bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radar-Derived Convective Features and Atmospheric Environments of Hail-Producing Storms over the Contiguous United States
Authors: Vasquez Edward R. , Liu Chuntao
Published: August 2024

Hail smaller than 0.75 in. is known to cause economic impacts yet remains understudied due to report biases towards recording larger hail sizes (≤1 in.). In this study, we assembled ground hail reports during 2017–22 from the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) Storm Data, Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS), and Meteorological Phenomena Identification Near the Ground (mPING) databases. Then, these reports are collocated with the attributes of radar-derived convective features from the Multi-Radar Multi-Sensor (MRMS) system and fifth major global reanalysis produced by European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ERA5) atmospheric vertical profiles to construct a dataset describing properties of a full spectrum of hailstorms. The characteristics of radar reflectivity and atmospheric profiles are examined for hail of different sizes reported within selected regions over the contiguous United States (CONUS). In addition to the seasonal and diurnal variations, the morphology of convective features shows apparent regional differences from west to east in CONUS. The maximum expected size of hail (MESH) performance against reported hail sizes shows underestimation of hail with significant sizes and overestimation of small hail sizes. ERA5 vertical atmospheric profiles are explored to form relationships between storm environment and hail sizes. In addition to the relationships between wind shear and hail sizes, the roles of low-level relative humidity and freezing level height in regard to hail melting are discussed.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor (ICI) Induced Sinonasal Disease: Review of Literature and FDA Database
Authors: Pak Kaitlynne Y. , Nadeem Wasiq , Lee Victor , Tang Dennis M. , Wu Arthur W.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a rapidly expanding class of oncologic therapies whose mechanism of action can result in unique immune-related adverse events (irAEs) not seen in other cancer therapeutics. The objective of this study was to determine the presence of sinonasal irAEs with these medications.

Methods:

A case report of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) caused by an ICI is presented and was the impetus for this review. Review of the literature using Pubmed and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews was performed. Additionally, we searched the FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS) database for sinonasal AEs in the 7 FDA-approved ICIs.

Results:

We demonstrate an emerging scientific literature describing cases of CRS associated with multiple ICIs with a particular predilection toward TH2 driven phenotypes. Review of the FAERS also demonstrates a small percentage of patients who report sinonasal complaints after initiating ICI therapy.

Conclusion:

Sinonasal symptoms and the development of CRS, in particular, are not currently well recognized as potential irAEs for ICIs. Increased awareness and further study may help to elucidate if these are more common than currently reported and if irAE-related CRS is a unique phenotype.
Open Innovation’s Potential in the Metaverse: Leveraging Digital Features to Build Trust with Partners
Authors: Falcke Lukas , Zobel Ann-Kristin
Published: August 2024

The rise of digital technologies and open innovation has revolutionized innovation practices, creating new opportunities for moving born-physical open innovation settings to metaverse-like virtual environments. This study explores a virtual corporate-startup collaboration program in the energy industry to understand how digital feature usage facilitates trusted relationships and enables successful pilots. This article presents a framework that emphasizes the strategic use of digital information and interaction features for targeting and bonding with partners. Program managers can tackle the unrealized metaverse through ubiquitous program management and overcome social barriers through adaptive social engineering of digital interactions. This article also provides an outlook on evolving technologies and hybrid designs.
Effect of Inpatient Pharmacist-Led Medication Reconciliations on Medication-Related Interventions in Intensive Care Unit Recovery Centers
Authors: Singer Sarah K. , Betthauser Kevin D. , Barber Alexandra E. , Bookstaver Korona Rebecca , Dixit Deepali , Groth Christine M. , Kenes Michael T. , MacTavish Pamela , Kruer Rachel M. , McDaniel Cara M. , McIntire Allyson M. , Miller Emily , Mohammad Rima A. , Poyant Janelle O. , Rappaport Stephen H. , Whitten Jessica A. , A. Yeung Siu Yan , Stollings Joanna L.
Published: August 2024

