bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of a novel active flow control technology on the chronology of the dynamic stall of oscillating airfoils at low Reynolds number
Authors: Elfeky Amr A. , El-Anwar Mohamed I. , El Berry Amal
Published: August 2024

A numerical investigation is performed to determine the impact of an active flow control technology called the Co-Flow Jet (CFJ) on the chronology of the dynamic stall of oscillating airfoils at low Reynolds numbers. The models were validated by two experimental cases of oscillating airfoils. The modified baseline airfoil was examined at three jet momentum coefficients (Cμ = 0.16, 0.25, and 0.36). The results demonstrated that, when compared to the baseline airfoil, during the oscillation upstroke, CFJ causes a delay in the dynamic stall onset and vortices’ convection. Moreover, during the oscillation cycle’s downstroke, CFJ causes the flow to reattach earlier. that the flow reattached at angle 14.86° down stroke at all studied values of Cμ, while the flow was reattached at angle 9° in the case of the baseline airfoil. The CFJ airfoil produced a significant improvement in lift coefficient and a reduction in drag coefficient.
Florence Bullying-Victimization Scales: Validation Study and Victimization Associations With Well-Being and Social Self-Efficacy
Authors: Klocek Adam , Kollerová Lenka , Netík Jan , Havrdová Egle
Published: August 2024

This study provides a thorough psychometric evaluation of construct and criterion validity and measurement invariance of the promising Florence Bullying-Victimization Scales (FBVS). A special focus was devoted to the concurrent criterion validity of the victimization scale with regard to well-being and social self-efficacy. Exploratory and confirmatory multidimensional item response theory and structural equation modeling were applied to cross-sectional data retrieved from 3rdto 6th-grade Czech primary school students ( N = 1795; 49% female; Mage= 10.42, SD = 1.25). The results supported the use of unidimensional factor structure that demonstrated acceptable model fit and measurement invariance across genders and grades. Moderate to high correlations of the FBVS scores with bullying and victimization measured by the Olweus Bully/Victim Questionnaire and other instruments indicated very good convergent validity. Regarding criterion validity, higher victimization was associated with lower levels of well-being and social self-efficacy.
Respiratory system: Highly exposed yet under-reported organ in pyrethrin and pyrethroid toxicity
Authors: Tewari Anita
Published: August 2024

Pyrethrin and pyrethroid are a relatively new class of pesticides with potent insecticidal properties. Pyrethrins are naturally occurring pesticides obtained from the Chrysanthemum cinerariaefolium flower, while pyrethroids are their synthetic derivatives. They are widely used as the insecticides of choice in agriculture, veterinary medicine, public health programs, and household activities. Pyrethrin, being a broad-spectrum insecticide kills a wide range of pests, while pyrethroids last longer in the environment owing to low susceptibility to sunlight, and greater stability and efficacy than parent molecules. Humans can be exposed through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal routes. Indoor usage of an insecticide poses a serious risk to human health, especially to women, children, and stay-at-home people. Although pyrethrin and pyrethroid are generally considered safe, sustained skin or inhalation exposure or direct contact with open wounds results in higher toxicity to mammals. There is a paucity of data on the impact of pyrethrin and pyrethroid on overall pulmonary health. The respiratory system, from the nose, nasal passages, airways, and bronchi to the pulmonary alveoli, is vulnerable to environmental contaminants such as pesticides because of its anatomical location as well as being a highly blood profused organ. Under and over-functioning of the respiratory system triggers diverse pathologies such as serious infections, allergies, asthma, metastatic malignancies, and auto-immune conditions. While the association between workplace-related pesticide exposures and respiratory diseases and symptoms is well documented, it is important to understand the adverse health impact of pyrethrin and pyrethroid on the general population for awareness and also for better regulation and implementation of the law.
Video Game Feedback Learning and Aggressive or Prosocial Effects
Authors: Qiu Boyu , Zhang Wei
Published: August 2024

There is a close connection between video games and social life, and researchers are interested in whether and how video games shape aggression and prosocial behaviors. However, there are great inconsistencies across studies on this topic. These mixed results may be due in part to a focus on learning models that were relevant in research on traditional media like television but are less useful in research on video games. Unlike other media, video games are characterized by frequent game-player interactions and immediate feedback, and there is evidence that in-game rewards and punishments can shape aggressive or prosocial behavior inside and outside the game. We argue that reinforcement learning may help us to understand the effects of video games on aggressive and prosocial behaviors, and propose a conceptual model based on this argument.
Synergistic thermal management of lithium-ion batteries in electric two-wheelers: Critical analysis and ranking of multifaceted strategies and numerical validation
Authors: Mohanan Anikrishnan , Chidambaram Kannan
Published: August 2024

