bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heat transfer and thermal–hydraulic evaluations of cross-circular grooved rectangular flow ducts depending on rectangular baffle design parameters
Authors: Karabulut Koray
Published: March 2024

The cross-grooved rectangular flow ducts are largely used for plate heat exchangers. In this work, so as to better the heat transfer in cross-grooved rectangular ducts with circular grooves, rectangular baffles were located in the flow duct, and the influences of the rectangular baffle angles and heights on the features of heat transfer were numerically performed in detail. Equations of Navier–Stokes and energy were resolved by employing a program of Ansys-Fluent with k–ε turbulence model as steady and three-dimensional. Air employed as working fluid has a temperature of inlet 293 K while the circular groove’s wall temperature is 373 K. Rectangular baffles have various angles of 30°, 60°, and 90°, and heights of 0.25 H, 0.5 H, and 0.75 H. The mean Nusselt number (Num), temperature, turbulence kinetic energy (TKE), pressure, and PEC (Performance Evaluation Criterion) number of the flow duct with rectangular baffles were evaluated by comparing it with the cross-circular grooved channel non-baffle. Besides, the contours of velocity, turbulence kinetic energy, temperature, and velocity vector were exhibited for the cross-circular grooved rectangular channels with different baffle angles and height arrangements. Results were matched with experimental and numerical outcomes of the study found in the literature, and it was observed that they were fairly coherent. For Re = 6000, the number of Num increases by 180.48% in the duct with a 90° angle and 0.75 H baffle height compared to the duct non-baffle, and for 30° baffle angle, the PEC value at 0.25 H baffle height is 66.88% higher than that in the 0.5 H.

Graphical Abstract

Compared to the temperature contour distribution in the non-baffle state, the temperature gradient increases due to the turbulence intensity created by the inserting of baffles to the circular grooved ducts. When the baffle height is increased to 0.75 H, the increase in fluid temperatures toward the end of the ducts is the clearest evidence of this situation. Thus, while cooling increases in circular grooves, the temperature gradient in the duct above the circular grooved section gets better, especially in the case of 0.75 H height and 90° baffle angle. Temperature distribution contours of the ducts for non-baffle and with baffle of 90° angle and 0.75 H height for Re = 6000.
Introductory quantum information science coursework at US institutions: content coverage
Authors: Meyer Josephine C. , Passante Gina , Pollock Steven J. , Wilcox Bethany R.
Published: March 2024

Despite rapid growth of quantum information science (QIS) workforce development initiatives, perceived lack of agreement among faculty on core content has made prior research-based curriculum and assessment development initiatives difficult to scale. To identify areas of consensus on content coverage, we report findings from a survey of N=63 instructors teaching introductory QIS courses at US institutions of higher learning. We identify a subset of content items common across a large fraction (≥ 80%) of introductory QIS courses that are potentially amenable to research-based curriculum development, with an emphasis on foundational skills in mathematics, physics, and engineering. As a further guide for curriculum development, we also examine differences in content coverage by level (undergraduate/graduate) and discipline. Finally, we briefly discuss the implications of our findings for the development of a research-based QIS assessment at the postsecondary level.
Interpretable Latent Space for Meteorological Out-of-Distribution Detection via Weak Supervision
Authors: Das Suman , Yuhas Michael , Koh Rachel , Easwaran Arvind
Published: March 2024

Deep neural networks (DNNs) are effective tools for learning-enabled cyber-physical systems (CPSs) that handle high-dimensional image data. However, DNNs may make incorrect decisions when presented with inputs outside the distribution of their training data. These inputs can compromise the safety of CPSs. So, it becomes crucial to detect inputs as out-of-distribution (OOD) and interpret the reasons for their classification as OOD. In this study, we propose an interpretable learning method to detect OOD caused by meteorological features like darkness, lightness, and rain.

To achieve this, we employ a variational autoencoder (VAE) to map high-dimensional image data to a lower-dimensional latent space. We then focus on a specific latent dimension and encourage it to classify different intensities of a particular meteorological feature in a monotonically increasing manner. This is accomplished by incorporating two additional terms into the VAE’s loss function: a classification loss and a positional loss. During training, we optimize the utilization of label information for classification. Remarkably, our results demonstrate that using only 25% of the training data labels is sufficient to train a single pre-selected latent dimension to classify different intensities of a specific meteorological feature. We evaluate the proposed method on two distinct datasets, CARLA and Duckietown, employing two different rain-generation methods. We show that our approach outperforms existing approaches by at least 15 in the
F1 score
and
precision
when trained and tested on CARLA dataset.
Effects of Complex Fertilizers on the Properties of Grey Forest Heavy Loamy Soil
Authors: Gaidar Sergey , Kazak Anastasia , Barchukova Alina , Kozlov Andrey
Published: March 2024