Background: Critical care pharmacists complete comprehensive medication reviews in Post Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) patients at Intensive Care Unit Recovery Centers (ICU-RCs) to optimize medication therapies after hospital discharge. Inpatient pharmacists often complete medication reconciliations prior to hospital discharge, which could affect interventions at an ICU-RC. However, this association remains ill-described. Objective: The purpose of this study was to, in patients with PICS, describe the effect of an inpatient, pharmacist-led medication reconciliation on the number of clinical pharmacist interventions at the first ICU-RC visit. Methods: This was a post-hoc subgroup analysis of an international, multicenter cohort study of adults who had a pharmacist-led comprehensive medication reconciliation conducted in 12 ICU-RCs. Only patients’ first ICU-RC visit was eligible for inclusion. The primary outcome was the number of medication interventions made at initial ICU-RC visit in PICS patients who had an inpatient, pharmacist-led medication reconciliation compared to those who did not. Results: Of 323 patients included, 83 received inpatient medication reconciliations and 240 did not. No difference was observed in the median number of medication interventions between groups (2 vs 2, p = .06). However, a higher incidence of any intervention (86.3% vs 78.3%, p = .09) and dose adjustment (20.4% vs 9.6%; p = .03) was observed in the no medication reconciliation group. Only ICU Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score was associated with an increased odds of medication intervention at ICU-RC visit (aOR 1.15, 95% CI 1.05-1.25, p < .01). Conclusion and Relevance: No difference in the total number of medication interventions made by ICU-RC clinical pharmacists was observed in patients who received an inpatient, pharmacist-led medication reconciliation before hospital discharge compared to those who did not. Still, clinical observations within this study highlight the continued importance and study of clinical pharmacist involvement during transitions of care, including ICU-RC visits.
Human–Robot Collaboration With a Corrective Shared Controlled Robot in a Sanding Task
Authors: Konstant Anna , Orr Nitzan , Hagenow Michael , Gundrum Isabelle , Hu Yu Hen , Mutlu Bilge , Zinn Michael , Gleicher Michael , Radwin Robert G.
Published: August 2024

Objective

Physical and cognitive workloads and performance were studied for a corrective shared control (CSC) human–robot collaborative (HRC) sanding task.

Background

Manual sanding is physically demanding. Collaborative robots (cobots) can potentially reduce physical stress, but fully autonomous implementation has been particularly challenging due to skill, task variability, and robot limitations. CSC is an HRC method where the robot operates semi-autonomously while the human provides real-time corrections.

Methods

Twenty laboratory participants removed paint using an orbital sander, both manually and with a CSC robot. A fully automated robot was also tested.

Results

The CSC robot improved subjective discomfort compared to manual sanding in the upper arm by 29.5%, lower arm by 32%, hand by 36.5%, front of the shoulder by 24%, and back of the shoulder by 17.5%. Muscle fatigue measured using EMG, was observed in the medial deltoid and flexor carpi radialis for the manual condition. The composite cognitive workload on the NASA-TLX increased by 14.3% for manual sanding due to high physical demand and effort, while mental demand was 14% greater for the CSC robot. Digital imaging showed that the CSC robot outperformed the automated condition by 7.16% for uniformity, 4.96% for quantity, and 6.06% in total.

Conclusions

In this example, we found that human skills and techniques were integral to sanding and can be successfully incorporated into HRC systems. Humans performed the task using the CSC robot with less fatigue and discomfort.

Applications

The results can influence implementation of future HRC systems in manufacturing environments.
Exploring Death Anxiety Among Older Adults: An Integrative Review of Associated Factors and Interventions
Authors: Younes Rudy S. , Rahme Elias , Rajha Ferial , Abboud Mzawak Mirna
Published: August 2024

With the aging of the population and the substantial surge of individuals above the age of 60, psychological concerns particular to this population have come to hold more weight on the healthcare and social levels. One of the concerns of older adults, which can significantly influence their psychological well-being, is the fear of inevitable mortality or death anxiety. This integrative review tackles the subject of death anxiety among older adults by providing a comprehensive synthesis of the factors associated with death anxiety and the effective interventions to mitigate it. A systematic screening of relevant articles was conducted using the PRISMA guidelines. Content and thematic analysis of 46 selected articles were performed, from which five key themes emerged: demographic factors, psychological and psychosocial factors, spiritual and religious factors, death reminders, and effective interventions. The review contributes to the field of thanatology and offers clinical insights into the care of older adults.
Risk Factors of Prolonged Grief Disorder
Authors: Quadlander-Goff Emma , Meyer Jill
Published: August 2024

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) is characterized by extensive yearning, which includes a strong desire, for the deceased that occurs for at least 12 months. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors that contribute to PGD including the type of loss, relationship to the deceased, and coping. The sample included 190 bereaved adults (71 unexpected or violent loss and 119 natural loss) that experienced the loss of a loved one at least 12 months prior to completing the survey used in this study. There were non-significant results for type of loss, the presence of PGD, and coping. Findings showed that dysfunctional coping including self-blame explained the presence of PGD. Closeness to the deceased prior to the loss contributed to the presence of PGD. The findings highlight the risk factors for adults that experience a presence of PGD.
Varying Beliefs in God and the Self-Concepts of Mattering and Dignity in a US Sample
Authors: Bonhag Rebecca , Upenieks Laura
Published: August 2024

