bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex Differences in Protein Biomarkers and Measures of Fat Distribution
Authors: Ramirez Mariana F. , Pan Abigail S. , Parekh Juhi K. , Owunna Ndidi , Courchesne Paul , Larson Martin G. , Levy Daniel , Murabito Joanne M. , Ho Jennifer E. , Lau Emily S.
Published: November 2024

Background

Sex differences in obesity and fat distribution may in part explain differences in cardiovascular risk in men versus women. We sought to examine sex differences in the associations of obesity and adiposity measures with cardiovascular disease–related protein biomarkers.

Methods and Results

In a cross‐sectional observational cohort study, we examined whether the association of obesity (body mass index [BMI] and waist circumference) and adiposity measures (visceral adipose tissue) with biomarkers demonstrates effect modification by sex using multiplicative interaction terms in multivariable linear regression models. Among 3143 participants (mean age, 50 years; 49% women), sex modified the association of BMI, waist circumference, and visceral adipose tissue with cardiovascular disease–related protein biomarkers (7 for BMI, 3 for waist circumference, and 23 for visceral adipose tissue, false discovery rate [FDR]‐q
int
<0.05 for all). For example, higher BMI was associated with lower α
1
‐microglobulin levels in men but not in women (ß, −0.113; SE, 0.028;
P
<0.001 in men versus ß, −0.007; SE, 0.024;
P
=0.78 in women). By contrast, higher BMI was associated with higher adipsin levels in men and women, but the association was more pronounced in women (ß, 0.287; SE, 0.023;
P
<0.001 in women versus ß, 0.189; SE, 0.026;
P
<0.001 in men). The associations of higher visceral adipose tissue with biomarkers representing adiposity, inflammation, and fibrosis were more pronounced in women versus men.

Conclusions

We found that sex modified the associations of obesity and adipose traits with cardiovascular risk ascertained by cardiovascular disease–related biomarkers including markers of adiposity, inflammation, and fibrosis. These findings highlight potential biological pathways that may underlie some of the observed differences in obesity‐related cardiovascular disease between women and men.
Association of Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome With Cardiovascular Events After Mitral Transcatheter Edge‐to‐Edge Repair
Authors: Mannina Carlo , Sharma Akarsh , Carbone Andreina , Bossone Eduardo , Tuttolomondo Antonino , Argulian Edgar , Neibart Eric , Hadley Michael B. , Halperin Jonathan , Dangas George , Sharma Samin K. , Kini Annapoorna , Lerakis Stamatios
Published: November 2024

Background

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) following cardiovascular interventions is associated with adverse events during hospitalization and follow‐up. Mitral transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair is increasingly utilized for treatment of mitral regurgitation (MR). We investigated whether SIRS following mitral transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair may occur and be associated with adverse clinical outcomes.

Methods and Results

A total of 158 consecutive patients with severe MR undergoing mitral transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair were studied. SIRS was defined by leukocytosis (≥12 × 10
9
/L) and fever (≥38 °C) within 48 hours after intervention. Baseline inflammation was measured by absolute neutrophil and lymphocyte counts and neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio. The primary end point of major cardiovascular events was the composite of nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, and all‐cause death. Recurrent MR at follow‐up was also recorded. The mean patient age was 80.8±8.8 years. Forty‐four (27.9%) developed SIRS. Neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio correlated with onset of leukocytosis and fever (
P
=0.04). During a median follow‐up of 12.5 (5.4–17.4) months, the primary end point occurred in 27 (17.1%) patients (6 myocardial infarction, 5 strokes, and 16 deaths). Patients with SIRS more often had severe MR (79.5% versus 62.7%,
P
=0.02) at follow‐up. After adjustment for pertinent variables, SIRS (HR 2.73 [95% CI, 1.08–6.86];
P
=0.03) was independently associated with major cardiovascular events.

Conclusions

SIRS after mitral transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair is a strong independent predictor of major cardiovascular events. Closer follow‐up is warranted because patients with SIRS have more severe MR at follow‐up.
Neuroglial Biomarkers for Risk Assessment of Ischemic Stroke and Other Cardiovascular Events in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Not Receiving Oral Anticoagulation
Authors: Aulin Julia , Sjölin Karl , Lindbäck Johan , Benz Alexander P. , Eikelboom John W. , Kultima Kim , Oldgren Jonas , Wallentin Lars , Burman Joachim
Published: November 2024

Background

Cardiac biomarkers improve risk prediction in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). We recently demonstrated that the NFL (neuron‐specific protein neurofilament light chain) was associated with ischemic stroke in patients with AF not receiving oral anticoagulation. The association of other neuroglial biomarkers reflecting brain injury (ie, GFAP [glial fibrillary acidic protein], total tau [tau], and UCHL1 [ubiquitin carboxy‐terminal hydrolase L1]) with the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular outcomes in AF is unknown.

