bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The difficulties of Adult ADHD management within a Community Mental Health Team
Authors: Haugh S. , Belay H.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity.Diagnosis of ADHD in adults is complex, owing to the need for retrospective evidence that symptoms began in childhood as well as the high rates of comorbid mental health conditions. There are no public specialized clinics for adults with ADHD in Ireland. In their absence, referrals are sent to general adult psychiatry.

Objectives

An audit of standards of care received by patients with ADHD against those set by the NICE guidelines.

Methods

Care received pre and 8 weeks post MDT (multi-disciplinary team) educational session. Inclusion criteria: existing adult community mental health team (CMHT) patients with a diagnosis of ADHD. Recommendations as per NICE guideline used for assessment: Specialist MDT team input, OT/ Psychology input, MDT review of reports, Specialist consultant with training in diagnosis and treatment, Diagnosis based on structured assessment e.g. DIVA, Detailed psychiatric assessment, Physical health monitoring before commencing treatment (e.g. ECG), Ongoing physical health monitoring (BP, HR, weight), Patient regularly attending follow up

Results

There were 7 patients with diagnosed ADHD attending the CMHT, 4 male, 3 female aged 19-42yo. 4 patients were diagnosed privately (average age at diagnosis 31yrs). 2 were diagnosed by CAMHS. And 1 was diagnosed by primary care psychology (age 27). 8 weeks following MDT meeting; 2 patients had been commenced on ADHD medication. Those on the wait list for OT/psychology remained on the wait list.

Conclusions

ADHD is a specialised area which requires a specialist MDT led by a consultant with expertise in diagnosis and treatment. As evidenced by this audit, despite the best efforts of adult psychiatric services, teams are not sufficiently resourced to meet the needs of adults with ADHD and fall short of the expected standards of care.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Extent of Lymphadenectomy for Surgical Management of Right-Sided Colon Cancer: The Randomized Phase III RELARC Trial
Authors: Lu Junyang , Xing Jiadi , Zang Lu , Zhang Chenghai , Xu Lai , Zhang Guannan , He Zirui , Sun Yueming , Feng Yifei , Du Xiaohui , Hu Shidong , Chi Pan , Huang Ying , Wang Ziqiang , Zhong Ming , Wu Aiwen , Zhu Anlong , Li Fei , Xu Jianmin , Kang Liang , Suo Jian , Deng Haijun , Ye Yingjiang , Ding Kefeng , Xu Tao , Zhang Yuelun , Zhang Zhongtao , Zheng Minhua , Su Xiangqian , Xiao Yi ,   on behalf of the RELARC study group, Wu Bin , Lin Guole , Qiu Huizhong , Chen Lei , Feng Bo , Ji Dongjian , He Changzheng , Fu Ze , Jiang Weizhong , Wu Qingbin , MD  , Deng Xiangbing , MD  , Yu Minhao , Luo Yang , Chen Pengju , Yao Yunfeng , Guan Wenlong , Li Ang , Cao Feng , He Guodong , He Xiaowen , Chen Yujia , Wang Daguang , Li Guoxin , Shen Kai , Li Jun , Yao Hongwei , Yang Yingchi
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

Complete mesocolic excision (CME) is being increasingly used for the treatment of right-sided colon cancer, although there is still no strong evidence that CME provides better long-term oncological outcomes than D2 dissection. The controversy is mainly regarding the survival benefit from extended lymph node dissection emphasized by CME.

METHODS

This multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:
NCT02619942
) was performed across 17 hospitals in China. Patients diagnosed with stage T2-T4aNanyM0 or TanyN + M0 right-sided colon cancer were randomly assigned (1:1) to undergo either CME or D2 dissection during laparoscopic right colectomy. The primary outcome was the 3-year disease-free survival (DFS), and the main secondary outcome was the 3-year overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Between January 11, 2016, and December 26, 2019, 1,072 patients were randomly assigned (536 patients to CME and 536 patients to D2 dissection). In total, 995 patients (median age 61 years, 59% male) were included in the primary analysis (CME [n = 495]
v
D2 dissection [n = 500]). No significant differences were found between the groups in 3-year DFS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.74 [95% CI, 0.54 to 1.02];
P
= .06; 86.1% in the CME group
v
81.9% in the D2 group) or in 3-year OS (HR, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.43 to 1.16];
P
= .17; 94.7% in the CME group
v
92.6% in the D2 group).

CONCLUSION

This trial failed to find evidence of superior DFS outcome for CME compared with standard D2 lymph node dissection in primary surgical excision of right-sided colon cancer. Standard D2 dissection should be the routine procedure for these patients. CME should only be considered in patients with obvious mesocolic lymph node involvement.
Growth Hormone Deficiency in an Adolescent With Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type 1B
Authors: Sasidharan Pillai Sabitha , Reyes Monica , Jüppner Harald , Topor Lisa Swartz
Published: August 2024