The concepts of mattering and dignity have increasingly gained traction within the sociology of religion literature, as meaningful connections have been found between some measures of religiosity and these self-concept measures. Yet, questions remain regarding the connection between belief in God, religious doubts, or non-belief and the self-concept, as many prior studies presuppose religious faith or lack differentiation between different levels of belief. Using data from the 2017 Baylor Religion Survey (analytic n = 1,402), a cross-sectional and nationally representative survey of US adults administered by Gallup, we examined how current belief in God without doubts, in contrast to currently believing in God with doubts, agnosticism, and atheism, is associated with perceptions of mattering to others and a sense of dignity. Results from OLS regression analyses suggested that atheists and agnostics or those with no opinion regarding their belief in God may show slightly lower mattering scores compared to theists without doubts. By contrast, we observed that those with religious doubts or wavering faith reported slightly lower perceived dignity, yet atheists or agnostics showed no significant differences in perceived dignity with non-doubting theists. We interpret our findings in light of the existing literature and provide suggestions for future research.
Thermal microclimate investigation of smart knitted shoe soles for pressure sensing applications: a promising methodology for tailorable attributes
Authors: Abbas Adeel , Anas Muhammad Sohaib , Ashraf Waqas , Awais Habib , Khan Tabrej , Shabbir Omar , Aloufi Mansour
Published: August 2024

In the modern era, there has been a significant interest in intelligent materials. Smart textiles’ capacity to be employed primarily in healthcare settings for pressure-sensing applications has increased their popularity; however, the thermal microclimate is not being significantly focused. The primary goal of this research is to analyze the thermal microclimate of knitted shoe soles developed using a variety of materials and knitted structures. Acrylic and silver-coated polyamide yarn have been used to develop textile structures, including single jersey, honeycomb, double pique, cross miss, birds eye, and pique. The knitted materials varied in their combination of knit, tuck, and miss stitches. Dry fluids transmission, wet fluids transmission, and heat retention capabilities of specimens have been analyzed to investigate the thermal microclimate. Static charge and electrical resistance tests were used to evaluate the pressure-sensing performance. Overall, the honeycomb construction performed better in terms of thermal comfort attributes. A similar trend was observed for pressure sensing performance, in which fabrics composed of tuck and miss stitches showed efficient pressure sensing owing to fewer yarn bending points in the structure. The data were also analyzed statistically by performing the analysis of variance test in which the significance of studied input variables was obtained with P values less than 0.05.
Proximity to gentrification and order maintenance policing: How the diffusion of urban renewal amplifies formal social control
Authors: Johnson Lallen T , Guy Malcolm
Published: August 2024

Prior studies find that neighbourhoods abutting gentrifying spaces are viewed as ideal for capital investments and thereby subjected to increased police attention. Yet the categorical operationalisation of gentrification in such work presents limitations, particularly given that it is a spatial process. This area of scholarship also warrants a theoretical explanation of the diffusion of urban redevelopment and disorder policing. We address these voids by integrating the literatures of urban studies and crime and deviance to theorise the linkage between nearby gentrification and disorder policing. Using negative binomial regression models to analyse three years of arrest records from the Washington, DC Metropolitan Police Department, we find that the occurrence of gentrification in nearby block groups is associated with increased order maintenance arrests in the average block group. This work demonstrates that the risk of disorder-related regulation extends beyond the bounds of high-value communities, further exposing socioeconomically marginalised groups to the risks of criminal justice contact.
Unravelling the Policy-Practice Gap in Education in Post-Colonial India
Authors: Choudhury Pradeep Kumar , Rapheal Steny
Published: August 2024

Jandhyala B. G. Tilak (Ed.), Education in India: Policy and Practice, Sage Publications, 2021, 364 pp., ₹1350, ISBN: 978-93-5388-742-1 (Hardbound).
Group consensus for double-order multi-agent systems with nonlinear dynamic under aperiodic intermittent control
Authors: Li Weixun , Wu Zhaoqin , Du Xiangyang , Xiao Jingyu
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates the group consensus problem for double-order multi-agent systems with non-periodic intermittent communication. In fact, the system is affected by the dynamics of the agents and its own intrinsic dynamics, and the nonlinear term is introduced to depict the intrinsic state of each agent. Considering nonlinear systems and leader-following problems, a new intermittent consensus protocol under aperiodic intermittent communication is proposed, which is particularly beneficial in terms of saving communication costs. Assumptions on the coupling matrix of the system are made based on some necessary conditions, and a convergence analysis is carried out by means of relevant tools, such as Lyapunov stability theory, Schur’s complementary primitives, and algebraic graph theory, to obtain sufficient conditions to ensure group consensus of the double-order nonlinear multi-agent system is achieved. In the end, the accuracy of the results is verified by numerical simulations using MATLAB tools.
Nonlinear disturbance observer–based adaptive neural control for electro-hydraulic servo system with model uncertainty and full-state constraints
Authors: Wan Zhenshuai , Liu Chong , Fu Yu
Published: August 2024

