bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antipsychotic medication in people with intellectual disability and schizophrenia: A 25-year updated systematic review and cross-sectional study
Authors: Courtial Elsa , Pouchon Arnaud , Polosan Mircea , Dondé Clément
Published: September 2024

Objectives:

To determine the efficacy and safety of antipsychotic medication for treating individuals with a dual diagnosis of intellectual disability (ID) and schizophrenia.

Methods:

We systematically reviewed the literature to explore the risks and benefits of antipsychotics for schizophrenia in ID. In addition, a cross-sectional retrospective study on the tolerance profiles of a representative ID and schizophrenia cohort was conducted.

Results:

From the systematic search, we retained 18 articles detailing information on 24 cases. In almost all cases, the antipsychotic improved psychotic symptoms (e.g., hallucinations, delusions, disorganization). Negative manifestations were also improved (blunted affects, amotivation, poor rapport), as were challenging behaviors in a few cases. The most commonly reported side effects were neurological (extra-pyramidal, movement disorder, epilepsy) and metabolic manifestations. In the retrospective cross-sectional study, we reported data on 112 participants with comorbid ID and schizophrenia. In all, 103 participants were antipsychotic-treated, of which 39% were on antipsychotic monotherapy. Of these, 35% were in the obesity range, 25% in the hyperglycemic range, and 25% in the dyslipidemia range. The body mass index did not differ between the groups.

Conclusions:

This study provides an initial evidence base underpinning the efficacy of antipsychotic drugs on schizophrenia in the ID population. Nevertheless, there may be an increased risk of metabolic side effects, hence, close monitoring of blood glucose, lipids, and weight should be implemented when prescribing antipsychotics to this population.
General Population Mortality Adjustment in Survival Extrapolation of Cancer Trials: Exploring Plausibility and Implications for Cost-Effectiveness Analyses in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer in Sweden
Authors: Kim Kun , Sweeting Michael , Wilking Nils , Jönsson Linus
Published: September 2024

Background

In economic evaluations of novel therapies, assessing lifetime effects based on trial data often necessitates survival extrapolation, with the choice of model affecting outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess accuracy and variability between alternative approaches to survival extrapolation.

Methods

Data on HER2-positive breast cancer patients from the Swedish National Breast Cancer Register were used to fit standard parametric distribution (SPD) models and excess hazard (EH) models adjusting the survival projections based on general population mortality (GPM). Models were fitted using 6-y data for stage I and II, 4-y data for stage III, and 2-y data for stage IV cancer reflecting an early data cutoff while maintaining sufficient events for comparison of model estimates with actual long-term outcomes. We compared model projections of 15-y survival and restricted mean survival time (RMST) to 15-y registry data and explored the variability between models in extrapolations of long-term survival.

Results

Among 11,224 patients compared with the observed registry 15-y RMST estimates across the disease stages, EH cure models provided the most accurate estimates in patients with stage I to III cancer, whereas EH models without cure most closely matched survival in patients with stage IV cancer, in which cure assumption was less plausible. The Akaike information criterion–averaged model projections varied as follows: −8.2% to +5.3% for SPD models, −4.9% to +5.2% for the EH model without a cure assumption, and −19.3% to −0.2% for the EH model with a cure assumption. EH models significantly reduced between-model variance in the predicted RMSTs over a 50-y time horizon compared with SPD models.

Conclusions

EH models may be considered as alternatives to SPD models to produce more accurate and plausible survival extrapolation that accounts for general population mortality.

Highlights

Excess hazard (EH) methods have been suggested as an approach to incorporate background mortality rates in economic evaluation using survival extrapolation. We highlight that EH models with or without a cure assumption can produce more accurate survival projections and significantly reduce between-model variability in comparison with standard parametric distribution models across cancer stages. EH models may be a preferred modeling method to reduce model uncertainty in health economic modeling since models that would otherwise have produced implausible extrapolations are constrained by the EH framework. Reduced uncertainty in economic evaluations will enhance the application of evidence-based health care decision making.
Partnerships as Strategy in Macro-Social Marketing
Authors: Shaw David , Harris Fiona , Ali Haider
Published: September 2024

National government programmes tackling complex social problems have adopted a macro-social marketing approach, with resultant campaigns increasingly containing a partnerships element. However, a lack of academic literature regarding partnerships in macro-social marketing exists, particularly the ‘why’ of partnerships in national behaviour change interventions. Using a case study methodology, data were collected through three methods (participant observation, document analysis and semi-structured interviews) and analysed using thematic analysis. This paper offers a greater theoretical understanding of why partnerships are used in national social marketing programmes. The findings uncover a new way of conceptualising partnerships in macro-social marketing: holistically as a strategic concept that supports system-wide behaviour change. The findings further reveal that, as a concept, partnerships can play a strategic role in the long-term development and delivery of solutions to tackle complex social problems. Two types of partnerships—strategic partnerships and signposting (tactical) partnerships—are identified and defined.
Salish Perspectives on Human–Plant Relationships: Embracing Authenticity and Complexity
Authors: Pete Shandin
Published: September 2024

