bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LEUKOCYTE ESTERASE IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF PERIPROSTHETIC JOINT INFECTION: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS
Authors: Tarabichi S. , Lizcano J. D. , Abe E. A. , Olin B. , Courtney P. M. , Parvizi J.
Published: August 2024

No single test has demonstrated absolute accuracy in the diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Leukocyte esterase (LE) is a synovial marker that has proven utility in the diagnosis of PJI. The purpose of this prospective study was to (1) identify the optimal cutoff for the use of LE in the diagnosis of PJI and (2) determine whether performance of the LE strip test varied by infecting organism.

This prospective study enrolled 1,015 patients undergoing hip or knee revision arthroplasty at a single institution from 2009 to September 2021. PJI was defined using a modified version of 2018 International Consensus Meeting (ICM) criteria that excluded LE when calculating the ICM score. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the utility of the LE strip test in the diagnosis of PJI.

973 patients were included in the analyses. 246 (25.4%) were classified as ICM-positive and 727 (74.6%) were classified as ICM-negative. An LE cutoff of “1+” (AUC 0.819, sensitivity 73.2%, specificity 90.6%) had superior accuracy to an LE cutoff of “2+” (AUC 0.713, sensitivity 43.9%, specificity 98.8%) in the overall diagnosis of PJI (p<0.001). When stratifying by organism type, an LE cutoff of “1+” had the best diagnostic utility for PJI caused by methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (AUC 0.888, sensitivity 87.0%, n=23) followed by Streptococcus spp. (AUC 0.882, sensitivity 85.7%, n=28), coagulase negative Staphylococci (AUC 0.836, sensitivity 76.6%, n=47), methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (AUC 0.806, sensitivity 70.6%, n=34), culture negative (AUC 0.793, sensitivity 67.9%, n=56), and gram negative rods (AUC 0.763, sensitivity 61.9%, n=21).

To our knowledge, this is the largest study evaluating the utility of the LE strip test in the diagnosis of PJI. Based on our findings, it appears that a “1+” cutoff has higher diagnostic utility than a cutoff of “2+”.
ARE COGNITIVELY IMPAIRED PATIENTS SUITABLE CANDIDATES FOR HIP ARTHROPLASTY? A PROPENSITY SCORE-MATCHED COHORT STUDY
Authors: Barrios V. , Gómez D. , Jiménez N. , Guzman J. , Pesántez R. , Bonilla G.
Published: August 2024

The growth of life expectancy during the last decades has led to an increment in age-related conditions such as hip arthritis and fractures. On the other hand, these elderly patients will present a higher incidence of mental diseases which, in some studies, have been associated with inferior results.

This study aims to evaluate the differences in early complication rates between patients with cognitive impairment compared with those without this condition following total hip replacement for osteoarthritis or fracture in the context of contemporary perioperative care protocols.

We conducted a retrospective cohort study where cognitively-impaired patients who required primary hip arthroplasty were compared to a propensity-score matched cohort of patients without cognitive alterations. Early major complications were measured and analyzed in order to determine significant differences.

Screening and matching. 1196 patients were identified during the study period. After screening for inclusion and exclusion criteria and matching, two cohorts comprising 65 patients each were compared. After performing the propensity-score match, no significant differences were found in covariates between the two groups.

Outcomes. The occurrence of delirium was more frequent in patients with cognitive deficit (27.5%) than in the control group (9%), p<0.001. No significant differences were found among groups regarding myocardial infarction, venous thromboembolism, blood transfusion requirement, 30-day readmission, in-hospital death, 90-days death, dislocation or surgical site infection. The composite outcome of any adverse event did not exhibit a significant difference either.

To our knowledge, this is the first study which demonstrates similar outcomes between patients with cognitive impairment and those without these alterations. Our results might indicate that contemporary protocols and implants are bridging the traditional gap between these two populations. These findings support the use of total hip arthroplasty in patients with mental alterations when indicated, especially in those institutions with strict perioperative protocols.
MATCHING THE OTHER SIDE: RADIOLOGICAL VARIABILITY IN STAGED, BILATERAL TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY
Authors: Schaffler B. C. , Robin J. X. , Katzman J. L. , Manjunath A. , Davidovitch R. , Rozell J. C. , Schwarzkopf R.
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study was to assess the variability in implant position between sides in patients who underwent staged, bilateral THA and whether variation from one side to the other affected patient-reported outcomes.

A retrospective review was conducted on 207 patients who underwent staged, bilateral THA by the same surgeon from 2017–2022. Leg length, acetabular height, cup version, and coronal and sagittal stem angles were assessed radiographically and compared to the contralateral THA. Surgical approach and technology utilization were further assessed for their impact on variability. Linear regression was used to model the relationship between side-to-side variability and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS).

