bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dependency/ World-systems Theories and Structural Position of Latin American Countries
Authors: Ruvalcaba Daniel Morales
Published: March 2024

One of the social sciences theories that has contributed significantly to the complex understanding of the modern capitalist/colonial world and the situation of Latin America in it has been the world-systems approach. However, world-systems theory cannot be separated from dependency theory since the latter provides theoretical bases for the former, especially regarding the distribution of countries into different special zones according to the functioning of the world economy. But how have these theorists positioned Latin American countries in the world system? How has their understanding of the region evolved? Through the review of the literature, systematised in three stages (pre-theoretical, synchronous, and diachronic), this article examines the historical peripheral and semiperipheral positioning of the Latin American countries and the basis for determining different degrees of peripheralisation and semiperipheralisation. The relative immobility of the countries in the region stands out, which over the decades has not improved their structural position, necessitating a review of the Latin American countries’ development strategies for the twenty-first century.
Book review: Arathi P. M. (Ed.), Public Health in India: Policy Shifts and Trends
Authors: Dasgupta Rajib
Published: March 2024

Arathi P. M. (Ed.), Public Health in India: Policy Shifts and Trends, Sage Publications, 2022, 365 pp., ₹1341, ISBN 978-93-5479-370-7 (Hardcover).
Modeling Spatial Regimes With Smooth Transitions
Authors: Mattsson Ingrid , Lyhagen Johan
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we introduce a new way of modeling spatial regimes using smooth transitions. We propose an autoregressive spatial lag model where a logistic function captures structural variation in the spatial lag parameter. In the regime-switching spatial lag model with smooth transitions, the effect of the spatial neighbors depends on the transition variable that governs the regime switch. An LM test for detecting nonlinearity is derived, and a simulation study, where the properties of the test are investigated, is conducted. The test shows good power in relatively small samples with moderate deviation from linearity. An empirical application is included, where data on median house prices from the Boston area is used to explore the spatial dependence between census tracts. A smooth shift between regimes governed by the variable property tax rate is found. The smooth spatial lag model performs slightly better than the regular spatial lag model in terms of model fit and capturing spatial dependence.
Development of Multiple Discrete-Continuous Extreme Value Model with Non-Monotonic Utilities: Formulation and Application to Outdoor Non-Mandatory Time-Use Decisions
Authors: Wang Mengyi , Ye Xin
Published: March 2024

This paper further explores multiple discrete-continuous extreme value (MDCEV) models. MDCEV models are widely used for time-use analysis because they can accommodate the diminishing marginal utility with respect to time consumption and benefit from simple closed-form likelihood expressions for estimation, while considering the overall constraints of time resource. However, all of the existing models adopt a monotonically increasing form of utility function, which does not accommodate possible non-monotonic utilities with respect to time-use. This paper further develops the MDCEV model by firstly introducing utility functions with a form of parabola to capture non-monotonic preferences in time allocation behaviors. A corresponding simple and computationally efficient forecasting algorithm to predict the time-use of individuals is also developed. The proposed MDCEV model with parabolic utilities is applied to analyze time-use decisions among a variety of outdoor non-mandatory activities on weekends using data from the 2019 American Time Use Survey. The proposed model is compared with traditional MDCEV models to show its ability to describe non-monotonic preferences in time-use in association with various explanatory variables. This paper makes an initial attempt to specify non-monotonic utilities for time-use analysis, but further studies are required to develop more sophisticated non-monotonic utility formulation to improve the goodness-of-fit of the model.
Use of Distributed Fiber Optic Sensors for the Monitoring of an Accelerated Pavement Test
Authors: Leiva-Padilla Paulina , Chapeleau Xavier , Nguyen Mai-Lan , Blanc Juliette , Allam Samir , Loison Emmanuel , Hornych Pierre
Published: March 2024

The need to develop more efficient pavement management systems has driven continuous improvement in structural health monitoring (SHM) systems for road infrastructures. Factors such as low energy consumption, minimal disruption (small-sized and lightweight devices), resistance to environmental conditions, high durability, and sensitivity are some of the possible improvements worthy of exploration. Fiber optics appear to have several of these desired characteristics. In this context, this article presents strain measurements performed using fiber optic cables installed at various levels in pavement structures tested on the accelerated pavement testing facility at the Université Gustave Eiffel (or fatigue carousel). The results reveal that strains measured with this technology closely align with those obtained using traditional strain gauges. However, an advantage of fiber optics is that they enable distributed measurements over long distances with high precision (10 m with a measurement interval of 2.6 mm in this study). These measurements highlight a significant variability in pavement strains, seemingly attributable to the heterogeneity of pavement materials and variations in layer thicknesses. As a result of these findings, laboratory-scale investigations have been initiated to gain a better understanding of these sources of variability.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory from Roadway Construction: Case Study for the Washington State Department of Transportation
Authors: Ashtiani Milad Zokaei , Huang Monica , Lewis Meghan C. , Palmeri Jordan , Simonen Kathrina
Published: March 2024

