bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-world usage pattern, effectiveness and safety of oral tramadol/dexketoprofen trometamol fixed-dose combination in moderate-to-severe acute pain in Asia: a prospective, multicentre, observational study
Authors: Ho Kok Yuen , Gyanwali Bibek , Dimayuga Cesar , Eufemio Edgar Michael , Bernardo Edwin , Raju Gopinathan , Chong Keen Wai , Waithayayothin Kritsadakorn , Ona Leonardo , Castro Marc Anthony L , Sawaddiruk Passakorn , Salvador Roehl C , Roohi Sharifah Ahmad , Tangwiwat Suwimon , Wilairatana Vajara , Oon Zhi Hao , Gupta Ankur , Nagrale Dinesh
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study aims to determine the usage pattern, effectiveness and safety of oral tramadol 75 mg and dexketoprofen trometamol 25 mg fixed-dose combination (TRAM/DKP FDC) in the short-term treatment of moderate-to-severe acute pain in real-world clinical practice in Asia.

Design

Real-world, prospective, multicentre, observational, phase IV study.

Setting

13 tertiary-care hospital sites across the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.

Participants

Adult patients aged 18–80 years prescribed TRAM/DKP FDC for the short-term (up to 5 days) treatment of moderate-to-severe acute pain.

Main outcome measures

Primary endpoints were the proportion of patients prescribed TRAM/DKP FDC with different types of postsurgical and non-surgical treatments, and the average dosing frequency and duration of TRAM/DKP FDC treatment. Secondary endpoints were the proportion of patients achieving ≥30% pain reduction at 8 hours post the first dose (pain severity was assessed using the 11-point Numeric Pain Rating Scale); patient satisfaction at the end of treatment (based on a 5-point Patient Global Evaluation Scale (PGE)) and safety including the incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs).

Results

Among 599 patients (median age 44 years, 61.3% female) enrolled in this study, 68.61% (n=411) were postsurgical and 31.39% (n=188) were non-surgical patients. TRAM/DKP FDC was prescribed in a diverse group of postsurgical patients (eg, orthopaedic, general and cancer surgery) as well as in non-surgical conditions (eg, lower back pain and musculoskeletal pain). In the majority of patients, TRAM/DKP FDC was prescribed every 8 hours (65.94%) and for 5 days (78.80%). There was a significant reduction in pain intensity throughout the study and 65% of patients achieved ≥30% pain reduction from baseline at 8 hours post the first dose of TRAM/DKP FDC on day 1. 95.69% of patients were satisfied with the treatment (rated good, very good and excellent on the PGE scale). Overall, 13.9% of patients reported ADRs; most were mild to moderate in severity. The most common ADRs were nausea, vomiting and dizziness.

Conclusion

This study showed that TRAM/DKP FDC was used in diverse types of postsurgical and non-surgical patients in the real-world setting in Asia. It effectively reduced pain and was well tolerated with a high level of patient satisfaction.
Exploring virtual delivery of academic detailing to general practitioners compared with in-person delivery: a qualitative study
Authors: Garcia Beate Hennie , Langaas Harald Christian , Jahnsen Jan Anker , Schjøtt Jan , Nilsen Terje , Lehnbom Elin Christina
Published: October 2024

Background

Inappropriate prescribing may have detrimental consequences for the patient and increase healthcare utilisation and costs. Academic detailing (AD) is an interactive outreach method to deliver non-commercial evidence-based medical information to healthcare professionals, aiming to improve patient care. Performing AD virtually has recently become more relevant, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to explore general practitioners’ (GP’s) experiences and perceptions of virtually delivered AD.

Methods

We invited practicing GPs that had received virtual AD in Norway during autumn 2020. Semistructured individual interviews were audio and video recorded during February–May 2021. Interviews were transcribed and analysed applying thematic analysis according to Braun and Clarke.

Results

From interviews with nine GPs, we identified five themes concerning (1) informants’ satisfaction with virtual AD and their opinions about the detailers and their characteristics, (2) factors that are important for participation in AD, with the campaign topic being the most important, (3) a paradox between the informants’ desire for more time for discussion and the time constraint they are facing, (4) the many benefits of virtual AD compared with in-person AD and (5) the informants’ perceived learning outcomes are unaffected by mode of AD delivery.

Conclusion

Virtual AD worked very well in terms of scheduling the visit, using technology to facilitate the visit and achieving the same learning outcomes. Virtual AD should be offered to GPs as an alternative to the traditional in-person AD, especially in remote geographical areas or in circumstances when physical outreach is challenging.
Retrospective analysis of volumes of manually expressed colostrum among healthy postnatal mothers at a tertiary care referral unit in South India. Not enough milk or not enough patience?
Authors: Nyamagoudar Anita H , Kannur Netra S , Chavan Vinod , Kulkarni Vijay
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The volumes of colostrum have been quantified as 5 mL and 25 mL per feed on days 1 and 3, respectively, as per the data described about 20 years ago. However, the use of commercial formula is on the rise and ‘not enough milk’ is a common complaint by postnatal mothers.

