bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long short-term memory-based modeling and controlling method for wastewater treatment process
Authors: Yang Yong , She Yangyang , Wu Bo , Zhang Yingting , Li Huan , Pan Hongguang
Published: March 2023

Considering the characteristics of large time variation, strong coupling, large time delay, and serious interference of wastewater treatment system, this article proposes an offline modeling and online controlling method based on long short-term memory network to improve multivariable control and prediction accuracy under disturbance. First, a prediction model of dissolved oxygen and nitrate nitrogen concentrations is established, and the stability of this long short-term memory-based modeling method is proven via the limitation of learning rate. Second, based on the prediction model, a multivariable long short-term memory-based controller is designed to improve the control accuracy by gradient descent algorithm, and the stability of the long short-term memory-based controller is proved by Lyapunov principle. Finally, based on the Benchmark Simulation Model No.1, the simulation experiments of long short-term memory-based modeling and controlling method, the default proportion–integration control method (proposed in the Benchmark Simulation Model No.1), and model predictive control method are conducted and compared, respectively. The results show the long short-term memory-based method owns both better approximating and controlling performance, and compared with the default proportion–integration and model predictive control, the long short-term memory-based controller reduces the integral squared error of dissolved oxygen and nitrate nitrogen concentrations by more than 94% and 80%, respectively.
Impact of Lymphocyte Subsets of Grafts on the Outcome of Haploidentical Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Jiang Peiyao , Yu Fangfang , Xu Xiaowei , Cai Yu , Yang Jun , Tong Yin , Huang Chongmei , Qiu Huiying , Zhou Kun , Zhang Ying , Niu Jiahua , Shen Chang , Xia Xinxin , Wei Yu , Shao Jie , Gao Lu , Song Xianmin , Wan Liping
Published: March 2023

The contribution of lymphocyte subset composition of the graft on the outcomes following haploidentical peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (haploPBSCT) is not fully elucidated. We retrospectively analyzed 314 patients with hematological malignancies who underwent haploPBSCT from 2016 to 2020 in our center. We obtained a cutoff value of CD3+ T cell dose (2.96 × 108/kg) that separated the risk of II–IV acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD) and divided patients into the low CD3+ T cell dose group (CD3+ low) and the high CD3+ T cell dose (CD3+ high) group. Significantly higher incidences of I-IV aGvHD, II–IV aGvHD, and III–IV aGvHD were identified in the CD3+ high group (50.8%, 19.8%, and 8.1% in the high group, 23.1%, 6.0%, and 0.9% in the low group, P < 0.0001, P = 0.002, and P = 0.02, respectively). We found that CD4+ T cell and its naïve and memory subpopulations of grafts had a significant impact on aGvHD ( P = 0.005, P = 0.018, and P = 0.044). Besides, we found an inferior reconstitution of natural killer (NK) cells in the CD3+ high group than in the low group within the first-year posttransplant (239 cells/μL vs 338 cells/μL, P = 0.0003). No differences in engraftment, chronic GvHD (cGvHD), relapse rate, transplant-related mortality (TRM), and overall survival (OS) were identified between the two groups. In conclusion, our study found that a high CD3+ T cell dose led to a high risk of aGvHD and inferior reconstitution of NK cells in the haploPBSCT setting. In the future, carefully manipulating the composition of lymphocyte subsets of grafts might reduce the risk of aGvHD and improve the transplant outcome.
Analysis of Country-Level Risk Factors of COVID-19 Mortality Across Countries of Asia: A Generalised Estimating Equation Approach
Authors: Bam Nirajan
Published: March 2023

This research aimed to investigate the death counts from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) across Asian countries by selecting 42 countries with a nonzero death count. Several studies have assessed personal-level factors that affect mortality rates in patients with COVID-19. However, the influence of country-level factors is still debatable. The results of a generalised estimating equation confirmed that the expected death counts across the countries in the middle quartile group of gross domestic product, upper quartile group of population density and lower quartile group of hospital bed count were higher than those in the countries in other quartile groups. The results further confirmed the positive association of the percentage of the population aged ≥65 years and time (day) with the death count. Visualisations and descriptive statistics showed that the death count increased over time across the Asian countries, with maximum death count occurring in the third quarter of the year 2020. These findings support the recommendation that countries with lower number of hospital beds per 1,000 persons, higher percentage of the population aged 65 years and older and middle and lower economies should take more precautions to reduce the death count from COVID-19.
Histology of the whole body of honey bees: tissue fixation and processing
Authors: Lussier Joanie , Racine Elsa , Benoit-Biancamano Marie-Odile
Published: March 2023

