bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A School–University Partnership That Facilitates Adult-Specific Training: Perceptions of Life Sciences Teachers
Authors: Moleko Teane Florah
Published: September 2024

This study examined the effectiveness of professional development (PD) strategies employed by the University of South Africa (UNISA) to empower teachers (as adult learners) to enhance learner performance in the life sciences (LS). The context of this study is the partnership between the Department of Education and institutions of higher learning. Based on the idea that well-planned PD fosters teacher participation, this study explored the factors that encourage (or discourage) teacher compliance with new initiatives. A qualitative research design with 10 purposefully selected sample was used. Data were collected through 10 individual interviews and a single focus group discussion. Data were analyzed using Creswell's method of coding. The findings indicate that the UNISA project emphasizes “care” and “learner-centeredness” and has a “bottom-up” approach, which strategically led to a conducive environment for teachers’ PD. It is recommended to normalize the retraining of teachers through partnerships using this strategy.
Time as a Category in Survivors’ Reports About Child Sexual Abuse: An Explorative Approach to Lifetime Abuse
Authors: Andresen Sabine
Published: September 2024

Since the 1990s, cases of serious violence and abuse, particularly sexual abuse in educational and social institutions of the Catholic Church, have been reported in numerous countries, including Ireland, the United States, and Australia. In many countries, commissions have been set up to investigate the widespread cases of abuse that could not be prosecuted under criminal law. The testimonies of survivors and other witnesses are used by the commissions of inquiry in their work. Since 2016 the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse in Germany has collected more than 2,500 reports from survivors of child sexual abuse. Forty-four testimonies were analyzed in a study seeking to understand more about lifetime abuse. In an explorative analysis, aspects of time as a key category in the reports were identified using the structured content analysis method. The results highlight the importance of time in the reports and during all phases of the survivors’ lives. Overall, four themes are relevant: (a) the identification of turning points, (b) time to make sense of what happened, (c) the practice of waiting, and (d) time-bound experiences of testifying.
Lifetime Revictimization: Evidence From the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study
Authors: Kong Jooyoung , Easton Scott D. , Fletcher Jason M.
Published: September 2024

Despite the documented increasing prevalence of elder abuse victimization and its devastating health effects, a life-course view of the victimization experiences of older adults has rarely been adopted in the elder abuse literature. The current study investigated lifetime links between victimization experiences by examining the indirect effect of adverse childhood experiences (ACE) on elder abuse victimization via intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization in middle adulthood, and whether this indirect association would differ by gender. Using data from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study, we analyzed the previous and current victimization experiences of a total of 5,391 older adults in their early 70s and estimated mediational and moderated mediation models. The key results indicated that a higher ACE score was associated with exposure to IPV victimization in middle adulthood, which was in turn associated with exposure to elder abuse victimization. This indirect association was stronger for women than for men. Regarding specific types of childhood victimization, parental physical abuse, sexual abuse, and witnessing domestic violence significantly predicted elder abuse victimization via IPV victimization. Our results support the phenomenon of lifetime victimization, whereby an individual experiences reoccurring forms of victimization across the life course from childhood to late adulthood. Findings highlight the compelling need for the assessment of cumulative victimization experiences and their impact on elder abuse victims. A life-course-based, trauma-informed approach would greatly enhance prevention and intervention services for elder abuse.
Universal Basic Income as a Response to Automation? Attitudes of Human Translators Facing Neural Machine Translation
Authors: Kılıç Azer
Published: September 2024

How do professionals who may be at risk of job loss due to AI-driven automation view a universal basic income (UBI) as a policy response to technological unemployment? This article examines the attitudes of translators from Turkey, a country with the highest perceived technological risks across the OECD. Based on interviews, the article reveals varying views on UBI, the framings of which reflect participants’ political views and understandings of capitalist societies. While some participants depict a perspective of economic individualism, emphasizing individual responsibility and a work ethic in opposing UBI, others advocate an anti-capitalist outlook, promoting collective action yet appearing skeptical of UBI. However, a majority supports UBI as a social right. Furthermore, those concerned about job or wage loss are primarily found among those who favor UBI and those who specialize as freelancers in areas perceived as more susceptible to automation, suggesting that job insecurity shapes views of UBI.
Integrated error modeling for abrasive waterjet cutting at various nozzle tilt angle
Authors: Du Mingming , Zhong Wei , Wang Zhenming , Wang Haijin
Published: September 2024

