bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rock-Cut Tomb GE 89 Recently Excavated at Giza
Authors: Kormysheva Eleonora
Published: November 2024

The rock tomb GE 89 was discovered during the GPR survey of the area in the extreme eastern edge of the Eastern Necropolis at Giza, northwest from the rock tomb of Kakherptah (GE 7721). GE 89 is an L-shaped tomb, with a layout similar to G 7721; it consists of two rooms separated by pillars. Four rock-cut statues were revealed on the southern wall of room A; the contours of false doors, and one preserved offering slab on the second false door were attested in room B on the western wall. The tomb owner and his wife are depicted sitting at the offering table on the offering slab. The ceramic sherds that filled the offering room of the tomb testify to its reuse in the fourth century BC. The initial construction of the tomb dates to the 5th Dynasty; however, no burials have been excavated from that period.

[Formula: see text]
Do functional and biological factors influence the handgrip strength: A systematic review
Authors: Myles Louise , Barnett Fiona , Massy-Westropp Nicola
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

The measurement of handgrip strength is widely accepted for assessing and evaluating hand function. Age and gender are known factors that correlate directly with the handgrip strength. This review aimed to identify whether other biological and functional factors influence adult handgrip strength and if so, which are the most important.

Method:

A systematic review was performed on studies that examined handgrip strength in relation to biological and functional factors including anthropometric characteristics, occupation, hand dominance and ethnicity within a working-aged population.

Results:

The search retrieved 19 studies which were critiqued using the McMasters Critical Appraisal Tool. This review concludes an individual’s height, hand length, hand width/palm width, forearm circumference and hand dominance along with their occupation influence handgrip strength in addition to the established categories of age and gender. It is recommended that future research examines how these factors influence handgrip strength to allow for improved interpretation of handgrip strength in comparison to normative data sets.
Strengthening the Frontline Response to Elder Abuse: Qualitative Insights From Australian Paramedics
Authors: Naidoo Navindhra , Feldman Peter , Muoio Rachel , Sawyer Simon , Brijnath Bianca
Published: November 2024

In this research we identified the training needs of paramedics in Australia regarding elder abuse identification and response. Ten qualitative interviews with paramedics and paramedic educators from each state and territory were conducted between January and March 2024. Participants encountered elder abuse in their professional capacity, often manifesting as neglect although responses were variable, influenced by the jurisdiction, whether the paramedic had specialist training, how much “scene time” was permitted, workload pressures, and if there were clear protocols and guidelines from the ambulance service on how to respond to elder abuse. The existing training was perceived as “patchy” and ad hoc, but participants offered recommendations for training content and preferred training delivery method in detecting and responding to elder abuse. Given population aging and increased use of ambulance services by older people, paramedics have a crucial role to play in elder abuse early detection and referral. This research presents a critical first step in addressing this gap.
A review on European sustainable practices in end-of-life vehicles management
Authors: Arpino Francesco , D’Adamo Idiano , Gastaldi Massimo , Gheewala Shabbir H
Published: November 2024

The management of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) has become a significant environmental and economic challenge due to the substantial volumes of hazardous waste generated. This article analyses sustainable practices in ELV management across Europe, with a focus on contributions to the circular economy. The systematic literature review, conducted for articles published in the period 2016–2024, identifies five topics: (1) policy and regulatory frameworks evaluations and suggestions; (2) economic and environmental benefits through optimization modelling; (3) trends and performances analysis; (4) advanced treatment technologies and their impact and (5) economic and environmental impacts assessments. The findings highlight the importance of state-of-the-art recycling processes and coordinated stakeholder efforts in improving ELV management outcomes. In addition, the correlation between ELVs recycling and gross domestic product (GDP) was analysed. Data analysis for 27 European countries in the period 2016–2021 shows a moderate correlation. Specifically, countries with stronger economies tend to produce more ELVs, distinguishing two clusters when GDP is 35,000 € per capita. By adopting best practices and innovative approaches, European countries can enhance their ELV management systems, support a more circular economy and sustainable development. This work highlights the possible correlation between GDP per capita and ELV recycling rates across the European Union, the identification of economic clusters, and the critical role that advanced recycling technologies play in improving sustainability.
Optimization and characterization of electrospun bilayered PVA/collagen nanofibers loaded with quercetin for tissue engineering applications
Authors: Ramamoorthy Thiyaneshwar , Mary Soloman Agnes , Annamalai Dinesh , Gopinath Arun , skylab Sridhar , Madhan Balaraman
Published: November 2024

