bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Crossover between Climate Politics and Central Banking: How Green Central Banking Emerged in the US, the EU, and the UK
Authors: Jabko Nicolas , Kupzok Nils
Published: May 2024

Climate change has emerged on the agenda of central bankers. We argue that the rise of green central banking resulted from a crossover between climate politics after the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement and central banking after the 2008 financial crisis. Actors in these unconnected fields constructed and exploited this new linkage to their advantage. In the wake of the Paris Agreement, climate advocates promoted green central banking as part of a broader push for climate action beyond typical climate policy. Central bankers, in turn, endorsed green central banking to shore up political support. After their post-2008 unconventional monetary policies had alienated many right-wing backers, central bankers needed to make their policies more broadly appealing. This logic prevailed to varying degrees in the European Union and the United Kingdom, thanks to a new openness to climate action. In the United States, however, political polarization around the climate issue set clear limits to the crossover.
Anti-candidiasis functional material for women’s cotton undergarments
Authors: Mouro Cláudia , Palmeria-de-Oliveira Ana , Gomes Ana P , Cristina Gouveia Isabel
Published: May 2024

The escalating incidence of Candida spp. infections among individuals with compromised immune systems is attributed to various factors, including broad-spectrum antibiotic usage, common health issues, and inadequate undergarments, requiring novel preventive measures. While the pathogenic mechanisms of Candida spp. infections remain incompletely understood, their virulence attributes and opportunistic nature challenge host defenses. In response, this research study introduces an innovative nanobiotechnological approach employing L-cysteine to develop nontoxic anti- Candida spp. textile materials. Cotton, an ideal material for women’s underwear, was functionalized with L-cysteine through an exhaustion procedure following activation with 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinyl-1-oxy free radical. The results demonstrated increased energy dispersive X-ray peaks corresponding to sulfur atoms in the functionalized cotton fabric, confirming that L-cysteine remained attached to the cotton surface even after washing cycles. Moreover, the cotton containing L-cysteine displayed morphology and mechanical properties similar to the nonfunctionalized cotton, indicating that the incorporation of L-cysteine did not impact the cotton properties. In addition, cotton functionalized with L-cysteine exhibited a significant reduction in yeast growth – 87.04 ± 1.90% for Candida albicans and 65.28 ± 3.03% for Candida parapsilosis – highlighting its potential as a class I medical device, particularly for preventing candidiasis in women’s medical underwear.
The influence of the friction field on accelerating position distribution
Authors: Fan Jule , Wang Jiang , Zhang Yuze , Wang Jun
Published: May 2024

In accordance with the tenets of displacement deviation theory, the distribution of accelerating positions was the main reason for the uneven output sliver. To elucidate this phenomenon, a dynamic drafting model with controllable fiber proportion was developed in this paper to simulate the accelerating process of the floating fiber. The model was employed to investigate the impact of the friction field on the distribution of accelerating positions, achieved through the manipulation of friction field distribution and fiber proportion in the drafting zone. The simulation results indicated that, with various drafting conditions, the friction field at the position with a higher slow fiber proportion always made the accelerating position distribution closer to the front roller. In addition, the duration of the friction field influence on the fiber floating process was found to be directly proportional to its effect on the accelerating position distribution. Furthermore, there was a critical slow fiber proportion, which increased in tandem with the augmentation of slow fiber proportions in the drafting zone. The friction field at the position where the proportion of slow fibers was higher than the critical slow fiber proportion made the accelerating position distribution closer to the front roller; otherwise, the friction field made the accelerating position distribution closer to the back roller. This study can offer a valuable reference for designing more effective friction field distribution to improve the output sliver quality.
People on probation as an inclusion health group: Exploring needs, barriers and service provision in Wales
Authors: Rabaiotti Ella
Published: May 2024

People on probation face particular health inequalities and are categorised as an ‘inclusion health’ population group within public health policy in Wales. The health of this group is thought to be worse than the general population and a factor in whether people reoffend. This article is based on mixed-methods exploratory research which included a survey covering 34 community-based services who work with people on probation across Wales. Survey respondents indicated service availability and waiting lists, and mistrust of professionals are key barriers to accessing healthcare. The most identified health needs were mental health and substance misuse related. There is an opportunity to increase the focus on healthcare for people on probation through inclusion health approaches.
Does Fantastic Reality Ability Differ Across Personality Prototypes?
Authors: Rubinstein Dori , Lahad Mooli , Aharonson-Daniel Limor , Mizrahi David , O’Rourke Norm
Published: May 2024

Human personality is based on five fundamental traits, and these traits appear to cluster in three different prototypes (i.e., resilient, undercontrolled, and overcontrolled prototypes). A growing body of research suggests that persons with these prototypes differ in mental health and well-being. We set out to identify if clusters differ in the use of imagination to cope with stress and uncertainty (i.e., Fantastic Reality Ability). For this study, we recruited 398 Israeli adults during the second COVID-19 lockdown, before the vaccine was available; participants were recruited and provided responses online including the FRAME (i.e., Fantastic Reality Ability Measurement). Cluster analyses indicate Israeli participants present with three distinct personality clusters or prototypes similar to research conducted in North America and Europe. Clusters significantly differ in FRA abilities (i.e., control, playfulness, coping, transcendence). That is, the resilient prototype reported higher control, playfulness and coping, and lower transcendence compared to the over- and undercontrolled. Future research should examine FRA in psychotherapy to further understand the clinical utility of this individual difference over time.
The Role of Dietary Patterns and Nutritional Supplements in the Management of Mental Disorders in Children and Adolescents: An Umbrella Review of Meta-Analyses: Le rôle des habitudes alimentaires et des suppléments nutritionnels dans la prise en charge des troubles mentaux chez les enfants et les adolescents : une méta-revue de méta-analyses
Authors: Talib Maria , Rachdi Majda , Papazova Anna , Nicolis Hélène
Published: May 2024

Objective

In recent years, the relationship between nutrition and mental health has gained considerable interest. We identified, synthesized, and appraised all meta­-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies reporting on the efficacy of dietary patterns and nutrient supplements in the prevention and treatment of mental disorders in children and adolescents.

Methods

Systematic research in MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews was completed on 8 January 2024.

Results

Our research found 24 meta-analyses: 14 on RCTs, 8 on observational studies, and 2 combining both. Emerging evidence suggests that omega-3, in particular eicosapentaenoic acid, and Vitamin D may have adjunctive benefits in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), while no evidence was found for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Observational data also indicated that prenatal folic acid supplementation (>400 μg daily) was associated with a reduced risk of ASD in offspring. In terms of dietary habits, several meta-analyses of observational data revealed that healthy dietary patterns (rich in fruits, vegetables, and fibre, low in saturated fats) during the prenatal period, childhood, and adolescence were linked to a significantly reduced risk of internalizing disorders and externalizing disorders. Conversely, unhealthy dietary habits (high in sugars, saturated animal fats, and industrial foods, low in fruits, vegetables, and fibre) are associated with an elevated risk of these mental health issues. However, the number of available studies on dietary interventions for the treatment of depression, ASD, and ADHD was limited, and the results obtained were either nonsignificant or contradictory.

Conclusion

Our findings emphasize the need to establish clear causal relationships between dietary habits and the risk of mental illness in children and adolescents. Moreover, further investigation of the benefits observed with some nutrient supplements (such as omega-3 and vitamin D for ADHD) through larger-scale RCTs is imperative to establish more robust conclusions.
The effect of repeated washings on thermal protective performances of one most used structural firefighting turnout gear in the Gauteng Province in South Africa
Authors: Kekana Lucas M , Asante Joseph KO , Mwakikunga Bonex
Published: May 2024

Fire performance measurements of one of the most used firefighting protective ensembles (also called turnout gears), in terms of thermal and smoke hazards, were determined with the cone calorimeter, that of thermal stability were determined with thermogravimetric analyzer, the physical inspection (physical degradation) of the surface done with the scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy measurements determined the elemental compositions of the detergent used in washing and the residual elements in the turnout gears. The cone calorimeter results indicated that the values of the thermal performance parameters, namely: peak heat release rate, maximum average rate of heat emission, and fire growth rate index, all decrease with increasing number of washing cycles, while the smoke parameters: peak smoke production rate, smoke growth rate index, total smoke release, and related sustained flaming values, all increase with increasing number of washing cycles. From the thermogravimetric analyzer measurements, the thermal stability of the turnout gears decrease with increasing number of washings.
Enhancing the performance of optoelectronic potential of CuO/Al nanoplats in a PVC for medium voltage cables applications
Authors: Elbasiony AM , Ghobashy Mohamed Mohamady , Madani Mohamed , Al-Gahtany Samera Ali , Sharshir AI
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the potential of incorporating CuO and Al nanoplates into a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) matrix to enhance the performance of medium voltage cables. The incorporation of nanoparticles into the PVC insulation material aims to improve the electrical, dielectric, and optical properties of the cable. The nanocomposite films were synthesized by dissolving PVC in tetrahydrofuran (THF) solvent and adding a mixture of 5 wt% CuO and Al nanoparticles. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of the nanoparticles into the PVC matrix. The optical properties of the PVC/AlNPs and PVC/CuONPs + AlNPs nanocomposite films were characterized, revealing a decrease in band gap energy (4.35 eV) and Urbach tail energy (0.3702 eV) for the PVC/CuONPs + AlNPs film compared to the PVC/AlNPs film (4.5 eV and 0.41816 eV, respectively). Additionally, the PVC/CuONPs + AlNPs film exhibited higher absorption coefficients and increased electron delocalization and conjugation (carbon cluster value of 62.53). The dielectric properties of the CuONPs + AlNPs nanocomposites were investigated, with the sample containing 1.5% AlNPs demonstrating the highest AC conductivity (2.029 × 10−3 S/m), dielectric constant, and dielectric loss across the frequency range. Simulations of electric field distribution revealed that the PVC/CuONPs+1.5% AlNPs nanocomposite cable exhibited a more uniform electric field distribution compared to the PVC market cable, contributing to a reduction in electrostatic tension and a relative permittivity increase from 2.25 to 2.35. The electric potential distribution along the cable radius remained similar for both cable samples. These findings demonstrate the potential of nanocomposite insulation materials in enhancing the performance of medium voltage cables, paving the way for improved reliability, longevity, and efficiency.
A comparative analysis of constraint and connectivity graph techniques for assembly sequence generation in robotic assembly cells
Authors: Dash Parameswar , Sahu Basant Kumar
Published: May 2024

