bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Multi-disciplinary Research Centers and Networks Can Advance the Science of Firearm Injury Prevention
Authors: Schmidt Carissa J. , Rauk Leigh , Cunningham Rebecca M. , Zimmerman Marc A. , Roche Jessica S. , Carter Patrick M.
Published: June 2023

Firearm injuries are a leading cause of injury-related deaths in the U.S., but there is a dearth of federal funding for research on firearm injury prevention, compared to funding for research on other injuries and diseases. University research centers/institutes (C/Is) are in a position to help generate such research: they are multidisciplinary, have the capacity to conduct large-scale research projects, and commonly address complex health and social problems. In this article, we trace the history of research on firearm injury prevention, describe the different kinds of C/Is and C/I networks that have been developed to build knowledge in other areas of critical social concern, and argue for the development of a national coordinated network of firearm injury prevention C/Is.
Balancing Rights and Responsibilities: The Role of Government and Citizens in Combatting Gun Violence
Authors: Ulrich Michael R.
Published: June 2023

Congress passed the first federal legislation on firearms safety in decades at nearly the same moment that the Supreme Court issued its first major Second Amendment decision since 2008. It will take time to assess the effects of these actions on both gun safety and Second Amendment rights, but, with gun violence skyrocketing across the country, it is clear that finding a balance between rights and safety is desperately needed. The public is ill-equipped to protect itself against the broad harms of gun violence, so the government has a central role to play in addressing those harms and the racial disparities that come with them. Gun owners, too, must recognize their obligations to fellow citizens, not only to act responsibly with firearms, but to accept the limitations of their constitutional protections. An evidence-based path forward can be forged that mitigates the harm of gun violence while minimally burdening the rights and interests of those who own firearms.
Social and Structural Determinants of Community Firearm Violence and Community Trauma
Authors: Buggs Shani A. L. , Kravitz-Wirtz Nicole D. , Lund Julia J.
Published: June 2023

The adverse impacts of community firearm violence in the U.S. are unequally felt across geographic and various sociodemographic segments of our population. Researchers, government leaders, and the general public need to contend with the various ways in which unjust socioeconomic and political forces and systems of power and privilege lead to differences in risk exposure among population groups, as well as differences in the extent to which various segments of the population are protected from the adverse effects of firearm violence. We highlight dozens of studies to illustrate how firearm violence and community trauma in the U.S. can be more effectively addressed when a “social and structural determinants” perspective is used to understand and respond to this public health problem.
Artificially raised creatinine concentrations due to analytical interference for samples contaminated with total parenteral nutrition fluid
Authors: Jeffery Jinny , Millar Helen , Marrington Rachel , MacKenzie Finlay , George Roanna
Published: June 2023

Background

A sample received in the laboratory from a patient receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) indicated that the patient may have renal dysfunction, but the results were not considered to be reliable enough to report. Investigations using a reference method for measurement of creatinine confirmed positive interference in the creatinine assay and distribution of samples via an External Quality Assessment (EQA) Scheme showed that this positive interference was method dependent.

Methods

Residual TPN fluid (Nutriflex Lipid Special) left in the bag after the patient had completed the infusion was collected and added to a patient serum pool in increasing amounts and distributed to different laboratories for analysis of creatinine and glucose through an EQA Scheme.

Results

Positive interference in a number of different creatinine assays was identified as a result of a component in the TPN fluid. Positive interference from high concentrations of glucose has been demonstrated to be a cause for falsely high results in Jaffe creatinine assays.

Conclusions

The concern would be that a sample contaminated with TPN fluid would have both abnormal electrolytes and creatinine concentrations and give the impression that the patient was in renal failure due to analytical interference in the creatinine assay and laboratory staff need to be aware of this problem.
Embarking on a Business Agility Journey: Balancing Autonomy Versus Control
Authors: Beretta Michela , Smith Pernille
Published: June 2023