The electro-hydraulic servo system (EHSS) performs model uncertainty and state constraints such that the exact model-based controller is difficult to be designed. In this work, a nonlinear disturbance observer (NDO)-based adaptive neural control (ANC) is proposed for the EHSS, in which a nonlinear transformation function is constructed to make the state constraints problem transformed into state unconstraint problem. The NDO is introduced to improve the disturbance rejection ability. The ANC is utilized to approximate unmodeled dynamics. The second-order filters are integrated with backstepping control to solve the explosion of complexity. The proposed NDO-based ANC scheme confines all states within the predefined bounds, improves the robustness of closed-loop system, and alleviates the computation burden. Moreover, the stability analysis for the closed-loop system is given within the Lyapunov framework. Simulations and experiments show that the proposed control scheme can achieve excellent control performance and robustness with regard to full-state constraints and model uncertainty.
Open Science for language assessment research and practice in China: A response to Winke
Authors: Jin Yan , Fan Jason
Published: August 2024

Winke delineates objectives and suggests a series of steps for the implementation of Open Science (OS) in language assessment. While we recognize the relevance and potential success of these concrete measures for OS in language assessment, the distinctive challenges confronting OS in China may prevent researchers and practitioners from fully capitalizing on them. In response to Winke, we first reflect on the significant challenges encountered by Chinese language assessment researchers and practitioners. These challenges include the absence of an ethos of openness in language assessment research and practice, difficulties in publishing in scholarly journals, including open-access (OA) journals, and the sensitive nature of the data involved in large-scale, high-stakes language testing. To address these issues and forge ahead, we propose a community-oriented, grassroots-driven approach to cultivating an OS culture and fortifying collaboration among stakeholders. We hope that, through concerted efforts, we can promote OS and, more importantly, enhance the quality of language assessment research and practice in China.
Microvascular plasticity in mouse stroke model recovery: Anatomy statistics, dynamics measured by longitudinal in vivo two-photon angiography, network vectorization
Authors: Mihelic Samuel A , Engelmann Shaun A , Sadr Mahdi , Jafari Chakameh Z , Zhou Annie , Woods Aaron L , Williamson Michael R , Jones Theresa A , Dunn Andrew K
Published: August 2024

This manuscript quantitatively investigates remodeling dynamics of the cortical microvascular network (thousands of connected capillaries) following photothrombotic ischemia (cubic millimeter volume, imaged weekly) using a novel in vivo two-photon angiography and high throughput vascular vectorization method. The results suggest distinct temporal patterns of cerebrovascular plasticity, with acute remodeling peaking at one week post-stroke. The network architecture then gradually stabilizes, returning to a new steady state after four weeks. These findings align with previous literature on neuronal plasticity, highlighting the correlation between neuronal and neurovascular remodeling. Quantitative analysis of neurovascular networks using length- and strand-based statistical measures reveals intricate changes in network anatomy and topology. The distance and strand-length statistics show significant alterations, with a peak of plasticity observed at one week post-stroke, followed by a gradual return to baseline. The orientation statistic plasticity peaks at two weeks, gradually approaching the (conserved across subjects) stroke signature. The underlying mechanism of the vascular response (angiogenesis vs. tissue deformation), however, is yet unexplored. Overall, the combination of chronic two-photon angiography, vascular vectorization, reconstruction/visualization, and statistical analysis enables both qualitative and quantitative assessments of neurovascular remodeling dynamics, demonstrating a method for investigating cortical microvascular network disorders and the therapeutic modes of action thereof.
Reproducibility for carotid wall segmentation using T1-weighted DANTE-SPACE sequence on high-resolution 3-T carotid MRI
Authors: Won So Yeon , Lee Kijeong , Shin Ilah , Choi Hyun Seok , Choi Jai Ho , Kim Bum-Soo , Shin Yong Sam
Published: August 2024

Background

T1-weighted (T1W) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using the delay alternating with nutation for excitation-sampling perfection with application-optimized contrasts using different flip angle evolution (DANTE-SPACE) is the preferred imaging technique for evaluation of the vessel wall.

Purpose

To evaluate the intra- and inter-rater reproducibility of carotid wall segmentation on T1W DANTE-SPACE in patients with symptomatic (acute stroke or transient ischemic attack) internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis.

Material and Methods

This prospective study included 25 patients with acute (≤3 months) stroke or transient ischemic attack and 50%–99% stenosis of the ICA. All patients underwent 3.0-T high-resolution carotid MRI. Two radiologists independently performed the manual segmentation of the vessel wall and inner lumen of the bilateral carotid artery on DANTE-SPACE. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), and Hausdorff distance (HD) were calculated.

Results

The ICCs for intra-rater reproducibility of carotid wall volume, inner lumen volume, and normalized wall index were 0.965, 0.990, and 0.962, respectively. The ICCs for inter-rater reproducibility of carotid wall volume, inner lumen, and normalized wall index were 0.856, 0.981, and 0.904. DSC and HD for intra- and inter-rater reproducibility of carotid wall segmentation were as follows: 0.873 and 0.809 (DSC); and 0.079 and 0.118 (HD), respectively. For evaluation of reproducibility only in the carotid artery with symptomatic stenosis, the ICCs for intra- and inter-rater reproducibility indicated all perfect agreement.

