bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental and numerical investigation of fracture characteristics in hybrid steel/composite and monolithic angle-ply laminates
Authors: Burhan Mohammad , Ullah Zahur
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the fracture characteristics of hybrid laminates consisting of CorTen steel and carbon fibre-reinforced polymer composites under quasi-static loading, both experimentally and numerically. The hybrid laminates are classified into two groups: one featuring alternative overlaying of steel and composite, and the other with symmetric cross-ply and angle-ply configurations overlaid within steel layers. The effects of layup sequence and composite-layer ply orientation on the fracture behaviour are examined. Experimental results revealed these factors influenced the fracture behaviour and load-carrying capacity. A semi-analytical framework is developed to determine the interlaminar stresses and assess interfaces susceptible to delamination, identifying whether these stresses are primary or secondary factors (combined with other fracture modes) in the experimentally observed fracture mechanisms. Angle-ply laminates, known for exhibiting mode III delamination at dissimilar interfaces, served as a baseline configuration to establish a “characteristic distance” for the average stress fracture criterion. This criterion is first utilised to predict mode III delamination in angle-ply laminates and subsequently, using the same characteristic distance in the quadratic average stress criterion, for mixed-mode I/III delamination in hybrid laminates. The predicted fracture stresses closely agreed the experimental results.
Composting and food waste on google news: Connections to nutrition and health
Authors: Basch Emerson D. , Samuel Lalitha
Published: December 2024

Background

Composting is a practical solution to the burgeoning global problem of food waste, which is a significant contributor to landfills and associated environmental effects. Dissemination of accurate information regarding the microbial-driven composting process is critical to positive outcomes.

Aim

To describe the content of news articles addressing composting.

Methods

A search was conducted on Google News using keywords, “composting” and the first 100 English-language articles were analyzed for content. The 12 content categories were derived from a United States Department of Agriculture information guide on composting. Details regarding the source of the news article were included. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and chi-square tests of independence were conducted.

Results

Only 17% of the sample were professional sources. Among the 12 content categories, environmental benefits of composting had maximum coverage (68%). Inclusion of the topics of environmental benefits ( p = 0.03) and role of composting in landfill reduction ( p = 0.03) was significantly associated with the article being a professional source.

Conclusions

The Internet presents opportunities for food and environmental experts to disseminate accurate information regarding composting, and partner at various levels into recycle food and organic waste to value-added products.
The Use of an In Chemico Digestibility Assay to Reduce the In Vivo Fish Bioaccumulation Testing of Nanomaterials
Authors: McHardy Craig , Clark Nathaniel J. , Clough Robert , Handy Richard D.
Published: December 2024

Currently for engineered nanomaterials (ENMs), there are no alternatives to bioaccumulation testing in fish as prescribed by OECD TG 305. New approaches are being sought, in order to reduce the numbers of animals used and address the ethical concerns associated with the use of vertebrates in such testing. This study aimed to demonstrate the value of an alternative method — the in chemico digestibility assay — as a tool to assess the bioaccumulation potential of ENMs. Titanium dioxide ENMs, or their equivalent bulk form, were incorporated onto a commercial fish diet and the fish digestion process was simulated in vitro at pH 2 (simulated stomach phase) and pH 7.8 (simulated intestinal phase). Only the 1000 mg/kg dry weight feed treatment showed measurable Ti release in the stomach phase, with the results being similar for the TiO2 ENM and the bulk form. More Ti from TiO2 was released from the feed during the intestinal phase of digestion compared to the stomach phase, but there were no statistically significant differences between either the ENM or bulk form. There was higher incidental Ti release from untreated control feed in the intestinal phase compared to the stomach phase. On a percentage basis, the stomach generally showed a statistically significant digestibility of around 3% of the total Ti in the feed, compared to around 7% in the intestine. The in chemico digestibility assay shows potential for use in the determination of the bioaccessible fraction of ENMs, and could be a useful screening tool to identify ENMs of concern for bioaccumulation.
Navigating intimate relationships of Iranians in the context of immigration: Insights from a qualitative systematic review and empirical investigation
Authors: Rashed Fereshteh , Fouladi Rachel T. , Fabian Sheryl C.
Published: December 2024

