bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gellan gum as a promising transplantation carrier for differentiated progenitor cells in ophthalmic therapies
Authors: Moyo Mthabisi Talent George , Adali Terin
Published: September 2024

Stem cell-based therapies for various ocular conditions are increasingly gaining traction in ophthalmic treatments, with hydrogel-based polymers playing a pivotal role. Current stem cell delivery methods face challenges such as limited cell retention, immunological rejection, and uneven dispersion. Hence, there is a critical demand for innovative delivery systems to enhance the viability, localization, and integration of transplanted stem cells while minimizing adverse effects. Central to this advancement is the meticulous selection of appropriate materials. Among the promising options, gellan gum, a versatile polysaccharide, is emerging as a potential carrier for differentiated progenitor cells in regenerative medicine, particularly in ophthalmology. This study explores the utilization of gellan gum hydrogels as carriers, focusing on their biocompatibility, customizable gelation properties, and ability to encapsulate, transplant, and biofunctionalize cells. Through a review of literature, the impact of gellan gum hydrogels on cell viability parameters is investigated, revealing their potential for promoting tissue regeneration and functional recovery in ocular diseases. Furthermore, this study compares gellan gum systems utilizing natural and synthetic polymers, discerning differences in efficacy, biocompatibility, and suitability for diverse applications in regenerative ophthalmology. This review highlights the promising role of gellan gum in ophthalmic therapies, providing valuable insights into future directions and hurdles in this evolving field.
Textile waste-based biosensors for medical monitoring
Authors: Sikka Monica
Published: September 2024

The increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions in the medical industry has driven the exploration of new materials and technologies. Waste-based textile biosensors hold significant promise due to their biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and potential for disease monitoring and diagnostics. This article discusses the characteristics and utilization of three biopolymers: silk, cellulose, and chitosan. These polymers have unique structures that make them appropriate for applications as natural, lightweight, low-density polymers with advantageous chemical and easily degradable properties. The incorporation of biosensors, particularly those integrated into textiles, has become integral for non-invasive medical monitoring. Recent advances in biopolymer-based sensors are highlighted, underscoring their potential for continuous health monitoring and personalized healthcare. The inherent advantages of these sustainable materials, combined with their sensing capabilities, position biopolymer textile waste-based biosensors as a promising solution for wearable and implantable biomedical devices.
Planning (in) the Next Century? On the Futures of Planning That are Already Here
Authors: Pavoni Andrea , Pereira Lavínia , Tulumello Simone
Published: September 2024

What if the problem with planning was its very relation with normativity and future? In this article, we challenge the idea that “the future that we want” can be designed in the sense that planning has historically done—by imagining a future that should be sought by action in the present. In so doing, we explore the possibility of planning as a strategy to release the futurial, excessive presences that already exist in the present, through Stefano Harney and Fred Moten's notion of “fugitive planning,” and Giorgio Agamben's idea of “destituent power.”
Factors Influencing Health Professionals’ Decisions Regarding the Indication of Infant Formula: A Qualitative Exploration in Uruguay
Authors: Girona Alejandra , Brunet Gerónimo , Ares Gastón , Rodríguez Raquel , León Carolina de , Lozano Mónica , Vidal Leticia
Published: September 2024

Background:

Health systems are fundamental to the promotion and protection of breastfeeding. Health professionals have a pivotal influence on families’ infant feeding decisions and may act as facilitators or barriers to adequate breastfeeding practices.

Research Aim:

To explore factors influencing health professionals’ decisions regarding the indication of infant formula in Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, an emerging Latin American country.

Method:

This was a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with 30 health professionals (neonatologists, pediatricians, family doctors, and nurses) working in primary and secondary care in both private and public health institutions. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using content analysis based on deductive-inductive coding.

Results:

The narratives of the participants identified maternity wards as the healthcare sites where the indication of infant formula occurs most frequently. Motives underlying the indication of infant formula by health professionals were diverse. The type of birth and the conditions of the child and the mother were the most relevant in secondary care, whereas maternal work was the main determining factor in primary care. A wide range of factors encouraging and discouraging the indication of infant formula were identified by health professionals in primary and secondary healthcare locations, which were related to all the levels of influence of the socioecological model.

Conclusions:

Strategies to reduce the use of infant formula in Uruguay should include improving the support and guidance provided to families in the maternity ward, strengthening the implementation and monitoring of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, and improving the current maternity leave regulations.
State control of school education in colonial and post-colonial India
Authors: Jolad Shivakumar , Rajpuria Khushi
Published: September 2024