The study’s main aim was to evaluate the effects of complex mineral fertilizers on the complex properties of heavy loam soils in the grey forests of Russia in terms of applying individual soil nutrition components from experiments with fodder beets. This study employed a rigorous and systematic approach to accomplish the defined goal. Specifically, the research was conducted within a seven-field crop rotation system, with fodder beets serving as the primary experimental crop. In addition, a model experiment resembling a vegetation trial was undertaken, incorporating seven distinct schemes involving various types of fertilizers. This design facilitated the evaluation of the effectiveness of each fertilizer type. The study results demonstrate that complex fertilizers impact the soil’s chemical and biophysical parameters. Soil acidity decreases through the use of complex, high-nitrogen fertilizers. Major chemical nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) in plant biomass and soil also have a high degree of transition. It is explained by the effects of combining elements on the destruction intensity of the crystalline lattice in the basic structures of potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen. There is also evidence that complex fertilizers can improve humus quality and replenish its reserves. All the aforementioned impacts of complex fertilizers on the crop contribute to the high productivity and yield of forage beet. The results of the study may help optimize the fertilization process, improve the quality and quantity of agricultural products, as well as increase soil fertility, and reduce the negative impact of agrochemicals on the environment.
A Novel Method for Identifying Resonance Frequency Band in Weak Bearing Fault Diagnosis of Electric Driving System
Authors: Yue Cong , Zhu Yu , Cheng Ping , Wang Bei , Wang Kai
Published: March 2024

Because of the uncertainty of the structure and environment of the electric driving system (EDS), the fault signature of the rotating mechanism is complicated. A novel method based on Hilbert transform with modified fast kurtogram (HTMFK), which is used for identifying the bearing faults in the EDS, is proposed. The modified principle and algorithm flow of the proposed method are derived. A high pass filter based on the frequency band identified by HTMFK is constructed and applied to fault diagnosis. Simulation signals demonstrate the ability of demodulating signals and identifying the fault resonance band. The bearing fault bench experiment of EDS is carried out in a semianechoic chamber. The corresponding fault tests are conducted according to different operating conditions. The applicability of HTMFK is verified by comparing the square envelope spectrums. Compared with other methods, the proposed method identifies the fault resonance frequency band more effectively and expands the application range of bearing fault diagnosis in EDS.
Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Hospital-Related Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ng Michelle , Carrieri Patrizia Maria , Awendila Lindila , Socías Maria Eugenia , Knight Rod , Ti Lianping
Published: March 2024

Background. People living with hepatitis C infection (HCV) have a significant impact on the global healthcare system, with high rates of inpatient service use. Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) have the potential to alleviate this burden; however, the evidence on the impact of HCV infection and hospital outcomes is undetermined. This systematic review aims to assess this research gap, including how DAAs may modify the relationship between HCV infection and hospital-related outcomes. Methods. We searched five databases up to August 2022 to identify relevant studies evaluating the impact of HCV infection on hospital-related outcomes. We created an electronic database of potentially eligible articles, removed duplicates, and then independently screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles. Results. A total of 57 studies were included. Analysis of the included studies found an association between HCV infection and increased number of hospitalizations, length of stay, and readmissions. There was less consistent evidence of a relationship between HCV and in-hospital mortality. Only four studies examined the impact of DAAs, which showed that DAAs were associated with a reduction in hospitalizations and mortality. In the 14 studies available among people living with HIV, HCV coinfection similarly increased hospitalization, but there was less evidence for the other hospital-related outcomes. Conclusions. There is good to high-quality evidence that HCV negatively impacts hospital-related outcomes, primarily through increased hospitalizations, length of stay, and readmissions. Given the paucity of studies on the effect of DAAs on hospital outcomes, future research is needed to understand their impact on hospital-related outcomes.
Exploring Factors Associated with Quality of Life in Caregivers of Children and Adolescents with Sickle Cell Disease and HIV: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Ekoube Charlotte Eposse , Bitsie Dora Mbonjo , Njiengwe Erero F. , Ma Linwa Edgar Mandeng , Eyoum Christian , Betoko Ritha Mbono , Massako Jeannette Disso , Nsang Emmanuel Heles , Soumaiyatou Abba , Kuate Callixte Tegueu
Published: March 2024

Introduction. Paediatric HIV and sickle cell disease (SCD) are two stigmatising and potentially fatal illnesses that place a significant burden on families. HIV patients benefit from a longstanding free-service national programme in Cameroon, and this could considerably alleviate burden of care on HIV caregivers, possibly leading to better quality of life (QoL) in HIV caregivers compared to SCD caregivers. Our study aimed to compare the QoL between caregivers of children and adolescents with SCD and HIV and explore factors associated with this QoL in Cameroon. Methods and Materials. We conducted a hospital-based cross-sectional analytic study at Douala Laquintinie Hospital from February to May 2023. A questionnaire was administered to caregivers of paediatric patients (≤18 years) with SCD and HIV. The Pediatrics Quality of Life-Family Impact Module (PedsQL FIM), the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), and the 9-item Patient Health Question (PHQ-9) tools were used as measures of quality of life, anxiety, and depression, respectively. Multivariable linear regression was used to determine factors associated with quality of life. A significance level was set at p<0.05. Results. We included 199 caregivers: SCD = 104 and HIV = 95. The mean age of caregivers in our sample was 40.47 ± 10.18 years. Caregivers of paediatric patients with HIV had a better mean quality of life than SCD (93.01 ± 7.35SD versus 64.86 ± 9.20SD, p<0.001). PHQ-9 score (B = −1.52, 95% CI = [-2.08; −0.96], p=<0.001), GAD-7 score (B = −1.46, 95% CI = [-2.09; −0.83], p=<0.001), spending less than 75 000 FCFA on medications monthly (B = 12.13, 95% CI = [5.73; 18.94], p=<0.001), and being a SCD caregiver (B = −11.62, 95% CI = [-18.46; −4.78], p=0.001) were factors independently associated with quality of life on multivariable analysis. Conclusion. Quality of life is lower in caregivers of children and adolescents with SCD than with HIV. Preventing depression and anxiety as well as advocating for the subsidization of medications through a national SCD program may improve quality of life in SCD caregivers.
β‐Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Dynamics in Early Gestational Events: A Practical and Updated Reappraisal
Authors: Larraín Demetrio , Caradeux Javier
Published: March 2024

