bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sense of Agency and Status-Subordination
Authors: Hargreaves Eleanore , Buchanan Denise , Quick Laura
Published: November 2024

In this chapter, we illustrate how the life-history methodology used in the CLIPS project assumed and allowed for the fact that every participant achieved agency in their lives: ‘In this way the individual is emphasized as an actor in relation to the social world … shaped by their individual life history and prior experiences’ (Etelapelto et al., Educational Research Review 10:45-65, 2013). Chapter 8 explores the much-debated concept of agency that lies at the very heart of our study as the core of wellbeing. Etelapelto et al. (Educational Research Review 10:45-65, 2013) explain how: ‘The concept of agency has … usually been loosely associated with active striving, taking initiatives, or having an influence on one’s own life situation’. In applying the concept to children’s schooling experiences, we suggest that agency, or the autonomous behaviour that reflects it, is made manifest when a school-child intentionally engages in learning about something they want to grasp. Being intentional, related to agency, suggests that a child grapples with challenging concepts or ideas because they choose to better understand and interact with their world and people within it and to believe that they can do so. This contrasts with having to carry out actions necessary for a pre-ordained performance goal which may not lead to their choice to master it or belief that they can. In this chapter, we illustrate, using children’s own words, their feelings of restricted competence, based on their grouping by attainment in mathematics and English, and how this related to a weaker Sense of Agency. We show how sometimes feeling excluded on the basis of attainment seemed to contribute to an inferior Sense of Agency. We illuminate occasions when children felt invisible or wholly ‘other’ because of lower-attainment and how this also seemed to curtail their Sense of Agency. A curtailed Sense of Agency made intentional engagement much less likely and ultimately limited their wellbeing. Some children came to dislike schooling intensely, enjoying only the social aspects. We illustrate their frustration when even the social aspects (e.g. playtime) were restricted or withdrawn.
Existence of solutions for time fractional semilinear parabolic equations in Besov–Morrey spaces
Authors: Oka Yusuke , Zhanpeisov Erbol
Published: November 2024

We consider the Cauchy problem for a time fractional semilinear heat equation "Equation missing"where $$0<\alpha <1,\, \gamma >1,\, N\in \mathbb {Z}_{\geqslant 1}$$

0
<
α
<
1
,

γ
>
1
,

N
∈

Z

⩾
1

and $$\mu (x)$$

μ
(
x
)

belongs to inhomogeneous/homogeneous Besov–Morrey spaces. The fractional derivative $$^{C}\partial ^{\alpha }_{t}$$

C

∂
t
α

is interpreted in the Caputo sense. We present sufficient conditions for the existence of local/global-in-time solutions to problem (P). Our results cover all existing results in the literature and can be applied to a large class of initial data.
Legal and scientific deficiencies of drug advertisements on German television
Authors: Philipp Malin , Seifert Roland
Published: November 2024

Drug advertising primarily serves to publicize the product and increase sales. The legal requirements in the Therapeutic Products Advertising Act (Heilmittelwerbegesetz, HWG) in Germany are intended to protect consumers. However, a lack of information about the potential negative aspects of drugs represents a risk for viewers. In this study, we analyzed a total of 52 advertising clips for drugs, food supplements, and medical products on public and private German television. These short films in the commercial breaks between the TV programs serve to publicize and advertise products. Furthermore, the corresponding package inserts for the drugs and the content and structure of the advertising clips were analyzed. The clips were compared with each other as well as about the mandatory information according to §4 of the HWG and §11 of the Medicinal Products Act (Arzneimittelgesetz, AMG). The study revealed that a large proportion of the mandatory information was not included in the advertising clips analyzed. Not all legal requirements were met in the package inserts either. Alarmingly, the advertising clips consistently contained only one of the mandatory information pieces, namely, the name of the product. Adverse effects were not mentioned in any advertising clip, and the effects of drugs were only poorly explained, if at all. Overall, scientific content of the advertisements was minimal if at all present. Instead, the airtime was dominated by emotional and attention-grabbing content in the form of a frame story, whereas the potential to educate people about medicines and raise public awareness remains mostly unused. Thus, drug advertisements on German television exhibit substantial scientific and legal deficiencies. In addition, we noted several legal gray zones in advertisements. The deficiencies in drug advertisement quality on television are, unfortunately, in line with quality deficiencies on drug advertisements in various other platforms (see., e.g., https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37792047/; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38430230/). Thus, the lack of rigorous implementation of the HWG is a general problem in Germany. We make specific suggestions on what actions should be taken to improve the implementation of the HWG in television advertisements to improve drug safety and consumer safety.
Preoperative hip abductor strength predicts discharge destination after total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Nojiri Shusuke , Kayamoto Azusa , Terai Chiaki , Tanaka Shinya , Osawa Yusuke , Takegami Yasuhiko
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to clarify the association between preoperative physical function and discharge destination after total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

This retrospective study included patients who underwent primary unilateral THA for hip osteoarthritis. Preoperative physical function was assessed via maximal isometric muscle strength (hip abduction and knee extension) and comfortable walking speed. The patients were divided into two groups according to the discharge destination (home or transfer to other facilities). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify preoperative physical function associated with discharge destination.