Beekeeping plays a crucial role in biodiversity, pollination, commercial farming, and the worldwide agricultural economy. Histopathology, which is an important tool for the investigation of diseases in vertebrates, is not commonly used in honey bees ( Apis mellifera). However, histopathology could potentially help the diagnostic investigation of high mortality in bees. We developed a tissue fixation and processing method enabling systematic production of histologic slides adequate for diagnostic and research purposes. Our method uses inexpensive, accessible products and can be realized with conventional pathology laboratory equipment. The quality of histologic slides obtained is similar to those of vertebrate animals processed routinely in pathology laboratories. Histopathology as a diagnostic and research tool will improve the services currently offered to apiarists and could help decrease the mean mortality rate, increase apiarists’ profits, and ensure long-term pollination services.
Fatal balamuthosis in a Siberian tiger and a literature review of detection options for free-living amoebic infections in animals
Authors: Niedringhaus Kevin D. , Gordon Marissa , Yabsley Michael J. , Gai Jackie , Uzal Francisco A. , Woolard Kevin D.
Published: March 2023

Free-living amoebae are rare causes of morbidity and mortality in humans and animals around the globe. Because the route of exposure and clinical progression of disease caused by different species of amoebae may vary in people and animals, determining the species of amoeba present is important. We describe here a fatal infection by the free-living amoeba Balamuthia mandrillaris in a Siberian tiger ( Panthera tigris altaica). The 17-y-old patient had a rapid clinical decline after a peracute onset of severe lethargy, dull mentation, and anorexia. Autopsy did not identify a cause of death. Histology revealed inflammation associated with amoebic trophozoites in the brain, lungs, and iris of one eye. These amoebae were confirmed to be B. mandrillaris based on a PCR assay and sequencing. Although there are subtle morphologic differences between cyst stages of Acanthamoeba spp., B. mandrillaris, and Naegleria fowleri when present and identified on routine staining, other modalities, including PCR, immunofluorescence, electron microscopy, and immunohistochemistry, are typically utilized to confirm the pathogen involved in these cases. We review the reports of balamuthosis in animals.
Postpartum clostridial gangrenous metritis in 12 dairy goats in France
Authors: Dorso Laëtitia , Chartier Christophe , Popoff Michel R. , Tesson Cyrille , Despres Jérôme , Uzal Francisco A.
Published: March 2023

Clostridial infections in goats have been associated frequently with enteric diseases or gas gangrene but very rarely with the reproductive system. We describe here 12 cases of fatal postpartum gangrenous metritis in does associated with infection by several clostridial species. Clinically, these cases were characterized by rapid onset of hyperthermia followed by death after kidding. On postmortem examination, the uteri appeared to be necrotic and were hemorrhagic and edematous. Microscopically, the uteri had diffuse coagulative necrosis, edema, hemorrhage, and fibrinous thrombi with intralesional gram-positive rods. Clostridium perfringens was isolated from 7 of 9 uterine samples cultured, and C. perfringens, C. septicum, C. novyi, or C. chauvoei were demonstrated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in the 5 cases examined. IHC for Paeniclostridium sordellii was negative in all 5 cases. PCR performed on 3 of the C. perfringens isolates was positive for alpha toxin and perfringolysin, identifying these isolates as type A. Clostridial infection should be considered in cases of postpartum gangrenous metritis of does.
Social Exclusion and Inclusion: A Social Work Perspective
Authors: Cedeño Diana
Published: March 2023

Although social exclusion and inclusion are pivotal to the discipline of social work, there is not much theoretical clarity about what it actually means and its consequences. Despite recent research, current definitions are problematic. For example, exclusion is used as a deficit view and is sometimes a synonym for poverty, marginalization, unemployment, isolation, or solitude. In addition, research often ignores inclusion as a counterpart term and strength-based perspective. The purpose of this article is to fill this gap by arguing that a shift is needed from focusing on exclusion toward understanding paths of inclusion among marginalized families and that social inclusion is better conceptualized as a spectrum (not a dichotomy) and a developmental phenomenon (vs. a predetermined one). This article ends with implications for researchers and practitioners focused on immigrant/minoritized families.
Palliative Care across Settings: Perspectives from Inpatient, Primary Care, and Home Health Care Providers and Staff
Authors: Tietbohl Caroline K. , Dafoe Ashley , Jordan Sarah R. , Huebschmann Amy G. , Lum Hillary D. , Bowles Kathryn H. , Jones Christine D.
Published: March 2023

Background

Early introduction of palliative care can improve patient-centered outcomes for older adults with complex medical conditions. However, identifying the need for and introducing palliative care with patients and caregivers is often difficult. We aim to identify how and why a multi-setting approach to palliative care discussions may improve the identification of palliative care needs and how to facilitate these conversations.

Methods

Descriptive qualitative study to inform the development and future pilot testing of a model to improve recognition of, and support for, unmet palliative care needs in home health care (HHC). Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with providers across inpatient (n = 11), primary care (n = 17), and HHC settings (n = 10).

