bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermosolutal natural convection in a partly porous cavity with sinusoidal wall heating and cooling
Authors: Omara Abdeslam , Touiker Mouna , Bourouis Abderrahim
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to consider numerical analysis of laminar double-diffusive natural convection inside a non-homogeneous closed medium composed of a saturated porous matrix and a clear binary fluid under spatial sinusoidal heating/cooling on one side wall and uniform salting.

Design/methodology/approach

The domain of interest is a partially square porous enclosure with sinusoidal wall heating and cooling. The fluid flow, heat and mass transfer dimensionless governing equations associated with the corresponding boundary conditions are discretized using the finite volume method. The resulting algebraic equations are solved by an in-house FORTRAN code and the SIMPLE algorithm to handle the non-linear character of conservation equations. The validity of the in-house FORTRAN code is checked by comparing the current results with previously published experimental and numerical works. The effect of the porous layer thickness, the spatial frequency of heating and cooling, the Darcy number, the Rayleigh number and the porous to fluid thermal conductivity ratio is analyzed.

Findings

The results demonstrate that for high values of the spatial frequency of heating and cooling (f = 7), temperature contours show periodic variations with positive and negative values providing higher temperature gradient near the thermally active wall. In this case, the temperature variation is mainly in the porous layer, while the temperature of the clear fluid region is practically the same as that imposed on the left vertical wall. This aspect can have a beneficial impact on thermal insulation. Besides, the porous to fluid thermal conductivity ratio,

Rk, has practically no effect on

Shhot wall, contrary to

Nuinterface where a strong increase is observed as

Rk is increased from 0.1 to 100, and much heat transfer from the hot wall to the clear fluid via the porous media is obtained.

Practical implications

The findings are useful for devices working on double-diffusive natural convection inside non-homogenous cavities.

Originality/value

The authors believe that the presented results are original and have not been published elsewhere.
Enhanced effectiveness with positive Joule–Thomson pressure drop effects on a cryogenic heat exchanger with three fluid-two communications
Authors: Chodankar Vishnudas Alias Vipul Luvu , Aswatha Aswatha , Seetharamu K.N.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to attain higher effectiveness with an introduction of Joule–Thomson effect on a three-fluid heat exchanger with two communications. It also gives a range of parameter values that have to be maintained for achieving effectiveness above 0.85. Attaining effectiveness above 0.85 is very important for the heat exchanger to perform the liquefaction of hot fluid.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is conducted using Galerkin’s method, a finite element approach.

Findings

This investigation determines crucial values for the cryogenic heat exchanger to achieve effectiveness above 0.85. The important findings are as follows: effectiveness above 0.85 is attained if the heat exchanger size is within the range of 8–10; ratio of heat flow resistance between intermediate and hot stream to heat flow resistance between cold and hot stream should be maintained between 1 and 10; the intermediate fluid temperature should be maintained between 0 and 0.2; the ratio of thermal capacity of the hot fluid relative to a cold fluid should be maintained between 1.25 and 1.42; and the ratio of thermal capacity of the hot fluid relative to an intermediate fluid should be maintained between 2 and 2.5.

Research limitations/implications

The investigation has presented a finding for improving the effectiveness of the cryogenic heat exchanger. Higher the Joule–Thomson pressure drop effect, more is the drop in temperature of the fluid resulting in additional cooling or lowering of the fluid temperature. The practical implementation is also explained, i.e. to achieve practically the Joule–Thomson pressure drop in a cryogenic heat exchanger.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no investigations were carried out previously on Joule–Thomson investigation on a three-fluid heat exchanger with two communications, for different values of Joule–Thomson pressure drop.
Numerical study of entropy generation and forced convection heat transfer of a nanofluid in a channel with different fin cross-sections
Authors: Sarbazi Zahra , Hormozi Faramarz
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study aims to numerically investigate the thermal-hydrodynamic performance of silicon oxide/water nanofluid laminar flow in the heat sink miniature channel with different fin cross-sections. The effect of the fin cross-section including semi-circular, rectangular and quadrant in two directions of flat and curved, and channel substrate materials of steel, aluminum, copper and titanium were examined. Finally, the analysis of thermal and frictional entropy generation in different channels is performed.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the numerical results, the highest heat transfer coefficients belong to the rectangular, quadrant 2, quadrant 1 and semi-circular fins compared to the channel without fin is 38.65%, 29.94%, 27.45% and 17.1%, respectively. Also, the highest performance evaluation criteria belong to the rectangular and quadrant 2 fins, which have 1.35 and 1.29, respectively. Based on the thermal conductivity of the substrate material, the best material is copper. According to the results of entropy analysis, the reduction of thermal irreversibility of the channel with rectangular, quadrant 1, quadrant 2 and semi-circular compared to non-finned channel is equal to 72%, 57%, 63% and 48%, respectively.

Findings

The rectangular and quadrant 2 fins are the best fins and the copper substrate material is the best material to reduce the entropy generation.

