bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cone-beam CT volumetry: a new method for evaluating osteotomy healing – a clinical evaluation and MDCT comparison
Authors: Cetinic Ivan , Ullman Michael , Hellman Linn , Aurell Ylva
Published: October 2024

Background

Fracture healing complications remain a major problem in trauma monitoring. An open wedge osteotomy of the distal radius provides a unique way of evaluating fracture healing. Since the introduction of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) at our institution, it has become the method of choice for assessing hand and wrist bones. To date, CT volumetry has been validated for multidetector CT (MDCT) but not for CBCT.

Purpose

To assess osteotomy healing using CBCT volumetry and to evaluate two different segmentation techniques.

Material and Methods

A total of 36 patients were surgically treated for malunited distal radius fractures with open-wedge osteotomy either leaving the void empty (open wedge empty [OWE]) or filled with bone graft substitutes (BGS). They were scanned using CBCT and MDCT postoperatively and after 3, 6, and 12 months. Segmentation was performed both manually and semi-automatically for volumetric measurement. Inter- and intra-observer reliability were assessed using intraclass correlation (ICC).

Results

The median osteotomy volume in the OWE group postoperatively was 0.87 cm3 (range=0.42–2.72). At 3 months, all but one of the OWE volumes had diminished to half or less of their initial volume. In the BGS group, the median postoperative volume was 1.30 cm3 (range=0.73–1.81) and at 12 months, 76% of the initial volume remained. Reliability between CBCT and MDCT volumetry expressed as ICC was ≥0.96. ICC for the two segmentation techniques was ≥0.99 and ICC for inter-observer reliability ≥0.97.

Conclusion

CBCT volumetry is a reliable tool and comparable to MDCT to quantify bone healing of an osteotomy.
Correlation Between Gingival Parameters and LDH Enzyme Activity in Orthodontic Patients After LLLT and Ozone Irrigation:  A Split Mouth Study
Authors: Ziauddhin Shaik , Vani Sandra Venkata Kala , Yelchuru Sri Harsha , Kumar Immaneni Pavan Sai , Sagar Vemula Lakshmi , Sreerangam Hemadri
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The study aimed to assess and compare the clinical outcomes of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and subgingival ozone irrigation on gingival inflammation in patients undergoing fixed appliance therapy and to relate the clinical outcomes with lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF).

Materials and Methods

15–25 year-old 30 healthy patients undergoing orthodontic treatment were selected in this prospective, cross-sectional study. In each subject, the upper right and left quadrants of the mouth were randomly designated as the control side and the interventional side, respectively. Clinical parameters (gingival index, plaque index, gingival bleeding index) and LDH enzyme activity were recorded at baseline (0th day) on both sides. The interventional side was irradiated with a soft tissue 980 nm diode laser (Zolar Photon Plus) with a power density of 100 mW cm–2 and an energy density of 18 J cm–2, and the control side was irrigated subgingivally with 0.01 mg/l ozonated water using the Kent Ozone Dental Jet TY-820. All the clinical parameters, except LDH, were reassessed on the 7th, 14th and 28th day, whereas LDH levels in GCF were reevaluated on the 28th day.

Results

Both groups showed a significant reduction ( p < .05) in gingival parameters and LDH activity after the study period. A greater decrease of clinical parameters and LDH activity (417.117 mU ± 22.59 to 154.11 mU ± 12.943) was seen on the LLLT side than on the ozone irrigation side (419.417 mU ± 27.128 to 229.387 mU ± 14.636). Also, a significant correlation existed among the clinical parameters assessed and the LDH activity in GCF after the treatment period.

Conclusions

LLLT and ozone irrigation were both effective in controlling gingival inflammation among which LLLT was superior.

Clinical Relevance

Fixed mechanotherapy makes oral hygiene difficult, necessitating the need for adjunctive methods. From this study, it was proved that ozone and laser therapy were effective in controlling gingival inflammation in orthodontic patients, thus enabling their use in the monthly visits.
Fatigue management effects on social participation and environment management in individuals with multiple sclerosis: Quasi-experimental study
Authors: Simeon Rachele , Galeoto Giovanni , Valente Donatella , Conte Antonella , Ferrazzano Gina , Leodori Giorgio , Berardi Anna
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

This study aims to evaluate the effect of an occupation-focused and occupation-based group intervention for fatigue management on the perception of environment barriers and social participation, and secondarily the impact on quality of life and sleep quality.

Material and Methods:

For this quasi-experimental study, 19 participants with a mean age of 45 (13.7), with 84.2% having Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis with Expanded Disability Status Scale mean 2.6, were recruited. The outcome measures were administering pre-post test, and the follow-up was at 3 months using T-test for inferential analysis. The outcome measures used for the primary outcomes were the Craig Hospital Inventory of Environmental Factors scale, the Community Integration Questionnaire, and the Impact on Participation and Autonomy.