Results

Of the 174 patients, 120 were discharged directly to home, and 54 were transferred to other facilities. Those transferred to other facilities were significantly older, more likely to live alone, and had a longer operation time. In addition, they demonstrated lower hip abductor strength on both sides and lower knee extensor strength on the operative side. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that hip abductor strength on both sides, not knee extensor strength, was independently associated with the discharge destination. The largest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.668 for the hip abductor strength of the contralateral side. The optimal cutoff point was revealed to be 0.035 kgf·m/kg and 0.031 kgf·m/kg for the operative and contralateral sides, respectively.

Conclusions

Preoperative hip abductor strength, particularly on the contralateral side with a cutoff value of 0.031 kgf·m/kg, could be a predictor of discharge destination after unilateral THA. Our findings would be useful in planning rehabilitation programs.
A novel miniaturized potentiometric electrode based on carbon nanotubes and molecularly imprinted polymer for the determination of lidocaine
Authors: Hassan Saad S. M. , Fathy Mahmoud Abdelwahab
Published: November 2024

A novel miniaturized, solid-contact potentiometric screen-printed electrode was developed for highly sensitive and selective determination of lidocaine anesthetic. The electrode integrated single-walled carbon nanotubes as a solid-contact material and a molecularly imprinted polymer as a recognition sensory material. The performance characteristics of the electrode were evaluated and optimized to display a Nernstian slope of 58.92 ± 0.98 mV/decade over a linear concentration range of 4.53 × 10−7 to 6.18 × 10−3 mol/l within < 6 s. The detection limit was 7.75 × 10−8 mol/l (18.16 ng/ml) of lidocaine. The use of the molecularly imprinted polymer significantly enhanced the selectivity of the electrode, and carbon nanotubes increased the sensitivity, accuracy, and potential stability. The electrode was successfully used for determining lidocaine in pharmaceutical preparations and human urine. The results favorably compared with data obtained by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry.

Graphical abstract
Life Course Stressors, Latent Coping Strategies, Alcohol Use, and Adherence among People with HIV
Authors: Gill Amrita , Clum Gretchen , Molina Patricia , Welsh David , Ferguson Tekeda , Theall Katherine P.
Published: November 2024

People with HIV (PWH) have often experienced chronic stressors across their lifespan, including adverse childhood experiences (ACES), lifetime economic hardship (LEH), and concurrent stressors associated with living in urban areas (urban stress). Prolonged exposure to stressors might result in differential coping patterns among PWH that can impact care trajectories. We utilized a life course-informed approach to examine chronic stressors as antecedents of latent coping strategies among PWH in care. High-risk alcohol use and non-adherence to anti-retroviral therapy (ART) were examined as consequences of latent coping strategies. Data were utilized from the baseline and interim follow-up visit of the New Orleans Alcohol Use in HIV (NOAH) study. Three latent classes of coping strategies were identified: avoidance coping (31%), low-frequency coping (43%), and problem-solving coping (25%). Exposure to ACES was associated with greater use of avoidance versus low-frequency coping class at wave II. Urban stress was associated with greater use of avoidance coping compared to problem-solving or low-frequency coping classes at wave II. LEH was associated with greater use of low-frequency coping at wave II. Those utilizing low-frequency coping had a two-fold increase in ART non-adherence compared to problem-solving coping. PWH utilizing avoidance and low-frequency coping had a nearly two-fold increase in high-risk alcohol use versus problem-solving coping. These findings reveal important coping classifications that are linked to stressors across the life course of PWH. An understanding of coping styles and stressors may aid in improving the continuum of care among PWH by reducing alcohol use and improving medication adherence.
Healthcare Providers’ Perspectives on Autistic Adolescents Transitioning to Independent Driving
Authors: McDonald Catherine C. , Labows Christina , Myers Rachel K. , Sartin Emma , Yerys Benjamin E. , Carey Meghan E. , Mollen Cynthia J. , Curry Allison E.
Published: November 2024

Licensure is an option for some autistic adolescents and families that increases mobility by enabling independent travel to employment, school, and social activities. The objective of this study was to identify current strategies used by healthcare providers (HCPs) in their guidance to autistic adolescents and families on the transition to independent driving. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 HCPs. The team’s previous research, literature review and expert feedback informed the development of the interview guide. A content analysis approach was used in the coding of transcripts, nine of which were double coded. Study team members reviewed coded transcripts, provided and discussed narrative summaries, and identified themes. Interviews were conducted with physicians, social workers, psychologists, therapist and a nurse practitioner. HCP identified their perceptions of autistic adolescents’ strengths and weaknesses to be addressed in their individualized approaches. They described using clinical interactions as time to address licensure and driving, but also referred to specialists as needed. HCPs described using existing resources, but also provided a wish list of future resources. HCPs use an individualized approach for guidance in the transition to independent driving, considering the unique needs of autistic adolescent patients and families. These HCPs identified a clear need for tailored resources and guidance they can use in support of independent driving when appropriate for their patients and families.
Dupilumab in a 9-week-old with Netherton Syndrome Leads to Deep Symptom Control
Authors: Vollmuth Yannik , Alelq Narjes Abdulhameed , Sattler Franziska , Schmidt Susanne , Hauck Fabian
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Netherton syndrome (NS) is a rare inborn error of immunity (IEI) with an incidence of approximately 1:200,000 and the phenotypic triad of trichorrhexis invaginate (bamboo hair), congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma, and multiple atopic manifestations. Treatment options especially in infants are scarce and generally not licensed.

