bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the single-track deposition quality of AISI 308L wire arc additive manufacturing via process optimization and cold forging treatment
Authors: Abioye Taiwo E , Wei Chuah Y , Zuhailawati Hussain , Abdullah Ahmad B
Published: December 2023

Wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) has been established as a promising additive manufacturing technique for fabricating and repairing medium-to-large scale metallic engineering parts. However, achieving an excellent geometrical accuracy and high mechanical properties close to the parent metal require an optimal setting of parameters for every material system and, sometimes, post-processing treatment. In this work, WAAM of 308L stainless steel was performed, using gas metal arc welding as the heat source, at varying values of wire feed rate (WFR) and traverse speed (TS) to investigate its effects on the geometry, microstructure and mechanical properties of the deposited track. Thereafter, post-cold forging treatment was performed on the track deposited at the optimum parametric setting. The track width and height decreased with increasing TS due to reduction in the wire deposition volume per unit length of track. The track height increased as the WFR increased from 61.67 to 95 mm/s, after which the process became unstable, leading to a decline in height. The microstructure of the deposited track mainly comprised δ-ferrite and austenite phases while the hardness of the track deposits (ranging between 124–172 HV) was largely influenced by the presence of carbide precipitates and equiaxed grains size which reduced as the TS and WFR increased. The post-cold forging treatment resulted in strain hardening, which resulted in significant improvement in the track hardness (up to 219 HV) but a fall in its impact strength due to loss of ductility.
Every tree fixed with a purpose: Contesting value in Olmsted's parks
Authors: Godoy Eric S.
Published: December 2023

Olmsted was an influential landscape architect whose works include many parks, recreation grounds and more. Inspired by Romantic and transcendentalist thinkers, he developed ‘pastoral transcendentalism’, a style of designing parks that mimicked natural spaces to reproduce their values within cities. Although environmental justice scholars have pointed out how these designs limit access to parks, I argue that environmental philosophers have not adequately discussed Olmsted, particularly his axiology of nature. Reflecting on it reveals how environmental injustice consists not only of restricting access to nature to protect its essential value – for Olmsted, scenery that could induce a contemplative mindset – but in delimiting nature's value without consideration of how people actually appreciate it.
Needs Assessment to Inform Service Delivery Redesign in a Local Tertiary Teaching Clinic
Authors: Cayco Christopher , Leaver Andrew , Labro Alma , Bandong Aila-Nica , Domingo Anna Christina , Gorgon Edward
Published: December 2023

Aims

To examine the extent to which physical therapy at a local tertiary teaching clinic enables best practice and to identify priority areas for service redesign.

Methods

A retrospective file review of clinical records of patients receiving physical therapy ( n = 237) from 2011 to 2015 in Manila, Philippines. Data on clinical diagnosis, interventions, parameters of episode of care, goals and outcome measures were extracted and coded by trained researchers using a standardised form.

Results

Most patients ( n = 229, 97%) had developmental conditions. Active interventions were employed ( n = 236, 99%) and self-management plans appeared in 161 (68%) records. The duration of the episode of care was variable (median = 16 months, range = 1–139). Almost all patients ( n = 230, 97%) commenced with weekly sessions, with the total number of sessions ranging from 1 to 150 (median = 15). Therapy goals were reported routinely ( n = 236, 99%). Objective measures were recorded in 209 (88%) records at baseline and in 136 (57%) records at follow-up. The time point for outcome assessment was inconsistent (range = <1–36 months).

Conclusions

Service delivery at the clinic requires more robust longitudinal management procedures, streamlined mechanisms for monitoring and better involvement of the family in decision-making. Some elements of existing practice (active, self-management approaches) suggest the adoption of best practice principles. Results contribute to ‘idea generation’ for service redesign.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Rabies Control Program, 2008–2017: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tunas I. Ketut , Laksemi Dewa A. A. S. , Sundari Luh Putu Ratna , Widyadharma I. Putu Eka
Published: December 2023

Rabies is still a public health problem. It is a zoonotic disease caused by a viral infection of the central nervous system. Several efforts have been taken, and one of them is mass vaccination for dogs. This systematic review aims to assess the cost-effectiveness of controlling rabies disease. Three online databases used as the source of this review are PubMed, ProQuest and CINAHL (EBSCO), published between 2008 and 2017. Fourteen articles reviewed based on the eligibility criteria were related to the intervention in preventing and controlling rabies. The articles consist of three randomised controlled trials and six nonrandomised controlled trials, including a pre-test-post-test-controlled design. Moreover, there is a one-time series article, which is an intervention for only one group of samples. Eight articles are directed at the intervention of lifestyles involving increased physical activity, diet and nutrition, with the main purpose to prevent the increase of metabolic syndrome status. Cost-effectiveness estimation is based on the mass vaccination programme for dogs, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) administration for humans and the combination of both. The model and variables in cost-effectiveness analysis are widely varied and associated with demography, socio-economics and programmes conducted in the study area.
Catch-22: A Case of Gyration Tyre Ltd
Authors: Negi Pushpa , Kushwah Silky Vigg
Published: December 2023

During the COVID-19 epidemic, the closing of the plants of numerous automakers and component manufacturers resulted in significant losses throughout the world. Due to a delay in the supply chain and a disruption in the workforce, the industry was experiencing difficult times. Even after the lockdown in India was lifted, Gyration Tyre Ltd, the third-largest tyre manufacturer in the world, struggled to get its operations back on track. This case study highlights the problem of Stock lifting from factories and transporting the same to auto manufacturers after the government announced a nationwide lockdown, effective 25 March 2020, due to the CORONA. Since then, Gyration Tyre Ltd, a multinational company that started making tyres in India in 2010, has kept making tyres, but only at a capacity of at least 20–25%. No one has figured out how the whole amount of production was stored at the factory because there was not enough storage space. The other problem was getting people to work together because the production department needed people there. It also talks about Mr Goal’s difficulties of running production shifts. More importantly, it gives the top management of the company a view of the situation and what they can do if there is a pandemic. Also, they will understand how strategic decisions can be made even though the supply chain and labour force are slowing down and being disrupted in a big way.
Magnitude and Associated Factors of Maternal Near Miss in Public Hospitals of Tigrai, Northern Ethiopia: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: weldemariam Mulu Gebretsadik , Weldegeorges Desta Abraha , Angaw Yonas , Assefa Natnael Etsay , Welay Fissaha Tekulu , Werid Woldu Mammo , Gebru Tesfay Tsegay , Beyene Gebremedhin Gebrewubet , Bitew Muzayene Tilahun , