bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversing Sunitinib Resistance Facilitated by ITGA1 Through the PI3K/Akt/Bcl-2 Pathway Using Nano Co-Delivery System in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Hu Suxian , Duan Yi , Wang Liting , Yu Jian , Guo Qianqian , Duan Yourong , Sun Ying , Wu Zhihua
Published: February 2024

For genitourinary cancers, renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the third leading cause of death, while target drug resistance has always been a difficult problem. Integrin alpha 1 (ITGA1) is a member of the integrin family, which is significant for the pathogenesis, development, and drug resistance of various malignant tumors. However, it remains unclear for the ITGA1 functions in renal cell carcinoma sunitinib resistance. In this study, we found that the ITGA1 gene facilitates renal cell carcinoma sunitinib resistance through the PI3K/Akt/Bcl-2 signaling pathway. Based on this, we developed a co-delivery system designated as Su/Si-PEAL NPs for the synergistic delivery of ITGA1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) and sunitinib using monomethoxy polyethylene glycol-polylactic acid/glycolic acid-poly-L-lysine triblock copolymer (mPEG-PLGA-PLL, PEAL) as the backbone material. Furthermore, the results of a series of functional experiments confirmed that this codelivery system was capable of downregulating the expression of ITGA1 and enhancing the sensitivity of 786-O-R cells to sunitinib. This co-delivery system could be an efficient approach for reversing sunitinib resistance in renal cell carcinoma.
Effect of Missed Post-Procedure Creatinine Measurement on Sub-Acute Kidney Injury Following Coronary Angiography
Authors: Lu Xiaozhao , Li Qiang , Chen Weihua , Deng Jingru , Shi Shanshan , Huang Haozhang , Liang Guoxiao , Huang Zhidong , Lin Xueqin , Deng Jiayi , Chen Jiyan , Liu Jin , Liu Yong
Published: February 2024

Serum creatinine (SCr) levels are essential for the diagnosis of kidney disease after coronary angiography (CAG). However, the influence of missed post-procedure SCr measurement in this situation is unclear. The present study included 14,127 patients undergoing CAG as part of the Cardiorenal ImprovemeNt registry II. Patients were divided into two groups according to whether a post-procedure SCr was measured within 3 days. The primary endpoint was acute kidney disease (AKD). Logistic regression was used to evaluate the relationship between post-procedure SCr and AKD. Of the 14,127 patients (61.6 ± 9.8 years, 34.2% females), 55.4% ( n = 7822) did not have a post-procedure SCr measurement. The incidence of AKD was higher in the missed post-procedure SCr group (15.7 vs 11.9%; median follow-up 6.54 years). Multivariate logistic regression showed that missed post-procedure SCr measurement was associated with significantly higher risk of AKD (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.10–1.45, P < .001). The results were more significant in patients with normal renal function at baseline (aOR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.16–1.60, P < .001). In our study, over half of the patients undergoing CAG missed their post-procedure SCr measurement. The missed post-procedure SCr group had a significantly higher risk of developing AKD compared with those with a post-procedure SCr measurement.
Rowanberry/vermiculite modified rigid polyurethane foams
Authors: Miedzińska Karolina , Członka Sylwia , Kairytė Agnė , Strzelec Krzysztof , Strąkowska Anna
Published: February 2024

Rigid polyurethane (PU) foams were modified with rowanberry/vermiculite fillers. The impact of fillers on selected properties of composites, such as rheological properties (dynamic viscosity, foaming behavior), mechanical properties (compressive and flexural strength, toughness), thermal properties (temperature of thermal decomposition stages, char residues at 600°C), flame retardancy (ignition time IT, total heat, and smoke release THR and TSR, maximum average rate of heat emission MARHE) was investigated. The results show that the incorporation of rowanberry/vermiculite fillers improves the properties of polyurethane foams. For instance, compared with the reference foam, modified foams showed increased synthesis times and higher values of apparent density, which then influenced the mechanical properties. Compared to the unmodified foam, modified foams showed an improvement in compressive strength (up to 7.8%, measured parallel to the foam growth direction), flexural strength (up to 5.8%), and toughness (up to 6.8%). Most importantly, the modified foams showed improved thermal stability and flammability parameters such as elongated ignition time, lowered values of THR, TSR, and MARHE parameters.
Delamination prevention of composite joints with asymmetric carbon-fiber reinforced plastic adherends
Authors: Pires Vasco DC , Carbas Ricardo JC , Marques Eduardo AS , da Silva Lucas FM
Published: February 2024

