bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence and Risk Factors for ICU-Associated Delirium in the Alert Geriatric Trauma Population
Authors: Ulderich Williams Sarah C. , Qaddoumi Ansam I. , Meghreblian John T. , McBride Mary E. , King Sarah A , Elahi Muhammad A. , Tuggle Debbie , Heidel R. Eric , Smith Lou M.
Published: March 2024

Background

This study analyzed the overall incidence of delirium, comorbid conditions, injury patterns, and pharmacological risk factors for the development of delirium in an alert, geriatric trauma population.

Methods

IRB-approved, prospective, consecutive cohort series at two Southeastern Level 1 trauma centers from June 11 to August 15, 2023. Delirium was assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) score. Comorbidities and medications were detailed from electronic medical records. Inclusion criteria: age ≥55, GCS ≥14, and ICU admission for trauma. Patients on a ventilator were excluded. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 28 (Armonk, NY: IBM Corp).

Results

In total, 196 patients met inclusion criteria. Incidences of delirium for Hospital 1 (n = 103) and Hospital 2 (n = 93) were 15.5% and 12.9%, respectively, with an overall incidence of 14.3% and with no statistical differences between hospitals ( P = .599). CAD, CKD, dementia, stroke history, and depression were statistically significant risk factors for developing delirium during ICU admission. Inpatient SSRI/SNRIs, epinephrine/norepinephrine, and lorazepam were significant risk factors. Injury patterns, operative intervention, and use of lidocaine infusions and gabapentin were not statistically significant in delirium development. Using binary linear regression (BLR) analysis, independent risk factors for delirium were dementia, any stage CKD, home SSRI/SRNI prescription, any spine injury and cerebrovascular disease, or injury.

Discussion

Comorbidities of CAD, CHF, CKD, and depression, and these medications: home lorazepam and ICU epinephrine/norepinephrine statistically are more common in patients developing delirium. Dementia, CKD, home SSRI/SRNI and stroke/cerebrovascular disease/injury, and spine injuries are independent predictors by BLR.
Reference values of parathyroid hormone in very low birth weight infants
Authors: Matejek Tomas , Zapletalova Bara , Stranik Jaroslav , Zaloudkova Lenka , Palicka Vladimir
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The primary goal was to estimate reference values of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in very low birth weight infants without severe neonatal morbidity. A secondary objective was to assess the relationship between PTH serum levels and selected laboratory markers of bone metabolism.

Methods

Ninety two infants with birth weight less than 1500 g met the inclusion criteria of the study. Serum levels of PTH, 25-hydroxyvitamin-D [25(OH)D], C3-epi-25(OH)D, total calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase, and urinary levels of calcium, phosphorus, and creatinine were examined on day 14 and subsequently every 2 weeks until discharge.

Results

Of the total 167 serum samples examined for PTH levels in infants without 25(OH)D deficiency the estimated range was 0.9–11.9 pmol/l (8.5–112.3 pg/mL). During the first month, no statistically significant correlation was observed between PTH level and that of 25(OH)D, C3-epimers of 25(OH)D, S-Ca, S-P, or ALP, nor with urinary excretion of calcium and phosphorus. From the second month of life, there was a moderately significant correlation between PTH and 25(OH)D (Rho = −0.40, P =< .001), between PTH and calcium/creatinine ratio (Rho = −0.56, P = < .001), and between PTH and phosphorus/creatinine ratio (Rho = 0.51, P = < .001).

Conclusions

The physiological range for PTH levels for preterm neonates without 25(OH)D deficiency was estimated as 0.9–11.9 pmol/l (8.5–112.3 pg/mL). It seems that elevation of serum PTH above this range can be considered as hyperparathyroidism in very low birth weight infants.
International Migrants from Rural Punjab—Attributes and Characteristics
Authors: Agnihotri Nivedita
Published: March 2024

International migration is a worldwide phenomenon, and it has influenced every economy in the world. Migration plays a significant role in the development of both home and host countries. Remittances sent by non-resident Indians (NRIs) to the country of origin improve the standard of living of their family members and are also helpful in solving the balance of payment problems of the country. This research article deals with the socio-economic background of the emigrants’ households. The size of the family, housing conditions, age group, earning members in the family, number of migrated persons, etc., is the important variables of this analysis. To analyse the socio-economic characteristics of the migrants’ households and to examine the causes behind international migration are the main objectives of this study. It is observed that prime reason behind the international migration from Punjab to other countries is the lack of suitable work opportunities. This article is based on the sample of 375 households that have been selected from 15 villages of the two districts, namely Jalandhar and SBS Nagar. For the analysis of data, simple percentage method and binary logistic regression model have been used. The analysis and findings of the study revealed that a total of 579 NRIs have migrated from the 375 households, and all these households have their own homes. It is observed that the ratio of male migrants is much higher than the females. The study analysed that the proportion of dependent family members is almost same in both districts. It is also noticed that people of general category went to developed countries like the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, but the OBCs and SCs preferred to go to the United Kingdom, Europe and Gulf countries. The main reasons of this difference are that the visa process of developed countries is more complicated and also contains huge costs, while visa process and cost of Gulf and other countries are simple and low, so OBCs and SCs can easily afford it.