In the last decade, the widespread use of transvaginal ultrasound and the availability of highly specific serum assays of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) have become mainstays in the evaluation of early pregnancy. These tests have revolutionized the management of pregnancies of unknown location and markedly reduced the morbidity and mortality associated with the misdiagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. However, despite several advances, their misuse and misinterpretations are still common, leading to an increased use of healthcare resources, patient misinformation, and anxiety. This narrative review aims to succinctly summarize the β‐hCG dynamics in early gestation and provide general gynecologists a practical approach to patients with first‐trimester symptomatic pregnancy.
Supplementary Figure 2 from CALGB 80802 (Alliance): Impact of Sorafenib with and without Doxorubicin on Hepatitis C Infection in Patients with Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Abou-Alfa Ghassan K. , Geyer Susan M. , Nixon Andrew B. , Innocenti Federico , Shi Qian , Kumthekar Priya , Jacobson Sawyer , El Dika Imane , Yaqubie Amin , Lopez Juan , Huang Binhui , Tang Yi-Wei , Wen Yujia , Schwartz Lawrence H. , El-Khoueiry Anthony B. , Knox Jennifer J. , Rajdev Lakshmi , Bertagnolli Monica M. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , O'Reilly Eileen M. , Venook Alan P.
Published: March 2024

Supplementary Figure 2. Tile plots of HCV viral ჼ00ter levels over ჼ00me for paჼ00ents treated with Doxorubicin and Sorafenib (A) or Sorafenib alone (B). For sample collected at the progression ჼ00me point, the ჼ00ming of progression is reflected as text in that ჼ00le.
FIGURE 2 from CALGB 80802 (Alliance): Impact of Sorafenib with and without Doxorubicin on Hepatitis C Infection in Patients with Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Abou-Alfa Ghassan K. , Geyer Susan M. , Nixon Andrew B. , Innocenti Federico , Shi Qian , Kumthekar Priya , Jacobson Sawyer , El Dika Imane , Yaqubie Amin , Lopez Juan , Huang Binhui , Tang Yi-Wei , Wen Yujia , Schwartz Lawrence H. , El-Khoueiry Anthony B. , Knox Jennifer J. , Rajdev Lakshmi , Bertagnolli Monica M. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , O'Reilly Eileen M. , Venook Alan P.
Published: March 2024

Kaplan–Meier curves for the PFS distributions for patients who had detectable (HCV-d) versus undetectable (HCV-UN) HCV titer levels on their first evaluated sample. The HR based on a corresponding Cox proportional hazards model was 3.51 for those with HCV-UN (vs. HCV-d), 95% CI: 1.58–7.78 (P = 0.002).
Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada-Like Disease with Loss of Visual Acuity due to Sunitinib Treatment Restored after Switch in Therapy: A Case Report
Authors: van Olden Mechteld C.S. , de Jong-Hesse Yvonne , Vollebregt Tessa , de Groot Stefanie , Luelmo Saskia A.C. , Marinkovic Marina
Published: March 2024