Recent emphasis on actions to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions has pushed many state departments of transportation (DOTs) to develop carbon accounting practices compatible with their current standard data collection and storage guidelines. Once accurate and reliable accounting of GHG emissions is established, strategies can be formed that could help mitigate the adverse environmental impacts of materials used by state DOTs. To date, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has not conducted comprehensive research on the embodied carbon within its construction material usage (i.e., upstream Scope 3 emissions inventory of procured materials) with most previous carbon accounting practices being focused on Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions (i.e., the carbon footprint of direct and indirect energy usage). This paper summarizes the results of a life cycle assessment on the agency-wide material procurements and construction operations that emit GHGs at WSDOT as a case study. This study uses several data sources from WSDOT in conjunction with publicly available life cycle emissions factor data to estimate GHG emissions attributed to the materials used to build and maintain roadways under WSDOT’s jurisdiction. Results indicate that upstream Scope 3 emissions for WSDOT as an agency is a significant contributor to its overall GHG emissions inventory. Specifically, between 2017 and 2022, this paper estimates an average annual upstream Scope 3 emissions of 310,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalents, which translates to 56% of the total annual GHG emissions including Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
Interlaminar shear and impact properties of particle reinforced jute fiber/epoxy hybrid composites
Authors: Somsole Lakshmi Narayana , Gopalan Venkatachalam
Published: March 2024

In today’s world, there is a growing emphasis on using fiber-reinforced composites carefully across diverse sectors like automotive, construction, machinery and appliances. These materials are valued for their capacity to be efficiently repurposed, recycled or disposed of with minimal ecological consequences. Thus, integrating sustainable, eco-friendly and environmental mindful approaches into developing new materials and processes has become increasingly imperative. This study aims to analyze the impact strength, inter laminar shear strength and water absorption capacity of the jute fiber composite filled with the particles like alumina (Al2O3), boron carbide (B4C) and silicon carbide (SiC). The response surface methodology (RSM), employing three levels and three parameters, enables the identification of distinct combinations of input parameters essential for the fabrication of suitable polymer composites. The effects of process factors on interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), impact strength and % weight increase are examined. For each output measures, the connotation of the input parameters is determined by analysis of variance (ANOVA). To establish multiple performance indexes, a hybrid model called adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) based on Grey theory is developed. The model’s capability is validated and the results confirm the effective prediction of the preferred performance indicator.
The Peculiar Consensus and Racial Unconscious in Migration Scholarship on Korea
Authors: Lee Yeon-Hwa , Kim Jae Kyun
Published: March 2024

This paper argues that race must be a central consideration in understanding migration in Korea, where international migrants are rapidly reshaping the national landscape. While migration scholarship on Korea has analyzed various policy trajectories, it has predominantly focused on three aspects—liberal democracy, ethnicity, and gender—largely overlooking the significance of race. First, it assumes that liberal democracy will eventually supersede xenophobia without critically examining its assumptions that are both racialized and teleological in nature. Second, by prioritizing ethnicity, it interprets discrimination against migrants through the notion of uni-ethnicity and a fear of foreignness without delving into Korea’s deeply rooted fixation on race. Third, it overemphasizes gendered migration, regarding Korea’s demographic crisis as a primary reason for accepting migrant women as biological reproducers. This paper contends that all three aspects are intricately connected to race, including Korea’s aspiration for whiteness and abjection of blackness, which significantly shape migration dynamics.
Comprehensive analysis of a high temperature solar powered trigeneration system: An energy, exergy, and exergo-environmental (3E) assessment
Authors: Khan Yunis , Singh Deepak , Sharma Smriti , Gupta Shikha , Joshi SK , Tevatia Abhishek
Published: March 2024

