bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life satisfaction and awareness of meaningful activities among middle-aged adults: A population-based study
Authors: Akaida Shoma , Shiratsuchi Daijo , Tateishi Mana , Kuratsu Ryota , Makizako Hyuma
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Meaningful activities have been suggested to contribute to life satisfaction. Investigating the association between the awareness of meaningful activities and life satisfaction will help us develop a population-based occupational therapy strategy. The purpose of this study was to investigate the proportion of people who were aware of meaningful activities among middle-aged adults, and the relationship between the awareness of meaningful activities and life satisfaction.

Method:

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 2698 middle-aged adults who participated in an online survey conducted in Japan by the Y-Cloud system. Participants responded to demographic questions, life satisfaction, and awareness of meaningful activities. We examined the association between the awareness of meaningful activities and life satisfaction using binomial logistic regression analysis.

Results:

Of the respondents, 77.4% were aware of meaningful activities. Binomial logistic regression analysis adjusted for covariates showed that the awareness of meaningful activities was significantly associated with higher life satisfaction (odds ratio, 2.97; 95% confidence interval: 2.45–3.61, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The results suggest the value of presenting that the awareness of meaningful activities should be considered in preventive population-based occupational therapy strategies for life satisfaction.
Acceptability and usability of assistive equipment and technology by individuals with multiple sclerosis: A qualitative study with occupational therapists
Authors: Barnett Courtney , Murphy Angela , Cezar da Cruz Daniel
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Assistive equipment and technology (AE&T) is often part of occupational therapy practice for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). We aim to explore the acceptability and usability of AE&T by people with MS from the perspective of occupational therapists.

Methods:

Our study applied a qualitative descriptive design, using semi-structured interviews conducted with five qualified occupational therapists with at least 6 months of experience in providing occupational therapy to adults with MS. Reflexive thematic analysis was used for data analysis.

Findings:

Three developed themes describe the occupational therapists’ experiences: ‘The cognitive impact of the illness rather than the physical’, ‘There’s a drive to not let the MS win’ and ‘They have to experience it by doing’. Therapists perceive cognitive changes, the meaning of technology and a person-centred approach as elements influencing the acceptability and usability of AE&T.

Conclusion:

Our findings highlight the importance of using core occupational therapy principles and approaches to best support people with MS in using AE&T effectively.
Spatial-Temporal Patterns and Driving Factors of Logistics Carbon Emissions: Case Study of Yangtze River Delta in China
Authors: Zhu Enyan , Yao Jian , Zheng Wenjia , Sun Chang , Sha Mei
Published: May 2024

With the growing dependence of human beings on the logistics industry, the trend of logistics carbon emissions (LCEs) growth has become much more serious. To investigate the spatial-temporal pattern of LCEs as well as their driving factors, city-scale LCEs were calculated by combining them with nighttime light remote sensing data. In addition, a spatial panel data model was applied in the case of China’s Yangtze River Delta. The results showed that the overall LCEs performed as a rising trend during 2010–2019. The LCEs of the eastern cities and provincial capitals were significantly higher than those of other cities with obvious spatial agglomerations. For driving factors, the gross domestic product, population size, and proportion of tertiary industry all had significant positive influences on the LCEs. Overall, this study is of great practical significance to accurately obtain information on the spatial-temporal dynamics of LCEs at the city-level scale, so as to facilitate the differentiated implementation of carbon reduction measures.
Answers to Your Resistivity Questions and Helpful Findings to Develop a Robust Resistivity Specification
Authors: Gudimettla Jagan , Brinegar Josh , Praul Mike , Grove Jim , Conway Bob
Published: May 2024

Many states are currently in the process of evaluating the use of surface resistivity (SR) or bulk resistivity (BR) tests to assess permeability of concrete in lieu of the standard test method for electrical indication of concrete’s ability to resist chloride ion penetration (AASHTO T 277 and ASTM C1202) which is commonly referred to as the rapid chloride permeability test (RCPT). A few states, such as Louisiana and Maine, implemented resistivity testing in their specifications many years ago. As with any test method implementation, it is important to learn from data generated and experience gained to further refine the specifications in respect of both testing protocols and the specification limits. In this paper, the Federal Highway Administration’s Mobile Concrete Technology Center SR and BR data from 30 field projects in 25 states is analyzed to provide information that could be helpful to agencies as they specify or improve their specifications with respect to resistivity testing. This paper attempts to answer questions related to 1) change in resistivity testing results with age, 2) range and variability of resistivity data from mainline paving mixtures, 3) comparison of test results between SR and BR data, 4) comparison of resistivity data gathered with equipment from various vendors, and 5) use of 28 versus 56 day data.
Bi-Objective Battery Electric Truck Dispatching Problem with Backhauls and Time Windows
Authors: Peng Dongbo , Wu Guoyuan , Boriboonsomsin Kanok
Published: May 2024