Immigration can create a variety of experiences for individuals and impact their intimate relationships. We conducted two studies to explore how immigration influences people and their intimate relationships. The first study was a qualitative systematic review conducted following the PRISMA statement to explore the perceptions of Iranian immigrants on their intimate relationships. Eighteen studies were included in this review, uncovering four main themes: Women’s Empowerment, Sexual Self-Perception, Marital Conflicts, and Persistence of Patriarchy. The second study involved semi-structured interviews with 12 married Iranian immigrants living in Canada. The analysis revealed five themes related to how immigration influenced marital relationships: Reflection on Gender Norms, Survival to Thriving, Significant Role of the Immediate Family, Differential Experiences of Adaptation Processes, and Paradox of Increased Couple Time. The systematic review provided insights into the experiences of Iranian immigrants abroad and how their intimate relationships can be influenced by the differences between their home and host country. The findings of the empirical study underscored the influence of cultural, social, and structural differences between home and host countries on intimate relationships, aligning with previous findings. Notably, despite facing challenges, participants in Study 2 reported higher relationship satisfaction, in contrast to many studies in the review, highlighting significant difficulties for Iranians in their intimate relationships due to immigration. Findings are contextualized in the discussion.
A retrospective investigation of varied dose of heparin for cardiopulmonary bypass for repair of cardiac myxomas
Authors: Wei Dengzhi , Wang Xiaoxu , Tian Haiying , Li Xu , Xiang Daokang , Shu Yizhu
Published: December 2024

Introduction

There is no consensus on the dose of heparin to be used intraoperatively in cardiac myxomas, so the goal of this study was to look into the differences in the clinical effects on the perioperative period of patients with cardiac myxomas when different doses of heparin were used intraoperatively.

Methods and Analysis

70 patients who had cardiac myxomas excision via cardiopulmonary bypass between January 2024 and July 2024. The 70 patients were separated into two groups based on the heparin dose administered prior to cardiopulmonary bypass heparinization. 42 patients in group A had a dose of ≤400 U/kg, while 28 patients in group B received a dose of >400 U/kg.

Result

PT, INR, and APTT were significantly prolonged in patients with cardiac myxomas in group A in the postoperative period 24 h after surgery, which was statistically significant ( P < .05) compared with that in group B. Intraoperative heparin dose appeared to influence changes in coagulation at 24 h postoperatively, but was mainly dominated by APTT. Also, heparinized doses showed a weak positive correlation with 24-h postoperative drainage volume. In addition, the dimension of the cardiac myxomas appeared to have some correlation with the patient’s preoperative APTT and age.

Conclusion

When patients with cardiac myxomas were heparinized intraoperatively with varying doses of heparin, the enhancement of coagulation in the 24 h after surgery was more pronounced in the group given higher doses of heparin, and endogenous coagulation pathways were activated much more than exogenous coagulation pathways in the 24 h after surgery.
Automated arrhythmia classification based on a pyramid dense connectivity layer and BiLSTM
Authors: Wan Xiangkui , Mei Xiaoyu , Chen Yunfan , Luo Jieqiang , Hao Luguo
Published: December 2024

Background

Deep neural networks (DNNs) have recently been significantly applied to automatic arrhythmia classification. However, their classification accuracy still has room for improvement.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to address the existing limitations in current models by developing a more effective approach for automatic arrhythmia classification. The specific objectives include enhancing the receptive field sizes to capture more detailed information across various temporal scales, and incorporating inter-channel correlations to improve the feature extraction process.

Methods

This study proposes a pyramidal dense connectivity layer and bidirectional long short-term memory network (PDC-BiLSTM) to effectively extract waveform features across various temporal scales, which can capture the intricate details and the broader global information in the signals through a wide range of sensory fields. The efficient channel attention (ECA) is additionally introduced to dynamically allocate weights to each feature channel, assisting the model inefficiently prioritizing essential characteristics during the training process.

Results

The experimental results on the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database showed that the overall classification accuracy of the proposed method under the intra-patient paradigm reached 99.82%, and the positive predictive value, sensitivity and F1 Score were 99.64%, 97.61% and 98.60% respectively; under the inter-patient paradigm, the overall accuracy was 96.30%.

Conclusion

Compared with the latest research results in this field, the proposed model is also better than the existing models in terms of accuracy, which has the potential value of being applied to devices that assist in diagnosing cardiovascular diseases.
Impact of dynamic health intervention models through online and offline on self-efficacy and quality of life among chronic disease patients
Authors: Zhang Qunfang , Yang Chao , Hu Xincai
Published: December 2024

Background

The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases in China has prompted a surge in demand for nursing services, yet conventional care models often fail to coordinate effectively between hospitals and homes, leading to significant care disconnection and reduced patient satisfaction. Dynamic health intervention models, delivered through mobile networks both online and offline, offer comprehensive and proactive care experiences for chronic disease patients.

Objective

This study explores the impact of dynamic health intervention models through online and offline mobile networks on the patients self-efficacy and quality of life undergoing chronic disease examinations.

Methods

Ninety chronic disease patients who underwent examinations at our hospital from July 2021 to August 2022 were selected. They were randomly divided into a control group (45 cases, receiving routine health care intervention) and a research group (45 cases, undergoing dynamic health intervention care through online and offline mobile networks). The intervention lasted for six months. nursing compliance to health interventions, and nursing satisfaction with health intervention were compared between two groups.

