bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of commercially available wearable devices for physical rehabilitation in healthcare: a systematic review
Authors: Latif Ahmed , Al Janabi Hasaneen Fathy , Joshi Meera , Fusari Gianpaolo , Shepherd Leila , Darzi Ara , Leff Daniel R
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To evaluate whether commercially available ‘off-the-shelf’ wearable technology can improve patient rehabilitation outcomes, and to categorise all wearables currently being used to augment rehabilitation, including the disciplines and conditions under investigation.

Design

Systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis 2020 statement checklist, and using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

Data sources

Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library were searched up to and including July 2023.

Eligibility criteria

We included trials and observational studies evaluating the use of consumer-grade wearables, in real patient cohorts, to aid physical therapy or rehabilitation. Only studies investigating rehabilitation of acute events with defined recovery affecting adult patients were included.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two independent reviewers used a standardised protocol to search, screen and extract data from the included studies. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Methods Risk of Bias in Randomised Trials V.2 and Risk of Bias in Non-Randomised Studies of Interventions tools for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies, respectively.

Results

Eighteen studies encompassing 1754 patients met eligibility criteria, including six RCTs, six quasi-experimental studies and six observational studies. Eight studies used wearables in Orthopaedics, seven in Stroke Medicine, two in Oncology and one in General Surgery. All six RCTs demonstrated that wearable-driven feedback increases physical activity. Step count was the most common measure of physical activity. Two RCTs in orthopaedics demonstrated non-inferiority of wearable self-directed rehabilitation compared with traditional physiotherapy, highlighting the potential of wearables as alternatives to traditional physiotherapy. All 12 non-randomised studies demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of wearable-driven self-directed rehabilitation.

Conclusion

This review demonstrates that consumer-grade wearables can be used as adjuncts to traditional physiotherapy, and potentially as alternatives for self-directed rehabilitation of non-chronic conditions. Better designed studies, and larger RCTs, with a focus on economic evaluations are needed before a case can be made for their widespread adoption in healthcare settings.

PROSPERO registration ID

CRD42023459567
Effect of perioperative dexmedetomidine on postoperative delirium in patients with brain tumours: a protocol of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zeng Min , Zheng Maoyao , Wang Jie , Li Shu , Ji Nan , Peng Yuming
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Neurosurgery is a risk factor for postoperative delirium. Dexmedetomidine has a potential effect on reducing postoperative delirium. We aim to test the primary hypothesis that perioperative administration of dexmedetomidine reduces the incidence of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing neurosurgical resections of temporal glioma.

Methods

This is a single-centre, randomised, blinded and parallel-group controlled trial. A total of 366 patients will be randomised to either dexmedetomidine group (n=183) or placebo group (n=183). Subjects assigned to dexmedetomidine group will be given a continuous infusion at 0.4 µg/kg/h after anaesthesia induction until dural closure and then immediately receive an infusion of dexmedetomidine at 0.08 µg/kg/h by intravenous analgesia pump during the first 48 hours postoperatively. Patients in the placebo group will be given comparable volumes of normal saline, and intravenous analgesia pumps contain equal amounts of sufentanil and antiemetics, but no dexmedetomidine. The primary outcome is the incidence of postoperative delirium, which will be assessed with the Confusion Assessment Method two times per day during the first five postoperative days.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol (V.1.1) has been approved by the medical ethics committee of Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University (KY2023-186-02). The findings of this study will be disseminated through presentations at scientific conferences and publication in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT06164314.
Link between gender inequality and women’s satisfaction with maternal healthcare services: a cross-sectional study in Khulna, Bangladesh
Authors: Halim Sk. Faijan Bin , Akter Orpa , Islam Md. Karimul
Published: November 2024

Background

Gender inequality within households remains a significant barrier to accessing maternal healthcare services in many low-resource settings, including Bangladesh. Understanding the relationship between the gender inequality faced by women in households and their perceived satisfaction with maternal healthcare services is important.

Objective

This study aims to identify the factors influencing gender inequality and investigate the association between gender inequality faced by women within households and their perceived satisfaction with maternal healthcare services.

Design

Conducted between October and November 2022, employing a cross-sectional design.

Settings and participants

150 women who are at their prenatal or postnatal stages are systematically sampled fromKhalishpurmunicipality andDighaliasubdistrict from Khulna, Bangladesh.

Outcome measures

Gender inequality within the households is assessed using a validated five-point Likert scale of five items. Participants with an average score below or equal to the median value are considered to be facing gender inequality within households. Satisfaction with maternal healthcare services is measured across five variables using a similar scale. Based on the responses, a standardised score is generated to measure the satisfaction level with maternal healthcare services.