We report growth hormone (GH) deficiency due to presumed GH releasing hormone (GHRH) resistance in an adolescent with pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1B (PHP1B) due to paternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 20 (patUPD20). A male patient aged 11 years 10 months with obesity and mild developmental delay was found to have hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and an elevated parathyroid hormone level. History included muscle cramps and leg pain with activity. Examination showed round facies, short stature, and obesity. He was in puberty and bone age was advanced by > 2 years. Detailed genetic workup, including nucleotide sequence analysis of GNAS exons 1-13 and STX16, methylation-sensitive multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification and analysis of several microsatellite markers for chromosome 20, established the diagnosis of PHP1B due to patUPD20. Muscle cramps and hypocalcemia resolved with calcium carbonate, ergocalciferol, and calcitriol treatment. He was short with linear growth deceleration at around age 13 years. Peak GH concentration was insufficient following stimulation testing. Growth velocity improved with human GH treatment. Although rare, resistance to GHRH can occur in PHP1B and patients with this disorder should be evaluated for GH insufficiency if they present with short stature and reduced growth velocity. Treatment with recombinant human GH may improve growth velocity in such patients.
O επίσκοπος ως κριτής σε εκκλησιαστικά δικαστήρια κατά του ιερούς κανόνες και τα πρακτικά των οικουμενικών συνόδων
Authors: Σουπουρτζής Αλέξανδρος
Published: August 2024

Η διατριβή ασχολείται με το ζήτημα της συμμετοχής του Επισκόπου ως Κριτή/ Δικαστή στον πρώτο, δεύτερο και τρίτο βαθμό δικαιοδοσίας της εκκλησιαστικής δικαιοσύνης. Ιδιαίτερη αναφορά γίνεται στην ιστορική εξέλιξη του θεσμού της εκκλησιαστικής δικαιοσύνης, στο δικαιικό πλαίσιο που διαμορφώνουν οι Ιεροί Κανόνες - εστιάζοντας στις δικονομικές διατάξεις- καθώς και η Βυζαντινό-ρωμαϊκή νομοθεσία, ενώ γίνεται μνεία όλων των σημαντικών Δικών που αναφέρονται στα Πρακτικά και τα πεπραγμένα των Οικουμενικών Συνόδων.
Εφηβική κουλτούρα, ηλεκτρονικά παιχνίδια και κοινωνικο-πολιτική εκπαίδευση
Authors: Χριστοφορίδου Ελπίδα
Published: August 2024

Σκοπός της παρούσας έρευνας ήταν η μελέτη των πολιτισμικών και κοινωνικοπολιτικών διαστάσεων της ενασχόλησης με τα ηλεκτρονικά παιχνίδια στο πλαίσιο της εφηβικής κουλτούρας.Χρησιμοποιήθηκε η ερευνητική μέθοδος των μικτών μεθόδων επεξήγησης. Στην έρευνα συμμετείχαν έφηβοι 12-17 ετών της Περιφέρειας Θεσσαλίας. Συγκεντρώθηκαν 485 έγκυρα ερωτηματολόγια και πραγματοποιήθηκαν 42 ημιδομημένες συνεντεύξεις. Τα αποτελέσματα έδειξαν ότι τα ηλεκτρονικά παιχνίδια προτιμώνται από τον εφηβικό πληθυσμό συγκριτικά με τον κινηματογράφο, την τηλεόραση και τα κόμικς. Επίσης, το ένα τέταρτο των εφήβων που παίζει, προσελκύεται από βιντεοπαιχνίδια που συγκλίνουν με ταινίες, σειρές, μουσική, κόμικς, καθώς και από εκείνα που αποτελούν μέρος ενός διαμεσικού κόσμου. Ανάμεσα στα πιο ελκυστικά χαρακτηριστικά των βιντεοπαιχνιδιών είναι τα γραφικά, η μουσική και οι χαρακτήρες. Διαπιστώθηκε, ακόμα, ότι διαφορετικοί τύποι χαρακτήρων ελκύουν την κάθε ηλικιακή ομάδα (Γυμνασίου και Λυκείου αντιστοίχως) και εντοπίστηκαν δύο στάδια στην ηθική ανάπτυξη του έφηβου. Ενδιαφέρον εύρημα είναι, επιπρόσθετα, ότι το στοιχείο της ‘επιβίωσης’ – που συνδέθηκε με την αξία ενός ηλεκτρονικού παιχνιδιού –, γοητεύει τους έφηβους για διάφορους λόγους: συναισθηματική ένταση, πειραματισμοί, μαθήματα ζωής, δημιουργία μιας νέας κοινωνίας. Επιπλέον, το 41,5% των συμμετεχόντων δήλωσε πως ένα βιντεοπαιχνίδι μπορεί να χαρακτηριστεί ως έργο τέχνης. Επίσης, βρέθηκε στατιστικά σημαντική σχέση μεταξύ της εκδήλωσης κοινωνικοπολιτικών στάσεων και συμπεριφορών του έφηβου στην πραγματική του ζωή και της ενασχόλησής του με τα ηλεκτρονικά παιχνίδια. Εντύπωση προκάλεσε, ακόμα, η εύρεση συσχέτισης μεταξύ της κοινωνικοπολιτικής ευαισθητοποίησης και του παιξίματος του Grand Theft Auto. Το βιντεοπαιχνίδι αντιμετωπίζεται από τους έφηβους ως μια ολιστική διαδραστική μορφή ψυχαγωγίας, έναν πολυχώρο που καλύπτει πολλές τους ανάγκες. Εκεί, διασκεδάζουν κοινωνικοποιούνται, μαθαίνουν, ‘βιώνουν΄ αγαπημένες ιστορίες από ταινίες/σειρές/κόμικς, παρακολουθούν διαδικτυακές συναυλίες, ευαισθητοποιούνται, κάνουν δραστηριότητες με νόημα.
Implementing a multidimensional faculty promotion matrix at Saint George University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine
Authors: Nehme Alexandre , El Khoury Carmen , Jreij Marc , Karam George , El Achkar Ghewa , Tannous Ziad
Published: August 2024

