bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Completeness degree of publication metadata in eight free-access scholarly databases
Authors: Delgado-Quirós Lorena , Ortega José Luis
Published: February 2024

The main objective of this study is to compare the amount of metadata and the completeness degree of research publications in new academic databases. Using a quantitative approach, we selected a random Crossref sample of more than 115,000 records, which was then searched in seven databases (Dimensions, Google Scholar, Microsoft Academic, OpenAlex, Scilit, Semantic Scholar, and The Lens). Seven characteristics were analyzed (abstract, access, bibliographic info, document type, publication date, language, and identifiers), to observe fields that describe this information, the completeness rate of these fields, and the agreement among databases. The results show that academic search engines (Google Scholar, Microsoft Academic, and Semantic Scholar) gather less information and have a low degree of completeness. Conversely, third-party databases (Dimensions, OpenAlex, Scilit, and The Lens) have more metadata quality and a higher completeness rate. We conclude that academic search engines lack the ability to retrieve reliable descriptive data by crawling the web, and the main problem of third-party databases is the loss of information derived from integrating different sources.
New Directions for Thinking about the Bible and Nonhuman Animals: A Review of Works by Peter Atkins, Dong Hyeon Jeong, and Saul Olyan
Authors: Millar Suzanna
Published: February 2024

Three new monographs have appeared in 2023 that explore the Bible and nonhuman animals: Peter Joshua Atkins, The Animalising Affliction of Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4: Reading Across the Human-Animal Boundary (London: T&T Clark, 2023; pp. xiv + 260); Dong Hyeon Jeong, Embracing the Nonhuman in the Gospel of Mark (Atlanta: SBL Press, 2023; pp. xii+177); Saul M. Olyan, Animal Rights and the Hebrew Bible (New York: OUP, 2023; pp. xii+144). This review brings these books into conversation, suggesting six questions that they grapple with and which might stimulate further research.
Making of the Hindu Nation, Masculinity and the Citizen – Critical Reading of Children’s Magazines in South Asia and the Place of Muslims
Authors: Noorunnida M.
Published: February 2024

This study critically analyses popular and children’s science magazines published in Kerala, a southern state of India. It examines how these magazines construct an ideal Hindu nation and citizen through different narratives. Here, I argue that the imagery of popular children’s magazines in Kerala is rooted in the Hindu ideal – wherein dominant masculine characters and a glorified Hindu cultural past are foregrounded. In these magazines, the idealisation of Hindu masculinity takes place through presenting Muslims as less progressive / incapable of acquiring “modern standards”. In this context, the Hindu emerges as a reformer who helps the Muslim to “acquire modernity”. Also, children’s science magazines view science as a means for liberation from religion and irrational beliefs through critiquing “irrational” stories in popular Malayalam children’s magazines. But a close examination of science magazines reveals that it is embedded in the very religious ideologies from which it is seeking liberation.
The Problem of Evil in the Early Modern Ottoman Period: ʿAbd al-Ghanī al-Nābulusī’s Synthetic Metaphysics of Faith and Disbelief
Authors: Kawanishi Hiroaki
Published: February 2024

The early modern Muslim world witnessed unparalleled development in theological discussion, of which the problem of evil is a part. This paper aims to uncover a new discourse on the problem of evil in the Ottoman period, by examining the eleventh/ seventeenth-century polymath ʿAbd al-Ghanī al-Nābulusī’s (d. 1143/1731) synthetic theology of evil. More specifically, the study will analyze the way al-Nābulusī discusses the issue of faith (īmān) and disbelief (kufr) in his Ashʿarī kalām and Akbarian Sufism. Looking first at al-Nābulusī’s kalām metaphysics of īmān and kufr and then his mystical metaphysics, the paper corroborates how between the two sciences, there is a coherent logic in al-Nābulusī’s concordia theology.
New Mexican Peperomia species in subgenus Panicularia (Piperaceae)
Authors: MATHIEU GUIDO
Published: February 2024

Currently comprising less than a dozen of accepted species, subgenus Panicularia Miq. occupies a modest place within the large pantropical genus Peperomia Ruiz & Pav. that has more than 1500 species. The subgenus was thought to be restricted to South America, but a new member, presented here as Peperomia inversa G.Mathieu, shows up in Mexico. It is here described, illustrated and documented based on field observations and an extensive herbarium study in 63 herbaria. Its relationships, distribution and conservation status are discussed. The new species is endemic to the states of Jalisco, Guerrero, Michoacán and Oaxaca where it occurs at an elevation of 320–1500 m. It is considered as Vulnerable.
Clarification of the correct authorship of Cremanthodium prattii, with lectotypification of Senecio prattii
Authors: CHI XIAO-RUI , WANG LONG
Published: February 2024

