bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Five-year Time Profiles of Clearances of Different Uremic Solutes in Incident Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Ji Ji , Lu Min , Guo Shulan , Xiang Bo , Wu Weiwei , Li Yang , Jiao Xiaoyan , Ji Jun , Ding Xiaoqiang , Yu Xiaofang
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Different uremic solutes have varying degrees of clearances owing to different chemical properties and the pathological and physiological changes in the kidneys and peritoneum.
Methods: The 5-year time profiles of renal, peritoneal, and total clearances of creatinine, urea nitrogen (UN), uric acid (UA), trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), phosphate, beta-2-microglobulin(β2-MG), interleukin-6 (IL-6), indoxyl sulfate (IS), and p-cresol sulfate (PCS) were investigated in 64 peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. The patients were divided into an early start and a late start group according to baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate to investigate the effect of dialysis initiation timing on uremic solutes clearances. Patients were also divided into incremental peritoneal dialysis (IPD) and full-dose PD groups to investigate the impact of PD strategy on uremic solutes clearances.
Results: Peritoneal clearances of creatinine, UN, UA, and phosphate increased over time, while the peritoneal clearance of IL-6 showed a downward trend. The peritoneal clearances of TMAO, β2-MG, IS, and PCS did not change significantly. Patients in early start group showed a lower level of variation and a higher average of renal clearances. IPD patients had a higher level of total clearances of uremic solutes than full-dose PD patients in the first three years after PD initiation.
Conclusion: In a long-term follow-up period, the peritoneal clearance of water-soluble small solutes increased over time, but that of protein-bound toxins and middle molecules did not. Initiating PD when residual kidney function remains at a relatively high level and performing IPD may better improve the efficiency of PD and help preserve the renal clearances of uremic solutes.
A novel approach to repositioning peritoneal dialysis catheters
Authors: Chen Xiuling , Wang Nan , Zou Yurong , Chen Jin , Gao Hui , Li Guisen , Wang Junru
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Peritoneal dialysis(PD) is a crucial kidney replacement therapy for end-stage kidney disease(ESKD). Despite its advantages over hemodialysis(HD), long-term success can be hindered by catheter dysfunctions, often necessitating revision. Currently, surgical treatment methods for PD catheter malfunction include fluoroscopy-guided procedures, laparoscopic or open surgery to salvage or replace the catheter. Here, we introduce a novel, minimally invasive surgery for repositioning PD catheters, a first of its kind.
Methods: From November 2021 to May 2024, eight patients with PD catheter dysfunction underwent this innovative procedure at the Department of Nephrology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital. Surgical Procedure: Along the original abdominal incision side incision, blunt separation to find the peritoneal dialysis catheter tunnel segment, cut open the anterior rectus abdominal muscle sheath, separation of the deep polyester sleeve, exposure of the original catheter into the abdominal port or purse-string suture, pull out the intra-abdominal segment of the dialysis catheter, bluntly clean around the periphery to make sure that the peritoneal dialysis catheter is smooth, the use of a rigid guidewire through the intra-abdominal segment of the peritoneal dialysis catheter proximal end of the first lateral hole to access the catheter, and re-introduction of the intra-abdominal segment of the peritoneal dialysis catheter into the pelvis via the original catheter into the abdominal port. Clinical data were retrospectively collected, and patients were followed up for safety and efficacy assessment.
Results: In the study involving 8 patients, no significant complications were observed, with immediate imaging success rate of 100% and clinical PD catheter reset success rate of 75%. The catheter remained patent until the end of the study, with a mean follow-up time of 17.25±9.25 months.
Conclusion: This new method for resetting dysfunctional PD catheters demonstrates technical feasibility, simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and safety. It has the potential to emerge as a alternative, particularly suitable for resource-limited settings.
Ventilatorassoziierte Pneumonien: Präventive Wirkung von ACE-Hemmern und Angiotensin-Rezeptorblockern
Authors: Knoch Johannes
Published: February 2025

Background: This study was to examine the association between treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and the risk of developing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) among patients receiving mechanical ventilation (MV) in the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: Utilizing a retrospective cohort approach, the data were extracted from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV database. VAP diagnoses were ascertained through the international classification of disease codes recorded in the database. Both univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess the association between ACEI or ARB use and VAP. Subgroup analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of comorbidities (AKI, renal failure, diabetes, hypertension, and sepsis), simplified acute physiology score II (SAPS II), as well as the use of vasopressors and antibiotics on this association. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used as the evaluation metrics. Results: The study comprised 8,888 patients, with 897 (10.09%) experiencing VAP. The analysis revealed that patients on ACEI or ARB therapy had a lower risk of developing VAP (OR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.62–0.99, P = 0.047). Subgroup analyses revealed that the protective effect was observed in patients with AKI (OR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.52–0.94, P = 0.020), renal failure (OR: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.02–0.84, P = 0.032), and diabetes (OR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.43–0.94, P = 0.024), as well as in those receiving vasopressors (OR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.49–0.92, P = 0.012), and antibiotics (OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.57–0.96, P = 0.021). No significant difference in VAP development was observed between patients treated with ACEI versus ARB (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.49–1.47, P = 0.547).
Assessment of Thyroid Fine Needle Aspirates Using 2023 Bethesda System
Authors: Sureka Niti , Ahluwalia Charanjeet , Ahuja Sana , Madan Neha Kawatra , Agrawal Meetu , Ranga Sunil
Published: February 2025