Originality/value

The silicon oxide/water nanofluid flow in the heat sink miniature channel with various fin shapes and the curvature angle against the fluid flow was simulated to increase the heat transfer performance. The whole test section is simulated in three-dimensional. Different channel materials have been investigated to find the best channel substrate material.
A sustainable post-disaster housing development framework for an indigenous Hao-Cha community in Taiwan: considering culture and livelihood in housing extensions
Authors: Tsai Sung Lun , Ochiai Chiho , Deng Chuan Zhong , Tseng Min Hui
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Several post-disaster housing extension and modification studies have indicated that owner-driven modification behavior relates to socio-economic and livelihood factors. This study aims to clarify housing extension patterns and examine the relationships among spatial characteristics, sociocultural factors, livelihood factors and housing extensions. This research also highlights the implications of post-disaster housing design for indigenous communities.

Design/methodology/approach

An indigenous community case study was conducted using a literature review. Moreover, interview surveys and housing measurements were implemented based on purposive sampling to diversify interviewees’ backgrounds and the extent of housing extensions.

Findings

This study confirms that housing extensions are closely related to the number of household members and their associated functions and cultural and livelihood factors that were ignored during the design stage. Furthermore, the housing extension process was confirmed to match households’ economic recovery. A post-disaster housing implementation framework for the indigenous population is proposed.

Research limitations/implications

This research only targeted one indigenous community with a limited number of interviewees and samples because of the connection with households.

Practical implications

The study’s proposed resilience post-disaster housing framework can be used to develop post-disaster housing design guidelines, which can benefit policymaking. The proposed participatory concept can be further adopted in future disaster risk-reduction programs.

Originality/value

This study uniquely focuses on the pre- and post-disaster housing layout and the livelihood of an indigenous community. It offers valuable insights for post-disaster reconstruction planners and practitioners.
Authentication-based access control approach for enhancing security in pervasive computing environments
Authors: G.R. Gnaneshwari , Hema M.S. , Lingareddy S.C.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Pervasive computing environment allows the users to access the services anywhere and anytime. Due to the dynamicity, mobility, security, heterogeneity, and openness have become a major challenging task in the Pervasive computing environment. To solve the security issues and to increase the communication reliability, an authentication-based access control approach is developed in this research to ensure the level of security in the Pervasive computing environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper aims to propose authentication-based access control approach performs the authentication mechanism using the hashing, encryption, and decryption function. The proposed approach effectively achieves the conditional traceability of user credentials to enhance security. Moreover, the performance of the proposed authentication-based access control approach is estimated using the experimental analysis, and performance improvement is proved using the evaluation metrics. It inherent the tradeoff between authentication and access control in the Pervasive computing environment. Here, the service provider requires authorization and authentication for the provision of service, whereas the end-users require unlinkability and untraceability for data transactions.

Findings

The proposed authentication-based access control obtained 0.76, 22.836 GB, and 3.35 sec for detection rate, memory, and time by considering password attack, and 22.772GB and 4.51 sec for memory and time by considering without attack scenario.

Originality/value

The communication between the user and the service provider is progressed using the user public key in such a way that the private key of the user can be generated through the encryption function.
Addressing the higher education for sustainable development agenda at the College of Open and Distance Learning, St. Mary’s University, Ethiopia: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Tamrat Wondwosen
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study aims to assess the extent to which sustainable development practices are prevalent at the College of Open and Distance Learning (CODL), St. Mary’s University, Ethiopia. The assessment focused on identifying the college’s inclusion of the sustainable development agenda in its policy statements, various functions and practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a mixed-method approach and used a case study in its design. Data were generated from a standard survey questionnaire, adopted from the unit-based sustainability assessment tool (Togo and Lotz-Sisitka, 2009), a semi-structured interview and documentary evidence.

Findings

The findings revealed that CODL has limited involvement in sustainability issues despite relevant policy directions set at national and institutional levels. Current engagement patterns are limited to teaching, course provision and a few areas of operations and management while a serious gap has been noted as regard the two core functional areas of research and community service which happen to be neglected.

Research limitations/implications

This study was based on a single CODL, albeit an institution with a long history of offering distance education in Ethiopia. Despite its contribution to an understanding of how sustainability issues are addressed in the context of Africa in general and Ethiopia in particular, the generalizability of the findings to other similar institutions is limited.

Originality/value

There is very little research in Africa as regard the involvement of higher education institutions in promoting the issues of sustainability in general and distance education providers in particular. In addition to addressing this gap, the study suggests the need for distance education institutions to improve their mapping strategies and respond to the greater concerns of sustainable development.
Evaluation of the tribological performance of the green hBN nanofluid on the friction characteristics of AISI 316L stainless steel
Authors: Akincioğlu Sıtkı , Şirin Şenol
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of new green hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) nanofluid on AISI 316L stainless friction coefficient, wear resistance and wear using a ball on disc tester.

