bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mouth Rinsing and Ingesting Unpleasant Salty or Bitter Solutions After Heavy-Intensity Cycling Does Not Influence Sprint Performance or Knee-Extensor Force in Trained Cyclists
Authors: Gray Edward A. , Cavaleri Rocco , Siegler Jason C.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: The present study investigated the effect of unpleasant salty or bitter tastes on cycling sprint performance and knee-extensor force characteristics in different fatigue states. Methods: Following a familiarization session, 11 trained male cyclists completed 3 experimental trials (salty, bitter, and water) in a randomized crossover order. In each trial, participants cycled at 85% of the respiratory compensation point for 45 minutes and then, after a 5-minute rest, completed a 1-minute sprint. Muscle-force characteristics were assessed using 2 knee-extensor maximal voluntary contractions immediately before, between, and after the cycling efforts. Participants mouth-rinsed and ingested 25 mL of test solution (salty, bitter, and water) immediately before each maximal voluntary contractions and the 1-minute sprint. Results: There were no significant differences in mean and peak power output during the 1-minute sprint between conditions (mean power: 528 [71] W, 524 [70] W, and 521 [80] W in the water, salt, and bitter conditions, respectively). Muscle-force production was impaired in all conditions after the heavy-intensity cycling, evidenced by a decline in maximum force production (P = .01, effect size = 0.32) and 100- to 200-millisecond impulse (P = .04, effect size = 0.27). However, there were no significant differences between conditions in maximal force or impulse measures at rest or after exercise. Conclusion: These data question whether unpleasant tastes can influence muscle-force production and do not support that they may be used as an ergogenic aid for a cycling sprint performed under fatigued conditions.
Women Upward—Sex Differences in Uphill Performance in Speed Climbing, Ski Mountaineering, Trail Running, Cross-Country Skiing, and Cycling
Authors: Millet Grégoire P. , Raberin Antoine , Faiss Raphael , Giovanelli Nicola , Galindo Thierry , Place Nicolas , Sandbakk Øyvind
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Women have generally lower body size and lean- to fat-mass ratio, lower maximal anaerobic power due to a lower muscle mass, and fewer fast-twitch fibers, although they can show higher resistance to fatigue or greater metabolic flexibility than men. These factors are well known and explain the sex differences in endurance sports such as distance running (10%–12%). Several of these factors—particularly the differences in body composition and skeletal-muscle characteristics—may directly impact vertical displacement and uphill performance. However, there is a lack of sex-difference reports in sports with uphill locomotion. Methods: The sex differences in world-level endurance performance over 10 years (2013–2022) in 6 different sports with uphill displacement (speed climbing, vertical race in ski mountaineering, vertical kilometer in mountain running, cycling, cross-country skiing, and ultratrail running) were calculated. Results: The sex differences are generally larger (18%–22%) than in endurance sports performed primarily on flat terrains. This may be due to the lower lean- to fat-mass ratio commonly reported in women. In shorter uphill events (eg, sport climbing, vertical kilometer, and short climb in cycling), the sex differences appear even more pronounced (28%–35%), potentially being explained by additional factors (eg, anaerobic capacity, muscle composition, and upper-body contribution). Conclusion: This novel analysis over 10 years of elite endurance performance in different sports with uphill displacement shows that the sex differences are generally larger (18%–22%) than in endurance sports performed primarily on flat terrains.
Embracing Innovation in Qualitative Research in Kinesiology
Authors: Columna Luis
Published: December 2024

In recent years, qualitative research in kinesiology has increasingly emphasized complex theoretical frameworks and philosophical discussions. Although these approaches provide deep insights, they often fail to translate into practical outcomes that directly benefit practitioners and the public. In this paper, I advocate for a balanced and innovative approach that combines foundational research methods with cutting-edge practices such as artificial intelligence and new digital approaches. Key themes explored include intersectionality, artificial intelligence’s growing role in qualitative research, and mentoring future researchers, demonstrating how innovation can enhance the relevance and impact of studies. Ultimately, I advocate for a shift in research focus to bridge the gap between philosophical inquiry and practical impact.
How does organisational culture facilitate uptake of home dialysis? An ethnographic study of kidney centres in England
Authors: Allen Kerry , Shaw Karen L , Spry Jenna L , Dikomitis Lisa , Coyle David , Damery Sarah , Fotheringham James , Lambie Mark , Williams Iestyn P , Davies Simon
Published: December 2024

Objective

The proportion of people having home dialysis for kidney disease varies considerably by treating centre, socioeconomic deprivation levels in the area and to some extent ethnicity. This study aimed to gain in-depth insights into cultural and organisational factors contributing to this variation in uptake.

Design

This is the first ethnographic study of kidney centre culture to focus on home dialysis uptake. The NASSS (non-adoption, abandonment, scale-up, spread, and sustainability) framework was used to map factors that influence the use of home dialysis.

Setting

We conducted focused ethnographic fieldwork in four kidney centres in England, with average or high rates of home dialysis use, selected to represent geographic, ethnic and socioeconomic diversity.

