bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-scale characterization of carbon-fibre reinforced PEEK composites manufactured by laser-assisted tape placement
Authors: RESTIF Noé
Published: April 2024

Abstract. The Laser-Assisted Tape Placement forming process of thermoplastic composites enables the rapid production of laminates. However, it requires the tuning of the processing parameters, which is currently limited by a misunderstanding of the consolidation phenomena occurring during process and the interlaminar properties related with strong welded interfaces. This study aims at establishing correlations between physical properties and mechanical strength of welded thermoplastic composites, by using several methods and characterizations at different scales. Carbon-fibre reinforced PEEK (CF/PEEK) composites produced by a LATP process were investigatedby varying the Laser Setpoint Temperature (LST) and Tool Temperature (TT). The results show that laminates manufactured at a LST of 350 °C have high void content, with the location of the voids depending on the TT: at a TT of 25 °C (unheated tool), interply and intraply voids are present while for a TT of 250 °C they are mainly intraply. Laminates produced at a LST of 450 °C also have mainly intraply voids, although their void content is significantly lower than that of laminates produced at an LST of 350 °C. For laminates having mainly intraply voids, ILSS testing demonstrates failure by an intralaminar failure mode. An increase in intralaminar shear strength is observed as the intraply void content decreases and the degree of crystallinity increases, related to the LST and the TT. The combination of experimental techniques thus allowed to provide understanding on the influence of local physical properties of the composites manufactured by LATP on specific interface-related mechanical properties, and demonstrate that, despite variations of mechanical performances with processing conditions, interfaces are no longer a weak point within the laminates when the processing conditions allow for sufficient intimate contact to occur during the consolidation phase.
Experimental characterisation for compression moulding of hybrid architecture composites using reclaimed prepreg manufacturing waste
Authors: QIAN Connie
Published: April 2024

Abstract. Composites manufacturing using prepreg general a large proportion of waste from ply cutting, which usually ends up in landfill. A novel reuse route for prepreg manufacturing waste is proposed by combining chip-SMC reprocessed from the waste material and the virgin continuous fibre prepreg to create hybrid architecture composites. Experimental studies are performed to investigate the flow behaviour of prepreg chip-SMC under typical compression moulding conditions and benchmark it against a conventional SMC. Process characterisation is also performed for hybrid architecture composites to understand the critical deformation mechanisms of chip-SMC and prepreg, and the interaction between the two materials. Compression moulding trials are performed to further study the material behaviour and process characterises under realistic manufacturing conditions.
Layer adhesion and critical strain of HFCVD diamond coatings on WC-Co substrate
Authors: LECHNER Stefan
Published: April 2024

Abstract. The extrusion of products with high demands on dimensional accuracy and surface quality, such as aluminum power bonding wires or bioabsorbable stents made of magnesium, renders high requirements on the extrusion die. With the application of HFCVD (Hot Filament Chemical Vapor Deposition) diamond coatings on cobalt-based tungsten carbide alloys, a die material with great hot strength, high surface hardness and low chemical adhesion could be provided. To identify WC-Co alloys with suitable cobalt content both for use as extrusion die and for coating with CVD diamond, investigations on ductility and hot strength as well as layer adhesion and interface stability were carried out. The mechanical properties of four WC-Co alloys containing 6 %, 9 %, 10 % and 12 % cobalt were determined by means of hot compression tests. Layer adhesion was evaluated by a standardized sandblasting test. Subsequently, hot compression tests were carried out with coated specimens to determine the critical deformation of the applied CVD diamond coatings.
Mechanical behavior and flow curve modeling of AZ31B magnesium alloy under low frequency vibration assisted tension
Authors: TIAN Ye
Published: April 2024

Abstract. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the low-frequency vibration field on the mechanical behavior of AZ31B magnesium alloy. To achieve this, a series of low-frequency vibration-assisted tensile tests were conducted at room temperature. The effect of various vibration parameters on the mechanical characteristics of AZ31B was studied. The findings indicate that the introduction of low-frequency vibration field during the traditional tensile process leads to periodic oscillations in the flow stress of the material. Moreover, the maximum stress value was greater than the condition without vibration. The vibration hardening value is not significantly affected by the vibration frequency, but rather depends on the amplitude. The magnitude of the vibration hardening value increases with the increasing amplitude, and this relationship is non-linear. On this basis, a modified Hockett-Sherby hardening model was constructed by incorporating the vibration parameters. Statistical analysis of stress-strain curve, vibration hardening and stress fluctuation values were conducted to identify the model parameters. By comparing with the experimental result, the stress change of AZ31B magnesium alloy under low frequency vibration tension could be well predicted by this model.
Investigation of heat transfer dependencies in quenching of extrusion profiles based on experiment and FEM simulation
Authors: KNIAZKIN I.
Published: April 2024