While agile represents a crucial element of digital transformation, there is limited empirical evidence on how agile is actually implemented. This article presents a longitudinal case study of the agile implementation journey of a large product manufacturer over two years. It shows how the firm was able to achieve a large-scale agile implementation through a mix of top-down and bottom-up approaches. This process entailed continuous adaptations of agile to the firm’s circumstances and needs, including ongoing articulations and re-articulations of agile to incorporate local ideas and address emerging challenges. This article also presents a framework for guiding managers undertaking an organization-wide agile implementation.
Experimental and numerical investigations on the mode I delamination growth behavior of reinforced laminates via a ZPI (Z-pin pre-hole insertion) technique
Authors: Liu Weiwei , Jin Kexin , Cheng JiSiyuan , Yan Bin , Yin Mingxin , Sang Chen
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a low-in-plane damage ZPI (Z-pin pre-hole insertion) process. The delamination growth behavior and the influence of Z-pin insertion density on the mode I interlaminar fracture toughness of laminate was explored experimentally and numerically. Meanwhile, Z-pin pull-out and shear tests were conducted in order to provide accurate data for the DCB simulation test. What’s more, an infinite-focus microscope was used to scan the specimen’s defect caused by the ZPI process. It can be found that the ZPI process can lead to less Z-pin inclination, fibre breaking, and crack initiation at the bonded interface. The DCB test results show that the load-displacement curve can be distinguished into four stages for the pinned specimen. In addition, a specimen pinned with a higher Z-pin volume fraction to more suitable for increasing the G IC. The simulation results show that the simulated maximum load and the G IC of the specimen are 286.63 N and 940.06 J·m−2, with a 0.56% and 10.10% error from the experimental result, indicating that the proposed FE model is validated by comparing the predictions with the experimental results. These results can provide some guidance for fabricating the reinforced laminates via the ZPI process.
Calculation method for the static carrying curve of double-row different-diameter ball slewing bearings
Authors: Li Yunfeng , Wang Rundong , Mao Feiran
Published: June 2023

A method for calculating the static carrying curve of a double-row different-diameter ball slewing bearing was proposed. The relationship between the internal maximum rolling element load of each row and the combined external axial load and tilting moment load of the slewing bearing was established using the deformation compatibility and force equilibrium conditions. The rolling element load distribution range parameters of the main and auxiliary raceways of the double-row different-diameter ball slewing bearing were used as input invariables, and the corresponding external load combinations of the axial and tilting moment loads of the slewing bearing were obtained. These external load combinations were plotted in the coordinate system to obtain the static carrying curve of the slewing bearing. The obtained static carrying curve was compared with that calculated using the finite element method for verification. Finally, the influences of detailed design parameters such as the raceway groove radius coefficient, raceway contact angle, and rolling element diameter on the carrying capacity of the double-row different-diameter ball slewing bearing were analyzed based on the carrying curves. As the groove radius coefficient increases from 0.515 to 0.530, or the contact angle increases from 50° to 65°, the carrying capacity of the slewing bearing decreases. As the rolling element diameter increases from 0.90 times the initial diameter to 1.05 times the initial diameter, the carrying capacity of the slewing bearing increases.
Different assembled nano-MnO2 fiber supercapacitors applied for smart wearable clothing
Authors: Wang Qi , Wang Mengfan , Sun Jiali , Zhang Xiaolin , Chen Weichun , Yu Xichen , Fan Wei
Published: June 2023

With rapid development in the smart wearable field, new-style flexible energy storage devices are necessary to satisfy the demands of flexible smart clothing. Thereinto, fiber supercapacitors present promising application prospects. This work puts forward a facile and reliable strategy to fabricate coaxial fiber electrodes via binary wet spinning, and further assembles them into parallel or twisted nano-MnO2 fiber supercapacitors. In the obtained fiber electrode, a carboxymethylcellulose layer onto nano-MnO2 not only allows the requisite ion exchange between the electrochemical active materials and gel electrolyte, but also plays the role of separator to protect the two fiber electrodes effectively from contacting a short circuit, greatly ensuring the electrochemical stability of the nano-MnO2 fiber supercapacitors. The parallel nano-MnO2 fiber supercapacitor reaches a maximum CL of 19.7 μF/cm, EL of 0.0027 μWh/cm and PL of 1.49 μW/cm; the twisted MnO2 fiber supercapacitor achieves maximum CL, EL and PL of 49 μF/cm, 0.0053 μWh/cm and 1.0 μW/cm, respectively. Besides, the outstanding softness and tensile properties of the obtained nano-MnO2 fiber supercapacitors also guarantee stable electrochemical performance under bending, knotting or other large-distortion situations, which is beneficial to develop a new generation of metal oxide fiber supercapacitors for smart wearable clothing.
Do Internalized Age Stereotypes Mediate the Relationship Between Volunteering and Self-Efficacy for Adults 50+ Years of Age?
Authors: Steward Andrew , Hasche Leslie
Published: June 2023

This cross-sectional study examined whether internalized age stereotypes mediate the relationship between volunteering and self-efficacy for adults 50+ years of age. A convenience sample of volunteers (n = 173) residing in the United States of America Mountain West completed a 15-min, online survey. The independent variable was number of volunteer hours per week (mean = 6.44, SD = 5.50). The dependent variable was self-efficacy measured by five, four-point items from the general self-efficacy scale ( α = .83; mean = 3.57, SD = .38). The indirect effects of five internalized positive and five negative age stereotypes were tested. Results indicate that increased internalized positive, but not negative, age stereotypes partially mediated the relationship between volunteer hours and self-efficacy. Although positive age stereotypes have long been considered a form of ageism, the findings suggest that internalized positive age stereotypes may function as a form of esteem to enhance psychosocial well-being.
Application of indocyanine green lymphography combined with methylene blue staining in lymphaticovenular anastomosis of lower limb vessels: A prospective study
Authors: Zhou Xuchuan , Liu Bin , Guo Xiaowei , Tang Yueling , Ma Gejia
Published: June 2023

Background

Methylene blue (MB) is a conventional lymphatic tracer. We evaluated the application of indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography combined with MB staining in lower limb lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA).