Results

We find that women are around seven times more likely to experience gender inequality in their households if their husbands are engaged in self-employed jobs or skilled labour compared with unemployment (p<0.10). Coercive actions, such as physical assault (odds: 6.428, p<0.01) and preventing women from financially supporting their maternal kin (odds: 14.909; p<0.01), are positively related to gender inequality. Such inequality negatively relates to women’s perceived satisfaction with their maternal healthcare services (−1.851, p<0.01). Additionally, traditional home delivery, verbal abuse and the forced use of traditional medication reduce satisfaction levels. On the other hand, increased prenatal care is expected to increase satisfaction with maternal services as perceived by women (0.545, p<0.10).

Conclusions

The study prioritises promoting equity in opportunities for both males and females, with access to maternal health, and educational opportunities within households. Reduced inequality within households may help minimise the extent of coercive behaviour against women. The national maternal health strategy should focus on basic health services for pregnant women, with free prenatal and postnatal check-ups for pregnant mothers to improve their perinatal healthcare services.
‘This is PEEP’ participatory qualitative study: learning from a provincial consultation and advisory group of people with lived and living experience of substance use in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Daowd Kerolos , Lock Kurt , Danaei Amirnima , Burmeister Charlene , Choisil Paul , Haywood Elizabeth , Henderson Iesha , Lamb Jessica , McDougall Jenny , Sedgemore Kali , Buxton Jane A
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To summarise PEEP’s (Professionals for Ethical Engagement of Peers—a group of consultants with lived and living experience of substance use) outputs and gain insights into PEEP’s impact and suggestions for the future.

Design

Included an environmental scan to collate PEEP activities and outputs and a participatory qualitative design using thematic analysis.

Setting

British Columbia, Canada.

Participants

Eight members of PEEP and nine staff/people who consulted PEEP were interviewed.

Results

PEEP members are co-authors/acknowledged for their input in 25 peer review publications and 16 reports; PEEP members co-presented or were co-authors on 33 presentations. PEEP meets by Zoom two times per week and is paid monthly via honorarium from the Provincial Health Service Authority at a current rate of $C30 per hour. Four themes emerged from our interviews: (1) What is PEEP? (PEEP provides a sense of community, holds systems accountable and inspires others), (2) PEEP Process (suggestions for improvement: consultants should be prepared and involve PEEP throughout the process and report how PEEP’s insights were used), (3) PEEP Outcomes (PEEP members gain skills and confidence, PEEP provides a reality check, consultants learn from PEEP, and input leads to practice changes) and (4) Future of PEEP (sustainable funding and opportunities for growth are critical).

Conclusion

PEEP is a cohesive group whose input is well-respected and influences policy and programmes. Given the ongoing drug toxicity emergency, it is critical to continue to support and expand PEEP.
Exploring organisational support to apply best practice in the sick leave and rehabilitation process from a multiprofessional front-line perspective: a qualitative study
Authors: Löfgren Märit , Gyllenhammar Daniel , Hange Dominique , Nordeman Lena , Rembeck Gun , Björkelund Cecilia , Svenningsson Irene , Törnbom Karin
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To explore the experiences of organisational support to apply best practices held by front-line employees working with patients in the sick leave and rehabilitation process (SRP).

Design

Qualitative study design. Data were collected with focus group interviews in Region Västra Götaland, Sweden. Participants discussed their perceptions of organisational support to apply the best SRP practice in a primary healthcare context.

Participants

Purposive sampling was conducted to capture a range of experiences among various professionals, including general practitioners (n=6), rehabilitation coordinators, other primary healthcare professionals (n=13) and caseworkers from the Social Insurance Agency, Employment Agency and Social Services (n=12).

Results

Informants perceived that their good intentions to work for the best interests of each patient were not enough to overcome inadequate organisational prerequisites. Identified themes described unequal care due to significant practice variation, conflicting messages, a situation where the patient loses control and mismatch between available support and patient needs. Perceived potential consequences for the patients included legal uncertainty of assessments, harmful passivity of the individual through misapplied sick leave and the risk of overlooking non-medical factors that could be managed in a safer and more well-adapted way.

Conclusions

Neither guidelines on person-centred approaches, nor laws regulating the right to coordinated individual planning, seem to have fulfilled the intended purpose. The informants depicted an SRP obstructing individualised care, thus risking worsening patients’ well-being and abilities. The opportunities to improve the quality of the processes within the SRP, and simultaneously make them more effective, appear to be extensive.
Cohort profile: the Nanjing Diabetes Cohort database – a population-based surveillance cohort
Authors: Feng Wei , Yin Yuechuchu , Gu Chunyan , Mu Yuan , Zhang Duxiao , Tao Zhenhuan , Yin Weidong , Zhang Xin , Yu Yun , Hu Jie , Wan Cheng , Liu Yun
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To study epidemiology, complications, risk factors, clinical course and treatment patterns of diabetes, the Nanjing Diabetes Cohort (NDC) was established using anonymised electronic health records from 650 hospitals and primary care since 2020. This cohort provides valuable data for researchers and policy-makers focused on diabetes management and public health strategies.