Studies have indicated that local governments and communities can play a legitimate role in governing publicly-funded schools, although debates continue in relation to where and how decentralization operates across different contexts. In the Indian context, it has been argued that educational decentralization received a significant boost following the constitutional amendments of 1992, which mandated local government school management in rural and urban areas across India. However, drawing from the history of school management in India, we show that in colonial India, government-funded schools were locally managed by district boards and municipal bodies. By studying the education Acts of Indian states post-independence, we show that nearly all states adopted a centralized management system with state-controlled appointment and transfer of teachers and funding. Nationally, about 77% of government schools are managed by the state Department of Education, while only 18% of schools are controlled by local bodies. By analyzing sections of the Right to Education Act of 2009, we show that while the Act advocates for decentralized management of schools, it fails to devolve funds and functionaries to the local level. We argue that India's constitutional structure, weak fiscal devolution to local bodies, centralized appointment of functionaries, bureaucratic mistrust of local authorities, fear of local elite capture, upper caste control, and teacher union lobbying have led to centralized state control of education.
Technical Anonymity and Employees’ Willingness to Speak Up: Influences of Voice Solicitation, General Timeliness, and Psychological Safety
Authors: Liu Chun , Yuan Qin , Luo Jiang
Published: September 2024

Purpose: In recent years, many enterprises have established anonymous online forums to encourage employees to speak up. However, questions remain regarding whether these anonymous communication channels work. This research explores how and when technical anonymity influences employees’ willingness to speak up.

Design/methodology/approach:  Via an experimental method (study 1), we investigated the effects of technical anonymity and the moderating effects of voice solicitation. Via an experimental method (study 2), we examined the effects of technical anonymity and the moderating effects of time delay.

Findings:  The results of two studies consistently indicate that employees are more willing to speak up in the anonymous condition than in the nonanonymous condition and that psychological safety mediates the relationship between technical anonymity and employees’ willingness to speak up. In addition, we identify the boundary conditions of the effects of technical anonymity. In the prohibitive voice solicitation condition and in the delay condition, the above effects exist.

Originality/value:  First, we contribute to the literature on organizational media affordance by examining the effects of the anonymity affordance. Second, we contribute to the literature on organizational anonymity communication by exploring the impacts of technical anonymity on employees’ willingness to speak up in the workplace. Third, we extend the literature on employee voice by theorizing and demonstrating the moderating roles of two novel variables.
On-Demand and Marketplace Platforms: Gig Care Work Conditions on Two Digital Labour Platform Care Models
Authors: Hopwood Pamela , MacEachen Ellen , Bourgeault Ivy , McAiney Carrie , Yanar Basak , Davis Abbey
Published: September 2024

With worker shortages and the need for care workers projected to grow, personal care work through digital labour platforms (DLPs) is important to understand. This paper considers DLPs used by gig care workers providing personal care in Ontario, Canada. We recruited 20 women gig care workers for interviews. We examined socio-technical processes such as signing up on platforms, creating profiles, and searching for jobs. We draw on Institutional Ethnography to study the actual work on the following two DLP models: marketplace and on-demand. Marcusean theory provides a lens for the critical examination of DLP care work. We found job inequity between DLPs operating in the homecare sector, compared to DPs used in institutional settings. Jobs had disparate quality between the two platform types. Workers on both DLP types remained vulnerable to fluctuations in demand and had limited social security protections, and both models of DLP institutionalised precarity.
Evaluating the Perceived Value of Holistic Certification Among Nurses: A Descriptive Survey Study
Authors: Vital Cidalia J. , Peterson Cynthia , Benjamin Ellen , Naglieri-Prescod Deborah A. , Faron Patricia , Nathanson Brian H.
Published: September 2024

Purpose: Specialty nursing certifications serve as a validation of nursing knowledge in specific areas. Holistic nursing emphasizes comprehensive patient care and incorporates complementary alternative modalities (CAM) into daily care. Despite its significance, limited research has evaluated the perceived value of holistic nursing certification among nurses. Study Design: Descriptive survey design. Methods: The Likert-scale survey Perceived Value of Certification (PVCT)-12 Tool was given to holistic certified and non-certified nurses at a large, academic Magnet hospital in the northeast United States from 10/2022 to 2/2023. Additionally, non-certified nurses were asked to select the top three barriers to certification from a list of nine. The responses between certified and non-certified nurses were compared using the Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, or Student's t-test as appropriate. Findings: A total of 59 nurses (25 certified, 34 non-certified) met inclusion criteria. Ninety-six percent of certified nurses versus 64.7% of non-certified nurses agreed that certification demonstrates a commitment to the nursing profession, p = 0.004, but, otherwise, responses to the PVCT-12 Tool were similar. Both groups felt certification was more strongly associated with intrinsic factors (e.g., sense of accomplishment) than extrinsic factors (e.g., salary). Conclusion: Nurses were consistent in their perceived value of holistic certification, regardless of their certification status.
ABCs unravelled: The time and timing in calls for behavioural change
Authors: Karmiris Maria
Published: September 2024

