bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variations of nitrous oxide procurement per public hospital bed between Australian states and territories: A cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Hu Elizabeth P , Burch Hayden , Kayak Eugenie , McGain Forbes
Published: August 2024

We aimed to identify variations in nitrous oxide (N2O) procurement between Australian states and territories per public hospital bed by undertaking a cross-sectional analysis of N2O procurement data for all Australian public hospitals from 1 January 2017 to 30 June 2022. Data were obtained from state and territory departments of health. All Australian public hospitals across six states and two territories were included. We obtained N2O procurement data from Department of Health representatives from all states and territories, accounting for all 697 Australian public hospitals and four public dental hospitals. The main outcome measured in this study was N2O procurement per public hospital bed by state or territory. Across the 5 years (1 January 2017 to 30 June 2022) an average of 242,054 (standard deviation (SD) 16,222) kg of N2O, equivalent to 64,144 (4299) tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions (CO2e), were procured per annum. CO2e emissions from N2O purchase varied more than threefold per public hospital bed between different states/territories (0.47–1.48 CO2e tonnes per hospital bed). There were significant variations in N2O procurement between Australian states and territories when adjusted for public hospital bed numbers. Further analysis of this variation to determine cause and to guide mitigation interventions is therefore warranted.
A pre and post interventional audit of an ‘apple juice on arrival’ protocol to reduce excessive clear fluid fasting times in paediatric patients
Authors: Webb Ashley R , Kalam Ikram , Lui Nicholas , Loughnan Rachael M , Leong Samuel
Published: August 2024

Many studies have reported prolonged fasting times in children, associated with negative metabolic and behavioural outcomes. We felt that although our paediatric preoperative clear fluid fasting guideline was only for 2 hours, prolonged fasting still occurred for some patients. We conducted an audit of paediatric fasting times, before and after introducing a new protocol of ‘apple juice on arrival’, in which, on arrival to the children’s ward, all children received 3 ml/kg of apple juice. Data were collected prospectively from patients and their parents for two 4-week periods (before and after introduction of the protocol). Data included fasting time (solids and clear fluids), capillary blood glucose levels, knowledge of fasting requirements and sources of fasting information before surgery. Thirty-nine and 40 children, respectively, were included in each group before and after protocol introduction. Clear fluid fasting times reduced from an average of 9.9 hours pre-intervention to 3.5 hours post intervention ( P < 0.01). In addition, mean preoperative blood sugar levels increased from 4.9 mmol/L (pre-intervention group) to 5.6 mmol/L in the post-intervention group ( P < 0.001). The implementation of an apple juice on arrival protocol appeared to be an effective method to reduce clear fluid fasting times in children in our institution.
Promoting behavioural change by educating anaesthetists about the environmental impact of inhalational anaesthetic agents: A systematic review
Authors: Nolan Brieana C , Hoskins Michael J , Phillips Bríd , Evans Kiah L
Published: August 2024

Of the total carbon footprint of Australia, 7% is attributed to healthcare. In the UK, inhalational agents make up 5% of the healthcare carbon footprint. This systematic review aims to determine which methods of education about the environmental impact of inhalational anaesthetic agents can be utilised to promote behaviour change, reducing the anaesthetic-related carbon footprint. This systematic review sourced records from CINAHL, EMBASE, ERIC, JBI and MEDLINE from 1970 to March 2022. The search identified 589 records, 13 of which met eligibility criteria after the screening process, in which 10 of these records were conference abstracts. Education curricula focused on inhalational agent choice (69%), lowering the fresh gas flow during maintenance anaesthesia (69%), encouraging alternatives such as total intravenous anaesthesia (23%) and/or switching off the gas on transfer (8%). The most common teaching techniques utilised in education curricula were didactic lectures (85%), visual prompts (54%), emails (46%), and conversation forums (31%). All but one study reported a positive relationship between teaching sessions and behavioural change resulting in lower inhalational anaesthetic use by participants and their organisations, reducing healthcare-associated emissions. This systematic review has demonstrated that single education sessions as well as multi-focused, multimodal education curricula on the topic of greener anaesthesia can be beneficial in promoting behavioural change.
Glucocorticoid signaling mediates stress-induced migraine-like behaviors in a preclinical mouse model
Authors: Hu Ya-Yu , Souza Rimenez , Muthuraman Athithyaa , Knapp Leela , McIntyre Christa , Dussor Gregory
Published: August 2024

Background

Stress is one of the most common precipitating factors in migraine and is identified as a trigger in nearly 70% of patients. Responses to stress include release of glucocorticoids as an adaptive mechanism, but this may also contribute to migraine attacks. Here, we investigated the role of glucocorticoids on stress-induced migraine-like behaviors.