This paper outlines the development and implementation of a multidimensional faculty promotion matrix at Saint George University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine (SGUB FM). The matrix, designed to provide a comprehensive and equitable evaluation of faculty across multiple dimensions, is anchored in six pillars: Research, Clinical Practice, Teaching Effort, Administrative Effort, Community Work, and Extra Degrees and Awards. These pillars encompass diverse components, including publication output, clinical activities, teaching responsibilities, administrative roles, community engagement, and additional qualifications, with each metric normalized using z-scores for fair comparison. This matrix analyzed the CVs and relevant documents of 112 faculty members, demonstrating its efficacy in providing equitable evaluation regardless of gender or rank. The results showed no significant differences in promotion rates among various faculty ranks, highlighting the matrix’s fairness and impartiality. The study also explores the relationship between faculty ranks and various performance metrics, revealing patterns in research productivity, clinical practice, and community engagement that escalate with higher academic ranks. SGUB FM's approach aligns its curricular designs and instructional implementations with international benchmarks, particularly those set by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), ensuring global standard compliance while catering to the institution's unique context. The matrix serves not only as an evaluation tool but also as a catalyst for faculty excellence and professional development. This case study offers valuable insights for medical institutions developing inclusive promotion criteria and emphasizes the importance of holistic evaluation frameworks in fostering academic excellence and professional growth.
Reproducción vecinal de la vida en contexto de crisis: recotidianización, entramados comunitarios y familiariadad pública. Casos en Concepción y Talca (Chile)
Authors: Letelier Troncoso Francisco , Cubillos Almendra Javiera , Sepúlveda Salazar Miguel , Tapia Barría Verónica , Saravia Cortés Felipe
Published: August 2024

Desde una perspectiva relacional de lo comunitario, se exploran las relaciones que permitieron sostener la vida en espacios de proximidad durante la pandemia por Covid-19 en Chile. Utilizando una metodología cualitativa y el estudio de casos, uno en Concepción y otro en Talca, se observa que: i) ante la ruptura de la cotidianidad, las relaciones comunitarias se reconfiguran para adaptarse al nuevo escenario; ii) esta plasticidad les permite adecuar su producción de bienes relacionales para satisfacer necesidades surgidas en la crisis y, de este modo, iii) su actuación reemplaza o complementa una acción estatal y mercantil que disminuye su protagonismo. Finalmente, se observa que estas relaciones múltiples y los bienes que producen pueden ser entendidos como una esfera social con sentido propio: la comunitaria. Esta juega un papel central en la satisfacción de necesidades individuales y colectivas y la reproducción de la vida, particularmente en contextos de crisis.
Code and Data Repository for Quadratic Optimization Models for Balancing Preferential Access and Fairness: Formulations and Optimality Conditions
Authors: Schmitt Christian , Singh Bismark
Published: August 2024

This directory provides code used for the computations associated with the quadratic optimization models in the context of undesirable facility location problems for the abovementioned article. src contains scripts for the optimization of the MIQP model and visualization of the results: model.py contains functions for building and optimizing the MIQP model, while greedy_heuristic.py applies a greedy heuristic to achieve a feasible solution. plotting.py and results.py contain functions tasked with visualizing results through various different plots as well as excel tables. They also contain superordinate functions that create the corresponding results first by running functions from model.py and/or greedy_heuristic.py before creating the corresponding visualization. These functions are called by functions in tables_and_figures.py to create the exact same figures and tables that are included in the paper from scratch. Lastly, utils.py contains helper and utility functions. catchment_population presents an efficient algorithm to compute the "catchment population" of each recycling center that was used to estimate the capacities. An implementation of this algorithm is contained in catchment_population.py. Further, this directory contains two corresponding input data files in csv format: bavaria_grid_population.csv is a file containing the latitude and longitude of the centroid of each 100m x 100m grid in Bavaria as well as the residing population. rc_locations.csv contains the latitude and longitude of each recycling center in Bavaria. data contains the two input data files that are used in the MIQP model: users_and_facilities.xlsx contains all ZIP codes and recycling centers related data like the population, centroid and regional spatial type (rural/urban) of each ZIP code as well as the capacity, centroid and regional spatial type of each recycling center. travel_dict.json.pbz2 is a compressed json file that contains the travel probabilities from each ZIP code to each recycling center. results contains the excel tables and figures visualizing the results that are included in the paper.
Code and Data Repository for Decomposable Formulation of Transmission Constraints for Decentralized Power Systems Optimization
Authors: Santos Xavier Álinson , Dey Santanu Subhas , Qiu Feng
Published: August 2024

One of the most complicating factors in decentralized solution methods for a broad range of power system optimization problems is the modeling of power flow equations. Existing formulations for direct current (DC) power flows either have limited scalability or are very dense and unstructured, making them unsuitable for large-scale decentralized studies. In this work, we present a novel sparsified variant of the injection shift factors formulation, which has a decomposable block-diagonal structure and scales well for large systems. We also propose a decentralized solution method, based on alternating direction multiplier method (ADMM), that efficiently handle transmission line outages in N-1 security requirements. Benchmarks on Multi-Zonal Security-Constrained Unit Commitment problems show that the proposed formulation and algorithm can reliably and efficiently solve interconnection-level test systems, with up to 6,515 buses, with no convergence or numerical issues.
Cervical collars: key considerations around their use
Authors: Bell Sarah
Published: August 2024