Introduction: In this paper, we report a case of visual impairment during treatment with sunitinib in a patient with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Methods: Retrospective chart review was used. Case Presentation: We describe a 74-year-old male with metastatic renal cell carcinoma who was treated with sunitinib and experienced severe loss of visual acuity due to serous retinal detachment and intraretinal fluid. Upon discontinuation of sunitinib, the retinal fluid resolved, and visual acuity was restored. Conclusion: Serous retinal detachment has been described as a side effect of sunitinib use. Discontinuing sunitinib promptly resolved the subretinal fluid collections and restored vision.
Gastric Mixed Neuroendocrine-Non-Neuroendocrine Neoplasm: An Unusual Tumor and Its Presentation in a Young Adult
Authors: Carvalho Tânia , Coutada Andreia , Jácome Manuel , Fernandes Dália
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Gastric cancer is the fourth most common cause of cancer death, with more than 90% of the cases being adenocarcinomas. Among the diverse subtypes, mixed neuroendocrine-non-neuroendocrine neoplasm (MiNEN) is one of the rarest types. Gastric cancer can manifest with significant bleeding in up to 5% of patients. Case Presentation: The authors present a case of a healthy 26-year-old male who experienced two episodes of major upper gastrointestinal bleeding that were resolved with endoscopic treatment. During the second endoscopy, a 15-mm nodular subepithelial lesion was identified at the gastroesophageal junction. Endoscopic ultrasound revealed a homogeneous and hypoechoic lesion with well-defined limits in the deep mucosa. Histological examination of the biopsies showed an adenocarcinoma. The patient later underwent a distal esophagectomy and a total gastrectomy, followed by chemotherapy. Histological examination of the surgical specimen showed a mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma composed of an adenocarcinoma with tubular/glandular pattern and signet ring cells and a large cell-type neuroendocrine carcinoma. The neoplasia had infiltrated the outer muscular layers of the stomach and had disseminated to 3 regional lymph nodes, leading to its classification as stage IIb. Two years following the treatment, there is no evidence of recurrence. All genetic tests applied were negative. Discussion: A MiNEN occurs when both neuroendocrine and non-neuroendocrine components represent at least 30% of the lesion. Due to its rarity, epidemiology and standard treatment are not well established because most data published are from case reports. In this context, we present a compelling case study, highlighting the patient’s young age, the rarity of this specific cancer, and its uncommon presentation.
Primary Splenic Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: A Case Report and Literature Review of a Rare Condition
Authors: Seijari Mohammed Najdat , Kaspo Samer , Alshurafa Awni , Elfaieg Amro , Elkourashy Sarah A.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Primary splenic lymphoma is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder that involves the spleen, exhibits diverse clinical presentations, and lacks a clear consensus in terms of management strategies. Case Presentation: We present the case of a 52-year-old patient with a complex medical history marked by multiple chronic medical conditions. The patient was diagnosed with primary splenic lymphoma, specifically the diffuse large B-cell subtype. Treatment for our patient involved a shortened course of chemotherapy (4 cycles of rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone [R-CHOP] followed by two doses of rituximab) due to issues related to compliance and treatment-related complications. This was followed by consolidative radiotherapy without resorting to splenectomy. Conclusion: Remarkably, despite using a shortened course of R-CHOP, the patient achieved complete resolution, and a positron emission tomography scan conducted at the end of the 6-month posttreatment period confirmed sustained complete remission.
Prevalence of Systemic Hypertension and the Effects of Cerebral Revascularization in Patients With Moyamoya Disease
Authors: Lee Hubert , Ahmed Uzair , Bell‐Stephens Teresa , Steinberg Gary K.
Published: March 2024

Background

Hypertension is often codiagnosed in patients with moyamoya disease (MMD), a progressive intracranial steno‐occlusive vasculopathy; this has principally been attributed to renal artery stenosis (up to 10%). Susceptibility MMD genes, including ring finger protein 213/mysterin and
GUCY1A3
, have also been linked to extracranial vascular disease and increased systolic blood pressure. We aimed to define the prevalence of systemic hypertension in MMD patients and characterize its evolution after cerebral revascularization.

Methods

Patients with MMD treated with extracranial‐intracranial bypass from 2014 to 2018 were retrospectively enrolled. Blood pressure measurements and antihypertensive agent use were recorded pre‐ and postoperatively. Hypertension was defined according to the 2020 International Society of Hypertension Guidelines (adults) and 2017 American Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines (children). Multivariate logistic regression was performed for clinical and radiographic predictors of hypertension.

Results

A total of 242 adult and 51 pediatric patients underwent revascularization. Preoperatively, 146 adult and 20 pediatric patients met the diagnostic criteria for hypertension resulting in prevalences of 60.3% and 39.2% respectively. In adults, this was significantly associated with age (odds ratio [OR] 1.05 [95% CI, 1.02–1.09]), body mass index (OR, 1.08 [95% CI, 1.03–1.13]), hyperlipidemia (OR, 2.57 [95% CI, 1.09–6.04]), kidney disease (OR, 18.98 [95% CI, 1.80–200.47]), and symptomatic presentation (OR, 8.88 [95% CI, 1.16–68.06]). After a mean follow‐up of 34.3±18.1 months in adults (33.8±14.9 months – children), patients with hypertension decreased by 15.3% (1.9% – pediatrics) and 31.8% (17.7% – children) experienced improvement in hypertensive status with normalization of blood pressure or reduced need for antihypertensive agents. Posterior circulation involvement was a negative predictor for response of hypertensive status to revascularization (OR, 0.10 [95% CI, 0.01–0.79]).

Conclusion

Hypertension is prevalent among adult and pediatric patients with MMD with contributions from known vascular risk factors. Its association with symptomatic presentation and observed improvement following revascularization suggests blood pressure changes, in part, are a compensatory physiological response to increased intracranial vascular resistance.
“When the Cruiser Lights Come On”: Using the Science of
Bias & Culture to Combat Racial Disparities in Policing
Authors: Hetey Rebecca C. , Hamedani MarYam G. , Markus Hazel Rose , Eberhardt Jennifer L.
Published: March 2024

In this essay, we highlight the interplay between individuals' psychological processes and sociocultural systems in producing and maintaining racial bias. We use a conceptual tool we call the culture cycle to map these dynamics, and illustrate them with research and in-depth examples from our work reducing racial disparities in routine policing in Oakland, California. We feature the most common police encounter – the vehicle stop – and highlight evidence-based interventions we developed both to reduce the frequency of vehicle stops and mitigate racial disparities in stops. Throughout, we draw on our expertise in the social psychology of bias, culture, and inequality, as well as our experiences building research-driven partnerships with public- and private-sector leaders, to inform organizational and societal change.
Disrupting the Effects of Implicit Bias: The Case of Discretion
& Policing
Authors: Glaser Jack
Published: March 2024