Results:

All outcomes showed statistically significant improvement after treatment. At 3-month follow-up, the results maintained positive results except for the General Sleep Disturbance Scale and the MSQoL-54, which showed a slight worsening in total scores with respect to post-treatment.

Conclusion:

This study fits into a widely studied context, emphasizing the importance of implementing occupation-focused group interventions for fatigue management. Furthermore, this study showed that this type of intervention leads to an improvement on the perception of environmental barriers and social participation.
Rethinking value in land and negotiating the city’s social future
Authors: Shih Mi , Newman Kathe
Published: October 2024

In a context of global competition for capital, austerity politics, municipal entrepreneurialism and financialization, land is increasingly seen as a source of money for fiscal revenue. Mechanisms of land value capture, as a consequence, have accelerated forces of land monetization and commodification in recent years. This special issue is a collective attempt to rethink the concept, practice and politics of value in land development. Seven authors bring two, still largely separate, discussions into conversation. One concerns the politics of land development that has emerged through the expanding use of regulatory land use tools oriented single-mindedly around the capture of monetary value from land. A second theme focuses on how the city’s urban future is produced through social and political contestation constrained by the valorization of land’s exchange value. Taking a longer and relational point of view, authors in this issue examine what is at work – politically, economically, fiscally, institutionally and ideologically – to enable land development and land value capture to become an increasingly used solution to fiscal revenue generation in communities around the world. This issue also fuels our imagination to consider how we might discuss social futures rooted in social values. There is no finality to the kind of present-future relationship that land value capture helps to shape. Value is an intentional choice and is performed, and if we take such a value concept as our starting point, then value practices hold the key to whether we can achieve a more socially desired or intended end.
Anaesthesia healthcare workers’ interactions with COVID-19-positive and -suspect patients: A multi-site observational study from Queensland, Australia
Authors: Chin Adrian , Woods Christine , Pelecanos Anita M , Tognolini Angela , Chawla Gunjan , Bell Sheridan , Rapchuk Ivan L , Wang Jimmy , Eley Victoria A
Published: October 2024

Occupationally acquired COVID-19 is a hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs). In four hospitals of the Metro North Hospitals and Health Service in Queensland, Australia, we invited HCWs to report the nature of any anaesthesia interactions with COVID-19-positive and COVID-19-suspect patients. This was to assist workforce planning in future pandemics. Data collection consisted of three phases; 1) participating HCWs recorded details of episodes of care (EOCs) with COVID-19-positive or COVID-19-suspect patients; 2) these HCWs were invited to complete a follow-up survey about their own health status regarding COVID-19 infections; 3) electronic health records were used to assess patient demographics, infectious status and outcomes. Between 21 March 2020 and 17 May 2022, 63 anaesthesia HCWs reported 90 EOCs with 67 unique patients. The median (interquartile range (IQR)) age of the HCWs was 40.5 years (34–46); 55% (34/62) were male, 62% (39/63) were consultants and 21% (13/63) were registrars. The median (IQR) age of patients was 39 (28–63) years. Personal protective equipment (PPE) was deemed to be appropriate by the HCWs in (86/88) 98% of the EOCs. Twenty-four HCWs (38%) responded to a follow-up survey. Of 12 HCWs who subsequently tested positive to COVID-19, only four had cared for a COVID-19-positive patient in the two weeks prior to their diagnosis. Most responding HCWs perceived they contracted COVID-19 in the community, experiencing mild illness. We found relatively low COVID-19 case numbers, high PPE use and low transmission of COVID-19 within the hospital setting.
Epidemiology of Sports-Related Tendon Ruptures Presenting to Emergency Departments in the United States
Authors: Lyons Joseph G. , Berkay Fehmi B. , Minhas Arjun
Published: October 2024

Background:

Participation in recreational and competitive sports can predispose people to musculoskeletal injuries. Chronic overuse with insufficient recovery, overloading, and direct contact can result in acute primary tendon ruptures. There is scarce literature regarding the epidemiology of sports-related acute primary tendon ruptures in the United States (US).

Purpose:

To identify the incidence rate (IR) of sports-related acute primary tendon ruptures presenting to US emergency departments using the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) database and describe the trends in the IR from 2001 to 2020.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

The NEISS database was queried using injury case narratives; cases with a clear diagnosis of an acute primary tendon rupture were included in the final analysis. National estimates, estimated IRs (reported as per 1,000,000 person-years at risk), and temporal trends in the annual IR (reported as average annual percent change) of acute primary tendon ruptures were calculated using NEISS sample estimates and US Census Bureau population estimates.

