bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The politics of electricity use and non-use in late Ottoman Istanbul
Authors: Ileri Nurcin
Published: February 2024

This article focuses on the earlier encounters and uses of electricity, its technology, and its infrastructure to understand how electricity formed a contested terrain of politics among the city’s varying actors, such as state officials, financial investors, and consumers, in late Ottoman Istanbul, roughly between the 1870s and early 1920s. I contend that people used electricity as a political tool in their everyday lives even before they could access it physically. Electricity skepticism during the reign of Sultan Abdülhamid II (1876–1909) increased Istanbul residents’ inclination for an electrified future; the longer the sultan’s prohibitions lasted, the more they fueled this inclination, causing problems about the use of electricity. In contrast to the previous regime’s skepticism about electricity use, the Committee of Union and Progress (1909–18) administrators considered electricity a public service that a larger population could use rather than a source of energy for a small, privileged elite. The first urban-scale power plant was completed in 1914. However, the inability to import technical equipment and raw materials due to political and financial troubles caused by World War I (1914–18) and the Occupation Period (1918–23) hampered electricity production and consumption, causing serious problems in electricity use on public and private scales. Amid the wave of challenges, the city inhabitants witnessed numerous unpleasant encounters with electricity use; some perished in tram accidents, while others became criminals. At a time when much of society viewed electricity as a vital element for progress and economic growth, the prevalence of crowded trams, tram accidents, blackouts, and instances of electricity theft within the Ottoman capital called into question the notion of electricity as a technological promise and public good. Consequently, the initial enthusiasm for electricity’s transformative potential waned due to tensions between expectations and daily realities, resulting in a cautious approach toward technological modernity.
Sexual Violence in Later Life: A Widespread and Growing Yet Hidden Public Health Issue
Authors: Hand Michelle D.
Published: February 2024

Sexual violence in later life and related trauma have been identified as a growing yet preventable public health crises, which disproportionately impact women. Research is limited and is continuing to emerge in this area, along with implications for addressing healthcare disparities, primarily among older women. In this paper, the prevalence of sexual violence in later life will be explored, along with survivor characteristics as they relate to structural inequality and health disparities. Consequences of sexual violence in later life will be explored as well, with implications for healthcare workers, focused on pressing needs for research, practice, policy and education at individual, relational, organizational and societal levels.
Exploring the Normative Structure of Finnish Soldiers’ Home Association: Understanding an Auxiliary Organization Through Volunteer Values
Authors: Mattila Jukka I. , Malinen Sanna K.
Published: February 2024

This article focuses on creating understanding of Finnish Soldiers’ Home Association (SODE) as an auxiliary organization. Drawing on the concept of organizations as normative structures, we explore how individual volunteer values contribute to shaping the functioning and actions within SODE. We took a novel approach that involved examining the values of SODE volunteers to understand the nature of the organization. We adopted an interpretivist lens and used an abductive logic of enquiry, drawing from existing research and new survey data from SODE volunteers. We show that SODE volunteers exhibit high pro-defense attitudes, patriotism, and security values. By understanding these values, we gain insights into the normative structure that guides the goals, means, and roles within SODE. This research contributes to literature on voluntary organizations in the field of military studies and highlights the significance of individual values in shaping and maintaining the unique nature of SODE as an auxiliary organization.
Design, modelling and control of a textile-based wearable actuating system with sensor feedback for therapeutic applications
Authors: Celebi Mehmet Fatih , Tuncay Atalay Asli , Atalay Ozgur , Gazi Veysel
Published: February 2024

This work proposes a textile-dominated wearable actuating system utilizing textile force sensor feedback. The study explores the liquid/gas phase transition behaviour of low boiling point liquids to develop a thermally driven fluidic soft actuator. The research also focuses on obtaining feedback through capacitive textile force sensors and developing a feedback control law for a single actuator as well as sequential actuation of multiple actuators. The findings demonstrate that the proposed actuators produce the desired pressure level utilized in mechanotherapy applications. Moreover, high accuracy is achieved by the capacitive textile force sensors specifically designed for detecting the applied force exerted by the textile-based actuators. The developed system constitutes a comprehensive textile-based system encompassing heating, actuation and sensing capabilities. Following the calibration of the developed system in conjunction with its sensor, a pilot-scale implementation of sequential massage application was conducted to showcase the system’s capabilities and potential. Considering its pressure and heating properties, the developed system exhibits a great potential for utilization in mechanotherapy as well as in thermotherapy applications.
Prescribed-time state-feedback stabilization of nonlinear systems with unmatched nonlinear terms
Authors: Min Huifang , Wei Zhicheng
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we investigate the state-feedback control for nonlinear systems with a prescribed upper bound of the settling time. First, a prescribed-time stability theorem using Lyapunov analysis and a uniformly bounded scaling function is proposed. Then, based on this theorem and the backstepping technique, a finite-time control procedure is provided for the uncertain nonlinear systems with unmatched nonlinear terms. Based on the design procedure, a state-feedback controller is obtained, which can render the system states exactly convergent to zero in a prescribed time and maintain at zero thereafter. Finally, simulation examples are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Better off solo? Comparative well-being of Māori employers, sole traders and paid employees
Authors: Houkamau Carla , Lilly Kieren , Newth Jamie , Dell Kiri , Mika Jason , Sibley Chris
Published: February 2024