Police departments tend to address operational challenges with training approaches, and implicit bias in policing is no exception. However, psychological scientists have found that implicit biases are very difficult to reduce in any lasting, meaningful way. Because they are difficult to change, and nearly impossible for the decision-maker to recognize, training to raise awareness or teach corrective strategies is unlikely to succeed. Recent empirical assessments of implicit bias trainings have shown, at best, no effect on racial disparities in officers' actions in the field. In the absence of effective training, a promising near-term approach for reducing racial disparities in policing is to reduce the frequency of actions most vulnerable to the influence of bias. Specifically, actions that allow relatively high discretion are most likely to be subject to bias-driven errors. Several cases across different policing domains reveal that when discretion is constrained in stop-and-search decisions, the impact of racial bias on searches markedly declines.
Little Things Matter a Lot: The Significance of Implicit Bias,
Practically & Legally
Authors: Kang Jerry
Published: March 2024

Skeptics point out that measures of implicit bias can only weakly predict discrimination. And it is true that under current technologies, the degree of correlation between implicit bias (for example, as measured by the Implicit Association Test) and discriminatory judgment and behavior is small to moderate. In this essay, I argue that these little effects nevertheless matter a lot, in two different senses. First, in terms of practical significance, small burdens can accumulate over time to produce a large impact in a person's life. When these impacts are integrated not only over time but double integrated over large populations, these little things become even more practically significant. Second, in terms of legal significance, an upgraded model of discrimination that incorporates implicit bias has started to reshape antidiscrimination law. This transformation reflects a commitment to “behavioral realism”: a belief that the law should reflect more accurate models of human thinking and behavior.
National Minorities in the Odesa Oblast – Applying the European Model to Ensure Peaceful Coexistence
Authors: Carp Radu
Published: March 2024

The article deals with the situation of national minorities living in the Odesa oblast and in the town of Odesa with the main focus before the Russian war against Ukraine started on 24 of February 2022 but using also the relevant events happened afterwards. It explains what are the historical reasons that made Odesa a region so diverse from the national identity perspective, with a lot of national minorities living here from centuries. Although there are a significant number of studies on the issue of the national minorities in this region, none of them captured, so far, the complex relationship of Ukraine with the kin-states – Romania, Bulgaria and in some extent Turkey. The number of idp s in Ukraine was already high before the war started, with an important impact on the relationship of the Ukrainian majority with the national minorities and it will certainly be much higher after the war. The article takes into account this situation particularly for the Odesa oblast. The article examines how the institutions and the religious actors have influenced this relationship but how the war will shape it remains an open question. The article offers a perspective on the 2017 Ukrainian law in education, how it was applied until 24 of February 2022 and also on the 2022 Law on minorities, in order to find an answer to the question why a new framework for the national minorities in Ukraine after the end of the war is very important.
The Impact of Minority Veto in Consociational Democracies
Authors: Beka Rinor , Qirezi Arben
Published: March 2024

Developing governance models that are suitable for the effective management of ethnically divided societies arising from conflicts presents a significant challenge for both scholars and peace mediators. The consociational model, founded on power-sharing principles, has emerged as a means of guiding groups which were previously in conflict towards creating institutional frameworks that can help manage divisions and promote peaceful coexistence. In situations where mutual trust is lacking and deep-seated ethnic, religious, or linguistic divisions persist, it is unrealistic to anticipate that minority groups would willingly grant unrestricted decision-making authority to the majority. Consequently, the notion of constraining the majority’s decision-making powers on specific matters, unless it has the consent of minority groups through the implementation of veto rights, has become a fundamental principle for negotiating post-conflict institutional arrangements. This article aims to investigate the practical ramifications of veto rights within consociational systems, focusing on their incorporation into Kosovo’s legal framework post-2008 and their actual implementation in the years that followed. The article seeks to shed light on how veto rights contribute to consensus-based decision-making, the potential for disruption when exploited by irresponsible political leaders, and the possibilities of revisiting these arrangements to address any shortcomings.
Coccinellid predators of mealybugs infesting banana in South India, including a new species and a new record of Scymnus Kugelann (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), with notes on other natural enemies
Authors: POORANI J. , ANURADHA C. , THANIGAIRAJ R. , MOL P. PRASHINA
Published: March 2024

