graphs using BERT based relation mapping
Authors: C. M. Suneera , Prakash Jay , Singh Pramod Kumar
Published: September 2023

A knowledge graph (KG) is a structured form of knowledge describing real‐world entities, properties and relationships as a graph. Question answering over knowledge graphs (KGQA) allows people to ask questions in natural language and extract answers from KG accurately and more quickly. The main task of a KGQA is to convert a natural language query to the corresponding structured query form like SPARQL. However, generating the precise SPARQL query from a question is challenging and highly error‐prone. Here we propose a question‐answering framework that uses KG to answer simple questions without using SPARQL. Question classification, dependency parsing, entity linking, BERT‐based relation finding and answer extraction constitute the main modules of the approach. We have used the DBpedia as the KG and tested the end‐to‐end system with a subset of QALD‐4, LC‐QuAD and SimpleQuestions datasets. Results show considerable improvement compared to other approaches in terms of F1‐score.
Overview of undergraduate degree programs related to human development and family science
Authors: Dyer Kathleen , Black Sara , Quitorio Gwyneth , Linneman Emma , Vang Maichong
Published: September 2023

Objective

The objective of this overview of academic programs related to Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) is to describe the current status of HDFS in the academy.

Background

HDFS is an interdisciplinary nexus of family science, developmental science, and early childhood education (ECE), often coexisting in academic units.

Method

Universities were identified using Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes in Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) data. Program information was identified by review of university websites and online catalogs.

Results

Six hundred thirty‐six programs granted 28,000 HDFS‐related degrees in the United States in 2019. Universities are evenly split between public and private and are geographically diverse. Approximately half of programs self‐identify as HDFS, 30% ECE, 15% developmental science, and 5% family science. The largest number of programs (53%) were in colleges of education, but they were widely dispersed across campuses, with self‐identified HDFS programs likely to be in colleges that reflect a home economics heritage. The most common department name was Human Development and Family Studies/Science, but these were only 25% of programs. Department names and degree names reflect an interdisciplinary collaboration of developmental science with family science but were less likely to reflect early education. There was little correspondence between the name of degrees offered and the CIP codes attached to them.

Conclusion

HDFS has a large and interdisciplinary presence on university campuses but an unclear identity.

Implications

HDFS needs to clarify its relationship with ECE and to decide whether to standardize its complex and interdisciplinary identity.
Promoting more equitable taxation: Can civic actors help?
Authors: de Renzio Paolo
Published: September 2023

This short paper summarizes the key findings of a collaborative project looking at civic actors' role in promoting more equitable taxation across seven countries. Their examples show that effective tax advocacy usually relies on multiple strategies that engage diverse actors—from public officials and legislators to the media and broader civic coalitions. Moreover, progress depends on building robust and convincing narratives around the need for tax reform and deploying different kinds of capacities—for technical analysis, political engagement and compelling communications. Ultimate success often builds on past failures. In this sense, civil society tax advocacy is a long‐haul endeavor that requires organizations to have a long‐term vision and learn and adapt.
Hydrogeological Functioning of a Karst Underground River Basin in Southwest China
Authors: Guo Yongli , Huang Fen , Sun Ping'an , Zhang Cheng , Xiao Qiong , Wen Zhang , Yang Hui
Published: September 2023

The Maocun underground karst river system in the peak cluster depression is an important source of groundwater in southwest China. Multitracers and high resolution water‐level‐monitoring technology were used to assess and evaluate the hydrogeological structure and flow dynamics. The results showed that the spatial geological structures of the sites had high heterogeneity. Scatter plots of environmental tracers divided the sampling points into groups under different water flow patterns. The karstification was found to increase from sites XLB and LLS to sites BY, SGY and BDP to sites CY and DYQ, where the main water flow patterns at these site groups were diffuse water, both diffuse water and conduit water, and conduit water, respectively. The response times of the subsystems were found to be influenced by the spatial structure, the degree of karstification, and the volume of precipitation and frequency. The average response times of SGY, BDP, ZK, and Outlet in the selected precipitation scenarios were 5.17, 4.08, 16.42, and 5.83 h, respectively. In addition, the EC, δ13CDIC, 222Rn, and δ18O exhibited both linear or exponential relationships. Overall, three hydrogeological conceptual models were constructed showing: (1) high precipitation driving the deep water, resulting in a concentrated flow regime and regional groundwater flow field; (2) both concentrated and diffuse water flows existing under moderate precipitation, resulting in mixed water flow field; (3) the water cycle in the shallow karst aquifer system under low precipitation causing the local groundwater flow field to be dominated by diffuse water flow.
Impact of type 2 diabetes on surgical site infections and prognosis post orthopaedic surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: He Chunyan , Zhou Feng , Zhou Fan , Wang Jin , Huang Wei
Published: September 2023

