bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multigranulation-based double-quantitative rough sets for multi-source event-based decision systems
Authors: Li Wentao , Li Deyu , Zhang Huiyan , Zhang Chao , Shi Peng
Published: January 2023

For the multi-source event-based decision system (MSEDS), each source exhibits its own one-sidedness and limitations. How to fuse the information contained in multiple sources to make a comprehensive decision has become an important research field. In this paper, the related concepts of support characteristic levels in one source are introduced from the viewpoint of single quantification and double quantification. The multigranulation-based single-quantitative rough set models, the related properties, and decision rules for single source based on the presented single-quantitative support characteristic levels are discussed. How to construct multigranulation-based single-quantitative and double-quantitative rough approximations in MSEDS and to analyze their corresponding properties and decision-making rules is addressed. To interpret the proposed multigranulation-based single-quantitative rough sets and double-quantitative rough sets in MSEDS, an illustrative example about an MSEDS formed by medical expert diagnosis is investigated, which is helpful to apply these developments to practical event-based decision-making problems.
Neural event-triggered optimal filtering co-design of Markovian jump systems with hidden mode detections
Authors: Ma Chao , Lu Yanfeng , Wu Wei
Published: January 2023

The modified H∞ filtering problem for a class of Markovian jump systems with unknown nonlinear dynamics is investigated in the work by developing the neural event-triggered filter co-design method. Moreover, the true system modes are assumed to be inaccessible such that the estimated jumping modes are utilized for the mode-dependent filters. In particular, a novel event-triggered mechanism is introduced to improve filtering communication efficiency, where the unknown nonlinearity approximation is conducted by a neural network. By virtue of employing Lyapunov–Krasovskii method, sufficient filtering conditions are constructed to ensure the optimal H∞ performance under the mean-square framework, based on which desired mode-dependent filter gains, event-triggering, and neural network parameters are co-designed with an aid of matrix techniques. Illustrative simulations with two practical examples are finally carried out to validate the usefulness and advantages of our developed approach.
Event-triggered adaptive fuzzy asymptotic control design for uncertain stochastic nonlinear systems
Authors: Liu Yongchao , Zhu Qidan
Published: January 2023

The adaptive fuzzy asymptotic tracking control (AFATC) method is presented for uncertain stochastic nonlinear systems by virtue of event-triggered mechanism. The fuzzy logic systems are borrowed to address system uncertainties. By applying the backstepping technique, the AFATC strategy is recursively constructed. Different from the existing approximation-based methods, the developed controller can achieve asymptotic convergence feature. Moreover, the event-triggered mechanism is integrated into the controller design process to reduce data transmission and unnecessary resource waste. By applying the Lyapunov analysis and several helpful lemmas, the stability and convergence of the considered systems are ensured. Finally, the availability of the theory analysis is verified by a chemical reactor system.
Sliding-mode observer–based active fault-tolerance control for a two-degree-of-freedom helicopter system with sensor faults
Authors: Ma Ge , Yang Weijie , Lan Xuejing
Published: January 2023

In this paper, an active fault-tolerance controller is proposed for a two-degree-of-freedom (2-DOF) helicopter model with different types of sensor faults. The proposed controller is designed by combining an interval type-2 fuzzy logic control approach with a sliding-mode control technique. In addition, the controller is compensated by a sliding-mode observer used to estimate faults in real-time. For the proposed control scheme, the overall stability of the closed-loop system is proven using the Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, numerical simulations and experiments verify that the proposed scheme achieves superior control performance in the case of sensor failure.
An ANN – Constant power generation control for LVRT of grid-connected PVG
Authors: Zitouni Naoufel , Gammoudi Rabiaa , Hamrouni Nejib
Published: January 2023

This paper discusses an approach low-voltage ride-through control of a boost-converter for a two-stage grid-connected PV system under balanced grid voltage dips (BGVD). A combination of a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) and constant power generation (CPG) to control the boost-converter, respectively, in normal operation mode and BGVD under rapidly changing climatic conditions is proposed. MPPT and CPG commands based on artificial neural network algorithms are developed. Their goal is to maintain the operation of the low-voltage grid-connected photovoltaic system under instantaneously BGVD. This approach ensures a balance between the PV power generation and the injected active power when BGVD appears at the common coupling point (CCP). It permits to regulate the PV power to a specific value, to limit the over current at the CCP and to avoid energy aggregation at the DC-link bus. Simulations of 2.5 kW of a two-stage grid-connected PV system to verify the effectiveness of the command approach are presented.
A Likelihood Approach to Item Response Theory Equating of Multiple Forms
Authors: Battauz Michela , Leôncio Waldir
Published: January 2023

Test equating is a statistical procedure to make scores from different test forms comparable and interchangeable. Focusing on an IRT approach, this paper proposes a novel method that simultaneously links the item parameter estimates of a large number of test forms. Our proposal differentiates itself from the current state of the art by using likelihood-based methods and by taking into account the heteroskedasticity and the correlation of the item parameter estimates of each form. Simulation studies show that our proposal yields equating coefficient estimates which are more efficient than what is currently available in the literature.
Using behavioral theories to study health-promoting behaviors in palliative care research
Authors: Scherrens Anne-Lore , Deforche Benedicte , Deliens Luc , Cohen Joachim , Beernaert Kim
Published: January 2023

Background:

Behavioral theories are often used to better understand and change health-promoting behaviors and develop evidence-based interventions. However, researchers often lack of knowledge on how to use these theories in palliative care and people confronted with serious illness. Clear examples or guidelines are needed.