Abstract. The objective of this study is to establish a comprehensive method, devoid of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calculations, for determining the surface heat transfer coefficient during spray cooling. This technique enables the derivation of the heat transfer coefficient's dependence on the temperature of the cooled surface by utilizing known data regarding the number, relative positioning, and catalog characteristics of nozzles. Additionally, adjustable parameters of the quenching system such as the pressure and flow rates of water and air are considered in the methodology. Implemented within the commercial finite element (FE) package QForm UK, this technique is validated using independent experimental data that faithfully replicates real production conditions encountered during the quenching of extruded profiles made from aluminum alloys.
Numerical simulation of the extrusion process with different FEM code approaches: analysis of thermal field, profile speed, defects evolution, and microstructure of hollow tubes
Authors: PELACCIA R.
Published: April 2024

Abstract. Over the years, the utilization of FEM numerical simulation has become a valuable tool for both die makers and extruders. To assess the evolution of FEM codes in terms of problem-solving potentiality, accuracy, as well as reduction of computational time, the 'ICEB - International Conference on Extrusion and Benchmark' conference series was established. The participants, who are unaware of the experimental outputs in advance, share with the organizers their numerical results to be compared with the actual experimental data. Analysis and discussion of the results during the conference allows users to check if their simulation settings are adequate to replicate the problems, and software house to verify the sensitivity of their solving methods. For the ICEB 2023, hollow tube-shaped profiles in AA6082 were extruded by varying the nitrogen flow rate and the quenching conditions. The experimental-numerical comparison was assessed in terms of press load, profile speeds, profile and die temperatures, defects evolution, nitrogen cooling efficiency, and the profiles’ microstructure.
Using computer vision to analyse fracture strains of oxide scale layers on a macro level
Authors: Wester H.
Published: April 2024

Abstract. Hot forging has established itself as an efficient process for the manufacture of highly stressed components. The high semi-finished product temperatures significantly increase the deformation capacity and enable the production of complex geometries. However, high semi-finished product temperatures of up to 1250 °C also lead to increased oxide scale formation. Therefore, oxide scale plays an important role in the context of hot forming processes. Due to the contrasting properties between steel substrates and oxide scale, the appearance of oxide scale affects numerous influencing factors, such as changed friction conditions or thermophysical properties. With increasing interest in numerical process prediction arises the demand to take into account the behaviour of oxide scale in finite-element simulations. In addition to the numerical mapping of the crack behaviour, the challenge in mapping the oxide scale is to determine suitable parameters for describing the failure behaviour. Therefore, this work focuses on a novel procedure to characterise the failure of oxide scale under process relevant conditions of hot forging.
Advanced functionalisation and numerical simulation of the boundary layer by deformation-induced martensite on bearing rings through bulk metal forming
Authors: PEDDINGHAUS Simon
Published: April 2024

Abstract. The phase transformation of metastable austenitic steels caused by externally superimposed strains during cold forming increases the material strength in addition to strain hardening. Although numerous research papers have described the basic effects of the phase transformation from metastable austenite to martensite, it is not yet applied in the dimensions of common bulk formed components. Thereby the functionalisation of deformation-induced martensite to increase the material strength specifically at heavily loaded surfaces bears potential. However, the amount of deformation-induced martensite formation within a forming process is limited through the occurring strain hardening. In this paper an approach for an advanced functionalisation of this transformation through an adaption of the process is presented. The setup of a forming process is adapted, forming experiments are carried out at low temperatures and the specimens are investigated through hardness measurements (HV1), magnetic inductive testing (Feritscope MP3C) and microstructure analysis. The results were compared to distributions of plastic strain determined through FE simulations and showed a good correlation. It can be shown, that at cryogenic temperatures a significant increase of martensite formation is achieved.
Necking of invar layer in copper-invar laminates during roll-bonding
Authors: MKINSI Ismaïl
Published: April 2024

Abstract. Sheets of Fe-36%Ni (Invar) and copper alloys are bonded by roll-bonding process to produce metallic composites with a low thermal expansion coefficient and large conductivity. To boost the thermal conductivity of the composite, the Invar layers must be fragmented. For a given volume fraction of Invar, the necking/fragmentation depends on the spatial distribution of the Invar layers, meaning their number and thickness. Hence, different configurations of copper/Invar composites are processed to determine the effect of each parameter on the necking/fragmentation. The materials are then mechanically characterised to use the results as input data to the simulation of the process. Finally, to obtain a realistic simulation, a multi-step roll-bonding simulation using a remeshing solution is carried out for each cycle. The occurrence of necking during the cold-roll bonding of copper and Invar layers is both numerically and experimentally studied. In all cases, the experimental and simulation results are in good agreement. Invar layer thickness is of major importance to facilitate the fragmentation.
Er-puzzles 2
Authors: Bastiaanse Roelien , Bos Gerda , Bulthuis Mayon , Popov Srdjan
Published: April 2024