In the present work, helium serves as the primary working fluid within the supercritical Brayton cycle, employed to generate power through a solar power tower system. The conventional Brayton cycle for recovering the wasted heat is combined with a cascaded vapor absorption-compression refrigeration system to increase the overall system’s performance. Additional benefits of this integrated system include the ability to supply enhanced heating and cooling for food storage applications at lower temperatures. A comprehensive analysis of the combined system was conducted based on exergy, energy, and exergo-environmental (3E) factors a using computational technique engineering equation solver. The combined system’s energy, exergy efficiency, and power output were determined to be 28.82%, 39.53%, and 14.865 kW, respectively. The coefficient of performances for cooling and heating were observed as 0.5391 and 1.539 respectively. Approximately 78.18% of the total exergy destruction within the entire plant can be attributed to the solar subsystem, which amounts to 22.763 kW. As direct normal irradiance rises, the environmental impact index decreases from 1.6504 to 0.6801, while the system’s environmental stability factor improves, increasing from 0.3773 to 0.5952. Moreover, the parametric assessment highlights the substantial influence of heliostat and receiver efficiencies, as well as the helium turbine’s inlet temperature, on the trigeneration system’s performance. In addition, compared to previously published research, the current proposed system outperforms supercritical CO2 cycle systems and the conventional steam Rankine cycle systems.
Evaluation of the performance of DLC Coatings (ta-C) of WC-Co tools while machining Al7075 alloy
Authors: Çakir Fatih Hayati , Yilmaz Anıl , Sert Zerrin
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the performance of DLC-coated 3-flute Ø 12 mm WC-Co (10%) end mills in the high-speed machining (226 m/min) of Al7075 Aluminum alloy, with high-pressure (20 bar) cooling applied in all tests focused on the cutting zone. Rolled blocks with dimensions of 150 × 350 × 150 mm were used as workpiece material. Slot milling was preferred as a test method for machining tests. Each end mill machined 757 slots with a length of 350 mm at a depth of 3 mm, and a total volume of 9150 cm3 was removed with each tool. In total, three groups of endmills were tested. A1 is a specially designed endmill for aluminum machining and was tested in an uncoated state, while A2 has the exact same geometry as A1 and was coated with tetrahedral amorphous carbon (ta-C), which is a form of Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating. Finally, the A3 endmill was tested as an industrial comparative designed for aluminum machining, which was also ta-C coated. Performance tests have shown that ta-C coating significantly prevented the formation of the built-up edge. In addition, it reduced the average bending moment on the tool by 20%–25% by acting as a lubricant. It has been observed that DLC coating reduces tool wear. It was determined that flank wear was reduced by 28% and rake wear by approximately 58% in the A2 tool compared to the uncoated tool. The DLC-coated tools also provided smaller chips and improved chip control.
Working cycle condition construction for electric wheel loader based on principal component analysis and cluster analysis
Authors: Ren Haoling , Xu Mingkai , Lin Tianliang , Chen Qihuai , Cai Shaole , Guo Tong
Published: March 2024

With the rapid development of new energy technology, cycle condition is significant for the design of powertrain system, whole machine economy, endurance, and other performance parameters of pure electric drive machines. Many cycle conditions of the passenger car industry have been defined. While that for the loader which has complex operation modes and working conditions, has less research on this aspect. Cycle conditions suitable for loader have not been constructed. To support the research and development of electric loader power system, the cycle conditions that can reflect the driving characteristics of electric loader are studied in this paper. According to the typical “V” cycle condition of loader, the actual driving condition data are collected and the kinematic segments are divided. The kinematic segments are grouped into five categories by using principal component analysis and K-means clustering algorithm to obtain the clustering center of each category. The working cycle condition is formed by extracting the combination of segments closest to the clustering center. Finally, based on AMESim simulation and whole machine test analysis, the error between the simulation and vehicle test results of the energy consumption is 3.4%. The accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed constructed cycle conditions are verified.
Diatom-based indications of an environmental regime shift and droughts associated with seasonal monsoons during the Holocene in Biển Hồ maar lake, the Central Highlands, Vietnam
Authors: Đào-Trung Hoàn , Fukumoto Yu , Nguyễn-Thùy Dương , Đinh-Xuân Thành , Nguyễn-Đình Thái , Unkel Ingmar , Nguyễn-Văn Hướng
Published: March 2024

The interactions of the different monsoon systems across Southeast Asia create extreme climate phenomena. Central Vietnam, located near the centre of this transitional region, has encountered numerous effects. As a result, its sediments from lakes or speleothems are valuable archives for interpreting past climate variability. However, there is still a lack of high-resolution paleoenvironmental and palaeoclimatic reconstructions during the Holocene in Vietnam. Our study presents a paleoenvironmental diatom-based record of sediment cores collected from Biển Hồ maar lake (14°03′N, 108°00′E) in the Central Highlands of Vietnam covering nearly the entire Holocene. Based on changes in diatom assemblages in the sediment sequence, we identified two periods of the Early Holocene (~11,700–7800 cal BP) and the Mid- to Late-Holocene (~7800–360 cal BP), which mark a remarkable shift in the environment around Biển Hồ. Alternations of key diatom species during the Early Holocene indicate intensity variations between water-mixing and thermal stratification mechanisms in meso-eutrophic conditions. During the Mid- to Late-Holocene, the complete dominance of Aulacoseira granulata var. granulata implies year-round destratification and intense mixing of the lake water column in a permanently eutrophic environment. Its morphological variability reveals intervals of dry environmental conditions driven by pronounced droughts across the Asian continent.
The polypill in the primary prevention of heart attacks and strokes: Overcoming barriers to implementation
Authors: Wald Nicholas J , Hingorani Aroon D , Vale Stephen H , Bestwick Jonathan P , Morris Joan
Published: March 2024