Māori, New Zealand’s Indigenous people, are projected to make up over 20% of the New Zealand workforce in 20 years. Employment plays a big role in determining one’s well-being. Drawing on data from 2,378 Māori who completed the survey-based Māori Identity and Financial Attitudes Study in 2017, this article examines differences in subjective well-being between workers in three categories: paid employees, employers (who employ staff) and sole traders (with no employees). Several measures are used to capture well-being across multiple domains. Sole traders were significantly more satisfied with their standard of living and health and higher in self-efficacy compared to paid employees. Māori employers were significantly more satisfied with their standard of living, future security and personal relationships, and reported greater self-esteem and financial satisfaction than sole traders and paid employees. Although only one cultural context is examined, this article demonstrates the potential benefit of understanding the implications of self-employment for Indigenous peoples.
How Authoritarian Regimes Use Organizations to Solidify Control: A theory of pro-forma cooptation and an empirical test from reappointments to congress in China
Authors: Dobrev Stanislav D. , Cheng Zheng , Yang Xiaoyu
Published: February 2024

We know that, through lobbying and contributions, organizations systematically seek to influence political outcomes in liberal democracies. But what role do organizations play in an authoritarian regime’s strategy for remaining in power? We argue that in order to maintain stability and consolidate control, an authoritarian regime must actively work to preempt dissent and the emergence of oppositional challengers. When potential challengers are unknown ex ante, the best guess is that they may rise from the ranks of those who run economically powerful organizations. Ability to control these organizations then minimizes the risk of instability. One way in which the regime accomplishes this control is through pro-forma cooptation—the process by which organizational leaders are assigned to positions with nominal authority in the government, thus ensuring their allegiance. We develop a theory predicting which organizations will be targeted for cooptation and posit that absolute and relative size and industry context are the key determinants. Empirical analyses of reappointment to congress of senior business executives in China offer support for the theory. The findings also offer a way to think of cooptation that is different from the conventional view that it drives adaptation (because power sharing widens representation and vested interests). By contrast, pro-forma cooptation of prominent organizations under authoritarian rule reifies the regime’s dominance and solidifies its control, thus promoting inertia through the reproducibility of hierarchy in the social structure.
Evaluation of Smile Characteristics of Attractive Smile in Various Growth Patterns
Authors: Senthilkumar Akiladevi , Krishnan Prabhakar , Arasappan Raja , Muthukumar Karthi , Subramani Raja , Parvin Rehna
Published: February 2024

Objective

To investigate the dynamic aspect of attractive smile and smile parameters in different growth patterns.

Methods

Participants ranging in age from 17 to 25 years were randomly selected and videographic records of smile were obtained. A panel of two orthodontists, two prosthodontists, and two laypersons were involved in the selection of attractive smile. Inter-examiner variability was also assessed. The final sample of 84 participants with attractive smile were grouped into three categories based on clinical FMA into average, horizontal, and vertical growth pattern. Upper lip length = ULL-R, Lower lip length = LLL-R were measured on rest photographs. Upper lip length = ULL-S, Lower lip length = LLL-S, Upper lip thickness = ULT, Lower lip thickness = LLT, Maxillary incisal display = MID, Interlabial gap = ILG, Outer inter commissural width = ICW, Buccal corridor space = BC were measured on smile photographs. Pearson’s Chi-square test was done for the perception of attractiveness of smile. Differences among the three groups was subjected to one-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s post hoc test.

Results

Highly significant correlation was observed among orthodontists, prosthodontists, and laypersons in assessing attractiveness of smile. Vertical parameters such as upper lip length at rest, upper lip length during smile, lower lip length at rest, lower lip length during smile, and lower lip thickness (LLT) were significantly increased in the vertical pattern when compared with the average and horizontal growth pattern, whereas buccal corridor space was the least in horizontal growth pattern.

