bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wavy mathematical modeling of dynamically reactive shear thinning materials under the influence of gravity and wavy structures amplitude
Authors: Rahman Atta Ur , Ahmad Latif
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Resultant leading equations are formed with non-linear partial differential equations by adopting a low Reynolds theory approximation. For a better and easier understanding of the role of physical features of the main problem, the equations are reduced to non-dimensional ordinary differential equations by incorporating the locally similar and non-similar dimensionless variables. In light of practical importance, all the significant findings are approximated by solving the equations with the assistance of a modified bvp4c built-in package. The effective speed, temperature and volume fraction of the same materials are displayed to address the behaviors of different controlling influences.

Design/methodology/approach

This work is inaugurated to investigate thermal cycling, thermal striping and thermal stratification, which cause thermally induced damage during the wavy confined flow domains. Such physical constraints are imposed on the wavy surface while considering the wavy dynamics of shear thinning materials. The impact of gravity is assumed on the vertical wavy surface, which is observed as the main source for the wavy flow occurrence. The surface’s amplitude plays a critical role in generating a high temperature difference. The same phenomenon is further extended with the applications of thermal radiation, mixed convection and dynamical homogeneous/heterogeneous reactions.

Findings

For instance, the higher stratification factor causes a reduction in the liquid wavy speed and temperature, and the rising chemically reactive rate factor declines the volume fraction during the typical wavy motion of the materials. Moreover, the larger amplitude and mixed convective factor reduced and uplifted the speed of the materials, respectively. The surface resistive forces are monitored with the graphical visualization of local similar skin friction and are determined larger by varying the Weissenberg and mixed convective factors. The affective liquid speed, temperature and volume fraction are plotted to address the behaviors of different controlling factors. These impacts are listed, i.e. with higher stratification factors, a reduction is noticed in the liquid velocity and temperature. On the other hand, an opposite depict is noticed for higher heat generation factors. The reduction in volume fraction is reported with variation in the reaction factor and Schmidt number.

Originality/value

After carefully assessing the previously referenced work, it is evident that the literature has yet to incorporate thermally stratified Williamson fluid. Meanwhile, the motion of the materials is noticed due to the gravitationally affected wavy surface. Such physical phenomenon is further approximated by testing a dynamical reaction during its motion. An effective presentation of all the outcomes is portrayed via graphs and approximated numerical results.
Bridging the gap: a framework for monetizing BIM by integrating industry insights for informed decision-making
Authors: Gharaibeh Lina , Lantz Björn , Eriksson Kristina Maria
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study addresses the critical imperative of quantifying building information modeling (bimalliance) benefits by augmenting existing methodologies, with a focus on monetization. Engaging industry practitioners, the research develops a comprehensive framework through an exhaustive literature review and a survey in the Swedish construction industry, incorporating insights from 128 respondents.

Design/methodology/approach

The framework, validated by industry experts, systematically assesses tangible BIM benefits against associated costs. It introduces a novel method in construction, addressing the lack of a unified approach. The resulting framework facilitates nuanced feasibility determinations by systematically evaluating BIM benefits against costs.

Findings

Despite its acknowledged limitations, the framework effectively captures a comprehensive range of costs and benefits, providing a more accurate and detailed estimation of BIM’s impact on project outcomes.

Practical implications

With practical implications, the framework enhances BIM understanding and application, contributing to effective project management throughout the construction supply chain lifecycle. Moreover, it aims to improve efficacy within the architecture, engineering, construction and operations industry.

Originality/value

The study empowers organizations and decision-makers with a bespoke tool for evaluating BIM feasibility, contributing to decision-making through a clarified numerical representation.
Debate: Where to next for universal school‐based mental health interventions? Addressing the mental health crisis among young people in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Coetzee Bronwyne , Loades Maria
Published: December 2024

In their paper, Birrell et al. (Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 2025) are rightly concerned about the future of universal school‐based mental health interventions. They highlight the successes and failings of these interventions and demonstrate that there is still much to learn about their potential in preventing or mitigating the onset of common mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, trauma and substance use. But encouragingly, and thanks in part to the potential these interventions hold for addressing the mental health gap in low and middle‐income countries (LMIC), the authors advise that we as researchers need to take a step back in order to take a better step forward. They suggest that instead of abandoning ship altogether, we should critically examine the shortcomings of these interventions in their current format and work more closely with young people themselves to design and deliver interventions, which have long‐term benefits for their communities. In this paper, we want to emphasise the urgency with which these interventions, developed in this way, are needed in LMIC. We emphasise the need to co‐develop, adapt, test and evaluate school‐based interventions, and the potential they hold for reducing the burden of mental health care in resource‐constrained settings.
Debate: Where to next for universal school‐based mental health interventions? Time to move towards more effective alternatives
Authors: Andrews Jack L. , Foulkes Lucy
Published: December 2024