Bilayered electrospun membranes for skin tissue engineering and wound dressings were developed using Poly vinyl alcohol (PVA), collagen (COLL), chitosan (CH), and a tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP) are crosslinked with quercetin (QU). To maintain a sustained release of drug from the membrane we have developed a novel crosslinked two layered stable PVA fibrous mat, top layer composed of PVA/CH/TSP and quercetin and the bottom layer is composed of PVA/CH/COLL. Developed bilayered scaffolds were characterized using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE-SEM) and their surface morphologies exhibited random fibrous orientation with porous morphology. Cross sectional images showed the junction of the bilayered scaffold with different fiber morphology between the layers. The results revealed fibrous bilayer separation confirming the bilayered scaffold with uniform porosity which is beneficial for tissue engineering application, moreover the PVA fibrous mats are stable after crosslinking it with quercetin, more than 24 h. Invitro biological studies results also showed desirable cell viability on fibroblast cells with increased proliferation and adhesion on the bilayer material making it potential for targeted tissue engineering application.
The Association Between Bilingual Animal Naming and Memory Among Bilingual Mexican American Older Adults
Authors: Briceño Emily M. , Rentería Miguel Arce , Campos Barbara Mendez , Mehdipanah Roshanak , Chang Wen , Lewandowski-Romps Lisa , Garcia Nelda , Gonzales Xavier F. , Levine Deborah A. , Langa Kenneth M. , Heeringa Steven G. , Morgenstern Lewis B.
Published: November 2024

Background

Monolingual cognitive assessments are standard for bilinguals; the value of bilingual assessment is unknown. Since declines in animal naming accompany memory declines in dementia, we examined the association between bilingual animal naming and memory among bilingual Mexican American (MA) older adults.

Methods

Bilingual MA (n = 155) completed the Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol (HCAP) in a Texas community study. Regressions included HCAP memory score (English) as the outcome and English and Spanish animal naming trials as independent variables; demographics and language dominance were covariates.

Results

English animal naming ( b = 0.06, P = 0.004) was more reliably associated with memory than Spanish ( b = 0.05, P = 0.06). Considered together, only English ( b = 0.05, P = 0.02) was associated with memory, not Spanish ( b = 0.01, P = 0.63). Conclusions: Spanish animal naming did not uniquely add to English animal naming in its association with memory among bilingual older MA.
Wear behaviour of ceramic coating (Al2O3-40%TiO2) in dry condition for automotive applications
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Singh Shailesh Kumar , Singh Pushpendra , Murtaza Qasim , Walia Ravinderjit Singh , Tyagi Mohit
Published: November 2024

The objective of the current research is to examine the effect of varying loads on the wear behaviour of Al2O3-40%TiO2 ceramic coating deposited by flame spray process and to improve material functionality and increase lifecycle in a cost-effective method. To assess the wear behaviour of the deposition, wear test was conducted using a Pin-on-disk tribometer in accordance with ASTM G99 standards. This test was designed to analyse the wear experienced by the coating in practical applications. Surface morphology was examined using field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS) technique while 3D-profilometer was utilised to further assess the surface roughness of the deposited coating. It was observed that specific wear rate of the deposition exhibited a decreasing trend with increasing load from 40 to 70 N and sliding velocity from 0.4 to 1 m/s. The lowest coefficient of friction was observed at 70 N and 1 m/s. Wear mechanism analysis revealed different types of wear, including abrasion, metal transfer, and brittle fracture, corresponding to the increasing load and sliding velocity. This study is significant for industries that require high-performance coatings for industries such as automotive, aerospace and manufacturing, where high-performance coatings are needed to withstand heavy loads and friction. The current research findings enhance wear resistance and reduce friction, helps manufacturers to adapt coating for specific operational requirements.
Optimization and control of robotic vertebral plate grinding: Predictive modeling, parameter optimization, and fuzzy control strategies for minimizing bone damage in laminectomy procedures
Authors: Tian Heqiang , An Jinchang , Ma Hongqiang , Pang Bo , Liu Junqiang
Published: November 2024

During the robotic grinding of vertebral plates in high-risk laminectomy procedures, programmed operations may inadvertently induce force or temperature-related damage to the bone tissue. Therefore, it is imperative to explore a control methodology aimed at minimizing such damage during the robotic grinding of vertebral plate cortical bone, contingent upon optimal grinding parameters. Initially, predictive models for both the grinding force and temperature of vertebral plate cortical bone were developed using the response surface design (RSD) methodology. Subsequently, employing the satisfaction function approach, multi-objective parameter optimization of these predictive models was conducted to ascertain the optimal combination of parameters conducive to low-damage grinding. The optimum grinding parameters identified were a speed of 6000 r/min, a depth of grind of 0.4 mm, and a feed rate of 3.8 mm/s. Moreover, a multi-layer adaptive fuzzy control strategy was devised, and a corresponding multi-layer adaptive fuzzy controller (MFLC) was then implemented to dynamically adjust the grinding feed speed. The efficacy of this control module was corroborated through Simulink simulations. Simulation results demonstrated that the magnitude of the grinding force fluctuated within the range of 2.2–2.6 N after FLC control, while the fluctuation range of the grinding force was limited to 2.2–2.48 N after MFLC control. This indicates that MFLC control brings the force closer to the target expectation value of 2.39 N compared with FLC control. Finally, the dynamic fuzzy control method predicated on optimal grinding parameters was validated through experimental porcine spine grinding conducted on a robotic vertebral plate grinding platform.
Analyzing the effects of financial deepening, smart urbanization, rural development, and digital economy on green growth in China within the framework of carbon neutrality targets
Authors: Mi Li , Huang Yongjun , Sohail Muhammad Tayyab , Hafeez Muhammad
Published: November 2024