Several species of mealybugs infest various parts of bananas and plantains including foliage, fruits, rhizome and roots in all the major banana growing regions of India and cause moderate to occasionally serious damage but systematic attempts at documenting the mealybug pests of banana and their natural enemies are lacking in India. In this study, mealybugs infesting bananas and plantains in Tamil Nadu, South India, are documented along with their coccinellid predators and other natural enemies. The exotic Jack Beardsley mealybug, Pseudococcus jackbeardsleyi Gimpel & Miller, was found to be a major pest of banana bunches in all localities surveyed in Tamil Nadu and the grey pineapple mealybug, Dysmicoccus neobrevipes Beardsley, was a serious pest in some isolated pockets. Three coccinellids, Scymnus (Pullus) coccivora Ramakrishna Ayyar, Nephus regularis Sicard and Slipinskiscymnus saciformis (Motschulsky) were found to be the major predators of all species of mealybugs. Brumoides suturalis (Fabricius) was predatory on solenopsis mealybug (Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley) only and Hyperaspis maindroni Sicard was associated with solenopsis mealybug and pink pineapple mealybug (Dysmicoccus brevipes (Cockerell)). One new species, Scymnus (Pullus) spicatus sp. n., is described as a predator of Jack Beardsley mealybug and striped mealybug (Ferrisia virgata (Cockerell)). Scymnus (Pullus) syoitii Sasaji, 1971, a Japanese species, is recorded for the first time from India as a predator of banana root mealybugs in Tamil Nadu and on Planococcus citri (Risso) in Karnataka. Brief notes on the other natural enemies of banana mealybugs are also given with illustrations.
An account on some katydids of the tribes Agraeciini (Conocephalinae) and Meconematini (Meconematinae) from the highlands of western Sabah
Authors: TAN MING KAI , JAPIR RAZY , CHUNG ARTHUR Y.C.
Published: March 2024

Based on recent field sampling in the highlands of western Sabah, a new species of Depressacca Ingrisch, 1998 (Conocephalinae: Agraeciini) is described from Tenompok, Depressacca macrolima sp. nov., that can be easily distinguish from two other known congeners by the presence of numerous large and falcate spines on the legs numerous large and falcate spines on its legs. Based on the new material, we also document here the live images and/or new locality records for other katydids of the tribes Agraeciini and Meconematini: Bispinolakis longicauda Ingrisch, 1998, Palaeoagraecia philippina (Karny, 1926) and Salomona borneensis Willemse, 1959; Alloteratura (Meconemopsis) longa Gorochov, 2008, Borneratura kinabaluana (Bey-Bienko, 1971) and Rhinoteratura pulchra Gorochov, 2008.
Boundary Value Problem of Nonlinear Fractional Differential Equations of Mixed Volterra-Fredohlm Integral Equations in Banach Space
Authors: Taier Ala Eddine , Wu Ranchao , Iqbal Naveed
Published: March 2024

This paper is dedicated to study the existence and uniqueness of solutions for a boundary value problem of nonlinear fractional differential equations of mixed Volterra-Fredohlm integral equations in Banach space, the recent researches considered the study of differential equations of mixed Volterra-Fredholm integral equations with classical order and the study of existence and uniqueness of solutions using approched numerical methodes, the objective of this paper is the study of the existence and uniqueness of fractional order of differential equations with mixed Volterra-Fredholm integral equations using fixed point theory. This work have two important results, the first result was the discussion of the existence of solutions using the Krasnoselskii fixed point theorem after transforming the problem into integral equation firstly then into operator problem suitable for the fixed point theory. The second result will be the existence and uniqueness of solution, this result was obtained by the use of Banach fixed point theorem after the same transformation used in the first one. This work give as conclusion that the boundary value problem of nonlinear fractional differential equations of mixed Volterra-Fredholm integral equation has a unique solution in Banach space. Finally, this work was ended with an example to illustrate the results obtained.
Experimental assessment of blowing effect on vehicle performance and aero-acoustics in small-rotor/wing interaction
Authors: Chen Mingtai , Chen Yuhan , Hua Jie , Maier Nick , Burdette Dylan
Published: March 2024

The tiltrotor design for urban air mobility (UAM) combines vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability with fixed-wing efficiency. However, it confronts challenges posed by downward force due to rotor wake effect. Previous research has employed active flow control, such as blowing air, primarily during forward flight using a single air outlet slot. However, the implications for rotor performance and aero-acoustic characteristics have remained unexplored. The experimental approach in this study involves controlled blowing air with moderate momentum in hover mode, concentrating on rotor performance, download force, noise signature, and the influence of port patterns. It is found that the radial port pattern emerges as pivotal for mitigating downward force and augmenting rotor efficiency. The efficacy of noise reduction hinges on both receiver orientation and port pattern selection. This investigation significantly contributes to understanding the role of blowing effect in optimizing tiltrotor designs, particularly in the context of rotor wake-wing interaction.
Bahcc1 is critical for the aberrant epigenetic program in a mouse model of MLL-ENL–mediated leukemia
Authors: Nakamura Akihide , Masuya Masahiro , Shinmei Makoto , Tawara Isao , Nosaka Tetsuya , Ono Ryoichi
Published: March 2024