The battery electric truck (BET) has emerged as a promising solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in urban logistics, given the current strict environmental regulations. This research explores the formulation and solution of the bi-objective BET dispatching problem with backhauls and time windows, aiming to simultaneously reduce environmental impacts and enhance the efficiency of urban logistics. From the sustainability perspective, one of the objectives is to minimize total energy costs, which include energy consumption and battery replacement expenses. On the other hand, from an economic perspective, the other objective is the minimization of labor costs. To solve this bi-objective BET dispatching problem, we propose an innovative approach, integrating an adaptive large neighborhood search-based metaheuristics algorithm with a multi-objective optimization strategy. This integration enables the exploration of the trade-off between fleet energy expenses and labor costs, optimizing the dispatching decisions for BETs. To validate the proposed dispatching strategy, extensive experiments were conducted using real-world fleet operations data from a logistics fleet in Southern California. The results demonstrated that the proposed approach yields a set of Pareto solutions, showcasing its effectiveness in finding a balance between energy efficiency and labor costs in urban logistics systems. The findings of this research contribute to advancing sustainable urban logistics practices and provide valuable insights for fleet operators in effectively managing BET fleets to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining economic efficiency.
Improving Effectiveness of the Safety Service Patrol Programs: A Discrete Event-Based Simulation Approach
Authors: Wang Junqing , Cetin Mecit , Yang Hong , Xie Kun , Zhai Guocong , Ishak Sherif
Published: May 2024

Safety service patrols (SSPs) play an important role in incident management on highways. It is critical to respond to incidents in a timely manner as this can significantly reduce nonrecurrent congestion and improve safety. Therefore, it is essential to allocate available SSP vehicles to highway segments such that their effectiveness is maximized. This study aimed to develop a simulation-based framework to assist with SSP service optimization. More specifically, a discrete event-based simulation tool (i.e., SSP-OPT) with customizable parameters was developed to help plan the optimum patrol routes based on available SSP resources and predicted incidents. The developed tool was tested with roadway traffic and incident data from the Virginia highway network. After model calibration, the simulation results showed that the developed SSP-OPT tool could replicate the patrol routes with similar performance to the field observations, validating the tool. Further, adopting the tool for corridor-level optimization could help to identify the best patrol plan to minimize SSP response time and maximize SSP response rates for a given number of SSP vehicles. The SSP-OPT tool requires minimal user input (e.g., segment lengths, annual average daily traffic) and has the flexibility to be easily applied to any highway corridor once calibrated. The tool generates various performance metrics to enable more informed decision making in SSP route planning.
Health-Related Behaviors and Academic Achievement Among College Students
Authors: Lederer Alyssa M. , Oswalt Sara B. , Hoban Mary T. , Rosenthal Melissa N.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

College students’ academic achievement has crucial implications for their future success. Students’ health may be a key determinant of academic performance, but more research is needed to understand this relationship.

Design/Setting/Subjects

Secondary analysis of the American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment III pre-COVID-19 Spring 2020 dataset. N = 39 146 undergraduates at 75 higher education institutions (14% mean response rate, comparable with other large-scale national college health surveys).

Measures

Self-reported grade point average (GPA) and 33 health behaviors in the categories of dietary behavior, physical activity, sedentary behavior, substance use, sexual risk behavior, violence-related behavior, mental health, and sleep behavior.

Analysis

Weighted cross-tabulations examining the association between GPA and health behaviors; multinomial logistic regressions assessing if behaviors predicted GPA, controlling for year, sex/gender, and race/ethnicity. Individual GPA categories were also compared to a D/F referent group.

Results

There were gradient trends across GPA categories for A through D/F (18 behaviors) or A through C (12 behaviors) ( P < .001). Each health behavior predicted GPA differences ( P < .001), except heroin use ( P = .052). The A GPA group was significantly different from the D/F GPA group for 27 behaviors ( P < .001). In general, protective behaviors corresponded with higher GPAs and most risk behaviors were associated with lower GPAs.

Conclusions

There is a link between numerous health behaviors and academic performance. Stakeholders invested in college students’ health and academics should engage in mutually beneficial strategies to safeguard students’ current and future well-being and success.
High quality 3D printing of low-density polyethylene blends considering the softening effect of polyolefin elastomer
Authors: Gao Yanmeng , Sheng Bin , Xia Lingqin , Wang Shuwei
Published: May 2024