Results

Four key themes emerged: 1) providers across settings can identify palliative care needs using their unique perspectives of the patient’s care, 2) identifying palliative care needs is challenging due to infrequent communication and lack of shared information between providers, 3) importance of identifying a clinical lead of patient care who will direct palliative care discussions (primary care provider), and 4) importance of identifying a care coordination lead (HHC) to bridge communication among multi-setting providers. These themes highlight a multi-setting approach that would improve the frequency and quality of palliative care discussions.

Conclusions

A lack of structured communication across settings is a major barrier to introducing and providing palliative care. A novel model that improves communication and coordination of palliative care across HHC, inpatient and primary care providers may facilitate identifying and addressing palliative care needs in medically complex older adults.
Extreme Symptom Burden for Patients With COVID-19 at the End of Life; Extrapolation of Knowledge Gained to Achieve Sustained Comfort and Dignity for all Patients in Their Last Days of Life1
Authors: Waldron Dympna , Mc Carthy Christine Eileen , Murphy David , Krawczyk Janusz , Kelly Lisa , Walsh Fiona , Mannion Eileen
Published: March 2023

Background

We describe two complex cases in the setting of COVID-19 at the End of Life, to enhance learning for all patients.

Case Presentation

Maintenance of sustained comfort in two cases required multiple drugs, specifically selected for symptoms that necessitated three separate pumps delivering continuous 24-hour subcutaneous infusion.

Case Management

Management of sustained comfort included opioid, midazolam, anti-secretory, diclofenac for intractable temperature, phenobarbital for extreme agitation, in one, where seizure activity was present, while insomnia, was a prominent feature of another. Management of Akatasia was also required.

Case Outcome

Attention to each individual patient’s rapidly evolving symptoms, during the dying phase, with a thorough differential diagnosis, wa s vitally important in the context of a ‘Good Death’. This was achieved in both cases, reflected by evidence at the bedside of comfort and a minimum need for ‘as required’ drugs in the last days of life.

Conclusions

COVID-19 being a new illness, we need to prospectively study the symptom burden/clustering at End of Life and learn from management of this new disease for other illnesses also. Further research is required to develop protocols on; when does Midazolam dose reach tolerance and when should an alternative drug such as phenobarbital for sustained Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid effects be initiated; examine the optimal approach to sustained temperature control; be cognisant of extrapyramidal side effects of drugs used at End of Life and consider looking at a lack of need for ‘as required’ drugs in the last days of life as an outcome measure of sustained comfort.
Ondansetron Use During Pregnancy: Birth Defects and Obstetric Outcomes
Authors: Masarwe Sabaa , Shvartsur Rachel , Hadar Eran , Betesh-Abay Batya , Peleg Noam , Azab Abed N.
Published: March 2023

Ondansetron is a widely administered medication for nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. Further examination of its teratogenic capacity is necessary. This study examines the association between ondansetron treatment during pregnancy and birth defects and adverse obstetric outcomes. Patient data were extracted from Clalit Health Services, Israel. A propensity-score analysis was performed matching those exposed to ondansetron with those who were not. Findings identified 774 women exposed to ondansetron, matched 1:1 with unexposed control patients. No significant differences were found between the groups for: cleft palate, cardiovascular congenital abnormalities, spina bifida occulta, preterm delivery, or small for gestational age. Ondansetron may be a useful and safe alternative as treatment for women who suffer from hyperemesis gravidarum and do not respond to other antiemetic drugs. Notwithstanding, additional prospectively designed research is needed to establish the safety of ondansetron treatment during pregnancy.
Utility of Retrospective Molecular Analysis in Diagnostically Challenging Mesenchymal Neoplasms
Authors: Mindiola Romero Andres E. , Tafe Laura J. , Green Donald C. , Deharvengt Sophie J. , Winnick Kimberly N. , Tsongalis Gregory J. , Baker Michael L. , Linos Konstantinos , Levy Joshua J. , Kerr Darcy A.
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Molecular analysis plays a growing role in the diagnosis of mesenchymal neoplasms. The aim of this study was to retrospectively apply broad, multiplex molecular assays (a solid tumor targeted next-generation sequencing [NGS]) assay and single nucleotide polymorphism [SNP] microarray) to selected tumors, exploring the current utility and limitations. Methods: We searched our database (2010-2020) for diagnostically challenging mesenchymal neoplasms. After histologic review of available slides, tissue blocks were selected for NGS, SNP microarray, or both. DNA and RNA were extracted using the AllPrep DNA/RNA FFPE Kit Protocol on the QIAcube instrument. The NGS platform used was the TruSight Tumor 170 (TST-170). For SNP array, copy number variant (CNV) analysis was performed using the OncoScanTM CNV Plus Assay. Results: DNA/RNA was successfully extracted from 50% of tumors ( n = 10/20). Specimens not successfully extracted included 6 core biopsies, 3 incisional biopsies, and 1 resection; 4 were decalcified (3 hydrochloric acid, 1 ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid). Higher tumor proportion and number of tumor cells were parameters positively associated with sufficient DNA/RNA extraction whereas necrosis and decalcification were negatively associated with sufficient extraction. Molecular testing helped reach a definitive diagnosis in 50% of tumors ( n = 5/10). Conclusions: Although the overall utility of this approach is limited, these molecular panels can be helpful in detecting a specific “driver” alteration.
Youth Reported Perpetrators of Victimization Within a Foster Care Sample
Authors: Bennett Amanda , Clement Alex , Walton Rachel , Jackson Yo , Gabrielli Joy
Published: March 2023