Participants

Diabetes was defined as having inpatient or outpatient encounters with a diagnosis of diabetes International Classification of Diseases-9/10 codes, any use of insulin or oral hypoglycaemic drugs, or one encounter with haemoglobin A1C >4.8 mmol/mol or 6.5%. Patients with diabetes have been continuously enrolled on hospitals and primary care in Nanjing since 2020. Demographic, medications and comorbidities data were extracted from clinical notes, diagnostic codes, labs, prescriptions and vital signs among different types of diabetes.

Findings to date

The NDC consisted of 1 033 904 patients from 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2022, the majority were male (50.62%) and from the Gulou district (30.79%). The clinical characteristics and medication usage of patients with type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes and other diabetes were assessed. The prevalences of hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease were 49.72%, 17.85% and 24.90%, respectively.

Future plans

NDC will annually enrol eligible patients and include socioeconomic data in future updates. The data of NDC are maintained by the Department of Medical Informatics at Nanjing Medical University.
Updating the critical steps of the quality implementation framework: a protocol for an umbrella review of reviews
Authors: Hald Kathrine , Ording Anne Gulbech , Jorsal Martin , Midtgaard Julie , Ellis Louise A , Spanos Samantha , Pagano Lisa , Fisher Georgia , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Johnsen Søren Paaske
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Implementation science focuses on improving the dissemination, uptake and adoption of evidence into practice. Over the last decade, implementation science research has proliferated, particularly in healthcare and social science. The key synthesis of implementation frameworks conducted by Meyers and colleagues in 2012, and the resulting Quality Implementation Framework, has yet to be updated to incorporate this research. This protocol proposes an umbrella review of reviews (RORs) to synthesise the literature since 2012 on implementation science in the fields of healthcare and social science and provides recommendations for an updated Quality Implementation Framework.

Methods and analysis

This ROR will be conducted and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Four academic databases (PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO and Web of Science) will be used to identify peer-reviewed meta-analyses, systematic reviews and scoping reviews published in the English language since January 2012 and report on the development, application or update of one or more implementation frameworks in healthcare or social science contexts. Multiple reviewers will be involved in the screening of articles and extraction of data, and the quality of reviews will be assessed using the AMSTAR (A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews) 2. The outcome of interest is the content of implementation science frameworks reported in the included reviews. The content of these frameworks will be synthesised, aggregated and mapped to the four phases and 14 steps outlined in the original Quality Implementation Framework using both deductive and inductive analysis.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required as this ROR protocol and the resulting ROR do not involve primary data collection. The protocol as well as the ROR will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023475994.
Traditional, complementary and integrative medicine therapies for the treatment of mild/moderate acute COVID-19: protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Li Anqi , Guyatt Gordon , Chu Derek , Thabane Lehana , Busse Jason W , Sadeghirad Behnam , He Qingyong , Ge Long , Hao Qiukui , Vohra Sunita , Brinkhaus Benno , Witt Claudia M , Li Yachan , Krishnan Geetha , Agoritsas Thomas , Wieland Lisa Susan , Chaturvedi Sarika , Kothari Kavita U , Patwardhan Bhushan , Fang Min , Kong Lingjun , Ren Jun , Lee Myeong Soo , Cheung Angela , Okwen Patrick M , Downey Bernice , Ang Lin , Zhu Jialing , Zhang Yuqing
Published: November 2024

Background

Increasing evidence has emerged for traditional, complementary and integrative medicine (TCIM) to treat COVID-19 which requires systematic summaries of the net benefits of interventions against standard care and one another. The study aims to conduct a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) regarding TCIM therapies for treating mild/moderate acute COVID-19, potentially informing the WHO guideline development and clinical decision-making.

Methods and analysis

We will search Embase, MEDLINE, Virtual Health Library on Traditional Complementary and Integrative Medicine, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, WHO’s International Clinical Trials Registry Platform with additional searches of Chinese and Korean literature sources for randomised controlled trials comparing TCIM with placebo, standard care, no treatment or with an alternate type of TCIM to treat COVID-19. We will limit the search dates from 2020 to 28 March 2024. Reviewers will, in duplicate, screen eligible articles, extract data and evaluate the risk of bias. We will conduct frequentist network meta-analyses for network comparisons and each outcome. We will assess the certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach and classify interventions from most to least effective or harmful.

Ethics and dissemination

This NMA is based on the existing trials and data which is not subject to ethical approval. We will publish the NMA in a peer-reviewed journal. This may provide methodological reference and clinical evidence for TCIM on future epidemic-prone diseases.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024517321.
Cost–benefit analysis of mammography screening: the perspective of Nigerian healthcare providers
Authors: Nduka Ifeoma Jovita , Umeh Ifeoma Blessing , Okafor Chukwudi Victor , Orih Daniel , Nduka Sunday Odunke , Ekwunife Obinna Ikechukwu
Published: November 2024

Introduction

There is no national breast cancer screening implemented in Nigeria. The National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP) has a goal of making screening services and early detection of cancer available for all Nigerians. Health financing is predominantly through out-of-pocket (OOP) spending. As it could take a while for the NCCP to figure out a financing mechanism to make screening widely available, it is necessary to assess if mammography screening could be potentially funded by OOP by ascertaining the value that eligible women place on it. This study assessed the cost–benefit of mammography screening from the healthcare provider’s perspective.