Polyethylene (PE) is one of the most widely used thermoplastics in the polyolefin family. Despite its numerous applications in the industry, particularly in packaging, 3D printing with PE has been a significant challenge that has received little attention. The main obstacles to successful 3D printing with PE are high shrinkage, weak adhesion to the print bed, and weak interlayers. This paper addresses this problem by introducing Polyolefin Elastomer (POE) as an additive in the 3D printing process. Three different POE-LDPE compounds with varying LDPE weight percentages (90%, 70%, and 50%) were 3D printed and analyzed for their mechanical and microstructural properties. The POE and LDPE were blended using the melt mixing method, and the resulting POE-LDPE granules were directly used as input for the FDM machine. The 3D-printed samples were then subjected to DMTA, tensile, compression tests, and SEM imaging. The DMTA results showed that the glass transition temperature of all three samples fell within the range of 71°C to 78°C. Increasing the POE content and decreasing the LDPE amount from 90% to 50% led to a decrease in the storage modulus. In terms of the tensile test results, it was observed that reducing the LDPE amount and increasing the POE content had a toughening effect on the samples, improving their formability and elongation from 1566% for POE-90wt% LDPE to 2112% and 2829% for POE-70wt% LDPE and POE-50wt% LDPE respectively. However, the tensile strength decreased with an increase in the POE amount. For POE-90wt% LDPE, the tensile strength was 14.06 MPa, and for POE-90wt% LDPE, it was just below 13.96 MPa. The compression test revealed that the addition of POE weakened the yield strength of the samples. SEM images demonstrated that the printability of the 3D-printed POE-LDPE samples decreased as the LDPE amount decreased and the POE amount increased. The images also revealed single-phase and miscible blends. These findings suggest the potential emergence of a new, affordable, biocompatible, and recyclable raw material for 3D printing.
Acoustic emission analysis for crack initiation in AA7075-T6 alloy under mixed tensile and bending cyclic loading
Authors: Lay Ali Bastani , Beigi Amirhossein , Najafabadi Mehdi Ahmadi
Published: May 2024

In most critical components, fatigue occurs under mixed loadings, such as bending and tensile cyclic loading. Furthermore, in the realm of fatigue loading conditions, scant information has been documented regarding the combination of bending and tensile cyclic loading. Therefore, in this paper, Acoustic Emission (AE) as a non-destructive method was used to investigate crack initiation in AA7075-T6 specimens subjected to fatigue conditions involving bending and tensile cyclic loading. The results showed that generated AE signals had the same trend in all tests, and there was a reasonable correlation between AE and mechanical characteristics. By correlating mechanical data and AE data using the sentry function, the failure process, which includes dislocation movement, plastic deformation, work hardening, micro-crack formation, and crack initiation, respectively, was identified. The S-N curve was plotted by using AE monitoring. This curve was depicted as non-destructive and based on the crack initiation cycle. Obtaining the S-N curve through AE monitoring will greatly assist designers in the design of structures under mixed fatigue loading conditions. This will result in a reduced Safety Factor and, consequently, decreased weight and cost for structures while still ensuring that the structure meets the necessary safety requirements.
Real-time coordinated control strategy for the hybrid electric propulsion system of a flying car with model adaptation and game theory
Authors: Ruan Shumin , Ma Yue , Xiang Changle
Published: May 2024

Coordination among the multiple power components is essential for the hybrid electric propulsion systems since the decision made by one impacts the state and decisions of others due to the coupling mechanical and electrical dynamics. Traditional model-based approaches with weight-sum objectives may result in misleading optimization or even unstable situations because of the inherent poor scalability and synergy. To overcome this issue, this paper proposes a novel game theory-based control strategy with model adaptation mechanism for the hybrid electric flying car to enhance the control performance, system stability, and robustness. Firstly, a control-oriented model of the system is derived with the utilization of the recursive least square parameter estimation method. The non-cooperative game framework is then established with the turboshaft engine subsystem and electric supply subsystem treated as two independent players. The performance of Nash equilibrium solutions with closed-loop and open-loop information structures are investigated where the problem is iteratively solved by exploiting Pontryagin’s Minimum Principle and dynamic programming, respectively. The simulation results demonstrate that the game theory-based controllers can outperform MPC with the weight-sum objectives in terms of control efficiency and robustness improvement and the game theory-based controller with open-loop information structure shows excellent computation efficiency. Moreover, the result of the hardware-in-the-loop experiment demonstrates the real-time performance of the proposed controller.
Analytical assessment of hetero-/homogeneous combustion of magnesium particle: Fully explicit formulas for flame characteristics
Authors: Maghsoudi Peyman , Lakzayi Hassan , Digeh Sara Yahya Pourgholy , Bidabadi Mehdi
Published: May 2024

In this study, by proposing a comprehensive multi-step model, the combustion of magnesium particles in O2-He, O2-Ar, and O2-N2 is scrutinized. In the current model, both the heterogeneous and homogeneous combustions are considered and the process is divided into four stages solid, liquid, and gas combustion and melting. Moreover, the diffusions of oxygen and unreacted magnesium to droplet and infinity together with surface exothermic reaction are considered. The governing equations are analytically solved and then, the formulas are extracted for combustion time and temperature, flame standoff distance, and evaporation rate as the functions of particle diameter, ambient temperature and pressure, oxygen mass fraction, type of inert gas, and Lewis numbers. For 120 µm particle and oxygen content of 0.05, time contributions of homogeneous and heterogeneous combustions are 85.8% and 14.2%, respectively. The burning time has drastic changes at ambient pressures below l atm, so that the burning time variations relative to the pressure in the environments less than 1 atm and greater than it are equal to 1200–1550 and 70–90 ms/atm, respectively. When the oxygen mass fraction is less than 0.29, combustion in helium-oxygen ends earlier than that in O2-Ar and O2-N2, but for the mass fraction greater than 0.35, it has the longest burning time.
Tribological investigation into nickel-coated graphite polytetrafluoroethylene composites
Authors: Deepthi YP , Sahu Santosh Kumar , Anitha D , Gupta Nakul , dude Niranjan , Setti Srinivasu Gangi , Sandeep CD
Published: May 2024

