bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a core outcome set for cardiac rehabilitation in patients with myocardial infarction: a study protocol
Authors: Guan Zhiyue , Zhang Xinyi , Jin Yinghui , Qiu Ruijin , Shang Hongcai
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Heterogeneous outcome reporting is common in clinical trials focused on cardiac rehabilitation for myocardial infarction (MI); this practice often results in the exclusion of data from clinical trials in systematic reviews. Developing a core outcome set (COS) may solve this problem.

Methods and analysis

We will first identify a preliminary list of outcomes through a systematic review. Next, we will conduct semistructured interviews with patients to explore additional potential outcomes deemed important by patients. Then, we will engage various stakeholders such as clinicians, researchers and methodologists in two Delphi survey tends to refine and prioritise the identified outcomes. Subsequently, we will gather insights directly from patients with MI by administering plain language patient surveys; patients will be involved in questionnaire development. Finally, we will hold two face-to-face consensus meetings for patients and other stakeholders to develop the final COS for cardiac rehabilitation in MI.

Ethics and dissemination

The Ethics Committee of Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine approved this study (2022DZMEC-349). The final COS will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated in conferences.

Trial registration

We registered this study in the Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials Initiative (COMET) platform. Registration number: 1725 (http://www.comet-initiative.org/studies/details/1725).
Occupational safety and health of nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic, the missing part of quality care: a qualitative study
Authors: Mehboodi Farkhondeh , Zamanzadeh Vahid , Rahmani Azad , Dianat Iman , Shabanloie Reza
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study explored the consequences of COVID-19 on the occupational safety and health of nurses.

Design

Qualitative conventional content analysis.

Participants

14 nurses selected by purposeful sampling method.

Setting

Five educational and non-educational hospitals in the Northwest of Iran.

Data collection and analysis

Semistructured interviews were used for data collection and analysed using conventional content analysis.

Results

Two main categories have emerged from the data: reduced quality of professional life and post-traumatic growth. Reduced quality of professional life, which has two subcategories including job dissatisfaction and burnout, has a negative nature, and has had many negative effects on the physical, mental and well-being of nursing personnel during the coronavirus era. On the other hand, post-traumatic growth, with two subcategories that include promoting safe behaviour and gaining a positive self-concept, has a positive nature.

Conclusions

Maintaining the occupational health and safety of nurses plays an important role in providing quality services to patients. Therefore, it is necessary for managers and policymakers to use the experiences related to the COVID-19 crisis, to prevent negative factors and strengthen positive factors, to maintain the safety and occupational health of nurses, and increase the quality of care.
Qualitative evaluation of digital vending machines to improve access to STI and HIV testing in South West England: using a Person-Based Approach
Authors: Gobin Maya , Horwood Jeremy , Stockwell Sarah , Denford Sarah , Copping Joanna , Lawson Lottie , Hayward Samuel , Harryman Lindsey , Kesten Joanna M
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To report the development, implementation, acceptability and feasibility of vending machines offering HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing kits.

Design

A qualitative study using the Person-Based Approach with patient and public involvement workshops and stakeholder involvement and interviews with machine users, sexual health service (SHS) staff, venue staff and local authority sexual health commissioners. Transcripts were analysed thematically.

Setting

Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG).

Participants

15 machine users, 5 SHS staff, 3 venue staff and 3 local authority commissioners.

Intervention

Four vending machines dispensing free HIV self-testing and STI self-sampling kits in publicly accessible venues across BNSSG were introduced to increase access to testing for groups at higher risk of HIV and STI infection who are less likely to access SHS clinic testing services (young people, people from black communities, and gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men).

Results

Machine users reported the service was convenient, easy to use and accessible; however, concerns regarding privacy related to machine placement within the venues and issues of maintenance were raised. Promotional material was inclusive and informative; however, awareness of the service through the promotional campaign was limited. Vending machines were acceptable to venue staff once clear processes for their management were agreed with the SHS. SHS staff identified challenges with the implementation of the service related to the limited involvement of the whole SHS team in the planning and development.

Conclusions

The codeveloped vending machine service was acceptable, addressing some barriers to testing. Resources and protected staff time are needed to support greater involvement of the whole SHS team and service providers in venues. Adopting a similarly robust coproduction approach to the implementation of the machines could avoid the challenges reported. The placement of the machines to assure users privacy and repeated, targeted promotion could encourage service use among target groups.
Air pollution and cancer daily mortality in Hangzhou, China: an ecological research
Authors: Cheng Zongxue , Qin Kang , Zhang Yan , Yu Zhecong , Li Biao , Jiang Caixia , Xu Jue
Published: June 2024

Background

Long-term exposure to air pollution has been linked to cancer incidence. However, the evidence is limited regarding the effect of short-term exposure to air pollution on cancer mortality.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate associations between short-term exposure to air pollutants (sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter <10 mm (PM10) and PM2.5) and cancer daily mortality.