JEL Codes: F2, F22, D14, O15, O1
Event-triggered trajectory tracking control for USV with prescribed performance and time delay based on differential flatness
Authors: Wang Yujuan , Shen Chao , Chen Hua
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a trajectory tracking control scheme for underactuated surface vessels (USVs) with input delay. Firstly, the underactuated surface vessel system is transformed into a fully actuated system using differential flatness theory. To estimate the unknown nonlinear terms introduced in the transformation process, a fuzzy neural network (FNN) is employed. Secondly, to conserve control resources and communication bandwidth, the controller of the system under prescribed performance is designed using the backstepping method. This method updates the controller according to an event-triggered condition that is designed using a Lyapunov function. Finally, theoretical proof and simulation experiments are conducted to demonstrate the convergence and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Telic-Paratelic Dominance and Heart Rate Variability in Athletes Engaged in Power and Endurance Training
Authors: Chihaoui Mamlouk Afek , Ouergui Ibrahim , Ben Waer Fatma , Zarrouk Fayçal , Gmada Nabil , Younes Mohamed , Bouhlel Ezdine
Published: March 2024

Purpose: The current study aimed to evaluate the telic-paratelic tendency and heart rate variability in athlete participants from different sports activities.

Methods: We assigned 117 healthy participants ( M age = 20, SD = 3 years) into three groups according to their training activity: power-trained (PT; n=43), endurance-trained (ET; n=36), and healthy untrained individuals (n=38). We assessed their telic-paratelic tendencies with the validated Telic Dominance Scale and their autonomic nervous system activity with heart rate variability (HRV) analyses.

Results: Our findings revealed no significant differences in the telic-paratelic tendencies between ET and PT groups. However, significant differences were observed between athletes and untrained individuals ( p = 0.001). Indeed, compared to untrained participants, ET and PT athletes had a greater telic tendency (both p = 0.001), were more focused on planning orientation (ET: p = 0.003; PT: p=0.001), and less often avoided arousal or activation (For ET 31% and for PT 26% of participants). The paratelic tendency was more important in untrained individuals, with most of these participants lacking in seriousmindedness and planning. In addition, we found higher HRV in paratelic ET athletes (SDNN p = 0.050, LF p = 0.022, and LF/HF p = 0.031) compared to their telic peers.

Conclusion: our results suggest that sport activity did not influence the telic-paratelic tendency. Nevertheless, this tendency differentiates trained from untrained participants. HRV was higher among paratelic ET athletes, potentially reflecting less stress and more training adaptability in these athletes.
A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Coercive Control and COVID-19 Stress Among Black Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Willie Tiara C. , Sharpless Laurel , Katague Marina , Kershaw Trace
Published: March 2024

Objective:

During times of crises, women are at elevated risk for intimate partner violence (IPV), but extant discourse fails to consider how this landscape amplifies disparities for Black women. This study examined the prevalence and associations of COVID-19 pandemic–specific coercive control and COVID-19–related stress among Black women experiencing IPV.

Methods:

Fifty-five Black women reporting past-year IPV participated in a prospective cohort study in 2020 and completed surveys on pandemic-specific coercive control, COVID-19–related stress, and sociodemographic characteristics. A subset of 15 participants completed semi-structured interviews in 2021. We conducted multivariable regression analyses to examine associations between coercive control and stress. We used interpretive phenomenological analysis to contextualize women’s experiences of coercive control and stress during the pandemic.

Results:

In the past 3 months, 76% (42 of 55) of women had a partner blame them for exposing them to COVID-19, 74% (41 of 55) had a partner minimize their pandemic concerns, and 52% (29 of 55) had a partner prevent them from getting a COVID-19 test. A higher average of pandemic-specific coercive control was associated with greater severity of COVID-19–related traumatic stress (b [SE] = 0.033 [0.009]; P = .001) and socioeconomic consequences related to COVID-19 (b [SE] = 0.019 [0.008]; P = .03). We identified 3 superordinate themes that illustrated Black women’s experiences: (1) coercive control, (2) pandemic-driven shifts in relational context, and (3) women’s structural and psychosocial stressors.

Conclusions:

Experiencing coercive control during the pandemic interfered with Black women’s engagement in preventive behaviors, which exacerbated distress. Intersectional public health efforts should address sociostructural and relational factors to prevent coercive control and stress among Black women experiencing IPV.
Implementing a Needs Assessment to Advance Health Equity in Overdose Prevention and Surveillance Initiatives
Authors: Winston Tiffany R. , Reed Minda , Roberts Marissa , Panjwani Aashna , Farfalla Jennifer , Pless Victoria , Miles Ayana , Rooks-Peck Cherie , Underwood Natasha L.
Published: March 2024

Objectives:

State, local, and federal agencies have expanded efforts to address the root causes of overdoses, including health inequity and related social determinants of health. As an Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) technical assistance provider, the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) conducted the first national needs assessment to understand capacity and technical assistance needs of OD2A jurisdictions in advancing health equity.

Methods:

ASTHO designed and disseminated the OD2A Recipient Health Equity Needs Assessment (RHENA) to 66 OD2A-funded jurisdictions from February to March 2022. OD2A principal investigators and staff were contacted via email and asked to complete the needs assessment within 6 weeks. One coder manually coded open-ended responses, conducted a thematic analysis on the qualitative data, and performed a simple frequency analysis on the quantitative data.

Results:

Fifty-two jurisdictions (78.8%) responded, including 36 states, 12 cities/counties, and 2 territories. Most jurisdictions (n = 46; 88.5%) reported having a formal or informal health equity lead in place. Common barriers included a lack of access to data sources (n = 37; 71.2%), lack of partnerships (n = 20; 38.5%), and lack of funding (n = 14; 26.9%). Respondents reported needing more information sharing among jurisdictions and partner organizations, coaching on best practices, and routine discussions such as peer-to-peer learning sessions.

Conclusion:

Findings suggest that gaps remain in programmatic policies and principles to address inequities in overdose prevention. Results are being used to identify additional technical assistance opportunities, jurisdictional capacity, and approaches to advance health equity.
Family Functioning, Community Participation, and Rehabilitation Barriers in the Acquired Brain Injury Community: An Exploratory Analysis
Authors: Morrison Blaise , Patel Tapan A. , Brackin Meaghan
Published: March 2024

Acquired brain injury (ABI) is the second most common cause of disability in America. Prior research highlights family functioning as an important predictor of psychosocial outcomes in the ABI population; however, there remains limited research aimed at understanding the role of family functioning in predicting rehabilitation progress and community participation. A quantitative, exploratory, descriptive research design was used for this study. A total sample of 49 individuals with mild-to-moderate ABI were recruited from a university medical center and outpatient rehabilitation center. Participants completed measures of demographics, community participation, family functioning, and perceived rehabilitation barriers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression (MR) analysis. Two MR models were examined, one with rehabilitation barriers as the dependent variable and one with community participation as the dependent variable. Financial support and perceived rehabilitation barriers contributed significantly to variance in community participation satisfaction, while financial support, family functioning, and community participation satisfaction each accounted for a significant portion of variance in perceived rehabilitation barriers. Overall, the full MR 1 model accounted for 33% of variance in community participation satisfaction, while the full MR 2 model accounted for 51% of variance in perceived rehabilitation barriers. Although more research with larger, more diverse samples is needed, this study provides rehabilitation and counseling professionals with important psychosocial concepts to consider in assessment and treatment and helps clarify the role of family in promoting positive rehabilitation and participation outcomes in the ABI community.
A simulation and experimentation architecture for resilient cooperative multiagent reinforcement learning models operating in contested and dynamic environments
Authors: Honhaga Ishan , Szabo Claudia
Published: March 2024

Cooperative multiagent reinforcement learning approaches are increasingly being used to make decisions in contested and dynamic environments, which tend to be wildly different from the environments used to train them. As such, there is a need for a more in-depth understanding of their resilience and robustness in conditions such as network partitions, node failures, or attacks. In this article, we propose a modeling and simulation framework that explores the resilience of four c-MARL models when faced with different types of attacks, and the impact that training with different perturbations has on the effectiveness of these attacks. We show that c-MARL approaches are highly vulnerable to perturbations of observation, action reward, and communication, showing more than 80% drop in the performance from the baseline. We also show that appropriate training with perturbations can dramatically improve performance in some cases, however, can also result in overfitting, making the models less resilient against other attacks. This is a first step toward a more in-depth understanding of the resilience c-MARL models and the effect that contested environments can have on their behavior and toward resilience of complex systems in general.
Recent advances on the fabrication and application of sound absorption coating-based textile composites
Authors: Zhu Shubing , Cheng Deshan , Tang Xiaoning
Published: March 2024

Noise pollution has been considered as a serious threat to the health of humans. The application of sound absorption materials is an effective noise reduction approach. Fibrous materials exhibit the unique micro-structures including small diameter, large specific surface area, and high porosity, which has been widely developed for sound absorption. Recently, rapid growth has been observed in the coating treatment of fibrous based materials and composites for acoustic applications, which can be attributed to the advantages of a facile production process, cost-effectiveness, and good sound absorption capability. This review aims to provide a brief overview on different coating layers of fibrous materials for improved sound absorption properties. The details of various factors affecting the acoustic behavior of coating materials are described. Among them, polymer coating is a widely used acoustic treatment method, adding particles and nanofiber materials to the polymer matrix, and carrying out structural design, which can further improve the sound absorption performance of textile materials. According to the different needs of the application field, different coating treatment methods have their own advantages. In summary, coating materials are promising to be used in buildings and interiors for efficient noise reduction and control.
Waterborne polyurethane containing fluorosilicone coating: to endow leather with enduring hydrophobicity and mechanical properties
Authors: Zhao Wenjing , Sui Zhihui , Zhang Qi , Sun Lijian , Hu Fang , Cao Xiangyu
Published: March 2024