For the sustainable future of the world, achieving carbon neutrality is crucial. Most of the countries are making fundamental changes in their economic models so that they can become carbon neutral by the year 2050. In this regard, green growth should be the preferred model for most economies in the world. The literature on green growth is growing, but no past study has shed light on how financial deepening, smart urbanization, rural development, and digital economy impact green growth within the framework of carbon neutrality targets. Thus, there exists a significant gap in the literature, which motivates to conduct this analysis. The primary motive of this study is to analyze the asymmetric impact of financial deepening, smart urbanization, rural development, and digital economy on green growth within the framework of carbon neutrality targets. Empirical estimates are obtained by utilizing the nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag framework. The results confirm that positive changes in financial deepening, smart urbanization, ICT, and rural development help promote long-term green growth. The negative changes in financial deepening hinder green growth in the long-run, while the negative changes in smart urbanization, information and communication technology (ICT), and rural development do not significantly impact green growth in the long-run. In the short-run, only the positive changes in financial deepening and ICT promote green growth, while the rest of the estimates are insignificant. The results imply that financial deepening, smart urbanization, ICT, and rural development are vital in achieving carbon-neutrality objectives by fostering green growth. Thus, policymakers should rely on the green growth framework to achieve net zero carbon emissions.
Global finite-time synchronization for fractional complex network via impulsive control based on a new finite-time stability result
Authors: Wang Yaqi , Wu Huaiqin , Cao Jinde
Published: November 2024

This paper focuses on the finite-time stability (FTS) issue for fractional nonlinear impulsive systems (FNISs). By applying Lyapunov functional approach and fractional calculus, a novel result with respect to the FTS is developed, where stabilizing impulse and destabilizing impulse are introduced in systems simultaneously. The settling time (ST), which is related to the impulse numbers, the impulse gain and the order of systems, is calculated accurately. Moreover, the proposed theoretical results are applied to derive the global finite-time synchronization (GFS) conditions for fractional-order complex dynamic network (FCDNs) under hybrid impulse effects. Finally, a simulation example is provided to substantiate the validity of the obtained results.
Performance assessment of new Poisoning Mortality Score and PGI score for predicting mortality in patients with acute aluminum phosphide poisoning
Authors: El-Sarnagawy Ghada N , Abdelnoor Amira A , Ghonem Mona M
Published: November 2024

Background

Until now, no definite standardized method has been used to promptly assess the severity and outcome of acute aluminum phosphide (ALP) poisoning. The current study aimed to evaluate the performance of the new Poisoning Mortality Score (PMS) and PGI score for predicting mortality in acute ALP-poisoned patients, highlighting the accuracy of new PMS components.

Patients and Methods

A 2-year cross-sectional study was conducted on ALP-poisoned patients admitted to Tanta University Poison Control Centre from April 2021 to March 2023. Socio-demographics, poisoning data, and initial vital signs were recorded. Additionally, new PMS and PGI scores were calculated on admission. Patients were categorized according to the mortality outcome into survivors and nonsurvivors.

Results

Out of 160 included ALP poisoned patients, mortality was recorded in 112 (70%) patients. The nonsurvivors had significantly higher median PGI and new PMS values than survivors. New PMS, vital signs component of new PMS, and PGI conveyed good discriminatory power for predicting mortality (AUC = 0.883, 0.873, and 0.817, respectively). Although the new PMS outperformed PGI in all predictive metrics, no significant difference in AUCs was observed between the new PMS and its vital signs component.

Conclusion

The new PMS vital signs component is closely aligned with the new PMS. Thus, it can be used as a valid, comprehensive, and practical tool to substitute the whole score calculation for rapid ALP-poisoned patient assessment to enhance emergency clinical decision-making.
Understanding patient perspectives on health-related searches on the internet: Insights from an online survey of Korean patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Jung Seung Min , Park Sung-Hoon , Lee Jisoo , Park Yune-Jung , Shim Seung Cheol
Published: November 2024

Background

With the increasing prevalence of digital devices and internet access, digital resources have become essential for educating patients with chronic diseases. We explored the patient perspective on health-related internet searches among Korean patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

We collected data through a Google Survey from 344 SLE patients. The survey covered demographics, preferred digital devices and sources, and digital information content, and participants’ views on digital resources. We analyzed patient characteristics associated with digital resource usage.