Background: Thyroid nodules are common, with about 5% being malignant, necessitating accurate evaluation to avoid unnecessary surgeries. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a crucial diagnostic tool, and the 2023 Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (TBSRTC) refines FNAC's diagnostic accuracy and risk stratification for thyroid lesions.
Materials and Methods: This retrospective study re-classified thyroid FNAs performed at a tertiary care center from January 2023 to June 2024 using the 2023 TBSRTC and compared with available histopathological diagnoses. FNAC slides were reviewed and reclassified according to the 2023 TBSRTC categories by two cytopathologists. Statistical analysis included sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and overall diagnostic accuracy.
Results: The study included 387 patients (female-to-male ratio of 4:1), with 8% non-diagnostic, 61.5% benign, 9% AUS, 7.5% FN, 8% SFM, and 6% malignant cases. Histopathological correlation was available for 190 cases, revealing 126 benign and 64 malignant lesions. Considering NIFTP as benign on histopathology, the ROM for benign, FN, and SFM categories was 10%, 38%, and 69.2%, respectively. The highest sensitivity (88.2%) was achieved when AUS, FN, SFM, and malignant categories were considered positive for malignancy. The highest diagnostic accuracy (85.4%) was observed when SFM and malignant categories were considered positive.
Conclusion: FNAC, guided by the 2023 TBSRTC, is a reliable diagnostic tool for thyroid lesions, offering high sensitivity and specificity.
Significado, desejo e consumo: dinâmicas e estratégias semióticas de atribuição de valor
Authors: Jungk Isabel
Published: February 2025

This article seeks to understand the complexity of the interrelations between the processes of signification and the formation of desire in consumer culture. Through an approach based on Peircean semiotics, it seeks to explain in depth the conceptual foundations of the transfer of symbolic value to consumer goods, highlighting the dynamics of attribution of these values, showing the relationship between the subject of desire and the interpretants generated in the process of semiosis, revealing the logical and formal structure of the strategies that arouse desire and guide the actions and decisions of the consumer. Finally, the role of semiotics is considered both in the manipulation of these meanings and in the understanding of the aspects of consumer culture that need to be improved.
O prefeito, o palhaço e o burburinho
Authors: Araújo David Felinto de
Published: February 2025

Texto de criação literária.
Nordeste caleidoscópio: entre manguezal, doce-caju, conchas do mar
Authors: Fernandes Ana Clara da Costa Carvalho , Motta Lucas Branco de Araujo , Almeida Magno da Guarda
Published: February 2025

Literary  texts
Understanding Sex Differences in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Surgery: Insights From a Decade‐Long Cohort Study From China
Authors: Lu Tao , Zhu Changsheng , Nie Changrong , Meng Yanhai , Yang Qiulan , Lu Zhengyang , Song Yunhu , Wang Shuiyun
Published: February 2025

Background

Sex differences in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy have been elaborated by many studies. However, large studies of the association of patient sex with outcomes after surgical myectomy are scarce. This study evaluated sex disparities in a large Chinese cohort undergoing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy surgery.

Methods

The cohort encompassed 1613 patients, including 627 (38.9%) women who underwent septal myectomy between 2009 and 2018.

Results

At the time of surgery, women were 6 years older and had 1 year longer disease onset‐to‐surgery delay than men. They were more frequently in New York Heart Association class III/IV and had more severe left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. Compared with men, women had a notably higher left ventricular wall thickness index and a lower extent of late gadolinium enhancement. Women also had more mutations in
MYH7
and fewer in
MYBPC3
. Postoperatively, women had a higher operative mortality rate (1.3% versus 0.1%,
P
=0.006). The follow‐up results showed no significant difference between the sexes in all‐cause death (hazard ratio [HR], 0.67 [95% CI, 0.38–1.18];
P
=0.166). A U‐shaped association was observed between age and death in the overall population. However, women exhibited this association more obviously at age ≥55 years and men at <35 years. Moreover, women also had a higher risk of cardiovascular rehospitalization after surgery (HR, 1.40 [95% CI, 1.03–1.89];
P
=0.030).