The paper describes a comparative study on the assortment of appropriate assembly-generating techniques for robotic assembly cells. Several techniques have been developed and tested for the creation of viable sequences. Most of these techniques employ computational techniques to generate assembly sequences. Nevertheless, these techniques rely on a large number of assumptions and use insignificant data during the development of assembly sequences. In the present study, two techniques, viz., the connectivity graph technique and the constraint technique are selected, since they are very general, expedient, and easy to implement. Further, selected techniques can easily be automated to increase the productivity of robotics assembly cell. Each technique was applied to four products with different complexities to check their suitability in the context of robotic assembly cell. In the connectivity graph technique, the disassembly of components begins with the sink node in the connectivity graph and ends when no sink node is available. The constraint technique chooses two constraints: the G-constraint and the C-constraint. The process of disassembling the components starts with a component that does not have any G-constraint and satisfies the C-constraint. The G-constraint checks for geometric interference, and the C-constraint checks for connectivity relationships among the components. Both techniques are automated using C++ programming to obtain rapid and efficient results. The automation of assembly techniques is expected to lead to a revolutionary transformation in the assembly sector. The connectivity graph technique is found to be suitable for the robotic assembly cells as described in this article.
Modeling of viscoelastic deformation and rate-dependent fracture damage in rat bone
Authors: Kommidi Santosh Reddy , Kim Yong-Rak , Kim Do-Gyoon
Published: May 2024

Bone is a complex hierarchical structural material whose organ-level response is highly influenced by its constitutive behavior at the microstructural level, which can dictate the inelastic nonlinear deformation and fracture within the organ. In the current study, a combined experimental-computational approach was sought to first obtain the local constitutive properties. Later, a multiscale modeling framework utilizing a novel rate-dependent nonlinear viscoelastic cohesive zone (NVCZ) model was used to explore the fracture behavior at the microstructure of the bone and its influence on the global scale (organ-level) response. Toward this end, nanoindentation testing was conducted within the cross-section of a rat femur bone specimen. An inverse optimization process was used to identify the isotropic linear viscoelastic (LVE) properties of cortical bone by integrating the test results with a finite element model simulation of the nanoindentation testing. Model results using different numbers of spring-dashpot units in the generalized Maxwell model showed that four spring-dashpot units are sufficient to capture the LVE behavior, while solely LVE constitutive relation is limited to fully characterize the rat femur. The LVE constitutive properties were then used along with the rate-dependent NVCZ fracture within the representative volume element (RVE), which was two-way coupled to the global scale bone. A parametric study was conducted by varying the fracture properties of the NVCZ model. The model demonstrated the capability and features to represent inelastic deformation and nonlinear fracture that are linked between length scales. This further implies that the inelastic fracture model and the two-way coupled modeling can elucidate the complex multiscale deformation and fracture of bone, while model validation and further advancements with test results remain a follow-up study and are currently in progress.
Investigation of pore structure evolution and damage characteristics of high temperature rocks subjected to liquid nitrogen cooling shock
Authors: Du Can , Bi Jing , Zhao Yu , Wang Chaolin , Tang Wei , Lian Shuailong
Published: May 2024

Liquid nitrogen (LN2) can be utilized in the development of enhanced geothermal systems, as well as for deep/ultra-deep hydrocarbon reservoir stimulation, fire suppression, and other high-temperature geological projects. It is a crucial issue in the utilization of LN2 to investigate the pore structure evolution, permeability, and damage characteristics of high-temperature rocks under the influence of LN2 cooling shock. These rocks were first slowly heated to 150∼600°C and held for 2 h, followed by LN2 or natural cooling. The evolution of pore volume in high-temperature rocks affected by liquid nitrogen cooling was quantified. T2 cutoff values were determined through centrifugal tests, while the contents of irreducible and mobile fluids were estimated. Based on the aforementioned analysis as well as changes in irreducible fluid saturation, pore throat, tortuosity, and permeability, this study examines the closure and development of pores along with permeability behavior. The findings suggest that, despite a more pronounced decrease in porosity at lower heating temperatures, LN2 cooling specimens exhibit superior pore connectivity and permeability compared to those cooled naturally. LN2 stimulation not only induces crack initiation and propagation but also results in further cooling induced densification based on heating densification. 225°C is considered to be the optimal temperature for cooling contraction induced densification in this study. At higher heating temperatures, the damage to rock cooled with LN2 is more severe than that of naturally cooled. This results in a greater increase in porosity, movable fluid content and proportion, and permeability of LN2 cooled specimens compared to naturally cooled specimens. The damage mechanism can be better understood by the constructed damage model that coordinates the pore increase/decrease and mutual pore transformation from the perspective of pore evolution.
A Rare Tumor of Intravascular Myopericytoma in the Right Renal Vein
Authors: Taniguchi Kohei , Yanai Hiroyuki , Honma Ririno , Yabushita Hiroki , Yamasaki Rie , Ichimura Koichi
Published: May 2024