Methods

A total of 49 patients with lower limb lymphedema were selected as the study subjects and divided into the research ( n = 27) and control groups ( n = 22). The patients were treated with LVA using ICG lymphography combined with MB staining and simple ICG lymphography as the positioning method, respectively. The number of lymphatic vessels anastomosed and the operating time were compared between the groups. Lower Extremity Lymphedema Index (LEL index) and Lymphoedema Functioning, Disability and Health Questionnaire for Lower Limb Lymphoedema (Lymph-ICF-LL) were used as prognostic indices; 6 months after LVA, both groups were evaluated for the symptomatic relief of lymphedema.

Results

The number of anastomotic lymphatic vessels in the study group was higher than that in the control group ( p < .05), and their procedural time was shorter than that in the control group. The two groups had no significant difference in lymphatic anastomosis time ( p > .05). The LEL index and Lymph-ICF-LL of the research and control groups at 6-month follow-up after LVA were lower than those before the operation ( p < .05).

Conclusion

The circumference of the affected limb is reduced after LVA in patients with lower extremity lymphedema with a favorable prognosis. ICG lymphography combined with MB staining has the advantages of real-time visualization and accurate localization.
Current Practice Patterns, Challenges, and Need for Education in Performing and Reporting Advanced Pelvic US and MRI to Investigate Endometriosis: A Survey by the Canadian Association of Radiologists Endometriosis Working Group
Authors: Crivellaro Priscila Sacilotto , Rehman Iffat , Chang Silvia , Duigenan Shauna , Holmes Signy , Hurrell Casey , Kielar Ania Z. , Leonardi Mathew , Pang Emily , Shergill Arvind , Al-Arnawoot Basma
Published: June 2023

Purpose: The Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) Endometriosis Working Group developed a national survey to evaluate current practice patterns associated with imaging endometriosis using advanced pelvic ultrasound and MRI to inform forthcoming clinical practice guidelines for endometriosis imaging. Methods: The anonymous survey consisted of 36 questions and was distributed electronically to CAR members. The survey contained a mix of multiple choice, Likert scale and open-ended questions intended to collect information about training and certification, current practices and protocols associated with imaging endometriosis, opportunities for quality improvement and continuing professional development. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the results. Results: Canadian radiologists were surveyed about their experience with imaging endometriosis. A total of 89 responses were obtained, mostly from Ontario and Quebec. Most respondents were community radiologists, and almost 33% were in their first five years of practice. Approximately 38% of respondents reported that they or their institution performed advanced pelvic ultrasound for endometriosis, with most having done so for less than 5 years, and most having received training during residency or fellowship. 70% of respondents stated they currently interpret pelvic endometriosis MRI, with most having 1-5 years of experience. Conclusion: Many radiologists in Canada do not perform dedicated imaging for endometriosis. This may be due to a lack of understanding of the benefits and limited access to training. However, dedicated imaging can improve patient outcomes and decrease repeated surgeries. The results highlight the importance of developing guidelines for these imaging techniques and promoting a multidisciplinary approach to endometriosis management.
Proximate and Ultimate Concerns in Christian Ethical Responses to Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Burdett Michael Stephen
Published: June 2023

I argue here that Christian ethical responses to Artificial Intelligence (AI) ought to take on, largely, two different approaches. The first considers proximate ethical concerns related to AI. This ethical approach most often considers more immediate personal and socio-political repercussions and the kind of impact that is occurring now or in the very near future. Proximate ethics of this type includes discussion about fairness, accountability, sustainability and transparency. The second concerns ultimate ethics which focuses on the longer-term impact and implications of AI. Examples of this type might include issues of uniqueness, deep societal transformation and inequality, changes to personal character and even the role AI might have in God's ultimate economy of creation and grace. My contention is that the Christian church needs to attend to both approaches to AI and that when it focuses too myopically on one at the expense of the other it often eclipses the entire witness of the church in our technological society.
Effect of process parameters on performances measured in filament and pellets-based additively manufactured parts
Authors: Gupta Ashutosh Kumar , Krishnanand  , Taufik Mohammad
Published: June 2023