Conclusions

In patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, women had a similar fatal outcome but a worse nonfatal outcome than men after surgery. Measures improving quality of life may further enhance the event‐free survival of female patients. Close monitoring and follow‐up are warranted, especially in younger men and older women.
Multiple Shades from the Same Mirror
Authors: Atalay Gül Esra , Muratoğlu Pehlivan Bahar , Ribeiro Fábio
Published: February 2025

This study aims to analyze and compare the media coverage of femicide cases in Portugal and Türkiye, as well as the comments posted by social media users on femicide news stories, to understand the dynamics at play. Therefore, a sample from the Portuguese and Turkish media was collected, and a one-year analysis of the mainstream news sources was performed. The authors observed significant differences between the two countries. The Portuguese media tends to provide little coverage on femicide, not including victims’ age and marital status and only offering a brief description of the crimes. In contrast, Turkish media provide more thorough coverage by incorporating detailed information, including emotional descriptions, and engaging more in sensationalism. Facebook comments show that users from both countries reveal their real identities, while Turkish comments tend to exhibit greater aggression and more spelling mistakes.
The Influence of European States on the Establishment of Democratic Power in the Republic of Kazakhstan
Authors: Sarsenbayeva Zhanar , Aiekeshov Nurbolat , Amirov Arman
Published: February 2025

This study examines Europe’s democracy, rule of law, and human rights efforts in Kazakhstan. Historical, comparative, institutional, structural and functional analysis were used to investigate the issue. The study assesses Kazakhstan’s political system after independence, formulates Brussels-Astana cooperation areas within the EU Strategy for Central Asia, determines the state’s prospects for liberalization of the political regime, and describes democratic transit in the post-Soviet period. The constitutional reform of 2022, which sought to transform Kazakhstan’s state model, was also examined, as were the reasons why the EU has failed to promote democratic reforms in Central Asian republics since diplomatic relations were established. The study can be used in research and applied industries by researchers interested in democratization in the post-Soviet space and political processes in Central Asia.
The Pandemic’s Effect on Sino–Thai Relations and Chinese-Thai Businessmen
Authors: Chen Shangmao , Phattharathanasut Tuwanont , Lin Hsiaochen
Published: February 2025

This study examines Sino–Thai relationships in the context of the developmental state theory and the dependent developmental theory focusing on the pre- and post-pandemic eras of the Belt and Road Initiative, Thailand 4.0, and the Eastern Economic Corridor (eec). The study finds that prior to the outbreak of covid-19, Thailand chose to pursue both dependency theory and developmental state theory. However, after the pandemic, Thailand faced severe democratic erosion, and Bangkok decided to follow the path of dependency theory, ultimately relying heavily on Chinese assistance, leading to disappointment throughout the country. These issues have exacerbated anti-Chinese and anti-Chinese-Thai–conglomerate sentiments, as many believe that Thai government reliance on Chinese support was influenced by the lobbying efforts of Chinese-Thai businessmen. These sentiments have become a feature of student protests and the Milk Tea Alliance. This indicates that the close relationship between Thai elites and Beijing is not shared by many Thais, and suggests that the Thai government should reconsider its development strategy. Additionally, both Chinese and Chinese-Thai businessmen should be aware of the path chosen by the Thai government and its effects on their business interests.
Now or Never – One Year After the Closure of the Second Negotiation Round for the EU’s Accession to the echr: Will the Agreement Reached Suffice to Make Accession (Finally) a Reality?
Authors: Polakiewicz Jörg , Suominen-Picht Irene
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the negotiations and legal frameworks surrounding the European Union’s (EU) accession to the European Convention on Human Rights (echr), a process marked by complex legal and institutional challenges. Despite the formidable hurdles outlined by the Court of Justice of the European Union (cjeu) in Opinion 2/13, negotiators crafted the revised draft accession agreement (daa 2023), balancing the constitutional requisites of the EU with the echr’s integrity. The paper highlights how this achievement, endorsed by the Council of Europe’s Fourth Summit, not only promises to enhance human rights coherence in Europe but also aims to bridge potential legal divides. Key adjustments in the daa 2023 emphasise the negotiators’ commitment to maintaining the EU’s legal autonomy while ensuring its adherence to echr standards. The paper underscores the urgent need for finalising this ‘never-ending story,’ highlighting its critical role in fortifying human rights protection across Europe.
The Jebel Mokram Group Pottery: A Pan-Grave- or a Middle Nubian-Related Ceramic Tradition of Eastern Sudan?
Authors: Manzo Andrea
Published: February 2025

The Jebel Mokram Group of Eastern Sudan was defined in the early 1980s based mainly on its ceramic assemblage, other material culture and settlement patterns. The definition has been revised in recent years following renewed fieldwork and C14 dates, but the relationship between the Jebel Mokram Group and Nilotic Nubian cultures remains to be fully understood. This article reviews the relationship between the Jebel Mokram Group and the Pan-Grave horizon primarily based on a comparative analysis of their ceramic assemblages. It is proposed that the Jebel Mokram Group can be regarded as part of the Atbai Ceramic Tradition and a component of the Pan-Grave horizon, while also being a component of what is here called the Middle Nubian ‘super-horizon’. It is further suggested that the Jebel Mokram Group was a node in a socio-cultural network extending across Lower Nubia and Egypt and involving large sectors of the Eastern Desert.
Astragalus austrobalcanicus, a new species of Astragalus sect. Caprini from southern Albania and northern Greece
Authors: MAYLANDT CLEMENS , KIRSCHNER PHILIPP , FRAJMAN BOŽO , CARNICERO PAU , SCHÖNSWETTER PETER
Published: February 2025

