bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sudden Unilateral Visual Loss Due to an Onodi Cell Mucocele
Authors: Yoo Yong Jun , Kim Gyu Tae , Park Marn Joon
Published: November 2023

In a patient whose sudden vision loss is suspected on the side of a previously operated sphenoid or ethmoid sinus, an ischemic insult to the optic nerve may occur due to a compressing mucocele, especially when there is bony dehiscence of the orbital apex. We report a case of a 41-year-old healthy male patient who had a history of previous sinus surgery, and visited the emergency department for an abrupt left ocular pain following visual loss of the affected eye. The patient’s left eye’s best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was hand motions with a reduced light reflex. A sphenoethmoidal sinus cell (Onodi cell) mucocele with bone dehiscence in the left orbital apex was seen on computed tomography. Upon suspicion of compressive ischemic optic neuropathy, urgent endoscopy-assisted endonasal marsupialization of the Onodi cell mucocele with high-dose pulse intravenous dexamethasone was performed. The pathology showed an inflamed nasal mucosa, confirming a mucocele. On the second postoperative day, his BCVA slightly improved in counting fingers at 30 cm. However, even though the nasalized Onodi cell remained intact, his eyesight did not show further improvement. The optic nerve may be directly insulted when a mucocele in the Onodi cell takes place, especially when there is bony dehiscence in the orbital apex. Despite accelerated surgical marsupialization and high-dose steroids, the chance of visual recovery remains very low, as demonstrated in our case.
Undifferentiated Small Round Cell Sarcoma of the Hypopharynx in a 7-Month-Old Patient
Authors: Mezri Sameh , Zitouni Chaima , Abid Ilyes , Gargouri Faten , Laabidi Besma , Akari Khemaies
Published: November 2023

Undifferentiated small round cell sarcoma is an extremely rare and highly aggressive tumor touching the soft tissues and bones. Here, we report the case of a 7-month-old girl who presented to our department with respiratory distress due to a hypopharyngeal mass causing airway obstruction. The patient underwent a tracheotomy and had a direct laryngoscopy. Histological examination confirmed the diagnosis of an undifferentiated small round cell sarcoma. The patient received chemotherapy and radiotherapy and underwent neck dissection. One year later, the patient was diagnosed with local recurrence as well as metastatic cervical nodes and liver and pulmonary metastases. The case is original by the tumor’s location and the age of onset. To the best of our knowledge, this could be the first case in English and French literature reporting an undifferentiated small round cell sarcoma affecting the hypopharynx among infants. The purpose of this article is to report our case and discuss its clinical and anatomopathological features as well as its prognosis and treatment options.
Why Do People Sometimes Wear an Anonymous Mask? Motivations for Seeking Anonymity Online
Authors: Nitschinsk Lewis , Tobin Stephanie J. , Varley Deanna , Vanman Eric J.
Published: November 2023

Anonymous environments are more accessible than ever. As such, it is important to understand not only how anonymity can change human behavior but also why people are motivated to seek anonymity in online spaces. In four studies, we investigated differences in motivations for seeking anonymity online and their associations with related dispositional factors and online behavior. We found that some people were motivated to seek anonymity to self-express or behave toxically. Both motivations to seek anonymity were associated with low self-concept clarity and high Machiavellianism but differed in their relation to traits such as self-consciousness and psychopathy. Further analyses suggested that people selectively engage in behaviors in anonymous online environments, in line with the specific gratifications they seek through anonymity. We conclude that people seek anonymity to pursue self- or other-related goals that are otherwise more difficult or costly to pursue when identifiable.
Teachers’ and students’ perspectives on the extent to which assistive technology maximises independence
Authors: Loveys Megan , Butler Cathal
Published: November 2023

Assistive Technologies (ATs) are extensively used and integrated into society, mainstream and specialist education settings, more so with students who have learning disabilities. Everyone has a perspective on the extent to which these devices provide students with disabilities and specifically in this case study, students with visual impairments (VI) independence during their education. This case study indicates the importance of researching emerging technologies within specialist education such as tablets, multiple forms of braille, and screen readers, while utilising a constructivist paradigm to undertake the mixed methods research. This study triangulates through the use of qualitative and quantitative research tools to discover mixed views on the extent to which AT promotes the independence of students with vision impairment, ultimately discovering the extent is somewhat individualised to each and every student. This study was conducted in an English, special-mainstream partnership further education college. Four students and five teaching staff members were interviewed, alongside five classroom observations of each staff member interviewed. The foci of this article are teacher and student perspectives on the extent to which ATs provide students with VIs independence in their learning, and if ATs play a crucial role in these students’ educations. The findings revealed largely positive views surrounding ATs potential for students with VI. The extent to which the students benefit from these advantages is dependent on the individual. The students focused much of their attention on their personal feelings towards using technology, whereas the teachers elaborated on their feelings and went into detail about particular students’ successes and pitfalls when using ATs. As technology is constantly changing, the participants expressed their concerns for keeping up to date. Recommendations for further research include a longitudinal study at the college where this research took place to discover whether partnership further education facilitates inclusion.
Examining archives management practices and service delivery in Mpigi district local government in Uganda
Authors: Luyombya David , Sendikadiwa Eunice , Mulindwa Edmond
Published: November 2023

