bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Tangible Breastfeeding Support Among Health Workers: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alao Michael Abel , Ibrahim Olayinka Rasheed , Elo-Ilo Jacinta Chinyere , Briggs Datonye Christopher , Nri-Ezedi Chisom Adaobi , Diala Udochukwu Michael , Yekinni Sakiru Abiodun , Borokinni Ayodeji Matthew , Sotimehin Sikirat Adetoun , Olasinde Yetunde Toyin , Aliu Rasaki , Olaniyi-George Joyce Foluke , Adeniyi Temilade Oluwatoyosi , Bello Olubunmi Oyeronke , Usman Hadiza Ashiru , Tongo Olukemi Oluwatoyin
Published: September 2024

Background:

Breastfeeding is crucial in providing infants with needed nutrition and immunity to foster their healthy growth and development; yet, optimal support from health workers is critical for it to be successful.

Aim:

To determine factors influencing tangible breastfeeding support among health workers in Nigeria.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones between August 2022 and February 2023 among health workers ( N = 2,922). Data were gathered through an interviewer-administered, validated questionnaire. Significant factors of tangible breastfeeding support were identified through multivariable logistic regression, and corresponding odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were reported.

Results:

The mean age of the health workers was 28.6 ( SD = 9.3) years. Just 45% (1,316) achieved optimal scores for tangible breastfeeding support. Only 31.4% (918) of lactation support providers/specialists practice tangible breastfeeding support and half (50.6%, 1,479) had a favorable attitude towards providing tangible breastfeeding support. About two-fifths (39.3%, 1,148) engaged caregivers in reviewing breast milk storage procedures, whereas, 54.6% (1,595) and 78.0% (2,279) of health workers assisted with breast pumps and breastfeeding attachment respectively. The odds of having optimal tangible breastfeeding support were higher for health workers aged 52 years or older compared to those aged under 20 years (aOR 1.88, 95% CI [1.13, 3.12]), a positive attitude (aOR 1.43, 95% CI [1.22, 1.69]), availability of a breastfeeding champion (aOR 1.47, 95% CI [1.21, 1.79]), 1.69]), provision of breast-pump videos (aOR; 2.33, 95% CI [1.85, 2.95]), and hand-expression videos (aOR; 1.41, 95% CI [1.02, 1.79]). (duplication)

Conclusion:

Health workers’ tangible breastfeeding support in Nigeria is suboptimal and is driven by age, service level, attitude, availability of breastfeeding champions, and appropriate practice aids. Targeted interventions to improve health workers’ attitudes, technical skills, provision of aids, and task shifting to non-specialists are needed for optimal tangible breastfeeding support.
Baby-Friendly Hospitals, Social Determinants of Health, and Disparities in Breastfeeding Initiation in a Low-Income Population, 2017–2020
Authors: Robert Rebecca C. , Roess Amira A. , Kuehn Doris , Vinjamuri Swathi
Published: September 2024

Background:

Organizational-level interventions (i.e., Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative) that support breastfeeding and target breastfeeding initiation are critical to reducing breastfeeding disparities and promoting breastfeeding equity.

Research Aim:

To determine the association between delivery in a Baby-Friendly accredited hospital and breastfeeding initiation among United States recipients of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Washington DC, the majority of whom report their race as Black.

Method:

We conducted a secondary analysis of de-identified program data collected as part of routine WIC visits from the Washington DC WIC program, 2017–2020. Women who delivered a firstborn, singleton infant were included ( N = 8,225). Multivariable logistic regression models accounted for social determinants of health and other factors. One set of models included a binary exposure variable (Baby-Friendly accredited vs. non-accredited hospitals), and another set included a categorical exposure variable for hospitals (1) Baby-Friendly accredited, (2) Baby-Friendly activities but not accredited, and (3) neither Baby-Friendly activities nor accredited.

Results:

Breastfeeding initiation was 57.4% ( n = 1988) for women delivering in accredited hospitals versus 55.4% ( n = 2540) in non-accredited hospitals and multivariable model results were non-significant ( OR = 0.95, 95% CI [0.86, 1.05]). However, more women initiated breastfeeding who delivered in either accredited hospitals (57.4%, n = 1988) or hospitals with Baby-Friendly activities but not accredited (55.9%, n = 2430) compared to those delivering in hospitals with neither (45.3%, n = 110), and multivariable models results concurred (Baby-Friendly accredited hospitals OR = 1.44, 95% CI [1.07, 1.94]; Baby-Friendly activities but not accredited, ( OR = 1.55, 95% CI [1.16, 2.09]).

