bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender and Racial Diversity in Relation to Publication Rates at the Canadian Association of Radiology Annual Scientific Meetings 2016 to 2019
Authors: Joarder Ishraq , Ahmadi Shukria , Khosa Faisal
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To determine the overall rate of publication of abstracts presented at the 2016 to 2019 Canadian Association of Radiology Annual Scientific Meeting (CAR ASM), with an emphasis on gender and racial diversity. Methods: Abstracts from publicly available past programs were analyzed using PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar for publication status, time to publication (TTP), author affiliation, and journal of publication. Past programs were used to determine the abstract format, abstract category, and the subspecialty and imaging modalities explored. First author demographics were identified using the Namsor software. Results: Four hundred and sixty-two abstract presentations were included in the analysis with an overall conversion rate of 34.63%. Two hundred and ninety-two (63.2%) of the first-authors were male-identified, of which 104 (35.62%) were published. In contrast, 170 (36.8%) were female-identified, of which 56 (32.94%) were published. Additionally, 50.87% first-authors were identified as white, 38.31% asian, 6.06% black, 4.76% latino, and 0.00% indigenous. While diversity was seen in demographics, 60% of publications had a white first-author. The following conversion rates were found: 40.85% white, 30.51% asian, 25% black, and 13.64% latino. In terms of abstract category, radiologist-in-training had the highest conversion rate at 60.71%. The median TTP was 14 months, with an average impact factor of 5.26. Conclusion: Less than half of abstracts at the 2016 to 2019 CAR ASM were published and both gender and racial disparities in relation to conversion rates were identified. Measures to improve publication rates and overall diversity in Radiology are warranted.
Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist Versus Pressure Support Ventilation: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Mandyam Saikiran , Qureshi Muhammad , Katamreddy Yamini , Parghi Devam , Patel Priyanka , Patel Vidhi , Anshul Fnu
Published: November 2023

Mechanical ventilation serves as crucial life support for critically ill patients. Although it is life-saving prolonged ventilation carries risks and complications like barotrauma, Ventilator-associated pneumonia, sepsis, and many others. Optimizing patient-ventilator interactions and facilitating early weaning is necessary for improved intensive care unit (ICU) outcomes. Traditionally Pressure support ventilation (PSV) mode is widely used for weaning patients who are intubated and mechanically ventilated. Neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) mode of the ventilator is an emerging ventilator mode that delivers pressure depending on the patient's respiratory drive, which in turn prevents over-inflation and improves the patient's ventilator interactions. Our article revises and compares the effectiveness of NAVA compared to PSV ventilation under different contexts. Overall we conclude that NAVA level of ventilation can be safely administered in a patient with acute respiratory failure, provided diaphragmatic paralysis is not considered. NAVA improves asynchrony index, wean-off time, and sleep quality and is associated with increased ventilator-free days. These results are based on small-scale studies with low power, and further studies are warranted in large-scale cohorts with more diverse populations to confirm these results.
Investigation of electrical, electromagnetic interference shielding and tensile properties of 3D-printed acrylonitrile butadiene styrene/carbon nanotube composites
Authors: Maleki Amir Hossein , Zolfaghari Abbas
Published: November 2023

Conductive polymer composites (CPCs) are manufactured by compounding conductive particles with a polymer matrix. There are many applications where they are used, including light-weight applications requiring both electrical and heat conductivity. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been accepted as common materials to accomplish this goal. As part of this research, a material extrusion additive manufacturing (AM) process was utilized to create nanocomposites by a 3D-printing technique. Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were mixed in 1, 3 and 6 wt fractions with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and extruded in filament form. Three-dimensionally printed specimens were used to evaluate electrical, electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) and tensile properties. The electrical conductivity of the material was 26 times greater than that of ABS. In the X-band of electromagnetic waves, EMI SE's reflected and absorbed portions increased respectively 4 and 16 times. The tensile strength and modulus were enhanced by 15% and 9%, respectively. On composite specimens, microwave heat treatment was applied. There is less void space between the rasters and layers, which helps improve tensile properties. Additionally, 3D-printed specimens were tested for melt flow rate (MFR) and dynamic mechanical behaviour. The nozzle has experienced some wear due to the intrinsic abrasive nature of CNTs.
Can Christian Ethics be Saved? Colonialism, Racial Justice and the Task of Decolonising Christian Theology
Authors: Stone Selina
Published: November 2023

Christian ethical practice has historically fallen short, when we consider the histories of European colonial violence from the sixteenth century and the transatlantic slave trade in Africans. Today, Christian ethics can fail to uphold a standard of resistance to contemporary evils, including racial injustice. To what extent can Christian ethics break with this history and be saved? This article considers the ongoing colonial tendencies of Christian ethics and theological education in Britain, before considering the centrality of decolonisation, primarily ‘of the mind’. In the latter part, it turns to examples of anti-colonial Christian ethics, in the work of Robert Beckford, Anthony Reddie, Anupama Ranawana and Anderson Jeremiah. It ends by giving attention to what decolonisation might mean in religious and theological education, as we seek to create spaces for learning in which all people's bodies, minds and voices are welcomed and honoured.
Enhancing fault diagnosis of undesirable events in oil & gas systems: A machine learning approach with new criteria for stability analysis and classification accuracy
Authors: Sahraoui Mohammed Amine , Rahmoune Chemseddine , Zair Mohamed , Gougam Fawzi , Damou Ali
Published: November 2023