Methods and Results

Baseline plasma samples were available from 967 patients with AF not receiving oral anticoagulation treatment. Concentrations of NFL, GFAP, tau, and UCHL1 were determined with a Single Molecule Array kit (Simoa). Associations between baseline biomarker level, clinical characteristics, and outcomes (ischemic stroke, hospitalization for heart failure, and all‐cause death) were analyzed with multivariable Cox regression adjusted for clinical characteristics and other biomarkers. Higher levels of all 4 neuroglial biomarkers were correlated with increasing age and female sex. During a median follow‐up of 3.6 years, NFL was associated with increased risk of ischemic stroke (for a doubling in NFL, hazard ratio [HR], 1.27 [95% CI, 1.03–1.56]) and death (HR, 1.46 [95% CI, 1.25–1.70]). In adjusted analyses, GFAP, tau, and UCHL1were not associated with stroke or death. NFL, tau, and UCHL1 were significantly associated with hospitalization for heart failure.

Conclusions

In patients with AF not receiving oral anticoagulation, NFL was the only neuroglial biomarker significantly and independently associated with the risk of ischemic stroke and death. Further studies evaluating NFL for stroke risk assessment in patients with AF and the impact of contemporary oral anticoagulation treatment are warranted.
A statistical approach to predict flexural strength and flame retardation properties for natural fibre/ epoxy composites
Authors: Ramadan Noha , Taha Mohamed , Elsabbagh Ahmed
Published: November 2024

This research investigates the development of a mathematical model to predict the influence of flame retardants (FR) on the mechanical and flame retardancy performance of natural fibre reinforced thermosetting composites. The study focuses on two types of FRs: Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) and silica fumes that were added to Jute reinforced epoxy composites (JRECs). Two mathematical models were established based on three variables and two measured responses. The variables include FRs type, FR content, and FR method of preparation, while the measured responses are Limiting oxygen index (LOI) and Flexural strength (FS). The models were developed using a statistical approach based on multiple linear regression fitting and validated using analysis of variance (ANOVA) technique. The developed models were verified using experimental result data from literature and the analysis of these models showed that the maximum discrepancy between the observed and predicted values for relative LOI and relative FS was within the range of [Formula: see text] 6% and [Formula: see text] 5%, respectively. This research contributes to the understanding of the impact of FRs on the mechanical and flame retardancy performance of natural fibre reinforced thermosetting composites, which can aid in the design and development of safer and more efficient composite materials.
Efficacy of Small Group Reading Intervention for Grade 2 and 3 Children With Reading Difficulties: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Dunn Kristy , Georgiou George K. , Savage Robert , Parrila Rauno
Published: November 2024

We examined whether Phonics + Set for Variability (S fV) reading intervention would lead to better irregular word reading compared to Phonics + Morphology within a cluster randomized control trial (RCT) design with a follow-up measurement. The participants were 273 Grade 2 and 3 students with reading difficulties (139 in the Phonics + S fV and 134 in the Phonics + Morphology) who received intervention in small groups (2–4 children), 4 times a week, 30 minutes each time, for 15 weeks. Results of hierarchical linear modeling showed that there was a significant effect of intervention on all reading outcomes (e.g., from pre- to posttest the effect sizes for Phonics + S fV ranged from g = 0.74 to 1.54 and for Phonics + Morphology from g = 0.75 to 1.49). Unexpectedly, there were no differences between the intervention conditions in any of the outcome variables, including irregular word reading and morphological awareness that the interventions partly focused on.
Malaysian police officers’ perceptions of interrogations and confessions
Authors: Chung Kai Li
Published: November 2024

Published survey data on perceptions of interrogations and false confessions have come from Western European and North American countries and have tended to focus on jury-eligible citizens’ perceptions. The present study examined perceptions of police officers from the Royal Malaysia Police. Fifty-nine police officers reported their overall perceptions of confessions, perceptions of personal factors contributing to false confessions, and self-perceived likelihood of false confession. Findings reveal that the Malaysian police did not seem to be cognizant of the fact that false confessions can happen and the contributing risk factors. This emphasises the need to raise awareness in the country – both from the top-down and bottom-up.
A tutorial on mixed methods research for policing scholars
Authors: Todak Natalie , Somers Logan J
Published: November 2024

This paper offers a tutorial on mixed methods research (MMR) for policing scholars to highlight its potential, encourage its use, and inform best practices, with the aim to enhance the reputation of the field with respect to methodological rigor. We review the design and reporting standards for MMR and include examples from published policing research to showcase quality applications and identify areas for improvement. In this emerging and often misunderstood methodological paradigm, which consists of dynamic research designs and multiple interrelated components, it is crucial that authors follow best practices for design and reporting to ensure their studies meet the criteria for methodological rigor and improve future implementation of mixed methods in policing research.
Ultrasound-based prevalence of polyvascular disease and its association with adverse outcome in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Gao Junyi , Cheng Yi
Published: November 2024