This paper explores the intricate relationship between humans and plants from the perspective of Salish concepts, shedding light on the tradition of attributing human-desired qualities to the botanical world. Although plants possess traits that appeal to human desires, it is essential to recognize their inherent distinction from humans. Through historical utilization by Salish communities, a spiritual reciprocal bond has been established, necessitating the adherence to human-like protocols to maintain a symbiotic relationship. However, this exploration advocates against romanticizing this relationship, as it has the potential to foster internal stereotyping while leading to external discrepancies in philosophical pursuits. By carefully examining Salish practices from past to present, an emphasis is placed on the significance of comprehending and respecting the uniqueness of plant life. Through this analysis, the primary goal is to enhance our understanding of the profound connection between humans and plants while embracing the authenticity and complexity of this relationship. Appreciating the true nature of the bond can offer valuable insights into sustainable coexistence with the botanical world and contribute to fostering a more balanced and respectful relationship between humans and the natural environment.
Transfer learning in robotics: An upcoming breakthrough? A review of promises and challenges
Authors: Jaquier Noémie , Welle Michael C , Gams Andrej , Yao Kunpeng , Fichera Bernardo , Billard Aude , Ude Aleš , Asfour Tamim , Kragic Danica
Published: September 2024

Transfer learning is a conceptually-enticing paradigm in pursuit of truly intelligent embodied agents. The core concept—reusing prior knowledge to learn in and from novel situations—is successfully leveraged by humans to handle novel situations. In recent years, transfer learning has received renewed interest from the community from different perspectives, including imitation learning, domain adaptation, and transfer of experience from simulation to the real world, among others. In this paper, we unify the concept of transfer learning in robotics and provide the first taxonomy of its kind considering the key concepts of robot, task, and environment. Through a review of the promises and challenges in the field, we identify the need of transferring at different abstraction levels, the need of quantifying the transfer gap and the quality of transfer, as well as the dangers of negative transfer. Via this position paper, we hope to channel the effort of the community towards the most significant roadblocks to realize the full potential of transfer learning in robotics.
Effect of optimizing cerebral oxygen saturation on postoperative delirium in older patients undergoing one-lung ventilation for thoracoscopic surgery
Authors: Teng Peilan , Liu Henghua , Xu Derong , Feng Xuexin , Liu Miao , Wang Qingxiu
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This randomized controlled trial investigated whether the regional cerebral oxygenation saturation (rScO2)-guided lung-protective ventilation strategy could improve brain oxygen and reduce the incidence of postoperative delirium (POD) in patients older than 65 years.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial enrolled 120 patients undergoing thoracic surgery who received one-lung ventilation (OLV). Patients were randomly assigned to the lung-protective ventilation group (PV group) or rScO2-oriented lung-protective ventilation group (TPV group). rScO2 was recorded during the surgery, and the occurrence of POD was assessed.

Results

The incidence of POD 3 days after surgery—the primary outcome—was significantly lower in the TPV group (23.3% versus 8.5%). Meanwhile, the levels of POD-related biological indicators (S100β, neuron-specific enolase, tumor necrosis factor-α) were lower in the TPV group. Considering the secondary outcomes, both groups exhibited a lower oxygenation index after OLV, whereas partial pressure of carbon dioxide and mean arterial pressure were significantly increased in the TPV group. In addition, minimum rScO2 during surgery and mean rScO2 were higher in the TPV group than in the PV group.

Conclusion

Continuous intraoperative monitoring of brain tissue oxygenation and active intervention measures guided by cerebral oxygen saturation are critical for improving brain metabolism and reducing the risk of POD.
Risk factors for patients with tracheal stenosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hong Siqi , Wu Xiaobing , Feng Haihuan , Zhang Qing , Wang Xiaohan , Chang Minmin , Chen Xiuli , Liu Weijuan
Published: September 2024

Objective

To systematically evaluate potential risk factors for tracheal stenosis and to provide a reference for the prevention and management of patients with this condition.

Methods

Databases were searched to identify studies of the risk factors for tracheal stenosis, from their inception to October 2023, then a meta-analysis was performed. The study was registered with PROSPERO under the registration number CRD42023428906.

Results

Ten studies of a total of 2525 patients were included. The meta-analysis showed that tracheotomy, diabetes, the duration of intubation, the duration of mechanical ventilation, respiratory tract infection, a high incision, and a ratio of intratracheal tube cuff diameter (C)/transverse diameter at the level of the clavicle (T) >150% were risk factors for the development of tracheal stenosis.