Design/methodology/approach

Nanofluids were prepared by adding hBN nanoparticles with two-step method to the vegetable-based oil at 0.50 vol%. Before the experiments, hBN nanofluid viscosity, pH and thermal conductivity specifications were determined. Friction tests of AISI 316L stainless steel were performed under 2 N, 5 N and 8 N loads at 400 rpm using a ball-on-disc test device under dry, oil and hBN conditions. Coefficient of friction, wear profile, surface integrity and wear mechanisms were chosen as performance criteria.

Findings

The friction coefficient values obtained under the oil and hBN test conditions with the 8 N load were, respectively, 72.46% and 77.64% lower than those obtained under dry test conditions. hBN nanofluid performed better on surface topography, and especially wear, compared to the dry and oil test conditions.

Practical implications

The aim of this study was to determine the best tribological performance of the hBN nanofluid on AISI 316L stainless steel used in orthopedic applications.

Originality/value

The paper is a study investigating the effect of hBN nanoparticle additive in vegetable-based oil on friction and wear performance of AISI 316L stainless steel. It is an original paper and is not published elsewhere.
Dynamic pricing and coupon promotion strategies in a dual-channel supply chain based on differential game
Authors: Li Zonghuo , Yang Wensheng , Si Yinyuan
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper investigates a dual-channel supply chain in which a manufacturer offers coupons in the online channel and the retailer in the offline channel. The optimal pricing and coupon promotion policies are explored, and the brand image under different promotion scenarios is studied.

Design/methodology/approach

Three differential game models, namely no coupon is offered, coupons offered by the manufacturer and coupons offered by the retailer, are constructed.

Findings

The results show that the manufacturer and retailer intend to conduct coupon promotions under a large coupon redemption rate. Coupon promotion derives a higher price and profit for the issuers, and the manufacturer can free-ride on the retailer's coupon promotion. The retailer's profit in the retailer-promotion scenario may be lower than that in the manufacturer-promotion scenario in some special conditions. Besides, price, coupon face value, brand image and profit increase over time. After multiple cycles game, the operational strategy evolves to an optimal equilibrium status.

Originality/value

This paper provides guidance and advice for dual-channel supply enterprises to implement joint pricing and coupon promotion strategies under multiple sales seasons.
On the fuzzy interval equal surplus sharing solutions
Authors: Özcan İsmail , Alparslan Gök Sırma Zeynep
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper deals with cooperative games whose characteristic functions are fuzzy intervals, i.e. the worth of a coalition is not a real number but a fuzzy interval. This means that one observes a lower and an upper bound of the considered coalitions. This is very important, for example, from a computational and algorithmic viewpoint. The authors notice that the approach is general, since the characteristic function fuzzy interval values may result from solving general optimization problems.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper deals with cooperative games whose characteristic functions are fuzzy intervals, i.e. the worth of a coalition is not a real number but a fuzzy interval. A situation in which a finite set of players can obtain certain fuzzy payoffs by cooperation can be described by a cooperative fuzzy interval game.

Findings

In this paper, the authors extend a class of solutions for cooperative games that all have some egalitarian flavour in the sense that they assign to every player some initial payoff and distribute the remainder of the worth v(N) of the grand coalition N equally among all players under fuzzy uncertainty.

Originality/value

In this paper, the authors extend a class of solutions for cooperative games that all have some egalitarian flavour in the sense that they assign to every player some initial payoff and distribute the remainder of the worth v(N) of the grand coalition N equally among all players under fuzzy uncertainty. Examples of such solutions are the centre-of-gravity of the imputation-set value, shortly denoted by CIS value, egalitarian non-separable contribution value, shortly denoted by ENSC value and the equal division solution. Further, the authors discuss a class of equal surplus sharing solutions consisting of all convex combinations of the CIS value, the ENSC value and the equal division solution. The authors provide several characterizations of this class of solutions on variable and fixed player set. Specifications of several properties characterize specific solutions in this class.
Prevalence of anger, engaged in sadness: engagement in misinformation, correction, and emotional tweets during mass shootings
Authors: Lee Jiyoung , Kanthawala Shaheen , Britt Brian C. , Deavours Danielle F. , Ott-Fulmore Tanya
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The goal of this study is to examine how tweets containing distinct emotions (i.e., emotional tweets) and different information types (i.e., misinformation, corrective information, and others) are prevalent during the initial phase of mass shootings and furthermore, how users engage in those tweets.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers manually coded 1,478 tweets posted between August 3–11, 2019, in the immediate aftermath of the El Paso and Dayton mass shootings. This manual coding approach systematically examined the distinct emotions and information types of each tweet.

Findings

The authors found that, on Twitter, misinformation was more prevalent than correction during crises and a large portion of misinformation had negative emotions (i.e., anger, sadness, and anxiety), while correction featured anger. Notably, sadness-exhibiting tweets were more likely to be retweeted and liked by users, but tweets containing other emotions (i.e., anger, anxiety, and joy) were less likely to be retweeted and liked.