The paradigm shift from conventional to electric propulsion has become one of the pivotal foci of research areas. In the electric vehicle domain which encompasses a range of vehicles from two-wheelers to multi-wheelers, the battery thermal management system and its design variations are receiving the utmost attention. This article explores an array of distinct cooling strategies viz. evaporative, refrigeration assisted, mist, vapour chamber, thermoelectric and MEMS membrane cooling for lithium-ion batteries with their specifications, prominent attributes, advantages, limitations and thermal mitigating measures with potential future possibilities for electric two-wheelers. Grey relational analysis (GRA) is adopted to rank the cooling schemes disclosed that mist cooling is the most optimal for electric two-wheelers and this recommendation is substantiated with a numerical approach. The numerical results unveiled that the multi-strategical approach of mist cooling and forced convection attenuated the peak cell temperature by 13% and 24% when compared to stand-alone mist cooling and the system without external cooling assistance. This stands as evidence for the increased effectiveness of multi-strategical approaches. The article would help in creating the most practical combinational cooling solutions to lessen the danger of a thermal runaway with lithium-ion batteries, in particular, implemented in electric two-wheelers.
Neural network-based modeling of FFF process for PET-G: Evaluating MLPNN and RBFNN performance in mechanical property prediction
Authors: Anand Sourabh , Satyarthi Manoj Kumar
Published: August 2024

PET-G is a versatile thermoplastic resistant to impact loading, heat, and reactivity with solvents, and witnesses wide use in the Display and Signage, Packaging, Automotive, Electronics, and Medical Industries. Customized production using conventional techniques is expensive due to the high initial setup costs associated, in such cases 3D printing may be a better choice, but predicting its behavior during 3D printing remains challenging. Therefore, the current study aims to find effective process modeling techniques to achieve desired responses. The comparison of modeling techniques like MLPNN and RBFNN has been carried out to predict the mechanical properties at selected process parameters of FFF to significantly improve the mechanical property predictions. The MLP, which had 5 input dimensions and 20 hidden units, showed a CF of 0.99918 and specificity 1. Its MSE was 2.0751. On the other hand, the RBF network, with 5 input dimensions and 20 centers had a considerably lower MSE of 0.004589 but slightly lower CF values (0.92188 and 0.93393). These findings highlight that MLP excels in precision while RBF demonstrates the accuracy of the models for predicting mechanical properties.
The plurivocal university: Typologizing the diverse voices of a research university on social media
Authors: Volk Sophia Charlotte , Vogler Daniel , Fürst Silke , Schäfer Mike S.
Published: August 2024

Science communication has diversified in the wake of the digital transformation of communication and media ecosystems. Social media enable universities, but also academics and institutions affiliated with them, to expand their communication. This leads to increasing plurivocality of universities, yet the many different voices remain largely unexplored. This study develops a typology to conceptually distinguish eight voices by their representational role, hierarchical embeddedness, type, and affiliation. Based on a quantitative content and social network analysis of more than 600 Twitter accounts linked to a research university, it identifies six types of voices empirically. The study compares interactions among these voices, showing differences between central and decentral, as well as institutional and individual voices, and highlighting closer exchanges between voices within the same disciplinary communities. It also examines topics and tonality, revealing that decentral institutional voices engage most in science-related topics, and that only current and former students express critical views.
Mapping and Deep Analysis of Hospital Radiology Department to Identify Workflow Challenges and Their Potential Digital Solutions
Authors: Mahmeen Mohd , Mehdi Syed Ali , Friebe Michael , Pech Maciej , Haider Sultan
Published: August 2024

The increasing use of imaging services and continuous technological advancement require regular optimisation of the hospital’s radiology department. Assessing stakeholders to find realistic challenges is an essential step towards achieving the desired quadruple aim (reducing costs, increasing quality of care and improving patient and clinician experience) in healthcare. The statistical gaps explored and the evidence in the literature justify the need for continuous and rapid assessment, identification of challenges, identification of trends and subsequent search for solutions in each radiology department. We have found an average increase of 7.3 per cent annually in reported computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and interventional radiology services over the last 10 years, but the number of radiologists has only increased by 2 per cent per year. In Germany, the statistics show a continuous increase in examinations per radiologist with a compound annual growth rate of 4.68 per cent. This article presents a pathway for planning, evaluating and subsequently improving individual radiology departments using a transdisciplinary approach to innovation. The transdisciplinary innovation approach was applied with 36 young innovation fellows with multidisciplinary knowledge from different global locations (Germany, India, China, UAE and USA). As part of our transdisciplinary approach, a qualitative approach was used to collect challenges during hospital visits. We identified over 100 key challenges and 10 healthcare trends from the clinical area. We developed templates for mapping the status quo, trends and challenges in radiology for each radiology department as a tool for assessment. We believe that the proposed transdisciplinary methodology, the resulting radiology model, the template(s) and the proposed digital infrastructure will be useful in the future mapping and optimisation of radiology departments.
Mass spectrometry in animal health laboratories: recent history, current applications, and future directions
Authors: Filigenzi Michael S.
Published: August 2024