Natural leather-based materials possess a combination of air permeability, wear resistance, and plasticity. However, conventional leather products have inherent limitations that make them unsuitable for unconventional applications. Therefore, it is necessary to develop new capabilities in order to overcome these limitations. In this study, we explored the conversion of regular leather into a high-strength product with hydrophobic properties through surface engineering. To achieve this, we synthesized polysiloxane-modified fluorinated waterborne polyurethane emulsions as functional coatings using emulsion polymerization. The structure and properties of the treated leathers were characterized using techniques such as Fourier transform infrared, thermogravimetry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The results demonstrated that the synthesized polysiloxane-modified fluorinated waterborne polyurethane successfully penetrated and combined with the fibers of the leather, resulting in excellent hydrophobicity. The water contact angle increased to 124.3°. Furthermore, the tensile strength and tear strength of unfinished leather are 875 N and 114 N, respectively. The application of waterborne polyurethane-derived functional additives as coatings resulted in a significant increase in tensile and tear strength of the leather by 60 N and 16 N, respectively. In addition, the softness of the leather increased from 7.6 mm to 10.09 mm. Overall, the use of this functional waterborne polyurethane coating will contribute to the diversification of leather applications.
Rapid quantitative analysis of natural indigo dye content using near-infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Sun Jieqing , Yang Xiaoli , Zhou Huixian , Lv Zhijia , Zhang Yuanyuan , Han Guangting , Ben Haoxi , Jiang Wei
Published: March 2024

Natural indigo, the most widely produced and utilized natural dye, encounters quality challenges due to the lack of standardization in the natural dye industry. Rapid determination of natural indigo dye contents before the dyeing process appears extremely important. In this study, two prediction models for different concentrations were established using partial least squares in conjunction with near-infrared analysis quantitatively to analyze the natural indigo dye content. A total of 228 indigo samples were collected from 14 different dyestuffs across various regions, with concentrations ranging from 100 to 1000 mg/L and 10 to 100 mg/L, respectively. The spectral pre-processing methods of multiplicative scatter correction plus first-order derivative and Savitzky–Golay smoothing plus band normalization plus first-order derivative were selected to enhance the model prediction accuracy. The optimized model exhibited excellent prediction accuracy. Within the concentration range of 100–1000 mg/L, the model has an R2 value of 0.9994, and a root mean square error of prediction value of 6.36 mg/L. In the concentration range of 10–100 mg/L, the model returned an R2 value of 0.9907, and a root mean square error of prediction value of 2.80 mg/L. The model's detection limit stands at 49.2 mg/L. The results demonstrated that the near-infrared models developed in this study can be used rapidly and accurately for the quantitative determination of natural indigo dyes.
Substance Use and Peer Associations: How Relationships Between Women on Community Supervision and Their Supervising Officers Matter
Authors: Carey Marcus Tyler , Mueller Kyle Curtis
Published: March 2024

The growth in the population of women on probation and/or parole has prompted the need for research that examines static and dynamic risk predictors for recidivism among them, particularly substance use and negative peer associations. Using a longitudinal study of 402 drug-involved and justice-involved women on probation/parole in 16 Michigan counties, this study employed the Dual-Role Relationship Inventory—Short Form (DRI-SF) and personal characteristics to examine how the perceptions of women under community supervision regarding their supervising officers correlated to risks for substance use and negative peer associations. We found those perceptions to be robust predictors of substance use and negative peer associations among our sample. The dynamics of that correlation are discussed, as are implications for practice.
Toward Black Epistemological Futures: Centering Antiblack Aggressions in Educational Research
Authors: Hines Dorothy E.
Published: March 2024

Educational researchers have widely used the term “racial microaggressions” as a theoretical framework for examining everyday and subtle forms of discrimination predicated against people of color. However, there are historical and contemporary differences in how Black people experience schools and other social institutions that a racial microaggressions lens does not fully embrace. Using a new frame termed “antiblack aggressions,” I discuss the history and damage of using racial microaggressions to examine the experiences of Black students. Furthermore, this piece calls for a paradigm shift that aligns with the original conceptualization of the term “microaggressions,” re-centers the Black experience, and fosters Black epistemological futures in educational research.
The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of ibogaine in opioid use disorder patients
Authors: Knuijver Thomas , ter Heine Rob , Schellekens Arnt F. A. , Heydari Paniz , Lucas Luc , Westra Sjoerd , Belgers Maarten , van Oosteren Toon , Verkes Robbert Jan , Kramers Cornelis
Published: March 2024

Objective:

Ibogaine is a hallucinogenic drug that may be used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). The relationships between pharmacokinetics (PKs) of ibogaine and its metabolites and their clinical effects on side effects and opioid withdrawal severity are unknown. We aimed to study these relationships in patients with OUD undergoing detoxification supported by ibogaine.

Methods:

The study was performed in 14 subjects with OUD. They received a single dose of 10mg/kg ibogaine hydrochloride. Plasma PKs of ibogaine, noribogaine, and noribogaine glucuronide were obtained during 24 h. Cytochrome P450 isoenzyme 2D6 (CYP2D6) genotyping was performed. The PKs were analyzed by means of nonlinear mixed effects modeling and related with corrected QT interval (QTc) prolongation, cerebellar ataxia, and opioid withdrawal severity.

Results:

The PK of ibogaine were highly variable and significantly correlated to CYP2D6 genotype ( p < 0.001). The basic clearance of ibogaine (at a CYP2D6 activity score (AS) of 0) was 0.82 L/h. This increased with 30.7 L/h for every point of AS. The relation between ibogaine plasma concentrations and QTc was best described by a sigmoid Emax model. Spearman correlations were significant ( p < 0.03) for ibogaine but not noribogaine with QTc ( p = 0.109) and cerebellar effects ( p = 0.668); neither correlated with the severity of opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Conclusions:

The clearance of ibogaine is strongly related to CYPD2D6 genotype. Ibogaine cardiac side effects (QTc time) and cerebellar effects are most likely more driven by ibogaine rather than noribogaine. Future studies should aim at exploring lower doses and/or applying individualized dosing based on CYP2D6 genotype.
Planning incapacitated: Environmental planning and the political ecology of austerity
Authors: Fearn Gareth
Published: March 2024

Coal mining in the UK, once central to its political economy, has been in terminal decline for decades for both political and more recently environmental reasons. Against the grain of this decline, the proposal of a new metallurgical coal mine near Whitehaven (on the north west coast of England) has caused significant controversy. Those supporting the mines development say it is necessary to ‘level up’ from the previous decade of austerity, whereas opponents argue that new coal mining would severely undermine the transition to low carbon energy sources. Through a discourse analysis and open-ended interviews, this paper analyses the contestation of the mine through the environmental planning process, identifying how both the discursive contestation and decision-making practices are shaped by political logics (austerity/levelling up) and ecological logics (climate change). The paper finds that, as states turn towards greater levels of public subsidies as a new form of crisis management, the environmental decision-making processes which can determine the shape of investments have been severely undermined through a decade or more of reduced public investment, policy streamlining and a lack of public expertise. The paper argues that even though states may be turning towards policies subsidising energy projects, they are doing so in a context where there is a lack of state capacity due to a ‘political ecology of austerity’, limiting public capacity to plan for a better future.
The correlation between obesity and prostate volume in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Negi Saurabh Kumar , Desai Sandip , Faujdar Gaurav , Jaiswal Sanjeev , Sahu Ram Dayal , Vyas Nachiket , Priyadarshi Shivam
Published: March 2024

Objective/background:

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is increasing substantial burden on health care systems. Men with high body mass index (BMI) have bigger prostate volumes (PV) with subsequent increase in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) than men with normal BMI. The purpose of this research was to investigate the correlation between Obesity and PV in patients with BPH.

Method:

The study included 560 patients (50–80 years) with BPH. Weight and height measured to calculate BMI. TRUS was used to measure PV. Patient demographics such as IPSS score and prostate specific antigen (PSA) were also noted.

Results:

Patients in the study had a mean age of 65.3 ± 9.45 years and the mean BMI was 23.97 ± 4.89 kg/m2. The mean PV of each BMI group were 37.45 ± 0.81, 57.89 ± 1.52 and 77.94 ± 2.17 (ml) for normal, overweight and obese groups, respectively, and the average PV score was 57.76 ± 1.50 ml. The mean PSA score was 3.26 ± 0.94 (ng/dl) with a range of 0.6–10.4. There was significant correlation between BMI and PV ( p = 0.001) as well as between BMI with PSA and IPSS ( p = 0.02, 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion:

The results showing strong correlation between BMI and PV also BMI with PSA and IPSS. Therefore reducing weight may lead to a lower prostate volume in the elderly stage, making LUTS less noticeable and improving quality of life.
Investigation on machining of GFRP through ANOVA, DFA, and CoCoSo method combined with Taguchi approach
Authors: Haoues Sabrina , Yallese Mohamed Athmane , Kaddeche Mounia , Uysal Alper , Safi Khaoula
Published: March 2024