Research limitations/implications

Only a portion of the larger conversation was manually coded. However, the current study provides an overall picture of how tweets are circulated during crises in terms of misinformation and correction, and moreover, how emotions and information types alike influence engagement behaviors.

Originality/value

The pervasive anger-laden tweets about mass shooting incidents might contribute to hostile narratives and eventually reignite political polarization. The notable presence of anger in correction tweets further suggests that those who are trying to provide correction to misinformation also rely on emotion. Moreover, our study suggests that displays of sadness could function in a way that leads individuals to rely on false claims as a coping strategy to counteract uncertainty.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-03-2021-0121/
COVID‐19’s impact on Australian wine markets and regions*
Authors: Wittwer Glyn , Anderson Kym
Published: August 2021

This paper provides an empirical case study of impacts of COVID‐19 on Australia’s wine sector. Wine exports were subject to disruptions and, like domestic wine sales, were adversely affected not only by temporary declines in consumers’ expected incomes but also by the social distancing measures and self‐isolation that led to closure of restaurants, bars, cafes and clubs plus declines in international travel and tourism. Partly offsetting this has been a boost to off‐premise and direct e‐commerce sales. We first estimate those impacts and their expected partial recovery in 2021 using a new model of global beverage markets. Then, we add results on regional effects, including through domestic wine tourism, using a new economy‐wide model with sub‐national regions. The paper concludes by drawing lessons on how this sector’s resilience to future global shocks could be strengthened.
A fresh scientific look at transfer and persistence: From a materials science and tribology perspective
Authors: Aberle Michael G. , Kobus Hilton , Robertson James , O'Driscoll Caroline , Hoogewerff Jurian A.
Published: August 2021

Knowledge of the mechanisms governing transfer, persistence, and recovery of trace evidence, together with background prevalence in the population of interest, and other task relevant information, is key for the forensic interpretation and reconstruction of what happened at the activity level. Up to now, this informational “toolkit” has largely been developed through empirical forensic studies on specific trace materials such as glass, textile fibers, and soil. Combined with the identified systemic siloing between disciplines, while valuable, such research tends to be very material‐dependent, introducing specific parameters and interpretations that may have actually impeded the recognition of underlying foundational factors applicable to most material types. In Australia, there has been a renewed interest in developing a discipline‐independent framework for the interpretation and/or reconstruction of trace evidence to interpret specific circumstances in casework. In this paper, we present a discipline agnostic “way of thinking” that has been anchored in foundational science underpinning the trace evidence discipline. Physical and mechanical material properties such as material geometry and surface topography, strength, stiffness, and hardness collectively influence contact interactions through underlying friction, wear, and lubrication cause and effect mechanisms. We discuss how these fundamental factors and parameters stemming from materials science and tribology may be adopted and adapted by forensic practitioners and researchers to contribute to a better understanding of transfer, persistence, and recovery mechanisms irrespective of evidence discipline and material type. Examples are provided to demonstrate the practical significance to real‐life casework and academic research.
A comparison of the in vitro effects of three fibrinogen concentrates on clot strength in blood samples from cardiac surgery patients
Authors: Stolt Henrik , Shams Hakimi Caroline , Singh Sukhi , Jeppsson Anders , Karlsson Martin
Published: August 2021

Background

Fibrinogen concentrate is used clinically to improve hemostasis in bleeding patients. We investigated and compared the efficacy of three commercially available fibrinogen concentrates to improve clot strength in blood samples from cardiac surgery patients.

Objectives

Postoperative blood samples were collected from 23 cardiac surgery patients. Samples were each divided into four vials, each supplemented with 1.125 mg of fibrinogen of one of three fibrinogen concentrates (RiaSTAP®, Fibryga®, FibCLOT®), or placebo. The fibrinogen dose corresponded to 2.5 g per 70 kg of body weight. Clot strength after supplementation was assessed in duplicate with rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM®) using FIBTEM maximum clot firmness, EXTEM clot formation time, and maximum clot firmness assays.

Results

In vitro fibrinogen concentrate supplementation of the samples resulted in higher plasma fibrinogen concentrations and improved clot strength with all three concentrates. Supplementation with FibCLOT increased FIBTEM maximum clot firmness (+46% [25th–75th percentile 35–55] compared to placebo) significantly more than did supplementation with Fibryga (+26% [21–35]) and RiaSTAP (+29% [22–47], p < .001). FibCLOT supplementation also shortened EXTEM clot formation time and increased EXTEM maximum clot firmness to a greater extent than did the other concentrates (both p < .001).

Conclusions

At the selected dose, FibCLOT was more effective than Fibryga and RiaSTAP in restoring clot strength in postoperative blood samples from cardiac surgery patients. These results may have implications for the choice of fibrinogen concentrate and dosing.
Seborrheic dermatitis and risk of incident peptic ulcer disease: A nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Chen Tai‐Li , Lin Mei‐Chen , Wang Jen‐Hung , Lin Chia‐Shuan , Hsu Chung‐Y , Loh Ching‐Hui
Published: August 2021

Background

Emerging evidence supports a strong association between the skin and the gut. The association between seborrheic dermatitis (SD) and peptic ulcer disease (PUD) was largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the association of SD and PUD.