Methods

Case report of a 9-week-old infant with NS treated with dupilumab off-label.

Results

We report rapid and sustained resolution of allergic inflammation, deep symptom control including normalization of the skin microbiome, and catch-up somatic and psychomotor development without adverse drug reactions.

Conclusion

Due to the high complication rate of NS, especially in the first years of life, we recommend treatment with dupilumab off-label immediately after the diagnosis has been established.
Avatar-based versus conventional patient monitoring with distant vision: a computer-based simulation study
Authors: Milovanovic Petar , Braun Julia , Hunn Cynthia Alexandra , Lunkiewicz Justyna , Tscholl David Werner , Gasciauskaite Greta
Published: November 2024

Patient monitoring in the perioperative setting can be challenging, especially when monitoring multiple patients simultaneously or managing dynamic situations that require movement around the operating room. We aimed to evaluate whether avatar-based patient monitoring, which presents vital signs in the form of changing colors, shapes and motion, improves remote vital sign recognition compared to conventional monitoring. We conducted a prospective, single-center, computer-based simulation study to evaluate how anesthesia providers recognize vital signs when using the Philips Visual Patient Avatar at different viewing distances (8 and 16 m) compared to conventional monitoring. The primary outcome was the total number of correctly identified vital signs which were compared for the two distances and the two devices using mixed Poisson regression. We analyzed data from 28 anesthesia providers who participated in 112 simulations. The correct recognition rate using the Visual Patient Avatar compared to conventional monitoring at 8 m was increased by 74% (rate ratio 1.74, 95% CI, 1.42 to 2.14, p < 0.001) and by 51% at 16-meter viewing distance (rate ratio 1.51, 95% CI, 1.23 to 1.87, p < 0.001). We observed scenario-specific superior performance for six vital signs at 8 m. The results provide empirical evidence that avatar-based monitoring can significantly improve the perception of vital signs when using distant vision.
The Bank of Mum & Dad – intergenerational transfers and first-time homeownership in Australia
Authors: Cigdem-Bayram Melek , Whelan Stephen , Wood Gavin
Published: November 2024

Around 70 per cent of Australian households reside in owner occupied housing though ownership rates have begun to fall, especially for younger cohorts. Owner occupied housing generally represents the largest single asset in the household wealth portfolio and plays an important role in retirement planning and wealth accumulation. There is some anecdotal evidence that transfers from parents, often termed the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’, are an increasingly important mechanism to facilitate entry into homeownership. In this paper we consider transfers in the form of bequests and inter vivos gifts from parents and examine the relationship between transfers, wealth inequality and entry into first-time homeownership. The empirical analysis indicates that bequests and inter vivos transfers hasten entry into homeownership, potentially alleviating some important liquidity constraints faced by households.
Ultrafilter Extensions of Bounded Graphs are Elementary
Authors: Molnár Zalán
Published: November 2024

The main motivation of this paper is the study of first-order model theoretic properties of structures having their roots in modal logic. We will focus on the connections between ultrafilter extensions and ultrapowers. We show that certain structures (called bounded graphs) are elementary substructures of their ultrafilter extensions, moreover their modal logics coincide.
How accurately can ChatGPT 3.5 answer frequently asked questions by patients on glenohumeral osteoarthritis?
Authors: Youssef Yasmin , Youssef Salim , Melcher Peter , Henkelmann Ralf , Osterhoff Georg , Theopold Jan
Published: November 2024

Background

Conversational artificial intelligence (AI) systems like ChatGPT have emerged as valuable assets in providing accessible information across various domains, including the healthcare system. The use of ChatGPT may contribute to better patient education and better general healthcare knowledge. However, there is a paucity of data on the reliability of responses generated by ChatGPT in the context of specific medical diagnoses.

Methods

We identified 12 frequently asked questions by patients about glenohumeral osteoarthritis. These questions were formulated in both English and German, using common and medical terms for the condition, thus creating four groups for evaluation. The questions were then presented to ChatGPT 3.5. The generated responses were evaluated for accuracy by four independent orthopedic and trauma surgery consultants using a Likert scale (0 = fully inaccurate to 4 = fully accurate).

Results

Although there were two questions in two groups, all questions across all versions were answered with good accuracy by ChatGPT 3.5. The highest score on the Likert scale was 3.9 for the group where questions were posed in English using the medical term “glenohumeral osteoarthritis.” The lowest score of 3.2 was for the group where questions were posed in English using the common term “shoulder arthrosis.” On average, questions in English received a score of 3.5 on the Likert scale, slightly higher than those in German, which received a score of 3.4.

