bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dental Abnormalities in Two Dental-Skeletal-Retinal Anomaly-Positive Cane Corso Dogs: A Case Series
Authors: Brown Alexandra T. , Peak R. Michael , Smithson Christopher W. , Bell Cindy
Published: December 2023

Dental-skeletal-retinal-anomaly (DSRA) is a newly described collagenopathy in Cane Corso dogs. The causative mutation has been linked with splice defects within the melanoma inhibitory activity member 3 (MIA/3) gene that codes for the TANGO1 protein. This case series presents the first dental-related radiographic and histopathological abnormalities in two dogs with genetically confirmed DSRA. The clinical, radiological, and histological features are similar to those reported for MIA3/TANGO1 splice defects previously reported in humans and knockout mice. Common clinical features of these patients include generalized opalescent discoloration of the permanent dentition (intrinsic dyschromia), enamel defects, fractured teeth, vision loss, shortened physical stature, and orthopedic abnormalities that resulted in chronic, early-onset lameness. Intraoral radiography revealed delayed dentin deposition, evidence of endodontic disease, and dental hard tissue loss in both cases. Histopathologic findings for both cases were consistent with dentinogenesis imperfecta (DGI). DSRA exhibits autosomal recessive heritability and commercial diagnostic tests are now available. Clinicians should be aware of the etiopathogenesis, genetic inheritance and associated comorbidities in order to treat and counsel clients on the management of this condition. It is recommended that all breeding individuals be tested, and carriers be sterilized or omitted from the breeding population. This case study describes intraoral diagnoses, treatments, and follow-up of two DSRA-positive dogs.
Evaluating one engine inoperative conditions in subscale electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft: An in-depth tethered hover test analysis
Authors: Kang Youngshin , Cho Am , Choi Seongwook , Kim Yushin , Bae Jongmin , Cho Junho , Ko Donghyeon , Yun Haneul
Published: December 2023

The direction of propeller rotation in a distributed electric-powered vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft significantly influences control forces and induced drag during both helicopter and fixed-wing modes. This study proposes a strategy to determine the most effective rotational direction for each propeller. This approach effectively mitigates one-engine-inoperative (OEI) conditions during helicopter mode for a subscale eVTOL referred to as the optionally piloted personal air vehicle (OPPAV). Moreover, the study developed an optimal control law using the linear programming method, which minimizes the maximum power required for individual motors under OEI conditions. The lowest maximum power was achieved under OEI conditions when both the front and rear propellers in each pod rotated in the same direction. Furthermore, to validate this proposed control law, a tethered hover test was performed using the subscale OPPAV under OEI conditions. Our findings demonstrate that determining the rotational direction of propellers using the newly proposed reconfiguration control method significantly enhances the safety of eVTOL aircraft operating under OEI conditions.
Motion mode distribution of spiral maneuvering target during reentry phase
Authors: Xiang Shengwen , Wang Pei , Yang Ye , Da Kai , Fan Hongqi
Published: December 2023

Obtaining the probability density distribution of target motion mode is the basis for model set design in multi-model tracking methods. During reentry, the target is expected to perform a violent spiral maneuver due to aerodynamic resonance between roll and pitch modes, the motion of target is highly nonlinear and the spiral frequency is a prior unknown random variable. This paper evaluates the probability distribution of spiral frequency of reentry target under three different types of maneuvering control inputs, which can provide guidelines for the design of model sets. This work is based on the dynamic model of reentry spiral motion presented in this paper, whose effectiveness has been verified by using a large number of Monte Carlo simulations.
Factors associated with sexual quality of life among men living with HIV
Authors: Etemadi Fatima , Bessonneau Pascal , Yaya Issifou , Dara Aichata , Eriksson Lars , Rodriguez Sarah , lona Juraskova  , Henrique Mariliza , Réjean Thomas , Griffith William , Thonon Frédérique , Chassany Olivier , Duracinsky Martin
Published: December 2023

Introduction

This study aims to assess the prevalence of sexual difficulties and identify factors associated with the Sexual Quality of Life (SQoL) among people living with HIV (PLWHA).

Methods

The study included 107 heterosexual men and 474 men who have sex with men (MSM) from five countries. Participants self-reported variables related to physical and mental health, as well as HIV-related parameters. Erectile or ejaculation difficulty, as well as low sexual desire, were investigated. SQoL was measured using the PROQOL-SexLife questionnaire.

Results

Most of participants reported low sexual desire, predominantly among MSM. Among MSM, living with a partner and healthcare satisfaction were associated with SQoL scores in POP dimension, while consistent condom use, cardiovascular complications, and being single were associated with SQoL scores in STI dimension. Viagra use, anti-cholesterol treatment, and living with a partner were associated with SQoL scores in DIS dimension. Among heterosexual men, employment and African origin were associated with SQoL scores in the POP dimension. Alcohol consumption was associated with SQoL scores in STI dimension.