The friction and wear resistance of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composites can be enhanced by incorporating nickel-coated graphite. An electroless coating method employing Gin plates (418A, 418B) is utilized to produce nickel-coated graphite. X-ray diffractometer analysis reveals the presence of nickel and graphite peaks in the coated graphite powders at 44° and 26.4°, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy images confirm the presence of nickel coating on graphite particles. Tribological tests using a pin-on-disc tribometer (L9) demonstrate that composites filled with 20 wt.% Nickel-coated graphite exhibits the lowest wear rate of 220 µm, compared to 1166 µm for pure PTFE specimens. The notable improvement in wear resistance is attributed to enhanced bonding strength between the filler and matrix material. Pure PTFE exhibits varying coefficient of friction (CoF) at different parameters, with the highest and lowest CoF observed at 200 rpm, 20N and 180 rpm, 10 N, respectively. Optimal parameters for minimizing wear rate and CoF, determined through analysis of means, include a 20 wt.% filler concentration, disc speed of 180 rpm, and 10N load. Analysis of variance identifies composition and speed as primary factors affecting wear and CoF.
Optimizing renewable energy systems through artificial intelligence: Review and future prospects
Authors: Ukoba Kingsley , Olatunji Kehinde O. , Adeoye Eyitayo , Jen Tien-Chien , Madyira Daniel M.
Published: May 2024

The global transition toward sustainable energy sources has prompted a surge in the integration of renewable energy systems (RES) into existing power grids. To improve the efficiency, reliability, and economic viability of these systems, the synergistic application of artificial intelligence (AI) methods has emerged as a promising avenue. This study presents a comprehensive review of the current state of research at the intersection of renewable energy and AI, highlighting key methodologies, challenges, and achievements. It covers a spectrum of AI utilizations in optimizing different facets of RES, including resource assessment, energy forecasting, system monitoring, control strategies, and grid integration. Machine learning algorithms, neural networks, and optimization techniques are explored for their role in complex data sets, enhancing predictive capabilities, and dynamically adapting RES. Furthermore, the study discusses the challenges faced in the implementation of AI in RES, such as data variability, model interpretability, and real-time adaptability. The potential benefits of overcoming these challenges include increased energy yield, reduced operational costs, and improved grid stability. The review concludes with an exploration of prospects and emerging trends in the field. Anticipated advancements in AI, such as explainable AI, reinforcement learning, and edge computing, are discussed in the context of their potential impact on optimizing RES. Additionally, the paper envisions the integration of AI-driven solutions into smart grids, decentralized energy systems, and the development of autonomous energy management systems. This investigation provides important insights into the current landscape of AI applications in RES.
A Case Study on Input–Output Analysis in the Defense Industry
Authors: Jung Jaeho , Lee Kangwon , Kim Jaejin , Yun Jeongsun
Published: May 2024

Recently, the defense budget, which includes the cost of purchasing weapons, has continuously and significantly increased in South Korea. This increase, which is entirely financed by the government, has raised the issue of the socioeconomic impacts of spending on the defense industry in areas, such as production, added value and job creation. In this regard, it is necessary to more accurately measure the impact of spending on the defense industry on domestic industry, but the Bank of Korea’s industry inducement coefficient, which measures industrial spillovers, is quite limited in measuring the industry inducement impact caused by weapon production. Therefore, this study explores how to estimate the industry inducement coefficient of the production of a specific weapon by utilising the current Bank of Korea input–output table, which is focused on private industry, and applies this methodology to the estimation of the input–output coefficient of the production of a specific weapon. As a result of the analysis, the input–output coefficient of a specific weapon was estimated to be approximately 1.18 times higher than that of the products of similar industries in the private sector in terms of production, 1.03 times higher in terms of value-added and 1.03 times higher in terms of employment. This suggests that the effect of fostering domestic industry through weapon production is somewhat greater than that of private industry and proves the efficacy of government investment in this sector.
A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy of Preoperative Low-dose Nebulised Dexamethasone in Decreasing the Incidence of Postoperative Sore Throat in Patients Undergoing Surgery Under General Anaesthesia
Authors: Parvez Arbal , Gupta Ritu , Kour Arvinpreet , Singh Ajaydeep
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims:

Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a stereotypical postoperative complication that usually occurs in approximately 21%–65% of patients who are under general anaesthesia and is ranked around eighth among the most undesirable subjective and unpleasant complaints by the society of American anaesthesiologist after general anaesthesia. As airway management is a crucial factor in the causation of POST, various methods, especially non-pharmacological, are used to reduce the incidence of postoperative sore throat with the use of a small-sized endotracheal tube with low intracuff pressures. The tracheal tube is applied with other agents that may help in reducing the symptoms such as steroids, lozenges, lignocaine, ketamine gargles, inhalation of steroids (also included in pharmacological methods used for reducing the incidence of postoperative sore throat).