Astragalus sect. Caprini includes 300 species occurring in dry habitats from lowlands to the alpine belt from northwestern Africa and western Europe in the West to Central Asia in the East. In Europe, approximately a dozen taxa occur and our recent phylogenomic study (Maylandt et al., 2025) revealed a genetically divergent lineage from the mountains of southern Albania and northern Greece that was traditionally treated as Astragalus exscapus, A. pubiflorus or A. exscapus subsp. pubiflorus. Here, based on an extended sampling for morphometric analysis we show that this lineage is morphologically distinct and differs from closely related, proximally occurring and/or morphologically similar A. exscapus, A. hellenicus, A. pubiflorus and A. transsilvanicus. Therefore, we here describe this lineage as a new species, Astragalus austrobalcanicus, and provide diagnosis, description, geographical distribution, and conservation status as well as a table with diagnostic characters differentiating it from its closest relatives. In addition, we established the chromosome number 2n = 16 for this new species.
Geographic distributions in Chromosera species—continental and oceanic barriers, including a new species, a new variety and a new combination
Authors: GROOTMYERS DJANGO , MULLINEUX SAHRA-TAYLOR , REDHEAD SCOTT A. , BAU TOLGOR , HORMAN JOEL , KERNER RON , LEBEUF RENÉE , SERGEEV ALEXEY , TOMKO PAUL , WASILEWSKI DAVID , RÉ LAUREN A. , HICKEY SADIE , NESS STEVE , RUSSELL STEPHEN D. , LODGE D. JEAN
Published: February 2025

Chromosera cyanophylla was initially described from Europe and, when it was named type of the genus, was thought to be distributed throughout Europe and North America. Molecular phylogenies revealed that Chromosera “cyanophylla” from eastern and western North America represent two separate species and that neither is conspecific with European C. cyanophylla nor with the more recently described C. ambigua. Here we describe a new species from western North America as Chromosera loreleiae. We resurrect the species Peck described from eastern North America as Agaricus lilacifolius by recombining it in Chromosera and describe a new lilac variety lacking yellow pigments. The range of C. cyanophylla s.s. across eastern Eurasia including China is confirmed. Chromosera citrinopallida, described from Washington state, USA, comprised one clade in Washington that we infer is C. citrinopallida s.s. and a separate circumarctic clade distributed in Scandinavia, Iceland and Alaska.
On Asian Clivinini. Revision of the westwoodi-species group of the genus Clivina Latreille, 1802 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Clivinini)
Authors: BALKENOHL MICHAEL
Published: February 2025

The Oriental Clivina westwoodi-species group is revised. In order to maintain stability of the nomenclature, lectotypes have been designated for C. wallacei wallacei Putzeys, C. westwoodi Putzeys, C. monticola Andrewes, and C. subdepressa Kult. Compendious descriptions or formal redescriptions are provided for C. monticola Andrewes, C. quadrataconvexa Balkenohl, C. depressa depressa Kult, C. subdepressa Kult, C. vigil Darlington, C. westwoodi Putzeys, C. wallacei wallacei Putzeys, C. wallacei philippinensis Kult, and C. integra Andrewes. The following 26 new taxa are described: C. collaricrenata sp. nov., C. convexaquadrata sp. nov., C. trapezicollaris sp. nov., C. tuberculifer sp. nov., C. depressa samarensis ssp. nov., C. bilobata sp. nov., C. caputdepressa sp. nov., C. opacielytra sp. nov., C. bauri sp. nov., C. dilutureticulata sp. nov., C. gracilicollis sp. nov., C. depressiforma sp. nov., C. geiseri sp. nov., C. passimpunctata sp. nov., C. hartmanni sp. nov., C. spatulifigura sp. nov., C. caputopaca sp. nov., C. circumreticulata sp. nov., C. circumopaca sp. nov., C. berndjaegeri sp. nov., C. wallacei solomonensis ssp. nov., C. punctaticollis sp. nov., C. paris sp. nov., C. similata sp. nov., and C. neglecta sp. nov. An identification key to the taxa of the C. westwoodi—species group is provided. All taxa are figured including male and female genitalia, if available. The available faunistic information is provided.
Influence of Interannual Leaf Phenology Dynamics on Evapotranspiration Predictions
Authors: Ghaseminejad Ali , Bhat Nagaraj , Raghav Pushpendra , Kumar Mukesh
Published: February 2025

Evapotranspiration (ET) plays a crucial role in determining water and energy partitioning of precipitation between land and atmosphere. A recognized uncertainty in modeling of ET is a proper representation of leaf phenology dynamics. Many existing land surface models often employ a “static scheme” of leaf phenology while performing ET simulations, i.e., they assume identical intra-annual variation in leaf phenology, often quantified as the variation in leaf area index (LAI), from year to year. There is a need to assess the influence of this “static” scheme on ET prediction errors. Furthermore, it is important to determine where improvements in predictions of leaf phenology dynamic models will yield the largest improvements in ET predictions. Utilizing site-specific artificial neural network models for the estimation of ET, this study investigates the influence of static versus dynamic representation of leaf phenology dynamics on ET estimation errors across 30 flux network (FLUXNET) sites. Results indicate that neglecting the interannual LAI dynamics in the ET prediction model led to an additional loss of accuracy of up to 29% (0.18) with the average loss being about 1.7% (0.01) based on the percentage bias (coefficient of determination) metric. Our findings also show that interannual leaf phenology dynamics have a larger impact on ET estimates in warmer and drier regions. Phenological traits such as green-up onset anomaly and maximum annual LAI anomaly are identified as key contributors to model error in static phenology scenarios.
Geopsychiatry from below: Exploratory review and preliminary analysis
Authors: McGeachan Cheryl , Philo Chris
Published: February 2025

