bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Small-Scale Irrigation on Livelihoods of Rural Farm Households in the Case of Legehida District, Ethiopia
Authors: Hussen Awol , Hussen Arebu
Published: May 2024

Irrigation development, particularly small-scale irrigation, is one of the most important projects for improving agricultural productivity in a country’s rural communities. The extent to which small-scale irrigation has improved household livelihoods in Ethiopia’s rural areas is not widely recognized. As a result, research on the influence of small-scale irrigation on farmers’ livelihoods in the Legehida district will be sought. The study took a “with” and “without” strategy, comparing farmers who used irrigation against those who did not. For analysis, both quantitative and qualitative data were employed. The survey’s respondents were chosen using a random sample approach from both irrigation users and nonuser households. Quantitative data for the study were collected from randomly selected 241 farm households, of which 113 were users and 128 were nonusers, using a semistructured questionnaire. Accordingly, the propensity score matching model was employed to examine the impacts of small-scale irrigation on farmers’ livelihoods. The logit model result indicates that cultivated land size, off-farm income, education level, family size, dependency ratio, total livestock unit, and distance to the nearest agricultural extension office/FTC are determinant factors in determining whether to practice irrigation when other factors remain constant. The impact of irrigation on a household’s income and food security (in terms of daily calorie intake) was evaluated using a propensity score matching model. The result shows that a positive and significant impact on farmers who use small-scale irrigation has increased the daily calorie intake and annual income of households by 244.162 kilocalories and 5234.258 ETB, respectively, as compared to nonirrigation users. This shows that households that participate in small-scale irrigation activities have a higher annual income and food security status than comparable groups. In general, the study recommends that to reduce food insecurity and the socioeconomic problems of rural households, irrigation farming is one of the viable solutions; therefore, the government and nongovernmental organizations should extensively focus on the enhancement of small-scale irrigation infrastructure, policies, strategies, and extension services to increase productivity, income, and livelihood improvement in rural households.
Comparing Outcomes of Thrombectomy Versus Intravenous Thrombolysis Based on Middle Cerebral Artery M2 Occlusion Features
Authors: Zhou Huan , Zhong Wansi , Zhang Tingxia , Xu Chenghua , Zhong Genlong , Xie Guomin , Zhang Bing , Chen Hongfang , Wang En , Xu Dongjuan , Cheng Chaochan , Yang Jiansheng , Lou Min , Yan Shenqiang ,   on behalf of the CASE-II Study Group
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Current evidence provides limited support for the superiority of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in patients with M2 segment middle cerebral artery occlusion. We aim to investigate whether imaging features of M2 segment occlusion impact the effectiveness of EVT.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study from January 2017 to January 2022, drawing data from the CASE II registry (Computer-Based Online Database of Acute Stroke Patients for Stroke Management Quality Evaluation), which specifically documented patients with acute ischemic stroke presenting with M2 segment occlusion undergoing reperfusion therapy. Patients were stratified into the intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) group (IVT alone) and EVT group (IVT plus EVT or EVT alone). The primary outcome was a modified Rankin Scale score 0 to 2 at 90 days. Secondary outcomes included additional thresholds and distribution of modified Rankin Scale scores, 24-hour recanalization, early neurological deterioration, and relevant complications during hospitalization. Safety outcomes encompassed intracranial hemorrhagic events at 24 hours and mortality at 90 days. Binary logistic regression analyses with propensity score matching were used. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the anatomic site of occlusion, including right versus left, proximal versus distal, dominant/co-dominant versus nondominant, single versus double/triple branch(es), and anterior versus central/posterior branch.

RESULTS:

Among 734 patients (43.3% were females; median age, 73 years) with M2 segment occlusion, 342 (46.6%) were in the EVT group. Propensity score matching analysis revealed no statistical difference in the primary outcome (odds ratio, 0.860 [95% CI, 0.611–1.209];
P
=0.385) between the EVT group and IVT group. However, EVT was associated with a higher incidence of subarachnoid hemorrhage (odds ratio, 6.655 [95% CI, 1.487–29.788];
P
=0.004) and pneumonia (odds ratio, 2.015 [95% CI, 1.364–2.977];
P
<0.001). Subgroup analyses indicated that patients in the IVT group achieved better outcomes when presenting with right, distal, or nondominant branch occlusion (
P
all interaction
<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Our study showed similar efficiency of EVT versus IVT alone in acute M2 segment middle cerebral artery occlusion. This suggested that only specific patient subpopulations might have a potentially higher benefit of EVT over IVT alone.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT04487340.
Automated Prediction of Proximal Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusions in Noncontrast Brain Computed Tomography
Authors: Kim Pyeong Eun , Yang Hyojung , Kim Dongmin , Sunwoo Leonard , Kim Chi Kyung , Kim Beom Joon , Kim Joon-Tae , Ryu Wi-Sun , Kim Ho Sung
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Early identification of large vessel occlusion (LVO) in patients with ischemic stroke is crucial for timely interventions. We propose a machine learning–based algorithm (JLK-CTL) that uses handcrafted features from noncontrast computed tomography to predict LVO.