Objectives

To determine the average volume of colostrum in one sitting per day on first three postnatal days among healthy late preterm and term gestational mothers and to compare the same among late preterm, term gestation and modes of delivery.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

A tertiary care perinatal setting in South India.

Patients

Healthy late preterm and term gestational mothers whose babies were roomed in.

Interventions

A lactation consultant helped the mothers manually express breast milk.

Main outcome measures

Volumes of manually expressed colostrum on first three postnatal days.

Results

Of the 391 mothers analysed in the study, on first three postnatal days, the average volume of colostrum in one sitting each was 4.68 mL, 8.87 mL and 22.53 mL, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in volumes of colostrum secreted among term and late preterm mothers and also among mothers with different modes of delivery. As anticipated, multiparous mothers expressed significantly higher volumes as compared with primiparous mothers, on all three postnatal days.

Conclusions

The volumes of colostrum on first three postnatal days among healthy mothers were comparable with traditional volumes described about two decades ago. Gestational age and mode of delivery did not affect the volumes of colostrum in the present cohort.
Career duration and later-life health conditions among former professional American-style football players
Authors: Grashow Rachel , Tan Can Ozan , Thomas Julius Dewayne , DiGregorio Heather , Lee Hang , Rotem Ran S , Marengi Dean , Terry Douglas P , Eagle Shawn R , Iverson Grant L , Whittington Alicia J , Zafonte Ross D , Weisskopf Marc G , Baggish Aaron L
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Career duration is often used as a metric of neurotrauma exposure in studies of elite athletes. However, as a proxy metric, career length may not accurately represent causal factors, and associations with health outcomes may be susceptible to selection effects. To date, relationships between professional American-style football (ASF) career length and postcareer health remain incompletely characterised.

Methods

We conducted a survey-based cross-sectional cohort study of former professional ASF players. Flexible regression methods measured associations between self-reported career duration and four self-reported health conditions: pain, arthritis, mood and cognitive symptoms. We also measured associations between career duration and four self-reported ASF exposures: prior concussion signs and symptoms (CSS), performance enhancing drugs, intracareer surgeries and average snaps per game. Models were adjusted for age and race.

Results

Among 4189 former players (52±14 years of age, 39% black, 34% lineman position), the average career length was 6.7±3.9 professional seasons (range=1–20+). We observed inverted U-shaped relationships between career duration and outcomes (all p<0.001), indicating that adverse health effects were more common among men with intermediate career durations than those with shorter or longer careers. Similar findings were observed for play-related exposures (eg, CSS and snaps).

Conclusions

Relationships between ASF career duration and subsequent health status are non-linear. Attenuation of the associations among longer career players may reflect selection effects and suggest career length may serve as a poor proxy for true causal factors. Findings highlight the need for cautious use of career duration as a proxy exposure metric in studies of former athletes.
Palliative rehabilitation and quality of life: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pryde Katherine , Lakhani Ali , William Leeroy , Dennett Amy
Published: October 2024

Importance

International guidelines recommend the integration of multidisciplinary rehabilitation into palliative care services but its impact on quality of life across disease types is not well understood.

Objective

To determine the effect of multidisciplinary palliative rehabilitation on quality of life and healthcare service outcomes for adults with an advanced, life-limiting illness.

Data sources

Electronic databases CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE and PEDro were searched from the earliest records to February 2024.

Study selection

Randomised controlled trials examining the effect of multidisciplinary palliative rehabilitation in adults with an advanced, life-limiting illness and reported quality of life were eligible.

Data extraction and synthesis

Study characteristics, quality of life and health service usage data were extracted, and the methodological quality was assessed using PEDro. Meta-analyses using random effects were completed, and Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation criteria were applied.

Main outcomes

Quality of life and healthcare service outcomes.

Results

27 randomised controlled trials (n=3571) were included. Palliative rehabilitation was associated with small improvements in quality of life (standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.40, 95% CI 0.23 to 0.56). These effects were significant across disease types: cancer (SMD 0.22, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.41), heart failure (SMD 0.37, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.05) and non-malignant respiratory diagnoses (SMD 0.77, 95% CI 0.29 to 1.24). Meta-analysis found low-certainty evidence, palliative rehabilitation reduced the length of stay by 1.84 readmission days.

