bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Firearm Injury, It’s Not Just Physical: The Adverse Impact on Patient-Reported Socioeconomic, Mental Health, and Quality-of-Life Outcomes
Authors: Geller Jennifer E. , Teichman Amanda L. , Charles Eric J. , Pierce Anne , Patel Khushi , Park John , Getrajdman Joelle , Piplani Charoo , Cong Alexander , Reese James , Englert Zachary P. , Narayan Mayur , Choron Rachel L.
Published: June 2024

Background: The burden of firearm injury (FI) extends beyond hospitalization; however, literature focuses mostly on short-term physical outcomes. This study aimed to assess changes in patient-reported outcomes following firearm-related trauma. We hypothesized long-term patient-reported socioeconomic, mental health, and quality-of-life (QoL) outcomes are worse post-FI compared to pre-FI.

Methods: This was a retrospective study where a phone survey was conducted with FI survivors admitted between January 2017 and August 2022 at a level 1 trauma center. Survey questions assessed demographics, socioeconomics, and mental and physical health pre-FI vs ≥ 6 months post-FI; the McNemar test was used for comparisons. The PROMIS-29 + 2v2.1 NIH validated instrument was used to assess long-term QoL. Standardized NIH PROMIS T-scores were calculated using the HealthMeasures Scoring Service.

Results: Of 204 eligible FI survivors, 71 were successfully contacted and 38 surveyed. Respondents were male (86.8%), Black (76%), and aged 18-29 (55.3%), and 68.4% had high school level education. Post-FI, patients were more likely to be unemployed (55.2% vs 13.2%, P < .001) and report increased mental health needs (84.2% vs 21%, P < .001) compared to pre-FI. Most (73.7%) also reported lasting physical disability. Similarly, the PROMIS instrument demonstrated largely worse health-related QoL scores post-FI, particularly high anxiety/fear (T-score 60.2, SE 3.1, CI 54.6-66.3, Table 2), pain resulting in life interference (T-score 60.0, SE 2.3, CI 55.7-63.9), and worse physical function (T-score 42.5, SE 3.0, CI 38.2-46.9).

Conclusions: Firearm injury survivors had more unemployment and worse mental health post-FI compared to pre-FI. Firearm injury survivors also reported significantly worse health-related QoL metrics including pain, anxiety, and physical function 6 months following their trauma. These long-term patient-reported outcomes are a framework to build future outpatient resources.

Level of Evidence: IV.
Peculiarities of the Dynamical Hydration Shell of Native Conformation Protein Using a Bovine Serum Albumin Example
Authors: Penkov Nikita V.
Published: June 2024

This paper describes an approach based on the method of terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, which allows the analysis of dynamical hydration shells of proteins with a thickness of 1–2 nm. Using the example of bovine serum albumin in three conformations, it is shown that the hydration shells of the protein are characterized by increased binding of water molecules in the primary hydration layers, and in more distant areas of hydration, on the contrary, the water structure is somewhat destroyed. The fraction of free or weakly bound molecules, usually observed in the structure of liquid water in hydration shells, become more numerous but its average binding is greater than in undisturbed water. The energy distribution of hydrogen bonds in hydration shells is narrowed compared to undisturbed water. All these manifestations of hydration are most pronounced for the native conformation of the protein. Also, the hydration shells of the native protein are characterized by a smaller number of hydrogen bonds and a tendency to decrease their average energy compared to non-native conformations. The fact of a pronounced peculiarity of the hydration shells of the protein in the native conformation has been noted for different proteins before. However, the methodological approach used in this work for the first time allowed this peculiarity to be described by specific parameters of the intermolecular structure and dynamics of water.
EXPRESS: Landmark Publications in Analytical Atomic Spectrometry: Fundamentals and Instrumentation Development
Authors: Chan George C.-Y. , Hieftje Gary M. , Omenetto Nicoló , Axner Ove , Bengtson Arne , Bings Nicolas H. , Blades Michael W. , Bogaerts Annemie , Bolshov Mikhail A. , Broekaert José A.C. , Chan WingTat , Costa-Fernández José M. , Crouch Stanley R. , De Giacomo Alessandro , D’Ulivo Alessandro , Engelhard Carsten , Falk Heinz , Farnsworth Paul B. , Florek Stefan , Gamez Gerardo , Gornushkin Igor B. , Günther Detlef , Hahn David W. , Hang Wei , Hoffmann Volker , Jakubowski Norbert , Karanassios Vassili , Koppenaal David W. , Kenneth Marcus R. , Noll Reinhard , Olesik John W. , Palleschi Vincenzo , Panne Ulrich , Pisonero Jorge , Ray Steven J. , Resano Martín , Russo Richard E. , Scheeline Alexander , Smith Benjamin W. , Sturgeon Ralph E. , Todolí José-Luis , Tognoni Elisabetta , Vanhaecke Frank , Webb Michael R. , Winefordner James D. , Yang Lu , Yu Jin , Zhang Zhanxia
Published: June 2024