METHODS:

We included patients with ischemic stroke who underwent concurrent noncontrast computed tomography and computed tomography angiography in seven hospitals. Patients from 5 of these hospitals, admitted between May 2011 and March 2015, were randomly divided into training and internal validation (9:1 ratio). Those from the remaining 2 hospitals, admitted between March 2021 and September 2021, were designated for external validation. From each noncontrast computed tomography scan, we extracted differences in volume, tissue density, and Hounsfield unit distribution between bihemispheric regions (striatocapsular, insula, M1–M3, and M4–M6, modified from the Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score). A deep learning algorithm was used to incorporate clot signs as an additional feature. Machine learning models, including ExtraTrees, random forest, extreme gradient boosting, support vector machine, and multilayer perceptron, as well as a deep learning model, were trained and evaluated. Additionally, we assessed the models’ performance after incorporating the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores as an additional feature.

RESULTS:

Among 2919 patients, 83 were excluded. Across the training (n=2463), internal validation (n=275), and external validation (n=95) datasets, the mean ages were 68.5±12.4, 67.6±13.8, and 67.9±13.6 years, respectively. The proportions of men were 57%, 53%, and 59%, with LVO prevalences of 17.0%, 16.4%, and 26.3%, respectively. In the external validation, the ExtraTrees model achieved a robust area under the curve of 0.888 (95% CI, 0.850–0.925), with a sensitivity of 80.1% (95% CI, 72.0–88.1) and a specificity of 88.6% (95% CI, 84.7–92.5). Adding the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score to the ExtraTrees model increased sensitivity (from 80.1% to 92.1%) while maintaining specificity.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our algorithm provides reliable predictions of LVO using noncontrast computed tomography. By enabling early LVO identification, our algorithm has the potential to expedite the stroke workflow.
Surviving Turbulent Times: A Close Reading of Manila Shinbun’s Portrayal of Chinese Filipino Communities during the Pacific War
Authors: GUO JingXuan
Published: May 2024

This paper aims to explore the experiences of the Chinese in the Philippines during the Japanese occupation (1942–1945) by analyzing the only Chinese newspaper, Manila Shinbun Chinese Edition. Although the Manila Shinbun certainly reflected the military administration’s will and possessed characteristics of news propaganda, being the only Chinese-language newspaper permitted to publish at the time, it nonetheless offers invaluable insights into the experiences of the Chinese community. With limited research, gaps persist in understanding the Chinese community’s story during this period. This study seeks a more comprehensive understanding of their history by meticulously analyzing news coverage and delving into underlying narratives. Ultimately, it reveals the failure of Japanese attempts to control and unify the Chinese community through military means, leading to the collapse of the Manila Shinbun and the Japanese-controlled Chinese Association prior to the arrival of the U.S. Army.
From Hospital to Home: Validating a Cognitive-Functional Evaluation of Elders (COFEE-HD)
Authors: Zilbershlag Yael
Published: May 2024

Background. Increase in hospitalizations of older adults emphasizes the need for efficient hospital discharge planning to enable optimal reentry upon returning home. Yet few assessments offer an extensive picture of the older adult's functional-cognitive state. A comprehensive assessment for discharge planning together with a written summary can be beneficial to the older adult and family. Purpose. This quantitative study compared a modified version of a previously validated tool COFEE (cognitive OT functional evaluation of elders), for use in the hospital, HD (hospital discharge) with standard hospitals assessments. Methods. Of the 77 participants recruited in hospital, home assessments were conducted 4 months later on 64 participants. Findings. The COFEE-HD scores (physical functioning, personal and environmental safety and meta cognitive functioning) were significantly correlated with standard hospital measures and with the home assessment. Implications. The COFEE-HD was found to have a high level of validity in a hospital setting, and the resulting evaluation can provide important insights into function, safety and cognitive function for post-discharge behaviors.
Centre–State Relations in India: An Appraisal During Covid-19 Period
Authors: Singh Rajbir , Dhilon Sandeep
Published: May 2024

The framers of the Indian Constitution have tried to establish a federal system in which there is less of contradictions and more of coordination between the Union and the states. Accordingly, there is a clear division of powers between the States and the Centre in the Constitution. This arrangement has been in operation for more than seventy years. The changing sociopolitical and economic conditions have affected these relations at different phases including the Covid-19 pandemic crisis. The Indian federal structure was put to test during this period. However, during this pandemic period, both conflict and coordination in the Indian federal system have been noticed. In the initial phase of the pandemic, there was a clear conflict between the Centre and the states as the states were almost ignored in policy decisions and their implementation. Unilateral and all-of-a-sudden nationwide lockdown was imposed by the Centre during the first wave of the pandemic, but later on, a more reciprocal relationship evolved regarding the supply of essential medical inputs, advisories, medicines and medical equipments, issues related to migrant workers, etc. The Supreme Court of India had to intervene with stringent observations to regulate these relations for an effective and efficient disposal of various services to counter the pandemic outbreak. Therefore, during the pandemic, in spite of conflicts and challenges, cooperation by and large, prevailed in the Indian federation. The present research article evaluates the nature of the Indian federation, Centre–State relationships, particularly to deal with problems like that of the Covid-19 pandemic along with appropriate remedial measures.
Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP) Disclosure as Ontological Shock? Exploring Diversity Among Social Media Responses to a Congressional UAP Hearing
Authors: Lomas Tim
Published: May 2024