Methods

We have shown previously that repeated stress in mice evokes migraine-like behavioral responses and priming to a nitric oxide donor. Metyrapone, mifepristone, and corticosterone (CORT) were used to investigate whether CORT contributes to the stress-induced effects. Facial mechanical hypersensitivity was evaluated by von Frey testing and grimace scoring assessed the presence of non-evoked pain. We also measured serum CORT levels in control, stress, and daily CORT injected groups of both male and female mice.

Results

Metyrapone blocked stress-induced responses and priming in male and female mice. However, repeated CORT injections in the absence of stress only led to migraine-like behaviors in females. Both female and male mice showed similar patterns of serum CORT in response to stress or exogenous administration. Finally, administration of mifepristone, the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, prior to each stress session blocked stress-induced behavioral responses in male and female mice.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that while CORT synthesis and receptor activation is necessary for the behavioral responses triggered by repeated stress, it is only sufficient in females. Better understanding of how glucocorticoids contribute to migraine may lead to new therapeutic opportunities.
Ten-Year Outcomes in Patients Aged 40 Years and Older After Primary Arthroscopic Treatment of Femoroacetabular Impingement With Labral Repair
Authors: Domb Benjamin G. , Owens Jade S. , Lall Ajay C. , Harris W. Taylor , Kuhns Benjamin D.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Arthroscopic labral repair has been shown to result in favorable short- and midterm outcomes; however, the durability of outcomes specifically in older patients remains underreported.

Purpose:

To (1) report prospectively collected hip preservation rates and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) at a minimum 10-year follow-up in patients aged ≥40 years after primary hip arthroscopy with labral repair and (2) perform a matched analysis comparing patients aged ≥40 years with patients aged <40 years.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Data were prospectively collected and retrospectively reviewed on all patients who underwent primary hip arthroscopy between February 2008 and December 2011. Patients aged ≥40 years who underwent labral repair were included. Preoperative and minimum 10-year follow-up scores were collected for multiple PROMs. Propensity score matching was utilized to compare these patients with a cohort of patients <40 years.

Results:

Of the 113 hips eligible, 91 hips (80.5%) on 85 patients (6 bilateral) had a minimum 10-year follow-up. There were 58 women (68%) and 27 men (32%) with a mean age and body mass index of 47.8 years and 25.8, respectively. The hip preservation rate for patients aged ≥40 years was 78%, with 20 patients requiring arthroplasty during the study period. There was significant improvement in all PROMs from baseline to minimum 10-year follow-up with high rates of achieving the minimal clinically important difference and Patient Acceptable Symptom State clinical outcome thresholds. In total, 69 patients aged ≥40 years were propensity matched to 107 patients <40 years. Patients ≥40 tended to have a lower hip preservation rate (81.2% vs 91.6%; P = .06), while patients in the younger cohort had significantly higher rates of secondary hip arthroscopy (14% vs 3%; P = .02). Improvement in PROMs was comparable between the groups.

Conclusion:

Patients ≥40 years who underwent primary hip arthroscopy with labral repair demonstrated a hip preservation rate of 78%, significant and durable improvement in PROMs, and high rates of satisfaction at a minimum 10-year follow-up. Matched analysis with patients <40 years revealed comparable improvement in patient-reported outcomes between the 2 groups, with a tendency to a higher level of arthroplasty in patients ≥40 years.
Prescription for Digital Evolution: Transformative Recommendations for Pharmacy Practice in the Digital Age
Authors: Ogundipe Ayomide , Sim Tin Fei , Emmerton Lynne
Published: August 2024

Increased administrative tasks, evolving expectations of care and advancement in practice scope have rapidly advanced digital health. Health policy has acknowledged the need for evaluation to determine the technological needs of clinicians, including pharmacists, to practice to full and top of scope. There is an emergent need for recommendations to address the technological transformation to enable community pharmacists’ practice. This study aimed to develop digital health recommendations, through expert consensus, for the government, pharmacy professional associations, pharmacy enterprises and software vendors, to facilitate community pharmacists’ practice. A modified Delphi survey was conducted online in February-March 2024. Pharmacists with digital health expertise were purposively recruited. Participants were asked to rate their level of agreement with the initial 24 research-derived statements in round 1. Consensus was defined a priori as ≥80% of participants strongly agreeing or agreeing with a statement and a standard deviation of ≤1.00. Review of participants’ free-text comments progressively reduced and refined the statements. All 22 participants completed the modified Delphi study in 3 survey rounds. Participants represented every Australian jurisdiction. Eighteen participants had more than 10 years of professional experience. Sixteen recommendations emerged: 6 for government, 2 for pharmacy professional associations, 4 for pharmacy enterprises and 4 for software vendors. The majority of recommendations require financial investment and harmonization of legislation across jurisdictions. Adoption of these recommendations, with significant investment across partners in the healthcare system and technology providers, will enable pharmacists to more effectively and safely practice utilizing technology solutions.
Risk Factors Associated With Acute Kidney Injury in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients Treated With Hypertonic Saline: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Briscoe Jessica , Van Berkel Patel Megan , Hicks R. Chace , Froehling Nadia , Hunt Darren , Parker Jessica , Carter Breanna
Published: August 2024