Methods

This study used air quality, meteorological and daily cancer death data from 2014 to 2019 in Hangzhou, China. Generalised additive models (GAM) with quasi-Poisson regression were used to analyse the associations between air pollutants and cancer mortality with adjustment for confounding factors including time trends, day of week, temperature and humidity. Then, we conducted stratified analyses by sex, age, season and education. In addition, stratified analyses of age, season and education were performed within each sex to determine whether sex difference was modified by such factors.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, the GAM results indicated a statistically significant relationship between increased cancer mortality and elevated air pollution concentrations, but only in the female population. For every 10 μg/m3rise in pollutant concentration, the increased risk of cancer death in females was 6.82% (95% CI 3.63% to 10.10%) for SO2on lag 03, and 2.02% (95% CI 1.12% to 2.93%) for NO2on lag 01 and 0.89% (95% CI 0.46% to 1.33%) for PM10on lag 03 and 1.29% (95% CI 0.64% to 1.95%) for PM2.5on lag 03. However, no statistically significant association was found among males. Moreover, the differences in effect sizes between males and females were more pronounced during the cold season, among the elderly and among subjects with low levels of education.

Conclusions

Increased cancer mortality was only observed in females with rising concentrations of air pollutants. Further research is required to confirm this sex difference. Advocate for the reduction of air pollutant emissions to protect vulnerable groups.
Utility, acceptability and applicability of a nucleic acid amplification test in comparison with a syndromic approach in the management of sexually transmitted diseases at Mulago National Referral Hospital in Uganda (ASTRHA): protocol for an open-label, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Serraino Riccardo , Cesana Bruno Mario , Morrone Helen Linda , Marino Gabriella Giuseppina , Cirillo Maria , Olivadese Vincenzo , Kyambadde Peter , Biriwo Lawrence Ssejjuko , Mutebi Frederik , Trecarichi Enrico Maria , Musinguzi Patrick , Byakika-Kibwika Pauline , Torti Carlo
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a major cause of long-term disability. Urethral discharge syndrome (UDS), abnormal vaginal discharge (AVD) and genital ulcer disease (GUD) are very common in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs), where, due to lack of resources, these infections are managed according to a syndromic approach. Although microbiological diagnosis using nuclear acid amplification tests (NAAT) is already a standard to prescribe targeted treatments in industrialised countries, no randomised clinical trials have been conducted to evaluate clinical usefulness and acceptability of NAAT in comparison with syndromic approach in LMICs. The results of this study could inform diagnostic guidelines since they may suggest an update of the current recommendation if microbiological diagnosis using NAAT in the management of STD is demonstrated to be both useful and acceptable in an LMIC context.

Methods and analysis

The primary objective of this randomised, open-label trial is to evaluate the clinical usefulness of a NAAT and its acceptability in comparison with a clinical syndromic approach and to explore whether this test could replace the syndromic approach in the management of STDs at a national referral hospital in Uganda. 220 patients presenting to the STD clinic at Mulago Hospital in Kampala, Uganda with AVD, UDS or GUD will be randomised to either standard of care (syndromic management) or NAAT-based treatment with a 1:1 ratio. All the patients will be asked to return after 2 or 3 weeks for a control visit. Primary outcome will be therapeutic appropriateness.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial was approved by the Mulago Hospital Research and Ethical Committee (MHREC2023-97) and the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (HS31000ES). Patients will give informed consent to participate before taking part in the study. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals in open-access formats and data made available in anonymised form.

Trial registration number

NCT05994495.
Evaluation of a unique and innovative diabetes care model in primary care in Ontario, Canada: protocol for a multiple-methods study with a convergent parallel design
Authors: Mathews Maria , Lyons Rhiannon , Harris Stewart , Hedden Lindsay , Choi Yun-Hee , Donnan Jennifer , Green Michael E , Harvey Elisabeth , Reichert Sonja M. , Ryan Bridget , Sibbald Shannon , Meredith Leslie
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The growth and complexity of diabetes are exceeding the capacity of family physicians, resulting in the demand for community-based, interprofessional, primary care-led transition clinics. The Primary Care Diabetes Support Programme (PCDSP) in London, Ontario, is an innovative approach to diabetes care for high-risk populations, such as medically or socially complex and unattached patients. In this study, we will employ a quadruple-aim approach to evaluate the health system impacts of the PCDSP.

Methods and analysis

We will use multiple methods through a convergent parallel design in this project across five unique studies: a case study, a patient study, a provider study, a complications study and a cost-effectiveness study. The project will be conducted in a dedicated stand-alone clinic specialising in chronic disease management, specifically focusing on diabetes care. Participants will include clinic staff, administrators, family physicians, specialists and patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes who received care at the clinic between 2011 and 2023. The project design will define the intervention, support replication at other sites or for other chronic diseases and address each of the quadruple aims and equity. Following the execution of the five individual studies, we will build a business case by integrating the results. Data will be analysed using both qualitative (content analysis and thematic analysis) and quantitative techniques (descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression).