Results:

An estimated total of 141,382 patients (95% confidence interval [CI], 107,478-175,286) presented to US emergency departments with a sports-related tendon rupture over the study period (IR, 22.9 person-years at risk [95% CI, 17.4-28.3]). The mean age was 37.7 years (95% CI, 37.0-38.5). Of all cases of a tendon rupture identified from 2001 to 2020, 60.1% were secondary to exercise/sports-related injury mechanisms. An Achilles tendon rupture was the most common injury, representing 55.9% of cases. Basketball was the most common sports-related injury mechanism, accounting for 36.6% of cases. The overall injury rate in male patients was 7.7 times that of female patients (IR ratio, 7.7 [95% CI, 4.4-13.5]; P < .05). The annual incidence of all sports-related tendon ruptures in the US increased significantly from 2001 to 2020 (average annual percent change, 1.9 [95% CI, 1.0-2.8]; P < .01).

Conclusion:

Recreational/competitive sports participation accounted for a large proportion of acute primary tendon ruptures in the US during the study period.
Study on the properties of EPS composite concrete enhanced by silane coupling agent: Experiment and molecular simulation
Authors: Feng Yong , Li Zehua , Zhao Chen , Chen Wang , Feng Jingjie
Published: October 2024

Due to the organic porous nature of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam concrete, the bond strength between it and cement is weak, leading to a weakened interface transition zone and low strength. However, most studies on this issue have been limited to phenomenological approaches, neglecting the role of atomic-level mechanisms. Therefore, this study combines macroscopic and microscopic experiments, as well as molecular dynamics, to investigate the mechanisms of a silane coupling agent (SCA) enhancing the interface performance of EPS-concrete. Macroscopic mechanical tests demonstrate that SCA can improve the compressive and flexural strength of EPS concrete. Combined with the test and analysis of variance, the addition of 9% SCA has the best enhancement effect on the mechanical properties of EPS composite concrete. The compressive strength increased by 24% and 17% on day 7 and day 28, respectively, and the flexural strength increased by 39% and 16% on day 7 and day 28, respectively. At the microscopic scale, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy are used to analyze the effects of SCA on the microstructure and functional groups of the EPS-cement interface. Microscopic analysis shows that SCA optimizes the composition of cementitious products, effectively repairing and improving the defects of the EPS-cement interface. Ultimately, molecular dynamics simulations and analysis are conducted on two interface models, one including and one excluding SCA, at the nanoscale. The results indicate that SCA enhances the hydrogen bonding, H-Ca ion bonding, and interface interactions between EPS-C-S-H, resulting in a tighter and more stable bond between the two phases, effectively enhancing the mechanical properties of EPS composite concrete. This study provides valuable insights into the strengthening mechanisms of EPS composite concrete and proposes a promising improvement method.
Impact of home-based exercise on residual kidney function in patients initiating peritoneal dialysis: A feasibility multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Uchiyama Kiyotaka , Yamada Seiki , Ofuji Noriyuki , Fukagawa Shohei , Sato Shin , Chigusa Naoki , Kimura Takahide , Kasai Takahiro , Hosoya Koji , Ito Jun , Kakuda Wataru , Washida Naoki
Published: October 2024

Background

Although the impact of aerobic exercise (AE) and resistance training (RT) on peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients is well established, the impact of exercise programs on residual kidney function (RKF) has not been elucidated.

Methods

Patients were randomly assigned to either the exercise ( n = 25) or control groups ( n = 30). Patients in the exercise group performed AE three times a week and RT twice a week at home for 24 weeks. The control group did not receive any specific intervention. The primary outcome was RKF, assessed by residual glomerular filtration rate (rGFR). Secondary outcomes included urinary protein levels, distance covered in the incremental shuttle walking test (ISWT), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) percentages.

Results

Linear mixed-effects models showed no significant changes in mean rGFR between the exercise and control groups at 12 weeks (−0.40; 95% confidence interval (CI): −2.17, 1.36; p = 0.65) and at 24 weeks (0.65; 95% CI: −1.15, 2.45; p = 0.48). There was a trend toward improvement in mean urinary protein level and ISWT results, and a significant decrease in mean HbA1c percentage at 24 weeks in the exercise group (−1.07, 95% CI: −2.29, 0.15, p = 0.09; 37.7, 95% CI: −10.1, 85.5, p = 0.12; −0.57, 95% CI: −0.97, −0.18, p = 0.005, respectively) compared to the control group.

Conclusion

The 24-week home-based exercise program did not demonstrate beneficial effects on RKF in incident PD patients. Nonetheless, it may have an impact on reducing urinary protein levels and HbA1c percentages.
Research on a novel honeycomb-like path for lightweight additive manufacturing
Authors: Li Guoxian , Zhang Xiufen
Published: October 2024