Aim and Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of prophylactic low-dose nebulised dexamethasone for decreasing the incidence of post-extubation sore throat and to evaluate the complications of low-dose dexamethasone nebulisation in patients undergoing surgery under general anaesthesia.

Patients and Methods:

The study was done in the Anaesthesiology Department of Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (MMIMSR) Mullana, Ambala, after institutional ethical committee approval and written, informed consent was obtained from the patients from March 2021 to March 2022 with a group size of Group S – 25 patients and Group D – 25 patients.

Observation and Results:

The results showed that patients in the dexamethasone group had a lower POST rate compared to the control group.

Conclusion:

We concluded that a low dose of 4 mg dexamethasone was effective in reducing the incidence and severity of POST in patients after anaesthesia, and no side effects compared to 4 mg normal saline.
Gingivoperiosteoplasty in Children with Cleft Lip and Palate: The Need for Alveolar Bone Grafting
Authors: Balumuka Darius , Daly Gwendolyn E. , Krakauer Kelsi , Burch Samantha , Jedrzejewski Breanna , Johnson Alicia , Howell Lori K. , Wolfswinkel Erik M.
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aimed to determine the efficacy of gingivoperiosteoplasty (GPP) in preventing alveolar bone grafting (ABG) among children with cleft lip and palate (CLP).

Design/Setting

Retrospective university hospital single center study.

Patients

Children with CLP treated with GPP from 2000-2015 were included. Those under eight years of age, without definitive conclusions regarding need for ABG or with incomplete data were excluded.

Interventions

Included patients were analyzed for demographics, cleft type, age at GPP, associated cleft surgery, use of nasoalveolar molding (NAM), indication for ABG, operating surgeon and presence of residual alveolar fistula. T-tests and Fisher's exact tests were utilized for statistical analysis.

Main Outcome Measure

The need for ABG.

Results

Of the 1682 children identified with CLP, 64 underwent GPP and met inclusion criteria. 78% of patients with CLP who underwent GPP were recommended for ABG. Those who received GPP at a younger age ( P = .004) and at the time of initial cleft lip repair ( P = .022) were less likely to be recommended for ABG. Patients with complete CLP were more likely to be recommended for ABG than patients with cleft lip and alveolus only ( P = .015). The operating surgeon impacted the likelihood of ABG ( P = .004). Patient gender, race, ethnicity, laterality, and NAM were not significantly associated with recommendation for ABG.

Conclusion

GPP does not preclude the need for ABG. Therefore, the success of ABG after GPP and maxillary growth restriction should be analyzed further to determine if GPP is a worthwhile adjunct to ABG in cleft care.
New Score Models for Predicting Bleeding and Ischemic of Ticagrelor Therapy in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Xia Xiaotong , Chen Shu , Cao Chang , Ye YanRong , Shen Yun
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Ticagrelor is an antiplatelet drug, and its use increases the risk of bleeding. Coronary artery disease is significantly influenced by the widespread occurrence of diabetes mellitus. In order to decrease the incidence of clinical adverse events, a novel bleeding and thrombosis score is developed in this research.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patient data from two medical centers who were diagnosed with diabetes mellitus and treated with ticagrelor. We gathered information on every patient from the electronic database of the hospital and follow-up. The collected data were statistically analyzed to obtain risk factors for bleeding and ischemic events.

Results

A total of 851 patients with diabetes mellitus who have been administered ticagrelor are included in our investigation. A total of 76 patients have bleeding events and 80 patients have ischemic events. The analysis of multiple variables indicates that characteristics like the age of >65, having a previous occurrence of bleeding, experiencing anemia, using aspirin, and taking atorvastatin are linked to a higher likelihood of bleeding. Additionally, the age of >65, smoking, having a history of blood clots, and having a BMI ≥ 30 are found to increase the risk of ischemia.

Conclusion

The A4B score established in this study was better than the HAS-BLED score，and the same is true for the ABST score to the CHA2DS-VASc score. This new risk assessment model can potentially detect patients who are at high risk for bleeding and ischemic events. For high-risk patients, the dose of ticagrelor can be adjusted appropriately or the medication can be adjusted.(2023-09-11, ChiCTR2300075627)
Oral Rivaroxaban Versus Warfarin After inferior Vena cava Filter Implantation: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Schastlivtsev Ilya , Pankov Aleksey , Tsaplin Sergey , Stepanov Evgeny , Zhuravlev Sergey , Lobastov Kirill
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To assess the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban compared to warfarin after inferior vena cava (IVC) filter implantation.