Ethics and dissemination

We received approval from the research ethics boards at Western University (reference ID: 2023–1 21 766; 2023–1 22 326) and Lawson Health Research Institute (reference ID: R-23–202). A privacy review was completed by St. Joseph’s Healthcare Corporation. The findings will be shared among PCDSP staff and patients, stakeholders, academic researchers and the public through stakeholder sessions, conferences, peer-reviewed publications, infographics, posters, media interviews, social media and online discussions. For the patient and provider study, all participants will be asked to provide consent and are free to withdraw from the study, without penalty, until the data are combined. Participants will not be identified in any report or presentation except in the case study, for which, given the number of PCDSP providers, we will seek explicit consent to identify them.
Level and limitations of physical activity in patients with excess body weight or diabetes
Authors: Sutkowska Edyta , Biernat Karolina , Mazurek Justyna , Hap Katarzyna , Kuciel Natalia , Sutkowska Magdalena , Marciniak Dominik
Published: June 2024

Physical activity (PA) is recommended to prevent or treat many diseases, but various factors may limit it. We analyse the level of PA and the barriers to undertaking it. Patients aged 18–64 with diabetes or at least overweight completed the following questionnaires: International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and Accompanying Survey (AS). For statistical analysis, non-parametric Mann-Whitney U, χ2—Pearson, correspondence analysis and meta-analysis (OR with ±95% CI) were used, and α=0.05 was assumed. Of 191 sets of questionnaires were analysed (67% from women). The median (MD) age for the group was 50.5 years, MD for metabolic equivalents (METs): 2079 (MET-min/week); 16.23% of subjects scored insufficient, 46.07% sufficient and 37.7% high PA according to the IPAQ scale. A relationship between the IPAQ and PA level results from the AS was confirmed (χ2; p=0.00047). The most common reasons indicated for not taking up PA were lack of time due to professional work (49%) and additional duties (32%) as well as fatigue from daily duties (44%). Participants <45 years were more likely to indicate additional duties (p=0.013), participants >45 years illnesses (p=0.04) and people with BMI (body mass index) ≥30 kg/m2, ‘fatigue from daily duties’ (p=0.019) as an obstacle to undertaking PA. ‘Lack of suitable conditions to undertake PA’ was indicated more often by patients with primary education (p<0.01), diabetes (p=0.037), after myocardial infarction (p=0.039) and those under psychiatric treatment (p=0.039). Women more often declared a lack of motivation (p=0.018). Residents of big cities and those with BMI ≥30 were more likely to assess their PA as ‘insufficient’ (p=0.0260 and p=0.0081, respectively). The overwhelming number of respondents who were in the age of professional activity had a sufficient level of PA. The most common barriers to undertaking PA were lack of time and fatigue, related to both work and non-work activities, but specific barriers were also found for women and patients with various diseases.
Pain experiences during intrauterine device procedures: a thematic analysis of tweets
Authors: Taghinejadi Neda , van der Westhuizen Helene-Mari , Ayomoh Francis Ifeanyi , Ahmed Wasim , Greenhalgh Trisha , Boylan Anne-Marie
Published: June 2024

Introduction

In June 2021, high-profile testimonials in the media about pain during intrauterine device (IUD) procedures in the UK prompted significant discussion across platforms including Twitter (subsequently renamed X). We examined a sample of Twitter postings (tweets) to gain insight into public perspectives and experiences.

Methods

We harvested tweets posted or retweeted on 21–22 June 2021 which contained the search terms coil, intrauterine system, IUD or intrauterine. We analysed the dataset thematically and selected illustrative tweets with the authors’ consent for publication.

Results

Following deduplication and screening, we included 1431 tweets in our analysis. We identified testimonials with descriptions of varied pain experiences. Twitter users reported that clinicians had not warned them that pain could be severe or explained the options for pain relief. Some raised concerns about pain being minimised or dismissed and linked this to the management of women’s pain in medicine more broadly. Twitter users described connecting to an online community with shared experiences as validating and used this as a springboard for collective action.

Conclusions

While we acknowledge the limitations of our sample, this study highlights important perspectives and accounts relating to pain during IUD procedures. Our findings attest to the need for strategies to improve the patient experience for those opting for IUD as a clinical priority. Further research should explore IUD users' experiences, expectations and wishes around pain management.
Performance of contemporary cardiovascular risk stratification scores in Brazil: an evaluation in the ELSA-Brasil study
Authors: Pedroso Camargos Aline , Barreto Sandhi , Brant Luisa , Ribeiro Antonio Luiz P , Dhingra Lovedeep S , Aminorroaya Arya , Bittencourt Marcio , Figueiredo Roberta C , Khera Rohan
Published: June 2024

Aims

Despite notable population differences in high-income and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), national guidelines in LMICs often recommend using US-based cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk scores for treatment decisions. We examined the performance of widely used international CVD risk scores within the largest Brazilian community-based cohort study (Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health, ELSA-Brasil).

Methods

All adults 40–75 years from ELSA-Brasil (2008–2013) without prior CVD who were followed for incident, adjudicated CVD events (fatal and non-fatal MI, stroke, or coronary heart disease death). We evaluated 5 scores—Framingham General Risk (FGR), Pooled Cohort Equations (PCEs), WHO CVD score, Globorisk-LAC and the Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation 2 score (SCORE-2). We assessed their discrimination using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and calibration with predicted-to-observed risk (P/O) ratios—overall and by sex/race groups.

Results

There were 12 155 individuals (53.0±8.2 years, 55.3% female) who suffered 149 incident CVD events. All scores had a model AUC>0.7 overall and for most age/sex groups, except for white women, where AUC was <0.6 for all scores, with higher overestimation in this subgroup. All risk scores overestimated CVD risk with 32%–170% overestimation across scores. PCE and FGR had the highest overestimation (P/O ratio: 2.74 (95% CI 2.42 to 3.06)) and 2.61 (95% CI 1.79 to 3.43)) and the recalibrated WHO score had the best calibration (P/O ratio: 1.32 (95% CI 1.12 to 1.48)).