Senecio prattii Hemsley (1896: pl. 2491) was described based on three collections, i.e. A. E. Pratt 492, A. E. Pratt 548 and A. E. Pratt 593, all from Kangding, western Sichuan, China. After its publication, it was considered as a distinct member of Cremanthodium Bentham (1873: 37) and its independent specific status has been widely recognized by all the subsequent authors, including Dunn (1911), Good (1929), Handel-Mazzetti (1938), Hu (1966), Koyama (1968), Liu (1989), Chen & Li (1994), Liu & Illarionova (2011), and Chen (2019).
Engage, educate, escape: The New Jersey Department of Health Project Firstline Escape Room
Authors: McLaughlin Kelly , Davis Jasmine , Gonzales Miriam , Koh Celina , Taylor Laura , Crowell Tara L
Published: February 2024

Objective:

Participating in an escape room is not just an entertainment but can also be a form of education. Because of this, the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), Project Firstline (PFL) created an escape room interactive training tool and skills-building exercise to encourage the identification and use of key infection control principles by current and future healthcare workers.

Design and Setting:

PFL is a US initiative that aims to provide infection prevention and control (IPC) knowledge to frontline healthcare workers. This article details health educators’ descriptions and experiences of an escape room developed as part of this initiative; guidance on how to incorporate this modality of learning into present and future teaching; and assessment data and feedback from participants to begin to understand the impact and effectiveness of this approach to learning.

Methods:

A total of 8 sessions, conducted in 3 locations, with 64 participants, yielded survey assessment data from 41 participants.

Results:

Quantitative results indicated that participants were highly satisfied with the escape room experience and reported an increased level of knowledge after participation. In addition, participants reported extremely high levels of intention to implement the training they received, and all would recommend the escape room experience to a friend or a colleague. Qualitative data supports the overall findings and provides specific examples of how participants said they would implement the knowledge they learned, along with additional positive feedback.

Conclusion:

Current and continuing efforts to promote PFL’s escape room are described, along with improvements and future actions.
Organizational Changes in Adopting Agile Approaches: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Perides Maria Paula Novakoski , Vasconcellos Liliana
Published: February 2024

Although agile approaches to project management were originally developed for use by small software development teams, agile methods quickly began to be used by entire department processes and, in some cases, to the entire organization. Despite this quick adoption, there is a lack of studies seeking a better understanding of the changes that an organization needs to carry out for agile implementation at the organizational level. Therefore, a systematic literature review was conducted to organize and synthesize knowledge in this field. The main changes reported by these studies were consolidated into four major dimensions, that together, provided a consolidated view on the topic. In addition to contributing to the theory of agile approaches, it is also intended that this research will support the organizations that plan to undertake this journey of transformation, helping them plan the actions needed to achieve the desired results more consistently.
Comorbid Conditions Are Associated With Cognitive Impairment in Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders
Authors: McEligot Archana J. , Pang Ka’ala , Moran-Gomez Sabrina , Mitra Sinjini , Santos Mariella , Tahmasebi Zahra , Kazemi Sanam
Published: February 2024

We examined the association between comorbid conditions and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (NHPI) ( n = 54). Cross-sectional, self-reported questionnaires were utilized to collect demographic, comorbid conditions, and MCI (via the AD8 index) data. Separate logistic regression models were conducted to investigate the relationship between comorbid conditions and MCI, adjusting for other covariates. We found significantly increased odds of MCI in those reporting high blood pressure (OR = 5.27; 95% CI: [1.36, 20.46]; p = 0.016), high cholesterol (OR = 7.30; 95% CI: [1.90, 28.14], p = 0.004), and prediabetes or borderline diabetes (OR = 4.53; 95% CI: [1.27, 16.16], p = 0.02) compared with those not reporting these respective conditions. These data show that hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and prediabetes are associated with MCI in the NHPI community, suggesting that preventive strategies to reduce chronic conditions may also potentially slow cognitive decline in underrepresented/understudied NHPI.
The Effects of Language Features and Accents on the Arousal of Psychological Reactance and Communication Outcomes
Authors: Acheme Doris E. , Anderson Chris , Miller Claude
Published: February 2024

Guided by psychological reactance theory, we examined the effects of language features on arousing reactance and communication outcomes. Results of a 2 (controllingness; high/low) × 2 (concreteness; concrete/abstract) × 2 (restoration postscript; present/absent) × 3 (accent; Standard American English [SAE]/Indian [non-SAE]/text-based message) between-subjects design ( N = 1,099, studies 1 and 2), revealed high-controlling language increased freedom threat, was perceived as more explicit than low-controlling language. Concrete language was perceived as more demanding of attention, fair, and producing lesser freedom threat than abstract language. Furthermore, restoration postscripts reduced freedom threat and message explicitness, including differences in restoration postscripts for the non-SAE relative to the SAE accent. Compared to the non-SAE accent, the SAE accent was perceived as more fluent and less difficult to understand, yet elicited more anger, more negative cognitions, and was perceived as less competent (Study 2). The implications are discussed vis-à-vis social influence and intergroup communication.
Hyoid Bone Fracture Secondary to a Blunt Neck Trauma: A Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Chebil Azer , Ben Ayed Mariam , Hasnaoui Mehdi , Masmoudi Mohamed , Jribi Achraf , Jerbi Saida , Mighri Khelifa
Published: February 2024