Methods

This hospital-based cross-sectional study assessed the potential benefit of mammography using participants’ willingness to pay (WTP) for the service. Average WTP was determined using contingent valuation. Binary logistic regression was used to assess predictors of WTP acceptance while multiple linear regression was used to model the relationship between the independent variables and WTP amount. The cost of mammography was estimated from the healthcare provider’s perspective. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was used to account for parameter uncertainty. The benefit–cost ratio (BCR) was calculated.

Results

767 respondents participated in the study. The stated average WTP amount (minimum-maximum) was US$10.26 (US$0.0–US$46.20). Participants who had never noticed a breast change were 2.5 times more likely to be willing to pay for mammography screening. A unit increase in income level led to a US$9.185 increase in WTP amount for mammography screening. Also, a unit increase in breast self-examination led to a US$2.797 increase in WTP amount for mammography screening. The average cost (minimum-maximum) of mammography was US$23.02 (US$13.20–US$33.00). The BCR of mammography screening was 0.45 (95% CI 0.44 to 0.46).

Conclusions

Mammography screening is not cost–beneficial to the healthcare provider when clients are asked to pay OOP. This highlights the need to explore sustainable health financing mechanisms to support mammography screening in Nigeria.
Atrial arrhythmia and heart failure in adult patients with congenital heart disease: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lauwers Charlotte , Troost Els , De Meester Pieter , Moons Philip , Vandenberk Bert , Ector Joris , Haemers Peter , Budts Werner , Van De Bruaene Alexander
Published: November 2024

Background

Atrial arrhythmias (AA) and heart failure (HF) are major causes of hospitalisation in adult congenital heart disease (ACHD). This study aimed to evaluate the temporal relationship between AA and HF onset, the association between HF and the success of radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and how HF influences outcomes in patients with AA.

Methods

In this single-centre retrospective cohort study, data from 3995 patients with ACHD were analysed. Dates of first AA and HF presentations were documented, and outcomes of RFA, including acute and long-term success, were assessed. All-cause mortality was compared between patients with AA and those with both AA and HF.

Results

The median age at last follow-up was 33 years (IQR 26–42). AA was observed in 348 patients (8.7%), and HF in 256 (6.4%). Among patients who developed both AA and HF (n=130), AA preceded HF in 79% of cases, with a median interval of 6 years (IQR 2–13) before HF diagnosis. In the remaining cases, AA occurred after HF diagnosis (median 2 years, IQR 1–6). RFA was performed in 119 patients (34.2%), 45 of whom had HF. Two years after RFA, 72% of patients were free from AA recurrence. Patients without HF had higher acute success rates (98% vs 90%) and lower recurrence rates (48% vs 76%) than those with HF. Patients with AA with HF had worse overall survival compared with those without HF.

Conclusions

In patients with ACHD, AA frequently precedes HF by several years. RFA can be an effective treatment for AA, but acute success is lower and recurrence rate higher when HF is present.
Onyx dilution reduces time to resolution of chronic subdural hematomas after middle meningeal artery embolization
Authors: Hung Alice , Yang Wuyang , Das Oishika , Wang Xihang , Ran Kathleen , Ejimogu Emeka , Abdulrahim Mostafa , Nakamura Ryan , Hui Ferdinand , Yedavalli Vivek , Jackson Christopher M , Huang Judy , Tamargo Rafael J , Caplan Justin M , Gonzalez L Fernando , Xu Risheng
Published: November 2024

Background

The benefit of distal embolite penetration for middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization in chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH) remains controversial.

Objective

To compare the use of diluted Onyx with undiluted Onyx in the management of cSDH.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of patients with cSDH who underwent MMA embolization using Onyx 18 at our institution. The study population was divided into two subgroups based on whether the Onyx used was diluted or not. Baseline characteristics and technical aspects were compared. Primary outcome was cSDH resolution at follow-up. Secondary outcomes included time to resolution and duration of procedure. Univariate statistical analysis was performed.

Results

Of the 111 MMA embolizations performed at our institution, 99 were performed using Onyx 18 only. Within this cohort, 53 (53.5%) cases used standard Onyx and 46 (46.5%) cases used diluted Onyx. The diluted Onyx group had significantly greater volume of embolic agent used measured radiographically (P<0.001). There was no significant difference in duration of procedure. The percentage of cSDH resolution at last follow-up was similar between the two groups (P=0.98), but the time to resolution was significantly shorter in the diluted Onyx group (P=0.02).