In leukemogenesis, genotoxic stress in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) drives individual context-dependent programs of malignant transformation. In light of the various differentiation stages of HSPCs based on a recently revised definition using CD150/CD48, our analyses showed that a subpopulation of long-term repopulating HSCs was most susceptible to MLL-ENL–mediated transformation. An analysis of the molecular mechanism identified Bromo-adjacent homology domain and coiled-coil containing 1 (Bahcc1), which encodes a reader molecule of trimethylated histone H3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3), as a candidate gene involved in distinct susceptibility to leukemic transformation. Interestingly, Bahcc1 was previously reported to be highly expressed in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with an unfavorable prognosis, including some cases of MLL-rearranged AML. We found that MLL-ENL upregulated Bahcc1 through binding to its promoter, and that Bahcc1 was involved in MLL-ENL–mediated immortalization at least partly through repression of H3K27me3-marked Cdkn1c. Analyses using bone marrow transplantation in mice showed that depletion of Bahcc1 suppressed the leukemogenic activity of MLL-ENL. In a public database, high BAHCC1 expression was found to be associated with a poor prognosis in pediatric AML, in which BAHCC1 expression was significantly lower in MLL-AF9-AML than in other MLL-fusion-AML. These findings shed light on the distinct immortalization potential of HSPCs and suggest a novel MLL-fusion-Bahcc1 axis, which may lead to development of molecular targeted therapy against MLL-fusion–mediated leukemia.
Prevalence, country-specific prescribing patterns and determinants of benzodiazepine use in community-residing older adults in 7 European countries
Authors: Lukačišinová Anna , Reissigová Jindra , Ortner-Hadžiabdić Maja , Brkic Jovana , Okuyan Betul , Volmer Daisy , Tadić Ivana , Modamio Pilar , Mariño Eduardo L. , Tachkov Konstantine , Liperotti Rosa , Onder Graziano , Finne-Soveri Harriet , van Hout Hein , Howard Elizabeth P. , Fialová Daniela
Published: March 2024

Background

The use of benzodiazepines (BZDs) in older population is often accompanied by drug-related complications. Inappropriate BZD use significantly alters older adults’ clinical and functional status. This study compares the prevalence, prescribing patterns and factors associated with BZD use in community-dwelling older patients in 7 European countries.

Methods

International, cross-sectional study was conducted in community-dwelling older adults (65 +) in the Czech Republic, Serbia, Estonia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Turkey, and Spain between Feb2019 and Mar2020. Structured and standardized questionnaire based on interRAI assessment scales was applied. Logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with BZD use.

Results

Out of 2,865 older patients (mean age 73.2 years ± 6.8, 61.2% women) 14.9% were BZD users. The highest prevalence of BZD use was identified in Croatia (35.5%), Spain (33.5%) and Serbia (31.3%). The most frequently prescribed BZDs were diazepam (27.9% of 426 BZD users), alprazolam (23.7%), bromazepam (22.8%) and lorazepam (16.7%). Independent factors associated with BZD use were female gender (OR 1.58, 95%CI 1.19–2.10), hyperpolypharmacy (OR 1.97, 95%CI 1.22–3.16), anxiety (OR 4.26, 95%CI 2.86–6.38), sleeping problems (OR 4.47, 95%CI 3.38–5.92), depression (OR 1.95, 95%CI 1.29–2.95), repetitive anxious complaints (OR 1.77, 95%CI 1.29–2.42), problems with syncope (OR 1.78, 95%CI 1.03–3.06), and loss of appetite (OR 0.60, 95%CI 0.38–0.94). In comparison to Croatia, residing in other countries was associated with lower odds of BZD use (ORs varied from 0.49 (95%CI 0.32–0.75) in Spain to 0.01 (95%CI 0.00–0.03) in Turkey), excluding Serbia (OR 1.11, 95%CI 0.79–1.56).

Conclusions

Despite well-known negative effects, BZDs are still frequently prescribed in older outpatient population in European countries. Principles of safer geriatric prescribing and effective deprescribing strategies should be individually applied in older BZD users.
The collaborative framework for the management of tuberculosis and type 2 diabetes syndemic in low- and middle-income countries: a rapid review
Authors: Milice Denise Michela , Macicame Ivalda , L.Peñalvo José
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Given the absence of international guidelines on the joint management and control of tuberculosis (TB) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) launched in 2011 a policy framework to address the growing syndemic burden of TB-T2D. This review aimed at mapping the available evidence on the implementation of the Union-WHO Framework, explicitly, or bi-directional TB-T2D health programs as an initiative for co-management in patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC).

Methods

A rapid review was performed based on a systematic search in PubMed and Web of Science electronic databases for peer-reviewed articles on The Union-WHO Framework and bi-directional interventions of TB and T2D in LMIC. The search was restricted to English language articles and from 01/08/2011 to 20/05/2022.

Results

A total of 24 articles from 16 LMIC met the inclusion criteria. Four described the implementation of The Union-WHO Framework and 20 on the bi-directional interventions of TB and T2D. Bi-directional activities were found valuable, feasible and effective following the Union-WHO recommendations. Limited knowledge and awareness on TB-T2D comorbidity was identified as one of the barriers to ensure a functional and effective integration of services.

Conclusions

This review revealed that it is valuable, feasible and effective to implement bi-directional TB and T2D activities (screening and management) according to the Union-WHO Framework recommendations, especially in countries that face TB-T2D syndemic. Additionally, it was apparent that gaps still exist in research aimed at providing evidence of costs to implement collaborative activities. There is need for TB and T2D services integration that should be done through the well-stablished TB programme. This integration of two vertical programmes, could ensure patient-centeredness, continuum of care and ultimately contribute for health systems strengthening.
Metabolic profiling of milk thistle different organs using UPLC-TQD-MS/MS coupled to multivariate analysis in relation to their selective antiviral potential
Authors: El-Banna Alaa A. , Ibrahim Reham S.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Silybum marianum commonly known as milk thistle is one of the most imperative medicinal plants due to its remarkable pharmacological activities. Lately, the antiviral activities of S. marianum extract have been studied and it showed effectiveness against many viruses.