Polymer-based composites (GFRP) are increasingly used in the mechanical industry due to their cost-profitability, durability, and good mechanical properties. In the present study, a metal carbide tool was employed to manufacture polyamide (PA66-GF30%) specimen in a dry environment. The impact of variations in cutting process parameters on the responses studied is investigated using two experimental techniques. The first is the OFAT approach. For the second technique (multifactorial), the effects of input parameters on technological parameters (Ra, Fz, MRR, and Pc) are quantified aided by the ANOVA method using an experimental design based on Taguchi’s L9 (3 × 3) orthogonal matrix. Based on the RSM methodology, the results were processed statistically to propose prediction models for the different outputs. In addition, a single-objective optimization study of Taguchi’s and a multi-objective optimization of the operating conditions using the classification method based on CoCoSo as well as the DF Approach according to two desired objectives were carried out. The first objective of this study concerns the minimization of (Ra, Fz, and Pc), and the second one considers the minimization of (Ra, Fz, and Pc) at the same time as maximizing (MRR). Finally, the surface roughness criteria (Ra and Sa) of PA66-GF30% were evaluated to study the effect of the feed (f) on the machined surface topography. The findings are of capital importance in that they provide the required and correct information about the working conditions of composite polymers. According to “OFAT” results, feed (f) is the predominant factor influencing roughness (Ra). Temperature in the cutting zone rises with increasing cutting conditions (Vc, f and ap). Variations in cutting conditions affect the morphology of the chip produced. The roughness criteria (Ra and Sa) results clearly show that the topography of the PA66-GF30% surface changes as (f) changes. Also, optimization of all performance parameters simultaneously indicates that the DFA offers the best combination of parameters: Vc = 187.50 m × min−1, f = 0.096 mm × rev−1, and ap = 0.866 mm, leading to the minimization of (Ra) and maximization of (MRR), with respective values of 1.24 µm and 15.614 cm3 × min−1. Furthermore, the CoCoSo method favors the minimization of (Fz and Pc) with values of 20.18 N and 69.285 W, respectively.
Effect of microplastics used in agronomic practices on agricultural soil properties and plant functions: Potential contribution to the circular economy of rural areas
Authors: Liava Vasiliki , Golia Evangelia E
Published: March 2024

The extensive use of plastic materials and their improper disposal results in high amounts of plastic waste in the environment. Aging of plastics leads to their breakdown into smaller particles, such as microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics. This research investigates plastics used in agricultural practices as they contribute to MP pollution in agricultural soils. The distribution and characteristics of MPs in agricultural soils were evaluated. In addition, the effect of MPs on soil properties, the relationship between MPs and metals in soil, the effect of MPs on the fate of pesticides in agricultural soils and the influence of MPs on plant growth were analysed, discussing legume, cereal and vegetable crops. Finally, a brief description of the main methods of chemical analysis and identification of MPs is presented. This study will contribute to a better understanding of MPs in agricultural soils and their effect on the soil-plant system. The changes induced by MPs in soil parameters can lead to potential benefits as it is possible to increase the availability of micronutrients and reduce plant uptake of toxic elements. Furthermore, although plastic pollution remains an emerging threat to soil ecosystems, their presence may result in benefits to agricultural soils, highlighting the principles of the circular economy.
Integrated optimization of common rail direct injection diesel engine input parameters with linseed biodiesel: A hybrid approach using grey relational analysis and genetic algorithm techniques
Authors: Sharma Abhishek , Maurya Nagendra Kumar , Tyagi Avdhesh , Singh Nishant Kumar , Singh Yashvir , Kumar Singh Kaushalendra , Kumar Manish
Published: March 2024

In the pursuit of improved productivity and efficiency, the search for alternative fuels that reduce dependence on fossil fuels is of utmost importance. This research study aims to investigate the influence of process parameters, namely blend percentage, fuel injection pressure, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) rate, and engine load, on various engine performance parameters such as torque, brake thermal efficiency (BTE), brake mean effective pressure (BMEP), hydrocarbon emissions (HC), and mechanical efficiency. The experiments are conducted following the Taguchi orthogonal array (L25) design of experiments. Additionally, grey relational analysis, a multi-objective optimization technique, is applied to identify the optimal levels of the process variables that optimize all the response parameters. The optimal values obtained through grey relational analysis are determined as 0% blend, 600 bar fuel injection pressure, 12% EGR rate, and 12 kg engine load. Moreover, the Genetic Algorithm-based Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm (MOGA) is employed for multi-objective optimization of the engine input variables, yielding optimal levels of 19.45% blend, 594.35 bar fuel injection pressure, 14.12% EGR rate, and 12 kg engine load. Furthermore, multivariable regression models are developed to predict the response variables within the experimental domain. These models are validated through a confirmation test. The findings of this study provide insights into the optimization of process variables for enhanced engine performance, with the developed models serving as valuable tools for future predictions and optimization.
Resistance model of an active capsule endoscope in a peristaltic intestine
Authors: Huang Yi , Liang Liang , Tang Puhua , Guo Zhiming
Published: March 2024