Conclusion:

Organizational-level interventions that create hospital environments supportive of breastfeeding initiation are important to promote equity in breastfeeding, but underlying social determinants of breastfeeding outcomes must be addressed.
Breastfeeding Measurement - Cultural Domain Analysis
Authors: Haile Zelalem T. , Woldu Dawit O.
Published: September 2024

Cultural Domain Analysis (CDA) is a theoretical and methodological approach rooted in cognitive anthropology that investigates how people in a particular culture organize, structure, and perceive ideas. Beginning in the 1960s, CDA developed into a powerful tool for collecting and analyzing data, with applications extending beyond anthropology into other fields, including public health and other social sciences. This paper outlines the procedures and methods used in CDA, its strengths and limitations, and its potential utility in breastfeeding studies. Basic features of key techniques within CDA that include free listing, pile sorting, and cultural consensus analysis are discussed. The paper also highlights how CDA seamlessly combines qualitative and quantitative data to generate culturally meaningful social theories that can inform the development of contextually relevant policies and interventions.
Increased Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index as a Novel Indicator of Alzheimer’s Disease Severity
Authors: Algul Fatma E. , Kaplan Yuksel
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Inflammatory processes and neurodegeneration are common features of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are easily accessible, cost-effective prognostic indicators of inflammation status. We assessed the diagnostic value of SII and compared the efficacies of NLR, PLR, and SII in predicting AD severity.

Materials and Methods

Between January 2021 and December 2022, this prospective, cross-sectional clinical study included 175 patients with AD and 61 controls. SII, NLR, and PLR were calculated.

Results

Age, white blood cell and lymphocyte counts, and NLR and PLR values were significantly different between the patient and control groups ( P <.05). Age, hemoglobin, neutrophil, NLR, and SII values were significantly different among dementia severity subgroups ( P <.05). Compared with PLR and SII, NLR was more strongly correlated with dementia severity. In the analysis of adjusted data by gender, it was found that hemoglobin level is significantly negatively associated with dementia severity in males, while in females, age and PLR are significantly positively associated with dementia severity, and lymphocyte count and SII are negatively associated.

Conclusion

SII, a novel inflammatory marker, was associated with dementia severity in patients with AD. Compared with PLR and SII, NLR was more strongly correlated with dementia severity. In future studies with larger populations, SII and NLR values can be used to determine dementia severity and establish follow-up plans for patients with high dementia risk.
Principal Leadership of Pre-K Programs in Elementary Schools: Evidence from North Carolina
Authors: Little Michael , Drake Tim , Cohen-Vogel Lora , Gragson Austin , Cadilla Victor
Published: September 2024

Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) programs are becoming increasingly common in elementary schools across the United States—in fact, a recent analysis of federal data revealed that 57% of public schools have a Pre-K grade. Despite the prevalence of Pre-K programs in schools, principals—known to be among the most important factors in school success—often lack the knowledge and professional supports to effectively lead Pre-K programs. In this study, guided by sensemaking theory, we work to advance knowledge on Pre-K principal leadership through a sequential mixed-methods analysis of elementary school principals in the state of North Carolina. Our study includes a statewide survey of all lead and assistant principals in the state ( N = 520) as well as follow-up interviews with 27 of the surveyed principals. Our findings reveal that while they report strong conceptual support for the Pre-K programs in their schools, principals demonstrate limited engagement with them. We also find that principal background and preparation in early education and the proportion of students from a Pre-K program that ultimately enroll in the school for kindergarten are important factors that help explain variation in principal orientations to Pre-K leadership.
Music in Care (MIC) by Nurses: Initial Validation of a Questionnaire to Characterize Nurses’ Attitudes and Feasibility of Implementation on the Use of Music in Patient Care
Authors: Borick Kenneth M. , Stacciarini Jeanne-Marie , Tanner Jared J. , Miller M. David , Parker Leslie A. , Lane Mary Rockwood , Terry Ellen L.
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to characterize nurses’ attitudes toward music and implementation of music into patient care and to characterize barriers and facilitators toward the implementation of music into patient care. Design: A cross-sectional, quantitative, web-based questionnaire with minor qualitative elements. Methods: The questionnaire contained both open- and closed-ended questions. It was developed in Qualtrics and sent via email to nurses working on inpatient units at an academic medical center hospital in the southeastern United States. Findings: A total of 348 nurses responded to the questionnaire. Eighty-nine percent of nurses reported having used music in their care. The methods of implementation most employed by nurses were streaming (90%) or encouraging a patient to play music on the patient's personal device (76.8%). Eighty-eight percent of nurses reported that access to music streaming services (e.g., Spotify) would be very helpful or extremely helpful. In response to the open-ended questions, nurses indicated a lack of equipment as the primary barrier to implementing music in care. Conclusion: Nurses reported having a positive attitude toward the use of music, strongly endorsing its utility in patient care. Although most nurses reported implementing music, many nurses reported barriers and facilitators to the implementation of music in patient care.
Women's Lived Experiences in the Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Breast Cancer Management: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Christina Juliana , Abigail Wendy , De Bellis Anita , Harrington Ann
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to explore women with breast cancer (WBC) lived experiences on the use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) for breast cancer management. van Manen's phenomenology of practice was used as the methodology and method in this study. In-depth interviews guided by semi-structured questions were conducted with 21 WBC recruited using convenience sampling. The thematic analysis generated four main themes: Access, affordability and support for medical treatment, beliefs in CAM treatment, feeling the potential benefits of CAM, and Acknowledging the negative aspects of CAM. The outcomes from using CAM based on the lived experiences of WBC indicated that some CAM treatments could improve quality of life. However, some fraudulent CAM obtained from unprofessional CAM providers could cause harmful effects, delay medical cancer treatment, and increase breast cancer treatment costs. Therefore, there is an urgent need to enhance the awareness of appropriate treatment, including evidence-based CAM, for WBC. Improved understanding in the use of CAM as a part of quality breast cancer care services could contribute to increasing the quality of life and survival rates of women with breast cancer.
Design and development of a flexible-rigid Triglide sorting manipulator
Authors: Liu Yuhui , Wu Guanglei , Li Longxiang
Published: September 2024