Method

This retrospective analysis includes data from 100 patients with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) who underwent IVC filter implantation due to a free-floating thrombus (n = 64), thrombus propagation (n = 8), or acute bleeding (n = 8) on therapeutic anticoagulation, catheter-directed thrombolysis (n = 8), or had previously implanted filter with DVT recurrence. Patients were treated with warfarin (n = 41) or rivaroxaban (n = 59) for 3-12 months. Symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE) recurrence and bleeding events were assessed at 12 months follow-up.

Results

Three (7.3%) cases of VTE recurrence without IVC filter occlusion occurred on warfarin and none on rivaroxaban. The only (2.4%) major bleeding occurred on warfarin. Three (5.1%) clinically relevant non-major bleedings were detected on rivaroxaban. No significant differences existed between groups when full and propensity scores matched datasets were compared.

Conclusions

Rivaroxaban seems not less effective and safe than warfarin after IVC filter implantation.
Direct Oral Anticoagulants in Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: First Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies
Authors: Zhang Tang , Guo Linjuan , Liang Shucheng , Liu Hao
Published: May 2024

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are becoming increasingly popular clinically, but their safety and effectiveness profile in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is not well-established. Literature from the PubMed and EMBASE databases was systematically screened up to February 2024 to identify relevant studies on the use of DOACs in CTEPH patients. The bias risk of RCTs was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0. The quality of observational prospective cohorts was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale tool. Data pooled from different studies were analyzed. Results from 4 studies were gathered, including 2 randomized controlled trials and 2 prospective cohorts, with a total of 2038 patients, of which 751 were on DOACs and 1287 were on vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). Similar rates of all-cause mortality (3.33% vs 3.33%, RD = −0.01%, 95% CI [−0.02%, 0.00%], P = .17), VTE recurrence (1.46% vs 2.12%, RD = −0.00%, 95% CI [−0.01%, 0.01%], P = .92) were observed. DOACs were associated with a nonsignificant reduction in bleeding events including major bleeding (2.22% vs 3.71%, RD = −0.01%, 95% CI [−0.04%, 0.01%], P = .30), any bleeding (5.33% vs 9.94%, RD = −0.03%, 95% CI [−0.07%, 0.01%], P = .10), and minor bleeding (4.17% vs 13.3%, RD = −0.06%, 95% CI [−0.23%, 0.10%], P = .45). Data pooled from existing perspective trials suggests the use of DOACs in CTEPH patients as an effective and safe alternative to VKAs.
Active tuned mass damper for a benchmark tall building using an energy-harvesting electromagnetic damper
Authors: Shen Jiayang , Zhu Songye
Published: May 2024

Among various structural vibration control categories, active control typically provides superior control performance. However, its high energy demand often limits its extensive implementation in large-scale civil structures. Very recently, electromagnetic dampers, which can convert kinetic energy into electrical energy, have emerged as a novel solution for active control with reduced or even zero energy consumption. This study explored the feasibility of an energy-harvesting active tuned mass damper (ATMD) by using an electromagnetic damper for simultaneous vibration suppression and energy harvesting. Numerical simulations were conducted for a full-scale, 76-story benchmark building equipped with the proposed design. The proposed ATMD outperforms the optimised passive counterpart of the same mass, as the former introduces an evident reduction in displacement responses. Furthermore, the proposed ATMD can offer a commensurate control performance to a passive damper with a weight three times heavier. The proposed ATMD also exhibits promising energy-harvesting performance, achieving an average output power at the kilowatt level. The results suggest that electromagnetic devices hold great potential for large-scale applications in civil structures, paving the way for a prosperous future in this field.
Tribal Politics or Discerning Voters? Party and Policy in Local Elections
Authors: Martin Danielle Joesten , Adams Brian E. , Lascher Edward L.
Published: May 2024

How do voters react to local candidates who share their policy views but not their party identification, and vice versa? This paper presents findings from a survey experiment that cross-pressured respondents to choose between a co-partisan candidate who does not share their policy views (on housing and homelessness) and an opposing party candidate with some ideological affinity. The majority of respondents chose party over policy, indicating they would vote for co-partisans even if the candidate from the opposing party is closer to their policy positions. However, significant minorities defected and in some circumstances most did. Weak partisans, those with stronger policy views, and those who viewed the issues as highly salient were more likely to defect from their party when cross-pressured. Our findings support revising the expectation that partisanship always takes precedence over policy views and reinforces the view that partisanship may operate differently at the local level.
A cost comparison of pembrolizumab: Fixed and weight-based dosing
Authors: Slee Ann-Louise , Coutsouvelis John , Tong Bianca , Poole Susan , Zalcberg John
Published: May 2024

Background

Pembrolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor, indicated to treat multiple cancers, was initially approved in Australia as weight-based dosing at 2 mg/kg every 3 weeks (Q3W). Subsequent approvals used ‘fixed’ dosages of 200 mg Q3W or 400 mg every 6 weeks (Q6W). Pharmacokinetic equivalence was demonstrated between dosing strategies, with no significant differences in efficacy or toxicity. Fixed dosing regimens are routinely used in Australia.