The research investigates the specific impact of high-pressure abrasive waterjet (AWJ) on the cutting accuracy of circular trajectories. The coupling relationship between the kerf taper and the jet lag of the cutting front profiles is analyzed. Thus, an integrated error model for abrasive waterjet cutting of circular trajectories is innovatively established, which can predict the deformation of the circular arc trajectory not only at right angles but also at tilt angles. Cutting experiments at vertical angles were conducted, with a maximum prediction accuracy of 2.41%. Besides, arc trajectories with different diameters were conducted with a prediction accuracy of 2.26%. In order to reduce the deformation error of arc trajectories, compensation experiments for nozzle tilt ranging from 76° to 94° were carried out. The experimental results showed that when the nozzle was tilted in the direction opposite to the traverse speed up to half of the maximum deviation angle at the jet outlet point, the maximum deformation of arc trajectories was 1.218 mm, which was reduced by 0.532 mm compared to the case of vertical incidence, and the cylindricity increased by 31.74%. This adjustment can meet the precision requirements for cutting thick materials with abrasive waterjet.
Rotation error separation of a UTF300 high-speed and precision motorized spindle
Authors: Wu Hui-min , Ma Jian-wei
Published: September 2024

To improve the measurement accuracy of high-speed and precision motorized spindle rotary error as the research objective, based on the three-point method, an error separation model and an objective optimization function for noise-containing signals are developed. To improve the convergence speed, globally optimize the model objectives, and obtain the best optimization region of the sensor mounting angle, it is proposed that an enhanced adaptive particle swarm optimization algorithm be used. With the improved particle swarm algorithm, the convergence speed was greater than that of the primary particle swarm algorithm by more than 50%. The spindle radial rotation error was experimentally measured and separated using a high-speed vertical machining center, and the deviation between the separation result and the experimental rotation error was 4.5%, indicating that the separation result's accuracy was high. It also proved the correctness and feasibility of the optimization algorithm.
Investigating phase and magnetic properties in Co-2 wt.% MWCNT nano-composites prepared by mechanical alloying
Authors: Pandit Pinjal , Ghosh Swasata , Roy Goutam , Chatterjee Arpita , Singh Susmita , Chabri Sumit
Published: September 2024

MWCNT nano-composites with a cobalt content of 2 weight percent were created by mechanically alloying during different times. Modern techniques, including x-ray diffraction (XRD), differential thermal analysis (DTA), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID), were used to examine the effects of CNT addition on the Co morphology and magnetic characteristics of the samples. It was shown that the characteristics of Co in 2 weight percent MWCNT nano-composites were retained in a sample that was milled for 60 min. Agglomerates of nanoparticles were the end result, with CNTs evenly distributed throughout the cobalt matrix 60 min after mechanical alloying. Analysis of magnetic hysteresis loops revealed that the inclusion of CNTs altered the magnetic characteristics of nano-composite samples. Analysis of magnetic hysteresis loops revealed that the inclusion of CNTs altered the magnetic characteristics of nano-composite samples. The well-developed interfacial structure in this work significantly improved the cobalt-MWCNT nano-composites’ magnetic characteristics.
Deep learning-based temperature prediction during rotary ultrasonic bone drilling
Authors: Agarwal Yash , Gupta Satvik , Singh Jaskaran , Gupta Vishal
Published: September 2024

Bone drilling is a common but critical medical procedure in orthopedic surgeries used to treat fractured bones. During this procedure, the temperature of the bone increases due to generation of frictional energy. Temperature control has been a major challenge in bone drilling since its foundation. If this temperature increases over 47°C for 1 min, then it can result in permanent bone damage. To control the temperature elevation this study proposes a deep learning-based robust predictive model which has been trained and tested on data from pig bones. Excessive in-house testing has been done on pig femur bones to gather data and verify the results. Rotary ultrasonic bone drilling was the machining process used for drilling. Four independent variables which were rotational speed, feed rate, abrasive grit size, and vibrational ultrasonic power were varied and the temperature for each set of values was recorded. Multiple deep learning models were made and were compared on different error metrics. It was found that convolutional neural network 1D gave the least error over other models. The error generated by deep learning models was less than mathematical and experimental models.
Cross-class solidarity in times of crisis: the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on support for redistribution
Authors: Tonelli Simone , Harris Eloisa , Deeg Franziska
Published: September 2024

This study investigates how the economic crisis associated with the COVID-19 pandemic impacted support for social assistance in Germany. We formulate our expectations drawing from the classical political economy literature on self-interest and the burgeoning research on the role of solidarity. On the one hand, we hypothesize that only low-income individuals impacted economically by COVID-19, who can benefit from social assistance, will support its expansion. On the other hand, we expect higher-income individuals affected economically by COVID-19 to be more supportive of social assistance, even though they do not benefit from it, and less likely to consider welfare recipients ‘undeserving’ compared to higher-income individuals not economically affected by the pandemic. We argue that first-hand crisis experiences update people’s beliefs about how luck impacts one’s economic situation in the presence of an exogenous shock. We combine observational and experimental data from an original survey collected in Germany in April 2021 to test our expectations. On average, low-income respondents appear to be the most vigorous supporters of social assistance, but their support is not conditional on their experience of the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, we find that the support for more social assistance among affluent individuals depends on the economic impact of the pandemic. We experimentally manipulated the deservingness of welfare recipients and found that better-off respondents impacted by the pandemic were less likely to penalize even the most ‘undeserving’ welfare beneficiaries. We suggest that solidarity between classes in hard times may occur through a convergence of the deservingness perception among individuals. The article has broader implications for studying the effect of crises on solidarity and the conditional nature of class-based explanations for support for different welfare policies.
Discovery and environmental implications of Santorini tephras (Cape Riva and Minoan) in sediments of Lake Yayla (West Anatolia)
Authors: Doğan Mustafa , Özdemir Yavuz , Bozkurt Yunus , Şenkul Çetin
Published: September 2024