Objective: Polyvascular disease (polyVD) often coexists with coronary artery disease (CAD). We aim to investigate the prevalence of polyVD using the method of ultrasound and find its association with adverse outcomes in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients. Methods: This retrospective and cross-sectional study included 1344 patients with a mean age of 61.4 years. Presence of peripheral artery atherosclerotic plaque and stenosis was assessed using the method of ultrasound. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to investigate the association of polyVD with in-hospital all-cause death. Results: 52.1% of the patients had polyVD and among which 31.9% had one additional arterial bed involvement and 20.2% had two or three additional arterial beds involvement. Patients with two or three involved arterial beds had worse baseline characteristics. In-hospital all-cause death rate increased with the number of involved arterial beds (1.1% in patients with only CAD vs 3.7% in patients with two or three involved arterial beds), and this trend was more prominent in elderly patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed that polyVD patients with two or three involved arterial beds had about three times the risk for all-cause death. Conclusions: Prevalence of polyVD assessed by ultrasound was high in CABG patients and it was significantly associated with in-hospital all-cause death. Our study may provide additive information for preoperative risk stratification in CABG patients.
Does User Involvement in Developing Public Sector Innovations Improve Outcomes? A Set-Theoretic Analysis of European Data
Authors: Nordli Anne Jørgensen , Arundel Anthony , Katona Márton , Rosta Miklós
Published: November 2024

Theories of a service or public sector logic stress that involving users in developing public sector innovations will produce better outcomes, but outcomes also could be influenced by the type of user involvement. We evaluate the relationship between interactive and non-interactive methods of involving users in innovation activities, along with six other factors, on a sample of management reported post-implementation outcomes from public sector innovations. A set-theoretic analysis is applied separately for service and process innovations to identify combinations (recipes) of eight factors associated with positive outcomes. Both interactive and non-interactive user involvement is associated with positive outcomes, but such involveme is always combined with other innovation capabilities or senior management support for innovation. The results have practical implications for managers for how to assemble resources to improve innovation outcomes.
People Have the Right to Be Mad: Wildcat Strikes and Labor Relations in the Post-World War II Auto Industry
Authors: Minchin Timothy J.
Published: November 2024

Writing on wildcat strikes, which were usually brief and under-reported, has been limited. This is especially the case in the auto industry, where postwar labor relations were supposedly stable and staid, marked by high rates of unionization and collective bargaining. Scholars have stressed the landmark national contracts that the United Auto Workers (UAW) won in the post-World War II era, particularly with the Big Three automakers. Despite these economic gains, rank-and-file workers had many unresolved grievances, especially over non-economic issues such as high workloads, poor safety, and abusive supervisors. This article examines wildcat strikes at two locations; the New Haven Foundry in Michigan (1962 and 1963) and Ford's Chicago Heights Stamping Plant (1963). It argues that these unauthorized walkouts were symptomatic of rank-and file disaffection over non-economic issues, including failure to get safety and workload grievances resolved. The industry suffered hundreds of wildcat strikes in the 1950s and 1960s, especially at Ford, where resistance to union influence continued. In 1951 alone, there were 56 wildcats at Ford alone, involving over 16,000 workers, with further wildcat surges in 1953 and 1958. The article uses worker testimony before the UAW's international executive board to provide unexpected insights into grievances of postwar autoworkers. These records show that despite the gains of the national contracts, many local issues persisted, complicating images of postwar labor relations in a key industry.
Flexible sovereignty and contested legality: The overseas employment and legal struggles of Chinese workers
Authors: Fei Ding
Published: November 2024

The surge in Chinese overseas investments has increased the transnational movement of Chinese workers. While much literature explores the interactions between Chinese managers and local workers in host countries, the dynamics between Chinese employers and Chinese workers abroad remain under-examined. This paper employs the conceptual frameworks of flexible sovereignty and contested legality to examine the distinctive norms and practices in labor recruitment, management, and dispute resolution emerged through overseas employment. Through a critical review of lawsuits between returned Chinese workers and their Chinese employers in Chinese courts – originating from the top five African countries receiving Chinese labor (Algeria, Angola, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Equatorial Guinea) – the analysis reveals new spatialities and temporalities of sovereign control exerted by globalized Chinese companies over overseas workplaces and migrant workers. Overseas employment marks a complex process of coupling and decoupling among various forms of Chinese capital and labor. Three mechanisms of corporate sovereign control are identified: the delineation of workplaces and workers' bodies as spaces of exception, the flexibilization of working hours and job tenure, and the politics of delays in wage disbursement and dispute resolution. These mechanisms provoke contentious debates during court proceedings and result in uneven judicial outcomes for Chinese workers.
Realization of quasi-steady-state piled smouldering using sequential operation chambers for industrial treatment of biomass wastes
Authors: Zhao Wentao , Yu Guangxin , Elahi Ehsan , Cai Junmeng , Behrendt Frank , Schliermann Thomas , He Fang
Published: November 2024