The topic of “Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena” (UAP) has risen to increasing prominence recently, as exemplified by the Congressional UAP hearing in July 2023. Indeed, some observers interpreted the event as “disclosure” – a process by which authorities, long suspected to have withheld evidence that some UAP are genuinely anomalous (e.g., extraterrestrial), admit this to the public. Whether it actually constituted disclosure is another issue, but it was certainly experienced by some as such. The significance of such disclosure is that some commentators suggested it may precipitate “ontological shock” (a person having their fundamental sense of reality challenged in some way). Whether the hearing did indeed do so is the research question animating this paper, which presents an exploratory, preliminary examination of reactions to the hearing on X (previously Twitter). A Grounded Theory analysis identified 19 themes (involving 76 subthemes), distributed across four categories: concern; positive reactions; skepticism and indifference; and critical engagement. Evidently, even if this event constituted disclosure and/or ontological shock for some people, there were diverse reactions, and collectively the effect was more one of ontological “fracturing.” The paper highlights the complexity of this topic and the need for further research.
Relationship Between Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Death Anxiety, and Insomnia in Adults After the Earthquake
Authors: Çiftci Necmettin , Yildiz Metin , Uçar Mehmet
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to determine the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder, death anxiety, and insomnia in adults after the earthquake. This study, designed in a relational-cross-sectional-descriptive model, was conducted with 624 adult individuals living in a province affected by the earthquake that occurred in Turkey on February 6, 2023. The study data were collected using a personal information form, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist, Turkish Death Anxiety Scale, and Bergen Insomnia Scale. The analysis of the study data was performed by using SPSS 25.0, AMOS 24.0, and G*Power 3.1 Statistical package software. A significant positive correlation was found between posttraumatic stress disorder and Insomnia and Death Anxiety ( p < .05). There was a significant positive correlation between Death Anxiety and Insomnia ( p < .05). It was determined that Death Anxiety has a mediating role in the impact of posttraumatic stress disorder on insomnia (95% Confidence Interval: 0.572/1.407) ( p < .05). It was determined that the model created in line with the hypotheses was compatible and the model fit indices were within the desired limits, with x2/df = 1.795, RMSEA = 0.03, CFI = 0.95, GFI = 0.946, AGFI = 0.93, IFI = 0.95. It was determined that posttraumatic stress disorder increased death anxiety and insomnia after the earthquake. Conducting longitudinal studies on the post-earthquake period is recommended.
“How Will Medicaid Work Requirements Affect American Healthcare? A Look at What Past and Present Policy Tells Us”
Authors: Folse Michael , Bridges James , DiGiorgio Anthony
Published: May 2024

Many social services have work requirements. Notably, Medicaid has no requirement that healthy, able-bodied beneficiaries work to receive benefits. There have been attempts at incorporating work requirement policies into several US states, but only a few have been implemented. The effect of work requirements has been studied in several other federally funded programs such as TANF, SNAP, and historically in the Civilian Corps created by Franklin Roosevelt. In general, these programs seem to have modest improvements in employment but are better when implemented with work supports which show improvement in employment and income. In this study, we examine the history of work requirements in Medicaid and other social programs to see which policies have the most effect on enrollment and employment.
Effect of dispersed particles on microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of 93W–4.6Ni–2.1Fe–0.3Co alloys
Authors: Wang Mingming , Cao Lijun , Jiang Boyu , Chen Ziming , Gong Liukui , Ruan Jinqi , Deng Lixun , Huang Wei
Published: May 2024

93W–4.6Ni–2.1Fe–0.3Co alloys reinforced by ZrC particles were prepared by the two-step sintering method in this article. The conventional sintering process conducted at a temperature of 1485 °C resulted in the formation of microvoids between the larger dispersed particles and the matrix, thereby leading to a degradation in the tensile property (959 MPa/11.5%). Through controlling the sintering temperature at 1440 °C, a dispersion-strengthened tungsten heavy alloys (WHAs) with excellent comprehensive tensile properties (974 MPa/27.0%) was obtained, mainly attributed to the synergistic effect of homogeneous dispersion strengthening and grain boundary purification. Under high compressive strain rates, dispersion-strengthened WHA demonstrates a superior yield strength compared to WHA, suggesting that dispersion-strengthened WHAs have potential applications in the armour-piercing field.
Flow capabilities of arterial and drainage cannulae during venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A simulation model
Authors: Wickramarachchi Avishka , Burrell Aidan J. C. , Joyce Patrick R. , Bellomo Rinaldo , Raman Jaishankar , Gregory Shaun D. , Stephens Andrew F.
Published: May 2024

Background

Large cannulae can increase cannula-related complications during venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO). Conversely, the ability for small cannulae to provide adequate support is poorly understood. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate a range of cannula sizes and VA ECMO flow rates in a simulated patient under various disease states.