This commentary, linked to our paper in the same issue of the Journal of Medical Screening, discusses the reluctance to consider and adopt the polypill in the primary prevention of heart attacks and strokes, access to the polypill as a public health service, the formulation of the polypill in current use, its prescription as an unlicensed medicine, and what can be done to facilitate the adoption of the polypill approach as a routine public health service.
Comparing screening based on the NHS Health Check and Polypill Prevention Programmes in the primary prevention of heart attacks and strokes
Authors: Wald Nicholas J , Hingorani Aroon D , Vale Stephen H , Bestwick Jonathan P , Morris Joan
Published: March 2024

Objective

To compare the NHS Health Check Programme with the Polypill Prevention Programme in the primary prevention of heart attacks and strokes.

Design

Use of published data and methodology to produce flow charts of the two programmes to determine screening performance and heart attacks and strokes prevented.

Setting

The UK population.

Intervention

The NHS Health Check Programme using a QRISK score on people aged 40–74 to select those eligible for a statin is compared with the Polypill Prevention Programme in people aged 50 or more to select people for a combination of a statin and three low-dose blood pressure lowering agents. In both programmes, people had no history of heart attack or stroke.

Main outcome measures

In 1000 people, the number of heart attacks and strokes prevented in the two programmes.

Results

In the hypothetical perfect situation with 100% uptake and adherence to the screening protocol, in every 1000 persons, the NHS Health Check would prevent 287 cases of a heart attack or stroke in individuals who would gain on average about 4 years of life without a heart attack or stroke amounting to 1148 years in total, the precise gain depending on the extent of treatment for those with raised blood pressure, and 136 would be prescribed statins with no benefit. The corresponding figures for the Polypill Prevention Programme are 316 individuals who would, on average, gain 8 years of life without a heart attack or stroke, amounting to 2528 years in total, and 260 prescribed the polypill with no benefit. Based on published estimates of uptake and adherence in the NHS Health Check Programme, in practice only 24 cases per 1000 are currently benefitting instead of 287, amounting to 96 years gained without a heart attack or stroke.

Conclusions

The Polypill Prevention Programme is by design simpler with the potential of preventing many more heart attacks and strokes than the NHS Health Check Programme.
Symbiosis Evolution of Regional Knowledge Innovation Ecosystem: The Relevance of Lotka–Volterra Model
Authors: Su Yi , Yan Yuehan , Liu Chuanbin
Published: March 2024

Knowledge innovation is the driving force and guarantee of regional development. Inspired by population ecology, this article uses symbiosis theory to explore the symbiotic relationship of subjects in the regional knowledge innovation ecosystem. The nonlinear Lotka–Volterra model is constructed with the main subjects to measure the knowledge innovation ability of knowledge innovation subjects. The symbiotic relationships among the knowledge innovation subjects in each region are identified. Taking Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou as examples, a sensitivity analysis of the initial value and coopetition relationship is conducted. The results show that the initial value change has no significant effect on the development of knowledge innovation subjects. The interaction relationships among subjects directly affect the symbiotic evolution trend. The study extends the application scope of the symbiosis theory and develops a theoretical framework for the development of subjects in regional knowledge innovation ecosystem. It offers regions a reference to use Lotka–Volterra model adjusting the knowledge innovation structure in various regions.
Trends and Issues in Experiential and Outdoor Education Programs
Authors: Bobilya Andrew J. , Holman Tom , Lindley Betsy , Ayers Esther , Norton Christine , Smith Steve , Mitten Denise , Bell Brent J.
Published: March 2024

This brief article summarizes five trends and issues discussed during a moderated panel and round table discussion at the Association for Experiential Education (AEE) Symposium on Experiential Education Research (SEER) in November 2023. The aim of this session was to expand on prior documented trends and disseminate current experiential and outdoor education (EOE) trends, issues, and related research. These are only a few of the many EOE trends and issues but they represent both meta trends/issues and program-specific trends. This session was designed for scholars and practitioners who teach, provide program administration, and/or conduct research and evaluation efforts for EOE and related disciplines. Topics included cultural representation in the outdoors, trauma and mental health trends, safety II: a new view of risk management, nature and outdoor programming, and whether college outdoor orientation leaders should be paid. We hope that you, the reader, are inspired to consider what trends and issues are impacting your work and explore areas for future research.
Diagnostic Potential of Complementation of MRI to Prenatal Ultrasound for Detecting Orofacial Clefts in High-Risk Fetuses: A Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhai Jing , You Shuyan , Liang Zhonghua , Yu Haihua , Zhu Chengfeng , Han Lu
Published: March 2024

Objective

To compare the complementation of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to prenatal ultrasound (US) with prenatal US alone in detecting orofacial clefts in high-risk fetuses.