Zo klein als het woordje er is, zo veel functies heeft het. Het gebruik ervan maakt het, in al zijn nietigheid, tot een van de lastigste woordjes van het Nederlands voor eerste- en tweedetaalverwervers. In het onderhavige artikel belichten we de verschillende functies die er kan hebben en bespreken we twee experimenten. Het eerste betreft een onderzoek (grammaticaliteitsbeoordeling en self paced reading) naar schendingen van twee verschillende functies van er bij moedertaalsprekers van het Nederlands. Er wordt aangetoond dat deze twee verschillend verwerkt worden. Het tweede experiment (grammaticaliteitsbeoordeling en Evoked Related Potentials/EEG) met Duitstalige near native sprekers van het Nederlands, laat zien dat, zoals voorspeld door Ron van Zonneveld (persoonlijke communicatie), tweedetaalverwerkers moeite hebben met de verwerking van er, met name als er een grammaticale functie heeft die in hun moedertaal niet voorkomt.
De plaats van /o:/ en /ɔ/ in het Nederlandse klinkersysteem
Authors: Gilbers Dicky , Koster Lianne
Published: April 2024

De klinkers van 40 Nederlandse deelnemers (20 twintigers en 20 zestigers) werden opgenomen om individuele klinkerruimtes te construeren. De zestigers hebben een meer open realisatie van /ɔ/ dan van /o:/, terwijl de twintigers een meer open realisatie van /o:/ hebben. Wij proberen deze verschuiving als volgt te verklaren. Historisch gezien vertoonde het Nederlands twee verschillende korte geronde middenachterklinkers: kardinale klinker 6, in hok, en de korte variant van primaire kardinale klinker 7, in bok. Deze zijn in veel dialecten samengevallen door het verhogen van /ɔ/. De daardoor ontstane vrije ruimte wordt vervolgens opgevuld door de verlaging van de (lange) kardinale klinker 7, /o:/ in poot. Het resultaat is dat de korte klinkers in hok en bok gerealiseerd worden in de oorspronkelijke positie in de klinkerruimte van de klinker in poot, terwijl de lange klinker in poot gerealiseerd wordt in de oorspronkelijke positie in de klinkerruimte van /ɔ/ in pot.
Two challenges for existentialist approaches to strict negative concord
Authors: Rudnev Pavel
Published: April 2024

I present two challenges for the popular approach to the meaning of negative concord items, or neg-words, as existential quantifiers or indefinites. The first challenge concerns the interaction of that analysis with the approaches to fragment answers as instances of clausal ellipsis. The second challenge stems from the ability of multiple neg-words within one clause to be modified by almost, which is unexpected if they are existentials or indefinites.
O tempora, o mores: Over fotobijschriften, werkwoordstijden en conventies
Authors: Rullmann Hotze
Published: April 2024

In het Engels, maar niet in het Nederlands, komen vaak fotobijschriften voor in de tegenwoordige tijd die ook een expliciete bepaling van tijd bevatten die naar een tijdstip in het verleden verwijzen (bijv. yesterday). Deze ogenschijnlijke tegenstrijdigheid is te analyseren als een geval van ‘dubbele deixis’, waarbij de werkwoordstijd verwijst naar het referentiepunt R (Reference Time), dat overeenkomt met het interval waarop de foto ‘voorhanden’ is, terwijl de bepaling van tijd refereert aan het moment van werking W (Event Time) van de gebeurtenis in de werkelijkheid buiten de foto. Dit verschijnsel wordt gerelateerd aan andere gevallen van dubbele deixis m.b.t. een representatie, zoals Engelse futurates die in de tegenwoordige tijd kunnen staan omdat ze verwijzen naar een rooster (schedule). Verschillen tussen het Nederlands en het Engels zijn het best te begrijpen als taalgebonden stilistische conventies.
Leren van en over kwantificeren in de praktijk met Jack
Authors: Smits Erik-Jan
Published: April 2024