Background

The escalating prevalence of type 2 diabetes raises concerns about adverse postoperative outcomes like surgical site infections (SSIs) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in orthopaedic surgeries. This meta‐analysis aims to resolve inconclusive evidence by systematically quantifying the risks in type 2 diabetic patients compared to non‐diabetic individuals.

Methods

The meta‐analysis was conducted adhering to the PRISMA guidelines and based on the PICO framework. Four primary databases were searched: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library, with no temporal restrictions. Studies included were either prospective or retrospective cohort studies published in English or Chinese, which assessed orthopaedic surgical outcomes among adult type 2 diabetic and non‐diabetic patients. The meta‐analysis employed the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale for quality assessment and used both fixed‐effect and random‐effects models for statistical analysis based on the level of heterogeneity.

Results

Out of 951 identified articles, nine studies met the inclusion criteria. The odds ratio (OR) for developing postoperative SSIs among diabetic patients was 1.63 (95% CI: 1.19–2.22), indicating a significantly elevated risk compared to non‐diabetic subjects. Conversely, no statistically significant difference in the risk of postoperative DVT was found between the two groups (OR: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.55–1.22). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the stability of these outcomes.

Conclusions

Patients with type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing SSIs post orthopaedic surgery compared to non‐diabetic individuals. However, both groups demonstrated comparable risks for developing postoperative DVT.
The impact of dual VA–Medicare use on a data‐driven clinical management tool for older Veterans with multimorbidity
Authors: Hutchins Franya , Rosland Ann‐Marie , Zhao Xinhua , Zhang Hongwei , Thorpe Joshua M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Healthcare systems are increasingly turning to data‐driven approaches, such as clustering techniques, to inform interventions for medically complex older adults. However, patients seeking care in multiple healthcare systems may have missing diagnoses across systems, leading to misclassification of resulting groups. We evaluated the impact of multi‐system use on the accuracy and composition of multimorbidity groups among older adults in the Veterans Health Administration (VA).

Methods

Eligible patients were VA primary care users aged ≥65 years and in the top decile of predicted 1‐year hospitalization risk in 2018 (n = 558,864). Diagnoses of 26 chronic conditions were coded using a 24‐month lookback period and input into latent class analysis (LCA) models. In a random 10% sample (n = 56,008), we compared the resulting model fit, class profiles, and patient assignments from models using only VA system data versus VA with Medicare data.

Results

LCA identified six patient comorbidity groups using VA system data. We labeled groups based on diagnoses with higher within‐group prevalence relative to the average: Substance Use Disorders (7% of patients), Mental Health (15%), Heart Disease (22%), Diabetes (16%), Tumor (14%), and High Complexity (10%). VA with Medicare data showed improved model fit and assigned more patients with high accuracy. Over 70% of patients assigned to the Substance, Mental Health, High Complexity, and Tumor groups using VA data were assigned to the same group in VA with Medicare data. However, 41.9% of the Heart Disease group and 14.7% of the Diabetes group were reassigned to a new group characterized by multiple cardiometabolic conditions.