Design

A network meta-analysis.

Setting

Literature retrieval in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane library, and meta-analysis based on STATA 14.0.

Patients

Fetuses were at high-risk for orofacial clefts.

Interventions

Prenatal US and the complementation of MRI to prenatal US.

Main outcome measures

The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and area under the curve (AUC).

Results

Thirteen studies involving 776 patients were included. Direct meta-analysis showed that the complementation of MRI to prenatal US did not differ from prenatal US in detecting orofacial clefts if the type of orofacial clefts was not distinguished. Subgroup analysis showed that the specificity of prenatal US for the detection of isolated cleft palate (CP) was lower than that of the complementation of MRI to prenatal US. Furthermore, network meta-analysis consistently suggested a comparable diagnostic value between prenatal US and the complementation of MRI to prenatal US. Moreover, subgroup analysis showed that the specificity of prenatal US was significantly lower than that of complementation of MRI to prenatal US for the detection of isolated CP.

Conclusions

MRI is more accurate than ultrasound in detecting cleft palate. Therefore, MRI should be offered if there is a fetus with a possible or ultrasound diagnosis of cleft palate, especially if the evaluation of cleft palate is deemed unsatisfactory after careful evaluation of the images.
Work and Employment Practices in an Intriguing Sub-Saharan Context: Unpacking Salient Endogenous Traits
Authors: Nyiawung Julius , Smith-Auchmuty Adele , Piabuo Serge Mandiefe
Published: March 2024

Although cultural beliefs and practices have been shown as essential drivers of organizational employment policies and practices, the role of endogenous traits in managing employees in organizations in Africa has received less attention in research. We address this gap by employing an exploratory qualitative study approach to ascertain how Sub-Saharan African cultural norms and values shape the design and implementation of human resource management (HRM) in local and foreign-owned organizations in Cameroon. Data were drawn from key stakeholders, including human resource (HR) managers, trade union officials, staff representatives, and top management performing HR and strategy duties. The evidence delineates four major endogenous (socioculturally anchored) organizational HRM phenomena and their relevance for the organizations, employees, and the local community. This paper argues that the observed endogenous work and employment practices serve as the “glue” between organizational stakeholders, beget immense reverence, enhance employees’ experience and well-being, and are appropriate caryatids of modern organizational HRM in Africa.
Safety Assessment of Palm-Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Johnson Wilbur , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Peterson Lisa A. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Fiume Monice , Heldreth Bart
Published: March 2024

The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety (Panel) reviewed the safety of 8 palm tree ( Euterpe edulis (juçara) and Euterpe oleracea (açaí))-derived ingredients as used in cosmetic products; these ingredients are reported to function mostly as skin conditioning agents. The Panel reviewed relevant data relating to the safety of these ingredients in cosmetic formulations. Industry should continue to use good manufacturing practices to limit impurities. The Panel concluded that palm tree (açaí and juçara)-derived ingredients are safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration described in this safety assessment.
Prediction of mechanical efficiency of spur gear pairs based on tribo-dynamics model of multi-tooth meshing
Authors: Liu Lei , Kong Rong , Chen Zhiwei
Published: March 2024

The prediction of load-dependent losses of gear pairs is a topic of constant concern, which depends largely on the modelling of friction coefficient in tooth meshing. Although the current load-sharing based models can handle the friction coefficient in mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication regimes, dynamics behaviour of each tooth pair or the time variation of direction of normal contact load is not taken into consideration. This study proposes a new method for modelling efficiency of spur gear pairs in transient operating conditions by coupling the multi-tooth meshing model with the friction coefficient model. The friction coefficient is modelled through load-sharing function, and the gear dynamics model is established with regard to alternate meshing of single-double tooth pair and time variation of direction of normal load and mesh stiffness. The model is validated by comparing the calculated results of friction coefficients and load-dependent losses with experimental data in published literatures, showing good agreement. At the end, the efficiency model is applied to two types of gear pairs to investigate the influence of tooth shapes and operating parameters on the load-dependent losses of gear pairs.
Colorectal cancer survivors’ adjustment to permanent colostomy in Switzerland: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Mathieu Thierry , Cairo Notari Sarah , Fasseur Fabienne , Favez Nicolas
Published: March 2024