Conclusion

Growth patterns appear to have an influence on perception of smile esthetics and smile parameters. This suggests that care should be taken while framing treatment goals considering the significant differences among growth patterns. Strong correlation was observed among orthodontists, prosthodontists, and laypersons in assessing attractiveness of smile. ULL-R, ULL-S, LLL-R, LLL-S, and ΔULL show a significantly higher value in vertical growth pattern when compared to average and horizontal growth pattern. The buccal corridor space (BC) among the participants was the least in horizontal growth pattern.
From Humanitarian Intervention to Regime Change in Libya: Human Agency in the Production and Transformation of Global Security Assemblages
Authors: Robson Matthew
Published: February 2024

The paper examines human agency in the production and transformation of global security assemblages. A situated conception of human agency is elaborated theoretically through the reincorporation of key concepts from Gilles Deleuze and Felix Guattari’s original oeuvre, such as ‘bodies’ ‘desire’ and ‘affect’. Through this Deleuzoguattarian assemblage framework it becomes possible to distinguish between human/non-human and active/reactive forms of agency, while not losing sight of how human actions invariably take place within broader structures of signification. To showcase the utility and analytical potential of this approach, the paper returns to a paradigmatic case of global security cooperation in recent times: the military intervention in Libya of 2011. Through the assemblage framework advocated it is illustrated how the agency of the governments of the United Kingdom, France and the United States is crucial for making connections with other bodies in the production of a Libyan humanitarian intervention assemblage, and later bringing about its transformation into a Libyan regime change assemblage. More than this, it becomes possible to grasp how in fact both these processes form part of a single Western-led biopolitical-geopolitical strategy. The paper concludes by emphasising the political and ethical significance of an appreciation of human agency in global security assemblages.

De l’intervention humanitaire au renversement du régime en Libye : l’agentivité humaine dans la production et la transformation des agencements de la sécurité mondiale
Unsupervised Machine Learning of the Combined Danish and Norwegian Knee Ligament Registers: Identification of 5 Distinct Patient Groups With Differing ACL Revision Rates
Authors: Martin R. Kyle , Wastvedt Solvejg , Pareek Ayoosh , Persson Andreas , Visnes Håvard , Fenstad Anne Marie , Moatshe Gilbert , Wolfson Julian , Lind Martin , Engebretsen Lars
Published: February 2024

Background:

Most clinical machine learning applications use a supervised learning approach using labeled variables. In contrast, unsupervised learning enables pattern detection without a prespecified outcome.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to apply unsupervised learning to the combined Danish and Norwegian knee ligament register (KLR) with the goal of detecting distinct subgroups. It was hypothesized that resulting groups would have differing rates of subsequent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) revision.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

K-prototypes clustering was performed on the complete case KLR data. After performing the unsupervised learning analysis, the authors defined clinically relevant characteristics of each cluster using variable summaries, surgeons’ domain knowledge, and Shapley Additive exPlanations analysis.

Results:

Five clusters were identified. Cluster 1 (revision rate, 9.9%) patients were young (mean age, 22 years; SD, 6 years), received hamstring tendon (HT) autograft (91%), and had lower baseline Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Sport and Recreation (Sports) scores (mean, 25.0; SD, 15.6). Cluster 2 (revision rate, 6.9%) patients received HT autograft (89%) and had higher baseline KOOS Sports scores (mean, 67.2; SD, 16.5). Cluster 3 (revision rate, 4.7%) patients received bone–patellar tendon–bone (BPTB) or quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft (94%) and had higher baseline KOOS Sports scores (mean, 65.8; SD, 16.4). Cluster 4 (revision rate, 4.1%) patients received BPTB or QT autograft (88%) and had low baseline KOOS Sports scores (mean, 20.5; SD, 14.0). Cluster 5 (revision rate, 3.1%) patients were older (mean age, 42 years; SD, 7 years), received HT autograft (89%), and had low baseline KOOS Sports scores (mean, 23.4; SD, 17.6).

Conclusion:

Unsupervised learning identified 5 distinct KLR patient subgroups and each grouping was associated with a unique ACLR revision rate. Patients can be approximately classified into 1 of the 5 clusters based on only 3 variables: age, graft choice (HT, BPTB, or QT autograft), and preoperative KOOS Sports subscale score. If externally validated, the resulting groupings may enable quick risk stratification for future patients undergoing ACLR in the clinical setting. Patients in cluster 1 are considered high risk (9.9%), cluster 2 patients medium risk (6.9%), and patients in clusters 3 to 5 low risk (3.1%-4.7%) for revision ACLR.
The Mental Health of First Nations Children in Manitoba: A Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study Using Linked Administrative Data: La santé mentale des enfants des Premières Nations au Manitoba : une étude de cohorte rétrospective dans la population, à l’aide de données administratives liées
Authors: Chartier Mariette J , Brownell Marni , Star Leona , Murdock Nora , Campbell Rhonda , Phillips-Beck Wanda , Horton Mabel , Meade Chelsey , Au Wendy , Schultz Jennifer , Bowes John-Michael , Cochrane Brooke
Published: February 2024

Objective

First Nations children face a greater risk of experiencing mental disorders than other children from the general population because of family and societal factors, yet there is little research examining their mental health. This study compares diagnosed mental disorders and suicidal behaviours of First Nations children living on-reserve and off-reserve to all other children living in Manitoba.