Conclusion

ChatGPT 3.5 can already provide accurate responses to patients’ frequently asked questions on glenohumeral osteoarthritis. ChatGPT can therefore be a valuable tool for patient communication and education in the field of orthopedics. Further studies, however, have to be performed in order to fully understand the mechanisms and impact of ChatGPT in the field.
Feasible estimation of weathering stability for free film acrylic coatings via dynamic mechanical analysis as the sole characterization method
Authors: Steinberger Felix , Hense Dominik , Rössler Albert , Strube Oliver I.
Published: November 2024

Weathering stability is a highly relevant materials property, especially for exterior coatings. Assessment of artificially or naturally weathered coatings is however still mostly subjective without distinct correlation between the formulation of a coating and its weathering stability. An aggravating issue in the industrial context is the often very sparse information on the exact chemical composition of materials by the manufacturers. In this study, a quantitative method to examine weathering-induced changes in coatings with limited chemical information is described, which is based solely on dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). This approach is applied to free films to eliminate possible influences of the substrate during the measurement. The effects of artificial weathering on three exemplary acrylic waterborne wood coatings are then examined and compared to the results of state of the art artificial weathering. Precisely, the impact of additional light stabilizer on mechanical properties, molecular weight, and Tg is monitored. For the exemplary systems, it could be shown that the molecular weight of the polymers decreases during artificial weathering, where the most prominent decrease was observed in the first 300 h. In the same time frame, E′ and E″ also decrease, while the glass transition temperature increased dependent of the formulation by 6–15°C. Remarkably, for coatings without light stabilizer an apparent two-staged degradation mechanism is observed, which leads to an increase of E′ and E″ after 600 h of artificial weathering, accompanied with an increased brittleness of the free film. The primary goal of this approach is to offer a tool for quick and systematic investigation of new coating formulations in the industrial context.
Filtration Behaviour of Ostrea edulis: Diurnal Rhythmicity Influenced by Light Cycles, Body Size and Water Temperature
Authors: Fabra Monica , Morrall Zoe , Helmer Luke , Watson Gordon , Preston Joanne
Published: November 2024

Despite the existing studies on oyster physiology, it is a concern that, by ignoring the diurnal rhythmicity of feeding activities, the current knowledge on oyster filtration might be unrepresentative of their real filtration capacity. In the present study, the diurnal and nocturnal fluctuations of Ostrea edulis clearance rate were investigated for the first time under laboratory conditions, also considering the combined effects of water temperature and oyster size. A positive correlation was found between the mean clearance rate (CRm) and body size for both length and wet weight, with an average of 0.5 L h−1 and 0.1 L h−1 of water filtered by large and small adult oysters respectively during the 24-h experiment. A positive significant correlation between mean clearance rate and water temperature was found only for large oysters, suggesting further studies utilising temperature ranges closer to O. edulis thermal optimum are required to clarify the influence of temperature on oyster filtration activities across different size classes. The results of this study also showed a discontinuous ingestion of food by O. edulis throughout 24-h intervals, with higher values of clearance rate observed during hours of darkness at most temperatures for both size classes. This suggests photoperiod may have a potential influence on O. edulis filtration. Providing a better understanding of O. edulis filtration behaviour, these findings have implications for ecological restoration, aquaculture, and comparative studies on oyster bioenergetics and physiology, with direct applications to the development of predictive models and the assessment of ecosystem services provided by O. edulis habitat.
Impact of serial clinical swallow evaluations and feeding interventions on growth and feeding outcomes in children with long-gap esophageal atresia after anastomosis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Jun-Li , Huang Run-Qi , Tang Chun-Yan , Wu Wen-Jie , Li Fei , Ren Tai , Wang Jun , Pan Wei-Hua
Published: November 2024

Background

Children undergoing surgical anastomosis for long-gap esophageal atresia (LGEA) often suffer from complications related to delayed oral feeding, which may impair their early development. Clinical swallow evaluation (CSE) is an effective technique to improve feeding outcomes. However, there are limited evidences on the application of CSE in these children.

Methods

Since 2020, serial CSEs have been consistently implemented for children undergoing anastomosis for LGEA in our hospital. We conducted a retrospective study comparing 19 children who received CSE with 31 historical controls who did not. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was applied to balance preoperative characteristics. We compared the time from surgery to full oral feeding and the rate of postoperative complications between the two groups. Growth curves for length-for-age Z score (LAZ) and weight-for-age Z score (WAZ) up to age 3 were fitted using generalized additive mixed models.

Results

The median time to full oral feeding was 1.1 months [interquartile range (IQR), 0.8–2.4] in the CSE group and 1.5 months (IQR, 0.6–5.7) for controls. After IPTW, CSE was associated with a shorter time to full oral feeding, with a weighted hazard ratio of 2.26 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.21 to 4.24]. LAZ growth curves significantly differed between groups (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

CSE was associated with the expedited achievement of full oral feeding and a more favorable growth pattern before 3 years of age.