Mass spectrometry (MS) has long been considered a cornerstone technique in analytical chemistry. However, the use of MS in animal health laboratories (AHLs) has been limited, however, largely because of the expense involved in purchasing and maintaining these systems. Nevertheless, since ~2020, the use of MS techniques has increased significantly in AHLs. As expected, developments in new instrumentation have shown significant benefits in veterinary analytical toxicology as well as bacteriology. Creative researchers continue to push the boundaries of MS analysis, and MS now promises to impact disciplines other than toxicology and bacteriology. I include a short discussion of MS instrumentation, more detailed discussions of the MS techniques introduced since ~2020, and a variety of new techniques that promise to bring the benefits of MS to disciplines such as virology and pathology.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) recommendations in Clinical Practice Guidelines for open angle glaucoma and MIGS procedures: A scoping review
Authors: Galvez-Olortegui Jose , Burgueño-Montañes Carmen , Silva-Ocas Isabel , Bernales-Urbina Susan , Galvez-Olortegui Tomas
Published: August 2024

Introduction: To assess the recommendations of open angle glaucoma Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) addressing Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) or MIGS procedures CPG. Methods: A scoping review of CPG was conducted, based on an ongoing systematic review (CRD42024510656). A systematic literature search of CPG was carried out in November 2023, with an update in January 2024. CPG published in the last 8 years, full text available and addressing MIGS were selected. CPG details and recommendations concerning MIGS were extracted. Results: 13 CPG addressing MIGS were selected (8 recovered from databases and 5 from registers). Four health Technology Assessments were assessed but recommendations were not considered. Finnish and Swedish guidelines, published in 2024, and Japanese guidelines, published in 2023, are English versions of their native language guidelines, but none of them make specific recommendations about MIGS. The Spanish Glaucoma Society – Advanced Glaucoma guideline (2023) describes the available techniques but does not make recommendations about MIGS. The European Glaucoma Society (2023) guideline only makes recommendations for 4 devices and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Interventional procedures guidance makes recommendations both for specific procedures and devices. Conclusion: MIGS is a relevant topic that has not been adequately addressed in terms of updated evidence, available procedures, and recommendations in open angle glaucoma CPG or MIGS procedures CPG.
Probing the Therapeutic Efficacy of Combretum paniculatum Extract and GC-FID-Identified Phytochemicals as Novel Agents for Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Chukwuma Ifeoma F , Atikpoh Chidi E , Apeh Victor O , Nworah Florence N , Ezeanyika Lawrence US
Published: August 2024

Objectives:

Oxidative stress is implicated in several metabolic cascades involved in glucose control. Hence, investigating antioxidant and antidiabetic activities is crucial for discovering an effective diabetes mellitus (DM) agent. This study was aimed at probing the therapeutic efficacy of hydro-ethanolic extract of Combretum paniculatum (HECP) and gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID)-identified phytochemicals as novel agents for DM.

Methods:

We determined the total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant vitamins in HECP using standard methods. A GC-FID was used to decipher phytochemicals of HECP. The antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of HECP were assessed using in vitro and in silico approaches.

Results:

The results revealed that HECP is affluent in phenols, flavonoids, and vitamin E and demonstrated engaging antioxidant activities in 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydroxyl (DPPH; IC50 = 0.83 µg/mL), thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances TBARS; IC50 = 2.28 µg/mL), and ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP; IC50 = 2.89 µg/mL). Compared with the reference drug, acarbose, HECP exhibited good α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory capacity, having IC50 values of 14.21 and 13.23 µg/mL, respectively, against 13.06 and 11.71 µg/mL recorded for acarbose. More so, the extract’s top 6 scoring phytochemicals (rutin, kaempferol, epicatechin, ephedrine, naringenin, and resveratrol) had strong interactions with amino acid residues within and around α-amylase and α-glucosidase active site domains. All the compounds but rutin had favourable drug-like characteristics, pharmacokinetics, and safety profiles when compared with acarbose.

Conclusion:

Altogether, our results vindicate the use of this herb in treating DM locally and reveal that it has pharmaceutically active components that could be used as novel leads in the development of DM drugs.
The rights to social security and social assistance in the European Social Charter: Towards a positive content…but what sort of content?
Authors: Gilman Juliette
Published: August 2024

The rights to social security and social assistance are protected by the European Social Charter and its quasi-judicial body, the European Committee of Social Rights. Less is known about the precise content of these rights. Following a decision, published on 15 February 2023, on a collective complaint lodged by the Finnish Society of Social Rights, an NGO, this paper proposes to critically question the positive content given by the Committee to these rights, when it attaches – and even assimilates – certain legal requirements to one specific social indicator, the poverty threshold, defined restrictively.
Legitimizing friends and denouncing enemies: A comparative analysis of Ukraine war coverage in China, South Korea, and Japan
Authors: Lee Misook , Zhang Rong , Hayashi Kaori
Published: August 2024