Background: Hypertonic saline (HTS) is essential pharmacologic treatment for traumatic brain injury (TBI). Previous studies associate HTS with acute kidney injury (AKI), however evidence in TBIs is limited. Objective: This study examines factors associated with AKI in patients requiring HTS for TBI. Methods: This retrospective study was performed at a Level-1 Trauma, Academic Medical Center. Inclusion criteria were TBI, age ≥12 years, ICU length of stay ≥72 hours, and administration of ≥24 hours of continuous HTS or 500 mL of HTS boluses. The primary outcome was identifying factors associated with AKI. Secondary outcomes included correlation between chloride load and level with development of AKI. Chloride load was calculated from HTS and non-HTS sources. Results: Of 129 patients included, 18 (14%) developed AKI. Maximum sodium level was higher in the AKI group ( P < 0.0001). Hyperchloremia (Cl ≥ 115 mEq/L) was more common in the AKI group (100% vs 81%, P = 0.0428). Maximum and change in serum chloride were higher in the AKI group (median 128 vs 123 mEq/L, P = 0.0026 and +24 mEq/L vs +17 mEq/L, P = 0.0084, respectively). Logistic regression analysis indicated an OR 1.095 times higher [95% CI (1.022, 1.172)] for developing AKI for every one mEq/L increase in maximum chloride level and an OR 1.032 [95% CI (1.006, 1.058)] for developing AKI for every 1-year increase in age. There was no difference in total chloride load between groups ( P = 0.2143). Non-HTS sources provided more than 40% of total chloride load in both groups. Conclusion: Chloride level, and age may be associated with AKI in TBI patients treated with HTS.
Modular reconfigurable rotorcraft for autonomous cargo delivery
Authors: Davis Joseph , Park Minje , Shapiro Isaac , Costello Mark
Published: August 2024

Traditional air mobility capability development consists of defining a set of requirements and subsequently designing an aircraft that satisfies these requirements. Once designed, the overall structure or topology of the aircraft is fixed. That is, the aircraft has certain fixed physical dimensions, number and sizes of rotors, engines, etc. The topology cannot be changed to accomplish missions outside of its original design envelope, and if designed for a robust mission spectrum, the aircraft may be inefficient during routine missions that do not require peak performance. The work reported here takes a different approach where a core set of components (fuselage, rotor, power plant, etc) defines the fundamental modules of the air mobility system. The modules were developed using mature and readily available technologies and designed to be quickly connected to other modules to assemble different aircraft configurations with widely varying performance characteristics. The aircraft can be reconfigured between missions to best satisfy mission requirements. Thus, the envelope of achievable performance characteristics is significantly expanded compared to a single aircraft. This concept is explored for autonomous air cargo delivery missions targeted for nominal payloads and ranges around 500 pounds and 500 nautical miles with maximum payloads up to 3500 pounds across shorter distances. Results indicate that for mission spectrums with large differences between nominal and maximum payloads and skewed towards smaller payloads, the operational cost per lb-km is significantly reduced using a modular and reconfigurable air mobility system since cargo delivery requirements can be better matched to an air vehicle system.
Mathematical modeling and experimental investigation of pressure characteristics inside the pilot stage of the deflector jet servo valve considering secondary jet velocity distribution
Authors: Ge Shenghong , Yang Hanhao , Cheng Wenhao , Zhu Yuchuan
Published: August 2024

Existing mathematical models for deflector jet hydraulic amplifiers cannot accurately describe the influence of the deflector motion on the receiver jet, which results in calculation differences for the receiver pressure. To deeply investigate this problem, the momentum transfer model considering secondary jet velocity distribution was used to develop an improved model that is more aligned with the actual state of the flow field. In this model, the receiver jet velocity is calculated, for the first time, with a maximum error of 18% when compared with existing models. To verify the improved model, the recovery pressures in the receivers were verified by numerical simulations and experiments. The verification results show that the model can accurately predict the recovery pressures in the receivers within an 8.1% maximum error. This model fills the gaps in the theoretical research and lays a foundation for the structural design of deflector jet pressure servo valves.
Fixing the Future? The Controversy Surrounding Tesla's ‘Gigafactory Berlin-Brandenburg’ as a Site of Contested Future-Making in Times of Climate Change
Authors: Mercante Thierauf Tamara
Published: August 2024