Conclusion

Measures such as shortening the duration of mechanical ventilation and intubation, reducing and avoiding tracheotomy after prolonged intubation, early tracheotomy in patients with obesity who require prolonged mechanical ventilation, appropriate choices of incision location and catheter, the maintenance of appropriate C/T, the prevention of respiratory infection, and the control of diabetes mellitus should limit the risk of tracheal stenosis.
Comparative Evaluation of Orthodontic Bonding Systems for Ceramic Brackets on Zirconia Crowns: A Shear Bond Strength and Adhesive Remnant Index Study
Authors: T Bhuvaneswaran , Vimala G. , Rao G. Usha , Anbarasu Prema
Published: September 2024

Background

The purpose of this research was to compare the adhesive residual score/adhesive remnant index (ARI) and shear bond endurance between the two orthodontic bonding systems for zirconia surface bonding: Self-etch (Scotchbond Universal) and total-etch (Transbond XT).

Materials and Methods

Color-coded acrylic blocks embedded with zirconia slabs were prepared, and the orthodontic brackets (ceramic) were bonded using either the total-etch or self-etch system. Group 1, represented by pink-colored blocks ( N = 12), accommodated 12 zirconia surfaces using the total-etch system, while Group 2, represented purple-colored blocks ( N = 12), also housed zirconia surfaces using the self-etch system. The shear bond strength was evaluated using an Instron Universal Testing Machine, and ARI scoring was done upon debonding. The statistical software SPSS was used for the analyses.

Results

The average bonding strength for the Scotchbond Universal etch system was 6.21 ± 0.76 MPa, while for the total-etch system, it was 5.59 ± 1.37 MPa. The ARI scores revealed that 83% of surfaces bonded with the self-etch system had no adhesive residue (ARI score 0), compared to 66% for the total-etch system.

Conclusion

The self-etch bonding agent demonstrated superior bond strength (6.2 MPa) compared to the total-etch system (5.6 MPa). Furthermore, it exhibited better ARI scores, indicating minimal adhesive residue. These findings suggest that the self-etch system is preferable for bonding ceramic brackets to zirconia crowns, offering improved bonding efficacy and ease of clean-up.
Conversations from Arendelle: Children’s understanding of musical affect in a narrative, multimedia context
Authors: Beck Sara , Allee Daniel
Published: September 2024

Children’s verbatim memory for song lyrics has been broadly investigated in the psychological literature, but little is known about the developmental course of children’s ability to construct meaning from familiar multimedia songs containing both concrete and metaphorical language. The present study examined age-related change in children’s understanding of the hit song “Let It Go” using a brief comprehension measure and a semi-structured interview conducted over Zoom. Participants included 51 children from 3- to 10-year-olds whose parents reported that they were familiar with and enjoyed Frozen. Participants’ comprehension of the song was assessed using a visual comprehension measure. They then co-viewed the music video, with the researcher pausing at several time points in the song to ask how the child thought Elsa was feeling and how the child knew. A grounded analysis of participants’ responses yielded five categories that comprehensively captured the range of cues (song lyrics, non-lyrical musical elements, observable action on screen, character appearance, and non-observable narrative elements). A median split of the sample revealed that older children referenced more converging cues to explain their thinking on Elsa’s emotion during the song and that older children referenced musical cues (both lyrical and non-lyrical) significantly more than younger children.
Becoming singular: Musical identity construction and maintenance through the lens of identity process theory
Authors: Forbes Melissa , Goopy Jason , Krause Amanda E
Published: September 2024

This study uses identity process theory to understand the social–psychological processes that motivate individuals to construct an identity in which music, singing, and singing teaching feature prominently. We conducted reflexive thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 10 Australian singing teachers (with an average age 60) to understand how they enacted identity principles that motivate identity construction and maintenance. Findings were captured in two themes: (1) ‘It has just been music’: Living a musical life is my destiny; (2) ‘I know my value’: Achieving goals in music and teaching is motivating. Participants’ consistent musical engagement across the lifespan satisfied the identity principles of continuity and positive distinctiveness. The identity principles of self-efficacy and self-esteem were satisfied through the social connections created with peers and through teaching singing; participants derived self-worth from celebrating and contributing to the success of others. Teaching singing was a way to become ‘singular’, that is, distinctive, and distinctively valued by the self and others. This article provides an example of how identity process theory can be applied in musical identities research to uncover new insights into the psychological processes of identity construction, with implications for understanding identity resilience and musical engagement across the lifespan.
Different voice part perceptions in polyphonic and homophonic musical textures
Authors: Ishida Kai , Nittono Hiroshi
Published: September 2024

Separate voice part perception has been shown in polyphonic music. However, it remains unclear whether this segregation of voice parts is specific to polyphony or also occurs in homophonic music. This study compared voice part perceptions in polyphony and homophony using a redundant signals effect (RSE) paradigm. The RSE means that reaction times are shorter for two simultaneously presented signals than for one of these signals. At the final position of the four-voice homophonic and polyphonic sequences, notes in two voice parts were altered to out-of-key notes independently or simultaneously. Participants ( N = 208) responded to any deviant tones while withholding responses to non-deviant tones. All combinations of deviant voice parts (i.e., soprano–bass, tenor–bass, and alto–tenor) elicited RSEs in polyphonic and homophonic sequences, suggesting separate voice part perception, irrespective of musical texture. However, evidence of the coactivation of separate perceptual modules was obtained only for polyphonic sequences. Deviants in higher voice parts were detected faster and more accurately than those in lower voice parts in both musical textures. These results indicate that voice parts are perceived separately, with a bias toward higher voice parts in both musical textures, but voice parts are more segregated in polyphony.
Adapting the ‘study and research path’ methodology in strength of materials to online teaching and resource-constrained scenarios
Authors: Bartolomé E.
Published: September 2024