Conclusion

In a large prospective cohort from Brazil, we found that widely accepted CVD risk scores overestimate risk by over twofold, and have poor risk discrimination particularly among Brazilian women. Our work highlights the value of risk stratification strategies tailored to the unique populations and risks of LMICs.
Stress and sleep quality in palliative care
Authors: Zengin Hilal , Soyaslan Bilge Dilek
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Palliative care patients experience problems in sleep quality due to stress, chronic diseases, and physical and psychosocial problems. Our aim is to determine the perceived stress and sleep quality levels of our palliative care patients and their related factors.

Methods

This cross-sectional, descriptive research was conducted between November 2023 and February 2024 at a palliative clinic located in Ankara, Turkey, that is affiliated with a training and research hospital. In the research, a data form, the Perceived Stress Scale and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index were used as data collection instruments. Kolmogorov–Smirnov and Shapiro–Wilk tests, and Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis H tests were used for the analysis.

Results

The total score on the Perceived Stress Scale was determined to be 35.81±7.45. The total score for Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was 13.20±3.20. Significant relationships were found between insufficient self-efficacy scores and habitual sleep efficiency, daytime dysfunction and total Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores. Significant relationships were found between insufficient self-efficacy scores and sleep latency, habitual sleep efficiency, daytime dysfunction and total Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores.

Conclusions

This study determined that certain descriptive characteristics of palliative care patients affect their sleep quality and perceived stress level, as well as that some components of sleep quality and perceived stress level are related. Palliative care is holistic in nature, encompassing symptom management; therefore, the importance of patients’ psychosocial integrity should not be overlooked. Consequently, identifying components that may hinder symptom management and addressing the patient comprehensively will be crucial.
Nutrition impact symptom monitoring and weight loss outcomes: a longitudinal radiotherapy study
Authors: Urrizola Amaia , Dajani Olav , Aass Nina , Bjerkeset Ellen , Hjermstad Marianne Jensen , Kaasa Stein , Klepstad Pål , Pirnat Aleksandra , Raaness Ida , Steinsheim Hanne , Bye Asta
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Nutrition impact symptoms (NIS) are associated with weight loss (WL), and decreased energy intake in cross-sectional studies. We aimed to ascertain associations between changes in NIS burden, energy intake and WL over time in patients with advanced cancer.

Methods

Adult patients from an observational radiotherapy study for painful bone metastases self-reported NIS and WL using the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment tool (PG-SGA) at baseline and week eight (W8). NIS burden, the sum of NIS per patient, categorised as 0, 1–2 and ≥3 with changes defined as 2-point differences from baseline to W8 were used. Energy intake was assessed by 24-hour recall interviews.

Results

111 patients (72.1%) were analysed and grouped by NIS burden; 0 NIS (44.1%), 1–2 NIS (30.6%) and ≥3 NIS (25.2%). Patients with NIS burden of ≥3 reported higher baseline WL compared with those with 1–2 or 0 NIS (46.4% vs 18.2% vs 10.2%, respectively, p=0.002). At W8, 21 patients (19%) reported improved NIS burden, accompanied by a lower proportion of severe (≥5%) new-onset WL (19% vs 42.1%) and higher energy intake (median 29.6 vs 21.2 kcal/kg) than those with worsened NIS burden (17.1%).

Conclusions

NIS management may improve energy intake and prevent WL, emphasising the importance of systematic follow-up and interventions.

ClinicalTrials.gov registration

NCT02107664
Framework and proposed indicators for the comprehensive evaluation of inclusiveness: the case of climate change adaptation
Authors: Pham Ha , Saner Marc
Published: June 2024

Inclusion has been gaining increased attention in various domains, including education and the workplace, as well as development, governance, urbanization, and innovation. However, in the context of climate change adaptation (CCA), the concept of “inclusiveness” remains comparatively underexplored, with no overarching framework available. This gap is crucial, given the global scope and multifaceted nature of climate change, which demands a comprehensive and inclusive approach. In this article, we address this deficiency by developing a comprehensive conceptualization of inclusive climate change adaptation (ICCA). Grounded in ethical analysis, our framework is presented for discussion and practical testing. We identify nine specific priority areas and propose one to two qualitative indicators for each, resulting in a suite of 15 indicators for the evaluation of ICCA policies. This research not only highlights the urgency of incorporating inclusiveness into CCA, but it also provides a practical framework by which to guide policymakers, practitioners, and researchers in this critical endeavor. By acknowledging and accommodating diverse value systems and considering the entire policy process, from conception to evaluation, we aim to foster a more inclusive and sustainable approach to CCA.
Performance of thin-RPC detectors for high rate applications with eco-friendly gas mixtures
Authors:   RPC ECOGas@GIF++ Collaboration, Abbrescia M. , Aielli G. , Aly R. , Arena M. C. , Barroso Ferreira Filho M. , Benussi L. , Bianco S. , Bordon F. , Boscherini D. , Bruni A. , Buontempo S. , Busato M. , Camarri P. , Cardarelli R. , Congedo L. , De Serio M. , Di Ciaccio A. , Di Stante L. , Dupieux P. , Eysermans J. , Ferretti A. , Galati G. , Gagliardi M. , Guida R. , Iaselli G. , Joly B. , Lee K. S. , Liberti B. , Mandelli B. , Manen S. P. , Pastore A. , Pastori E. , Piccolo D. , Pizzimento L. , Polini A. , Proto G. , Pugliese G. , Quaglia L. , Ramos D. , Rigoletti G. , Rocchi A. , Romano M. , Samalan A. , Salvini P. , Santonico R. , Saviano G. , Sessa M. , Simone S. , Terlizzi L. , Tytgat M. , Vercellin E. , Verzeroli M. , Zaganidis N.
Published: June 2024