District School Boards across the Global North (which includes my own school board in Toronto, Canada) implement behaviour management policies that remain situated within discourses and practices of developmental and behavioural psychology. The ABC chart (Antecedent, Behaviour and Consequence) is one key aspect of these behaviour management policies as it aims to document the timing, frequency, intensity and duration of behaviour characterized as problematic or troublesome. The purpose of this paper is to critically examine the ABC chart utilized by classroom teachers across K-12 school settings in order to document behaviour. Understood as a socio-cultural artifact and phenomenon of current neoliberal schooling practices, I seek to investigate the role of ABC charts in sustaining practices of conditional inclusion/exclusion for children and youth labeled as ‘problems.’ Using an interpretive methodology situated within critical disability studies and anti-colonial theories and practices, this paper will engage in the application of concepts such as being “out of sync” ( Knight, 2019 : p. 74) and “misfitting” ( Garland-Thomson, 2011 : p. 592) as they intersect with concepts such as “the ability line” ( Broderick and Leonardo, 2016 : p. 66). A key aim of this paper is to question the taken for granted assumptions regarding conceptions of linear time, developmental progress and, achieving the performance of normative behaviour. In examining the implicit power imbalances in practices of documenting behaviour, this paper also invites educators to engage in a critical dialogue in order to facilitate a transformation into more interdependent and socially just teaching and learning practices.
Investigations of the effect of circular perforations and V-cut on SLTT in DPHE: An experimental analysis using IoT approach
Authors: Diwaker Manoj Kumar , Kumar Arvind
Published: September 2024

The objective of this research is to explore the characteristics of the mean Nusselt number, friction factor, and enhancement efficiency in a double pipe heat exchanger. The emphasis lies in using short twisted tapes featuring round holes and a V-shaped cut. To conduct the experiment, an IoT-based DPHE setup was employed. In the experiment, various twisted tape configurations were examined to investigate their impact on heat transfer and pressure loss. These configurations included a full-length twisted tape and three short-length tapes with different perforation diameters. The full-length tape, with a twist ratio of x/ b = 4, spanned throughout length of the tube. In contrast, the plain short-length tape and modified short-length tapes, with the same twist ratio, were inserted in the section’s entrance. The shorter inserts, with a length ratio (LR = ls/lf) of 0.50, were compared to the full-length tape. The experimental findings demonstrated that the short-length tapes with LR = 0.50 consistently exhibited lower thermohydraulic performance compared to full-length inserts. Specifically, within the Re range of 4000–24,000, Nusselt numbers and friction factors for the short inserts were approximately 11%, 9.1%, and 6.1% lower, and 20.6%, 16.1%, and 11.2% lower, respectively, compared to the full-length inserts.
Behavior of sandwich structures with 3D-printed auxetic and non-auxetic cores under low velocity impact: Experimental and computational analysis
Authors: Allouch Marwa , Mellouli Hana , Mallek Hanen , Wali Mondher , Dammak Fakhreddine
Published: September 2024

In recent years, impact-resistant structures are highly sought after in various fields such automotive and aerospace applications as they proved notable performances, garnering significant success. The aim of this study is to assess the behavior of the 3D-printable honeycombs subjected to low velocity impact, for providing insights into absorbed energy for different core designs: hexagonal, auxetic, and rectangular, considering an equal number of cells across all designs. This work reports the computational and experimental studies conducted for sandwich structures under different impact loading. The experimental impact tests are carried out using a drop weight impact-testing machine. The examined specimen comprises two face-sheets and architected cell core fabricated through the Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) process made of polylactic acid (PLA). Variations in the geometric design of the cells result in the formation of cores with auxetic and non-auxetic topologies. Uniaxial tensile tests are performed to identify the mechanical properties of the involved biopolymer. The second attempt consists on comparing three architectural core structures under impact test using experimental and computational methods. Our findings highlight the specific influence of core topology on energy absorption in 3D-printed sandwich structures. Results indicate that while all three configurations (hexagonal, re-entrant, and rectangular) demonstrate comparable energy absorption values, the specific mechanisms and efficiencies vary, with re-entrant cores exhibiting distinct behaviors under impact.
Research on a backstepping flight control method improved by STFT in atmospheric disturbance applications
Authors: Ming Ruichen , Liu Xiaoxiong , Li Yu , Zhang WeiGuo
Published: September 2024

The adaptive backstepping method has strong performance in handling control problems with disturbances in previous research. However, it exhibits limitations when applied to time-varying disturbances. This paper proposes an improved adaptive backstepping method based on Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT). By estimating the frequency spectrum of the disturbance and indirectly obtaining its time-domain estimate, the proposed method effectively overcomes the shortcomings of traditional adaptive backstepping. To address the issue of frequency leakage caused by discontinuities in window data, the idea of DFT is improved by using STFT with the addition of the window function and window-shifting operation. Additionally, a projection operator and adaptive reduction of the control objective are employed to mitigate the effects of actuator saturation. Finally, in simulations involving an aircraft subjected to gusts and turbulence, the proposed method is compared with traditional adaptive backstepping and radial basis function (RBF) neural network control methods. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms the others in these experimental scenarios.
The city the earthquake built: internal displacement, international aid and state–society relations in the “fragile city” of Canaan
Authors: Ward Christopher
Published: September 2024