This study investigates how broadcast journalism in China, South Korea, and Japan covered the Russian invasion and war in Ukraine and analyzes the origins of the differences in news coverage. The framing employed during the initial stage is crucial, as it influences the dissemination of ideas and emotions, setting the tone for public perception. Thus, we conducted a framing analysis of news coverage by focusing on three critical dates during the initial stage of the crisis. Our analysis revealed significant disparities in defining the situation, interpreting the causes, assessing moral implications, and proposing solutions, with particularly pronounced differences in sourcing practices. We found that each country’s foreign policy, degree of state involvement, and collective memory were dynamic factors that framed Ukraine’s war. In particular, the varying degree of state involvement influenced the intensity of the “Us” versus “Them” dichotomy and the latitude given to the media in framing the issue.
Mechanical and fatigue behavior of the three-section artificial ligament
Authors: Huang Jiaqi , Wu Mengru , Huang Qinwen , Yang Tong , Zhao Gang , Ma Pibo
Published: August 2024

Artificial ligaments transplanted into the human body are subject to ligament rupture and ligament fatigue injury during exercise. The three-section structure of artificial ligaments has a tight structure which can improve the breaking strength at the two ends, and a looser structure which can keep the flexibility in the middle. At present, scholars have studied braided artificial ligaments with high elasticity and creep resistance, and three-section artificial ligaments have other advantages on this basis. In this study, the three-section artificial ligaments were braided with UHMWPE, and a core-shell structure was used at both ends of the ligament as a way to strengthen the tightness and strength, facilitate the fixation of the ligament, and improve the fatigue resistance of artificial ligaments. In addition, the mechanical properties of artificial ligaments were investigated with different numbers of cores. This study proved that the three-section artificial ligament, which is made of UHMWPE has high strength, excellent elastic recovery rate, and fatigue resistance, which can provide mechanical support for the daily activities of the knee joint and help maintain the stability of the knee joint.
Who Gives to American Trade and Professional Association Political Action Committees and Why?
Authors: Nownes Anthony J. , Vincent Rachel
Published: August 2024

This paper asks: Why do people contribute to American trade and professional association political action committees (PACs)? Our data, which come from an original survey of donors during the 2021–2022 federal election cycle, indicate that trade and professional association PAC donors are not like other campaign donors. Specifically, unlike donors to candidates, who appear to be motivated primarily by purposive benefits and ideology, these PAC donors are motivated largely by material benefits. Our data also showthat trade and professional association PACs are constraining forces in American politics. While donors tend to hue to a strict ideological lane, PACs do not. In short, PACs are balanced in their giving, while individual donors are not.
Towards a momentum potential theory for reacting flows
Authors: Brokof Philipp , Varillon Grégoire , Inoue Yasuhiko , Polifke Wolfgang
Published: August 2024

Mutual coupling of (thermofluiddynamic) modes of perturbations can affect the thermo-acoustic stability of combustors and contribute to combustion noise. For example, vortical or entropic perturbations can be transferred to acoustic perturbations if accelerated by the mean flow. The decomposition of perturbation fields into the respective modes and a linear description of their interactions in terms of fluctuating primitive variables is challenging. In contrast, Doak’s momentum potential theory promises an unambiguous decomposition in terms of momentum fluctuations, which is not limited to the linear regime. Whereas classical momentum potential theory takes into account hydrodynamic, acoustic and entropic modes in unconfined flows, the investigation of noise generation in combustion chambers requires the extension of the momentum potential theory to capture modes linked to the fluctuation of species mass fractions (“species mode”) arising from the change in chemical composition due to the reaction. Furthermore, a rigorous treatment of boundary conditions due to the confinement of the flow inside the combustor is required. The herein presented extension to reactive flows consists of two steps, (i) the formulation of a potential for momentum fluctuations related to species modes and (ii) identification of the total fluctuating enthalpy related to species modes. The extended theory is applied to post-process computational fluid dynamic simulation data of the propagation of entropy and species perturbations through one-dimensional ducts, nozzles and premixed flames. We find that although momentum potential theory offers a complete decomposition of momentum perturbations for reactive flows, the meaningful interpretation of this decomposition is rather challenging, even for non-reactive flows.
Melanoma-specific survival of patients with uveal melanoma and liver metastases diagnosed between 2005 and 2021
Authors: Wiens Lisa , Grözinger Gerd , Dittmann Helmut , Thiel Karolin , Leiter Ulrike , Amaral Teresa , Nanz Lena , Flatz Lukas , Forschner Andrea
Published: August 2024

Background:

Uveal melanoma is the most common malignant tumor of the eye in adults. About half of the patients develop distant metastases, most commonly liver metastases (>90%). These are associated with poorer overall survival compared to patients with extrahepatic metastases.

Patients and methods:

In this retrospective study, patients diagnosed with metastatic uveal melanoma between January 2005 and December 2021 and treated at the Center for Dermato-oncology at the University of Tübingen, were included. The total cohort was divided into two groups. Group 1, in which the first diagnosis of metastasis was between 2005 and 2015 and group 2 with first metastasis between 2016 and 2021. Melanoma-specific survival (MSS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were calculated with the Kaplan-Meier method, test for differences was performed by the log-rank test.