Methods

Arterial cannulae sizes between 13 and 21 Fr and drainage cannula sizes between 21 and 25 Fr were tested in a VA ECMO circuit connected to a mock circulation loop simulating a patient with severe left ventricular failure. Systemic and pulmonary hypertension, physiologically normal, and hypotension were simulated by varying systemic and pulmonary vascular resistances (SVR and PVR, respectively). All cannula combinations were evaluated against all combinations of SVR, PVR, and VA ECMO flow rates.

Results

A 15 Fr arterial cannula combined with a 21 Fr drainage cannula could provide >4 L/min of total flow and a mean arterial pressure of 81.1 mmHg. Changes in SVR produced marked changes to all measured parameters, while changes to PVR had minimal effect. Larger drainage cannulae only increased maximum circuit flow rates when combined with larger arterial cannulae.

Conclusion

Smaller cannulae and lower flow rates could sufficiently support the simulated patient under various disease states. We found arterial cannula size and SVR to be key factors in determining the flow-delivering capabilities for any given VA ECMO circuit. Overall, our results challenge the notion that larger cannulae and high flows must be used to achieve adequate ECMO support.
Reconstructing a Short-Term Indicator by State-Space Models: An Application to Estimate Hours Worked by Quarterly National Accounts
Authors: Bisio Laura
Published: May 2024

ISTAT has recently released an updated version of short-term statistics on hours worked in Italy, which are used in labor input estimates by the Quarterly National Accounts (QNA). The coverage of these statistics has been expanded from larger-than-ten workers firms to include the entire universe of Italian private firms. To include the updated indicator within estimates by QNA, the series must be reconstructed back to 1995 first quarter (1995q1) due to methodological requirements of QNA. In this paper, we first reconstruct the updated indicator using the Kalman filter and smoother algorithms applied to a state-space representation of a multivariate structural model (SUTSE). Next, we comparatively assess the performance of the new indicator against the non-updated one. This assessment is based on estimates of quarterly per-employee hours worked using temporal disaggregation methods for seven economic sections spanning the non-agricultural private business economy over the period 1995q1 to 2020q4. Compared to the previous indicator, the reconstructed indicator (i) implies improvements in temporal disaggregation model fitting in the majority of economic sections considered; (ii) returns smaller forecast errors in the 64.3% of the estimations, based on MAE; (iii) ensures a higher correlation between the estimated quarterly series to the indicator in the 71.4% of the estimates.
State-Space Modeling Approach to Exploring the Index of Production in Construction for Türkiye
Authors: Yiğit Özlem
Published: May 2024

In recent years, researchers and statisticians have increasingly used econometric techniques to generate timely, high-quality, and detailed official statistics. This study presents a modified form of regression-based temporal disaggregation model to compile the index of production in construction for Türkiye, employing a state-space modeling approach. The model incorporates the twelve-month moving sum of deflated turnover as an observed variable and the number of employees as an exogenous variable. Finally, four alternative models—three assuming constant labor productivity and one assuming time-varying labor productivity—are compared.
Postpartum care services and multi-disciplinary collaboration in Japan
Authors: Suzuki Shunji
Published: May 2024

The Postpartum Care Services (PCS) programme in Japan is intended to promote physical recovery and psychological rest for mothers and their children after discharge from the delivery facility, as well as nurture the mothers’ own self-care skills and support healthy childrearing for mothers, children and their families. The subsidies for PCS are based on cooperation between psychiatry and obstetrics and between multiple professions, including the local government. The services should also be implemented based on the instruction to medical institutions and the local governments that they should actively screen and approach pregnant women in need of support. This narrative review describes the challenges of expanding the PCS programme nationwide in Japan.
A simple matrix method for the force balancing of planar multi-degree-of-freedom linkages
Authors: Gallardo-Alvarado Jaime
Published: May 2024

The shaking or fluctuating reaction forces produced by the moving links of a mechanism negatively impact its adequate performance due to the inherent generation of base vibrations, fatigue stresses, accuracy loss of the end-effector or moving platform, and so on. To increase the functionality and durability of the mechanism is therefore strongly advised to eliminate these parasitic forces. This article provides the balancing conditions for planar multi-degree-of-freedom linkages by canceling the total shaking force generated by the moving links of the mechanism. The method avoids the classical computation of the total linear momentum employed in existing methods. The balancing of three representative linkages proves the reliability of the proposed method.
Permeability testing and mechanism analysis of aramid fiber hybrid fabrics
Authors: Liang Qirui , Ye Jinrui , Liu Kai , Sun Xiaowei , Bai Yu
Published: May 2024