There is an urgent need to improve mental health outcomes among young people. One approach taken to address this problem has been the design and delivery of universal school‐based prevention, based on therapeutic models such as CBT and mindfulness. Such interventions are delivered to groups of young people, irrespective of risk or need. However, in this commentary, we argue that the initial appeal of universal interventions has not been supported by the evidence: universal school‐based prevention is less effective than targeted approaches, often leads to null or unsustained positive effects, has the potential to elicit negative effects and is not well liked by young people themselves. In addition, many young people in each classroom already meet the criteria for a mental disorder, meaning that prevention approaches may not be appropriate or effective for this group. In this commentary, we respond to Birrell et al.'s (2025) paper by arguing that the field should move away from universal prevention and instead invest our limited resources in the refinement and dissemination of interventions with a stronger evidence base, such as one‐to‐one, targeted and indirect approaches.
Japan: Internal migration and population decline
Authors: Fielding Tony
Published: December 2024

Examining the interdependencies between internal migration and national population decline in Japan, this paper begins by analysing the impacts of internal migration on national fertility decline, for example, through the early post‐World War II flows from high‐fertility countrysides to low‐fertility cities. It then focuses on the way in which, in the context of national population decline, internal migration exacerbates the problems facing Japan's rural areas by adding population loss and, in particular, the loss of young adult populations, to the mounting problems of public and private‐sector disinvestment, job losses, ageing (both social and physical) and the abandonment of land use and built form.
The high‐temperature creep behavior transition in stoichiometric nanocrystalline (Pux,U1−x)O2 mixed oxides
Authors: Zhuang Fengnian , Yan Gaosheng , Yu Wenshan , Xu Minglong , Shen Shengping
Published: December 2024

The study of high‐temperature creep properties of (Pu,U)O2 mixed oxides (MOX) ceramics is an increasingly important and attractive issue in the field of nuclear fuels. Using the molecular dynamics method, we study the creep behavior and creep mechanism transition of nanocrystalline (NC) MOX affected by temperature, stress, grain size, and Pu contents. It is found that the creep of NC MOX is dominated by diffusional creep and larger stress can activate the grain boundary sliding. At the Bredig transition temperature of MOX, its anionic sublattice pre‐melts, which increases the creep rate due to intensified ions diffusion. Thus, the increase of temperature and stress leads to a transition in the creep mechanism from Coble creep with grain boundary sliding to Nabarro–Herring creep. Based on the method of analogy, we develop a theoretic model of the cationic vacancy concentration rate for high‐temperature diffusional creep of NC MOX. This model can well predict the cationic vacancy concentration in the secondary creep stage. The findings of this study could not only give us a deep understanding of the creep behaviors of MOX ceramics at higher temperatures, but provide valuable insights in the variations of cationic vacancy concentration during steady‐state creep stage of NC MOX.
Ti3AlC2 single crystal growth via controlling horizontal temperature gradient
Authors: Zhang QingYu , Xiao YuKun , Li Mian , Huang Qing
Published: December 2024

Growth of single‐crystal MAX phases is crucial for studying their intrinsic physical properties. Although Ti3AlC2 is one of the most popular MAX phases for the study of high‐temperature structural materials as well as a precursor for MXene, the growth of Ti3AlC2 single crystals remains a challenge owing to the limited solubility of graphite in the Ti melt via the self‐flux method. In this study, a horizontal temperature gradient was used to resolve the dissolution of graphite in the melt and its diffusion rate. Ti3AlC2 single crystals with an area of 9 mm2 were successfully produced under horizontal temperature gradients. It was tentatively proposed that the crystallinity of Ti3AlC2 single crystals could be reflected by the intensity ratio of the in‐plane and c‐axial phonon vibration modes in the Raman spectra of the MAX phase.
Evaluation of Learning Approaches Among Physiotherapy Students in Haryana: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Pooja  , Gakhar Megha , Verma Bhawna , Jagga Vinay
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Understanding students' learning approach, modifying teaching methods, curriculum and material accordingly is essential to deliver quality education. Knowing more about the learning approaches assists in upgrading the profession's quality for continuous professional development.

Methods

The cross‐sectional study was carried out among physiotherapy students studying in physiotherapy colleges affiliated with the same university. The Approaches and Study Skills Inventory for Students questionnaire was used to evaluate learning approaches in both preclinical and clinical students. Data were analysed using the IBM Statistical Package SPSS 27. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

A total of 250 participants with a mean age of 21.09 + 1.93 years, 129 (51.6%) in the preclinical group and 121 (48.4%) in the clinical group participated in the study. 67 (26.7%) of the students were male, while 183 (72.9%) were females. The vast majority of participants (97.6%) adopt a deep approach to learning, while only a small fraction (2.0%) use a surface approach, with the strategic approach being rarely used (0.4%). No significant difference was observed between the males and females, and students of different colleges under the same university.