Results

Of the 344 patients, 270 reported using the internet to acquire disease-related information, including the association between nutrition and SLE, general information on SLE, and coping strategies for SLE management. SLE-related searches on the internet were more common in patients younger than 40 years ( p = 0.002), those with fewer than 15 years of disease duration ( p < 0.001), and those with higher education levels ( p = 0.022). Disease duration was independently associated with internet use. Patients reported that internet searches for information on SLE improved their understanding of the disease in 181 cases and motivated self-management in 166 cases. In addition, 98 patients found it helpful to make a shared decision with physicians.

Conclusion

Health-related searches on the internet are widely used by SLE patients to gather comprehensive information on the disease and to address unmet needs. The positive impact of SLE-related internet searches on disease understanding and self-management emphasizes the importance of developing high-quality digital resources to improve patient education and self-care for the disease.
Make Some ‘Noise’ Tonight—Overnight Return as Investor Sentiment Index: Indian Evidence
Authors: Nair Saji Thazhungal Govindan , Raghunandanan Adarsh , Nair Ratheesh K.
Published: November 2024

This research, following Aboody et al., 2018, Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis, 53(2), 485–505, and using 612,066 firm-day data daily stock returns, examines whether overnight return is a reliable proxy for firm-specific investor sentiment in India. The study also probes into the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the relevance of overnight returns for Indian stock investors. The time series approach pursued in the study provides evidence of short-term overnight-return persistence, where the impact is more on the firms with complex valuation and arbitrage structures. Moreover, short-term overnight-return persistence is higher during the COVID-19 pandemic period, highlighting its significance as an indicator of firm-specific investor sentiment in the face of market volatility. In contrast to earlier results of transient sentiment-driven mispricing, we demonstrate that overnight returns in India do not reverse over time. We found that even during the height of the epidemic, overnight returns were only partially indicative of firm-specific investor sentiment in emerging markets such as India.
Factors Responsible for Environmental Sustainability in G-20 Nations: A Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Ghosh Prasenjit
Published: November 2024

Deleterious external consequences of various productive activities have impacted the quality of the environment in all countries worldwide. These productive activities damage the environment by emitting greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, excessively using natural resources and producing solid pollutants or waste. Since these significantly contribute to environmental deterioration, policymakers should take appropriate action to reduce the external effects of these three outcomes of productive activities. In light of this challenging situation, the present study considers environmental impact (EI)—a combined external effect of three factors—as a representative of ecological degradation and examines the impact of four driving forces on the environmental effect across all G-20 nations from 1990 to 2019 based on the STIRPAT model. This study employs several econometric methodologies, including ARDL-PMG and FMOLS, to investigate the causal relationship between the four forces and EI. The primary conclusion of the analysis is based on the ARDL-PMG results, which reveal that while urbanisation and gross capital formation (GCF) have positive effects, GDP per capita and population levels have a long-term negative impact on EI. The results also demonstrate that population growth and productive activities pose the most significant obstacles to long-term improvements in environmental sustainability.
Experiences of Schooling and Studenthood: Contextualising Dalit–Bahujan Autobiographies
Authors: Abhitha S. J. , Kavya Krishna K. R.
Published: November 2024

This article examines the schooling experiences of Dalit–Bahujan students in India through a reading of select Dalit–Bahujan autobiographies. Dropout rates of Dalit–Bahujan students from schools and their suicides in higher educational institutions are a matter of concern for the state and educationalists. At the same time, there is a lack of studies that attempt to understand their ‘experiences’ of schooling. Quantitative research is often inadequate to document how they ‘feel’ inside the school space. We argue that Dalit–Bahujan autobiographies are a valid source for understanding the ‘experiences’ of Dalit–Bahujan students affectively. Considering the historical specificity and political significance of the terms ‘Dalit’ and ‘Bahujan’, we propose ‘Dalit–Bahujan studenthood’ as a framework to perceive the particularity of experiences of the Dalit–Bahujan child as a student. The attempt here is to elucidate the usefulness of Dalit–Bahujan autobiographies as a resource for educators and pedagogic practitioners to understand Dalit–Bahujan students’ lifeworld, which, in turn, can enhance the experience of schooling for Dalit–Bahujan students. The article closely reads Dalit autobiographies such as Joothan (2003) by Omprakash Valmiki, Baluta (2015) by Daya Pawar, and Interrogating My Chandal Life: An Autobiography of a Dalit (2018) by Manoranjan Byapari and the autobiography From a Shepherd Boy to an Intellectual: My Memoirs (2019) by Bahujan scholar Kancha Ilaiah Shepherd.
NSE: Corporate Governance Transgression
Authors: Kokane Shraddha
Published: November 2024