Conclusion

This study underscores the importance of non-clinical determinants when assessing SQoL among PLWHA, emphasizing psychological factors and the perceived quality of healthcare. Tailored interventions should incorporate these findings to enhance overall SQoL outcomes.
The meaning of respect and dignity for intensive care unit patients: A meta-synthesis of qualitative research
Authors: Sun Xianghong , Zhang Guoyong , Yu Zhichao , Li Ke , Fan Ling
Published: December 2023

Aim

To synthesize qualitative research on perspectives and understandings of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients, family members, and staff regarding respect and dignity in ICU, in order to explore the connotations and meanings of respect and dignity in ICU.

Design

A qualitative meta-synthesis.

Methods

The Chinese and English databases were systematically searched, including PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wangfang Data, VIP, and CBM from each database’s inception to July 22, 2023. Studies were critically appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research. Qualitative data were extracted, summarized, and meta-synthesized. (PROSPERO: CRD42023447218).

Results

A total of 9 studies from 6 countries were included in the meta-synthesis. Thirty-six main themes and 67 sub-themes were extracted, which were eventually integrated into 9 categories and 4 themes: (1) integrity of humanity; (2) autonomy; (3) equality; (4) environmental support.

Conclusion

To maintain patient dignity, it is necessary to create an environment of respect within the ICU where healthcare professionals uphold the concept of preserving human integrity and respect patients' autonomy and equality. Healthcare professionals need to value the dignity of ICU patients and treat them as unique individuals during treatment and care. Hospital managers should also strive to create a respectful environment to provide environmental support for dignity care implementation.
Future Applications of Artificial Intelligence for the Egyptian Universal Health Insurance System
Authors: Imam Mohamed , Soliman Heba Y. , Abdel-Atty Heba M.
Published: December 2023

Artificial intelligence refers to simulating the human intelligence in machines. As it is present in all aspects of life, it has a great impact on the healthcare systems. In this article, the concept of artificial intelligence and its expected role on healthcare systems are presented. The Egyptian Universal Health Insurance system is presented as a case study.
The Mediating Role of Burnout in the Anxiety and Work Engagement Relationship
Authors: Perepelkin Jason , Wilson Grant Alexander
Published: December 2023

Pandemic-related pressures and responsibilities increase the likelihood of burnout for all health care professionals. The consequences of burnout are significant, as it has been linked to high anxiety, increased turnover, decreased employee morale, higher absenteeism, and lower quality of service. To date, most research explores burnout’s relationship with these variables in isolation. This study explores the anxiety, burnout, and employee engagement relationships among community pharmacists during the global pandemic. Pharmacists in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan completed an online questionnaire that asked questions related to their levels of anxiety, burnout, and work engagement among other control variables. The relationships among the variables were explored via SPSS and the moderation and mediation PROCESS macro. The findings suggest that burnout fully mediates the anxiety and employee engagement relationship, suggesting that anxiety alone is not enough to reduce employee engagement. The results confirm burnout’s relationship with anxiety and lack of engagement and provide a more specific understanding of burnout’s antecedents and consequences, offering important insight for academics and practitioners. Due to the positive implications of eliminating burnout and the importance of employee engagement to organisational performance, managers should seek to reduce workplace stress to avoid burnout and disengagement.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Care Services and Practices in Jordan
Authors: Alyahya Mohammad S. , Assaf Sara R. , Alzoubi Majdi , Al-Sheyab Nihaya A. , Ashour Ala F.
Published: December 2023

Dentists and their patients are highly exposed to COVID-19 due to the close contact nature of dental procedures. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on dental care practices and services in Jordan. A mixed-method design was used; data from dentists ( N = 400) were collected using an online survey, and 15 semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with dentists from public and private sectors. The findings revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted dental care practices and services. The majority of the participants reported a decline in their income and a decline in dental services demand, with a significant increase in costs for this profession. Additionally, this study showed that most participants were in a state of anxiety and fear about contracting the virus and transmitting it to their families while practising their profession that caused a change in their behaviours and attitudes. In conclusion, dental healthcare workers are at greater risk of being infected with COVID-19. There is a need to implement recommended protocols in dental clinics, it is also essential that decision makers develop appropriate interventions and measures to ensure continuity in the provision of dental services during the pandemic.
Adherence to Quality in District Hospitals of Haryana: A Recent Assessment as per Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS)
Authors: Aggarwal Rajesh Kumar , Singh Dalbir
Published: December 2023