Aim:

To describe how behavioral theories can be used to gain insight into critical factors of health-promoting behavior in seriously ill people, using a case example of “starting a conversation about palliative care with the physician” for people with incurable cancer.

Methods:

We used a health promotion approach. Step 1: We chose a theory. Step 2: We applied and adapted the selected theory by performing interviews with the target population which resulted in a new behavioral model. Step 3: We operationalized the factors of this model. An expert group checked content validity. We tested the questionnaire cognitively. Step 4: We conducted a survey study and performed logistic regression analyses to identify the most important factors.

Results:

Step 1: We selected the Theory of Planned Behavior. Step 2: This theory was applicable to the target behavior, but needed extending. Step 3: The final survey included 131 items. Step 4: Attitudinal factors were the most important factors associated with the target behavior of starting a conversation about palliative care with the physician.

Conclusions:

This paper describes a method applied to a specific example, offering guidance for researchers and practitioners interested in understanding and changing a target behavior and its factors in seriously ill people.
Re-imagining Mobility: From (In)visibility to Multiple Processes of Making Present
Authors: Finiguerra Anna
Published: January 2023

(In)visibility is a central concept in debates on mobility and migration. It has been perceived as both resource and obstacle to transformative political practices. The aim of this article is to unpack how events tied to migration have been labelled simultaneously visible and invisible. This is not merely a contradiction but a sign of how knowledge about migration is produced in complex, multiple and contrasting ways. To assess these processes, however, scholars cannot rely on the language of (in)visibility as it comes short in articulating both the situatedness of processes of knowledge production and their multiplicity. This article proposes the language of ‘making present’ as an alternative, which enables us to track how different (in)visibilities have diverse political consequences. The conceptual contribution of the article is fleshed out by analysing two empirical cases: the construction of the Gateway to Europe and instances of migrant self-narration on the same site.
The effect of COVID-19 on managerial leadership style within Australian public sector organizations
Authors: AlMazrouei Hanan
Published: January 2023

This study investigates the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on leadership styles within Australian public sector organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. A qualitative methodology was employed for this research consisting of semi-structured interviews with 50 managers. The study results suggest the pandemic affected managers’ leadership style, managers’ and employees’ emotions, stress and anxiety, and organizational performance and productivity. Changes in leadership style to incorporate being supportive, informative, and motivational to match the change in situation were found to be effective. This addresses a gap in the literature by identifying these three leadership styles as being important for employee support during the pandemic.
On the genocide concept
Authors: Piccini Jon
Published: January 2023

A. Dirk Moses’ The Problems of Genocide builds on his decades of work in the field of genocide research. This review article looks at the impact the book has had to date before considering its two key arguments – that genocide’s invention in the 1940s distilled a centuries old ‘language of transgression’, which in turn served to justify and normalise what Moses dubs ‘liberal permanent security’. I conclude by considering the possibilities and limits of ‘conceptual history’.
Theft of Controlled Substances in Long-Term Care Homes: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Caspi Eilon , Xue Wei-Lin , Liu Pi-Ju
Published: January 2023

The theft of controlled substances has been studied in the community and healthcare settings including hospitals, pharmacies, hospice, and pain clinics. However, research on these thefts in long-term care homes has yet to be published. This exploratory study makes first steps toward bridging this gap. Using 107 Minnesota Department of Health’s investigation reports substantiated as “drug diversion” between 2013 and 2021 in assisted living residences and nursing homes, we found that 11,328.5 tablets were stolen from 368 residents (97.5% were controlled substances), with over 30 tablets stolen per resident. We also identified the types of medications stolen, duration of theft, extent to which nurses stole the medications or were those initially suspecting thefts, and the role of surveillance cameras in confirming allegations. The findings could raise awareness to this form of elder mistreatment in long-term care homes and call for action to address it.
The perception of circular economy in the framework of fashion industry
Authors: Papamichael Iliana , Chatziparaskeva Georgia , Voukkali Irene , Navarro Pedreno Jose , Jeguirim Mejdi , Zorpas Antonis A
Published: January 2023