Methods

This nationwide population‐based cohort study was conducted using the Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. A total of 19 445 participants was recruited. Each patient with a diagnosis of incident SD was matched to four patients without SD using propensity scores based on age, gender, index year, insurance amount, urbanisation level, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), the presence of comorbidities and medication use. The primary endpoint was the development of incident PUD. Hazard ratios (HRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for PUD occurrence in relation to the presence of SD were calculated.

Results

Overall, patients with SD had a significantly higher risk for incident PUD than those without SD in both univariable (crude HR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.38–1.86, P < 0.001) and multivariable (adjusted HR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.36–1.83, P < 0.001) Cox proportional hazard regression models. Kaplan–Meier analysis indicated that the cumulative incidence of PUD was consistently higher in individuals with SD than those without SD (log‐rank test, P < 0.001). A higher risk of PUD was also found in individuals with SD than those without SD in all stratified analyses by age, gender, CCI and follow‐up time.

Conclusion

Patients with SD may have a higher risk for incident PUD. Further studies are warranted to validate our findings.
Retroperitoneal Bronchogenic Cyst Resected by Single‐Incision Laparoscopic Surgery in an Adolescent Female: A Case Report
Authors: Tadokoro Takeshi , Misumi Toshihiro , Itamoto Toshiyuki , Nakahara Hideki , Matsugu Yasuhiro , Ikeda Satoshi , Oshita Akihiko , Hotta Ryuichi , Miguchi Masashi , Chogahara Ichiya , Nishikawa Saki , Hiroi Sawako , Nishisaka Takashi
Published: August 2021

A 16‐y‐old Japanese female was referred to our hospital with a suspicion of infected retroperitoneal cyst. Abdominal CT MRI revealed a 38‐mm diameter retroperitoneal cyst under the left diaphragm. Because a retroperitoneal bronchogenic cyst was suspected, total resection was planned. In addition, preoperative 3D reconstruction using multidetector CT provided a detailed location of the lesion. Based on the anatomical position, we decided that single‐incision laparoscopic surgery with an anterior approach through the umbilicus would be the optimal choice. The lesion was completely resected without intraoperative complications. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of bronchogenic cyst. Postoperatively, the surgical wound became completely unnoticeable, and there was no incisional hernia or cyst recurrence at the 2‐y follow‐up.
Zero‐alcohol beverages: Harm‐minimisation tool or gateway drink?
Authors: Miller Mia , Pettigrew Simone , Wright Cassandra J. C.
Published: August 2021

Zero‐alcohol beverages, classified as products containing ≤0.5% alcohol by volume, are becoming increasingly popular. These beverages may contribute to alcohol harm reduction efforts if drinkers switch to them from regular strength beverages. However, there is currently a lack of evidence to support a substitution hypothesis, particularly as alcohol companies frequently market zero‐alcohol beverages as drinks to consume in new locations, such as in the workplace, or by previously non‐drinking groups, such as pregnant women. Additionally, zero‐alcohol beverages are currently available for sale in supermarkets by all consumers, including minors. This is problematic as there is a lack of evidence around what impact consumption of zero‐alcohol beverages in youth might have on social norms and initiation of alcohol consumption. In this commentary, we explore the existing evidence on zero‐alcohol beverages and their impact on drinking behaviours, concluding that a current paucity of knowledge makes developing evidence‐based policy a challenge. As such, substantial research efforts are required to inform policies regulating the availability and marketing of zero‐alcohol beverages in Australia.
Exploring a collaborative approach to the involvement of patients, carers and the public in the initial education and training of healthcare professionals: A qualitative study of patient experiences
Authors: Scott Lesley , Hardisty Jessica , Cussons Hannah , Davison Kathryn , Driscoll Helen , Powell Suzanne , Sturrock Andrew
Published: August 2021

Objective

This study aimed to explore patients' experiences of their involvement in the design and delivery of interprofessional education interventions focussing on mental ill‐health for students studying in undergraduate healthcare and healthcare‐related programmes.

Design

A qualitative methodology using a Grounded Theory approach was used to undertake an iterative series of focus groups with members of a university's Patient, Carer and Public Involvement (PCPI) Group who have a history of mental ill‐health and were involved in the development and delivery of educational interventions for students on undergraduate healthcare and healthcare‐related programmes. Their experiences of being involved in teaching and learning activities, collaboration with academic staff and integration into the academic faculty were explored. Constant comparative analysis facilitated the identification and prioritisation of salient themes.

Results

Five salient inter‐related themes emerged from the data: (1) reduced stigma and normalisation of experience of illness; (2) enhanced self‐worth; (3) improved well‐being; (4) community and connection; and (5) enduring benefits.