Conclusions and relevance

Multidisciplinary palliative rehabilitation improves quality of life for adults with an advanced, life-limiting illness and can reduce time spent in hospital without costing more than usual care. Palliative rehabilitation should be incorporated into standard palliative care.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022372951.
Geodesic behavior of charged black hole in AdS spaces with Reissner–Nordstrom–AdS metric
Authors: Halder Indrajit , Mahanta Kamal Lochan , Sahoo Rakesh Ranjan
Published: October 2024

In this work, we introduce an electric charge in anti-de Sitter (AdS) space with a Reissner–Nordstrom–AdS black hole. The primary purpose of the present work is to review and describe the time-like and null geodesic behavior of the black hole. Here, we analyze the lapse function in order to gain some insights about the event horizon of the black hole and the geometrization of the space–time. We also present black hole horizons in 3D form. To have a deeper understanding of the motions of photon-like and massive particles in black hole gravity, we have derived some types of effective potentials. We have also examined the effect of variation of Newtonian constant G in almost every case, which allows us to identify gravity’s nature and its role in the structure of the universe. Finally, we give the Lyapunov exponent for orbital balance for familiarization with it and found that the stability of the circular orbit of the particle moving in the field of gravitation of black hole is conditional and the condition of stability of the orbit is 4 Q2 − 9 GM2 ⩾ 0 and G > 0.
Embedding of Hypercube into Fractal Cubic Network
Authors: Rajan R. Sundara , Reji Remi Mariam , Sadagopan N. , Cangul Ismail Naci
Published: October 2024

The implementation of parallel algorithms and the simulation of interconnection networks can be modeled into a graph embedding problem. Several cost parameters are used to assess the quality of an embedding. The wirelength is one of these factors that is frequently taken into account. A fractal cubic network is a new variant of the hypercube graph. In this study, we compute the wirelength of an embedding of the hypercube [Formula: see text] into the fractal cubic network [Formula: see text] using [Formula: see text]-partition.
BP-IMCA: An Energy-Efficient 8T SRAM-Based Bit-Parallel In-Memory Computing Architecture
Authors: Rajput Anil Kumar , Pattanaik Manisha , Kaushal Gaurav
Published: October 2024

In-Memory Computing (IMC) is an emerging paradigm that aims to shift computational workload away from CPUs. The bit-serial IMC architecture suffers from larger latency when performing logic and arithmetic operations. In this paper, a general-purpose, energy-efficient Bit Parallel IMC Architecture (BP-IMCA) based on Area-Optimized (AO-8T) static random access memory (SRAM) bit-cell is proposed to perform In-Memory Boolean Logic Computation (IMBC) and Near-Memory Arithmetic (NMA) operations with variable bit-width from 1- to 8-bit. The decoupled read/write paths of the employed AO-8T SRAM bit-cell eliminate compute disturbance during IMBC and NMA operations. A self-terminating read word line decoding scheme is proposed to disconnect the RBL discharging path from GND, which decreases the energy consumption of the proposed IMC architecture by 27.71% at 1[Formula: see text]V for IMBC operations. In addition to this, a [Formula: see text]-based Low-offset Symmetric Differential Sense Amplifier (LSDSA) is proposed to achieve fast and reliable sensing for both normal read and IMBC operations in the proposed IMC architecture. Further, a 4[Formula: see text]Kb SRAM array is implemented in 65-nm technology to analyze the IMC architecture at a supply voltage of 1[Formula: see text]V. The operating frequency of 1,355[Formula: see text]MHz and average energy consumption of 7.04[Formula: see text]fJ/bit is achieved during logic (IMBC) operations. The 8-bit addition and 8-bit multiplication operations achieve an energy efficiency of 11.1 TOPS/W and 2.28 TOPS/W, respectively, at 1[Formula: see text]V and 970[Formula: see text]MHz. Cumulatively, the proposed architecture achieves the lowest figure of merit compared to the state-of-the-art IMC architectures.
Comparative Analysis of AlN/β-Ga2O3 and MgZnO/CdZnO Gate All Around Field Effect Transistors (GAA-FETs) for Analog/RF Applications
Authors: Verma Yogesh Kumar , Mishra Varun , Adhikari Manoj Singh , Tripathi Suman Lata , Gupta Santosh Kumar
Published: October 2024

In this work, a 3-D model is presented for the comparative analysis of different Figures of merit (FOM) for MgZnO/CdZnO and AlN/Ga2O3 Gate All Around Field Effect Transistor (GAA-FET). It is noticed within the analyzed device geometries that for different values of channel length (CL), temperature (T) and channel height (H); the peak magnitude of transconductance ([Formula: see text]) for ZnO-based GAA-FET is higher than Ga2O3-based GAA-FET relatively by 0.996 for CL = 20[Formula: see text]nm and [Formula: see text] = 1[Formula: see text]V. The peak magnitude of second and third-order voltage intercept points, i.e., VIP2, VIP3 and third-order intercept input power (IIP3) for ZnO-based GAA-FET is noticed to be higher than Ga2O3-based GAA-FET relatively by 0.89, 0.59 and 0.80, respectively, for CL of 30 nm at [Formula: see text] = 1[Formula: see text]V. On the contrary, the Ga2O3-based GAA-FET is analyzed to exhibit lower peak magnitude of first and second-order derivatives of [Formula: see text], i.e., [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and third-order intermodulation distortion (IMD3) relatively by 0.94, 0.66 and 3.59[Formula: see text]dB, respectively, for CL = 20[Formula: see text]nm and [Formula: see text] = 1[Formula: see text]V as compared to Ga2O3 based GAA-FET. It is noticed that the AlN/[Formula: see text]-Ga2O3 GAA-FET provides a lower magnitude of output conductance than MgZnO/CdZnO GAA-FET, thus highlighting it as a potential contender for analog circuit applications.
Global fractional Calderón–Zygmund-type regularity
Authors: Abdellaoui Boumediene , Fernández Antonio J. , Leonori Tommaso , Younes Abdelbadie
Published: October 2024