Petroleum serves as a cornerstone of global energy supply, underpinning economic development. Consequently, the effective detection of faults in oil and gas (O&G) wells is of paramount importance. In response to the limitations observed in prior research, this study presents an innovative fault diagnosis system, rooted in machine learning techniques. Our approach encompasses a comprehensive analysis, incorporating stability assessment via standard deviation (STD), and a meticulous evaluation of accuracy and stability for distinct fault scenarios. By integrating data preprocessing, feature selection methods, and deploying a robust random forest classifier, our model achieves a substantial enhancement in fault classification accuracy and stability. Extensive experimentation substantiates the superiority of our approach, surpassing the performance of previous studies that predominantly emphasized overall accuracy while disregarding stability analysis. Notably, our model attains remarkable accuracies, notably achieving a flawless 100% accuracy for scenario 3 faults. Detailed examination of mean accuracies and STDs further reinforces the precision and consistency of our model's predictive capabilities. Additionally, a qualitative assessment underscores the practical utility and reliability of our model in accurately identifying critical fault types. This research significantly advances fault detection methodologies within the O&G industry, providing valuable insights for decision-making systems in oil well operations.
A rail corrugation index to characterize noise impacts and grinding effectiveness on rail transit systems
Authors: Lasisi Ahmed , Carneiro Julian , Regehr Jonathan D , Jeffrey Ian , Magel Eric , Chénier Sylvie , Reimer Mark
Published: November 2023

Despite general agreement that rail corrugation generates unwanted noise, there is a need to quantify the relationship between rail corrugation and noise and to leverage this relationship within preventive rail grinding programs. This paper develops a novel rail corrugation index (RCI) and demonstrates the suitability of that index to characterize the relationship between corrugation and noise, to assess grind effectiveness, and to predict noise as a function of rail corrugation. Using a time-series data set collected at a North American rail transit property, the proposed RCI illustrated corrugation growth as a function of accumulated tonnage and an expected reduction of corrugation after grinding. The RCI also correlated well with corresponding wayside noise observations. The evident response behavior and the relationship between rail corrugation and wayside noise gave rise to the assessment of grind effectiveness using the RCI. Further, a modelling effort demonstrated that noise can be predicted using the RCI calculated from only one rail (left or right) on a tangent section. This result suggests that there may also be an opportunity to predict corrugation using noise data, thus limiting the need for track downtime required to measure corrugation.
Research on the mechanism of rail corrugation of steel spring floating slab track on metro
Authors: Li Xiang , Ren Zunsong , Yang Yanfeng , Zhao Shulin
Published: November 2023

Steel spring floating slab track (SSFST) is an effective vibration and noise reduction measure, which is gradually used in urban rail transit in recent years. In order to better solve the problems of vibration noise and abnormal rail corrugation on metro lines, the dynamic model of vehicle-track system including metro vehicle and track structure is established by using the simulation software. The relationship between the passing frequency of vehicle and the vibration frequency of track structure, as well as the resonance characteristics of the elastic track structure are analyzed so as to obtain cause of rail corrugation on SSFST. The results show the following: (1) It is a more obvious resonance phenomenon between the inner rail and the floating slab at the vibration frequency of 116 and 161 Hz (R300 m), 262 Hz (R1000 m) and 320-387 Hz (R1500 m), and the simulation of rail corrugation wavelength is closer to field measured data. (2) Comparing the vibration frequency distribution of ordinary track and SSFST under the same curve radius, the rail corrugation is related to the natural vibration characteristics of track structure. (3) The vibration characteristics of the track structure and the periodic wear characteristics of the rail are the key factors for the formation of rail corrugation.
Increase in human immunodeficiency virus and syphilis prevalence and incidence among men who have sex with men, vietnam 2015 – 2020
Authors: Thanh Nguyen Ha Thi , Nguyen Ly Thuy , Thanh Hoang Ha Thi , Bui Duc Hoang , Thu Phan Huong Thi , Van Khuu Nghia , Hong Ngo Hanh Thi , Dang Duc Anh , Mirzazadeh Ali , McFarland Willi , Pham Thang Hong
Published: November 2023

Introduction

We assessed trends in HIV and syphilis prevalence, HIV incidence, related risk factors, and preventive behaviors among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Vietnam from 2015 to 2020.

Methods

Data originated from the HIV Sentinel Surveillance Plus system, which sampled MSM at venues and hotspots in seven of Vietnam’s 63 provinces in 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2020 ( N = 1100-1445 per year; ∼150-300 per province per year).