Hyoid bone fracture unrelated to strangulation is a rare occurrence characterized by a subtle presentation. However, it may manifest as a fatal respiratory distress due to airway obstruction. We present 2 cases of hyoid bone fractures that occurred following a traffic accident in 2 male patients. Both patients presented with either a neck pain or a dysphagia. Physical examination findings were limited to neck sensibility at palpation, saliva stasis, and laryngeal congestion at the laryngeal endoscopy. In both patients, the diagnosis was confirmed through computed tomography. In the first patient, the fracture was simple and located at the body of the hyoid bone, while in the second patient, it involved the greater horn with a medial displacement of the fractured fragment. Due to the clinical presentation, we successfully treated both our patients conservatively through a 48 hour observation, analgesics, steroids, antibiotics, neck rest, and semiliquid diet. This study highlights a rare occurrence of 2 cases of hyoid bone fracture unrelated to strangulation, which emphasizes on the importance of a high clinical suspicion to make the diagnosis of this entity.
A shortened test is feasible: Evaluating a large-scale multistage adaptive English language assessment
Authors: Min Shangchao , Bishop Kyoungwon
Published: February 2024

This paper evaluates the multistage adaptive test (MST) design of a large-scale academic language assessment (ACCESS) for Grades 1–12, with an aim to simplify the current MST design, using both operational and simulated test data. Study 1 explored the operational population data (1,456,287 test-takers) of the listening and reading tests of MST ACCESS in the 2018–2019 school year to evaluate the MST design in terms of measurement efficiency and precision. Study 2 is a simulation study conducted to find an optimal MST design with manipulation on the number of items per stage and panel structure. The results from operational test data showed that the test length for both the listening and reading tests could be shortened to six folders (i.e., 18 items), with final ability estimates and reliability coefficients comparable to those of the current test, with slight differences. The simulation study showed that all six proposed MST designs yielded slightly better measurement accuracy and efficiency than the current design, among which the 1-3-3 MST design with more items at earlier stages ranked first. The findings of this study provide implications for the evaluation of MST designs and ways to optimize MST designs in language assessment.
Selective orexin 1 receptor antagonism does not affect effort-based responding for sucrose reward in rats
Authors: Bergamini Giorgio , Durkin Sean , Steiner Michel Alexander
Published: February 2024

In rodents, orexin neuropeptides regulate motivation and reward-seeking via orexin 1 receptor (OX1R) signaling in the mesolimbic dopaminergic system. This role is clearly established for rewards inherent to drugs of abuse but less so for natural rewards. Reported effects of the selective OX1R antagonist (SO1RA) SB-334867 on motivation for palatable food are ambiguous. In our experimental conditions neither SB-334867, nor two additional, structurally different SO1RAs, ACT-335827 and the clinical development candidate nivasorexant, affected effort-based responding for sucrose in rats. The positive control lisdexamfetamine, approved for psychiatric disorders associated with altered reward sensitivity such as binge eating disorder, increased effort-based responding.
Association between occlusion location, net water uptake and ischemic lesion growth in large vessel anterior circulation strokes
Authors: Winkelmeier Laurens , Heit Jeremy J , Broocks Gabriel , Prüter Julia , Heitkamp Christian , Schell Maximilian , Albers Gregory W , Lansberg Maarten G , Wintermark Max , Kemmling André , Stracke Christian Paul , Guenego Adrien , Paech Daniel , Fiehler Jens , Faizy Tobias D
Published: February 2024

Ischemic lesion net water uptake (NWU) represents a quantitative imaging biomarker for cerebral edema in acute ischemic stroke. Data on NWU for distinct occlusion locations remain scarce, but might help to improve the prognostic value of NWU. In this retrospective multicenter cohort study, we compared NWU between patients with proximal large vessel occlusion (pLVO; ICA or proximal M1) and distal large vessel occlusion (dLVO; distal M1 or M2). NWU was quantified by densitometric measurements of the early ischemic region. Arterial collateral status was assessed using the Maas scale. Regression analysis was used to investigate the relationship between occlusion location, NWU and ischemic lesion growth. A total of 685 patients met inclusion criteria. Early ischemic lesion NWU was higher in patients with pLVO compared with dLVO (7.7% vs 3.9%, P < .001). The relationship between occlusion location and NWU was partially mediated by arterial collateral status. NWU was associated with absolute ischemic lesion growth between admission and follow-up imaging ( β estimate, 5.50, 95% CI, 3.81–7.19, P < .001). This study establishes a framework for the relationship between occlusion location, arterial collateral status, early ischemic lesion NWU and ischemic lesion growth. Future prognostic thresholds for NWU might be optimized by adjusting for the occlusion location.
Advancing Shallow Tunnel Construction in Soft Ground: The Pipe-Umbrella Box Jacking Method
Authors: Jiang Xi , Zhang Xuehui , Zhang Xiao , Long Luyuan , Bai Yun , Huang Baoshan
Published: February 2024