Participants

Observations of patient consultations, team meetings, patient education and training sessions (n=34); and interviews with staff, patients and carers (n=72).

Results

We identified three themes that can support the decision to pursue home dialysis: (a)Encouraging patient voice and individualised support. Kidney care teams engaged with people’s psychosocial needs and cultural contexts, and valued peer support as part of patient education; (b)Ensuring access to home dialysis. Transparency about all treatment options, minimisation of eligibility assumptions and awareness of inequities of access; (c)Achieving sustained change based on benefits for patients. This included organisational cultures which adopted quality improvement approaches and worked with wider stakeholders to shape future policy and practice.

Conclusions

Willingness to pursue dialysis at home relied on patients’ and carers’ ability to place their confidence in their kidney care teams rather than how services were organised. Our study of kidney centre culture has identified approaches to patient empowerment, access to treatment and readiness for improvement and change that could be incorporated into a service delivery intervention.
Associations of socio-demographic, anthropometric and behavioural factors with phase angle in older adults: a cross-sectional study in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Jiaren , Lai Ting‐Fu , Chung Yen-Yu , Park Jong-Hwan , Liao Yung
Published: December 2024

Objective

Phase angle (PhA) is a prognostic factor for predicting and monitoring geriatric syndromes. However, multiple factors associated with increased PhA values as an outcome remain unclear in the older population. This study aimed to examine the association of socio-demographic, anthropometric and behavioural factors with PhA among older Taiwanese adults.

Design

This cross-sectional study was conducted between May and August 2023.

Setting

The study was carried out in northern Taiwan, specifically Taipei city and Yilan county.

Participants

Participants aged ≥65 years who were able to walk independently and had no artificial implants, such as cardiac pacemakers or joint replacements, were recruited using convenience sampling. A total of 198 participants were initially recruited for this study.

Primary outcome measures

Data on socio-demographic and behavioural variables were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Anthropometric variables and PhA were measured using a multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analyser (MC-780MA, TANITA). PhA was categorised into ‘high’ and ‘low’ using gender-specific cut-off points. A logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results

A total of 152 participants (mean age: 72.0±5.5 years; 121 women (79.6%)) were included. Male (OR=0.72, 95% CI=0.02 to 0.33), unmarried (OR=0.22, 95% CI=0.06 to 0.82) and unemployed older adults (OR=0.16, 95% CI=0.03 to 0.87) were less probable to achieve high PhA values. After adjusting for potential confounders, older individuals with an increased body mass index (BMI) (OR=2.56, 95% CI=1.61 to 4.07) and greater muscle mass (OR=1.34, 95% CI=1.12 to 1.60) may have higher PhA values, whereas those with a greater fat mass may have lower PhA values (OR=0.61, 95% CI=0.48 to 0.78). No significant associations were observed between behavioural factors and PhA values.

Conclusions

The interventions designed to improve PhA should prioritise strategies tailored to male, unmarried or unemployed older adults, as well as those with low BMI, low muscle mass and high fat mass. Future studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm and strengthen our findings.
Prevalence and factors associated with teenage pregnancy in refugee settlements of northern Uganda post-COVID-19 (2020–2023): a cross-sectional study
Authors: Otika Donald , Odongo George , Muzaki Ruth Mary Mary , Lamwaka Beatrice Oweka , Bongomin Felix , Pebolo Francis Pebalo
Published: December 2024

Background

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an increase in teenage pregnancies nationally, however, limited data exists regarding the same among girls living in refugee settlements.

Objectives

We evaluated the prevalence of teenage pregnancy and associated factors in Palorinya and Bidi Bidi refugee settlements in Obongi and Yumbe districts of northern Uganda, in the post-COVID-19 era.

Design

We conducted a cross-sectional study.

Setting

Refugee settlements in northern Uganda.

Participants

We included 385 teenage girls aged 15–19 years.

Methods

We used convenience sampling techniques between March and May 2023. Prevalence of teenage pregnancy was assessed by self-reported pregnancies between January 2020 and May 2023 among participants. We conducted Pearson’s χ2and Fisher’s exact tests for bivariate analysis. All variables with a p value<0.2 at bivariate analysis were included in multivariable regression. We applied a modified Poisson regression model at the multivariable level to evaluate independent associations. The level of statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome measure was the prevalence of teenage pregnancy, assessed through self-reported pregnancies among participants. Secondary outcome measures included factors associated with teenage pregnancy, such as living with a husband, lack of formal education, peer pressure and history of sexual abuse.

Results

Overall, the mean age was 17 (IQR: 15–18), and sexual debut was at 16 (IQR: 15–17) years. Lifetime modern contraceptive use was 13.8% (n=53/385) and current use was 7.5% (n=29/385). Teenage pregnancy period prevalence was 34.0% (CI: 29.4% to 38.9%). Factors independently associated with teenage pregnancy were: living with a husband (aPR: 3.8, 95% CI: 2.51 to 5.84, p<0.001), lack of formal education (Adjusted Prevalence Ratios - aPR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.26 to 4.35, p=0.007), peer pressure (aPR: 2.1, 95% CI: 1.54 to 2.86, p<0.001) and history of sexual abuse (aPR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.07 to 1.99, p=0.018).