Archives are the memory of an institution giving its employees an awareness of the true history and knowledge of their rights and obligations from past operations. Archives are important resources for local governments as vehicles of communication and interaction. When archives are poorly managed, local governments such as counties and cities will find it difficult to account for past operations, raising the challenge of effective record-keeping. Thus, through the use of a case study research design, this paper reports findings of a study that examined the practices involved in managing archives in Mpigi District Local Government (MDLG) in Uganda. Its population was comprised of MDLG staff, of whom 17 were purposively sampled. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews, observation and document analysis. Data was analysed using interpretative methods and aimed at understanding the respondents’ subjective experiences and their interpretation of the archives management practices around them. The study found that MDLG created and kept archives in both paper and digital formats but lacked an archives management policy; was hampered by an inadequate budgetary allocation to support archival activities; and suffered from a shortage of archivists to guide archives management practices. The study recommended the development of an archives policy to enable the district to manage the archives according to archives management practices; the recruitment of professional archivist personnel to improve the practices; the training of all district staff in handling archives as end users; and that the district to digitise the archives. This study builds on the knowledge of archives management practices in general, and in particular in MDLG.
Towards a context-sensitive conceptualisation of digital transformation
Authors: Mühlburger Manuel , Krumay Barbara
Published: November 2023

Digital transformation is a phenomenon perceived across a multitude of contexts in the organisational societal and individual domains. Conceptualising this broad phenomenon requires an approach that provides structure and comparability across contexts and domains whilst containing sufficient contextual detail and specificity to avoid conceptual stretching. Utilising a multi-method approach, this paper draws from a set of empirical data to develop such a context-sensitive conceptualisation for digital transformation. Utilising a design perspective on digital transformation this paper (1) develops a conceptual meta-structure capable of representing instances of digital transformation independent of domain and context and (2) develops a taxonomy of context-specific categories for the identified meta-elements. The three elements Representation, Technology, and Effect (RTE) constitute the meta-structure, the taxonomy is comprised of seven representation, 10 technology and nine effect categories. We evaluated our results utilising a card sorting approach in a workshop setting. The proposed conceptualisation is capable to accommodate context-specific manifestations of digital transformation in all tested environments thereby indicating its applicability as a foundation for a context-sensitive conceptualization of digital transformation. The paper contributes to the evolving body of literature on digital transformation by providing a conceptual meta-structure capable of capturing manifestations of digital transformation in a uniform and structured manner across domains and contexts.
Empowering digital transformation: The roles of platforms
Authors: Li Liang , Du Kui , Zhang Wei , Mao Ji-Ye
Published: November 2023

This study investigates how digital platforms can drive the digital transformation of participant firms in their surrounding business ecosystems. To do so, we conduct an in-depth case study of Alibaba’ cross-border e-commerce platform and eleven seller firms operating on the platform. Our results highlight the importance of proper empowerment in platform-driven digital transformation. In particular, we observe that Alibaba attempts to facilitate the digital transformation of seller firms through three types of activities: resource empowerment, psychological empowerment, and structural empowerment. Moreover, we find that the sequence of these empowerment activities plays a critical role. Without being psychologically empowered first, seller firms react quite passively to Alibaba’s resource provision and structural support. Psychological empowerment provides the activation triggers for the sellers to renew their mindsets and become receptive to Alibaba’s support and guidance, which ultimately contribute to the digital transformation of their businesses.
Aberrant vascular architecture in the hippocampus correlates with tau burden in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Lee Hansol , Fu Jessie Fanglu , Gaudet Kyla , Bryant Annie G , Price Julie C , Bennett Rachel E , Johnson Keith A , Hyman Bradley T , Hedden Trey , Salat David H , Yen Yi-Fen , Huang Susie Y
Published: November 2023