The article assesses the quality standards of available health care services as per the Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) at all the 22 District Hospitals (DHs) in Haryana and also brings out a ranking of districts within the State based on these parameters. A structured schedule was prepared using IPHS norms and guidelines, and data was collected from all the DHs in the State on required components of quality standards. The article uses different statistical tools such as mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation (CV) for analysis and attempts preparing a composite IPHS Index based on the type and number of services available. It found that the overall mean percentage score of observed quality standards was 66.5% across 22 DHs in Haryana (8 DHs>70%, 11 DHs between 60% and 70% and 3 DHs < 60%). Further, ranking across the State shows DH Panchkula on top with rank one whereas DH Charkhi Dadri appears at last with rank 22 based on the laid IPHS parameters. The article asserts that the observed quality standards are not fully matched with expected quality standards at DHs in Haryana and recommends the need for periodic reviews, perpetual monitoring of these standards and functioning, and emphasises on systemic management of the required IPHS parameters to ensure provisioning of optimal healthcare services at these hospitals.
‘Optimising Time for Effective Patient Care’: Work-sampling Analysis
Authors: Gupta Vaibhav , Krishnappa Pushpanjali , Goel Poonam
Published: December 2023

Modern healthcare is increasingly complex with the growing demand of multidisciplinary care and the demand for high efficiency, but also healthcare professionals seem to be confronted with an increasing need for high-quality, timely, patient care. Current study was planned with aim to formulate guidelines for effective utilization of dental healthcare personnel and reduce patient waiting time in a peripheral dental healthcare center. A work sampling study was conducted during April 2014 on seven participating dentist posted and patients visiting at outreach dental healthcare center. A snapshot of clinical and administrative activities was recorded by trained investigator over 48 hours. A 14-item classification system was applied to categorize tasks performed by dental health care personnel (DHCP) into five categories and six categories for patient-related tasks. A total of 2,303 observations documented for dentist and 378 for patients. Documentation activities accounted for 5% and infection control for 3% and idle time for 5%. On an average, 33% of patient’s time was spent in waiting area whereas only 7% while delivering health education. To conclude, work sampling is a feasible method for defining the work experience of DHCP and for measuring the impact of administrative changes imposed to improve education or healthcare delivery.
Gentianella turkestanorum (Gand.) Holub, a Chinese Herbal Medicine that can Alleviate T2DM in Db/db Mice, and its Active Mechanism of Action
Authors: Wei Ying , Sun Jiaxin , Su Liya , Xu Tunhai
Published: December 2023

Background

The increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on a global scale has created a pressing demand for novel treatments. Gentianella turkestanorum (Gand.) Holub, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, has been found to possess hypoglycemic effects. However, the mechanism of its action remains unclear.

Objectives

This study was to investigate the impact and mechanism of G. turkestanorum’s water extract (WEG) in reducing insulin resistance (IR) in T2DM.

Materials and Methods

Db/db mice were administered WEG for 8 weeks, during which their body weight, blood glucose (BG), oral glucose tolerance test, islet tolerance test, fasting insulin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein were monitored. Additionally, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in db/db mice were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The study also evaluated the impact of WEG on liver injury through hematoxylin-eosin staining. The expression levels of key proteins and genes in both insulin signaling and inflammation-related pathways were detected using western blotting and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

WEG has the potential to regulate glycolipid metabolism, reduce inflammation, and alleviate IR. The mechanism of action may involve promoting the insulin signaling pathway and inhibiting inflammation.

Conclusion

Gentianella turkestanorum could be a viable treatment option for T2DM and IR.
Perspectives of ChatGPT in Pharmacology Education, and Research in Health Care: A Narrative Review
Authors: Patel Chetna R. , Pandya Sajal K. , Sojitra Brijesh M.
Published: December 2023

In the era of advanced Open artificial intelligence (AI) technology, the large language model tool known as chat generative pre-training transformer (ChatGPT) is gaining an increasing number of users in various fields such as healthcare, medical education, agriculture, and customer support due to its features like information retrieval, generating human-like conversations, and natural language processing. The purpose of this narrative review is to present the perspectives of ChatGPT in Pharmacology and Medical Education. And highlight the limitations of ChatGPT in these areas and draw the attention of policymakers in healthcare to implement such technologies while taking into consideration ethical issues. To collect information regarding the perspectives of ChatGPT in pharmacology and medical education. And highlight the limitations of ChatGPT in these areas. In health care, it helps in the drug discovery and development process, diagnosis, treatment, counseling, assisting in surgical procedures, pharmacovigilance, pharmacy, and so on. In medical education, this tool plays a crucial role in online tutoring, personalized assistance, grading, improvement in grammar, and so on. Despite the limitations, ChatGPT is helpful in healthcare, medical education, and scientific writing. To overcome such limitations of ChatGPT, like ethical issues, emotionlessness, providing information before 2021, the risk of biases, uncontrollability, lack of transparency, academic dishonesty, and so on, alternatives have been developed, but they also fail to entirely resolve the associated limitations. Looking at the current scenarios, there is an urgent need for comprehensive guidelines to address these limitations and provide a framework for appropriately utilizing AI tools in healthcare domains. This framework should also focus on maintaining a balance between human involvement and technological advancements.
Aristolochia bracteolata Lam’s Toxicity Profile and Neuroprotective Effects in Mice with Memory Impairment Triggered by Scopolamine
Authors: Sundaram Dhivya P. , Govindaswamy Swathy , K. S. Sridevi Sangeetha , Selvamani Palanisamy , Latha Subbiah
Published: December 2023

Aim

The present study aims to investigate the toxicity profile and neuroprotective effect of ethanol crude extract of Aristolochia bracteolata (EEAB) leaves in mice.