We obtain a global fractional Calderón–Zygmund-type regularity theory for the fractional Poisson problem. More precisely, for [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], a bounded domain with boundary [Formula: see text] of class [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for some [Formula: see text], we consider the problem [Formula: see text] and, according to [Formula: see text], we find the values of [Formula: see text] and of [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] and such that [Formula: see text].
Preparation and Characterization of Copper Oxide-Chitosan Nanocomposite for Colon-Targeted Drug Delivery System
Authors: Ghalee-Taki Ghazal Norouzi , Rastegari Ali Asghar , Hekmat Azadeh , Rezaee Malahat
Published: October 2024

This work aimed at synthesizing the chitosan-based nanocomposite for concurrent diagnosis of colon tumors and targeted drug shipping with minimum toxicity. CuO-chitosan nanocomposite was developed using CuO nanoparticles (NPs), chitosan raw materials and 1% acetic acid. FE-SEM/EDX, TEM, XRD, DLSUV-Vis, FT-IR, as well as fluorescent emission spectrum methods were used to investigate the characteristics of nanocomposite gained throughout distinct levels. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) protein release rate was estimated. We investigated the antibacterial functioning of the nanocomposite against different bacteria types (like S. aureus, S. typhi, E. coli, L. monocytogene and P. aeruginosa), which can affect in causing tense colonic diseases. Qualitative and quantitative surveys were performed. The impact of the nanocomposite on cancerous and normal human colon cell lines, specifically HCT-116 and SW-948, was examined using the MTT assay. Eventually, loading BSA onto the CuO–chitosan nanocomposite enhances its potential as a drug carrier for treating colon cancer, causing minimal harm to surrounding normal cells. Additionally, the CuO-chitosan nanocomposite demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, a key pathogen associated with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Remarks on comparison principles for p-Laplacian with extension to (p,q)-Laplacian
Authors: Mohammed Ahmed , Vitolo Antonio
Published: October 2024

Our purpose is to generalize some recent comparison principles for operators driven by [Formula: see text]-Laplacian to a wide class of quasilinear equations including [Formula: see text]-Laplacian. It turns out, in particular, that adding a [Formula: see text]-Laplacian to [Formula: see text]-Laplacian allows to weaken the assumptions needed on the Hamiltonian of lower order terms. The results are specialized in the case that the Hamiltonian has at most polynomial growth in the gradient with coefficients depending on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Toxic effects on predator–prey dynamics: From deterministic to stochastic perspectives
Authors: Dutta Protyusha , Saha Sangeeta , Samanta Guruprasad
Published: October 2024

This study presents a comprehensive model of predator–prey interactions within a toxic environment, with a particular focus on the effect of toxicant compounds on the development of populations. By incorporating environmental disturbances, the dynamics of the model are investigated to enhance the system’s authenticity. Analytical explanations have been provided for the deterministic system solutions, including positivity, uniform boundedness and persistence. The deterministic portion of the investigation entails a comprehensive examination of occurrence and stability criteria pertaining to every possible equlibria. The bifurcation studies conducted on the system exhibit the appearance of local bifurcations, including transcritical, saddle-node and Hopf bifurcations. Moreover, these evaluations establish the parametric region in which Bautin, Bogdanov–Takens and cusp bifurcation occur. Under a relevant selection of parametric values, the suggested system has the capacity to manifest a wide range of dynamic phenomena, such as bi-stable behavior, emergence of limit cycles, and presence of homoclinic loops. Furthermore, in a stochastic environment, the use of Lyapunov functions explains the existence of a global positive solution. It has additionally been argued that the proposed system exhibits ultimate stochastic boundedness. Subsequently, specific and adequate criteria demonstrate the eradication of both species as well as the long-term survival of prey communities. We have also investigated the impact of the exogenous input rate of toxic substances and the coefficient of toxic substances in both species on the behavior of the whole system, both in deterministic and stochastic scenarios. Theoretical findings have been confirmed by various numerical investigations.
On some congruences for unrestricted singular overpartitions
Authors: Feri Wijaya Yosua , Isnaini Uha , Susanti Yeni
Published: October 2024

A specific case of partition called Andrews’ singular overpartitions, enumerated by [Formula: see text], is the number of overpartitions of [Formula: see text] where no summand is divisible by [Formula: see text] and the first occurrence of any summands which is [Formula: see text] can be marked. A number of authors have studied the properties of this partition. On this paper, we define a new partition which is a modification of singular overpartition, where you may chose any one of the summands which is [Formula: see text] to be marked. We enumerate that particular partition by [Formula: see text] and prove some congruences for [Formula: see text] on modulo [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], congruences for [Formula: see text] on modulo [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], and how likely it is for [Formula: see text] to be even.
THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON CROP YIELD IN PALESTINE
Authors: SOUS SANA J. , AL-HINDI YARA , SHTAYA MUNQEZ J. Y. , SADEQ TAREQ
Published: October 2024