Conclusions

The addition of Medicare data to VA data for older high‐risk adults improved clustering model accuracy and altered the clinical profiles of groups. Accessing or accounting for multi‐system data is key to the success of interventions based on empiric grouping in populations with dual‐system use.
Country Image and Consumer Choice: The Case of the Beer Market during the COVID‐19 Pandemic*
Authors: Kim In Kyung
Published: September 2023

In this article, I exploit the exogenous shock to China's image in the COVID‐19 pandemic era and study the impact of country image on consumer choice in the South Korean beer market. First, I find that Tsingtao, a popular Chinese beer brand, lost about 4.8 million liters in sales, a 20% decrease, during the first eight months after the COVID‐19 outbreak. Second, the impact of China's worsened image had not weakened by October 2020. Third, top‐selling non‐Chinese beers absorbed most of Tsingtao's lost sales. These findings reveal that country image has a substantial influence on consumer choice.
A novel technique for CAD‐CAM assisted digital ocular prosthesis
Authors: Tahmawy Yassmin Ashour , Mohamed Faten Salah Eldin , Elfeki Suzan Ahmed , Abd‐ELLAH Mervat Elsayed
Published: September 2023

There are various techniques available for constructing a custom ocular prosthesis. The present technique report describes a digital workflow for constructing an ocular prosthesis using computed tomography integrated with digital technologies. The outer region of the healthy eyeball was segmented to produce the top surface of the prosthesis, while the contour and bottom surface were segmented from the tissue bed of the anophthalmic socket. The iris position was determined by tracing the optical nerve and confirmed by superimposing the patient's facial scan onto the soft tissue model of the computed tomography. Using these parameters, a standard tessellation language file for the ocular prosthesis was generated and 3D printed. The iris was then printed via UV technology using digital photographs of the patient's contralateral eye; characterization of the sclera and the final layer of clear acrylic resin were done conventionally.
Regulatory conflict and a latent public safety risk? The case of gas infrastructure
Authors: Chester Lynne , Hayes Jan
Published: September 2023

While the literature on regulatory compliance is extensive, little scholarly attention has focused on how companies respond to conflicting regulatory requirements. As a case in point, gas pipelines and networks—deemed monopolies—are subject to economic regulation to emulate the price pressures of competition and encourage “efficient” expenditure. Technical (safety) regulation of the same infrastructure also addresses an expenditure trade‐off with safety, potentially drawing different conclusions as to the most appropriate balance. This article reports on a study—drawing on 49 interviews, document review and case studies—analyzing if these two regulatory regimes, as enacted in Australia, are in conflict. We find a significant tension between the two regimes, exhibited through the impact that economic regulation has on a company's planned safety‐related expenditure and thus, long‐term public safety outcomes may be at risk. Australian safety regulation is performance‐based, requiring “reasonably practicable” measures are in place to minimize risk to the public. The San Bruno California disaster, in which eight people died as a result of failed gas infrastructure in the US, shows that such regulatory conflicts also exist in jurisdictions that have adopted prescriptive forms of safety regulation.
Testing a frailty prevention program for older men during COVID‐19: A 2‐year mixed‐methods pilot study
Authors: Hirano Michiyo , Takashima Risa , Onishi Ryuta , Abe Hiroki , Saeki Kazuko
Published: September 2023

Background

Frailty is a syndrome related to declining functioning attributed to aging. As a reversible, often improved condition, preventive measures for frailty can be effective.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate a frailty prevention program for older men comprising face‐to‐face meetings and an original social mobile application. We also examined the effect of COVID‐19‐associated social isolation on the implementation of this program.

Methods

We conducted a mixed‐methods pilot study featuring a single group before and after comparison of 11 man participants, ≥65 years, living in Japanese cities with a spouse or relatives. Program outcome measures included frailty, loneliness, grip strength, step count and mental health status. Process evaluation considered the experience of participants through a semi‐structured interview.

Results

The intervention period included an interval of self‐isolation owing to the spread of COVID‐19. Among the outcomes, grip strength decreased after intervention. No significant negative changes were observed in other items. Themes emerging from participant experiences with the program included ‘Cooperation with researchers and contributing to research’, ‘Greater awareness of health’, ‘Interest in and experience of “newness”’, ‘Hesitation over active engagement’, ‘Casual ties with members’ and ‘Relationships that do not breach personal boundaries’.

Conclusions

Although the COVID‐19 pandemic overlapped with the intervention, participants maintained their mental health. The program was a novel, stimulating experience for older men and demonstrated the usefulness of information and communication technology in supporting their social activities.