Conclusion

The use of diluted Onyx for MMA embolization is associated with greater embolization volume achieved under similar procedural times. While the percentage of patients who achieved cSDH resolution with diluted Onyx is similar to that for standard Onyx, the time to cSDH resolution is significantly shorter. Adoption of Onyx dilution can be considered in MMA embolization for cSDH.
Using photovoice to investigate patient experiences of lupus nephritis in Canada
Authors: Cardwell Francesca S , Elliott Susan J , Barber Megan R W , Cheema Kim , George Sydney , Boucher Adrian , Clarke Ann Elaine
Published: November 2024

Objective

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, affecting up to 60% of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The perspectives of patients with SLE have been explored; however, little is known of the lived experiences of patients with LN.

Methods

Patients aged ≥18 years with biopsy-proven pure or mixed International Society of Nephrology/Renal Pathology Society Class III, IV or V LN were purposefully recruited from a Canadian lupus cohort to participate in a photovoice (visual–narrative participatory research method) exercise. Participants took photos of what LN means to them, impacts on daily life and factors impacting LN management. Photos were shared and discussed in focus groups.

Results

13 individuals with LN participated (92.3% were female; mean (SD) age was 41.7 (14.0) years). The mean (SD) number of photos shared per participant was 4.2 (0.9). Photos (n=54) depicted activities/settings that contribute to well-being (n=15), the participants themselves (n=13), healthcare experiences (n=10), home (n=4), community (n=2), friends (n=2), work (n=2) and other challenges (n=6). All participants described physical and psychosocial impacts of living with LN. Although 12 mentioned activities/settings that contribute to well-being (eg, time in natural environments), participants were consistently reminded of limitations imposed by LN due to physical symptoms, challenges presented by the physical environment and the altered life trajectories experienced. Participants discussed the dual burden of LN and the associated medication journey; side effects and medication-related financial challenges were highlighted by ten and five participants, respectively.

Conclusions

Participants reported a substantial psychosocial burden associated with altered life trajectories, the dual burden of LN and the associated medication journey, and the conflicting role of the physical environment. The need for flexibility (ie, from employers, themselves) is an essential component of navigating altered life trajectories.
Comparison of a novel methadone rotation method with other commonly used methods
Authors: Cunningham Elaine , DiBiagio Nicole , O’ Connell Florry , Flannery Maedhbh , Cronin Michael , Murphy Marie , O’Leary Mary Jane , Kiely Fiona , Lowney Aoife C
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To compare a novel method of methadone rotation used in a specialist palliative care inpatient unit (SPCU) in Cork, Ireland, with rapid titration methods using Perth and Brisbane Protocols as well as the Edmonton method of methadone rotation.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed in March–June 2022. All patients who completed rotation to methadone during 2018–2019 in the SPCU were included. 2018–2019 was selected to study a population not affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Oral morphine equivalent (OME) was calculated using the opioid conversion chart. From the OME, the expected daily methadone dose was calculated using the Perth, Brisbane and Edmonton methods. These figures were then compared directly with the actual methadone doses achieved using our dosing schedule.

Results

A comparison of the expected doses using the Perth and Brisbane rapid titration protocols and stable daily dose achieved revealed that the stable methadone dose was significantly lower than both rapid titration protocols (p=<0.0001) and (p=0.0035, respectively). However, a comparison of the expected dose using the Edmonton method and the dose achieved did not determine any significant difference (p=0.7602).

Conclusions

This is the first evaluation of a novel Irish method of methadone rotation and demonstrates a lower overall daily methadone dose compared with established protocols.
Spatial and seasonal determinants of arthropod community composition across an agro-ecosystem landscape
Authors: Burgess P. , Betini G.S. , Cholewka A. , deWaard J.R. , deWaard S. , Griswold C. , Hebert P.D.N. , MacDougall A. , McCann K.S. , McGroarty J. , Miller E. , Perez K. , Ratnasingham S. , Reisiger C. , Steinke D. , Wright E. , Zakharov E. , Fryxell J.M.
Published: November 2024

We used Malaise traps to sample arthropod community composition at biweekly intervals across an agroecosystem landscape in southern Ontario, Canada, to evaluate the relative impact of site spacing, seasonal timing, weather conditions, local plant community attributes, and agricultural extent across the local landscape on spatial and temporal variation in arthropod community composition. The 15 field sites sampled spanned a wide gradient of agricultural extent that in isolation had a strong impact on spatial variation in arthropod community composition. DNA metabarcoding of the samples identified >10 000 different arthropod biodiversity index numbers. Local variation in plant community composition and canopy cover best explained variation in arthropod community dissimilarity. Weather variables followed closely in explanatory power, driven primarily by seasonal variation in temperature. Significant effects of time remained after accounting for environmental variables, with little independent effect of spatial distance. The proportion of agricultural land at the landscape scale had little detectable effect after controlling for the influence of the other environmental variables. Our results suggest that plant community composition, cover, weather conditions, and seasonality structured the arthropod community to considerable degree.
Twist and turn: elastohydrodynamics of microscale active fibres
Authors: Lisicki Maciej
Published: November 2024