This study examines the impacts of temperature and precipitation on crop yield in Palestine. With GLS analysis and Hausman test, the research delves into how weather factors relate to crop yield in different regions and for various crops (tomato, grapes and olives). These findings have significant implications for agricultural practices and climate change adaptation strategies. The study reveals that temperature has a positive correlation with tomato crop yield up to a threshold of 21∘C, while olives respond negatively to higher temperatures.
China’s Energy Security Strategy in Central Asia: A BRI and Green Energy Perspective (2019–2024)
Authors: Mat Bakri , Khalid Amna
Published: October 2024

This study examines China’s energy security strategy in Central Asia through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Green BRI. The examination extends while integrating two theories, i.e., Energy Securitization and Complex Interdependence. By analyzing China’s investments in renewable and non-renewable energy projects, this research assesses how they enhance regional connectivity, foster economic cooperation, and contribute to China’s energy security. A strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis reveals both the strengths and weaknesses of China’s energy strategy, highlighting opportunities for sustainable development and challenges posed by geopolitical factors. The findings suggest that while the BRI is a critical tool for China’s energy security, careful strategic planning and collaboration with Central Asian countries are essential to mitigate risks and maximize benefits. The study acknowledges the complex interplay of economic, political, and environmental constraints and concludes by highlighting the need for joint policy initiatives to promote mutual energy security, sustainability, and regional stability.
From Revolution to Revival: Religious Policy in Contemporary China and Albania
Authors: Osman Alba Kreka , Duro Clirim , Bezeraj Selim
Published: October 2024

The Sino-Albanian partnership was a unique Cold War alliance between two communist states. Albania desired independence from the Soviet Union, while China aspired to increase its influence, resulting in an alliance based on shared interests. China saw an opportunity to set up a presence in Europe and prove the global reach of Maoist philosophy. This paper investigates the influence of China’s Cultural Revolution on religious practices and policies in Albania, a country that, under Enver Hoxha’s leadership, pursued its own path of secularization and state atheism. The intensity of these efforts had far-reaching and long-lasting effects on religious life, cultural habits, and the social fabric of both countries. Following the conclusion of the Cultural Revolution in China and the ideological transition in Albania after the fall of communism, both countries saw a comeback of religious rituals. This research will highlight China’s and Albania’s comparable but varied approaches to reintegrating religious activities into their communities, not only as a return to tradition, but also as a complex interaction of cultural identity, social necessities, and political aims.
The Determinants of Household Water Demand: A Focus on Water, Energy, and Food Prices
Authors: van Huyssteen Thomas , Thiam Djiby , Nonhebel Sanderine
Published: October 2024

A good understanding of the factors that influence household water demand is required to assist policymakers in implementing appropriate policy instruments that lead to sustainable municipal water use and ensure water security. This paper analyzes the factors affecting household water demand in South Africa to develop a better understanding of residential water demand in developing country contexts. The predominant focus in both the developed and developing country literature has been on determining the water price elasticity of household water demand. In terms of the price impacts on water demand in developing countries, and for poor households elsewhere, it is not only the impact of water price which affects household water demand. Given the low average incomes of these households, they usually spend most of their income on basic needs such as water, energy, and food. A water–energy–food price and consumption nexus thus exists for these households. In this paper, we examine this nexus by determining how changes in the prices of water, energy, and food affect household water consumption. Using three months of data from 527 households in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa, we estimate household water demand using ordinary least squares regression and two-stage least squares regression techniques with the use of instrumental variables. The results reveal that water, food, and energy prices have a significant negative effect on household water consumption. The tap water, food, and energy price elasticities ranged from −0.543 to −0.935, −0.174 to −0.403, and −0.072 to −0.163, respectively. This shows that policies aiming to alter water demand and improve water security for low-income households should not only focus on water prices but also the price of food and energy.
Crafting Digital Experiences: Embedding Human-Centred and Participatory Design into Archaeological Practice
Authors: Dolcetti Francesca
Published: October 2024

As digital archaeology has grown as a field of practice, so has the number of digital resources developed for specialists and nonspecialists alike. However, the creation of such outputs has not always been accompanied and informed by design theory and practices. Design—used in its broadest definition as a process of conceptual making—is an integral, if often implicit, part of archaeological practices and it is through design that we develop and share our work—from data collection and analysis to interpretation and dissemination—and engage with our stakeholders. Engaging with core design practices offers meaningful opportunities for generating new forms of archaeological knowledge production and sharing, as well as creating digitally mediated experiences that are not guided by our own assumptions about our stakeholders’ needs and can really affect people’s engagement with the past. In this article, I investigate the benefits of embedding Human-Centred and Participatory Design into the archaeology and heritage sectors to create more critically engaged digital encounters with the past.
Motives and Risks of Self-Disclosure to Robots versus Humans
Authors: Augustine Angelika , Eyssel Friederike
Published: October 2024