In late 2019, CEO Elon Musk announced that Tesla would be building its first European car factory in Grünheide. While the factory was constructed with much political support and heralded as an inevitable step towards Germany's energy and mobility transition in the media, a small but persistent opposition managed to turn the factory into a site of controversy: a controversy not just about the factory's impact on its immediate environment, but also about ‘the future’. Positioned at the intersection between science and technology studies and critical future studies, this article approaches that controversy as a case study for contested future-making at a time when the looming threats of climate change and environmental destruction are rendering the question of ‘the future’ ever more urgent. Relying on an analysis of publicly available materials such as media reports, recordings of press conferences and speeches, promotional material by Tesla and documentation of the factory's approval process, it asks how and why the future became so ubiquitous in the controversy. In doing so, it makes visible how different imaginaries of the future clash with each other, how they are narrated, made persuasive, materialised, contested, silenced, and enforced in the present. Ultimately, the article seeks to highlight the potential of the controversy to challenge taken-for-granted imaginaries of the future as predetermined by a linear path of technological development and to create the kind of political contestation in which alternative imaginaries might emerge.
Thorn-induced Injury of the Knee Mimicking Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis (PVNS): A Case Report
Authors: Kumar Nishith , Singh Dharmendra Kumar , Hassan MS , Rustagi Ashish , Batta Nafisa Shakir , Botchu Rajesh
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims:

Plain film radiography is the first imaging modality in the detection of most foreign bodies. However, it is not sensitive for detection of radiolucent objects such as organic material including plant thorns.

Case report:

Herein, we present the case of a 19-year-old male patient, presenting with an 8-month history of right knee pain and laxity, whose radiographic appearance mimicked that of pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) but was found to have a retained neglected plant thorn in his knee. Upon ultrasound evaluation for image-guided biopsy to confirm the provisional diagnosis of PVNS, he was found to have a retained neglected plant thorn in his knee.

Discussion:

Plant thorn injuries can present as knee synovitis, as in our case, and should be kept in the differential diagnosis. An ultrasound-guided removal is possible and is a useful minimally invasive procedure.
Association of Hand Grip Strength and Physical Fitness Parameters in Middle-Aged and Older Korean Men
Authors: Cho Yeong-Hyun , Seo Tae-Beom
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study was to assess whether hand grip strength (HGS) could be an effective indicator to estimate other physical fitness parameters in middle-aged and older men using large population data. Data for this study were obtained from the National Fitness Center operated by the Korea Institute of Sport Science (n = 429 572). The following were excluded from this study: women aged 44 years or younger (n = 238 257), repeated measurement data (n = 130 466), and errors or missing data (n = 6 497). The final sample included 54 352 participants (27 878 middle-aged and 26 474 older-aged). The highest overall physical fitness grade among participants was 5.6% (4.7%, middle-aged men; 6.6%, older men), the lowest was 52.1% (59.0%, middle-aged men, 43.9%, older men). HGS was positively correlated with flexibility (r = 0.183), muscular endurance (r = 0.354), and power (r = 0.463), in middle-aged men. In older men, flexibility (r = 0.227), and 30SCS (r = 0.385), were positively correlated; Timed Up and Go (r = −0.405), and F8W (r = −0.433), were negatively correlated. All physical fitness parameters were significantly higher in participants with normal HGS than those with low HGS. Our finding suggests that HGS is a predictive method for physical fitness variables and a useful biomarker for global public health.
Monitoring sedimentation of magnetorheological fluids using an infrared night vision wide-angle lens visual monitoring system with dynamic calibration method
Authors: Chen Shiwei , Yang Jie , Jiang Pan , He Yang , Zhang Honghui
Published: August 2024

Magnetorheological fluids (MRFs) have demonstrated remarkable potential in engineering vibration damping. Nonetheless, the substantial density difference between the dispersed phase and the dispersing medium causes inevitable sedimentation in MRFs, significantly affecting the material’s service life and restricting its engineering applications. Monitoring technology for MRF sedimentation plays a crucial role in comprehending sedimentation behavior and holds significant importance for the subsequent redispersion of MRFs. Consequently, the monitoring technology for MRFs has been gaining increasing attention in recent times. This study proposes a machine vision-based real-time and in situ monitoring method to test and evaluate the suspension stability of MRFs. Firstly, an infrared wide-angle night vision lens (IWNVL) is fixed at the side of a MRF column for capturing the sequential MRF images during its sediment process. Then, the gray values (GVs) could be obtained by utilizing Gaussian filtering and morphological filtering. Secondly, by combining the Kynch sedimentation theory and Lambert-Beer composite material optical transmission theory, an analytic model is established in this works to find the relationship between the MRFs’ concentration gradient to its GVs. In what follows, the concentration distribution varied with time could be tested by the GVs of the sequential MRF images. Finally, a sentimental experiment for prepared MRF column is carried out in this works, and the testing results are verified and discussed by a capacitance sensor and a simple visual observation. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method could accurately measure the concentration distribution during MRFs’ sedimentation process under different initial light intensities.
Renal Neoplasms with Concurrent Castleman-Like Regional Lymphadenopathy
Authors: Gama Alcino , Zhou Ruoji , De La Riva-Morales Ivan , Sosman Jeffrey , Isaila Bogdan , Chen Qing C , Lin Xiaoqi , Choy Bonnie , Chen Yi-Hua , Yang Ximing J.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Renal cell neoplasms are known to be associated with paraneoplastic syndromes, and the association with Castleman-like regional lymphadenopathy has been rarely reported. We aim to characterize the association between renal neoplasms and Castleman-like lymphadenopathy.