The UK has an ageing population, and an increase in the number of injuries sustained from low energy mechanisms, such as falls. The literature identifies a number of key issues which should be considered in the care of any individual being treated with a cervical collar, impacting on how this patient group should be cared for. It is important for there to be effective communication across the multidisciplinary team to address some of these key risks and to help prevent complications. Nurses must also ensure that regular patient assessment is carried out, especially in terms of skin and pain. Any professional caring for this patient group must be adequately trained in the elements of care required from them. While cervical collars are still being used in some settings, there is suggestion that the risks outweigh the benefits of a cervical collar, with some clinical settings no longer using them anymore.
Diet and multiple sclerosis: supporting people to make healthy choices that stick
Authors: Winchester Claire
Published: August 2024

The volume of dietary advice around multiple sclerosis (MS) can overwhelm or confuse patients. The MS Trust has created a podcast and website articles to guide patients and families.
Efficacy and Safety of Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation and High-Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Major Depressive Disorder: A Systematic Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shen Yue , Fang Lanlan
Published: August 2024

Aims/Background High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (HF-rTMS) and intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) are emerging neuromodulation techniques for major depressive disorder (MDD). However, clinical trials directly comparing their efficacy are limited. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the antidepressant effects and safety profiles of iTBS versus HF-rTMS for MDD.

Methods A systematic literature search was conducted in major databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing iTBS and HF-rTMS for MDD. The primary outcome measures were response rate, remission rate, and common side effects. Meta-analysis was performed using fixed-effects and random-effects models. Publication bias was assessed.

Results Seven RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. No significant differences were found in response rate (odds ratio (OR) 0.97, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.81 to 1.16, p = 0.75) or remission rate (OR 1.06, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.31, p = 0.62) between iTBS and HF-rTMS. Both active stimulations showed significantly higher response rates than sham treatment. The odds of response were 4–5 times greater for iTBS versus sham (OR 4.84, 95% CI 2.66 to 8.80, p < 0.001) and 3–4 times greater for HF-rTMS versus sham (OR 3.85, 95% CI 2.08 to 7.13, p < 0.001). No differences in common side effects such as headache were observed between iTBS and HF-rTMS.

Conclusion iTBS and HF-rTMS have comparable efficacy and safety profiles in treating MDD based on current evidence. Both neuromodulation techniques are superior to sham stimulation. iTBS could be considered an alternative to HF-rTMS, with the advantage of shorter daily treatment duration. Further large RCTs with long-term follow-up are warranted to confirm these findings.
Quran memorisation and heart rate variability: How do they correlate?
Authors: Ghazali Ahmad Rohi , Abd Warif Nor Malia , A Yazit Noor Anisah , Juliana Norsham , Ishak Ismarulyusda , Ibrahim Farah Wahida , Mat Ludin Arimi Fitri , Harun Dzalani , Abd Rahman Santibuana , Che Wan Mohd Rozali Wan Nor Atikah
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Heart rate variability (HRV) was shown to be affected by performing religious activities.

AIM

To examine the relationship between the level of Quran (the holy book of Muslims) memorisation and HRV among teenagers.

METHODS

This experimental study included 16 Tahfiz students and 16 non-Tahfiz students (n = 32). The HRV was measured in three tasks: Recalling familiar verses, memorising new verses, and recalling the newly memorised verses of the Quran. HRV analysis was done using these parameters: Standard deviation of N-N (heartbeat peak) interval; low frequency (LF); high frequency (HF) and LF/HF ratio.

RESULTS

There were significant differences between tasks for all parameters (P < 0.05). However, between the groups, only the LF/HF ratio had significant differences, with F = 5.04, P < 0.05. Pearson correlation showed a moderate positive correlation between the number of pages memorised and the LF/HF ratio (r = 0.61, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Quran memorisation increased the HRV and our results suggested that this activity could be developed as an effective sympathovagal modulation training activity.
Ruptured venous aneurysm associated with a dural arteriovenous fistula: Two case reports
Authors: Kim You Sub , Yoon Woong , Baek Byung Hyun , Kim Seul Kee , Joo Sung Pil , Kim Tae Sun
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

In general, venous aneurysm associated with dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF) is considered to be developed under long standing venous hypertension and manifested as venous ectasia of draining vein itself. However, discrete saccular shaped venous aneurysm without angiographic evidence of venous hypertension arising from the draining vein, like cerebral arterial aneurysm, is quite rare and its pathomechanism remains unclear in patients with dAVF.

CASE SUMMARY

In this report, we present two cases of ruptured saccular venous aneurysms associated with dAVF without venous hypertension or venous ectasia. In both cases, significant curve or stenosis is observed in draining vein, which is located in just distal portion of the venous aneurysms. These aneurysms were successfully treated with a transarterial embolization. Underlying mechanism of venous aneurysms in these cases is discussed.