Results

After six months of health intervention, the research group showed higher scores in Exercise of Self-Care Agency Scale (ESCA), General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), and Chinese version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Scale (WHOQOL-BREF) compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Nursing compliance during health intervention was higher in the research group than in the control group (97.78% vs. 77.78%), and the health intervention services in nursing satisfaction was also higher in the research group (100.00% vs. 86.67%) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

To carry out the dynamic health intervention model of mobile network online and offline in patients with chronic diseases is beneficial to improve the self-care ability of patients, enhance their sense of self-efficacy and improve their quality of life, patients had higher nursing compliance and satisfaction.
Research progress and visual analysis of smart wearable devices for the elderly in the context of ageing 4.0
Authors: Shang Xianru , Liu Zijian , Hu Zhigang , Yang Tianxing , Gong Chen
Published: December 2024

Problem Statement

The world's population is ageing quickly, making managing older people's health more difficult. Although smart wearable devices (SWDs) have gained attention as possible instruments for enhancing health outcomes in this population, it is still uncertain how useful and long-lasting they will be.

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to methodically evaluate the advancement of academic research and development concerning SWDs for the aged, with an emphasis on the effects these diseases have on quality of life, illness prevention, and health management.

Methodology

649 publications published in the Web of Science Core Collection between 2013 and 2023 underwent bibliometric analysis. VOSviewer and CiteSpace software were used to assess topic changes, publishing trends, and citation patterns. Co-citation analysis was used to pinpoint important literature and research focus clusters.

Results

The results show a notable rise in publications about SWDs for the aged, emphasising essential topics, including fall detection, technology adoption, and healthcare applications. According to the report, multidisciplinary research integration is expanding, and publications like IEEE SENSORS JOURNAL and SENSORS-BASEL are making significant contributions.

Conclusion

The research emphasises the crucial need to conduct long-term monitoring studies to verify the health advantages of SWDs for senior citizens. It highlights the necessity for user-centred design and urges future research to concentrate on improving wearable technology accuracy to maximise its usefulness in managing geriatric health.
Securing healthcare data: A federated learning framework with hybrid encryption in cluster environments
Authors: Srivenkateswaran C , Jaya Mabel Rani A , Senthil Kumaran R , Vinston Raja R
Published: December 2024

The study's novel contribution is the development and evaluation of a hybrid encryption scheme combining Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) with the Serpent symmetric encryption algorithm, demonstrating enhanced security and performance for safeguarding healthcare data in cluster environments while ensuring scalability, interoperability, and compliance with HIPAA regulations. The primary objectives include assessing the suitability of the ECC-Serpent hybrid encryption for safeguarding healthcare data, ensuring the scalability and interoperability of this encryption solution with existing healthcare systems, and implementing secure communication channels within cluster environments. The combination of Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) and the Serpent algorithm leverages ECC's efficient key management and Serpent's robust symmetric encryption to provide enhanced security and performance, ensuring scalable and resilient data protection in cluster environments. This hybrid approach addresses both key distribution efficiency and high encryption strength, which are critical for securing sensitive healthcare data. This hybrid approach addresses key distribution efficiency and high encryption strength, which are critical for securing sensitive healthcare data. The study employs a hierarchical key management strategy, utilizing ECC for secure key exchange and distribution, paired with regular key rotation and storage practices to maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations and ensure the ongoing protection of sensitive healthcare data. Overall, the research underscores the critical need for healthcare organizations to adhere to HIPAA regulations and implement robust encryption measures to protect patient privacy and secure sensitive medical information. The study concludes that the ECC-Serpent hybrid encryption scheme is a viable and effective solution for enhancing healthcare data security in cluster environments, ensuring both data integrity and regulatory compliance. The implemented Python framework yielded promising results, the key finding is that the ECC-Serpent hybrid encryption scheme is a viable and effective solution for enhancing healthcare data security in cluster environments, achieving an accuracy rate of 97.5% in safeguarding patient data.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Use of Small Laboratory Animals in Preclinical Research: A Five-Year Quantitative Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Gattani Ajay , Khurade Komal , Tripathi Raakhi , Seetharaman Rajmohan , Jalgaonkar Sharmila
Published: December 2024

Background

Animal models play a critical role in biomedical research, yet comprehensive data on the types and distribution of animals used in different research contexts are sparse.

Objective

This study aims to provide a detailed analysis of small laboratory animals used in preclinical research, highlighting the types of animal species used, study types, and disease systems targeted.