This paper revisits the case of Canaan – a massive informal settlement that emerged in the wake of the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti – in order to examine the often-forgotten aftermath of international aid programming in an urban, fragile-state context. Originally categorized as an (informal) internal displacement site, Canaan continued to expand in the years following the quake, reaching an estimated population of 300,000 by 2016. Using a qualitative case study of Canaan conducted nearly 15 years after its creation, the paper makes two interrelated arguments: first, that the ways in which the United Nations’ “durable solutions” framework is frequently understood and applied may be unrealistic and even deleterious for state–society relations in some fragile urban contexts. Second, even calls to shift (urban) internal displacement programming to a more development footing is far from a panacea if these interventions are not designed to be more politically nuanced, context-sensitive and modest about what can be achieved in such complex environments.
Studies on fuels and engine attributes powered by bio-diesel and bio-oil derived from stone apple seed (Aegle marmelos) for bioenergy
Authors: Sriariyanun Malinee , U Elaiyarasan , R Sakthivel , P Baranitharan , Tawai Atthasit , T Arunkumar
Published: September 2024

Biofuel is an alternative fuel for diesel engines which is necessary to reduce exhaust emissions and helps to balance the depletion of fossil fuels. This study details the synthesis of bio-diesel and bio-oil from stone apple seeds ( Aegle marmelos) through transesterification, direct oxygenate additive, and pyrolysis processes. The diesel engine is powered by the resulting stone apple methyl ester bio-diesel/diesel and bio-oil/diesel mixtures. In a test engine rig, the effectiveness and emission uniqueness of test fuel mixes were examined at various engine loads (EL = 3 kg–12 kg) and compression ratios (CR = 16–17.5) while maintaining a steady speed of 1500 r/min. Furthermore, engine performance and emissions for bio-diesel and bio-oil are measured and compared. The oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emission by bio-diesel and bio-oil opus were higher than neat diesel (FD). Also, carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC) emissions were measured to be lower. The improvements of BTE by 4.87% and decrement of CO by 18.8%, HC by 13.26% were observed with the trans-esterified bio-diesel/diesel opus compared to diesel at a higher CR and rated load conditions. The engine analysis responses revealed that the FBD blend showed enhanced performance and lower emissions except NOx compared to diesel fuel. Hence, trans-esterified bio-diesel is a greater diesel alternative than FBDE and FBO.
Cognitive impairment in a Colombian cohort of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Medina Yimy F , Rivera Manuela R , Duarte Liliana K , Rodriguez-Plata Carlos M , De León Emmanuel R , Rodríguez Martínez Sonia C
Published: September 2024

Context

Cognitive deficits are neuropsychiatric syndromes associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. In our context, there are no data on the frequency of cognitive deficit as a manifestation of neuropsychiatric SLE or the associated conditions.

Objective

To define determinants of cognitive deficit in a cohort of Colombian patients with SLE attending a third-level hospital.

Methods and Patients

This descriptive cross-sectional study included patients with SLE, explored the presence of cognitive impairment through screening testing using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA test), and diagnostic confirmation with a specific neuropsychological test battery recommended by the American College of Rheumatology. Quality of life was assessed using the LupusCol questionnaire and depression using the Beck Depression Inventory.

Results

Most patients were women, with a median age of 37 years (IQR, 28.0 - 46.7). Most patients had a level of higher education or technical education. Fifty-nine (62.9%) patients presented with a normal MoCA test result ≥26 points, and 35 (37.1%) patients with a score <26 points that were considered abnormal. The comprehensive neuropsychological test battery was applied to 31 patients (33.0%) with an abnormal MoCA test. Forty-one patients (48.8%) had some degree of depression. The median loss of quality of life was 21.03% (IQR 10.2 - 40.3). 19 patients (20%) presented some degree of cognitive deficit, 15 (15.95% of the total sample) had cognitive impairment, and 4 (4.25%) had cognitive decline. In a logistic regression analysis using data from patients undergoing specific tests, variables related to cognitive deterioration were found to be associated with a lower quality of life, showing an adjusted odds ratio of 1.05 (CI 1.01-0.09). No association was demonstrated with SLEDAI, prednisolone use, cyclophosphamide use, and the presence of depression.

Conclusion

In this study, it was found in 16% of patients evaluated with the complete neuropsychological test battery and in 37% with the MoCA screening test. Our results suggest that it is crucial to implement strategies to assess cognitive deficit, depression, and quality of life in the consultation of patients with SLE and to raise awareness among health providers who care for patients with lupus about their presence and impact.
Chilblain lupus erythematosus triggered by UV nail lamp exposure: A case series. Chilblain lupus and nail lamp
Authors: Ordoñez-Rubiano María Fernanda , Gutiérrez-Marín Paula A.
Published: September 2024