Conclusions

A supportive university community and a designated academic PCPI co‐ordinator facilitate a supportive environment for patients and carers to develop as educators, contribute to the training of future healthcare professionals and improve their own personal well‐being. Appropriately resourced and well‐supported initiatives to integrate patients, carers and the public into the functions of an academic faculty can result in tangible benefits to individuals and facilitate meaningful and enduring connections between the university and the wider community within which it is situated.

Patient and Public Involvement

Patients have been involved in the design of the teaching and learning initiatives that this study was primarily focused on. Patients were given autonomy in determining how their experiences should be incorporated into teaching and learning experiences.
Pediatric lichen planus: a systematic review of 985 published cases
Authors: Merhy Reine , Sarkis Anne‐Sophie , Assaf Joy , Afiouni Rym , Zeinaty Perla , Kechichian Elio , Tomb Roland , Helou Josiane
Published: August 2021

Background

Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory disorder usually occurring in middle‐aged adults. Data are scarce in the pediatric population.

Objective

To describe the patients’ characteristics, clinical presentation, and management of pediatric LP.

Methods

A systematic literature review of pediatric LP was performed in the Medline and Cochrane databases up to February 1, 2020. Demographic and clinical data were extracted for analysis, in addition to laboratory and histology findings, treatments used, and response to treatment. LP pemphigoides (LPP) was further pooled for a subcategory analysis.

Results

One hundred and sixty‐four articles were included representing 985 patients. The most common country of origin was India. The most common clinical signs were flat‐topped papules (51%); the linear variant was present in 9%. Oral involvement was present in 22%. The most commonly used treatment was topical corticosteroids followed by systemic corticosteroids. The mean duration of treatment was 124.4 days. LPP patients had a short disease duration before diagnosis (4.1 months, P < 0.001) and failed previous treatment more frequently (P < 0.001). Systemic corticosteroids were more often prescribed in this subgroup (75%, P < 0.001) with more recurrence after treatment (31%, P = 0.048).

Limitations

Lack of randomized controlled studies, in addition to publication bias.

Conclusion

In children, LP had a wide polymorphous clinical presentation, and the reported cases were mostly from India. The linear variant was more common and the oral mucosa was less affected in children. LPP, a rare subtype in children, was treated with systemic corticosteroids and recurred more frequently.
Caspase‐3‐mediated GSDME induced Pyroptosis in breast cancer cells through the ROS/JNK signalling pathway
Authors: Zhang Ziwen , Zhang Han , Li Dongbo , Zhou Xiaoping , Qin Qi , Zhang Qingyuan
Published: August 2021

Pyroptosis is a new form of programmed cell death generated by some inflammasomes, piloting the cleavage of gasdermin (GSDM) and stimulation of dormant cytokines like IL‐18 and IL‐1β; these reactions are narrowly linked to certain diseases like diabetic nephropathy and atherosclerosis. Doxorubicin, a typical anthracycline, and famous anticancer drug has emerged as a prominent medication in several cancer chemotherapies, although its application is accompanied with expending of dose‐dependent, increasing, irreversible and continuing cardiotoxic side effects. However, the exact path that links the induced pyroptosis to the mechanism by which Doxorubicin (DOX) acts against breast cancer cells is still puzzling. The present study seeks to elucidate the potential link between DOX‐induced cell death and pyroptosis in two human breast cancer cell lines (MDA‐MB‐231 and T47D). We proved that treatment with DOX reduced the cell viability in a dose‐dependent way and induced pyroptosis morphology in MDA‐MB‐231 and T47D cells. Also, protein expression analyses revealed GSDME as a key regulator in DOX‐induced pyroptosis and highlighted the related role of Caspase‐3 activation. Furthermore, DOX treatments induced intracellular accumulation of ROS, stimulated the phosphorylation of JNK, and Caspase‐3 activation, subsequently. In conclusion, the study suggests that GSDME triggered DOX‐induced pyroptosis in the caspase‐3 dependent reactions through the ROS/JNK signalling pathway. Additionally, it showed that the DOX‐induced cardiotoxicity and pyroptosis in breast cancer cells can be minimized by reducing the protein level of GSDME; thus, these outcomes provide a new research target and implications for the anticancer investigations and therapeutic applications.
Comparison between genome sequences of Chilean Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi isolated from red conger eel (Genypterus chilensis) and Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) focusing on bacterial virulence determinants
Authors: Saldarriaga‐Córdoba Mónica , Irgang Rute , Avendaño‐Herrera Ruben
Published: August 2021

Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi is an emerging pathogen for salmonid cultures and red conger eel (Genypterus chilensis) in Chile, causing high economic losses not only in Chile but also to the global salmon industry. Infected fish show severe gross skin lesions that are sometimes accompanied by bone exposure. Despite pathogenicity demonstrated by Koch's postulates, no knowledge is currently available regarding the virulence machinery of T. dicentrarchi strains. Comparisons between the genome sequences of the eight T. dicentrarchi strains obtained from G. chilensis and Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) provide insights on the existence of genomic diversity within this bacterium. The T. dicentrarchi type strain 3509T was used as a reference genome. Depending on the T. dicentrarchi strain, the discovered diversity included genes associated with iron acquisition mechanisms, copper homeostasis encoding, resistance to tetracycline and fluoroquinolones, pathogenic genomic islands and phages. Interestingly, genes encoding the T9SS membrane protein PorP/SprF were retrieved in all of the analysed T. dicentrarchi strains, regardless of the host fish (i.e. red conger eel or Atlantic salmon). However, the T6SS core component protein VgrG was identified in only one Atlantic salmon strain. Three types of peptidase genes and proteins associated with quorum sensing were detected in all of the T. dicentrarchi strains. In turn, all eight strains presented a total of 17 proteins associated with biofilm formation, which was previously confirmed through physiological studies. This comparative analysis will help elucidate and describe the genes and pathways that are likely involved in the virulence process of T. dicentrarchi. All or part of these predicted genes could aid the pathogen during the infective process in fish, making further physiological research necessary for clarification.
The dendron and episodic neuropeptide release
Authors: Herbison Allan E.
Published: August 2021

The unexpected observation that the long processes of gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons not only conducted action potentials, but also operated to integrate afferent information at their distal‐most extent gave rise to the concept of a blended dendritic‐axonal process termed the “dendron”. The proximal dendrites of the GnRH neuron function in a conventional manner, receiving synaptic inputs and initiating action potentials that are critical for the surge mode of GnRH secretion. The distal dendrons are regulated by both classical synapses and volume transmission and likely operate using subthreshold electrotonic propagation into the nearby axon terminals in the median eminence. Evidence indicates that neural processing at the distal dendron is responsible for the pulsatile patterning of GnRH secretion. Although the dendron remains unique to the GnRH neuron, data show that it exists in both mice and rats and may be a common feature of mammalian species in which GnRH neuron cell bodies do not migrate into the basal hypothalamus. This review outlines the discovery and function of the dendron as a unique neuronal structure optimised to generate episodic neuronal output.
Absence of the mitochondrial translocator protein 18 kDa in mice does not affect body weight or food intake responses to altered energy availability
Authors: Morrissey Nicole A. , Beall Craig , Ellacott Kate L. J.
Published: August 2021

Changes in mitochondrial function in a variety of cells/tissues are critical for orchestrating systemic energy homeostasis and are linked to the development of obesity and many of its comorbidities. The mitochondrial translocator protein of 18 kDa (TSPO) is expressed in organs throughout the body, including the brain, liver, adipose tissue, gonads and adrenal glands, where it is implicated in regulating steroidogenesis and cellular metabolism. Prior work from our group and others has shown that, in rodents, TSPO levels are altered in adipose tissue by obesity and that modulation of TSPO activity may impact systemic glucose homeostasis. Furthermore, in vitro studies in a variety of cell types have implicated TSPO in mediating cellular energetics and substrate utilisation. Although mice with germline global TSPO deficiency (TSPO−/−) have no reported changes in body weight under standard husbandry conditions, we hypothesised that, given the roles of TSPO in regulating mitochondrial function and cellular metabolic flexibility, these animals may have alterations in their systemic response to altered energy availability, either nutritional excess or insufficiency. In agreement with published work, compared to wild‐type (TSPO+/+) littermates, TSPO−/− mice of both sexes did not exhibit differences in body weight on standard chow. Furthermore, following a 12‐hour overnight fast, there was no difference in weight loss or compensatory food intake during re‐feeding. Five weeks of feeding a high‐fat diet (HFD) did not reveal any impact of the absence of TSPO on body weight gain in either male or female mice. Basal blood glucose levels and glucose clearance in a glucose tolerance test were influenced by feeding a HFD diet but not by genotype. In conclusion, in the paradigms examined, germline global deletion of TSPO did not change the physiological response to deviations in systemic energy availability at the whole organism level.
The impact of sports stadiums on localized commercial activity: Evidence from a Business Improvement District
Authors: Bradbury John Charles
Published: August 2021

This analysis exploits the relocation of a professional baseball team from downtown Atlanta to a pre‐existing Community Improvement District (CID) in suburban Cobb County to estimate the impact of the stadium development on commercial property values. The existence of multiple CIDs in the metro‐Atlanta area provides the opportunity to estimate a counterfactual comparison absent the stadium to draw causal inference regarding the stadium's impact on economic activity using the synthetic control method. Estimates do not identify increased commercial property values from the stadium development, which is consistent with past studies that find little to no positive impact on economic activity.
Reference values for penile and clitoral lengths of healthy term Egyptian newborn infants
Authors: Badawy Magda , Fawaz Lubna A , Abd El Baky Hend , Elkhashab Amr , Hussein Ahmed A , Mira Marwa F
Published: August 2021

Aim

Examination of the external genital organs is an integral part of the routine physical examination of the newborn. Early recognition of micropenis or clitoromegaly is important as they may be the only obvious manifestation of pituitary or hypothalamic hormonal deficiencies at birth. Studies suggest that differences in penile or clitoral anthropometry may exist between different populations. Therefore, reference values for genital organs dimensions should be available and well known to medical personnel. We aim to establish reference values for the penile length in Egyptian newborn boys and reference values for the clitoral length in Egyptian newborn girls and to define micropenis and clitoromegaly according to Egyptian reference values.