Conclusion

Our study revealed that around 1 in 3 adolescent girls in northern Uganda’s refugee settlements experienced pregnancy during the COVID-19 pandemic, with only 1 in 13 currently using modern contraceptives. To address this, targeted strategies by relevant authorities are crucial, including legal actions against sexual abuse, promoting girl child education and enhancing access to long-term contraception to reduce teenage pregnancy and associated health risks in these settings.
Impact of COVID-19 and recovery of routine diabetic retinopathy digital screening across different regions in England: an analysis of publicly available data
Authors: Pardhan Shahina , Wijewickrama Rumalie Chanika Alwis , Gilbert Clare E , Piyasena Mapa Prabhath , Sapkota Raju
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aims to examine the reduction and subsequent recovery of routine digital screening (RDS) uptake in England from 2018 to 2022, exploring national, regional and individual Diabetic Eye Screening Programme (DESP) levels. The COVID-19 lockdown in most areas of England was from 26 March 2020 to 23 June 2020 (first national lockdown), 5 November 2020 to 2 December 2020 (second national lockdown) and 6 January 2021 to 8 March 2021 (third national lockdown).

Design

Retrospective data analysis.

Setting

DESPs of England.

Participants

Individuals with diabetes who were invited to take part in the DESP programmes.

Methods

Publicly available data from Public Health England (2018–2019) and National Health Service England (2019–2022) were examined to identify the rate of uptake (proportion of those who attended the DESPs to those who were invited) of RDS at national and regional levels and by each DESP in England.

Primary outcome measures

Rate of uptake of RDS.

Results

The national uptake of RDS decreased from 82% (2019–2020) to 68% (2020–2021) and then increased to 78% (2021–2022). At the regional level, the sharpest drop was in the Midlands which decreased from 79% (2019–2020) to 53% (2020–2021), increasing to 73% (2021–2022) but did not reach pre-COVID-19 levels. At individual DESP levels across England, the greatest drop in attendance (2020–2021) was recorded in Derbyshire (79% to 45%), Barnsley and Rotherham (78% to 45%) and Arden, Herefordshire and Worcestershire (78% to 46%). Although these DESPs showed an increase in 2021–2022 of 33%, 21% and 31%, they did not reach prepandemic (2018–2019) rates of 81%, 85% and 82%, respectively. Data suggest that West Sussex, East Sussex and East and North Hertfordshire DESPs maintained relatively higher uptake rates (86%–89%) in 2020–2021.

Conclusion

COVID-19 had an impact on England’s diabetic eye screening attendance, with notable variations across regions and DESPs. Different regions and DESPs showed variable post-COVID-19 recovery. More importantly, what was not evident is the increased uptake that should have occurred after the COVID-19 lockdown to compensate for the low uptake during the lockdown. In some areas, addressing some of the barriers that affect retinal screening uptake may improve future attendance.
Care delivery in the context of district mental healthcare plans in Ghana: a qualitative study exploring experiences of primary healthcare workers and service users
Authors: Sakyi Lionel , Ae-Ngibise Kenneth , Adwan-Kamara Lyla , Weobong Benedict , Lund Crick
Published: December 2024

Objective

To explore the perceptions and experiences of mental health service users and healthcare workers regarding the implementation of district mental healthcare plans (DMHPs) in three district demonstration sites in Ghana.

Design

The study employed a qualitative design using reflexive thematic analysis. Interview data were analysed by combining inductive and deductive approaches.

Setting

The study was conducted in three DMHP districts in Ghana: Anloga (Volta), Asunafo North (Ahafo) and Bongo (Upper East). The districts were selected via national stakeholder consultations, using a DMHP framework. Data were collected between January 2023 and June 2023.

Participants

In-depth interviews were conducted with 28 primary healthcare workers who played key roles in the delivery of care in the demonstration districts. Thirty-two service users who are 18 years and above and have been receiving healthcare for the past year in the demonstration districts were also interviewed. Participants were purposively sampled.

Findings

Three main themes were identified: (1) factors supporting DMHP implementation, including capacity building, collaboration, awareness creation and acceptability; (2) challenges affecting DMHP implementation, such as inadequate resources and medication shortages and (3) perceived outcomes of the DMHPs, including improved well-being and daily functioning as well as changing attitudes towards mental health. Some district-level variations were noted in the intensity of challenges and outcomes.

Conclusion

The DMHPs have shown promise in improving mental healthcare in primary care settings in Ghana. However, addressing resource constraints and medication shortages and sustaining capacity building and awareness creation efforts will be crucial for successful scale-up. The perspectives of service users and healthcare providers offer valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to enhance integrated mental healthcare.
Changing the culture: increasing captured intraoperative anaesthesia-related safety events through targeted interventions
Authors: McSoley Joseph William , Buck David Winthrop , Winterberg Abby V
Published: December 2024

Background

There is an under-reporting of anaesthesia-related safety events.10Incident-capturing systems (ICSs) are essential for patient safety monitoring, identifying risks and ongoing opportunities for improvement. After a literature review and assessment of our current ICSs, we concluded that our institution lacked a reliable anaesthesia-specific ICS system, leading to under-reporting of anaesthesia-related safety events.

