bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of an Ecological Momentary Assessment-Triggered Text Message Library for Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Kim Mihui , Kim Yesol , Choi Mona
Published: January 2023

This study developed an ecological momentary assessment (EMA)-triggered text message library based on the behavior change wheel framework to encourage exercise engagement in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). This study was conducted in three steps. In Step 1, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 patients with PAD. Their accounts of their exercise experiences revealed six barriers and three facilitators through thematic analysis. In Step 2, based on the findings from the prior step, the EMA survey was developed; its items included barriers to exercise, PAD-related leg symptoms, and general conditions. In Step 3, intervention functions to overcome exercise barriers were mapped, and 120 text messages were generated. Responses to the exercise barriers in the EMA survey triggered the automatic text messages. Additional studies are needed to examine the end-user acceptability of the text message library and the effectiveness of EMA-triggered text message interventions.
Characteristics, risk factors, and outcomes of bloodstream Candida infections in the intensive care unit: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hohmann Fábio Barlem , Chaves Renato Carneiro de Freitas , Olivato Guilherme Benfatti , Souza Guilherme Martins de , Galindo Vinicius Barbosa , Silva Jr Moacyr , Martino Marines Dalla Valle , Menezes Fernando Gatti de , Corrêa Thiago Domingos
Published: January 2023

Objective

The main objective was to assess the clinical characteristics, associated factors, and outcomes of patients admitted to the ICU for candidemia. The secondary objective was to examine the relationship of candidemia with the length of stay and mortality.

Methods

The analysis was a retrospective single-center cohort study addressing the effect of invasive candidemia on outcomes. This study was performed in a medical-surgical ICU located in a tertiary private hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Data was collected through the review of the hospital database.

Results

In total, 18,442 patients were included in our study, including 22 patients with candidemia. The median age was similar in patients with and without candidemia [67 (56–84) vs. 67 (51–80)]. Most patients were male, and the proportion of men was higher among patients with candidemia (77% vs. 55.3%). The rates of renal replacement therapy (40.9% vs. 3.3%), mechanical ventilation (63.6% vs. 29.6%), and parenteral nutrition (40.9% vs. 4.8%) were higher in patients with candidemia than in those without candidemia. The mortality rate (77.3% vs. 11.9%) and length of hospital stay [42 days (23.0–78.8) vs. 8 days (5.0–17.0)] were significantly higher in patients with candidemia.

Conclusions

Patients with candidemia are prone to longer hospital stay and mortality. In addition, we found associations of candidemia with the use of invasive mechanical ventilation, renal replacement therapy, and parenteral nutrition.
Modeling and performance assessment of an isolated wind-diesel system with flywheel energy storage system
Authors: Rashid Gazala , Lone Shameem Ahmad , Mufti Mairaj Ud-Din
Published: January 2023

This paper proposes incorporation of a flywheel energy storage system (FESS) into hybrid wind-diesel power plant for system frequency and voltage response improvement. The impact of hybrid wind-diesel energy storage systems under various forms of disturbances, such as load disturbance, wind disturbance, wind park disconnection, and step variations in wind is presented and analyzed. The standard IEEE models for different components of hybrid wind diesel power system are considered. Simulations in the time domain are carried out in order to test the performance of proposed system. The positive impact of FESS used in wind-diesel hybrid power system is demonstrated through a series of simulation cases carried for various types of disturbances.
Risk Factors for Symptomatic Bilateral Lumbar Bone Stress Injury in Adolescent Soccer Players: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Tsutsui Toshiharu , Iizuka Satoshi , Takei Seira , Maemichi Toshihiro , Torii Suguru
Published: January 2023

Background:

Lumbar bone stress injury (BSI) is a high-risk long time—loss injury for adolescent soccer players. However, the risk factors for lumbar BSI are unclear.

Purpose:

To identify the risk factors for bilateral lumbar BSI for adolescent soccer players.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Adolescent soccer players underwent orthopaedic examination, whole-body dual energy x-ray scan, lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and muscle tightness testing at baseline. Lumbar lordosis (LL), sacral slope, maturity stage of lumbar vertebral body, and bone marrow edema (BME) at the L5 were examined via MRI. In addition, bone mineral density and content; trunk lean body mass via dual energy x-ray scan; and bilateral muscle tightness including the iliopsoas, hamstrings, and quadriceps were measured. Lumbar BSI was diagnosed as positive bilateral BME and extension-based lumbar pain. All participants were examined twice, one at 6 months and one at 1 year, after the baseline examination. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors for bilateral lumbar BSI.

Results:

A total of 69 (26.3%) players were diagnosed with bilateral lumbar BSI. Asymptomatic BME (odds ratio [OR], 4.260; 95% CI, 2.153-8.431), apophyseal stage of the lumbar vertebral body (OR, 3.438; 95% CI, 1.698-6.959), sacral slope relative to LL ≥5° (OR, 4.067; 95% CI, 2.021-8.181), and hamstring tightness ≥50° (OR, 3.221; 95% CI, 1.385-7.489) were significantly associated with bilateral lumbar BSI.