Two cases of chilblain lupus erythematosus (CLE) potentially triggered by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) nail lamps are presented. These cases, along with a review of the literature, suggest a possible link between UV nail lamp use and CLE development or reactivation. Further research is needed to confirm this association, but healthcare professionals should be aware of the potential risks of this practice, especially for patients with photosensitive conditions.
The experience and implications of pain in systemic lupus erythematosus: A qualitative interview study focusing on the patient’s perspective
Authors: Waldheim Eva , Welin Elisabet , Bergman Stefan , Pettersson Susanne
Published: September 2024

Background

Pain is one of the most frequently reported symptoms and often one of the first subjective symptoms in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). A previous study indicated that most patients with SLE reported low levels of SLE-related pain. However, a subgroup of patients reported high levels of pain ≥40 mm (0-100 mm) and had a substantial symptom burden in terms of fatigue, anxiety, depression, and reduced health-related quality of life. Thus, there is a need to elucidate the implications of high levels of pain in everyday life.

Aim

This study explored the patient’s experiences and implications of SLE-related pain in daily life and the support requested from healthcare providers.

Method

A total of 20 patients, previously reported high levels of SLE-related pain intensity measuring ≥40 mm (0–100 mm) in a research context at one or two occasions participated in individual semi-structured interviews, which were transcribed and analysed with content analysis.

Results

The interviews revealed four main categories and 13 generic categories. SLE-associated pain was described by its multifaceted nature, exhibiting longstanding, unpredictable, migrating, and various physical sensations. The pain entailed multidimensional consequences, restricting everyday life by interfering with roles and relationships and causing various emotions, including existential thoughts. The informants used comprehensive strategies to deal with the pain, including their inner resources, support from family and significant others, and pharmaceuticals and relieving treatments. They expressed the need for security and acknowledgement, which involved individualized support and accessibility of healthcare.

Conclusion

This study provides comprehensive insights into the nature and multifaceted impact of SLE-related pain in different dimensions of the informants’ daily lives. Except for medications the informants used several strategies, including their inner resources and support from family and others, to manage the pain. Support requested from healthcare providers by the informants included understanding, compassion, individualized care and accessibility.
Impact of perception of illness on quality of life in juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Şahin Nihal , Uçak Kübra , Atamyıldız Uçar Sıla , Sönmez Hafize Emine , Sözeri Betül
Published: September 2024

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects multiple organs, notably the skin, joints, and kidneys. The primary goal in managing SLE is to enhance patients’ quality of life (QoL). Illness perception can influence QoL in patients with chronic disease. We assessed illness perception in juvenile SLE (jSLE) patients and its effect on patient’s and parental QoL.

Method

Patients diagnosed with jSLE according to the SLICC 2012 criteria between January and November 2023 were included. Patients’ illness perceptions were gaged using the brief illness perception questionnaire (B-IPQ), while patient’s and parental QoL were evaluated using PedsQL and WHOQOL- BREF, respectively.

Results

The study comprised 32 patients and 32 parents, predominantly female (78.1%). Musculoskeletal involvement was the most common (65.6%), followed by mucocutaneous (59.4%), renal, and hematological involvement (50% each). Neuropsychiatric involvement was absent. The median SLEDAI-2K score at the last outpatient clinic visit, which was documented in the patient’s file was 2 (0–18) and was not correlated with the B-IPQ score (r = 0.121, p = .51). A significant negative correlation was found between B-IPQ and patient QoL, indicating poorer QoL in patients with negative illness perceptions (r = −0.576, p < .001). No correlation was observed between parental QoL and B-IPQ ( p => .05). Of note, 56.3% of patients had poor QoL, scoring below the PedsQL cut-off, while 43.8% of parents had poor QoL for general health, scoring below the WHOQOL-BREF cut-off for general health.

Conclusion

Although disease perception did not correlate with disease activation in jSLE, it significantly impacted patient QoL. Enhancing patients’ perceptions of jSLE may improve their overall QoL.
Brand Adoption by BoP Retailers
Authors: Sinha Piyush Kumar , Rawal Saurabh , Sinha Aakriti
Published: September 2024

The article brings out the major factors that bottom-of-the-pyramid (BoP) retailers consider when adopting brands. It suggests that, besides the known variables of profitability, relationship and merchandise, these retailers attach importance to efforts that lead to reduced perceived risk. These include replacement and buyback facilities besides credit. They define the relationship with distributors/wholesalers not just as firm-firm business-based, but also as stemming from familial, social and ethnic dimensions. Based on 472 responses of acceptance or rejection from BoP retailers from rural India, the findings show a positive, significant relationship with brand characteristics. On the other hand, product-related factors showed a significant but negative relationship. The study found a significant but negative association between distributor relationship and probability of adoption, which should be considered in conjunction with credit, replacement and buyback facilities. The authors suggest that, while brand demand is a significant factor, strategies based on service-dominant logic would be more effective in sustained adoption of brands among small retailers.
A Descriptive Study to Assess Neonatal Stress Behavior Among Preterm Neonates Admitted in NICU, Nehru Hospital, PGIMER, Chandigarh
Authors: Dhingra Sanjoli , Choudhary Anupama , Mukhopadhyay Kanya , Chopra Seema
Published: September 2024

Background

Preterm neonates are repeatedly exposed to many stressors in initial days of life such as environmental stressor (light and noise) and caregiver interventions (weighing, oral and tracheal suctioning, drawing blood samples, etc.). If preterm neonates’ stress is not recognized and left untreated, there may be long-term effects.