In the last few years, an intense R &D activity on particle detectors for future HEP applications has been carried on with the aim of developing new techniques as well as studying the performance of already existing detectors when operated in a high rate environment. As for Resistive Plate Chamber detectors, the main challenges to face are the improvement of their detection capabilities and longevity at very high-rates, and the search for new eco-friendly gasmixtures free from greenhouse components. Results obtained in the framework of the RPC ECOGas@GIF++ Collaboration on a thin-Resistive Plate Chamber exposed at the CERN Gamma Irradiation Facility and operated with eco-friendly gas mixtures based on Tetrafluoropropene and Carbon dioxide will be discussed in this paper.
Investigation of 209Bi (α,2n)211At reaction route for the production of α-emitter 211At
Authors: Özdoğan Hasan , Üncü Yiğit Ali , Şekerci Mert , Kaplan Abdullah
Published: June 2024

In this research, the calculations have been done for α-emitters of 211At, which is a promising isotope in cyclotrons for radiotherapy. The scope of the study is to investigate the production parameters of 211At, which can be produced in the cyclotron by bombarding bismuth with an alpha particle beam for the 209Bi(α,2n)211At reaction. The total activity, reaction yield, and production cross–sections of 209Bi(α,2n)211At reaction have been calculated by using diverse level density models of the TALYS 1.95 code. Furthermore, recommended data with 95% confidence limits have been obtained. Experimental data available in the literature based on EXFOR compilation are used to compare the findings. Consequently, the required beam energy has been found to be 28 MeV to produce 211At.
Effects of external fields and structural parameters on third harmonic generation of GaAs/AlGaAs Manning-like double quantum well structure
Authors: Tuzemen A. Turker
Published: June 2024

In this theoretical work, we investigate how external fields like as electric, magnetic, and intense laser fields, as well as structural factors, affect the third harmonic generation (THG) coefficient of an AlGaAs/GaAs Manning-like double quantum well heterostructure. To achieve our goals, we numerically solve the time-independent Schrödinger equation using the diagonalization approach with the effective mass approximation and then derive the subband energy levels and corresponding wave functions of the structure. After that, we derive the mathematical expression of the THG coefficient by using the compact density matrix method. According to our results, the resonance peaks of the THG coefficient show shifting to the high-energy region with an increase in the field’s magnitude in cases where external fields (electric, magnetic, and intense laser) are applied separately. At the same time, increasing the depth (width) of the quantum well structure causes the THG peaks to shift to the high (low) energy region. We believe that the findings from this search will have a substantial impact on existing experimental device designs and applications.
Study on Joint Injury of Taijiquan Movement Based on Computer Image Analysis
Authors: Pang Bingwu
Published: June 2024

As a traditional Chinese martial art, Taijiquan has a remarkable effect on the rehabilitation of joint injury with its unique movement. In this paper, the influence of Taijiquan on joint injury is analyzed by using the local depth feature representation method of image sampling. Then, the local feature coding algorithm is introduced, and the problems existing in the rehabilitation of joint injury are analyzed. An analysis algorithm of the influence of Taijiquan on joint injury based on CV model was proposed, and the effectiveness of the algorithm was verified. The results show that the proposed algorithm improves the MS-COCO dataset by 0.2%, 0.88%, 1.86% and 3.18%, respectively, compared with Hash Net. On the 15Scene dataset, CNN-VLAD’s classification results were 4.1% higher than those of the TNNCV model. On the Caltech 256 data set, the classification accuracy of SMVLADC algorithm is 7.7% higher than CNN-VLAD algorithm. This shows that the proposed algorithm is effective, and the local depth features extracted by CNN are more effective than the traditional artificial features. At the same time, the superiority of CV model based on improved significant regional features is further verified. This study provides a new theoretical basis and practical method for the rehabilitation treatment of joint injury by Taijiquan.
Modeling of nanofluid thermophysical treatment through a permeable container under the impact of MHD
Authors: Rothan Yahya Ali
Published: June 2024