Conclusion:

The incidence of bilateral lumbar BSI was common at 26.2%. Asymptomatic BME, sacral anterior tilt relative to LL, immature lumbar epiphyses, and hamstring tightness were found to be risk factors for bilateral lumbar BSI. The results of this study suggest that regular MRI examination could facilitate the early detection of BME, and improvement in hamstring flexibility and lumbosacral alignment may prevent bilateral lumbar BSI in young athletes.
What is the role of CellDetect® in detecting and monitoring bladder cancer?
Authors: Yüksel Ömer , Tosun Çağatay , Gümrükçü Gülistan , Tokuç Emre , Yücebaş Ömer Ergin
Published: January 2023

Purpose:

Cystoscopy is the gold standard method for diagnosing and monitoring bladder cancer but it is costly, invasive, and operator-dependant. The aim is to compare the diagnostic efficacy of CellDetect® with urine cytology based on cystoscopic findings.

Methods:

A total of 181 patients undergoing cystoscopy for bladder cancer follow-up or any reason were studied with cytology and CellDetect® by taking an urine sample before cystoscopy. Patients who had any kind of bladder procedure in less than 1 month, doubtful cystoscopy results, previous pathology of Tis or carcinoma in situ (CIS), urinary stones, and patients with urinary catheters or bladder diversions were excluded. Cytologic and CellDetect® results were compared based on cystoscopic findings and sensitivity and specifity analyses were done for each method.

Results:

For low-grade tumors, the sensitivity of CellDetect® was 66.7% and the sensitivity of cytology was 16.7% with a significant difference ( p < 0.05). For high-grade tumors, there were no significant difference between CellDetect® and cytology. Generally, CellDetect® had better sensitivity in both case and control groups.

Conclusion:

The promising results of CellDetect® particularly in low-grade tumors gives the potential for this novel stain to go widespread. Larger series, meta-analyses, and reviews need to support this topic in order to put CellDetect® into daily practice.
AI and Recognition Technologies to Facilitate English as Foreign Language Writing for Supporting Personalization and Contextualization in Authentic Contexts
Authors: Hwang Wu-Yuin , Nurtantyana Rio , Purba Siska Wati Dewi , Hariyanti Uun , Indrihapsari Yuniar , Surjono Herman Dwi
Published: January 2023

English as Foreign Language (EFL) writing is challenging for students due to the lack of related lexical resources to inspire them for meaningful writing besides grammar feedback. Moreover, it is crucial to design personalized feedback based on students’ original writings in helping to improve their writing abilities. Therefore, we developed Smart RoamLingo app to help writing meaningful content in authentic contexts with sample sentences based on texts generated by recognition technologies named as AI-Sample Sentences (AI-SS) and writing qualities with revision suggestions based on personal original writings named as AI-Writing Feedback (AI-WF). 104 undergraduate students were assigned into an experimental group (EG) and two control groups. EG significantly outperformed the other groups in the post-test. In EG, AI-SS can help the contextualization to produce comprehensive content actively while AI-WF can help the personalization to improve the writing quality through several revisions. Hence, the cohesion and consistency of their writing can be enhanced. Further, the total number of revisions in practices and the assignment score can significantly predict the post-test. Moreover, EG students revealed that Smart RoamLingo was useful for EFL writing. Therefore, it is strongly suggested to use Smart RoamLingo with AI-SS and AI-WF for EFL writing in authentic contexts.
Random and aligned electrostatically spun PLLA nanofibrous membranes enhance bone repair in mouse femur midshaft defects
Authors: He Chengkai , Lv Qiong , Liu Zhui , Long Shengyu , Li Haohan , Xiao Ya , Yang Xingyu , Liu Yuhang , Liu Cai , Wang Zhihua
Published: January 2023

Long-segment bone defects are a common clinical challenge and abstract biomaterials are a promising therapy. Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) nanofibrous membranes prepared by electrostatic spinning have a good bone repair potential. However, there are random and aligned surface morphologies of electrostatic spun PLLA nanofibrous membranes, which can affect the migration, proliferation, and differentiation ability of cells. The role of surface morphology in the repair of long bone defects in vivo is currently unknown. In this study, random and aligned electrostatically spun PLLA nanofibrous membranes were prepared, characterised, and implanted into a femur midshaft defect mouse model. The ability of electrostatically spun PLLA nanofibrous membranes to enhance bone repair was tested using X-ray photography, high-resolution micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), and pathological section specimens. The results showed that both random and aligned electrostatically spun PLLA nanofibrous membranes enhanced bone regeneration at bone defects, but the aligned ones exhibited superior results. These results provide a theoretical basis for engineering the surface morphology of bone repair materials.
The Impact of Remote Work on Managerial Compliance: Changes in the Control Regime over Line Managers
Authors: Gutiérrez-Crocco Francisca , Martin-Caballero Angel , Godoy Andrés
Published: January 2023