Implications for practice

As a community health nursing initiative for older people, we propose activities that combine group and online support. Frailty prevention programs for older men must contain content that stimulates their interests, such as ‘health’ and ‘newness’.
Risk for second primary cancers among pediatric and young adult melanoma survivors
Authors: Luu Yen , Han Joseph , Agarwal Aneesh , Elkady Nadine , Jaroonwanichkul Sandra , Gulati Nicholas , Gittler Julia
Published: September 2023

Background/Objectives

Second primary cancers (SPCs) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors. In this study, we aimed to characterize the incidence of SPCs among pediatric and young adult survivors of CM.

Methods

Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program data spanning 2000–2018, we calculated standardized incidence ratios (SIR) to assess SPC risk in all pediatric (0–18 years) and young adult (19–29 years) patients with a first primary cancer diagnosis of CM.

Results

Of 7,169 total CM survivors, 632 (8.82%) developed a SPC, corresponding to a 5‐fold increased risk (standardized incidence ratio [SIR] 4.98; 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.60–5.38) compared to the general population. There was a highly elevated risk for second primary melanoma across all age groups (SIR 32.5; 95% CI 29.7–35.6), constituting the majority of SPC diagnoses (N = 485). Infants diagnosed with CM before 1 year of age had the highest risk for any SPC (SIR 164; 95% CI 19.8–592) and young adults diagnosed at 25–29 years had the lowest risk (SIR 4.64; 95% CI 4.19–5.13). SPC incidence was highest within the first year of CM diagnosis (SIR 27.5; 95% CI 23.7–31.6) and progressively decreased with time.

Conclusions

Variation exists in the incidence and type of SPC according to age among pediatric and young adult survivors of CM.
Special considerations in adolescents of color with acne and textured hair
Authors: Grayson Ciara , Heath Candrice
Published: September 2023

Acne is a common dermatologic condition that affects most adolescents. In adolescents of color with textured hair, it is paramount to consider how hair care practices may affect acne distribution and treatment. Dermatologists should be familiar with hair care cultural norms when treating this population.
Clinical and dermoscopic assessment of ablative carbon dioxide laser versus intradermal heparin sodium in xanthelasma
Authors: Neinaa Yomna Mazid El‐Hamd , Awara Bassant Sherif El‐Sayed , Shalaby Osama El‐Said , Abd El‐Naby Naeim Mohammed
Published: September 2023

Background

Ablative carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is still a cornerstone in the management of xanthelasma. However, post‐laser complications such as post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation or scarring have to be considered. Heparin sodium was recently suggested as an effective therapeutic modality for xanthelasma.

Objective

The aim of this work was to compare the therapeutic value of ablative CO2 laser versus intradermal heparin sodium in xanthelasma.

Methods

This study was piloted on 30 xanthelasma patients, whose lesions were randomly categorized into two groups. Group A was managed with CO2 laser ablation (2 sessions scheduled every 4 weeks), whereas Group B was managed with intradermal heparin sodium injections (10 sessions scheduled every week). Pre‐ and post‐treatments evaluations were done both clinically and dermoscopically.

Results

Significant reduction of xanthelasma lesions was reported in response to both therapeutic interventions. However, the ablative CO2 laser was more significantly effective than intradermal heparin sodium. Interestingly, intradermal injection of heparin sodium was nearly as effective as ablative CO2 laser in early (<2 years duration) grade I and II xanthelasma, with a lower incidence of post‐therapy side effects.

Conclusions

Intradermal injection of heparin sodium could be suggested as a safe and cost‐effective therapeutic technique for early mild grade I and II xanthelasma. Moreover, it could be recommended as a pre‐operative management of grade III and IV xanthelasma to reduce the lesions to be easily ablated with CO2 laser.
Forecasting performance of machine learning, time series, and hybrid methods for low‐ and high‐frequency time series
Authors: Ozdemir Ozancan , Yozgatligil Ceylan
Published: September 2023