The use of adhesive bonding in aeronautical applications has gained popularity due to its numerous advantages over traditional mechanical fastening methods. However, the issue of delamination still poses a significant challenge in fully embracing this technology in the industry. This study proposes a unique approach to optimize carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) single lap joints (SLJ) by introducing a curved joint design with varying adhesive thickness. The curvature is achieved through the intentional warpage caused by residual stresses resulting from an asymmetrical composite layup. While these residual stresses can potentially lead to cracks and distortions, this research aims to leverage their presence to enhance joint performance and mitigate delamination risks. A comprehensive analysis, involving both numerical simulations and experimental testing was conducted to compare the performance of the curved joint design with traditional configurations. The findings indicate that the curved joint design effectively prevents delamination while maintaining comparable joint strength. This demonstrates the potential benefits of employing curved joints for aeronautical components with curved geometries, affirming the feasibility and advantages of this approach. However, further optimization of the curved joint configuration is warranted to enhance its performance and expand its applicability to a broader range of applications.
Prediction of creep failure life for unidirectional CFRP with heat-resistant epoxy resin as matrix exposed to high temperature under tension load
Authors: Miyano Yasushi , Nakada Masayuki , Morisawa Yoko , Matsuno Junya , Kageta Soshi
Published: February 2024

The accelerated testing methodology (ATM) developed by the authors is the methodology for predicting statistically long-term life of CFRP structures based on the viscoelasticity including the time-temperature superposition principle for matrix resin. The formulae of ATM are expressed as the product of static strength at room temperature, its dispersion, and the viscoelastic parameter of matrix resin that changes with time and temperature history. This methodology ATM was applied to the prediction of long-term creep failure life for unidirectional CFRP with heat-resistant epoxy resin as matrix under heat degradation in this study. Resin impregnated CFRP strands with heat-resistant epoxy resin were molded using a filament winding system as virgin specimens of unidirectional CFRP. Then, heat-degraded specimens were prepared by exposing the virgin specimens under acceleration conditions determined based on the time-temperature superposition principle for chemical deterioration assuming the condition of practical temperature 110°C and period 10 years. Second, the creep strengths of virgin and heat-degraded CFRP strands were statistically predicted based on ATM and the effect of heat degradation on the long-term life of CFRP strands was evaluated. As results, it was cleared that when the creep strength of CFRP strands undergoes thermal aging at the practical condition, in addition to the strength decrease to time due to the viscoelasticity of the resin, a comparable decrease in static strength and increase in this scatter occur.
Contributions of Violence Exposure and Traumatic Stress Symptoms to Physical Health Outcomes in Incarcerated Adolescents
Authors: Perkins Suzanne , Ametrano Rebecca M. , Leach Marisa , Kobrossi John P. , Smith-Darden Joanne , Graham-Bermann Sandra A.
Published: February 2024

Violence and traumatic stress negatively affect physical health in youth. Incarcerated adolescents have high rates of violence exposure and health problems, however, few studies have examined medical records and violence exposure in this high-risk population. Self-reported violence exposure and symptoms of stress were collected in 115 incarcerated male adolescents. Medical charts were reviewed for the presence of somatic complaints and chronic health conditions. Regression modeling and odds ratios demonstrated that exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV), child abuse, and sexual abuse predicted specific health conditions. The hierarchical regression model established that traumatic stress and a history of sexual abuse predict cumulative health problems. The study demonstrates that early exposure to violence combined with the presence of traumatic stress symptoms increases the risk for later health problems and can be used by healthcare providers to identify youth at increased risk of long-term health outcomes in high-risk populations.
The Impact of Antimicrobial Resistance and Stewardship Training Sessions on Knowledge of Healthcare Students of Wah Cantonment, Pakistan
Authors: Ahmed Saleh , Tareq Ahmad Hussen , Ilyas Doua
Published: February 2024

Promoting awareness regarding antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and stewardship (AMS) is crucial as it results in treatment failures and an economic burden on a country. This study was conducted to determine the baseline knowledge of healthcare students and the impact of conducting training sessions regarding AMR and AMS on the knowledge of healthcare students. This study was conducted using a quasi-experimental design at Wah Medical College, Pakistan, and its subsidiary institutes in 4 months. Two hundred twenty-six healthcare students were selected via stratified sampling through a proportional allocation from 3 academic student groups. Training sessions were conducted and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 23. The median age of the participants was 22 while most were females (54.9%). There was a significant difference in means of AMR score between BScN and AD-BTM student groups and among AD-BTM and MBBS student groups. In the case of AMS scores, the difference in means was significant among all student groups. The training sessions were found effective as the mean AMR and AMS knowledge scores among all the student groups increased significantly after the intervention.
Examining the Use of Public Transportation by Tourists in Ten European Capitals Through the Lens of Hierarchical Leisure Constraints Theory
Authors: Zientara Piotr , Jażdżewska-Gutta Magdalena , Bąk Monika , Zamojska Anna
Published: February 2024