Labour process approaches have extensively documented the impact of digitalisation and remote work on managerial control, though the role of managers has been less explored. This article fills that gap in the extant literature by examining how adopting remote work affects managerial compliance with corporate goals. Particularly, it shows that this development entails a process of de-institutionalisation and re-institutionalisation of the control regime operating over lower-level managers to act on behalf of companies. These processes are driven by corporate decisions but also by the managers’ attempts to negotiate this regime. Overall, the article claims the need to study managers as agents rather than as a mere extension of the management function or passive subjects of corporate restructurings. The arguments are based on a study conducted in a multinational mining company operating in Chile, which adopted a research-in-action approach and included interviews, document reviews and a survey of line managers.
Temporary Migrants as Dehumanised ‘Other’ in the Time of COVID-19: We’re All in This Together?
Authors: Groutsis Dimitria , Kaabel Annika , Wright Chris F
Published: January 2023

Temporary migrants comprise a substantial component of the Australian workforce. Evidence of the tensions and contradictions in Australia’s reliance on temporary migrant workers was spotlighted during the COVID-19 global health crisis, particularly with regards to the actions and responsibilities of key players in the attraction, recruitment, deployment and ultimately abandonment of these workers. In this article, we interrogate the public framing of temporary migrant workers within the context of the pandemic. We employ a discourse analysis and build upon theories of precarity and dehumanisation. In doing so we demonstrate how the precarious state within which temporary migrant workers found themselves saw them cast as a dehumanised and unwelcome ‘other’, a burden to the labour market, the state and the broader society.
Experiential learning and the entrepreneurial university: An Irish case study
Authors: O’Flynn Emily , Stephens Simon , Cunningham Isobel , Burke Anne , McLaughlin Christopher
Published: January 2023

This paper explores the use and impact of experiential learning initiatives in an entrepreneurial university. Data are taken from two sources: interviews with eight academic managers and six focus groups with learners. A mix of narrative structuring and thematic analysis is used to explore the design, delivery and assessment of experiential learning. The authors apply Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory as their theoretical lens. Experiential learning evokes a mixed reaction from academic managers and students. The paper identifies three key themes (design, delivery and outcomes) which help to capture the complex mix of direct and indirect effects that experiential learning initiatives can have at both individual and institutional levels. The authors conclude that embedding experiential learning is a valuable part of the development of an entrepreneurial university.
Evaluating machining performance of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) based electrical discharge machining (EDM) electrodes fabricated by fused deposition modelling (FDM) followed by a novel metallization method
Authors: Equbal Azhar , Ahmad Shafi , Badruddin Irfan Anjum , Khan Zahid A , Kamangar Sarfaraz , Javed Syed
Published: January 2023

In the present study machining performance of a novel ABS P400 based EDM electrode is experimentally investigated. Three EDM parameters that is, current ( I), pulse on time ( Ton) and pulse off time ( Toff), each at three levels, are considered, and mild steel is machined using these electrodes according to the response surface methodology (RSM) based face-centred central composite design (FCCCD). Machining performances such as material removal rate ( MRR), tool wear rate ( TWR) and surface roughness ( SR) are measured. Experimental results are analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), response graphs and 3D surface plots. Current is found to be the dominating parameter for MRR, TWR and SR. The optimal combination of EDM parameter for multi-performance is determined using teaching-learning based optimization (TLBO) algorithm. The effectiveness of the new electrodes is established by comparing their machining performances with the already developed electrode at the same machining parameter setting. MRR resulting from the new electrode and also its TWR are found to be in good agreement with those of already produced electrodes. However, SR of the machined surface using new electrodes is found to be relatively higher.
Robust AISMC-neural network observer-based control of high-speed autonomous vehicles with unknown dynamics
Authors: Taghavifar Hamid
Published: January 2023

Substantial challenges still exist in designing path-tracking control systems for autonomous vehicles, particularly at speed limits or under varying operating conditions. Such problems arise for various reasons, such as the nonlinear characteristics of vehicular components, system-component interactions, constraints on the states and control inputs, and more. This paper focuses on designing a robust adaptive control system for high-speed autonomous vehicles in case the system dynamics are unknown or unavailable. For this purpose, an intelligent NN-based estimation system’s universal approximation potential will be leveraged, coupled to an adaptive integral sliding mode controller (AISMC). Unlike previously reported studies, the present paper considers the entire dynamics of the autonomous vehicle unknown rather than solely a part of the system or external disturbances merely. The Lyapunov stability theorem is employed to guarantee the asymptotic stability of the developed framework and to obtain the adaptation laws. A critical maneuver explores the effectiveness and robustness of the suggested framework under severe disturbances, parametric uncertainties, and high speeds. The obtained results indicate that the developed framework holds the capacity to navigate the vehicle alongside the desired trajectory and outperforms other reported studies in the literature subject to various external disturbances.
Transient MHD flow of fractional Burger's fluid model through a parallel microchannel with heat transfer and slip boundary condition
Authors: Ali Musa , Abdullahi Isah , Yakubu D. Gulibur , Adamu Garba T. , Abdulhameed Mohammed , Baba Ali M.
Published: January 2023