Colostomized colorectal cancer survivors present physical, psychological, and social difficulties after treatment, which complicate their return to normal life. Nevertheless, we lack insight into their lived transition experience after treatment in Switzerland. We led nine semi-structured interviews with participants who had a colostomy for a mean of 16.4 years. The participants’ mean age was 73.1 years. Through an inductive thematic analysis, we highlighted several adaptation difficulties. Their body image was poor, and they behaved differently than before the surgery. For fear of being rejected, they concealed their colostomy. However, they felt isolated and often wished for more support. They may be in a vicious circle where their difficulties are maintained. We advocate that supporting survivors psychologically beyond the end of their treatment is essential to facilitate adjustment and overcome cancer.
The challenges of open data sharing for qualitative researchers
Authors: Lamb Danielle , Russell Amy , Morant Nicola , Stevenson Fiona
Published: March 2024

‘Open Science’ advocates for open access to scientific research, as well as sharing data, analysis plans and code in order to enable replication of results. However, these requirements typically fail to account for methodological differences between quantitative and qualitative research, and serious ethical problems are raised by the suggestion that full qualitative datasets can or should be published alongside qualitative research papers. Aside from important ethical concerns, the idea of sharing qualitative data in order to enable replication is conceptually at odds with the underpinnings on most qualitative methodologies, which highlight the importance of the unique interpretative function of the researcher. The question of whether secondary analysis of qualitative data is acceptable is key, and in this commentary we argue that there are good conceptual, ethical and economic reasons to consider how funders, researchers and publishers can make better use of existing data.
Erotic capital and erotic dividends
Authors: Montemurro Beth , Hughes Elizabeth
Published: March 2024

Sexualities scholars have developed the idea of erotic capital, that is the characteristics that make someone sexually desirable in specific contexts. While much of the literature focuses on those who either possess or lack erotic capital, and how erotic capital manifests within sexual and dating situations, few studies pursue what happens after erotic capital is used to attract a partner or how individuals feel about others’ interpretations of their erotic capital. Therefore, we advance the literature by developing the concept “erotic dividends,” which we conceptualize as the yield or outcome generated from erotic capital. By exploring erotic dividends, we highlight the importance of recognizing that erotic capital is highly situational/dependent and we complicate assumptions that erotic capital routinely engenders beneficial sexual experiences. To explore erotic dividends, we draw on in-depth interview research on the development of sexual selves with samples of straight-identifying U.S. men and women in their 20s–60s conducted with straight men and women in the United States. We suggest that while some might possess erotic capital, this does not automatically guarantee they will produce benefits, and may ultimately reinforce broader structural inequalities, particularly those related to gender and race. Overall, we argue that the concept of erotic dividends helps to clarify how power, desirability, and inequalities operate within sexual situations.
The game of Ride-Pass in platform work: Implementation of Burawoy’s concept of workplace games to app-mediated ride-hailing industry in Poland
Authors: Mika Bartosz , Polkowska Dominika
Published: March 2024

The article provides an argument that the platform is the site of Burawoy’s workplace games. The game observed on the platform used a pattern quite similar to one diagnosed by Burawoy, successfully employing coercion and consent to control the workforce. Control on the platform has a general nature which combines technological, organisational and normative aspects. Work on the app is coordinated by adopting a co-optation strategy, reducing conflicts by enabling mobility, and remuneration from the platform is based on a piece-rate system. Yet, the modern game, labelled in the paper as Ride-Pass, is different from the one described by Burawoy. Due the game is taking place in the service sector, the article argues that it is structured around two mutually connected stakes: working time and self-recognition. The article contributes to the Labour Process Theory, supporting its conclusions with a long-lasting study among Polish platform workers (53 interviews with Uber’s drivers).
Voting for trade protectionist parties: Evidence from nine waves of the European Social Survey
Authors: García-Viñuela Enrique , Motz Nicolas , Riera Pedro
Published: March 2024

This article empirically investigates the impact of globalization on voting behavior. Specifically, combining individual-level data from the first nine waves of the European Social Survey, party-level information from the Comparative Manifesto Project, and country-level data from Eurostat, we study the individual determinants of the vote for trade protectionist parties. Our findings show, firstly, that protectionist parties mainly receive electoral support from less-educated voters, unemployed individuals, and members of labor unions. Secondly, we test the compensation principle using a macro measure of a country's compensation potential and find, contrary to expectations, no significant evidence that a greater potential to mitigate the labor market adjustment costs resulting from economic openness deters the propensity to vote for protectionist parties in national elections.
The Effectiveness of P6 and Auricular Acupressure as a Complimentary Therapy in Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting Among Patients With Cancer: Systematic Review
Authors: Alhusamiah Bushra , Almomani Jumana , Al Omari Ahmad , Abu attallah Ala’a , Yousef Afaf , Alshraideh Jafar Alasad , Zeilani Ruqayya S.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is one of the most prevalent and distressing side effects of chemotherapy among patients with cancer worldwide. Despite continuing advances in antiemetic medicines, nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy remain a substantial therapeutic concern for many patients. However, P6 and Auricular acupressure (AA) have been recognized as potential therapy for managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