Results

HIV prevalence estimates increased from 6.6% (95% CI 4.5–9.6) in 2015 to 13.8% (95% CI 10.5-18.2, p = .001 for trend) in 2020 overall, and separately in An Giang, Can Tho, Hai Phong, and Khanh Hoa provinces but not in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, or Kien Giang. Syphilis prevalence increased from 2.7% (95% CI 1.4-5.1) in 2015 to 12.6% (95% CI 8.7-18.0) in 2020 overall ( p < .001 for trend), and separately in An Giang, Can Tho, and Hai Phong provinces but not in Ho Chi Minh City or Kien Giang. We calculated time-at-risk from first anal sex to first HIV-positive or last HIV-negative test to estimate HIV incidence. Estimated HIV incidence suggested increasing rates of seroconversion from 1.36 per 100 person-years experienced by participants in 2015 to 2.61 per 100 person-years among participants in 2020 (hazard ratio per year 1.13, 95% CI 1.08-1.18, p < .001). There was a statistically significant increase in HIV testing, STI testing, and receipt of free condoms over the period ( p < .05 for trend), and a statistically significant decrease in amphetamine use ( p = .043 for trend).

Conclusions

Despite prevention efforts and improvements in some risk indicators, consecutive cross-sectional sampling results provide evidence of increasing incidence of HIV and syphilis among MSM in Vietnam, especially outside the major cities. Aggressive HIV prevention and treatment services can be expanded while conducting deeper investigations into the causes of these increases.
Fast multi-objective optimization design of gas turbine L-inlet duct
Authors: Xin Xiaopeng , Min Yilong , Pan Dingyi , Liu Zhenyu , Tan Jianrong
Published: November 2023

With ever-increasing demand for high efficiency and high stability gas turbine under the goal of carbon neutrality, the design of L-inlet duct has set stricter demands for low pressure loss and low flow distortion. No general optimization guidelines on both pressure loss and distortion for L-inlet duct were found in open literature. Four geometry parameters including inlet width, inlet length, contraction geometry angle and truncated cone geometry angle are explored for their effects on the trends of pressure loss and flow distortion. Optimization geometry parameters of the L-inlet duct are analysed, and the flow characteristics are thoroughly examined. The flow field characteristic of ΔPt, DC60, SC60 from surrogate model are validated by CFD, the relative errors are 0.37%, −3.92% and 1.75%, respectively. At the design point EF = 35 comparing with original scheme of the L-inlet duct, ΔPt decreases 21.14%, DC60 decreases 45.37%, and SC60 decreases 38.7%. For all off design conditions, the optimization results are better than original scheme. It is estimated that gas turbines can achieve a 0.144% reduction in power loss and a 0.333% improvement in surge margin.
Digitalization and employment relations in the retail sector. Examining the role of trade unions in Italy and Spain
Authors: Marcolin Arianna , Gasparri Stefano
Published: November 2023

This article investigates trade union responses to in-store digitalization in retail in Italy and Spain. It considers critical issues often associated with the digital transformation of work including excessive work flexibility, high levels of monitoring and skills mismatch. It goes on to discuss two alternative employment relations developments: a ‘low road’, along which digitalization enhances market regulation and employers’ ability to control the workforce unilaterally; or a ‘high road’, where digitalization allows for better working conditions as well as business productivity. Drawing on documentary analysis, semi-structured interviews with trade union leaders, and content analysis of collective agreements signed at the sector, territorial and company level, findings report how Italian and Spanish trade unions attempt to use in-store digitalization to increase their leverage and aim for the high road. Overall, this work confirms the challenges of deterring the retail sector from pursuing the low road while highlighting some institutional factors and trade union strategies that can make the difference.
A PLS-SEM Approach to Investigate the Effect of Satisfaction on Willingness to Recommend M-wallet Services
Authors: Bhattacharya Subhajit , Bera Sasadhar
Published: November 2023

Mobile wallets (m-wallets), a particular form of mobile payment system, are gaining considerable attention in different emerging markets. This study uses the stimulus-organism-response model to understand how user recommendation depends on intention to use and satisfaction in the m-wallet payment system at the post-adoption stage in emerging markets. This research also investigates the mediating role of satisfaction between intention to use and recommendation. Online convenience and snowball sampling yielded 474 valid responses. This research applied the partial least squares-structural equation modelling approach to determine the relationship among the latent variables, model parameters estimation and mediation analysis. The results show that significant stimuli, namely brand awareness, perceived quality, compatibility and functional congruity, influence the intention to use m-wallets and users’ satisfaction. The analysis explains that improving the intention to use is insufficient to control the willingness to recommend because users’ satisfaction partially mediates between intention to use and willingness to recommend. Our study contributes to m-wallet users’ propensity to refer to the emerging market’s context. This study explains how customer satisfaction affects m-wallet users’ willingness and intention to make a recommendation at the post-adoption stage.
Psychological flexibility for the well-being of musicians: New possibilities for psychological counseling
Authors: Chełkowska-Zacharewicz Maria , Baran Lidia
Published: November 2023