Materials and Methods

EEAB was subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis. To determine the toxicity profile in Swiss albino mice, acute and subchronic toxicity experiments were performed according to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development criteria. A behavioral test in mice with drug-induced learning and memory impairment was performed to determine neuroprotective effects.

Results

In the study GC–MS, 19 compounds were detected. Compared to the control group, no clinical signs of toxicity were detected in the plant-treated group in both the acute and subchronic toxicity experiments at the highest dose of 2,000 mg/kg. It was calculated that the mean oral lethal dose (LD50) > was 2,000 mg/kg. Scopolamine-induced cognitive deficits in mice were greatly reduced after pretreatment with the EEAB at a dose of 100 mg/kg p.o. This was demonstrated by the reversal of the improvement in spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze task and by the significant improvement in latency in the passive avoidance task.

Conclusion

Based on the results, EEAB might contain potent secondary metabolites that would primarily enhance the neuroprotective effects and cognitive deficits induced by cholinergic dysfunction.
Assessing Foster/Adoptive Parent Training Curriculum's Improvement of Resource Parent Knowledge and Skills
Authors: Salazar Amy M. , Day Angelique , Thompson Jenna , Buckland Young Emma , Podsobinski Jaidyanne , Fowler John , Vanderwill Lori , Spiers Sara S. , Kongira Metta
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Caregiving for children in foster, kinship, and adoptive placements (hereon referred to as resource parenting) is a challenging role that requires unique knowledge and skills, but there is limited evidence for currently available trainings. The National Training and Development Curriculum for Foster and Adoptive Parents (NTDC) was recently developed with support from the US Children's Bureau.

Methods

Baseline and 6-month follow-up surveys from 540 resource parents receiving NTDC training and 409 receiving training-as-usual (propensity score matched; group assignment based on location) were compared on a variety of knowledge types and skills.

Results

NTDC parents had larger growth in trauma-informed parenting, potential to promote positive child development, and key resource parent knowledge from baseline to post-training. NTDC parent growth in receptivity to working with biological parents approached but did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

NTDC offers promise as a new training resource for improving resource parent knowledge and skills.
Interdisciplinary Competencies for Implementing NDBIs With Young Children With Autism and Other Social Communication Challenges
Authors: Ingersoll Brooke , Douglas Sarah N. , Brodhead Matthew T. , Barber Angela , Kaczmarek Louise A.
Published: December 2023

Over the past decade, a newer class of interventions has emerged specifically designed for young children with or at high likelihood of autism, which are called Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs). NDBIs are particularly well-suited as a discipline agnostic, primary intervention for young children with autism and other social communication challenges; however, community providers from multiple disciplinary backgrounds who serve these children typically do not develop competencies in areas crucial for effectively implementing NDBI. The goal of this commentary is to: (a) describe the interdisciplinary competencies needed to deliver NDBIs effectively and (b) provide recommendations for moving the field of early intervention for autism and social communication delays forward. Resources for building these competencies for providers at the pre- and in-service level are also provided.
Pharmaco-invasive Therapy: A Continued Role for Fibrinolysis in the Primary PCI era
Authors: Bouyaddid Salma , Bouchlarhem Amine , Bazid Zakaria , ismaili Nabila , El ouafi Noha
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Early Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) is the preferred reperfusion therapy for most patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), and the European guidelines recommend pPCI to occur within 120 min of first medical contact. However, this is not always available.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of patients admitted for STEMI to a level I cardiac intensive care unit in a developing country, to analyze the efficacy of the pharmaco-invasive (PI) strategy versus late PCI over a 2-year follow-up.

Results

Four hundred and thirty-nine STEMI patients presented within the first 12 h of symptom onset, pPCI was performed in 154 patients, PI-strategy in 185 patients, and finally Late PCI in 100 patients. All-cause mortality at 2-year risk was statistically significant associated with cardiogenic shock during initial hospitalization, LM and ostio-proximal left anterior descending artery as the culprit artery, severe conductance disorders requiring the use of a temporary pacemaker, and acute kidney disease with glomerular filtration rate < 30 ml/min/1.72 m2 . For the revascularization strategy, there as a well-demonstrated benefit of the pPCI versus Late PCI strategy with (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.293; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.11–0.737; P = 0.009), as well as a benefit of the PI-strategy versus Late PCI strategy with (HR = 0.433; 95%CI 0.21–0.87; P = 0.02). However, there was no difference between the pPCI and PI-strategy.