Between sides, mean radiographic leg length varied by 4.6mm (0.0–21.2), acetabular height varied by 3.3mm (0.0–13.7), anteversion varied by 8.2° (0.0 to 28.7), coronal stem alignment varied by 1.1° (0.0 to 6.9), and sagittal angulation varied by 2.3° (0.0 to 10.5). The anterior approach resulted in more variability in stem angle position in both the coronal (1.3° vs. 1.0°, p=0.036) and sagittal planes (2.8° vs. 2.0° p=0.012) compared to the posterior approach. The posterior approach generally led to more anteversion than the anterior approach. Use of robotics or navigation for acetabular positioning did not increase side-to-side variability in cup-related position or leg length. Despite considerable side-to-side variability, Hip dysfunction and osteoarthritis outcome scores (HOOS JR) were not affected by higher levels of position inconsistency.

Staged, bilateral THA results in considerable variability in component position between sides. The anterior approach leads to more side-to-side variability in sagittal stem angle and cup anteversion than the posterior approach. Navigation and robotics do not improve the consistency of component position in bilateral THA. Variation in implant position was not associated with differences in PROMs, suggesting that despite variability, patients can tolerate these differences between sides.
OBESITY AND TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY SURGERY
Authors: de Steiger R. , Wall C. , Truong A. , Lorimer M. , Stoney J. , Graves S.
Published: August 2024

Obesity is a known risk factor for developing osteoarthritis and is also associated with an increased risk of developing complications post total hip replacement (THR). This study investigated the association between obesity and the risk of undergoing THR in Australia.

From July 2017 to June 2018 a National Health Survey was conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics to collect height and weight data on a representative sample of patients across urban and rural areas across the country. This study examined a cohort of patients undergoing primary THR utilising data from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry from the same time period. Obesity classes were determined according to WHO criteria.

Body mass index (BMI) for patients undergoing THR were obtained and the distribution of THR patients by BMI category was compared to the general population, in age and sex sub-groups.

Generalised linear models assuming a binomial distribution and a log link were used to generate relative risks. Data from underweight categories, and age categories 34 years and younger, were excluded from further analyses because of small numbers.

Data from the health survey showed there were 35.6% of persons overweight and 31.3% obese. During the same period, 32,495 primary THR were performed for osteoarthritis in Australia on patients who had a BMI recorded. Of these patients 37.1% were overweight and 41.7% were obese. Compared to the general population, there was a higher incidence of Class I, II, and III obesity in patients undergoing THR in both sexes aged 35 to 74 years. Class III obese females and males aged 55–64 years were 2.9 and 1.7 times more likely to undergo HR, respectively (p<0.001). Class III obese females and males underwent THR on average 5.7 and 7.0 years younger than their normal weight counterparts, respectively.

Obese Australians are at increased risk of undergoing THR, and at a younger age. A national approach to address the prevalence of obesity, and possible prevention strategies, is needed.
Economic situation, sources of income and coverage of basic needs among older adults in a vulnerable community in Cuba
Authors: Cala-Montoya Caridad Anay , Hernández Rodolfo , Vázquez José Juan
Published: August 2024

The Cuban population is going through a process of demographic change and accelerated ageing which, together with a difficult economic situation, places older adults in a particularly complex situation, especially in those vulnerable communities. The study analyses the economic situation, sources of income, and coverage of basic needs of a sample of people over 60 years of age (n = 325) from a vulnerable community in the city of Santiago de Cuba. The community had an inadequate urban structure and a high amount of solid and liquid waste in the streets, and its inhabitants had limited economic resources. A structured interview was used for data collection. The results show that the persons over 60 years of age who were interviewed had extremely low incomes, despite resorting to multiple strategies to try to obtain economic resources. A high percentage reported a lack of income to meet their needs, including such essential needs as food, housing, and health care. In relation to these issues, women and people over 75 years of age were particularly vulnerable. Decision makers need to take into account the needs of older adults in vulnerable communities when implementing social care policies and strategies, paying special attention to the most vulnerable groups such as women or older people.
Support services for informal carers: a register-based case–control study of Norwegian care recipients
Authors: Burrell Lisa Victoria , Wentzel-Larsen Tore , Sogstad Maren Kristine Raknes
Published: August 2024

This article aims to describe support services for informal carers and identify the characteristics of the care recipient and municipality that are associated with the allocation of these services. Care recipients were selected from the Norwegian Registry for Primary Health Care on 31 December 2019. Cases received care benefits (N = 9,816), respite care in institutions (N = 2,594) or respite care at home (N = 7,346); controls received home-based services only (N = 193,402). Municipal data were retrieved from the Municipality-State-Reporting register. Child and adolescent care recipients most often received support services, but allocation to this age group differed extensively between municipalities. Greater cognitive disability and cohabiting increased the odds of support services.
Factors affecting recruitment and retention of personal assistants in England: a quantitative analysis
Authors: Gousia Katerina , Allan Stephen
Published: August 2024