The Study and Research Path (SRP) methodology, emphasizing exploration of answers to open questions, has recently gained recognition as an effective active and inquiry-based learning approach, notably in the realm of Mechanical Engineering education. This study investigates the adaptation of SRPs to online and resource-constrained environments. We present and compare eight SRP-based Strength of Material courses conducted before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Our analysis focuses on the transformations observed in SRPs, encompassing shifts in course organization, question-answer maps, media-milieu dialectics, resource utilization, and inquiry procedures. Our findings demonstrate the successful adaptation of the SRP course to online teaching during the unprecedented remote conditions brought about by the pandemic. This adaptation resulted in a more guided Q-A map, innovative practical experiences with homemade setups, increased use of simulations, and parallelized inquiry by different groups. Importantly, materials and strategies developed during this transformation proved invaluable in subsequent post-pandemic courses, particularly in hybrid or constrained space and cohort settings. Our study highlights the adaptability and efficacy of SRPs in diverse teaching environments, providing valuable insights for educators seeking to implement SRPs and other active-learning, inquiry-based methodologies to challenging ecological conditions.
Temporal logics in geographical research on migration and refugees
Authors: Tefera Goshu Wolde , Gamlen Alan
Published: September 2024

This paper identifies and examines three key approaches prevalent in the geographical study of migration: the displacement and mobilities approach, the transit and waiting approach, and the immigrant settlement approach. Each approach is analyzed in terms of its treatment of time and migratory experiences, critiquing them for reinforcing conventional temporal categories: the past, present, and future. It argues that these categories are problematic as they oversimplify the complex spatiotemporal nature of migration. The paper proposes the concept of “temporal logics” to problematize and de-reify these categories, enabling a more nuanced analysis of time in migration, mobility, and displacement processes.
Urinary chloride excretion in critical illness and acute kidney injury: a paediatric hypothesis-generating cohort study post cardiopulmonary bypass surgery
Authors: Mattke Adrian C , Johnson Kerry E , Ariyawansa Krishanti , Trnka Peter , Venugopal Prem S , Coman David , Schibler Andreas , Gibbons Kristen
Published: September 2024

Renal chloride metabolism is currently poorly understood but may serve as both a diagnostic and a treatment approach for acute kidney injury. We investigated whether plasma chloride, ammonia and glutamine as well as urinary chloride, ammonium and glutamine concentrations may serve as markers for acute kidney injury in paediatric patients. We conducted a prospective observational trial in a tertiary care paediatric intensive care unit. Ninety-one patients after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery were enrolled. Plasma glutamine, creatinine, (serum) albumin, urinary electrolytes and glutamine were collected pre-cardiopulmonary bypass surgery, at paediatric intensive care unit admission, and at 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h after paediatric intensive care unit admission. The urinary strong ion difference was calculated. The median urinary chloride excretion decreased from 51 mmol/L pre-cardiopulmonary bypass to 25 mmol/L at paediatric intensive care unit admission, and increased from 24 h onwards. Patients with acute kidney injury had lower urinary chloride excretion than those without. The median urinary strong ion difference was 59 mmol/L pre-cardiopulmonary bypass, rose to 131 mmol/L at 24 h and fell to 20 mmol/L at 72 h. The plasma chloride rose from 105 mmol/L pre-cardiopulmonary bypass to a maximum of 109 mmol/L at 24 h. At 24 h the plasma chloride concentration was associated with the presence of acute kidney injury. There was no association between plasma or urinary amino acids and chloride excretion or kidney injury. In conclusion, renal chloride excretion decreased in all patients, although this decrease was more pronounced in patients with acute kidney injury. Our findings may reflect a response of the kidneys to critical illness, and acute kidney injury may make these changes more pronounced. Targeting chloride metabolism may offer treatment approaches to acute kidney injury.
Impact of extracorporeal hemadsorption on mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients in the intensive care unit
Authors: Çakin Özlem , Yüce Aktepe Melike , Harmandar Orbay , Deveci Kamil , Esra Yildirim Özlem , Kurtoğlu Erdal
Published: September 2024

Background:

The consequences of COVID-19, such as respiratory failure and mortality, require the search for fast and effective solutions. The aim of this retrospective study is to determine the effect of extracorporeal hemadsorption on mortality in severe COVID-19 cases hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods:

Our study is retrospective, single-center, and observational. The study included ICU patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who received extracorporeal hemadsorption treatment between March 2020 and December 2020. Effects on mortality were examined by comparing pre- and post-hemadsorption values.