Materials and Methods

A total of 841 freely available full-text original research articles indexed in the PubMed database from January 2016 to January 2021 were analyzed. Variables recorded included a) type of animal species used for research, b) type of animal studies ( in vivo, in vitro, mixed, transgenic, xenograft, others), c) distribution of animals across different study types, d) system and disease-wise distribution of studies, and e) type of animal used and type of studies conducted for different systems/diseases

Results

Mice were used in 75.98% of studies, followed by rats at 22.12%. Most studies were in vivo (35.43%), followed by mixed studies combining both in vivo and in vitro methods (24.49%). The gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems (GIT/GU: 21.04%) and the central nervous system (CNS: 15.33%) were the most studied. GIT/GU research focused on diseases like nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and various carcinomas. For CNS, studies predominantly addressed Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. In GIT/GU studies, mice were the most commonly used species (140/177), with in vivo (55/177), mixed (43/177), and xenograft (36/177) approaches. For CNS diseases, in vivo approaches (72/129) were prevalent, utilizing both mice (39/129) and rats (32/129).

Conclusion

The distribution of animal species in these studies validates that mice, followed by rats, are still very commonly used small animals for preclinical research. In disease areas like GIT/GU and CNS, there is a notable use of mixed and transgenic models, which offer a comprehensive understanding of disease mechanisms. The preference for mixed and transgenic mouse models in cancer research, particularly xenografts, underscores the shift towards more sophisticated and disease-relevant animal models.
Identifying the best window size, lead time and sensor combination for classification of injurious versus non-injurious patient transfer from bed to wheelchair
Authors: Lim Kitaek , Lee Seyoung , Choi Woochol Joseph
Published: December 2024

Background

Patient transfers are frequent occupational tasks of caregivers, often leading to lower back injuries. While early detection of injurious moments during patient transfers is helpful to lower the risk of such injuries, it remains a critical challenge.

Objective

We developed a classification model for injurious and non-injurious patient transfers using a support vector machine (SVM) with inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor data of caregivers.

Methods

Sixteen young adults simulated one-person patient transfers from bed to wheelchair. During trials, the kinematics and kinetics of transfer movements were recorded with a motion capture system, IMU sensor, and force plate. A simple kinematic model was used to determine compressive forces at L5/S1, which were then used to define injurious transfers. For classification, features were extracted from the IMU sensor data to be used in SVM with different window sizes and lead times. Since characteristics of the compressive forces have been documented in our companion paper, we focus on the classification model in this paper.

Results

Classification models were able to differentiate injurious versus non-injurious transfers with accuracy in the range from 84.9–100%. The performance depended on the window size, lead time, and the number and location of IMU sensors. The recommended combination for clinical use would be a window size of 0.2 s, lead time of 0.3 s, and two sensors at both thighs.

Conclusions

Our study presents high-performance risk detection models during patient transfers, informing the development of the application to help address musculoskeletal injuries in caregivers.
The use of extended reality in rehabilitation for patients with acquired brain injury: A scoping review
Authors: Bulle-Smid Loes , van den Heuvel Renée , Keuning Wouter , Hakvoort Gido , Daniëls Ramon , Verhoeven Fenne
Published: December 2024

Background

Extended reality is increasingly used for rehabilitation after acquired brain injury, offering benefits including improved recovery, reduced length of hospital stay, enhanced self-efficacy, and lower cost. Despite these advantages, XR is rarely implemented in daily rehabilitation practice.

Objective

Outline extended reality for acquired brain injury research, focusing on patient outcomes and experiences to inform scale-up and implementation.

Methods

The Arksey and O’Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR reporting guideline were followed. Studies from 2010 to May 2022 were screened from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, and IEEE.

Results

Seventy-five studies met inclusion criteria: 63 on stroke patients, seven on traumatic brain injury, and five on multiple disorders. The extended reality applications focused on assessment to diagnose patient’s condition or therapy intervention, categorized into physical, cognitive, and multipurpose. Most studies used Virtual Reality. A wide range of implementation factors were identified, categorized into patient-related, professional-related, and technology and system-related factors.

Conclusions

Our scoping review offers a comprehensive and multidimensional analysis of research on XR applications for acquired brain injury rehabilitation. While it reports potential and promising outcomes of these applications, larger-scale studies are necessary to substantiate the effectiveness of XR and to better understand the factors influencing its implementation in daily practice.
Solidification and solid-state phenomena during keyhole-gas tungsten arc welding of IN617 nickel-based superalloy
Authors: Latifi Reza , Vatan Ara Masoud , Yazdizadeh Morteza , Pouranvari Majid
Published: December 2024

Keyhole gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) is a promising welding technique that enhances productivity and sustainability in the manufacturing industry. The substantial heat input associated with the single-pass keyhole-GTAW influences the phase transformations occurring in the weld. This study aims to investigate the microstructural evolution during keyhole-GTAW of the IN617 nickel-based superalloy. The microstructure of the fusion zone exhibits large columnar grains and a coarse dendritic solidification structure, accompanied by interdendritic micro-segregation which lead to the formation of titanium-rich M(C,N) and molybdenum-rich carbides. The heat-affected zone is characterised by the dissolution of carbide stringers. Notably, no constitutional liquation was observed. The implications of solidification and solid-state phase transformations on the hardness characteristics and tensile properties of the weld are discussed.
Policing and mental health: A rapid evidence assessment of the effect of police activity on people's mental health
Authors: Kyprianides Arabella , Bradford Ben
Published: December 2024