CONCLUSION

Although there is little doubt that hemodynamic stress has a critical role in the development of venous aneurysms in patients with dAVF, preceding venous hypertension or venous ectasia is not necessary for development and enlargement of venous aneurysms. Considering the significant risk of rupture, a careful review of draining vein features including tortuosity or stenosis is needed, especially in venous aneurysms without evidence of venous hypertension.
Transing Ecumenical Borderlands
Authors: Pacyniak Kori Kazimierz Rozalia
Published: August 2024

precis: In our contemporary United States context, identities such as Christian and LGBTQ+ have been portrayed as incompatible, ignoring the lived realities of queer and trans Christians who exist within the church and minister to it. Although several denominations have adopted policies affirming transgender people, most transgender Christians still find themselves on the margins, striving to flourish in the liminal space of the borderlands. Exploring the ways in which transgender Christians have created sacred space in the wilderness of church margins, this essay looks at shared resources and community spaces such as Enfleshed and Transmission Ministry Collective as sites of trans Christian affirmation and ecumenical dialogue and asks what a trans theological reimagination of church borderlands might look like.
Swallowing the Whole: World, Planet, and Totality in the Planetary Fiction of H. G. Wells
Authors: Lee Mi Jeong
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This essay examines the conflation between world and planet in H. G. Wells's turn-of-the-century science fiction. Writing when "world=planet" was not a given, Wells actively participated in the formation of the world-planet vocabulary across a range of genres and throughout the first half of the twentieth century. In particular, I look into the planetary experiments of his early fiction, where the materially limited planet continually thwarts the writer's attempts to equate that planet to the world he wished to develop as the ultimate political unit. Emerging through such attempts is a divergence between world and planet that enables us to think about the individual, the world, and the planet all on a commensurate scale, in a manner that is strikingly—and perhaps also troublingly—similar to what recent environmental discourse asks of us today.
Partially reflecting surface loaded graphene–silicon ceramic-based frequency reconfigurable MIMO antenna with pattern diversity for THz applications
Authors: Yadav Kumar Saurabh , Bharti Gagandeep , Verma Sudhanshu
Published: August 2024

In this paper, a two-port graphene–silicon-based aerial is planned and
inspected. Features that make the planned radiator unique include the
following: (i) aperture expended to stimulate the dielectric makes CP
waves from 2.4 to 2.56 THz; (ii) loading of partial reflecting
surface over the dual-port radiator creates beam tilting by an amount
of ±45∘; and (iii) mirror positioning of the
feeding slot provides the polarization diversity and enhances the
separation close to 25 dB. A layer of graphene above the
silicon ceramic with varying chemical potential makes
the radiator frequency reconfigurable. After comparing
the optimized outcome obtained from HFSS with a CSTEM simulator, it is
established that the planned radiator operates efficiently between
2.35 and 3.15 THz with a peak gain of 6.5 dBi. The
addition of pattern diversity features improves the MIMO parameters of
the proposed antenna and makes it appropriate for THz built cellular
applications.
Surface aging condition monitoring of glass insulators in substations based on laser transmission spectroscopy
Authors: Liu Hong , Liang Bingjun , Liang Yujian , Zhou Xi , Huang Naiwei
Published: August 2024

The aging of glass insulator materials in substations leads to a decrease in the overall insulating performance of insulators, which affects the safety of power system operation. In order to effectively and accurately detect the aging condition of the glass insulator surface in a substation, a technical method based on laser transmission spectroscopy is proposed to characterize the aging state of glass insulators. During the application of laser transmission spectroscopy, a high-frequency laser is used as the incident light source, and the refractive index and the corresponding deflection angle are calculated during the analysis of the high-frequency laser’s vertically incident optical path; the electromagnetic wave theory is integrated to calculate the sample’s absorption coefficient, transmittance, reflectance, signal time delay, and other relevant optical parameters so that non-destructive testing of the glass insulator can be carried out. Experiments were carried out on glass insulator specimens with different aging degrees, and the corresponding relationships between different aging degrees of glass insulator media, absorption coefficients, and signal time delays were obtained by analyzing the laser transmission spectra of the specimens and integrating the time-domain spectral analysis. The test results show that there are obvious differences in the absorption characteristics of glass insulators with different aging degrees in the high-frequency laser band, and the longer the aging time is, the more obvious the absorption characteristics are and the larger the corresponding absorption coefficients are.
Far field sub-diffraction focusing and controlled focus shaping of circularly polarized light using dielectric phase plate
Authors: Pant Bhavesh , Singh Brijesh
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the sub-diffraction focusing has received substantial attention due to its versatility. However, achieving a flexible sub-diffraction focusing in the far-field remains stimulating. Existing techniques either require complex fabrication facilities or are limited to the short focal length and high numerical aperture (NA) of the imaging system. Here, we introduce an optimization method for sub-diffraction focusing of circularly polarized beam in the far-field with a lens of large focal length. A cost-effective dielectric phase plate serves the purpose. By employing a phase plate composed of a thin layer of dielectric Si3N4, the phase of the propagating beam is modulated in the beam’s cross-section, which is divided into two regions of the opposite phase by the plate. A sub-diffraction focusing is achieved for a proper tunning between the two regions. In addition to sub-diffraction focusing, the phase plate is also capable of shaping the focus into a doughnut-shaped and a flat-top profile in the far field. This design provides a simple solution for sub-diffraction focusing and focus shaping that will find potential applications in optical imaging, optical trapping and material processing.
Fast Fringe Projection Profilometry of Deep Micro-Scale Objects using Holographic Detection
Authors: Ryan Conor , Haist Tobias , Reichelt Stephan
Published: August 2024