Cerebrovascular dysfunction is a significant contributor to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) progression. AD mouse models show altered capillary morphology, density, and diminished blood flow in areas of tau and beta-amyloid accumulation. The purpose of this study was to examine alterations in vascular structure and their contributions to perfusion deficits in the hippocampus in AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Seven individuals with AD and MCI (1 AD/6 MCI), nine cognitively intact older healthy adults, and seven younger healthy adults underwent pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling (PCASL) and gradient-echo/spin-echo (GESE) dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) MRI. Cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral blood volume, relative vessel size index (rVSI), and mean vessel density were calculated from model fitting. Lower CBF from PCASL and SE DSC MRI was observed in the hippocampus of AD/MCI group. rVSI in the hippocampus of the AD/MCI group was larger than that of the two healthy groups (FDR- P = 0.02). No difference in vessel density was detected between the groups. We also explored relationship of tau burden from 18F-flortaucipir positron emission tomography and vascular measures from MRI. Tau burden was associated with larger vessel size and lower CBF in the hippocampus. We postulate that larger vessel size may be associated with vascular alterations in AD/MCI.
Plural Logics in Marketing Systems: Managing Tensions Within the Social Matrix in an Ecovillage
Authors: Üçok Hughes Mine , Martin Diane M. , Coskuner-Balli Gokcen
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we aim to develop a better understanding of the types of tensions that might arise within a market system and the types of strategies market actors adopt to form and sustain a marketing system. We explore how marketing systems can be sustained albeit the tensions amongst logics that underlie the social matrix framework posited by Layton. We set forth to answer the question: how can market actors navigate tensions amongst logics toward managing the specific elements within the social matrix of a marketing system? We use institutional theory to answer our research question and investigate the tensions that arise within an eco-village. We conceptualize ecovillage as a marketing system that involves a network of individuals working together toward creating a sustainable community. As a marketing system, ecovillages involve participatory processes and emerge in response to or anticipation of demand.
Possible association between vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 and recurrence of macular edema due to branch retinal vein occlusion: a case report
Authors: Muto Tetsuya , Machida Shigeki , Imaizumi Shinichiro , Kamoi Koju
Published: November 2023

We herein describe a patient who developed recurrence of macular edema (ME) due to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) 3 days after administration of the BNT162b2 vaccine against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). A man in his early 50s visited our hospital because of vision loss in his right eye. His logarithmic best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was −0.79 in both eyes. ME due to superior temporal BRVO was observed in his right eye, and the central foveal thickness (CFT) was 486 µm. The patient was treated with an intravitreal aflibercept injection with logarithmic BCVA of −0.79, leading to resolution of the ME with a CFT of 299 µm. Three months after the initial visit, he received a fourth dose of an mRNA vaccine. Three days later, he developed vision loss in his right eye. Although the logarithmic BCVA was maintained at −0.79, ME recurred with a CFT of 507 µm. The patient was treated with an additional dose of intravitreal aflibercept injection. The ME resolved and the logarithmic BCVA in the right eye was maintained at −0.79. This case indicates a possible association between vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 and recurrence of ME due to BRVO.
Does the Miniscrew Length, Insertion Level, and Insertion Force Make a Difference on the Stress and Strain Distribution Across the Alveolar Bone? A Finite Element Study
Authors: Marya Anand , Eugenio Matthew Angelo Mina , Venugopal Adith , Gandedkar Narayan , Mesgarzadeh Nasim
Published: November 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate, using the finite element method (FEM), the stresses generated on various parts of the mini-screw and on the bone resulting from the insertion of mini-screws of varying lengths and under different forces.

Materials and Methods

Three-dimensional models of mini-screws (1.6 × 6, 8, and 10 mm) and bone (mandible cortical bone thickness of 2 mm) were constructed and simulated using FEM. The mini-screws were inserted using force loads of 10 and 20 Ncm, and stress evaluation was carried out on screws and bone. The stress evaluation was also performed across different levels of insertion (at the point of insertion, half-insertion, and full insertion).

Results

A direct correlation between the force applied and the stresses on the body of the screws was observed. There was an inverse relationship between the length of the mini-screw and the resulting stress on the bone with the highest stress of 14.58 Mpa with 6 mm long and the minimum stress of 3.81 Mpa with longer mini-screws. On application of different force magnitudes, the stress levels increased linearly with a change in the length. The highest stresses on the bone were observed only when the screw was fully inserted in the bone.

Conclusion

When mini-screws of different lengths were inserted using different magnitudes of forces, the stress levels increased linearly on the bone. A combination of longer mini-screw and lesser force magnitude used during insertion produced less stress on the bone.
Publication outcomes among intensive care trainees
Authors: Shen Eddie , Dhanani Jayesh , Milford Elissa M , Raileanu Vanessa , Laupland Kevin B
Published: November 2023