The influence of the printing path in additive manufacturing (AM) on the lightweight characteristics of the printed component is significant. This study addresses issues in existing lightweight printing paths, such as the excessive number of sharp turns, complex paths, time-consuming processes, and weak part bearing capacities. To overcome these challenges, a novel honeycomb-like path for lightweight AM was proposed. The honeycomb-like path was designed based on a combination of sine curves and straight lines, inspired by the robust bearing capacity of honeycombs. A path optimization method based on unit simplification was proposed, which achieved the control of honeycomb-like path shapes by adjusting the fill density to obtain printed parts with different performance characteristics. Subsequently, to evaluate the load-bearing performance, both quasi-static compression simulation tests through finite element simulations and actual quasi-static compression tests on physical specimens were conducted. The results indicated that the load-bearing capacity of the honeycomb-like path specimen surpassed those of the hexagonal honeycomb path specimen, contour offset path specimen, and parallel line path specimen under identical conditions. Furthermore, the quality of the specimens was evaluated based on printing time, weight, and user evaluations, concluding that honeycomb-like paths can produce qualified products with reduced time and lower material consumption. This research contributes innovative ideas and practical solutions to address the lightweight challenges in AM.
Extremely imbalanced data intelligent fault diagnosis of rotating impeller with improved denoising diffusion probabilistic models
Authors: Jiang Zeyu , Ren Zhaohui , Zhang Yongchao , Zhou Shihua , Yu Tianzhuang
Published: October 2024

The operating time of rotating impellers in different faulty conditions is much shorter than its normal operating condition, and obtaining signals of faulty impellers is extremely difficult due to safety and cost. Therefore, the issue of highly imbalanced data between normal and fault status samples of rotating impellers frequently arises, which significantly obstructs the application of intelligent fault recognition and classification models. This paper addresses this challenge by proposing a novel approach that integrates improved denoising diffusion probabilistic models (IDDPM) with improved convolutional neural networks (ICNN) to solve extremely imbalanced data in fault diagnosis. IDDPM is built to synthesize one-dimensional time-domain signals stably to augment the original training set. Meanwhile, a nonlinear denoising strategy and a non-autoregressive network suitable for time-domain signal generation were introduced to enhance the quality of the generated signal. In addition, an ICNN with strong feature extraction and identification capability is designed to classify mixed datasets. The experimental results indicate that the IDDPM stably generates data that closely resembles actual data, and the ICNN can more effectively extract features from the mixed dataset, leading to a significant improvement in fault diagnosis performance. Accordingly, the proposed approach can effectively solve the low accuracy issue in extremely imbalanced data fault diagnosis of rotating impellers.
Machining performance analysis of wire-EDM for machining of titanium alloy using multi-objective optimization and machine learning approach
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Jayswal Suresh Chand
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the multi-objective optimization of process parameters in wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) using titanium alloy grade 5 and zinc-coated brass microwire. The novelty lies in the comprehensive investigation of the effects of varying pulse on time (Ton), wire tension (WT), and wire feed rate (WF) on output responses, including surface roughness (SR), surface crack density (SCD), corner diameter (CD), and kerf width (KW). The Box-Behnken design, a sophisticated response surface methodology (RSM) technique, is employed to efficiently explore the complex relationships and interdependencies between these input and output parameters. The study's novel approach incorporates machine learning algorithms, including decision tree, light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM) and random forest, to predict the characteristics of the laser-cut components based on the input parameters. The contour plots generated provide valuable insights into the underlying patterns and associations between input and output features, aiding in the understanding of the WEDM process. The results reveal that the optimized values for SR, SCD, CD, and KW are obtained at specific machining conditions: Ton of 10 μs, WF of 3.79 m/min, and WT of 8 gf. Among the machine learning algorithms employed, random forest outperforms the others in predicting KW, SR, SCD and CD, exhibiting significantly lower mean squared error (MSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) values. This study contributes to the field of WEDM by providing a comprehensive analysis, incorporating advanced experimental design techniques and machine learning algorithms, which can aid in process optimization and quality control in manufacturing applications.
Analysis of the degradation in transmission accuracy of RV reducers considering the wear clearance between cycloidal wheels and pinwheels
Authors: Tan Hongming , Xiao Zhengming , Zhang Qianxi
Published: October 2024

To accurately determine the transmission accuracy degradation pattern of Rotate Vector (RV) reducers due to wear, a predictive method is proposed that simultaneously considers the initial clearance and wear clearance between the cycloid wheel and the pinwheel. The initial clearance is derived from a comprehensive gear system analysis, considering assembly errors, manufacturing errors and modifications. Building on this, the wear depth of the cycloid wheel tooth profile is numerically simulated using Archard's wear theory, revealing the wear distribution pattern under various operating conditions. A Gaussian regression model is used to predict the maximum wear amount for different operational durations. Based on the predicted wear amount, a multi-body dynamic simulation model incorporating wear clearance was established to analyze the transmission error under varying clearance conditions. Results indicate that the wear depth along the tooth profile initially increases and then decreases. The depth and region of wear along the tooth profile gradually increase with load and output speed, with the impact of load on the wear region being greater than that of output speed. Under the initial clearance condition, the maximum transmission error is 22.91″. As the wear clearance increases, transmission accuracy declines sharply. When the cumulative wear clearance reaches 0.2 mm, the transmission error exceeds the allowable backlash limit. This study provides a theoretical reference for predicting accuracy degradation and guides the manufacturing design of RV reducers.
Modeling and analysis of a novel CPSC/CI combined profile for scroll compressors
Authors: Liu Tao , Liu Yu , Mohammed Salah Taresh Abdu
Published: October 2024