Methods

We conducted a quality improvement initiative to help increase perioperative safety event reporting by anaesthesiologists, fellows and certified registered nurse anaesthetists. We analysed all anaesthesia-related perioperative safety events from July 2019 to December 2020 to determine a baseline rate of safety events captured. We conducted a simplified failure-mode effects analysis and designed a key driver diagram to guide our initiative. Based on these, we designed and implemented seven interventions aimed at increasing anaesthesia-related perioperative safety event reporting. We then reviewed perioperative safety events captured from January 2021 to February 2023 and compared the safety event capture rate to baseline.

Results

Over 10 months, we trialled and implemented multiple interventions aimed at increasing perioperative anaesthesia-related safety event capture, including re-education, strategic placement of report forms, education of anaesthesia and non-anaesthesia personnel, celebration of events captured, promotion of a safe-capture culture where reporting was not seen as punitive and the transition to an online anaesthesia ICS. Over 25 months, we demonstrated a sustained increase in event reporting from a baseline of 1.9 incidents captured per week (average of 1000 cases performed weekly) to 19 events captured per week postinterventions.

Conclusions

Increasing event reporting required a multifaceted approach—ongoing attention to reporting barriers and developing targeted interventions promoting sustained reporting. Education on the importance of reporting, creating a reliable electronic ICS, creating a non-punitive culture and continuing to promote a safety culture contributed to system improvement.
Development and evaluation of a quality improvement educational video on joint contractures for care home staff
Authors: Tariq Hina , Dunn Joel , Forrester Samantha , Collins Kathryn , Porter Sam
Published: December 2024

Background

Contractures are a debilitating problem for individuals living in long-term care settings. However, there is a lack of education and training among the care staff regarding the identification of risk factors related to contractures and the preventive strategies that can decrease their development or progression. Addressing this knowledge gap has the potential to improve the quality of care provided to residents in care homes.

The objective of this quality improvement (QI) project was to investigate the impact of a newly developed educational video on the awareness, knowledge and understanding of contractures among the care staff.

Methods

This QI project involved two sequential Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles and employed a pre and post-test design to evaluate the impact of the contracture educational video. Primary outcomes were assessed using paper surveys to capture prevideo and postvideo levels of knowledge and understanding of contractures. Furthermore, both verbal and written feedback from participants were gathered to identify areas of strengths and improvement.

Results

Baseline data revealed that about 56% of the care staff lacked knowledge and understanding of contractures with another 33% reporting possessing only basic knowledge. Following the video intervention, percentage of care staff who reported good knowledge and understanding increased to 67% while 22% reported basic knowledge and understanding of contractures. The care staff suggested changes to the video to improve accessibility of the information, this was incorporated in the refilming of the video.

Conclusion

This QI project demonstrated that the introduction of a contracture educational video is a feasible and positively received method of enhancing awareness, knowledge and understanding of contractures among care staff. Educating care staff about the risk factors and prevention strategies for contractures will potentially improve their ability to identify the risk of contractures and help prevent their occurrence, ultimately enhancing the quality of care of the residents.
Clinicopathological features, molecular mechanisms and prognosis of microcystic, elongated and fragmented (MELF) pattern in endometrial carcinoma: a review
Authors: Zhen Yixuan , Zhang Xiaobo
Published: December 2024

Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is one of the most common malignancies of the female reproductive system, with an increasing incidence and mortality rate. Endometrioid EC (EEC) was the most common type of EC. The microcystic, elongated and fragmented (MELF) pattern, a special mode of myometrial invasion newly discovered in recent years, mainly existed in low-grade EEC. Most EEC with MELF invasion had no specific molecular profile (NSMP EEC), and most NSMP EEC with MELF had a catenin beta 1 (CTNNB1) wild type. Apart from NSMP EEC, microsatellite instability-high was the most common molecular type. Initially considered a degenerative change, several researchers suggested an association between the MELF pattern and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Several independent predictors of adverse outcomes, including tumour size, myometrial invasion, histological grade and lymphovascular space invasion, are related to the MELF pattern. This review aimed to remind pathologists of the clinicopathological features, molecular mechanisms and prognosis of the MELF pattern to avoid missed diagnosis or underdiagnosis.
The Importance of Monitoring Baseline and Regular Immunoglobulin Levels in Managing Secondary Hypogammaglobulinemia in Rheumatic Diseases: A Case Report and Systematic Review
Authors: Yeung Winnie Wan Yin
Published: December 2024