The almost-two-centuries history of spectrochemical analysis has generated a body of literature so vast that it has become nearly intractable for experts, much less for those wishing to enter the field. Authoritative, focused reviews help to address this problem but become so granular that the overall directions of the field are lost. This broader perspective can be provided partially by general overviews but then the thinking, experimental details, theoretical underpinnings and instrumental innovations of the original work must be sacrificed. In the present compilation, this dilemma is overcome by assembling the most impactful publications in the area of analytical atomic spectrometry. Each entry was proposed by at least one current expert in the field and supported by a narrative that justifies its inclusion. The entries were then assembled into a coherent sequence and returned to contributors for a round-robin review.
Comprehensive degree of nonlinearity in the dynamic response of high-speed Maglev train
Authors: Shuangxi Chen
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study is to propose a method for evaluating the comprehensive degree of nonlinearity in the dynamic response of high-speed maglev train system through mathematical modeling and numerical simulation. A model of a typical high-speed maglev vehicle is established based on the principles of maglev vehicle dynamics, and control models for the suspension magnet and the guide magnet are developed using principles from the electromagnetism and automatic control theory. The vibration responses of the vehicle system, including acceleration and electromagnetic forces are calculated using a fast numerical integration method. This calculation is performed for various control parameters and track harmonic excitations. The Hilbert-Huang transform (HHT) is adopted to decompose the response signal and derive the local mean frequency (amplitude) and instantaneous frequency (amplitude) of the response, based on which the Degree of Nonlinearity (DN) of the vibration response of a single component is obtained by calculating the deviation between the instantaneous frequency and the mean frequency. The Comprehensive Degree of Nonlinearity (CDN) of the vibration response in the maglev train system is proposed and defined by incorporating the DNs of the vertical and lateral vibrations of the carbody, bogie, suspension magnet and guide magnet, and by quantitatively evaluating them. The effects of the electromagnet control parameters and harmonic irregularities (wavelength and amplitude) of the track on the DN of each component and the CDN of the entire vehicle system are analyzed in detail. The analysis results show that the DN and CDN can demonstrate the extent of instability in the vehicle system and can be applied for safety warning on maglev vehicles.
Approaching fuzzy sliding mode strategy for automotive suspension based on the view of enhancing ride comfort and vehicle stability
Authors: Nguyen Tuan Anh
Published: June 2024

This work introduces an algorithm integrated from two component signals called fuzzy sliding mode control (FSMC). This aims to ensure both road holding and ride comfort criteria rather than just one, as mentioned in previous articles. These mentioned criteria are guaranteed based on the design of membership functions and fuzzy rules, while the stability of the sliding mode framework is evaluated through the Lyapunov function. Simulations are performed in the MATLAB-Simulink interface, with four cases corresponding to different road types. According to the calculation results, the displacement and acceleration values of the sprung mass are the smallest once the FSMC method is used to control automotive suspension. In the last case, the wheel can be separated from the road if the automobile has only a passive suspension system or an active suspension system controlled by the proportional integral derivative (PID) algorithm. However, this does not happen when the FSMC algorithm is applied. As a result, the vehicle’s road holding and ride comfort can be ensured in many conditions.
The Bible, Disability, and The Chosen
Authors: Burnette-Bletsch Rhonda
Published: June 2024

Biblical healing stories, especially when subjected to ableist interpretations, can fuel discriminatory attitudes toward people with disabilities. The Chosen series has opted to address issues of disability directly, not only by adapting healing stories from the Gospels, but also by creating storylines to depict other people with disabilities, including two of the twelve disciples. This article uses film criticism and disability studies to examine depictions of disability in The Chosen over the course of its first three seasons.
Book review: Umakanta Mohapatra, Voluntary Organisations and Rural Development in South Asia: Assumptions and Realities
Authors: Malik Bibhuti Bhushan
Published: June 2024

Umakanta Mohapatra, Voluntary Organisations and Rural Development in South Asia: Assumptions and Realities. Springer, 2022, 228 pp., ₹7060 (paperback). ISBN 978-9-811-91877-3.
Calculative futures between climate and finance: A tragedy of multiple horizons
Authors: Folkers Andreas
Published: June 2024

This article analyzes the politics of financial climate risks. It focuses on the phenomena of ‘stranded assets’ and the ‘carbon bubble’: the problem that a consistent implementation of international climate goals could contribute to a massive devaluation of the assets of fossil capitalism. Finance experts frame this issue as a ‘tragedy of the horizon’ (Carney) because, they argue, present investment decisions do not properly account for their future effects. The article seeks to unsettle and expand this framing by arguing that financial climate risks do not only indicate a tragedy of a singular horizon – how to make the future count in the present – but a tragedy of multiple, intersecting horizons: how to make a particular horizon (climate) count in another (finance). The article shows how the very intelligibility of the problem of stranded assets relies on aligning different horizons ranging from climate goals to physical infrastructures, to financial investments. It illuminates the frictions and limits of such an endeavor. The dissonances between the different horizons go along with a ‘fundamental miscount’ (Rancière) that thwarts attempts to smoothly translate the signals of climate politics into financial markets. This suggests that even if finance becomes able to effectively manage financial climate risk and break the tragedy of the financial horizon, it might not break the tragedy of multiple horizons because it cannot prevent the climate catastrophe.
Health Crowding-Out Effect of Family Migration on First Cohort Migrant Workers: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Qiu Fengxian , Zhang Houyi
Published: June 2024