This study examines tourists’ use of public transportation through the lens of hierarchical leisure constraints theory. Drawing on data collected in 10 European capitals among 5,220 tourists, it aims to provide evidence supporting the relevance of the theory in this research domain, thereby deepening our understanding of the mechanisms underlying tourists’ use of public transportation. Except for the relationship between constraints and negotiation, all hypothesized relationships were statistically significant and aligned with the underlying theory. The multi-group analysis revealed, inter alia, a significant difference between cities with a high public transportation modal split and those with a low modal split in terms of the relationship between constraints and negotiation. Our research suggests that municipal authorities should proactively advocate for and invest in public transportation infrastructure. By prioritizing these modes of transportation, they contribute to a more responsible tourism landscape, preserving the authenticity and cultural richness of destinations for future generations.
The Interplay of Knowledge Overestimation, Social Media Use, and Populist Ideas: Cross-Sectional and Experimental Evidence From Germany and Taiwan
Authors: Mede Niels G. , Rauchfleisch Adrian , Metag Julia , Schäfer Mike S.
Published: February 2024

Social media expose users to an abundance of information about various issues. But they also make it difficult for users to assess the quality of this information. If users do not recognize this, they may overestimate their knowledge about those issues. Knowledge overestimation may lead to increased social media engagement and can be linked to attitudes deeming expert knowledge inferior to common sense, such as science-related populist attitudes. We investigate this during the COVID-19 pandemic in two preregistered, cross-sectional survey experiments in Germany and Taiwan, two countries with different cultures, media environments, and responses to the pandemic. Our study offers two contributions: First, we develop a novel measure of COVID-19-related knowledge. Second, we provide comparative evidence on how social media affordances shape the interplay between knowledge overestimation, social media exposure and engagement, and populist attitudes. We do not find that frequent exposure to COVID-19 information is associated with a higher likelihood of knowledge overestimation. However, we show that overestimation is linked to more user engagement with social media content about COVID-19. Experimental data indicate that engagement depends on whether users are in a private or public communication environment. We find minor differences between Germany and Taiwan.
Encounters of Syrian refugees and locals in the informal garment sector of Esenler district, Istanbul
Authors: Sarıalioğlu Özge
Published: February 2024

This article focuses on relations between Syrian and local workers in the informal garment sector. It presents a framework showing the participation and integration of the Syrian refugees and the local workers’ response to this process. The findings are based on empirical materials collected in the Esenler district of Istanbul, including 60 interviews with Syrians and locals as well as participant observation in an informal garment atelier in 2020 to 2021. This study shows how Syrian refugees produce coping tactics and gain bargaining power. The research reveals different forms of relations.
Applying Smartphone Vibration and Visual Text Prompt Functions to Reduce Hyperactive/Impulsive Behaviors of Students With ADHD in Class
Authors: Lai Man-Chi , Lin Yu-Feng , Wang Sheng-Wei , Shih Ching-Hsiang
Published: February 2024

This study investigated the effectiveness of applying a smartphone to reduce the hyperactive/impulsive behaviors of 3 students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in class. A smartphone that can simultaneously provide vibration and visual text prompts was adopted in this study to remind the participants when they exhibited hyperactive/impulsive behaviors. This study adopted the multiple baseline design across subjects under the broader rubric of the single-subject research design, including 2 baseline phases and 2 intervention phases. The results show that the time spent engaged in target behaviors decreased for participants during the intervention phases, compared to the baseline phases. The findings show that applying the vibration and visual text prompts of a smartphone is a feasible prompting strategy to assist students with ADHD to reduce their hyperactive/impulsive behaviors in class.
Erroneous concepts of prominent scientists: C. F. Weizsäcker, J. A. Wheeler, S. Wolfram, S. Lloyd, J. Schmidhuber, and M. Vopson, resulting from misunderstanding of information and complexity
Authors: Stanowski Mariusz
Published: February 2024

The common use of Shannon’s information, specified for the needs of telecommunications, gives rise to many misunderstandings outside of this context. (e.g. in conceptions of such well-known theorists as C.F. Weizsäcker and J. A. Wheeler). This article shows that the terms of the general definition of information meet the structural information, and Shannon’s information is a special case of it. Similarly, complexity is misunderstood today as exemplified by the concepts of reputable computer scientists, such as S. Lloyd, S. Wolfram and J. Schmidhuber. These theorists use an algorithmic definition of complexity and the so-called logical depth, neither of which meets the intuitive criterion of complexity. Hence, their misconceptions of beauty, art and the universe. It will be shown that the intuitive criterion is met by Abstract Complexity Definition. This definition also fulfils the criterion for a general complexity definition, as it defines complexity of the most general/abstract structure of our reality, that is, binary structure. It also explains such fundamental issues of information theory as the information–energy relationship and the value of information, which are still discussed and need to be clarified.
What We Do in the Shadows: How expert workers reclaim control in digitalized and centralized organizations through ‘stealth work’
Authors: Schou Peter Kalum , Nesheim Torstein
Published: February 2024