Humanity’s three main components are energy, food and clothing. Each of us, individually and collectively, contributes to climate change and CO2 emissions, natural resource consumption, and social attitudes and behaviour. Global fashion trends are expected to increase in value from 1.5 trillion dollars in 2020 to around 2.25 trillion dollars by 2025, indicating that the fashion demand is on the rise. Due to climate change, soil and water scarcity, and a variety of other diseases, new natural resources must be developed from plastic fibres, natural colours must replace synthetic ones, water consumption must be reduced and the ‘buy-and-throw-away philosophy’ must be replaced with ‘buy-less-and-these-are-needed’ and incorporate the 12 ‘R’ strategies to aid the transition to a circular economy. In the context of waste management as well as on the development of new strategy approach, the fashion industry requires a new business circular model and furthermore a new mindset.
“It’s like an elephant in the room with my family”: LGBTQ+ College Students’ Identity Expression During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Hanna-Walker Veronica , Lawrence Samantha E. , Clark Alyssa N. , Walters Tracy L. , Lefkowitz Eva S.
Published: January 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic led many college campuses to close and transition to remote learning. For lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, or otherwise non-heterosexual or cisgender (LGBTQ+) college students, these disruptions may have affected their ability to express their sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI). We used a developmental assets framework and minority stress theory with open-ended survey responses to examine LGBTQ+ students’ ( N = 411, Mage = 20.5; 38.4% bisexual; 48.7% women) perceptions of whether and how their SOGI expression changed due to the pandemic. We found the majority of LGBTQ+ students described their SOGI expression as restricted. However, some students perceived no change or improvements in their SOGI expression. We also examined whether perceived change in expression differed by gender identity (transgender and gender non-conforming [TGNC] compared to cisgender), and whether students lived with family. TGNC students and students who lived with family were more likely than their peers to report restricted expression and TGNC students were more likely than cisgender students to perceive improvements in their expression. Our findings highlight the internal and external assets that promote positive developmental outcomes for adolescents with minoritized identities and how universities might support LGBTQ+ students.
Circumventing the Sentencing Grid: Encouraging Downward Departures in Presumptive Prison Cases
Authors: Renauer Brian , Campbell Christopher M. , Leymon Mark Harmon , Leymon Ann
Published: January 2023

This study examines sentencing outcomes of Justice Reinvestment Initiative (JRI) focused on reducing incarceration by encouraging downward departures to community-based sanctions in presumptive prison cases. The sample includes 3,930 defendants enrolled in the JRI program. Pre-adjudication assessment reports and a judicial settlement conference were used to help the court decide if a case warranted a departure offer. A quasi-experimental design with propensity score matching balanced JRI program defendants to 1,153 historic defendants that would have been eligible in the previous year. Logistic regressions assessed the impact of both program participation and race/ethnicity, controlling for other factors on prison versus probation sentence outcomes and sentence length in prison outcomes. On average, across all racial groups, program participants are 52% less likely to go to prison. The impact of participation on sentencing outcomes was also equitable across the race/ethnicity of defendants. However, the program did not affect sentence length of prison outcomes.
When Prosecution Is Declined: Factors Influencing Prosecutorial Portrayal of Officers Involved in Shootings
Authors: Herrera Jacob , Schaible Lonnie
Published: January 2023

Using District Attorney Declination Letters of officer-involved shootings in Denver, Colorado between 2000 and 2020 ( N = 132) and drawing on the Narrative Policy Framework, this study examined how prosecutors use of narrative strategies varied with legal and extra-legal characteristics of shooting. Findings indicated that prosecutors were more likely to likely to praise police shootings involving armed subjects, independent witnesses, and injuries to officers. Surprisingly, prosecutors were less likely to praise officers involved in the shooting of African American subjects, unarmed suspects, and in shootings involving a standoff. Findings suggest that while prosecutors largely draw upon legal criteria to justify not prosecuting police, their narrative accounts of declining to pursue criminal charges are also sensitive to extra-legal variables. Implications for theory, practice, and research are discussed.
Stiffness and geometry characteristics of flange connection with bolt failure and its influence on rotor dynamics
Authors: Liu Yu , Zhao Diwen , Guo Xuanbo , Ai Yanting
Published: January 2023

Flange connection is widely used in aero-engine rotor system. The state of bolt is very important to the stable operation of the rotor, but the impact of bolt failure on the dynamic characteristics of the rotor system is not clear. Thus, the stiffness and geometry characteristics of flange connection with bolts failure and its influence on rotor dynamic response are studied. Firstly, a three-dimensional solid finite element model considering contact characteristics and a stiffness test device for flange connection with spigot are established. The stiffness characteristics and axis bending characteristics of flange connection after bolt failure are obtained by numerical simulation and experiment test. Secondly, the motion equation of the rotor with the characteristics of local stiffness asymmetric and initial bending result from bolt failure of the flange connection is established by a novel modeling method, and the dynamic response characteristics of the rotor are studied; Finally, a rotor test bench with flange connection is established to test the dynamics of the rotor when bolts fail, and its frequency spectrum and orbit characteristics are analyzed. The research results can provide a theoretical basis for simulation and identification of the bolt failure in rotating machinery system.
Evaluation of flow stress in nylon 66 via digital image correlation method and response surface method
Authors: Su Ziyi , Wakuta Yuma , Nishida Masahiro , Tsuda Toru , Kitamura Shigeaki
Published: January 2023