The shift towards the greater personalisation of care has seen a rise in personal assistants (PAs) employed by individuals using their own funds or receiving public support. Despite their growing importance, the recruitment and retention of PAs can be challenging. In this article, we empirically explore what affects the turnover and vacancies of PAs. We find that PA turnover and vacancies are affected by care need, type of support and local labour market factors. The new evidence from this article shows the difficulties of employing PAs and potential policy levers that could be used to improve PA recruitment and retention.
Inducing high-concentration Tb3+ with free oxygen via atomic layer deposition
Authors: Huang Caihong , Dong Yanhua , Huang Yi , Wang Weiqi , Wu Qiufan , Chen Mei , Wen Jianxiang , Zhang Xiaobei , Luo Yanhua , Wang Tingyun
Published: August 2024

Precise preparation and control of trivalent states in rare earth metal oxide films are crucial for their optical and magnetic applications. In this study, compact and continuous terbium-doped nanofilms were deposited on silica substrates using atomic layer deposition (ALD). The average nanoparticle size varied from 17.9 to 78.5 nm with increasing growth cycles. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed that the Tb3+/Tb4+ ratio increased from 0.98 to 1.42. A valence reduction mechanism involving free oxygen was introduced to analyze the reasons for the enhanced Tb3+ concentration in the nanofilms. The enhanced photoluminescence of Tb3+ (5D4→7F5) ions and the increased magnetization in terbium oxide nanofilms both reveal that free oxygen ions are the effective active sites responsible for the transition from the tetravalent to the trivalent state, in excellent agreement with theoretical analysis. Size control and free oxygen induction are promising strategies for enhancing the optical and magnetic properties of multivalent rare earth oxides.
Phase recovery from Fresnel incoherent correlation holography using differential Zernike fitting
Authors: Dave Harshil , Krupa Sean , Lebow Paul
Published: August 2024

Fresnel incoherent correlation holography (FINCH) was created to improve imaging resolution and 3D imaging capabilities using spatially incoherent illumination. The optical setup of a FINCH-based interferometer is closely related to a radial shearing interferometer, which measures the radial phase difference of an input wavefront. By using phase retrieval methodologies from lateral shearing interferometry, namely, differential Zernike fitting (DZF), we show that FINCH-based and radial shearing interferometry can be used for phase retrieval and adaptive optics (AO). In this paper, we describe the phase retrieval algorithm using least squares-based DZF and demonstrate a simple adaptive optics loop with an aberrated point spread function using wave optics simulation. We find that FINCH-based phase retrieval has the advantages of fast phase retrieval measurements, thanks to well-studied least squares-based phase reconstruction methods, improved resolution compared to the Shack–Hartmann-based wavefront sensing, and the simplified optical setup of radial shearing interferometry.
Highly-multimode spatiotemporal mode-locking fiber laser based on a spatial alignment structure
Authors: Zhang Zihao , zhang yang , duan xinghao , Zhang Yi , Dong Yue , Wang Junli
Published: August 2024

The spatiotemporal mode-locking (STML) offers a viable solution to address the energy-limit of single-mode conventional soliton (SM-CS). While the potential for generating highly-multimode conventional soliton lasers has been predicted, experimental demonstrations are still lacking. Moreover, existing STML systems have relied on conventional saturable absorbers (SAs) such as non-linear polarization evolution and material SAs, which restrict output parameters due to complex spatial structures or low damage thresh-olds. To the best of our knowledge, we report the first experimental realization of highly-multimode CS laser (dominated by the LP21 mode) using a spatial alignment structure (SAS). This SAS, con-sisting of just two aspherical lenses, functions simultaneously as an SA, spatial filter, and attenuator. This configuration enhances sys-tem compactness and introduces additional degrees of freedom for adjustment. By simply modifying the alignment of the SAS, vari-ous MM nonlinear dynamics can be observed, including center wavelength shifting, spectrum and spatial evolution, harmonic STML, soliton molecules, and multi-color STML. Our system shows clear advantages in pulse energy (＞3 nJ), stability, and tunability compared to other 1.5 μm STML lasers. Incorporating an SM output coupler allows for the simultaneous generation of SM-CS and multimode convention soliton (MM-CS) with similar spec-tral profiles and pulse durations nearing the transform-limit. This indicates that soliton-like pulse shaping is crucial for achieving highly multimode STML. The pulse energy of SM-CS, measured at 7.05 nJ (35.25 nJ intracavity pulse energy), represents nearly a tenfold increase compared to previous SM-CS fiber lasers. This STML system with the new SA not only offers a valuable platform for exploring complex multimode nonlinear dynamics but also pro-vides a promising approach for achieving high-energy soliton lasers.
Temperature-insensitive second-order microring resonator for dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM)
Authors: Xu Xiao , Wang Fuling , Sun Chong , Du Liuge , Zhao Jia
Published: August 2024