Methods

A search for renal neoplasms with concurrent Castleman-like lymphadenopathy in one single medical institution from 2000 to 2023 resulted in 4 specimens. A literature search for “Castleman” and “renal neoplasm” resulted in 8 reports. Patients’ demographics, clinical presentation, gross and histologic features, results of ancillary studies, treatment, and follow-up were evaluated.

Results

Our patients included 3 men and 1 woman, with a mean age of 60 years. Four different subtypes of renal neoplasms were diagnosed, including clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC), papillary RCC, chromophobe RCC, and mucinous cystadenoma of the renal pelvis. For Castleman-like regional lymphadenopathy, 2 were plasma-cell predominant, and 2 were hyaline-vascular. After a median follow-up of 84 months, all patients were alive with no recurrence or progression of Castleman-like features following nephrectomies.

Conclusion

Castleman-like regional lymphadenopathy should be considered in patients with renal tumors and lymphadenopathy. Although more prevalent in clear cell RCC, it can be also associated with other renal neoplasms. The concurrent lymphadenopathy was remitted following the renal tumor resections.
Humanizing AI in Education: A Readability Comparison of LLM and Human-Created Educational Content
Authors: Rashid Md Mamunur , Atilgan Nilsu , Dobres Jonathan , Day Stephanie , Penkova Veronika , Küçük Mert , Clapp Steven R. , Sawyer Ben D.
Published: August 2024

Generative AI (GenAI), specifically the Large Language Model (LLM), focuses on creating content like text, images, audio, or other data types similar to that created by humans. Advancements in various LLMs have accelerated AI development, potentially impacting various fields, including education. Can LLMs produce educational content with similar readability features as human-generated reading passages? This study compared readability measures such as reading speed, comprehension, and qualitative characteristics (familiarity, interest, and perceived quality) of 300-word 8th-grade level text passages authored by humans and ChatGPT3.5. We found that ChatGPT3.5-generated passages can be read faster with better comprehension than conventionally human-authored passages. ChatGPT3.5 passages were also rated higher-quality passages and had comparable ratings for interest and familiarity compared to human-authored passages. These findings implicate that the LLM enhances educational materials’ usability and effectiveness. More importantly, LLM offers scalability and consistency, catering to diverse learning needs for educators and students.
User Comfort in VR/AR Headsets: A Mathematical Investigation into Ergonomic and Functional Limitations of Eye Tracking Technology
Authors: Roberts Jasmine , Christian Steven
Published: August 2024

This case study focuses on quantifying the impact of saccadic eye movements in VR/AR environments, which differ from natural conditions and contribute to visual discomfort. We develop a predictive model based on VR/AR usage characteristics and suggest ergonomic improvements for these systems. Our methodology involves constructing a mathematical model to analyze saccadic phenomena and their relationship with visual strain, aiming to mimic natural eye movements to enhance comfort and promote wider adoption of VR/AR technologies. Key research questions include: (a) How do saccadic movements in VR/AR differ from natural conditions and affect visual discomfort? (b) Can we predict visual discomfort from these movements using VR/AR characteristics? And (c) What design changes can reduce discomfort in VR/AR headsets? We also stress the need for standardized metrics in testing VR and AR devices to ensure safety and comfort, advocating for industry-wide benchmarks to prevent health issues and enhance user experience.
The Design and Evaluation of an AR-based Adaptive Triage Training for Emergency Responders
Authors: Mohanty Ronak R. , Vyas Shantanu J. , Brenner Lindsey , Selly Peter , Nelson Cassidy , Krishnamurthy Vinayak R. , Moats Jason B. , Gabbard Joseph L. , Mehta Ranjana K.
Published: August 2024

Emergency responders often lack adequate training for mass casualty incidents due to cost and accessibility challenges, leading to poor coordination and fatalities. Extended Reality (XR) technologies offer accessible, cost-effective, and customizable training scenarios. However, their adoption is slow due to the lack of personalized, high-quality training integrating XR into emergency response scenarios. We have developed an adaptive training framework for AR applications like SALT triage to practice triaging skills with virtual patients in XR through spatial learning tasks, providing a personalized learning experience. This framework leverages user learning performance data, enhancing context and interaction-based learning experiences. Our evaluation with 15 public safety personnel shows higher knowledge retention, improved skills, and positive response toward adaptation. This suggests our adaptive training framework enhances the learning experience for emergency responders, improving skills and performance in real-world emergencies.
Examining the Effects of Embodiment on Working Memory Performance in VR
Authors: Wu Linfeng , Chen Karen B.
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the impact of immersive virtual reality (VR) environments on working memory task performance and the role of embodiment in VR. Sixteen participants engaged in N-back tasks presented either on a computer screen or in VR. Participants were assigned to one of four conditions: non-VR, VR without mimicking, VR with mimicking, or VR with mimicking and virtual mirror. Statistical analyses revealed no significant differences in sense of embodiment or task performance among the VR conditions. Additionally, there were no significant changes in working memory performance across conditions. While the findings suggest that variations in VR setups may not affect embodiment or task performance, the study’s preliminary nature emphasizes the need for larger sample sizes for more conclusive results. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and explore the effects of VR interventions on cognitive outcomes.
A Systematic Review on the Effect of Cognitive Fatigue in Teams
Authors: Brady Camden , Sawant Sarvesh , Madathil Kapil Chalil , McNeese Nathan
Published: August 2024