Binnen de taalkunde is in de afgelopen decennia een schat aan inzichten opgedaan over de wijze waarop kinderen in de leeftijd van 4 tot 6 jaar betekenis toekennen aan zinnen met een kwantor. Helaas lijken deze resultaten niet of nauwelijks doorgedrongen te zijn in de psychologie, orthopedagogiek of praktijk van het primair onderwijs. De huidige ontwikkelingen op het gebied van sociale interactive agents (SIA’s) in combinatie met eerdere inzichten op het gebied van natural language processing (NLP), maakt dit wel mogelijk. Sterker nog, een ontwerpgerichte benadering van een dergelijke sociale interactive agent, die ik de naam Jack meegeef, vormt het ideale vertrekpunt voor verder interdisciplinair (praktijkgericht) onderzoek naar deze bouwstenen van ons logisch redeneervermogen.
Updated list and new records of macroalgae from the Gulf of Morrosquillo, Colombian Caribbean
Authors: Quintana-Manotas Humberto Luis , Hernández-Contreras Diego Alexander , Gavio Brigitte
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims: Macroalgae are primary producers of marine ecosystems, so the information regarding their species composition and distribution is necessary to develop conservation strategies and sustainable use of the coastal coastlines they inhabit. However, in different marine regions of Colombia, such as the Gulf of Morrosquillo, this knowledge is scarce, requiring a greater sampling effort and constant updating of data. Therefore, this work aims to provide an updated list of the macroalgae in the aforementioned region, based on published and unpublished biological records and recent sampling. Methods: Bibliographic information was compiled from historical records from 1976 to the present and complemented with sampling in one location in the Gulf of Morrosquillo. The taxa were organized and updated based on the most recent nomenclature, and the geographical affinity of the algal flora was determined using the Cheney index.Key results: The occurrence of 97 taxa classified in three classes, 15 orders, 32 families and 54 genera. Red algae, with 48 taxa, were the group that contributed the largest number of species, and the phycoflora of the region was of a mixed type according to the Cheney index. Six new annotated and illustrated records were reported for the Gulf: Antithamnionella breviramosa, Centroceras gasparrinii, Bostrychia tenella, Melanothamnus sphaerocarpus, Agardhiella ramosissima and Feldmannia mitchelliae.Conclusions: The inventory of macroalgae in the evaluated region was updated, showing a clearer historical panorama of the sampled areas, which suggests an extraordinary potential in the future discovery of new records that would increase the knowledge about the phycoflora of the Colombian Caribbean, particularly because the records of encrusting red algae, epiphytic and epizoic species are non-existent.
Unveiling pre-service English teachers’ perceptions of differentiated instruction
Authors: Sukarno Sukarno , Riyadini Maria Vineki , Jinabe Megan , Lestari Aryanti Eka
Published: April 2024

Implementing differentiated instruction (DI) has become imperative, particularly with its integration into the Kurikulum Merdeka in Indonesia. It is an approach that customizes instruction to cater to students' needs. This study aimed to unveil the general perceptions of pre-service English teachers regarding DI, explore their understanding and practices within the framework of DI, and identify challenges in its implementation. This study applied a quantitative approach with a survey research design with EFL pre-service teachers as the participants. The research employed a structured questionnaire as the primary instrument and substantiated each item through validation procedures, including Cronbach's alpha analysis. The findings showed a comprehensive overview of pre-service English teachers' general perspectives on DI that influence their practical application of related techniques. These insights contributed to a deeper understanding of the efficacy of DI and informed pedagogical practices, teacher preparation programs, and curriculum development. This research divulged the crucial role of pre-service English teachers' perceptions in implementing DI in teaching and learning contexts. Additionally, the study highlighted challenges pre-service teachers face, such as time constraints, limited resources, and large class sizes, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address these challenges. The outcomes of this study were expected to inform related parties about the significance of tailored instruction in fostering effective and inclusive instruction environments to reach educational goals.
Dampak Implementasi Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) di Berbagai Negara
Authors: Dewi May Prastika , Rahmawati Selly
Published: April 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dan menjelaskan dampak implementasi Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) di berbagai negara. Khususnya pada partisipasi atau komitmen peserta didik, kepuasan peserta didik, dan hasil belajar peserta didik pada implementasi mengetahui dan menjelaskan dampak implementasi Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) di berbagai negara. Metode penelitian dalam penelitian ini adalah metode penelitian kajian literatur atau sistematic literature review. Kajian literatur merupakan metode penelitian yang melibatkan mendeskripsikan atau menguraikan literatur yang relevan untuk topik atau bidang tertentu. Penelitian ini melaksanakan review dengan 9 artikel yang terdiri dari 7 artikel internasional dan 2 artikel nasional. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa: 1) keterlibatan peserta didik dipengaruhi oleh efikasi diri pembelajaran berbasis web, komitmen, insentif uang, efikasi diri akademik, kehadiran mengajar pengajar, manfaat yang dirasakan, metakognisi, pembelajaran mandiri, serta tantangan dan kontrol memiliki peran terbatas pada keterlibatan peserta didik; 2) kepuasan peserta didik dipengaruhi oleh kemudaan penggunaan dan manfaat yang dirasakan peserta didik.; dan 3) Massive Open Online Course  (MOOC) berpengaruh pada hasil belajar peserta didik serta dapat meningkatkan hasil belajar peserta didik.
PENINGKATAN KREATIVITAS DAN INOVASI PAMONG DESA MELALUI PELATIHAN MANAJAMEN ARSIP ELEKTRONIK
Authors: Diah Kusuma Chusnu Syarifa , Rusdiyanto Wahyu , Nugroho Fajar Wahyu
Published: April 2024