Phase-shifting Fringe Projection Profilometry (FPP) is the state-of-the-art 3D measurement technique for many macroscopic applications, but as necessary object details become microscopic, depth-of-field slows measurements and requires mechanism usage. To overcome this limitation, we introduce Digital Holography (DH) to capture fringe images and allow numerical refocusing on object areas which are defocused. We experimentally prove the concept and compare depth measurement noise to other DH and FPP techniques. We show that for low levels of defocus, incoherent FPP clearly outperforms coherent techniques. However, at strong defocus, the new approach reduces measurement uncertainty whilst performing similarly to other DH approaches, enabling FPP measurement of deep objects with fewer captures.
Are violence, harmful alcohol/substance use and poor mental health associated with increased genital inflammation?: A longitudinal cohort study with HIV-negative female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Beattie Tara S. , Pollock James , Kabuti Rhoda , Abramsky Tanya , Kung’u Mary , Babu Hellen ,   The Maisha Fiti Study Champions, Huibner Sanja , Udayakumar Suji , Nyamweya Chrispo , Okumu Monica , Mahero Anne , Beksinska Alicja , Panneh Mamtuti , Ngurukiri Pauline , Irungu Erastus , Adhiambo Wendy , Muthoga Peter , Seeley Janet , Weiss Helen , Kaul Rupert , Kimani Joshua
Published: August 2024

Violence, alcohol use, substance use and poor mental health have been linked with increased HIV acquisition risk, and genital inflammation enhances HIV susceptibility. We examined whether past 6 month experience of these exposures was associated with increased genital inflammation, thereby providing a biological link between these exposures and HIV acquisition risk. The Maisha Fiti study was a longitudinal mixed-methods study of female sex workers in Nairobi, Kenya. Behavioural-biological surveys were conducted at baseline (June-December 2019) and endline (June 2020-March 2021). Analyses were restricted to HIV-negative women (n = 746). Women with raised levels of at least 5 of 9 genital inflammatory cytokines were defined as having genital inflammation. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate (i) baseline associations between genital inflammation and violence, harmful alcohol/substance use, and poor mental health, and (ii) longitudinal associations between these exposures at different survey rounds, and genital inflammation at follow-up. Inflammation data was available for 711 of 746 (95.3%) women at baseline; 351 (50.1%) had genital inflammation, as did 247 (46.7%) at follow-up. At baseline, 67.8% of women had experienced physical and/or sexual violence in the past 6 months, 33.9% had harmful alcohol use, 26.4% had harmful substance use, 25.5% had moderate/severe depression/anxiety, and 13.9% had post-traumatic stress disorder. In adjusted analyses, there was no evidence that these exposures were associated cross-sectionally or longitudinally with genital inflammation. We report no associations between past 6 month experience of violence, harmful alcohol/substance use, or poor mental health, and immune parameters previously associated with HIV risk. This suggests that the well-described epidemiological associations between these exposures and HIV acquisition do not appear to be mediated by genital immune changes, or that any such changes are relatively short-lived. High prevalences of these exposures suggest an urgent need for sex-worker specific violence, alcohol/substance use and mental health interventions.
Diagnosis of tuberculosis infection in children with a novel skin test and the traditional tuberculin skin test: An observational study
Authors: Fritschi Nora , Gureva Tatyana , Eliseev Platon , Jackson Charlotte , Milanzi Edith , Crichton Siobhan , Collins Intira Jeannie , Turkova Anna , Mariandyshev Andrei , Ritz Nicole
Published: August 2024

Background

A novel skin test–called Diaskintest (DT)—containing specific M. tuberculosis antigens is in clinical use in the Russian Federation (RF). This test may improve diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) infection. The use and performance of the DT was described and compared to the tuberculin skin test (TST).

Methods

Data on children <18 years referred to a TB reference centre (Jan/2018- Dec/2019) with ≥1 DT and TST result available were analysed. An immune correlate of TB infection was defined as a positive TST (≥10 mm induration) or a positive DT (any induration).

Results

Of 2710 included cases, the median age was 9.0 (IQR 5.7–13.1) years and 97.5% were BCG immunised. Overall, 1976 (79.9%) were TB uninfected, 724 (26.7%) had an immune correlate of TB infection and 10 (0.4%) TB disease. Reasons for referral were: positive or increasing skin test results in routine screening (992, 36.6%), screening before admission to a health care institution (501, 18.5%) and TB contact (457, 16.9%). DT was positive in 11.7% (308/2625) and TST in 63.1% (467/740) (Kappa 0.08, 95% CI:0.013–0.14). A positive DT was associated with older age (OR 1.16 (95% CI: 1.13–1.19) per year). Among TB contacts DT positivity was associated with contagiousness: highest proportion of positivity of 12.0% was observed when the index case was smear positive.

Conclusion

In a setting with universal BCG vaccination and regular screening with TST, DT was used to rule out TB infection as TST was commonly positive. We found an association of DT positivity and contagiousness of the index case in children contacts. These observations may suggest improved specificity and sensitivity of DT compared to TST.
Gender discrimination in Swedish family courts: A quantitative vignette study
Authors: Ngaosuvan Leonard , Hagberg Jenny , Sikström Sverker
Published: August 2024

Background

Gender discrimination of women is often emphasized in work contexts, whereas less focus is on how men are discriminated against in social relationships. Gender discrimination in decisions of family relations, is essential to study as the contact between parent and child is commonly viewed as the most important relationship in people’s life, as well as being the most important aspect of our life. Following separations, decisions on custody disputes are made by social workers. The purpose of this paper is to study gender discrimination in such decisions.