The development of modern cities has often led to increased traffic congestion and limited usable space. One effective solution to these problems is to construct roadway tunnels, which can expand urban space and alleviate traffic congestion. However, building large underpass tunnels in urban areas, especially in soft ground, presents technical challenges owing to its extensive environmental disturbance. The pipe-umbrella box jacking method offers a promising solution to these challenges as this method does not require breaking the ground from the surface or disrupting surface traffic. This study reviews the key techniques of the pipe-umbrella box jacking method for constructing large rectangular tunnels with small burial depths in soft ground. The study focuses on three main technical issues: pipe umbrella installation, soil face excavation, and box jacking control. Furthermore, two tunnel projects in Shanghai, China, are presented as case studies to showcase the construction challenges and countermeasures during box jacking tunneling with pipe-umbrella. Practical construction experience has revealed that the installation of the pipe umbrella before box jacking serves as an effective method of ground pre-support. However, its performance can be influenced by factors such as pipe installation deviation and inter-pipe connection design. Both open-face steel grid extrusion (SGE) shields and closed-face earth pressure balanced (EPB) shields can be used for soil excavation during box jacking, with different work modes resulting in distinct ground deformation patterns. Additionally, lubrication grouting has been found to effectively reduce friction resistance and affect vertical ground deformation. The study also examines the lessons learned from case studies and proposes optimization measures. This study can serve as a valuable reference for the tunneling industry, providing insights into the pipe-umbrella box jacking method and its application in constructing large rectangular tunnels in soft ground.
Bone Marrow Stimulation for Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Hurley Eoghan T. , Crook Bryan S. , Danilkowicz Richard M. , Jazrawi Laith M. , Mirzayan Raffy , Dickens Jonathan F. , Anakwenze Oke , Klifto Christopher S.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Bone marrow stimulation (BMS) has been proposed to augment healing at the time of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) by creating several bone marrow vents in the footprint of the rotator cuff, allowing mesenchymal stem cells, platelets, and growth factors to cover the area as a “crimson duvet.”

Purpose:

To perform a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare the outcomes after BMS and a control for those undergoing ARCR.

Study Design:

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

A literature search of 3 databases was performed based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. RCTs comparing BMS and a control for ARCR were included. Clinical outcomes were compared, and a P value <.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results:

A total of 7 RCTs with 576 patients were included. Overall, 18.8% of patients treated with BMS and 21.0% of patients treated with a control had a retear ( I2 = 43%; P = .61). With BMS, the mean Constant score was 88.2, and with the control, the mean Constant score was 86.7 ( P = .12). Additionally, there was no significant difference in the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (94.3 vs 93.2, respectively; P = .31) or visual analog scale score (0.9 vs 0.9, respectively; P = .89).

Conclusion:

The level 1 evidence in the literature did not support BMS as a modality to improve retear rates or clinical outcomes after ARCR.
Reproductive Justice, Bodily Autonomy, and State Violence
Authors: Beck Elizabeth , Seelman Kristie , Charania Moon , Snyder Susan M. , Saffan Sophie
Published: February 2024

Media stories have highlighted some devastating consequences of attacks on bodily autonomy (i.e., the fundamental right to make decisions about one's own body without constraints or violence), such as the surging maternal mortality rates among Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), a 10-year-old rape victim’s travel out of state for an abortion, families’ exodus from Texas to avoid child maltreatment charges in response to their children’s gender-affirming care, and the dangerous effects of Missouri’s ban of gender-affirming care for children and adults. To successfully fight attacks on bodily autonomy, social workers would benefit from applying an intersectional and rights-based, reproductive justice theoretical framework that blends under-explored theories of state violence: biopolitics, necropolitics, and debility. Our resulting framework elucidates the role white supremacy plays in state violence. After providing the theoretical framework, we connect the framework to the modern political landscape's rapidly spreading efforts to limit the sovereignty of People of Color, women, and transgender and non-binary communities in the latest iterations of state violence. Our article provides a necessary lens to understand and address the complex web of implications that emerge from attacks on bodily autonomy.
Doing/Undoing Stigma: The Moral Enterprise of Territorial Stigma
Authors: Müller Thaddeus
Published: February 2024

In this article I focus on stigma, and more specifically on territorial stigma in a Dutch suburb built in the 1970s. This publication is based on ethnographic fieldwork that lasted two and half years and which took place at the end of the 1980s. The data is reanalyzed in the light of recent developments in studies on stigma and territorial stigma, specifically how this is countered. I will use the conceptual pair—doing stigma and undoing stigma—to unpack stigma as a complex and dynamic process in which a diverse range of actors, such as inhabitants, civil servants and youth, are involved. The aim of this article is twofold: to describe and analyze the social construction of territorial stigma (doing stigma) of the neighborhood over a period of ten years and whether and how this stigma is countered (undoing stigma). This article highlights the agency of those targeted by stigma by paying attention to local narratives and using a multi-perspective ethnographic lens. The narratives show that stigma did not gain a master status because (1) the stigma producers were marginal in the social world of the targeted inhabitants and (2) it did not align with structural stigma (as in e.g., housing, health care, income, and education).
Using Digital Inequality Framework to Evaluate a Technology-Delivered Intervention for Caregivers: Age, Education, and Computer Proficiency
Authors: Thompson Amber D. , Sparks Catharine , Wong Bob , Iacob Eli , Terrill Alexandra L. , Caserta Michael , Utz Rebecca L.
Published: February 2024