The scroll profile design has become a research hotspot and plays a decisive role in scroll machines. However, the modeling process is complicated due to different expressions of peripheral and central profiles in most full meshing profile (FMPs). Moreover, systematic modeling and in-depth property investigation of scroll profile are still insufficient. Herein, this study simplifies scroll profile modeling by constructing a novel FMP that combines a cubic power series curve (CPSC) with a circular involute (CI) to improve the properties of scroll compressors. An analytical model of CPSC/CI scroll wraps is proposed using the orthogonal components approach and validated by numerical examples. Geometric models to calculate chamber volume and gas load action length, and gas load models, are established. The effects of the CPSC/CI on the scroll wrap tip, built-in volume ratio and gas load are investigated. The proposed CPSC/CI enhances scroll compressor's properties by providing favorable properties not only with wider range of variation in scroll wrap tip and built-in volume ratio but also smaller gas load vibrations due to its superior flexibility, compared to circular arc/CI. This study provides new possibilities for enhancing scroll compressor performance through the design of scroll wrap profile.
Experimental and performance analysis of organic fraction of municipal solid waste in downdraft gasifier
Authors: Ganesan Sowndharya , Vedagiri Praveena
Published: October 2024

It is anticipated that the production of municipal solid waste will increase from 2.10 billion tonnes in 2023 to 3.80 billion tonnes by 2050. About 170 billion metric tonnes of biomass is produced worldwide each year. On a wet basis, the composition of municipal solid waste (MSW) includes approximately 20% of wood, 70% of food waste, 60% of yard trimmings, and 50% of other organic materials. Gasification of waste biomass is one of the most efficient processes for creating gaseous fuel and subsequently power with reduced environmental impact. The current work presents a novel strategy to reduce MSW by converting waste into briquettes and feeding it in gasifiers to produce syngas. The downdraft gasifier is employed in the syngas generation process. With a calorific value of 22.6 MJ/kg and a higher lignin concentration of approximately 31%, MSW proves to be suitable for thermochemical conversion processes. This article presents the results during gasification of briquette made from organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) with significant heating value of 22.6 MJ/kg. The fuel produced by the gasifier has a heating value ranging from 920 to 1150 kcal/m3, making it clean-burning. Its primary components consist of 19% to 23% carbon monoxide and 17% to 21% hydrogen. This study offers a unique investigation into the gasification behavior of the organic fraction of OFMSW in a downdraft gasifier, with an emphasis on optimizing operational parameters and evaluating the yield and quality of syngas. Although gasification has been widely studied as a thermochemical conversion method for biomass, the specific performance of OFMSW in this process has received limited attention. By focusing on this underexplored area, the study enhances the understanding of OFMSW's potential in gasification and its contribution to sustainable energy production, thereby addressing key issues in both waste management and renewable energy generation.
A hybrid evolutionary algorithm integrated with specific neighborhood search for collaborative task planning of heterogeneous multi-UAVs under SEAD scenarios
Authors: Wang Jianfeng , Jia Gaowei , Yu Ke , Zhang Yue , Guo Zheng , Hou Zhongxi
Published: October 2024

To overcome the challenges posed by diversified task combinations and strict temporal constraints in the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD), this paper investigates the task planning problem. The task correlation in SEAD evolves from chained correlations within individual units to a web of interdependencies across all UAVs, making the task planning problem significantly more complex than traditional vehicle routing problems. This complexity ensures that any alteration to a single task will produce a cascading effect on the overall plan. To address this issue, the paper designs a matrix-based task dependency analysis method that quantitatively evaluates the logical interdependencies between tasks. Additionally, the concept of dynamic time windows is introduced to precisely measure the temporal impact of task adjustments on the overall plan. On the basis of these analyses, an adaptive hybrid evolutionary algorithm is designed, which employs a neighborhood search strategy to precisely adjust task assignments and execution sequences based on task dependencies and dynamic time windows. Finally, simulation results suggest that the algorithm proposed in this paper consistently produces task plans with a high number of completed tasks and short completion time across scenarios involving varying task quantities, task combinations, time windows, regional distributions, and UAV configurations.
Optimal prescribed-time attitude tracking for multiple spacecraft systems based on adaptive critic algorithm
Authors: Du Runle , Zhou Zhi-Gang , Zhou Di , Liu Jiaqi , Shi Xiao-Ning , Hou Shuai
Published: October 2024