Conclusion

The PI-strategy remains a reasonable alternative for pPCI when the latter is not available, with a prognosis almost identical to pPCI in the long term whenever patients are treated early after the onset of symptoms.
Nonlinear flap for passive flutter control of bidimensional wing
Authors: Fernandez-Escudero Claudia , Prothin Sebastien , Laurendeau Eric , Ross Annie , Michon Guilhem
Published: December 2023

A solution for passive aeroelastic control is presented and tested experimentally on a bidimensional wing setup. The solution consists of a flap integrated in the wing which acts as a secondary mass damper and absorbs energy when aeroelastic instability is encountered. This device is passive, which makes it safe in emergency cases and adds little mass to the system in the fundamental case presented in this paper. If installed on actual aircraft wings, the flap-NES would not substitute but coexist with classic active control methods, adding virtually zero mass to the existing system. Using a flap placed in the airflow enables the control system to benefit from aerodynamic damping with a behavior dependent on wind speed. The device can either have a linear or nonlinear stiffness. It is shown that both options absorb energy from the main system, that is, the wing. The flap acts as a TMD (tuned mass damper) in the linear case and as an NES (nonlinear energy sink) in the nonlinear case. The nonlinear solution not only absorbs more energy at given wind speed but it also is a more suited solution as the damper follows the wind speed dependent frequencies due to its nonlinear feature. In this work, the flap-TMD and the flap-NES are tested experimentally on a bidimensional wing which presents classic flutter.
Contamination in Observational Research on Child Maltreatment: A Conceptual and Empirical Review With Implications for Future Research
Authors: Shenk Chad E. , Shores Kenneth A. , Ram Nilam , Felt John M. , Chimed-Ochir Ulziimaa , Olson Anneke E. , Fisher Zachary F.
Published: December 2023

Contamination is a methodological phenomenon occurring in child maltreatment research when individuals in an established comparison condition have, in reality, been exposed to maltreatment during childhood. The current paper: (1) provides a conceptual and methodological introduction to contamination in child maltreatment research, (2) reviews the empirical literature demonstrating that the presence of contamination biases causal estimates in both prospective and retrospective cohort studies of child maltreatment effects, (3) outlines a dual measurement strategy for how child maltreatment researchers can address contamination, and (4) describes modern statistical methods for generating causal estimates in child maltreatment research after contamination is controlled. Our goal is to introduce the issue of contamination to researchers examining the effects of child maltreatment in an effort to improve the precision and replication of causal estimates that ultimately inform scientific and clinical decision-making as well as public policy.
Connecting to Community: A Social Identity Approach to Neighborhood Mental Health
Authors: Haslam S. Alexander , Fong Polly , Haslam Catherine , Cruwys Tegan
Published: December 2023

Academic Abstract

Integrative theorizing is needed to advance our understanding of the relationship between where a person lives and their mental health. To this end, we introduce a social identity model that provides an integrated explanation of the ways in which social-psychological processes mediate and moderate the links between neighborhood and mental health. In developing this model, we first review existing models that are derived primarily from a resource-availability perspective informed by research in social epidemiology, health geography, and urban sociology. Building on these, the social identity model implicates neighborhood identification in four key pathways between residents’ local environment and their mental health. We review a wealth of recent research that supports this model and which speaks to its capacity to integrate and extend insights from established models. We also explore the implications of the social identity approach for policy and intervention.

Public Abstract

We need to understand the connection between where people live and their mental health better than we do. This article helps us do this by presenting an integrated model of the way that social and psychological factors affect the relationship between someone’s neighborhood and their mental health. This model builds on insights from social epidemiology, health geography, and urban sociology. Its distinct and novel contribution is to point to the importance of four pathways through which neighborhood identification shapes residents’ mental health. A large body of recent research supports this model and highlights its potential to integrate and expand upon existing theories. We also discuss how our model can inform policies and interventions that seek to improve mental health outcomes in communities.
How successful is synthetic graft treatment for children with pathological hip fractures?
Authors: Elçi Serhat , Özkul Emin , Alemdar Celil , Atiç Ramazan , Akar Mehmet Sait
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To determine whether synthetic grafts are a satisfactory treatment option for pathological proximal femoral fractures in children.

Methods:

Paediatric patients treated for pathological fractures of the proximal femur between 2013 and 2020 were evaluated retrospectively. 17 patients with a mean age of 10.7 years (range 6–16 years) were assessed. The definitive histopathological diagnoses were SBC (simple bone cyst) (12) and ABC (aneurysmal bone cyst) (5). The median duration of follow-up was 37 months (range 12–70 months).

Results:

All patients returned to their normal daily routine within 3–8 months following surgery. The mean post-op recovery time was 3.2 months (range 3–6 months). Graft was incorporated at approximately 12 months. No significant radiographic healing was observed in 2 patients. In the remaining 15 patients, the mean duration of healing was 14 months (range 8–24 months).