Background:

This contribution advances claims about ‘geopsychiatry from below’, attending to how ‘voices’ with lived experience of mental ill-health speak about ‘the geo’ or, more specifically, ‘place and space’.

Aims:

To explore relevant interdisciplinary literature for academic research, scholarship and commentary containing voices of experience speaking about the geo.

Methods:

An ‘indicative’ and ‘facilitative’ review of relevant transdisciplinary literature in arts and humanities and social science, alongside an exploratory workshop where materials are analysed and relationships detected and, provisionally, mapped.

Results:

The literature review discloses no coherent body of studies into the geo from below, but rather a fragmented amalgam of materials—field observations, primary quotes and occasional elaborations—that are rarely the direct focus of inquiry (except in some contributions by academic geographers). Combining the literature review and the workshop analysis, an outline series of prompts are developed for relating ‘Kinds of Places’, their associated ‘Affective Qualities’ and actual spaces and places on the ground.

Conclusions:

This study signals what a geopsychiatry from below might entail, providing important foundations for future transdisciplinary work on ‘the geo’ and mental (ill-)health.
Do States Constrain Non-State Hackers? International Telecommunication Union Elections and Non-State Cyber Aggression
Authors: Joyce Conner B.
Published: February 2025

Do states constrain non-state hackers? This article extends research on the role of transnational cyber aggression in international relations, showing that governments can be incentivized to mitigate non-state hacking. To test this argument, I leverage competitive elections to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which requires states to campaign on their cybersecurity record. By exploiting this variation, I demonstrate that states are responsive to incentives. Candidates reduce non-state cyber aggression to increase their likelihood of election. This finding demonstrates the potential utility of international institutions as a policy solution to transnational hacking, suggesting that structural incentives can induce states to constrain hackers operating in their territory.
EXPRESS: The Collective Identity Effect: How Group-Level Identity Influences Individual Behavior
Authors: Carlson Brad. D. , Todd Donavan D. , Wolter Jeremy S. , Maxham James G. , Xu Pei
Published: February 2025

This study investigates group-level customer–company identification (CCI), extending social identity theory to explore how individual-level identification evolves into strong, collective group dynamics. By analyzing interconnected customer groups, the research demonstrates how these dynamics shape individual behavior and drive organizational outcomes across diverse group types. Drawing on a comprehensive, three-year data set from a national retailer, the study assesses collective CCI within these groups. The findings reveal that group-level CCI significantly influences individual CCI, which in turn affects consumer spending and share of wallet. Furthermore, the research identifies the optimal conditions for maximizing group influence, highlighting that moderately sized (10-20 members), homogenous groups that meet three to ten times per year have the greatest impact. These insights enhance the understanding of CCI by focusing on group-level effects and extending social identity theory to address the conditions under which group-level identification exerts the strongest influence. The study offers practical strategies for managers to build group cohesion, foster loyalty, and improve customer interactions by leveraging group dynamics across organizational, social, and consumer contexts.
Turkish Translation and Psychometric Properties of the Peabody Developmental Motor Scale-2 in 0–24 Months Turkish At-Risk Infants
Authors: Yucekaya Bircan , Comuk Balci Nilay , Kemer Seda Nur , Gercek Hasan , Unuvar Bayram Sonmez , Demirsoz Mert
Published: February 2025

This study was designed to investigate the construct–concurrent validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the Peabody Developmental Motor Scale–2 (PDMS-2) in at-risk infants between 0–24 age in Turkey. In this study, 120 infants (70 males, 50 females) participated in the study (mean corrected age 20.18 ± 22.535 weeks). The PDMS-2 scale consists of two subdimensions, the Fine Motor Quotient (FMQ) and the Gross Motor Quotient (GMQ). Whereas the construct validity was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis, concurrent validity was investigated using the correlation between PDMS-2 and the Alberta Infant Motor Scale and the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination with Spearman’s correlation analysis. The PDMS-2 was applied twice for test–retest reliability. Cronbach’s alpha (α) and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were used for reliability. ICC value was with 95% CI. The overall reliability coefficient of the test was found to be Croncbach’s α = 0.865. TICC values were found (ICC FMQ: 0.998, ICC GMQ: 0.998). Construct validity ([Formula: see text]/SD = 4.396; root mean square error of approximation = 0.021; goodness-of-fit index = 0.951) and concurrent validity ( r = 0.502–0.771; p < .05) were confirmed as acceptable. The PDMS-2 demonstrated good psychometric properties and can be used as a reliable and valid measure to assess neurodevelopmental aspects of Turkish at-risk infants.
Analyzing Demographic Grocery Purchase Patterns in Kenyan Supermarkets Through Unsupervised Learning Techniques
Authors: Momanyi Reinpeter , Cygu Steve Bicko , Kiragga Agnes , Odero Henry Owoko , Ng’etich Maureen , Asiki Gershim , Kavu Tatenda Duncan
Published: February 2025