Graphical abstract
Investigation of the influence of rain on pitot-static measuring systems of unmanned aerial vehicles
Authors: Tilmans Jan , Jackisch Sven , Moormann Dieter
Published: November 2024

For unmanned aerial systems with a maximum take-off mass of up to 25 kg, simple pitot-static tubes are predominantly used to measure the aerodynamic speed. In this work, the influence of rain on this measurement is investigated using representative pitot tubes of different diameters. In wind tunnel tests, water droplets with a diameter of about 3 mm are generated at a flow velocity of 10 m/s, which hit the pitot tubes at the total pressure bore. The observed disturbances sometimes last several hours and are equivalent to a total failure of the measuring system during flight operations. Phenomena are identified that influence the measurement of dynamic pressure in rain. It can be shown that both capillarity and the momentum of the raindrops play a decisive role in the type, severity and duration of the disturbance due to their relative movement to the tube. The further course of the disturbance is also influenced by the evaporation of liquid, both on and in the tube. In flight tests under rain conditions, the findings of the wind tunnel tests were qualitatively confirmed and additional disturbance patterns were observed.
Strategic Learning Principles Are Related to Academic Scores for Doctor of Physical Therapy Students
Authors: Reynolds B. , Minahan C.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) is a self-assessment of strategic learning principles with scores representing areas for growth. The purpose of this study was to measure LASSI scores at 2 points in time for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students in a 2-year hybrid program to see if scores changed after a science of learning course and two quarters of the program. The authors then examined the relationship between LASSI scores and academic scores (DPT program GPA, anatomy, and physiology grades).

Methods

Retrospective descriptive analysis of LASSI scores with comparisons between baseline and after a science of learning course and two quarters of the program using a paired t-test; bivariate correlations examined the relationship of LASSI scores to academic scores.

Results

Data was collected for 259 matriculated DPT students. Three of the 10 LASSI scales had significant change after the science of learning course and two quarters of the program; however, the effect sizes were small (0.2 or less). Anxiety management (t(258) = 2.340, p = .020) scores improved, while both concentrations (t(258) =  − 3.229, p = .001) and the use of academic resources (t(258) =  − 1.999, p = .047) had lower scores. There were several LASSI scores with significant correlations to academic scores (ρ = .132 to .431).

Discussion/Conclusion

LASSI was related to academic scores, although the strength of the relationship was low to negligible. LASSI showed small changes over time. There could be various reasons for scores improving or declining, but the awareness of scores and change in scores can provide a solid foundation for individualized coaching to DPT students as they navigate the rigor of a graduate level professional program.
Low-Temperature Fabrication of Stable Black-Phase CsPbI3 Perovskite Flexible Photodetectors Toward Wearable Health Monitoring
Authors: Zhao Yingjie , Sun Yicheng , Pei Chaoxin , Yin Xing , Li Xinyi , Hao Yi , Zhang Mengru , Yuan Meng , Zhou Jinglin , Chen Yu , Song Yanlin
Published: November 2024

Flexible wearable optoelectronic devices fabricated from organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites significantly accelerate the development of portable energy, biomedicine, and sensing fields, but their poor thermal stability hinders further applications. Conversely, all-inorganic perovskites possess excellent thermal stability, but black-phase all-inorganic perovskite film usually requires high-temperature annealing steps, which increases energy consumption and is not conducive to the fabrication of flexible wearable devices. In this work, an unprecedented low-temperature fabrication of stable black-phase CsPbI3 perovskite films is demonstrated by the in situ hydrolysis reaction of diphenylphosphinic chloride additive. The released diphenyl phosphate and chloride ions during the hydrolysis reaction significantly lower the phase transition temperature and effectively passivate the defects in the perovskite films, yielding high-performance photodetectors with a responsivity of 42.1 A W−1 and a detectivity of 1.3 × 1014 Jones. Furthermore, high-fidelity image and photoplethysmography sensors are demonstrated based on the fabricated flexible wearable photodetectors. This work provides a new perspective for the low-temperature fabrication of large-area all-inorganic perovskite flexible optoelectronic devices.
On-body sensing technologies and signal processing techniques in addressing safety of human machine collaboration
Authors: Haratian Roya
Published: November 2024

Safety is a challenge in human machine collaboration despite of the advantages in achieving efficiency, cost reduction and productivity in a collaborative scenario between human and machine/robot. During collaboration with machines, the user might not be able to follow the collaborative tasks as expected due to the cognitive burden causing potential safety concerns such as collision. Addressing this challenge, the aim of this paper is to explore the potential of on-body sensing systems in study of user experience and the psychological condition during the collaboration between machines and human. As the psychological condition is reflected in physiological signals, sensing technologies and signal processing techniques to extract features from physiological signals are explored with applicability in human machine collaboration scenarios. An experiment is designed utilising an industrial collaborative robot arm while quantitative and qualitative data is gathered for this purpose exploring the problem to study user experience and impact of mental strain and cognitive workload on user performance and experience during human machine collaboration. Results show that an adaptive machine to user experience measured by on-body sensing systems during the collaboration has the potential to address safety in human machine collaboration while improving performance and user experience.
Performance Evaluation of Post-Consumer and Post-Industrial Recycled Plastics as Binder Modifier in Asphalt Mixes
Authors: Lu Dai Xuan , Enfrin Marie , Masood Hassan , Giustozzi Filippo
Published: November 2024