Tujuan kegiatan Pengabdian Pada Masyarakat (PPM) ini adalah untuk mencegah terjadinya kehilangan dan kerusakan arsip di kantor kecamatan di Desa Ketawang Kecamatan Grabag Kabupaten Magelang serta meningkatkan kemampuan pamong desa dalam mengelola arsip berbasis komputer.          Untuk mencapai tujuan tersebut, metode yang digunakan dalam kegiatan ini adalah pelatihan kepada pamong Desa Ketawang. Desa Ketawang dipilih sebagai sasaran kegiatan pelatihan ini, mengingat desa tersebut adalah desa yang tidak produktif secara ekonomi/sosial, namun memberikan pelayanan publik dasar yang dibutuhkan masyarakat desa yang dapat mengakibatkan tingkat kerusakan dan kehilangan arsip sangat tinggi. Pelaksanaan pelatihan diadakan di Kantor di Desa Ketawang pada tanggal 17-18 Juli 2023.Hasilnya bahwa pemahaman peserta PPM telah meningkat terkait perbedaan kearsipan manual dan elektronik, kearsipan digital, praktik manajemen arsip elektronik, pembuatan dan praktik sistem kearsipan elektronik setelah diadakan PPM
A Conceptual Framework for Social Media Engagement in Academic Library to Advocate Participatory Service towards Dynamic Learning Community
Authors: Abd Rahim Siti Marlia , Abdullah Sani Mad Khir Johari , Shuhidan Shamila
Published: April 2024

Academic libraries are being forced to adopt a more advanced version of the library model, where library systems integrate with users to disseminate knowledge for educational purposes and create a dynamic learning community, because of the growing potential of social media applications to effectively revolutionize library participation. This paper aims to develop a conceptual framework of Social Media Engagement in Academic Libraries to Advocate Participatory Service Towards a Dynamic Learning Community. In conclusion, the developed framework will propose the best library model, the best theory of social media engagement that merges with the best framework for the learning community.
Factor Influencing User Satisfaction E-Study Public Sector (EPSA) System: The case of civil servant
Authors: Ali Jinah Nor Nadia , Saiful Bahry Farrah Diana , Zaini Muhamad Khairulnizam
Published: April 2024

The technological era has revolutionized education, making it accessible to all. Malaysia's government introduced E-Study Public Sector (EPSA) as an online learning platform for government servants, but user feedback and satisfaction remain uncertain. A study involving 226 civil servants from the Ministry of Health found moderate learning satisfaction using EPSA. Inferential analysis using partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) revealed a significant relationship between perceived ease of use, self-efficacy, and web design and content quality, except for perceived usefulness. The results suggest that e-learner satisfaction factors must be considered for continuous usage intention and organizational technological innovation.
Conceptual Model of Information Elements of Agriculture and Agripreneurship
Authors: Sa’uadi Ana Nabilah , Abdul Rahman Safawi
Published: April 2024

This study examines the relevant and critical agricultural-related information available on the official government web portals of thirteen (13) agencies operating under the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA). A structured review of the agricultural-related content was conducted to identify information elements that hold significant value for aspiring agropreneurs. The primary goal of this study is to develop a model of an online platform consolidating essential agricultural information from various government agencies’ web portals. The model of information elements undergoes the validation process that comes from experts and potential agropreneurs. The method of research employs a qualitative research approach and adopts the interpretive research paradigm to analyze the collected data. More specifically, it adopts a hermeneutic approach to the analysis process. The focal point of this research is presenting the state-of-the-art of critical and relevant agricultural and agripreneurship information elements, which eleven (11) information elements of agricultural-related and agripreneurship form a cornerstone of this endeavor. It confines its scope to the official web portals of government departments and agencies under the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA). The ultimate contribution of this research lies in its ability to provide an intricate understanding within the realm of information management context of agriculture and agripreneurship that would cater to the potential agropreneurs or youths lacking prior agricultural knowledge and equipping them with essential information to embark on their journey.
A Systematic Literature Review for Modeling a Cyber Risk Assessment Framework
Authors: Mohd Amin Zahari , Anwar Norizan , Mohd Shoid Mohd Shamsul , Samuri Suzaliana
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a framework for cyber risk assessment using a systematic literature review (SLR). A three-staged systematic review was used in this SLR planning, conducting, and reporting the review. Results screening was done by applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. EndNote software and the PRISMA flow diagram were helpful tools during this screening process. The SLR helps the researcher to discover the variables and dimensions in assessing cyber risk. Its findings helped the researcher to produce a framework model of cyber risk assessment. The framework created is expected to give an overview of a more standardized and controlled method of assessing cyber risk to be adopted by organizations.
Exploration of Web Contents of Selangor Royal Family using Web Archiving Tools
Authors: Mohd Nor Masturah , Saiful Bahry Farrah Diana , Mohamed Shuhidan Shamila , Husaini Haslinda
Published: April 2024