Myopericytoma, a perivascular myoid neoplasm, is commonly found in the dermis or subcutaneous tissues; however, its occurrence in visceral organs is unusual. Here, we present an extremely rare tumor of intravascular myopericytoma of the right renal vein. A 44-year-old man was incidentally diagnosed with a mass in the right kidney during a routine checkup. A nephrectomy was performed because the urologist suspected renal cancer. A gross examination of the resected specimen revealed a well-circumscribed brown mass in the renal hilum. Histologically, the tumor showed a concentric multilayered proliferation of spindle cells surrounding blood vessels. Immunohistochemical staining showed that the spindle-shaped tumor cells were negative for desmin but positive for α-smooth muscle actin and h-caldesmon, indicating their myoid nature. We confirmed that the tumor was located in the right renal vein because it was encased within a thick wall that was desmin-positive and contained elastic fibers, as shown by Elastica van Gieson staining. The patient was diagnosed with an intravascular myopericytoma of the right renal vein. There are several differential diagnoses for renal mesenchymal tumors, including angiomyolipoma. This emphasizes the importance of considering these uncommon tumors when examining nephrectomy specimens.
Malakoplakia of the Endometrium: A Rare Unexpected Disease Raising Clinical Concern for Malignancy
Authors: Fischer Edgar G. , Jones Devin E. , Wu Emily S. , Rutledge Teresa L.
Published: May 2024

Malakoplakia is a rare disease that manifests as a histiocytic inflammatory process and most often occurs in the urinary bladder. It is caused by an impaired capacity of histiocytes to kill and digest bacteria. The typical histopathologic findings are sheets of histiocytes with granular eosinophilic cytoplasm and characteristic Michaelis–Gutmann bodies, spherical bodies with a targetoid appearance. Malakoplakia is even rarer in the gynecologic tract, and our literature search found only 21 published patients of malakoplakia involving the endometrium. Here we report a 60-year-old female patient who presented with recurrent pelvic infections and postmenopausal bleeding, which raised concern for an endometrial malignancy. Hysterectomy with salpingo-oophorectomy revealed malakoplakia involving the endometrium and also the right ovary. Michaelis–Gutmann bodies were visible on the intraoperative frozen section that was performed to rule out an endometrial malignancy. We summarize the clinicopathologic findings of the published patients of endometrial malakoplakia.
Primary Cutaneous Acral CD8-Positive Lymphoproliferative Disorder: A Case Report With Nonacral Presentation
Authors: Pasco Peña Alejandro , Nova-Camacho Luiz Miguel , Fernandez Irene , Pelegay Julio Perez , Panizo Ángel , Guerrero-Setas David , Córdoba Alicia
Published: May 2024

In this study, we describe a patient of primary cutaneous acral CD8-positive lymphoproliferative disorder located in a nonacral region. A 65-year-old male presented with an ill-defined lesion of rubbery consistency and a maximum diameter of 2.5 cm localized in the right thigh. Histologically, it was composed of a diffuse dermal infiltration of medium-sized atypical lymphocytes that expressed CD3, CD8, and TIA-1. In addition, a characteristic paranuclear positivity with CD68 was observed. During the follow-up, the patient had a recurrence of the disease in the abdomen with a lesion showing similar morphology and phenotype. To our knowledge, < 20 patients of primary cutaneous acral CD8-positive lymphoproliferative disorder with a nonacral presentation have been described in English literature. Although rare, its identification is essential to differentiate it from other T-cell lymphoma that express CD8 and cytotoxic markers, and whose clinical courses are very aggressive.
Incidence of port site complications in relation to timing of bevacizumab infusion
Authors: Yun Jina , Baek Grace , Indorf Amy , Duong Arianne
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Bevacizumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets vascular endothelial growth factor, with a serious complication of wound healing complications. The package insert currently does not have recommendations on the management of bevacizumab administration around minor procedures, including port placements. Currently, there are only two trials that have examined the optimal timing of bevacizumab after port placement.