The combined influence of magnetic field, electro-osmotic flow (EOF), and pressure gradient on the unsteady magnetohydrodynamic fluid flow through a parallel microchannel is investigated. The Burger's liquid model is used for the fractional partial differential equation, which allows us to study the behavior of viscoelastic liquid velocity profile in the parallel microchannel. The Laplace transform (LT) in concert with the Fourier cosine transform are used to obtain the analytical solution of the velocity profile. Furthermore, using the method of separation of variables, the energy equation, Joule heating, energy dissipation, and electromagnetic effects are calculated to obtain the temperature within the microchannel. The influence of some relevant parameters like heat transfer, temperature distribution, Hartmann number (Ha), and Brinkman number (Br) on fluid flow velocity are presented graphically and discussed. The results obtained show that temperature decreases with Ha and Br of the transverse electric field for slip flow. Close to the middle of the microchannel, fluid flow velocity increases with decrease in the delay time parameter value and increase in the Burger's parameter value, while the opposite trend is found for the velocity near to the middle of the microchannel. In addition, Burger's liquid is quite general, such that Oldroyd-B, Maxwell, and Newtonian liquids are readily obtained as limiting cases. The study is significant in the application fields of chemical analysis and biological analysis, drug delivery, bacteria detection, and some others.
Effect of laser power on the forming quality of Al6061 alloy manufactured via selective laser melting
Authors: Li Chenglong , Wu Meiping , Duan Weipeng , Ma Yiqing , Liu Huijun , Miao Xiaojin
Published: January 2023

A systematic work was studied to illustrate the influence of laser power on the forming quality of Al6061 alloy by selective laser melting (SLM). The relationship between laser power and molten pool was simulated by finite element analysis (FEA). Phase composition, defects, and microhardness were also measured and analyzed. The results show that, with the increase of laser power, the molten pool gradually changes from rectangular shape to droplet shape. And the cooling rate gradually increases from 3.282 × 104°C/s to 5.189 × 104°C/s. Higher laser power (400 W) is accompanied by higher molten pool maximum temperature (2012.73°C). This may lead to larger temperature gradient inside the sample causing evaporation and spatter of powder. On the contrary, lower laser power leads to unmelt of some powders, which increases the number of pore defects and influences the forming quality of samples. X-ray diffractogram (XRD) displays the Al6061 alloy characterized by the obvious preferred orientation under different laser powers and the grain size increased from 32.57 nm to 35.38 nm. With the increase of laser power, the number of defects, especially holes and microcracks, was first decreased and then increased. However, the microhardness of the sample decreased almost linearly from 98.6 HV0.05 to 88.86 HV0.05. All changes are the result of the comprehensive action of laser power and molten pool state. Besides, the action mechanism of laser power on the forming quality was also clarified in this work.
Extrusion strategies in fused deposition additive manufacturing: A review
Authors: Krishnanand  , Singh Varanjot , Mittal Vatsal , Branwal Amar Kumar , Sharma Krishnendra , Taufik Mohammad
Published: January 2023

Fused deposition or fused layer additive manufacturing is a technique in which a part is fabricated layer by layer using filament or pellets-form input material. The extruder is the central part of the fused deposition additive manufacturing (FDAM) system. The extrusion mechanism is unique to the geometry and form of the feedstock material. Extrusion of filament-form material through the nozzle needs to design of a material feeding mechanism based on various filament extrusion parameters. At the same time if the material is in the form of pellets, then the design of the feeding mechanism is very different due to the shape and size of the pellets. These two different design strategies for material extrusion namely the design of the feeding mechanism of filament and pellets form materials have been a major concern to avoid unwanted deformation of extruded materials in FDAM. These two design strategies for filament and pellet-form materials have led to the development of several material extrusion strategies. The present paper reviews various material extrusion strategies developed for FDAM of filament or pellets form input material. This article presents the review of design, development, performance evaluation, and process planning for each extrusion strategy. Based on the literature review authors have suggested a possible extrusion method that can accept both forms of materials to fulfill the need for the filament as well as pellets-based additive manufacturing.
Analyzing the linkage between public debt, renewable electricity output, and CO2 emissions in emerging economies: Does the N-shaped environmental Kuznets curve exist?
Authors: Zeraibi Ayoub , Radulescu Magdalena , Khan Muhammad Kamran , Hafeez Muhammad , Jahanger Atif
Published: January 2023

