bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Application of Embedded Thermophones Toward Tonal Noise Cancelation in Small-Scale Ducted Fan
Authors: Sow A. , Losin S. , Leizeronok B. , Kleiman A. , Cukurel B. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Modern civil aviation faces the critical task of reducing aircraft noise. Among different factors, tonal content is relatively more important due to regulatory definitions and its attenuation characteristics, with significant contributor being the fan aero-acoustics associated with rotor–stator interaction. Recognizing that existing passive mitigation methods are insufficient to meet the emission regulation, the present work focuses on powered noise cancelation to reduce a fan's acoustic signature. Identifying conventional actuator technology as the primary obstacle for the on-source creation of canceling soundwaves, thermo-acoustic transducers (thermophones) are implemented instead. These mechanically static, surface-deposited emitters encompass a periodically Joule-heated thin layer attached to electrically insulating substrate, and are directly situated on the fan stator, which is the source of tonal noise associated with blade passing frequency and its harmonics. Microphone measurements are performed on a small electric ducted fan. The thermophone sound pressure level is matched to the targeted blade pass frequency harmonic, and the acoustic spectra are collected at different speeds while thermophone relative phase is varied to form destructive interference. At conducive relative phase, the findings demonstrate consistent reduction of tonal fan noise irrespective of microphone position, highlighting the global nature of the noise cancelation. This corresponds to a 6–13 dB reduction in sound pressure level magnitude at the particular frequency of interest. In the following, the collective impact of this effect is assessed through evaluation of perceived noise level. In case of a single small stator, where the planar mode dominates the spectrum, a single thermophone is sufficient to reduce the dominating planar propagation mode.
Incidence, long-term predictors and progression of chronic kidney disease among African migrants and non-migrants: the transcontinental population-based prospective RODAM cohort study
Authors: Mungamba Muhulo Muhau , Chilunga Felix P , van der Linden Eva L , Beune Erik , Godwill Engwa A , Hayfron-Benjamin Charles F , Meeks Karlijn , Darko Samuel N , Twumasi-Ankrah Sampson , Owusu-Dabo Ellis , Vogt Liffert , van den Born Bert-Jan H , Chungag Benedicta N , Agyemang Charles 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundLimited longitudinal data exist on chronic kidney disease (CKD) in African populations undergoing epidemiological transitions. We investigated incidence, long-term predictors and progression of CKD among Ghanaians residing in Ghana and Ghanaian migrants in the Netherlands (Amsterdam).Methods and findingsWe analysed data from 2183 participants in the transcontinental population-based prospective Research on Obesity and Diabetes among African Migrants cohort, followed for approximately 7 years. CKD incidence and its progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) were defined using Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. CKD incidence was calculated using age- and sex standardisation for those without CKD at baseline. Long-term predictors of CKD incidence were identified using one-step robust Poisson regression. CKD progression to ESKD from baseline was also assessed using robust Poisson regressions. Overall age- and sex standardised CKD incidence was 11.0% (95% CI 9.3% to 12.3%) in the population, with Ghanaians residing in Amsterdam at (7.6%; 5.7% to 9.5%) and Ghanaians residing in Ghana at (12.9%; 10.9% to 14.9%). Within Ghana, rural Ghanaians had similar CKD incidence to urban Ghanaians (12.5%; 8.5% to 15.5% vs 12.3%; 8.2% to 15.8%). Residence in Amsterdam was associated with lower CKD incidence compared with Ghana after adjustments (incidence rate ratio=0.32; 0.13–0.77). CKD incidence predictors were advanced age, female sex, alcohol consumption, uric acid levels and hypertension. CKD progression to ESKD was 2.3% among Ghanaians residing in Ghana and 0.0% among Ghanaians residing in Amsterdam.ConclusionOne-tenth of Ghanaians developed CKD over 7 years, with higher incidence in Ghana compared with Europe. Age, female sex, alcohol use, uric acid levels and hypertension were predictive factors. CKD progression to ESKD was minimal. High CKD incidence among Ghanaians, especially those residing in Ghana, calls for in-depth assessment of contributing factors and targeted interventions.