This study aims to explore the web contents of Selangor Royal family as an initiative to preserve the contents of social and cultural values. Initially, an exploration of websites’ profiles and the contents of Selangor Royal family by using tools BuildWith and XML-Sitemaps. Then, the selected web pages were then archived using web archiving tools, HTTrack and Conifer. The findings indicate that there are different types of websites and website owners covering the Selangor Royal family-related content. The recorded information and lifestyles of royal family represent value in building Malaysian identity and are significant to be preserved for future discovery.
A Brief Workplace Training Program to Support Help-Seeking for Mental Ill-Health: Protocol for the Helipad Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Batterham Philip J , Gulliver Amelia , Heffernan Cassandra , Calear Alison L , Werner-Seidler Aliza , Turner Alyna , Farrer Louise M , Chatterton Mary Lou , Mihalopoulos Cathrine , Berk Michael
Published: April 2024

Background

Most people with mental health problems do not seek help, with delays of even decades in seeking professional help. Lack of engagement with professional mental health services can lead to poor outcomes and functional impairment. However, few effective interventions have been identified to improve help-seeking in adults, and those that exist are not widely implemented to deliver public health impact. Co-designing interventions with people with lived experience of mental ill-health and other relevant stakeholders is critical to increase the likelihood of uptake and engagement with these programs.

Objective

This study aims to (1) test the effectiveness of a co-designed help-seeking program on increasing professional help-seeking intentions in employees in a workplace setting; (2) determine whether the program reduces mental illness stigma and improves help-seeking intentions and behavior, mental health literacy, mental health symptoms, and work and activity functioning relative to the control condition; (3) explore factors that facilitate broader implementation of the co-designed program; and (4) explore the cost-effectiveness of the co-designed program compared to the control condition over 6 months.

Methods

A 2-arm cluster randomized controlled trial will be conducted (target sample: N=900 from 30 to 36 workplaces, with n=25 to 35 participants per workplace). The trial will compare the relative effectiveness of an enhanced interactive program (intervention condition) with a standard psychoeducation-alone program (active control condition) on the primary outcome of professional help-seeking intentions as measured by the General Help-Seeking Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes include the impact on mental illness stigma; mental health literacy; help-seeking attitudes and behavior; work and activity functioning; quality of life; and symptoms of mental ill-health including depression, anxiety, and general psychological distress.

Results

Facilitators of and risks to the trial are identified and addressed in this protocol. Recruitment of workplaces is scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2024.

Conclusions

If effective, the program has the potential to be ready for rapid dissemination throughout Australia, with the potential to increase appropriate and efficient service use across the spectrum of evidence-based services.

Trial Registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) ACTRN12623000270617p; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=385376

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/55529
Landscape of Digital Technologies Used in the National Health Service in England: Content Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Allcock Jake Alan , Zhuang Mengdie , Li Shuyang , Zhao Xin
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

In England, digital technologies are exploited to transform the way health and social care is provided and encompass a wide range of hardware devices and software that are used in all aspects of health care. However, little is known about the extent to which health care providers differ in digital health technology capabilities and how this relates to geographical and regional differences in health care capacities and resources.

OBJECTIVE

This paper aims to identify the set of digital technologies that have been deployed by the National Health Services clinical commissioning groups (NHS CCGs) in England. In doing this, we respond to calls to shed light on the internal dynamics and variation in the form of digital capability in England in terms of health service regional differences and health diversity, equity, and inclusion.

METHODS

We collected 135 annual reports that belong to 106 NHS CCGs in England, comprising more than 18,000 pages in total, released from 2020 to 2021. Using this data set, we identified 2163 pages related to digital technologies and labeled them using content analysis. We follow the construct taxonomy used by digital options theory, a theory from the management information systems field analyzing organizational resource investment choices, in classifying observed technologies according to digital themes—inherent design patterns that we identified and explained. We then used a hierarchical clustering method to extract groups of NHS CCGs that implement similar technology themes.