Whereas existing literature has pointed to a connection between policing and adverse mental health outcomes, it primarily focuses on Black populations within the context of disproportionate police contact and the policing of racially minoritised communities. We conducted a rapid evidence assessment of the literature examining the association between policing and mental health, encompassing individuals of all races, ages and countries, with a focus on investigating the effect of police activity on people's mental health. We include situations in which police are both the proximate cause of (poor) mental health and those in which police are interacting with people who already have poor mental health. A total of 92 studies exploring the impact of police activity on the mental well-being of the policed were included. Overall, the evidence underscores a connection between police encounters and negative mental health repercussions. Quantitative investigations substantiate this correlation, while qualitative studies offer insights into the experiences of individuals who have directly experienced or been privy to accounts of what they often perceive as unjust policing practices. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Qualitative evaluation of My Life Today - A co-produced personal tool from the IDEAL programme to help people with dementia monitor valued aspects of their lives
Authors: Pentecost Claire , Hunt Anna , Litherland Rachael , Quinn Catherine , Charlwood Catherine , Morris Robin G , Clare Linda
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives: Self-management of chronic conditions can help individuals take control of their health, both improving well-being and reducing the burden on health and social care resources. This study explored the potential of our co-produced self-management tool, My Life Today (MLT), to help people with dementia identify, plan and monitor aspects of their lives that are important to them and that help to maintain or improve well-being.

Research design and methods: We asked people with dementia to try using MLT. We conducted semi-structured interviews after one month and further interviews one month later. We also interviewed people who had supported the person with dementia to use MLT (‘supporters’). We adopted a realist approach to thematic analysis to explore what works, for whom, under what circumstances.

Results: Sixteen people with dementia and four supporters took part. All but one had mild to moderate cognitive impairment, and one had severe cognitive impairment. People with dementia used MLT according to their perceptions of its usefulness, their capabilities, and whether they had support. Using MLT helped most to think more positively about their activities and achievements and feel reassured by identifying the activities they were doing. Supporters and some people with dementia also derived benefits from planning and problem-solving to include more pleasurable activities.

Discussion and implications: People with dementia and supporters found MLT a helpful tool. Mechanisms of engagement with MLT resonate with theories of behaviour change concerning the evaluation of capabilities and feelings of confidence in the ability to complete MLT and plan activities. Offering simple self-management tools such as MLT could form part of a post-diagnostic support package for people with dementia. Providing flexibility in when tools are offered and how they are used can allow for differences in attitudes and capabilities and increase the likelihood of engagement.
Pacific Islander and Māori Perspectives on Forensic Risk Assessment in Australia
Authors: Venner Samantha , Maharaj Natasha , Sivasubramaniam Diane , Shepherd Stephane M
Published: December 2024

Pacific Islander and Māori people are overrepresented in the Australian criminal justice system. However, little research has examined relevant risk and protective factors and whether existing risk tools are appropriate for predicting risk and informing treatment for these populations. This paper used a qualitative, thematic analytical approach to canvass the opinions of Māori and Pacific Islander justice workers regarding risk and protective factors, the perceived suitability of the Level of Service/Risk Need Responsivity (LS/RNR) and best-practice approaches to engaging in a risk assessment interview with Pacific Islander and Māori people. Findings suggest that while many of the LS/RNR risk factors are likely to be relevant, there may be several culturally specific risk and protective factors that are not included in the LS/RNR. Consequently, the LS/RNR may not comprehensively assess the risks and needs of Pacific Islander and Māori people and may present some limitations in its capacity to inform treatment and management. Recommendations for practitioners and organizations and avenues for future research are discussed.
Antimicrobial and Hepatoprotective Properties of Pods of Acacia nilotica (L.) Willd. ex Delile: In Vivo and In Silico Approaches
Authors: Idrees Mehak , Javaid Sana , Nadeem Sumaira , Khurshid Faria , Parveen Abida , Malik Abdul , Ali Khan Azmat , Akhtar Suhail , Fatima Sabiha
Published: December 2024

Background

Acacia nilotica is a multipurpose plant known for its remedial properties but the antimicrobial and hepatoprotective activity of its pods remained unexplored.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and hepatoprotective activity of n-hexane (ANPH) and methanol (ANPM) extracts of pods to scientifically validate their medicinal claims.

Methods

After the pharmacognostic evaluation of pods, in vitro tests were carried out to estimate phenolic and flavonoid content and antimicrobial potential. In vivo experiments involved testing of both extracts (250 and 500 mg/kg) paracetamol (PCM)-induced hepatotoxicity model in rats. The molecular docking studies explored insights into the potential binding capabilities of the ligands with the specific target proteins.