In the dynamic panorama of China’s shifting social mobility, characterized by a transition from individual to family mobility, the migration of the first cohort of migrant workers and their families has taken center stage. However, the scholarly discourse on how family migration influences the health of migrant workers remains contentious. This study uses data from the China Migrants Dynamic Survey (CMDS) of 2017 to focus on the first cohort of migrant workers. Drawing on the theories of family stress and life course, the empirical analysis incorporated heterogeneity tests, total effects, robustness tests, mediation effects, and propensity score matching to explore the mechanisms underlying the impact of family migration on migrant workers’ health. Data analysis reveals a substantial negative impact of family migration on the health status of the first cohort of migrant workers. Variations in health outcomes were identified across different family migration patterns. Further analysis indicates that the first cohort of migrant workers, when confronted with family livelihood pressures, tends to prioritize economic resources to support urban family life over their own health. This is because they are influenced by a family-centered culture. Our findings reveal a nuanced landscape. While family migration provides potentially enhances social support systems, it also imposes significant health trade-offs due to increased life stressors. These stressors include economic instability, increased responsibility for family care, and the psychological impacts of adapting to new urban environments. There are the health crowding-out effect of family migration on first cohort migrant workers.
Enjoyment of Love-Related Dramas and the Implications of Perspective Taking
Authors: Chang Chingching
Published: June 2024

To understand how viewers respond to two common movie plots (falling in love and cheating), this study considers the perspectives they might take. Study 1 tests which protagonists’ perspective viewers adopt when watching movies with falling-in-love versus betrayal plots. Study 2 then shows that viewers’ perspective orientation influences their affective experiences and enjoyment of betrayal movies but not falling-in-love movies. Study 3 explores the processes that lead to varying levels of enjoyment, attained by viewing movies with falling-in-love and cheating plots. A moderated mediation model reveals three processes: affective states resulting from goal attainment/failure, meaning derived through identification, and affective dispositions formed according to moral judgments. Viewers’ romantic beliefs moderate the second process, and their morality standards moderate the third.
Preparing for Flexibility in Response to Extreme Weather Events in Iowa
Authors: Pizzi Elise , Hedding Kylah , Harper Samuel F. , Dalrymple Kajsa E.
Published: June 2024

As natural hazards increase in frequency and severity, local governments play a crucial role in responding, minimizing damage, and hastening recovery. Local preparation is critical, but formal plans and real time actions do not always align. Through interviews with stakeholders and emergency management personnel in Iowa, this article explains the creativity and agility demonstrated in disaster response. Effective response requires in-the-moment innovation. When disasters strike, emergency responders regularly deviate from prepared plans and draw on unscripted networks and relationships to respond. The findings highlight the need for careful planning and the flexibility to innovate when disasters occur.
Consistency Between Administrative Health Records and Self-Reported Health Status and Health Care Use Among Indigenous Wayuu Health Insurance Enrollees: La Guajira, Colombia
Authors: Hinds Aynslie , Suárez Aguilar Beda , Berrio Yercine Duarte , Ospina Galeano Dorian , Gómez Vargas John Harold , Ruiz Valentina Espinosa , Mignone Javier
Published: June 2024

The objective of the study was to assess the consistency between self-reported demographic characteristics, health conditions, and healthcare use, and administrative healthcare records, in a sample of enrollees of an Indigenous health organization in Colombia. We conducted a phone survey of a random sample of 2113 enrollees September-2020/February-2021. Administrative health records were obtained for the sample. Using ICD-10 diagnostic codes, we identified individuals who had healthcare visits for diabetes, hypertension, and/or pregnancy. Using unique identifiers, we linked their survey data to the administrative dataset. Agreement percentages and Cohen’s Kappa coefficients were calculated. Logistic regressions were performed for each health condition/state. Results showed high degree of agreement between data sources for sex and age, similar rates for diabetes and hypertension, 10% variation for pregnancy. Kappa statistics were in the moderate range. Age was significantly associated with agreement between data sources. Sex, language, and self-rated health were significant for diabetes. This is the first study with data from an Indigenous population assessing the consistency between self-reported data and administrative health records. Survey and administrative data produced similar results, suggesting that Anas Wauu can be confident in using their data for planning and research purposes, as part of the movement toward data sovereignty.
Beta-blockade for the treatment of refractory hypoxaemia during venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: An in-silico study
Authors: Brown Alastair , Udy Andrew , Burrell Aidan , Joyce Christopher J
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) is used for refractory hypoxemia, although despite this, in high cardiac output states, hypoxaemia may persist. The administration of beta-blockers has been suggested as an approach in this scenario, however the physiological consequences of this intervention are not clear.