Conclusion:

Synthetic grafts are a satisfactory treatment option for pathological proximal femoral fractures in children.
Medical Doctors’ Perceptions of the Media Coverage during the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Case Study in Stockholm
Authors: Brune Clara , Agerholm Janne , Liljas Ann
Published: December 2023

The strain on healthcare systems including emergency departments increased substantially during the Covid-19 pandemic,negatively affecting healthcare workers and their well-being. The emotional distress experienced by healthcare staff during the pandemic was worsened by confusion and conspiracy theories that circulated in the news and online media. Reports on the pandemic and general consumption of media intensified as the public’s demand for information increased. There is limited research on how doctors perceived media coverage, and how they were affected in their work. This study aimed to explore how medical doctors in emergency departments perceived the media coverage during the Covid-19 pandemic. Twelve doctors at two different emergency departments in Stockholm, Sweden, participated. Interview questions on media were asked as part of a more extensive questionnaire. Informants’ responses were analysed qualitatively. The results indicate that doctors to some extent used media as a source of information, due to limited access to knowledge about the virus. Results further suggest that media coverage triggered fear of infection, caused worry and job strain. The doctors percieved that the media coverage on Covid-19 affected patient-seeking behaviour as well as the doctor-patient relationship. The findings can be relevant in preparation for future pandemics and considered in development of policy for media and emergency departments.
Mediated risk: A qualitative exploration of students’ experiences flirting online
Authors: Pinsky Dina
Published: December 2023

Based on qualitative interviews with 53 college students, this article explores how digitally mediated communication is seen as a tool for risk reduction by college students when it comes to their flirtatious interactions. I conclude that college students perceive the affordances of digital communication technologies as helping them manage the anxieties and vulnerabilities inherent in the flirtation process, an idea I refer to as “mediated risk.” My findings suggest that partly due to “mediated risk,” digital communication has become a normative mode of flirtatious interactions for young people as they experiment with romance, courtship, and sexuality. My findings offer a counter-narrative to popular media images, as well as scholarly accounts of adolescents’ use of social media, which tend to highlight risk.
Design of precast UHPFRC retaining walls – Experimental and numerical validations
Authors: Sylvestre Danny , Charron Jean-Philippe , Massicotte Bruno
Published: December 2023

This paper focuses on the design as well as on the experimental and numerical validations of the mechanical behavior of a precast ultra-high performance fibre reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) retaining walls. The design, made in accordance with the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code ( CSA S6, 2019 ), led to the fabrication of a full-scale UHPFRC retaining wall with 3% fibre content which had dimensions of 3 m in height, 2 m in length, 2 m in width, with two vertical and horizontal stiffeners, and very thin vertical and horizontal panels of 40 and 65 mm, respectively. The experimental tests showed that the UHPFRC retaining wall exceeded by 42% the ultimate limit state (ULS) design factored bending moment and showed a very ductile behavior under flexural loading. At service limit state (SLS), the retaining wall had maximum crack opening between 0.15 and 0.28 mm, and a maximum lateral displacement of 4 mm. The finite-element model developed for the application captured accurately the flexural behavior of the UHPFRC retaining wall and was used later in parametric studies to optimize the design. The retaining wall optimal design includes UHPFRC with 3% fibre content and stiffeners with variable cross-section which allows volume reductions of 73% for concrete and 86% for rebars in comparison to the conventional reinforced concrete design.
Experimental study on bond performance between carbon/glass-hybrid-fiber-reinforced polymer bars and concrete
Authors: Liang Mengmeng , Yu Yixun , Xu Gaojie , Li Qichen , Pan Yunfeng
Published: December 2023

Coating GFRP bars with a layer of carbon fibers containing carbon/glass-hybrid-fiber-reinforced polymer (HFRP) bars has been proven to improved interlaminar shear durability. Thus, the bond performance of the HFRP bar-concrete interface depends on the behavior of the HFRP-reinforced concrete structure. In this context, the study investigates the effects of the compressive strength of concrete and the embedded length of HFRP bars on the bond behavior of the HFRP bar-concrete interface and compares the results with the data on the interfacial bond of GFRP bar to concrete. The results demonstrate that all the specimens fail at the FRP bar–concrete interface under the pullout. The bond strength and bond stiffness of the HFRP bar–concrete composites decrease with an increase in the embedded length of the HFRP bar from 4 to 10 times its diameter. Raising the compressive strength of the concrete enlarges the bond strength and bond stiffness of the HFRP bar–concrete composites. Furthermore, the outer layer of carbon-fiber on the GFRP bar decreases the impact of the embedded length of the HFRP bar on the bond strength and bond stiffness of the HFRP bar–concrete composites. Finally, the improved modified mBPE model can accurately predict the bond stress–slip relationship of GFRP/BFRP/HFRP bar–concrete composites.
‘Unless one of us dies’: The stickiness of taint and perceptions of support in policing
Authors: De Camargo Camilla R , Whiley Lilith A
Published: December 2023