Nylon 66 is an engineering plastic with the advantageous characteristics of light weight, heat resistance, high strength, and high rigidity; it has been used in automobile parts as a substitute for aluminum alloys. There have also been many studies on the mechanical properties of nylon 66. However, the flow stress in nylon 66 after necking has not been thoroughly investigated yet due to the difficulty in identifying local stress. In this study, a flow stress optimization method based on the digital image correlation (DIC) method and response surface method, is proposed. The averaged true stress–true plastic strain curve is first obtained by a quasi-static tensile test via DIC. Subsequently, the flow stress is optimized via the response surface method to obtain the actual flow stress state after necking. The accurate flow stress in the specimen can be obtained based on the relationship between the global load force and distance between the two shoulders of the specimen grip parts that is unaffected by the cross-sectional area change during necking. The results indicate that the average true stress recorded from the experiment overestimates the flow stress after necking. The optimized flow stress exhibits the maximum decrease of 9%. The accuracy of the optimized flow stress is evaluated by comparison with the true strain distribution on the specimen that is accurately measured via DIC.
Is U=U consistently known and implemented? A survey among different medical specialists in Brazil
Authors: Nunes Nathalia Neves , Vasconcelos Ricardo , Cortez Andre Lazzeri , Ferreira-Filho Edson , Kobayasi Renata , Willets Clarissa , Cocuzza Marcelo , Avelino-Silva Vivian I
Published: January 2023

Despite solid scientific evidence, the concepts of treatment as prevention (TASP) and Undetectable = Untransmittable (U = U) remain unfamiliar and underutilized for some healthcare providers. We conducted a self-completion survey to evaluate the knowledge of TASP/U = U in different medical specialties. Wilcoxon Rank-Sum, Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used for group comparisons and a logistic regression model was used to assess factors independently associated with U = U-non-supportive attitudes. 197 physicians were included; 74% agreed/strongly agreed that people living with HIV (PLHIV) under regular treatment with undetectable viral do not transmit HIV sexually. However, only 66% agree/strongly agree that PLHIV should be informed about that. The knowledge about these concepts was poorer among gynecologists, urologists and internal medicine specialists when compared to infectious diseases specialists after adjustment for age, race/skin color, gender, and sexual orientation. Our study found that knowledge of crucial concepts of HIV prevention may be lacking for some medical specialties. This highlights the need of improvement in medical education.
Transfer of Learned Cognitive Flexibility to Novel Stimuli and Task Sets
Authors: Wen Tanya , Geddert Raphael M. , Madlon-Kay Seth , Egner Tobias
Published: January 2023

Adaptive behavior requires learning about the structure of one’s environment to derive optimal action policies, and previous studies have documented transfer of such structural knowledge to bias choices in new environments. Here, we asked whether people could also acquire and transfer more abstract knowledge across different task environments, specifically expectations about cognitive control demands. Over three experiments, participants (Amazon Mechanical Turk workers; N = ~80 adults per group) performed a probabilistic card-sorting task in environments of either a low or high volatility of task rule changes (requiring low or high cognitive flexibility, respectively) before transitioning to a medium-volatility environment. Using reinforcement-learning modeling, we consistently found that previous exposure to high task rule volatilities led to faster adaptation to rule changes in the subsequent transfer phase. These transfers of expectations about cognitive flexibility demands were both task independent (Experiment 2) and stimulus independent (Experiment 3), thus demonstrating the formation and generalization of environmental structure knowledge to guide cognitive control.
Light pollution impact assessment in Hong Kong: Multi-dimensional measurement and spatial numerical modelling on integrated light sources in the neighbourhood level
Authors: Tong Jimmy C K , Yao X H , Lau Edmond S L , Cheung Wendy K S , Ho Kingston K S , Ng Venus Y Y , Lau Arthur P S
Published: January 2023

Light pollution in recent years has drawn surging public concerns in Hong Kong. The improper management of the light sources causes pollution, particularly light trespass on the community level, which obstructs the residents. Yet more studies are expected to quantitatively and systematically assess the severity of the artificial light trespass problem, and to offer practical solutions for mitigation and urban management. This study was conducted on a typical high-density, mixed-use neighbourhood in Tsim Sha Tsui district. The study consists of on-site measurement and model simulation. Three illuminance measurements were conducted to evaluate the impact of light pollution on the streets and light trespass on the nearby buildings. It was found that the impacts on the buildings (mean illuminance of 3 lx) are less significant than on the streets (mean illuminance of 188 lx) for the target study area. Indoor measurement at various height levels showed a mean illuminance level of 0.6 lx, which is much lower than the international limit of 25 lx. Meanwhile, the modelling work, consisting of correlation, verification and regression analysis, was carried to bridge luminous flux from light sources and illuminance received at the target. A three-dimensional (3D) model was developed to mimic the actual situation and was used to identify the primary light sources causing impacts. While a growing number of research is found on measuring and modelling the intricate light pollution in such a micro scale that elevates explicitly the importance of extrapolating the light pollution effect vertically from street level to building level, direct simulation is still lacking. This study also refined and summarised the research methodology to serve as a feasible and organised protocol for setting up the measurement and modelling work. This can be adapted in future assessments on light trespass issues under similar circumstances elsewhere, like scientific research, urban planning, or property development projects.
A dynamic relationship between renewable energy consumption, nonrenewable energy consumption, economic growth, and carbon dioxide emissions: Evidence from Asian emerging economies
Authors: Ali Arshad , Radulescu Magdalena , Balsalobre-Lorente Daniel
Published: January 2023