Methods

We performed an in-silico study using a previously described mathematical model to evaluate the effect of beta-blockade on mixed venous and arterial saturations ([Formula: see text], S a O 2), in three different clinical scenarios and considered the potential effects of beta-blockers on, cardiac output, oxygen consumption and recirculation. Additionally we assessed the interaction of beta-blockade with haemoglobin concentration.

Results

In scenario 1: simulating a patient with high cardiac output and partial lung shunt [Formula: see text] decreased from increased 53.5% to 44.7% despite S a O 2 rising from 74.2% to 79.2%. In scenario 2 simulating a patient with high cardiac output and complete lung shunt [Formula: see text] remained unchanged at 52.2% and S a O 2 rose from 71.9% to 85%. In scenario 3 a patient with normal cardiac output and high recirculation [Formula: see text] fell from 50.8% to 25.5% and also fell from 82.4% to to 78.3%. Across the remaining modelling examples the effect on [Formula: see text] varied but oxygen delivery was consistently reduced across all scenarios.

Conclusion

The administration of beta-blockers for refractory hypoxemia during VV ECMO are unpredictable and may reduce oxygen delivery, although this will vary with patient and circuit features. This study does not support the use of beta-blockers for this indication.
Measuring Reputational Signals Regarding Public Sector Professions: Validation of a Scale and a Research Agenda
Authors: Abner Gordon , Perry James L. , Kim Sun Young
Published: June 2024

Public administration scholars are devoting increasing attention to the concept of reputation. The emphasis reflects a long-standing concern in the field with the sources of power and influence on administrative processes. This study extends the investigation of reputation from organizational reputation to reputational signals regarding public sector professions. We begin with a definition of reputational signals. We then develop a survey instrument that measures reputational signals from two signalers: elected officials and people close to respondents. Results are presented for internal consistency, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, convergent and discriminant validity, and average variance extracted. Next, we conduct a path analysis to test the effects of reputational signals regarding public school teachers on two outcomes using two staggered survey instruments with 588 US adults. We find that reputational signals from both types of signalers are positively and significantly associated with the perceived prestige of the teaching profession. Furthermore, reputational signals from people close to respondents are directly and positively associated with support for teacher autonomy. In contrast, reputational signals from elected officials do not have a statistically significant association with support for teacher autonomy. We conclude by discussing avenues for future research.
Helicosporidium sp. infection in a California kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae): Spillover of a pathogen of invertebrates to a vertebrate host
Authors: Asin Javier , Childress April L. , Dervas Eva , Garner Michael M. , Uzal Francisco A. , Wellehan James F. X. , Henderson Eileen E. , Armien Anibal G.
Published: June 2024

Helicosporidium is a genus of nonphotosynthetic, green algae in the family Chlorellaceae, closely related to Prototheca. It is a known pathogen of invertebrates, and its occurrence in vertebrates has not been documented. A captive, 10-month-old, male, albino California kingsnake ( Lampropeltis californiae) was submitted for necropsy. Gross examination revealed hemorrhagic laryngitis and a red mottled liver. Histologically, intravascular, intramonocytic/macrophagic and extracellular, eukaryotic organisms were observed in all tissues. These organisms stained positive with Grocott-Gomori methenamine silver and periodic acid-Schiff and were variably acid-fast and gram-positive. Ultrastructural analysis revealed approximately 4 µm vegetative multiplication forms and cysts with 3 parallel ovoid cells and a helically coiled filamentous cell. A polymerase chain reaction with primers targeting Prototheca, amplicon sequencing, and Bayesian phylogenetic analysis confirmed it clustered within Helicosporidium sp. with 100% posterior probability. The genus Helicosporidium was found to nest within the genus Prototheca, forming a clade with Prototheca wickerhamii with 80% posterior probability.
No evidence for an other-race effect in dominance and trustworthy judgements from faces
Authors: Wang Ao , Quinn Bartholomew P.A. , Gofton Hannah , Andrews Timothy J.
Published: June 2024

A variety of evidence shows that social categorization of people based on their race can lead to stereotypical judgements and prejudicial behaviour. Here, we explore the extent to which trait judgements of faces are influenced by race. To address this issue, we measured the reliability of first impressions for own-race and other-race faces in Asian and White participants. Participants viewed pairs of faces and were asked to indicate which of the two faces was more dominant or which of the two faces was more trustworthy. We measured the consistency (or reliability) of these judgements across participants for own-race and other-races faces. We found that judgements of dominance or trustworthiness showed similar levels of reliability for own-race and other-race faces. Moreover, an item analysis showed that the judgements on individual trials were very similar across participants from different races. Next, participants made overall ratings of dominance and trustworthiness from own-race and other-race faces. Again, we found that there was no evidence for an ORE. Together, these results provide a new approach to measuring trait judgements of faces and show that in these conditions there is no ORE for the perception of dominance and trustworthiness.
Study on the synergistic effect of electromagnetic stirring and mechanical reduction on the improvement of the internal homogeneity of high-carbon steel billet
Authors: Gao Yubo , Bao Yanping , Wang Min , Wang Ying
Published: June 2024