Results:

Seventeen patients were included in the study. The mortality rate in the study was 64.7%. After hemadsorption, an increase was observed in the lymphocyte numbers, APACHE-II, and SOFA values of the patients ( p = 0.026, 0.043, and 0.033; respectively). A significant decrease was observed in CRP and fibrinogen levels ( p = 0.003 and 0.005; respectively). In the non-surviving patient group, APACHE-II, SOFA, and procalcitonin values were found to be high before and after the procedure ( p = 0.002, 0.048, and 0.06; respectively).

Conclusion:

In COVID-19 patients, APACHE-II and SOFA scores may be useful in predicting the effectiveness of extracorporeal hemadsorption. Our study found that patients with higher APACHE-II and SOFA scores at baseline had a higher mortality rate after hemadsorption. These findings show that the use of intensive care scoring systems may be useful in determining which patients should receive extracorporeal hemadsorption and that hemadsorption should be performed in the early stages of the disease.
Exploring retroperitoneal fibrosis: Insights, challenges, and treatment approaches
Authors: Mehedra Anass , Maachi Youssef , Babty Mouftah , Slaoui Amine , Karmouni Tarik , Elkhader Khalid , Koutani Abdellatif , Ibenattya Ahmed Andaloussi
Published: September 2024

Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is a rare fibro-inflammatory condition characterized by abnormal tissue growth around the abdominal aorta and iliac arteries, usually encasing adjacent structures like the ureters. Its etiology remains most of the time idiopathic, but secondary causes, including malignancies and medication use, account for a minority of cases. This review aims to consolidate recent advancements in understanding RPF, focusing on its pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment. Literature search was conducted using databases like PubMed, with emphasis on recent publications. Biomarkers such as elevated CRP levels and imaging techniques like CT scans and MRI play pivotal roles in diagnosis and monitoring. Medical management primarily revolves around corticosteroids, with adjunctive therapies like tamoxifen and immunosuppressants showing promise. Surgical intervention, typically ureterolysis, becomes necessary in cases of urinary tract obstruction. This review studies the importance of a comprehensive approach to RPF management, integrating medical and surgical modalities for optimal patient outcomes.
Randomised controlled trial comparing safety and efficacy of Urolift to monopolar TURP
Authors: Sheba Mostafa , El Gamal Farouk , Abd El Wahed Mohamed , Kotb Sameh , Meshref Alaa , Aly Hussein Hussien , Mostafa Zahran Amr
Published: September 2024

Objectives:

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common cause of the Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) in ageing men. TURP is still the gold-standard procedure for the treatment of LUTS-BPH, however new minimally invasive modalities like Urolift procedure has been introduced.

Methods:

Patients with prostate size up to 100 g were offered both treatment modalities. Hundred patients were included in the study, 100 in TURP group (group A) and 100 in Urolift group (group B). International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) was used at initial contact and for evaluation of response to treatment. Group A underwent TURP under regional anaesthetic, while group B underwent Urolift under sedation.

Results:

The mean age in both groups was 66.4 years. The IPSS score improvement among both groups is attached in the diagram. Group B patients had less hospital stay, better erectile and ejaculatory function compared to group B, and no stress incontinence was detected in group B while 6.7% of the patients in group A suffered some stress incontinence.

Conclusion:

Urolift has the benefit of preserving the ejaculatory function and less complications. Nevertheless, it has size limitations and the IPSS score improvement is less satisfactory when compared to TURP.
Correlation of sibling couple infertility history with semen parameters of infertile men, a cohort study
Authors: Menbari Oskouie Iman , Akhavizadegan Hamed , Kasaeian Amir , Esmaeilpanah Shima , Lotfi Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Infertility is a growing issue globally, particularly in industrialized cultures, affecting 13%–18% of couples of reproductive ages. In recent years, numerous studies have aimed to identify prognostic factors for infertility and abnormal semen analysis. To date, no study has examined the relationship between the number of infertile siblings and abnormal sperm parameters. This study aims to investigate whether the number of infertile siblings can be considered a prognostic factor for abnormal sperm parameters.

Method:

Semen samples were collected from the male partners of couples experiencing infertility issues. Study participants completed a questionnaire detailing demographic information including age and family history of infertility. Each participant provided two semen samples, with a minimum 15-day interval between collections. Sperm concentration, motility, and morphology were assessed for each sample. Clinical investigators conducted physical examinations, using an orchidometer to measure testicular size.

Results:

The number of infertile brothers and testis volume were prognostic factors for abnormal sperm count (OR = 1.374, p-value = 0.03; OR = 0.786, p-value < 0.001; respectively) and abnormal motility (OR = 1.514, p-value = 0.018; OR = 26.74, p-value < 0.001, respectively). There was no significant association between the percentage of abnormal morphology of sperm cells and the mentioned prognostic factors. The optimal cut-off point of the number of infertile brothers for both abnormal sperm count and abnormal sperm motility was one.