Results:

A total of 167 patients were included in the study. Since more than 90% of patients had developed liver metastases as their first site of metastasis, we focused our analysis on patients with liver metastases. Median MSS was 28 months (95% confidence interval (CI) (22.8–33.2 months)) in patients receiving first-line liver-directed therapy ( n = 89) compared to 10 months (95% CI (8.4–11.6 months)) for patients with first-line systemic therapy ( n = 45). The best MSS was found in patients of group 2 and liver-directed therapy as first-line treatment. Since survival with first-line liver-directed therapy was significantly better in group 2, subsequent systemic therapies must also be considered, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Conclusion:

This analysis revealed that MSS has improved significantly in recent years. In our analysis, first-line liver-directed therapy was associated with improved survival compared to first-line systemic therapy. Further studies are urgently needed, for example, to investigate the combination of immune checkpoint inhibition or tebentafusp with liver-specific procedures from the outset.
Parkwood's VIP4SCI platform: A virtual e-health self-management solution for persons with spinal cord injury across the care continuum
Authors: Nageswaran Luxshmi , Giurleo Charlie , Seliman Merna , Askes Heather K , Abu-Jurji Zeina , Craven B Catherine , Kras-Dupuis Anna , Watson Julie , Wolfe Dalton L
Published: August 2024

Objective

Parkwood VIP4SCI platform is a virtual e-health solution adapted from a version created for Spinal Cord Injury Ontario (SCIO) that focused on self-management skill development for persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) transitioning between stages of care, in partnership with caregivers and clinicians. This evaluation of the platform informs the usability and feasibility of a model to facilitate service care aims postrehabilitation.

Design

Participants: Inpatients and outpatients admitted to the SCI Rehabilitation Program (n = 31), and a mix of interdisciplinary clinicians on the Rehabilitation Team (n = 20). Caregivers participated at the discretion of the patient. Interventions: Inpatients were randomized into two groups (Platform or Standard Care (i.e., delayed access)). Outpatients were given access at enrollment. Pre–post assessments were completed using surveys, and platform analytics were collected. Weekly check-ins were introduced to increase engagement. Focus groups were held with a subset of participants near study completion.

Results

VIP4SCI was viewed as usable and feasible. Platform satisfaction assessed on a −3 to +3 scale ranged from +0.9 to 2.5, demonstrating positive agreement. Self-efficacy related to self-management ranged from 5.4 to 7.6 out of 10. The educational resource hub was identified as the most beneficial feature. Lack of clinician uptake was a barrier to integration into day-to-day practice.

Conclusions

Platform usage was low among all groups despite the perceived need for facilitating care coordination with consistent and intentional self-management programming. Despite the lack of uptake, partly due to challenges associated with the pandemic, conclusions on platform features and barriers to implementation will help to inform future programming.
What has the pandemic aggravated? Views of school counsellors in India on the need for socio-emotional learning
Authors: Neelakantan Meera , Kumar P Aneesh , Sadana Aashna , Alex Sonu Mary
Published: August 2024

Socio-emotional learning (SEL) is essential for the holistic development of a child. It is a process through which individuals acquire and effectively apply their knowledge and skills to understand and manage their own emotions, show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. Schools function as important bodies in facilitating SEL. The present study explores the school counsellors’ experiences in delivering SEL in Indian schools amidst COVID-19 pandemic. The data collected using semi-structured interviews with ten school counsellors from different cities in India indicated varied conceptual understanding of SEL among counsellors coupled with challenges due to the pandemic, and lack of resources and training on SEL delivery. The results shed light on the inevitable need for SEL and the lack of adequate focus on SEL facilitation and delivery in schools. The study additionally emphasises the need for structural and policy changes to foster positive climate and SEL within the Indian education system. The findings are pertinent for policymakers, school administrators, teachers and counsellors to deliver quality socio-emotional learning programs in schools. Hence the study calls for the need for professional training and support to school counsellor and school mental health professionals.
Assessment of Preoperative Anxiety Levels Among Patients Admitted for Surgery in Public Hospitals, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Nuri Ashenafi , Abute Lonsako , Tesfaye Elilo Legesse , Dejene Yesuneh , Ali Samrawit , Mezgebu Taye , Hailu Mickiale , Beyene Tilahun , Erjino Eshetu
Published: August 2024

Background

Anxiety before surgery is one of the most challenging aspects of preoperative care. Preoperative anxiety has a number of postoperative complications. There are only a few studies that report on preoperative anxiety in surgical patients in Ethiopia, and their prevalence differs from one study to the next.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the level of preoperative anxiety and associated factors among surgical patients admitted at public hospitals in southern Ethiopia.

Methods

From July to August 2022, a facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among patients admitted to surgical wards at public hospitals. Data collection was conducted using a pretested, structured questionnaire administered by an interviewer. Preoperative anxiety was assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory scale. The data were coded and entered in Epi Data Version 4.6, then exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 25 for analysis. To describe the study variables, descriptive statistics were used. The associated factors were then identified using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results were declared at a p-value of less than 0.05 based on an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval.

Result

A total of 220 patients were enrolled, with a 99.5% response rate. The observed preoperative anxiety level was 57.5% (95%CI: 54.63–62.35). High preoperative anxiety was associated with no formal educational status (AOR: 3.75; 95%CI = 1.36, 10.39), fear of death (AOR =2.01; 95%CI = 1.09, 3.73), fear of waking up in middle of surgery (AOR =3.42; 95%CI =1.19, 9.77), fear of postoperative pain (AOR = 2.56; 95%CI = 1.15, 5.74).