In this paper, an adaptive critic-based approximate optimal control scheme is constructed for the attitude coordinated tracking problem with prescribed performance requirements and input saturation constraint. Since the virtual leader’s information is not available for some followers, a predetermined-time distributed observer is deployed for each follower to reconstruct the leader’s information. Subsequently, an error transformation procedure is imported to reformulate the prescribed-time attitude coordination issue with prescribed performance constraint as the stabilization one of an unconstraint error system. To confront the input saturation constraint, a nonquadratic function is included in the cost function and in this case the described issue is formulated as a series of nonlinear optimal control problems. The critic architecture is built to approximately solve the corresponding Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman (HJB) equation, i.e., only critic neural network (NN) is utilized to reconstruct the value function and control policy for each follower. The effectiveness and advantage is validated through numerical examples.
What are we talking about when we are talking about the audience? Exploring the concept of audience in science communication research and education
Authors: McCarthy Ella , Grant Will J
Published: October 2024

The concept of ‘audience’ is central to research and practice in science communication. When asked by a scientist for help communicating their work, who among us has not responded with the time honoured question ‘who is your audience?’ Yet what we mean when we talk about audience is not always clear: implied and ambiguous, rather than explicit and precise. This article explores this ambiguity, drawing on a systematic review of 1360 science communication research articles and a survey of 45 science communication educators. We report 10 different conceptualisations, in three groups. Being conceptualisations include ‘Demographic’, ‘Knowledge’, ‘Values’ and ‘Embodied’; Doing conceptualisations include ‘Interaction’ and ‘Dynamic’. In Qualifiers, we found ‘Diverse’, ‘Potential’, ‘Plural’ and ‘General’ conceptualisations. These data allow tracking of how we have conceptualised audience over time, an understanding of the groups systematically under-serviced, and a pathway to a richer discussion of this key concept for our field.
Green nanocomposite of (starch/polylactic acid/cellulose nanofiber) thermoplastic
Authors: Shamsabadi Omid Daliri , Soltanolkottabi Fariba
Published: October 2024

Green polymers and nanocomposites are noticed by researchers in the environmental fields. Among them, starch, polylactic acid, and cellulose nanofiber (CNF) are eco-friendly. In the present study, thermoplastic bio-nanocomposites of starch/cellulose nanofiber (SN), polylactic acid/cellulose nanofiber (PN), and starch/polylactic acid/cellulose nanofiber (SPN) are prepared by film casting. The effect of nanofibers is investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mechanical properties, and water vapor permeability (WVP) of films. Results show that the mechanical properties of SN and PN improve with the addition of CNFs due to their uniform dispersion which are investigated using SEM images. The addition of 1 mL CNF (0.38 wt.%, CNF/solid nanocomposite) satisfactorily enhanced tensile strength and Young’s modulus of SPN (36.99, 629.71 MPa). On the other hand, these properties obtained for SN (6.63, 54.96 MPa) and PN (22.69, 514.61 MPa) with adding 1 mL CNF (1.23 and 0.62 wt.%, CNF/solid nanocomposite). The water vapor permeability of all the films is enhanced slightly with increasing CNF content and it is possible to reduce segmental mobility of polymer molecules at low fiber loading. Due to the excellent mechanical properties and low permeability of SPN nanocomposite, it can be used in the food packaging industry.
Sustainable Entrepreneurship: A Systematic Review and Future Research Directions
Authors: Kaushik Namita , Dangwal Ramesh Chandra
Published: October 2024

In recent years, sustainable entrepreneurship has emerged as an important area of entrepreneurship. The purpose of this article is to identify the most influential and impactful sources, documents, authors, contributors and institutions in sustainable entrepreneurship research between 2002 and 2021. The data were extracted from the Scopus database, and all documents related to sustainable entrepreneurship were retrieved. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using R package, Biblioshiny and VOSviewer software on the retrieved information. The article uses bibliometric analysis to demonstrate publication metrics, citation metrics, co-authorship and keyword analysis. The study’s findings would greatly benefit future researchers and academics working in the sustainable entrepreneurship domain and identifying future research areas where research can be conducted.
Bibliometric Analysis of Perceived Employability: Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Jain Amita , Singla Ankita
Published: October 2024

The changing nature of employment relations between individuals and organisations has increased the role of individuals in maintaining their careers. Today’s era is characterised by ‘modern and boundary less’ careers, indicating the need for an in-depth analysis of perceived employability. For a long time, this multidisciplinary concept has captured the attention of scholars. However, holistic retrospection of this research is missing to date. Under this gap, this study aims to comprehensively analyse the literature on perceived employability through bibliometric tools. Therefore, a contextualised systematic literature review is presented in this study using citation analyses, co-citation analyses and bibliographic coupling. Relying upon the Scopus database, bibliometric techniques are used to map thematic and intellectual structures latent in 356 articles published on perceived employability. The top authors, countries, journals and major themes are identified, followed by bibliographic network-based content analysis. Five significant clusters identified by thematic analyses are extensively reviewed. Finally, the study revealed key research gaps that could guide future research. This study contributes by providing thematic clusters latent in the literature on perceived employability in combination with an extensive review.
An Exploration of Entrepreneurs’ Socio-economic Situation and Its Impact on Micro and Small Businesses in South Andaman
Authors: B. Treemurutulu
Published: October 2024