Aim

To model and compare the cost of weight-based dosing of pembrolizumab to standard fixed dosing regimens.

Method

A single centre, retrospective review was conducted. Patients, identified from dispensing software, who commenced on pembrolizumab between January and December 2022 were included. Patient demographic and treatment data was extracted from electronic medical records. Costs of weight-based doses were calculated and compared to the cost of fixed dosing. Variables such as acquisition cost, funding mechanisms and ‘vial sharing’ were considered.

Results

Fifty-two patients were included (63% male, median age 68 years). Of the 211 doses of pembrolizumab administered (average 4.1 doses/patient), 161 were Q3W doses, and 50 were Q6W doses. The acquisition cost for a fixed 200 mg and 400 mg dose was $7646, and $15,292, respectively. The average patient weight was 77.6 kg (SD 19 kg), which equated to $5933 for a weight-based Q3W dose, and $11,867 for the Q6W dose; a potential cost avoidance of $1965 and $3930 per dose, respectively. This represented a possible 23.5% avoidance in medication acquisition cost. Over the study period of 1 year, using weight-based dosing for pembrolizumab had the potential to reduce medication expenditure by $467,996.

Discussion

Significant cost avoidance could be achieved via weight-based pembrolizumab dosing. Given the substantial total cost of pembrolizumab, the growing number of indications and the expected equivalent treatment outcomes with weight-based pembrolizumab, the potential cost reductions of weight-based pembrolizumab at both institution and government level should be further explored.
Cold-associated laryngopharyngeal dysesthesia syndrome after oxaliplatin treatment
Authors: Babacan Arzu
Published: May 2024

Objective

Oxaliplatin is a platinum-group chemotherapeutic agent commonly used in the treatment of colorectal cancer. In addition to hematological and gastrointestinal side effects, laryngopharyngeal dysesthesia associated with cold is reported as a rare side effect. In this article, seven cases with pharyngolaryngeal dysesthesia were presented and the diagnosis and treatment planning were reviewed in the light of literature findings.

Material and Methods

Patient records of cancer patients with laryngopharyngeal dysesthesia were retrospectively analyzed between 2020 and 2023. Demographic characteristics, presenting complaints, vital signs, physical examination, and laboratory tests of the patients diagnosed with laryngopharyngeal dysesthesia were recorded.

Results

Seven patients who had gastrointestinal malignancy and oxaliplatin chemotherapy were diagnosed with laryngopharyngeal dysesthesia. The symptoms most commonly developed due to cold weather. The symptoms of three patients had developed while receiving treatment, while four patients were admitted to emergency service after oxaliplatin infusion. The physical examinations revealed no pathological findings of the allergic reaction at presentation or during follow-up skin. Patients were monitored and nasal oxygen therapy was administered. A 5 mg intravenous infusion was given for anxiety symptoms in three patients. Patients were discharged after 4 hours of follow-up with resolution of all symptoms

Conclusion

Laryngopharyngeal dysesthesia should be kept in mind in patients treated with oxaliplatin and presenting with shortness of breath and a feeling of suffocation after cold exposure.
Dengue Treatment-Seeking Behavior: A Qualitative Study With Costa Rican Residents
Authors: Le Alexander , Ali Sara , Blackburn Christine C. , Ruyle Leslie , Hernandez Jessica , Abarca Farid , Arroniz Araceli , Rivera Sanny , Jerman Kaylee , Kashyap Neha , Davila Edward , Ortega Kathryn , Zavala Yesenia
Published: May 2024

Treatment-seeking behavior (TSB) in relation to dengue infection is a critical aspect of public health, and understanding the factors that influence it is crucial for effective disease management. This research delves into key determinants of dengue TSB by examining the perceptions and behaviors of individuals in Costa Rica, in relation to the Health Belief Model (HBM). This study utilized naturalistic inquiry and incorporated a qualitative research design involving nine students organized into four teams, with at least one student on each team with high Spanish fluency. In total, we initiated 102 semi-structured field interviews with Costa Rican residents in four communities. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded in several cycles using MAXQDA 2022©. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns and themes using an inductive approach. We found that several HBM themes influenced dengue TSB among participants. Self-treatment was the most common initial step in managing dengue. Perceived inaccessibility of health care services and perceived ineffective treatment options discouraged medical care-seeking. Ultimately, the prevalence of self-treatment practices suggests a need for interventions that emphasize the importance of timely professional medical attention, while addressing real barriers and perceptions of existing health care services as inaccessible and ineffective. These findings provide a key perspective on dengue TSB, guiding future public health strategies aimed at optimizing health-seeking behaviors and mitigating the negative impacts of dengue on population health.
Topical 5-Fluorouracil 0.5% as primary treatment for Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia
Authors: Teixeira Gabriela Carneiro , de Resende Mateus Inacio Lemes , Morales Melina Correia , Fernandes Arthur Gustavo
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy of topical treatment with 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) 0.5% in cases of Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia (OSSN), and to assess the tolerance of patients undergoing treatment.