Conclusion

This study found that five out of ten patients scheduled for surgery in public hospitals had high levels of preoperative anxiety. Anxiety levels were associated with factors such as the educational status of respondents, fear of death, fear of waking up in the middle of surgery, and fear of postoperative pain. Preoperative anxiety assessments should be conducted regularly in each hospital, and appropriate anxiety-reducing methods must be implemented.
Dangerous But Consumed: Drivers of Tobacco and Alcohol Expenditure and Their Implications on Healthcare Costs and Food Poverty in Tanzania
Authors: Rashid Furaha N.
Published: August 2024

The escalating use of tobacco and alcohol has become a pressing concern for policymakers worldwide due to its severe impact on public health. However, there is a paucity of research focusing on the determinants of tobacco and alcohol spending, particularly in Tanzania. The aim of this study was to examine the factors influencing tobacco and alcohol expenditures with their implications on food poverty and healthcare costs in Tanzania. The analysis relied on secondary data obtained from the 2017/2018 Household Budget Survey, while Tobit, logit and generalised linear models were employed for data analysis. Being male, unmarried and residing in rural areas exhibited positive associations while age had an inverted U-shaped relationship with tobacco and alcohol expenditures. Increased spending on these substances amplified the incidence of food poverty by 0.0002%, particularly among married couples. Tobacco and alcohol expenditures were found to jointly contribute to a 0.01% rise in healthcare costs. Results underscore the importance of targeting interventions towards mitigating the adverse effects of tobacco and alcohol consumption, with a particular focus on youth, rural areas, males and unmarried household heads. Such interventions have the potential to alleviate the incidence of food poverty and reduce the financial burden on healthcare systems.
Examining co-offending and re-offending across crime categories using relational hyperevent models
Authors: Bright David , Lerner Jürgen , Putra Sadewo Giovanni Radhitio
Published: August 2024

Research on co-offending has become increasingly popular across the last two decades of criminological research. In this paper, we focus on three key variables and their relationship with co-offending. First, we examine age and sex homophily effects. Second, we examine the differential effects of prior solo offending and prior group offending on the future arrest rate (overall and separately for different crime categories). Third, we examine whether there are age and sex effects and age/sex homophily effects on arrest rates (overall and across crime categories) and on propensities to be arrested again in future. Results suggest that individuals who committed group crimes in the past are more versatile in future criminal activities. Market crimes appear to require the highest level of specialisation among the four types of crimes in the sense that those who committed market crimes in the past commit market crimes in future and tend not to commit subsequent novel types of crimes. Individuals who committed crimes other than market crimes in the past tend not to engage in market crimes in the future. When co-offending groups are more heterogeneous with respect to age or sex, the effect of past arrest on propensity for future arrest is stronger. We draw implications for policy and practice based on the results of the study.
Influence of fiber surface treatment on the mechanical properties of sisal fiber reinforced polylactic acid bio-composites
Authors: Kassegn Eshetie , Sirhabizu Belete , Berhanu Temesgen , Buffel Bart , Desplentere Frederik
Published: August 2024

Gaining an understanding of how chemical treatment affects the mechanical properties of natural fiber reinforced polymer composites is essential to enhance their performance and broaden their applicability across various engineering domains. The objective of this study was to develop bio-composites by combining polylactic acid with sisal fibers that have undergone chemical treatments and evaluating the mechanical properties at different temperatures to determine their suitability for high-temperature applications. For this purpose, sisal fibers were chemically treated using alkali, acetylation, and alkali/acetylation solution before composite processing. The results revealed that tensile strength slightly improved by alkali treatment, while both alkali/acetylation and acetylation treatments decreased the tensile strength and tensile modulus. Alkali treatment significantly enhanced flexural strength, while the effect of acetylation and alkali/acetylation treatments on flexural strength was less pronounced. All chemical treatments led to a slight increase in flexural strain at failure, but resulted in a decrease in tensile strain at failure and tensile modulus. Alkali treatment slightly increased flexural modulus, while acetylation and alkali/acetylation treatments significantly reduced it. The impact strength of the bio-composites was increased by alkali and acetylation treatments, but significantly reduced by alkali/acetylation treatment. Furthermore, the flexural strength of all bio-composites decreased as temperature increased, especially in plasticized bio-composites using tributyl 2-acetylcitrate plasticizer. The flexural strain at failure decreased with the addition of tributyl 2-acetylcitrate at room temperature. In plasticized bio-composites, the flexural strain at failure increased at 35°C, but decreased at 45°C. On the other hand, the flexural strain at failure of non-plasticized bio-composites remained constant up to 35°C, slightly increased up to 45°C, and then significantly increased at temperatures above 45°C. These bio-composites could be suitable for packaging industry as biodegradability is the criteria for such applications.
Cardiac events after allo-HCT in patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Salas María Queralt , Cascos Enric , López-García Alberto , Pérez Estefanía , Baile-González Mónica , Martín Rodríguez Carlos , Pascual Cascón María Jesús , Luque Marta , Esquirol Albert , Heras Fernando Inmaculada , Peña-Muñóz Felipe , Oiartzabal Ormtegi Itziar , Sáez Marín Adolfo Jesús , Fernández-Luis Sara , Domínguez-García Juan José , Villar Fernández Sara , Fernández de Sanmamed Girón Miguel , González Pinedo Leslie , García Lucía , González-Rodríguez Ana Pilar , Torrado Tamara , Filaferro Silvia , Cedillo Ángel , Ortí Guillermo , Jurado Chacón Manuel
Published: August 2024