In this innovative study, a unique approach was engaged to simulate the flow characteristics of nanofluid inside a tank featuring a surface subjected to uniform flux. The testing fluid for this investigation was fabricated by incorporating alumina powders with varying shapes into water. The derivation of the final equations involved the application of Darcy’s law and the formulation of the stream function. The container experienced the combined efficacy of both the Lorentz force and gravity forces. The incorporation of additives resulted in a significant enhancement of the Nusselt number (Nu), demonstrating an increase of 19.8% and 40.28%, contingent on the magnitude of the Hartmann number (Ha). Moreover, an elevation in the shape factor led to a notable rise in Nu by 14%. Remarkably, as the Ha increased, there was a substantial reduction in the cooling rate by 51.33%. Furthermore, in the absence of the Ha, an escalation in the Rayleigh number (Ra) caused Nu to surge by 65.8%. This study holds paramount importance as it introduces a novel technique for simulating nanofluid flow with a sinusoidal surface, providing valuable insights into the complex interplay of forces within the container. The utilization of varying shapes of alumina powders adds a layer of sophistication to the experimentation, making this investigation a noteworthy contribution to the existing body of knowledge. The findings not only enhance our understanding of heat transfer dynamics but also offer practical implications for applications involving nanofluids in containers with nonuniform surfaces subjected to heat flux.
Riemann problem solutions for a balance law under Dirac-Delta source with a discontinuous flux
Authors: Abreu Eduardo , Matos Vitor , Pérez John , Rodríguez-Bermúdez Panters
Published: June 2024

We study the Riemann problem for a new model on immiscible vertical two-phase flow under point injection. The point injection is modeled by a Dirac [Formula: see text]-source term as well as by a spatially discontinuous flux function, which defines two fluxes, one on each side of the discontinuity. The solutions comprise up to three wave groups: downward waves, a stationary shock and upward waves. Owning the interplay between the Dirac [Formula: see text]-source and the discontinuous flux, there is no standard entropy condition for the stationary shock (flux’s connections). An entropy condition was deduced based on impinging characteristics and perturbation of the constant solution. This condition leads to shocks that do not satisfy the classical Lax’s conditions — even for arbitrarily small shocks — and may also have no viscous profile. The Rankine–Hugoniot condition — embedding the Dirac [Formula: see text]-source — and the entropy condition are geometrically represented by “Flux Projections” that support the analytical method proposed in this paper. We then obtain a [Formula: see text] analytic solution for all initial value problems. We verify the entropy condition using a Lagrangian–Eulerian scheme recently introduced in the literature, which is based in the new concept of no-flow curves. Analytic and numerical solutions fit.
Effectiveness of LOF, iForest and OCSVM in detecting anomalies in stream sediment geochemical data
Authors: Shahrestani Shahed , Carranza Emmanuel John M.
Published: June 2024

This paper compares three unsupervised machine-learning algorithms – local outlier factor (LOF), Isolation Forest (iForest) and one-class support vector machine (OCSVM) – for anomaly detection in a multivariate geochemical dataset in northeastern Iran. This area contains several Au, Cu and Pb–Zn mineral occurrences. The methodology incorporates single-element geochemistry, multivariate data analysis and application of the three unsupervised machine-learning algorithms. Principal component analysis unveiled diverse elemental associations for the first seven principal components (PCs): PC1 shows a Co–Cr–Ni–V–Sn association indicating a lithological influence; PC2 shows a Au–Bi–Cu–W association suggesting epithermal Au mineralization; PC3 shows variability in Zn–V–Co–Sb–Cu–Cr; PC4 shows a Au–Cu–Ba–Sr–Ag association indicating Au and polymetallic mineralization; PC5 reflects Zn–Ag–Ni–Pb related to hydrothermal mineralization; and PC6 and PC7 show element associations suggesting epithermal and intrusive-related polymetallic mineralization. It was found that OCSVM performed slightly better than LOF and iForest in detecting anomalies associated with known Cu occurrences, and it successfully delineated dispersion from all known Au occurrences. LOF outperformed iForest and OCSVM in identifying all four Pb–Zn occurrences, and the three methods substantially limited the areas of the anomaly class. The analysis showed that LOF produced a less cluttered anomaly map compared to the isolated patterns in the iForest map. LOF was accurate in identifying anomalies associated with Au–Pb mineralization, while iForest detected anomalies associated with Pb–Zn–Cu occurrences and neighbouring Pb–Zn occurrence. OCSVM performed similarly in the northern and western areas but displayed unique discrepancies in the SE and west by detecting anomalies associated with two Cu occurences and a Pb–Cu occurrence. This study examined the influence of contamination fraction on detection of geochemical anomalies, revealing a noteworthy rise in the count of mineral occurrences delineated by anomalies when the contamination fraction increases from 5 to 10%. However, even with a 35% contamination fraction, some Cu occurrences remained outside the anomaly category, indicating potentially overlooked geochemical signals from mineral occurrences due to sampling schemes.
Predictors of Survival Without Intestinal Resection after First-Line Endovascular Revascularization in Patients with Acute Arterial Mesenteric Ischemia
Authors: Garzelli Lorenzo , Dufay Raphael , Tual Arnaud , Corcos Olivier , Cazals-Hatem Dominique , Vilgrain Valérie , Nuzzo Alexandre , Ben Abdallah Iannis , Ronot Maxime
Published: June 2024