Flexible manipulators have been widely applied in various tasks involving grasping and manipulation, and their unique characteristics in terms of lightweight design and adaptability make them particularly suitable for tackling complex spatial pick-and-place operations. In this work, a Triglide flexible manipulator is presented and developed, based on the parallel Biglide mechanism and dual leaf springs in parallelogram structure, which features adjustable stiffness by changing the transverse configuration of the leaf springs. To analyze the deflections of the leaf springs efficiently, a segmented approach is deployed, to calculate large deflection within the plane of the leaf-springs parallelogram structure. The adopted approach uses classical bending deformation formulas from mechanics of materials. Consequently, the static models of the manipulator are derived for analyzing bending deformation and workspace by means of numerical calculations. Finite element analysis is adopted to investigate the mechanical characteristics of the manipulator. A prototype of the variable stiffness manipulator is built, and an experimental setup is established for static testing. The obtained results align with the previously observed mechanical characteristics. The main advantages of the flexible robotic manipulator lie in its simple structure, small footprint, and simple kinematic model for control.
Hard turning performance assessment of AISI D2 steel under dual nozzle MQL assisted ZrO2 and GO nano-cutting fluids: A sustainability approach
Authors: Khatai Saswat , Sahoo Ashok Kumar , Kumar Ramanuj , Panda Amlana
Published: September 2024

“Green manufacturing” is often referred as a sustainable manufacturing process where ecofriendly cutting fluids are used to achieve social, economic, and environmental goals, which mitigates the soil, air, and water contamination and enhances operator’s health and safety. In this current study, mineral oil based ZrO2 and GO nano-cutting fluids are utilized for the cooling and lubrication purpose during the machining of hardened AISI D2 steel (55 ± 1 HRC). Machinability characteristics such as tool wear, surface roughness, cutting temperature, power consumption, and the span of the tool has been investigated in this study along with the sustainability aspects such as machining cost, carbon, and noise emissions during the machining process. Machining under GO nano-cutting fluid coupled with dual nozzle assisted MQL outperformed other environments such as ZrO2 NFMQL, pure mineral oil MQL and dry conditions in all aspects. The maximum tool life was achieved under GO NFMQL condition as 136.16 min followed by 94.41, 65.52, 20.58 min under ZrO2 NFMQL, pure oil MQL, and dry conditions. A substantial impact has been noticed on the cost savings under GO-NFMQL condition and cost saving have been reduced by 2.07%, 5.19%, and 5.48%, compared to ZrO2-NFMQL, MQL and dry environments respectively. Further, GO NFMQL environment performed better in both machinability and sustainability aspects than other environments as it gets the highest score of 11 in Pugh matrix sustainability assessment approach.
Research on collaborative locking strategy for distributed locking system of space manipulator
Authors: Wang Gang , Guo Jiankang , Yao Yimeng , Zhang Qihui , Yang Fei , Yue Honghao , Wang Kun
Published: September 2024

In this paper, the dynamic interaction between the locking system and the space manipulator is analyzed, and a misalignment tolerance capability analysis method for the distributed locking system of the space manipulator is proposed. Based on the structure and layout characteristics of the locking mechanism, the collision dynamics analysis between the manipulator and the locking system during the locking process is carried out, and the factors for the locking failure caused by the escape of the locking frame on the passive end of the locking mechanism are obtained. Aiming at the factors of escape of the locking frame and improving the misalignment tolerance of the locking system, the locking action matching of the active end of the locking system is carried out, which lays a foundation for the design of a collaborative locking strategy. The collaborative locking strategy model of the locking system was established to match the locking speed of the hook in the locking stage. Using the proposed misalignment tolerance capability analysis method combined with simulation software to simulate the conventional locking strategy and the collaborative locking strategy. By comparing the simulation results, the large misalignment tolerance capability of the collaborative locking strategy is verified.
Design and verification of automatic navigation control system for large high clearance self-propelled sprayer
Authors: Li Wei , Shao Mingxi , Du Yuefeng , Li Zhixiang , Sun Zhijuan , Yang Fan
Published: September 2024