Throughout the long eruption history of the Santorini volcano, the Cape Riva/Y-2 and Minoan/Z-2 eruptions had a profound impact on the environment. The Minoan eruptions also had a significant impact on society. These two tephras, as well as the Y-2 tephra individually, have been recorded for the first time in a lacustrine area in western Anatolia. This study examines the geochemical properties of Y-2 (23 cm) and Z-2 tephra layers (19 cm; 14 cm pure and 5 cm mixed) from 18 m sediment cores in Lake Yayla (Denizli-Buldan). Additionally, high-resolution µXRF, fossil pollen, charcoal, and dating analyses were conducted on the cores to determine the chronologies and environmental effects of the tephra layers. Fossil pollen findings show consistent forest and steppe/grassland vegetation before and after the Z-2 tephra, with the forest impact lasting for 240 years after the eruption. Increased aquatic vegetation and changes in specific taxa (e.g. Pinus sp. and Amaranthaceae increased, while Quercus deciduous, Olea europaea, and cereals decreased) were observed following the Minoan eruption. Charcoal analysis indicates heightened fire activity post-Minoan eruption, while XRF data reveal no associated climatic change. At the same time, no correlation has been identified between the Cape Riva eruption and ecological changes (climate, vegetation, and fire activity). Contribution to dating the tephra was provided by radiocarbon dating from the lowest part of the tephra layer (17,684 ± 63 years BP). This study sheds light on the extensive impacts of the Y-2 and Z-2 tephra eruptions, focusing on their dating, geochemistry, environmental effects, tephra transport directions, and thicknesses. It demonstrates the presence of a significant geological event for the settlements in the Büyük Menderes Valley.
Holocene hydroclimate synthesis of the Aegean: Diverging patterns, dry periods and implications for climate-society interactions
Authors: Jacobson Matthew J , Seguin Joana , Finné Martin
Published: September 2024

The Aegean region has a wealth of archeological data originating from a long and rich human history and is frequently used as a testbed for climate-society interactions at different time scales. Here, we summarize and synthesize 31 proxy records derived from lake and wetland sediments, marine sediments, and speleothems reflecting hydroclimatic conditions over the last 10,000 years in the Aegean. To enable comparison and numerical analyses, we convert each record into z-scores and average values into centurial and decadal bins. The long-term hydroclimatic trajectory is best described by individual trends in three sub-regions that periodically converge and diverge. The results from our analyses highlight the complex long- and short-term spatio-temporal patterns of the hydroclimate with periods of wetter and drier conditions. Statistical analyses of the last 3500 years, the most data-rich period, corroborate the complex climate picture. Three periods that appear dry in the regional averages, at 7250–6650 BP, 3350–2750 BP, and 1200–700 BP, highlight spatio-temporal variability and underpin the importance of local data when comparing hydroclimate data with archeological information. Considering the complexities and uncertainties in hydroclimate records, we advocate for careful consideration when utilizing these in studies of climate-society interactions, including transparency regarding their uncertainties and the relevance of each record to a respective archeological site. We have produced a freely available, simplified dataset that can be used by those interested in studying the region, as well as maps displaying climatic conditions during each century.
An Empirical Study on the Major Problems Faced by Entrepreneurs with Special Reference to Micro and Small Enterprises Among the Tribals in Manipur
Authors: Singsit Thangminlun , Prasain Ganga Prasad
Published: September 2024

Micro and small businesses in rural and tribal communities are crucial drivers of sustainable economic development, playing a significant role in addressing various global challenges such as poverty reduction, job creation, resiliency and economic development. In spite of their crucial role in the national economy, small enterprises often encounter numerous challenges and constraints that can hinder their development, growth and overall performance. The present study is aimed at assessing the major problems faced by micro and small entrepreneurs among the tribal communities in the hill districts of Manipur. This empirical study is descriptive in nature and uses both primary and secondary data. The primary data were collected from 311 registered entrepreneurs using a well-structured questionnaire. The percentage technique, mean, standard deviation, t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) test were used to analyse the data with the aid of SPSS. There is no significant difference in the major problems faced by entrepreneurs across gender. However, labour problems were different across levels of educational background, and there was a significant difference between the nature of industry and the infrastructural problems faced by micro and small entrepreneurs. The study suggests coordinating the efforts of the government and aiding organisations in assisting the entrepreneurs to tackle the multifaceted challenges.
Circular Economy: Research in the Maritime Domain
Authors: Jacob Wallace
Published: September 2024