Objective

Although most previous studies were concerned mainly with silymarin content of the fruit, the present study provides comprehensive comparative evaluation of S. marianum different organs’ chemical profiles using UPLC-MS/MS coupled to chemometrics to unravel potentially selective antiviral compounds against human coronavirus (HCoV-229E).

Methodology

UPLC-ESI-TQD-MS/MS analysis was utilized to establish metabolic fingerprints for S. marianum organs namely fruits, roots, stems and seeds. Multivariate analysis, using OPLS-DA and HCA-heat map was applied to explore the main discriminatory phytoconstituents between organs. Selective virucidal activity of organs extracts against coronavirus (HCoV-229E) was evaluated for the first time using cytopathic effect (CPE) inhibition assay. Correlation coefficient analysis was implemented for detection of potential constituents having virucidal activity.

Results

UPLC-MS/MS analysis resulted in 87 identified metabolites belonging to different classes. OPLS-DA revealed in-between class discrimination between milk thistle organs proving their significantly different metabolic profiles. The results of CPE assay showed that all tested organ samples exhibited dose dependent inhibitory activity in nanomolar range. Correlation analysis disclosed that caffeic acid-O-hexoside, gadoleic and linolenic acids were the most potentially selective antiviral phytoconstituents.

Conclusion

This study valorizes the importance of different S. marianum organs as wealthy sources of selective and effective antiviral candidates. This approach can be extended to unravel potentially active constituents from complex plant matrices.
Development and validation of the missed intensive nursing care scale
Authors: Yang Li , Zhou Wen , Gao Yan , Wu Taiqin , Zhang Huan , Gan Xiuni
Published: March 2024

Background

Missed nursing care is a pervasive issue in hospitals, nursing homes, and communities, posing a significant threat to patient safety and the quality of nursing care. It has adverse effects on patient satisfaction and the motivation of nursing staff. Understanding the causes and nature of these care omissions in clinical settings is essential for implementing effective interventions. This study aims to develop and validate a tool for assessing missed nursing care in adult intensive care units.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews, expert consultations conducted via the Delphi method and item analysis were used to develop the initial scale. Our analysis involved data collected from 400 nurses and employed correlation coefficient analysis, critical ratio assessment, Cronbach’s α coefficient evaluation, discrete trend analysis, and factor analysis, which were grounded in both classical test theory and item response theory, allowing us to scrutinize and refine the items in the scale. To validate the scale, we conveniently sampled 550 nurses and assessed structural validity, internal reliability, split-half reliability, and test-retest reliability to ensure the scale’s robustness and accuracy.

Results

The Missed Intensive Nursing Care Scale (MINCS) comprises three distinct components. Part A serves to collect general information about the participants. In Part B, the missed care elements are categorized into five domains, following the framework of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory: physiology, safety, belongingness, esteem, and cognition. Part C is dedicated to detailing the reasons behind missed care, which encompass labor resources, material resources, communication factors, and managerial factors. Remarkably, the Cronbach’s α coefficient for the MINCS stands at an impressive 0.951, with S-CVI values of 0.988 and 0.977 in Part B and C, respectively, underscoring the scale’s exceptional reliability and validity. This demonstrates the scale’s effectiveness in measuring missed nursing care while upholding rigorous standards of quality.

Conclusions

The MINCS emerges as a robust and dependable instrument for quantifying instances of missed care within the ICU. Its efficacy makes it a valuable resource for informing the development of strategies aimed at averting and mitigating the adverse effects associated with missed nursing care.
Implementing a new living concept for persons with dementia in long-term care: evaluation of a quality improvement process
Authors: Portegijs Suzanne , van Beek Adriana Petronella Anna , van Tuyl Lilian Huibertina Davida , Wagner Cordula
Published: March 2024

Background

Improving quality of nursing home care for residents is a constant focus of stakeholders involved within quality improvement projects. Though, achieving change in long-term care is challenging. Process evaluations provide insight into the nature, exposure and experiences of stakeholders and influencing mechanisms for implementation. The aim of this study is to gain insight into the process and facilitating and hindering mechanisms of implementing a quality improvement project that seeks to create a dementia-friendly community with a nursing home at its core.

Methods

For the process evaluation we planned a case study design with an ethnographic approach. Various research methods were used: qualitative observations, focus groups, interviews and questionnaires for various stakeholders and document review. Data collection and analyses in this study is based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.

Results

Four main lessons were learned. Firstly, nursing staff are crucial to achieve more freedom for residents. Secondly, high-impact changes in daily care need strong and sustainable focus from the care organisation. Thirdly, dementia-friendly societies should be deployed from multiple actors, which entails long-term collaborations with external stakeholders. Fourthly, the transition to a dementia-friendly society requires meeting spaces for and a focus on both residents and people from the community. Consequently, local residents are shifting from external to internal stakeholders, extending beyond the regular involvement of informal carers and volunteers within the nursing home.

Conclusions

Nursing homes are part of the local community and provide opportunities to collaborate on a dementia-friendly society. However, the change that is required (promoting freedom, residents’ autonomy and the redesign of care processes) is complex and influenced by various mechanisms. Understanding these mechanisms can benefit other care organisations that strive to implement a similar initiative.