An automatic navigation system aiming at improving the accuracy and efficiency of a large high clearance self-propelled sprayer was developed. First, a navigation hydraulic steering system was designed according to the structural characteristics and operation requirements of the sprayer, and a mathematical model of the system was established to describe the working characteristics of the navigation system. The system includes a navigation control strategy, a pure pursuit path tracking algorithm, and a fuzzy adaptive proportional-integral-derivative control method. To verify the performance of the system, a simulation model was developed using MATLAB/Simulink, and the performance of the control methods were compared. Additionally, an actual vehicle test platform was built based on 3WPG-3000 high clearance self-propelled sprayer independently developed by the research group. The simulation results revealed that under the two-wheel steering mode, the lateral position deviation of the vehicle decreases to 0 m in 11 s, and the heading angle deviation decreases to 0 rad in about 11 s; while under four-wheel steering mode, the lateral position deviation of the vehicle decreases to 0 m in 8 s, and the heading angle deviation decreases to 0 rad in 8 s. The field test results revealed that at the speed of 3 km/h, the sprayer tracked the target path in 5.84 s under the two-wheel steering mode and reached stability, and tracked the target path in 4.08 s under the four-wheel steering mode and reached stability; while at the speed of 5 km/h, the spray tracked the target path in 3.75 s under the four-wheel steering mode and reached stability. Altogether, the results of the simulation and field test verify the stability, accuracy, and practicability of the system.
Study of the tire wear of virtual track train
Authors: Zhou Hechao , Wan Zhengyang , Mei Mingsu , Zhang Jimin , Hecht Markus
Published: September 2024

The Virtual Track Train (VTT) represents a novel urban transportation solution that combines elements of both road and rail vehicles. Currently, VTT has gained significant adoption in several cities in China including Yibin, Zhuzhou, Harbin, and Yancheng. Despite its growing usage, the unique structure and complex tire-ground interaction of VTT pose significant challenges in terms of tire wear, which has become a pressing issue. This study develops and validates a multi-body dynamics model of VTT along with a finite element model of its tire. The tire-ground contact behavior and boundary conditions are studied from various perspectives to calculate tire wear. The simulation results demonstrate that the internal pressure of the tires, the load of VTT, the pavement conditions, the inclination angle, and slippage of tires all have critical effects on VTT’s tire wear. These findings suggest that the operating conditions of VTT must be carefully managed to reduce tire wear and ensure safe operation. Furthermore, the research results of tire wear mechanism of VTT offers valuable insights for the optimization and maintenance of VTT.
Structural design and dynamic analysis of a metal rubber composite gear pair
Authors: Geng Zhibo , Chen Min , Li Junyang , Han Yanfeng
Published: September 2024

This paper introduces a metal rubber composite gear for gear vibration reduction. A comprehensive structural design calculation program is developed for the metal rubber composite gear pair. The design incorporates a gap between the tooth ring and the hub to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, ensuring smooth transmission without jamming or seizing. The design process takes into consideration the compression and damping properties of the metal rubber material. A significant variable in the design process is the relative density of the metal rubber material. It is utilized to calculate the torsional stiffness, starting friction torque, and dynamic performance of the composite gear pair. To guide and optimize the design process, a nine-degree-of-freedom dynamic model is employed for dynamic analysis. The vibration reduction effect of the metal rubber composite gear is validated through numerical simulations and experimental testing. The results confirm the efficacy of the gear in reducing vibrations. This paper provides valuable insights and guidance for future designs focused on gear vibration reduction, paving the way for further advancements in this field.
Exploration of the dynamics of heated non-Newtonian Casson fluid within an annular region of eccentric cylinders subject to peristaltic motion
Authors: Fayyaz Aqsa , Abbas Zaheer , Rafiq Muhammad Yousuf
Published: September 2024

The flow of non-Newtonian fluids is widely observed in industry and biology, for example, enhanced oil recovery, chemical processes such as in distillation towers and fixed-bed reactors and in the applications of pumping fluids such as synthetic lubricants, colloidal fluids, liquid crystals, and biofluids (e.g., animal and human blood). Therefore, the present study delineates the heat transfer analysis of a Casson fluid within the annular region of eccentric cylinders subjected to peristaltic motion, considering the influence of thermal radiation. The outer cylinder remains rigid and moves at a constant speed, while the inner cylinder, featuring a sinusoidal wave along its wall, exhibits flexibility. The governing two-dimensional equations for the movement of the Casson fluid are reformulated under the assumption of the lubrication hypothesis. The perturbation scheme is used to find approximate results for velocity, temperature, and pressure gradient. A graphical representation is utilized to study the fluctuation of various flow fields with different imperative parameters. The results reveal that the liquid velocity declines as the Casson parameter increases, while the temperature decreases due to the amplified effect of thermal radiation. This study has applications in endoscopy, which is important for diagnosing problems in internal organs. Additionally, the variation of the pressure gradient helps maintain the flow rate, which is essential during the insertion of a catheter into an artery.
Evaluating the effect of frigate hangar shape modifications on helicopter recovery using piloted flight simulation
Authors: Watson Neale A , Owen Ieuan , White Mark D
Published: September 2024