This study aims to analyse the behaviour of asphalt concrete produced from recycled plastic-modified bitumen. This particular production process is known as the wet method, which involves the blending of low melting point recycled plastics, mostly polyolefins, in hot bitumen before mixing with preheated aggregate. Based on a comprehensive research study that investigated several recycled plastics for the wet method, two common low melting point plastics from two different collection streams were evaluated: a low-density polyethylene from post-industrial recycling operations and a source of commingled plastic (polyethylene and polypropylene) from the collection of post-consumer plastics. Plastic-modified bitumen was produced with different recycled plastic contents ranging from 0.5 to 6% of the bitumen weight. First, the storage stability of the plastic-modified bitumen was evaluated. Then, asphalt mixes were produced using the plastic-modified bitumen. The testing scheme included measurements of the compactability and densification behaviour of the mixes, moisture resistance, viscoelastic behaviour via the flexural stiffness test, IDEAL-CT test to evaluate cracking tolerance, fatigue resistance through the four-point bending beam test, and rutting resistance via Hamburg wheel tracking. The study found that adding a high plastic content significantly reduced the storage stability of the plastic-modified bitumen. Adding plastic was found to have a minor impact on the compactability, while it reduced the moisture resistance with increasing plastic addition and modified the viscoelastic behaviour of the asphalt mixtures. Finally, the study found that plastic provided benefits to the cracking and rutting resistance of asphalt mixtures to different extents depending on the plastic type and plastic content.
Practice and outcomes of endotracheal intubation in the emergency department: a retrospective observational study at a single institution in Bhutan
Authors: Tshering Ugyen , Wangdi Sherab , LeVine Shankar , Tenzin Karma , Choeda Tshering , Yeshi Sonam
Published: November 2024

Background

Airway management is a critical skill required in the Emergency Department (ED). We conducted an observational airway registry-based study to report the practice and outcome of endotracheal intubations in the ED at the national referral hospital in Thimphu.

Methods

All patients who were intubated in the ED and recorded on the registry data form between May 2020 to November 2022 were studied. Variables such as indications, type of physician performing intubations, success rate, complications, medications, and disposition were captured. Descriptive analysis was presented in frequency and proportions.

Results

There were a total of 336 intubations during the study period. First pass success rate was 87.80% and complication rate was 19.64%. 40 patients (11.90%) needed a second attempt and only 1 patient required a third attempt. Most intubations were performed by emergency medicine (EM) residents (54.17%), followed by medical officers (37.8%). Emergency Physician (EP) performed the least number of intubations, 27 (8.04%). During preoxygenation, 64.5% (n = 217) patients received positive pressure ventilations and 119 (35.42%) did not.

Conclusion

Physicians working in the ED are the primary airway provider. First pass success rate was 87.80%. 40 patients (11.90%) needed a second attempt and only 1 patient required a third attempt.
Behavioral strategies for reducing corruption: from regulation to choice architecture
Authors: Hortal Alejandro , Pérez Martínez Armenio
Published: November 2024

Traditionally, corruption is seen as a rational pursuit of profit, focusing on personal gain. However, this view overlooks other influences. This paper focuses on the behavioral aspects of corruption, providing a deeper understanding of its complexities, and addressing the factors overlooked by conventional approaches. Reviewing some of the literature, we highlight how researchers have approached corruption from the perspective of behavioral sciences. Additionally, we examine how the emerging discipline of Behavioral Public Policy (BPP) employs innovative methods to reduce corrupt practices, offering new strategies that transcend traditional perspectives. Our paper innovates by demonstrating how corruption can be reduced by substituting traditional regulations with nonregulatory tools like nudges and sludge audits, or by leveraging digital choice architectures to minimize human-to-human interactions, known corruption enablers. By reducing regulations and administrative red tape, and introducing digital frameworks, these tools simplify processes minimizing opportunities for corrupt behavior. In this paper, we aim to infuse corruption research with a behavioral twist, a digital approach, and a deregulatory perspective, offering policymakers an alternative path to foster transparency, accountability and ethical governance. While this approach will not completely eradicate corruption, it strives to show how BPP can reduce its occurrences.
Prevalence and Correlates of Likely Anxiety Disorder in Ghana During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence From a Cross-Sectional Online Survey
Authors: Oteng Kenneth Fosu , Wallace Lauren J. , Adu Medard Kofi , Lartey Kwabena Fosu , Arthur Joshua , Dwomoh Samuel , Owusu-Antwi Ruth , Tsali Diana Nunana , Larsen-Reindorf Rita , Agyapong Vincent I.O.
Published: November 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic created stressors to daily living, leading to increased mental health problems. It is important to assess the influence of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, specifically anxiety.