Among all the additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, the material extrusion-based AM is the most popular, and widely used for prototyping, rapid tooling, and direct part production in the current scenario. In material extrusion AM (MEAM), a solid form of material is converted to a semi-molten form and extruded out of a nozzle to deposit in a layer-by-layer manner. Nowadays MEAM three-dimensional (3D) printers are very popular among different application sectors. This motivates us to develop various commercial as well as open-source entry-level 3D printers such as the development of filament extruder 3D printers, pellet extruder 3D printer, or a combination of both. However, to develop or operate these printers, preliminary knowledge of various extrusion parameters is required to obtain the desired quality in the fabricated parts. Therefore, an initial attempt has been made to provide information related to various extrusion parameters such as definition, working range, and the effect of these parameters on performance measured. The impact of process parameters on the performance of either filament extrusion AM or pellet/granules extrusion AM has only been investigated in the studies available in the literature. However, this study provides a comprehensive review of the effects of process parameters on performance measurements for both types of extrusion-based AM processes. In this research work, along with a detailed review of previous works, a study of various process parameters, modeling, and methodology has been provided. The statistical modeling approach, histogram normal plots have been provided along with mean, standard deviation, and percentage to decide the optimum process parameters based on data available in the existing literature.
Case series and literature review of chlamydial ophthalmia neonatorum in Botswana
Authors: Yang Kevin , Babalola Chibuzor M , Mussa Aamirah , Ryan Rebecca , Wynn Adriane , Simon Selebaleng , Bame Bame , Morroni Chelsea , Klausner Jeffrey D
Published: June 2023

Background

We describe 12 cases of chlamydial ophthalmia neonatorum and the current scientific evidence on its prevention and treatment. The data presented were obtained from the “Maduo” study, a prospective observational study of the relationship between curable sexually transmitted infections and adverse neonatal outcomes at four antenatal clinics in Gaborone, Botswana.

Methods

Infants of mothers with perinatal chlamydia infection were evaluated for chlamydial ophthalmia neonatorum based on clinical presentation of conjunctivitis or positive test via GeneXpert CT/NG assay. Data on 29 infants born to mothers with postnatal C. trachomatis infection were analysed.

Results

12 infants were diagnosed with chlamydial ophthalmia neonatorum. Eight of those cases were confirmed with the GeneXpert CT/NG assay while four were identified as probable cases based on clinical history and presentation. Overall, nine infants presented with signs of conjunctivitis, while three who had a positive diagnostic test result had asymptomatic infection. All but one infant had received ocular 1% tetracycline prophylaxis at birth, and four infants had signs suggestive of chlamydial pneumonia at presentation. Two out of five symptomatic cases whose mothers reported completion of their treatment course with erythromycin had lingering symptoms.

Conclusions

Our findings affirm that the current prophylaxis and treatment modalities for chlamydial ophthalmia neonatorum are inadequate. To the extent feasible in low- and middle-income countries, we recommend implementation of routine C. trachomatis screening and treatment in pregnant women.
Experimental investigation and analysis of proposed hybrid vertical axis wind turbine design
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad , Shahzad Aamer , Shah Syed Irtiza Ali
Published: June 2023

In this research, an experimental and computational analysis of a novel hybrid vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) arrangement has been performed. We suggest an innovative VAWT design that has a high power coefficient and self-starting capability. The inner side of the proposed hybrid system has been integrated with the H-rotor turbine with cambered blades, which demonstrates strong self-starting capabilities at various azimuths. Three NACA0018 airfoil blades are mounted on the outside of the proposed hybrid wind turbine, while three DU 06-W-200 airfoil blades are installed on the inside. Based on a similarity analysis, a scaled-down model was developed, and performance characteristics such as the output power, power coefficient ([Formula: see text]), dynamic torque coefficient ([Formula: see text]), and static torque coefficient ([Formula: see text]) were determined. An existing hybrid VAWT and a typical H-rotor Darrieus design were also examined for comparison. The highest [Formula: see text] for the proposed hybrid design was found to be 0.486 at a tip speed ratio (TSR) of 3, while the H-rotor Darrieus’ maximum value was 0.42 at a TSR of 2.62 and the existing hybrid VAWT’s value was 0.41 at a TSR of 2.5. Positive [Formula: see text] values at all azimuths demonstrate that the proposed hybrid wind turbine can start entirely on its own. In comparison to the existing H-rotor and hybrid VAWT, this novel hybrid system has shown enhanced performance parameters ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], output power) by around 11%–13% over a wide range of wind speeds.
Could carbon emissions trading scheme improve total factor carbon emissions performance? Evidence from cities of China
Authors: Zheng Lu , Zhao Yuhuan , Zhu Jingzhi , Qian Zhiling , Zhao Ziyi , Fan Shunan
Published: June 2023