This study aims to examine the linkages between renewable energy consumption (REC), nonrenewable energy consumption (NREC), carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, and economic growth in emerging Asian countries during the period 1975–2020 using a panel augmented mean group (AMG) estimation technique. The results of the long-run coefficient elasticity show that REC, NREC, employed labor force, and capital formation contribute significantly to long-run economic growth. The research analysis also found that NREC significantly increases long-term carbon emissions while REC significantly reduces long-term carbon emissions. Moreover, gross domestic product (GDP) and GDP3 have a significant positive impact on environmental degradation while GDP2 has a significant adverse impact on environmental pollution, thus validating the N-shaped Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis in selected emerging Asian economies. The country-wise AMG strategy points out that India and Bangladesh have no EKC hypothesis, China and Singapore have an inverted U-shaped EKC hypothesis and Japan and South Korea have an N-shaped EKC hypothesis. Empirical evidence from Dumitrescu and Hurlin's causality test shows a two-way causality between REC and economic growth, supporting the feedback hypothesis. Strategically, this study suggests that more renewable energy is a viable strategy to address energy security and reduce carbon emissions to protect the environment and boost future economic growth in selected emerging Asian countries.
Early Myoclonic Infantile Encephalopathy in Neonate Caused by 5-Oxoprolinuria, a Rare Metabolic Entity: A Case Report
Authors: Kundu Tirthankar , Sen Sandipan , Mallick Asim Kumar , Mandal Shrabani , Maity Debasis
Published: January 2023

Neonatal encephalopathy is a common entity encountered by treating physicians in any neonatal intensive care unit. Though hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy is the most frequent cause in developing countries, metabolic causes should also be looked for in refractory neonatal seizures with sibling death and parental consanguinity. Early myoclonic infantile encephalopathy, considered under the broad spectrum of infantile encephalopathy, is a rare syndrome in infants with onset within 3 months of age. It is characterized by myoclonic seizures, features of encephalopathy and caused by underlying metabolic diseases, nonketotic hyperglycinemia being the most common cause. On contrary its close mimicker, Ohtahara syndrome or early infantile epileptic encephalopathy is most likely associated with structural neurological lesions. We report a 12-day term Indian male neonate, born of second degree consanguinity with multiple sibling death history, presented with refractory myoclonic seizures in spite of uneventful birth history. Myoclonic seizures, refractory to intravenous phenobarbitone, phenytoin and infusion Midazolam, persisted after ruling out hypoglycemia, dyselectrolytemia, and neonatal sepsis. EEG showed typical burst suppression pattern pointing towards diagnosis of early myoclonic infantile encephalopathy. Further metabolic causes were looked for but tandem mass spectrometry for dried blood sample was normal. Lastly, urinary GCMS revealed 5-oxoprolinuria, an autosomal recessive condition, characterized by acidosis, jaundice, and severe hemolytic anemia among neonates, primarily due to glutathione synthetase enzyme deficiency. In severe form of 5-oxoprolinuria, neurological complications in form of seizures, ataxia have been documented in earlier studies; however, its association with myoclonic encephalopathy is yet to be reported in the literature and this report may be the first of its kind.
Enhancing social inclusion in sport: Dynamics of action research in super-diverse contexts
Authors: Spaaij Ramon , Luguetti Carla , McDonald Brent , McLachlan Fiona
Published: January 2023

There are systemic and longstanding inequalities in sport participation for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) migrants. Drawing on theoretical foundations of critical pedagogy and social justice education, as well as a public sociology perspective, this paper examines the development of an action research (AR) project to support the co-creation of inclusive climates in sports clubs in CALD communities in Melbourne, Australia. We use artefacts from collaborative sessions, interviews, and surveys to analyse the AR's impact on participating community sport leaders’ awareness and practice. The findings indicate how the collaborative process of assessing clubs’ diversity and inclusion climates affected participants’ awareness of inequities and exclusionary practices, and how the co-creation of strategies for change brought together diverse perspectives. We reflect on the implications and limitations of the AR for research practice aimed at promoting equitable social inclusion for CALD migrants in community sport.
Policing by algorithm: NSW Police’s Suspect Target Management Plan
Authors: Englezos Elizabeth
Published: January 2023