Conclusion

The predominant approach is the deep learning approach reflecting active learning. This may indicate that curriculum and strategies of teaching are employed over physiotherapy students to promote quality learning. Also, the teaching preferences varies between two group of physiotherapy students. Thus, this will also assist physiotherapy educators in planning and delivering learning activities according to learners by knowing their preferences.
Association Between Triglyceride‐Glucose Index and Risk of Gallstone Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study of 395 391 Individuals
Authors: Li Hongyu , Jiang Guoheng , Yu Wenqian , Luo Jing , Li Shiyi , Xie Linjun , Bai Xuan , Xu Yiting , Jiang Yi , He Menglin , Zhou Jin , Wang Xin
Published: December 2024

Objective

Gallstone disease (GSD) is one of the widespread gastrointestinal conditions. Triglyceride‐glucose (TyG) index, a convenient surrogate for insulin resistance, may help identify and prevent gallstones. The present study aims to conduct a longitudinal study to evaluate the association between TyG index and the risk of GSD using the UK Biobank cohort.

Method

A total of 395 391 participants in the UK Biobank (median follow‐up of 12.52 years) were included. The association between TyG index and the risk of GSD was assessed through Cox models and the restricted cubic spline model, expressed by hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analysis was employed concerning age, gender, and body mass index (BMI) and also analyzed the mediating role of BMI in the effect of TyG index on incident GSD. Sensitivity analyses were further performed using a competing risks model and excluding participants who developed GSD in the first year of follow‐up to test the stability of the results.

Results

The risk of developing GSD increased in the Quartiles 2, 3, and 4 compared with Quartile 1 of TyG index (adjusted HR [aHR] 1.570 [95%CI 1.303–1.893], 1.577 [1.295–1.920], 1.489 [1.181–1.878], Ptrend < 0.001 across quartiles of TyG index). The aHR for every unit and SD increment in TyG index were 1.282 [1.100–1.494], 1.151 [1.055–1.256]. The results were consistent when participants who developed GSD in the first year of follow‐up were excluded. The restricted cubic spline regression also showed an increased risk of GSD with increasing TyG index.

Conclusions

Increased TyG index is associated with an elevated risk of GSD. The TyG index might be an important indicator for identifying people at high risk of GSD.
Autism Speaks for Whom? Neoliberalism, Nonprofit Infrastructure, and the Economics of Autism Advocacy
Authors: Kizer James Samuel
Published: December 2024

Arguably one of the best current examples of the nonprofit industrial complex in action, Autism Speaks dominates public discourses surrounding autism. Autistic people and their allies have long criticized the organization's harmful ideologies, but comparatively little attention has been given to how Autism Speaks develops its ideologies in the first place. I address this gap in the sociocultural study of autism in the present paper by situating Autism Speaks within neoliberal thought and demonstrating how those logics undergird its nonprofit infrastructure. Drawing upon critical nonprofit studies and Suárez's (2020) model for the drivers and determinants of nonprofit advocacy, I argue that neoliberal notions of medicalization, bodyminds, and labor are inherently intertwined with Autism Speaks' budget, resulting in the organization's narrow framing of autism advocacy and problematic ideology about Autistic people themselves.

A Note on Language

I utilize identify‐first language in this essay (‘Autistic person’ instead of ‘person with autism’) to reflect the growing consensus among Autistic people that doing so is semantically necessary. Autism is not an experience that can be isolated from the person experiencing it, rendering person‐first language problematic because “with autism” is a prepositional phrase that can be removed without changing the sentence meaning. But Autism is the meaning! Being Autistic is simultaneously salient, corporeal, discursive, and analytical; it is intrinsic to the bodyminds who possess it, which also makes it always already political. In a similar vein, I use capital‐A “Autistic” when referencing Autistic people to encapsulate its political significance. See Brown (2011) and “The A Word” (2009).
Paternal incarceration, child care instability, and children's wellbeing
Authors: Turney Kristin , Kaiser Daniela E.
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study examines the relationship between paternal incarceration, child care instability, and children's well‐being.

Background

Despite the established repercussions of paternal incarceration for children and families, little is known about how paternal incarceration is associated with child care arrangements and how unstable child care arrangements moderate the deleterious consequences of paternal incarceration for children's well‐being.

Methods

We use data from the Future of Families and Child Wellbeing Study, a cohort of urban children born around the turn of the 21st century, to examine the relationship between recent first‐time paternal incarceration and child care instability (measured by long‐term instability, multiplicity, and back‐up care arrangements). We also examine how child care instability moderates the relationship between recent first‐time paternal incarceration and children's problem behaviors.

Results

Analyses suggest three main findings. First, paternal incarceration is positively associated with long‐term child care instability, net of prior instability and factors associated with selection into paternal incarceration. Paternal incarceration is not associated with multiplicity or back‐up care. Second, the relationship between paternal incarceration and children's problem behaviors is larger among children with unstable care arrangements than among those with stable care arrangements. Third, children living with their father prior to his incarceration, compared to children not living with their father prior to his incarceration, experience larger consequences of paternal incarceration.