Maltreatment type, severity, and chronicity are predictors of poor youth outcomes, yet youth reported perpetrators of abuse have gone largely unstudied. Little is known about variation in perpetration across youth characteristics (e.g., age, gender, placement type) and abuse features. This study aims to describe youth reported perpetrators of victimization within a foster care sample. 503 youth in foster care (ages 8–21 years) reported on experiences of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse. Follow up questions assessed abuse frequency and perpetrators. Mann-Whitney U Tests were used to compare central tendency differences in number of perpetrators reported across youth characteristics and victimization features. Biological caregivers were commonly endorsed perpetrators of physical and psychological abuse, though youth also reported high levels of peer victimization. For sexual abuse, non-related adults were commonly reported perpetrators, however, youth reported higher levels of victimization from peers. Older youth and youth residing in residential care reported higher numbers of perpetrators; girls reported more perpetrators of psychological and sexual abuse as compared to boys. Abuse severity, chronicity, and number of perpetrators were positively associated, and number of perpetrators differed across abuse severity levels. Perpetrator count and type may be important features of victimization experiences, particularly for youth in foster care.
The effect of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus l.) Powder Addition on Qualities of Gluten-free Chiffon Cake
Authors: Chan Der-Sheng , Wang Shang-Ta , Chen Mei-Yan , Sung Wen-Chieh
Published: March 2023

Rice flour (100%, 97.4%, 94.7%, 89.5% (w/w)) and okra powder (2.6%-10.5%) were used to replace wheat flour to make gluten-free chiffon cakes. The effects of okra powder addition on the physicochemical, color, texture, moisture content, total phenolic content, antioxidant, and sensory scores of cakes were evaluated. The batter viscosity, chewiness, ash, protein, fat, total phenolics, and antioxidant activities (1,1-diphenyl-z-picrylhydrazyl hydrate and reducing power) of cakes showed an increasing trend with okra powder addition. Gluten-free chiffon cake containing 5.3% okra powder showed significantly ( p < 0.05) higher protein and ash contents as compared to their control and chiffon cake made with wheat flour. Nevertheless, center height, volume index, L*, a*, and b* values, and white index of gluten-free cake decreased with increased okra powder levels. The sensory characteristics of wheat and gluten-free chiffon cakes substituted with 2.6%–5.3% okra powder showed no difference ( p > 0.05). Nevertheless, the sensory scores of the 5.3% okra powder addition cake obtained a higher preference than other gluten-free cakes. Although the overall acceptability of gluten-free chiffon cake supplemented with 10.5% okra flour had a lower ( p < 0.05) overall acceptability (2.84) than all cake samples, it was still shown acceptable to consumers. Gluten-free rice chiffon cakes with high nutrient contents and antioxidant activities can be processed by the incorporation of okra powder of less than 10.5% to increase the diversification of gluten-free foods. Gluten-free cakes with high amounts of okra powder addition would produce cake having high water content, total phenol content, 1,1-diphenyl-z-picrylhydrazyl hydrate radical scavenging activity, reducing power, hardness, chewiness, cohesiveness, batter viscosity, ash, and crude protein content through principal component analysis.
Solid state fermentation of mung beans by Bacillus subtilis subsp. natto on static, shaking flask and soft elastic tubular reactors
Authors: Lyu He , Hernalsteens Saartje , Cong Haihua , Quek S-Y , Chen Xiao dong
Published: March 2023

Given that mung beans constitute a significant nutrient source in many cultures, it is worthwhile to investigate ways to improve their nutritional and functional properties. The effect of fermentation of mung beans by Bacillus subtilis subsp. natto was investigated in various reactor designs, including static, shaking flasks, and soft elastic tubular reactors (SETR). The results showed that all three processes might affect the substrate, resulting in changes in the protein and carbohydrate fractions. We noticed an increase in soluble protein and serine levels, which we attribute to the proteases produced during fermentation. Through XRD, FTIR, and DSC analyses, it was also discovered that whereas static and shaking flask fermentation might raise relative crystallinity and peak temperature, fermentation performed on the SETR decreased these values. It was also possible to notice that SETR might induce a change in the particle size distribution of the substrate through a complex impact of mechanical forces, mixing, and microbial activity, which could be helpful to some aspects of the process. To summarize, fermentation of mung beans by Bacillus. subtilis subsp. natto could be an attractive approach for producing a food ingredient with various functional and nutritional properties. Furthermore, the SETR has been shown to be a viable technique for dealing with high solid load substrates, whether as the reactor for the entire process or as a first stage/pre-treatment step, and its applicability in bioprocesses should be explored further.
Ethical Dilemmas Facing Substance Use Counselors During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: McCuistian Caravella , Fokuo J Konadu , Dumoit Smith Jaime , Sorensen James L , Arnold Emily A
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, substance use disorder (SUD) treatment settings experienced several abrupt changes, including decreased admissions, reduction in services, and modified requirements for medication for substance use disorder. While these changes were implemented to facilitate the maintenance of important treatment options, the ethical consequences of such changes remained unknown. The current study aimed to explore ethical issues related to COVID-19-related changes reported by counselors in SUD treatment facilities.