PrEP15-19 Choices: an implementation study protocol of HIV prevention with oral and long-acting injectable cabotegravir PrEP in real-word settings among sexual and gender minority adolescents in Brazil
Authors: Dourado Ines , Dezanet Lorenza , Magno Laio , Westin Mateus , Soares Fabiane , Massa Paula , Zucchi Eliana Miura , Rossi Thais Regis Aranha , Caires Priscilla , Vasconcelos Ricardo de Paula , Couto Márcia Thereza , Tupinambas Unaí , Greco Dirceu , Grangeiro Alexandre D 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionLong-acting injectable (LAI) cabotegravir is a promising new method for preventing HIV. Safe and effective long-acting agents for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV infection are needed to increase preventive options among sexual and gender minority adolescents.Methods and analysisThis is a multisite, prospective implementation study of three PrEP modalities (LAI-PrEP, event-driven (ED) and daily oral), using a mixed-method design with quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study will include a sample of 550 HIV-negative adolescent men who have sex with men, non-binary individuals assigned male at birth, transgender men and women, aged 15–19 years, in three Brazilian capital cities. Participants will be allocated into two arms, according to their choice of PrEP modalities, and followed up to 36 months. Switching between oral and LAI-PrEP will be allowed, according to the participants’ needs and preferences. The qualitative studies will focus on investigating the processes involved in linkage and retention in care, switching between PrEP modalities and strategies of the implementation process of LAI-PrEP in the current PrEP programming and acceptability from health providers, policymakers and stakeholders’ perspectives.Ethics and disseminationThe adolescent’s autonomy for consenting to their participation and understanding of PrEP will be assessed by the project team before any care is given and will be recorded in their medical record. Adolescents aged 15–17 years will sign an informed assent form, waiving the need for the approval of a legal guardian, except in cases where the adolescent is found not to have the necessary autonomy. The study was approved by the WHO Ethics Review Committee and by the local IRBs from the universities coordinating the study, the University of São Paulo, the Federal University of Bahia and the Federal University of Minas Gerais. This project is part of an effort to expedite the inclusion of new modalities in the Brazilian PrEP Programme, based on the development of studies to evaluate the implementation of LAI-PrEP and ED-PrEP as a choice. The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented to the study participants and communities.Trial registration numberhttps://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-104736f4. The trial registration number: RBR-104736f4
What are the perceptions and experiences of adults using mobile applications for self-management in diabetes? A systematic review
Authors: Patail Kalthum , Pai Hui Hsuan , Greenfield Geva , Hayhoe Benedict , Majeed Azeem , Neves Ana Luisa , Taddese Henock B 
Published: January 2025

ObjectivesDiabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that entails significant burdens to patients, caregivers and society at large. While self-management behaviours like healthy eating and monitoring of blood glucose help to reduce the care burden, they are still perceived to be burdensome. Mobile applications have emerged as promising digital tools in helping patients to self-manage their conditions. We conducted systematic review to explore the perceptions and experiences of adults with types 1, 2 and gestational diabetes using mobile applications for self-management in diabetes.DesignA systematic review of published primary studies exploring perceptions and experiences of adults living with types 1, 2 and gestational diabetes who used/have used mobile applications for self-management. The study was reported following the best practice guidelines defined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses.Data sourcesWe searched for articles published from January 2007 to December 2023 via MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Elsevier), CINAHL (Ovid) and Scopus (Elsevier).Eligibility criteriaPrimary qualitative studies that describe the perceptions and experiences of adults in using mobile applications in self-management of types 1, 2 and gestational diabetes published between January 2007 and December 2023.Data extraction and synthesisTwo independent reviewers screened identified papers for eligibility, extracted data using a pre-defined data extraction form and applied the Critical Appraisal Skills Program tool to appraise the quality of the included studies. Data were narratively synthesised, guided by the ‘unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT)’ framework.ResultsA total of 24 qualitative studies deploying interviews and surveys with open-ended questions were included in the review. We identified four major themes, which were mapped against the constructs of the ‘UTAUT’ framework: ‘performance expectancy’, ‘effort expectancy’, ‘social influence’ and ‘facilitating conditions’.More than 50% of the studies described favourable app features relating to monitoring blood glucose, diet and exercise while also emphasising the importance of customising these to patient needs. About 40% of the studies described unfavourable aspects related to uploading of excessive information, monitoring device incompatibility, episodic app crashes and telephone handling issues.ConclusionThe review supports the favourable view of mobile applications as promising tools in helping patients with diabetes to self-manage. However, the challenges on the ease of use and non-customised features of the apps potentially hinder patients’ long-term engagement.