Turbulent ship airwakes can present a major challenge for a pilot landing a helicopter to the ship. A recent study has proposed modifications to the hangar of a simple ship, the SFS2, to improve the air flow over the deck. To assess the effect of the proposed hangar modification on the helicopter and pilot, the unsteady air flow over the modified ship has been computed using time-accurate CFD, and then integrated with a full-motion flight simulator for a pilot to conduct deck landings to the original and modified ship geometries in wind speeds from 30 kt to 50 kt. The effectiveness of the proposed modification was assessed through pilot workload ratings for the landing task, and by recording pilot control inputs and helicopter states. The study has shown that there are some benefits from the hangar modifications. In the headwind the helicopter was deemed to be at the safe limit at 50 kt when operating to the original SFS2, while the limit was not reached in the 50 kt wind for the modified ship. In an oblique wind, the safe wind speed limit was found to be 40 kt for the original ship and 50 kt for the modified version. Although the improvements are not substantial, they do represent a positive outcome.
Machine learning-based prediction of statically equivalent seismic forces in pin-supported cylindrical reticulated shells
Authors: Takiuchi Yuji , Sakai Shizuki , Nakazawa Shoji
Published: September 2024

Reticulated shells exhibit complex vibrations during earthquakes, encompassing components in horizontal and vertical directions, and multiple vibration modes occur. In particular, single-layer reticulated shells with a small depth relative to their span exhibit many vibration modes, and the shapes of these modes can vary depending on the geometry. The method for rapidly setting equivalent static seismic forces remains unexplored. In response to the above background, this study proposes a novel approach for calculating the seismic forces on single-layer reticulated shells using machine learning techniques. The shells in focus are pin-supported cylindrical reticulated shells, typically for the roofs of gymnasiums used as evacuation facilities during severe earthquakes in Japan. Machine learning uses numerical analysis results for approximately 20,000 shells, with varied spans, half-open angles, and aspect ratios. A method for preprocessing the principal vibration modes as image data is proposed, after which the imaged vibration modes are predicted from the shape parameters of the shell using a neural network. The prediction accuracy is analyzed, and a method for rapidly calculating seismic loads based on combining predicted vibration modes is proposed. These seismic loads are compared with the response spectrum method results, and their effectiveness is discussed.
Who accessed STI testing in Britain during the COVID-19 pandemic and how: Findings from Natsal-COVID, a cross-sectional quasi-representative survey
Authors: Marquez Nuria Gallego , Howarth Alison R. , Dema Emily , Burns Fiona , Copas Andrew J. , Mercer Catherine H. , Sonnenberg Pam , Mitchell Kirstin R. , Field Nigel , Gibbs Jo
Published: September 2024

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, online sexual health service delivery increased across Britain. We investigated inequalities in STI testing access and methods of access during the first year of the pandemic.

Methods

Natsal-COVID, an online-survey of people 18–59 years in Britain, explored sexual health experiences in the first year of the pandemic. We describe the socio-demographics of participants who used STI testing services and compare those who reported being “online service users”, defined as using services with no direct clinician interactions (regardless of whether they also used other methods), with those who were exclusively “other service users”, defined as face-to-face, telephone, or video calls.

Results

246/6,064 participants (4.2%) reported STI testing between 03/2020–03/2021. Of those, 35.8% (95%CI 29.2–42.8) used online services. Online service users (compared to other service users) were more often white (74.9% (62.2–84.4) versus 68.5% (59.4–76.3)), less often had anxiety (39.0% (28.4–50.9) versus 57.2% (48.4–65.6)) and less often had disabilities (25.8% (16.8–37.4) versus 48.1% (39.4–56.9)). Among women (only), online users were more often in good health (91.4% (81.3–96.2) versus 69.3% (57.4–79.2)).

Conclusions

More than one third of STI testers used online services during this period. Differences exist in the characteristics of people accessing online versus other testing services. These data suggest that online services were more likely to be accessed by groups with typically lower risk of poor sexual health (white and in good health). Further investigation is needed, especially if online services are the only option offered, as differences in ability to access services could widen inequalities.
Campylobacter spp. in men who have sex with men: A systematic review
Authors: Wahab Natasha , Dubey Vaibhav , Sivachandran Vidhushan , Llewellyn Carrie , Richardson Daniel
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Campylobacter spp. has been reported to be a sexually transmissible enteric infection in men who have sex with men (MSM) since the 1980s causing an acute severe diarrhoeal illness and rarely an acute demyelinating polyneuropathy (Guillain-Barré syndrome). The aim of this review was to explore the factors seen in MSM with Campylobacter spp.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review following PRISMA guidelines by searching 7 bibliographical databases in August 2024 for manuscripts in English. Initial screening was conducted by a primary author and then two authors conducted independent full-text reviews to determine the final eligible manuscripts. We only included manuscripts which explored factors seen in MSM with Campylobacter spp.. Two authors independently used the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools to assess risk for bias. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023464803).

Results

25 manuscripts met the inclusion criteria that included 265 MSM with Campylobacter spp.. This review has highlighted demographic factors (living with HIV, living in urban MSM districts, HIV negative MSM using HIV-PrEP), biological factors (antimicrobial resistant Campylobacter spp., having a concurrent or previous sexually transmitted infection [ Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Herpes simplex virus, Hepatitis C, Mpox] current/previous enteric infection including non-pathogenic parasites [ Shigella spp. , Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium, Entamoeba histolytica, Salmonella spp. , Entamoeba hartmanii, Entamoeba coli, Endolimax nana, Iodamoeba butchlii]) and behavioural factors (condomless receptive anal sex, oral-anal sex, oral genital sex, multiple/new sexual partners, using sex on premises venues and the internet to meet sexual partners) seen in MSM with Campylobacter spp.