To achieve temperature-insensitive passband responses of microring resonator (MRR) for DWDM signal processing, we design and fabricate a wavelength division multiplexer with four channels based on 2nd-order slot MRR with PMMA cladding layer. Four filters with different radii are connected in series to realize 1.5-nm channel space. In the process of design and optimization, the wavelength demultiplexer (DEMUX) exhibits admirable responses with broad 1-dB bandwidth (> 0.64 nm, accounting for 43% of the channel spacing), steep band edge (shape factors ~ 0.47) and high-temperature stability (temperature-dependent wavelength shift (TDWS) < 0.25 pm/⁰C, which is 0.4 % of ordinary MRR). Then the device is fabricated and measured. The box-type responses are obtained for all 4 wavelength channels. The measured 1-dB bandwidth is 1.1 nm and the shape factor is larger than 0.46. Due to the fabrication imperfections and process errors, the central wavelengths shifted from ideal values. The measured TDWS is less than 24.8 pm/⁰C, which is deteriorated from the design due to the incomplete filling of the PMMA cladding in the slot. Even so, the decrease of the TDWS, combined with the box-type response of 1-dB bandwidth of 1.1 nm in our design, makes the DEMUX tolerate the temperature variation of larger than ±22 ⁰C without the help of electrical temperature control. The results indicate the great potential of the designed device for DWDM applications.
Health system barriers to hypertension care in Peru: Rapid assessment to inform organizational-level change
Authors: Williams Kendra N. , Tenorio-Mucha Janeth , Campos-Blanco Karina , Underhill Lindsay J. , Valdés-Velásquez Armando , Herbozo Antonia Fuentes , Beres Laura K. , de las Fuentes Lisa , Cordova-Ascona Lucy , Vela-Clavo Zoila , Cuentas-Canal Gonzalo Mariano , Mendoza-Velasquez Juan Carlos , Paredes-Barriga Sonia Mercedes , Hurtado La Rosa Raquel , Williams Makeda , Geng Elvin H. , Checkley William , Gittelsohn Joel , Davila-Roman Victor G. , Hartinger-Peña Stella M.
Published: August 2024

Traditional patient- and provider-level hypertension interventions have proven insufficient to halt hypertension as the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Systems-level interventions are required to address factors challenging hypertension control across a social ecological framework, an under-studied topic particularly salient in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Peru. To inform such interventions, we sought to identify key health systems barriers to hypertension care in Puno, Peru. A participatory stakeholder workshop (October 2021) and 21 in-depth interviews (October 2021—March 2022) were conducted with 55 healthcare professionals (i.e., doctors, nurses, midwives, dentists, nutritionists), followed by a deductive qualitative analysis of transcripts and notes. Participating healthcare providers indicated that low prioritization and lack of national policies for hypertension care have resulted in limited funding and lack of societal-level prevention efforts. Additionally, limited cultural consideration, both in national guidelines as well as by some providers in Puno, results in inadequate care that may not align with local traditions. Providers highlighted that patient care is also hampered by inadequate distribution and occasional shortages of medications and equipment, as well as a lack of personnel and limited opportunities for training in hypertension. Multiple incompatible health information systems, complicated referral systems, and geographic barriers additionally hinder continuity of care and care seeking. Insights gained from health providers on the healthcare system in Puno provide essential contextual information to inform development of organizational-level strategies necessary to improve provider and patient behaviors to achieve better hypertension care outcomes.
Towards attainment of the 2030 goal for childhood cancer survival for the World Health Organization Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer: An ecological, cross-sectional study
Authors: Smith Emily R. , Cotache-Condor Cesia , Leraas Harold , Truche Paul , Ward Zachary J. , Stefan Cristina , Force Lisa , Bhakta Nickhill , Rice Henry E.
Published: August 2024

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently launched the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), with the goal of attaining at least 60% cancer survival for children worldwide by the year 2030. This study aims to describe the global patterns of childhood cancer survival in 2019 to help guide progress in attaining the GICC target goal. In this ecological, cross-sectional study, we used 5-year net childhood cancer survival (2015–2019) data from a prior micro-modeling study from 197 countries and territories. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the patterns of overall childhood cancer survival and survival for each of the six cancer tracer diagnoses as proposed by the GICC. We used hot spot analysis to identify geographic clusters of high and low cancer survival. Most high-income countries reached at least 60% (92%, n = 59/64), net childhood cancer survival at baseline. No lower-middle-income or low-income country reached at least 60% overall cancer survival at baseline. The South-East Asia region had the highest proportion of countries that did not achieve at least 60% survival at baseline (100%, n = 10/10), followed by the African region (98%, n = 49/50). For each cancer tracer diagnosis, we found the highest number of countries that have achieved at least 60% survival was for Burkitt lymphoma (44%, n = 87/197) followed by acute lymphocytic leukemia (41%, n = 80/197).Hot spot analysis showed the highest overall survival was concentrated in North America and Europe, while the lowest survival was concentrated in Sub-Saharan Africa and South-East Asia.A majority of LMICs had not reached the WHO target goal of at least 60% survival from childhood cancer at baseline in 2019, with variable success for the six childhood cancer tracer diagnoses of the GICC. These findings provide baseline assessment of individual country performance to help achieve the GICC goal of 60% overall cancer survival globally by 2030.
Schistosomicidal effects of histone acetyltransferase inhibitors against Schistosoma japonicum juveniles and adult worms in vitro
Authors: Xu Jing , Wang Jing-Yi , Huang Ping , Liu Zi-Hao , Wang Yu-Xin , Zhang Run-Ze , Ma Hui-Min , Zhou Bi-Yue , Ni Xiao-Yan , Xiong Chun-Rong , Xia Chao-Ming
Published: August 2024