Aim:

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of P6 and Auricular acupressure (AA) in reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting among patients with cancer. And to explore a prominent and effective evidence-based protocol for implementing acupressure to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

Method:

This systematic review was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Several databases were used to search for eligible studies using specific keywords. Only systematic reviews and clinical trials on acupressure for managing CINV among adults with cancer were included. This review covered articles published in English from 2015 to 2022.

Results:

A total of 14 published studies were included in this review study; 10 articles were trial studies, and the other 4 were systematic review and meta-analysis studies. The quality of 10 included clinical trials were assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) Quality Assessment Tool for quantitative studies, the overall result showed that 40% of study rated with moderate quality, no study was rated with low quality, and (60%) studies rated as high-quality study. As well as the quality assessment of all review studies showed that the majority of included systematic reviews and meta-analysis with a low risk of bias and high to moderate power of evidence. In all included studies the acupressure was utilized as a primary complementary intervention for chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting. The result of this extensive and comprehensive review the P6 and auricular acupressure is an effective complementary therapy in reducing and controlling chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting among participants with various types of cancer and receiving various types of chemotherapy.

Conclusion:

The successful and effective application of acupressure in managing CINV for certain types of cancer had been supported in previous literature as a safe, affordable, and non-invasive alternative to pharmaceutical medications. However, standardization guidelines regarding the use of acupressure independently or in combination with other pharmacological therapies to address CINV in various cancers require immediate attention.
Findings Favor Haptics Feedback in Virtual Simulation Surgical Education: An Updated Systematic and Scoping Review
Authors: Azher Sayed , Mills Aralia , He Jinzhi , Hyjazie Taliah , Tokuno Junko , Quaiattini Andrea , Harley Jason M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Virtual simulations (VSs) enhance clinical competencies and skills. However, a previous systematic review of 9 RCT studies highlighted a paucity of literature on the effects of haptic feedback in surgical VSs. An updated systematic and scoping review was conducted to encompass more studies and a broader range of study methodologies.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted on July 31, 2023, in MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane. English language studies comparing haptic vs non-haptic conditions and using VSs were included. Studies were evaluated and reported using PRISMA-ScR guidelines.

Results

Out of 2782 initial studies, 51 were included in the review. Most studies used RCT (21) or crossover (23) methodologies with medical residents, students, and attending physicians. Most used post-intervention metrics, while some used pre- and post-intervention metrics. Overall, 34 performance results from studies favored haptics, 3 favored non-haptics, and the rest showed mixed or equal results.

Conclusion

This updated review highlights the diverse application of haptic technology in surgical VSs. Haptics generally enhances performance, complements traditional teaching methods, and offers personalized learning with adequate simulator validation. However, a sparsity of orienting to the simulator, pre-/post-study designs, and small sample sizes poses concerns with the validity of the results. We underscore the urgent need for standardized protocols, large-scale studies, and nuanced understanding of haptic feedback integration. We also accentuate the significance of simulator validation, personalized learning potential, and the need for researcher, educator, and manufacturer collaboration. This review is a guidepost for navigating the complexities and advancements in haptic-enhanced surgical VSs.
Retrieval of broken K-wires by overdrilling using hypodermic needle
Authors: Li Hui , Liu Zhibo
Published: March 2024

Breakage of K-wires within the metacarpals and phalanges due to metal fatigue and overly aggressive joint movements are encountered occasionally. We established a simple and feasible technique for K-wire retrieval by overdrilling using a hypodermic needle.

Level of evidence: IV
Tripterygium Glycosides in the Treatment of Asthma: Integrating Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking and In Vitro Preliminary Pharmacological Evaluation
Authors: Gao Shuhui , Yan Min , Jiang Tianci , Lian Jingyao , Cheng Zhe , Zeng Huahui , Zhao Junwei
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The mechanism of tripterygium glycosides (TG) in the treatment of asthma was explored by utilizing network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vitro preliminary pharmacological tests.

Methods

An analysis of the bioactive ingredients of TG was conducted using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database database or predicted by FAFdrugs4, with relevant targets gathered from HERB, Swiss Target Prediction, STITCH, and SEA databases, and the targets for asthma were collected in Drugbank, DisGeNET, and GeneCards databases. Compound-target-pathway interactions and the function of putative targets were annotated by Cytoscape 3.6.0 and Database Visualization and Integrated Discovery, respectively. The affinity of the key ingredient and hub targets was assessed by molecular docking using AutoDock Vina software. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, cell-secreted cytokine assay, and ELISA were used to explore the effect of TG and its key ingredient triptolide (TP) for asthma.