Aramid fiber composites have exceptional mechanical and insulating properties and are used in ultra-high-voltage power transmission. Fabric permeability is crucial for controlling composite defects. At present, the effective method to improve the permeability of aramid fibers is the hybridization of fiber fabrics. This study investigates permeability tests and impregnation mechanisms of aramid fiber fabric and its hybrid fabric. The permeability of the aramid fiber fabric and the hybrid fiber fabric was measured using a camera and a pressure sensor. The permeability of the fabric was analyzed by observing the structure, surface topography, dynamic contact angle, and surface free energy. The results show that the dynamic contact angle can be reduced and the surface free energy can be increased by hybridizing the fibers and the wettability of the fiber fabric is improved. Compared to an aramid fiber fabric, the in-plane permeability of aramid/glass fiber interlayer hybrid fabric increases by 36.19%, while the in-plane permeability of aramid/glass fiber intralayer hybrid fabric increases by 64.97%. The out-of-plane permeability of aramid/glass fiber interlayer hybrid fabric increases by 16.79%, while the in-plane permeability of aramid/glass fiber intralayer hybrid fabric increases by 30.1%. This study offers theoretical guidance for aramid fiber composite manufacturing and simulation input parameters.
The Relationships Among Chronic Pain Subtypes, Motor Function, and Physical Activity in Community-Dwelling Japanese Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Chen Cen , Saito Takafumi , Wang Lefei , Yokote Tsubasa , Yatsugi Harukaze , Liu Xin , Kishimoto Hiro
Published: May 2024

Purpose

We investigated the relationships among motor function, physical activity, and the characteristics of chronic pain (the number of pain sites, pain intensity, and pain-type).

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

An ongoing community-based prospective study conducted in Itoshima, Japan.

Subjects

Community-dwelling Japanese aged 65-75 years (n = 805; 401 men, 404 women).

Measures

Chronic pain subtypes were examined in terms of the number of pain sites, pain intensity, and pain type. Motor function was evaluated by handgrip strength, walking speed, and the 5 Times Stand-up and Sit Test (FTSST). Locomotive activity, non-locomotive activity, and sedentary time were evaluated by a tri-axial accelerometer as physical-activity parameters.

Analysis

Multiple regression model adjusting for age, sex, education level, employment status, subjective economic status, body mass index, cognitive function, comorbidity, current tobacco use, current alcohol consumption, and regular exercise.

Results

In a multivariate analysis, the subjects’ walking speed was negatively associated with multisite, moderate-to-severe, and neuropathic-like pain. The FTSST was positively associated with single-site, moderate-to-severe, and neuropathic-like pain. There was no significant association between handgrip strength and any chronic pain subtypes. Locomotive activity was negatively related to multisite, moderate-to-severe, and neuropathic-like pain, but there was no clear association between the amount of non-locomotive activity, sedentary time, and chronic pain subtypes.

Conclusion

Severe chronic pain was associated with decreased locomotion-related motor function and physical activity.
Multi input multi output lateral dynamics control of an electric vehicle
Authors: Asperti Michele , Dhingra Divy , Vignati Michele , Sabbioni Edoardo
Published: May 2024

Full electric vehicles with multiple and independently controlled powertrains allow for an improvement of vehicle handling capabilities both in steady state and in transient manoeuvres. This paper focuses on active lateral dynamics control of an electric vehicle equipped with 4 in-wheel motors and active rear steering. An integral terminal sliding mode controller (ITSMC) is derived starting from the linearized single track model with the addition of the rear wheel steering angle. The controller has a multi-input multi-output structure and is designed to track vehicle yaw rate and sideslip angle reference quantities through torque vectoring and active rear steering actuation. A novel approach for calculating reference sideslip angle and yaw rate using a logistic function is also presented in this paper. The ITSMC relies on real time knowledge of sideslip angle which cannot be measured in the real vehicle, thus it is estimated through the addition of an extended Kalman filter to the control loop. The performance of the controller is tested with VI-CarRealTime 14 degrees of freedom nonlinear model both for steady state and transient manoeuvres. Simulation results show a good tracking of the reference value with no chattering issues and with an improved behaviour if compared to a sliding mode controller from literature.
Wetland gentrification: the African variant on ecological gentrification
Authors: Asante Lewis Abedi , Akomea Bonsu Beverly , Helbrecht Ilse
Published: May 2024

There is growing scholarly interest in notions of ecological gentrification – whereby environmental improvements drive up real estate prices, with the subsequent displacement of low-income residents – particularly in the global North. Drawing on an integrative review of extant literature on African urbanism, urban greenery encroachment and gentrification, this paper argues that the Western notion of ecological gentrification has little or no application in African cities, which are confronted with rapid encroachment on urban wetlands amidst burgeoning urbanization and its attendant increasing demand for property development. We conceptualize the African variant on ecological gentrification as “wetland gentrification”. It occurs when land scarcity and rising property values in African cities cause indiscriminate depletion of urban wetlands for property development, leading to the destruction of ecological resources and displacement of human populations. This paper discusses, among other topics, the implications of wetland gentrification for urban governance and vice versa.
Enterprises Among Scheduled Castes in India: An Emerging Scenario
Authors: Rajesh I. D.
Published: May 2024