Piled smouldering has great potential for treatment and utilization of biomass wastes. However, its unsteady-state nature limits its industrial utilization, as well as treatment of smoke. This article addresses this issue by proposing the sequential operation of numerous smouldering chambers to realize steady- or quasi-steady-state piled smouldering. The superposition characteristics of sequential unsteady-state curves were analysed theoretically, and a code was developed to determine an appropriate number of piled chambers at an allowance oscillation percentage. Smouldering experiments were performed on a single mini chamber (length × width × height: 340 × 140 × 140 mm3) containing piled wood pellets mixed with wood powder. The superposition of sequential burning rate curves was demonstrated using the code based on the mass loss data of experiments. Analysis shows that the perfect-steady state is possible given the superposition value of the burning rate curve is a constant in this proposed system. Experiments show that the molar ratio of CO/CO2 in smoke is almost a constant around 0.5 during densely piled smouldering, showing the great potential for self-sustained burning out the smoke. Based on the experimental results, the calculation results show that the relative oscillation range of burning rate (OSC) decreases from 75% to 3% while increasing the number of chambers from 2 to 7. This work provides a novel technology to enable quasi-steady-state smouldering for industrial utilization.
The relationship between American civil–military relations and military outcomes
Authors: Tier David J
Published: November 2024

Civilian control of the military is an inflexible requirement of the American republic, but there is contentious debate over how that control should be exercised. Both sides of the divide tend to agree that military results matter. Civil–military relations succeed if healthy discourse results in accomplishing the mission and obtaining optimal outcomes, but fail if the military does not accomplish the political objectives. This article advances the understudied thread of military effectiveness in American civil–military relations by testing the acumen of each side's judgment in 44 use of force decisions since the Second World War. In decisions on whether to use military force, military preferences have not yielded superior outcomes to civilian preferences, but there is evidence that military shirking from armed interventions has helped avoid ill-advised wars. Further studies should investigate decisions on how to use military force.
A Conformance Variation Approach for Ex-Post Master Plan Evaluation: Unveiling Urban Realities in Indian Million-Plus Cities
Authors: Choudhary Sushmita , Chattopadhyay Subrata
Published: November 2024

Land use plans, a crucial component of statutory master plans, are often deemed failures. To test this hypothesis, an ex-post evaluation of seven master plans from five Indian million-plus cities was conducted using percentage implementation (PI) and conformance variation (CV) as evaluation factors to ascertain variation between proposed and subsequent existing land uses. Contrary to master plans, a significant difference in CV was observed among land uses after performing analysis of variance (ANOVA) across all master plans and land use categories. Post hoc tests revealed that residential, governmental/public and semi-public, industrial, and overall developed/urbanized areas grew relatively as expected compared to recreational use.
Infrared on-site heating for material extrusion additive manufacturing of carbon fiber filled polyphenylene sulfide and its nano-graphene-reinforced alternatives
Authors: Wang Zhaogui , Zhou Kexuan , Xu Pengbo
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the impact of infrared heating and annealing on the mechanical properties of carbon fiber-reinforced polyphenylene sulfide (CF-PPS) and graphene nanoplatelet (GNP)-reinforced CF-PPS composites in Material extrusion (MEX) additive manufacturing. GNP/CF-PPS composites are prepared by mechanically mixing CF-PPS plastic particles with GNP particles and subjecting them to infrared heating and annealing treatments during the three-dimensional (3D) printing process. Three-point bending tests assess the mechanical properties of the samples. The results reveal that the 0.03 wt.% GNP/CF-PPS sample, subjected to infrared heating followed by annealing, exhibits a 30% increase in bending strength compared to pure CF-PPS, demonstrating that the combined treatment significantly enhances mechanical performance. Microscopy observations using a Keyence VH7000 digital optical microscope and a scanning electron microscope (SEM) confirm that GNP addition and infrared irradiation lead to reduced surface roughness and fewer fracture cross-sectional pores. The interlayer bonding improves notably, indicating enhanced internal density and structural stability. Furthermore, differential scanning calorimetry analysis shows a 20% increase in crystallinity for heat-treated samples, contributing to better interlaminar bonding and reduced temperature gradients during printing. Finite element simulations using MATLAB and ABAQUS software corroborate these findings, demonstrating that infrared heating proves more effective than varying GNP content alone in reducing deformation, residual stress, and temperature differences during the MEX process. These results provide valuable insights into improving the mechanical properties and stability of MEX-manufactured large-dimensional composite materials through optimized thermal management.
EU Cohesion Policies and interregional inequalities in disruptive times
Authors: Capello Roberta , Ciappei Simona , Lenzi Camilla
Published: November 2024