Results

There were 12 bioactive ingredients in TG with 335 corresponding targets, 2672 asthma-associated targets, and 204 TG anti-asthma targets. TP and Tripterine were identified as the two key ingredients. RELA and TP53 exhibited the best topological index in protein-protein interaction network analysis and were regarded as hub targets. TG might play a role in biological processes such as lipopolysaccharide-mediated signaling pathway, regulation of nitric oxide biosynthetic process and mainly related to toll-like receptor, TNF and apoptosis signaling pathways. Molecular docking revealed that TP effectively bound to hub targets. In vitro experiments demonstrated that TG and TP reversed the RNA expression of airway remodeling marker CDH1 and FN. Moreover, TP reduced the secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor, implicating its role in airway remodeling.

Conclusion

TG might act on target genes RELA and TP53, utilizing the active ingredient TP, to regulate signaling pathways such as toll-like receptor, TNF, and apoptosis, thereby playing a role in the improving airway remodeling in asthma.
The impact of students’ individual differences on their communication apprehension in online classrooms: Empirical evidence from Iran
Authors: Aghaz Asal , Salmasi Soroush Dehghan
Published: March 2024

Hybrid learning is currently practiced in Iran’s Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), especially throughout the country’s business schools. Given the importance of Communication Apprehension (CA) as an inhibiting factor in student participation in online classrooms, this study aims to investigate CA in online classes among MBA students studying at the seven most prestigious Iranian business schools concerning their individual differences (the Big Five personality traits and demographic variables, namely, gender, year of study, and work experience). In this quantitative study, data was gathered through an online survey and analyzed using LISREL 8.80. The results indicate that extraversion and agreeableness negatively predict Communication Participation Avoidance (CPA) and Low Level of Communication Confidence (LCC) in an online class. While “neuroticism” predicts LCC and CPA positively and significantly, “conscientiousness” and “openness to experience” do not predict CA dimensions. The results demonstrate that the mean scores of LCC are higher for female students compared with male ones. The results of ANOVA tests also reveal that LCC is higher among first-year students. Finally, the accumulation of work experience reduces CA.
Online education and learning management system usage in a South African Economic and management faculty during COVID-19
Authors: Sims Danica Anne
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the rapid move of Higher Education from face-to-face to online formats worldwide; initially referred to as emergency remote teaching. As Higher Education transitions into a “new normal” of online and blended education, how educators had transitioned to online spaces at an historically Black and disadvantaged university in South Africa was explored; more specifically, how educators were using the Sakai learning management system (LMS)/virtual learning environment (VLE). This study investigated the instructional design and educational-soundness of online pedagogical practices. To this end, forty-eight (48) online undergraduate course sites from an Ecnomic and Management Sciences faculty were reviewed from nine departments and programmes, according to socio-constructivist and Universal Design of Learning (UDL) principles. It was found that Sakai LMS/VLE tool usage was skewed towards administrative, evaluative and management functions over pedagogical functions: communication (83%), evaluation (83%), content (71%), monitoring (67%), and collaboration (52%). While most courses included varied types of learning activities, they were dominated by traditional and passive approaches, and less inter/active approaches: acquisition (89%), practice (71%), production (64%), discussion (35%), collaboration (31%), and investigation (8%). The results from this study will guide future staff development initiatives to improve LMS/VLE instructional design and online educational practice. Future research includes qualitative exploration of both staff and student experiences. Implications for equity, social justice and transformation in South African Higher Education, and related contexts, are emphasised.
The roles of online courses’ design and evaluation in nursing student satisfaction with online learning
Authors: Rahmatpour Pardis , Nazari Roghieh , Sharif-Nia Hamid , Mohammad Ibrahim Maryam , Muhammad Ibrahim Fatima , Tayebi Myaneh Zahra
Published: March 2024

One of the essential criteria in determining the quality of online learning is student satisfaction, this study looked into the influence of infrastructures on nursing student satisfaction with online learning. In this cross-sectional study, 300 nursing students filled out the online questionnaire (demographic, student perceptions of an online course, student satisfaction) from September to November 2021. Multiple linear regression model showed that the remaining variables, namely the design and organization of online learning and student evaluation in online courses, explain about 69.2% of the variance of satisfaction with online learning ( p < .05). The critical criteria in determining students’ satisfaction with online learning are “how to design and arrange online learning” and “how to evaluate students in online courses,” among other things. As a result, optimal planning should focus on these two variables, particularly the student assessment system, in order to reach a better level of satisfaction.