Kenya is experiencing a significant increase in the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers (bowel, lung, prostate, and uterine). This case is not unique to Kenya but is common in many Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) in Africa. Many NCDs, are linked to diets high in added sugars, sodium, saturated fat, and low in fiber. There is a notable lack of information regarding the demographic differences among supermarket customers and their purchasing habits of healthy versus unhealthy foods in some parts of Africa. This gap in knowledge hinders the ability to connect grocery purchase patterns to NCDs, including obesity. Supermarkets in LMICs offer valuable demographic insights through grocery data. This research utilizes NOVA classification tool, data mining and unsupervised machine learning techniques to analyze grocery purchase patterns in 10 supermarkets across 5 counties in Kenya between 2022 and 2023. The apriori algorithm was used to create association rules and an analysis was done on the association rules to find out the relationship between demography (location, gender, and age) with purchase patterns. Individual data was collected along with transaction data, since the supermarkets logged transactions done by loyalty card customers. The main aim is to provide guidance to policymakers in public health. We collected 3 934 122 unique transactions and each transaction was associated with a customer who was identified with a unique customer ID. Findings from this research demonstrate that 53% of food purchases from these transactions were mainly industrially processed food items and males above the age of 50 years were the main consumers of these food items. The findings lead to the conclusion that this purchase trend has a chance of rising NCDs in older people. Therefore we recommend that policymakers adopt our recommendations to safeguard public health.
High Medication Non-Adherence Rates and its Drivers in the General Population: A Cross-sectional Study Using the OMAS-37 Adherence Survey Tool
Authors: Larsen Rønnaug Eline , Karimi Ala , Krogstad Tonje , Landmark Cecilie Johannessen , Holm Lene Berge
Published: February 2025

Substantial variability in patients’ medication adherence underscores the key significance of pharmacists and other healthcare providers proactively aiding individuals in achieving optimal medication outcomes. Medication-taking behaviours, barriers, and beliefs varies significantly among medication users. It is crucial to ascertain these factors when designing adherence interventions. The OsloMet Adherence-to-medication Survey tool (OMAS-37) is designed to quantify the degree of adherence, and to assess 37 unique causes for non-adherence. The aim of this study was to assess non-adherence among medication users in the general population utilising the OMAS-37 tool. A cross sectional study among medication users in Norway was conducted in 2021. The features of the general population and three patient subgroups—cardiovascular, pain, and mental health disorders—were characterized and compared using Kruskal-Wallis tests. Of the 812 participants, with a median age of 50 (IQR 37-59) and 91% (n = 736) identifying as female, 64% (n = 517) exhibited high non-adherence scores indicating poor medication. Main reasons included forgetfulness (42%, n = 343), perceived improvement in health (40%, n = 326), and fear of adverse drug reactions (39%, n = 320). Statistically significant positive adherence factors encompassed increasing age, higher education, medication decision involvement, and pill organiser usage. The cardiovascular subgroup exhibited significantly better adherence than the pain and mental health disorders subgroups. The total sample and all three subgroups demonstrated some variation in the main causes for non-adherence. This first study employing OMAS-37 reveals high non-adherence levels and varying causes of non-adherence among different patient groups, emphasizing the need for targeted adherence interventions.
Bridge Over Troubled Waters? Certified Recovery Specialist Support and Community Reentry: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kreager Derek A. , Zhang Yiwen , O’Sullivan Deirdre , Zajac Gary , Bucklen Kristofer Bret
Published: February 2025

Peer support services, including certified recovery specialists (CRSs), have been of increasing interest to treatment scholars. However, if and how such services assist justice-involved individuals with substance use disorders during community reentry is less understood. This pilot study provided CRS services to both reentrants and their family members during the transition from close custody confinement to community supervision, a perilous period in which risks of relapse and rearrest peak. Post-intervention interviews with nine of fifteen recruited reentrants and four of five recruited family members in central Pennsylvania were analyzed using iterative thematic coding. Participants perceived CRS services as essential for the reentry and recovery process. Interviewees identified CRS’s lived experience, advocacy, availability, empathy, and family outreach as key mechanisms of recovery success. These results highlight the importance of CRS services for recovery capital during the community reentry transition.
Research on the inconsistency of fuel injection in each hole of multi-hole injector based on the combination of spray momentum and visualization
Authors: He Longguo , Markov Vladimir , Grekhov Leonid , Wang Qi , Zhao Jianhui
Published: February 2025