Despite the numerous contributions assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of Cohesion Policies, their role in stimulating growth and cohesion in different macroeconomic settings and in different business cycle periods remains highly debated. This article aims at contributing to this literature by investigating the link between Cohesion Policy, economic growth and interregional inequalities over periods of crisis and recovery. In particular, the article analyses whether Cohesion Policy is beneficial for the recovery of those regions mostly hit by the crisis and contributes to narrowing interregional gaps enhanced by the crisis. In addition, the paper analyses how the link between Cohesion Policy and interregional inequalities changes by investment axes, as it is the case of Research, Technology Development and Innovation funds, targeted to different goals. Based on an analysis covering all EU27 and UK NUTS2 regions in the period 2008–2019, the article confirms the multifaceted nexus between Cohesion Policy and interregional inequalities. It also raises warnings about the potential conflicts between its overarching goals and its multiple and expanding strategic objectives.
Temporary protection, refugee fatigue and political discontent in European Union cities of refuge
Authors: Hierro María , Maza Adolfo
Published: November 2024

Experience with the recent activation of the Temporary Protection Directive (TPD) in the European Union has demonstrated its virtues as an emergency policy response to mass influx situations. However, in the absence of a long-term strategy to alleviate pressure, there is a risk that a sense of fatigue will emerge and intensify in cities of refuge, with this commentary presenting prima facie evidence of this issue. To mitigate the potential effect that refugee fatigue might have in terms of political discontent, we advocate a new temporary protection approach that embraces a genuine multi-level governance that recognises cities as key actors in refugee reception. The paradigm shift should prioritise cities when allocating funds to build reception capacity, as well as acknowledge the urgency of city-led relocation initiatives to alleviate the strain on overburdened cities. Finally, this commentary suggests the need to address one of the main drivers of fatigue: the uncertainty regarding the future for millions of Ukrainians once the TPD expires.
Media Representation of Male Protagonists in Thai Boy Love Commercials: A Visual Discourse Analysis
Authors: Chen Yating
Published: November 2024

The media portrayal of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community may impact public understanding and attitudes towards this community, which has not been extensively studied. This article explores the media representation of gay men in commercials by presenting a visual discourse analysis of three Thai Boy Love commercials. Combining the visual representation framework of social actors and genre and functionality analysis, it examines (a) how the male protagonists are visually represented in relation to the audience from three symbolic dimensions and (b) how the salient patterns of presenting boy love commercials are integrated with the story’s narrative stages and genre functions. The findings suggest that the boys are primarily portrayed positively as inclusive, close, agentive and ordinary social members who feature soft masculinity. Nevertheless, such a generic and idealised representation romanticises gay relationships, diminishes the individuality of gay people and obscures the diversity within the gay community. The portrayal also prioritises the female gaze to cater to the core audience of heterosexual young women consumers. This article provides insights into the reciprocal relationship between public receptivity towards the LGBTQ community and their favourable visual representations in commercials.
Digital Screen Usage Amongst Doctors: Demographics, Patterns of Use and Effect of Health Parameters
Authors: Chapala Shashank , Hussein Mohsin , Shirodkar Kapil , Iyengar Karthikeyan P. , Vaishya Raju , Botchu Rajesh
Published: November 2024

Background:

Advances in digital technology have led to widespread availability of digital devices and consequent increased usage amongst across the population including practising healthcare professionals. Increased ‘Digital Screen time’ and its effect on physical, psychological health, and sleep patterns has been predominantly evaluated in children, adolescents and adults from various walks of life.

Purpose of the Study:

The purpose of this survey was to evaluate the impact of Digital Screen usage (time and patterns) spent on portable and desktop digital devices amongst physicians, surgeons and radiologists.

Material & Methods:

An online cross-sectional survey of an 11-part questionnaire (multiple choice questions and free text box) was circulated amongst orthopaedic surgeons, radiologists and physicians in India and the UK, to evaluate demographics, speciality and place of practice; Digital platform usage reasons and time; effect on mental health, physical health, sleep time amongst practising healthcare professionals.

Results:

There was an even spread amongst the various age groups. Smartphones were the commonest device utilised for digital screening in 90 (67.7%) doctors with 29 (38.5%) of doctors reporting more than five hours of daily screen time. Sixty-three (47%) of doctors used this for academic purposes, whereas 43 (32%) used it for entertainment more than for academic purposes. Thirty-nine doctors (29%) were unaware of whether screen usage affected mental health. Seventy-two (53%) were of the opinion that screen usage was having a negative effect on their physical health whilst 81 (60%) thought that it was having an adverse effect on their sleeping time respectively.