Method

The research team, which included First Nations and non-First Nations researchers, utilized population-based administrative data that linked de-identified individual-level records from the 2016 First Nations Research File to health and social information for children living in Manitoba. Adjusted rates and rate ratios of mental disorders and suicide behaviours were calculated using a generalized linear modelling approach to compare First Nations children ( n = 40,574) and all other children ( n = 197,109) and comparing First Nations children living on- and off-reserve.

Results

Compared with all other children, First Nations children had a higher prevalence of schizophrenia (adjusted rate ratio (aRR): 4.42, 95% confidence interval (CI), 3.36 to 5.82), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; aRR: 1.21, 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.33), substance use disorders (aRR: 5.19; 95% CI, 4.25 to 6.33), hospitalizations for suicide attempts (aRR: 6.96; 95% CI, 4.36 to 11.13) and suicide deaths (aRR: 10.63; 95% CI, 7.08 to 15.95). The prevalence of ADHD and mood/anxiety disorders was significantly higher for First Nations children living off-reserve compared with on-reserve; in contrast, hospitalization rates for suicide attempts were twice as high on-reserve than off-reserve. When the comparison cohort was restricted to only other children in low-income areas, a higher prevalence of almost all disorders remained for First Nations children.

Conclusion

Large disparities were found in mental health indicators between First Nations children and other children in Manitoba, demonstrating that considerable work is required to improve the mental well-being of First Nations children. Equitable access to culturally safe services is urgently needed and these services should be self-determined, planned, and implemented by First Nations people.
Advancing Methodological Rigor for Psychosocial Aspects of Neuropalliative Care Interventions
Authors: Plys Evan , Grunberg Victoria A. , Vranceanu Ana-Maria
Published: February 2024

Background: Neurological disorders (NDs) have unique biopsychosocial-spiritual features that impact patients and their families. As a result, the subspeciality of neuropalliative care (NPC) emerged within the past decade and has grown exponentially in research and practice. Given the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes associated with NDs, psychosocial components (eg, coping skills) of NPC interventions are essential for improving the quality of life for patients and families. However, psychosocial components of NPC interventions warrant more rigorous testing to improve their evidence base and their likelihood of implementation and dissemination. Aim: In this commentary, we provide methodological recommendations with the goal of improving scientific knowledge and rigor for psychosocial components of multicomponent NPC interventions in clinical trials. Results: We emphasize the need for transparent reporting of psychosocial intervention components; using established models of intervention development to guide the development and testing of multicomponent NPC interventions; identifying mechanisms of action for psychosocial outcomes; and choosing psychometrically sound measures for mechanisms and outcomes. Conclusions: Given the importance of psychosocial care to the holistic NPC model, rigorous testing of psychosocial components of NPC interventions is a high priority for clinical investigators to advance the evidence base and practice of NPC.
Association of Body Mass Index with Multiple Organ Failure in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Phillips Timothy , Mughrabi Abdallah , Garcia Levindo J. , El Mouhayyar Christopher , Hattar Laith , Tighiouart Hocine , Moraco Andrew H. , Nader Claudia , Jaber Bertrand L.
Published: February 2024

Purpose: This study examines whether excessive adipose tissue, as measured by the body mass index (BMI), is associated with higher systemic markers of inflammation and higher risk of severe acute organ failure among patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods: This was a multicenter retrospective cohort study of 1370 hospitalized adults (18 years or older) with COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic. Patient-level variables were extracted from the electronic medical record. The primary predictor variable was the BMI at time of hospital admission, in accordance with the World Health Organization classification. Multivariable logistic regression analyses examined the association of BMI with the composite of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), as defined by the use of high-flow nasal canula, non-invasive ventilation, or mechanical ventilation, severe acute kidney injury (AKI), as defined by acute dialysis requirement, or in-hospital death. Results: After adjustment for important cofounders, the BMI stratum of > 40 kg/m2 (compared to the BMI < 25 kg/m2 reference group) was associated with higher odds for the composite of ARDS, severe AKI, or in-hospital death (adjusted odds ratio [ORadj] 1.69; 95% confidence interval [CI]1.03, 2.78). As a continuous variable, BMI (per 5-kg/m2 increase) remained independently associated with the composite outcome (ORadj 1.13; 95% CI 1.03, 1.23); patients in higher BMI categories exhibited significantly higher peak levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a systemic marker of inflammation ( P = .01). In a sub-cohort of 889 patients, the association of BMI with the composite outcome was no longer significant after adjustment for the peak level of CRP. Conclusions: Among hospitalized patients with COVID-19, a higher BMI is associated with higher risk of severe organ failure or in-hospital death, which dissipates after adjustment for CRP level. This supports the hypothesis that inflammation is a downstream mediator of adipose tissue on acute organ dysfunction.
Using genetic algorithm for drawing path planning in a robotic arm pencil sketching system
Authors: Shaw Jin-Siang , Lee Szu-Ying
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to implement a robotic arm pencil sketching system through a novel drawing path planning method. Firstly, to enhance the craftsmanship and uniqueness of the artwork, the original image is transformed into an animated style using AnimeGANv2. After image processing, the image is divided into boundary and background layers for drawing path planning. In the realm of path planning, traditional methods often involve manual path design by artists, and only recently have automated path planning methods been proposed. However, these recent approaches still have some limitations. For instance, a pursuit of efficiency can lead to overly uniform strokes, making the artwork resemble a print rather than a genuine piece of art. Therefore, this study introduces a new path-planning approach based on the traveling salesman problem (TSP), utilising various algorithms for path-planning experiments. Different stroke effects generated by distinct algorithms are applied to appropriate areas. The aim is to let the generated artworks exhibit the technological appeal of algorithms while retaining the distinctive characteristics of pencil sketches. For robotic arm control, a force sensor is integrated onto the arm, and a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller is employed to monitor and precisely control the drawing force. Experimental results demonstrate that artworks created using genetic algorithms to generate drawing paths exhibit distinct colour-layering effects, emphasising the characteristics of pencil strokes. In comparison with previous methods, this approach effectively addresses the issue of overly uniform and rigid strokes in past techniques.
Study on the mechanism of belt cord angle contribution to tire cornering power
Authors: Sun Lihong , Lu Dang
Published: February 2024