Objectives: Using “digital inequality” as a conceptual framework, this study evaluates the feasibility and usability of a technology-delivered intervention (an “app”) for Alzheimer’s and related dementia family caregivers. Time for Living and Caring (TLC) is an on-line intervention that provides virtual coaching and self-administered education and resources. Methods: A sample of family caregivers ( n = 163) used the tool for 16 weeks, which included completing the Computer Proficiency Questionnaire (CPQ-12) at baseline. Analyses investigate the relationship between age, CPQ scores, intervention use, appraisal, and caregiver outcomes. Results: Age was inversely associated with CPQ; however, CPQ scores did not have a significant relationship with participant’s self-perceived benefits or intervention appraisal. Computer Proficiency Questionnaire scores provided insight regarding research feasibility, with lower scores associated with greater odds of discontinuing engagement. Discussion: CPQ-12 scores can be used as a screening tool to identify those who may need additional support to engage with and benefit from technology-delivered interventions.
Exergetic performance optimization and thermoeconomic analysis of a variable compression ratio diesel engine fueled with distilled plastic oil and diesel doped with nanographene
Authors: Das Amar Kumar , Mohapatra Taraprasad
Published: February 2024

Due to the fast depletion of fossil fuels, enormous concerns about environmental pollution, and advocacy for waste-to-energy drives from the global perspective, compression ignition engines need a sustainable alternative fuel source. Enormous plastic wastes were generated in health sectors, particularly during post-pandemic. In this context, the study intends to introduce a reasonable solution for such waste plastics recycling by converting them into liquid oil by pyrolysis followed by the distillation process. Distilled waste plastic oil (DPO) extracted from medical plastic waste is a potential alternative diesel source. The performance of the engine significantly increases when nanographene is added with DPO/diesel blends, which act as a combustion improviser. The energy efficiency (η1), exergy efficiency (η2), and brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC), which are regarded as key performance indicators, exhibited promising results when operated with 20% DPO +100 ppm nanographene (20DPO100G) emulsified fuel mixture as compared to normal diesel. When compared to diesel and other fuel combinations, the energy efficiency (η1) and exergy efficiency (η2) for 20DPO100G fuel mixture were found enhanced by 5.78% and 10.9%, respectively, and lowest by 14.7% for BSFC in comparison to diesel. The optimum energy efficiency, exergy efficiency, and minimum BSFC were obtained for the test engine from response surface methodology multi-objective optimization analysis as 31.44%, 22.12%, and 0.32 kg/kW-hr, respectively, for the composite desirability, D of 0.974. The 100 ppm nanographene emulsified distilled waste plastic pyrolysis oil and diesel blend has the lowest relative cost variation of −14.583.
Influence of ballast and railway substructure on the degradation of local geometry defects
Authors: Rodrigues Pedro , Teixeira Paulo F
Published: February 2024

The degradation of track geometry is a very complex phenomenon that has typically been analysed considering global quality indicators. In this paper, the influence of ballast and track substructure on its geometric degradation is analysed by modelling the degradation rates of more than 17,400 local defects of longitudinal levelling, alignment, and twist from 66,892 km of track inspection measurements carried out during the period 2001-2012 on 19 conventional lines of the Portuguese railway network. It is corroborated that singularities markedly contribute to greater density and faster degradation of defects, especially culverts and level crossings. Ballast type and age significantly affect the probability of emergence and degradation rates of defects. In a significant number of situations, defects are found to degrade much faster than the standard deviation indicators, highlighting the importance of monitoring and modelling their evolution to prevent the need for carrying out corrective interventions as much as possible.
Thermal buckling in multi-directional porous plates: The effects of material grading and aspect ratio
Authors: Hadji Lazreg , Madan Royal , Bernard Fabrice
Published: February 2024

In the present study, a trigonometric shear deformation plate theory was employed to perform a thermal buckling analysis of multi-directional functionally graded (FG) plates. During the manufacturing of the multi-directional graded plate, the formation of pores is abounded. Hence, the effect of porosity on the buckling performance was investigated by considering the variation of porosity in the plate for power law gradation variation of material properties. The adverse effect of porosity on the material properties was taken into account by employing the rule of mixture relation. Finite element results show that the thermal expansion coefficient is unaffected by the presence of porosity. For simply supported boundary conditions, the non-linear governing equations are solved for different thermal loads such as uniform, linear, and non-linear. A parametric study was performed in which the effect of grading parameters, aspect ratio, and side-to-thickness ratio under variable temperature change was studies. Critical material grading indices for multi-directional plates have been identified that help researchers and industry personnel in fabrication planning.
Covariate adjustment in Bayesian adaptive randomized controlled trials
Authors: Willard James , Golchi Shirin , Moodie Erica EM
Published: February 2024