This study aims to investigate the socio-economic conditions of entrepreneurs that influence the growth of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in the South Andaman District. In this study, a scheduled questionnaire-based survey research design was used, and a sample of 344 small business owners was collected for analysis. The data were processed using SPSS, and chi-squared test was applied for statistical analysis. The study’s findings revealed that factors such as entrepreneurs’ business experience, income levels, the number of working employees and ownership of house property significantly impact the growth of enterprises in the island region. However, factors like business location and sector of enterprises were found to be statistically insignificant in determining MSEs’ growth in the island region. The study suggests that policymakers and local administrations should enhance support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in island regions by implementing policies such as island capital investment subsidies and island transport subsidies for MSEs. As a result, small businesses play a pivotal role by contributing to local employment, production and investment opportunities in the island region.
Quality Improvement Measures in Reducing Hypothermia Among At-risk Preterm Neonates in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Kulkarni Soham Sourabh , Purkayastha Jayashree , Bharadwaj Shruthi Kumar , Lewis Leslie Edward , Patil Anand Kumar
Published: October 2024

Background

Hypothermia is a significant concern in most neonatal units in both term and preterm, which increases the risk of mortality and morbidity. We aimed to reduce the incidence of hypothermia among at-risk preterm neonates upon admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) from a baseline of 75%-30% over 15 months.

Methods

This quality improvement study in a tertiary NICU implemented multiple plan-do-study-act (PDSA) cycles for all inborn neonates with a gestational age of less than 34 weeks or birth weight under 1500 g. The key outcome measure was the incidence of hypothermia, expressed as a percentage. Potential barriers to normothermia were evaluated using fishbone analysis and a key-driver diagram. Baseline data were collected over 3 months, and two PDSA cycles were performed over 18 weeks using a bundled approach and a sustenance phase over 9 months. Key interventions involved the optimization of environmental temperature at various locations, the use of polyethylene wraps for resuscitation, the proper use of transport incubators, and through raising awareness among healthcare professionals.

Results

A total of 319 neonates were part of the study. The baseline incidence of hypothermia (outcome measure) decreased from a median of 83% to 20.5% after two PDSA cycles and was sustained for over 9 months with reinforcement measures. Only two neonates had hyperthermia during the study period (balancing measure), and 96% compliance with documentation was achieved.

Conclusions

Quality improvement measures with simple policy reinforcement and a bundled approach can help reduce the incidence of hypothermia in at-risk preterm neonates.
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Protocols in Liver Transplant Recipients—Challenges and Strategies for Implementation: A Review Article
Authors: Shankar Vijay , Chatterji Chitra , Chawla Subash
Published: October 2024

Background:

Implementing enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols has revolutionized perioperative care across surgical specialties, significantly improving outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. The sheer complexity of liver transplantation makes it one of the most challenging surgical cases, technically as well as logistically. The use of ERAS protocols in liver recipients has been scarce, with significant interinstitutional variability.

Methodology:

We conducted PubMed searches to find relevant articles. We considered review articles, clinical trials, observational studies, and case-control studies.

Results:

ERAS in liver transplant surgery aims to optimize recovery, improve outcomes, and reduce the physiological impact of surgery through evidence-based practices. Each liver transplant case is unique, and ERAS protocols must be customized based on the patient’s underlying condition, donor characteristics, and surgical specifics.
Communicating During Societal Crises: How Entrepreneurs’ Interactions with Backers Affect Fundraising via Crowdfunding
Authors: McKenny Aaron F. , Fisher Greg , Short Jeremy C. , Ketchen David J. , Allison Thomas H.
Published: October 2024

We investigate how entrepreneurs communicate with crowdfunding backers during the onset of a societal crisis via a content analysis of campaigns active during the COVID-19 pandemic and a vignette experiment. While effective communication with stakeholders is critical for acquiring resources during societal crises, little is known about what communication strategies entrepreneurs use during these crises or their influence on fundraising. Notably, we find that entrepreneurs’ crisis communication strategies differ along three key dimensions: timing (proactive vs. reactive), target (entrepreneur vs. other), and nature (utilitarian vs. personal), and that proactively addressing other stakeholders’ personal concerns attracts more funding than alternative approaches.
Engaging a New Treatment Paradigm: Elranatamab in Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Saied George , Halford Zachery
Published: October 2024

Objective:

To review the therapeutic profile of elranatamab, a novel bispecific T-cell-redirecting therapy, in treating relapsed or refractory (R/R) multiple myeloma (MM).