Objectives

The goal was to determine the prevalence and sociodemographic, clinical, and other correlates of likely Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) among study subjects in Ghana.

Design

This study employed a cross-sectional approach, using an online survey administered primarily through social media platforms. The survey questions included the GAD-7 scale, which was used to assess likely GAD in respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression analysis.

Participants

Overall, 756 respondents completed the survey, mainly from Ashanti and Greater Accra, which were the hardest hit by COVID-19.

Results

The prevalence of likely GAD in our sample was 7.6%. Gender, loss of job due to COVID-19, and seeking mental health counseling were independently associated with increased likelihood of GAD.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that women, those who lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and those who sought mental health counseling were more likely to experience moderate to high anxiety symptoms as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Priority must be attached to psychological support measures for members of these groups.
Diode-pumped high-power gigahertz Kerr-lens mode-locked solid-state oscillator enabled by a dual-confocal ring cavity
Authors: Zheng Li , Tian Wenlong , Xue Hanchen , Chen Yuehang , Wang Geyang , Bai Chuan , Yu Yang , Wei Zhiyi , Zhu Jiangfeng
Published: November 2024

Femtosecond oscillators with gigahertz (GHz) repetition rate are appealing sources for spectroscopic applications benefiting from the individually accessible and high-power comb line. The mode mismatch between the potent pump laser diode (LD) and the incredibly small laser cavity, however, limits the average output power of existing GHz Kerr-lens mode-locked (KLM) oscillators to tens of milliwatts. Here, we present a novel method that solves the difficulty and permits high average power LD-pumped KLM oscillators at GHz repetition rate. We propose a numerical simulation method to guide the realization of Kerr-lens mode-locking and comprehend the dynamics of the Kerr-lens mode-locking process. As a proof-of-principle demonstration, an LD-pumped Yb:KGW oscillator with up to 6.17-W average power and 184-fs pulse duration at 1.6-GHz repetition rate is conducted. The simulation had a good agreement with the experimental results. The cost-effective, compact and powerful laser source opens up new possibilities for research and industrial applications.
976 nm continuous-wave laser damage of Er:CaF2 crystals
Authors: Wang Haiyang , Wang Mengxia , Zhang Zhen , Zhao Yuanan , Li Dawei , Shuai Kun , Qiu Hailong , Zhang Zhonghan , Su Liangbi , Shao Jianda
Published: November 2024

Er:CaF2 crystals are crucial gain media for producing 3 μm mid-infrared (MIR) lasers pumped by 976 nm continuous-wave (CW) lasers owing to their low phonon energy and high conversion efficiency. This study investigated the damage characteristics and mechanism of Er:CaF2 crystals irradiated with a 976 nm CW laser. The laser-induced damage threshold of Er:CaF2 crystals with different Er3+ doping levels was tested; the damage morphology consists of a series of regular 70° cracks related to the angle of the crystal slip system on the surface. A finite-element model was used to calculate the temperature and stress fields of the crystals. The results indicated that the damage can be attributed to surface tensile stresses caused by the temperature gradient, and crystals with higher doping concentrations were more susceptible to damage owing to stronger light absorption. These findings provide valuable insights into the development of high-power MIR lasers.
Ediacaran paleobiology and biostratigraphy of the Nama Group, Namibia, with emphasis on the erniettomorphs, tubular and trace fossils, and a new sponge, Arimasia germsi n. gen. n. sp.
Authors: Runnegar Bruce , Gehling James G. , Jensen Sören , Saltzman Matthew R.
Published: November 2024

Ediacaran fossils, obtained in stratigraphic context in 1993, 1995, and 1996, with the assistance of A. Seilacher, IGCP project 320 scientists, and the Geological Survey of Namibia, are described for the first time. Most are from the Kliphoek and Buchholzbrunn members of the Dabis Formation and the Huns and Spitskop members of the Urusis Formation, Witputs subbasin, but a significant number, including Pteridinium, are from the Kliphoek Member, Zaris Formation, and the Neiderhagen Member, Nudaus Formation, north of the Osis arch, which separates the two subbasins. We extend the stratigraphic ranges and geographic distributions of several important taxa, including Archaeichnium, Ernietta, Pteridinium, and Swartpuntia, provide reassessments of the paleobiology of these and other organisms, and describe a new sponge—possibly an unmineralized archaeocyath—Arimasia germsi n. gen. n. sp. We also describe and illustrate various ichnofossils (including the oldest known traces from the Nama Group), narrow down the first appearance of Treptichnus in the Nama succession, and reinforce the idea that there was a prolific infauna of micrometazoans during the latest Ediacaran by naming and describing previously reported microburrows found on the surfaces of gutter casts as Ariichnus vagus n. igen. n. isp.