RESULTS

We found 31 technologies from the reports and grouped them into 9 digital themes. The 9 themes were further assigned to 1 of the 3 constructs of digital options theory, the identification of patients’ requirements (we identified information portals [76/106], digital health engagement [67/106], and digital inclusion support [45/106]), the development of new work patterns (we identified telehealth [87/106], telemedicine [35/106], and care home technologies [40/106]), the realization of improvements in efficiency and public accessibility (we identified online booking [26/106], online triage [104/106], and digital mental health services [74/106]). The 3 clusters of CCGs are identified based on the 8 themes (Hopkins=0.9914, silhouette=0.186), namely (1) digitally disengaged, (2) digitally engaged, and (3) digital torchbearer.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show prominent digital themes within each construct group, namely information portals, telehealth, and online triage, covering people’s fundamental health information needs. Almost half of CCGs fell into the digitally disengaged group, and all London CCGs (5/106) belonged to this group. We propose that practitioners should offer specialized assistance to regions with limited digital engagement, emphasizing digital health literacy, inclusion support, and ongoing evaluation, rather than concentrating solely on technical advancements.
Telepractice Parent Training of Enhanced Milieu Teaching With Phonological Emphasis (EMT+PE) For Persian-Speaking Toddlers With Nonsyndromic Cleft Palate: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Tahmasebi Neda , Zarifian Talieh , Ashtari Atieh , Biglarian Akbar
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Children born with a cleft palate with or without a cleft lip (CP/L) are at increased risk for delayed language development and speech sound disorders. Enhanced Milieu Teaching with Phonological Emphasis (EMT+PE) is a recommended naturalistic intervention for toddlers with CP/L. The parents’ role in providing naturalistic interventions is critical and they need training based on learning principles to implement these interventions. Telepractice is an appropriate method for training parents and children with various speech-related disorders.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to determine and compare the effectiveness of telepractice and the parent-implemented EMT+PE intervention on language and speech measures in toddlers with CP/L with usual interventions and determine the effectiveness maintenance of the intervention.

METHODS

A randomized controlled trial (RCT) will assess the efficacy of telepractice and the parent-implemented EMT+PE intervention in enhancing speech and language measures in toddlers with CP/L. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to one of 2 groups: the conventional intervention group and the EMT+PE intervention group. Participants’ speech and language measures will be evaluated remotely by trained raters before and after the intervention and 2 months after the intervention. Parents of participants in the intervention group will receive 3 months of training in speech and language supportive strategies from trained therapists using telehealth fidelity scales. Parents of participants in the control group will receive the conventional speech and language intervention by cleft team therapists. Study outcomes will include language variables (mean length of utterance) and speech production variables (percent correct consonants).

RESULTS

The protocol was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences in February 2022. The selection process of participants, as well as training therapists and raters, commenced in January 2022, the therapy and follow-up period ended in June 2023, and pre- and postintervention assessments have been conducted. Data analysis is ongoing, and we expect to publish our results by the summer of 2024. Funding is yet to be received.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study may help us develop a speech and language intervention with a different delivery model for toddlers with CP/L, and the cleft team care can use these results in service delivery. Consistent with our hypothesis, speech and language measures are expected to improve.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/54426
Effectiveness of a Videoconference-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program for Patients with Schizophrenia: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Katsushima Masayuki , Nakamura Hideki , Shiko Yuki , Hanaoka Hideki , Shimizu Eiji
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Cognitive behavioral therapy for psychosis (CBTp) is not sufficiently widespread in clinical practice, although evidence has been presented.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to explore whether one-on-one videoconference-based CBTp (vCBTp) is more effective than usual care (UC) alone for improving psychiatric symptoms in patients with schizophrenia attending outpatient clinics.

METHODS

In this exploratory randomized controlled trial, patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders who were still taking medication in an outpatient clinic were randomly assigned to either the vCBTp plus UC group (n=12) or the UC group (n=12). The vCBTp program was conducted once a week, with each session lasting for 50 minutes, for a total of 7 sessions conducted in real-time and in a one-on-one format remotely using a loaned tablet computer (iPad). The primary outcome was the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) total score, which measures the difference in the mean change from baseline (week 0) to posttest (week 8).

RESULTS

The study included 24 participants. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups at baseline. With regard to significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of the primary outcome, the mean change in the PANSS total score from baseline to week 8 in the vCBTp plus UC group was –9.5 (95% CI –12.09 to –6.91) and the mean change in the UC alone group was 6.9 (95% CI 1.54-12.30). The difference between the 2 groups was significant (P<.001). In addition, significant improvements were observed in the subscales of positive (P<.001) and negative (P=.004) symptoms and general psychopathology (P<.001). Significant differences were also observed in the secondary outcomes of the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7; P=.04) and EQ-5D-5L (P=.005). There were no dropouts and no serious adverse events in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

A total of 7 remote vCBTp sessions conducted in the vCBTp plus UC group could be safely administered to patients with schizophrenia. They were also observed to be effective for psychiatric symptoms, general anxiety, and quality of life. However, because of the observed worsening of scores in the UC group, caution is required in interpreting significant differences between the 2 groups. This approach is expected to improve accessibility to CBTp for outpatients with schizophrenia and social anxiety regarding transportation use and financial and physical burdens related to transportation, and to contribute to promoting CBTp acceptability by compensating for the shortage of implementers.