The extent to which people self-disclose depends on the valence and intimacy of that information. We developed a 16-item measure that features both dimensions to assess participants’ inclination to self-disclose to humans and robots across three studies, i.e., the VISS scale. We hypothesized that participants would prefer a human over a robot conversation partner, independent of the valence and intimacy of the topic. Using the VISS, participants reported equal willingness to self-disclose to a human and a robot. However, in one out of three studies, participants were more willing to self-disclose positive topics that are low in intimacy (PTLI) to a fellow human, whereas in two out of three studies, they were less prone to self-disclose negative topics that are high in intimacy (NTHI) to a human compared to a robot. Two out of three studies provide a plausible explanation for these differences: participants indicated more motives to self-disclose PTLI to a human than to a robot, with relationship development being one central motive that was more strongly indicated in relation to a human. Furthermore, participants perceived more risks to self-disclose NTHI to a human than to a robot, with the risk of rejection being most prevalent for a human.
A Framework to Design Engaging Interactions in Socially Assistive Robots to Mitigate Dementia-Related Symptoms
Authors: Cruz-Sandoval Dagoberto , Tentori Monica , Favela Jesus
Published: October 2024

People with dementia (PwD) often exhibit behavioral, physiological, and social symptoms that affect their relationships and reduce their quality of life. Socially assistive robots (SARs) have proven effective in reducing some of these symptoms. However, the design of SARs for dementia care remains a challenging task. In this article, we present a human-centered design framework to assist researchers, designers, and roboticist from the conceptualization of engaging prototypes of SARs until the assessment of their efficacy at producing dementia-relevant health outcomes. The framework incorporates several key principles of a Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HCAI) approach. It incorporates the needs and perspectives of the different stakeholders into the design and evaluation of the interactions. It fosters accessibility and inclusion through personalization and encourages human–robot collaboration by facilitating natural and engaging interactions that build trust and rapport. We illustrate the use of the framework with the design of an SAR to support a Cognitive Stimulation Therapy. From this case study, we derive a set of design insights for the development of SARs behaviors and interactions for dementia care.
Interoceptive Mechanisms and Emotional Processing
Authors: Greenwood Benedict M. , Garfinkel Sarah N.
Published: October 2024

Interoception, the sensing of internal bodily signals, is intricately linked with the experience of emotions. Various theoretical models of emotion incorporate aspects of interoception as a fundamental component alongside higher-order processes such as the appraisal of internal signals guided by external context. Interoception can be delineated into different dimensions, which include the nature of afferent signals, the accuracy with which they can be sensed, their neural processing, and the higher-order interpretation of these signals. This review methodically evaluates these interoceptive dimensions through empirical research to illustrate their role in shaping emotions. Clinical and neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by altered emotional profiles, such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, posttraumatic stress disorder, emotionally unstable personality disorder, and autism, exhibit distinct changes in interoception. Various therapeutic approaches, including behavioral, pharmacological, and psychological strategies, may be efficacious for treating conditions associated with emotional alterations by targeting interoceptive mechanisms.
Synergistic Electronic and Carbonyl Proximity Effects in Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution Catalyzed by Tetrakis(ethoxycarbonyl)porphyrin Metal Complexes
Authors: Tsega Tilahun Wubalem , Kumar Sushil , Chuang Chuan-Hung , Woyessa Girma W. , Hung Chen-Hsiung
Published: October 2024

Electrocatalytic properties of a series of tetrakis(ethoxycarbonyl)porphyrin (TECP) 3d-metal complexes, and the influence of ester groups on the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), were investigated using trifluoroacetic acid in a 0.1 M [Bu4N]PF6 DMF solution. [Co(TECP)], [Ni(TECP)], and [Cu(TECP)] exhibited three redox couples, with reversibility decreasing at more negative potentials. The third reduction couple was predominantly ligand-centered. Upon addition of TFA, the second reduction waves became catalytic, increasing proportionally with TFA concentration, indicating that the molecular nature of the [M(TECP)] complexes plays a role in facilitating HER. Electrochemical and catalytic studies revealed that [Cu(TECP)] demonstrated the highest Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 98% and the lowest overpotential (0.7 V) while maintaining strong acid tolerance. [Co(TECP)] became effective at overpotentials exceeding 800 mV, suggesting the predominance of EECC pathway at more negative potential. The roles of the ester groups extended beyond a simple inductive effect, as confirmed by controlled potential electrolysis and spectroelectrochemical analyses. The superior HER activity of [Cu(TECP)] compared to [Cu(TPrP)] and [Cu(TPP)] highlights the contribution of the carbonyl groups to catalytic performance. This work underscores the importance of ester groups placement within the porphyrin framework and suggests that meso-ester groups can influence both the stability and catalytic performance, paving the way for further investigations.
Load-dependent mechanisms contribute to increased aortic stiffness among women with a history of preeclampsia: relation with cardiovagal baroreflex sensitivity
Authors: Davis Kristen G. , Armstrong Matthew K. , Nuckols Virginia R. , Smith Meaghan N. , Pewowaruk Ryan , Gimblet Colin J. , Santillan Donna A. , Santillan Mark K. , Pierce Gary L.
Published: October 2024