Targeting the issue of inconsistent fuel injection across multiple holes in high-pressure common rail injectors, this study integrates the spray momentum method with spray visualization techniques to conduct an in-depth experimental investigation into the liquid fuel injection and spray characteristics of each injector hole under varying injection pressures and pulse widths. The research findings indicate that under conditions of low injection pressure and narrow injection pulse width, the average volatility rate of cycle fuel injection quantity [Formula: see text], the difference coefficient of cycle fuel injection quantity [Formula: see text], the difference coefficient of spray penetration [Formula: see text] and the difference coefficient of spray equivalence ratio [Formula: see text] of each injector hole are larger, and the inconsistency of the liquid fuel injection/spray is larger. With the increase in injection pressure or pulse width, fuel injection inconsistency decreases. However, at higher levels of injection pressure or pulse width, further increases have minimal impact on the fuel injection inconsistency across individual injection holes. The primary influence of injection pressure and pulse width on fuel injection inconsistency is through their effect on the movement of the needle valve. Under the conditions of injection pressure or injection pulse width where the needle valve cannot reach the maximum lift, the instability of the needle valve movement causes frequent changes in the flow area between the needle valve and the needle valve seat, resulting in greater injection inconsistency. Under the conditions of the injection pressure or injection pulse width that enables the needle valve to reach the maximum lift, the fuel injection inconsistency is determined by the structural parameters of the injection hole, and the fuel injection inconsistency is small in this state. By selecting an appropriate combination of injection pressure and pulse width, the fuel injection inconsistency of the injector can be minimized.
Finite element analysis of fatigue in the connecting rod of a spark ignition engine based on results of combustion tests
Authors: Savaripour Hamed , Hosseini Seyed Amirali , Farhani Foad , Akbari Mostafa
Published: February 2025

The connecting rod is a crucial component in internal combustion engines (ICE), serving as the link between the piston and the crankshaft and facilitating the conversion of linear motion into rotational motion. This component is subjected to alternating compressive and tensile stresses, as well as buckling stresses, making a comprehensive assessment of fatigue failure imperative. Based on combustion test results, this study presents a finite element analysis of fatigue in the connecting rod of a spark ignition engine utilizing C3D10 material. Numerical analyses that focused on tensile stress and fatigue failure were conducted using ABAQUS and FEMFAT software, with results compared to test data obtained from actual connecting rod samples to validate the findings. The static analysis identified critical points of Von Mises stress under tensile and compressive loads, revealing significant variations in stress concentration locations and geometries. The maximum tensile stress was observed at the piston pin, while the minimum stress occurred at the crankshaft pin. Notably, the most pronounced stress concentrations were located at the small end of the connecting rod, particularly at the interface with the piston pin, where a maximum deformation of 1.35 mm was recorded. These findings highlight the relationship between critical stress areas and actual failure locations in the tested samples, providing valuable insights for improving the design and reliability of connecting rods in ICE applications.
Numerical investigation of the effects of turbulence intensity and turbulence length scale on the flow field of high-pressure turbine blade cascades
Authors: Wu Xuan , Dong Xu , Zhang Jianshe , Zhu Junqiang , Zhang Yanfeng , Lu Xin’gen
Published: February 2025

Functioning as a turbine positioned immediately after the combustion chamber outlet, the high-pressure turbine experiences a profound impact on its internal flow field quality and development from the characteristics of the airflow at the combustion chamber exit. This study aims to explore the influence and mechanisms of turbulent length scales (TLS) on the internal flow field characteristics of the high-pressure turbine stator under varying turbulent features at the combustion chamber exit. Investigating two turbulent intensities (Tu) of 1% and 25%, the study assesses the effects of 17 turbulent length scales on the turbine’s internal flow field characteristics. Several representative scales are selected for analysis to understand their impact on the turbine’s secondary flow patterns and boundary layers in the endwall, along with the mechanisms. The findings reveal a notable influence of the TLS on the endwall secondary flow. At Tu = 1%, TLS has minimal impact on the secondary flow and the suction side boundary layer. However, at Tu = 25%, increasing TLS significantly diminishes the strength of the endwall secondary flow, with a rise in TLS leading to a substantial reduction of up to 89.5% in the peak intensity of secondary flow. Nonetheless, this increase in TLS also accelerates boundary layer thickening, resulting in pronounced profile loss. Furthermore, TLS restricts the migration of secondary vortices towards the blades due to the rapid boundary layer thickening, which becomes particularly significant in profile loss under heightened Tu.
The effect of camera side on the VOR gain in video head impulse test
Authors: Xu Mingwei , Zhang Qin , Wu Qiong , Yao Yuan , Gong Tianyu , Yang Jun , Jin Yulian , Fan Mengyun , Lopez-Escamez Jose A , Zhang Qing
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aims to investigate the effect of camera positioning (left-sided vs right-sided) on the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) gain values of normal subjects during the video head impulse test (vHIT), thereby providing valuable reference data for otology clinical practice.

Methods

Thirty healthy adults (60 ears) were recruited and examined by vHIT for the three pairs of semicircular canals (SCs). During the examination, we meticulously recorded and compared the VOR gain values in the six canal planes—right lateral (RL), left lateral (LL), right anterior-left posterior (RALP), and left anterior-right posterior (LARP)—with the camera positioned on the left side first, followed by repositioning on the right side. We evaluated instantaneous gain (40 ms, 60 ms, and 80 ms), 0–100 ms median gain, and regression gain in 0–100 ms for all SCs.