In conventional randomized controlled trials, adjustment for baseline values of covariates known to be at least moderately associated with the outcome increases the power of the trial. Recent work has shown a particular benefit for more flexible frequentist designs, such as information adaptive and adaptive multi-arm designs. However, covariate adjustment has not been characterized within the more flexible Bayesian adaptive designs, despite their growing popularity. We focus on a subclass of these which allow for early stopping at an interim analysis given evidence of treatment superiority. We consider both collapsible and non-collapsible estimands and show how to obtain posterior samples of marginal estimands from adjusted analyses. We describe several estimands for three common outcome types. We perform a simulation study to assess the impact of covariate adjustment using a variety of adjustment models in several different scenarios. This is followed by a real-world application of the compared approaches to a COVID-19 trial with a binary endpoint. For all scenarios, it is shown that covariate adjustment increases power and the probability of stopping the trials early, and decreases the expected sample sizes as compared to unadjusted analyses.
Supply Chain Resiliency in Post- COVID-19 Times: Evaluating the Inhibitors Using a Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process Approach
Authors: Ganguly Anirban , Farr John V.
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the way supply chains function and operate. Supply chain resiliency (SCR) has become increasingly more relevant to the pandemic, with corporations and governments realising that their supply chains were not as resilient leading to shortages/delays of many consumer products. Delays in the delivery of essential items, including medicines, food supplies and healthcare equipment, have exposed the challenges that a supply chain might face during a major disruption such as the global pandemic, regional conflicts and natural disasters. The purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate some of the critical inhibitors associated with SCR during COVID-19. The study employs multi-criteria decision-making utilising the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process. This research was conducted in the context of the Indian pharmaceutical supply chains. The research showed that there are seven major inhibitors to SCR. The findings of the current study are expected to aid the pharmaceutical supply chain managers in identifying and evaluating the critical inhibitors to achieving SCR and designing strategies to mitigate any future catastrophe like a global pandemic.
Impact of Social Media Influencers Credibility on Destination Brand Trust and Destination Purchase Intention: Extending Meaning Transfer Model?
Authors: Najar Ashaq Hussain , Wani Iram Sadia , Rather Ab Hamid
Published: February 2024

This study is intended to know the effect of sub-dimensions of social media influencer’s credibility (SMIC) on destination purchase intention (DPI) of visitors, and the mediating role of destination brand trust (DBT) in the relationship. Grounded in the positivism paradigm, the study adopts a quantitative approach. A total of 356 tourists during their Kashmir trip participated in the questionnaire survey. Descriptive analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 22.0) software and structural equation modelling to test the proposed model was conducted by using Analysis of Moment Structures software (AMOS 23.0). Results of this study revealed that SMIC (trustworthiness, similarity, attractiveness) significantly impacted DBT and DPI. Additionally, the relationship between SMIC and DPI was considerably mediated by DBT. Further, Meaning Transfer Model is also validated, as the results of this study were in resonance with this theory. The results of this study will facilitate tourism policy makers in framing policies and choosing the most appropriate social media influencer (SMI), as well as guide people who looking forward at influencer marketing as a career and researchers working on social media marketing within tourism.
Kangaroo Mother Care in a Tertiary Hospital in Northeast India: A 36-month Quality Improvement Initiative
Authors: Ksoo Rosina , Barman Himesh , Monsang Ngoru Amila , Nongrum Barihun , De Manisha , Simon Anna Choondal
Published: February 2024

Background: Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is a special method of care for low birth weight and preterm babies by providing early and prolonged skin-to-skin contact with the mother and exclusive breastfeeding. It is a simple and cost-effective ways to take care of low-birth-weight babies.

Objectives: To give KMC as a routine practice and to provide extended KMC to all eligible babies.

Methodology: We conducted a Quality improvement (QI) study in our out-born neonatal unit from July 2020, and reviewed every six month till June 2023. A QI team comprising of staff nurses and doctors was formed. The root cause analysis for doing KMC was evaluated using a fishbone diagram, and the issues were addressed using prioritization matrix. Multiple Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles were conducted. Results were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results: A total of 105 babies were enrolled during this period. The mean gestation age was 32 ± 3.28 weeks. The average weight was 1577 ± 417 grams. Our baseline was two hours and 30 minutes per baby per day. We did a total of three PDSA cycles, and as of June 2023, we were able to give an average of 5.3 hours per baby per day.

Conclusion: Our QI measures ensured that KMC was provided to all eligible low-birth-weight babies with proper documentation. Sensitizing and capacity-building our nursing staffs on KMC empowered them and helped to achieve and sustain our aim.
STrIP Score for Neonatal Jaundice: From Bench to Bedside
Authors: D Srinivasa Murthy , Krishnegowda Sushma , Thandaveshwara Deepti
Published: February 2024

Background

Non-invasive assessment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is done clinically with the Kramer scale and transcutaneous bilirubinometer. Recently, the Stool color for Triage of Infants needing Phototherapy (STrIP) score was studied and found to be better than both of the above methods in predicting measured serum bilirubin. This study sheds light on the clinical utility of the STrIP score in making therapeutic decisions.