There is a paucity of literature describing the research productivity among trainees in intensive care medicine. We sought to examine the occurrence and determinants of successful publication outcomes associated with intensive care training. The study cohort consisted of all individuals admitted to fellowship of the College of Intensive Care Medicine of Australia and New Zealand (CICM) from 2012 to 2019. The primary outcome measure of this study was manuscripts indexed on PubMed within one year after and four years prior to admittance to CICM fellowship. Four hundred and eighty-five fellows were identified of whom 216 (45%) had at least one publication; 129 (27%) had one, 34 (7%) had two, 21 (4%) had three and 32 (7%) had four or more publications. Overall 138 (28%) fellows had at least one publication that was likely associated with their mandatory CICM training project for which they were first ( n = 110; 80%) and/or corresponding ( n = 72; 52%) author in the majority of cases. Overall 107 different senior/mentor authors were identified, with 13 individuals supporting more than one publication. Although gender and location at the time of fellowship award were not associated, location of receipt of medical degree, shorter time period between medical school graduation and fellowship award, more recent year of award, and completion of medical degree/fellowship in the same geographical region were associated with project publication. A minority of CICM fellows have PubMed-indexed publications related to their training. Further efforts are warranted to better define the determinants of successful project publication to optimise future opportunities.
Exploring anaesthetists’ views on the carbon footprint of anaesthesia and identifying opportunities and challenges for reducing its impact on the environment
Authors: Breth-Petersen Matilde , Barratt Alexandra L , McGain Forbes , Skowno Justin J , Zhong George , Weatherall Andrew D , Bell Katy JL , Pickles Kristen M
Published: November 2023

A shift in practice by anaesthetists away from anaesthetic gases with high global warming potential towards lower emission techniques (e.g. total intravenous anaesthesia) could result in significant carbon savings for the health system. The purpose of this qualitative interview study was to understand anaesthetists’ perspectives on the carbon footprint of anaesthesia, and views on shifting practice towards more environmentally sustainable options. Anaesthetists were recruited from four hospitals in Western Sydney, Australia. Data were organised according to the capability–opportunity–motivation model of behaviour change. Twenty-eight anaesthetists were interviewed (July−September 2021). Participants’ age ranged from 29 to 62 years (mean 43 years), 39% were female, and half had completed their anaesthesia training between 2010 and 2019. Challenges to the wider use of greener anaesthetic agents were identified across all components of the capability–opportunity–motivation model: capability (gaps in clinician skills and experience, uncertainty regarding research evidence); opportunity (norms, time, and resource pressures); and motivation (beliefs, habits, responsibility and guilt). Suggestions for encouraging a shift to more environmentally friendly anaesthesia included access to education and training, implementing guidelines and audit/feedback models, environmental restructuring, improving resource availability, reducing low value care, and building the research evidence base on the safety of alternative agents and their impacts on patient outcomes. We identified opportunities and challenges to reducing the carbon footprint of anaesthesia in Australian hospitals by way of system-level and individual behavioural change. Our findings will be used to inform the development of communication and behavioural interventions aiming to mitigate carbon emissions of healthcare.
Promoting Porosity: Adaptation of Urban Roadways for Flooding and Climate Change
Authors: Kim Karl , Riley Sequoia , Yamashita Eric , Marasco David , Webster Lisa
Published: November 2023

Using environmental and transportation data from a dense urban watershed in Honolulu, Hawaii, the use of porous pavement is investigated as a strategy for mitigation and adaptation to flooding events and increasing resilience to climate change. The potential for water capture to abate pollution and recharge aquifers is also considered. This research is motivated by the increased likelihood of flooding and demands for improved transportation resilience. Based on the impacts from a 2004 flood in Honolulu, installation of permeable asphalt pavements on residential streets with low-to-moderate traffic volumes, and 2% to 5% slope, flooding would be significantly reduced. With the highest absorption rate (90%), 1.8 trillion gal/year could be diverted, while, with a lower absorption rate (50%), 691 billion gallons would be captured. The transformation of roadways, culverts, stormwater infrastructure, and existing drainage systems requires a different approach to planning, designing, construction, and paving (or not) roadways. Adoption of nature-based transportation solutions and integration with low impact development standards by local governments are needed to reduce flood risk and improve environmental quality. Design criteria are reviewed in the context of a specific watershed but also for development and application of methods in other locations. Improved communications and collaboration between researchers, land use planners, and practitioners will further advance resilience through innovation and adaptation to climate change. Porosity is also a factor and requires appreciation for nature and understanding of the seepage and conveyance of new ideas.
Identification of key proteins as potential biomarkers associated with post-infarction complications in diabetics
Authors: Wu Wei , Yan Li , Yuan Xiao-Fei , Wang Lu , Zhang Yu , Tu Rong-xiang , Pan Jiang-Qi , Yin Lu , Ge Zhi-Ru
Published: November 2023

Background: The ability of transcriptome analysis to identify dysregulated pathways and outcome-related genes following myocardial infarction in diabetic patients remains unknown. The present study was designed to detect possible biomarkers associated with the incidence of post-infarction complications in diabetes to assist thedevelopment of novel treatments for this condition.