Cellular locomotion often involves the motion of thin, elastic filaments, such as cilia and flagella, in viscous environments. The manuscript serves as a general introduction to the topic of modelling microscale elastohydrodynamics. We briefly characterise the specific features of biological filaments that affect their propulsion modes, and discuss the discrete and continuous theoretical frameworks for their description, along with selected biological and artificial examples of active systems.
On the radius of spatial analyticity for the quintic fourth-order nonlinear Schrödinger equation on ℝ2
Authors: Getachew Tegegne
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we prove that the uniform radius of spatial analyticity [Formula: see text] of the solution at time [Formula: see text] to the two-dimensional quintic fourth-order nonlinear Schrödinger equation [Formula: see text] is bounded from below by [Formula: see text] as [Formula: see text], given the initial data that is analytic with fixed radius [Formula: see text]. The proof of our main theorems is based on a method of almost conservation law in the modified Gevrey spaces, space–time estimates and Sobolev embedding.
Non-freeness of parabolic two-generator groups
Authors: Choi Philip , Jo Kyeonghee , Kim Hyuk , Lee Junho
Published: November 2024

A complex number [Formula: see text] is said to be non-free if the subgroup of [Formula: see text] generated by [Formula: see text] is not a free group of rank 2. In this case, the number [Formula: see text] is called a relation number, and it has been a long standing problem to determine the relation numbers. In this paper, we characterize the relation numbers by establishing the equivalence between [Formula: see text] being a relation number and [Formula: see text] being a root of a ‘generalized Chebyshev polynomial’. The generalized Chebyshev polynomials of degree [Formula: see text] are given by a sequence of [Formula: see text] integers [Formula: see text] using the usual recursive formula, and thereby can be studied systematically using continuants and continued fractions. Such formulation, then, enables us to prove that, the question whether a given number [Formula: see text] is a relation number of [Formula: see text]-degree [Formula: see text] can be answered by checking only finitely many generalized Chebyshev polynomials. Based on these theorems, we design an algorithm deciding any given number is a relation number with minimal degree [Formula: see text]. With its computer implementation we provide a few sample examples, with a particular emphasis on the well-known conjecture that every rational number in the interval [Formula: see text] is a relation number.
Integrated Lucas and Fibonacci polynomial approach for time fractional fast and slow diffusion models
Authors: Ali Ihteram , Arifeen Shamsul , Hussain Manzoor , Idris Sahar Ahmad
Published: November 2024

This paper presents the numerical method utilized for approximate solution of fast and slow diffusion models having fractional order derivative in time. The proposed method approximates the time derivative of the model using L1-formula and applies the integrated Lucas and Fibonacci polynomial functions for approximating the unknown functions and their derivatives. Then, with the help of spatial discretization, the approximated model is converted into system of linear equations. The performance of the proposed algorithm was studied by calculating the solutions of one- and two-dimensional fast and slow diffusion models and these solutions were compared with the existing methods. The comparison illustrates that the proposed method is robust and highly efficient.
The size of the Betti table of binomial edge ideals
Authors: Ficarra Antonino , Sgroi Emanuele
Published: November 2024

Let G be a finite simple graph on n non-isolated vertices, and let [Formula: see text] be its binomial edge ideal. We determine almost all pairs [Formula: see text], where G ranges over all finite simple graphs on n non-isolated vertices, for any n.
Dynamic Response Analysis of Vehicle–Bridge Coupled Systems of Low-to-Medium-Speed Maglev Long-Span Bridges
Authors: An Lipeng , Li Wenwu , Yuan Peng , Li Dejian , Chen Peng , Cao Lihong
Published: November 2024

The vibration behavior of the maglev train–bridge system has consistently been a primary concern in developing low-to-medium-speed maglev transportation. In this study, based on the planned maglev train crossing the Xiangjiang River Bridge, the total vibration potential energy of the maglev train is extracted using a mathematical method. Following the principle of minimum total dynamic potential energy in elastic systems and the “set-in-right-position” rule, the equations of motion for the maglev train–bridge coupled system are established. The analytical framework and solution process of the coupling equation are developed using the pseudo-excitation method and evolutionary spectrum theory. The dynamic responses of the long-span continuous girder bridge, subjected to moving maglev trains, are analyzed through a Fortran program. The natural frequency and dynamic coefficient of the bridge structure are calculated, and the dynamic response parameters are obtained. Finally, the vibration comfort of the bridge is evaluated using the Diekemann and Sperling indices. The results indicate that the bridge vibration is within acceptable limits, demonstrating that the analyzed dynamic response parameters can serve as reliable references for the construction and design of magnetically suspended long-span continuous girder bridges, both in daily operation and management.
Instability of Porous FGM Rectangular Hollow Section (RHS) Beam Element in a Thermal Environment
Authors: Saoula Abdelkader , Benyamina Abdelrahmane B. , Balubaid Mohammed , Mahmoud S. R. , Aljedani Jabr , Algarni Ali , Ramady Ahmed , Meftah Sid Ahmed , Tounsi Abdelouahed
Published: November 2024