The main objective of the current study is to analyze the nexus between public debt, renewable electricity, economic growth, and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in emerging economies between 1990 and 2020. The augmented mean group (AMG), fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS), and dynamic ordinary least square (DOLS) models have been applied to analyze the long-run estimation. The empirical evidence demonstrates that public debt, renewable electricity reduces CO2 emissions. Furthermore, an N-shaped relationship has been identified between per capita CO2 emissions and per capita GDP in emerging nations. Also, the result reveals a bidirectional causal relationship between public debt and economic growth, CO2 emissions and economic growth, public debt and CO2 emissions, and renewable electricity and economic growth. The current study recommends promoting the renewable energy transition, elevating renewable electricity generation capacities, and ensuring greener economic growth by emitting carbon dioxide emissions across emerging countries. The government across each region could incorporate taxes and other incentives to encourage entrepreneurs and citizens to produce equipment that reduces carbon intensity and is ecologically friendly.
Does Physio-environmental Determinism Influence the Infrastructural Development of Railway Stations?
Authors: Roy Stabak , Mitra Saptarshi
Published: January 2023

The main aim of the article is to understand the role of physiographical aspects and attributes in the infrastructural development of railway stations. Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System techniques have been used for delineating physiographic factors and data of social interfaces like passengers’ mobility collected from the railway stations. A robust Synthetic Indicator has been used to classify railway stations. The ordinal regression model has run between physio-environmental attributes and Robust Synthetic Indicator. Due to its unique valley and ridge topography and newly developed railway infrastructure, Phenomenological evidence is collected from Tripura, North-eastern state of India. Very few studies have been done addressing the development of railway stations with physio-environmental viability. The study reveals that the physical environment is a significant determining factor, but passenger mobility has a more decisive influence on the infrastructural development of railway stations in Tripura. Infrastructure-driven materialistic possibilism has been proposed as a philosophical model of the infrastructural development of railway stations.
What’s the Catch? A Review of the Fiscal Treatments of Fisheries in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Occhiali Giovanni
Published: January 2023

Virtually no attention has been directed towards how tax policies shape fisheries development in Sub-Saharan Africa and to their contribution to government revenue. This is despite abundant evidence of fish stock depletion in the continent, and a longstanding interest by economists and marine scientists in the role of government regulation of fisheries. To help starting this discussion, the article provides an overview of the theoretical underpinning of fisheries taxation and of selected experiences of high-income countries. Following a presentation of fisheries economic contribution in Sub-Saharan Africa, the main debates on the fiscal treatment of fisheries are covered: Prioritising their welfare or wealth contribution; their co-management between local and central government; fishing agreements with distant water fishing nations; and the role of subsidies. The review shows that while fisheries revenue contribution is likely limited in the short run, fiscal policies can be central in promoting the sector sustainable development.
Comparing the Validity of the Rorschach Performance Assessment System and Exner’s Comprehensive System to Differentiate Patients and Nonpatients
Authors: Pianowski Giselle , Villemor-Amaral Anna Elisa de , Meyer Gregory J.
Published: January 2023

Building on the comparative nonpatient study of Pianowski et al., we examine data from the Rorschach Performance Assessment System (R-PAS) and Comprehensive System (CS) in 100 nonpatients and 100 patients, 50 of each per system. Replicating their results but now in a patient sample, R-PAS produced more patient protocols having an optimal number of responses (R) for interpretation and eliminated the need for readministration due to low R. The R-PAS protocols were also much less variable in R, despite having about 2.5 more responses. Extending their results, we document that the primary markers of psychopathology in each system validly differentiate patients from nonpatients. However, R-PAS produced stronger effects. Finally, Complexity added to the valid discrimination of patients from nonpatients just for R-PAS, with patients producing less complex and rich records. The more erratic variability in R for the CS produced larger Complexity standard deviations (SDs) that obscured these genuine differences in people. We discuss implications for research and applied practice, along with directions for future research.
Welcome to Our Class! Building Classroom Rapport to Support the Development of Social and Emotional Learning Skills
Authors: Michael Elizabeth , Bailey Pamela , Benner Gregory J. , Sanders Sara
Published: January 2023

In this article, we describe practical, usable ways teachers can build rapport with students, particularly students with and at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders. By establishing rapport, teachers can increase the effectiveness of the social and emotional learning curriculum and interventions delivered. Specifically, the warm welcomes, transitions, emotion checks, two by 10, and optimistic closures strategies are described.
Psychological Well-Being in Tourism Live Streaming: A Grounded Theory
Authors: Zhang Aojia , Xiao Honggen
Published: January 2023