This multicenter study sponsored by the GETH-TC investigates the incidence and predictors of early (first 100 days) and late cardiac events (CEs; ECEs and LCEs, respectively) after allo-HCT in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treated with anthracyclines, focusing on exploring the impact of PTCY on cardiac complications and the impact of CEs on OS and NRM. A total of 1020 patients with AML were included. PTCY was given to 450 (44.1%) adults. Overall, 94 (9.2) patients experienced CEs, with arrythmias, pericardial complications, and heart failure the most prevalent. ECEs occurred in 49 (4.8%) patients within a median of 13 days after allo-HCT, whereas LCEs were diagnosed in 45 (4.4%) patients within a median of 3.6 years after transplant. Using PTCY increased the risk for ECEs in multivariate analysis (hazard ratio [HR], 2.86; P = .007) but did not significantly affect the risk for LCEs (HR, 1.06; P = .892). The impact of variables on outcomes revealed was investigated using multivariate regression analyses and revealed that the diagnosis of CEs decreased the likelihood of OS (HR, 1.66; P = .005) and increased the likelihood of NRM (HR, 2.88; P < .001). Furthermore, despite using PTCY increased ECEs risk, its administration was beneficial for OS (HR, 0.71; P = .026). In conclusion, although the incidence of CEs was relatively low, it significantly affected mortality. Standard doses of PTCY increased ECE risk but were associated with improved OS. Therefore, protocols for preventing cardiac complications among these patients are needed.
Analysis and Verification on Buckling Mechanism of Spatial Tow Steering in Automated Fiber Placement
Authors: Yi Minghui , Liu Fei , Chang Baoning , Zhu Yingdan , Ding Xilun , Zhang Wuxiang
Published: August 2024

Automated fiber placement (AFP) enables the efficient and precise fabrication of complex-shaped aerospace composite structures with lightweight and high-performance properties. However, due to the excessive compression on the inner edge of the tow placed along the curved trajectory, the resulting defects represented by buckling and wrinkles in spatial tow steering can induce poor manufacturing accuracy and quality degradation of products. In this paper, a theoretical model of tow buckling based on the first-order shear deformation laminate theory, linear elastic adhesion interface and Hertz compaction contact theory is proposed to analyze the formation mechanism of the wrinkles and predict the formation of defects by solving the critical radius of the trajectory, and finite element analysis involving the cohesive zone modeling (CZM) is innovated to simulate the local buckling state of the steered tow in AFP. Additionally, numerical parametric studies and experimental results indicate that mechanical properties and geometric parameters of the prepreg, the curvature of the placement trajectory and critical process parameters have a significant impact on buckling formation, and optimization of process parameters can achieve effective suppression of placement defects. This research proposes a theoretical modeling method for tow buckling, and conducts in-depth research on defect formation and suppression methods based on finite element simulation and placement experiments.
Outcome of three different techniques of prostatic abscess drainage: a retrospective single-center experience
Authors: Zoeir Ahmed , Eissa Ahmed , Mamdoh Hussein , Gameel Tarek , Mousa Ayman
Published: August 2024

Background

Despite the fact that prostate abscess (PA) is a serious condition, no standardized guidelines are available on the best methods for its drainage. The goal of the current study is to compare the outcomes of the three modalities of prostate abscess (PA) drainage: transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) guided aspiration (TRA), transperineal aspiration (TPA), and transurethral de-roofing (TUD).

Methods

The records of 66 patients diagnosed with PAs were collected between 2015 and 2022 and divided into 3 groups according to the technique of abscess drainage that was used. Group A included 26 patients treated by TRA; Group B included 28 patients treated by TUD; and Group C included 12 patients treated by TPA. The three groups were compared based on demographic data, drainage success, recurrence, complications, and hospital stay.

Results

The mean abscess size (cm) was 4.8 ± 1, 5.7 ± 1, and 5.4 ± 1.3 cm in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Central abscesses were detected in 35 patients (53%), peripheral in 21 patients (31.8%), and both central and peripheral in 10 patients (15.2%). The most common clinical presentation was lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in 45 patients (68.18%), followed by fever in 40 patients (60.6%). The mean abscess size (cm) was 4.8 ± 1, 5.7 ± 1, and 5.4 ± 1.3 cm in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Recurrence of the abscess occurred in three (11.5%), one (3.6%), and one (8.3%) patients in groups A, B, and C, respectively (p = 0.496). The mean hospital stay was 4.8 ± 1.7, 5 ± 1.8, and 4.5 ± 1.3 days in groups A, B, and C, respectively (p = 0.763). When compared to the other two groups, the TUD group had a higher rate of complications (32.1%).