Conclusion

We document the relationship between paternal incarceration and child care instability and how this instability moderates the association between paternal incarceration and children's problem behaviors.
The payroll tax contribution limit and women's labor market outcomes
Authors: Schechtl Manuel , Haupt Andreas
Published: December 2024

Objective

To examine the effect of the male partner's entry into payroll tax‐exempt earnings on the female partner's labor market outcomes.

Background

Employees only pay payroll taxes up to a specific limit, which results in a comparatively greater increase in the take‐home pay of individuals who earn labor incomes above this threshold. We argue that returns from payroll‐exempt labor are gendered: That is, because men are more likely high earners than women, they will more often benefit from the payroll tax ceiling. This increases the labor market returns of men and sets substantial incentives within couples to reduce the paid labor of the secondary earner.

Method

We use panel data from the United States (PSID) to examine changes in women's annual work hours, hourly wages, and earnings over the partner's entry into payroll tax‐exempt labor (treatment) using fixed‐effect models with individual slopes. The models enable us to assess women's labor market outcomes while adjusting for heterogeneous within‐couple earnings differential slopes before treatment in addition to any time‐constant heterogeneity. Our sample contains 7297 women providing 65,811 observations.

Results

Women's earnings on average diminished by 4% after the partner breaks through the payroll tax contribution threshold. This was mostly explained by changes in annual work hours, which on average decreased by 4%. We did not find reduced hourly wages in the short run.

Conclusion

We conclude that payroll exemptions for high earners reinforce gender inequality within upper‐income couples, which is a link hitherto missed in the literature.
ODHEPDC: Optimal Trained Deep Hybrid Ensemble of Classifier for Plant Disease Classification With Improved Deep Fuzzy Clustering
Authors: Mittal Ruchi , Malik Varun , Singla Geetanjali , Kaur Amandeep , Singh Manjinder , Mittal Amit
Published: December 2024

Plant diseases are the major factors that affects the quality production as it affects or interrupts the plant's vital functions. The early detection of crop disease could assist farmers in implementing the right preventative measures at the right moment to eradicate it. The main goal of the ODHEPDC (Optimal Trained Deep Hybrid Ensemble of Classifier for Classification of Plant Disease) model is the classification of diseases leaf images. The primary step is to improve the input image by using the MF model to remove the noise. This is considered as the preprocessing step. Improved fuzzy clustering algorithm, leading to the identification of the regions, ROI as well as non‐ROI. Next to this, the appropriate features are extracted to define the feature set that includes MPPT feature, PHOG feature, and MTP features as well. However, the curse of dimensionality is the greatest crisis in the classification problem, hence, improved feature level fusion is progressed, which is the simple concatenation of the extracted features. In this, the improved calculation of information gain ensures the reduction and fusion of feature set. The fused features are the inputs to ensemble classification model with the classifiers like CNN, RNN, and DBN classifiers, which gives the classified results. To boost up the performance of classification model, the Deep Maxout model in the ensemble is optimally trained by a new Bald Eagle Search Updated Pelican Optimization (BESUPO) Algorithm via optimal weights tuning as the model determines the final classification outcome. The validation results prove the disease classification performance via the given architecture than extant schemes.
Golden parachutes under the threat of accidents
Authors: Possamaï Dylan , Rossato Chiara
Published: December 2024

This paper addresses a continuous‐time contracting model that extends Sannikov's problem. In our model, a principal hires a risk‐averse agent to carry out a project. Specifically, the agent can perform two different tasks, namely to increase the instantaneous growth rate of the project's value, and to reduce the likelihood of accidents occurring. In order to compensate for these costly actions, the principal offers a continuous stream of payments throughout the entire duration of a contract, which concludes at a random time, potentially resulting in a lump‐sum payment. We examine the consequences stemming from the introduction of accidents, modeled by a compound Poisson process that negatively impact the project's value. Furthermore, we investigate whether certain economic scenarii are still characterized by a golden parachute as in Sannikov's model. A golden parachute refers to a situation where the agent stops working and subsequently receives a compensation, which may be either a lump‐sum payment leading to termination of the contract or a continuous stream of payments, thereby corresponding to a pension.
Measure‐valued processes for energy markets
Authors: Cuchiero Christa , Di Persio Luca , Guida Francesco , Svaluto‐Ferro Sara
Published: December 2024