Musicians face demands such as long-term practice, skill assessment, mental preparation difficulties, anxiety, depression, and study addiction. These challenges extend to their professional life with occupational demands influencing well-being, which underlines the necessity for psychological interventions and preventive programs. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy/training, based on the psychological flexibility model (acceptance, defusion, self as context, committed action, values, and contacting the present moment), has recently been implemented in work with musicians and appears to be effective in lowering performance anxiety and enhancing performance. This study aimed to conceptualize the psychological functioning of musicians using the psychological flexibility model and to qualitatively analyze possible differences between musicians with high and low experiential avoidance measured with the Measurement of Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire (MEAQ-30PL). The survey was administered twice, with slight modifications the second time, to two samples of 57 and 63 musicians, respectively. In both experiential avoidance groups, we observed flexibility processes such as values and engaged actions, and inflexibility processes such as fusion with thoughts and avoidance of unease. We also found differences between the ways in which committed actions, fusion, and inflexible attention were expressed by participants with high and low experiential avoidance. We discuss these results in light of preventive programs in music education, with an indication of improvements that could be made on the basis of the psychological flexibility model.
Effective management of patients with borderline personality disorder in a busy acute inpatient ward using dialectical behaviour therapy principles
Authors: Banjo Jumi , Madson Kathy , Hromis Sanya
Published: November 2023

Objective

The study aimed to highlight principles of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) that can provide a framework in the management of patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and outline some guiding principles in the effective management of these patients on a busy acute inpatient ward.

Conclusions

The inpatient environment is often a place where invalidating experiences can occur. These include feeling ignored, misunderstood and where private experiences are trivialised or denied. Patients with BPD are extremely sensitive to these experiences and are likely to decompensate if strategies are not in place to facilitate a more validating experience during admission. The proposed guidelines are feasible to implement and support a cohesive treatment team and collaborative patient-centred care which is likely to improve patient outcomes.
Total thyroxine and thyroid-stimulating hormone responses of healthy cats to different doses of thyrotropin-releasing hormone
Authors: Černá Petra , Antonakakis Markos , Peralta Jade , Kofron Kristine , Hawley Jennifer , Morris Arianne , Lappin Michael R.
Published: November 2023

Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation can be used as a test of thyroid function and pituitary thyrotropin (thyroid-stimulating hormone, TSH) reserve, but optimal stimulation testing protocols in cats are unreported. We randomly divided 6 healthy young adult cats into 3 groups of 2 and administered 3 different intravenous doses of TRH (0.01, 0.05, 0.1 mg/kg) at weekly intervals in our crossover study. Serum TSH and thyroxine (T4) concentrations were measured using chemiluminescent immunoassay before, and at 30 and 60 min after, TRH administration. All cats were monitored for 4 h post-TRH administration for side effects. All 3 TRH doses induced significant TSH (0.01 mg/kg, p  = 0.001; 0.05 mg/kg, p = 0.002; 0.1 mg/kg, p  = 0.006) and total T4 (0.01 mg/kg, p  = 0.008; 0.05 mg/kg, p = 0.006; 0.1 mg/kg, p  = 0.001) responses. Lower TRH doses (0.01 and 0.05 mg/kg) caused fewer side effects (1 of 6 cats) than did the highest dose (3 of 6 cats), and may be safer in cats than the previously reported higher dose (0.1 mg/kg) of TRH. Our results do not support the use of maropitant to prevent side effects of a TRH stimulation test in cats.
‘A Constant Black Cloud’: The Emotional Impact of Informal Caregiving for Someone With a Lower-Grade Glioma
Authors: Rimmer Ben , Balla Michelle , Dutton Lizzie , Lewis Joanne , Burns Richéal , Gallagher Pamela , Williams Sophie , Araújo-Soares Vera , Finch Tracy , Sharp Linda
Published: November 2023

Those closest to people with lower-grade gliomas (LGGs) often assume the role of informal caregiver (IC). The additional responsibilities mean ICs of people with cancer can experience adverse impacts on their own lives. We explored the emotional impact of informal caregiving for people with LGGs. This was a descriptive qualitative study within the multi-method Ways Ahead project. We conducted semi-structured interviews with individuals from the United Kingdom, who currently, or in the past 5 years, informally cared for someone with an LGG. Interviews encompassed experiences of emotional impact as a consequence of caregiving for someone with an LGG. Inductive thematic analysis was undertaken. We interviewed 19 ICs (mean age 54.6 years; 14 females, 5 males). Participants reported substantial emotional impact. Four themes and associated subthemes were generated: Emotional responses to the illness (e.g. feeling helpless), Emotional responses to the unknown (e.g. anxiety about future uncertainty), Emotional consequences of care recipient changes (e.g. challenges of changed relationship dynamics), and Emotional weight of the responsibility (e.g. feeling burnout). Emotional impact in one area often exacerbated impact in another (e.g. future uncertainty impacted feelings of helplessness). Participants detailed the factors that helped them manage the emotional impact (e.g. being resilient). ICs of people with LGGs can experience wide-ranging emotional responses to and impacts of the illness, uncertain prognosis, care recipient changes, and the toll of caregiving. Adjustment and resilience are key protective factors, though further consideration of ways to identify and fulfil the emotional support needs of ICs of people with LGGs is required.
Oral Cleft and Maternal History of Spontaneous Abortion: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Pereira Maria Carolina de Moraes , Silva Carolina Maia , Queiroz Thaís Bernardes de , Neves Lucimara Teixeira das
Published: November 2023

To investigate and compare the occurrence of previous spontaneous abortion among mothers of children with nonsyndromic oral clefts (NSOC) and mothers of children without NSOC; to understand if previous spontaneous abortion could be a risk factor for the occurrence of NSOC in subsequent pregnancies.