Carbon emissions trading scheme (ETS) is a market-based measure to reduce carbon emissions. Evaluating the impact of carbon ETS on total factor carbon emissions performance (TFCEP) is of great significance to carbon emissions reduction and high-quality economic development in China. However, whether China's carbon ETS can improve TFCEP remains to be answered. Using the difference-in-differences model, super-efficient Slacks-based measure method and Malmquist–Luenberger index, this study evaluates the impact of carbon ETS on TFCEP and decomposition items of TFCEP based on the data during 2003–2017. Then, the heterogeneity effect of marketization and environmental enforcement are analyzed. The influencing mechanisms are tested from the perspective of industrial structure and green innovation and the moderating effect of carbon price and trading volume is also examined. The results show that carbon ETS could significantly improve TFCEP, and mainly improve the two decomposition items of efficiency change and scale technological change. Heterogeneity analyses show that the positive impact is more significant in cities with high levels of marketization and stricter environmental enforcement. Mechanism analyses suggest that carbon ETS could improve TFCEP by promoting industrial structure and green innovation. In particular, carbon prices and trading volume are confirmed to enhance the role of carbon ETS in promoting TFCEP. The results provide a new reference for Chinese government to use the market-based tool to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining economic growth.
Fecal Contamination in the Wastewater Irrigation System and its Health Threat to Wastewater-Based Farming Households in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Ali Adane Sirage , Gari Sirak Robele , Goodson Michaela L , Walsh Claire L , Dessie Bitew K , Ambelu Argaw
Published: June 2023

Due to rapidly growing demand, the production of vegetables is increasing along the Akaki Rivers. The objective of this study was to examine the degree of fecal contamination and levels of fecal contamination and dissemination throughout the wastewater irrigation system. Irrigation water, irrigated soil, and leafy vegetables were collected twice during 2 vegetable growing seasons, at the maturity period of the growing season, from 19 sampling points along the 2 Akaki Rivers. Composite samples were taken from all sampling points and E.coli was enumerated. The mean E.coli load in wastewater and non-wastewater sources were 1.16±5.53 CFU/100 ml and 2.232±1.292 CFU/100 ml respectively. All counts of E. coli in the wastewater exceeded the WHO’s standards indicating that the irrigation water quality was unacceptable. In the wastewater-irrigated and non-wastewater-irrigated soil, the mean E.coli were 3.62 ±1.582 CFU/g and 1.322±87.1 CFU/g respectively. Meanwhile, the mean E.coli counts on the lettuce and Swiss chard were 78 ± 2 CFU/g and 44 ±3CFU/g respectively. The E.coli count on the leafy vegetables was found to be associated with the E.coli in the wastewater and soil. The production of leafy vegetables using wastewater with unacceptably high levels of E.coli and high occupational exposure introduces high levels of risk to the farming communities and to the consumers. Leafy, low-growing raw edible vegetables need careful treatment during food production and harvesting procedures or activities.
Feeling well surrounded: Perceived societal support fosters healthy eating
Authors: van den Enden Gitta , Geyskens Kelly , Goukens Caroline
Published: June 2023

Societal resources (e.g. recreational facilities, free online information, healthy food retail) are consistently found to be important facilitators for healthy eating. In the current research, we propose that healthy eating is not only facilitated by the actual available support in society, but equally well by individuals’ subjective perception on how helpful the provided support truly is. We refer to the latter as “perceived societal support” and examine how this influences healthy eating. Across two experimental studies, we observe that perceived societal support positively affects healthy eating: People who perceive the available support as helpful are more likely to choose healthy food over unhealthy food (study 1) and consume less from an unhealthy food product (study 2) compared to people who perceive the available support as less helpful. These findings do not only contribute to existing literature on societal support and healthy eating behavior, but also provide important policy implications.
Meshing impact analysis of the gear and rack of the pumping machine based on the SPH–FEM coupling method
Authors: Di Fankai , Ahmat Mutellip , Li Duanzheng , Zhou Huafeng
Published: June 2023

This paper explores the feasibility of using the coupled smooth particle hydrodynamics–finite element method (SPH–FEM) to study the gear rack and meshing impact problem. Firstly, a numerical model containing both SPH and FEM units is established, and its accuracy is verified. Then, the principle of gear rack meshing impact is analyzed from the perspective of impact dynamics theory, and the formula of maximum meshing impact force is derived. Finally, the meshing impact process of the rack and pinion is simulated using the coupled SPH–FEM method, and experiments are designed to verify it. The analysis results show that the SPH–FEM coupling method can simulate the meshing impact behavior of the gear mechanism more accurately. On the other hand, the severity of the impact in each operating section was obtained. It is also found that the impact stress has reached the material's tensile limit, revealing the mechanism of tooth surface wear caused by the impact. The results of the study provide a choice of research methods for gear mechanism meshing impact and also provide some reference for gear rack tooth shape optimization.
Torsional failure analysis of C/SiC and SiC/SiC combined CMC torque tube
Authors: Zhao Hui , Zhang Jiaxin
Published: June 2023