This case concerns governance issues faced by a reputed stock exchange in India, the National Stock Exchange (NSE). The failure of governance started from the time of the issuance of co-location licenses in 2010. After a whistle-blower’s letter in 2015 to the regulator, the Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI), along with a renowned Indian journalist, the scam was uncovered. A forensic audit by Ernst Young confirmed the broker’s preferential licenses given by NSE. The investigation also led to the discovery of other governance issues at the stock exchange, and since then, SEBI dispensed penalties to the accused in February 2022. As of July 2022, SEBI appointed Mr Ashish Chauhan as NSE’s next Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director (CEO and MD). Mr Chauhan was already involved in the formative years of the stock exchange and must think of cleaning up the legacy issues and rebuilding the image of NSE. Management students across various specialisations have a corporate governance and business ethics course. This case can be used to reflect on the independence of the board, the responsibility of the nomination and recruitment committee, stakeholders’ disclosures and the importance of regulatory body intervention at appropriate times.
Agricultural Land Rental Arrangements in Nepal: Incidence, Forms, Determinants, and the Current Legal Provisions
Authors: Giri Maheshwar , Goswami Binoy
Published: November 2024

Given the fragmented and small size of land holdings in Nepal, the viability of crop production is a pressing concern. Rental or tenancy arrangements, which equalise marginal returns from factors of production across households, offer a solution to this viability crisis. In this context, our study is unique as it not only examines the incidence and forms of tenancy, but also identifies the determinants of the land leasing decision of rural households, and discusses their implications for agrarian development in Nepal. Drawing on primary survey data from 350 households in six districts of plains and hills, we provide evidence of the widespread prevalence of informal tenancy in Nepal. Despite locational variations explained by the location-specific cropping patterns, sharecropping and fixed-rent are found to be the primary forms of tenancy contracts. A Tobit regression analysis identifies certain household level, farm level, and location-specific characteristics as important factors influencing land leasing decisions. Our analysis suggests that the land supply in the land lease market may increase in the future, and therefore, it is pertinent to examine the legal provisions that govern the use of such lands. Hence, we also examine the legal provisions concerning tenancy relations.
Institutional pluralism, accounting and the state: The Opera del Duomo in Pisa as a hybrid organisation (XI–XVI centuries)
Authors: Occhipinti Zeila , Bigoni Michele , Verona Roberto , Lazzini Simone
Published: November 2024

This study considers the Opera del Duomo in Pisa, the organisation tasked with building the world-renowned complex located in the Square of Miracles, from its inception to the formation of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany in the sixteenth century. It draws upon Besharov and Smith's understanding of hybridity to document the factors driving the transition from a form of hybridity characterised by a high level of conflict between the logics of the State, the Church and the Commune of Pisa to a form in which the State logic dominated over the others and conflict was overcome. The article unveils how the regulatory power of the State generates changes in the interactions among logics over time, with particular attention to the role of accounting and accountability practices. It shows how historical studies help to untangle situations in which logics coexist in extreme conflict and identify new ways to engage with them.
The Story of ENVIPE
Authors: Palma Mario
Published: November 2024

This article purports to narrate the particular circumstances in which the Mexican National Survey on Victimization and Perception of Public Security (ENVIPE) came into being as a response to correct the lack of information about a social problem (crime) that was (and is) seriously affecting the country. It describes the events and the actions of the agencies and individuals involved that led to the design and eventually carrying out of an annual survey that has become a centerpiece of information on crime for Mexico and that, in turn, has contributed to the development of similar surveys in other Latin American countries. It presents its main features and some of the challenges it may face in the future.
Making Community-Based Palliative Care Eligibility Determinations: Palliative Care Team Member Perspectives on Access to Information and Algorithm Use
Authors: Sheldon Kira G , Bowles Kathryn H , Sage Carolyn , Stanley June , Luth Elizabeth A
Published: November 2024

Background: Seriously ill older adults have high risk of mortality, symptom burden, and compromised functional status, and may benefit from community-based palliative care (“palliative care”). However, identifying potentially eligible individuals is challenging. Objectives: Identify how a palliative care team makes eligibility determinations, including the use of a mortality risk algorithm. Design: Semi-structured focus groups were conducted with palliative care providers to understand how health information is used to assess Medicare Advantage plan patients’ eligibility for palliative care. Transcripts were analyzed to identify categories related to how participants used health information in making eligibility determinations. Setting/participants: All outreach and care management team members and nurse practitioners (n = 7) working for a palliative care program at a not-for-profit health care agency. Results: The palliative care team used information on symptoms, diagnoses, and acute care utilization when making eligibility determinations. The algorithm generated lists of potentially eligible patients but was deemed not useful because it provided limited information about current health status and was not well integrated into existing health record systems. Participants would like information to be current, detailed, and presented in one location. Conclusions: Palliative care team members used a variety of indicators of unmet care needs to make eligibility determinations. A mortality risk algorithm to identify potentially eligible patients was insufficiently detailed to be useful in final eligibility determinations. These findings provide insights into how health data can be presented to better integrate health information from mortality risk algorithms into existing workflows to support palliative care eligibility decision making.
Optimizing medication therapy in elderly patients: The impact of medication review using STOPP and START criteria version 2
Authors: Murali Silpa , Damodaran Aswin , Jacob Namita Maria , Venugopal Anjaly , Johnson Joveena , Vijayan Meenu , Pavithran K , Sekhar M Sonal
Published: November 2024