Results

ANPH and ANPM were enriched with phenols and flavonoids and showed antimicrobial effects. In the hepatoprotective test, the rats chronically treated with extracts had a dose-dependent hepatoprotection as markers of liver functionality were notably reduced ( P < 0.05). The in silico studies revealed strong binding interactions of ergost-5-en-3-ol and oxiranyl methyl ester 9-octadecenoic acid with target proteins for antibacterial activity and hepatoprotective activity, respectively.

Conclusion

The antimicrobial and hepatoprotective potential of pods might be due to their phenols and flavonoids. The Pyrogallol, Ergost-5-en-3-and 9-octadecenoic acid might be bringing these remedial benefits through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Vibration control of Stewart platform based on an improved nonlinear proportional-derivative control method
Authors: Jin Ke , Wang Ruoning , Zhang Yue , Li Xueyan
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes an improved switching nonlinear proportional-derivative (S-NPD) control algorithm for a six-degree-of-freedom Stewart platform which has strong nonlinearity and uncertainty characteristics, designed to achieve vibration isolation and suppression over a wide bandwidth range while solving the problem of the difficulty in parameter tuning. The controller is designed based on the idea of variable-structure control, which achieves independent real-time adjustments of the control gains of the six legs and takes the sign of the proportional and differential errors as the switching function to realize the feed-forward correction of the proportional gain. This control input can track the expected value more precisely, thus strengthening the system's ability to cope with high dynamics. To validate the results of the proposed approach, numerical simulations are compared with those obtained from PD and NPD controls. The findings confirmed that the designed S-NPD controller shows commendable stability and robustness, and the vibration attenuation of the upper platform under low- and medium-frequency conditions is substantially improved. In addition, it obtains smoother vibration waveforms and lower control force under random disturbance conditions. Consequently, it is proved that the S-NPD control can obtain better regulation accuracy. Compared with the PD and NPD controls, the S-NPD control achieves up to 64% and 31.4% relative performance improvement in vibration attenuation rate, respectively.
Hidden and manifested authority abuse: Sexual misconduct of female Arabs by Jewish males in the Israeli academia
Authors: Hager Tamar , Saba Tuffaha , Barkay Tamar
Published: December 2024

For female Arab student citizens of Israel, Israeli academia can become a violently unsafe site that reflects its racist reality. Our article addresses stories told by two Arab-Palestinian female students about sexual misconduct they experienced from Jewish males. Reading these stories through critical race theory, intersectionality and settler colonialism theory, we argue that these cases echo and represent the unequal gender, ethnic and national power relations in Israeli society. In the first account, a female Arab student was offered academic help by one of her Jewish male peers, which quickly turned into a case of sexual misconduct. She refused to report it, fearing social sanctions. In the second story, the student experienced forced courtship by a member of staff but did not file a complaint fearing to jeopardise the services she was entitled to. In both stories, the Jewish men were aware of and exploited the patriarchal and national oppression faced by the Arab female students. We argue that the victims’ wish to hide the sexual offences is both a result of their lack of agency in the face of Israeli racist and colonial discourse and an act of resistance against that discourse.
Exploring the handedness-breast cancer nexus: a comprehensive analysis via systematic review, meta-analysis, and Mendelian randomization
Authors: Oh Chi Young , Kim Eugene , Kim Kihun , Oh Hyeoncheol , Yoon Jung-Pil , Goh Tae Sik , Son Eunjeong , Ko Dai Sik , Kim Yun Hak
Published: December 2024

Background:

Given the widespread prevalence of breast cancer as a global malignancy, there is a compelling need to delve into its risk determinants.

Objective:

This study aims to investigate the potential relationship between indicators of left-handedness and breast cancer, employing systematic review, meta-analysis, and Mendelian randomization methods.

Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

The systematic review and meta-analysis, encompassing case-control and cohort designs, conducted a database search on June 17, 2022, utilizing Medline and Embase. For Mendelian randomization analysis, the exposure variable, left-handedness, was sourced from the UK Biobank. Data for breast cancer outcomes were obtained from two cohorts: the Breast Cancer Association Consortium and the Finnish Biobank (Finngen).

Results:

Eight studies were included in the meta-analysis to investigate the correlation between left-handedness and breast cancer in females. The analysis of cohort studies revealed a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.21 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.45), whereas case-control studies showed an odds ratio of 0.81 (95% CI: 0.52–1.26). Subgroup analysis indicated an elevated HR in premenopausal left-handed women. However, Mendelian randomization did not confirm a significant association.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest a potential correlation between left-handedness and breast cancer, particularly in premenopausal women. However, due to limited studies and unclear supporting theories, definitive conclusions are premature.
Causal associations of immunophenotypes with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease and mediating pathways: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xie Kexin , Chen Ming , An Hongjin , Gao Jinhang , Tang Chengwei , Huang Zhiyin
Published: December 2024

Background:

Increasing evidence suggests that immunophenotypes play a crucial role in Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), but the specific immunophenotypes contributing to its pathogenesis remain unclear.