In this study, tests on the cornering and self-aligning stiffness of tires with various belt cord angles were conducted. Subsequently, a new cornering power model was developed to analyze the mechanism of the belt cord angle’s influence. It was observed that the cornering stiffness is influenced by the combined effect of the length of contact patch and the lateral stiffness of the belt, both of which are affected by the belt cord angle. Specifically, an increase in the belt cord angle leads to a longer contact patch, which results in an increase in the cornering stiffness. Additionally, an increase in the belt cord angle causes a decrease in the lateral stiffness of the belt. Consequently, the lateral flexibility of the carcass increases, leading to a decrease in cornering stiffness. Furthermore, the influence of the lateral flexibility of the carcass becomes more prominent with an increase in the load. As a result, under heavy loads, the cornering stiffness decreases with an increasing belt cord angle. It was also observed that the influence of the belt cord angle on self-aligning stiffness is mainly achieved through the impact on contact length, with self-aligning stiffness increasing as contact length increases. The torsional stiffness of the carcass, influenced by variations in the belt cord angle, does not significantly impact the self-aligning stiffness of the tire. These findings provide valuable insights into tire mechanics and offer guidance for the design and development of tires with enhanced cornering performance.
Empowering Minds and Bodies: The Impact of Exercise on Multiple Sclerosis and Cognitive Health
Authors: Zameer Ushna , Tariq Amna , Asif Fatima , Kamran Ateeba
Published: February 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a global health concern affecting around 2.6 million people. It is characterised by neural inflammation, myelin breakdown and cognitive decline. Cognitive impairment, especially reduced cognitive processing speed (CPS), which affects up to 67% of MS patients and frequently manifests before mobility concerns, is one of the disease’s most serious side effects.

Effective adaptation and the application of cognitive rehabilitation treatments depend on the early diagnosis of cognitive impairment. Although pharmaceutical therapies have some drawbacks, endurance training has become a promising alternative.

Intensity-controlled endurance exercise has the ability to delay the onset of MS symptoms and enhance cognitive function.

Exercise has also been shown to have neuroprotective effects in a number of neurological disorders, including MS, Parkinson’s disease and stroke. This includes both aerobic and resistance training. A mix of aerobic exercise and weight training has shown promise, especially for people with mild cognitive impairment, but according to recent studies any amount of physical activity is beneficial to cognitive performance.

In conclusion, this in-depth analysis highlights the crucial part endurance exercise plays in treating MS-related cognitive impairment. It improves not only neurological health in general but also cognitive performance. Exercise can help control MS in a way that dramatically improves quality of life and well-being.
Leveraging the Social Fabric to Improve Rural E-Commerce Access
Authors: Zhang Zihao , Garimella Aravinda , Fan Ming
Published: February 2024