Background: Higher prevalence of inappropriate medication use among cancer patients increases risk of drug-related problems(DRP) like drug-drug interactions, ADR, and non-adherence. Potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) and Potential Prescription Omission (PPO) were identified using Screening Tool of Older Person's Prescriptions (STOPP) and Screening Tool to Alert Doctors to the Right Treatment (START) criteria. Objectives: The study objective was to optimize prescriptions for the elderly by analyzing the impact of medication review. Methods: An observational study in which PIM and/or PPO were identified and the prescriptions were optimized by a physician. Results: Out of 150 patients, a total of 35 drugs were stopped and 12 drugs were started. Medication omissions were identified in 12 patients (8%). There were no DRPs associated with medication adjustments. Conclusion: Based on a pharmacist-led comprehensive medication review of the elderly, the STOPP and START criteria allow the optimization of prescriptions.
Retrospective evaluation of the induction of anaesthesia with alfaxalone or propofol in cats undergoing caesarean section
Authors: Lambertini Carlotta , Ballotta Giulia , Cunto Marco , Iovine Ida Carlotta , Spaccini Francesca , Joechler Monika , Zambelli Daniele , Romagnoli Noemi
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Several anaesthetic protocols for caesarean section (c-section) have been described in dogs; however, anaesthesiological studies in cats undergoing c-section are lacking. The aim of this study was to assess the viability and outcome of kittens born from queens undergoing emergency c-section and receiving propofol or alfaxalone for anaesthetic induction and isoflurane for maintenance of general anaesthesia.

Methods

All cats admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of Bologna between January 2014 and December 2022 for dystocia that had undergone an emergency c-section were analysed in this retrospective study. The queens received propofol 2–6 mg/kg IV (group P) or alfaxalone 1–3 mg/kg IV (group A) administered slowly; general anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane. Survival of all the kittens was evaluated at birth and after 24 h; in addition, heart rate, respiratory rate and mucous membrane colour were evaluated in the kittens at birth.

Results

Of the 14 cats included in the study, eight received alfaxalone (group A) and six received propofol (group P) for induction of the general anaesthesia. A total of 50 kittens were born by c-section: 30 kittens in group A and 20 in group P. The overall survival of the kittens was 90% at birth: 96.7% (29/30) for group A and 80% (16/20) for group P. The 24 h survival rate was 93.1% for group A and 87.5% for group P.

Conclusions and relevance

The results of the present study demonstrated that in cats undergoing c-section, both alfaxalone and propofol are feasible for the induction of general anaesthesia.
Are There Shortages and Regional Disparities in Lecanemab Treatment Facilities? A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ohashi Kazuki , Takahashi-Iwata Ikuko , Jieyu Zhao , Sakushima Ken , Yabe Ichiro , Ogasawara Katsuhiko
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

Alzheimer disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia, affecting 70% of patients with dementia. In Japan, over 5 million people aged 65 years and older had dementia in 2018, and this figure is expected to rise to 25% to 30% of this age group by 2045. In Japan, lecanemab, which was approved in 2023, is expected to be a new treatment for AD. However, lecanemab requires stringent management, including amyloid PET scans and MRI monitoring, necessitating specialized facilities, creating concerns regarding the lack of treatment facilities and poor treatment access.

Methods:

This study assessed spatial accessibility to lecanemab in Hokkaido, Japan, using geographic information system data. Hospitals were categorized into 3 scenarios based on their capacity to meet the treatment criteria. Service area analysis in each scenario evaluated the population coverage within 30-, 60-, and 120-minute travel times. The inverted two-step floating catchment area method was used to calculate the potential high-demand areas index (PHDI) for each hospital.

Results:

Population coverage ranged from 56% to 97%, depending on the scenario and travel time. Coverage for the most feasible scenario (Scenario 1) was 56%, 73.9%, and 88.3% within 30, 60, and 120 minutes, respectively. Northern and southern Hokkaido had the lowest coverage. PHDI analysis identified high-demand areas, with Sapporo facing potential overcapacity issues.

Conclusion:

Lecanemab highlights the need for strategic resource allocation to enhance accessibility and capacity. Establishing additional treatment centers, particularly in areas with poor accessibility and capacity, is crucial to maximize the benefits of treatment for dementia.
Implementing a Decommissioning Programme in Swedish Healthcare: Experiences of Healthcare Managers
Authors: Gustafsson Inga-Britt , Wallin Lars , Winblad Ulrika , Fredriksson Mio
Published: November 2024