This article examines the characteristics of entrepreneurship among Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India using the 5th (2005) and 6th (2013) Economic Census data of the Central Statistical Office. The study employs the method of shift-share analysis to compare the growth of the enterprises at all India levels with that of SC-owned enterprises. The analysis reveals that the number of SC-owned enterprises has been increasing, with a significantly higher rate of change compared to the previous period. However, the prevalence of under-representation of SCs in the business field continues. The wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing and livestock are the three major activities in which SCs were concentrated. The emergence of new SC entrepreneurs has been influenced by several motivational factors, while there are also several factors that have a negative impact on the existence of SC entrepreneurs.
Uses and Gratifications of Over-the-Top (OTT) Video Streaming Platforms in India: Predictors of User’s Affinity, Satisfaction and Cord-Cutting
Authors: Menon Devadas
Published: May 2024

Over-the-top (OTT) platforms have changed how people watch television due to technological affordance and interactivity. With the theoretical framework of the uses and gratifications theory ( N = 421), this study identified eight motivational factors for OTT viewing: convenient navigability, improved viewing experience, entertainment, relaxation, social interaction, companionship, voyeurism and information seeking. Some of the study’s prominent findings were: convenient navigability, improved viewing experience, entertainment and voyeurism were positive predictors of OTT affinity; Entertainment, voyeurism and information-seeking gratifications positively predicted satisfaction with the OTT, while convenient navigability negatively predicted satisfaction; Convenient navigability, improved viewing experience, entertainment and relaxation gratifications along with interactivity and viewing levels positively predicted the intention to cord-cut.
Hearing Impairment in Babies Born to Mothers with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Paul Janeta Kurian , Bhat T. Mahesh , James Jijo
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

The earlier the hearing loss in a child, the more difficult will it be for the child to achieve optimal development and lead a normal life. This study is directed toward early identification of deafness in neonates born to gestational diabetic mothers that help in the early rehabilitation of the child.

Materials and Methods:

Around 50 infants born to mothers with gestational diabetes were taken and screened after obtaining consent from parents and clearance from the ethics committee. Neonates born to gestational diabetic mothers in Father Muller Medical College were included. Critically ill neonates, neonates with hyperbilirubinemia, family history of deafness, use of ototoxic drugs, and low APGAR score babies (<6) were excluded. Detailed family history and information of the patients were obtained. The occupation of both parents, family income, and consanguinity was noted. It was also observed if the antenatal mother has attended ANC clinic regularly. Results: A longitudinal descriptive study was conducted on 50 infants born to gestational diabetic mothers. Hearing loss was assessed using distortion product otoacoustic emission. The majority of gestational diabetic mothers were homemakers followed by salesgirls. The other occupations also included Anganwadi workers, beedi workers, manual laborers, tailors, and farmers. The list also included cooks, hotel receptionist, office assistant, and floor manager. Most of the fathers were drivers ( n = 10) followed by farmers. The list also included fishermen, manual laborers, painters, salesmen, security personnel, waiters, tailors, teachers, office assistants as well as storekeepers.

Conclusion:

Our study assessed if there was a correlation between hearing loss in infants and gestational diabetes. Hence, in our study, we found that there may not be any relationship between hearing loss and diabetes in pregnancy.
Maternal and Perinatal Factors Associated With Childhood Brain Tumors: A Case-Control Study in Vietnam
Authors: Pham Huy Ngoc , Goldberg Robert J. , Pham Loc Quang , Nguyen Hoa L. , Pham Dao Anh , Mai Linh Thi Thuy , Phung Toi Lam , Hung Doan Quoc , Dong He Van , Duong Ha Dai
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Brain cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children and the majority of childhood brain tumors are diagnosed without determination of their underlying etiology. Little is known about risk factors for childhood brain tumors in Vietnam. The objective of this case-control study was to identify maternal and perinatal factors associated with brain tumors occurring in young Vietnamese children and adolescents.

Methods

We conducted a hospital-based case-control study at Viet Duc University Hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam. Cases consisted of children with brain tumors aged 0-14 years old admitted to the hospital from January 2020 to July 2022 while the controls were age and sex-matched hospitalized children diagnosed with head trauma. Perinatal characteristics were abstracted from hospital medical records and maternal medical, behavioral, and sociodemographic factors were collected through in-person interviews. Conditional logistic regression models were used to examine maternal and perinatal factors associated with childhood brain tumors.

Results

The study sample included 220 children (110 cases and 110 controls) whose average age was 8.9 years and 41.8% were girls. Children born to mothers aged greater than 30 years at the time of the child’s birth had a higher risk of childhood brain tumors compared to those born to mothers aged from 18 to 30 years old (OR = 2.55; 95% CI: 1.13-5.75). Additionally low maternal body mass index prior to the current pregnancy of <18.5 kg/m2 significantly increased the odds of having a child with a brain tumor in relation to normal maternal body mass index from 18.5-22.9 kg/m2 (OR = 3.19; 95% CI: 1.36 - 7.50).