CLINICALTRIAL

University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry UMIN000043396; https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000049544

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069734
Operationalizing Patient-Centered Care: A Conceptual Framework for Comprehensive Cancer Care Networks (Preprint)
Authors: Hickmann Emily , Richter Peggy , Schlieter Hannes , Cemazar Maja , Dudek-Godeau Dorota , Grapentin Nele , Griesshammer Ellen , Jelenc Marjetka , Liutkauskiene Sigita , Ravaud Alain , Troussard Xavier , Wesselmann Simone
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

In contemporary healthcare, patient-centered care has emerged as a pivotal paradigm shift that redefines the traditional physician-centric model. Particularly in the context of cancer care, marked by its intricate nature and emotional impact, there's a pressing requirement to rethink how healthcare is delivered. In this context, Comprehensive Cancer Care Networks (CCCNs) provide a new means of structuring and delivering quality cancer care, recognizing each patient's unique preferences and needs.

OBJECTIVE

To facilitate this patient-centered approach in practice and advance care quality, the objective of this paper was to establish a consistent definition and framework of patient-centeredness in a CCCN.

METHODS

A systematic meta-review focusing on generic and oncology-specific dimensions of patient-centeredness, a survey with key stakeholders in CCCNs, and a focus group with patient representatives were conducted.

RESULTS

A definition and framework of patient-centeredness in CCCNs are presented. The framework comprises eight primary dimensions: Empowering Patients, Engaging and Involving Patients, Treating the Patient as a Unique Person, Enhancing the Therapeutic Relationship, Enhancing a Patient-Centered Culture, Providing Holistic and Specialized Care, Recognizing and Supporting the Healthcare Professional as a Person, and Coordinating Care. Corresponding subdimensions and actionable patient-centered activities support each dimension.

CONCLUSIONS

The results provide a comprehensive perspective on the complex elements that compose patient-centered care within CCCNs. This contributes to a better understanding and application of patient-centeredness in CCCNs and possibly other contexts. The results presented in this paper aspire to support CCCNs and other healthcare contexts in creating a patient-centered environment where patients feel genuinely heard, valued, and actively engaged in their care decisions.

CLINICALTRIAL

Not applicable.
Lipid metabolism in patients with chronic hepatitis C, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and obesity under the influence of treatment
Authors: Derbak M.A. , Lizanets N.V. , Hanych O.T. , Mashura V.V. , Mashura H.Y. , Ustych O.V. , Rostoka L.M.
Published: April 2024

Background. In patients with advanced stages of liver fibrosis, progression of liver fibrosis and obesity may be observed after complete elimination of hepatitis C virus. The aim of the research was to study the impact of antiviral therapy on lipid metabolism indicators in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) combined with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Materials and methods. Eighty-two patients were under observation, 56 with CHC combined with NAFLD and 26 with CHC. They were divided into three groups: first one (n = 23) — patients with CHC with NAFLD and obesity, second (n = 33) — participants with CHC, NAFLD and overweight, third group (n = 26) — CHC patients with normal body weight. All patients underwent determination of blood lipid spectrum and cytokines Ang-2, TGF-β1, TNF-α and neopterin, IL-6. The degree of liver fibrosis and steatosis was determined using FibroMax. Patients received sofosbuvir 400 mg, daclatasvir 60 mg once a day for 12 weeks. Results. The study found that 8 patients had liver fibrosis F3–4, 11 people — F2–3, 23 — F1–2, and 37 people — F0–1. Sustained virological response was achieved in 95.1 % of patients with CHC. No response was received in 4.9 % of patients who had advanced stages of liver fibrosis and obesity or increased body weight. After the treatment, a slight increase in the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was registered in 61.1 % of patients in group 3, 50 % in group 2, and only in 31.2 % of patients in group 1. Content of total cholesterol tended to increase in patients of groups 1 and 2 and remained unchanged in group 3. Although the changes in the levels of low- and very low-density lipoprotein were statistically significant, they were not large in terms of absolute values. In 62.5 % of CHC patients with concomitant NAFLD who had obesity or increased body weight and F3–4 fibrosis, even after complete elimination of the virus, the levels of Ang-2 and TGF-β1 remain high and positively correlate with the degree of steatosis and the stage of liver fibrosis. Conclusions. After the successful elimination of the hepatitis C virus, lipid metabolism disorders are registered in patients with concomitant non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, F3–4 fibrosis and increased body weight