Methods

Patients with clinical diagnosis of OSSN referred to the Ocular Oncology division from the Federal University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, were recruited for the current study. Patients were treated with topical 5-FU 0.5% using a regimen of 4 times daily for 10 days, followed by a 3-week drug holiday, continued up to 3 cycles before an alternative treatment. Lesions were evaluated at baseline and throughout treatment. Treatment adherence was assessed using the Morisky Medication Adherence scale. Any adverse events along the treatment were noted.

Results

A total of 30 eyes of 30 patients adherent to the treatment were included in the study. Among the total cases treated with 5-FU 0.5%, 24 patients achieved therapeutic success after a mean treatment duration of 21.71 ± 7.77 days, representing a success rate of 80.00% (95% CI: 60.75–91.18%). For each 1 mm2 increase in the lesion area, the odds of treatment success decrease by 6% (OR: 0.94; 95%CI: 0.88–0.99; p = 0.033). Only mild adverse events such as ocular discomfort, ocular burning and tearing were observed along the treatment in 8 patients.

Conclusions

Topical 5-FU 0.5% is an effective therapeutic option in the treatment of OSSN, with an 80% therapeutic success rate, showing good tolerability. The size of the lesion was identified as a factor influencing treatment success, therefore it should be taken into consideration when defining treatment approaches.
Overestimating prevalence? Rethinking boundaries and confounders of moral distress
Authors: Oelhafen Stephan , Monteverde Settimio , Trachsel Manuel
Published: May 2024

Moral distress denotes a negative reaction to a morally challenging situation. It has been associated with adverse outcomes for healthcare professionals, patients and healthcare institutions. We argue that existing definitions, along with measures of moral distress, compromise the validity of empirical research. First, the definition and measurement of moral distress conflate moral events and psychological distress, even though they are distinct phenomena that should be assessed independently. Second, in many studies, there is a lack of clarity in distinguishing between moral and non-moral events. Finally, prior research on moral distress often overlooks the substantial body of evidence demonstrating the impact of diverse work-related factors, beyond moral events, on both distress and job retention. These challenges might undermine the effectiveness of interventions aimed at alleviating moral distress. We outline a comprehensive research agenda that encompasses conceptual clarifications, the refinement of data collection instruments, the design of studies and the application of appropriate statistical methods.
Tropicalizing platformization? Tensions in research on algorithms and platforms in Latin America
Authors: Siles Ignacio , Valiati Vanessa , Valerio-Alfaro Luciana , Ferreira Amanda
Published: May 2024

This short article critically examines the growing body of research on algorithms and platforms in Latin America. Drawing on an analysis of articles published in Portuguese or Spanish in journals of the region, we discuss the main analytical approaches that shape Latin American platformization research. We reveal a tension between two dominant analytical orientations. On one hand, there is a tendency to directly apply concepts and theories from the global North to interpret Latin American experiences, a phenomenon we call “tropicalization.” On the other hand, research from the region also produces context-specific knowledge that questions established theoretical frameworks or bridges the study of the local and the global. While both orientations are valuable, we emphasize the importance of developing analytical approaches tailored to address the specific realities of Latin America. These approaches underscore the significance of regionally grounded scholarship in understanding contemporary cultural practices.
Policing at the crossroads: An intergroup communication accommodation perspective
Authors: Giles Howard , Maguire Edward R. , Hill Shawn L.
Published: May 2024

This article discusses a timely and recent domain of intergroup relations scholarship that focuses on communication between police and the public—a domain we have previously described as intergroup par excellence. We begin with a brief overview of research on this topic, and then introduce four interrelated areas of research that illustrate the diversity and relevance of this approach: policing and stereotyping, communication accommodation (and nonaccommodation) by police officials, intergroup contact and communication interventions that seek to improve relations between the police and the public, and the role of intergroup communication in translating scientific evidence into police policy and practice. Finally, we provide a critical research agenda that includes an integrated model of intergroup communication and policing.
The role of identification, intergroup contact, and group discrimination in shaping return and circular migration intentions: Recent Turkish immigrants in Germany and the Netherlands
Authors: Tezcan Tolga
Published: May 2024

This article investigates return and circular migration intentions among recent Turkish immigrants in Germany and the Netherlands using the “Socio-cultural Integration Processes among New Immigrants in Europe” (SCIP) study ( N = 1,816). Analyses using multinomial logistic regression indicate that future settlement intentions vary with the interplay of identification with home and host countries, intergroup contact with natives, co-ethnics, and other groups, and group discrimination. Findings reveal that home country identification, intersecting with group discrimination, is associated with a higher likelihood of preferring circular migration, amplified by contact with other groups. Conversely, host country identification, when combined with group discrimination, is linked to a higher likelihood of intending to return and a decreased likelihood of considering circular migration—a trend that strengthens with contact with co-ethnics. Notably, the association between contact with natives and future settlement intentions is not contingent on identification or discrimination, and each has distinct effects.