Objectives:

This study aimed to elucidate the causal associations between immunophenotypes and MAFLD and identify the underlying mediation pathways involved.

Design:

Mendelian randomization (MR) study.

Methods:

This study is a quasi-causal inference analysis using univariable and multivariable MR (UVMR and MVMR). Five MAFLD genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and the largest immunophenotype GWAS were analyzed to assess their causal associations. Two-step MR identified potential mediators and quantified their mediation proportions. Comprehensive MR methods, multiple sensitivity analyses, meta-analyses, and false discovery rate (FDR) further enhanced the robustness of our findings.

Results:

Pooled inverse-variance weighted (IVW) estimates in UVMR identified 47 immunophenotypes having a suggestive causal association with MAFLD. After adjusting for FDR, three lymphocyte phenotypes remained significant: CD20 on IgD−CD24− B cells (OR: 1.035, pfdr: 0.006), terminally differentiated CD8+ T cells %T cells (OR: 1.052, pfdr: 0.006), and CD4 on CD39+ secreting CD4+ regulatory T cells (OR: 1.036, pfdr: 0.046). Meta-analysis of IVW MVMR estimates with confounders adjustment confirmed that CD20 on IgD−CD24− B cells and terminally differentiated CD8+ T cells %T cells had significant direct causal associations on MAFLD ( pfdr < 0.05). Additionally, two-step MR analysis identified the waist-to-hip ratio as a mediator, accounting for 42.64% of the causal association between CD20 on IgD−CD24− B cells and MAFLD.

Conclusion:

The causal associations of three lymphocyte phenotypes with increased MAFLD risk were identified in this study. CD20 on IgD−CD24− B cells may both directly and indirectly elevate MAFLD risk, while terminally differentiated CD8+ T cells have a direct causal relationship with MAFLD. These findings suggest new possibilities for targeted therapies and underscore the potential for personalized immunotherapy in managing MAFLD.
Cyclosporin A as an adjunct may enhance the therapeutic effect of interferon alpha-2a in patients with refractory Behcet’s uveitis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yang Peizeng , Deng Yang , Zhang Yinan , Zhu YunYun , Huang Ziqian , Dai Lingyu , Wu Qiuying , Su Guannan , Cao Qingfeng , Lai Yujie
Published: December 2024

Background:

The application of biologic agents has benefited patients with Behcet’s uveitis (BU) who do not respond to conventional treatment regimens. However, there is currently no consensus on the optimal treatment regimen of interferon alpha-2a (IFN-α2a) for refractory BU.

Objectives:

To evaluate treatment outcomes and safety of IFN-α2a in a large series of refractory BU patients and to explore whether nonbiologic immunomodulatory agents (cyclosporin A) other than corticosteroids should be concomitantly used.

Design:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study, which included 153 BU patients who received IFN-α2a treatment between December 2012 and September 2023 with a minimum duration of 6 months.

Methods:

Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), the frequency of uveitis relapse, corticosteroid-sparing effect, and side effects were evaluated.

Results:

Of the 153 patients enrolled, 87 patients were treated with IFN-α2a plus corticosteroids (IC), and 66 patients were treated with IFN-α2a plus corticosteroids and cyclosporin A (ICC). Both IFN-α2a treatment regimens significantly improved BCVA as early as 2 months following treatment, and the improvement was maintained over at least a 2-year follow-up. At the final visit, 86.8% and 73.1% of the affected eyes in the ICC and IC groups achieved improved or stable vision, respectively. The ICC regimen was more effective at improving vision ( p = 0.01). Overall, the frequency of uveitis relapse and the dose of oral prednisolone were significantly reduced in both groups after treatment (all p < 0.0001). However, there were no statistically significant differences in these parameters between the two groups. None of the included patients experienced serious side effects that led to the discontinuation of IFN-α2a therapy.

Conclusion:

IFN-α2a treatment is a promising option for patients with refractory BU. Our results showed that cyclosporin A as an adjunct could enhance the therapeutic effect of IFN-α2a.
Hepatic Angiomyolipoma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tababi Ramzi , Medhioub Mouna , Soussi Ines , Noomen Imen , Kallel Yassine , Yakoubi Manel , Mohamed Asma Ben , Mahmoudi Moufida , Gharbi Ghada , Bouassida Mahdi , Chelbi Emna , Bouzaidi Khaled , Khsiba Amal , Hamzaoui Mohamed Lamine
Published: December 2024