Data sources:

A PubMed search was conducted for English-language articles published from January 2000 through June 2024, using the search terms: PF-06863135, elranatamab, Elrexfio, and “ Multiple Myeloma.” Additional data were obtained from ClinicalTrials.gov and other pertinent publications and meeting abstracts.

Study selection and data extraction:

Clinical trials, guidelines, and prescribing information pertaining to elranatamab were included.

Data synthesis:

The phase II MagentisMM-3 trial demonstrated an overall response rate of 61.0% (95% confidence interval, 51.8-69.6) in patients naïve to B-cell maturation antigen targeting therapy (cohort A, n = 123), establishing elranatamab monotherapy as a viable treatment option for patients with R/R MM who have received at least 4 prior lines of therapy. The duration of response and progression-free survival at 12 months were 75.3% and 56.6%, respectively.

Relevance to patient care and clinical practice in comparison with existing drugs:

Despite the promising activity of elranatamab in R/R MM, the significant treatment-related adverse effects (AEs) associated with this therapy necessitate careful monitoring and expert management. Common AEs include cytokine release syndrome, neurotoxicity, hematologic toxicity, and infectious complications. The cost-effectiveness of elranatamab has yet to be evaluated.

Conclusions:

Elranatamab is approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a treatment option for patients with heavily pretreated R/R MM. Further studies are warranted to identify the optimal treatment strategy for elranatamab and other bispecific antibodies in the management of R/R MM.
Olanzapine Versus Quetiapine: Corrected QT Changes in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Shen Kaden , Dube Kevin M. , DeGrado Jeremy R. , Szumita Paul M. , Lupi Kenneth E.
Published: October 2024

Background:

Olanzapine and quetiapine are frequently administered atypical antipsychotic medications and their effects on the corrected QT (QTc) in the critically ill population remain understudied.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to compare the impact of olanzapine and quetiapine on QTc changes in critically ill patients.

Methods:

This was a single-center, retrospective analysis. Adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) from January 2023 through July 2023 were included if they received ≥2 doses of either olanzapine or quetiapine within a 48-hour period and had one QTc evaluated within 48 hours of antipsychotic initiation. The major endpoint was a composite of the incidence of QTc prolongation (defined as QTc > 500 ms or QTc > 60 ms above baseline) following antipsychotic initiation. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to identify risk factors for QTc prolongation.

Results:

There was no statistical difference in the major composite endpoint between patients in the olanzapine and quetiapine groups (8/83 [9.6%] vs 19/129 [14.7%]; P = .28). The incidence of QTc > 500 ms (7/244 [2.9%] vs 20/427 [4.7%]; P = .25) and change from baseline >60 ms (5/244 [2.0%] vs 17/427 [4.0%]; P = .26) were not statistically different between the olanzapine and quetiapine groups, respectively. There were no occurrences of Torsades de Pointes or extrapyramidal symptoms in either group.

Conclusion and Relevance:

The results of this study suggest olanzapine and quetiapine may have similar impact on QTc prolongation in critically ill patients. These findings could contribute to safer prescribing practices in the ICU.
Association Between Sleeping Quality and Risk of Breast Cancer Among Women: A Case-Control Study From Pakistan
Authors: Naqeeb Huma , Zia-Ud-Din  , Khan Imran , Haq Ijaz-ul , Zeb Falak , Hajira Bibi , Alam Iftikhar , Iqbal Zafar , Masood Rehana , Aftab Muhammad
Published: October 2024

Background

This case-control study investigated the relationship between sleep duration and quality with the occurrence of breast cancer among women, both pre- and post-menopausal, in the northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) region of Pakistan.

Method

This case-control research was carried in multiple tertiary care facilities. Newly diagnosed primary breast cancer patients were recruited as cases (n = 408), and 5+ years age-matched controls (n = 408) were randomly selected from the general population. Participants completed a Pittsburg sleeping quality index (PSQI) questionnaire that included questions on sleep characteristics. Statistical analysis included independent t-tests to compare mean sleep durations and quality scores between groups, and logistic regression to adjust for potential confounders.

Results

Sleep onset latency between cases and controls was not significantly associated with health outcomes, with a P-value of .142. However, sleep duration showed a significant association ( P = .049). For sleep duration, the adjusted odds ratio for ≤6 h was 1.02 (95% CI: .5-2.1), while for 7-8 h the adjusted odds ratio was 1.0 (95% CI: .6-1.6). Self-reported sleep quality did not demonstrate significant associations, with the P-value for “very good” sleep quality being .561. Sleep duration of less than 6 h among women with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) was found to be strongly associated with a more aggressive type of breast cancer, with an adjusted odds ratio of 1.5 (95% CI: 1.02-2.3, P < .05).

Conclusion

This study does not provide evidence to support an association between sleep duration or quality and the risk of breast cancer. However, it reports a significant association, with shorter sleep durations linked to an increased risk particularly in the context of aggressive breast cancer types such as TNBC.