Conclusion

This review has highlighted some important demographic, biological and behavioural risk factors seen in MSM with Campylobacter spp.. These data can be used to inform future public health interventions and clinical guidelines.
Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis in a patient with human immunodeficiency virus infection: The importance of precision pathology
Authors: Goh Wilson GW , Soo Martin MY , Lye Priscillia PS , Tan Soo Yong , Tambyah Paul A
Published: September 2024

Background

Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis (or histiocytic necrotising lymphadenitis) is a rare disease that is usually benign and self-limiting. A higher prevalence is reported amongst East Asian populations. No clear etiology has been identified although it has been associated with some viruses, rarely the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and autoimmune pathologies. To date, there has only been a handful of cases reported globally in association with HIV, and this association is even rarer in the Asian context.

Case presentation

A 20-year-old Asian ethnic Malay male, with no past medical history, presented with daily fevers and chills for 2 weeks associated with constitutional symptoms and bilateral non-tender cervical, axillary and inguinal lymphadenopathy. Full blood count showed lymphocytosis with large granular lymphocytes. HIV viral load returned positive at >10 million copies/mL. His absolute CD4 T helper cell count was 375 cells/uL (7%). The rest of the infective and autoimmune workup were negative. Excision biopsy of an enlarged left cervical lymph node revealed Kikuchi lymphadenitis in the proliferative phase, with no evidence of lymphoproliferative disease. He was started on anti-retroviral therapy with resolution of the lymphadenopathy in 3 months.

Conclusion

We present a case of Kikuchi lymphadenitis associated with HIV. This highlights that Kikuchi lymphadenitis may mimic sinister pathologies (such as tuberculosis and lymphoma) and that it needs to be considered in the differential diagnosis before empirical treatment for tuberculosis or invasive investigations for lymphoma are done.
Illuminating the path to decarbonization: Nuclear energy consumption, clean energy production, and sustainable fuel production for long-term development
Authors: Fan Shiwen , Hui Liang , Nassani Abdelmohsen A , Imran Muhammad , Naseem Imran , Zaman Khalid
Published: September 2024

The global concern over carbon emissions has necessitated a deep understanding of energy use and air pollution. The fossil fuel- and nuclear-dependent Russian economy is an exciting exception. It examined how nuclear energy consumption (NEC), electricity generation, R&D investment, clean energy production technology, e-commerce penetration, capital creation, and carbon pollution affect the Russian economy. Short- and long-term interactions between these variables are assessed using the ARDL-Bound testing model for 1995Q1–2020Q4. The results show that NEC negatively correlates with CO2 emissions. The study also supports the inverted U-shaped Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis, showing a positive and significant relationship between clean power production technology and CO2 emissions and a negative and significant relationship between square clean alternative energy innovation and CO2 emissions. Scientific and technical expenditures, fossil fuel coal liquefaction, and investment all negatively and statistically significantly affect CO2 emissions. However, the analysis implies that e-commerce increases CO2 emissions. These findings highlight the need for significant R&D investment to create precise and realistic ways to decrease carbon emissions and protect the environment in accordance with COP 26 targets. These findings have significant implications for the Russian economy, showing that improving energy sources and investing more in R&D may reduce carbon emissions.
Oil price, climate policy uncertainty, sustainable development, US dollar in an era of global conflict: Based on dynamic time-frequency spillover analysis
Authors: Wang Kai-Hua , Liu Li-Li , Liu Hong-Wen , Li Zheng-Zheng
Published: September 2024

This paper uses time-frequency domain techniques to study the dynamic spillover relationship among oil price, climate risk, sustainable development, and US dollar in an era of global conflict. The findings demonstrate a high overall spillover level, indicating that the risk transmission is prone to occur among the variables. The dynamic investigation indicates that the spillover influence is thus frequency-dependent and higher at high frequencies. The findings of the net dynamic spillover reveal that geopolitical risk has a certain degree of spillover risk to other variables, and the majority of this risk transmission occurs in the near run. In addition, oil prices and sustainable development are major net recipients of the US dollar, playing an important role in preventing inflation risks. This study makes a more comprehensive and systematic discussion of geopolitical risks. It presents different risk impacts on crude oil markets, climate policy making, sustainable development, and US dollar on multiple time scales. These conclusions can prevent and resolve the cessation of climate cooperation and oil price shocks induced by geopolitical risks, and provide valuable enlightenment for realizing sustainable development. Countries should attach importance to the multi-faceted impact of geopolitical risks, pay more consideration to the global environment for oil and climate policy, and jointly contribute to sustainable development.
Exploring possibilities for a feminist ethic of collective care in suicide research
Authors: Marzetti Hazel
Published: September 2024