Conclusion:

It is recommended that males with at least one infertile brother, undergo sperm analysis to identify individuals at risk of infertility.
Analysis of curing deformation for resin matrix composite T-shaped stiffened panel
Authors: Ding Xiaodong , Fu Jianwei , Bao Fei , Ye Yongzheng , Gao Zongzhan
Published: September 2024

In this work, a multi-field coupled finite element simulation method involving thermochemistry and mechanics was devised to predict the curing deformation (C-DE) of a T-shaped stiffened panel (T-SSPL), a typical aircraft structural component, during the autoclave forming process. A more comprehensive and detailed analysis of the factors affecting the C-DE of T-SSPL is also carried out. The methodology uses the Fortran language to write different user subroutines and establish corresponding mathematical models to simulate the different mechanical states of components, and ultimately simulate the entire molding process of the product in the autoclave. And investigates the effects of process parameters, including heating rate, cooling rate, curing pressure, and structural parameters, including the number of bars and height of stringer on the C-DE of T-SSPL, and obtains the following conclusions: the heating rate and curing pressure are positively correlated with the C-DE, and the cooling rate has little influence on the C-DE, and C-DE hardly changes with the change of cooling rate; C-DE increases with the ribs count; however, it decreases and then increases with the stringer height, and these conclusions provides a theoretical basis for the manufacturing of T-SSPL.
Deformation processes of polymer composites with stress concentrators under different reinforcement schemes
Authors: Strungar Elena , Lobanov Dmitrii , Mugatarov Artur , Chebotareva Ekaterina
Published: September 2024

This paper is dedicated to an experimental investigation of an effect of a stress concentrator orientation on a mechanical behavior of polymer composites with various reinforcement schemes. Composite specimens have been made of layered carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) with lay-up patterns of [±45]16 and [0/90]16. The stress concentrators have been cut in a form of a rectangle (with rounded corners) orientated at angles of 0°, 45°, and 90° to a loading axis. The novel data about the composite’s mechanical behavior has been obtained by the digital image correlation (DIC) method, the acoustic emission (AE) method and the optical microscopy. Quasistatic tests have been carried out taking into account recommendations of the ASTM D5766, ASTM D3039, ASTM D3518. The effect of the stress concentrator orientation on the composite’s strength has been evaluated. It has been found that the stress concentrator does not affect the strength of the composite with the [±45]16 lay-up pattern. This peculiarity has been explained by the absence of the layers preventing the fibers system turning in the direction of the load application. The DIC method has allowed to study the evolution of inhomogeneous strain fields on the specimens’ surfaces. Computational simulations have been carried out within the elasticity stage. The results have shown that the strain fields obtained by both the DIC method and the numerical simulation were similar for the composites with the [0/90]16 reinforcement pattern. However, significant differences have been found for the [±45]16 reinforcement pattern, which have been explained by the development of inelastic zones near the stress concentrator even if the elastic stage is realized at the macrolevel. The using of the AE method and the optical microscopy has allowed to reveal typical mechanisms of the structural damage and to study their occurrence during the tests. It has been concluded that the orientation of the stress concentrator significantly influences the deformation processes of the CFRP with various reinforcement patterns.
Cooperative effect of hybrid polyethylene-basalt fibers on crack width control and mechanical properties in ECC
Authors: Teng Xiaodan , Sun Huihuang , Li Yonghong , Yao Qiyao , Lu Chenyu
Published: September 2024

Engineered cementitious composite (ECC) reinforced with polyethylene (PE) fiber has large crack width and high production cost, and these two shortcomings affect its application in practical projects. In this study, basalt fiber (BF) was hybrid with PE fiber to achieve cooperative effect, developing a PE/BF-hybrid fiber ECC (PE/BF-HyECC) with tighter crack width and more economic advantages. The impacts of different fiber content on the pore structure, mechanical, and cost performance of PE/BF-HyECC were investigated. The PE/BF-HyECC with positive cooperative effect of 1.5 vol.% PE and 1.0 vol.% BF had higher strength and tighter crack width compared to PE-ECC with 2.0 vol.% PE. Its cost performance ratio was 1.19 to 1.37 times that of PE-ECC with 2.0 vol.% PE. The better performance and higher cost performance of PE/BF-HyECC is expected to expand its practical application.
Practising urban agriculture positively influences household organic waste management habits: A quantitative study from Florianópolis, Brazil
Authors: Di Fiore Gianluca , Specht Kathrin , Zanasi Cesare , Rover Oscar José
Published: September 2024