Hepatic angiomyolipoma (HAML) is an uncommon primary liver tumor with limited reported cases in the literature. It is composed of varying amounts of fat, smooth muscle, and blood vessels, typically non-malignant proliferation. It usually presents diagnostic challenges due to diverse imaging characteristics. We present a case of a 50-year-old female with a small HAML causing mild abdominal pain. It displayed radiographic characteristics mimicking hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and subsequent diagnosis was established upon histopathological findings of liver biopsy. The patient was radiologically monitored, and then she underwent surgical resection later on because of the size increase. Follow-up showed no signs of recurrence at 3 months. This case highlights the importance of histologic diagnosis of HAML if there are suggestive imaging features, given the variety of differential diagnoses. Symptoms or tumor growth is to be considered as warning signs that should lead to surgical resection, which remains the primary treatment modality.
Arthroscopic Side-to-Side Suture Repair for Full-Thickness Transtendinous Supraspinatus Rotator Cuff Tear
Authors: Steuer Fritz , Marcaccio Stephen , McMahon Sophia , Dalton Jonathan F. , Fox Michael , Lin Albert
Published: December 2024

Background:

Full-thickness, transtendinous supraspinatus tears involve a significant portion of the remnant tendon that remains attached to the greater tuberosity footprint. This tear type often leaves insufficient medial tissue for tension-free footprint restoration with traditional repair techniques. In these clinical scenarios, side-to-side suture repair is an effective repair technique.

Indications:

Indications for this procedure include an acute mechanism of injury, sufficient remnant tendon left on the greater tuberosity, and a medial tear location such that primary repair of the medial tendon would not result in overtensioning of the repair.

Technique Description:

Following diagnostic arthroscopy, 2 suture tapes are passed through the medial and lateral portion of the tendon surface in a simple side-to-side fashion. Two FiberLink sutures (Arthrex) are then placed in luggage tag fashion, in between the side-to-side sutures within the myotendinous portion of the tear. The suture tapes are then tied in an arthroscopic fashion, completing the side-to-side repair. The looped sutures are then secured through a 4.75-mm BioComposite SwiveLock lateral row anchor (Arthrex) as an added reinforcement to prevent medial retraction of the myotendinous portion of the tear, creating a tension-free environment for optimal tear healing.

Results:

Available literature suggests that the side-to-side repair technique in patients with transtendinous supraspinatus rotator cuff tears yields excellent outcomes equivalent to that of tendon-to-bone double-row suture anchor repair for conventional tendon to bone type tears. This surgical technique reduces risk of overtensioning the repair and optimizes the healing environment in this rare clinical scenario.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Side-to-side suture repair for full-thickness transtendinous supraspinatus tears is an effective treatment for patients with this uncommon presentation. When healthy tendon is present, a robust repair can be achieved with excellent outcomes and low rates of surgical complications.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Efficacy and experience of system constellations in virtual reality (VR): study protocol for a randomized controlled feasibility study
Authors: van Bebber Tobias , Tappe Eik-Henning , Druyen Thomas , Kleve Heiko , Rüsen Tom , Hunger-Schoppe Christina
Published: December 2024

Background

Though evidence-based research about system constellations (SCs) appears marginal, it is applied in many psychiatric, psychological, and psychotherapeutic institutions as well as in different contexts of organizational counseling. To date, only one randomized controlled trial (RCT) has been conducted to assess the short- to long-term efficacy of SCs, which entail clients meeting at the same location in person. This study is to investigate the feasibility of a RCT investigating SCs in virtual reality (VR), and to calculate the number of clients needed for a confirmatory RCT.

Design

We will perform a prospective, monocentric, parallel-group, feasibility RCT with subsequent intervention. A total of 128 clients of 3-day group-based SC-VR seminars will be randomized to either the intervention group (IG; n = 64) or wait-list group (WLG; n = 64), which receives SCs in VR after 4 months. Feasibility and acceptability of the (1) research methodology and (2) intervention as well as the (3) estimation of effect sizes will be assessed using qualitative and quantitative data. Based on the model of a general mental health, the proposed primary outcome includes the SC-VR adherence, and the proposed secondary outcomes refer to psychological functioning (OQ-45.2), social system functioning (EXIS), psychological distress (FEP-2), motivational incongruence (INK-SF), and goal attainment (GAS). We plan to investigate the short-term efficacy at 2-week and 4-month follow-up within the RCT design (n = 128), and mid-term efficacy at 8- and 12-month follow-up for the intervention group (n = 64).

Discussion

The study is expected to be the first study on the feasibility of SC-VR. We will reflect on successfully implemented study procedures, and we will provide recommendations for changes considering the design, rationale, analyses, and interpretation of the study results where they became necessary. The discussion will conclude with an evaluation whether a confirmatory RCT on SC-VR is worth the investment of future resources, including the calculated number of clients needed based on the efficacy trends derived from this feasibility study.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: ID = N CT05557890; date of registration: September 23, 2022; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05557890.