Organizations often depend on experts to carry out complex tasks that require specialized or tacit knowledge. Yet, organizations often want to increase their control over how tasks are performed and thus reduce the autonomy of experts. In the past, scholars have argued that experts had the ability to rebuff organizational attempts to control them. However, in an era with increased digitalization and centralization in organizations, experts risk losing control. How experts react when facing this increased centralization and digitalization is not well understood. Thus, this study seeks to improve knowledge on how experts react as organizations digitalize and centralize control over tasks. To do so, we studied a large energy company, which sought to increase its control over tasks and reduce the autonomy of its expert engineers by implementing an organizational change that included centralization and digital control. Using in-depth interviews, we portray how the expert workers reclaimed control using three micro-level tactics – strategic compliance and workaround, using legacy to reclaim control and concealing expert control. Based on these findings, our paper makes three contributions to the literature on experts and control. First, we provide the concept of ‘stealth work’, outlining how experts can reclaim control when centralization and digitalization have otherwise stripped them of status and power. Second, we highlight how expert control may be nested in organizations as a legacy, which experts can use when facing centralization and digitalization, and finally, we highlight how experts can engage in small hacks that curb the usefulness of digital control systems.
Screening for Light Personalities in Portugal: A Cross-Cultural Validation of the Light Triad Scale With an At-risk-of-delinquency Sample
Authors: Pechorro Pedro , Baptista Makilim N. , Bonfá-Araujo Bruno , Nunes Cristina , DeLisi Matthew
Published: February 2024

The Light Triad of personality refers to three prosocial personality traits—Faith in Humanity, Humanism, and Kantianism—that promote the worth and dignity of other people, focus on ethical behavior and empathy, and confidence that other people are naturally good. The aim of the present study is to examine the psychometric properties of the Light Triad Scale (LTS)—Portuguese version. Our convenience sample consisted of 242 male and female participants ( M = 30.19 years, SD = 12.78, range = 16–77) from Portugal. The proposed latent structure models of the LTS obtained adequate fits. Internal consistency/reliability, as measured by the alpha and omega coefficients, was adequate to good. Construct validity with other psychometric measures (i.e., empathy, dark traits of personality, propensity to morally disengage, and antisociality/criminality measures) and criterion-related validity (with justice involvement variables such as problems with the law, arrested by the police, sentenced to prison and alcohol/drug abuse variables) were demonstrated. Cross-gender measurement invariance was established, with females scoring higher than males. The findings support the use of the LTS as a valid and reliable measure.
Optimizing Concussion Care Seeking: Connecting Care-Seeking Behaviors and Neurophysiological States Through Blood Biomarkers
Authors: D’Lauro Christopher , Register-Mihalik Johna K. , Meier Timothy B. , Kerr Zachary Yukio , Knight Kristen , Broglio Steven P. , Leeds Daniel , Lynall Robert C. , Kroshus Emily , McCrea Michael A. , McAllister Thomas W. , Schmidt Julianne D. ,   CARE Consortium Investigators:, Master Christina , McGinty Gerald , Jackson Jonathan C. , Cameron Kenneth L. , Buckley Thomas , Kaminski Thomas , Mihalik Jason P.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Timely and appropriate medical care after concussion presents a difficult public health problem. Concussion identification and treatment rely heavily on self-report, but more than half of concussions go unreported or are reported after a delay. If incomplete self-report increases exposure to harm, blood biomarkers may objectively indicate this neurobiological dysfunction.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to compare postconcussion biomarker levels between individuals with different previous concussion diagnosis statuses and care-seeking statuses. It was hypothesized that individuals with undiagnosed concussions and poorer care seeking would show altered biomarker profiles.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Blood samples were collected from 287 military academy cadets and collegiate athletes diagnosed with concussion in the Advanced Research Core of the Concussion Assessment, Research and Education Consortium. The authors extracted each participant’s self-reported previous concussion diagnosis status (no history, all diagnosed, ≥1 undiagnosed) and whether they had delayed or immediate symptom onset, symptom reporting, and removal from activity after the incident concussion. The authors compared the following blood biomarkers associated with neural injury between previous concussion diagnosis status groups and care-seeking groups: glial fibrillary acidic protein, ubiquitin c-terminal hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1), neurofilament light chain (NF-L), and tau protein, captured at baseline, 24 to 48 hours, asymptomatic, and 7 days after unrestricted return to activity using tests of parallel profiles.

Results:

The undiagnosed previous concussion group (n = 21) had higher levels of NF-L at 24- to 48-hour and asymptomatic time points relative to all diagnosed (n = 72) or no previous concussion (n = 194) groups. For those with delayed removal from activity (n = 127), UCH-L1 was lower at 7 days after return to activity than that for athletes immediately removed from activity (n = 131). No other biomarker differences were observed.