The behaviour of certain members of a profession can ‘taint’ other workers. In this qualitative study, we explore how police officers perceive media constructions of their profession. Participating police officers feel ridiculed by the media and are overwhelmed by instances of public disdain. They acknowledge moments of esteem, often as a result of self-sacrifice, yet lament that these are generally temporary and fleeting, and instead, their profession is tarnished by the heinous acts committed by some police officers, constructed as representative of the profession as a whole. We discuss police officers’ understanding of the stickiness of ‘taint’ within their occupation and how it can affect perceptions of the self.
Experimental study on dribbling characteristics of gasoline/biodiesel blends after the end-of-injection
Authors: Feng Zehao , Yang Zhen , Jin Yu , Si Zhanbo , He Zhixia
Published: December 2023

The effects of biodiesel addition on gasoline fuel dribbling process and characteristics after the end-of-injection (EOI) were investigated in a constant volume chamber at different injection pressures and ambient temperatures. The fuel dribbling process was recorded with high spatial and time resolution by using the microscopic shadow imaging technique, and the corresponding dribble velocity, dribble volume and droplet size were extracted. The results showed that the fuel dribbling experienced four typical morphological structures (spray-like, membrane-type, ligament-type, droplets) after the EOI under all the tested conditions. Additionally, increased biodiesel proportion in the blends caused decreased dribble velocity, longer dribbling duration, and increased droplet size, indicating deteriorated breakup and atomization processes of the dribbling flow. Moreover, the higher injection pressure increased the dribble amount but reduced the dribbling duration and droplet size. The increased ambient temperature caused faster evaporation of the dribbling fuel, resulting in a significant decrease in the dribble size. So, these two strategies were believed to be overall favorable to restrain the adverse effect on gasoline fuel dribbling characteristics caused by the addition of biodiesel.
Deep long short-term memory neural networks as virtual sensors for marine diesel engine NOx prediction at transient conditions
Authors: Karystinos Vasileios , Papalambrou George
Published: December 2023

Virtual Sensors based on deep-learning models for predicting the NOx emissions of a Diesel Engine under transient conditions were developed and verified. Raw data from laboratory experimental measurements, under marine transient loading cycles, were used for training and evaluation of the developed models. NOx prediction under transient conditions is often inaccurate by implementing conventional methods since they fail to capture the dynamic behavior of internal combustion engines. The proposed model is based on Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) Networks. A Deep Feed-forward Neural Network (DFNN) was also developed to validate the LSTM. The LSTM input is a time sequence of past measurements of the inputs while the DFNN only uses the most recent measurements. The Bayesian Hyberband Optimization (BOHB) algorithm determined the structure and parameters of each network. Each model uses the same inputs and is directly derived from the engine ECU. The LSTM validation showed that the model can generalize and accurately predict the NOx emissions under transient loading compared to the DFNN.
From heterotopia to alloútopia: more-than-human geographies of Singapore’s underwater Equarius Hotel
Authors: Vannini Phillip , Vannini April S
Published: December 2023

There are eight underwater hotels in the world. Drawing from our on-site observations and reflections, in this paper we discuss how one of them, Singapore’s Equarius Hotel, may at first be understood as a heterotopia – a concept coined by Michel Foucault to denote a fully realized utopia. However, we will argue that our original concept of alloútopia (from the Greek alloú, for elsewhere, and topia, for place) is better suited to make sense of the more-than-human dynamics shaping underwater hotel rooms and the human-animal encounters taking place therein. We develop our original concept by drawing from contemporary geographical literature on heterotopias, and more-than-human geographies of aquatic animal encounters. We further outline the usefulness of the concept for a variety of applications across tourist geographies and more-than-human geographies.
Masculine Ideals and Health in Older Men: Findings From the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study
Authors: Burns Shane D. , Drentea Patricia
Published: December 2023

How do older men’s masculine ideals affect their health? Are masculine activities involved in this relationship? Masculine identity upholds beliefs about masculine enactment. These beliefs can be detrimental to men and can lead to behaviors that can put undue stress on them. We examine how masculine ideals are associated with health and depressive symptomatology in older men. We used 2011 data from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study ( n = 2,594) to investigate how masculine ideals inform older men’s health and how participation in masculine activities might shape these outcomes. Findings from this study illustrate that traditional masculine ideals are associated with worse self-rated health (SRH), greater chronic illness, and depressive symptomatology. For masculine activities, doing repairs and car maintenance was associated with less chronic illness and depression. Belonging to a senior men’s group was associated with worse SRH, greater chronic illness, and greater depression. Therefore, older men’s greater endorsement of traditional masculine ideals was generally associated with worse health, though certain masculine activities affected this relationship. We posit that more gender-equitable beliefs may be useful for improving the “men’s health gap.”
Thermophysiological comfort and objective hand properties of modal, Naia™, cashmere and cotton included denim fabrics
Authors: Taştan Özkan Esra
Published: December 2023