Method

Participants were instructed to give a recommendation of shared parenting based on a custody case vinjett, where we manipulate the gender of the risk parent.

Results

The participants’ recommendation of living was mainly dependent on the risk parent’s gender, where the mother was considerably more likely to receive shared custody than the father.

Conclusions

Professional social workers show selective gender discrimination against fathers in terms of living recommendations.
Is there a causal relationship between resistin levels and bone mineral density, fracture occurrence? A mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xu Taichuan , Li Chao , Liao Yitao , Xu Yenan , Fan Zhihong , Zhang Xian
Published: August 2024

Background

In a great many of observational studies, whether there is a relevance of resistin levels on bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture occurrence has been inconsistently reported, and the causality is unclear.

Methods

We aim to assess the resistin levels on BMD and fracture occurrence within a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Exposure and outcome data were derived from the Integrative Epidemiology Unit (IEU) Open genome wide association studies (GWAS) database. Screening of instrumental variables (IVs) was performed subject to conditions of relevance, exclusivity, and independence. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) was our primary method for MR analysis based on harmonized data. Weighted median and MR-Egger were chosen to evaluate the robustness of the results of IVW. Simultaneously, heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy were also assessed and the direction of potential causality was detected by MR Steiger. Multivariable MR (MVMR) analysis was used to identify whether confounding factors affected the reliability of the results.

Results

After Bonferroni correction, the results showed a suggestively positive causality between resistin levels and total body BMD (TB-BMD) in European populations over the age of 60 [β(95%CI): 0.093(0.021, 0.165), P = 0.011]. The weighted median [β(95%CI): 0.111(0.067, 0.213), P = 0.035] and MR-Egger [β(95%CI): 0.162(0.025, 0.2983), P = 0.040] results demonstrate the robustness of the IVW results. No presence of pleiotropy or heterogeneity was detected between them. MR Steiger supports the causal inference result and MVMR suggests its direct effect.

Conclusions

In European population older than 60 years, genetically predicted higher levels of resistin were associated with higher TB-BMD. A significant causality between resistin levels on BMD at different sites, fracture in certain parts of the body, and BMD in four different age groups between 0–60 years of age was not found in our study.
Who can I count on: Honor, self-reliance, and family in the United States and Iran
Authors: Wang Peter , Atari Mohammad , Oyserman Daphna
Published: August 2024

Honor requires that individuals demonstrate their worth in the eyes of others. However, it is unclear how honor and its implications for behavior vary between societies. Here, we explore the tension between competing views about how to make sense of honor–as narrowly defined through self-reliance and self-defense or as broadly defined through strength of character. The former suggests that demonstrating the ability to defend one’s self, is a crucial component of honor, while the latter allows the centrality of self-reliance to vary depending on circumstances. To examine these implications, we conducted studies in the U.S., where self-reliance is central to honor, and in Iran, where individual agency must be balanced against the interests of kin. Americans (Studies 1, 2a; n = 978) who endorsed honor values tended to ignore governmental COVID-19 measures because they preferred relying on themselves. In contrast, honor-minded Iranians (Study 2b; n = 201) adhered to public-health guidelines and did not prefer self-reliance. Moreover, honor-minded Iranians endorsed family-reliance, but did not moralize self-reliance (Study 3; n = 107), while honor-minded Americans endorsed family-reliance and moralized self-reliance (Study 3; n = 120). Results suggest that local norms may shape how honor is expressed across cultures.
Implementing routine collection of EQ-5D-5L in a breast cancer outpatient clinic
Authors: Torres Sofia , Bayoumi Ahmed M. , Abrahao Ana B. K. , Trudeau Maureen , Pritchard Kathleen I. , Li Chun Nim , Mitsakakis Nicholas , Liu Geoffrey , Krahn Murray
Published: August 2024

Purpose

A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the feasibility of implementing routine collection of the Euro-Qol 5 dimensions (EQ-5D) questionnaire, to inform drug and health technology reimbursement decision making.

Methods

Women with breast cancer were recruited during scheduled clinic visits to an academic cancer centre. EQ-5D-5L was self-administered using electronic tablets. Diagnostic and treatment data were abstracted from patient charts. Feasibility was assessed primarily by the proportion of patients who fully completed EQ-5D-5L and by their willingness to complete the instrument at each clinic visit.

Results

588 women were approached for study participation, 341 were enrolled. Fully completed EQ-5D-5L questionnaires were obtained in 323 participants (95% of participants, 95% CI 92–97%). Median time for EQ-5D-5L completion was 1.5 minutes (range:0.35 to 14.7). Mean age of participants was 58 years old. Most women who completed EQ-5D were White, born outside Canada and presented a high education level; one-quarter had metastatic disease. Most participants reported “No problems” in all EQ-5D-5L dimensions. Mean EQ-5D-5L index and mean EQ-5D-5L VAS values for all participants were respectively 0.83 (SD 0.13) and 75.7 (SD 17.45), with patients with metastatic disease scoring the lowest values. Seventy-eight percent of participants were willing to complete EQ-5D-5L at each clinic visit; lower Charlson comorbidity index and higher education level were predictors of willingness to continue to answer EQ-5D-5L.