Conclusion:

Individuals with previous undiagnosed concussions or delayed removal from activity showed some different biomarker levels after concussion and after clinical recovery, despite a lack of baseline differences. This may indicate that poorer care seeking can create neurobiological differences in the concussed brain.
Nano-clay treatment of jute fiber for reinforcement in polymer composites: Mechanical, morphological, and thermo-kinetic analysis
Authors: Yadav Brijesh Kumar , Yadav Vijay Laxmi
Published: February 2024

Natural fibers have demonstrated exceptional properties that can be utilized as a viable and environmentally reliable material for reinforcement in polymer composites replacing their synthetic counterparts creating numerous environmental problems. Jute fiber is a prominent natural fiber that has been successfully applied for manufacturing noble natural fiber-based composites. This article describes the advantages and comparison between two surface treatment techniques that is alkali treatment and nano-clay treatment of jute fiber to enhance the properties for producing improved composite material. FTIR, SEM, AFM, and TGA have been utilized to compare and study how different surface treatment methods affect jute fiber. Isoconversional methods FWO and KAS are applied for the thermos-kinetic analysis and evaluation of activation energy of thermal decomposition. More than 30% increase in peak activation energy has been observed (120 KJ/mole to 160 KJ/mol). Alkali–nano-clay treated jute fiber exhibits nearly 32% improvement (405 MPa to 535 MPa) in tensile strength, 24% increment (11.85 GPa to 14.69 GPa) in tensile modulus, and 15% improvement (1.4 gm/cm3 to 1.61 gm/cm3) in fiber density as compared to that of untreated jute fiber. This study validates that nano-clay treatment has shown promising results and can improve the overall properties of natural fibers significantly.
A Systematic Review of Dementia Research Priorities
Authors: Ghosh Manonita , Chejor Pelden , Baker Melanie , Porock Davina
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Patient involvement is a critical component of dementia research priority-setting exercises to ensure that research benefits are relevant and acceptable to those who need the most. This systematic review synthesises research priorities and preferences identified by people living with dementia and their caregivers.

Methods

Guided by Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses framework, we conducted a systematic search in five electronic databases: CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Scopus. The reference lists of the included studies were also manually searched. We combined quantitative and qualitative data for synthesis and descriptive thematic analysis.

Results

Eleven studies were included in this review. Findings are grouped into four main categories: Increase in knowledge, education, and awareness; Determining the cause; Sustainability of care; and Cure of dementia and related conditions.

Conclusion

There is a need to respond to the stigma associated with dementia, which limits access to care and the quality of life for both people living with dementia and their caregivers. We need to work on changing public, private and workplace attitudes about dementia and encourage supporting and participating in dementia research. Future research should involve people living with dementia and their primary caregivers from culturally and linguistically diverse communities in priority-setting exercises.
Bio-based flame retardants containing a biphenyl unit for enhancing mechanical properties and fire safety of epoxy resins
Authors: Ren Bin , Wang Chenchen , Ma Rui , Huang Ying , Li Xiuyun
Published: February 2024

A reactive flame retardant containing biphenyl structure (DEU-2DOPO) was prepared from the bio-based raw material eugenol. The incorporation of DEU-2DOPO into the epoxy resin serves to enhance the ring-opening reaction of the epoxy. Furthermore, the inclusion of DEU-2DOPO has been found to have a positive impact on the glass transition temperature and residual carbon rate of the epoxy resin. This additive also significantly improves the mechanical properties of the epoxy resin, leading to a 49.3% increase in tensile strength, an 81.9% increase in breaking elongation, and a 15.8% increase in flexural strength. Notably, when DEU-2DOPO is introduced at a concentration of 5 wt%, it not only achieves a V-0 rating in the UL-94 test but also exhibits an impressive ultimate oxygen index of 34.5%. Additionally, the cone calorimetric testing revealed that the presence of DEU-2DOPO results in lower combustion metrics compared to pure epoxy, as evidenced by a reduction of 15.1% in total heat release (THR) and 10.8% in total smoke release (TSR). An analysis of the flame retardant mechanism elucidates that DEU-2DOPO promotes the formation of a stable and dense residual carbon, thereby impeding gas and heat exchange. Furthermore, the decomposition of DEU-2DOPO generates PO· and PO2· radicals, which effectively neutralize reactive radicals.
Exploring the viability of alternative cooling-lubrication strategies in machining processes: A comprehensive review on the performance and sustainability assessment
Authors: Roy Soumikh , Das Anshuman , Kumar Ramanuj , Das Sudhansu Ranjan , Rafighi Mohammad , Sharma Priyaranjan
Published: February 2024