Method

This was a prospective study done in a tertiary-level neonatal unit. Breastfed term babies with clinical jaundice were recruited. The Kramer scale and STrIP score were performed on them and compared with respect to the therapeutic decision of commencing phototherapy based on measured serum bilirubin.

Results

One hundred and twenty-eight infants were studied. The Kramer scale correctly aided the therapeutic decision on phototherapy (either to start or not to start) in 47 (36.7%) and the STrIP score in 119 (93%) of our subjects ( p = .0001). In 81 (63.2%) of the subjects, the Kramer scale underestimated the need for phototherapy. In contrast, the STrIP score overestimated the need for phototherapy in 11 (9%).

Conclusion

The STrIP score helps in making more accurate therapeutic decisions in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia compared to the Kramer scale alone with respect to commencing phototherapy.
Mobility as an Effective Non-pharmacological Method for Parturition: A Pilot Study
Authors: Rathina N. , Srivastava Sunita , Rawat Sarita
Published: February 2024

Background

Childbirth is a transformative process. Modern healthcare offers pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for safe and improved childbirth experience. Studies have found that maternal mobility during the first stage of labour has a significant effect on maternal and child outcomes. A pilot study was done to find the effect of mobility during the first stage of labour on maternal satisfaction and foetal outcome.

Method

An experimental study was done with 60 primigravida women with uncomplicated antenatal history reporting to the labour room of a tertiary care government hospital in Delhi chosen as study participants. Validated and reliable tools were used to measure labour, maternal and neonatal outcomes within 24 h post-delivery.

Results

The results showed that there was an impact on mobility intervention during the first stage of labour on parturition ( p = .03) and significant maternal satisfaction ( p = .001). However, the neonatal outcome of both groups was not significant.

Conclusion

Mobility was an effective non-pharmacological intervention for enhancing parturition and maternal satisfaction. Mobility during the first stage of labour can be recommended for practice guidelines for all midwives in the labour room as a protocol.
Shifting gears: how platform companies maintain power in app-based food delivery in Norway
Authors: Jesnes Kristin
Published: February 2024

App-based food delivery relies on business models centred on the use of self-employed persons, combined with algorithmic management. In Norway, however, delivery platforms initially adapted the more traditional model: couriers were given employment contracts, joined an established trade union and negotiated a collective agreement. Nevertheless, the market entry of companies reliant on the self-employed, which expanded during the pandemic, prompted strategic changes that reduced worker power. This article explores agency in app-based food delivery in Norway. The research questions are: How do different actors’ (platform companies, workers and unions) strategies affect working conditions and pay? How do these actors use power and power resources strategically? This article makes a dual contribution. First, it provides empirical insights by examining a notable case of collective organising and negotiation involving a traditional union in Norway. Second, it contributes to our theoretical understanding of how workers and companies change their strategies to navigate the power dynamics in this emerging field.
Sentences used in the speech-to-song illusion: Comparisons of acoustic vowel space
Authors: Hiemstra Anna , Sadakata Makiko
Published: February 2024

In the speech-to-song illusion, certain spoken sentences start sounding like song when repeated several times. This perceptual transformation does not occur for all stimuli, suggesting that acoustic properties of the stimulus may contribute to the illusion. We investigated the contribution of the acoustic properties of vowels to this phenomenon by analyzing the acoustic vowel-space area bounded by formant frequencies of /i/, /æ/, and / ɔ/ in a dataset of transforming ( illusion) and non-transforming ( non-illusion) stimuli. In general, larger vowel-space areas are associated with more acoustic distinctions between vowel categories. We found that the overall vowel space was larger in non-illusion than illusion stimuli. A possible reason for this difference may be that listeners learn to associate large vowel spaces with speech and small vowel spaces with song through exposure to differences between formant frequencies in spoken and sung vowels. We propose that the shifted vowel spaces in which non-illusion sentences may be associated with speech perception thereby activate speech processing circuitry that inhibits the illusion of their transformation into song.
The “Creuseurs” (“Diggers”), at the Center of the World's Push for EVs, are in Peril: Part One—The Precarious Reality of Artisanal Mines
Authors: Warneck Fabrice
Published: February 2024

Electronics Watch travelled to Kolwezi in the province of Lualaba, in the south of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Two worlds live side by side here, without ever crossing paths. On the one hand, the world of industrial mines, with their huge machines. On the other, the tens of thousands of "diggers" in small-scale artisanal mines, armed with a simple crowbar to exploit a mineral vein, in extremely dangerous conditions. The DRC alone has 80% of the world's cobalt stocks needed to manufacture batteries to serve the demand for electric vehicles, and no less than 30% of this stock is mined in an artisanal way. One to two million Congolese people depend on this production directly or indirectly, while world demand is booming.
Support Seeking Tactics Used by Family Caregivers of Relatives With Dementia: Influences on Network Support and Caregiving Burden
Authors: Schlag Karen E. , Zhang Zhengyu
Published: February 2024