Methods

This is a single-center retrospective trial aiming to evaluate the rate of wound dehiscence and other port site complications depending on the time between port placement and bevacizumab infusion. Eligible patients who have had at least one port place and have received bevacizumab for an oncologic indication were identified in a study period of 1/1/2016–3/31/2021. The primary outcome of this study was the incidence of wound dehiscence in relation to the timing of bevacizumab infusion.

Results

A total of 243 patients met the inclusion criteria, and 116 port placements had a port site complication. For wound dehiscence, 6% was observed 0 days from port placement, 10% was observed 1 day from port placement, 0% was observed 2 days from port placement, 0% was observed 3–7 days from port placement, 3% was observed 8–14 days from port placement, and 3% was observed 15–30 days from port placement.

Conclusions

The results of this study show an inverse relationship between the risk of wound dehiscence and port site complication and the timing of bevacizumab infusion to port placement, with an increase in absolute risk of wound dehiscence when bevacizumab is given within 2 days of port placement.
Passion fruit by-products (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa) as a potential fat replacer in ice cream
Authors: Molina-Hernández Junior Bernardo , Andrade-Mahecha Margarita Maria , Martínez-Correa Hugo Alexander
Published: May 2024

In recent years, people have become interested in consuming low-fat foods as this reduces the risk of obesity and cardiovascular disease. For this reason, this study optimized the incorporation of passion fruit epicarp (PFE) as a partial fat substitute in dairy ice cream. For this purpose, a central composite rotational design 22 was performed and 5 response variables were optimized, of which 4 variables were maximized (percentage overrun, hardness, adhesiveness, and color coordinates L*, a*, b*), while the melting rate was minimized as a function of two factors (% PFE and % fat). The stability of three types of ice cream was then evaluated: experimental ice cream (3% milk fat and 0.97% PFE), commercial ice cream (4% milk fat and 2% vegetable fat) and control ice cream (3% milk fat without PFE added), according to their physicochemical and sensory properties during 57 days of storage (−22 °C, 85% relative humidity). The results showed that it was possible to reduce the milk fat by up to 25% by adding PFE (0.97%), which significantly reduced the melting rate and resulted in higher hardness (N), adhesiveness and increased yellowness compared to the commercial samples. The optical microscopy analysis also showed that PFE keeps the air bubbles immobile due to the increased viscosity in the serum phase during the 57-day storage.
Impact of positive airway pressure therapy on intraocular pressure in obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review
Authors: Singh Mamta , Deokar Kunal , Dutta Siddhartha , Sinha Bibhuti P , Katoch Chandan D S
Published: May 2024

Background

Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy has been reported to have variable effect on intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) . The objective of this review is to present a qualitative assessment of available literature on impact of PAP on IOP in patients of OSA. Method: Online databases were searched for relevant articles up to September 2023. It included randomized control trial (RCT), prospective observational study, case control study, cross-sectional study, published abstract having relevant information. The comparator group consisted of OSA patients not receiving the PAP therapy or the pre-PAP IOP. Studies reporting change in IOP immediately after PAP use, at 1 month and at 1 year of PAP use were included. For quality assessment Cochrane Risk of Bias tool version 2 and NIH study quality assessment tool for Before-After (Pre-Post) Studies with No Control Group was used. Result: In this systematic review of ten clinical studies with 191 patients of OSA, use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy led to an immediate increase in IOP but it was not significantly different from non-CPAP users. One month and 1 year of CPAP use led to a significant increase in IOP from the baseline value.

Conclusion

The available albeit limited evidence suggests that CPAP use, particularly at higher pressures, is linked to an elevation in IOP. However, high quality evidence from well-designed RCTs is needed to confirm or refute this findings.
Disabled content creators on OnlyFans: Empowerment, representation, and precarity
Authors: Santinele Martino Alan , Moumos Eleni , Trung Rachell
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the intersection of disability and digital content creation on OnlyFans, a subscription-based social media platform known for its diverse creator community. Through a content analysis of 10 news articles and 22 Reddit threads focused on disability and OnlyFans, we investigate the experiences of disabled content creators in this dynamic digital landscape. OnlyFans has emerged as a promising employment option for people with disabilities, offering financial stability, independence, and a newfound sense of career control. However, concerns persist regarding potential impacts on disability-related benefits, highlighting the need for clearer support mechanisms. Furthermore, the platform has redefined power dynamics, allowing creators to reclaim agency over their narratives, particularly during the pandemic. It has not only transformed financial prospects but also served as a tool for managing health conditions and boosting self-confidence. These findings underscore OnlyFans’ role in fostering inclusivity and financial empowerment for disabled individuals. Our analysis also unveils broader societal challenges linked to disability and sexuality, including the de-sexualization and hypersexualization of disabled individuals. This emphasizes the urgency of cultivating a more inclusive understanding of sexuality and consent. Additionally, the fetishization of disabled people, termed “devotees,” adds complexity to the conversation, underlining the importance of respecting autonomy. By shedding light on this underexplored intersection, our research seeks to contribute to a more informed discourse on disability, digital content creation, and online platforms. Ultimately, it highlights the imperative of ongoing exploration and support for disabled content creators within the evolving digital landscape.
Combining Nuclear Medicine With Other Modalities: Future Prospect for Multimodality Imaging
Authors: Archibald Stephen J. , Holland Jason P. , Korde Aruna , Martins Andre F. , Shuhendler Adam J. , Scott Peter J. H.
Published: May 2024