Case-control study.

Nonsyndromic oral clefts is an important public health problem. In the context of investigating risk factors for the occurrence of this malformation, previous spontaneous abortion have been considered in the etiology at NSOC.

There were 1004 participants. In the case group 502 mothers of children with NSOC, and in the control group 502 mothers of children without NSOC or any other malformation or syndrome.

A standardized questionnaire was utilized to interview the maternal history of spontaneous abortion.

The data were evaluated using descriptive statistics, and comparisons were performed using the Chi-square test, adopting a significance level of 5%.

The prevalence of maternal history of spontaneous abortion was 16.3% in the case group and 15.9% in the control group. Comparing the groups there was no statistical difference (p-value = 0.93). Analyzing the occurrence of previous spontaneous abortion, separating the case group according to the type of cleft in the child, no statistical differences were observed when comparing these groups between them.

Maternal history of spontaneous abortion was not associated with NSOC, not representing an independent risk factor for NSOC in the Brazilian population.
Establishment of a Prognostic Nomogram for Cancer-Specific Survival in Patients With Base-of-Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Retrospective Study Based on the SEER Database
Authors: Lin Zi-Jun , Huang Liying , Lin Ying-Mei , Luo Renhui , Wang Shen-Chih , Lyu Jun , Shao Jun
Published: November 2023

Background

The aim of this retrospective study was to construct and clinically apply a nomogram for cancer-specific survival (CSS) in patients diagnosed with base-of-tongue squamous cell carcinoma (BOTSCC) to predict their survival prognosis.

Methods

We collected 8448 patients diagnosed with BOTSCC during 2004–2015 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and divided 30% and 70% of them into validation and training cohorts, respectively. We utilized backward stepwise regression in the Cox model to select variables. Predictive variables were subsequently identified from the variables selected above by using multivariate Cox regression. The new survival model was compared with the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) prognosis model using the following variables: calibration curve, time-dependent area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), concordance index (C-index), integrated discrimination improvement (IDI), decision-curve analysis (DCA), and net reclassification improvement (NRI).

Results

A nomogram was established for predicting the CSS probability in patients with BOTSCC. Factors including sex, race, age at diagnosis, marital status, radiotherapy status, chemotherapy status, TNM AJCC stage, surgery status, tumor size, and months from diagnosis to treatment were selected through multivariate Cox regression as independent predictors of CSS. Calibration plots indicated that the model we established had satisfactory calibration ability. The AUC, C-index, IDI, DCA, and NRI results illustrated that the nomogram performed explicit prognoses more accurately than did the AJCC system alone.

Conclusion

We identified the relevant factors affecting the survival of BOTSCC patients and analyzed the data on patients suffering from BOTSCC in the SEER database. These factors were used to construct a new nomogram to give clinical staff a more-visual prediction model for the 3-, 5-, and 8-year probabilities of CSS for patients newly diagnosed with BOTSCC, thereby aiding clinical decision making.
Train-Track-Bridge coupling vibration and train running safety under vessel impact
Authors: Zhang Jingfeng , Zhang Zhichao , Zhu Zhihui , Liu Dejun , Li Xiaozhen
Published: November 2023

Accidental vessel collisions pose a threat to the safety of train operations on navigable bridges. The CRH2 high-speed train, operating on a four-span continuous girder bridge, is selected as a research prototype to study the effects of vessel impact loads on the responses of the train-track-bridge (TTB) system and train running safety. The TTB model subjected to vessel collision is developed using the finite element software ANSYS and the multi-body system software SIMPACK. The influences of load intensity and train speed on the critical indicators of train running safety are discussed. Safety thresholds based on train running speed are proposed through comprehensive parametric analysis. The results indicate that the impact load has a significant effect on the dynamic responses of both bridge and track structures. The interaction between piles and soil (PSI) has a significant impact on the dynamic responses of the TTB system. The track structure undergoes significant overall deformation under the vessel impact load. The train running safety indices ascend with the increase in impact load intensity and train speed. As the impact load intensity increases from 0 to 24.25 MN, the speed limit for ensuring train running safety decreases from 350 km/h to 250 km/h.
A Multi-Perspective Qualitative Study About Working With Autistic Individuals in Prison-Based Interventions to Address Sexual Offending
Authors: Vinter Luke P. , Dillon Gayle , Winder Belinda , Harper Craig A.
Published: November 2023