Conclusion:

A significant proportion of doctors appear to be using digital devices beyond the recommended ‘Digital Screen time’ by various national or international healthcare organisations. There is an emerging need to highlight the deleterious effect of excessive ‘Digital Screen time’ on various health parameters and be part of a global health narrative to mitigate ill-effects and a sustainable lifestyle.
Importance of Community Context in Understanding Substance Use Among Adolescents With Allegations of Maltreatment
Authors: Kim Yeonwoo , LaBrenz Catherine , Baiden Philip , Ullahansari Shaikh , Ontiberos Jessica
Published: November 2024

This study examined the association between community disadvantage and substance use among adolescents referred to child protective services (CPS) and the interaction role of race/ethnicity in the association between community disadvantage and adolescent substance use. Findings revealed that higher county-level alcohol/drug mortality rates were associated with a higher risk of substance use across non-Hispanic Black, non-Hispanic white, and Hispanic adolescents. An interaction test showed that the association between county-level alcohol/drug mortality rates and risk of substance use was particularly stronger for non-Hispanic Black adolescents compared to non-Hispanic white adolescents. However, county-level vacant housing rates and low median household income did not show a significant association with adolescent substance use across all racial/ethnic groups. Results suggest that practitioners should screen for community-level substance risk levels to prevent substance use among historically marginalized racial-ethnic adolescents involved in CPS.
Sensing method on magnetorheological fluid concentration and in-situ settlement monitoring based on wire wound inductor
Authors: An Na , Zou Zhiyuan , Zhang Honghui , Pan Kexun , Xiong Ningsong , Liao Changrong , Zhang Dengyou
Published: November 2024

Aiming at the limitations of magnetorheological fluid (MRF) settlement monitoring in transparent non-metallic containers, a method of MRF concentration measurement based on a wire wound inductor is proposed in this paper, and with the sensing method, in-situ monitoring of MRF sedimentation inside the damper is fulfilled. The varying local concentration of MRF will lead to the inductance change of the wire wound inductor, which is immersed in the MRF at a specific position, with the settling process. When harmonically excited with a signal generator, the relationship between the output amplitude across the inductor and the MRF concentration can be established. To reveal the settling speed dependence, the monitoring of the MRF settling is carried out with different concentrations and viscosities. It is testified that the proposed method can measure the concentration of MRF effectively, and is qualified with the in-situ monitoring of the MRF settling in a real damper.
A Clinicopathological Study of Scrotal Calcinosis and Literature Review
Authors: Li Qing , Xu Mengke , Song Liming , Shi Zhongyue , Zhang Yanjun , Zhao Hongying , Cao Qing , Lu Jun
Published: November 2024

Objective. We aimed to investigate the clinicopathological features and pathogenesis of scrotal calcinosis. Methods. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE)-stained slides were performed on 14 patients with scrotal calcinosis, and the clinicopathological characteristics were analyzed together with clinical data. Meanwhile, 81 patients with extrascrotal calcinosis cutis and 7480 patients with epidermoid cysts without calcification in the skin of various parts of the body were collected and analyzed to explore the etiology and pathogenesis of scrotal calcinosis in conjunction with the literature review. Results. All our patients were adult men with a mean age of 38.2 years, with clinical manifestations of multiple scrotal nodules of varying sizes, microscopically characterized by intradermal calcium deposits, of which 3 lesions had a cystic cavity lined with squamous epithelium. Conclusions. Scrotal calcinosis is a rare benign disease that presents clinically as single or multiple hard nodules in the scrotum, usually asymptomatic, and it is histopathologically characterized by intradermal calcium deposition. There is still controversy as to whether it is idiopathic. We believe that scrotal calcinosis is not idiopathic and originates from epidermoid cysts. Prolonged local compression or injury may be one reason for the development of calcification, and perhaps there are other unknown factors contributing to the development of the disease. Surgical excision is the main treatment for this disease with satisfactory therapeutic effectiveness.
BIM-181: Revising the Public Domain “Basic Interest Markers” Using Item Response Theory
Authors: Ajayi Alex A. , Delgado Jesus E. , Fechner Ryan , Hansen Jo-Ida C.
Published: November 2024

The present study investigated the psychometric properties of the Basic Interest Markers (BIM), a public-domain broadband measure of basic interests. Unlike broader general interest frameworks such as Holland’s RIASEC types, basic interests represent more specific content domains and provide a granular view of vocational preferences and inclinations. We used Item Response Theory (IRT) to perform item analysis to identify the most informative items in each BIM scale and, by extension, reduce scale lengths. In addition, we used confirmatory factor analysis to test model fit for the BIM scales and previously suggested higher-order clusters. Data were drawn from a total of 2,009 participants, comprising two samples of undergraduate college students ( N = 910 and N = 120) and samples of 164 university alumni and 815 adults recruited through Amazon Mechanical Turk. Our analysis demonstrated that latent trait estimates obtained from the BIM-343 were similar to those of our proposed modified BIM-181, with model fit favoring the latter. Overall, we provide support for the use of a modified version of the BIM inventory that more accurately captures the intended construct while simultaneously reducing test length by nearly 50%.
Are optic nerve head and choroidal circulation affected by eye movements?
Authors: Orenc Pınar , Yalcin Elvan
Published: November 2024

Aim

Although it has been reported that the optic nerve can be mechanically affected by the eye's horizontal movements, studies examining horizontal movements with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) have only recently begun to emerge. This study aimed to investigate whether there are changes in the OCTA data of healthy individuals in the primary gaze, abduction, and adduction.