This meeting report summarizes a consultants meeting that was held at International Atomic Energy Agency Headquarters, Vienna, in July 2022 to provide an update on the development of multimodality imaging by combining nuclear medicine imaging agents with other nonradioactive molecular probes and/or biomedical imaging techniques.
Investigation of Neuroprotective Effect of n-Hexane Extract of Cissampelos pareira in Ischemic Stroke-Induced Nerve Damage and Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Khalid Muhammad Sohaib , Sarwar Sadia , Shah Fawad Ali , Alamro Abir , Algamdi Amani Ahmed , Alghamdi Suad , Malik Imran
Published: May 2024

Objective: Cissampelos pareira Linn. (Menispermaceae) has been reported for improving memory and cognitive behavior, and also as a folk remedy, for various neurodegenerative disorders. We investigated Cissampelos pareira for evaluating its neuroprotective effect on rodent model of focal cerebral ischemia. Methods: Male Sprague–Dawley rats (270-300 g) were subjected to permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). The animals were divided into five groups as control, MCAO, and MCAO +  Cissampelos pareira ( n-hexane, ethyl acetate (EtOAc), and methanol (MeOH) extracts; 50 mg/kg; n = 14). The expression of various inflammatory factors and enzymes including cyclooxygenase (COX-2), c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (p-JNK), and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (p-NF-κB) was detected in response to disease and extracts by immunohistochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The n-hexane extract (LD50 > 5.0 g/kg) reduced the infarction area significantly from in n-hexane extract + MCAO group, reversed neuronal death ( P < .01), and relieved the neurobehavioral deficits. The reduced levels of antioxidant enzymes (GST, GSH, CAT, SOD, and GPx), in case of MCAO were significantly elevated in response to n-hexane extract. 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid was detected (through gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) as the major component in n-hexane extract. Conclusion: n-hexane extract has the potential to be of therapeutic value in stroke patients, and thus further studies are warranted to elucidate the neuroprotective effects of this extract.
Deeply embedded wages: Navigating digital payments in data work
Authors: Posada Julian
Published: May 2024

Many workers worldwide rely on digital platforms for their income. In Venezuela, a nation grappling with extreme inflation and where most of the workforce is self-employed, data production platforms for machine learning have emerged as a viable opportunity for many to earn an income in US dollars. Data workers are deeply interconnected within a vast network of entities that act as intermediaries for wage payments in digital currencies. Past research on embeddedness has noted that being intertwined in multi-tiered socioeconomic networks of companies and individuals can offer significant rewards to social participants, while also connoting a particular set of limitations. This paper provides qualitative evidence regarding how this “deep embeddedness” impacts data workers in Venezuela. Given the backdrop of a national crisis and rampant hyperinflation, the perks of receiving wages through financial platforms include accessing more stable currencies and investment outside the national financial system. However, relying on numerous intermediaries often diminishes income due to transaction fees. Moreover, this introduces heightened financial risks, particularly due to the unpredictable nature of cryptocurrencies as an investment. This paper evaluates the effects of the platformization of wages and its effect on working conditions. The over-reliance on external financial platforms erodes worker autonomy through power dynamics that lean in favor of the platforms that set the transaction rules and prices. These findings present a multifaceted perspective on deep embeddedness in platform labor, highlighting how the rewards of financial intermediation often come at a substantial cost for the workers in precarious situations.
Burst versus continuous delivery design in digital mental health interventions: Evidence from a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Marciniak Marta Anna , Shanahan Lilly , Yuen Kenneth S L , Veer Ilya Milos , Walter Henrik , Tuescher Oliver , Kobylińska Dorota , Kalisch Raffael , Hermans Erno , Binder Harald , Kleim Birgit
Published: May 2024

Objective

Digital mental health interventions delivered via smartphone-based apps effectively treat various conditions; however, optimizing their efficacy while minimizing participant burden remains a key challenge. In this study, we investigated the potential benefits of a burst delivery design (i.e. interventions delivered only in pre-defined time intervals) in comparison to the continuous delivery of interventions.

Methods

We randomly assigned 93 participants to the continuous delivery (CD) or burst delivery (BD) group. The CD group engaged in ReApp, a mobile app that increases positive cognitive reappraisal with a consistent delivery schedule that provides five prompts per day throughout the 3-week-long study, while the BD group received five daily prompts only in the first and third weeks of the study.

Results

No significant differences were found between the groups in terms of adherence, mental health outcomes (specifically depressive and anxiety symptoms), level of perceived stress, and perceived helpfulness of intervention. The BD group showed a significantly decreased perceived difficulty of intervention over time.