Conclusion

T1W DANTE-SPACE is a reproducible sequence for evaluation of the carotid wall using carotid MRI in patients with symptomatic ICA stenosis.
Resident Aggression and Staff Burnout in Nursing Homes in Hong Kong
Authors: Yan Elsie , To Louis , Wan Debby , Lai Daniel W. L. , Leung Edward , Lou Vivian W. Q. , Fong Daniel Y. T. , Cheng Sheung Tak , Chaudhury Habib , Pillemer Karl , Lachs Mark
Published: August 2024

This study examined the effects of exposure to resident aggression, self-efficacy, neuroticism, and attitudes toward dementia on burnout among direct care workers (DCWs) in nursing homes. A convenience sample of 800 DCWs from 70 randomly selected nursing homes in Hong Kong were recruited and individually interviewed. DCWs reported past-month experiences of resident aggression, levels of burnout, self-efficacy, neuroticism, attitudes toward dementia, and other personal and facility characteristics. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that, while physical environment of the facilities, and demographic background and self-efficacy of DCWs were not significant contributing factors, DCWs’ exposure to resident aggression, insufficient experience and training in dementia care, negative attitudes toward dementia, and neurotic personality were associated with higher levels of staff burnout. Findings point to the importance of mitigating resident aggression and adequately screen and train staff to optimize their empathy and competence in minimizing the risk of burnout.
Research on temperature control of CF-PP induction heating based on improved particle swarm fuzzy PID
Authors: Fu Tianyu , Yan Shan , Gu Yunfei
Published: August 2024

Achieving precise temperature control during the heating process of carbon fibre-reinforced polypropylene thermoplastic composite (CF-PP) using electromagnetic induction heating is crucial for the consolidation effectiveness of the material. This paper begins by constructing a finite element microscopic model for induction heating that incorporates the actual fiber structure and matrix. It systematically analyzes the heating mechanism, temperature field distribution, and surface temperature hysteresis of CF-PP with different fiber weave structures during the heating process. Based on the observed temperature distribution and variation patterns during material heating, an improved particle swarm Fuzzy PID control method is proposed, which effectively reduces temperature overshoot and enhances the system’s resistance to disturbances. Experimental validation demonstrates the effectiveness of this algorithm for controlling the temperature of CF-PP plates during the induction heating process. This research offers an effective control strategy and research approach to enhance the accuracy of temperature control during the CF-PP induction heating process, contributing to improved outcomes in the field.
Airbnb on TikTok: Brand Perception Through User Engagement and Sentiment Trends
Authors: Marti-Ochoa Julia , Martin-Fuentes Eva , Ferrer-Rosell Berta
Published: August 2024

This study delves into Airbnb’s brand presence on TikTok by analyzing textual content in posts, and human audio in videos. This approach aims to decipher the brand narrative and gauge user engagement. In the dynamic realm of social media marketing, TikTok has emerged as a key platform in shaping brand perception. This research specifically concentrates on Airbnb’s content, distinguishing between official narratives and user-generated content (UGC). Notably, themes of “Travel” dominate official posts, contrasting with “Real Estate” and “Business” in UGC. The methodology employed involves advanced data collection techniques, including web scraping for textual data and artificial intelligence for transcribing human audio to text. The findings reveal that UGC commands greater engagement and volume compared to Airbnb’s own brand content, underscoring the increasing significance of user involvement in brand storytelling. An analysis of the study results is conducted using linguistic natural processing (LNP) for the sentiment base, and the vector space model for emotion analysis. Sentiment analysis reveals a predominance of the emotion “happiness” and a significant presence of “surprise” in the posts, both of which are critical for audience engagement. Moreover, the study indicates a high approval rate for Airbnb-related content, reflecting a positive reception of the brand. Additionally, the research observes that influencers, particularly nano influencers, have higher engagement rates, indicating that their authenticity and relatability appeal especially to Generation Z audiences. This study not only sheds light on the intricate relationship between brand narrative, user engagement, and sentiment on TikTok but also offers valuable insights into effective brand image construction and propagation in the digital era, highlighting the importance of diverse emotions in enhancing audience engagement.
Revitalizing library collection: A critical look at collection weeding practices at university libraries in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Ghalib , Bhatti Rubina
Published: August 2024

Weeding is an emotionally and politically charged activity for library professionals, faculty, and university administration. However, for a quality collection building in academic libraries, weeding is as important as selection and acquisition in the first place. This study attempted to understand the current practices of collection weeding at university libraries in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) region in Pakistan, and identify whether weeding the library collection is optional or obligatory for university library professionals in Pakistan. A survey method was employed to conduct the research. The study covered all public (27) and private (09) sector universities of the province which were chartered by the Government of KPK, and recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan. The population of this study was the senior library professionals working in the central libraries of the main campuses of all the province’s public and private sector universities. The study found that 39% of the university libraries with large collections conduct weeding at minimal levels to provide up-to-date materials to the users. The study’s findings further indicated that 61% of university libraries do not weed collections. The prime reason for not carrying out weeding was the absence of weeding policies.
The Need for Social Embeddedness: Human Belonging Goes Beyond Dyadic Bonds
Authors: Gabriel Shira , Schneider Veronica
Published: August 2024