Results

For horizontal canals, higher VOR gain values were recorded when the camera was positioned on the same side as the canal being tested. The gain value in LARP was higher when the camera was on the left side than on the right side, while the gain value in RALP was higher when the camera was on the right side than on the left side.

Conclusion

This study underscores the importance of camera positioning on VOR gain values for both lateral and vertical canals during vHIT. To mitigate the effects of these variables, standardization of operational procedures and equipment settings is crucial.
Navigating the Psychosocial Challenges and Coping Mechanisms of Parents Raising Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder in Bangladesh
Authors: Karim Md. Zawadul , Al-Mamun Md. , Eva Maliha Azad , Ali Md. Hazrat , Kalam Abul
Published: February 2025

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by persistent difficulties in interpersonal interaction and socialization across many contexts, accompanied by restricted and recurrent patterns of behaviors, interests, or activities. This narrative review explores the psychosocial challenges faced by parents of children with ASD in Bangladesh and the coping strategies they use to manage these challenges. A comprehensive search of PubMed, PsycINFO, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases was conducted, yielding 75 relevant studies. We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist to guide us as we extracted and tallied the data. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15 studies were selected for analysis. Findings reveal that Bangladeshi parents experience significant social stigmatization, exclusion, religious misconceptions, and negligence in healthcare settings. Many parents report being marginalized within their families and communities, leading to high levels of psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Mothers, in particular, are more vulnerable to these challenges, reporting severe levels of stress and depression due to societal pressures. Parents also struggle with a lack of adequate support services and professional guidance, especially in rural areas. Despite these difficulties, parents employ various coping strategies, such as building peer support networks, improving their knowledge of ASD, practicing religious spirituality, and using problem-focused approaches. The study underscores the need for improved mental health services, public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma, and policy initiatives to provide better support to parents of children with ASD. These measures are essential to alleviate the psychological and social burdens faced by families, particularly parents, in Bangladesh.
Numerical derivation of homogenised constitutive relation for masonry wall made of mortar-less interlocking bricks
Authors: Shi Tingwei , Zhang Xihong , Hao Hong , Xie Guanyu
Published: February 2025

To improve the modelling and the computation efficiency, homogenisation techniques have been applied to conventional masonry structures composed of brick units and mortar. However, for dry-stacking interlocking brick structure, which is gaining growing attention due to its advantages, no derivation of its homogenisation mechanical properties is yet available, thus the design analysis of interlocking brick structure is still complex. In this paper, a representative volume element (RVE) is extracted from interlocking brick walls on the basis of periodic construction patterns. Detailed numerical modelling of the RVE and simulations are carried out considering the nonlinear material properties and different stress states. The equivalent material properties of the RVE are derived from the numerical simulation results. Compressive and tensile damage scalars according to the theory of continuum damage mechanics are used to analyse the hardening behaviour, the softening behaviour, and the failure of the RVE. To verify the obtained equivalent material properties, interlocking brick walls modelled with the RVE element and the homogenised material properties subjected to the uniaxial compressive loading and the combined compression-shear loading are analysed. The results are compared with those obtained from the detailed modelling of the interlocking brick wall. The accuracy and the efficiency of using the derived equivalent material properties in modelling the interlocking brick wall are demonstrated.
A higher vertebrobasilar pulsatility index is associated with lower parietal perfusion in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Lin Shu-Wen , Hsu Yen-Hsuan , Yang Jir-Jei , Tu Min-Chien
Published: February 2025

Background

While cerebrovascular hemodynamics exhibits critical interplay with the pathogenesis of dementia, limited articles have examined the impact of vertebrobasilar (VB) hemodynamics on cerebral blood flow (CBF), and to what extent it varies by dementia subtypes.

Objective

To explore the associations between VB hemodynamics and CBF by dementia subtypes.

Methods

This research recruited a total of 120 dementia patients [43 subcortical ischemic vascular dementia (SIVD); 59 Alzheimer's disease (AD); 18 mixed dementia] and 40 older adults with normal cognition and compared their transcranial doppler (TCD) flow parameters and arterial spin labeling-measured CBF. Using the partial correlation analysis, the associations between TCD parameters and CBF values were explored among the defined subgroups.

Results

A higher VB pulsatility index (PI) was related to lower parietal CBF and lower VB end-diastolic velocity (EDV). Moreover, the significance of flow parameters in the basilar artery (BA) to parietal CBF was identified: peak-systolic velocity (PSV) unanimously showed positive correlations among all subgroups except SIVD, and both PSV and EDV showed positive correlations in AD. Of note, there were more noticeable “BA flow-frontoparietal CBF” associations among the high than low VB PI group, and AD than SIVD group.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that VB-resistance-related parietal vulnerability and topological CBF associations vary by dementia subtypes. Given VB hemodynamics-CBF relationships, the current research extends our understanding of the vasocognopathic effects among dementia patients.