Tourism live streaming (TLS) is an emerging integrated media and digital platform for real-time spatial–temporal synchronous interactions. This study presents a grounded theory analysis of TLS participants from Asia using interviews and facial expressions to construct and understand the relationship between TLS and psychological well-being. We found that participants’ psychological well-being consists of six dimensions: sentimental cultivation, environmental mastery, self and social identity, support of reality, inspiration and arousal, and self-transcendence. The mechanisms leading to the formation of psychological well-being are described and discussed. The study contributes to theorizing and understanding the constituents and mechanism of TLS for participants’ psychological well-being, an area that has been underexplored in the tourism literature. Practically, TLS is also regarded as an excellent means for businesses to enhance potential tourists’ perceptions and to accelerate their decision-making through image (re)construction and publicity.
Feasibility and acceptability of a virtual diagnostic sleep disorders service: A qualitative study
Authors: Nielsen Camilla Littau , Clemensen Jane , Beier Christoph Patrick P
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The electronic collection of patient data is used for a large variety of conditions. The boundaries of its use in initial diagnostics and the extent to which it can replace specialist contact, however, remain vague. Our newly developed virtual diagnostic process for common sleep disorders involves digital questionnaire administration, neurophysiological diagnostic studies, and virtual consultation with a sleep specialist. In this study, we evaluated patients’ virtual diagnostic process experiences as part of a full evaluation of this process.

Methods

Patients who completed the virtual diagnostic process participated in online semi-structured interviews based on the following criteria: age ≥ 18 years, no obvious cognitive deficits, and access to the internet. Patients who did not complete the virtual diagnostic process were contacted by telephone and given the opportunity to explain why.

Results

Of the 24 patients included, 14 completed the virtual diagnostic process. Most participants understood the concept of the virtual diagnostic process, could navigate the process, and felt that the combined use of a questionnaire and virtual consultation was meaningful. Although participants could provide information as free text, the simplified closed questions, required for diagnostic classification, triggered feelings of insecurity and the inability to sufficiently describe symptoms, thereby evoking concern. All patients deemed the complementary personal contact important.

Discussion

The findings demonstrate that the virtual diagnostic process is feasible and highly accepted by most patients. However, (virtual) personal (telephone or video) contact is mandatory to address patients’ concerns. The virtual diagnostic process application evaluated here likely represents the outer limit of the use of electronic data collection in virtual diagnostic procedures.
Examining the link between exercise-specific relational processes and physical activity, psychological distress, and relationship satisfaction among heterosexual and gay male couples
Authors: Novak Joshua R , August Kristin J , Wei Menglin , Gast Julie , Peak Terry
Published: January 2023

Despite the important role of romantic relationships in physical activity, little research has examined the role of gender and sexual orientation in exercise-specific relational processes. Utilizing cross-sectional, dyadic data from 462 heterosexual and gay couples, the present study examined how exercise encouragement, exercise discouragement, and frequency of exercise disagreements are related to physical activity, psychological distress, and relationship satisfaction. We included important covariates and examined gender and sexual orientation as moderators. Higher exercise encouragement was associated with more frequent physical activity (for gay men only), lower psychological distress (for women only), and higher relationship satisfaction regardless of gender and sexual orientation. Higher exercise discouragement was associated with more physical activity for all participants and higher levels of psychological distress for gay men only. Finally, more frequent exercise disagreements were associated with more psychological distress for all participants. These findings highlight important implications for physical activity promotion, prevention, and intervention.
Insights on Metrosexuality and Consumption for Marketers in South-East Europe
Authors: Magklaras Vasileios , Kapoulas Alexandros , Xharavina Natyra , Miaoulis George
Published: January 2023

This article explores the emergence of metrosexuals among millennial men in five South-East Europe (SEE) countries and their subculture of consumption. It qualitatively studies their beliefs about masculinity and metrosexuality, and it identifies their purchasing behaviours’ of grooming products online and offline by employing digital extended self-theory to provide strategic guidance for marketers and new insights for academics. This qualitative study includes ten semi-structured in-depth interviews and one hundred qualitative open-ended questionnaires. Additionally, it employs netnography to analyze the subculture of consumption of male metrosexuality in two representative blogs. The findings reveal that SEE millennial men embrace a dual identity, a traditional masculine identity, which co-exists with their metrosexuality, creating an emotional conflict as they differ along an accepted to extreme continuum. Metrosexual men are heavy users of personal grooming products favouring online purchasing (1) due to the frequent lack of retail availability in SEE countries and (2) their sense of embarrassment––the underlying emotional conflict. This study directly challenges the existing academic literature, which supports the dominance of traditional masculine identity among developing countries. For both marketers and academics, it presents a different market reality. Metrosexual males show a distinctly different self-identity online from offline. Social media provides them with a safe space, which is often subject to public embarrassment in offline settings. These findings have note-worthy implications for marketing practitioners including communication messaging, social media strategy, brand identity and presence, and product development. They provide insights for both practitioners and academics regarding the subculture of consumption of metrosexuals in the historically macho male-dominated SEE regions.
Innovative and efficient preparation of high-performance polyacrylonitrile-based carbon fiber paper by centrifugal spinning
Authors: Wu Zhiyu , Qin Shuyi , Liu Yuemei , Hu Jun , Li Xing , Zhang Bowen , Zhang Chunhua , Zhang Ke , Sun Jiuxiao , Pan Heng , Liu Xin
Published: January 2023