One of the main objectives of the time series analysis is forecasting, so both Machine Learning methods and statistical methods have been proposed in the literature. In this study, we compare the forecasting performance of some of these approaches. In addition to traditional forecasting methods, which are the Naive and Seasonal Naive Methods, S/ARIMA, Exponential Smoothing, TBATS, Bayesian Exponential Smoothing Models with Trend Modifications and STL Decomposition, the forecasts are also obtained using seven different machine learning methods, which are Random Forest, Support Vector Regression, XGBoosting, BNN, RNN, LSTM, and FFNN, and the hybridization of both statistical time series and machine learning methods. The data set is selected proportionally from various time domains in M4 Competition data set. Thereby, we aim to create a forecasting guide by considering different preprocessing approaches, methods, and data sets having various time domains. After the experiment, the performance and impact of all methods are discussed. Therefore, most of the best models are mainly selected from machine learning methods for forecasting. Moreover, the forecasting performance of the model is affected by both the time frequency and forecast horizon. Lastly, the study suggests that the hybrid approach is not always the best model for forecasting. Hence, this study provides guidelines to understand which method will perform better at different time series frequencies.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐A*33:237 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Torio Alberto , Rodriguez‐Nicolas Antonio , Cabo‐Zabala Laura , Caballero Abelardo
Published: September 2023

A novel HLA‐A*33 allele, officially designated HLA‐A*33:237, was identified by next‐generation sequencing.
Three new HLA class II alleles detected in Bashkir individuals
Authors: Loginova Maria , Repnicyna Kristina , Obukhov Ivan , Paramonov Igor
Published: September 2023

The new HLA‐DRB1*11:320, HLA‐DRB1*15:218, HLA‐DQB1*05:324 alleles characterized in bone marrow donors.
Overcoming unreported violence using place‐based ambulance data: The case for mapping hotspots based on health data for crime prevention initiatives
Authors: Simmonds David , Ariel Barak , Harinam Vincent
Published: September 2023

A key concern in crime analysis is the “hidden crime” problem. Crime events unaccounted for in police records limit the external validity of official statistics and, more importantly, hinder the ability of the police to manage crime and utilize their resources effectively. The problem is exacerbated in proactive initiatives aimed at curbing violence through hotspot policing, where inaccuracies and imprecision, or, worse, no data at all, diminish prevention efforts. Previous studies have sought to overcome the data problem by juxtaposing police records with ambulance data on assault callouts and have found profound disparities. Specifically, researchers matched “crime hotspots” with “ambulance hotspots” (rather than individual events) because patient confidentiality considerations have prevented health professionals from sharing subject‐level data with the police. However, health services can safely share spatial data on wider areas that do not disclose personal information. We build on this line of inquiry by analyzing data from the Thames Valley, United Kingdom, and observing spatial hotspots of different sizes. The results demonstrate that while the police and ambulance services attend to the same communities and similar types of facilities, the police are “blinded” to the location of nearly 8 out of 10 assaults. The incongruency is shown even with severe assaults, but to a lesser extent. We then simulate the reduction in injuries if the police had access to health data at different spatial levels and show that even under the most conservative set of assumptions, such an approach can prevent between 113 and 116 violent injuries each year that might otherwise require hospitalization.
SHOT UK Collaborative Reviewing and Reforming IT Processes in Transfusion (SCRIPT) survey: Laboratory information management systems: Are we ready for digital transformation?
Authors: Davies Jennifer , Tuckley Victoria , McGrann Alistair , Rowley Megan , Clarke Heather , Baker Peter , Narayan Shruthi
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To understand the use, functionality and interoperability of laboratory information management systems (LIMS) in UK transfusion laboratories.

Background

LIMS are widely used to support safe transfusion practice. LIMS have the potential to reduce the risk of laboratory error using algorithms, flags and alerts that support compliance with best practice guidelines and regulatory standards. Reporting to Serious Hazards of Transfusion (SHOT), the United Kingdom (UK) haemovigilance scheme, has identified cases where the LIMS could have prevented errors but did not. Shared care of patients across different organisations and the development of pathology networks has raised challenges relating to interoperability of IT systems both within, and between, organisations.

Methods and Materials

A survey was distributed to all SHOT‐reporting organisations to understand the current state of LIMS in the UK, prevalence of expertise in transfusion IT, and barriers to progress. Survey questions covered LIMS interoperability with other IT systems used in the healthcare setting.

Results

A variety of LIMS and version numbers are in use in transfusion laboratories, LIMS are not always updated due to resource constraints. Respondents identified interoperability and improved functionality as the main requirements for transfusion safety.