Background

Schistosomiasis is a relatively neglected parasitic disease that afflicts more than 250 million people worldwide, for which the control strategy relies mainly on mass treatment with the only available drug, praziquantel (PZQ). This approach is not sustainable and is a priority for developing novel drug candidates for the treatment and control of schistosomiasis.

Methodologys/Principal findings

In our previous study, we found that DW-3-15, a kind of PZQ derivative, could significantly downregulate the expression of the histone acetyltransferase of Schistosoma japonicum (SjHAT). In this study, several commercially available HAT inhibitors, A485, C646 and curcumin were screened in vitro to verify their antischistosomal activities against S. japonicum juveniles and adults. Parasitological studies and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the primary action characteristics of HAT inhibitors in vitro. Quantitative real-time PCR was employed to detect the mRNA level of SjHAT after treatment with different HAT inhibitors. Our results demonstrated that curcumin was the most effective inhibitor against both juveniles and adults of S. japonicum, and its schistosomicidal effects were time- and dose dependent. However, A485 and C646 had limited antischistosomal activity. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that in comparison with DW-3-15, curcumin caused similar tegumental changes in male adult worms. Furthermore, both curcumin and DW-3-15 significantly decreased the SjHAT mRNA level, and curcumin dose-dependently reduced the SjHAT expression level in female, male and juvenile worms.

Conclusions

Among the three commercially available HATs, curcumin was the most potent against schistosomes. Both curcumin and our patent compound DW-3-15 markedly downregulated the expression of SjHAT, indicating that SjHAT may be a potential therapeutic target for developing novel antischistosomal drug candidates.
Sphagnum moss and peat comparative study: Metal release, binding properties and antioxidant activity
Authors: Astolfi Maria Luisa , Frezzini Maria Agostina , Massimi Lorenzo , Rapa Mattia , Canepari Silvia , Conti Marcelo Enrique
Published: August 2024

Peat is the main constituent of cultivation substrates and a precious non-renewable fossil material. Peatlands provide important ecosystem services and allow the absorption and storage of carbon. Protecting peatlands helps tackle climate change and contributes to biodiversity conservation. Due to its importance, it is necessary to implement strategies to reduce the use of peat, such as replacing it with biomass-based alternative growing media constituents, such as Sphagnum moss. In this study, we compared the metal release and binding properties at two different pH, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic content of peat and Sphagnum moss from the Tierra del Fuego (TdF) region of southern Patagonia. Levels of the elements were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), while the types and amounts of functional groups were characterized and compared using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The total phenol level and antioxidant capacity were assessed using the Folin-Ciocalteu method and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl test. There are generally higher concentrations of leachable elements in peat than in Sphagnum moss at pH = 2, except Cs, Rb, Ti, and Zr. In contrast, at pH = 5, levels of all leached elements are highest in Sphagnum moss. Sphagnum moss shows a higher metal adsorption capacity than peat, except for Be, Mn, Tl, and Zn. Finally, the results showed that both matrices contained similar total phenolic contents: 0.018 ± 0.011 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) per gram dry sample for peat and 0.020 ± 0.007 mg GAE g-1 for Sphagnum moss. Instead, Sphagnum moss extracts showed a significantly higher antioxidant activity [0.026 ± 0.028 mmol Trolox equivalents (TE) g-1] than that estimated in peat (0.009 ± 0.005 mmol TE g-1). Humic acids, carboxylic acids, and phenolic and lignin groups were identified as the functional groups that mainly determined the antioxidant activity of the Sphagnum moss compared to peat. The present study resulted in an advancement of knowledge of these materials for more thoughtful future use and possible replacements.
Optimal truss design with MOHO: A multi-objective optimization perspective
Authors: Mashru Nikunj , Tejani Ghanshyam G. , Patel Pinank , Khishe Mohammad
Published: August 2024