This article considers New South Wales Police's Suspect Target Management Plan (STMP) and its disparate impact on young and Indigenous offenders. The article re-casts analyses provided by the Youth Justice Coalition and the Law Enforcement Conduct Committee to demonstrate the impact of the STMP-II on five individual case studies. While algorithms are becoming increasingly common, this article highlights the risk when algorithms, our increased reliance on data and automation bias combine. As in the case of the STMP-II, the tendency to follow algorithmic outputs without review or critique is especially problematic when algorithms are used to inform decisions affecting individual freedoms and liberty.
Pseudo-hallucinations are for real in some patients with a bipolar disorder
Authors: Parker Gordon , Coroneo Minas
Published: January 2023

Objective

To provide exemplars of pseudo-hallucinations experienced by six individuals with bipolar disorder, suggest that they may be preferentially overrepresented in those with that condition and argue that their presence does not indicate that the individual is necessarily psychotic.

Method

Historical definitions of pseudo-hallucinations are overviewed and six profiles are presented considering manifestations in those with a bipolar disorder, their sequencing and response to medication.

Results

The six patients initially judged such experiences as true hallucinations and, only over time, did they recognize their falsity. Clinical observation suggests that pseudo-hallucinations may be more common in those with a bipolar disorder and that they can precede, cooccur or follow disorder onset, can manifest during any phase of the condition and that they may or may not respond to medication prescribed for the bipolar disorder.

Conclusions

The exemplars of pseudo-hallucinations overviewed here indicate their richness of expression, their variable time course with illness stages and their variable response to medications prescribed for the bipolar condition.
We Are Just Mazdoors! A Decolonial Ethnographic Account of Health Inequalities, and Inequities Among Tea Garden Laborers in Assam, India
Authors: Gogoi Nitish , Sumesh S. S.
Published: January 2023

This article investigates the lived experiences of health inequalities and inequities among tea garden laborers in Assam, India. By employing decolonial ethnographic research, this study explored long-standing health inequalities and inequities in the tea industry and workers’ illnesses and injuries due to inadequate occupational, environmental, and health care policies. Neither the state nor the management of the tea garden, according to the interviews, has taken the essential actions to safeguard the health and safety of the workers in tea gardens either during the pandemic or at any other time. Instead, hearing gaalis (verbal abuses) from babus (the tea garden managers) is a part of their everyday life. We argue that even after 7 decades of post-colonial rule, tea garden workers are subject to a ghettoized economy characterized by closure and control. Thus, we need to reexamine how the tea industry is structured in order to rectify existing health inequities.
Current Orthognathic Surgery Practice Patterns Among Academic OMS
Authors: Bourne Graham , Kinard Brian
Published: January 2023

Objective

Currently there is variation in perioperative care of orthognathic surgery patients and limited clinical practice guidelines. The current orthognathic surgery practice patterns among US academic OMFS training centers have not been described. The purpose of this study is to describe the practice patterns among US academic OMFS training centers.

Design

The study design is cross-sectional. Data was collected through a survey of the sample.

Setting

OMFS programs in the US.

Participants

Academic OMFS. 573 surgeons were contacted and 85 responses were received.

Main Outcome Measure

Descriptive and bivariate statistics were reported.

Results

Respondents were 87% male and worked in full-time academic (80%), part-time academic (19%), or military settings (1%). Thirty-one percent have practiced for 30 years or more and then 29% with 11–20 years, 18% with 21–30 years, 12% with 6–10 years and 11% with 1–5 years. Twenty-six percent of respondents perform 20–40 orthognathic surgeries a year, 22% perform less than 20 surgeries a year, 21% perform 40–60 surgeries per year, and 19% perform more than 100 surgeries per year. Intraoperatively, 48% of surgeons request a mean arterial pressure of 60–64 mmHg, 25% utilize tranexamic acid (TXA), 85% report a blood loss of less than 400 milliliters, and 93% report a blood transfusion rate of <1%.

Conclusion

There are variations in orthognathic surgery practice patterns with limited clinical practice guidelines. Only 13 of the 32 survey questions had a single response holding a simple majority. This study demonstrates the need for further research and evidence-based protocols and decision making.
Sesamoid Position Change Over 2 Years After Distal Chevron Osteotomy for Moderate to Severe Hallux Valgus: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bello-Tejeda Laiz Lissette , Perez-Aznar Adolfo , Sebastia-Forcada Emilio , Miralles-Muñoz Francisco Antonio , Lizaur-Utrilla Alejandro , Vizcaya-Moreno M. Flores
Published: January 2023

Background:

Sesamoid position change after distal chevron osteotomy for moderate to severe hallux valgus is not well known in the literature. The objective of this study was to determine whether the sesamoid position changed over 2 years after distal chevron osteotomy for moderate to severe hallux valgus.