Motivated by recent developments aimed to address last-mile delivery challenges in rural areas of Indonesia and China, we develop a theoretical model to study how to lower participation barriers to the e-commerce market. We analyze how stage stations lower the cost of last-mile delivery by leveraging the preexisting social fabric in rural communities, including local stores, as well as social technologies such as chat services and virtual groups. Specifically, we examine two models, a decentralized model with stage stations run by independent agents, and a centralized model, similar to the one pioneered by Alibaba Taobao. We find that when the delivery cost in rural areas is high, the decentralized model can lower the participation cost and increase both platform profit and social welfare. In general, the centralized model outperforms the decentralized one. One reason is that the decentralized model suffers from a double marginalization problem. The centralized model has more flexibility, for example, in determining the pricing policies for both sellers and buyers. It could offer free service to rural customers if the participation of fresh rural customers can attract many additional sellers. However, a centralized model may not be feasible in many countries. Therefore, we explore whether the platform can implement a coordination mechanism for decentralized stage stations. We find that our proposed coordination mechanism can improve the performance of the decentralized model. Our results have important implications for how e-commerce platforms can leverage stage stations and social technologies to lower participation barriers for rural customers, thereby creating a more inclusive development model.
Real-World Incidence and Severity of Hypertension Caused by Abiraterone Acetate in Patients With Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lam Brian , Rodgers Jo E. , Muluneh Benyam , Proco Darrian , Whang Young E. , Morgan Katherine P.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Abiraterone acetate (AA) is used in treatment of patients with metastatic prostate cancer. Despite the survival advantage, AA is associated with hypertension due to mineralocorticoid excess syndrome.

Objective:

We conducted a single-center retrospective analysis to evaluate the real-world incidence and severity of AA-induced hypertension.

Methods:

Electronic health records were used to collect baseline characteristics and prostate cancer history. Patient data, including blood pressure at each 4 (±2)-week interval, were collected for 24 weeks after the initiation of AA therapy. The primary endpoint was the incidence and severity of AA-induced hypertension. The secondary endpoints include effect of different prednisone dosing regimens and prostate cancer types on hypertensive incidence and the impact of clinical pharmacists’ involvement in managing AA-induced hypertension.

Results:

A total of 142 patients who met our inclusion criteria received AA for metastatic prostate cancer, 73 (51.4%) with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), and 69 (48.6%) with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC). Of all, 43.7% experienced all-grade hypertension, and 28.2% experienced grade 3-4 hypertension. There was no difference in incidence of hypertension between patients receiving 5 mg of prednisone daily and those receiving 5 mg of prednisone twice daily. All-grade hypertension occurred in 39.7% of mCRPC and 47.8% of mCSPC patients ( P = 0.33). Thirty-two percent of patients were actively managed by a clinical pharmacist and had an overall trend of reduced hypertension severity after 12 weeks.

Conclusion and relevance:

This single-center, retrospective cohort study found that real-world metastatic prostate cancer patients who received AA had substantially higher incidence and severity of hypertension compared with clinical trials regardless of prednisone dose. In patients with mCRPC and mCSPC, the role of prednisone dose in hypertension incidence and severity warrants further investigation. Overall, results indicate the need for closely monitoring hypertension and optimization of anti-hypertensive therapy by multidisciplinary teams in metastatic prostate cancer patients receiving AA.
Mittag-Leffler wavelets and their applications for solving fractional optimal control problems
Authors: Ghasempour Arezoo , Ordokhani Yadollah , Sabermahani Sedigheh
Published: February 2024

Herein, we design a new scheme for finding approximate solutions to fractional optimal control problems (OCPs) with and without delay. In this strategy, we introduce Mittag-Leffler wavelet functions and develop a new Riemann–Liouville fractional integral operator for these functions utilizing the hypergeometric function. The properties of the operational matrix have reflected well in the process of the numerical method and affect the accuracy of the proposed method directly. Employing the Riemann–Liouville fractional integral operator, delay operational matrix, and Galerkin method, the considered problems lead to systems of algebraic equations. An error analysis is proposed. Finally, some illustrative numerical tests are given to show the precision and validity of the suggested technique. The proposed method is very efficient for solving the OCPs with delay and without delay, and gives very accurate results.
“I Wish I had the Confidence of a Mediocre White Man”
Authors: Badley Graham Francis
Published: February 2024

In this narrative, I trace several elements encased in a recent article entitled ¿Quien Soy Yo? These include issues connected with personal and collective identity, feelings of alienation, feminism, confidence, and assertion. There is also a deep implication that some higher education academies do not try hard enough to welcome new colleagues, especially from minorities, into their institutions.
Expanding Outcomes in Cancer Screening Safety Net Programs: Promoting Sustainability and Policy Reform
Authors: Zumba Erica Martinez , Watson Karriem S. , Torres Paola , Williams Barbara , Mannan Nasima , Green Lauren , Owens Brenda , Gastala Nicole , Bueno Rocio , Soto Brenda , Carnahan Leslie , Molina Yamile , Henderson Vida
Published: February 2024