Suicide is a major public health concern responsible for around 700,000 deaths globally every year. In response, researchers worldwide seek to understand suicide and suicide prevention, primarily using quantitative methods. As such, the development of qualitative methods tailored for the complexities of working with participants, for whom the primary ethical concern occupying researchers and ethics committees alike is whether taking part in the research will increase suicidal distress and contribute to a greater risk of dying by suicide, is in its infancy. Seeking to address this gap, in this article, I draw on feminist research methods to explore the unique design considerations and challenges faced when doing interview-based, qualitative suicide research. I argue that qualitative suicide research must resist risk focussed approaches to ethics, and instead reframe our ethical decision-making to centre a feminist ethic of care, drawing on Brannelly and Barnes’ concept of “care-full” research practices. Central to this reframing is recognition of the ways in which reciprocal relationships between researchers, research participants, and research institutions are inherent to qualitative research, meaning that no single research actor can be thought of in isolation from the other, necessitating a relational approach to our feminist research ethic.
Epistemic inequality in the digital era: Unpacking biases in digital mental health
Authors: Tomičić Ana , Gjorgjioska Marija Adela
Published: September 2024

This article examines biases in digital mental health and their impact on technical, social, and political systems. Rising health expenditures and the politics of public health have increased individuals’ responsibility for managing their own health. Global e-health initiatives promise mental health metrics through digital technologies. However, obstacles such as neo-colonial workings of the global economy, embedded biases in technology, and exclusion of psychological therapeutic approaches hinder the digital shift in mental health. This article analyzes the ecosystem of digital mental health technologies, challenging assumptions about psychological normality and algorithmic bias. It explores issues in individualized digital healthcare, cultural biases in psychological assessments, and disciplinary biases in psychology and psychotherapy integrated into digital health tools. By exposing biases and power dynamics, the article emphasizes the need for ethical considerations and offers insights into the potentials and limitations of mental health technologies.
Making sense of signs: Readjusting William Stern’s personological value theory
Authors: Freiherr von Fircks Enno
Published: September 2024

In the present paper, I enlarge William Stern’s value theory and link it to his teachings about signs and symbols. People come with dynamic self-value (which is derived from their needs and goal hierarchies), which they radiate into different action spheres, within which they make use of specific signs and tools. Therefore, by altering their psychic systems, the action spheres and tools combine to create a specific service value for each person. In the second part, I criticize Stern’s value theory for not emphasizing social-historical features in his general theoretical framework. This is compared to Vygotsky, for example, who emphasized that action spheres come with a particular cultural-historical situation, so that we get a glimpse not only into a person’s self-value but also into the social conditions under which they act.
Optimal course tracking control of USV with input dead zone based on adaptive fuzzy dynamic programing
Authors: Wang Yuanhao , Bai Weiwei , Zhang Wenjun , Chen Shicai , Zhao Yang
Published: September 2024

In this paper, an adaptive fuzzy optimal course tracking control problem is studied for the unmanned surface vehicle (USV) system with input dead zone. Firstly, input dead zone is split into input-dependent and time-varying bounded functions to treat as system uncertainties. Secondly, when the ship sailing on the sea, the complex marine environment brings a great challenge to ship course control. In order to conquer this challenge, the controller is divided into feedforward controller and optimal feedback controller. The feedforward controller is developed to improve the course tracking performance, and the optimal feedback controller is developed to achieve the optimal control based on adaptive fuzzy dynamic programing (AFDP). Finally, the course tracking performance is guaranteed and all signals in the closed-loop system are uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB) based on Lyapunov theory. Simulation results demonstrate remarkable effectiveness.
Early diagnosis of lupus: A possibilty. A multicentric study from SLE Special Interest Group (SIG) of Indian Rheumatology Association (IRA)
Authors: Shobha Vineeta , Preet Singh Yogesh , Malviya Sourabh , Ponniah Subramanian Arul R , Rajasekhar Liza , Gupta Ranjan , Nallasivan Subramanian , KR Rao Vijay , Jain Avinash , Singh Aradhana , V Shaleni , Selvam Sumithra , Yadav Deepak , Mathew John , Aggarwal Amita
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) warrants an early diagnosis and prompt management. Delay in diagnosis can result in repeated flares, permanent damage, and even death. There is a large variability in the time taken to diagnose SLE across the world. We undertook this study to determine the time taken for diagnosis of SLE in India and to identify the factors associated.

Methods

Patients with SLE diagnosed within the previous 1 year as per Systemic Lupus Erythematosus International Collaborating Clinics criteria (SLICC) 2012 criteria were included in a cross-sectional multicentre questionnaire-based survey. Demographic profile, self-reported socioeconomic status as per Kuppuswamy classification of socioeconomic status (version 2022) (SES), and several healthcare related parameters including referral pattern were recorded. Median time taken for diagnosis was used to demarcate early or late diagnosis and associated factors were explored.