To overcome the inherent limitations of the ceramic matrix composite (CMC) process and increase the torque capacity of CMC torque tubes, this study investigated the failure causes of 2D woven chemical vapor infiltration (CVI) C/SiC and SiC/SiC combined CMC torque tubes. The CT test was used to describe the non-homogeneous density distribution of the CMC torque tubes. Using the Archimedes drainage method to evaluate density and porosity, we simulated the stress distribution and failure strength of CMC torque tubes using an FEM model. Fixtures suitable for universal material testing apparatuses were used for CMC torque tube torsional tests. The stress-strain curves showed that two distinct fiber types of CMC torque tubes displayed different torsional tendencies, and we examined the main causes of failure. The SiC fiber in the CMC torque tube increased maximum shear stress and modulus. Additionally, the strength of the SiC/SiC torque tube, rather than the interface between the C/SiC and SiC/SiC torque tubes, was the primary cause of combined CMC torque tube failure.
Dynamic changes of serum metabolite profiling in septic mice based on high performance liquid chromatography of quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry analysis
Authors: Li Shutong , Zeng Qi , Li Shentang , Liu Yarong , Feng Yang , Chen Fang , Zou Lianhong , Liu Xiehong , Liu Yanjuan , Jiang Yu
Published: June 2023

The objective of this study is to gain insights into the underlying metabolic transformations that occurred during the whole progression of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis, thus providing new targets for its treatment. High-performance liquid chromatography of quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) combined with multivariate statistical techniques was used to detect the s in serum from septic mice. Fifty male mice were divided into two groups, including the sham group ( n = 7) and the CLP-induced sepsis group ( n = 43). Animals were sacrificed at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days post-CLP and then serum were collected for metabolomic analysis. Multivariate regression analysis was carried out through MetaboAnalyst 5.0, including principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), to identify the s and screen out the related differential metabolites. Besides, the KEGG pathway analysis was used to analyze the related metabolic pathways in which the identified metabolites were involved. Based on the fold change (FC > 2.0 or <0.5), variable important in projection (VIP > 1.2), and P value ( P < 0.05), we found 26, 17, 21, and 17 metabolites in septic mice at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days post-CLP, respectively, compared with that of the sham group. The PCA and PLS-DA pattern recognition showed a cluster-type distribution between the sham group and the CLP group. Dysregulated amino acid metabolism, as well as disturbed nucleotide metabolism, is observed. Several important metabolic pathways were identified between the sham group and the CLP group. Among them, phenylalanine metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis showed striking at day 1 post-CLP. At day 3, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis changed significantly. However, as the disease process, only pyrimidine metabolism showed the most significant alternation, compared to the sham group. Several differential metabolites were identified in the CLP group compared with that of the sham group and they were presented with dynamic alternation at different time points post-CLP, indicating metabolic disturbance occurred throughout the whole sepsis progression.
Impact of incidental visualizations on primary tasks
Authors: Moreira João , Mendes Daniel , Gonçalves Daniel
Published: June 2023

Incidental visualizations are meant to be seen at-a-glance, on-the-go, and during short exposure times. They will always appear side-by-side with an ongoing primary task while providing ancillary information relevant to those tasks. They differ from glanceable visualizations because looking at them is never their major focus, and they differ from ambient visualizations because they are not embedded in the environment, but appear when needed. However, unlike glanceable and ambient visualizations that have been studied in the past, incidental visualizations have yet to be explored in-depth. In particular, it is still not clear what is their impact on the users’ performance of primary tasks. Therefore, we conducted an empirical online between-subjects user study where participants had to play a maze game as their primary task. Their goal was to complete several mazes as quickly as possible to maximize their score. This game was chosen to be a cognitively demanding task, bound to be significantly affected if incidental visualizations have a meaningful impact. At the same time, they had to answer a question that appeared while playing, regarding the path followed so far. Then, for half the participants, an incidental visualization was shown for a short period while playing, containing information useful for answering the question. We analyzed various metrics to understand how the maze performance was impacted by the incidental visualization. Additionally, we aimed to understand if working memory would influence how the maze was played and how visualizations were perceived. We concluded that incidental visualizations of the type used in this study do not disrupt people while they played the maze as their primary task. Furthermore, our results strongly suggested that the information conveyed by the visualization improved their performance in answering the question. Finally, working memory had no impact on the participants’ results.
Prestress monitoring for prestress tendons based on the resonance-enhanced magnetoelastic method considering the construction process
Authors: Zhang Hong , Xia Junfeng , Zhou Jianting , Liao Leng , Xiao Yangjian , Tong Kai , Zhang Senhua
Published: June 2023

Monitoring the prestress of prestressed concrete structures is hard but helpful. The resonance-enhanced magnetoelastic (REME) sensor could measure the stress of steel, but the measurement is influenced by the stress history. Thus, after analyzing the principle of the REME method according to the electric circuit theorem, the construction process and stress history of different prestress tendons were discussed. The prestress monitoring experiment showed that the induced voltage–prestress relationship was influenced by the stress history. To evaluate the prestress, a prestress evaluation method suitable for prestress steel strands was proposed. Using the precise calibration method, the monitoring errors in the construction stage and the prestress loss stage were less than 13.26% and 5.97%. The simplified calibration method reduced the workload of the calibration by 50% while the monitoring error increased by less than 4%. In addition, using the self-calibration method can avoid the influence of the differences in steel strands, leading to higher monitoring accuracy.
Persuasive Appeals in Genetic Biobank Recruitment Campaigns: Social and Ethical Implications
Authors: Meitern Martin , Hansson Sten
Published: June 2023