Community-engaged patient navigation safety net programs are established as an evidence-based approach to address cancer prevention and early detection efforts, but barriers to expand and sustain such programs persist. In addition, few studies describe how these programs impact buy-in among communities and policy change within health care systems and government. We describe how we used the Capacity for Sustainability Framework to guide efforts for program sustainability and community, institutional, and policy level change in a breast cancer screening and patient navigation safety net program. The nine domains of the Capacity for Sustainability Framework were used to develop program logic models, to inform program implementation and quality improvement agendas, and to guide multi-level partner and stakeholder engagement, outreach, and dissemination of outcomes. The program is currently in its seventh year and continues to be annually funded by a city public health department. In 2021, additional 5-year renewable funding from a state public health department was secured. In addition, institutional program support was expanded for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Program leaders worked with policymakers to draft legislation to support training certification and third-payor reimbursement for patient navigators and community health workers. The program is well-known and trusted among community members, community-based organizations, and providers. Community, organizational, and policy-level outcomes demonstrate that community-engaged patient navigation safety net programs can influence more than individual and interpersonal outcomes and can be sustained over time.
The Integrated Atlas of Dementia Care in the Australian Capital Territory: A Collective Case Study of Local Service Provision
Authors: Tabatabaei-Jafari Hossein , Furst Mary Anne , Bagheri Nasser , D’Cunha Nathan M. , Bail Kasia , Sachdev Perminder S. , Salvador-Carulla Luis
Published: February 2024

Background:

This study evaluates the dementia care system in a local area and aimed to include all specialised services designed to provide health and social services to people with dementia or age-related cognitive impairment, as well as general services with a high or very high proportion of clients with dementia.

Methods:

The study used an internationally standardised service classification instrument called Description and Evaluation of Services and DirectoriEs for Long Term Care (DESDE-LTC) to identify and describe all services providing care to people with dementia in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

Results:

A total of 47 service providers were eligible for inclusion. Basic information about the services was collected from their websites, and further information was obtained through interviews with the service providers. Of the 107 services offered by the 47 eligible providers, 27% (n = 29) were specialised services and 73% (n = 78) were general services. Most of the services were residential or outpatient, with a target population mostly of people aged 65 or older, and 50 years or older in the case of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. There were government supports available for most types of care through various programmes.

Conclusions:

Dementia care in the ACT relies heavily on general services. More widespread use of standardised methods of service classification in dementia will facilitate comparison with other local areas, allow for monitoring of changes over time, permit comparison with services provided for other health conditions and support evidence-informed local planning.
Expanding professionalism in popular music voice teaching: A framework synthesis
Authors: Keskinen Katri A. , Juntunen Marja-Leena , Nerland Monika
Published: February 2024

This framework synthesis investigates how notions related to expanding professionalism have manifested in recently published literature on popular music voice teaching. The reviewed literature was selected from a systematic mapping review conducted previously by the first two authors. The scope for the publication years was 2014 to 2020, and the included literature incorporated 64 titles of peer-reviewed articles, academic book and handbook chapters, and doctoral dissertations. The initial framework considered scholarship on expanding professionalism, and the directive themes for coding included forms of expertise and knowledge building, social and societal responsibility, and agency related to change. The data were examined from individual, societal, and institutional perspectives. The findings showed that notions related to expanding professionalism are used as means of legitimizing the academically emerging field. However, the professional development work results mostly from the agency of individual practitioners. Thus, support from higher music education institutes and professional organizations is needed to enable the professional sustainability of such practices and further the societal relevance of these institutional actors. This study contributes to the recent scholarship on expanding professionalism in music and music education. The emergent framework resulting from this synthesis can inform further empirical studies.
Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for multiple sclerosis: Long-term follow-up data from Norway
Authors: Kvistad Christopher Elnan , Lehmann Anne Kristine , Kvistad Silje Agnethe Stokke , Holmøy Trygve , Lorentzen Åslaug Rudjord , Trovik Linn Hereide , Kristoffersen Einar Klæboe , Bø Lars , Torkildsen Øivind
Published: February 2024

Background:

Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a potent treatment option for patients with aggressive relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

Objective:

To evaluate long-term outcomes of HSCT in MS.

Methods:

National retrospective single-center observational study of patients with aggressive RRMS that underwent HSCT in Norway from January 2015 to January 2018. Criteria for receiving HSCT included at least two clinical relapses the last year while on disease modifying treatment (DMT).

Results:

In total, 29 patients, with a mean follow-up time of 70 months (standard deviation:14.3), were evaluated. Twenty patients (69%) had sustained no evidence of disease activity (NEDA-3) status, 24 (83%) were relapse-free, 23 (79%) free of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) activity, and 26 (90%) free of progression. Number of patients working full-time increased from 1 (3%), before HSCT, to 10 (33%) after 2 years and 15 (52%) after 5 years.