We introduce a framework that allows to employ (non‐negative) measure‐valued processes for energy market modeling, in particular for electricity and gas futures. Interpreting the process' spatial structure as time to maturity, we show how the Heath–Jarrow–Morton approach can be translated to this framework, thus guaranteeing arbitrage free modeling in infinite dimensions, while allowing for the incorporation of important stylized facts, in particular stochastic discontinuities, that is, jumps or spikes at pre‐specified (deterministic) dates. We derive an analog to the HJM‐drift condition and then treat in a Markovian setting existence of non‐negative measure‐valued diffusions that satisfy this condition. To analyze mathematically convenient classes we consider measure‐valued polynomial and affine diffusions, where we can precisely specify the diffusion part in terms of continuous functions satisfying certain admissibility conditions. For calibration purposes these functions can then be parameterized by neural networks yielding measure‐valued analogs of neural SPDEs. By combining Fourier approaches or the moment formula with stochastic gradient descent methods, this then allows for tractable calibration procedures which we also test by way of example on market data.
SAM Syndrome Presenting With Pulmonary Stenosis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Balan Batuhan Kerem , Ersoy‐Evans Sibel , Isıyel Emel , Alehan Dursun
Published: December 2024

Severe dermatitis, multiple allergies, and metabolic wasting (SAM) syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that can arise due to mutations in the desmoglein 1 (DSG1) gene and sometimes in the desmoplakin (DSP) gene and is characterized by an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Severe dermatitis in most cases is treatment resistant and usually starts in the early postnatal period. Herein, we report a 5‐month‐old male with SAM syndrome that had a homozygous missense variant in exon 8 of the DSG1 gene with c.909G>C (p.Trp303Cys) and presented with pulmonary stenosis—a rare associated finding.
A community resilience index for place‐based actionable metrics
Authors: Habets Margot , Cutter Susan L.
Published: December 2024

Community resilience measurement to natural hazards is becoming increasingly relevant due to the growth of federal programs and local and state resilience offices in the United States. This study introduces a methodology to co‐produce an actionable resilience metric to measure locally relevant and modifiable indicators of community resilience for the state of South Carolina. The “actionable” metrics, based on the Baseline Resilience Indicators for Communities (BRIC) index, are calculated at the county and tract scale and then compared to “conventional” versions of BRIC. Actionable BRICs perform better in reliability testing than conventional BRICs. Correlations across the two scales of BRIC construction show a stronger relationship between the actionable BRICs than conventional, though all are highly correlated. When mapped, actionable BRIC shows a shifted region of low resilience in the state when compared to conventional BRIC, suggesting that actionable and conventional BRICs are distinct. Scale differences show dissimilar drivers of resilience, with county‐level resilience driven by community, social, and environmental resilience and tract‐level resilience driven by social and institutional resilience. Actionable tract‐level BRIC appears to be the best representation of modifiable resilience for South Carolina, but it comes with trade‐offs, including calculation complexity and changing geographies over time. Regardless of scale, the resulting actionable indices offer a useful tracking mechanism for the state resilience office and highlight the importance of integrating top‐down and bottom‐up resilience perspectives to consider local drivers of resilience. The resulting methodology can be replicated in other states and localities to produce actionable and locally relevant resilience metrics.
Translating India to India: Travelling translations, Patanjali Ayurveda, and the visual language of spiritual consumerism
Authors: Pande Raksha , Bonnett Alastair
Published: December 2024

This paper addresses the geography of translation by exploring the language of ‘spiritual consumerism’ in India. Drawing on examples from the Indian company Patanjali's ‘saffron capitalism’, we trace the politically, culturally, and religiously charged nature of ‘travelling translation’ and ‘self‐translation’. Our focus is on commercial language that has journeyed and returned ‘back home’, validating notions of Indian uniqueness in the context of globalisation and the rise of Hindu nationalism. This overarching theme is developed by way of three other arguments. First, we show the utility of bringing recent developments in translation studies to bear on geographical debates on globalisation and glocalisation. Second, we offer an expanded view of translation. With their many colours, fonts, and other devices, the Hindi and English texts found on Patanjali's products offer a complex and lively ‘visual language’. Our discussion shows that an understanding of the placing and patterning of this visual language sheds light on the complex character of ‘spiritual consumerism’. Third, in contrast to the emphasis on transgression, novelty, and resistance associated with earlier work on postcolonial translation, we draw out the splicing of nationalism, capitalism, and cosmopolitanism, and illustrate how Patanjali is creating and packaging a language of Hindu/Indian/global branding.
Sex differences in canine anterior chamber dimensions: Potential implications for primary angle‐closure glaucoma
Authors: Kim Donghee , Kwon Hyun , Hwang Jiyi , Jung Ji Seung , Kwon Myeongjee , Yong Jungyeon , Yoon Haerin , Kim Soohyun , Park Kyung‐Mee
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to explore anatomical differences in the aqueous humor (AH) outflow pathway between male and female dogs using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM).

Animals Studied

Clinical data were collected from 30 eyes of 30 dogs (15 males: 10 right eyes, 5 left eyes; and 15 females: 7 right eyes, 8 left eyes) treated at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of Chungbuk National University, South Korea, between August 2018 and February 2024.