This paper explores the challenges of machining difficult-to-cut metals using tools like coated carbide, ceramics, and CBN under dry conditions, addressing issues such as heat generation, tool wear and friction, chip evacuation, surface integrity, vibration, and chatter. Though cutting fluids have historically improved machinability, environmental concerns, such as toxicity and non-biodegradability, are significant. Researchers aim to enhance the economic and ecological aspects of machining by reducing cutting fluid usage. This paper provides an overview of the performance assessment and sustainability evaluation of various cooling and lubrication methods during the machining of hard-to-machine as well as difficult-to-cut metals. Additionally, the literature review highlights various environmentally friendly cooling strategies, such as minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) and cryogenic arrangements. According to the results of this review, the utilization of various cooling and lubrication technologies has the potential to enhance both sustainability and machinability properties while prolonging the lifespan of cutting tools. The findings also show that there is a lot of room for improvement in terms of optimizing and making these cooling-lubrication solutions more practical and effective.
Investigating the stick-slip vibration behavior of a locomotive with adhesion control in a curve
Authors: Sun Linping , Yang Zhongliang , Ma Weihua , Luo Shihui , Wang Bo
Published: February 2024

In order to explain the wheel-rail stick-slip vibration phenomenon of alocomotive in a curve, a co-simulation dynamic model taking into account adhesion control was established to reproduce the locomotive wheel-rail curve stick-slip vibration behavior, and the effect of parameters such as creep threshold, descent slope, rail surface condition and track curve radius on the stick-slip vibration behavior was measured by the traction force and the overall dispersion of adhesion coefficient. The results illustrate that the wheel-rail curve stick-slip vibration is caused by the dynamic traction force fluctuation under the adhesion control, and the increase of creep threshold will lead to the decrease of tractive force fluctuation amplitude and the decrease of stick-slip vibration intensity, which will increase the adhesion utilization rate, However, the increase of descent slope, the decrease of track curve radius and wheel-rail friction coefficient have the opposite effect on stick-slip vibration behavior. This phenomenon can be eliminated by improving the rail surface condition, expanding the track curve radius and lowering the locomotive traction force.
Reporting of determinants of health inequities and participant characteristics in randomized controlled trials of systemic lupus erythematosus in Canada: A scoping review
Authors: Thomas Megan , Verma Vanay , Gheshlaghi Niloofar , Esdaile John , Avina-Zubieta Antonio , Barnabe Cheryl , Harrison Mark , De Vera Mary A
Published: February 2024

Objective

To report participant characteristics relevant to identifying health inequities in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) randomized controlled trials conducted in Canada.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review by searching MEDLINE (Ovid) and Embase (1990 to June 2023), and CENTRAL (inception to June 2023). Eligible studies: used an RCT design; evaluated interventions (pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic) among SLE patients aged ≥18 years; and were conducted in Canada. Data extraction was guided by the Campbell and Cochrane Equity Methods Group’s PROGRESS-Plus framework on 11 factors leading to health inequities (Place of residence; Race, culture, ethnicity, and language; Occupation; Gender and sex; Religion; Education; Socioeconomic status; Social capital; Plus: Personal characteristics associated with discrimination; Features of relationships; and Time-dependent relationships).

Results

Of 1901 unique records, 6 met the inclusion criteria. Sex and age were the only PROGRESS factors that were reported in all studies. The majority of participants were female (84.4% to 100%), and mean ages of participants ranged from 42 to 52.3 years. Place of residence, race, education, and social capital were reported in three studies. Socioeconomic status was reported in two studies, and occupation was reported in one study. Religion, features of relationships, and time-dependent relationships were not reported in any included studies.

Conclusion

Limited reporting of determinants of health inequities in RCTs for SLE in Canada suggests the need for reporting standards to support equity, diversity, and inclusion practices in research.
Caring for the Older Transgender Adults: Social, Nursing, and Medical Challenges
Authors: Milionis Charalampos , Ilias Ioannis , Milioni Stella Olga , Venaki Evaggelia , Koukkou Eftychia
Published: February 2024

Aging is a challenging process for people with gender nonconformity. Indeed, the older transgender population faces several disparities in accessing and using health care and social support services. Furthermore, the clinical management of gender transition in later life is empirical since clear research evidence is lacking. This paper aimed to present the problems encountered by older transgender adults in their access to social support and health care and to propose insightful solutions to address them both from a social and medical/nursing perspective. Trans elders face profound disparities in health and social care due to factors associated with limited accessibility to health services, social restrictions, administrative failures, and physical vulnerabilities. The medical treatment of older transgender adults also needs a careful approach to achieve satisfying gender affirmation without clinically significant risks. The potential induction of hormone-sensitive malignancies and the provocation of major adverse vascular events are the main concerns. Gender transition in older adults without a prior history of following gender-affirming therapy is challenging due to biological factors related to advanced age. Caring for elderly trans people unfolds at multiple levels. International organizations and governmental bodies should address the underprivileged status of elderly transgender people by creating and implementing inclusive policies. Safe and respectful clinical and residential environments and the formation of clearer medical guidelines could meet the unique needs of older trans adults. Care providers must advocate for their patients and be equipped to provide safe and effective services.
Synthesising and Conceptualising Circular Supply Chains: A State-of-the-Art Literature Review
Authors: Das Chiranjit
Published: February 2024