This work aims to examine the stability of rectangular hollow section (RHS) beams with functionally graded (FG) thin walls that are subjected to thermo-mechanical loads and different boundary conditions. A nonlinear analytical model for predicting thermal buckling that introduces distortional deformation and takes porosity into account is presented. Using Ritz’s method, coupled nonlinear equilibrium equations are established and then the tangential matrix is formed to obtain critical values. Material properties vary continuously and progressively across the thickness according to a power law of the porous volume fraction and are assumed to be unrelated to the temperature. A finite element (FE) simulation using the FE ABAQUS software is employed to verify the applicability of the current model in predicting lateral torsional buckling (LTB) resistance. Several numerical examples are used to illustrate the impacts of temperature, porosity, power-law index, and axial loads on the instabilities of FG box beams.
Influence of Main Cable Displacement-Controlled Device of Long-Span Suspension Bridge on Seismic Performance of Structure
Authors: Yuan Zhijie , Wang Hao , Mao Jianxiao , Li Rou , Zong Hai
Published: November 2024

The main cable displacement-controlled device (DCD) is the key component in coordinating the displacement and the internal force distribution of the continuous suspension bridge. In order to study the influence of DCD on the seismic performance of the structure, a three-span continuous suspension bridge was taken as the engineering background. The influence of different forms of DCD on the displacement and internal force responses of bridge structures under traveling wave action was investigated through numerical simulation. The research results show that different forms of DCD are beneficial in suppressing the displacement and internal force response under earthquakes. Apparent wave velocity and DCD type have an impact on the peak value and occurrence time of each calculated indicator. The improvement of DCD stiffness is beneficial to reducing the amplitude of structural displacement response and tower bottom bending moment response. With the increase of apparent wave velocity, the control effect of DCD on displacement and moment response becomes more obvious. DCD can slightly reduce the shear and torque time history ranges at the tower bottom, but both are not sensitive to the presence of DCD. The form of DCD depends on the topographic factors of the bridge site and the design requirements of related components.
Scale-Dependent Dispersion Behavior of Electrode–Piezoelectric–Electrode Sandwich Nanoplates Considering Surface Effects
Authors: Hu Biao , Liu Juan , Luo Aizhong , Li Qi , Zhang Xiaohu , Fang Juan , Shen Huoming
Published: November 2024

This paper presents an analysis of wave dispersion behavior in electrode–piezoelectric–electrode sandwich structures, considering surface effects (SE). The sandwich structure was situated atop an orthogonally anisotropic viscoelastic substrate. This paper aims to explore the surface effects on the dispersion characteristics of piezoelectric sandwich nanoplates embedded with viscoelastic substrates, integrating frequency-wave number curves and phase velocity-wave number curves. The displacement field of the nanoplate was derived using the sinusoidal shear deformation theory, and governing equations were established through Hamilton’s principle and surface constitutive equations. Subsequently, equations of motion were obtained based on the nonlocal strain gradient theory (NSGT), and characteristic equations were developed using harmonic solutions. The study thoroughly examined the effects of scale, viscoelasticity, and surface properties on wave propagation characteristics. The results reveal that scale effects significantly influence the dispersion curves of nanoplates, depending on the wave number, and emphasize the necessity of considering the surface effects of electrode layers. Notably, a reduction in thickness leads to an upward trend in both frequency and phase velocity curves. Furthermore, the Winkler modulus and shear modulus play a pivotal role in enhancing frequency stiffness, while increases in the damping coefficient and voltage result in a decrease in both frequency and phase velocity.
Experimental Study on Rain-Wind-Induced Vibration of Overhead Transmission Line Conductors
Authors: Bi Wenzhe , Tian Li , Dong Xu , Wang Jiawei
Published: November 2024

The escalating severity and frequency of extreme weather conditions, such as typhoons and thunderstorms, exacerbate the failure risk of transmission lines. In this study, a series of wind tunnel tests were conducted to investigate the rain-wind-induced vibrations (RWIVs) on an overhead transmission conductor. First, a conductor sectional model was fabricated to accurately represent the physical appearance and material of the prototype conductor. Then, experimental wind-rain conditions were simulated to investigate the impact of rainfall on the cross-wind buffeting vibration of the conductor, with attempts made to reproduce the phenomenon of RWIVs. Meanwhile, section model vibration tests were conducted on the conductor model with an artificial rivulet to investigate the effects of rivulet position, dynamic characteristics, mass, and wind yaw angle. Finally, high-frequency force balance (HFFB) tests were performed on the same conductor model, and the mechanism of the RWIVs was discussed from the viewpoint of galloping. The results indicated that the presence of rainfall slightly decreased the in-plane vibrations of the conductor when no RWIVs occurred. Due to the interference from the spiral aluminum wires on the conductor surface, this type of conductor is less susceptible to RWIV compared to smooth cables. The conductor model with an artificial rivulet exhibited significant vibrations at position angles [Formula: see text]–60[Formula: see text], essentially corresponding to negative Den Hartog coefficients.
Numerical Simulation of Low-Velocity Impact Response of Functionally Graded SiCp/Al6061 Composite Plate Using Mesoscopic Modeling and Considering Porosity
Authors: Xiao Yihua , Wang Qinting , Xiao Wei , Shao Jianli
Published: November 2024