Methods: Two gene expression datasets, GSE12639 and GSE6880, were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and then differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between post-infarction diabetics and healthy samples from the left ventricular wall of rats. These DEGs were then arranged into a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses were performed to explore the functional roles of these genes.

Results: In total, 30 DEGs (14 upregulated and 16 downregulated) were shared between these two datasets, as identified through Venn diagram analyses. GO analyses revealed these DEGs to be significantly enriched in ovarian steroidogenesis, fatty acid elongation, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies, and butanoate metabolism. The PPI network of the DEGs had 14 genes and 70 edges. We identified two key proteins, 3-hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA synthase 2 (Hmgcs2) and Δ3, Δ2-Enoyl-CoA Delta Isomerase 1 (ECI1), and the upregulated gene Hmgcs2 with the highest score in the MCC method. We generated a co-expression network for the hub genes and obtained the top ten medications suggested for infarction with diabetes.

Conclusion: Taken together, the findings of these bioinformatics analyses identified key hub genes associated with the development of myocardial infarction in diabetics. These hub genes and potential drugs may become novel biomarkers for prognosis and precision treatment in the future.
Discovering KYNU as a feature gene in hidradenitis suppurativa
Authors: Liang Chen , Yu Yue , Tang Qinyu , Shen Liangliang
Published: November 2023

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic auto-inflammatory skin condition characterized by nodules, abscesses, and fistulae in skin folds. The underlying pathogenesis of HS remains unclear, and effective therapeutic drugs are limited.

Methods

We acquired mRNA expression profiles from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and conducted differential expression analysis between control and HS samples using R software. Four machine learning algorithms (SVM, RF, ANN, and lasso) and WCGNA were utilized to identify feature genes. GO, KEGG, Metascape, and GSVA were utilized for the enrichment analysis. CIBERSORT and ssGSEA were employed to analyze immune infiltration.

Results

A total of 29 DEGs were identified, with the majority showing up-regulation in HS. Enrichment analysis revealed their involvement in immune responses and cytokine activities. KEGG analysis highlighted pathways such as IL-17 signaling, rheumatoid arthritis, and TNF signaling in HS. Immune infiltration analysis revealed the predominant presence of neutrophils, monocytes, and CD8 T cells. Machine learning algorithms and WCGNA identified KYNU as a feature gene associated with HS. We have also identified 59 potential drugs for HS based on the DEGs. Additionally, ceRNA network analysis identified the MUC19_hsa-miR-382-5p_KYNU pathway as a potential regulatory pathway.

Conclusions

KYNU emerged as a feature gene associated with HS, and the ceRNA network analysis identified the MUC19_hsa-miR-382-5p_KYNU pathway as a potential regulator.
Technically Not Life: HowDe FactoLife Sentences Condemn Juveniles to Die in Prison
Authors: Laugalis Victoria Rivera , Koza Meghan , Kokkalera Stuti S. , Vaughn Michael S.
Published: November 2023

The U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Jones v. Mississippi reignited interest in the constitutionality of lengthy prison sentences for juveniles. A substantial proportion of juveniles convicted of homicide and nonhomicide are currently serving “virtual life” or “ de facto life” sentences. De facto life sentences are lengthy sentences that may be considered the equivalent of a life sentence. This article investigates how states’ statutory schemes and appellate court decisions have allowed for the use of de facto life sentences for juveniles convicted of homicide as well as nonhomicide offenses. By employing content analytical techniques, this article identifies the variation in how de facto life sentences are defined and applied across the states. Nearly every state imposes some type of de facto life sentence on juveniles, suggesting that the time is ripe for courts to determine whether these “virtual life” terms adhere to the Court's Eighth Amendment's prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment.
A Qualitative Investigation on Chronic Disease Management and Prevention Among Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Yang Michelle C. , Clayton Cam , Harris Devin , Pelletier Chelsea , Schmidt Julia , Zwicker Jill G. , Sakakibara Brodie M.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To qualitatively describe experiences of chronic disease management and prevention in older adults (age ≥65 years) during COVID-19.

Approach

Qualitative descriptive approach.

Setting

Data collected online via telephone and video-conferencing technologies to participants located in various cities in British Columbia, Canada. Data analyzed by researchers in the cities of Vancouver and Kelowna in British Columbia.

Participants

Twenty-four community-living older adults (n = 24) age ≥65 years.

Methods

Each participant was invited to complete a 30-to-45-minute virtual, semi-structured, one-on-one interview with a trained interviewer. Interview questions focused on experiences managing health prior to COVID-19 and transitioning experiences of practicing health management and prevention strategies during COVID-19. Audio recordings of interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically.