The novel finding is that load-dependent stiffness, not structural stiffness, is the primary mechanism of aortic stiffness, and is associated with reduced baroreflex sensitivity in women with a history of preeclampsia. These findings may help tailor high blood pressure prevention and management strategies in this population to prevent structural aortic stiffening, altered baroreflex control, and increased lifetime cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.
The role of T cells in vascular aging, hypertension, and atherosclerosis
Authors: DeConne Theodore M. , Buckley David J. , Trott Daniel W. , Martens Christopher R.
Published: October 2024

Vascular dysfunction has emerged as a significant risk factor for the development of cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases (CVDs), which are currently the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. T lymphocytes (T cells) have been shown to be important modulators of vascular function in primary aging and CVDs, likely by producing inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species that influence vasoprotective molecules. This review summarizes the role of T cells on vascular function in aging, hypertension, and atherosclerosis in animals and humans, and discusses potential T-cell targeted therapeutics to prevent, delay, or reverse vascular dysfunction.
How Communities of Practice Generate Knowledge Translation Outcomes to Support Public Health Issues: A Realist Synthesis
Authors: Elbrink Sanne H. , Elmer Shandell L. , Osborne Richard H.
Published: October 2024

Communities of practice in health settings often serve to address contemporary public health issues by sharing knowledge and experiences about accelerating implementations and innovative solutions. Because there are gaps between the practical application of communities of practice and the scientific knowledge about their effectiveness, this realist synthesis aimed to identify how and why members of communities of practice translate the shared knowledge and apply it in their daily practice. In a six‐step process, this realist synthesis included a scoping review that led to an initial theory map (Step 1), followed by searches (Step 2), appraisal (Step 3), extracts and organisation (Step 4), and analysis and synthesis (Step 5). These steps organised the literature into context–mechanism–outcome configurations that guided the development of a realist framework that can support research and practice (Step 6). We identified three key ways in which knowledge translation may occur: (1) Members bring (new) knowledge to their parent organisation; (2) members change the (daily) practice in their parent organisation; and (3) members improve health outcomes through systemic changes. We found that an initial outcome of knowledge sharing within the community of practice is conditional to achieving outcomes of knowledge translation outside the community of practice. This knowledge sharing within the community of practice is more likely to occur in a structured and trusted environment where members feel safe, as well as where members recognise individual and organisational benefits from participation. To achieve knowledge translation outside the community of practice, support from the parent organisation becomes important, alongside learning and developing confidence to implement the knowledge. The synthesis of the different contexts that potentially trigger mechanisms that lead to desired outcomes provides insight into how best to inform community of practice initiators and facilitators about supporting effective public health responses.
Preterm Labor and Hypertensive Disorders in Adolescent Pregnancies With Diabetes Between 2006 and 2019
Authors: Everett Estelle , Han Christina S. , Richley Michael , Copeland Timothy P. , Moin Tannaz , Wisk Lauren E.
Published: October 2024

Objective: We sought to evaluate the risk of preterm labor and hypertensive disorders in adolescent pregnancies with and without diabetes.

Methods: We evaluated 1,843,139 adolescents (≤20 years old) with labor and delivery admissions in the national Kids’ Inpatient Database (KID) in years 2006, 2009, 2012, 2016, and 2019. International classification of disease codes was used to identify diabetes and medical factors affecting pregnancy. Weighted logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between diabetes and complications.

Results: Among admissions, 0.2% had type 1 diabetes (T1D), 0.2% had type 2 diabetes (T2D), and 0.7% had gestational diabetes (GDM); 10.1% of admissions were complicated by hypertensive disorders and 5.8% by preterm labor. Compared to adolescents without diabetes, those with diabetes had a higher prevalence of hypertensive disorders (T1D: 35.4%, T2D: 37.8%, GDM: 24.9%, None: 9.9%; p < 0.001) and preterm labor (T1D: 21.5%, T2D: 16.8%, GDM: 6.8%, none: 5.7%; p < 0.001). In adjusted models, odds of hypertensive disorders were higher in later study years (2019 vs. 2006 OR 1.85, 95% CI 1.77–1.94), among those with T1D (OR 4.32, 95% CI 3.94–4.74), with T2D (OR 4.18, 95% CI 3.79–4.61), and with GDM (OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.89–2.10). Adjusted odds of preterm labor were higher among those with T1D (OR 4.53, 95% CI 4.09–5.02), with T2D (OR 3.35, 95% CI 2.96–3.78), and with GDM (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.08–1.28); disparities were seen by race/ethnicity, insurance, and income.