Decommissioning programmes pose a substantial risk of failure compared to other change processes in healthcare. A better understanding of the challenges associated with change processes initiated by resource scarcity faced by healthcare managers is crucial. This study describes and compares department and unit managers’ experiences during the implementation of a large-scale decommissioning programme in a Swedish region. A survey was developed and a cross-sectional study was performed, measuring 172 healthcare managers’ experiences of (1) the region’s leadership, (2) their own participation and (3) their own commitment and responsibility during the implementation of the decommissioning programme. Respondents were 50 department managers and 122 unit managers (93% and 58% response rate, respectively). There was a significant difference between department and unit managers in their experiences of the region’s leadership and their own participation in the decommissioning programme. Unit managers were more dissatisfied with the way it developed compared to department managers. For example, unit managers reported a lower level of leadership support, incentives to participate, and that their knowledge and skills were not fully utilised. Involvement of unit managers in a more fruitful way might enhance the results of decommissioning programmes. This study highlights a key actor in this context: the unit manager.
From research to reality: Demystifying the metaverse through online engagement
Authors: Daglis Theodoros , Tsironis Georgios , Tsagarakis Konstantinos P
Published: November 2024

The metaverse is perceived by numerous domains as having high potential for enhancing industry performance and serving as a valuable tool for academics, offering significant resources for teaching, experiential learning, and risk-free participation in various activities. Despite its considerable interest and importance, there has been a lack of research examining the engagement of both industry and academia in the Metaverse, particularly in terms of participation levels and their choice of industries/subjects. This study aims to address this gap in the literature by investigating the characteristics of engagement within the academic community, drawing data from the Scopus database, examining aspects such as country involvement, subjects, topics, and other related attributes. Furthermore, this research explores various attributes of companies, including specialties, industries of interest, country presence, and other pertinent information sourced from the LinkedIn platform. Additionally, data retrieved from Google Trends provides evidence in the people's interest toward metaverse while examining topics and queries related to this term. Finally, leveraging machine learning techniques, this study assesses the commonalities and distinctions between academia and industry, offering valuable insights into the alignment of scientific and business interests in the metaverse.
Performance approaches to whole society resilience
Authors: Andrews Stuart , Duggan Patrick
Published: November 2024

In this article, we reflect on the ways in which arts practices can contribute productively to national resilience strategies. We focus particularly on the UK Government Resilience Framework (2023, UKGRF) which calls for a ‘whole of society’ approach to resilience, echoing established initiatives addressing ‘whole community’ (USA) and ‘total defence’ (Sweden, Switzerland). In this context, we ask what performance research methods offer to understandings of whole society resilience, and how existing artistic practices ‘perform’ resilience in ways that are currently not accounted for. The arts, we argue, are a nuanced means of attending to complex geo-political contexts that allow space for legacies of racism, sexism, poverty, colonialism, and terrorism to be revealed as having (had) important and differing influences in shaping the resilience of varied communities within society. The UKGRF offers a compelling opportunity to think about what whole of society resilience might involve, who might already be engaged in this work, and how we might develop and maintain a robust ‘whole of society’ approach to contemporary resilience challenges. We discuss Through my Window, a community outreach project run by the Citizens Theatre, Glasgow (UK), mural painting in New Orleans (USA) that offers positive, joyful images of individuals in a city that is too often read through narratives of tourism and crisis, and Remembering a Future (London (UK), 2018), a live performance in which Aman Mojadidi addressed issues of race, identity, home and terrorism. In so doing, we argue that artists, arts organisations and arts communities need to be considered vital, strategically important resilience practitioners, and that the arts should be being taken seriously as an engine of societal resilience more broadly.
Brackish Connections: (Digital) Learning Networks, (Virtual) Communities of Practice, and the Rich Learning-To-Action Pathways of Their Combined and Intersecting Existence
Authors: Eller Kari F.
Published: November 2024

The Problem

Virtual communities of practice (VCoPs) share many features of digital learning networks (DLNs). Their work is ecosystemically connected, and they operate on overlapping continuums. This makes understanding how they function and decisions about which term to use difficult.

The Solution

This article outlines points of convergence and divergence between VCoPs and DLNs. It explains how the term, complexly coevolving, clarifies their brackish connections, and the proposed term, glocal peer-learning practice networks (GPPNs), is needed to describe their intersecting existence.

The Stakeholders

Organizations and networks that seek to quickly and comprehensively describe the scale and scope of their work. Researchers who seek to unify terminology for better evaluation and advancement of the field across societal sectors. Practitioners and funders who aim to develop or strengthen work against issues of global concern using combined features of VCoPs and DLNs.
A Scoping Review of Global Literature on Alcohol and Other Drug-Facilitated Sexual Violence
Authors: Ison Jessica , Wilson Ingrid , Forsdike Kirsty , Theobald Jacqui , Wilson Elena , Laslett Anne-Marie , Hooker Leesa
Published: November 2024