Methods:

Ninety-seven patients who underwent distal chevron osteotomy for moderate to severe hallux valgus were prospectively assessed for 2 years. There were 91 females, and the mean age was 54.9 (SD 10.9) years. The Self-Reported Foot and Ankle Score (SEFAS) was used for functional assessment. Foot pain was assessed by a 0-10 visual analog scale (VAS), and patient satisfaction by a 5-point Likert scale. Radiologically, hallux valgus angle (HVA), first-second intermetatarsal angle (IMA), distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA), metatarsal head displacement, and sesamoid position by the AOFAS criteria were analyzed. Patients were classified according to the medial sesamoid position on the first postoperative weightbearing radiograph (1º-WB-Xray) into the reduced sesamoid group (66 patients) and nonreduced sesamoid group (31 patients).

Results:

All patients were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively at 1 month and 2 years. On the 1º-WB-Xray, IMA was significantly lower in the reduced group ( P = .038), but HVA ( P = .063) and DMAA ( P = .246) were not significantly different. At the final follow-up, no patients in the reduced group had sesamoid position change from 1º-WB-Xray, whereas 8 (25.8%) patients in the nonreduced group had change of their sesamoid positions. The SEFAS was not significantly different between groups preoperatively ( P = .386) or at 1 month postoperation ( P = .064). The final SEFAS, VAS pain, and satisfaction scores were significantly better in the reduced group, although the clinical significance of these changes remains unknown.

Conclusion:

A nonreduced position of the sesamoids obtained in surgery can cause their increased malposition over 2 postoperative years and statistically less functional outcomes.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, prospective cohort study.
Five-Year Follow-up of Third-Generation Percutaneous Chevron and Akin Osteotomies (PECA) for Hallux Valgus
Authors: Lewis Thomas L. , Robinson Peter W. , Ray Robbie , Dearden Paul M. C. , Goff Thomas A. J. , Watt Clare , Lam Peter
Published: January 2023

Background:

Recent large studies of third-generation minimally invasive hallux valgus surgery (MIS) have demonstrated significant improvement in clinical and radiologic outcomes. It remains unknown whether these clinical and radiologic outcomes are maintained in the medium to long term. The aim of this study was to investigate the minimum 5-year clinical and radiologic outcomes following third-generation MIS hallux valgus surgery in the hands of a high-volume MIS surgeon.

Methods:

A retrospective observational single highly experienced MIS surgeon case series of consecutive patients undergoing primary isolated third-generation percutaneous chevron and Akin osteotomies (PECA) for hallux valgus with a minimum 60-month clinical and radiographic follow-up. Primary outcome was radiographic assessment of the hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) preoperatively, 6 months, and ≥60 months following PECA. Secondary outcomes included the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire, patient satisfaction, EuroQol-5D visual analog scale and the visual analog scale for pain.

Results:

Between 2012 and 2014, 126 consecutive feet underwent isolated third-generation PECA, with complete data available for 78 (61.9%) feet. The median follow-up was 65.0 (IQR 64-69; range 60-88) months. There was a significant improvement in radiographic deformity correction; the median IMA improved from 12.0 degrees (interquartile range [IQR]: 10.8-14.2) to 6.0 degrees (IQR: 4.2-7.3) ( P < .001), and the median HVA improved from 27.2 degrees (IQR: 20.6-34.4) to 7.2 degrees (IQR: 3.4-11.6). Median MOXFQ Index score at ≥60-month follow-up was 2.3 (IQR: 0.0-7.8). The radiographic recurrence rate (defined as HVA >15 degrees) was 7.7% at final follow-up. The complication rate was 4.8%.

Conclusion:

Radiologic deformity correction for the 78 feet we were able to follow that had third-generation PECA performed by a single highly experienced MIS surgeon was found to be maintained at a mean follow-up of average 66.8 months, with a radiographic recurrence rate of 7.7%. Clinical PROMs and patient satisfaction levels were high and comparable to other third-generation studies with shorter duration of follow-up.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective cohort study.
Digital stability of the Furuta pendulum based on angle detection
Authors: Vizi Mate B. , Stepan Gabor
Published: January 2023

The digital balancing of the Furuta pendulum is studied when the time delay related to the digital control and the dynamics of the actuator have essential effects on stability. Such cases occur when the sampling rate of the digital control is low, that is, the control cycles are slow due to complex signal processing strategies and/or the implementation of cheap low-capacity microprocessors. A corresponding difficulty is that no direct velocity measurement is available. Critical sampling times are identified and stability charts are constructed and validated by experiments including the possible existence of quasi-periodic self-excited oscillations.
Focused cardiac ultrasound in pregnancy
Authors: Edwards Paul , Anyaogu Chinyere , Mezue Kenechukwu , Baugh Dainia , Goha Ahmed , Egbuche Obiora , Nunura Felix , Madu Ernest
Published: January 2023