Method:

From May to August 2020, we conducted 60 to 90 minutes in-depth interviews with 18 front-line staff in 1 residential and 1 outpatient treatment program, exploring issues drawn from the ethical principles of the national organization representing SUD counselors. Counselors volunteered to participate via phone or email, and participation was confidential. Interviews were conducted via videoconferencing. Topics included day-to-day experiences of ethical dilemmas in the workplace, particularly during the COVID-19 era. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and checked for accuracy and a trained team of analysts then coded transcripts using thematic analysis.

Results:

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, SUD treatment programs quickly modified procedures to adhere to public health mandates while also continuing to offer care to clients. SUD counselors reported several ways their programs adapted new and creative procedures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. SUD counselors also identified several novel ethical dilemmas that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, often resulting from the counselor balancing the needs for responding to public health mandates with providing services to clients. There were several ways that COVID-19 related changes resulted in therapeutic challenges for some clients, and the SUD counselors highlighted ways that changes resulted in more flexible services for other clients.

Conclusions:

This study highlights the quick response to COVID-19 that occurred within SUD treatment. While these changes resulted in novel ethical dilemmas, they also offered more flexible and client-centered approaches to treatment.
Dietary Diversity and Nutritional Status of Adolescents in Rural Ghana
Authors: Wiafe Michael Akenteng , Apprey Charles , Annan Reginald Adjetey
Published: March 2023

Background:

The rapid biological and physical changes during adolescence require adequate nutrient intake. This study assessed dietary diversity and nutritional status of adolescents living in selected rural areas in Ghana.

Method:

In this cross-sectional study, 137 young adolescents, aged 10 to 14 years were recruited. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic, household size and food intake practices. A multiple past 24-hour recall was used to estimate the micronutrients intake. Haemoglobin and anthropometry data were assessed. Dietary diversity score was assessed with 10 food groups described by Food and Agricultural Organization. Descriptive, chi-square, binary regression and partial correlation were used in the data analysis.

Results:

The prevalence of underweight was 5.5%, overweight 5.8% and anaemia 29.9%. The mean dietary diversity score was 3.8 ± 0.8 and about 84.7% of participants had inadequate dietary diversity. Proportions of adolescents who consumed from the different food groups over a 24-hour period were: grains, white roots and tubers, plantain (100%); pulses (10.2%); nuts and seeds (34.1%); dairy (8%); meat, poultry and fish (86.9%); eggs (7.3%); dark green leafy vegetables (29.9%); other vitamin-A rich fruits and vegetables (2.2%); other vegetables (81%); other fruits (7.3%). Dietary diversity scores were positively and significantly correlated with intake of micronutrient, with correlation coefficients of .169, .186, .191, .173 and .175 for vitamin A, niacin, vitamin B6, iron and zinc, respectively. Meal skipping (AOR = 12.2, P < .001, 95% CI: 3.6-41.7) and snacking (AOR = 5.0, P = .007, 95% CI:1.6-16.7) increased odds of inadequate dietary diversity.

Conclusion:

The high prevalence of inadequate dietary diversity was positively related to meal skipping and snacking among adolescents. Dietary diversity score was significantly related to the intake of vitamin A, niacin, vitamin B6, iron and zinc. The prevalence of anaemia among our study participants is of public health concern. Adolescents should be encouraged both at home and school to eat from diverse food groups to promote adequate intake of micronutrients.
Necrotizing Scleritis as a Manifestation of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis: A Case Report
Authors: Arenas-Beltran Mayra Alejandra , Muñoz Velandia Oscar Mauricio
Published: March 2023

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is an ANCA-associated vasculitis characterized by the development of necrotizing granulomas rich in eosinophils and vasculitis of small and medium vessels, with compromise of the respiratory tract, peripheral nervous system, and least frequent ocular involvement. We report the case of a 54-year-old Caucasian man with a history of EGPA who presented ocular pain, red eye, vision loss, and evidence of scleral slimming compatible with necrotizing scleritis. The patient was treated with systemic steroids and cyclophosphamide, which reduced the ocular pain but did not improve visual acuity, needing surgical treatment of the scleral coverage defect. While necrotizing scleritis is an unusual manifestation of EGPA, it should be part of the differential diagnosis in patients with red eye or ocular pain as an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment could reduce local complications.
The Vertical Street as Everyday Place in the High-Density City: A Case Study of Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Authors: Wang Weijia
Published: March 2023