The synergistic effect of electromagnetic stirring (EMS) and mechanical reduction on the improvement of the internal homogeneity has been studied during the continuous casting of high-carbon steel billet. Plant trials were conducted with different parameters both for mold electromagnetic stirring (M-EMS) and final electromagnetic stirring (F-EMS), at the same casting condition and with a unified mechanical reduction process. As the stirring intensity of EMS increases, both the initiation and termination of columnar to equiaxed transition occur at an earlier timing. The results also indicate that, EMS could result in a decline trend for the compactness of the casting billet to a certain extent, especially in the pure equiaxed crystal zone at the core part of the billet. Under the proper intensity setting of M-EMS and F-EMS, the crack susceptibility of the high-carbon steel billet was markedly decreased by enlarging the mixed crystal zone, which is not arrayed with distinct directionality while featured with a relatively high compactness. The effect of EMS on the solidification behavior, and therefore on the crack susceptibility of the high-carbon steel billet was further explained with the numerical simulation. Consequently, a superior inner quality of high-carbon steel billet was successfully achieved with the effective synergy of EMS and mechanical reduction.
Using case-based learning to enhance students’ performance in mechanical engineering undergraduates
Authors: Gaspe Gaspe Mudiyanselage Sujeetha Maduwanthi , Hathiringe Dona Imesha Piyumini
Published: June 2024

Among the myriad of instructional approaches in engineering education, case-based learning (CBL) has emerged as a promising pedagogical strategy that promotes active learning, critical thinking, and real-world application of knowledge. This study investigates student performance and satisfaction with CBL methodologies in the context of mechanical engineering education, conducted in Sri Lanka. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including paired t-tests to analyze academic performance data and a survey to assess student perceptions and practices. The results indicate a positive relationship with grades and perception of CBL among students, with a majority expressing agreement or strong agreement with its implementation. Additionally, results from the survey discovered that conversational AI systems and chatbots emerged as a much-preferred supplementary resource utilized by students. Recommendations for future higher education methodologies include enhancing the integration of CBL, leveraging technology-driven resources, promoting active learning strategies, implementing continuous assessment and feedback mechanisms, investing in educator professional development, and promoting research and evaluation initiatives. These findings contribute valuable insights into student experiences and preferences, informing the development of evidence-based instructional practices in higher education.
Health and Financial Literacy and the Acquisition of COVID-19 Knowledge in Older Adults
Authors: Stewart Christopher C. , Yu Lei , Byrne Maeve , Glover Crystal M. , Bennett David A. , Boyle Patricia A.
Published: June 2024

Knowledge about COVID-19 enters into many aspects of decision making, especially for older people who are at increased risk of severe disease or death. Yet little is known about the resources that supported older people’s uptake of COVID-19 knowledge. Here, we hypothesized that higher pre-pandemic health and financial literacy was associated with higher COVID-19 knowledge. Participants were 434 community-based older people without dementia. COVID-19 knowledge was assessed via a 5-item measure, and health and financial literacy was assessed via a 32-item measure. In an ordinal regression model adjusted for age, gender, and education, higher literacy was associated with higher COVID-19 knowledge ( p < .0001), and this association persisted after further adjusting for robust measures of global cognition or one of five specific cognitive domains (all p’s ≤ .0001). These findings suggest that literacy plays a key role in supporting older people’s acquisition of impactful knowledge in the real world.
Continuous Quality Improvement: Utilizing a Novel Education Platform to Enhance Care for the Caregiver in the Neurosciences Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Klavansky Dana , Lehrer Helaina , Levy Ruth , Boahene-Nartey Golda , Riley Elka , Dangayach Neha S.
Published: June 2024