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) carbon fibers are often used to prepare high-performance paper-based materials owing to their high strength, good electrical and thermal conductivity, and superior comprehensive properties. In this study, a novel method for preparing PAN-based carbon fibers by centrifugal spinning was developed, and a stable and homogeneous PAN carbon fiber paper was successfully obtained. Subsequently, the formation process, microscopic morphology, electrical conductivity, electrochemical performance and hydrophobicity of the PAN carbon fiber paper were studied and evaluated. The results showed that the electrical conductivity of the PAN carbon fiber paper prepared via this method reached 43.250 s·cm−1, resistivity was as low as 0.023–0.033 Ω·cm, and contact angle exceeded 140°. This study adopted a new method to prepare PAN carbon fiber paper, which provided another method for the preparation of high-performance fiber paper.
“I Think It’s Still a Male-Dominated World”: Detachment Services Assistants’ Perceptions and Experiences of a Gendered Police Organization
Authors: Norman Mark , Ricciardelli Rosemary
Published: January 2023

Police organizations, typically considered masculine paramilitary organizations, are employing increasing numbers of women in non-sworn roles. We investigate the experiences and perceptions of a specific group of non-sworn personnel, Detachment Services Assistants (DSAs) working with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, unpacking their perceptions of a slowly-changing gendered organizational culture. We analyze how their fluid performances of femininities allow them to navigate a gendered workplace environment that, at times, can marginalize them based on their gender and occupational status. The study makes a novel contribution to the policing literature on gender and the role of non-sworn personnel in policing.
Delayed appearance of basilar trunk small atypical aneurysms in nontraumatic, initially angiogram-negative subarachnoid hemorrhage: A report of three patients
Authors: Johnson William C , Webb Matthew R , Espinosa Jonathan W , Birnbaum Lee A , Rodriguez Pavel , Mascitelli Justin R
Published: January 2023

Background

Repeat angiography will identify vascular pathology in approximately 10% of cases following angiogram-negative subarachnoid hemorrhage (anSAH), but small atypical aneurysms of the basilar artery are very uncommon.

Objective

To report a case series of delayed appearance of nontraumatic basilar artery small atypical aneurysms.

Methods

IRB approval was obtained for this retrospective case series and patient consent was waived.

Results

Herein we report three cases of spontaneous anSAH, all of whom had a negative digital subtraction angiogram (DSA) on admission and all of whom had appearance of a small atypical aneurysms of the upper basilar trunk/apex on follow-up imaging (two during the initial admission and one in a delayed fashion). All three patients were ultimately treated with flow diversion (although one patient underwent attempted coiling that was abandoned due to inability to catheterize the aneurysm).

Conclusion

This report highlights the importance of a repeat DSA in cases of anSAH as well as the importance of scrutinizing the basilar trunk for these very small atypical aneurysms that may go unnoticed.
A narrative review of the application of machine learning in venous thromboembolism
Authors: Zou Shirong , Wu Zhoupeng
Published: January 2023

Objective

To summarize the current research progress of machine learning and venous thromboembolism.

Methods

The literature on risk factors, diagnosis, prevention and prognosis of machine learning and venous thromboembolism in recent years was reviewed.

Results

Machine learning is the future of biomedical research, personalized medicine, and computer-aided diagnosis, and will significantly promote the development of biomedical research and healthcare. However, many medical professionals are not familiar with it. In this review, we will introduce several commonly used machine learning algorithms in medicine, discuss the application of machine learning in venous thromboembolism, and reveal the challenges and opportunities of machine learning in medicine.

Conclusion

The incidence of venous thromboembolism is high, the diagnostic measures are diverse, and it is necessary to classify and treat machine learning, and machine learning as a research tool, it is more necessary to strengthen the special research of venous thromboembolism and machine learning.
Engineering design strategies for force augmentation exoskeletons: A general review
Authors: Martínez-Mata AJ , Blanco-Ortega A , Guzmán-Valdivia CH , Abúndez-Pliego A , García-Velarde MA , Magadán-Salazar A , Osorio-Sánchez R
Published: January 2023

In the industrial and military sector, work activities are required transporting or supporting heavy loads manually, affecting this the human spinal column due to the weight of the loads or the repetition of this labor. In this regard, the use of force-enhancing exoskeletons is a potential solution to this issue. Therefore, this article summarizes the state of the art in relevant contributions to structural design, control systems, actuators, and performance metrics to evaluate the proper functioning of exoskeletons used for load support and transfer. This is essential to address current and new open problems in these applications, and this includes reducing the metabolic cost and enhancing the loading force in exoskeletons, in which challenges such as structural design and kinetic interactions between the human and the robot are presented. The systematic review of the strategies found in the literature helps addressing these challenges in an orderly way. The proposal of some alternative solutions could help to solving some of the challenges mentioned above, as well as further research to improve the design of these devices is necessary.
Using medical expenditure panel survey data to explore the relationship between patient-centered medical homes and racial disparities in severe maternal morbidity outcomes
Authors: Tucker Curisa M , Bell Nathaniel , Corbett Cynthia F , Lyndon Audrey , Felder Tisha M
Published: January 2023

Background:

There are persistent racial/ethnic disparities in the occurrence of severe maternal morbidity. Patient-centered medical home care has the potential to address disparities in maternal outcomes.