C-reactive protein level less than 100 mg/L and persistent enhancement of bowel wall at enhanced CT before endovascular revascularization of occluded superior mesenteric artery were independent predictors of 30-day intestinal resection–free survival in patients with arterial acute mesenteric ischemia.
AmyloidPETNet: Classification of Amyloid Positivity in Brain PET Imaging Using End-to-End Deep Learning
Authors: Fan Shuyang , Ponisio Maria Rosana , Xiao Pan , Ha Sung Min , Chakrabarty Satrajit , Lee John J. , Flores Shaney , LaMontagne Pamela , Gordon Brian , Raji Cyrus A. , Marcus Daniel S. , Nazeri Arash , Ances Beau M. , Bateman Randall J. , Morris John C. , Benzinger Tammie L. S. , Sotiras Aristeidis ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: June 2024

An end-to-end deep learning method accurately classified amyloid positivity in native-space brain PET scans acquired using five different tracers and across five independent data sets, without requiring structural MRI.
Safety of Gadoxetate Disodium for Hepatobiliary MRI in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Kim Pyeong Hwa , Hwang Jae-Yeon , Choi Young Hun , Yoon Hee Mang , Lee Choong Wook
Published: June 2024

The use of a hepatobiliary MRI contrast agent (gadoxetate disodium) results in a similar rate of acute adverse events compared with extracellular contrast agents in children and adolescents.
Fast-Charging Carbon Fiber Structural Battery Electrodes Using an Organic Polymer Active Material
Authors: Oka Suyash S. , Thakur Ratul M. , Wang Chen , Scrudder Coby , Vidyaprakash Vishaal , Lagoudas Dimitris C. , Boyd James G. , Green Micah J. , Lutkenhaus Jodie L.
Published: June 2024

Structural batteries require electrodes with integrated energy storage and load-bearing properties. Adoption of structural batteries can lead to mass and volume savings in electrified transportation and aerospace applications by storing energy within the object’s structural elements. However, to date, active materials investigated in structural batteries exhibit poor rate capabilities at higher C-rates and even worse performance at lower temperatures due to diffusion limitations. Organic radical polymers are promising alternatives because they possess fast-charging properties and good cycling stability. In this work, we integrate an organic radical polymer with carbon fiber (CF) fabric, in which the polymer acts as the active cathode material and the CF fabric possesses excellent tensile strength, modulus and electronic conductivity. At 20 °C, the structural cathodes exhibited a reversible capacity of 67 mAh g−1 at 1C-rate and an 88% capacity retention at 25C-rate. Further, these structural electrodes retained more than 50% of their performance at −10 °C (vs 20 °C). These electrodes were further examined in a full cell containing a graphite-based anode, demonstrating a pathway for utilizing redox-active polymer-based active materials in structural and fast-charging organic batteries.
Computational Method for Optimal Electrolyte Screening Using Bayesian Optimization and Physics Based Battery Model
Authors: Garapati Vamsi Krishna , Dingari Naga Neehar , Mynam Mahesh , Rai Beena
Published: June 2024

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) powering electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage depend significantly on the composition of liquid electrolyte for optimal performance. We propose a framework coupling Bayesian optimization and physics based battery models to identify electrolytes optimal for specific set of requirements such as less capacity fade and internal heating etc. Our approach is validated through multiple case studies, demonstrating the framework’s efficacy in optimizing electrolyte properties. Additionally, we introduce a deviation index to quantify the proximity of the optimal electrolyte to those in a predefined database. With adaptability to various LIB metrics and battery chemistries, it provides a systematic and efficient approach for screening electrolytes based on system-level performance using physics-based models, contributing to advancements in battery technology for sustainable energy storage systems.
Detection and Identification of Pathogenic Leptospira spp. Serogroups in Europe between 2017 and 2020 Applying a Novel Gene‐Based Molecular Approach
Authors: Wenderlein Jasmin , Zitzl Theresa , Dufay-Simon Nathalie , Cachet Nathalie , Pantchev Nikola , Le Guyader Marine , Fontana Célia , Bomchil Natalia , Tronel Jean-Philippe , Cupillard Lionel , Straubinger Reinhard K.
Published: June 2024

Leptospirosis is a neglected but reemerging worldwide zoonotic disease. Due to a rise in global temperature, precipitation, and urbanization, the risk of acquiring an infection with Leptospira (L.) spp. increases in Europe. One species affected by leptospirosis living close to the human is the dog. Even though dogs can shed low numbers of leptospires, their value as sentinel animal aiding in understanding environmental reservoirs might be even more important for human and animal health. Therefore, it is crucial to study the prevalence of pathogenic L. spp. in dogs and tailor coordinated protective measures like vaccination. This study aimed to screen a collection of purified DNA extracted from canine field samples (blood and urine, n = 239) collected in Europe from dogs suspected of leptospirosis and found positive by the lipL32 PCR used for diagnostics. A new simple and effective molecular approach was developed to identify different leptospiral serogroups using first a 16S rRNA PCR and 16S rRNA gene sequencing for genomospecies determination followed by a PCR targeting the rfb gene locus responsible for LPS biosynthesis for serogroup classification. In total, 172 DNA samples were successfully tested. Results show that L. Icterohaemorrhagiae was detected as the most prevalent serogroup in Europe (53%), followed by L. Australis serogroup (13%). At lower percentages, L. Pomona (5%), L. Autumnalis (4%), and L. Sejroe (2%) were identified. This work emphasizes that current L4 vaccines are relevant and should confer a high efficacy profile at least against L. Icterohaemorrhagiae and L. Australis serogroups.
Association between Serum Phosphorus Levels and Diabetic Retinopathy: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Chen Jintao , Liu Chuanfeng , Sun Cunwei , Zeng Jia , Chi Jingwei , Che Kui , Wang Yangang
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between serum phosphate levels and diabetic retinopathy (DR) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods and Results. The study sample consisted of 1657 T2DM patients hospitalized between 2017 and 2019. Patients were categorized into quartiles based on their serum phosphate levels (Q1–Q4). An increasing trend in the prevalence of DR was observed across these quartiles. Subsequently, logistic regression analysis was employed to adjust for potential confounders, such as gender, age, BMI, and duration of diabetes, and to evaluate the odds ratios (ORs) associated with these quartiles. The prevalence of DR showed an increasing trend with elevated serum phosphate levels. Logistic regression further confirmed that serum phosphate levels remain an independent risk factor for DR. Conclusion. Elevated serum phosphate levels are closely associated with the prevalence of DR in hospitalized T2DM patients. Further studies are needed to establish causality. This trial is registered with chiCTR2000032374.
A Case of Neglected Posterior Fracture Dislocation of the Shoulder Treated With Greater Tuberosity Osteotomy
Authors: Koide Masashi , Tateda Satoshi , Miyasaka Sayaka , Yasuyama Akihiro , Sasaki Yoichi , Abe Mika
Published: June 2024