Conclusions

The results suggest that the burst delivery may be as suitable for digital mental health interventions as the continuous delivery. The perceived difficulty of the intervention declined more steeply for the BD group, indicating that it improved the feasibility of the positive cognitive reappraisal intervention without hurting its efficacy. This outcome may inform the design of less burdensome interventions with improved outcomes in future research.
Handling of outcome missing data dependent on measured or unmeasured background factors in micro-randomized trial: Simulation and application study
Authors: Kondo Masahiro , Oba Koji
Published: May 2024

Background

Micro-randomized trials (MRTs) enhance the effects of mHealth by determining the optimal components, timings, and frequency of interventions. Appropriate handling of missing values is crucial in clinical research; however, it remains insufficiently explored in the context of MRTs. Our study aimed to investigate appropriate methods for missing data in simple MRTs with uniform intervention randomization and no time-dependent covariates. We focused on outcome missing data depending on the participants’ background factors.

Methods

We evaluated the performance of the available data analysis (AD) and the multiple imputation in generalized estimating equations (GEE) and random effects model (RE) through simulations. The scenarios were examined based on the presence of unmeasured background factors and the presence of interaction effects. We conducted the regression and propensity score methods as multiple imputation. These missing data handling methods were also applied to actual MRT data.

Results

Without the interaction effect, AD was biased for GEE, but there was almost no bias for RE. With the interaction effect, estimates were biased for both. For multiple imputation, regression methods estimated without bias when the imputation models were correct, but bias occurred when the models were incorrect. However, this bias was reduced by including the random effects in the imputation model. In the propensity score method, bias occurred even when the missing probability model was correct.

Conclusions

Without the interaction effect, AD of RE was preferable. When employing GEE or anticipating interactions, we recommend the multiple imputation, especially with regression methods, including individual-level random effects.
Design and prototype validation of a laterally mounted powered hip joint prothesis
Authors: Mroz Sarah , Baddour Natalie , Dumond Patrick , Lemaire Edward D
Published: May 2024

Prosthetic technology has advanced with the development of powered prostheses to enhance joint function and movement in the absence of native anatomy. However, there are no powered solutions available for hip-level amputees, and most existing hip prostheses are mounted to the front of the prosthetic socket, thereby limiting range of motion. This research introduces a novel laterally mounted powered hip joint (LMPHJ) that augments user movement. The LMPHJ is mounted on the lateral side of the prosthetic socket, positioning the hip joint closer to the anatomical center of rotation while ensuring user safety and stability. The motor and electronics are located in the thigh area, maintaining a low profile while transmitting the required hip moment to the mechanical joint center of rotation. A prototype was designed and manufactured, and static testing was complete by modifying the loading conditions defined in the ISO 15032:2000 standard to failure test levels for a 100 kg person, demonstrating the joint’s ability to withstand everyday loading conditions. Functional testing was conducted using a prosthesis simulator that enabled able-bodied participants to successfully walk with the powered prosthesis on level ground. This validates the mechanical design for walking and indicates the LMPHJ is ready for evaluation in the next phase with hip disarticulation amputee participants.
Mumps vaccination and immune status among Japanese university students: A multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Takeuchi Jiro , Ozaki Iwata , Hata Kokichi , Nozawa Manami , Fukushima Kanami , Fukumori Norio , Imanaka Mie , Sakanishi Yuta , Shima Masayuki , Morimoto Takeshi
Published: May 2024

Background:

During the mumps outbreak in Japan in 2016, 159,031 cases were reported. In a survey conducted in 2015, mumps vaccination rates for the first dose were 30%–40%. However, the rates for two or more doses were not determined. We assessed the mumps vaccination rates and mumps infection prevalence according to vaccine doses received.

Design and methods:

This was a multicenter cross-sectional study. Students from three universities participated in 2019. Informed consent was obtained from the students and their guardians. The primary outcome was the prevalence of breakthrough mumps infection according to the number of doses of vaccine received. We collected data on past illnesses of vaccine-preventable diseases and vaccination history using a questionnaire, photocopies of the Maternal and Child Health Handbook from the guardians, and virus antibody titers from the universities’ health centers.

Results:

This study assessed 2004 eligible students and included 593 (29.6%); of these, 250 (42.7%) had a mumps infection history. Furthermore, 264 (44.6%), 31 (5.2%), and 2 (0.3%) students received the first, second, and third doses of mumps vaccine, respectively. The mumps seropositivity prevalence was 43.2% ( n = 127), 36.7% ( n = 97), 26.7% ( n = 8), and 100% ( n = 2) for the no-, first-, second-, and third-dose groups, respectively ( p for trend = 0.09). The mumps infection prevalence rates were 69.8% ( n = 203), 11.3% ( n = 28), 3.9% ( n = 1), and 0% for the no-, first-, second-, and third-dose groups, respectively.