Results

We included 488 patients with SLE from 10 rheumatology centres. The median time to diagnosis was 6 months Interquartile Range (IQR 3,14.7) and within 3 months in about one third [150(30.7%)]. Very early diagnosis (<1 month) was established in 78(16.0%) patients. The mean SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) at diagnosis was 10.28+7.24. In univariate analysis, an older age, lower SES, non-southern state of residence and larger family size were significantly associated with late diagnosis. In the multivariate analysis, higher SES (AOR 0.95, 95% CI: 0.92-0.98), multiple organ system involvement at initial presentation (AOR1.75 95%CI: 1.08–2.84) and place of residence in south Indian states (AOR1.92 95%CI: 1.24–2.97) had lesser odds of being associated with late diagnosis. Distance from the closest medical centre/professional did not influence the time to diagnosis. Majority of patients had first consulted a medical graduate (42.5%) or postgraduate doctor (48.2%), and referral to rheumatologist was largely done by postgraduate (65%) doctors. More than half of our patients (61%) self-finance their treatment.

Conclusion

Median time to diagnosis of SLE was 6 months, 1/3rd being diagnosed within 3 months and 78(16.0%) with 1 month of symptom onset. Delay in diagnosis was noted in those belonging to lower socioeconomic strata and those with single organ disease. Distance to the health care facility did not influence time to diagnosis.
Mortality and prognostic factors among inpatients with systemic lupus erythematosus in China: A 20-year retrospective study
Authors: Dong Fei , Zhao Cheng , Lei Ling , Zheng Leting , Wen Jing , Qin Fang
Published: September 2024

Objective

To summarize the causes of death and clinical characteristics of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) hospitalized patients in the last 20 years to improve SLE survival rates by detecting critical SLE early.

Methods

In this case-control study, 218 SLE death cases were retrospectively analyzed from January 2002 to December 2022, with 110 SLE inpatients chosen at random as controls. The clinical symptoms, causes of death, and risk factors in patients with SLE were investigated.

Results

There were 218 deaths among 9538 patients with SLE, including 188 women and 30 men. The death rate fell steadily from 4.14% in 2002 to 1.96% in 2013 and remained at 1.84% from 2014 to 2022. The standardized mortality ratio (SMR) was 4.98 [95% CI (4.06-5.89)] from 2002 to 2012 and 3.39 [95% CI (2.74-4.04)] from 2013 to 2022. Infection, lupus-induced multiple organ failure syndrome (MODS), and neuropsychiatric lupus (NPLE) were the leading causes of death, accounting for 31.19%, 15.14%, and 11.47% of overall deaths. Age had a significant association with the major causes of death. Logistic regression analysis showed NPLE[OR = 10.772,95% CI (3.350,34.633), p < 0.001], lupus pulmonary involvement (LP)[OR = 3.844,95%CI (1.547,9.552), p = 0.004], pneumonia[OR = 3.439,95%CI(1.552,7.621), p = 0.002], thrombocytopenia[OR = 14.941,95%CI (4.088,54.604), p < 0.001], creatinine>177 μmol/L[OR = 8.644,95%CI (2.831,26.388), p < 0.001], glutamic transaminase(AST) > 60U/L[OR = 5.762,95%CI (2.200,15.088), p < 0.001], total bilirubin > 34 μmol/L[OR = 16.701,95%CI (3.349,83.294), p = 0.001], higher SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI)[OR = 1.089,95%CI (1.032,1.149), p = 0.002] and SLE Damage Index (SDI)[OR = 3.690,95%CI (2.487,5.474), p < 0.001] correlated positively with death.

Conclusion

From 2002 to 2013, the mortality rate among patients with SLE fell steadily but remained unchanged from 2014 to 2022. Patients with SLE had significantly higher SMR than the general population. Childhood-onset SLE had a poorer prognosis than adult-onset SLE. Infection, MODS, and NPLE were the three leading causes of death. Major organ involvement and high disease activity were risk factors for mortality.
Environmental philosophy in Asia: Between eco-orientalism and ecological nationalisms
Authors: Droz Laÿna , Fricke Martin F , Heroor Nakul , Jannel Romaric , Komatsubara Orika , Lagasca-Hiloma Concordia Marie A , Matangcas Paul Mart Jeyand J , Sihombing Hesron H
Published: September 2024

Environmental philosophy – broadly conceived as using philosophical tools to develop ideas related to environmental issues – is conducted and practised in highly diverse ways in different contexts and traditions in Asia. ‘Asian environmental philosophy’ can be understood to include Asian traditions of thought as well as grassroots perspectives on environmental issues in Asia. Environmental issues have sensitive political facets tied to who has the legitimacy to decide about how natural resources are used. Because of this, the works, practices, and researchers in Asian environmental philosophy are exposed to being (mis)used by diverse stakeholders and actors to support political ends not related to environmental sustainability. Two processes are at play at the nexus of the construction of identities in relation to conceptualisations of nature: eco-orientalism and ecological nationalisms. This paper analyzes and exemplifies these dynamics through a conceptual framework that distinguishes ideological and socio-technical explanations of environmental degradation. Finally, to minimise the risks of political misuse, five pathways are presented to carefully help curate environmental, philosophical statements: contextualise, quantify uncertainty and ‘uniqueness’, downscale, confront claims with local realities and literature, and collaborate with researchers from other disciplines. Conjointly, these pathways aim at favouring intercultural collaboration while valuing diversity, thus supporting the development and exchanges in environmental philosophy in Asia and beyond.