This research article presents the Multi-Objective Hippopotamus Optimizer (MOHO), a unique approach that excels in tackling complex structural optimization problems. The Hippopotamus Optimizer (HO) is a novel approach in meta-heuristic methodology that draws inspiration from the natural behaviour of hippos. The HO is built upon a trinary-phase model that incorporates mathematical representations of crucial aspects of Hippo’s behaviour, including their movements in aquatic environments, defense mechanisms against predators, and avoidance strategies. This conceptual framework forms the basis for developing the multi-objective (MO) variant MOHO, which was applied to optimize five well-known truss structures. Balancing safety precautions and size constraints concerning stresses on individual sections and constituent parts, these problems also involved competing objectives, such as reducing the weight of the structure and the maximum nodal displacement. The findings of six popular optimization methods were used to compare the results. Four industry-standard performance measures were used for this comparison and qualitative examination of the finest Pareto-front plots generated by each algorithm. The average values obtained by the Friedman rank test and comparison analysis unequivocally showed that MOHO outperformed other methods in resolving significant structure optimization problems quickly. In addition to finding and preserving more Pareto-optimal sets, the recommended algorithm produced excellent convergence and variance in the objective and decision fields. MOHO demonstrated its potential for navigating competing objectives through diversity analysis. Additionally, the swarm plots effectively visualize MOHO’s solution distribution of MOHO across iterations, highlighting its superior convergence behaviour. Consequently, MOHO exhibits promise as a valuable method for tackling complex multi-objective structure optimization issues.
Early Occupational Therapy Intervention post-stroke (EOTIPS): A randomized controlled trial
Authors: García-Pérez Patricia , Rodríguez-Martínez María Carmen , Gallardo-Tur Alejandro , Blanco-Reina Encarnación , de la Cruz-Cosme Carlos , Lara José Pablo
Published: August 2024

Background

Occupational therapy (OT) is an effective evidence-based intervention that positively influences stroke patients’independence recovery, leading to new opportunities for better quality of life outcomes.

Objectives

To explore the effectiveness of an early OT intervention program (EOTIPS) in the process of hospital to home discharge after stroke in Spain.

Material and methods

We conducted a prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial that included 60 adults who suffered a stroke and were discharged home. Participants assigned to the experimental group (n = 30) were included in EOTIPS and compared with a control group (n = 30). Evaluations assessed quality of life (Stroke and Aphasia Quality of Life Scale [SAQOL-39]), functional independence (Modified Rankin Scale [mRS], Barthel Index [BI] and Stroke Impact Scale-16 [SIS-16]), perceptual-cognitive skills (Montreal Cognitive Assessment [MoCA]), upper limb function (Fugl Meyer Assessment [FMA]), mobility (Berg Balance Scale [BBS] and Timed Up & Go [TUG]), communication skills (Communicative Activity Log [CAL]) and mood disorders (Beck Depression Inventory–II [BDI-II] and Hamilton Anxiety Scale [HAM-A]); they were completed within two weeks post-stroke and after three months follow-up. Statistical analysis included intent-to-treat analysis, considering all participants (dropouts as failures), and efficacy analysis, considering only end-of-treatment participants.

Results

Participants in the intervention group showed a significant better evolution in the main outcome measure of quality of life (SAQOL-39 p = .029), as well as for independence (mRSp = .004), perceptual-cognitive skills (MoCA p = .012)and symptoms of depression (BDI-II p = .011) compared to the control group.

Conclusions

EOTIPS was effective in improving quality of life, as well as enhancing perceptual-cognitive skills, independence and reducing levels of depression for patients who suffered a stroke in a Spanish cohort and could be considered as an applicable non-pharmacologic therapeutic tool that can lead to patients’ positive outcomes after stroke.

This study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with the identifier NCT04835363.
RNase-mediated reprogramming of Yersinia virulence
Authors: Meyer Ines , Volk Marcel , Salto Ileana , Moesser Theresa , Chaoprasid Paweena , Herbrüggen Anne-Sophie , Rohde Manfred , Beckstette Michael , Heroven Ann Kathrin , Dersch Petra
Published: August 2024

RNA degradation is an essential process that allows bacteria to regulate gene expression and has emerged as an important mechanism for controlling virulence. However, the individual contributions of RNases in this process are mostly unknown. Here, we tested the influence of 11 potential RNases in the intestinal pathogen Yersinia pseudotuberculosis on the expression of its type III secretion system (T3SS) and associated effectors (Yops) that are encoded on the Yersinia virulence plasmid. We found that exoribonuclease PNPase and endoribonuclease RNase III inhibit T3SS and yop gene transcription by repressing the synthesis of LcrF, the master activator of Yop-T3SS. Loss of both RNases led to an increase in lcrF mRNA levels. Our work indicates that PNPase exerts its influence via YopD, which accelerates lcrF mRNA degradation. Loss of RNase III, on the other hand, results in the downregulation of the CsrB and CsrC RNAs, thereby increasing the availability of active CsrA, which has been shown previously to enhance lcrF mRNA translation and stability. This CsrA-promoted increase of lcrF mRNA translation could be supported by other factors promoting the protein translation efficiency (e.g. IF-3, RimM, RsmG) that were also found to be repressed by RNase III. Transcriptomic profiling further revealed that Ysc-T3SS-mediated Yop secretion leads to global reprogramming of the Yersinia transcriptome with a massive shift of the expression from chromosomal to virulence plasmid-encoded genes. A similar reprogramming was also observed in the RNase III-deficient mutant under non-secretion conditions. Overall, our work revealed a complex control system where RNases orchestrate the expression of the T3SS/Yop machinery on multiple levels to antagonize phagocytic uptake and elimination by innate immune cells.
Effectiveness of real-world marketing of organic foods and beverages: A systematic review of recent evidence
Authors: Sadler Alexandra , Moran Dominic , Jaacks Lindsay
Published: August 2024