The maritime domain is a very broad domain encompassing ship design, construction, transportation, export–import, port management, energy, ocean, and waterways management. The assumption that the marine industry is less flexible for a transition from linear economy to circular economy (CE) is being challenged. A ship is a factory/city in motion, and therefore, CE principles may be applied to a ship. CE principles can be applied to ports, energy, and waterways management. Successful implementation of CE requires a comprehensive mapping of business models, projects, products, and services; identification of all stakeholders; and using biomimicry in manufacturing. CE can help in the regeneration and restoration of natural capital. The circular business models can help in increasing revenue, reducing costs, and saving the environment. CE can be extended to include reimagining, realigning, reworking, and reaching out to different players in the maritime domain. The marine industry faces the challenges of decarbonization and end-of-life vessel management.
DMart: Will it Regain its Leadership Position in the Indian Retail Industry?
Authors: Gupta Deeksha , Kumar Rohit
Published: September 2024

The case study analyses the competitive scenario of the retail industry in India in 2021. It provides a detailed examination of the turbulence in the retail space due to the acquisition of Future Group’s retail business by Reliance Retail, which displaced DMart from its market leadership position. Before the acquisition, DMart, a retail chain of hypermarkets operated under Avenue Supermarts Ltd, was the largest retailer in India. The case describes the dilemma DMart’s CEO, Neville Noronha, faced in enduring the competition in offline and online retail while retaining its present competitive advantages. This case uses secondary data to examine the retail industry dynamic and DMart’s aspirations, positioning, and strengths. It also analyses the challenges that DMart might face on its path to regaining its position and catching the pace of change in the retail industry.
Parental Perception of Vulnerability, Child’s Temperament, and Health Locus of Control: Who Made You Boo-Boo?
Authors: Hania Alishba , Khaliq Aqsa Abdul , Jameel Maria , Sehar Sidra
Published: September 2024

Background:

In Pakistan, where unintentional injuries among toddlers pose a significant public health challenge, understanding the factors that contribute to elevated injury risks is crucial. A two-dimensional approach including parental factors (internal/external health locus of control and perceived vulnerability) and child factors (the child’s temperament) is explored as contributing to the unintentional injury behaviors of toddlers.

Method:

The study involved 241 parents of toddlers aged 18–36 months from daycare centers in three major Pakistani cities who had observed multiple recent injuries in their children. The comprehensive online assessment, lasting 15–20 minutes, incorporated the child vulnerability scale, injury behavior checklist, parent health locus of control questionnaire, and early childhood behavior questionnaire. Demographic details included child and parent age distributions, with a focus on educational backgrounds. The participants comprised both fathers and mothers, and the data analysis employed Smart-PLS software for structural equation modeling.

Result:

The results suggested there is no direct relationship between parental health locus of control (internal/external) and injury behaviors in children. However, an indirect and significant path was observed from the parental health locus of control (internal/external) to perceived child vulnerability and injury behaviors through moderation of temperamental characteristics.

Conclusion:

Our research underscores the indirect link between parental factors, child temperament, and toddler injuries in Pakistan. Culturally sensitive interventions targeting parental awareness can play a pivotal role in safeguarding the well-being of the youngest members of society.
Customer Engagement Through Transformational Campaigns: A Netnographic Exploration on the Storytelling Power of ‘Jaago Re’
Authors: Menon Anjali S. , Pillai Rajasekharan , Pai Yogesh P.
Published: September 2024

Storytelling is a strategic marketing tool for building customer engagement by anecdotally structuring branded content to grab their attention. The present study renders a scholarly narrative of a transformational ad campaign and its resultant customer engagement on social media. The study follows a netnographic approach, using a qualitative triangulation method to observe the engagement around this campaign. Data are collected from online platforms, namely, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. The study identifies the sentiments of customer engagement in the campaign. Furthermore, a semiotic analysis has appraised the storytelling elements in the campaign videos. The findings suggest that storytelling can effectively connect with audiences and drive home critical messages by using narratives and emotional elements. The findings have implications for marketing professionals who want to understand the impact of storytelling on transformational advertising campaigns.
Giant Cell Arteritis and Takayasu Arteritis: Are They Similar or Different?
Authors: Singh Yogesh Preet , Bains Sukhdeep , Jain Naman
Published: September 2024