Conclusion:

HSCT offers long-term disease-free survival with successively increasing work participation in patients with aggressive MS resistant to DMTs.
Does haze pollution governance promote the growth of urban tourism economies? Evidence from China’s Clean Air Act
Authors: Gu Fangfang , Liu Xiaohong , Cao Yaru , Wang Qunwei
Published: February 2024

Haze pollution has caused huge losses to the tourism industry, but China’s Clean Air Act (CAA), implemented in 2013, provides an important opportunity for the tourism industry to recover. Using a difference-in-differences model and panel data across 275 prefecture-level cities, we investigate the effects of the CAA on their urban tourism economies. The results confirm significant positive effects of the CAA mainly through adjusting the urban industrial structures and stimulating technological innovation. However, there is significant heterogeneity of the policy effects. The CAA plays a greater role in promoting the tourism economies of small-scale cities and non-first-tier cities. In addition, domestic tourism is more affected than inbound tourism. Our findings verify the positive effects of China’s haze pollution governance and provide theoretical evidence for the cities to promote the high-quality development of their tourism economies.
Response analysis of the vibro-impact system under fractional-order joint random excitation
Authors: Wang Jun , Yang Zijian , Sun Wanqi , Zhang Jianchao
Published: February 2024

As a kind of good damping material, viscoelastic material is widely used in machinery, civil engineering, and other fields. In this paper, the viscoelasticity of the system is described by fractional differentiation. The dynamic response of a unilateral vibro-impact system with a viscoelastic oscillator under joint random excitation is studied, in which joint random excitation is composed of additive and multiplicative white noise. The fractional-order derivative was calculated based on Caputo’s definition, and the fractional derivative was equivalent to the corresponding linear damping force and linear restoring force. As a result, a new random system without fractional-order terms was obtained. A non-smooth transformation was introduced, which was equivalent to the original system to a new system without a velocity jump. The steady-state probability density functions of fractional-order vibro-impact systems under joint random excitation are solved by using the random average method and non-smooth transformation. In addition, the effects of parameters on the steady-state response of the system are analyzed.
From sublime awe to abject cringe: on the embodied processing of AI art
Authors: Denson Shane
Published: February 2024

This article urges a reorientation in thinking about AI art (and AI more generally), shifting from the common focus on computational ‘intelligence’ to the embodied, metabolic processing that takes place in our encounters with (moving-image) artworks produced with machine-learning algorithms. Drawing on Merleau-Ponty’s corporeal phenomenology, the article argues that spectators’ bodies act as filters, distilling visual phenomena from a range of extraperceptual facets of these works; in particular, bodies react to invisible algorithmic infrastructures, which, in the case of machine learning algorithms, also operate as filters in their own right. The collision of metabolic and computational microtemporal operations calls forth a number of embodied affects, ranging from sublime awe to disorientation, cringe, and uncanny feelings of relational and environmental entanglement. These themes are explored through the work of four contemporary artists working with AI: Ian Cheng, Refik Anadol, Jon Rafman, and Yvette Granata. In conversation with these artists, the author explores our bodily responses to AI-generated imagery in an attempt to better understand the stakes, as well as the underlying mechanisms, of the new technology’s transformation of our visual culture.
Earth as image and operation
Authors: Bazdyrieva Asia , Norton Bryan , Parikka Jussi
Published: February 2024

In this interview, scholar–curator Bryan Norton discusses new forms of planetary-scale image-making with artist–researcher Asia Bazydrieva (Geocinema) and media theorist Jussi Parikka. While collaborating with Bazdyrieva during the production of Geocinema’s ‘Making of Earths’, a documentary exploring the Digital Belt and Road Initiative in China, Parikka wrote a new book, Operational Images: From the Visual to the Invisual (2023). In this study, Parikka suggests that the forms of image-making explored in ‘Making of Earths’ press against the very borders of the visible, possessing a long history with drastic political and social consequences. Drawing on the history of satellite imagery, drone footage and climate models, both Parikka’s and Bazydrieva’s work present fecund modes of artistic and scholarly engagement with the contemporary creation and dissemination of what Harun Farocki called ‘operational images’ in his audiovisual work from the early 2000s. In this conversation, Bazdyrieva, Norton and Parikka discuss the ever-increasing ubiquity of these types of images in order to highlight their role in planetary-scale computation systems, the production of scientific knowledge and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Particle filter-based fatigue damage prognosis by fusing multiple degradation models
Authors: Li Tianzhi , Chen Jian , Yuan Shenfang , Zarouchas Dimitrios , Sbarufatti Claudio , Cadini Francesco
Published: February 2024

Fatigue damage prognosis always requires a degradation model describing the damage evolution with time; thus, the prognostic performance highly depends on the selection of such a model. The best model should probably be case specific, calling for the fusion of multiple degradation models for a robust prognosis. In this context, this paper proposes a scheme of online fusing multiple models in a particle filter (PF)-based damage prognosis framework. First, each prognostic model has its process equation built through a physics-based or data-driven degradation model and has its measurement equation linking the damage state and the measurement. Second, each model is independently processed through one PF to provide one group of particles. Then, the particles from all models are adopted for remaining useful life prediction. Finally, the particles from each PF are fused with those from all the other PFs to improve their particle diversity, and consequently, to provide better estimation and prognostic performance. The feasibility and robustness of the proposed method are validated by an experimental study, where an aluminum lug structure subject to fatigue crack growth is monitored by a guided wave measurement system.