Teaming scenarios are beneficial for many complex tasks but can also encounter many challenges such as appropriate communication, coordinating with teammates, or fatigue. Cognitive fatigue has many negative effects on individuals such as impaired decision-making, reduced attention, and slower reaction times. This systematic literature review reports findings from 17 total articles on the effect of cognitive fatigue in teams. The review searched articles published from January 2016 to November 2023. The key findings suggest that cognitive fatigue significantly increases reaction time, increases the number of errors, and decreases the number of positive outcomes. To conclude, this study discusses potential implications of these findings to relevant domains, how they could relate to human-autonomy teams, and directions for future research.
One Game, Multiple Platforms: Enhancing Usability and Accessibility in Dead by Daylight
Authors: Codick Elizabeth , Donovan Jazmyn M. , Velazquez Enilda M. , Doheny Margaret M. , Mouloua Mustapha
Published: August 2024

In 2024, the online gaming community reached a staggering 1.17 billion users, necessitating a focus on cross-platform game development for consistent user experiences. This study investigates the usability and accessibility challenges present in Dead By Daylight (DBD), a popular online multiplayer horror game, across PlayStation4 (PS4), Personal Computer (PC), and Nintendo Switch platforms. Despite its global player base and extensive sales, DBD faces usability hurdles due to platform variations and diverse user demographics. By employing established usability principles and accessibility guidelines, this research identifies common issues impacting user experience and proposes solutions for developers. Key questions explored include usability issues across platforms, their impact on accessibility, and implications for developers and researchers. By evaluating tutorial effectiveness, in-game instructions, and interface consistency, the study aims to enhance DBD’s overall usability and accessibility, promoting a seamless gaming experience for players worldwide.
Enhancing Privacy Protection for Time-Series Signals in Ergonomics Studies via Data Synthesis
Authors: Qing Liwei , Jung Sehee , Su Bingyi , Lu Lu , Xu Xu
Published: August 2024

Electromyography (EMG) signal analysis is critical in understanding and treating work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Despite the increasing use of EMG signals combined with machine learning to assess biomechanical risks in various occupational settings, a significant shortage of extensive EMG datasets hinders progress. This shortage is primarily due to stringent data management plans and the limited availability of EMG datasets representing occupational tasks. To address this, our research leverages diffusion models to synthesize EMG signals tailored to manual material handling (MMH) tasks, aiming to enrich occupational EMG data repositories while maintaining data privacy. Using a conditional diffusion model with a residual U-Net architecture, we synthesized EMG signals for MMH activities such as pulling, pushing, and lifting. The synthesized data, evaluated across time and frequency domains, demonstrated fidelity to the original EMG signals, capturing distinct patterns and amplitudes characteristic of different tasks. Our findings highlight the potential of diffusion models in generating high-fidelity EMG data, providing a novel solution to the data scarcity challenge in occupational health research.
Exploring Attitudes Towards Smart Home Technology Through Focus Groups: Comparing Older Adults With and Without Health Conditions
Authors: Jain Poorva , Pendyala Swethasree , Etu Egbe-Etu , Zhang Zhi , Shah Minal , Larot Jordan , Huang Gaojian
Published: August 2024

General age-related declines in sensory perception, cognition, and physical abilities may impact older adults’ abilities to maintain independence. The development of smart home technologies can compensate for these declines and assist older adults in their daily lives. This study aims to understand the key challenges and opportunities in designing effective smart home products for older adults. We conducted a virtual focus group with 10 participants (five healthy and five with health conditions) aged 65 to 80 to explore their perspectives on smart home technology. These discussions revealed five key themes: concerns, barriers, perceived benefits, adoption motivators, and future outlook. It was interesting to note the similarities and differences that both groups proposed regarding various aspects influenced by their different health situations. Findings will inform future smart home design decisions and the development of more inclusive smart home solutions that support and empower senior citizens to lead independent and fulfilling lives.
The Impact of Transparency on Human-Autonomy Teaming
Authors: Gruber Mira E. , Hancock P. A. , Barber Daniel J. , Wohleber Ryan , Lyons Joseph B.
Published: August 2024