We propose that much of modern human behavior can be understood as the outcome of a primitive and implicit desire for social embeddedness (i.e., a desire to belong to a larger, societal-level collective). Research from our lab suggests that people watch television, follow celebrities, and go to concerts and sporting events, at least in part, to fill this need. Connections to other research and implications for understanding human behavior are discussed.
No More the Nice Guy: Coping with Abusive Supervision through Service Sabotage Behaviours
Authors: Srivastava Shalini , Gupta Pragya , Mohapatra Mamta
Published: August 2024

‘Atithi Devo Bhav’, implying that guests must be treated as Gods, is the philosophical belief of Indian society indicating the importance of treating the customers with utmost respect and courtesy. The current study examines service sabotage behaviours by utilizing time-lagged method to collect data in three waves from 332 employees from Indian hotel industry. The study highlights the effects of abusive supervision on the employees who perceive disrespect, public humiliation or rude supervisory behaviours towards them as breach of psychological contract, and they retaliate by displaying deviant workplace behaviour such as service sabotage. The unique proposition of the research is to investigate the sequential mediating role of psychological contract violation and retaliation intention on the relationship between abusive supervision and service sabotage. The research utilizes psychological contract theory and frustration–aggression theory to draw logical inferences from the findings. Findings indicate that when employees perceive mistreatment or injustice, they experience psychological contract violation that instigates an urge to retaliate against the unfair treatment by engaging in negative service behaviours, for example, sabotage. Therefore, the hospitality organizations must implement practices and processes to take care of any unjust, unfair or hostile behaviour at play in the organization, as the success of the industry is dependent on the service quality and frontline employees’ encounters with the customer. The study provides some interesting and useful managerial and theoretical implications.
A Comparative Analysis of the Gas Pipeline Geopolitics of China and India in the Central Asia Republics
Authors: Khan Kashif Hasan , Omidi Ali , Alkan Abdulmelik
Published: August 2024

After the discovery of large oil and gas deposits in Central Asia, the region has become a vital battlefield for major world powers’ competing interests, resulting in a complex geopolitical and energy transportation interaction known as ‘pipeline politics’. After independence, multinational energy companies and global powers contacted the Central Asian Republics. Chinese investment has dominated the region’s energy sector throughout the past decade. India is strategically seeking Central Asia’s energy resources as it becomes more global. This article compares China’s and India’s Central Asian natural gas strategy and identifies research shortcomings. The complex geopolitical landscape is considered while examining their objectives and regional investments. This analysis reveals these methods’ motivations and their effects on the Central Asian Republics and the world. China has an advantage over India in Central Asian pipeline politics, making the region vital to China’s energy security.
Sudan: Rethinking the Conflict Between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)
Authors: Afriyie Frederick Appiah
Published: August 2024

Sudan, the third largest nation in Africa, faces severe poverty despite its abundant natural resources. Recent economic restructuring efforts offer hope for growth, but a power struggle between the military and paramilitary forces has plunged the country into a crisis. Intense violence in Khartoum and other regions has led to widespread damage to infrastructure and facilities, triggering a humanitarian crisis with millions displaced and urgent aid needs. The conflict, sparked by disputes over paramilitary integration and control of economic assets, threatens regional stability and the transition to democracy. This article analyses the conflict’s origins and proposes potential resolutions using the Protracted Social Conflict Theory.
Interdigitating Dendritic Cell Tumour: A Rare Case Report with Review of Literature
Authors: Muthukumarappan Kumudavalli , Menon Maya
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims:

Interdigitating dendritic cell tumour/sarcoma (IDCS) is an exceedingly uncommon and aggressive tumour with a dismal prognosis. IDCS arises from antigen-presenting cells, which involve nodal and extranodal sites. The aim of the study is to evaluate a case of IDCS and its diagnostic challenges.

Methods:

A 21-year-old female with no comorbidities, a bone marrow aspirate and biopsy and an excision biopsy of the lymph node shows atypical mononuclear infiltrates that were immunohistochemically positive for S100-diffuse, CD68, LCA and Ki67.

Results:

Here, we report a single case of IDCS with a tumour arising from the lymph node and bone marrow infiltration.