Do you think medicines can be prescribed in a more eco-directed, greener way? A qualitative study based on public and prescriber focus groups on the impact of pharmaceuticals in Scotland’s water environment
Authors: Niemi Lydia , Anderson Claire , Arakawa Naoko , Taggart Mark , Gibb Stuart , Pfleger Sharon 
Published: January 2025

ObjectivesThis qualitative study explored public and prescriber awareness of pharmaceutical pollution in the water environment and eco-directed sustainable prescribing (EDSP) as a mitigation strategy to reduce the environmental impact of prescribing in Scotland.DesignFocus groups explored prescriber and public perceptions of the topic. Common questions were asked through semistructured facilitation. Focus groups were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim using an artificial intelligence system, then anonymised and thematically analysed using NVivo software. Data were iteratively analysed using the one sheet of paper technique.SettingPublic focus groups were held in-person (Inverness, Scotland, April 2023), and prescriber focus groups were held virtually (MS Teams, August 2023).ParticipantsNine public representatives and 17 NHS Scotland prescribers participated in one of four focus groups. Purposive and opportunistic sampling approaches were used to recruit participants through social media and other channels (ie, community groups, professional emails, general practitioner and hospital flyers). Prescriber representatives registered interest through an online survey to gather information about their professional background. Responses were reviewed to ensure representation of a mixture of medical backgrounds, experience, sectors and health boards.ResultsThere is growing awareness among the public and healthcare professionals of pharmaceutical pollution in the environment, but further education is required on the drivers, potential effects and possible interventions. Suggestions for more sustainable healthcare included public health awareness campaigns, better provision for pharmacy take-back schemes, clear medicine/packaging labelling, regular medicines reviews and more considered patient-centred care. From the prescriber perspective, EDSP resonated well with current sustainability initiatives (eg, Realistic Medicine, switching to dry-powder inhalers), but barriers to EDSP included lack of knowledge, confidence, time and resources to implement changes. Although the public representatives were generally open to the concept of EDSP, this decision required weighing pros/cons considering personal health choices, information accessibility and transparency, and trust in and time with prescribers.ConclusionsThis study identified new insights from prescribers and the public related to the concept of, and barriers to, EDSP in Scotland, as well as perspectives regarding knowledge support tools and information communication. Cross-sector and transdisciplinary collaborative approaches are needed to address the challenges identified here. Nonetheless, EDSP merits further exploration in developing more sustainable, appropriate and effective healthcare which contributes to improved public and planetary health.
Congenital colour vision deficiency in healthcare professionals: a scoping review protocol of the impact on clinical practice and patient safety
Authors: Lawson Euan , Khan Aqib , Wessels Quenton , Taylor Adam M 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionCongenital colour vision deficiency (CVD), known as colour blindness, is a common visual problem affecting around 1 in 12 men and 1 in 200 women. It is known that people who have red-green CVD, the most common phenotype, can have difficulty differentiating colours and this can impact the ability to perform clinical tasks related to patient care. The objective of this scoping review is to understand the extent and type of evidence and the impact on clinical practice and patient safety arising from congenital CVD in healthcare professionals.Methods and analysisThe scoping review will follow the methodological framework outlined by the Joanna Briggs Institute and by Arksey and O’Malley and we will adhere to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses Scoping Reviews checklist. The following databases will be searched: PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Lens.org and the Trip medical database (filtered for low-income countries) with no limit on earliest date and up to 30 November 2024. Grey literature will be identified by planned searches in the Overton Index. All articles related to ‘CVD in healthcare professionals in clinical practice or in training’ will be included. The study will also include other professionals who may be involved in healthcare but are not involved in direct patient-facing activities. It will be limited to congenital CVD and will exclude the impact of visual impairment and acquired CVD.There will be an initial search to validate the search strategy. Titles and abstracts will be screened to determine eligibility, and the full text will be reviewed using a data extraction framework. Data will be extracted, collated and then mapped and summarised to present the relevant key findings and outcomes from the papers in tabular and visualised form with a narrative synthesis.Ethics and disseminationThe scoping review does not need ethical approval and will provide an overview of the impact of congenital CVD on clinical practice and patient safety. This will determine the future need and direction of research in this area and identify methodological challenges and opportunities. The results will be published open access in a peer-reviewed journal.RegistrationINPLASY (DOI: 10.37766/inplasy2024.11.0099).