The use of alcohol or other drugs to facilitate sexual violence (AOD-facilitated sexual violence) is a public health concern. There are significant gaps in knowledge on victimization, perpetration, contexts, impacts, and attitudes. Using a scoping review method, we mapped existing peer-reviewed, global literature to examine what is known about AOD-facilitated sexual violence to inform the development of AOD-facilitated sexual violence targeted interventions. We searched databases such as: Medline, PsycINFO, Scopus, ProQuest, PubMed, and EBSCO. Studies were included if they examined sexual violence where alcohol and/or other drugs were opportunistically or proactively used to facilitate sexual offending, within intimate partner and non-intimate partner (acquaintance or stranger) relationships. We reviewed 53 articles and mapped the findings to five knowledge areas: (1) prevalence; (2) victim-survivors and perpetrators; (3) location, nature, and substance used; (4) predictors, risk factors, and impacts; and (5) representations and attributions of blame. Although conclusions are difficult to draw due to the limited disparate literature, our review extends existing knowledge, highlighting that perpetrators are often known to victim-survivors, AOD-facilitated sexual violence also occurs in private locations, and alcohol is a common substance utilized in AOD-facilitated sexual violence (though its role is complex). Troubling myths and misconceptions about victim-survivors and negative representations in the media affect attributions of blame, particularly in cases where victim-survivors voluntarily consume substances. To inform interventions, this review identifies the need for consistent definitions and measurement of AOD-facilitated sexual violence, greater diversity of experiences, and the need to challenge attitudes that blame victim-survivors where substances are involved.
Physico - Mechanical characterization property evaluation of polyvinyl butyral composites filled with macadamia nutshell
Authors: Salman Suhad D
Published: November 2024

In the current research, tensile, flexural, and compression were done, as well as the effect of water absorption on dimensional stability, to study the effect of adding different weight fractions of Macadamia nutshell about (10, 20, 30, and 40 wt %) to Polyvinyl Butyral composites. Different average grain sizes of Macadamia nutshell (75 µm, 150 µm, and 300 µm) were used. In addition, both FTIR analysis and morphological observation of composites were conducted. Findings reveal that M7501 (10% filler, 75 µm) consistently achieves the highest mechanical properties, including tensile strength (35% higher), Young’s modulus (15% higher), toughness (40% greater), tensile strain (25% greater), flexural strength (29% higher), and compressive strength (20% higher) compared to M7504 (40% filler). Conversely, composites with larger particle sizes and higher filler content, such as M3004 and M1504, exhibited significant reductions in mechanical properties, with up to 43% lower flexural strength and 41.7% lower compressive strength compared to their counterparts with lower filler content. Higher filler contents exacerbated this issue by increasing the likelihood of particle clustering, which creates weak points and voids that compromise the structural integrity of the composite. Additionally, larger particle sizes (150 µm and 300 µm) showed more pronounced agglomeration and void formation compared to smaller particles (75 µm), further highlighting the challenges in achieving a homogeneous composite structure with larger fillers. SEM investigation demonstrated that increasing filler amounts led to noticeable particle agglomeration, aggregation and void formation, negatively impacts the composites, leading to weaker mechanical properties.
‘Empathy pouring out of your bones’: Emotions and emotional labour in courts – The case of young magistrates in England and Wales
Authors: L’Hoiry Xavier
Published: November 2024

This article explores the experiences of young (under 40 years old) magistrates in England and Wales, a perennially under-represented group in the criminal justice system. Drawing on 23 interviews with currently serving young magistrates, the article examines the use of emotions and emotional labour by this group of criminal justice actors, specifically the ways in which emotion constructively informs judicial decision-making, and how emotional management is used to achieve procedural justice in magistrates’ courts. Data also show that young magistrates, as a minority group in this context, enact emotional labour practices to navigate through their experiences which include instances of soft discrimination and an absence of peer support. The article’s findings make new contributions to the growing corpus of literature on emotion and criminal justice as well as advancing understandings of emotional labour, specifically the intersection of this concept with age, volunteerism and discrimination.
Nonlinear global flame response behaviors for triggering of combustion instabilities
Authors: Acharya Vishal
Published: November 2024

Combustion instabilities result in large combustor acoustic amplitudes due to a feedback loop between exciting acoustic/hydrodynamic disturbances and flame response. This article addresses the global heat release properties required for a seemingly stable combustor to exhibit bi-stable behavior; that is, linearly stable but destabilized by a large enough disturbance amplitude, commonly referred to as “triggering” in the combustion instability literature. The global unsteady heat release rate is expanded up to fifth order in the source disturbance amplitude to capture triggering behaviors. For a system with linear damping, results show that under zero linear flame response, the third and fifth order non-linearity must satisfy very specific relationships in phase with no constraints on relative amplitudes. Extending this to non-zero linear flame response shows shifts in the phase relationship constraints. The analysis is applied to experimentally measured datasets from the literature showing its applicability. In addition, an example problem for an anchored, premixed flame is used with the constraints, to find the combination of control parameters where triggering is possible. The ultimate goal for the presented results is that it can be used to screen datasets (such as from single nozzle flame characterization experiments) and identify parametric spaces where triggering tendencies are the highest.