Vasculitis is a group of heterogeneous conditions characterised by inflammation of blood vessels. Based on the predominant size of the affected vessel, vasculitis is classified into small, medium, and large vessel vasculitis (LVV). Giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu’s arteritis (TAK) are the two major types of LVV. GCA was thought to affect only the external carotid artery and its branches, whereas, TAK was thought to affect the aorta and its major branches. Advances in imaging techniques have led to a better understanding of these conditions. It has become increasingly clear that GCA can involve the aorta and its branches. GCA and TAK have overlapping features like propensity to affect the aorta and its branches, similar histopathology, and similar clinical features. However, there are differences in age, geographic location, genetics, and predominant vascular territory involvement. There are subtle differences in clinical features. Are these conditions different ends of the same spectrum or different conditions with similar features? This review compares and contrasts these two conditions based on epidemiology, genetics, pathology, predominant vascular territory involvement, and any differential response to treatment. Based on current evidence, GCA and TAK seem to be distinct conditions and not different ends of the same spectrum.
A Prospective Qualitative Inquiry of Patient Experiences of Cognitive Functional Therapy for Chronic Low Back Pain During the RESTORE Trial
Authors: Klem Nardia-Rose , O’Sullivan Peter , Smith Anne , Schütze Robert
Published: September 2024

Cognitive functional therapy (CFT) is a person-centered biopsychosocial physiotherapy intervention that has recently demonstrated large, durable effects in reducing pain and disability in people with chronic low back pain (CLBP). However, exploration of the treatment process from the patients’ perspectives, including the process of gaining control and agency over CLBP, is relatively understudied in this patient population. This qualitative study explored the experiences of eight participants from the RESTORE trial through longitudinally following their experiences, including interviews during baseline, mid-treatment, end-treatment, and 12-month follow-up. Data were analyzed according to a narrative approach. Findings described the overarching narrative themes of “The Journey to Self-Management.” Within this overarching narrative, four distinct narratives were identified, beginning with “Left High and Dry,” capturing the experience of isolation and abandonment with CLBP before commencing CFT, and concluding with three narratives of the experience of CFT from the start of treatment through to the 12-month follow-up. These included “Plain, Smooth Sailing,” describing a journey of relative ease and lack of obstacles; “Learning the Ropes and Gaining Sea Legs,” capturing an iterative process of learning and negotiating setbacks; and “Sailing Through Headwinds,” describing the experience of struggle to gain agency and control over CLBP through CFT. Clinicians treating individuals with CLBP can use these insights to more effectively facilitate self-management, and people living with CLBP may find resonance from the narrative themes to support their journeys.
Exploring the Perspectives of Unhoused Adults and Providers Across the HCV Care Continuum
Authors: Salem Benissa E. , Almeida Helena , Wall Sarah Akure , Yadav Kartik , Chang Alicia H. , Gelberg Lillian , Nyamathi Adeline
Published: September 2024

Hepatitis C virus (HCV), the most common blood-borne infection, disproportionately affects people experiencing homelessness (PEH); however, HCV interventions tailored for PEH are scarce. This study utilized a community-based participatory approach to assess perceptions of HCV treatment experiences among HCV-positive PEH, and homeless service providers (HSP) to develop and tailor the “I am HCV Free” intervention which integrates primary, secondary, and tertiary care to attain and maintain HCV cure. Four focus groups were conducted with PEH ( N = 30, Mage = 51.76, standard deviation 11.49, range 22–69) and HSPs ( n = 10) in Central City East (Skid Row) in Los Angeles, California. An iterative, thematic approach was used to ensure the trustworthiness of the data. Barriers and facilitators emerged from the data which have the potential to impact initiating HCV treatment and completion across the HCV care continuum. Understanding and addressing barriers and strengthening facilitators to HCV treatment will aid in HCV treatment completion and cure for PEH.
Managing Social Impact Bonds: Intermediary Work and Designing Institutional Infrastructure
Authors: Logue Danielle , Höllerer Markus A. , Clegg Stewart , Millner Reinhard , Jebabli Jonas
Published: September 2024

Collaborations addressing grand challenges seek social impact; whether such social innovations will endure beyond initial enthusiasm is a major issue. Over the last decade, Social Impact Bonds (SIBs) emerged to diffuse globally as a new form of cross sector collaboration to finance solutions for social problems. Crucially, SIBs rely on intermediary organizations to coordinate and govern relations across diverse actors with competing and conflicting interests and values. How an intermediary goes about this work has significant effects on whether the collaboration achieves the desired social impact and whether it endures. In this article, we examine the intermediary work that enables such a cross-sector collaboration by analyzing two of the first completed SIBs in Continental Europe. Our findings identify three main types of interweaving intermediary work of aligning, stitching, and knotting, that are supported by three distinct forms of institutional infrastructure (ideational, operational, and relational respectively) providing a significant contribution to the analysis of cross-sector collaboration by connecting intermediary work to institutional infrastructure.
Effects of high temperature and strain rate on the impact-induced inter-laminar shear behavior of plain woven CF/PEEK thermoplastic composites
Authors: Zhang Xu , Pan Zhongxiang , Yu Jiajia , Yang Chengcai , Wu Zhenyu
Published: September 2024