Social support for family members who care for a relative with dementia can mitigate caregiving burden. Yet, in that evidence points to these caretakers as often experiencing isolation and loneliness while providing dementia-related care, a need remains to better understand factors contributing to their adverse support experiences. Accordingly, this study applies sensitive interaction systems theory (SIST) to examine how caregivers’ direct versus indirect support-seeking behaviors relate to the quality of support responses they receive from a member of their social network. Associations between network support responses and caregiving burden are also investigated. Family caregivers ( n = 411) completed a Qualtrics survey. Results from path analysis indicated that family caregivers’ direct support seeking was related to supportive responses from a network member, while their indirect tactics to gain assistance predicted unsupportive reactions. Supportive and unsupportive network responses to family caregivers' support seeking were both related to greater caregiving burden. Additionally, indirect support seeking predicted greater caregiving burden, while this relationship was also partially mediated by unsupportive network responses. Findings highlight the utility of marriage and family counseling efforts to help family caregivers identify and practice strategies for communicating their varying dementia-care support needs to others while also managing unconstructive responses shared within their social network. Caregivers may additionally benefit from counseling to help them to develop coping skills beyond support seeking.
Lipoprotein Glomerulopathy With Complete Resolution With Fenofibrate: Report of First Case From Pakistan
Authors: Shaker Nada , Ben Musa Ruwaida , Shaker Nuha , Nasir Humaira , Kamran Tafiya Erum , Poombal FNU , Abid Abdul , Abu Shakra Rafat , Mansoor Ibrahim
Published: February 2024

Background: Lipoprotein glomerulopathy is an infrequent glomerular disorder that culminates in nephrotic syndrome and often progresses to kidney failure. Whereas most patients have been reported in Japan and China, limited reports have been documented outside these regions. This patient represents the first report of lipoprotein glomerulopathy in Pakistan. Case Presentation: A 25-year-old male patient, hypertensive for 2 years, presented with progressive body edema, frothy urine, and fatigue. Examination revealed elevated blood pressure, bilateral pedal edema, and positive shifting dullness. Laboratory results showed significant proteinuria and elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Renal biopsy revealed enlarged glomeruli with a dilated capillary lumen filled with pale-staining mesh-like material “lipoprotein thrombi.” Mild tubular atrophy and interstitial inflammation were observed. No interstitial fibrosis was evident. Electron microscopy detailed the lipoprotein thrombi with lipid granules and vacuoles of various sizes. A diagnosis of lipoprotein glomerulopathy was rendered. Treatment with fenofibrate, rosuvastatin, and captopril led to notable improvements in symptoms, blood pressure, and lipid levels during a 6-month follow-up. Subsequent biopsy showed complete resolution of the lipoprotein thrombi and a significant reduction in subendothelial granular densities. However, the flocculent subendothelial material persisted to some extent despite the complete resolution of lipoprotein thrombi. Conclusion: This report underscores the rarity of lipoprotein glomerulopathy in Pakistan and contributes valuable insights into its histopathologic features and global epidemiology. This unique instance aims to raise awareness among healthcare professionals, aiding in improved recognition of this rare entity. The favorable response to fenofibrate treatment underscores its effectiveness in managing lipoprotein glomerulopathy.
Outcomes of Joint-Preserving Surgery for Forefoot Deformities in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Tominaga Ayako , Ikari Katsunori , Yamada Akifumi , Yano Koichiro , Okazaki Ken
Published: February 2024

Background:

With the advent of effective disease-modifying medications, the surgical treatment of forefoot deformities in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has evolved from joint-sacrificing to joint-preserving surgery. However, it is unclear whether joint-preserving surgery is effective for the full range of metatarsophalangeal joint involvement. Hence, this study investigated the postoperative outcomes of joint-preserving surgery for rheumatoid forefoot deformities with a wide range of joint destruction.

Methods:

This retrospective observational study included 68 feet from 68 patients with RA who underwent joint-preserving surgery for forefoot deformities between 2014 and 2020. The Larsen grade classification was used to assess the first metatarsophalangeal joint destruction and classify patients into 4 groups as follows: 0 and 1 (n = 14), 2 (n = 21), 3 (n = 19), and 4 and 5 (n = 14). The Self-Administered Foot and Ankle Evaluation Questionnaire (SAFE-Q) score, hallux valgus angle (HVA), and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) were determined before surgery and at the last follow-up visit.

Results:

The median observation duration was 40 (range, 24-78) months. SAFE-Q scores of all groups significantly improved in all subscales at the last observation, with no significant differences among the study groups. Radiographic evaluations of all groups revealed significant improvements in HVA and IMA after surgery, with no significant differences among the groups.

Conclusion:

In patients using the surgical approaches described in this study, joint-preserving surgery for rheumatoid forefoot deformities led to satisfactory clinical and radiographic improvements, regardless of the severity of joint destruction.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, case-control study.