In this study, the thermophysiological comfort and objective hand properties of modal, Naia™, cashmere, and cotton containing denim fabrics were investigated. Therefore, the air permeability, thermal conductivity, thermal absorptivity, thermal resistance, water vapor permeability, overall flexural rigidity, and compressibility of the fabrics were examined. It was concluded that using Naia™ sustainable fiber improved the thermal comfort and objective hand properties of denim fabrics. The elastane containing fabrics (T5 and T6) were uncomfortable because of their lower air permeability, lower water vapor permeability and higher overall flexural rigidity properties. Sulfur dyeing only affects the thermal resistance of fabrics, and the thermal resistance of sulfur dyed fabrics is higher than that of indigo dyed fabrics with the same compositions.
Association of MyPlate Diet and Exercise with Diabetes in African American Women
Authors: Jones Brandi
Published: December 2023

Lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise have been described as predictors of preventable disease such as Type 2 diabetes. Black/African American (AA) women disproportionately develop and are at greater risk, compared to Whites. The purpose of this study was to examine the association of exercise and adherence to MyPlate diet in this population. The health belief model was the theoretical foundation for this study. Research questions were designed to examine the extent to which lifestyle predicts diabetes. In this quantitative cross-sectional study, data from the 2015-2016 NHANES data sets were analyzed. Using SPSS, a series of binary logistic regressions were conducted. After controlling for age, there was no significant association between MyPlate diet adherence and diabetes (OR = .706, 95% CI [.292, 1.707], P > .005). Similarly, no significant association between exercise and diabetes was observed among this population (OR = 1.032, 95% CI [.721, 1.504], P > .005).
Fluctuating hearing loss secondary to spontaneous intracranial hypotension: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Cahal Michal , Roth Jonathan , Ungar Omer J , Brinjikji Waleed
Published: December 2023

Objective

Fluctuating sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) has multiple etiologies, most commonly Ménière's disease (MD), recurrent sudden SNHL, and autoimmune inner ear disorders. Fluctuating SNHL has rarely been described as a symptom of spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH).

Patient

A 39-year-old previously healthy female presented with “Ménière's like” symptoms responsive to steroid treatment, which worsened during the day and improved in the supine position. Conservative treatment for MD consisting of low salt and caffeine diet and betahistine medication yielded no improvement. Secondary revision of brain imaging scans showed signs indicative of SIH, and a spinal cerebrospinal fluid leak was ultimately found and treated by a novel technique of transvenous fistula embolization by means of Onyx® glue, leading to gradual clinical improvement and near-complete resolution of symptoms.

Conclusion

SIH should be considered as part of the differential diagnosis of fluctuating SNHL. Clinical and radiological features should be known and sought. We suspect that early diagnosis and treatment can lead to cure and prevent permanent auditory damage.
Design of 3D printed pressure-reducing insoles based on changes in parameters of lattice structure
Authors: Kang Lu-Ping , Gong Tai-Sheng
Published: December 2023

Uneven distribution of pressure on the bottom of the foot or excessive local pressure shall cause discomfort. And when it gets severe, this pressure would even damage the health of the human foot, especially for people like the elderly, diabetic patients and pregnant women. Decompression footwear can effectively reduce pressure on the foot and reduce the risk of injury. However, mass-produced pressure-reducing footwear lacks pertinence due to individual differences in human plantar pressure and foot shape data. This paper presents a design, using gradient lattice structures, for four kinds of 3D printed pressure-reducing insoles. It turns out that full contact insoles with non-uniform distribution of lattice structure did the best in reducing peak pressure of the whole foot, which was 60.42% lower than that of bare foot, 17.24% of flat insole with uniform distribution of lattice structure, 13.68% of mass-produced pressure-reducing footwear. The effect on pressure reduction is significant.
Multi-objective parameter optimization strategy based on engine coordinated control for improving shifting quality
Authors: Shang Xianhe , Zhang Fujun , Wang Jian , Wang Xu , Wei Liguo
Published: December 2023

In order to address the poor shifting quality issue of a certain model of heavy-duty vehicles, a multi-objective parameter optimization strategy based on engine coordinated control is proposed. This strategy aims to improve shifting quality by reducing the sliding friction work and impact during the shifting process. The Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) is employed to perform multi-objective optimization on the coordinated control parameters, which include external control torque of the engine, start of fuel cut-off timing, and duration of fuel cut-off. By comparing the performance of different parameter combinations in terms of sliding friction work and impact, the optimal parameter combination is determined. Through bench testing verification, it has been demonstrated that utilizing the optimized parameters for engine coordinated control during the torque phase of the shifting process can significantly enhance shifting quality. This strategy provides an effective solution for addressing shifting quality issues.