This paper aims to investigate the interlaminar shear properties and failure mechanisms of plain woven carbon fabric/polyetheretherketone (CF/PEEK) thermoplastic composites under high strain rate impact loads at different temperatures (25°C, 120°C, 295°C). A reliable hot air flow heating method with SHPB is creatively employed for short beam shear experiments. A multi-scale model was developed to predict the impact behavior of plain CF/PEEK composites. Both results show that the thermoplastic composites have strong strain rate and temperature dependence, and which are more sensitive to temperature effect. As the temperature increases, the thermoplastic composites are mainly affected by the softening effect of the matrix due to the glass transition temperature. The shear modulus and peak stress appear to decline at high temperatures, while the failure strain tends to increase. The damage mode changes from interlayer delamination cracking at the glassy state to shear fracture and fiber pullout at a highly elastic state. As the strain rate increases, the failure strain decreases, while the shear modulus and peak stress show the opposite trend. Fiber bundle breakage, debonding, matrix cracking, and significant interlayer delamination occur at high strain rates.
How and Why does a Business-to-Business Firm's Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure Impact its Dependence on its Major Customers and Major Suppliers?
Authors: Bai Min , Astvansh Vivek
Published: September 2024

Prior research has documented that a firm's disclosure of corporate social responsibility (CSR) makes it a more attractive business partner, boosting its sales. The authors extend this finding to business-to-business (B2B) firms. Using a regulatory change in China as a quasi-natural experiment, they demonstrate that a firm's disclosure of its CSR lowers by 2.1% the firm's dependence (for sales revenue) on its major customers but raises by 3.7% its dependence (for purchases) on its major suppliers. They further show that the firm's production efficiency (marketing efficiency) is a mechanism underlying the effect of CSR disclosure on dependence on major customers (suppliers). Next, they demonstrate that the CSR report's emphasis on the firm's supply chain partners weakens (strengthens) the effect on dependence on major customers (suppliers). The findings contribute to the multidisciplinary evidence on the B2B value of CSR disclosure, and the operations and marketing literature streams on determinants of supply-chain dependence.
The Rise of the “Democrat Party”: Republican Elites, Partisan Slurs, and Linguistic Polarization
Authors: Karol David , Scott Zachary
Published: September 2024

In a time of heightened affective and negative partisanship, we examine the intra-elite party dynamics underlying insulting partisan rhetoric. Our focus is on Republicans' reference to their partisan opponents as the “Democrat Party,” an ungrammatical mislabeling intended as a slur. We show that this usage, while not new, has exploded in recent years. This increase comes at the same time as significant change within the Republican Party. We argue that the tumultuous changes ushered in by the 2016 election have created fertile ground for factional turnover and enabled the rise of this partisan slur. We further contend that the epithet’s meaning has subtly shifted, suggesting that performatively partisan actors within the party, namely, partisan media, have become centralized actors within the Republican network. Using several corpora of political communication by Republican politicians and conservative media, we document a general rise in mislabelings of the Democrats concentrated in 2018–2019. We further show that the adoption of this insult by notable Republican elites like Donald Trump is due primarily to right-wing media’s influence. We conclude with a discussion of the normative implications of increasingly partisan media-centric, performative politics within the American right.
Can Research on Family Factors in Youth Psychiatric Residential Treatment Programs Inform Efforts to Implement Family-Centered Care?
Authors: Winston-Lindeboom Payne , Rivers Alannah Shelby , Roeske Michael , Diamond Guy
Published: September 2024

Every year, numerous youths seeking mental health services are placed in psychiatric residential treatment programs, often leaving their families for extended periods of time. The clinical and policy community has become increasingly interested in incorporating families into the treatment process, which may have a positive impact on care. Despite this interest, limited work has reviewed the impact of family factors across the entire treatment process (before admission, during treatment, and after discharge), or on barriers to implementing family-centered care practices to improve family engagement. To better understand the research in this domain, we conducted a narrative review on family involvement in residential care throughout the treatment process, with special attention paid to barriers and possible solutions. In general, family involvement in residential care remains underdeveloped and understudied. Given the youth mental health crisis, and the higher acuity of youth patients in residential treatment, greater exploration into how families can potentiate outcomes is warranted.
Improving Situation Awareness in Partially Automated Vehicles: The Effectiveness of Redesigned Visual Signals
Authors: Lee Okkeun , Currano Rebecca , Miller Dave , Yim Seungbin , Sirkin David
Published: September 2024