Research suggests that sexual offending is one of the more common forms of offending behaviour committed by autistic individuals. Despite this, very little research has investigated approaches to rehabilitation for autistic individuals who have sexually offended. The small body of literature that does exist suggests that interventions to address sexual offending may not be sufficiently adapted for this group. In this paper we present an exploratory qualitative study that (i) explores how prison-based interventions to address sexual offending are experienced by autistic individuals with sexual offense convictions and the staff who work with them, and (ii) identifies and explores the features of prison-based sexual offending interventions that may be challenging or beneficial for autistic individuals, from the perspective of those involved in treatment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 autistic men serving prison sentences for sexual convictions, and 13 members of prison staff. A multi-perspective phenomenologically-informed thematic (MPT) analysis identified three themes of ‘Feeling overwhelmed’, ‘Out of the comfort zone’, and ‘(Dis)connected to others’. These themes highlight some of the key issues relating to the format and delivery of interventions, as well as the impact of the broader prison context on rehabilitation.
Massively parallel nodal discontinous Galerkin finite element method simulator for room acoustics
Authors: Melander Anders , Strøm Emil , Pind Finnur , Engsig-Karup Allan P , Jeong Cheol-Ho , Warburton Tim , Chalmers Noel , Hesthaven Jan S
Published: November 2023

We present a massively parallel and scalable nodal discontinuous Galerkin finite element method (DGFEM) solver for the time-domain linearized acoustic wave equations. The solver is implemented using the libParanumal finite element framework with extensions to handle curvilinear geometries and frequency dependent boundary conditions of relevance in practical room acoustics. The implementation is benchmarked on heterogeneous multi-device many-core computing architectures, and high performance and scalability are demonstrated for a problem that is considered expensive to solve in practical applications. In a benchmark study, scaling tests show that multi-GPU support gives the ability to simulate large rooms, over a broad frequency range, with realistic boundary conditions, both in terms of computing time and memory requirements. Furthermore, numerical simulations on two non-trivial geometries are presented, a star-shaped room with a dome and an auditorium. Overall, this shows the viability of using a multi-device accelerated DGFEM solver to enable realistic large-scale wave-based room acoustics simulations.
Psychostimulant Misuse Among American Indian, Alaskan Native, or Native Hawaiian College Students in the U.S. From 2015 to 2019
Authors: Qeadan Fares , Ross Sydney , Barbeau William A , Madden Erin F , Venner Kamilla L , English Kevin
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

This study examines factors associated with psychostimulant misuse, including polysubstance use and social factors, among the understudied American Indian/Alaska Native/Native Hawaiian (AI/AN/NH) college student population.

Methods:

Data were from the 2015 to 2019 American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment IIc (ACHA-NCHA IIc) survey. Multivariable logistic regression models and odds ratios were used to estimate associations between psychostimulant misuse and potential risk and protective factors among AI/AN/NH college students, including licit and illicit substance use, social support, relationship factors, exposure to violence or abuse, mental health symptoms, drug and alcohol education, and sample demographics.

Results:

Opioid misuse among AI/AN/NH college students significantly increased the odds of using psychostimulants. Specifically, for cocaine use, the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) was 3.17 with a 95% confidence interval (C.I.) of 2.17 to 4.63; for methamphetamine use, the aOR was 38.87 (95% C.I. 19.24-78.52). For amphetamine misuse among non-Tobacco users, the aOR was 5.47 (95% C.I. 3.49-8.55), while among Tobacco users, the aOR was 2.65 (95% C.I. 2.07-3.41). For cocaine and other stimulant misuse, the aOR was 3.64 (95% C.I. 2.30-5.67). Additionally, the use of other types of licit and illicit substances was associated with greater odds of psychostimulant use and misuse. Conversely, factors such as age, living on campus, and residing in parental/guardian housing were linked with lower odds of psychostimulant use and misuse.

Conclusion:

Substance use prevention and treatment interventions targeting AI/AN/NH college students should address polysubstance use, including the combined use of opioids and psychostimulants. Substance use interventions should not be siloed to focus narrowly on single substances but rather should leverage potential protective factors against substance use, such as promoting supportive campus and family living conditions and other social support networks, in broad efforts to reduce multiple forms of substance use among AI/AN/NH students.
Assessment of Pathological Complete Response Using Vacuum-Assisted Biopsy in Breast Cancer Patients Who Have Clinical and Radiological Complete Response After Neo-Adjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Khare Siddhant , Santosh Irrinki , Laroiya Ishita , Singh Tulika , Bal Amanjit , Singh Gurpreet
Published: November 2023

Background:

Any treatment protocol that leads to complete elimination of surgery may lead to a better patient acceptance of breast cancer treatments.

Objectives:

We conducted this study to assess the feasibility of preoperative vacuum-assisted biopsies in identifying pathological complete response (pCR) and its accuracy in correlation to final histopathology report (HPR), in an Indian setting.

Methods:

This was a prospective study conducted between October 1, 2019, and March 31, 2021. Patients with early breast cancer, estrogen and progesterone receptors negative and either Her2 positive or negative, and who were fit to undergo marker placement at the centre of the tumour and to receive third-generation chemotherapy (4 cycles of 3 weekly doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide followed by 4 cycles of 3 weekly docetaxel) were included in the study. Following the enrolment, a tissue marker was placed at the centre of the tumour and appropriate chemotherapy was started. Patients who achieved clinical complete response were subjected to ultrasound-guided vacuum-assisted biopsy (VAB) from the tumour bed before surgery. Pathology results of the VAB and resected specimen were then compared. Descriptive statistics were used in the study.