Objective

To assess the neonatal stress behavior among preterm neonates admitted in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), Nehru Hospital, PGIMER, Chandigarh.

Methodology

A descriptive study was conducted to assess neonatal stress behavior among preterm neonates admitted in NICU, Nehru Hospital, PGIMER, Chandigarh. Ethical clearance was taken from Institutional Ethics Committee of PGIMER, Chandigarh. Total 100 participants admitted in NICU during the period of July–December 2022 were enrolled for the study using consecutive sampling technique. Data was collected by interviewing mother using interview schedule. It comprised of sociodemographic cum clinical profile of the preterm neonate. Observation was made by using—(a) modified infant positioning assessment tool (IPAT), (b) neonatal stress scale, and (c) preterm neonate’s behavior assessment scale.

Results

The present study shows that 88% of the preterm neonates show moderate stress and 70% of preterm neonates exhibit suspected abnormal behavioral response in terms of autonomic visceral subsystems, while 54% of the preterm neonates show suspected abnormal behavioral response in terms of state regulation attention interaction subsystem.

Conclusion

The present study concluded that moderate stress level and suspected abnormal behavioral response were found among hospitalized preterm neonates.
The Science (and Practice) of Teamwork: A Commentary on Forty Years of Progress…
Authors: Salas Eduardo , Linhardt Rylee , Fernández Castillo Gabriela
Published: September 2024

Forty years ago, Dyer summarized team science research, finding that in many areas, we lacked theoretical backing and empirical evidence—sometimes to the point of meagerness. This commentary summarizes the last four decades of team research with Dyer’s seven leading questions—finding our progress far from scant. We have uncovered groundbreaking theories, moved past understanding teamwork as only the task, researched hundreds of team emergent states, and conducted vast meta-analytic research while continuing to uncover how to make teamwork more effective and what conditions foster greatness. We also find we continue to require work in other areas, from developing better methodological practices to considering teamwork’s dynamic nature. This commentary seeks to revisit team science’s most significant breakthroughs, such as the vast improvement of team training research, and weak spots, such as our continued lack of longitudinal research. By doing so, we highlight how much progress we can make together.
Group Dynamics in the Metaverse: A Conceptual Framework and First Empirical Insights
Authors: Grabowski Marvin , Lehmann-Willenbrock Nale , Rings Sebastian , Blanchard Anita , Steinicke Frank
Published: September 2024

The metaverse offers new technological possibilities for conducting 3D immersive meetings with head-mounted displays that can enrich virtual teamwork. To conceptualize this new interaction space, we synthesize interdisciplinary findings from human-computer interaction literature, group research, and meeting science. We develop a conceptual framework of 3D immersive group meetings that integrates technological design characteristics, subjective attendee experiences, mediating mechanisms, and meeting outcomes. As a first empirical glimpse into this framework, we include a pilot study of group member’s self-reported experiences and observed group dynamics in the metaverse. Building on our framework and first empirical insights, we discuss implications for future investigations of group dynamics in the metaverse.
Voices of Parent-Carers Navigating the Care for Children With Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Zhong Yaping , Zhao Huan , Wang Xinyi , Wang Min , Wang Lili , Ji Ji
Published: September 2024