Cardiac disease in pregnancy is an important cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. In many high-income countries, acquired cardiac disease is now the largest cause of maternal mortality. Given its prevalence in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), rheumatic heart disease is the most common cause of cardiac disease in pregnancy worldwide and is associated with poor maternal outcome. The diagnosis of cardiac disease in pregnancy is often delayed resulting in excess maternal morbidity and mortality. Maternal mortality review committees have suggested that prompt recognition and treatment of heart disease in pregnancy may improve maternal outcome. Given the similarities between symptoms of normal pregnancy and those of cardiac disease, the clinical diagnosis of heart disease in pregnancy is challenging with echocardiography being the primary diagnostic modality. Focused cardiac ultrasound (FOCUS) at the point of care provides supplemental data to the history and physical examination and has been demonstrated to permit early diagnosis and improvement in the management of cardiac disease in emergency medicine, intensive care, and anesthesia. It has also been demonstrated to be useful in surveillance for rheumatic heart disease in LMICs. The use of FOCUS may allow earlier and more accurate diagnosis of cardiac disease in pregnancy with the potential to decrease morbidity and mortality in both developed and developing countries.
Dynamic stability of sandwich panels subjected to periodic axial loads
Authors: Yuan Zhangxian , Kardomateas George A
Published: January 2023

This paper presents an analysis for the dynamic stability of sandwich beams/wide plates subjected to periodic axial loads. The formulation of the problem is done by use of the Extended High-order Sandwich Panel Theory (EHSAPT). The equations of motion are derived from Hamilton’s principle and are expressed in terms of seven generalized displacements. A sandwich panel with simply supported edges is studied as an example, and the equations of motion for a given harmonic n are further derived. Two time-variations for the axial forces, namely, harmonic axial forces and step-wise periodic axial forces, are considered in this work. By considering the features of these two periodic load profiles, Floquet theory and Bolotin’s method are adopted to perform the dynamic stability analysis. Sandwich panels with different face-to-core thickness ratios are studied. Stability maps for varying frequency and amplitude of the forces are presented. Numerical examples show that when a sandwich panel is subjected to periodic loads, it is possible that it can experience dynamic instability even when the dynamic loads are much lower than the static critical loads.
What is the Diagnostic Accuracy of Novel Urine Biomarkers for Urinary Tract Infection?
Authors: Edwards George , Seeley Anna , Carter Adam , Patrick Smith Maia , Cross Elizabeth LA , Hughes Kathryn , Van den Bruel Ann , Llewelyn Martin J , Verbakel Jan Y , Hayward Gail
Published: January 2023

Background:

Urinary tract infection (UTI) affects half of women at least once in their lifetime. Current diagnosis involves urinary dipstick and urine culture, yet both methods have modest diagnostic accuracy, and cannot support decision-making in patient populations with high prevalence of asymptomatic bacteriuria, such as older adults. Detecting biomarkers of host response in the urine of hosts has the potential to improve diagnosis.

Objectives:

To synthesise the evidence of the diagnostic accuracy of novel biomarkers for UTI, and of their ability to differentiate UTI from asymptomatic bacteriuria.

Design:

A systematic review.

Data Sources and Methods:

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and Web of Science for studies of novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of UTI. We excluded studies assessing biomarkers included in urine dipsticks as these have been well described previously. We included studies of adult patients (≥16 years) with a suspected or confirmed urinary tract infection using microscopy and culture as the reference standard. We excluded studies using clinical signs and symptoms, or urine dipstick only as a reference standard. Quality appraisal was performed using QUADAS-2. We summarised our data using point estimates and data accuracy statistics.

Results:

We included 37 studies on 4009 adults measuring 66 biomarkers. Study quality was limited by case-control design and study size; only 4 included studies had a prospective cohort design. IL-6 and IL-8 were the most studied biomarkers. We found plausible evidence to suggest that IL-8, IL-6, GRO-a, sTNF-1, sTNF-2 and MCR may benefit from more rigorous evaluation of their potential diagnostic value for UTI.

Conclusions:

There is insufficient evidence to recommend the use of any novel biomarker for UTI diagnosis at present. Further evaluation of the more promising candidates, is needed before they can be recommended for clinical use.
More than users: How political parties shape the acceptance of electoral clientelism
Authors: Gherghina Sergiu , Lutai Raluca
Published: January 2023

Political parties use electoral clientelism to augment their support in many societies around the world. Extensive research shows how parties use clientelism and how citizens’ attitudes towards clientelism are shaped by broad social and economic factors. However, we know little about how political parties can influence people’s attitudes towards clientelism. To address this gap in the literature, this article analyzes the extent to which the development of a party organization and the interactions of citizens with these organizations can favor the acceptance of electoral clientelism as a practice of the political game. The analysis uses individual-level data from an original nationwide survey conducted in 2021 on a national representative sample of 4313 respondents in Romania. The results indicate that political parties, through their activities and networks, are not only main users of clientelism but also important drivers for its acceptance in society.