Conclusion

A TRUS-guided transrectal and transperineal aspiration of PA were comparable to TUD technique regarding the recurrence rate and hospitalization period; however, the safety profile was in favor of the aspiration groups.
Ability of parasternal intercostal muscle thickening fraction to predict reintubation in surgical patients with sepsis
Authors: Helmy Mina Adolf , Hasanin Ahmed , Milad Lydia Magdy , Mostafa Maha , Hamimy Walid I , Muhareb Rimon S , Raafat Heba
Published: August 2024

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the ability of the parasternal intercostal (PIC) thickening fraction during spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) to predict the need for reintubation within 48 h after extubation in surgical patients with sepsis.

Methods

This prospective observational study included adult patients with sepsis who were mechanically ventilated and indicated for SBT. Ultrasound measurements of the PIC thickening fraction and diaphragmatic excursion (DE) were recorded 15 min after the start of the SBT. After extubation, the patients were followed up for 48 h for the need for reintubation. The study outcomes were the ability of the PIC thickening fraction (primary outcome) and DE to predict reintubation within 48 h of extubation using area under receiver characteristic curve (AUC) analysis. The accuracy of the model including the findings of right PIC thickening fraction and right DE was also assessed using the current study cut-off values. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for reintubation.

Results

We analyzed data from 49 patients who underwent successful SBT, and 10/49 (20%) required reintubation. The AUCs (95% confidence interval [CI]) for the ability of right and left side PIC thickening fraction to predict reintubation were 0.97 (0.88–1.00) and 0.96 (0.86–1.00), respectively; at a cutoff value of 6.5–8.3%, the PIC thickening fraction had a negative predictive value of 100%. The AUCs for the PIC thickening fraction and DE were comparable; and both measures were independent risk factors for reintubation. The AUC (95% CI) of the model including the right PIC thickening fraction > 6.5% and right DE ≤ 18 mm to predict reintubation was 0.99 (0.92–1.00), with a positive predictive value of 100% when both sonographic findings are positive and negative predictive value of 100% when both sonographic findings are negative.

Conclusions

Among surgical patients with sepsis, PIC thickening fraction evaluated during the SBT is an independent risk factor for reintubation. The PIC thickening fraction has an excellent predictive value for reintubation. A PIC thickening fraction of ≤ 6.5–8.3% can exclude reintubation, with a negative predictive value of 100%. Furthermore, a combination of high PIC and low DE can also indicate a high risk of reintubation. However, larger studies that include different populations are required to replicate our findings and validate the cutoff values.
Addressing depression and comorbid health conditions through solution-focused brief therapy in an integrated care setting: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Cooper Zach W , Mowbray Orion , Ali Mohammed K. , Johnson Leslie C. M.
Published: August 2024

Background

Co-occurring physical and mental health conditions are common, but effective and sustainable interventions are needed for primary care settings.

Purpose

Our paper analyzes the effectiveness of a Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) intervention for treating depression and co-occurring health conditions in primary care. We hypothesized that individuals receiving the SFBT intervention would have statistically significant reductions in depressive and anxiety symptoms, systolic blood pressure (SBP), hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), and body mass index (BMI) when compared to those in the control group. Additionally, we hypothesized that the SFBT group would have increased well-being scores compared to the control group.

Methods

A randomized clinical trial was conducted at a rural federally qualified health center. Eligible participants scored ≥ 10 on the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and met criteria for co-occurring health conditions (hypertension, obesity, diabetes) evidenced by chart review. SFBT participants (n = 40) received three SFBT interventions over three weeks in addition to treatment as usual (TAU). The control group (n = 40) received TAU over three weeks. Measures included depression (PHQ-9) and anxiety (GAD-7), well-being (Human Flourishing Index), and SFBT scores, along with physical health outcomes (blood pressure, body mass index, and hemoglobin A1c).

Results

Of 80 consented participants, 69 completed all measures and were included in the final analysis. 80% identified as female and the mean age was 38.1 years (SD = 14.5). Most participants were white (72%) followed by Hispanic (15%) and Black (13%). When compared to TAU, SFBT intervention participants had significantly greater reductions in depression (baseline: M = 18.17, SD = 3.97, outcome: M = 9.71, SD = 3.71) and anxiety (baseline: M = 14.69, SD = 4.9, outcome: M = 8.43, SD = 3.79). SFBT intervention participants also had significantly increased well-being scores (baseline: M = 58.37, SD = 16.36, outcome: M = 73.43, SD = 14.70) when compared to TAU. Changes in BMI and blood pressure were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The SFBT intervention demonstrated efficacy in reducing depressive and anxiety symptoms and increasing well-being but did not affect cardio-metabolic parameters over a short period of intervention.

Trial Registration

The study was pre-registered at ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05838222 on 4/20/2023. *M = Mean, SD = Standard deviation.