Conclusions:

Approximately 1 in 10 students who had received only one dose of mumps-containing vaccine had a breakthrough infection history.
Walkability index for world heritage cities in developing countries
Authors: Valverde-Caballero Liliana S , Mendoza-Salazar Luis M , Butron-Revilla Cinthya L , Suarez-Lopez Ernesto , Aguilar-Ruiz Jesus S
Published: May 2024

Walkability principles are an important part in the planning process of cities that face urban problems such as gentrification, pollution, and decay of their built heritage. The proposed factors – connectivity, proximity, land use mix, and retail density – form a comprehensive framework for evaluating walkability that transcends the boundaries of historical cities. These factors, while initially identified within historical contexts, possess inherent qualities that render them universally adaptable to various urban landscapes. By leveraging these factors, urban planners gain insights into the intricate fabric of pedestrian experiences in cities. They serve as universal evaluative tools, applicable not only to historical cities but also to burgeoning metropolises and smaller urban centres. This work introduces a novel approach to assessing the Walkability Index for World Heritage Cities, utilizing a Multiple Criteria Spatial Decision Support System (GIS-MCDA) structured in four stages. The approached methodology is particularly valuable for governments and decision-makers in developing countries of the Global South, where limitations in data and available tools are common challenges. The insights gained from this study can guide the improvement of policies, enable more precise implementation of sustainable mobility infrastructure, and motivate the pursuit or maintenance of UNESCO World Heritage nominations. The case study focused on the Historical Centre of Arequipa, Peru, a city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The results of this study demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in such contexts, owing to its specificity and the integration of both objective and subjective elements.
Limits to measurement: Rethinking the role of monitoring in environmental governance
Authors: Tadaki Marc
Published: May 2024

The paper explores the role of measurement in securing sustainable and just environmental governance. Examining New Zealand's ambitious initiative to monitor and improve its freshwaters, I identify four ‘limits’ to realising the promise of measurement: scarce resources, ontological ambiguity, epistemological narrowing, and decision-making logics. Expounding these limits helps to identify the costs of, and alternatives to, current visions of science-driven environmental governance reform. By reckoning with these limits rather than ignoring them, a new modus operandi for environmental science can be composed that is both more practically ambitious and less vulnerable to failure.
The paramedic experience of return to clinical practice: A reflexive thematic analysis
Authors: Odgers Jessica , Rochecouste Andrew , Williams Brett
Published: May 2024

Background: The Australian paramedic workforce has significantly expanded and evolved in the past few decades. Professionalisation, increasing demand and evolving clinical practice have contributed to pressure on paramedics to meet community expectations of service delivery. Returning to clinical practice after an absence presents a substantial challenge for paramedics who will need to navigate this transitional phase while readjusting to the fast-paced environment of pre-hospital care. This study aims to explore and understand the experience of paramedics returning to clinical practice. Methods: Paramedics were invited to discuss their experiences returning to clinical practice in ambulance services within Australia. A qualitative reflexive thematic analysis was conducted utilising an inductive approach, underpinned by the theoretical framework of the organisational support theory. An experiential orientation was supported by a critical realist ontology, which intersected and overlapped with epistemological contextualism. Results: Three major themes were identified: (1) perceived organisational support, (2) the reality of flexible work, and (3) clinician identity. Theme one was further broken down into three sub-themes relating to structure, work engagement, and clinical support. Conclusions: Our findings provide insight into the lived experiences of paramedics returning to clinical practice. These experiences and challenges should inform the application of organisational policy and resource allocation to better support returning paramedics in the future. Strategies should include enhanced leadership capability, flexible work, robust clinical education, and structured programmes with in-built flexibility to reintegrate staff with an emphasis on communication and support.
Short report: Can autie-biographies influence non-autistic readers’ views of autism and autistic people?
Authors: Akhtar Nameera , Dinishak Janette
Published: May 2024

Autistic testimony can be used to both broaden and constrain current theorizing about autism, and to educate lay people of the experiences of (some) autistic individuals. One way to access this testimony involves reading autistic autobiographies (autie-biographies). Dinishak and Akhtar outline several potential benefits of autie-biographies, including questioning assumptions, counteracting stereotypes, and increasing understanding of autistic experiences. As a first step in examining whether autie-biographies can produce these benefits, we coded book reviews of 52 English autie-biographies for three themes (suggestions for research/policy; changed views of autism; increased empathy/understanding) and found evidence for all three. These results suggest that reading autie-biographies may benefit non-autistic readers.

Lay Abstract

One potential way to gain an understanding of autistic perspectives involves reading autistic autobiographies (autie-biographies). If autie-biographies influence readers’ views about autism and autistic people, then book reviews of autie-biographies should indicate changes in the review authors’ views. In this study we examined whether book reviews of autie-biographies: 1) contained suggestions for research and/or policy; 2) suggested changes in the review author's view of autism; and/or 3) mentioned an increased understanding of autistic experiences. We found that most reviews contained one or more of these themes, suggesting that reading autie-biographies might be an effective way to influence non-autistic people’s views about autism.