Procedure

The study conducted an in‐depth UBM examination, specifically observing peripheral anterior chamber depth (ACD), geometric iridocorneal angle (ICA), and angle‐opening distance (AOD) alongside measurements of ciliary cleft width (CCW), length (CCL), and area (CCA), and assessed the longitudinal fibers of ciliary muscle thickness (Lf‐CMT) and the longitudinal and radial fibers of ciliary muscle thickness (LRf‐CMT) for sex‐based differences.

Results

The study identified a significant sex difference in peripheral ACD, with females displaying shallower depths compared to males, potentially clarifying the higher incidence of glaucoma in female dogs. No significant sex differences were found in ICA, AOD, CC parameters, or ciliary muscle parameters measurements.

Conclusion

This research uncovered that peripheral ACD is significantly shallower in females than in males, potentially indicating a risk factor that could contribute to the development of primary angle‐closure glaucoma.
Estimation and Validation of Knee Joint Kinematic Parameters Using Inertial Measurement Unit Sensors in a Wearable Device
Authors: Verma Dhirendra Kumar , Kumari Poonam , Kanagaraj Subramani
Published: December 2024

In physiotherapy, joint kinematics is conventionally analyzed using the universal mechanical goniometer involving manual measurements and is only possible for static assessments of biomechanical parameters. The aim of the present research is to estimate and validate the knee joint kinematic parameters using the inertial sensor in a wearable device. A video motion analysis study is performed using “Kinovea” software for measurement validation. No statistical difference is observed in hypothesis testing (t-test, p > 0.7). The Pearson correlation coefficient (r2) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values are observed to be 0.99 and >0.99, respectively, for a 95% confidence interval in the inter-rater reliability test. Further, data normality, using the “Kolmogorov-Smirnov” test, and Bland–Altman analysis are performed to validate quantitative agreements. The standard error measurement confirms the reliability between the two systems. The developed device can be used as an alternative to the universal mechanical goniometer to measure joint kinematics in dynamic movements.
Improving Femoral Torsion Evaluation in Infants Through Analysis of Variability and Reliability in Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Imaging Measurements of the Femoral Neck Axis
Authors: Chambers Tamara T. , Melendez Victoria , Anderson Andrew E. , Huayamave Victor A.
Published: December 2024

The femoral neck axis serves as a critical parameter in evaluating hip joint health, particularly in the pediatric population. Commonly used metrics for evaluating femoral torsion, such as the femoral neck-shaft and femoral anteversion angles, rely heavily on precise definitions of the position and orientation of the femoral neck axis. Current measurement methods employing radiographs and performing two-dimensional (2D) measurements on computed tomography (CT) scans are susceptible to errors due to their reliance on reader experience and the inherent limitations in 2D measurements. We hypothesized that utilizing volumetric data would mitigate these errors and enable more accurate and reproducible measurements of the femoral neck axis using the femoral anteversion and femoral neck-shaft angles. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed a historical collection of postmortem infant femoral and pelvic bones (28 hips) aged 0 to 6.5 months, with an average estimated age of 4.68 ± 1.80 months. Our findings revealed an average neck-shaft angle of 128.00 ± 4.92 deg and femoral anteversion angle of 35.56 ± 11.68 deg across all femurs, consistent with literature values. These measurements obtained from volumetric image data were found to be repeatable and reliable compared to conventional methods. Our study suggests that the proposed methodology offers a standardized approach for obtaining repeatable and reproducible measurements, thus potentially enhancing diagnostic accuracy and clinical decision-making in assessing hip developmental conditions in pediatric patients.
Cavitation Performance of a Pump With Independently Rotating Inducer and Impeller in Co-Rotation and Counter-Rotation Modes by Varying Rotor Speeds
Authors: Dehnavi Ehsan , Danlos Amelie , Solis Moises , Kebdani Mohamed , Bakir Farid
Published: December 2024