Methods

A total of 500 healthy term newborn boys and 500 healthy term newborn girls were enrolled in the study. Stretched penile length and clitoral length were measured during the first 7 days of postnatal life. Birth weight, length and head circumference were measured and recorded.

Results

The mean (±SD) stretched penile length was 3.16 ± 0.41 cm. The mean (±SD) clitoral length was 0.51 ± 0.13. There was no significant correlation between penile or clitoral length, and body weight, length or head circumference.

Conclusion

Our study provides reference values for normal penile length and clitoral length in Egyptian newborns. Our study suggests that among healthy term Egyptian newborns, penile length of less than 2.13 cm may be considered micropenis and clitoral length of more than 0.83 cm may be considered clitoromegaly.
Structural injustice and dismantling racism in health and healthcare
Authors: Essex Ryan , Markowski Marianne , Miller Denise
Published: August 2021

Racism in health and healthcare has long been recognised as a structural issue. While there has been growing research and a number of important initiatives that have come from approaching racism as a structural issue, there is a range of implications that yet have to be explored as they relate to health and healthcare. Conceptualising racism in this way provides a means to consider how it shapes and is shaped by a range of global injustices and serves as a foundation for more egregious harms. It also suggests that if we are to dismantle racism, we need to look both within and beyond the traditional domains of health and healthcare and account for a range of broader forces that sustain and re‐enforce racism. We first discuss the issue of responsibility, drawing on Young's social connection model to argue that we all have a responsibility to take action in addressing structural racism. We will then deal with a question that naturally follows, namely how we discharge our responsibilities, with a focus on the role of disruptive action in challenging power and ignorance in dismantling racism in health and healthcare.
Development of a slovenian version of the pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI‐SLO) for use with older adults
Authors: Kmetec Sergej , Fekonja Zvonka , Davey Adam , Mlinar Reljić Nataša , Lorber Mateja
Published: August 2021

Background

Poor sleep quality predicts poor quality of life, poor self‐rated health, and chronic diseases and mental disorders among older adults. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) is the most widely used self‐report measure of sleep quality in older adults.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess internal reliability, face validity, content validity and internal consistency of the Slovenian version of the PSQI (PSQI‐SLO) for sleep quality in older adults.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was used to evaluate content and face validity as well as reliability (ɑ, ω and item‐total correlations). Residents of 13 nursing homes and community‐dwelling older adults from all regions of Slovenia were sampled. A total of 831 participants aged 65 years and older participated in the study between March and August 2019.

Results

All items were successfully translated to Slovenian. A minor cultural adaptation was made to improve the clarity of the meaning of all items. None of the items had an item content validity index (I‐CVI) score lower than 0.50. Kappa indices were excellent for half of the items and good for the remainder. Internal consistency agreed with prior research (ɑ = 0.74). Intraclass correlation coefficient for global PSQI‐SLO was 0.62 (p < 0.001). The total score of PSQI‐SLO (8.09 ± 3.64 (95%, CI = 7.85–8.34)) was expected and comparable. Fifty‐eight and four tenths’ per cent (95%, CI = 55%–62%) had at least one chronic disease and 40% (95%, CI = 37%–42%) lived in a nursing home.

Conclusions

PSQI‐SLO showed adequate internal consistency and test–retest reliability, and adequate construct and criterion validity. The instrument can be important in assessing older adults’ subjective sleep quality in nursing homes, home environment and clinical settings.
Reflections on 2020
Authors: Gaines Kevin K.
Published: August 2021

In his 1953 novel of ideas, The Outsider, Richard Wright ominously predicted that industrial capitalist society would inexorably result in “the total and absolute in modern life.” Wright did not mean that Soviet communism would prevail, capturing the hearts and minds of Americans. His point was that the West's capitalist democracy was just as capable of slouching toward a dystopian, totalitarian future as the Soviet Union. How might Wright’s prescient thoughts on the death of liberal democracy inform our attempts to save ourselves from the “totalitarian danger” looming in the United States? As multiracial American democracy, voting rights, and the rule of law are under assault from the U.S. far right, it is abundantly clear that anti‐Black racism animates the enemies of democracy and those who would establish and support autocratic rule. These reflections seek to historicize the assault on democracy in the US and the epochal events of 2020, including: the global protests following the murder of George Floyd by police; the death of hundreds of thousands in the US during the global Coronavirus pandemic; and concerted efforts by Trump and the far‐right to destroy multiracial democracy before and after the 2020 election, culminating in the violent insurrection at the Capitol on January 6, 2021.