The advent of the circular economy principle has triggered supply chain transformation in recent years. This article aims to conduct a state-of-the-art review of circular supply chains. To this aim, 91 peer-reviewed published journal articles from academic databases were collected and evaluated using an inductive approach. The study findings are classified into multiple dimensions of circular supply chains. These include designing products for circular supply chains, supply chain integration, digital transformation for circular supply chains, end-of-life management and circular supply chain capabilities. The study’s contribution is to analyse multiple issues and develop unique propositions of the circular supply chain. In the future, this study may be extended to specific dimensions such as digital transformation, supply chain collaboration and critical success factors of the circular supply chain.
Outcomes Following Excision of Toe Glomus Tumors
Authors: Joyson D. R. Kathir , Sasi P. Kiran , Prabhu Anne Jennifer , Ponmar Madhurima , Pallapati Samuel C. Raj
Published: February 2024

Background:

Glomus tumors are uncommon tumors and their occurrence in the foot is even less common. Glomus tumors of the toes are often missed, causing delays in diagnosis and treatment. We report an ambispective observational study of glomus tumors of the toes that were treated at our institution.

Methods:

We reviewed the records of all the patients who underwent excision of toe glomus tumors in our department from January 2010 to September 2022. The follow-up data were collected from the outpatient records and by telephonic interview. Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) score, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), and the Foot Function Index (FFI) were collected.

Results:

Out of all the patients treated for glomus tumors, we found that 7 patients had glomus tumors of the toes. Of the 7 patients, 6 were women and 1 was a male. The mean follow-up of our patients was 66.4 months (range, 7-109 months). Of the 7 patients, 1 presented with recurrent glomus tumor 30 months following the primary operation, for which she underwent excision again, after which she was symptom free. Another patient who developed recurrent symptoms on telephonic interview refused any further treatment. Among the 6 patients who were symptom-free at follow-up (including the patient who underwent excision for the recurrent tumor), the median SANE score, and FFI were 99.5 (IQR, 96-100) and 0.5 (IQR, 0-2) respectively. The mean FAOS was 96 (SD, 3.3).

Conclusion:

Surgical excision of the subungual toe glomus tumors can be curative. Recurrence of toe glomus tumors was noted in 2 patients (29%), one of whom refused further surgery. Re-excision in the other patient resulted in complete resolution of symptoms.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, ambispective observational study.
Rolling bearing fault diagnosis based on multi-domain features and whale optimized support vector machine
Authors: Wang Bing , Li HuiMin , Hu Xiong , Wang Wei
Published: February 2024

Rolling bearing is an important rotating support component in mechanical equipment. It is very prone to wear, defects, and other faults, which directly affect the reliable operation of mechanical equipment. Its running condition monitoring and fault diagnosis have always been a matter of concern to engineers and researchers. A rolling bearing fault diagnosis technique based on multi-domain feature and whale optimization algorithm-support vector machine (MDF-WOA-SVM) is proposed. Firstly, recursive analysis is performed on vibration signal and the recursive features are employed as nonlinear recursive feature vector including recursive rate (RR), deterministic rate (DET), recursive entropy (RE), and diagonal average length (DAL). Then, a comprehensive multi-domain feature vector is constructed by combining three time-domain features including root mean square, variance, and peak to peak. Finally, whale optimization algorithm (WOA) is introduced to optimize the penalty factor C and kernel function parameter g to construct the optimal WOA-SVM model. The rolling bearing datasets of Jiangnan University is employed for instance analysis, and the results show that the 10-CV accuracy of the technique proposed is good with an accuracy of 99%. Compared with recursive features or time-domain features, multi-domain features are more accurate and comprehensive in describing characters of the signal. Some popular supervised learning models are also introduced for comparison including K-nearest neighbor (KNN) and decision tree (DT), and the result shows that the proposed method has a higher accuracy and certain advantages.
Study on the influence of joint parameters on nonlinear dynamics of a rotor system
Authors: Chen Jin , Lu Kuan , Zhu Weidong , Cheng Hui , Zhang Kaifu , Gu Xiaohui , Fu Chao
Published: February 2024