Parent-carers of children with rare diseases, including osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), represent a vulnerable and largely invisible population. Despite existing research on familial OI caregiving, the unique experiences, perspectives, and feelings of parent-carers remain poorly understood, prompting this study to delve into these aspects through the subjective lens of voices. The aim of this study was to explore the voices of parent-carers in navigating the complexities of pediatric OI care. Employing a narrative design informed by social constructionism, 15 parent-carers of pediatric OI patients were purposively sampled from a tertiary hospital in Shandong Province, China, between May and August 2021. Individual face-to-face interviews were conducted, and data were analyzed using the voice-centered relational approach followed by thematic analysis. Parent-carers’ narratives revealed two overarching themes. The first theme, “the all-encompassing caregiver role,” highlighted the profound internal transformation parent-carers underwent, with three key aspects of experiences: “the centrality of care,” “life on hold,” and “guarded silence.” The second theme, “navigating ambivalence,” captured the complex psycho-emotional journey of parent-carers as they balanced denial and acceptance, experienced the burden and responsibility of caregiving, navigated uncertainty with hope, and sought to normalize the care recipients’ experiences while acknowledging their unique needs. Our findings suggest the need for developing tailored support strategies that address not only practical challenges but also the psychosocial dimensions of caregiving, to effectively assist and empower this marginalized carer population.
Exploring the Perceptions of Families and Nurses After Signing a Do-Not-Resuscitate Order for Patients in Respiratory Care Wards
Authors: Tsai Chin-Yun , Lai Fu-Chih
Published: September 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of family caregivers and nurses after the signing of a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order for patients in respiratory care wards (RCWs). The goal was to facilitate nurses’ preparedness for responding to family reactions and feelings in future DNR situations. Methods: The study employed semi-structured interviews with ventilator-dependent patients’ families and nurses recruited from RCWs in regional and district hospitals in New Taipei City. It explored the feelings, motivations, and decision-making processes concerning DNR orders. Thematic analysis identified key themes and patterns. Results: Twenty-two family members and 12 nurses, caring for 22 patients, participated in the interviews, resulting in 44 interview transcripts. The majority of family members were male (54.5%), whereas all nurses were female. Family caregivers and nurses had nuanced perceptions and showed emotional responses after the signing of DNR orders. Family caregivers grappled with feelings of guilt, uncertainty, and the weight of decision-making, while nurses navigated ethical dilemmas and sought to support families through the process. Common themes included the desire to minimize the patient’s suffering, concerns about quality of life, and the need for clear communication and support. Conclusion: The understanding of family caregivers’ and nurses’ perceptions of DNR orders for patients in RCWs illuminates complex end-of-life care challenges. A key gap in the study was its limited generalizability due to focusing on specific RCWs. Nonetheless, the insights gained may enable health care providers to tailor support, facilitate informed decision-making, and promote compassionate care for ventilator-dependent patients and their families.
Emblems and Taxonomies: Catechizing Genesis 2:19 with William Jones of Nayland and Sarah Trimmer
Authors: Ney David
Published: September 2024

Many Early Modern Christians believed they could participate in the fulfillment of Adam's divine mandate to name the beasts. While some took an emblematic approach to this task, others embraced a taxonomic modality. The emblematic and taxonomic modes of naming can be distinguished through the study of two late-eighteenth-century children's catechisms, William Jones of Nayland's The Book of Nature and Sarah Trimmer's An Easy Introduction to the Knowledge of Nature. These catechisms confirm that the emblematic and taxonomic responses to Adam's mandate do not merely constitute different interpretations of Genesis 2:19. They constitute different understandings of the nature of catechesis and the identity of the Old Testament itself.
“Fue el Amor que nos Sostuvo”: The Relational Strengths of Latine Immigrant Couples
Authors: Silverio Nicole , Gutierrez Daniel , Wester Kelly L.
Published: September 2024

Family is an important protective factor for Latine immigrants. However, with most of the existing research focusing on overall family relationships, there is a knowledge gap about Latine couples and how their dyadic strengths may also be helpful in the face of immigration-related stressors. Using a Relational Cultural Theory framework, we conducted 16 semistructured interviews to qualitatively examine how eight Latine immigrant couples perceived their relationships positively impacted their immigration experiences. After analyzing over 20 hours of data, five themes emerged: (1) mutual support to overcome challenges and reach goals, (2) open communication based on respect, (3) working together as a team, (4) acceptance and admiration for each other, and (5) loving and being loved as a resource. Findings confirm the presence of significant relational strengths that can be leveraged in the management of immigration-related stressors. Implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed.
Raltitrexed Chemotherapy Regimen Plus Bevacizumab as Second-Line Treatment for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Prospective Multicenter Phase II Trial
Authors: Li Sheng , Li Xiaoyou , Zhu Qianni , Gao Jin , Zhu Chunrong , Zhu Liangjun
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Clinical studies have shown that bevacizumab plus chemotherapy significantly improves efficacy in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). This prospective study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of changing second-line treatment to raltitrexed-based chemotherapy regimens plus bevacizumab in mCRC patients who have failed the first-line fluorouracil-based chemotherapy regimen with or without bevacizumab/cetuximab.

Methods

This is a prospective, open-label, multicenter, phase II clinical study. A total of 100 patients with mCRC after failure of the first-line fluorouracil-based chemotherapy regimen with or without bevacizumab/cetuximab were enrolled from November 2016 to October 2021, and received second-line raltitrexed-based chemotherapy regimen plus bevacizumab. Patients were treated for 6 cycles, and efficacy evaluation over stable disease were followed by maintenance treatment of bevacizumab and raltitrexed until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), safety, and toxicity.

Results

Ninety-four patients were treated with SALIRI (raltitrexed + irinotecan) plus bevacizumab, and six patients with SALOX (raltitrexed + oxaliplatin) plus bevacizumab. Median PFS was 8.4 (95% CI: 6.2-11.0) months, including 8.2 (95% CI 6.2, 11.0) months in the SALIRI group and 11.6 (95% CI 3.1, NA) months in the SALOX group. Median OS was 17.6 (95% CI 15.2, 22.0) months in the SALIRI group and 17.1 (95% CI 4.1, NA) months in the SALOX group. ORR and DCR were 25.5% and 87.2% in the SALIRI group, and 33.3% and 83.3% in the SALOX group, respectively. A low incidence of grade 3-4 adverse events was observed.