Background: Timely patient and family communication is fundamental to the delivery of patient and family-centered care in the intensive care unit (ICU). However, repetitive, non-urgent communication with patients and designated patient contacts (DPCs) may lead to workflow disruptions, patient safety concerns and burnout. Implementing media-rich, educational content via a web-app could promote a more communication-friendly environment and reduce redundant communication. This may lower workflow disruptions and save time for more meaningful interactions with providers. The goal of this study was to deliver relevant, high-quality content via a web-app, assess time savings, and patient satisfaction with the web-app. Methods: A pre-implementation survey was distributed to Neurosciences intensive care unit (NSICU) staff to assess the burden of repetitive non-urgent communication and perceived duration of disruptions. Patients admitted to the NSICU from September 2022 to February 2023, n = 221 were included in the study. Patients were enrolled in the web-app. Patients and their DPC were granted access. Demographics including patient diagnosis, age, gender, and race were collected, along with data on weekly patient enrollment, number of DPCs granted access, total, frequency, and average view times of each piece of web-app content, and expected time saved due to review of web-app-based content by patient and/or DPCs to reduce repetitive communication by NSICU caregivers. The time saved for each piece of web-app content was calculated after getting feedback from providers (attendings, fellows, advanced practice providers, nurses) for how long it generally took them to convey each piece of information to patients and families. Results: Based on web-app content reviewed by patients and/or DPCs, the estimated average amount of NSICU caregiver time saved over the study period, based on application content views, was 82 min per week, and the cumulative total provider time saved for all content views was 26 h and 53 min. Twenty-one of 59 applications were rated by patients or their DPC and received five-star reviews (out of 5). Conclusion: The implementation of a web-app to facilitate and increase efficiency in communication leads to time savings for NSICU providers and patient/DPC satisfaction with the media-rich educational content.
A Pilot Study Describing DOAC Level Results and Association With Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Gochnauer Brittni , Rodino Anne , Russell Sarah , Bradley Kristin
Published: June 2024

Purpose: Describe direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) level ordering and interpretation practices in association with clinical outcomes at a vascular medicine clinic. Methods: This study was a retrospective, observational study including patients who had a DOAC level ordered and assessed while on DOAC therapy. The primary outcome was the proportion of DOAC levels within previously reported ranges. Secondary outcomes included thrombotic events, major and clinically relevant non-major bleeding events, and the proportion of DOAC level results which prompted a change in the therapeutic plan. Results: A total of 43 patients who had a DOAC level ordered while on DOAC therapy were included in the study. More patients were on apixaban than other DOACs, and the most common indication for anticoagulation was deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). The most common reasons for ordering DOAC levels included history of gastric bypass (n = 20) and drug-drug interactions (n = 8). Most patients on apixaban had in-range levels (n = 24) compared to out of-range levels (5 patients). More patients on rivaroxaban had a level out-of-range (n = 10) than in-range (n = 4). One patient had a DVT, resulting in hospitalization and change in DOAC therapy. Two patients had bleeding events, with 1 hospitalization and change in DOAC therapy. DOAC level results also prompted changes in therapeutic plans for 9 of the patients. Conclusion: DOAC level results did not always correlate with expected outcomes, and further research is warranted to clarify which clinical situations may benefit from ordering DOAC levels.
Investigation on the influence of fused deposition modelling parameters on the mechanical properties of carbon fibre/nylon composites
Authors: Palaniappan Ashok Kumar , Kumar Krishnan Ravi
Published: June 2024

This article examines the effects on mechanical properties of carbon fibre reinforced with nylon produced using fused deposition modelling technology. Experimental analysis was carried out by varying fused deposition modelling parameters namely the bed temperature, nozzle temperature and outer thickness to determine their impact on mechanical properties. To investigate the effects of these parameters’ tests were carried using design of experiments and mathematical equations were developed. In order to ensure the accuracy of the mathematical equations, analysis of variance (ANOVA) method is employed. Utilising scanning electron microscopy, the microstructure behind the fractured specimens was investigated. Carbon fibre nylon composites have established tensile strengths between 22.75 and 32.65 N/mm2, flexural strengths between 20.12 and 25.89 N/mm2 and impact strengths between 0.37 and 0.71 kJ/m2. The fractured composites are characterised by infill gap, pullout, pores, cavities, smearing, accumulate, debonding of layers, delamination, infill particles, cracks, clusters and breakage. This material can find its application in industries like aerospace, automotive and other engineering applications. Also, this study acts as a database for other researchers carrying their work in this area.
Influence of different Reynolds numbers and new geometries on water jacket cooling performance in a CI engine
Authors: Kantaroğlu Emrah
Published: June 2024

Physical damage and emission increases that may occur in the engine due to uncontrolled temperature increases are prevented by cooling systems. In this study, the water jacket (WJ) of the F-Type F8Q706 engine was examined for different Reynolds numbers and geometries. With a combined examination approach, engine tests, 1D engine model, 3D in-cylinder combustion (ICC) model, and 3D WJ CFD studies are presented together, for the first time. Accordingly, a 3D WJ CFD model was developed using in-cylinder parameters calculated from 1D and 3D ICC which were verified by tests. Engine powers in 1D and 3D models, heat transfer, liner temperature, and heat flux in WJ models were compared. The engine powers at 2500 rpm with wide-open throttle are as follows: 1D (33.610 kW), 3D ICC (32.075 kW), engine catalog test (30.890 kW), and a literature test (29 kW). In the WJ model, instead of the Reynolds number 22,128.97, values of 18,440.81–15,367.34–12,806.11–1067.76–8893.14–7410.95–6175.79 were used. In this case, heat transfer decreased by 11.224%–20.844%–29.940%–38.168%–45.723%–52.874%–59.340%. Liner temperature increased by 3.962%–7.505%–10.879%–13.958%–16.800%–19.470%–21.822%. As the Reynolds number decreased, heat transfer decreased, and liner temperature increased. In the WJ, uncontrolled temperature increases were seen in areas farthest from the water inflow. Unlike studies using nanofluids, a new WJ geometry with 169 fins was developed for cooling performance. Nanoparticles cause damage to elastomeric system elements, clogging, and corrosion in lines. This geometry increased heat transfer by 42.01% and reduced liner surface temperatures by 48.28% for 22,128.966 Re. Repeated analyses showed that the fins increased heat transfer.
Monitoring the bogie lateral dynamics of a high-speed train through wireless sensor nodes
Authors: Araya Reyes Carlos Esteban , Zanelli Federico , Castelli-Dezza Francesco , Bruni Stefano
Published: June 2024