UUID: http://zoobank.org/8c267425-135a-4b0a-98b6-cf726515cbf2
HOW MANY TRIANGLES CAN A GRAPH HAVE?
Authors: KITTIPASSORN TEERADEJ , POPIELARZ KAMIL
Published: November 2024

We investigate the set

$T_{n}$

of the possible number of triangles in a graph on n vertices. The first main result says that every natural number less than

$\binom {n}{3} - (\sqrt {2}+o(1) )n^{3/2} $

belongs to

$T_{n}$

. On the other hand, we show that there is a number

$m = \binom {n}{3}-( \sqrt {2} +o(1))n^{3/2}$

that is not a member of

$T_{n}$

. In addition, we prove that there are two interlacing sequences

$\binom {n}{3} - ( \sqrt {2} + o(1) )n^{3/2} = c_{1} \le d_{1} \le c_{2} \le d_{2} \le \cdots \le c_{s} \le d_{s} = \binom {n}{3}$

with

$| c_{t} - d_{t}| = n-2-\binom {s - t +1}{2}$

such that

$( c_{t}, d_{t} ) \cap T_{n} = \emptyset $

for all t. Moreover, we obtain a generalisation of these results for the set of the possible number of copies of a connected graph H in a graph on n vertices.
Plasma potential shaping using end-electrodes in the Large Plasma Device
Authors: Gueroult R. , Tripathi S.K.P. , Gaboriau F. , Look T.R. , Fisch N.J.
Published: November 2024

We perform experiments in the Large Plasma Device at the University of California, Los Angeles, studying how different end-electrode biasing schemes modify the radial potential profile in the machine. We impose biasing profiles of different polarities and gradient signs on a set of five concentric electrodes placed 12 m downstream from the plasma source. We find that imposing concave-down profiles (negative potential radial gradient) on the electrodes creates radial potential profiles halfway up the plasma column that are comparable to those imposed on the electrodes and a few electron temperature in height, regardless of the biasing polarity. On the other hand, imposing concave-up profiles (positive potential radial gradient) leads to non-monotonic radial potential profiles. This observation can be explained by the current drawn through the electrodes and the parallel plasma resistivity, highlighting their important role in controlling the rotation of plasma. Concave-down plasma potential profiles, obtained by drawing electrons on the axis, are predicted to drive azimuthal drift velocities that can approach significant fractions of the ion sound speed in the central region of the plasma column.
An extended review of Maura Dykstra, Uncertainty in the Empire of Routine: The Administrative Revolution of the Eighteenth-Century Qing State. (Harvard East Asian Monographs Series.) Cambridge: Harvard University Asia Center, 2022. xxxv, 262 pp. ISBN 978 0 674 27095 4.
Authors: Zhou Lin
Published: November 2024

Maura Dykstra's 2022 monograph Uncertainty in the Empire of Routine: The Administrative Revolution of the Eighteenth-Century Qing State (Harvard Asia Center, 2022) has attracted controversy in the academic community. This paper analyses the book's use of documents from the Ba County Archive, held in the SIchuan Provincial Archive. While reviewing the monograph's arguments drawn from these materials, the paper also introduces the Ba Archives and the methodologies that may be employed to interpret them.
Playful framings of social robots in dementia care: reconsidering the principle of transparency in interactions with robot animals
Authors: Iversen Clara , Persson Marcus , Redmalm David
Published: November 2024

Research on social robots in dementia care has focused on their effects, for example in relation to the patients’ wellbeing or the care-givers’ working environment. Such approaches to social robots treat them as stable objects with a singular function. Combining social gerontology with social studies of science, the current study offers a new angle by asking: How do patients and care-givers in care homes for older people establish a shared definition of the situation in interactions involving robot animals? Drawing on ethnography and multimodal conversation analysis of 211 minutes of video recordings in two care homes in Sweden, we demonstrate the embodied work by which participants in interactions establish activities with robot animals. In contrast to the ideal of transparency in social robotics, we show that a central affordance of the robots is their vagueness, which allows for their inclusion in playful interactions. Playful framings of the robots highlight their social functions and downplay care-giver–patient asymmetries. However, situations where patients resist a playful frame actualise a dilemma of social inclusion, on the one hand, and the right to not participate in play, on the other. Showing this, the article contributes to knowledge on how people age with technology; in particular, it draws attention to the limits of an ideal of transparency when social robots are included in dementia care.
Seed set by artificial pollination and seed storage under cryogenic, freezer and dry conditions in the medicinal plant Uncaria rhynchophylla
Authors: Endoh Keita , Konagaya Ken-ichi , Matsushita Michinari , Taniguchi Toru
Published: November 2024

Uncaria rhynchophylla (Rubiaceae), a woody liana with significant medicinal value, has been used as a traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine. While effective seed production is required for breeding and efficient seedling production, the physiology of sexual reproduction remains largely unknown in this species. Therefore, we first observed the flowering behaviour, and next attempted artificial pollination using flowering individuals in a greenhouse. In this study it became clear that this species sets seeds by allogamy, but not by autogamy. The obtained seeds showed about a 90% germination rate. We also examined seed desiccation tolerance and storage conditions which are important to preserve the genetic resources. Seeds of this species were found to have a characteristic of the orthodox type, having high desiccation tolerance. Seeds after 6 months of storage at + 22, −20 and −160°C showed comparable germination rates to the seeds before storage.