Infections following treatment of rheumatic diseases are common and potentially life threatening. Severe infections may be related to the overall susceptibility in rheumatic diseases, neutropenia in connective tissue diseases, as well as secondary hypogammaglobulinemia (SHG) due to the use of immunosuppressants. Herein, a case of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) with recurrent cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections and SHG was described, followed by discussion of pathophysiology, clinical presentation, risk factors, and management of SHG, emphasizing the importance of baseline immunoglobulin level monitoring.
Enhanced Efficacy and Immunogenicity of a Nanoencapsulated ECP‐Enriched Aeromonas hydrophila Vaccine in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Alishahi Mojtaba , Behroozian Alireza , Osroush Elham , Peyghan Rahim
Published: December 2024

Recently, there has been increasing attention regarding the potential application of biodegradable nanoparticles (NPs) as adjuvants in injectable vaccines. In this study, encapsulated antigens of Aeromonas hydrophila in alginate/chitosan polymers were used as injectable vaccines in common carp. Formalin‐killed bacteria and extracellular products (ECPs) of A. hydrophila were encapsulated via emulsification method. In total, 480 juvenile common carp (32.1 ± 3.64 g, mean ± SD) were randomly divided into eight triplicate groups (20 fish for each replicate). Groups 1–3 were injected with bacterin, ECP, and bacterin + ECP, respectively. Groups 4–6 were injected with encapsulated bacterin, encapsulated ECP, and encapsulated bacterin + ECP, respectively. Groups 7 and 8 as controls were injected with alginate/chitosan and phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS), respectively. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 30, and 60 of the experiment. Immunological parameters, including antibody titer against A. hydrophila, serum lysozyme, bactericidal and complement activities, and nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction, as well as serum globulin and protein levels, were compared among the groups. Hematological parameters (red blood cell [RBC], white blood cell [WBC], hemoglobin [Hb], and hematocrit (Hct) were evaluated too. Remained fish were challenged with severe A. hydrophila, and mortality was recorded for 10 days. Results showed that anti‐A. hydrophila antibody titer, survival rate following bacterial challenge, NBT reduction, serum lysozyme activity, globulin, and protein levels were significantly higher in encapsulated bacterin and encapsulated bacterin + ECP groups compared with the control group (p  < 0.05). Serum bactericidal and complement activity showed no significant change in different groups of sampling points. Then, it can be concluded that the encapsulation of bacterin and bacterin + ECP of A. hydrophila using chitosan/alginate NPs enhanced the protection and immune responses in common carp and this method is a promising candidate for a vaccine adjuvant in fish.
Strength and Deformation of Carbonaceous Shale Fillers Subjected to Water Content Fluctuation
Authors: Huang Yafei , Liu Junyong , Wu Qian , Yin Lihua , Mao Xuesong , Ge Weipeng
Published: December 2024

Carbonaceous shale is a dark, soft rock with poor water stability. To evaluate the feasibility of using this rock as a filler material for highway embankments, the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) test, the particle size analysis before and after vibration compaction, the California bearing ratio (CBR) test of repeated dry–wet alternation, the compression tests with different moisture, and the resilience modulus test of in‐site infiltration were conducted. The test results indicated that the higher weathering degree of carbonaceous shale usually goes with the looser structure and the higher content of hydrophilic clay. The larger particle size in the filler has a higher crushing ratio. The CBR value of the filler exhibited a rapid decay and then gradually stabilized with the increase of the time of dry–wet alternation. The compression deformation and particle breakage ratio of the filler material with saturated water content significantly increased compared to the optimal water content. After being infiltrated by water, the resilience modulus of the top surface of the carbonaceous shale filler decreased significantly. According to the research, although moisture content changes and dry–wet alternation have a significant impact on the strength and deformation performance of carbonaceous shale, it can be used as embankment filling material under the premise of taking engineering measures such as setting waterproof layers, restricting usage positions, and eliminating disintegration in advance. The research results can guide the design and construction of embankments using carbonaceous shale as filling material.
Enhanced Cycling Performance of Electrospun Nickel Cobalt Manganese Oxide [LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2(NCM811)] Cathode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yoo JinUk , Kang Dong Chul , Kang Hyun Chul , Yoon Songhun , Pyo Sung Gyu
Published: December 2024

The cathode of a lithium‐ion battery (LIB) is made from a slurry of cathode active materials, conductive additives, and binder mixtures, which is blade‐coated to fabricate the cathode electrode. The blade coating is a wet coating technology, which requires a heat treatment process after casting to volatilize the solvent. In addition, due to the dense surface, the reaction occurs mainly on the surface during the charge and discharge cycle, which accelerates degradation. To address these problems, this study introduces electrospun coatings during slurry casting. Electrospinning (ES) is a fast, easy, and low‐cost process that is not limited by external conditions and is typically used to produce nanofibers. However, if the polymer solution concentration is extremely low, a porous film can be formed by electrospraying. Porous films tend to degrade more slowly because the reaction occurs across the entire electrode. In addition, ES does not require a drying process as the solvent is volatilized during the process. While the blade coating shows 47.13% retention after 100 cycles at 1C, ES shows an improved retention of 75.98%. The application of ES to LIB results in a significant improvement in cycle performance, which can be developed into a breakthrough technology in electrode fabrication.
A Data‐Driven‐Aided Thermoelectric Equivalent Circuit Model for Accurate Temperature Prediction of Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Bao Junting , Mao Yuan , Zhang Zhiming , Jiang Yajie , Zhang Youbing , Yang Yun
Published: December 2024