Conclusions

Tablet-based collection of EQ-5D-5L in the context of routine clinical practice proved to be feasible. However, many patients declined study participation or reported being in full health, raising concerns about whether this method of collecting EQ-5D adequately represents the health status of all breast cancer patients.
Modeling college EFL teachers’ intentions to conduct academic research: Integrating theory of planned behavior with self-determination theory
Authors: Ren Xiaobin
Published: August 2024

This study constructed a robust theoretical model aimed at elucidating the determinants that shape college EFL teachers’ research intentions by integrating the tenets of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) with Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). This model was empirically validated using data from 271 EFL teachers from eight colleges in China, selected through stratified sampling and collected via paper questionnaires, then analyzed using structural equation modeling. The findings underscore the instrumental roles of both autonomous and controlled motivations in driving research-related behaviors, thereby reinforcing the foundational concepts of SDT. Additionally, this study provides intricate insights into the mechanisms wherein motivation steers immediate determinants of research intention, encompassing attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. This melding of SDT and TPB offers an all-encompassing perspective on the multifaceted nexus between motivation and research intentions. Consequently, this refined model not only marks a pivotal stride in advancing teacher education theory but also establishes a guiding framework for forthcoming research and interventions, accentuating the imperative of fostering research intentions among college EFL educators.
Dietary practice and associated factors among elderly people in Northwest Ethiopia, 2022: Community based mixed design
Authors: Bayih Mulat Tirfie , Kassa Adane Ambaye , Demilew Yeshalem Mulugeta
Published: August 2024

Background

The planet’s population is aging at an incredible speed. Poor dietary practices are a major problem among the elderly. However, literature is scarce on dietary practices among elders in the study area. Therefore, the results of this study may give information to decision-makers.

Objective

This study aimed to assess dietary practices and associated factors among elderly people in Northwest Ethiopia, in 2022.

Methods

A community-based mixed study design was employed among elderly people from May 20 to July 2, 2022. Systematic random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were used for selecting study participants in quantitative and qualitative studies, respectively. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire for the quantitative part and an interview guide for the qualitative part. Binary logistic regression analysis was used. A P-value less than or equal to 0.05 was used to declare statistically significant variables. A crude odds ratio and an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval were used to measure the strength of the association. Thematic analysis was used for qualitative data analysis.

Results

A total of 422 participants were recruited for the study. Twenty-six in-depth interviews were done. The prevalence of adequate dietary practice was only 54.5% [95% CI: (49.8, 59.2)]. It was significantly associated with being aged between 65 to 74 years (AOR: 8.32; 95 CI: 3.9, 18.1), being aged between 75 to 84 years (AOR: 2.90; 95% CI: 1.1, 7.9), eating sometimes alone (AOR: 1.86; 95% CI: 1.03, 3.4), eating always with family members (AOR: 4.96; 95% CI: 2.6, 9.4), and food security (AOR: 3.13; 95% CI: 1.8, 5.4). Thematic analysis revealed three themes that interfere with the dietary practices of elders. A majority of in-depth interviewees mentioned that there were taboos and cultural beliefs which favor inadequate dietary practices of the elderly; the study participants reported that individual, economic, societal, and physiological factors are barriers affecting the dietary practices of the elderly, and all respondents have no experiences regarding elderly dietary practices.

Conclusion

The prevalence of adequate dietary practice was low. It was significantly associated with age, with whom feeding, and household food security status. Taboos and cultural beliefs, barriers, and experiences hampered the dietary practices of elders. Therefore, improving the dietary practices of elders focusing on advanced age, loneliness, food security, taboos, cultural beliefs, barriers, and experiences regarding dietary practices should be done.
Predicting the potential global distribution of Ixodes pacificus under climate change
Authors: Li Fengfeng , Mu Qunzheng , Ma Delong , Wu Qunhong
Published: August 2024

In order to predict the global potential distribution range of Ixodes pacificus (I. pacificus) under different climate scenario models in the future, analyze the major climate factors affecting its distribution, and provide references for the transformation of passive vector surveillance into active vector surveillance, the maximum entropy model (MaxEnt) was used in this study to estimate the global potential distribution range of I. pacificus under historical climate scenarios and different future climate scenarios. The global distribution data of I. pacificus were screened by ENMtools and ArcGIS 10.8 software, and a total of 563 distribution data of I. pacificus were obtained. Maxent 3.4.1 and R 4.0.3 were used to screen climate variables according to the contribution rate of environmental variables, knife cutting method and correlation analysis of variables. R 4.0.3 was used to calculate model regulation frequency doubling and feature combination to adjust MaxEnt parameters. The model results showed that the training omission rate was in good agreement with the theoretical omission rate, and the area under ROC curve (AUC) value of the model was 0.978. Among the included environmental variables, the Tmin2 (minimum temperature in February) and Prec1 (precipitation in January) contributed the most to the model, providing more effective information for the distribution of I. pacificus. MaxEnt model revealed that the distribution range of I. pacificus was dynamically changing. The main potential suitable areas are distributed in North America, South America, Europe, Oceania and Asia. Under the future climate scenario model, the potential suitable areas show a downward trend, but the countries and regions ieeeeeeenvolved in the suitable areas do not change much. Therefore, the invasion risk of the potential suitable area of I. pacificus should be paid attention to.