Spatiotemporal dynamics and prevention strategies of cervical cancer incidence in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: an ecological study
Authors: Shimels Tariku , Kantelhardt Eva Johanna , Assefa Mathewos , Fenta Teferi Gedif 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveThis study analysed the spatial and temporal patterns of cervical cancer incidence in Addis Ababa from 2012 to 2021.DesignAn ecological study was conducted from 1 September to 30 November 2023 to examine the spatiotemporal trends of cervical cancer incidence.SettingThe research was conducted in Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia.ParticipantsIncluded were all patients with clinically and/or histopathologically confirmed diagnoses of cervical cancer.Data analysisThe study employed advanced analytical tools including R programming, Quantum Geographic Information System V.3.36.0, GeoDa V.1.2.2 and System for Automated Geoscientific Analyses GIS V.9.3.2. Techniques such as Bayesian empirical testing with a block weighting matrix for hotspot identification, Global Moran’s I for spatial autocorrelation, nearest neighbour imputation and universal Kriging interpolation were used to manage data gaps. Joinpoint trend analysis and direct age-standardised incidence rate (ASIR) using the Segi’s World standard population was applied to compare trends across subcities. A statistical significance threshold was set at p<0.05.ResultsBetween 2012 and 2021, a total of 2435 new cervical cancer cases were recorded in the Addis Ababa City Population-based Cancer Registry, with significant spatial clustering observed in Nifas Silk Lafto, Bole, Kirkos as well as parts of Gulele and Yeka sub cities (z score>1.96) in 2018. The citywide age-standardised incidence rate varied from 19 to 26 cases per 100 000 women-years during 2013 and 2016, respectively. Subcity trends varied significantly, with increases and decreases noted in Akaki Kality and Kolfe Keraniyo over different periods while Bole subcity showed modest increase at 4.2% APC (95% CI: 0.6% to 7.9%; p=0.026).ConclusionThe study highlights substantial fluctuations in ASIR and significant geographic disparities in cervical cancer throughout Addis Ababa. To address these challenges, the implementation of school-based human papillomavirus vaccination programmes, alongside targeted interventions, active campaigns and sustained surveillance, is critical. These strategies are essential to effectively reduce the cervical cancer burden and improve health outcomes in the community.
A qualitative interview study of care home managers’ experiences of medicines optimisation for residents with dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Alsulami Nawaf , Hughes Carmel M , Barry Heather E 
Published: January 2025

ObjectivesTo explore care home managers’ views and experiences of optimising medicines use for residents with dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic.Design, setting and participantsA descriptive exploratory qualitative study using semistructured interviews (conducted via telephone or online videoconferencing platform), with care home managers across Northern Ireland, purposively sampled from care homes that provided care for residents with dementia. Care home managers were asked to describe their experiences of accessing primary healthcare services (such as those provided by general practitioners and community pharmacists), how medicines use by residents with dementia was affected by the pandemic, and what they had learnt from their experiences. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.ResultsFourteen interviews were conducted between January and July 2022. Four themes, ‘isolation’, ‘burden’, ‘disruption’ and ‘connection and communication’, were identified; isolation was a cross-cutting theme that permeated the other themes. Care home managers described feeling isolated from healthcare professionals, healthcare services and residents’ family members. This isolation placed additional burden on care home staff and residents with dementia by increasing staff workload and negatively affecting residents’ well-being. Participants reported that disruption to primary healthcare service provision, particularly services provided by general practices, had significant impact on residents with dementia. Participants described a lack of face-to-face contact with healthcare professionals, and medication reviews often ceased to take place. The connection and communication between key stakeholders were perceived to be important when optimising medicines for residents with dementia.ConclusionsThis study has highlighted the challenges and initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medicines optimisation for care home residents with dementia, which was characterised by isolation. Further research is needed to determine the extent of the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on this resident population. In future public health crises, better communication is needed between healthcare professionals and care homes.
Cross-sectional study measuring the level and relationship of awareness, attitude and willingness to use HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in Davao City, Philippines
Authors: Gabucan Von Jay Maico Gillado 
Published: January 2025

ObjectivesTo improve on the implementation and uses of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programmes, factors affecting HIV PrEP willingness must be investigated. This study aims to determine not only the willingness to use HIV PrEP but also to establish whether awareness and attitude affect this.DesignThis study used a cross-sectional survey research design to examine the awareness, attitude and willingness to use HIV PrEP in Davao City. The survey was adapted from multiple studies and was validated and pilot tested. Statistical analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics like correlation, linear regression and structural modelling.SettingsThis research was conducted in Davao City, Philippines. This is one of the regions in the country with a high HIV incidence. The survey was conducted from March to June 2024.ParticipantsParticipants were at least 18 years of age, currently living in Davao City and a permanent resident of the city.ResultsA total of 258 respondents were gathered in this study, of which 53.10% of all respondents were fully aware of HIV PrEP, while 27.13% were partially aware. The study found the mean attitude and willingness to be 4.21±0.686 and 4.08±0.685, respectively. There was a significant difference in the awareness when grouped according to identity category (X2=24.428; p value=0.002) and highest education attained (X2=15.919; p value=0.044). Being fully aware positively affected willingness to use HIV PrEP by indirectly contributing positively to attitude towards HIV PrEP (β=0.180; p value=0.012).ConclusionGenerally, the awareness, attitude and willingness to use HIV PrEP is high. However, some respondents are hesitant to use HIV PrEP if it is not a hundred percent effective and unable to adhere to it. The results imply a need for action programmes involving various multidisciplinary stakeholders to ensure that the community possesses full awareness, positive attitudes and increased willingness to use HIV PrEP.