Accurate temperature estimation models for lithium (Li)‐ion batteries are critical for timely identification of and response to thermal runaway effects to ensure battery safety. In this paper, a hybrid data‐driven approach incorporating thermoelectric equivalent model (TEM) is proposed to predict the temperature of Li‐ion batteries under different state of health (SOH) based on measured data. The proposed TEM model consists of an electrical equivalent circuit model (EECM) and a thermal equivalent circuit modeling (TECM). The electrical model is a second‐order RC equivalent circuit model, and the thermal model is a first‐order thermal model, which interacts with parameters such as state of charge (SOC) and internal resistance to improve the accuracy of the model. In order to solve the problem that the model part is susceptible to measurement errors, a data‐driven model using Kalman filter (KF) combined bidirectional gated recursive unit (BiGRU) and Transformer is proposed to ensure high accuracy in predicting the temperature. The output of the TEM is used as the input to the data‐driven part to obtain the implied relationship between the temperature and parameters. The experimental results confirm the high accuracy of the hybrid model in estimating the battery temperature. The maximum temperature prediction error of the Li‐ion battery was 0.3423°C with a predicted root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.1266 under different SOH conditions.
Progress in Sodium‐Ion Batteries: A Focus on Phosphate‐Based Cathodes and Their Interaction With Electrolytes
Authors: Dar Mushtaq Ahmad , Alnaser Ibrahim Abdullah , Kim Dong-Wan
Published: December 2024

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) are attracting interest from both the scientific and commercial sectors due to their unique approach, which contrasts lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). SIBs employ easily accessible and low‐cost salt as a primary resource, making them environmentally viable and cost‐effective. Researchers have focused on enhancing the performance of cathode, anode materials, and electrolytes in the SIB field, recognizing the urgent need to compete with LIB technology. The paper will concisely address current progress in polymer‐based electrolytes and cathode structural materials for SIBs, providing an in‐depth review of the developing technology.
A Lissajous Curve–Based Method for Busbar Protection
Authors: Sarlak M.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, a novel time‐domain method based on the orientation analysis of the superimposed current component Lissajous curves is presented for busbar protection. The conducted study has showed that the orientations of the superimposed current component Lissajous curves are different under internal and external fault conditions. These curves during internal faults are in the first and third quadrants, while under external fault conditions, they are oriented in the second and fourth quadrants. Using this property, an algorithm was designed to distinguish between internal and external faults. The proposed algorithm can identify internal faults up to a fault resistance of 500 Ω within a maximum of 2 ms with a sampling rate of 1 kHz. Moreover, the proposed scheme can detect evolving external to internal faults with CT saturation, internal faults during power transformer energization, and internal faults in the presence of white noise. Additionally, it is secure against external faults with current transformer (CT) saturation.
Characterizations of Euclidean Spheres in Terms of the Tangential Part of the Position Vector Field
Authors: Bin-Asfour Mona , Albalawi Kholoud Saad , Guediri Mohammed
Published: December 2024

In this study, we utilize the support function θ and the tangential component ψT of the position vector field ψ to investigate certain properties of spheres on a compact hypersurface in Euclidean space . The first characterization expands upon existing results in the literature by removing constraints on the tangential component ψT and employing alternative proof techniques. In the second characterization, we specifically employ the support function θ.
A New Laboratory Scale Methodology to Test Portable Air Cleaner (PAC) Devices: Optimization and Application
Authors: Borelli Mattia , Bergomi Andrea , Fermo Paola , Sassi Letizia , De Bernardis Sara , Marini Aligi , Lombardi Chiara Andrea , Comite Valeria
Published: December 2024

Given that people spend on average more than 80% of their time indoors, monitoring indoor air quality (IAQ) is of the utmost importance for the safeguard of human health. Indeed, due to penetration from outdoors and the presence of specific indoor sources, poor IAQ is not uncommon. The use of portable air cleaners (PACs) is one of many options to improve IAQ. The market offers many products, but not all of them have reliable documentation on their effectiveness. Literature standard methods for testing PACs toward pollutants require extensive resources. In this work, we developed a new laboratory scale methodology based on a small, easy to use, economical batch system to test the efficiency of PACs. With this method, three commercial PACs were successfully tested for effectiveness toward volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter (PM). The method proved successful, and the results highlighted the importance of conducting these tests, in addition to field investigations.
Molecular Characterization of Gene Encoding Outer Membrane Protein loa22 in Pathogenic Leptospira Serovars in Iran
Authors: Malek Mohammadi Yeganeh , Khaki Pejvak , Gharakhani Mehdi
Published: December 2024