Aero-engine rotor system contains a variety of connectors such as bolts and bearings. However, the dynamic behaviors of the connection are complex in actual engineering. In this paper, the dynamic behavior of the rotor-bearing system with bolted joints and the influence of the parameters of the joints on it are clarified. The parameters include the bearing clearance and the deflection caused by the uneven bolt preload. A rotor-bearing model with bolted joints is established by using Lagrange equations. The bifurcation diagram is solved to explore the tendency of vibration of the system at different speeds by considering the Hertz contact force. Furthermore, the phase diagram, Poincaré map, time-domain steady-state response curve, and spectrum diagram are used to discuss the dynamic behaviors of the system specifically. The influence of the bearing clearance change and uneven bolt preload on the dynamic behaviors is investigated by using the bifurcation diagram. The result shows that the motion of the system is extremely complex, which includes chaotic motion. The Lyapunov exponent is then calculated to verify whether the system enters chaos. The correctness of the model is verified by comparing the result in this work with those in the literature. The model can clarify the dynamic behaviors of the system well and has high accuracy, which can provide the theoretical guidance for the design of rotor-bearing systems with bolted joints.
Association between peripheral intravenous catheters and clinical characteristics in the development of phlebitis
Authors: Ertaş Akyüz Gonca , Turan Nuray
Published: February 2024

Background:

Serious complications can develop from erroneous insertion of a peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC). Successful PIVC insertion has a great place in the continuation of IV treatment without causing complications that may require the removal of the PIVC.

Methods:

The population for this prospective observational study included patients who had undergone PIVC insertion in the surgical, intensive care, and inpatient units of a large teaching and research hospital in Istanbul. Data were collected via a patient information form, a PIVC and treatment information form, the Visual Infusion Phlebitis (VIP) scale, and a PIVC nurse observation form. The SPSS 24 software package was used to analyze the data.

Results:

Of the 168 patients enrolled, 64.9% ( n = 109) were male, and the mean age was 56.71 ± 17.97 years. The mean PIVC dwell time was 73.46 ± 21.57 h, and 32.7% ( n = 55) of the catheters were removed due to discharge from hospital. Overall, 29.2% ( n = 49) of the cases developed phlebitis, with half of the cases (51%, n = 25) developing grade 2 phlebitis and developed within 48 h in 38.8% of cases ( n = 19). The mean PIVC dwell time was significantly lower in patients with phlebitis than in those with no phlebitis ( p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

It was determined that PIVC dwell time could be increased by routine surveillance to monitor for phlebitis regularly. It is recommended that education programs for nurses be developed to prevent PIVC-related complications.
Basilic vein tunnel transposition versus elevation transposition for brachiobasilic arteriovenous fistula creation: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Koudounas Georgios , Giannopoulos Stefanos , Houser Alex , Karkos Christos , Volteas Panagiotis , Virvilis Dimitrios
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to compare basilic vein tunnel transposition (BVTT) to basilic vein elevation transposition (BVET) technique for superficialization of a basilic arteriovenous fistula. This is a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing outcomes between BVTT and BVET for brachiobasilic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation. Primary endpoints were primary patency at several time intervals during follow-up and postoperative local complications, whereas secondary endpoints included primary assisted patency and secondary patency. A random effects model meta-analysis was conducted, and the I2 statistic was used to assess heterogeneity. Nine eligible studies were identified, including 543 patients (247 in the BVTT group and 296 in the BVET group). BVTT group was associated with inferior primary patency rate at 6 months compared to BVET group (three studies; OR: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.22–0.83; I2 = 0%; p = 0.012). However, primary patency rates were similar between the two study groups at 12 months (six studies; OR: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.33–1.22; I2 = 40.7%; p = 0.176), and at 24 months (six studies; OR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.32–2.29; I2 = 74.9%; p = 0.764). No significant differences in terms of primary assisted patency, secondary patency, and postoperative complications were detected between the groups. More specifically, wound infection (BVTT: n = 9/150; BVET: n = 6/186; OR: 1.39; 95% CI: 0.48–4.06; I2 = 0%; p = 0.542) and healing of the scar, particularly regarding arm edema (BVTT: n = 18/100; BVET: n = 27/165; OR: 1.11; 95% CI: 0.57–2.18; I2 = 0%; p = 0.755) and hematoma formation (BVTT: n = 14/173; BVET: n = 42/209; OR: 0.40; 95% CI: 0.13–1.19; I2 = 49%; p = 0.101), did not differ significantly between the two study groups. BVET achieved superior primary patency at 6 months compared to BVTT, but this benefit seems to be lost during longer follow-up intervals. Therefore, both surgical techniques provide similar long-term outcomes.
Severe Pulmonary Hypertension From Combined Ventricular Septal Defect and Rheumatic MIitral Valve Disease: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Owusu Isaac Kofi , Amponsah Gordon Manu , Wiafe Yaw Amo
Published: February 2024

Most individuals with ventricular septal defect survive to adulthood which allows time for other complications such as pulmonary arterial hypertension to gradually develop over a period of time. When there are other associated cardiac conditions that also contribute to the development of pulmonary hypertension such as valvular heart disease, the pulmonary hypertension may be exaggerated. Because these different etiologies of the pulmonary hypertension have different mechanisms, their coexistence can complicate patient management. We present a 26-year-old man with a large ventricular septal defect and rheumatic mitral valve disease who developed severe pulmonary hypertension that became complicated by atrial fibrillation and later sudden cardiac death.