Discussion:

IDCS is an aggressive disease with uncertain behaviour; strong suspicion is required to establish a diagnosis.
Evaluation of Weight, Height, Body Mass Index, and Nutritional Status of Children With and Without Orofacial Cleft in Nigeria
Authors: Egbunah Uchenna P. , Zhu Yaner T. , Ratz Tiara , Hauri Dimitri D. , Thor Andreas L.I. , Adeyemo Wasiu L.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To compare the weight, height, BMI and nutritional status of patients with and without cleft lip and/or cleft palate (CLP).

Design

Cross-sectional study

Setting

Lagos University Teaching Hospital

Patients, participants

Patients with CLP and a control group of participants without CLP aged between 1 month and 6 years. All patients in the CLP group had not received surgical or nutritional intervention.

Outcome measures

Weight, height, BMI, their respective percentiles, and nutritional status according to the WHO 2006 growth curves of participants

Results

Patients with CLP (n = 60, 21 males, 39 females, mean age: 19.1 months) had significantly lower percentile weight and height compared to those of controls (n = 60, 26 females, mean age, 23.6 months) in univariate analyses (all p < 0.01). Multivariate linear regression revealed significant interactions with age group for weight. In addition, proportions of underweight and short stature were significantly higher in the CLP group compared to the control group (all p < 0.05), and these significant differences were dependent on the age group with between-group significant differences only in age groups less than 25 months.

Conclusions

Overall, patients with CLP had significantly lower weight, height, BMI and nutritional status than their unaffected peers, and these differences were dependent on age group. Significantly lower nutritional status was seen in patients with CLP up to 24 months of age, which highlights the need for early nutritional intervention in the management of CLP.
The Political Drivers of Horizontal Governance Relations in Small Localities: Evidence from a Cross-Country and Cross-Locality Study Across Seven Western European Countries
Authors: Pettrachin Andrea , Solano Giacomo
Published: August 2024

Refugee integration in small localities poses complex challenges that must be faced through “horizontal” cooperation between local governments, nonpublic and private actors. This article investigates how frequent and how collaborative/conflictual these horizontal governance relations are and whether, and how, they are influenced by political party control of local executives and the local strength of radical right parties (RRPs). Methodologically, we combine quantitative analysis—using a unique dataset of governance interactions across 36 localities, derived from a survey filled in by 185 representatives of nonpublic actors involved in refugee integration governance—and qualitative content analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted with the same interviewees and 68 local policymakers. We show that horizontal governance relations on refugee integration are largely collaborative, but their frequency and quality vary depending on interplays between the type of nonpublic actor involved, local executives’ political affiliation and RRPs’ strength within the municipal legislative body.
Size-dependent thermoelastic damping analysis of functionally graded polymer micro plate resonators reinforced with graphene nanoplatelets based on three-phase-lag heat conduction model
Authors: Peng Wei , Zhang Xu , He Tianhu , Gao Yaru , Li Yan
Published: August 2024

Nanocomposite materials, such as graphene nanoplatelets (GPLs), have been fabricated into high-efficient resonators due to the excellent thermo-mechanical properties. In addition, thermoelastic damping (TED), as a dominant intrinsic dissipation mechanisms, is a major challenge in optimizing high-performance micro-/nano-resonators. Nevertheless, the classical TED models fail on the micro-/nano-scale due to not considering the influences of the size-dependent effect and the thermal lagging effect. To fill these gaps, the present work aims to investigate TED analysis of functionally graded (FG) polymer microplate resonators reinforced with GPLs based on the modified couple stress theory (MCST) and the three-phase-lag (TPL) heat conduction model. Four patterns of GPL distribution including the UD, FG-O, FG-X, and FG-A pattern distributions are taken into account, and the effective mechanical properties of the plate-type nanocomposite are evaluated based on the Halpin-Tsai model. The energy equation and the transverse motion equation in the Kirchhoff microplate model are formulated, and then, the analytical solution of TED is solved by complex frequency method. The influences of the various parameters involving the material length-scale parameter, the phase-lag parameters, and the total weight fraction of GPLs on the TED are discussed in detail. The obtained results show that the effects of the modified parameter on the TED are pronounced. This paper provides a theoretical approach to estimate TED in the design of high-performance micro-resonators.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) menopause: Literature review, knowledge gaps and research agenda
Authors: Westwood Sue
Published: August 2024

There is growing interest in menopause discrimination in healthcare, the workplace and beyond. However, there is a dearth of research on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) experiences of the menopause. This article reports on a scoping review of the recent literature which identified a very limited number of articles and a wide range of knowledge gaps. This is discussed in relation to LGBTQ+ wider health, healthcare and workplace inequalities, and heteronormative and cisnormative conceptualisations of the menopause. A research agenda is proposed. Research should: be intersectional; differentiate between LGBTQ+ sub-groups; aim to understand how menopause experiences impact and are impacted by minority sexuality/gender identities; and examine how menopause healthcare and workplace support can be LGBTQ+ inclusive. Such research is urgently needed to ensure that LGBTQ+ people are fully included in menopause justice discussions and solutions.
Mothers’ experience seeking healthcare advice for their unsettled infants in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Kenny Bridget , McTaggart Sarah , O’Loughlin Rachel , Ranjithakumaran Branavie , Pelly Rachel , Hiscock Harriet
Published: August 2024