The loa22 protein is highly conserved among pathogenic Leptospira serovars and it is expressed during both acute and chronic infections. The aim of this study was to clone and sequence of the loa22 protein‐encoding gene of Leptospira serovars. In this study, 23 pathogenic Leptospira serovars and two nonpathogenic Leptospira serovars were used. These serovars were obtained from the microbial culture collection of Leptospira Reference Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Karaj, Iran. Three serovars, including L. Sejroe Hardjo‐bovis, L. Grippotyphosa, L. Canicola, are used in the preparation of the trivalent vaccine. The loa22 gene was amplified by specific primers and the PCR products were then purified using kit and were cloned into a pTZ57R/T vector and transformed in competent E. coli DH5α cells. The cells were then plated onto LB agar containing ampicillin and recombinant colonies subjected to colony PCR to confirm the presence of the Leptospiral gene. Positive colonies plasmid vector was isolated from cells by High Pure Plasmid Isolation Kit. The loa22 gene was detected in all 23 pathogenic serovars, while this gene was not observed in nonpathogenic L. biflexa. It was determined that the similarity percentage of the sequenced pathogenic serovars is between 95.5% and 100%. The results concluded that the loa22 gene was highly conserved among various pathogenic Leptospira serovars and can be used to develop an effective recombinant vaccine.
Neutrophil‐to‐Lymphocyte and Platelet Ratio (N/LP Ratio), a Reliable Criterion for Predicting In‐Hospital Mortality in Both Genders Infected With SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Mohammadshahi Jafar , Ghobadi Hassan , Shargi Afshan , Moradkhani Hossein , Rezaei Hamed , Kazemy Mahur , Aslani Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2024

Background: The neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (MLR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), derived neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (dNLR), neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte and platelet ratio (N/LP ratio), aggregate index of systemic inflammation (AISI), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), and systemic inflammation index (SII) have emerged as noteworthy determinants in evaluating the severity and mortality prognosis of inflammatory diseases. In order to predict mortality rate, this study aimed to assess the impact of systemic inflammatory markers on both men and women who were admitted to the hospital due to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Methods: The laboratory parameters of the 2007 COVID‐19 patients were analyzed in a retrospective study (men = 1145 and women = 862). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to determine the capability of inflammatory markers to differentiate the severity of COVID‐19, while survival probability was determined using Kaplan–Meier curves, with the endpoint being death. To prevent any linear bias, the inflammatory indices were assessed separately using univariate analysis for Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), and adjustments were made for confounding factors if p < 0.2.

Results: Adjusted‐NLR, adjusted‐MLR, N/LP ratio, adjusted‐dNLR, adjusted‐AISI, adjusted‐SII, and adjusted‐SIRI exhibited remarkably higher values in patients who did not survive as compared to those who did. The multivariate Cox regression models demonstrated significant association between survival and N/LP ratio (HR = 1.564, 95% CI = 1.161 to 2.107, p < 0.01) in men and N/LP ratio (HR = 1.745, 95% CI = 1.230 to 2.477, p < 0.01) and adjusted‐SII (HR = 6.855, 95% CI = 1.454 to 32.321, p < 0.05) in women.

Conclusion: A reliable predictor in the current study of men and women with COVID‐19 was N/LP ratio.
Prevalence, Associated Risk Factors, and Identification of the Genera of Equine Strongyles in Horses and Donkeys in and Around Bishoftu, Ethiopia
Authors: Mulaw Berihun Asnakew , Bizu Feyisa , Maru Moges , Kassaw Seid
Published: December 2024

Equines play a significant role in the economy of the country. Besides their importance, equines face several challenges mainly helminth infections. Of these strongyle parasites are the most common, particularly in the study area. Thus, a cross‐sectional study was conducted from February 2022 to July 2022 to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors and to identify the genera of equine strongyle parasites in and around Bishoftu. A total of 364 equines were randomly selected from five different areas and subjected to coprological examination using the floatation technique to detect strongyle‐type eggs. A pooled faecal sample was cultured and subjected to modified Baerman techniques to identify the genus of strongyles. The overall prevalence of strongyle parasites was found to be 56.6% with an occurrence rate of 54.7% in horses and (65.2%) in donkeys. According to the present study, the two important genera identified were Strongylus and Cyathostomum. A higher prevalence of strongyle parasites was recorded in poor body condition (64%), adult (59.3%), female (70.7), and Kality (22%). Among the potential risk factors analyzed, the body condition score of the equines was significantly associated with strongyle infection (χ2 = 76.536 and p ≤ 0.001), while sex, species, age, and origins were not significantly associated with the prevalence of infection (χ2 = 2.644 and p = 0.266), (χ2 = 2.404 and p = 0.121), (χ2 = 0.609 and p = 0.435), and (χ2 = 3.205 and p = 0.524), respectively. In conclusion, strongyle parasites pose a major health problem for equines in the study area. They should focus on improving housing, increasing welfare awareness, implementing seasonal deworming, and enhancing the feeding practices of equines.
Enhancing Decision-Making and Supply Chain Agility through Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Mahama Umar Farouk Aliu , Boison David King , Doumbia Musah Osumanu , Antwi-Boampong Ahmed
Published: December 2024