Cities are growing vertically, so are the streets. This qualitative study employs narrative city walk, spatial survey, field observation, and interview to develop and speculate on the notion of the “vertical street as everyday place” through examining its spatial formation, ordinary individuals’ everyday practices, and people’s conceptions. The article finds that the type-form of vertical street is a network of multilevel, segmented spaces that vertically extend within urban volumes. The vertical street is the city’s everyday place, which significantly accommodates a varied urban social life. The study thus provides a novel angle for urban designers and planners to rethink the streets and to promote urban livability in vertical.
Studying the datafication of Australian childhoods: learning from a survey of digital technologies in homes with young children
Authors: Pangrazio Luci , Mavoa Jane
Published: March 2023

The home is a crucial site of young children's early encounters with digitally connected technologies. It is here that their emerging digital footprints are being formed and where digital data about them is being produced then collected, analysed and commodified in varying ways. While much is speculated about the rise of intelligent assistants, baby monitors, connected toys and goods, there is little quantitative information available about what sorts of devices households with children actually contain. This article reports on findings from an online survey of 504 Australian households with children aged 0–8 years. The survey was designed to capture a snapshot of internet connected devices and goods in households as a way of contextualising current discussions around the datafication of childhood. Results indicate that Australian households with young children are indeed highly connected, and this is primarily via devices already well domesticated into everyday family life such as TVs, computers and smartphones. We discuss several key points emerging from our findings, including: the safety and security of the household as a primary motivator for using smart home devices; the different rates of acceptance of the datafying objects in the home; and the Googlization of family life. We conclude the paper by outlining a research agenda that more accurately reflects the digital realities of Australian family life.
Planning and assessment practices among Spanish physical education teachers according to experience and teaching level
Authors: González-Rivera María-Dolores , Campos-Izquierdo Antonio , Hall Nathan D. , Villalba-Pérez Ana Isabel
Published: March 2023

The intent of this study was to determine the prevalence of formal lesson plan development as well as examine assessment practices (i.e. frequency of assessment; types of assessment tools most commonly utilized; aspects of physical education most commonly assessed) among physical education teachers in Spain. Furthermore, this study investigated relationships between physical educators’ (a) years of teaching experience and (b) teaching level (primary school vs. secondary school), with both their frequency of formal lesson planning and their assessment practices. The standardized and validated PROAFIDE questionnaire was completed by 499 physical educators presently teaching at either the primary or secondary school level. Results indicated that the vast majority of study participants utilize detailed written lesson plans and perform regular assessments. The percentage of use was found to rise among teachers with increased teaching experience, and among those who were teaching at secondary school. The most commonly used assessment instruments were found to be tests, specifically personally made tests and pre-existing batteries of tests (e.g. Eurofit Fitness Testing Battery). The least used assessment instrument was found to be homework. For all the various assessment tools, it was found that attitudinal aspects were assessed more commonly than physical, cognitive, technical, and tactical aspects. Future research needs to investigate the implications of regular planning and assessment, or lack thereof, on actual practice.
Layers of senses: Experiencing intercorporeality in teletherapy
Authors: Popper-Giveon Ariela , Keshet Yael
Published: March 2023

Teletherapy, namely, therapy that uses technology for communication between patients and therapists, is challenged by the impersonal nature of remote and digital communication. Using Merleau-Ponty’s theoretical concept of intercorporeality, which refers to the perceived reciprocity between two people’s bodies during communication, this article aims to elaborate on spiritual caregivers’ experience of interacting with patients during teletherapy. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 Israeli spiritual caregivers who use various forms of teletherapy (Zoom, FaceTime, phone calls, WhatsApp messages, etc.). Interviewees emphasized their physical presence with the patient as a main principle in spiritual care. They indicated the involvement of nearly all senses in physical presence therapy, which allows for joint attention and compassionate presence. When making use of various communication technologies in teletherapy, they reported the involvement of fewer senses. The more senses involved in the session and the clearer it is that space and time are shared by both caregiver and patient, the stronger the caregiver’s presence with the patient. Interviewees experienced teletherapy as eroding the multisensory joint attention and intercorporeality and, hence, the quality of care. This article points at the advantages of teletherapy for therapists in general and spiritual caregivers in particular but claims, nonetheless, that it challenges the main principles of therapy. Joint attention in therapy is, fundamentally, a multisensory phenomenon that may be understood as intercorporeality. Our use of the notion of intercorporeality sheds light on the reduction of the senses involved in remote interpersonal communication and its impact on care and, more generally, the interpersonal communication experienced during telemedicine. This article’s findings may also contribute to the field of cyberpsychology and to therapists engaged in telepsychology.
Obstacles to constitutional participation: Lessons from diverse voices in post-Brexit Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Todd Jennifer , McEvoy Joanne
Published: March 2023