Visual signals that integrate situation awareness (SA) information can improve drivers’ performance when assuming control of a partially automated vehicle from a non-driving task. By incorporating information that follows the levels of model of SA, these signals enable drivers to more quickly attain higher levels of SA, potentially bypassing traditional sequential processing stages. We evaluated the effectiveness of such SA-enhanced signals (displayed in the instrument cluster) in a simulated driving study by measuring takeover times and collision occurrences. The results indicate that incorporating SA information about the environment signiﬁcantly reduces the time needed for drivers to take control of the vehicle and results in fewer collisions. Considering these performance differences suggests insights on optimizing visual cues to quickly restore SA among drivers as they transition from non-driving activities to manual control in partially automated vehicles.
The Multiple Resource Theory and Model. Some Misconceptions in Data Interpretations
Authors: Wickens Christopher D.
Published: September 2024

Multiple Resource Theory, and one particular instantiation of the theory in the 4-Dimensional Multiple Resource Model have often been invoked as mechanisms to account for dual task interference. Here we present the data and analyses requirements necessary to conclude that the multiple resource model either does or does not predict an increase in the dual task decrement; and in particular we describe the need to consider and control both task difficulty and task priority in comparing conditions that are argued to contrast shared versus separate resources. We then consider one common misconception regarding what the model predicts regarding perfect time sharing, and address the importance of considering alternative theory-based mechanisms of task switching and of confusion and crosstalk, to account for patterns of multi-task interference.
Digital Twin for Amputees: A Bidirectional Interaction Modeling and Prototype with Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Wu Jason , Jangid Vikram , Park Junho
Published: September 2024

With over 2 million amputees in the U.S., they have been facing significant employment challenges. However, several physical prostheses still lack usability to be able for them to work in person. Therefore, this study explores an innovative application of digital twin approach, focusing on bidirectional interaction modeling and prototyping using convolutional neural networks (CNNs). We developed a simplified digital twin environment integrating electromyography (EMG) sensors and virtual reality (VR) to enable real-time interaction between the virtual and physical worlds. The CNN model, trained to classify hand movement from EMG data, achieved a test accuracy of 99%, demonstrating its effectiveness for practical applications. Our framework facilitates remote control of physical devices through VR gestures, potentially allowing amputees to perform meaningful work from home, thus overcoming physical limitations and fostering greater independence. This preliminary study underscores the possibility of digital twin technology to redefine workplace accessibility, offering amputees opportunities for potential employment.
Effects of Self-Learning and Exploration for XR-based Interactions
Authors: Ghasemi Yalda , Chattopadhyay Debaleena , Jeong Heejin , Kim Hyungil , Huang Jida
Published: September 2024

This research explores the overtime learning trends of multimodal gaze-based interactions in tasks involving the movement of augmented objects within extended reality (XR) environments. This study employs three interactions, including two multimodal gaze-based approaches, and compares them with an unimodal hand-based interaction. The underlying hypothesis posits that gaze-based interactions outperform other modalities, promising improved performance, lower learnability rates, and enhanced efficiency. These assertions serve as the foundation for investigating the dynamics of self-learning and exploration within XR-based environments. To this end, the study addresses questions related to the temporal evolution of learnability, post-learning efficiency, and users’ subjective preferences regarding these interaction modalities. This research shows that gaze-based interactions enhance performance, exhibit a lower learnability rate, and demonstrate higher efficiency compared to an unimodal hand-based interaction. Our results contribute to the design and refinement of more effective, user-friendly, and adaptive XR user interfaces.
Assessing Venous Thrombotic Risks in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation-Supported Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhu Yan , Lan Mei-Juan , Liang Jiang-Shu-Yuan , Cai Ling-Yun , Guo Lu-Yao , Gu Pei-Pei , Zeng Fei
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the prevalence and risk factors associated with venous thrombotic events in patients receiving (ECMO) support. Systematic review and meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies. PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest databases from inception through November 25, 2023.Case-control and cohort studies focusing on the prevalence and risk factors for venous thrombotic events in patients supported by ECMO. Identification of risk factors and calculation of incidence rates. Nineteen studies encompassing 10,767 participants were identified and included in the analysis. The pooled prevalence of venous thrombotic events among patients receiving ECMO support was 48% [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.37–0.60, I2 = 97.18%]. Factors associated with increased incidence rates included longer duration of ECMO support (odds ratio [OR] 1.08, 95% CI 1.07-1.09, I2 = 49%), abnormal anti-coagulation monitoring indicators (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.00-1.04, I2 = 84%), and type of ECMO cannulation (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.14-3.34, I2 = 64%). The pooled prevalence of venous thrombotic events in patients with ECMO support is high. Increased risk is associated with extended duration of ECMO support, abnormal anti-coagulation monitoring, and specific types of ECMO cannulation.
Filial piety, Caregiving Self-Efficacy, and Caregiver Burden in Sandwich Generation Caregivers: What Are the Relationships?
Authors: Ang Chin-Siang
Published: September 2024