Method

Thirty volunteers (15–73 years old) were included in this prospectively designed study. Radial peripapillary capillary density parameters (RPCD) taken with OCTA in cases of primary gaze, abduction, and adduction were examined. With the OCTA device Angio Disc QuickVue that was used in the study, 3 main vessel structures could be examined.

Result

In the patients’ primary, abduction, and adduction positions, a difference was observed only in the superior hemifield area of the left eye ( P = 0.032). The superior hemifield all vessels vessel densities (AV VD) were 60.1 ± 2.7 in the central gaze, 59.9 ± 2.6 in the adduction, and 60.8 ± 2.6 in the abduction positions, with a relative decrease observed in adduction. This was also related to age. No difference was detected in terms of the other RPCD parameters.

Conclusion

In healthy individuals, short-term horizontal eye movements may not result in significant changes except for superior hemifield in OCTA data.
Social Acceptability and Health Concerns of Smoking and Vaping Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Maqsood Afsheen , Shahidan Wan Nazatul Shima , Mirza Daud , Ahmed Naseer , Heboyan Artak
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess tobacco and vaping habits among university students, exploring awareness of university policies, attitudes, and behaviors related to smoking and vaping.

Methods

An online questionnaire was distributed among students from various universities, including institutions in Pakistan, covering demographics, smoking and vaping behaviors, awareness of policies, and beliefs. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Binomial tests, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression.

Results

Out of the total 683 respondents, 65.02% were female, and 34.98% were male. Most participants were undergraduate students (71.31%), with Dentistry being the most represented field (50.36%). Most students perceived smoking or vaping as socially acceptable (58.3%) and were aware of university policies (59.3%). However, 46.6% were aware of cessation programs. Most of the students expressed concern about long-term vaping health risks (74.5%). Logistic regression identified gender (Male) and field of study (Dentistry) as significant predictors of policy awareness.

Conclusion

University students exhibit varied perceptions and behaviors related to smoking and vaping. The study highlights the importance of implementing effective policies and interventions to address tobacco and vaping use among them.
BoneScore: A natural language processing algorithm to extract bone mineral density data from DXA scans
Authors: Fodeh Samah , Wang Rixin , Murphy Terrence E , Kidwai-Khan Farah , Leo-Summers Linda S , Tessier-Sherman Baylah , Hsieh Evelyn , Womack Julie A
Published: November 2024

Objective: To develop and test an NLP algorithm that accurately detects the presence of information reported from DXA scans containing femoral neck T-scores of the patients scanned. Methods: A rule-based NLP algorithm that iteratively built a collection of regular expressions in testing data consisting of 889 snippets of text pulled from DXA reports. This was manually checked by clinical experts to determine the proportion of manually verified annotations that contained T-score information detected by this algorithm called ‘BoneScore’. Testing of 30- and 50-word lengths on each side of the key term ‘femoral’ were pursued until achievement of adequate accuracy. A separate clinical validation regressed the extracted T-score values on five risk factors with established associations. Results: BoneScore built a set of 20 regular expressions that in concert with a width of 50 words on each side of the key term yielded an accuracy of 98% in the testing data. The extracted T-scores, when modeled with multivariable linear regression, consistently exhibited associations supported by the literature. Conclusion: BoneScore uses regular expressions to accurately extract annotations of T-score values of bone mineral density with a width of 50 words on each side of the key term. The extracted T-scores exhibit clinical face validity.
Role of networks in driving innovation and global growth: Enhancing women-led start-ups in the internationalisation arena
Authors: Sadraei Razieh
Published: November 2024