A challenge for constitutional processes is to facilitate popular participation, including among marginalised groups. Uneven inclusion is highly likely ‘upstream’, in the early stages when ground rules and foundational principles guiding constitutional change are fleshed out, and particularly so in deeply divided societies. This article explores the obstacles to such inclusion in constitutional discussion in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland after Brexit, asking what ‘other’ voices (including women’s groups, ethnic minorities and youth) experience as barriers to participation and how they suggest these barriers can be overcome. We categorise barriers as situational, emotional and discursive, and show that discursive obstacles are experienced as the principal barrier to participation. We argue that an inclusive process requires not simply new institutional frameworks and agendas for deliberation, but also an overhaul of channels between policymakers and grassroots, enabling policymakers to communicate policy constraints and facilitating grassroots’ critique into policy.
Thermal comfort of novel low-momentum ventilation concepts for passengers in long-distance trains
Authors: Maier Julia , Hoermann Hans-Juergen , Goerke Panja , Zierke Oliver
Published: March 2023

Thermal comfort is essential to increase the modal share of rail transport by attracting more passengers. In this study, three novel low-momentum ventilation concepts were analyzed regarding the thermal comfort of railway passengers and compared to a conventional ventilation setting. Using an experimental approach, objective measurements of climate parameters and subjective assessments from 146 test subjects in a generic train compartment were analyzed. Results revealed significant differences in perceived thermal comfort amongst the four ventilation settings. Subjects reported comparatively higher thermal comfort in hatrack integrated low-momentum ventilation and hybrid ventilation (HV) than in cabin displacement ventilation (CDV) and microjet ventilation (MJV). Vertical temperature stratification was strongest in CDV, leading to losses in the comfort of the lower body parts. In MJV, some temporary and local exceedances of air velocities were observed, which contributed to lower comfort evaluations at heads and shoulders. For all ventilation settings, warmer air temperatures were preferred. Our findings demonstrated that subjective comfort assessments reasonably complement earlier results derived from thermal manikin studies. Therefore, low-momentum ventilation, especially in terms of HV, has the significant potential to improve thermal conditions for long-distance journeys in passenger rail cars.
The destabilising effect of feminist, queer-inclusion and therapeutic counter-discourse: A feminist poststructuralist account of change in men's friendships
Authors: Ralph Brittany
Published: March 2023

Critically engaging with prevailing theories of change in masculinities, this article offers a feminist poststructuralist account of Australian men's increasingly intimate same-gender friendships. Per Beasley, feminist poststructuralists treat social change as a consequence of contestation between discourses. In line with this, I contend that the increasing influence of feminist, queer-inclusion and therapeutic counter-discourses in recent decades has destabilised (but not overridden) masculinist discourse in the context of men's friendships, offering men an alternative subject position that allows care, expressiveness and intimacy. Here, I define each of these counter-discourses, demonstrate how they challenge the discursive components of masculinism and use snippets of data from an intergenerational study of Australian men's friendships to illustrate how this shapes men's homosocial practices. Ultimately, I argue that by applying a feminist poststructuralist lens, scholars can examine how men navigate new and contentious discursive terrain, and better account for the complexity of social change in masculinities.
Study on the dynamics characteristics and screening performance of the disc spring vibration screen
Authors: Zhou Jiacheng , Zhang Libin , Cao Longchao , Tang Junjie , Mao Kuanmin , Yu Lianqing
Published: March 2023

The disc spring system is applied to the vibration screen, which can effectively reduce the exciting force and improve screening capacity. In this work, the dynamic characteristics and screening performance of the disc spring vibration screen are studied. The modal simulation and experimental results show that the model vibration direction at first natural frequency is consistent with the working direction of the vibration screen. Moreover, the trajectory analysis and discrete element screening simulation prove that the disc spring vibration screen has better screening performance than the coil spring vibration screen. Eventually, by comparing required exciting force under the same amplitude, fatigue life of the spindle bearing, and energy consumption between the coil spring and disc spring vibration screen, it can be found that disc spring vibration screen has better mechanical properties, higher reliability, and lower energy consumption.
Surface morphology and dimensional accuracy of additively manufactured Ti-6Al-4V alloy: Effect of variable scanning speed with constant laser power in widespread energy density
Authors: Praveen Kumar Devaraj , Vinoth Jebaraj Alfred
Published: March 2023