This study evaluates AI’s effectiveness in boosting real-time decision-making and supply chain agility in West African ports. Utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), data from 250 supply chain experts across several countries, including Ghana and Nigeria, were analyzed. Results indicate significant enhancements in supply chain agility, particularly through improved data processing speed, system integration, prediction accuracy, and user interface quality, with the latter having the most substantial impact. The study underscores the importance of user-friendly AI systems, supported by Dynamic Capabilities Theory, which facilitates organizational adaptability to market changes. Recommendations focus on developing AI systems with robust user interfaces and ensuring seamless integration with existing IT infrastructures. This research contributes to the literature by empirically demonstrating AI’s role in improving operational adaptability and filling theoretical gaps, with a unique regional focus and methodological approach.
Salvation and the Roman empire: Eusebius of Caesarea on pastoral peace and the martial shepherd
Authors: Rotiroti Francesco
Published: December 2024

The present article is the first in a diptych looking at the pastoral characterisation of Constantine in the works of Eusebius of Caesarea through the lens of institutional theory. Through pastoral discourse, I argue, Eusebius systematises key elements of the policy and functions of the first Christian emperor, thus contributing to the institutional construction of the early Christian basileiā. Central to this construction are pastoral narratives of peace and warfare, drawn from earlier traditions but revisited and remodelled. By identifying the so-called pax Constantiniana with the pastoral peace preannounced by the prophets, Eusebius’ panegyric at Tyre, in particular, repositions the Roman empire within the conceptual framework of Christian soteriology. The perceived peace of the empire becomes a juncture of salvation history, brought about by the divine shepherd through the agency of the pious emperors. Eusebius’ later works reiterate the association of the pastoral metaphor with warfare already articulated in the panegyric at Tyre, but also innovate it significantly, as the soteriological underpinning of the shepherd’s military engagement becomes increasingly blurred.
A Biscayan jurist in the Renaissance
Authors: Mancisidor Mikel
Published: December 2024

Fortún García de Ercilla (Fortunius) was a quite known jurist in his century, quoted and discussed by some significative authors of his time. He was also a politician with relevant mandates in the service of Emperor Charles v. However, his name faded away in the following centuries. It is only very recently that his contributions to different areas of law, as well as to Castilian and Navarrese politics, have been vindicated. This article a) begins with a brief outline of his hitherto insufficiently well-known biography; b) proposes an updated list of his written works, including news of two recent findings, and places him as an actor in the communicative process that sixteenth century law was; and c) defends the hypothesis that the political and legal culture of his homeland, and the specific position of his lineage, allows a better understanding of some of the implications the topic of his first work, De Pactis (1514), had for him.
Struggling for legal primacy in the Zwin: Bruges and Sluys, 1492–1520
Authors: Gordijn Femke
Published: December 2024

This article examines a series of conflicts between the city of Bruges and its main outport Sluys brought before the Council of Flanders and the Great Council of Malines around the turn of the sixteenth century. Although Bruges’ commercial successes declined during this period, the previously consolidated hierarchical relationships with Sluys persisted as the courts continuously judged in Bruges’ favour. This contribution attempts to expose the underlying legal dynamics that determined Bruges’ continued primacy over its outport.
Droit au coeur de la science politique
Authors: Decock Wim
Published: December 2024

This article serves as a prolegomenon to further studies on the political and legal thought of Jean de Chokier (1571–1656). Trained in Roman law and canon law at the University of Orléans, he became one of the most prominent canon lawyers, political thinkers and humanist scholar of the Principality of Liège, an Imperial State situated in the Western part of the Holy Roman Empire. Author of major works in canon law, history and political science, he became vicar general of the Diocese of Liège under Prince-Bishops Ferdinand and Maximilian-Henri of Bavaria, successively. He belonged to the Neo-Stoic network around Justus Lipsius (1547–1606), the humanist jurist from Overijse. Inspired by this intellectual movement, Chokier published legal, political, historical and literary treatises next to performing his duties as an ecclesiastical administrator. His life and writings reflect the osmosis between humanist erudition, political commitment and legal knowledge that characterized the careers of many of the great jurists of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Considering that Chokier was foremostly trained as a canon lawyer and also professionally active in this domain, this article invites readers to take a fresh look at Chokier’s political and juridical oeuvre from a canon law perspective.
Not Feuerbach: the origin of the adage Nulla poena sine lege in the Ancien Régime
Authors: Pierrard François
Published: December 2024

The expression Nulla poena sine lege is one of the most widely used Latin legal adages in the world. It is one of the formulas of the principle of the legality of offences and penalties. Lawyers and legal historians unanimously date its invention from 1801 and attribute it to Paul Johann Anselm von Feuerbach (1775–1833), the promoter of the Bavarian Criminal Code of 1813, which served to disseminate it. However, a consultation of the archives held at the Haus-, Hof- und Staatsarchiv in Vienna has forced us to revise this conclusion. The first occurrence found dates back to 1777, but the adage appears to be even older, as it was already considered a maxim in the Austrian Netherlands. Originally, the adage Nulla poena sine lege does not seem to have had the positivist and legicentrist connotation that it has had since the 19th century.