Unsettled infant behaviours are highly prevalent in the postnatal period and constitute a significant proportion of visits to healthcare services. Unsettled infant behaviours can be highly distressing for parents and are identified as a significant risk factor for postnatal depression. Understanding parents’ experiences is paramount to reducing the gap between consumer expectations and service delivery. This study employed a qualitative descriptive approach to explore parents’ experiences seeking healthcare advice for their infant with unsettled behaviours. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 mothers. Inductive thematic analysis yielded two overarching themes: (1) ‘the journey for answers’, consisting of five sub-themes, and (2) ‘parents’ knowledge and behaviours’, consisting of six sub-themes. Despite some positive interactions with healthcare services, mothers generally spoke negatively of their overall experience seeking answers and receiving care for their infant, and they felt the healthcare services they attended were not equipped to meet their needs. To address the gap between service delivery and consumer expectations, mothers relied on online communities for advice and emotional support. The findings of this study highlight several discrepancies between mothers’ expectations and service delivery in the context of unsettled infant behaviours, and this paper makes recommendations to address identified shortcomings in approaches to care.
A review of incidents related to health information technology in Swedish healthcare to characterise system issues as a basis for improvement in clinical practice
Authors: Pan Ding , Nilsson Evalill , Rahman Jabin Md Shafiqur
Published: August 2024

This study examined health information technology-related incidents to characterise system issues as a basis for improvement in Swedish clinical practice. Incident reports were collected through interviews together with retrospectively collected incidents from voluntary incident databases, which were analysed using deductive and inductive approaches. Most themes pertained to system issues, such as functionality, design, and integration. Identified system issues were dominated by technical factors (74%), while human factors accounted for 26%. Over half of the incidents (55%) impacted on staff or the organisation, and the rest on patients – patient inconvenience (25%) and patient harm (20%). The findings indicate that it is vital to choose and commission suitable systems, design out “error-prone” features, ensure contingency plans are in place, implement clinical decision-support systems, and respond to incidents on time. Such strategies would improve the health information technology systems and Swedish clinical practice.
Three-dimensional mixed EHL analysis of marine cam-tappet with machined surface roughness
Authors: Hua Deliang , Shi Xiujiang , Sun Wen , Lu Xiqun , Neville Anne
Published: August 2024

Due to the effects of transient load, curvature, speed and surface micro-topography, the marine cam-tappet pair usually works in harsh mixed lubrication state. In this paper, considering the effect of surface roughness, based on the three-dimensional (3D) line-contact mixed EHL model, the transient lubrication state of cam-tappet pair is analyzed. Results show the presence of three-dimensional surface roughness will affect fluctuations in film thickness and pressure clearly, while excessive roughness also cause local stress concentration, the asperity contact and zero film thickness. The lubrication effects of different machined surface methods are compared, and it found that the smallest film thickness ratio occurs as the ground surfaces contact, and lubrication state is very harsh, however, the polished surface can significantly improve lubrication state of the cam-tappet pair. Under low-speed conditions, the contact area ratio is greatly increased, which may cause serious stress concentration and excessive wear. By optimizing the base circle radius, the load-bearing capacity of cam-tapper pair improves clearly and the lubrication state is improved.
Digital twin of wooden heritage through multidimensional model construction and integration
Authors: Ma Xueyi , Zhao Jian , Wang Puxiang , Du Jiayi , Liu Jiahui , Zhao Dong
Published: August 2024

The concept of digital twin (DT) has gained significant attention in preventive conservation for prolonging the lifespan of cultural heritage. Focusing on preventive conservation, this study employs the integration of multidimensional modeling and multiple approaches to meticulously construct a DT for wooden cultural heritage. The constructed DT model integrates digital image correlation with iterative closest point, finite element model updating methods, moisture diffusion model, moisture-strain model, accumulated damage model, and the matter-element extension method research to acquire accurate data and risk assessment for real-time monitoring-based model, providing a versatile framework applicable to wooden cultural heritage. Illustrated through the case study of Quanzhou ships, the research exemplifies the generalizability of the construction and integration methods to diverse wooden cultural heritages. A DT system platform is devised for the structural monitoring, prediction and risk assessment of Quanzhou ships, encompassing geometry, physics, behavior, rule models, and services model based on monitoring results. The developed system platform integrates prediction, monitoring, alarm, and warning functions, enabling timely interventions and proactive preservation strategies to safeguard wooden cultural heritage. In conclusion, this study contributes a robust framework and methodology for the DT and preservation of wooden cultural heritages. The development of a DT integration and interaction system platform enhances the capabilities of preventive conservation efforts and provides practical insights into the application of digital twinning methodologies for preserving wooden heritages.