Results

The sample’s mean age was 73.4 years (58% female) with 75% reporting two or more chronic conditions (12.5% none, 12.5% one). Three themes described participants’ strategies for chronic disease management and prevention: (1) having a purpose to optimize health (i.e., managing health challenges and maintaining independence); (2) internal self-control strategies (i.e., self-accountability and adaptability); and (3) external support strategies (i.e., informational support, motivational support, and emotional support).

Conclusion

Helping older adults identify purposes for their own health management, developing internal control strategies, and optimizing social support opportunities may be important person-centred strategies for chronic disease management and prevention during unprecedented times like COVID-19.
The Presence of Bacteremia in 13 Dogs Undergoing Oral Surgery Without the Use of Antibiotic Therapy
Authors: Blazevich Melissa , Miles Chanda
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to assess if transient bacteremia developed from dental scaling, root planing (SRP) and dental extraction(s), if the bacteria originated from oral flora, and if the amount of bacteremia produced would warrant the use of pre-, intra-, or post-operative antibiotic therapy in healthy canine patients. Blood cultures were obtained from 13 healthy dogs with chronic periodontal disease that necessitated the extraction of one tooth or multiple teeth. Patients included did not receive any antibiotic therapy for a minimum of 2 weeks prior to their scheduled procedure and did not receive antibiotic therapy intra- or post-operatively. Blood collection occurred at specific time increments to determine the presence of bacteremia and if clearance of the bacteremia occurred post-procedure. The study found transient bacteremia developed at different time increments throughout the dental procedure. At the time of the final sample collection, no bacterial growth was evident in any of the blood cultures. Results of the blood cultures indicated that only four of 13 dogs had evidence of bacterial growth at any one of the time increments; however, by the final collection, there was no bacterial growth suggesting the transient bacteremia had cleared without the use of systemic antimicrobial therapy. The study findings indicate that systemic antibiotic usage is not warranted for severe periodontal disease where an episode of transient bacteremia is produced from SRP and dental extractions in an otherwise healthy patient.
Simultaneous adjustment of balance maintenance and velocity tracking for a two-wheeled self-balancing vehicle
Authors: Ghahremani Azadeh , Righettini Paolo , Strada Roberto
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this research is the development a method for simultaneously adjusting the velocity tracking control and the inclination angle stabilization using control techniques for a two-wheeled self-balancing vehicle. The control tasks involve balancing the vehicle around its unstable equilibrium configuration along with steering and velocity tracking. In this study, the mathematical dynamic model of the vehicle is derived using the Lagrange method, under the assumptions of pure rolling and no-slip conditions which are expressed through nonholonomic constraint equations. Along with the mathematical descriptions, a multibody virtual prototype featuring advanced tire-ground interaction modeling has been developed using the MSC Adams software suite. Several classical and modern control strategies are investigated and compared to implement the method. These include Sliding Mode Control (SMC), Proportional Integral Derivative (PID), Feedback Linearization (FL), and Linear Quadratic Regulator Control (LQR) for the under-actuated and unstable subsystem that accounts for the pitch and longitudinal motions. The capabilities of these control strategies are verified and compared not only through Matlab simulation but also using Adams-Matlab co-simulation of the controller and the plant. Although every control technique has its advantages and limitations, the extensive simulation activities conducted for this study suggest that the SMC controller offers superior performances in keeping the system balanced and providing good velocity-tracking responses. Moreover, a Lyapunov-based analysis is used to prove that the sliding mode control achieves finite time convergence to a stable sliding surface. These advantages are counterbalanced by the complexity and the large number of parameters belonging to the designed SMC laws, the scheduling of which can be difficult to implement. For the comparison results another non-linear control strategy, that is, the feedback linearization method, is presented as an alternative. Through the Jacobian linearization approach the mathematical model of the system is linearized, allowing the use of control techniques such as linear quadratic regulation, which are deployed to treat the balancing, steering, and velocity tracking tasks. Finally, the empirical tuning of a PID controller is also demonstrated. The performance and robustness of each controller are evaluated and compared through several driving scenarios both in pure-Matlab and Adams-Matlab co-simulations.
Development and performance investigations of the planar parallel robotic manipulators using shape memory alloy linear actuation technique
Authors: Choudhury Rutupurna , Singh Yogesh
Published: November 2023