The present study aims at analysing the combined role of laser power (LP) and scanning speed (SS) on the surface topography and dimensional accuracy of Titanium (Ti–6Al–4V) alloy fabricated through a laser-based powder bed fusion process. The widespread volumetric energy densities (VEDs) ranging from 25 J/mm3 (S1) to 120 J/mm3 (S10) were chosen with five different combinations of LP with varying SS, such as 150 W (276 and 850 mm/s), 250 W (630 and 990 mm/s), 300 W (395 and 465 mm/s), 350 W (405 and 1100 mm/s), and 370 W (850 and 1270 mm/s). Sample S1 (25 J/mm3) revealed the presence of partially melted track and VED beyond 60 J/mm3 producing a detrimental surface quality due to over-burning. At low LPs of 150 and 250 W, a reduction in SS led to a decrease in surface roughness, owing to sufficient melting of the powder layers. Meanwhile, at high LPs of 300 and 350 W, a reduction in SS caused the burning of the layer which led to an increase in the roughness. In contrast, at a high LP of 370 W, a reduction in SS caused a decrease in the roughness parameters. Both LP and SS were found to have strong interdependence in the achievement of the as-built surface quality. Further, the samples fabricated with excessive VED S7 (75 J/mm3), S8 (90 J/mm3), S9 (105 J/mm3) and S10 (120 J/mm3) caused delamination of layers and resulted in severe angular distortion.
Emotional dissonance and burnout among child welfare workers: The moderating role of social support from colleagues, supervisors, and organization
Authors: Nielsen Morten Birkeland , Johannessen Håkon A. , Christensen Jan Olav , Finne Live Bakke
Published: March 2023

Occupational burnout has significant costs for individuals, employers, and the society. Knowledge about risk and protective factors is therefore highly important. This study examined emotional dissonance as a risk factor and colleague, supervisor, and organizational support as protective factors regarding burnout among child welfare workers. It was expected that emotional dissonance would be positively related to burnout, and that social support would attenuate the magnitude of the association. Based on the Psychosocial safety climate model, it was also suggested that organizational support would be negatively associated with levels of emotional dissonance and thereby also burnout.

Findings

The study was based on a cross-sectional probability sample of employees working in the child welfare service in Oslo municipality, Norway ( N = 678). Emotional dissonance was positively related to burnout. In contrast to expectations, the interaction analyses showed a reverse buffering effect where the examined sources of social support intensified the association between emotional dissonance and burnout. Organizational support had an indirect association with burnout through emotional dissonance.

Applications

While the cross-sectional nature of the study does not allow for any conclusions about causal effects, the findings indicate that other stress-buffering job resources than social support are more beneficial in efforts focusing on reducing the detrimental impact of emotional demands in child welfare work. However, more knowledge concerning the actual effectiveness of receiving support is necessary to draw more definite conclusions.
Understanding Capacity and Optimizing Meaningful Engagement among Persons Living with Dementia
Authors: Kemp Candace L , Bender Alexis A , Morgan Jennifer Craft , Burgess Elisabeth O , Epps Fayron R , Hill Andrea Michelle , Perkins Molly M
Published: March 2023

Meaningful engagement is a key dimension of quality of life among persons living with dementia, yet little is known about how to best to promote it. Guided by grounded theory methods, we present analysis of data collected over a 1-year period in four diverse assisted living (AL) communities as part of the study, “Meaningful Engagement and Quality of Life among Assisted Living Residents with Dementia.” Our aims are to: (a) learn how meaningful engagement is negotiated among AL residents with dementia and their care partners; and (b) identify how to create these positive encounters. Researchers followed 33 residents and 100 care partners (formal and informal) and used participant observation, resident record review, and semi-structured interviews. Data analysis identified “engagement capacity” as central to the negotiation of meaningful engagement. We conclude that understanding and optimizing the engagement capacities of residents, care partners, care convoys, and settings, are essential to creating and enhancing meaningful engagement among persons living with dementia.
What can urban policies and planning really learn from John Rawls? A multi-strata view of institutional action and a canvas conception of the just city
Authors: Moroni Stefano
Published: March 2023

One of the most influential theories of justice in planning theory and practice has been, without doubt, that of John Rawls. The very idea of the just city is indebted to Rawls’s view. However, the way in which Rawlsian theory of justice has been imported into planning often seems debatable. This article aims to discuss this aspect critically. The objective is not merely to discuss certain planning approaches inspired by Rawls; it is also to investigate, in more general terms, what meaning and role (any theory of) justice could and should have for planning and urban policies. In revisiting John Rawls’s view, the article is structured around two points: first, a critical discussion on how Rawls’s theory of justice has been generally applied to urban policies and planning; second, an exploration of an alternative way to interpret and apply certain Rawlsian insights (often undervalued) in this field. The article is not intended to defend and recommend Rawls’s normative theory as a whole (i.e. in its entirety), but to evidence certain Rawlsian contributions of a general nature that are particularly important. Nor is it the aim of this article to contribute directly to the development of a specific substantive idea of the just city; instead, it is to highlight fundamental methodological and analytical caveats that are crucial in this regard. Rather than a “theory of the just city”, this article develops a “meta-theory of the just city”: that is, an approach specifying precautions and conditions for any coherent and convincing just city theory.