Proper household organic waste management practices are crucial to limit the negative environmental and health impacts that can result from inappropriate municipal waste treatment. The environmental impacts of organic waste have previously been described in the literature, and the main treatment strategy for managing such waste relies on technical facilities such as biodigesters. However, such technologies require significant financial investments, which could hinder their application in areas with lower economic power. Among the several available organic waste treatment strategies, composting for urban agricultural (UA) use has become increasingly popular. Although the literature suggests that UA can contribute to organic waste management by encouraging self-treatment practices, investigations into how practising UA can influence household waste management behaviours have been limited thus far. To this end, we analyse the role of practising UA along with other demographic variables, such as age, gender, education, income and housing conditions, in influencing citizens’ household organic waste management behaviours. The city of Florianópolis, Brazil was selected as a case study since that municipality recently passed a new organic waste regulation law that supports the use of organic compost in UA. We surveyed 206 individuals regarding their household organic waste management habits in four behavioural areas: (i) separation, (ii) use of public services, (iii) self-treatment and (iv) reduction. The dataset comprises 102 individuals who were actively engaged in UA activities and 104 who were not involved in UA to compare habits of the two groups. The results show that UA practitioners are more likely to separate and self-treat their organic waste and use the derived compost for gardening activities. The use of public facilities for organic waste management is influenced by people’s housing conditions. Respondents who lived in an apartment with no access to a garden logically had a lower willingness than did those with garden access to self-treat the organic waste produced. On the other hand, the results show that UA practitioners compost their own organic waste regardless of their housing conditions. The results show a strong, positive influence of practising UA on self-composting and thereby highlight the role of such practices in sensitizing urban residents to waste management issues and supporting local organic waste management strategies. Although the debate over the role of UA in organic waste management is still open, we reveal that highlighting this role could support a shift towards a circular approach to organic waste treatment.
Environmental Light Controls the Daily Organization of Breathing by Activating Brn3b-expressing Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells in Mice
Authors: Jones Aaron A. , Spears Allison R. , Arble Deanna M.
Published: September 2024

Rhythmic, daily fluctuations in minute ventilation are controlled by the endogenous circadian clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). While light serves as a potent synchronizer for the SCN, it also influences physiology and behavior by activating Brn3b-expressing, intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). It is currently unclear the extent to which the external light environment shapes daily ventilatory patterns independent of the SCN. To determine the relative influence of environmental light versus circadian timing on the organization of daily rhythms in minute ventilation, we used whole-body plethysmography to measure the breathing of mice housed on a non-entraining T28 cycle (14 h light:14 h dark). Using this protocol, we found that minute ventilation exhibits a ~28-h rhythm with a peak at dark onset that coincides with the light:dark cycle and the animals’ locomotor activity. To determine if this 28-h rhythm in minute ventilation was mediated by Brn3b-expressing ipRGCs, we measured the breathing of Brn3bDTA mice housed under the T28 cycle. Brn3bDTA mice lack the Brn3b-expressing ipRGCs that project to many non-SCN brain regions. We found that despite rhythmic light cues occurring on a 28-h basis, Brn3bDTA mice exhibited 24-h rhythms in minute ventilation, locomotor activity, and core body temperature consistent with organization by the SCN. The 24-h minute ventilation rhythm of Brn3bDTA mice was found to be driven predominantly by tidal volume rather than respiratory rate. These data indicate that the external light:dark cycle can directly drive daily patterns in minute ventilation by way of Brn3b-expressing ipRGCs. In addition, these data strongly suggest that the activation of Brn3b-expressing ipRGCs principally organizes daily patterns in breathing and locomotor activity when light:dark cues are presented in opposition to endogenous clock timing.
How national healthcare change initiatives balance emergent and deliberate change: A principles-focused evaluation
Authors: Apramian Tavis , Karim Allia , Parker Kathryn , Sinclair Lynne , Ladak Zeenat , Ku Cheryl , Gregor Sarah , Winnebota Lily , Ponte Denise , Ng Stella
Published: September 2024

Principles-focused evaluation reflects on the change process itself through examination of its underlying principles. The Centre for Advancing Collaborative Healthcare & Education (CACHE) worked to build interprofessional education programs and tools that attended to the Team Primary Care (TPC) principles. Our internally directed principles-focused evaluation, presented here, asks how CACHE adhered to these principles in the programs and tools it delivered to the TPC project. The article’s main contribution is the creation of a new concept, organizational critically reflective practice, which describes an approach health leaders can use to mitigate the limitations of short-term initiatives while pursuing transformational change. We propose specific tools and steps that will help health leaders attempting to enact organizational critically reflective practice.
Plasma Adsorption with the MTx.100 Column in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients: A Prospective Study and Propensity Score Analysis
Authors: Choi Christopher , De Simone Nicole , Webb Christopher B. , Lahsaei Peiman , Yates Sean G. , Raval Jay S. , Harkins Michelle S. , Hillebrand Donald J. , Belli Antonio , Schlapobersky Nicolas A. , Ipe Tina S. , Banez-Sese Grace C. , Khangoora Vikramjit S. , Nathan Steven D. , Demko Trudy M. , Young David C. , Caron Sigalit , Sarode Ravi
Published: September 2024

Background

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with severe disease admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) had a high incidence of mortality. We aimed to investigate whether plasma adsorption with the MTx.100 Column could improve survival.