Planar parallel manipulators (PPMs) have the capability to manipulate only on a single Cartesian plane. The application of PPMs in various fields increases due to their lower inertia, higher stiffness, and accuracy. Shape memory alloy spring (SMAS) based linear actuators may be the alternative option for the linear actuators compared to the servo motor, ball screw, and bulky actuators. This paper presents the development of SMAS linear actuation-based three degrees of freedom U-shape fixed base planar parallel manipulator and investigates the workspace and trajectory tracing ability of the proposed manipulators. The manipulators are composed of three legs, where the first prismatic joint of each leg is the active prismatic joint (SMAS). The present study proposes numerical modelling of the three manipulators, namely 3-PRP (C1), 1-PRR-2-PRP (C2), and 1-PPR 2-PRP (C3), where P denotes an active prismatic joint, P represents a passive prismatic joint, and R indicates a revolute joint. The results of this research work were validated with the experimental one. It was found that the manipulator's obtained workspace is almost the same as the workspace obtained through experimental results. The loss of workspace area (minor) is due to heat dissipation, friction between the links, singularities, passive links, stiffness, force distribution, etc. This study also investigates the trajectory-tracing capability of the proposed manipulators. The importance of SMA-based actuators over conventional prismatic actuators has been discussed. The PRR-PRP-PRP manipulator possesses the highest workspace as compared to the other manipulators. This work claims that due to the good numerical analysis results with the experimental one, it is acceptable to do the numerical analysis as it is validated to reduce the cost of making different practical systems for trials.
Design and development of a test method for the measurement of thermo-physical properties of different materials
Authors: Ahmed Khan Z , Asif Mohammad , Faizan Mohammad
Published: November 2023

The guarded hot plate method is widely used to measure the thermal conductivity and thermal resistance of materials having low thermal conductivity. An experimental set-up was designed and fabricated in-house to measure these properties. The set-up was built in accordance with ASTM D5470 standards. A novel insulating material waste tire rubber/polypropylene has been developed from the solid blend of waste tire rubber powder (425–300 µm) mixed with virgin polypropylene granules in a 2.5:1 ratio. The thermal conductivity of the newly developed insulating material in cylindrical solid form has been estimated. Further, thermal conductivity of a conducting material i.e., H-13 tool steel has been found out by using the present experimental set-up. In addition, the thermal contact conductance of a well-known thermal paste i.e., silicon grease has also been estimated for a range of temperatures and pressure using the present set-up. In the present study, the procedure for measuring thermal conductivity has been demonstrated along with the strengths and weaknesses of the experimental set-up and the suitability of the method for different materials. The experimental results reveal that the test method is equally suitable for the analysis of thermal interface material, and for measuring the thermal conductivity of solid specimens giving reliable results.
Assessment of industrial-scale green hydrogen production using renewable energy
Authors: Hassan Qusay , Algburi Sameer , Sameen Aws Zuhair , Salman Hayder M
Published: November 2023

The global pivot towards sustainable energy solutions necessitates a closer examination of green hydrogen production using renewable energy sources. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and efficiency of green hydrogen production on an industrial scale using solar and wind energy in Diyala city, Iraq. Experimental weather data, including solar irradiance, ambient temperature, and wind speed, were meticulously collected throughout 2022. The analysis indicated that, for wind energy, the optimum electrolyser capacity that matched a 1.5 MW wind turbine achieved a hydrogen production of 11,963 kg/year, with associated costs of $8.87/kg. In contrast, when focusing on solar energy, the ideal electrolyser capacity harmonizing with a 2 MW solar photovoltaic generated a notably higher hydrogen output of 94,432 kg/year at a more competitive cost of $6.33/kg. These findings underscore the potential economic advantages of solar-based green hydrogen production over wind-based methods in Diyala city. Furthermore, the significant difference in hydrogen production yields between the two methods emphasizes the need to optimize renewable infrastructure based on location-specific renewable resources. This study offers valuable insights into tailoring green hydrogen production strategies in regions with similar climatic conditions to Diyala and serves as a blueprint for future renewable energy-driven hydrogen production initiatives.
Desire, moral evaluation or sense of duty: The modal framing of stated preference elicitation
Authors: Wanek Eva , Bourgeois-Gironde Sacha , Mari Alda
Published: November 2023

Contingent valuation surveys generally elicit stated preferences by asking how much a respondent would be willing to pay for an environmental improvement. By drawing on linguistic theory, we propose that the modal phrasing of this question establishes a particular type of commitment towards a hypothetical payment, namely a subjective want or desire. Based on the idea that beyond subjective desires, considerations about what is morally adequate may guide expressed values and that elicitation of these can be linguistically facilitated, we employ an experimental framework to investigate the effects of different modals ( willing, should and appropriate) in the elicitation question on stated preferences. We find that elicited amounts with appropriate are higher than those elicited with willing and should for environmental improvements more associated with use values, while differences are non-significant for environmental improvements more associated with non-use values. We discuss the implications of our findings for stated preference studies, as well as the potential broader theoretical implications that our study entails regarding linguistic representations of the moral entrenchment of environmental values.
Autonomy as the self-realisation of an environmental identity
Authors: Arcos Esteban
Published: November 2023