Increasing consumer demand for organic foods and beverages is critical to boost sustainable agricultural production. Marketing interventions can be an effective way of influencing consumer preferences, but little is known about the effectiveness of these interventions at increasing demand for organic foods and beverages. This review synthesises recent evidence from studies evaluating real-world marketing interventions that aim to increase consumer demand for organic foods and beverages. Five databases were systematically searched and 18,743 titles and abstracts were screened against eligibility criteria. 21 studies covering 29 marketing interventions were included and assessed for risk of bias using the Evidence Project risk of bias tool. We found that price premiums had negative or no effects on overall consumer demand, although a subset of customers were willing to pay higher prices. Price promotions had mixed effects depending on product and customer type. Some place-based interventions–such as arranging organic products in a cluster and ensuring ready availability of these products–had positive and statistically significant impacts on consumer demand. Some promotional interventions–such as including organic messaging near product displays and securing newspaper coverage–were generally effective at increasing consumer demand. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these interventions differed across product categories, message framing, and the type of store and customer, necessitating strategic targeting of organic marketing interventions to promote more sustainable consumption.
Effect of Proximity on The Layout and Selection of Chair Types in The Coffee Shop Industry
Authors: Yulianti Faridah Eulis , Dewi Riza Septriani
Published: August 2024

The coffee shop industry has become part of modern urban life. One of the most significant impacts of the coffee shop industry on local communities is its role as one of the catalysts for economic development. It not only provides employment opportunities but also serves as an incubator for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Coffee shops are one type of restaurant that is smaller or specific in scope, in terms of the food and beverages served, usually with limited food choices. Because of this, this coffee shop is usually used as a place to talk, gather or just spend time. In essence, coffee shops are often used by people to relax, not as a special place to eat. Therefore, the design of this kind of place should be made more cozy, with the selection of elements that form the atmosphere of the room that must be considered, such as walls, floors, ceilings, lighting, furniture used, especially the selection of chairs. The chair is an element of the room that will be in direct contact with humans, so its selection will greatly affect the activities carried out by humans. The selection of the right type of chair will have an influence on human behavior in public spaces, therefore this research was conducted with a proximity approach. The object of research this time is emphasized on human behavior when interacting with friends, friends, relatives, acquaintances and lovers while in a coffee shop. The research method used in this research is natural obsevation which is qualitative in nature. This qualitative research method is used because the results obtained must be conditions without manipulation. This method is used to find out how different types of chairs affect human behavior in interacting when in different chair settings. The conclusion of this research is that the wrong placement or selection of furniture, especially chairs, will cause visitors to be uncomfortable in it and if the designer is less precise in choosing the type of chair, it can cause an area that is not in demand so that the area is not utilized properly.
Evolution of Centralized and Decentralized Industrial Governance in the USSR and Modern Russia: A Historical and Economic Analysis
Authors: Gapsalamov Almaz , Vasilev Vladimir , Bochkareva Tatyana
Published: August 2024