The social and ethical implications of large-scale biobank donor recruitment campaigns have remained understudied. We use two recent campaigns of the population-based genetic biobank in Estonia as an example to demonstrate how campaign spokespersons try to persuade potential donors by appealing to (1) gaining self-knowledge, (2) gaining control over one's health, (3) fear of illness, (4) contributing to healthcare, (5) contributing to science, and (6) contributing to one's country. While these campaigns succeeded in recruiting 15 percent of the country's adult population as donors, we explain how the use of some of these appeals may (a) create unrealistic expectations regarding the benefits donors could receive and (b) conceal the risks regarding health data. The study lays a necessary groundwork for future empirical research on the ethics of biobank recruitment campaigns.
Is Mixed Methods Bridging Educational Research Divides? Using Prevalence as an Indicator of Change
Authors: Snodgrass Melinda R. , Love Hailey R. , Roberts Carly A. , Gilson Carly Blustein , Yang Xueyan , Badgett Natalie M.
Published: June 2023

Mixed methods research (MMR) can serve to bridge fields of study disconnected by differences in content, epistemologies, and methods. Such bridging can benefit fields that are interconnected in practice but generally separated in research, such as educational research with its silos of “general” and “special” education in addition to various topic area foci. We explored the extent to which MMR has bridged education research silos by examining the prevalence of MMR studying a single topic (disability) across three subfields: general education, special education, and disability studies in education. We found differences in the prevalence of MMR between subfields and journals within subfields. We discuss patterns in ways MMR may both reflect silos and be employed to bridge long-standing divides.
Campus Recreation Amenity Use Differences by Sexual Orientation Among US College Students
Authors: Peterson Keegan T. , Bopp Melissa , Frederick Ginny M. , Powers Sammie L. , Wilson Oliver W. A.
Published: June 2023

College years are a formative life stage; however, students who identify as a sexual minority participate in insufficient physical activity. This study examined differences in level of comfort 1) with/in campus recreation facilities overall, and 2) using specific amenities, by sexual orientation. Students at four public universities completed online surveys assessing perceived comfort using their campus recreation facility. Among participants ( n = 160), Kruskal-Wallis analyses showed comfort using campus recreation facilities, free weights, non-intramural sports,and intramural sports was significantly higher among heterosexual students compared to sexual minority students (all p < 0.005). These findings highlight inequities in comfort using campus recreation facilities and provide evidence of the need for inclusive recreation spaces for all students regardless of sexual orientation. Future research is needed to assess LBGTQ+ student's health disparities related to campus recreation facility use and how to increase perceived comfort for all students.
Continuous infusion ketamine for sedation of mechanically ventilated adults in the intensive care unit: A scoping review
Authors: Richards Nicholas David , Weatherhead William , Howell Simon , Bellamy Mark , Mujica-Mota Ruben
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Mechanical ventilation (MV) is a common and often live-saving intervention on the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The optimisation of sedation to mechanical ventilation is fundamental, and inappropriate sedation has been associated with worse outcomes. This scoping review has been designed to answer the question ‘ What is known about the use of ketamine as a continuous infusion to provide sedation in mechanically ventilated adults in the intensive care unit, and what are the gaps in the evidence?’

Methods:

The protocol was designed using the PRISMA-ScR checklist and the JBI manual for evidence synthesis. Data were extracted and reviewed by a minimum of two reviewers.

Results:

Searches of electronic databases (PubMed, OVID, Scopus, Web of Science) produced 726 results; 45 citations were identified for further eligibility assessment, an additional five studies were identified through keyword searches, and 12 through searching reference lists. Of these 62 studies, 27 studies were included in the final review: 6 case reports/case series, 11 retrospective cohort/observational studies, 1 prospective cohort study, 9 prospective randomised studies.

Conclusion:

We found a lack of high-quality well-designed studies investigating the use of continuous ketamine sedation on ICU. The available data suggests this intervention is safe and well tolerated, however this is of very low certainty given the poor quality of evidence.
Validation of the Rome proposal for severity of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Lee Hyo Jin , Lee Jung-Kyu , Park Tae Yun , Heo Eun Young , Kim Deog Kyeom , Lee Hyun Woo
Published: June 2023

Background:

The Rome proposal provides an objective assessment tool for severity of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AE-COPD) but requires validation.

Objectives:

We aimed to evaluate the predictive performance of the Rome proposal in patients with AE-COPD.