Numerical simulation is significant for investigating impact performance of functionally graded SiC[Formula: see text]/Al6061 composite plate. Existing numerical studies rely on stress–strain characteristics derived from theoretical models which hardly consider damage softening and porosity effect. In this work, an effective modeling method is developed to generate geometric models of representative volume elements (RVEs) of SiC[Formula: see text]/Al6061 composites. It avoids the limitations of traditional methods in generating RVEs with high ceramic content. Finite element (FE) models for uniaxial compression of RVEs are established with consideration of elastoplastic behaviors of constituent materials and interfacial damage. Stress–strain curves of SiC[Formula: see text]/Al6061 composites are obtained from FE simulation results by a homogenization method. The stress–strain curves can reproduce the damage softening, and the predicted elastic moduli agree well with those estimated by Mori–Tanaka theory. Low-velocity impacts of a functionally graded SiC[Formula: see text]/Al6061 composite plate are simulated using the stress–strain curves. The simulation results are close to those using stress–strain curves obtained by a theoretical method, however, overestimate contact forces in comparison with experimental results. Novel porous RVE FE models are further developed to consider the porosity effect. The models give an improved prediction for stress–strain characteristics of the composites and low-velocity impact response of the functionally graded composite plate.
Analyzing the influence of geometrical deformation on photon sphere and shadow radius: A new analytical approach-stationary, and axisymmetric spacetime
Authors: Vertogradov Vitalii , Övgün Ali , Pantig Reggie C.
Published: November 2024

Black hole shadows and photon spheres offer valuable tools for investigating black hole properties. Recent observations by the Event Horizon Telescope Collaboration have confirmed the existence of rotating black holes. Black hole parameters influence the observed shadow size. This paper aims to extend the work in [V. Vertogradov and A. Övgün, Analyzing the influence of geometrical deformation on photon sphere and shadow radius: A new analytical approach — spherically symmetric spacetimes, Phys. Dark Univ. 45 (2024) 101541] and explores the impact of geometrical deformations on black hole shadow size using gravitational decoupling to an axially symmetric spacetime. We find that the results are more complex than the spherically symmetric case. We compare shadows in the well-known models with those of a Kerr black hole. Our approach suggests that the influence of an accretion disc on the observed shadow shape can be accurately described despite negligible impact on the black hole geometry itself.
Multiple solutions with sign information for Robin equations with indefinite potential
Authors: Papageorgiou Nikolaos S. , Zhang Jian , Zhang Wen
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we study a Robin boundary value problem driven by the Laplace operator plus an indefinite potential term. The reaction is of the logistic type. Using variational methods together with truncations, comparisons and critical groups, we prove two multiplicity theorems producing smooth solutions with sign information. A special case, which we encounter in the literature, is also considered.
Comparison of Machine Learning-Based Breakdown Pressure Prediction and Initiation Criteria in Hydraulic Fracturing Testing
Authors: Ma Dongdong , Wu Yu , Tang Jizhou , Hao Yang , Pu Hai , Yuan Hai
Published: November 2024

The breakdown pressure ([Formula: see text]) is a critical index for assessing the effectiveness of reservoir stimulation. Achieving precise and efficient evaluation of [Formula: see text] under multiple influencing factors is essential for deepening understanding of the underlying mechanisms in reservoir stimulation. Based on the current yet incomplete knowledge, the current analytical models and initiation criteria cannot provide a reliable prediction on [Formula: see text]. Thus, this work uses the predictive power of machine learning to tackle these challenges head-on. Four variants of the support vector machine (SVM) algorithms were employed, including SVM-Linear, SVM-Poly, SVM-radial basis function (RBF), and SVM-Sigmoid. These algorithms were trained and tested using a dataset of 168 entries from hydraulic fracturing studies. Among these, the SVM-RBF model demonstrated superior performance, achieving the lowest mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square error (RMSE), and attaining the highest coefficient of determination (R). The analysis also underscored the importance ranking of tensile strength, elastic modulus, vertical stress ([Formula: see text]), and horizontal stress ([Formula: see text]) in predicting the [Formula: see text], which were identified as key parameters for optimizing the machine learning model’s training process. By comparing the machine learning predictions to initiation criteria using data from glutenite and shale hydraulic fracturing tests, the machine learning approaches were found to be more accurate. Consequently, the SVM-based machine learning algorithm can accurately predict the [Formula: see text] in hydraulic fracturing of rock considering key parameters. These findings not only enhance our understanding of reservoir stimulation mechanisms but also offer a novel perspective for future research and applications in the field.