Conclusion

Advanced maternal age and being markedly underweight were associated with an increased odds of having a child with a brain tumor. A population-based study with larger sample size is needed to confirm and extend the present findings.
Engagement as an Alternative to Noncompliance Measurement: Promoting Validity, Accuracy, and Student Outcomes
Authors: Malone Elisabeth J. , Kurth Jennifer A. , Zimmerman Kathleen N.
Published: May 2024

While noncompliance is a concerning challenging behavior and commonly reported by educators, its measurement is likely to be invalid and inaccurate given the subjectivity of the operational definition. Engagement is offered as a more valid, accurate measurement that may provide data regarding the amount of instruction accessed by the student. In this article, we outline limitations of noncompliance measurement and provide resources for educators to measure and support varying forms of engagement to improve student outcomes.
A simple method for mechanical analysis of pressurized functionally graded material thick-walled cylinder
Authors: Liu Yijie , Huang Bensheng , Yuan Mingdao , Xu Yunqian , Wang Wei , Yang Fengjie
Published: May 2024

The complex function method is employed to establish a mechanical model for pressurized thick-wall cylinders made of functionally graded materials (FGM). This model is applicable to all radial varying modes of material properties, including both continuous and discontinuous variations in Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio. The main concept behind this mechanical model involves dividing the thick-walled cylinder into concentric thin cylinders, each equipped with a pair of analytical functions representing stress functions. By imposing continuity conditions between adjacent thin cylinders and considering the stress boundary conditions of the entire structure, all unknown forms of analytical functions can be determined. Subsequently, by establishing the correspondence relationship between these analytical functions and stress or displacement, it becomes possible to solve for the stress or displacement at any radial position within the thick-walled cylinder. Through comparison and verification against the numerical simulation results, it can demonstrate that as long as the differential scale is sufficiently small, high accuracy can be achieved in the final result. In other words, solutions obtained for multi-layered hollow cylinder converge toward those obtained for continuously graded thick-walled cylinder. Notably, by starting from the level of stress function and avoiding complex differential and integral equations, a linear equation system can provide information on stress and displacement distributions along the radial direction. Therefore, compared to other solving methods available, this proposed approach offers simplicity and applicability.
An integrated three-dimensional aeromechanical analysis for the prediction of stresses on modern coaxial rotors
Authors: Patil Mrinalgouda , Lumba Ravi , Jayaraman Buvana , Datta Anubhav
Published: May 2024

This paper presents the first application of an Integrated Three-Dimensional aeromechanical analysis—defined as the coupled solution of three-dimensional finite element-based structural dynamics with a three-dimensional Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes-based fluid dynamics—to predict the stresses on a modern coaxial rotor. The coupling was carried out with the University of Maryland’s structural dynamic solver X3D and the U.S. Army’s CREATETM–AV Helios suite of fluid dynamic solvers. A modern four-bladed hingeless coaxial rotor model—inspired by the gross dimensions of the Sikorsky S-97 Raider but generic and open source otherwise—is developed as a demonstration test case. The new structural solver is driven by parallel and scalable solvers and advanced high performance computing. It is enabled by high-order three-dimensional brick finite elements unified with multibody dynamics, integrated aerodynamics, and a special 3D-to-1D fluid-structure interfaces refines the power of delta-coupling procedure while retaining the advantages of existing CFD mesh motion schemes. The analysis predicts the three-dimensional stresses on the rotor blades and hub, together with the deformations, airloads, and wake, in an integrated manner. Two flight conditions are studied: a low-speed flight at 37 knots and a high-speed flight at 150 knots. Interesting three-dimensional unsteady stress patterns are revealed all across the blade but particularly inboard of 50% rotor radius—patterns that change from flight to flight and have remained invisible until now—since they could neither be predicted nor measured in flight. The maximum axial stresses exhibited 3/rev variation at low speed, and 2/rev variation at high speed flight. The lower rotor carried higher oscillatory stress burden at low speed, whereas both the rotors shared the same stress burden at high speed flight. The key conclusion is that such analysis is now indeed possible, and the stress patterns they reveal provide deeper insights into the dynamics of advanced rotors, and these might provide a path toward mitigating them in the future.
Effectiveness of Message Framing in Changing Restaurant Diners’ Plant-Based Meat Consumption
Authors: Lin Pearl M. C. , Lo Ada , Au Wai Ching Wilson , Wang Regina
Published: May 2024

Drawing on regulatory fit theory, construal level theory, and means-end theory, this research examined the effects of message framing, message information, and message description on restaurant diners’ consumption intentions (CI) and the amount more they would be willing to pay ($WTP) for a plant-based diet. The study employed a mixed between-within-group methodology with a micro-longitudinal 2 (gain vs. loss framing) × 2 (health vs. environment information) × 2 (attribute-based vs. benefit-based description) scenario-based experimental design. An analysis of 361 survey responses revealed that health information should be conveyed through gain-framed messages with benefit-based descriptions, whereas environment information should be conveyed through loss-framed messages with attribute-based descriptions. These results enriched our understanding of diners’ attitudes towards plant-based meat consumption. The findings lay a theoretical foundation for future studies and present practical implications for the hospitality industry.
Beneficial and detrimental impacts of soil-structure interaction on seismic response of high-rise buildings
Authors: Zhang Xiaofeng , Far Harry
Published: May 2024