Caring for an elderly parent, while also raising children, presents unique challenges. This study explores how filial piety—respect for elders—affects the stress of such caregivers, focusing on their caregiving self-efficacy, or confidence in their abilities. Surveying 202 caregivers, a link was found between filial piety and higher self-efficacy, leading to a sense of competence in caregiving tasks. However, this confidence did not uniformly reduce caregiver burden; it depended on the caregiving aspect. Confidence in handling emotional stress and securing breaks correlated with less burden, while dealing with disruptive behaviors correlated with more. These nuances highlight the complex role of self-efficacy in caregiver well-being, emphasizing the need for targeted support for the sandwich generation in various caregiving scenarios.
The Prognosis and Outcomes of Acutely Ill Patients Admitted to “Hospital-at-home” Programs Versus Patients with Similar Attributes Admitted to Internal Hospital Wards
Authors: Naamany Eviatar , Lederman – Shaul Shiri , Shiber Shachaf
Published: September 2024

Hospital-at-home programs have shown clinical and economic benefits globally but are still in the early stages in Israel for acute care. This study evaluated hospital-at-home units’ clinical, safety, and economic outcomes compared to internal wards. The study assesses hospital-at-home units’ clinical, safety, and economic outcomes versus internal wards for acutely ill patients. This retrospective matched cohort study assessed the impact of at-home hospitalization on patient survival. Patients admitted from the emergency room to at-home hospitalization were matched 2:1 with patients admitted to internal wards based on demographic and clinical characteristics using propensity score matching. The primary outcome was the rate of readmissions at 30 days. After matching, 645 individuals were included: 215 in the hospital-at-home group and 430 in the control group. Baseline characteristics were well-balanced. After 30 days, 6 individuals in the study group and 38 in the control group had died. The study group’s overall mortality rate was significantly lower (2.79% vs 8.84%, p = .0043). The hazard ratio for the control group compared to the study group was 1.907 (95% CI 1.227-2.963), indicating a 90% increased risk of death. The primary outcome of readmissions at 30 days did not differ significantly between groups. Secondary outcomes showed substantially lower healthcare resource use in the study group. Hospital-at-home units are a safe alternative to internal wards, offering significant mortality risk reduction and lower healthcare resource use. These findings support the feasibility of implementing hospital-at-home units for acute care in Israel.
Queering Masculinities in the Middle East (SWANA) and South Asia
Authors: Thangaraj Stanley , Inhorn Marcia C.
Published: September 2024

One of the most important shifts in gender scholarship is the attention now being paid to discourses and practices of masculinity in the Global South. This issue of  Men and Masculinities contributes to this growing field in three important ways. First, we foreground scholarship on masculinities in two interconnected, but understudied regions of the world, specifically the Middle East, which is also known as South West Asia and North Africa (SWANA), and its neighbor to the east, South Asia. In particular, we demonstrate the ways in which queer identities and communities are being formed across these two regions, connected as they are by historic trade routes, migration pathways, and transregional cultural flows. Second, we point to the vibrant masculinities scholarship that is emerging from these regions. But we focus specifically on non-normative masculinities—or the queer, trans, and other genderqueer masculinities—which have been historically present in these two regions, but which have been much less represented in masculinities literature. Third, we look to identity formation, or the ways in which young cis-gender, trans, and queer men come out in their communities and seek authentic lives of desire, pleasure, and participation. At the same time, we highlight the ever-present precarity within queer communities in the Middle East/SWANA and South Asia, especially given postcolonial nationalist and ethno-nationalist agendas, which promote normative heteropatriarchal masculinities and concomitant homophobia and transphobia.
Feline friendly POCUS: how to implement it into your daily practice
Authors: Swanstein Hugo , Boysen Søren , Cole Laura
Published: September 2024

Practical relevance:

Cats are great pretenders; they often hide illness until they are critical. This makes patients of this species challenging to assess and manage in the emergency setting where quick and stress-free diagnosis and treatment are necessary. Veterinary point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a rapid, evidence-based, non-invasive, repeatable, cage-side ultrasonographic examination designed to answer clinically driven questions without compromising feline wellbeing. Integrating feline friendly POCUS as an extension of the physical examination to streamline diagnostic and therapeutic interventions, thereby limiting stress and improving overall patient care, is advocated by the authors of this article.

Equipment:

Given the multitude of ultrasound machines and probes available that are portable, meaning they can be moved around the clinic and used patient-side, it should be possible for most practitioners to integrate POCUS into daily practice. The authors’ preferred equipment for feline POCUS is a microconvex probe and a portable machine with a fixed pre-set. This set-up allows the clinician to complete all POCUS (abdominal, lung and pleural space, and heart) without needing to move the patient, change probes or restrain the patient in a particular position, ultimately saving time, personnel and cost while maintaining patient comfort and safety.

Aim:

This review aims to serve as a valuable resource for veterinarians seeking to improve their feline patient care through the judicious utilisation of POCUS. In this article, the complex challenges posed by cats are addressed, and the different POCUS techniques, applications and clinical recommendations are discussed.

Evidence base:

This review draws on the published literature, as well as the authors’ own collective experience when providing recommendations.