Conclusions

Raltitrexed-based chemotherapy regimens plus bevacizumab improved survival duration in mCRC patients with failed first-line therapy. Therefore, treatment with raltitrexed-based chemotherapy regimens plus bevacizumab could be a superior therapeutic option for second-line chemotherapy in mCRC ( ClinicalTrials.gov registration number: NCT03126071).
Proportional-derivative control and motion stability analysis of a 16-pole legs rotor-active magnetic bearings system
Authors: Ren Yigen , Ma Wensai
Published: September 2024

This paper analyzes the motion stability of a 16-pole rotor-active magnetic bearings (rotor-AMB) system and investigates the complex vibrations under a proportional-derivative (PD) controller. First, electromagnetic theory and Newton’s second law are applied to derive the two-degree-of-freedom differential governing equations for the 16-pole rotor-AMB system, incorporating the PD control terms. The resulting differential equations include parametrically excited, quadratic nonlinear, and cubic nonlinear terms. Subsequently, the multiple time scales perturbation analysis method is performed on the obtained governing equations, yielding four-dimensional averaged equations in both Cartesian and polar coordinates. Finally, numerical simulations including the amplitude–frequency response characteristics, motion trajectories, energy–amplitude relationships, as well as bifurcation and chaotic motion of the system are studied. The results indicate that the PD controller affects the softening and hardening spring characteristics of the system and has significant control effects on the system’s amplitude, energy, and stability. Additionally, increasing the differential gain coefficient [Formula: see text] can change the system’s motion from chaotic to periodic.
A novel optimal resonance band selection method for wheelset-bearing fault diagnosis based on tunable-Q wavelet transform
Authors: Shi Tianyu , Ding Jianming , He Xia
Published: September 2024

The detection of faults in the wheelset-bearing system is crucial for guaranteeing the safety of train operations. The core is to extract the optimal resonance band (ORB) and repetitive transient impact signals from the collected axle box acceleration signals. Accordingly, a novel automatic fault detection method called the bidirectional iterative merging multi-Q tunable-Q wavelet transform (BIMMQTQWT) is proposed to address the issue that existing methods are vulnerable to background noise and irrelevant components. First, a series of band-pass filters with almost constant bandwidth are constructed by the improved multi-Q tunable-Q wavelet transform (IMQTQWT) derived from the fault characteristics. Second, the fault information contained in each sub-band coefficient is preliminarily estimated using the correlative envelope comprehensive indicator (CECI). Third, the ORBs are automatically selected using the maximum CECI based on a strategy called bidirectionally merging adjacent frequency bands (BIMFBs). Finally, Envelope demodulation based on the ORB is executed followed by identifying bearing faults. The effectiveness in detecting multiple wheelset-bearing faults of the proposed method is validated through simulation and bench experiment signals. And the superior performance of the proposed method is exhibited compared with the existing average infogram and resonance sparse decomposition.
Tailored for vehicle horn: A novel sound source capture method
Authors: Wang Zirun , Wan Wei , Ye Biyu , Tan Jingjun , Cai Ming
Published: September 2024

The development of a horn sound capture system, capable of replacing manual control, offers a promising solution for alleviating horn noise. Existing horn sound systems lack localization algorithms that are capable of robustly resisting interference. To address this issue, this paper introduces an innovative horn sound capture system, including hardware and algorithms for sound recognition and localization. The pivotal innovation of the system is the introduction of the Sub-SRP algorithm, an advancement of the steered-response power phase transform (SRP-PHAT). Leveraging the frequency characteristics of horn sounds, it employs a series of filtering and spectral subtraction techniques to effectively filter out non-horn noise sources. In the interference experiment and field test, the Sub-SRP algorithm achieved DOA scores of 0.96 and 0.95, respectively, showing an approximately 10% improvement compared to the existing weighted SRP-PHAT, this improvement is even more pronounced under strong interference, increasing to 17%. This improvement significantly enhances the system’s ability to accurately capture honking vehicles and resist interference. Additionally, the horn sound recognition algorithm achieved accuracy rates of 95.75% and 97.65% in the two experiments, demonstrating the system’s effectiveness. In summary, this study contributes to the advancement of urban noise management and intelligent noise control systems.
The Effect of Interactivity in Immersive Journalism on Participating In the Media and Through the Media
Authors: Greber Hannah
Published: September 2024

This study aims to disentangle how exactly immersive journalism (IJ) relates to a spectrum of democratically relevant engaging outcomes. To do so, I consider a potentially engaging dimension of IJ: interactivity and a resulting “sense of agency.” In a pre-registered laboratory experiment ( N = 150), I test the effect of exposure to IJ productions that vary in their range of interactivity on a spectrum of participatory intentions and behaviors. Results indicate that a medium level—but not a high level—of interactivity in IJ enhances participation in, but not participation through, journalism. In addition, presence, rather than agency, facilitates participative intentions.