Results:

Eighteen patients were enrolled in the study, with a mean age of 43.6 ± 9.8 years. However, only 10 were eligible for VAB procedure, and sensitivity and specificity were calculated based on the results of these 10 patients only. Vacuum-assisted biopsy showed sensitivity of 50% and specificity of 100% in identifying pCR. Combination of mammography, ultrasonography, and VAB showed sensitivity of 77.8% and specificity of 66.7% in identifying pCR.

Conclusion:

Vacuum-assisted biopsy of tumour bed may not be sensitive enough to eliminate surgery even in patients who have had exceptional response to neo-adjuvant chemotherapy.
Prevalence, Species Identification, and Associated Risk Factor Ixodid Tick Infestation of Cattle in Selamago District Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Belete Worku , Mekuria Solomon
Published: November 2023

Background:

Ticks are blood-sucking external parasites of livestock and humans; and can transmit pathogens beyond their direct effect during biting. Ticks are distributed in different agro-ecological zones. The study’s objectives were to determine the species of ixodid ticks, estimate prevalence, and link the presumptive risk variables.

Material and methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2022 to June 2023 in Selamago district, Southern Ethiopia. A total of 384 cattle managed under extensive grazing systems were selected proportionally based on cattle population, from 3 kebeles, which is the lowest administrative structure of government, and individual animals were selected using systematic random sampling techniques at an interval of 5 animals; as the results, 153, 128, and 103 cattle were selected from Hana, Marsiyo, and Geyo kebeles, respectively.

Results:

262 animals (68.2%) were found to be infested with one or more tick species. In this study, there was a statistically significant difference in prevalence between sexes and age groups ( P < .05). A higher prevalence was recorded in female and adult cattle than respective group. A total of 579 ticks were collected; 4 genera and 7 tick species were identified. As a result, Ambylomma variegatum, Amblyomma gemma, Amblyomma lepidum, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) decoloratus, Rhipicephalus pulchellus, Rhipicephalus evertsi evertsi, and Hyalomma truncatum were observed. Among the species identified in the study area, Ambylomma variegatum was the most abundant tick (32.3%) and Hy. truncatum was the least prevalent (4.3%). Ticks on animals’ body were recovered more dominantly around the perineum region, udder, scrotum, and dewlap, followed by the belly, head, and neck. Male ticks were more frequently encountered than females.

Conclusion:

The finding shows a high tick infestation, and adult age groups were more affected and had a serious problem. Hence, prompt control measures are required to rescue the livelihood of the community and economic loss.
Association Between the Use of Induction Heating Cookers and Delivery Outcomes in Pregnant Women: An Internet-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Sato Yasuto , Taki Masao , Kojimahara Noriko
Published: November 2023

The number of devices that generate intermediate-frequency electromagnetic fields (IF-EMFs) in the living environment has been increasing. As the public has vague concerns about new devices, it is necessary to clarify the safety of IF-EMFs. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the possible health effects of IF-EMFs by clarifying the relationship between the use of induction heating (IH) cookers and delivery outcomes. The study participants were pregnant women over the age of 20 years who were registered in panels with an Internet research firm. A total of 8920 pregnant women participated in the baseline survey. Of those who responded to the follow-up survey, 5022 who had a singleton birth were included in the analysis. We then examined the relationship between the use of IH cookers and gestational week at delivery (<37th/⩾37th week) or birth weight (<2500/⩾2500 g) using logistic regression models. No association was found between the use of IH cookers and birth weight, but weak associations were found between the use of stationary- and tabletop-type IH cookers and gestational week at delivery. After all considerations, we determined that the observed increased odds ratio did not indicate an increased risk of premature birth.
High Levels of Satisfaction Among Hearing Aid Users in a Pilot Study for Sustainable Low-Cost Auditory Rehabilitation Services in Samoa
Authors: Kaspar Annette , Newall John , Pifeleti Sione , Hunkin Galumalemana
Published: November 2023

The provision of locally sustainable hearing aid device services is desirable in the Pacific Islands. The aim of the present study was (1) To assess the suitability of low-cost pre-programmable hearing aids in Samoa, a Polynesian nation of the Pacific Islands, and (2) To develop translations of established auditory rehabilitation questionnaires into the FaaSamoan language for clinical, public health, and research applications. A cross-over trial of 2 low-cost pre-programmable hearing aids among 20 adults in Samoa was conducted as part of a larger UN-funded global audiology study. The International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids, the International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids for Significant Others, and the Revised Hearing Handicap Inventory questionnaires were translated into the FaaSamoan language to assess the self-reported outcomes of study participants. Overall, high scores were measured for the self-reported outcome measures, suggesting good levels of use and satisfaction with the hearing aid devices. Overall, results found that once a hearing aid was fitted that 67.6% of participants reported no hearing handicap, 32.4% reported a mild to moderate hearing handicap, and no participant reported a significant hearing handicap.
Analysis of lubrication performance and flow field for lead-bismuth bearings considering the temperature-viscosity effect
Authors: Yun Yingying , Zhao Bowen , Sun Jiyuan , Pu Kexin , Huang Bin
Published: November 2023