Trust is imperative for safe and effective human-automation relationships, especially in complex systems. Transparency, which is the communication of the automation’s behavior and intent to the operator, can be used to build trust in human-automation teams. The present study investigated the impact of transparency across the Human-Automation Teaming (HAT) lifecycle (pre-, during, and post-task) on human-automation trust, communication, and reliance. Participants engaged in a counter small-unmanned air systems simulation. They were randomly assigned to one of six conditions with different configurations of transparency (or lack thereof) across the lifecycle phases. Overall, we found modest outcomes for the influence of automation transparency across the HAT lifecycle on trust, situation awareness, workload, and task performance. While trust levels did not significantly differ across lifecycle configurations, there were notable impacts on situation awareness, task performance, and workload, particularly when transparency was absent during critical phases such as training and the after-action reviews.
Prolonged in-use physicochemical and biological stability of nivolumab and pembrolizumab diluted in saline infusion bags and in partially used medication vials
Authors: Arnamo A Hedvig , Pluim Dick , Huitema Alwin DR , Jacobs Bart AW , Beijnen Jos H , Nuijen Bastiaan
Published: August 2024

Aim/Background

The aim of this study was to determine long-term physicochemical and biological stability of nivolumab and pembrolizumab diluted in saline infusion bags and partially used medication vials. This may enable the prolonged clinical use of these expensive monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to minimize the economic loss.

Methods

Sterile nivolumab and pembrolizumab concentrates in partially used medication vials and compounded nivolumab and pembrolizumab infusion solutions were stored for two and four weeks, respectively, at 2–8°C in the dark. Subsequently, concentrates and compounded solutions were stored for an additional two weeks under ambient temperature and light conditions. A panel of validated and complementary methods, consisting of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, size exclusion chromatography, and dynamic light scattering, were used to assess the biological and physiochemical stability of these mAbs.

Results

All samples showed that purity and concentration had remained within the criteria of <5% as stated in the European Pharmacopoeia. Diluted in infusion bags, nivolumab and pembrolizumab remained biologically and physiochemically stable for up to four weeks when stored at 2–8°C in the dark with an additional two weeks of ambient temperature and light. Stability in partially used medication vials was demonstrated for at least two weeks when stored at 2–8°C in the dark with an additional two weeks of ambient temperature and light.

Conclusion

The findings of this study justify the storage and clinical re-use of sterile nivolumab and pembrolizumab in partially used medication vials and compounded IV infusion bags for up to six weeks. This minimizes the risk of economic loss due to waste. Moreover, these findings support the batch-wise compounding of fixed-dose and dose-banded nivolumab and pembrolizumab infusion bags.
AMReX and pyAMReX: Looking beyond the exascale computing project
Authors: Myers Andrew , Zhang Weiqun , Almgren Ann , Antoun Thierry , Bell John , Huebl Axel , Sinn Alexander
Published: August 2024

AMReX is a software framework for the development of block-structured mesh applications with adaptive mesh refinement (AMR). AMReX was initially developed and supported by the AMReX Co-Design Center as part of the U.S. DOE Exascale Computing Project (ECP), and is continuing to grow post-ECP. In addition to adding new functionality and performance improvements to the core AMReX framework, we have also developed a Python binding, pyAMReX, that provides a bridge between AMReX-based application codes and the data science ecosystem. pyAMReX provides zero-copy application GPU data access for AI/ML, in situ analysis and application coupling, and enables rapid, massively parallel prototyping. In this paper we review the overall functionality of AMReX and pyAMReX, focusing on new developments, new functionality, and optimizations of key operations. We also summarize capabilities of ECP projects that used AMReX and provide an overview of new, non-ECP applications.
Digital placemaking and its discontents: Exploring practices, power relations, and socio-spatial dynamics in Salzburg’s ‘Andräviertel’
Authors: Atteneder Helena , Lohmeier Christine
Published: August 2024

Recent research on digital placemaking shows that digital media, especially those that have a direct or indirect spatial reference, can alter belonging and attachment to space and place and can thus create a spatial identity. Emerging digital practices evolve the practice of placemaking and refer to space as a nexus of experiences, online and physical components. This is created by people perceiving urban space differently through digital media and appropriating it according to media affordances and their needs and preferences. At the same time, digital placemaking is not necessarily community-driven, nor does it always lead to an increased quality of life for all people equally, but rather encompasses changing power relations and can even reinforce existing inequalities. Using the example of the ‘Andräviertel’ neighbourhood in Salzburg, Austria, we explore which practices of digital placemaking can be identified, and how and by whom these practices are used purposefully and consciously to shape the neighbourhood and its identity. Employing a multi-method approach that includes semi-structured interviews, a hashtag analysis and the examination of digital platforms, three levels of practices were identified (reflecting upon one’s own practices, representations of the practices, judgements about the practices of others). The results show that there is a conscious and deliberate demarcation of the Andräviertel from other neighbourhoods in the city. Furthermore, we found resistance to excessive digital practices with a clear preference for face-to-face networks.
Conjuring algorithms: Understanding the tech industry as stage magicians
Authors: Nagy Peter , Neff Gina
Published: August 2024