In the past studies, the resistance of magnetically controlled capsules running through the small intestine has been modeled assuming that the small intestine was a circular tube with a constant diameter. Peristalsis is an important character of the human gastrointestinal system, and it would result in some changes in the diameter of the intestine, meaning that the existing resistance models would no longer be applicable. In this paper, based on the assumption that intestinal peristalsis is actually a sinusoidal wave, a resistance model of the capsule running in the peristaltic intestine is established, and then it is validated experimentally. The model provides a realistic foundation for the optimization and control of the magnetically controlled endoscopy.
Research Progress in Regulatory Mechanism of Valproic Acid on Inflammatory Responses to Burns and Trauma
Authors: Zhu Meidi , Wang Shu-Ming , Liu Rui
Published: March 2024

Inflammation plays an important role in the defense of the human body. The inflammatory response can suppress the spread of pathogens, accelerate the removal of necrotic cells, and repair the damaged tissues and organs. However, an excessive inflammatory response can be fatal as it may lead to cellular apoptosis, necrosis of tissues and organs, and systemic dysfunction. An inflammatory response occurs when the skin is burned or injured, causing more severe and extensive pathological damage to the injured area. For example, inflammation can damage the coagulation system in the capillaries, resulting in the formation of small blood clots in the affected areas. In severe cases, inflammation can lead to necrosis of the injured area and may even affect other uninjured areas, causing hypoxia and inadequate blood supply. The role of valproic acid (VPA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, has been increasingly recognized in recent years. Evidence suggests that VPA can effectively alleviate tissue and organ injuries secondary to ischemia and hypoxia, and improve the body’s tolerance to ischemia-hypoxia and inflammatory insults, thus increasing the survival rates of the patients. This article reviews the latest research progress made in the mechanisms by which VPA regulates inflammatory response to burns.
RNAscope: a novel method for the detection of Heterobilharzia americana ova in canine liver
Authors: Devora Priscilla A. , Johnston Andrea N.
Published: March 2024

Canine schistosomiasis caused by Heterobilharzia americana can lead to severe morbidity and eventual mortality, in part due to the deposition of fluke ova in the liver and gastrointestinal tract, which promotes an influx of peri-ova inflammatory cells. Although fluke eggs can be identified in H&E-stained histologic sections, cases exist in which only fragments of the ova persist, or the egg is obscured by inflammatory infiltrates, which can confound definitive histologic diagnosis. Unfortunately, antibodies specific to Heterobilharzia are not commercially available for immunohistochemical labeling. Therefore, we aimed to use an RNA in situ hybridization strategy to fluorescently label Heterobilharzia ova. Using the H. americana 18S rRNA sequence, we developed an RNA probe and validated its performance on archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded canine tissue. A positive signal was observed for all identifiable ova, fragmented and whole. Use of this methodology could aid understanding of the pathogenesis of H. americana infection in dogs. This technique augments standard diagnostic methodology, enabling spatial colocalization of fluke ova and inflammatory infiltrates when using fluorescent techniques.
Rethinking Measurement Equivalence in Comparative Political Research
Authors: Zhirkov Kirill , Welzel Christian
Published: March 2024

A growing number of studies test key cultural constructs used in comparative political research for invariance across countries, only to declare these constructs incomparable if the invariance tests fail. The assumption underlying this kind of conclusion is that between-country differences in within-country factor solutions reflect cross-cultural inequivalence of the respective survey items. Using a Bayesian approach, we explore variation in measurement quality across countries focusing on sexual emancipation. We find that between-country differences in factor solutions reflect little more than imbalances in within-country dispersions of the construct items. As we demonstrate, discrete and bounded response scales used in standard surveys enforce a mathematical relationship between extreme country means, low within-country dispersions, and weak factor solutions. We formalize this insight by introducing a between–within model of cultural variation. Our contribution calls into question the practice of declaring constructs to be incomparable based on failed invariance tests.
Supporting Intercultural Experiences in Online Teaching during Wartime and Humanitarian Crises: Slack as a Learning Tool
Authors: Chadha Monica , Relly Jeannine E.
Published: March 2024

Online program design is important for cross-cultural learning and cultural awareness and responsiveness. Because of the importance of these areas in journalism and similar fields, this research studies an intercultural “bridge” project with journalism and media-related students at a southwest U.S. university and four universities in Yemen. The paper presents an analysis of the students’ experience of the cultural exchange on the platform, Slack, of journalism, and other types of media. Data demonstrated the impact of learning about each culture, and interculturally, through students’ and instructors’ perspectives versus news coverage provided by mainstream media. Intercultural bridge building and relationship development through collective activities and journalistic work also offered promise. The study also revealed impediments to seamless cultural exchanges and learning, and barriers to effective intercultural communication.
“Walking Along a Difficult Path Towards Reward”: Home Healthcare Nurses’ Work Experiences and Satisfaction
Authors: Drimousi Georgia , Mantzorou Marianna , Plakas Sotirios , Parissopoulos Stelios , Kleisiaris Christos , Adamakidou Theodoula
Published: March 2024