This article addresses the question raised by the Anthropocene of rethinking the concept of autonomy which, in the conditions of the new geological epoch, is subject to a crisis of legitimation. It explores the ‘strong hypothesis’ according to which nature is a necessary condition of our qualitative experience of the world and a constitutive relation of autonomy defined as the self-realisation of individual identity. With this aim in mind, the article attempts to rethink the concept of recognition in order to conceive a recognising attitude of nature in the form of love of nature as a form of adequate recognition. Rethinking recognition can serve as foundation of an ‘objective’ theory of autonomy, that is, a theory that explains how nature can be defined as a condition and constitutive relation of autonomy. The article, therefore, proposes to reformulate the concept of autonomy as the self-realisation of an ecological or environmental identity in the form of the self-realisation of an ecological ethos, that is, an attitude of respect and care for nature. This enquiry, ultimately, is a contribution to the task of rethinking the basis of our conceptions of autonomy and freedom in the Anthropocene, so that the idea of autonomy can legitimately constitute the central value of the social transformation that is needed to face the ecological crisis.
Undocumented migrants’ access to healthcare in Sweden, and the impact of Act 2013:407
Authors: O’Sullivan Anna
Published: November 2023

Background

Research shows that undocumented migrants have difficulties in accessing healthcare. Act 2013:407 came into force in 2013 and entitled undocumented migrants to healthcare that cannot be deferred. To date, studies about undocumented migrants’ access to care in Sweden and the impact of Act 2013:407 are sparse. Hence, the aim of this study was to describe professionals’ experiences of access to healthcare for undocumented migrants in Sweden and the impact of Act 2013:407.

Methods

A qualitative design with semi-structured interviews was employed. Nine interviews were carried out in 2015 with nurses at two NGO healthcare centres for undocumented migrants – and an additional seven interviews in 2022 with staff at an NGO healthcare centre for undocumented migrants and personnel at a regional health and medical care administration. Interpretive description was used for the analyses.

Ethical considerations

Permission to carry out the study was obtained from managers at the participating NGOs and the regional health and medical care administration. Participants received verbal and written information about the study, and informed consent was obtained from all participants.

Findings

Six categories emerged from the analysis: Changes since the Act was introduced, General problems with healthcare access, Care for undocumented migrants – politics and social economy, Lack of knowledge, ‘Healthcare that cannot be deferred’ and Being an undocumented migrant.

Conclusion

Undocumented migrants’ social needs are as great as their needs for healthcare. Healthcare staff are burdened with healthcare cost considerations which affect their judgement of care provision and prioritization. Healthcare staff attitudes towards undocumented migrants affect their access to healthcare. Undocumented migrants in need of healthcare are especially vulnerable due to their legal status, being ill and the fear of being reported and deported. To assure undocumented migrants’ access to healthcare and maintain healthcare ethics, the only possible solution is to provide healthcare based on needs.
Ethical dilemmas faced by healthcare teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Koskinen Monika , Hilli Yvonne , Keskitalo Tuulikki , Talvik Merle , Sandvik Ann-Helen , Thorkildsen Kari Marie , Skyvell-Nilsson Maria , Koivula Meeri , Šteinmiller Jekaterina
Published: November 2023

Background

Previous studies have shown that the rapid transition to emergency remote teaching due to the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging for healthcare teachers in many ways. This sudden change made them face ethical dilemmas that challenged their values and ethical competence.

Research aim

This study aimed to explore and gain a deeper understanding of the ethical dilemmas healthcare teachers faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Research design

This was an inductive qualitative study using a hermeneutic approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analysed thematically.

Participants and research context

Healthcare teachers ( n = 20) from eight universities and universities of applied sciences in the Nordic and Baltic countries participated.

Ethical considerations

This study was based on the research ethics of the Norwegian National Research Ethics Committee for Medicine and Health Sciences and approved by the Norwegian Agency for Shared Services in Education and Research.

Findings

Healthcare teachers faced several ethical dilemmas due to restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The analysis revealed three main themes: How should I deal with students’ ill-being, and what can I as a teacher do?; What can I demand from myself and my students, what is good teaching?; How do I manage the heavy workload and everyone’s needs, and who gets my time?

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of healthcare teachers’ continuous need for pedagogic and didactic education, especially considering new technology and ethical issues. During the pandemic, the ethical consequences of remote teaching became evident. Ethical values and ethical dilemmas should be addressed in healthcare education programmes at different levels, especially in teacher education programmes. In the coming years, remote teaching will grow. Therefore, we need more research on this issue from an ethical perspective on its possible consequences for students and healthcare teachers.