Conclusion

A nationally agreed set of minimum standards for transfusion LIMS is required for safe practice. Adequate resources, training and expertise should be provided to support the effective use and timely updates of LIMS. A single LIMS solution should be in place for transfusion laboratories working within a network and interoperability with other systems should be explored to further improve practice.
Advancement Toward the Experimental Measurement of the Lead–Bismuth Eutectic Thermal Properties Using Differential Scanning Calorimetry Technique
Authors: Saraswat Satya Prakash , Forgione Nicola , Angiolini Massimo Emilio
Published: September 2023

The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) method has recently emerged as a sophisticated and precise technique for promising contributions to the thermal analysis of various materials, including heavy liquid metal (HLM) coolants. However, there is a lack of experimental studies on the thermal properties of lead-based fluids, such as lead–bismuth eutectic (LBE) and lead–lithium eutectic, which are potential candidates for use as coolants, breeders, and neutron multipliers in advanced nuclear systems like the fourth-generation lead-cooled fast reactor. The available experimental data on the thermal properties of LBE and other lead-based fluids is limited, and the measurements have significant uncertainty. In addition, the composition of components used in the previous studies is inconsistent, and the environmental conditions were often unknown. Therefore, to fill these gaps and advance the thermal properties measurement technique for heavy liquid metal coolants, ENEA Brasimone, in collaboration with DICI-UNIPI, has installed a DSC instrument setup. The experiments performed at the installed DSC setup are focused on measuring some essential thermal properties of LBE using DSC. The experience gained from this work will facilitate the measurement of other fluids based on lead alloy, especially lead–lithium eutectic, a potential candidate for breeder, coolant, and neutron multiplier in demonstration power plant fusion reactors. This study represents the first effort to advance the DSC approach for accurately measuring the thermal characteristics of heavy liquid metals that are highly reactive, such as lead–lithium, which has significant potential in advanced nuclear systems.
GLDAN: Global and Local Domain Adaptation Network for Cross-Wind Turbine Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Peng Dandan , Desmet Wim , Gryllias Konstantinos
Published: September 2023

Operating under harsh conditions and exposed to fluctuating loads for extended periods, wind turbines experience a heightened vulnerability in their key components. Early fault detection is crucial to enhance the reliability of wind turbines, minimize downtime, and optimize power generation efficiency. Although deep learning techniques have been widely applied to fault diagnosis tasks, yielding remarkable performance, practical implementations frequently confront the obstacle of acquiring a substantial quantity of labeled data to train an effective deep learning model. Consequently, this paper introduces an unsupervised global and local domain adaptation network (GLDAN) for fault diagnosis across wind turbines, enabling the model to efficiently transfer acquired knowledge to the target domain in the absence of labeled data. This feature renders it an appropriate solution for situations with limited labeled data availability. Employing adversarial training, GLDAN aligns global domain distributions, diminishing the overall discrepancy between source and target domains, and local domain distributions within a single fault category for both domains, capturing more intricate and specific fault features. The proposed approach is corroborated using actual wind farm data, and comprehensive experimental results demonstrate that GLDAN surpasses deep global domain adaptation methods in cross-wind turbine fault diagnosis, underlining its practical value in the field.
Structure and NOx Emissions of Stratified Hydrogen-Air Flames Stabilized on a Coaxial Injector
Authors: Leroy Maxime , Mirat Clément , Renaud Antoine , Puggelli Stefano , Zurbach Stephan , Vicquelin Ronan
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the need for low-carbon power has seen hydrogen emerge as a potential fuel to replace conventional hydrocarbons in combustion to limit CO2 emissions in several sectors, including aeronautics. The challenges posed by hydrogen combustion are similar to the issues of kerosene flames but more challenging, like nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and flame flashback. One potential solution to address these problems is to burn a rich mixture of hydrogen and air in globally lean conditions on a coaxial injector to obtain a stable and staged combustion and attempt to reduce emissions. In this article, the evolution of NOx production as more air is mixed into the fuel is studied, as well as the changes in flame size and structure. In particular, the appearance of a secondary flame front is observed and increasing the proportion of air in the fuel mixture both shortens the flame and reduces the NOx emission index. Additionally, the effect of the global equivalence ratio and flame thermal power is studied. Finally, existing models for NOx emission of hydrogen flames on a coaxial injector based on average flame residence time and strain rate are tested and shown to have promising results.