The growing demand for skilled personnel and the challenges faced by home healthcare (HHC) underscore the significance of these issues for nurses’ job satisfaction and daily experience of working in this field. The aim of the study was to explore the lived experience and job satisfaction of HHC nurses working in Greece. A qualitative study with semi-structured interviews was conducted. The data were collected from November to December 2021. The analysis was based on thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke. Data were organized with Atlas.ti v8. The sample consisted of 9 nurses (8 female and 1 male), with mean value of 10.22 years of working experience in the field of HHC. Four main themes emerged during the thematic analysis: “Nurse as a guest” “Understanding the world of home healthcare,” “Walking along a difficult path towards reward,” and “Looking forward to a better tomorrow.” Nurses’ descriptions gave the framework of working conditions in HHC and the uniqueness of this working environment, highlighting at the same time the factors that positively or negatively affect their job satisfaction. This valuable knowledge could act as a basis for the development of new targeted strategies, with the goal of creating a healthy, productive environment that would strengthen the desire of nurses to work in HHC.
Clinical correlates of respiratory disorders in patients with severe multiple sclerosis: A cross-sectional cohort
Authors: Maillart Elisabeth , Redolfi Stefania , Louapre Céline , Houot Marion , Chaugne Emeline , Laveneziana Pierantonio , Ungureanu Aurelian , Stankoff Bruno , Arnulf Isabelle , Papeix Caroline , Bodini Benedetta , Similowski Thomas , Lubetzki Catherine , Morélot-Panzini Capucine
Published: March 2024

Background:

Respiratory disorders remain incompletely described in multiple sclerosis (MS), even though they are a frequent cause of death.

Methods:

The objective was to describe respiratory disorders in MS patients with Expanded Disability Status Score (EDSS) ⩾ 6.5. Diaphragm dysfunction was defined by at least two of the seven criteria: clinical signs, inspiratory recruitment of neck muscles during wakefulness, reduced upright vital capacity (VC) < 80%, upright-to-supine VC ⩾ 15% of upright VC, decrease in Maximal Inspiratory Pressure < 60%, phasic activation of inspiratory neck muscles during sleep, and opposition of thoracic and abdominal movements during sleep. Cough weakness was defined by a peak cough flow < 270 L/min and/or need for cough assist. Sleep apnea syndrome was defined by an apnea–hypopnea index ⩾ 15.

Results:

Notably, 71 MS patients were included: median age 54 [48, 61] years; median disease duration 21.4 [16.0, 31.4] years. Of these, 52 patients had one or more respiratory disorders; diaphragm dysfunction was the most frequent ( n = 34). Patients with diaphragm dysfunction and cough weakness were more disabled. The fatigue score and the cognitive evaluations did not differ between the groups. Five patients required non-invasive ventilation.

Conclusion:

Respiratory disorders are frequent in severe MS, mostly diaphragm dysfunction. Of interest, instrumental interventions are available to address these disorders.
Who cooperates with whom? The role of day-to-day partisan cooperation on affective polarization
Authors: Santoso Lie Philip
Published: March 2024

Recent research has shown that partisan cooperation in the form of coalitional government in parliamentary democracies can mitigate partisans’ negative feelings toward opposing parties. However, little is known regarding the influence of informal cooperation beyond coalition arrangements on citizens’ affection towards the out-parties. To address this, I combine survey data from 11 Western Democracies with a measure of parties’ public relationships as reported by the media to examine the extent to which partisans’ affection towards opposing parties aligns with the changing portrayal of interactions between the parties as reported in the news. The findings demonstrate that voters’ affection towards opposing parties do indeed correspond with the actual pattern of interactions as depicted by the media. However, the reduction in the levels of affective polarization varies across individuals with different levels of political knowledge. This finding shows that affective polarization is also influenced by the short-term nature of cooperative or conflictual events beyond its policy-based or institutional underpinnings.
“I can’t escape my scars, even if I do get better”: A qualitative exploration of how adolescents talk about their self-harm and self-harm scars during cognitive behavioural therapy for depression
Authors: Kristen Anna , Lecchi Tanya , Loades Maria E , Midgley Nick
Published: March 2024

Emerging evidence indicates that perceptions of self-harm behaviours and self-harm scars may thwart recovery from depression, yet limited research has explored adolescent accounts of their self-harm and scars during therapy. This study sought to explore how adolescents describe their self-harm behaviours and scars during Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and explore the sociocultural discourses that may influence these descriptions. The participants were six female adolescents (aged 14-17 years old) with clinical depression, who were engaging in self-harm. All participants accessed CBT as part of clinical trial evaluating three psychological treatments for major depressive disorder in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Audio-taped CBT sessions were analyzed using discourse analysis. Within CBT sessions, adolescents drew upon stigma discourses in talking about their self-harm. Adolescent also described their self-harm scars as shameful and stigmatizing, and as “proof” of the legitimacy of their depression. It is important for CBT practitioners to understand the context of sociocultural discourses around self-harm behaviours and self-harm scars, which are reflected in how adolescents with depression describe these within therapy and may serve to maintain distress. The study indicates that awareness of use of language and intersecting sociocultural discourses can inform CBT practice.