Centrifugal pumps, consisting of an inducer and impeller, are used in various industries such as marine, aerospace, and nuclear. Typically, inducers and impellers in centrifugal pumps are fixed on the same shaft, having the same rotation direction and speed. Thanks to the use of independent rotation technology for the inducer and impeller, each can be rotated simultaneously at different speeds and in different directions. This article investigates the impact of varying the speed ratio between the inducer and impeller on the cavitation performance of centrifugal pumps equipped with an inducer as an innovative concept of allowing the rotors to rotate independently. Two inducers with identical geometry with opposite rotation directions are used to study the impact of speed in both corotation and counter-rotation modes. The cavitation performance of each mode has been analyzed for three different flow rates at varying inducer speeds. The development and structure of different types of cavitation occurring both in the inducer and in the space between the inducer and the impeller have been analyzed using a high speed camera. The findings indicate that the inducer in counter-rotation mode demonstrates enhanced cavitation performance. Increasing the speed ratio of the inducer relative to the impeller in this mode significantly improves the pump cavitation performance at different flow rates, while in the corotation mode, increasing the speed results in the cavitation performance drop.
Profile and healthcare utilisation patterns of adolescent frequent attenders in Singapore primary care: a retrospective study
Authors: Koh Jeremy Wei Mei , Tan Ngiap Chuan , Choo Jeremy Wei Song , Chen Helen Yu , Koh Yi Ling Eileen , Ang Angelina Su Yin , Marimuttu Vicknesan Jeyan , Wu Ryan Song Lian , Sung Sharon Cohan , Ng Chirk Jenn
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Frequent attenders (FAs) visit healthcare settings at higher rates compared with the general population and use disproportionate amounts of healthcare resources. Frequent attendance (FA) has also been associated with greater morbidity and adverse socioeconomic circumstances. Our study aimed to describe the sociodemographic profile, clinical presentation, and healthcare utilisation patterns of adolescent FAs at polyclinics in Singapore and to determine the factors associated with adolescent FA.

Design

Retrospective electronic database analysis.

Setting

A cluster of eight state-subsidised public primary care clinics (polyclinics).

Participants

Multiethnic Asian adolescents aged 10–19 years who attended the eight polyclinics in 2021. FAs were defined as the top 10% of clinic attendees in terms of annual visit frequency.

Results

In 2021, 34 645 adolescents attended the polyclinics for 75 902 visits. Visits were for acute (52.8%), chronic (26.2%) and preventive (27.7%) care. FAs attended ≥4 visits annually, accounting for 14.4% of adolescents and 42.5% of total attendances. Compared with non-FAs, FAs were older (OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.18, p<0.001), more likely to be of non-Chinese ethnicity, and have received financial aid (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.58 to 1.79, p<0.001). FAs had more underlying psychiatric conditions (p<0.001) but presented less frequently with psychiatric complaints (p<0.001). FAs were more likely to be referred to emergency departments (p<0.001) and psychiatry clinics (p<0.001), to be prescribed potentially addictive medication (p<0.001), and had longer annual medical leave certification (7 days (IQR=4–11) vs 3 days (IQR=1–3, p<0.001)).

Conclusion

Adolescent FA was associated with increasing age, non-Chinese ethnicity and lower socioeconomic status. Despite having more underlying psychiatric conditions, adolescent FAs presented more frequently with acute physical complaints instead of psychiatric symptoms. Adolescent FAs had longer annual medical leave certification and greater healthcare utilisation indicated by more clinic visits and referrals to emergency departments and psychiatry clinics.
Significance of the APPLE score and the monocyte–HDL cholesterol ratio in predicting late recurrence of atrial fibrillation following catheter ablation based on a retrospective study
Authors: Song Wei , Chen Yi , Chen Xue-Hai , Chen Jian-Hua , Xu Zhe , Gong Ke-Zeng , Wang Wei-Wei , Zhang Fei-Long
Published: December 2024

Objective

Collect the characteristics of patients’ baseline data, and explore the predictive factors of late recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) after catheter ablation according to whether late recurrence or not. The purpose of this study was to determine the significance of the APPLE score in conjunction with the monocyte–high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (MHR) in predicting the late recurrence of AF after catheter ablation in patients with AF.

Methods

Baseline data were collected to explore the predictors of late recurrence after AF catheter ablation. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under the curve (AUC) were used to compare the predictive value of MHR, the APPLE score and their combined variables in the late recurrence of AF after catheter ablation.

Results

This is a retrospective study. A total of 438 patients were followed-up, including 303 cases of paroxysmal AF, 135 cases of persistent AF (28 cases of long-term persistent AF) and 115 cases of late recurrence. The Cox multivariate regression analysis revealed that MHR, the APPLE score and early recurrence were independent predictors of the late recurrence of AF. The AUC of the combined variables for predicting late recurrence after catheter ablation in patients with AF was higher than that of MHR and the APPLE score (p<0.05). The ROC AUC of the combined variables in predicting the late recurrence of AF after catheter ablation was 0.733 (p<0.001, 95% CI: 0.660 to 0.806), and the best cut-off point was 0.2711 (sensitivity: 69.20%, specificity: 68.00%).

Conclusions

Early recurrence, MHR and the APPLE score are independent risk factors for the late recurrence of AF after catheter ablation. The combination of the APPLE score with MHR improved the value of predicting the late recurrence of AF after catheter ablation. The combined variables were a predictor of an increased late recurrence rate after catheter ablation for AF when the value was greater than 0.2711.
Non-uptake of dual protective polio vaccine and its determinants among children in Ethiopia using Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey 2019: a mixed-effect model
Authors: Agimas Muluken Chanie , Belew Aysheshim Kassahun , Muhammad Esmael Ali , Tesfie Tigabu Kidie , Bizuayehu Molla Azmeraw , Abate Biruk Beletew , Kassaw Amare
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The polio vaccine is the live-attenuated antigen that prevents poliomyelitis. According to a report by the WHO, about 1 million less than 5-year-old children missed the polio vaccination from 2018 to 2021. Even though Ethiopia is the most prioritised country for polio eradication, there is not enough evidence about the combined oral and inactivated vaccine in Ethiopia.