Conclusions: Diabetes, which is increasing among adolescents, is a significant risk factor for preterm labor and hypertensive disorders. Though the absolute number of adolescent pregnancies is decreasing, rates of hypertensive disorders have increased. Appropriate interventions are needed to ensure healthy outcomes for adolescents who are pregnant.
In Vitro Efficacy of Domestic Techniques for Disinfection of Toothbrushes Contaminated With Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Donayre-Salvatierra Gina Alessandra , Dulanto-Vargas Julissa Amparo , Olaechea Raul M. , Reátegui Oscar , Carranza-Samanez Kilder Maynor
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Oral hygiene education for patients is fundamental in preventive‐promotional dentistry. The disinfection of toothbrushes (TBs) must be integrated into this context due to their proximity to contaminant sources that make them vulnerable to cross infection in homes. The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of domestic techniques for disinfection of TBs.

Materials and Methods: We performed an in vitro study of 76 TBs contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis (Ef) ATCC 29212 subjected to different disinfection protocols: G1. Distilled water (DW; negative control; n = 8), G2. Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO)10% (negative control; n = 8), G3. Chlorhexidine (CHX) 0.12% (positive control; n = 15), G4. 100% white vinegar (WV; n = 15), G5. Microwave (MW) at 700 W (n = 15), and G6. 200 mg/mL of certified alcoholic extract of purple garlic (GARLIC) from Arequipa (Allium sativum L; n = 15). Bacterial count was assessed by colony‐forming units (CFU/mL) categorized as contamination: low (<30), medium (30–300), and high (>300). The Kruskal–Wallis test with post hoc pairs was used at a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results: Efficacy against Ef showed highly significant differences between groups (p < 0.001) with lower median CFU/mL in G3 and G4 (Me = 0 [IQR (interquartile range) = 0]: low) and G5 (Me = 6000 [IQR = 45,000]: low/medium) versus negative controls (Me = 378,500 and 5,020,000 [IQR = 4,605,000 and 6,760,000]: medium/high; p ≤ 0.019). The counts of the G5 were not statistically different than G3, G4, and G6 (p > 0.06). The G6 (Me = 1,510,000 [IQR = 590,000]: medium) was inferior to G3 and G4 (p < 0.001), but similar to both negative control groups (p > 0.999).

Conclusions: Disinfection of TBs with CHX, WV, and MWs produces a significant effective reduction in the count of Ef.
Fish Consumption Once a Week Improves Sperm Quality and Testosterone Levels
Authors: Roussev Bogdan , Sokrateva Todorka , Nenkova Galina , Salim Ayshe , Ivanova Diana
Published: October 2024

Background: The rate of male infertility has increased in the last decades. One factor that may improve sperm quality and testosterone is fish consumption, which supplies the organism with essential nutrients.

Aim: To determine evidence of a relationship between the frequency of fish consumption and sperm quality.

Methods: Seventy‐four healthy men, aged 25–45 years, were involved in this observational study. Semen quality was evaluated by spermogram analyses and testosterone was measured in blood. Volunteers were classified as low, moderate, and high fish consumption groups according to the replies indicated in a questionnaire they had to fill out.

Results: The moderate fish consumption group showed better semen quality with all spermogram parameters in the reference range and the low fish consumption group manifested the worst semen quality with sperm morphology below the reference range. The low fish consumption group had lower testosterone levels (3.6 ± 0.9 vs. 4.3 ± 1.5; p = 0.04), decreased nonprogressive spermatozoa (11.9 ± 6.2 vs. 15.8 ± 8.2; p = 0.04), and lower semen volume (3.1 ± 2.0 vs. 3.6 ± 1.3; p = 0.06) compared to the moderate fish consumption group. Positive associations were detected between the frequency of fish consumption, the semen volume, and nonprogressive spermatozoa, respectively.

Conclusions: Fish consumption at moderate level such as once a week leads to improvement in sperm quality and testosterone levels.
E‐Speech: Development of a Dataset for Speech Emotion Recognition and Analysis
Authors: Liu Wenjin , Shi Jiaqi , Zhang Shudong , Zhou Lijuan , Liu Haoming
Published: October 2024

Speech emotion recognition plays a crucial role in analyzing psychological disorders, behavioral decision‐making, and human‐machine interaction applications. However, the majority of current methods for speech emotion recognition heavily rely on data‐driven approaches, and the scarcity of emotion speech datasets limits the progress in research and development of emotion analysis and recognition. To address this issue, this study introduces a new English speech dataset specifically designed for emotion analysis and recognition. This dataset consists of 5503 voices from over 60 English speakers in different emotional states. Furthermore, to enhance emotion analysis and recognition, fast Fourier transform (FFT), short‐time Fourier transform (STFT), mel‐frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCCs), and continuous wavelet transform (CWT) are employed for feature extraction from the speech data. Utilizing these algorithms, the spectrum images of the speeches are obtained, forming four datasets consisting of different speech feature images. Furthermore, to evaluate the dataset, 16 classification models and 19 detection algorithms are selected. The experimental results demonstrate that the majority of classification and detection models achieve exceptionally high recognition accuracy on this dataset, confirming its effectiveness and utility. The dataset proves to be valuable in advancing research and development in the field of emotion recognition.