This article investigates the influence of networking on innovation and internationalisation within U.K.-based, female-led small and medium-sized tech enterprises. It utilises data from the 2021 Longitudinal Small Business Survey to evaluate a model that incorporates networking, three forms of innovation (product, process, and market), and international performance across 156 technology start-ups founded by women. The study employs orchestration theory to explore how female entrepreneurs strategically manage resources like networking to foster innovation and promote international growth. Findings suggest that while networking significantly boosts product innovation, it does not have a direct effect on process or market innovation. Nonetheless, networking indirectly strengthens the impact of process and market innovations on internationalisation. This highlights that women entrepreneurs initially use networks to enhance product innovation, then leverage them to convert process and organisational innovations into international expansion. The study contributes to the theoretical understanding of the intersection between gender and international entrepreneurship from an orchestration perspective and provides practical insights for female entrepreneurs on optimising networks to drive innovation and facilitate global scaling.
Manual Qualitative Data Coding Using MS Word for Students and Early Career Researchers in Resource-Constrained Settings
Authors: Isangula Kahabi Ganka , Kelly Susan , Wamoyi Joyce
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the field of qualitative data collection, management, and analysis has undergone significant evolution, with researchers worldwide increasingly leveraging technological advancements to streamline and simplify their practices. Despite the advantages of using qualitative data coding software, several challenges persist, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Issues such as the high cost of software licenses, the time required to learn and use these tools, and the complexity of advanced features often hinder researchers, especially students and early career researchers in low-income contexts, and contribute to the generation of poor-quality research evidence. This paper aims to provide a simplified, step-by-step guide to manual qualitative data coding using Microsoft Word, a widely accessible tool in low-income contexts. It is designed to support students and early-career researchers in low-income settings, helping them to conduct effective qualitative data management and analysis without the need for expensive software. We provide a five-step detailed guide for qualitative data coding using Microsoft Word, based on a practical example from previous research on maternal and child health in rural Tanzania. We also present a hypothetical example of a student research study focusing on the drivers behind pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. The process begins with examining the research objectives and questions to develop preliminary themes and sub-themes, identifying relevant data sources within study interview guides, and creating guided transcription and coding templates tailored to each interview guide, followed by data coding by integrating interview data into a structured template. Practical insights are provided on transforming coded data into meaningful interpretations and analyses. This systematic approach aims to facilitate effective qualitative data management and analysis using accessible tools like Microsoft Word, thereby supporting students and early career researchers in conducting small-scale studies effectively.
Dual-use research in philosophy: can there be such a thing?
Authors: Gauckler Charlotte
Published: November 2024

The aim of this article is to explore whether and how the concept of dual-use can be applied to philosophical research, as well as its potential for explaining cases of misuse of philosophical theory and for justifying any restrictions on academic freedom. I argue that there are two ways in which philosophical research can be misused: by using its methods for purposes that contradict the general purposes of philosophy, and by using (parts of) a theory against the purposes intended by its author. Philosophical research is dual-use research of concern (DURC) if the theory can be misused without modification, which is the case when a theory is not entirely conclusive. The misuse of philosophical research differs from the misuse in paradigmatic cases of DURC in that its potential to cause harm depends on social conditions. Given these conditions and the lack of relevant research, the risk of harmful misuse of philosophy as of yet does not constitute a sufficient reason to restrict academic freedom in a meaningful way. Instead, researchers should be aware of any potential for misuse, make their arguments as conclusive as possible, and emphasise the aim of their theory. To prevent harmful misuse in the public sphere, scholars should engage in public philosophy and provide an accurate and conclusive account of their research. Institutions should support this.
Cost-minimization analysis comparing subcutaneous trastuzumab at home with intravenous trastuzumab for HER2-positive breast cancer in Singapore
Authors: Ouyang Yanting , Lee Han Yi , Leong Fun Loon , Tey Han Jieh , Shih Vivianne , Lim Elaine Hsuen , Graves Nicholas
Published: November 2024

Background:

Trastuzumab (Herceptin) can be administered intravenously (IV Herceptin) and subcutaneously, with similar efficacy and safety, but with differences in dosage and costs. Previous studies have evaluated the costs of both treatment approaches in the outpatient settings, but no study has compared the costs of IV Herceptin administered in outpatients with subcutaneous Herceptin administered at patients’ homes (Homecare SC Herceptin).

Objectives:

This study aimed to compare the per-patient costs of Homecare SC Herceptin versus IV Herceptin administered in a healthcare institution’s outpatient setting in Singapore.

Designs:

We performed a model-based cost-minimization analysis to estimate and compare the per-patient annual costs associated with each treatment modality from a societal perspective.

Methods:

Direct cost comprised healthcare resources utilization: drug, consumables, manpower, facility and cardiac assessment. Indirect cost was valued using a human capital approach to account for productivity lost by patients. Monte Carlo simulations with 1000 iterations were performed to account for parameter uncertainties. Costs were reported in 2023 Singapore dollars.

Results:

The annual societal cost per patient receiving IV Herceptin ranged from S$64,194 to S$65,135, while for Homecare SC Herceptin, it ranged from S$25,865 to S$26,807. Homecare SC Herceptin reduced the annual cost burden by 58.8% and 59.7%, per non-metastatic and metastatic breast cancer patient, respectively. The primary cost contributor was drug therapy, comprising more than 90% of the total cost. Even when excluding the cost of drugs, Homecare SC Herceptin remained cheaper by S$1912 annually. The cost reduction is approximately 60% compared to IV Herceptin regardless of disease status, with a 100% probability that the decision to adopt Homecare SC Herceptin leads to cost savings in Singapore.

Conclusion:

Treatment of breast cancer with Homecare SC Herceptin is a cost-saving option compared to IV Herceptin.