Design:

This observational study assessed the patients who visited the emergency room (ER) or were hospitalized due to AE-COPD between January 2010 and December 2020.

Methods:

We compared the performance of the Rome Proposal with that of the DECAF score or GesEPOC 2021 criteria in predicting intensive care unit (ICU) admission, need for non-invasive ventilation (NIV) or invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), and in-hospital mortality.

Results:

A total of 740 events of ER visit or hospitalization due to AE-COPD were reviewed and classified into mild (30.9%), moderate (58.6%), or severe (10.4%) group according to the Rome proposal. The severe group had a higher rate of ICU admission, required more NIV or IMV, and had a higher in-hospital mortality than the mild and moderate groups. The predictive performance of the Rome proposal was significantly better for ICU admission [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AU-ROC) = 0.850 versus 0.736, p = 0.004] and need for NIV or IMV (AU-ROC = 0.870 versus 0.770, p = 0.004) than that of the GesEPOC 2021 criteria but better than that of the DECAF score only in female patients. There was no significant difference in predicting the in-hospital mortality between the Rome proposal and DECAF score or GesEPOC 2021 criteria.

Conclusion:

External validation of the Rome Proposal in Korean patients demonstrated excellent performance for ICU admission and need for NIV or IMV and an acceptable performance for in-hospital mortality.
Identification of Core Outcome Domains and Design of a Survey Questionnaire to Evaluate Impacts of Digital Health Solutions That Matter to People With Diabetes
Authors: Skovlund Soren Eik , Renza Scibilia , Laurent Julie , Cerletti Paco
Published: June 2023

Background:

Digital health solutions (DHS) are increasingly used to support people with diabetes (PwD) to help manage their diabetes and to gather and manage health and treatment data. There is a need for scientifically reliable and valid methods to measure the value and impact of DHS on outcomes that matter to PwD. Here, we describe the development of a survey questionnaire designed to assess the perceptions of PwD toward DHS and their prioritized outcomes for DHS evaluation.

Method:

We applied a structured process for engagement of a total of nine PwD and representatives of diabetes advocacy organizations. Questionnaire development consisted of a scoping literature review, individual interviews, workshops, asynchronous virtual collaboration, and cognitive debriefing interviews.

Results:

We identified three overarching categories of DHS, which were meaningful to PwD and crucial for the identification of relevant outcomes: (1) online/digital tools for information, education, support, motivation; (2) personal health monitoring to support self-management; (3) digital and telehealth solutions for engaging with health professionals. Overall outcome domains identified to be important were diabetes-related quality of life, distress, treatment burden, and confidence in self-management. Additional positive and negative outcomes specific to DHS were identified and corresponding questions were incorporated into the survey questionnaire.

Conclusion:

We identified the need for self-reporting of quality of life, diabetes distress, treatment burden, and confidence in self-management, as well as specific positive and negative impacts of DHS. We designed a survey questionnaire to further assess the perceptions and perspectives of people with type 1 and 2 diabetes on outcomes relevant for DHS evaluations.
Sports-Related Health Problems in Para-Sports: A Systematic Review With Quality Assessment
Authors: Luijten Sietske C.M. , te Loo Leonie M. , Nauta Joske , Janssen Thomas W.J. , Holla Jasmijn F.M. , Otten René H.J. , Vriend Ingrid , Verhagen Evert
Published: June 2023

Context:

Participation in sports is associated with a risk of sports-related health problems. For athletes with an impairment, sports-related health problems further burden an already restricted lifestyle, underlining the importance of prevention strategies in para-sports.

Objective:

To provide a comprehensive overview with quality assessment of the literature on sports-related health problems, their etiology, and available preventive measures in para-sports following the steps of the Sequence of Prevention.

Data Sources:

A literature search (in PubMed, Embase, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library) was performed up to December 8, 2021, in collaboration with a medical information specialist.

Study Selection:

The search yielded 3006 articles, of which 64 met all inclusion criteria.

Study Design:

Systematic review with quality assessment.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Data Extraction:

Two independent researchers carried out the screening process and quality assessment. One researcher extracted data, and the Sequence of Prevention categorized evidence.

Results:

A total of 64 studies were included, of which 61 reported on the magnitude and risk factors of sports-related health problems, while only 3 reported on the effectiveness of preventive measures. Of these, 30 studies were of high quality. Most studies (84%) included elite-level athletes. The reported injury incidence varied widely between sports (0-91 per 1000 athlete days) and impairment categories (1-50 per 1000 athlete days). The same applies to illness incidence with regard to different sports (3-49 per 1000 athlete days) and impairment categories (6-14 per 1000 athlete days).

Conclusion:

This review shows the current vast range of reported sport-related health problems in para-sports. There is limited evidence concerning the severity of these sports-related health problems and inconclusive evidence on the risk factors. Lastly, the evidence regarding the development and effectiveness of preventive measures for para-athletes is sparse.