Objectives:

To examine (1) the association between receiving patient-centered medical home care and severe maternal morbidity outcomes and (2) the interaction of race/ethnicity on patient-centered medical home status and severe maternal morbidity.

Design/Methods:

Using 2007 to 2016 data from the Medical Expenditures Panel Survey, we conducted a cross-sectional study to estimate the association between receipt of care from a patient-centered medical home and the occurrence of severe maternal morbidity, and racial-specific (White, Black, Asian, Other) relative risks of severe maternal morbidity. Our study used race as a proxy measure for exposure racism. We identified mothers (⩾15 years) who gave birth during the study period. We identified patient-centered medical home qualities using 11 Medical Expenditures Panel Survey questions and severe maternal morbidities using medical claims, and calculated generalized estimating equation models to estimate odds ratios of severe maternal morbidity and 95% confidence intervals.

Results:

Among all mothers who gave birth ( N = 2801; representing 5,362,782 US lives), only 25% received some exposure patient-centered medical home care. Two percent experienced severe maternal morbidity, and this did not differ statistically ( p = 0.11) by patient-centered medical home status. However, our findings suggest a 85% decrease in the risk of severe maternal morbidity among mothers who were defined as always attending a patient-centered medical home (odds ratios: 0.15; 95% confidence interval:0.01–1.87; p = 0.14) and no difference in the risk of severe maternal morbidity among mothers who were defined as sometimes attending a patient-centered medical home (odds ratios: 1.00; 95% confidence interval:0.16–6.42; p = 1.00). There was no overall interaction effect in the model between race and patient-centered medical home groups ( p = 0.82), or ethnicity and patient-centered medical home groups ( p = 0.62) on the severe maternal morbidity outcome.

Conclusion:

While the rate of severe maternal morbidity was similar to US rates, few mothers received care from a patient-centered medical home which may be due to underreporting. Future research should further investigate the potential for patient-centered medical home-based care to reduce odds of severe maternal morbidity across racial/ethnic groups.
A data-driven approach to assist offensive and defensive players in optimal decision making
Authors: Rahimian Pegah , Toka Laszlo
Published: January 2023

Among all the popular sports, soccer is a relatively long-lasting game with a small number of goals per game. This renders the decision-making cumbersome, since it is not straightforward to evaluate the impact of in-game actions apart from goal scoring. Although several action valuation metrics and counterfactual reasoning have been proposed by researchers in recent years, assisting coaches in discovering the optimal actions in different situations of a soccer game has received little attention of soccer analytics. This work proposes the application of deep reinforcement learning on the event and tracking data of soccer matches to discover the most impactful actions at the interrupting point of a possession. Our optimization framework assists players and coaches in inspecting the optimal action, and on a higher level, we provide for the adjustment required for the teams in terms of their action frequencies in different pitch zones. The optimization results have different suggestions for offensive and defensive teams. For the offensive team, the optimal policy suggests more shots in half-spaces (i.e. long-distance shots). For the defending team, the optimal policy suggests that when locating in wings, defensive players should increase the frequency of fouls and ball outs rather than clearances, and when located in the centre, players should increase the frequency of clearances rather than fouls and ball outs.
A new failure times model for one and two failure modes system: A Bayesian study with Hamiltonian Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Abba Badamasi , Wang Hong
Published: January 2023

This paper presents an additive Gompertz-Weibull (AGW) distribution, a four-parameter hybrid probability distribution, and its applications in reliability engineering. The failure rate (FR) function of the proposed model demonstrates an increasing trend and a variety of bathtub shapes with or without a low and yet long-stable segment, making it appropriate for modelling a wide variety of real-world problems. Some relationships between the AGW’s FR and its mean residual life functions are examined. For parameter estimation, maximum likelihood and Bayesian inferences are considered. For posterior simulations, we use Hamiltonian Monte Carlo to evaluate the Bayes estimators of the AGW parameters. We evaluate the performance of the proposed AGW model to that of other recent bathtub distributions constructed following the same approach on three failure time datasets. The first two datasets represent device failure times, while the third represents early cable-joint failure times, all with bathtub FR. For comparison, five parametric and nonparametric evaluation criteria and the fitted FR and mean residual life curves were employed. The results indicated that the AGW model would be the best choice for describing failure times, especially when the bathtub-shaped FR of the presented dataset exhibits its three segments.