Lead-bismuth bearing performance and dynamic properties are crucial for ensuring the steady operation of lead-bismuth liquid metal pumps since they are one of the primary supporting elements in the lead-bismuth cold fast reactor system. To study and analyze the lubrication performance of lead-bismuth bearings as well as the influence of the viscous-temperature property of lead-bismuth medium on the bearing load performance, a hydrodynamic model based on CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) is established. The performance of lubrication comprises addressing the static and dynamic properties of lead-bismuth bearings. The pressure and temperature flow fields of the Lead-bismuth bearing under various working conditions were determined by solving the N-S equation and energy equation. The numerical findings demonstrate a clear strip-like distribution in the temperature and pressure flow fields of the lead-bismuth bearing. The pressure flow distribution in the working and feedback grooves is symmetrical, the temperature flow distribution is isotropic, and the temperature increase is mostly proportional to the rotation speed. As the rotation speed becomes larger, the force in the y-direction, power loss, and leakage flow rate all increase. Bearings with small radius clearance and greater rotation speeds have superior stability than those with big radius clearance and lower speeds. The findings of this paper serve as a point of reference for the study of the viscosity-temperature effect and lubrication theory of lead-bismuth bearings and supply the foundation for subsequent rotor dynamics calculations.
Understanding (and extending) the conceptual boundaries of policy research in physical education: A scoping review
Authors: Scanlon Dylan , Lorusso Jenna , Viczko Melody
Published: November 2023

Given limited investigation into the state and status of physical education policy research internationally, we suggest there is a need for a more comprehensive empirical review of physical education policy research internationally to inform a future research agenda. The purpose of this scoping review is to map the international peer-reviewed empirical literature detailing policy research in school-based physical education between 2010 and 2020 to understand and make recommendations for extension, where appropriate, of the conceptual boundaries of how to ‘do’ policy research in this field. We followed a three-phase approach to the scoping review: (i) identifying relevant sources; (ii) charting of sources; and (iii) reporting the findings from the charting of sources. Results were interpreted through two theoretical lenses: (a) Rizvi and Lingard's (2010) framework of policy issues and questions and (b) Diem et al.’s (2014) traditional and critical approaches to educational policy research. Findings are discussed in relation to the charting categories which included: journal; year; affiliations; country of work; funding acknowledgements; research question; policy definition; policy issues; and traditional and/or critical research. We hope this research can be useful to those looking to enter the physical education policy research space, as it introduces them to the research landscape, and to those already engaged in this space looking to fill gaps in the literature.
A 10-year review of pain management practices for rib fractures at a lead trauma hospital: Are we adopting all multimodal pain management strategies?
Authors: Naveed Asad , Adams-McGavin R. Chris , Ladha Karim , Chan Stephen , Beckett Andrew , Rezende-Neto Joao , Ahmed Najma , Nauth Aaron , Gomez David
Published: November 2023

Objective

Rib fractures lead to altered breathing mechanics, impaired gas exchange, and in some patients to respiratory failure. Multimodal analgesia has become one of the pillars of management; however, barriers toward widespread adoption remain. We reviewed the trends in multimodal pain management strategies and their drivers over a 10-year period at a lead trauma hospital in Canada.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study in which demographic, injury, pharmacological, as well as outcome data were collected for all adult patients admitted with rib fractures. Data were collected retrospectively and the study period was divided into three eras (2011–2014; 2015–2018; 2019–2022). Multimodal pain management was defined as either patient-controlled (PCA) or regional analgesia (epidural or continuous plane block) in combination with acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). All patients received pro re nata (PRN) narcotics. Data were stratified based on rib fracture severity, age, and intubation on arrival.

Results

We identified 2586 patients with rib fractures (mild non-flail 32.6%; moderate non-flail 50.2%; flail 17.2%). The use of standing acetaminophen and NSAIDs increased over time for all groups. Regional analgesia use increased while PCA use reduced, particularly in the flail group. Only 7% of flail patients intubated on arrival received regional analgesia. Among those not intubated on arrival, only 35% of flail and 23% of non-flail patients received multimodal pain management. Over time, multimodal pain management decreased in the non-flail group due to a reduction in PCA use without an equal rise in regional anesthesia. Those without multimodal pain management were older and the mechanism of injury was more likely a fall. Among those with a flail, who were non-intubated at presentation, only 31% of those aged >65 received multimodal pain regimens compared to 45% in those ≤65y.

Conclusions

Although multimodal pain management strategies have improved over time, a large proportion of patients, even among those with flail chest, still do not receive multimodal pain management. Elderly patients, at highest risk of adverse outcomes, were less likely to receive multimodal pain management strategies and should be the target of performance improvement initiatives.