The condition monitoring of railway vehicles and of the infrastructure (track and overhead equipment) through the use of vehicle-based sensors is becoming a major trend for the railway industry and, to this aim, new rolling stock generations are often natively fitted with numerous sensors. However, older vehicles are not equipped with sensors and monitoring systems so that, considering the long service life of the rolling stock, advanced monitoring and condition-based maintenance techniques can only be applied to a relatively minor portion of the in-service railway fleets. This paper presents results from a research programme aimed at designing and testing an innovative monitoring system based on wireless sensor nodes, suitable for the retrofitting of older rolling stock generations, not natively equipped with advanced sensing and monitoring capabilities. The prototype monitoring system was used to detect the incipient bogie instability, which can be related to degradation in some suspension components or to increase of the equivalent conicity at wheel/rail contact. Different vehicle conditions and the influence of the track were considered in the study. Experimental tests have shown that is possible to identify not only how the vehicle condition is evolving in time but also the effect that maintenance operations like wheel reprofiling may have on the bogie lateral dynamics.
Secure impulsive cluster synchronization control of complex dynamical networks with parameter mismatches under deception attacks
Authors: Guo Junfeng , Wang Fei , Xue Qianwen , Wang Mengqing
Published: June 2024

The issue of secure cluster synchronization (SCS) of complex dynamical networks (CDNs) with parameter mismatches under deception attacks is investigated in this article. Firstly, the deception attacks are supposed to inject false information into controller-to-actuator channels, while the occurrences of deception attack are always subject to Bernoulli distribution. Secondly, an improved pinning impulsive control strategy is designed. The impulsive gain in the control strategy is take from a new range. Moreover, we obtain the estimation of synchronization error upper bound and boundaries of secure synchronization region. The synchronization error will converge to a bounded ball that depends on attack energy at a exponential rate. The CDNs without deception attacks under pinning impulsive control can achieve complete cluster synchronization. Finally, two numerical examples with 20 nodes based on MATLAB software are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities of Panax japonicus: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Wang Li , Zhou Ao-jia , Zhang Yi-dan , Fan Cheng , Hu Shan-shan , Zhou Zhi-yong , Yuan Ding , Wang Ting
Published: June 2024

Background

Panax japonicus ( P. japonicus) belongs to the Panax genus of Araliaceae and is used as medicine mainly with the bamboo whiplike rhizome, which has the functions of dispelling blood stasis and hemostasis, attenuating swelling and pain, eradicating phlegm and relieving cough, tonifying, and strength.

Purpose

This review intends to summarize the chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of P. japonicus to provide a scientific and systematic basis for better utilization of its rational applications.

Methods

The literature was searched using PubMed, Baidu Scholar and Science Hub search engines.

Results

The chemistry components isolated from P. japonicus are mainly saponins, besides also including polysaccharides, amino acids, volatile oils, inorganic elements, etc. P. japonicus exhibits extensive pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, lipid lowering activities, and therefore show extensive protective effects on the central nervous system, cardio-cerebrovascular system, digestive system.

Conclusion

This article included a thorough summary of the botany, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of P. japonicus and provided evidence for its further research and clinical applications.
Making Life Meaningful After Cancer: A Qualitative Study of Meaning in Life among Young Adults with Cancer in Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Sabri Nursahira Sahiba , Mohamed Hussin Nur Atikah
Published: June 2024