Over the last three decades of Russia's development, the market model of the economy has shown a lack of efficiency. Such problems as dependence on raw materials, deficiencies in the branch structure, social imbalances, high inflation rates, and others are still topical for the country. The conducted reforms mostly solve short-term problems and address only some sectors of the economy or population groups. These circumstances require a re-evaluation of the national economic history, analysis of the theory and practice of building a socialist economy, and identification of its strengths and weaknesses. This study aims to historically and economically analyze the evolution of centralized and decentralized industrial governance in the USSR and modern Russia. The methodology of the study is based on the principles, methods, and tools of scientific knowledge. Moreover, A special questionnaire was prepared and a sociological survey was conducted in order to identify the practical significance of the authors' findings. Given the results, total centralization can lead to the isolation of management bodies from reality, the growth of disproportions in the sectors of the economy, the growth of shortages in all types of products, and the emergence of a shadow, corrupt, barter economy.
Identifying the Stakeholders of the Construction Industry Based on Governing Values: A Content Analysis of Semi-Structured Interviews
Authors: Valizadeh Khargh Saeed , Ghayour baghbani Seyed Morteza , Rojuee Morteza , Titkanloo Saeed Jafari
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Value creation is the most important aspect of stakeholder management. In the construction industry, are implemented in a world with multiple stakeholders, each of which has diverse interests and different goals. Therefore, the current research aims to identify the stakeholders of the construction industry based on their governing values. This research was carried out as a qualitative approach using content analysis, and data collection tools were literature review and semi-structured interviews. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 experts in the construction industry to conduct the current research. The obtained data was coded using the content analysis method and the main categories were validated after referring to subject experts and exploratory interviews with targeted samples that were selected by the snowball method and reaching the saturation level. Based on the results, open codes were extracted and after combining the codes, 10 sub-themes and 5 main themes were identified as the framework for identifying the stakeholders of the construction industry based on the prevailing values. It is suggested to use this framework, which is presented based on the prevailing values of the stakeholders to identify the stakeholders early, how to play their roles and manage them in construction projects.
Dromology and Foucauldian Panopticism and Power in Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia
Authors: Bayat Sanay , Shahabi Hassan , Bornaki Fatemeh
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study is to provide an analytical description of Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia based on both Foucault and Virilio’s theory. In the ensuing framework, Lewis creates new discourses which become the bedrock of the subjectivity. This subjectivity is scrutinized through Paul Virilio's theories of dromology along with Foucauldian panopticism. The amalgamation of these theories create the methodology of the study, through critical discourse analysis of the stories, which explains the existence of imperial narratives, through the manifestation of the usage of the discourse and the cyborg subjectivity by Lewis in his science fiction stories and the application of the dromological discourse and the panoptical discourse as the requisites of their existence, while the former leads to the latter through invisibility. Throughout the use of Virilio’s theory, the main characters experience transformation and changing were discussed. This theory investigates mostly the notions of panopticon and Foucault in the novels. The researcher traces several notions in the novels including power, discourse, and panopticon in the books. This paper has mostly focused on Foucault’s different concepts including discourse and power. The notion of panopticon in the discourse of Narnia has been investigated as well throughout the novel.
The Role of Property Rights in Facilitating Voluntary Land Conversion in Vietnam and Other Southeast Asian Countries
Authors: Khanh Toan Lam Ba , Yen Vo Hoang
Published: August 2024

This research paper analyzes the role of property rights in facilitating land voluntary conversion in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries; provides a comprehensive review of the historical development of property rights in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries and identifies the factors that affect the voluntary conversion of land in the region. This research is purely doctrinal. Compilation of the data utilized secondary sources, such as books, articles, and other organization reports and surveys. This study is purely theoretical and interpretive in nature. the research illustrate that property rights play a crucial role in facilitating land conversion, and the lack of clear property rights can hinder economic development and social welfare. The article also examines the policy provisions in Vietnam related to land use and conversion and their implications for sustainable land use and development. The study highlights the need for effective policy frameworks, multi-stakeholder engagement, and a balanced approach that promotes sustainable development; and identifies future research directions to provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners in promoting sustainable land use and development in the region.
Investigating the Critique of Neoliberal America in Wallace's The Broom of the System
Authors: Darvishian Golbarg , Yaghoobi- Derabi Javad
Published: August 2024

Looking back and reviewing the challenges human beings faced all through history, one can distinguish one similarity in all epochs and that is a desire for true identity and a desire to find the truth. The intention of this study is to read Wallace's work “The Broom of the System” in the framework of Frederick Jameson to criticize liberalism and neoliberalism and to find the lost self and identity in the American liberal society. It was founded that as the reality is not on the page to be understood, and there is no direct relationship between the signifier (the word) and the signified (the real object), the meaning can only be understood by the relationship between the words in the language, for example, between a word and the other words around it in a sentence. Therefore, the world is excluded from the process of understanding the sentence because the sentence is self-referential. Therefore, according to Derrida and Barth, there is a gap between the text and the world and "literature creates an illusion of reality".
Reproducibility of autonomic cardiovascular function and hemodynamics at rest and during recovery from exercise
Authors: Ylinen Venla P. , Valtonen Rasmus I. P. , Junttila M. Juhani , Kerkelä Risto , Huikuri Heikki V. , Tulppo Mikko P.
Published: August 2024

Smartwatches and home‐based blood pressure (BP) devices have permitted easy use of heart rate variability (HRV) and BP to identify the recovery status of users after acute exercise training. The reproducibility of HRV and BP after exercise in healthy young participants is not well known. Eighteen participants (age 27 ± 6 years, female n = 8) performed test and retest aerobic exercises (cycling, 30 min, 60% of peak workload, W) and a control session in randomized order. RMSSD, high and low‐frequency power of RR intervals, and BP were measured at rest and 30–60 min after interventions. The relative reproducibility was assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). The absolute reproducibility was evaluated using the coefficient of variation (CV%). HRV indices revealed moderate‐to‐excellent reproducibility at rest (ICC 0.81–0.86; 95% CI 0.53–0.95) but not after exercise (ICC −0.06 to 0.60; 95% CI −1.85 to 0.85). Systolic BP had a good‐to‐excellent reproducibility before (ICC 0.93; 95% CI 0.81–0.98, CV% 4.2) and after exercise (ICC 0.93; 95% CI 0.81–0.97, CV% 4.2). The reproducibility of HRV indices is poor after exercise in young participants. However, the reproducibility of BP is excellent at rest and after aerobic exercise.