In the traditional design method, structures are usually assumed as rigid base structures without considering soil-structure interaction (SSI). However, whether the effect of SSI on the seismic performance of structures is beneficial or detrimental is far from consensus among researchers. Moreover, previous literature mostly concentrated on the seismic behaviour of mid-rise buildings and moment-resisting frames. Therefore, it is in real need to comprehensively investigate the seismic response of tall buildings considering SSI. In this study, a soil-foundation-structure model developed in finite element software and verified by shaking table tests is used to critically explore the effects of SSI on high-rise buildings with a series of superstructure and substructure parameters. The beneficial and detrimental impacts of SSI are identified and discussed. Numerical simulation results indicate the rise in the stiffness of subsoil can dramatically amplify the base shear of structures. As the foundation rotation increases, inter-storey drifts are increased, and base shears are reduced. In general, SSI amplifies the inter-storey drifts showing detrimental effects of SSI. However, as for the base shear, SSI exerts detrimental effects on most piled foundation cases as well as classical compensated foundation structures resting on Ce soil, whereas, for compensated foundation structures resting on soil types De and Ee, effects of SSI are beneficial since the base shear is reduced. Moreover, regarding buildings with different structural systems and foundation types, minimum base shear ratios considering the SSI reduction effect are presented.
Trismus caused by migration of orthodontic archwire into the infratemporal fossa: a case report
Authors: Chan Boon Hui , Goh Aik Wei , Lai Su-Hsyen Cheryl
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Soft tissue injuries are known complications of orthodontic treatment. Most of the injuries are mild, but severe complications can arise from deeper penetration or dislodgement of brackets and other foreign bodies into the surrounding tissues of the oropharynx and infratemporal fossa.

Patient concerns:

The patient, accompanied by his parents, presented to the Children’s Emergency Department with the concern of gradual limitation of mouth opening and eventual trismus, which occurred over a span of 2 weeks.

Clinical findings:

The patient presented with trismus and slight discomfort at the left cheek region. He reported a history of gradual limitation to his mouth opening 2 weeks prior. He was wearing upper and lower fixed orthodontic appliances and the left distal end of the maxillary archwire was found to have migrated into the left infratemporal fossa.

Primary diagnoses:

Left medial pterygoid muscle inflammation, or bleeding and haematoma formation, or infection within the infratemporal region.

Interventions:

The maxillary archwire was removed in the Children’s Emergency Department and a computed tomography (CT) scan performed subsequently confirmed the diagnosis of left medial pterygoid muscle inflammation. The patient was started on an intravenous (IV) antibiotic and a 2-day course of IV dexamethasone to reduce the muscle inflammation.

Outcome:

By the second day, the patient was able to achieve a mouth opening of 6 mm, and by the second week, the mouth opening had returned to normal.

Conclusion:

The potential risk of soft tissue injury and complications from orthodontic treatment is generally mild and limited. Soft tissue injuries can be avoided with careful management by the operator with the proper precautions taken. Clinicians should be familiar with the surrounding soft tissue anatomy and be aware of the potential for more severe complications and provide management or referral to the appropriate specialty accordingly.
Understanding the lived experience of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and how this shapes views on home-based pulmonary rehabilitation in Delhi, India
Authors: Hanif Humaira , Ahmed Obaidullah , Manifield James , Ishrat Rubia , Pina Ilaria , Ahmed Zahira , Shibli Mohd , Malcolm Dominic , Talwar Deepak , Singh Sally J. , Orme Mark W
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) is a high-impact intervention for individuals with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) but access is limited in India. PR barriers include distance to travel, lack of service provision and lack of healthcare professionals to deliver PR, thus it is disproportionate to the immense burden of IPF in India. We explored the lived experiences of people living with IPF, family caregivers (CGs) and healthcare workers (HCWs) as well as their views towards home-based PR (HBPR) in Delhi, India.

Methods

A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with individuals with IPF (n = 20), CGs (n = 10) and HCWs (n = 10) was conducted. Data were analysed using codebook thematic analysis.

Results

Three major themes were generated: (i) Health impact, which included pathophysiological changes, range of symptoms experienced, disease consequences and impact of comorbidities; (ii) Disease management, which described strategies to control the progression and overall management of IPF, such as medications and exercises; (iii) Mode of Pulmonary Rehabilitation, which described perceptions regarding HBPR, comparisons with centre-based programmes, and how HBPR may fit as part of a menu of PR delivery options.

Conclusion

People living with IPF, family caregivers and healthcare workers were positive about the potential implementation of HBPR and suggested the development of a paper-based manual to facilitate HBPR over digital/online approaches. The content of HBPR should be sensitive to the additional impact of non-IPF health issues and challenges of reduced interactions with healthcare professionals.