In this article, we introduce the term “conjuration of algorithms” to describe how the tech industry uses the language of magic to shape people’s perceptions of algorithms. We use the image of the magician as a metaphor for how the tech industry strategically deploys narrative devices to present their algorithms. After presenting a brief history of the Western European and North American understanding of stage magic, we apply three principles of magic to a recent case: OpenAI’s discussion of ChatGPT to show how tech leaders present algorithms as magical entities. We argue that the conjuration of algorithms allows the tech industry to forge vivid, overly positive, and deterministic narratives that make it challenging for their critics to call attention to the very real harms that algorithmic systems pose to users. We call for discourses of reality instead of magic, as a way to support responsible technology design, development, use, and governance.
Human-automated collectives: Automating communication for social movement mobilization
Authors: Kwok Chi , Keung Chan Ngai
Published: August 2024

Central to algorithmically mediated activism is the politics of algorithmic (in)visibility. Activists must consider how they can increase the visibility of their claims. Bringing together critical data studies and social movement studies, this study introduces the concept of human-automated collectives to capture how activists strategically make collective claims about and through algorithms and mobilize algorithmic tactics on social media. Using Hong Kong’s Anti-Extradition Bill Movement as a case study, this study explores how activists interpreted social media algorithms, mobilized others to use various tactics to amplify their voice to gain algorithmic visibility, and contested counter-movement algorithmic strategies. We primarily drew upon a qualitative analysis of two pro-movement Facebook pages that shared algorithmic tactics published between July 2019 and January 2020 ( n = 694). The study contributes to theorizing the role of activists in decoding and contesting automated media for their practical purposes in connective action.
The social construction of datasets: On the practices, processes, and challenges of dataset creation for machine learning
Authors: Orr Will , Crawford Kate
Published: August 2024

Despite the critical role that datasets play in how systems make predictions and interpret the world, the dynamics of their construction are not well understood. Drawing on a corpus of interviews with dataset creators, we uncover the messy and contingent realities of dataset preparation. We identify four key challenges in constructing datasets, including balancing the benefits and costs of increasing dataset scale, limited access to resources, a reliance on shortcuts for compiling datasets and evaluating their quality, and ambivalence regarding accountability for a dataset. These themes illustrate the ways in which datasets are not objective or neutral but reflect the personal judgments and trade-offs of their creators within wider institutional dynamics, working within social, technical, and organizational constraints. We underscore the importance of examining the processes of dataset creation to strengthen an understanding of responsible practices for dataset development and care.
Exploring the impact of crises on rural agri-food SMEs: The moderating role of support mechanisms, digitalisation, and networking
Authors: Apostolopoulos Nikolaos , Kakouris Alexandros , Liargovas Panagiotis , Petropoulos Dimitrios , Anastasopoulou Eleni E.
Published: August 2024

Current studies focus on supporting enterprises to mitigate the impact of crises on their economic performance. However, further studies are needed to understand the challenges faced by rural agri-food enterprises in this context. The main objective of this study is to analyse the impact of food and raw material transport constraints on the perceived economic performance of agri-food small-medium enterprises due to financial and pandemic crises with the influence of the following moderators: support mechanisms, digitalisation and networking. A quantitative study was carried out on 404 rural Greek agri-food small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Results indicate that easy access to finance and subsidies had a negative effect on the relationship between transport constraints and perceived economic performance. On the other hand, the implementation of digital tools and networking opportunities improved the perceived economic performance of the enterprise during crises. According to the present findings, there is a need to review the existing processes of financial support for rural agri-food SMEs and to implement policies that will enhance the growth and sustainability of the agri-food sector amid global crises.
A 3D quick sketch algorithm in virtual reality for concept design in architectural studio
Authors: Yildirim Erdem , Akyol Altun Tutku Didem
Published: August 2024

The development of information technologies shows its effects in various design disciplines. Architects and students have been using these technologies for decades. However, traditional manual drawing methods are still frequently used in concept sketching. In this study, a rapid sketch modeling method has been developed in the Virtual Reality (VR) environment to be used in the concept phase of the design for the use in architectural education. Thanks to the visually scripted algorithm, it is now possible to make quick 3D sketches and view them in the concept design phase. In order to develop a solution to the difficulties in transferring two-dimensional sketches to three-dimensional models in amorphous form, the study proposes 3DQSA (3D Quick Sketch Algorithm), a rapid modeling method with hand movements using VR technology in the sketch phase of concept design in an architectural studio. The experiments demonstrate that 3DQSA is beneficial during the concept design phase in architectural education.