Searching for meaning in life is important to have positive experiences; however, it is challenging for young adults diagnosed with cancer. This study investigates what cancer means to young adults with cancer and how they make life meaningful after a cancer diagnosis. This qualitative study involved 14 young adults recruited from a closed Facebook group. The age range of the participants was between 20 and 39 years, and their survival year was 1–18 years. Semi-structured interviews and a thematic analysis were performed to identify the major themes that emerged from these interviews. The findings identified that cancer means trial, not punishment; cancer does not mean death; it is a second chance at life, and life after cancer is meaningless. Four ways made their lives meaningful: (1) helping people; (2) developing a routine and to-do list; (3) happiness is intangible; and (4) finding solace in the cancer journey. Their meaning in life after a cancer diagnosis was portrayed in a favourable light, with religion and culture playing a significant role in determining how they responded to illness. This study will enrich the existing literature on meaning in life and provide important insight into providing an appropriate support system and strengthening healthcare professional support to help young adults with cancer throughout their cancer journey.
Presurgical Reduction of the Cleft Palate: Serendipitous Benefit of the Stanford Orthodontic Airway Plate Treatment (SOAP) for Infants with Robin Sequence
Authors: Kim Jin-Woo , Wan Alison , Kim Jun-Young , Choo HyeRan
Published: June 2024

Objective

Narrowing of the palatal cleft is often observed in infants with Robin sequence (RS) treated with the Stanford Orthodontic Airway Plate treatment (SOAP) even though SOAP is utilized primarily to establish airway patency. The current study quantified dimensional changes of the cleft palate (CP) in infants with RS treated with SOAP.

Design

A retrospective chart review.

Patients

Infants with RS and CP who completed SOAP and had maxillary arch models at both pre- and post-treatment time points at a single tertiary referral hospital between September 2019 and July 2023.

Setting and Outcome Measure

Maxillary arch models were measured and analyzed using Bivariate statistical analysis.

Results

Seventeen infants were included in the study. The median age (min, max) was 6.7 weeks (1.1, 21.9) at pre-treatment and 26.6 weeks (18.7, 37.0) at post-treatment. The median Obstructive Apnea Hypopnea Index was 36.2 events/hour (8.1, 103.1) at pre-treatment and 4.1 events/hour (1.9, 8.6) at post-treatment. The pre-treatment width of CP decreased by an average (± standard diviation) of 6.37 mm (± 3.55, p < 0.001) at post-treatment. The ratio of the posterior cleft width to the total maxillary arch width decreased from 40% (± 9.1) at pre-treatment to 22% (± 11) at post-treatment (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The dimensions of CP reduced significantly during SOAP in infants with RS and CP treated for their severe upper airway obstruction. The findings highlight a potential benefit of SOAP that may contribute favorably to the palate repair surgery.
The Role of Real-Time Event Monitoring in Dynamic Response to Disruptions
Authors: Divey Shailesh J , Hekimoğlu Mert Hakan , Ravichandran T
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates a risk-averse firm's investment strategy in real-time event-monitoring technologies coupled with dynamic disruption response decisions. The firm does not know how long the disruption will last, and the event-monitoring solutions provide the firm with a quicker update regarding the length of the disruption. When the firm receives an update, it has the flexibility to revise its initial response action. We model a two-stage stochastic program to study this problem where risk aversion is modeled in the form of a Service-at-Risk constraint. Our paper makes four important contributions. First, it characterizes the optimal recourse strategies given an update and identifies the conditions when the firm benefits from the recourse. Second, we characterize the optimal investment and initial response strategies where we find that the investment behavior is non-monotone. Third, our paper shows an interesting impact of risk aversion on the investment decision such that the firm may benefit from investing in event monitoring at moderate degrees of risk aversion, but not necessarily at low or high degrees of risk aversion. Fourth, we find that a firm's benefit from event monitoring is more profound when the capacity of contingency response is moderately limited.
Consumer Xenocentrism and Well-Being: Conspicuous Consumption Orientation, Brand Addiction, and Self-Esteem
Authors: Diamantopoulos Adamantios , Matarazzo Michela , Mrad Mona , Maack Mariel
Published: June 2024

Focusing on the implications of xenocentric behavior for consumer well-being, the authors investigate the link between consumer xenocentrism (C-XEN) and consumers’ self-esteem, using conspicuous consumption orientation and brand addiction as mediating variables. To this end, drawing on system justification, self-concept, and reference group theories, they develop a competitive mediation model and test it on samples of Italian (N = 456) and Peruvian (N = 203) consumers. The results reveal that while the direct effect of C-XEN on self-esteem is negative, C-XEN is also positively related to self-esteem through indirect effects, with conspicuous consumption orientation and brand addiction mediating this relationship. These findings add to our theoretical understanding of the C-XEN construct and its impact on consumer well-being, and have important practical implications for both foreign and domestic producers.
Assessing the Outputs, Outcomes, and Impacts of Science Communication: A Quantitative Content Analysis of 128 Science Communication Projects
Authors: Volk Sophia Charlotte
Published: June 2024

Few studies have explored how science communication projects are evaluated and what impact they have. This study aims to fill this gap by analyzing the results of science communication projects carried out by academics. Drawing on the theory of change and evaluation models, possible results of science communication projects are conceptually distinguished at the levels of outputs, outcomes, and impacts. The study draws on a dataset of 128 science communication projects funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation from 2012 to 2022. Quantitative content analysis reveals few rigorous evaluation designs and a focus on reporting outputs, while outcomes and societal impacts are often neglected.