Posterior dislocation of the shoulder joint is a rare condition. It is often misdiagnosed owing to a lack of evident clinical features compared with anterior shoulder dislocation, and inappropriate radiological examination. We present a case of chronic posterior fracture dislocation treated with greater tuberosity osteotomy. A 66‐year‐old man was injured in a fall while carrying a drone. He was referred to our hospital following 3 months of conservative treatment at a nearby clinic, without reduction of the posterior dislocation. Physical examination revealed a prominent reduction in shoulder joint range of motion and shoulder pain. Radiological examination revealed posterior shoulder dislocation associated with greater tuberosity malunion and a small bone fracture of the posterior portion of the glenoid. Open reduction and internal fixation, including greater tuberosity osteotomy, were performed. Although subluxation of the posterior dislocation persisted postoperatively, the humeral head gradually returned to its centric shoulder joint position owing to rotator cuff force coupling. At 24‐month follow‐up, the patient showed excellent shoulder results.
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy with Diplopia Caused by an Alternative Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine
Authors: Saito Satoshi , Iijima Mutsumi , Seki Misa , Shimomura Ayato , Kitagawa Kazuo
Published: June 2024

The etiology of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) remains elusive and is believed to involve multiple contributing factors. There have been cases linking CIDP to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) mRNA vaccine. However, there are no documented instances following alternative vaccines. We report a case of a 48‐year‐old woman, previously vaccinated with Pfizer‐BioNTech’s COVID‐19 vaccine (BNT162b2), who subsequently received the Moderna mRNA‐1273 vaccine. Within 2 days postvaccination, she developed diplopia and numbness in the lower limbs’ distal extremities. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis exhibited protein‐cell dissociation, while F‐wave studies showed demyelinating activity in the bilateral tibial nerves. Given the disease’s progressive nature, the patient was presumed to have CIDP and commenced steroid pulse therapy and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy. The onset of CIDP may be associated with variations in mRNA sequences and vaccine constituents.
Nickel 2‐Methylimidazole Metal–Organic Framework Ultrathin Nanosheets/Titanium Carbide MXene Hybrid Nanostructure as a Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Methanol and Urea Oxidation Reactions
Authors: Devarayapalli Kamakshaiah Charyulu , Lim Youngsu , Manchuri Amaranadha Reddy , Kim Bolam , Kim Gyuhyeon , Lee Dae Sung
Published: June 2024

In the development of direct methanol and direct urea fuel cells, efficient electrocatalytic methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) and urea oxidation reaction (UOR) are employed. These approaches are essential in fuel cell technology for addressing the rising global energy and environmental concerns. In this research, nickel 2‐methylimidazole metal–organic framework (Ni‐MOF) and Ni‐MOF‐integrated titanium carbide (Ti3C2) MXene hybrid nanostructures (Ni‐MOF/Ti3C2) were controllably synthesized via a facile solvothermal method. Ti3C2 MXene nanosheets are utilized as two‐dimensional support to enhance the catalytic activity of the Ni‐MOF/Ti3C2 hybrid nanostructure. Furthermore, the methanol and urea electro‐oxidation activity of the Ni‐MOF/Ti3C2 hybrid nanostructure is investigated. The synergistic effect between Ni‐MOF and Ti3C2 MXene resulted in excellent and durable electrochemical performance. Thus, the newly synthesized electrode material exhibited high electrocatalytic activity at 0.8 V vs. Hg/HgO for methanol (166 mA cm−2) and urea electro‐oxidations (161 mA cm−2). The methanol and urea oxidation rates of the Ni‐MOF/Ti3C2‐10 hybrid nanostructure are approximately five and three times higher than that of pure Ti3C2 MXene and pristine Ni‐MOF, respectively. This work provides the potential of the Ni‐MOF‐integrated Ti3C2 MXene hybrid nanostructure as a promising electrocatalyst for MOR and UOR.