Methods

We performed a prospective, single-arm, multicenter, Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) trial in patients admitted to the ICU with severe COVID-19 who were worsening despite standard therapy. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality on day 28. Outcomes were analyzed using both a pre-specified performance goal (PG), and a propensity score-matched (PSM) analysis from the highest enrolling center, in which patients treated with the standard of care (SOC) plus the MTx.100 Column (n = 70) were compared to a contemporaneous cohort treated at the same center with SOC only (n = 244).

Findings

Between May 21, 2020, and November 2, 2021, 107 patients with severe COVID-19 (mean age 58.1) at 7 US centers were enrolled and had at least one plasma adsorption treatment initiated. All-cause mortality on day 28 was 37.4% (40/107), an improvement over the prespecified PG (88.1%, p < 0.0001). There were no serious adverse events attributable to the MTx.100 Column or plasmapheresis. Improvements in most metabolic and inflammatory markers were also noted. The PSM analysis showed that survival odds were three times higher for MTx.100 Column-treated patients (95% CI: 1.56-5.88) than for those treated with SOC only.

Interpretation

The MTx.100 Column treatment in severe COVID-19 resulted in a lower mortality than SOC by both pre-specified PG and PSM analysis.

Trial Registration

clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04358003).
Application of self-assembled antibacterial nanofiber loaded oriented artificial skin in infected diabetic-related wound regeneration
Authors: Yang Jie , Li Shengyun
Published: September 2024

Diabetic patients develop wounds that exhibit delayed healing, prolonged inflammatory responses, and slower epithelialization kinetics compared to non-diabetic patients. Diabetic foot ulcers(DFUs) affect approximately 18.6 million people worldwide. The presence of a high glucose microenvironment in DFUs results in the significant accumulation of bacterial infection and advanced glycation end products (AGEs). To solve this, a self-assemble antibacterial nanofiber(ANF) loaded oriential artificial skin (ANF@OAS) was introduced in this research, which is consisted of L/D-phenylalanine derivatives coupled the natural antimicrobial peptides.The ANF@OAS can effectively reduce AGEs production and suppress multiple resistant bacteria. Additionally, the ANF@OAS can suppress infection and stimulate wound healing in infected diabetic mice.
Preparation and osteogenesis of a multiple crosslinking silk fibroin/carboxymethyl chitosan/sodium alginate composite scaffold loading with mesoporous silica/poly (lactic acid-glycolic acid) microspheres
Authors: Shi Yiwan , Wang Zhaozhen , Xu Weikang , Yu Xiaolu , Gao Botao , Zhou Xinting , Chen Jiwen , Jia Kunfeng , Cheang Lek Hang , Tam Man seng , Wang Huajun , Zheng Xiaofei , Wu Tingting
Published: September 2024

Large bone defect repair is a striking challenge in orthopedics. Currently, inorganic-organic composite scaffolds are considered as a promising approach to these bone regeneration. Silicon ions (Si4+) are bioactive and beneficial to bone regeneration and Si4+-containing inorganic mesoporous silica (MS) can effectively load drugs for bone repair. To better control the release of drug, we prepared biodegradable MS/PLGA (MP) microspheres. MP loaded organic silk fibroin/carboxymethyl chitosan/sodium alginate (MP/SF/CMCS/SA) composite scaffolds were further constructed by genipin and Ca2+ crosslinking. All MP/SF/CMCS/SA scaffolds had good swelling ability, degradation rate and high porosity. The incorporation of 1% MP significantly enhanced the compressive strength of composite scaffolds. Besides, MP loaded scaffold showed a sustained release of Si4+ and Ca2+. Moreover, the release rate of rhodamine (a model drug) of MP/SF/CMCS/SA scaffolds was obviously lower than that of MP. When culturing with rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, scaffolds with 1% MP displayed good proliferation, adhesion and enhanced osteogenic differentiation ability. Based on the results above, the addition of 1% MP in SF/CMCS/SA scaffolds is a prospective way for drug release in bone regeneration and is promising for further in vivo bone repair applications.
Tracing the History of Digital Fashion
Authors: Boughlala Adil , Smelik Anneke
Published: September 2024

This article provides the short and non-linear history of digital fashion, arguing that it is entangled with the development of digital environments and virtual worlds. Unlike material clothes, digital fashion end products are created digitally, for digital use. Digital fashion can range from digital skins for gamified environments or virtual influencers to superimposed images, Augmented Reality filters, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), and digital twins or phygital fashion. We trace the emergence and development of digital fashion through pivotal themes: from its relation to virtual worlds, the Internet, and e-commerce, to the implementation of avatars and fashion in videogames, to the commercially led digital fashion industry that has emerged in the past few years in what is called Web 3.0, and finally, we look at the recent surge of interest in artificial intelligence and its potential complications for digital fashion.