Objective

To assess the non-uptake of the dual protective polio vaccine and its determinants among children in Ethiopia using the Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey (EDHS) 2019.

Methods

The secondary data analysis of a community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using EDHS 2019 data among 3094 participants. Mixed-effects binary logistic regression was used for descriptive analysis and identifying the predictors using a p value of <0.05. Intraclass correlation was used to assess the clustering effect.

Results

The prevalence of non-uptake of the dual protective polio vaccine in Ethiopia was 44% (95% CI 42.2% to 45.8%). Predictors like women with low proportions of community media exposure (adjusted OR (AOR)=2.3, 95% CI 1.8 to 2.8) and no history of antenatal care visits (AOR=2.3, 95% CI 3.89 to 6.35) were significantly associated with non-uptake of the dual protective polio vaccine.

Conclusion

The burden of non-uptake of the dual protective polio vaccine in Ethiopia was still high. Low community media exposure and no antenatal care utilisation were the predictors of non-uptake of the dual protective polio vaccine. We recommend improving media access and antenatal care services to expand polio vaccination.
Artificial intelligence (AI) for paediatric fracture detection: a multireader multicase (MRMC) study protocol
Authors: Shelmerdine Susan C , Pauling Cato , Allan Emma , Langan Dean , Ashworth Emily , Yung Ka-Wai , Barber Joy , Haque Saira , Rosewarne David , Woznitza Nick , Ather Sarim , Novak Alex , Theivendran Kanthan , Arthurs Owen J
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Paediatric fractures are common but can be easily missed on radiography leading to potentially serious implications including long-term pain, disability and missed opportunities for safeguarding in cases of inflicted injury. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist fracture detection in adult patients exist, although their efficacy in children is less well known. This study aims to evaluate whether a commercially available AI tool (certified for paediatric use) improves healthcare professionals (HCPs) detection of fractures, and how this may impact patient care in a retrospective simulated study design.

Methods and analysis

Using a multicentric dataset of 500 paediatric radiographs across four body parts, the diagnostic performance of HCPs will be evaluated across two stages—first without, followed by with the assistance of an AI tool (BoneView, Gleamer) after an interval 4-week washout period. The dataset will contain a mixture of normal and abnormal cases. HCPs will be recruited across radiology, orthopaedics and emergency medicine. We will aim for 40 readers, with ~14 in each subspecialty, half being experienced consultants. For each radiograph HCPs will evaluate presence of a fracture, their confidence level and a suitable simulated management plan. Diagnostic accuracy will be judged against a consensus interpretation by an expert panel of two paediatric radiologists (ground truth). Multilevel logistic modelling techniques will analyse and report diagnostic accuracy outcome measures for fracture detection. Descriptive statistics will evaluate changes in simulated patient management.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was granted approval by National Health Service Health Research Authority and Health and Care Research Wales (REC Reference: 22/PR/0334). IRAS Project ID is 274 278. Funding has been provided by the National Institute for Heath and Care Research (NIHR) (Grant ID: NIHR-301322). Findings from this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conferences and non-peer-reviewed media and social media outlets.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN12921105.
Explaining reproductive health inequalities among people with intellectual disabilities: a meta-narrative review protocol
Authors: Kaley Alexandra , Eastham Rachael , McMahon Martin Joseph , Merrett Nicola
Published: December 2024

Introduction

People with intellectual disabilities experience health inequalities at a greater level than their non-disabled peers. Notably, while general health status is starting to receive some attention, the reproductive health and rights of people with intellectual disabilities continue to be understudied from a policy and research perspective. The objective of this review is to elucidate the complex interplay between individual, social and structural factors that influence reproductive health outcomes for this population. The findings will be used to develop a theoretical framework to explain how and why reproductive health inequalities persist for people with intellectual disabilities and to identify gaps in the knowledge base to inform future research on this topic.

Methods and analysis

A six-stage meta-narrative review will be undertaken to synthesise the available evidence that seeks to explain the reproductive health inequalities experienced by people with intellectual disabilities and the factors contributing to these inequalities. The protocol for this review was developed in accordance with the Realist And MEta-narrative Evidence Syntheses: Evolving Standards publication standards, and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol guideline is completed to ensure transparency.

Ethics and dissemination

This meta-narrative review protocol does not require formal ethics review because it will be based on published studies. The findings from this review will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal and presented at national and international conferences. We will also produce our findings in a range of accessible and easy-to-read formats.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024495199.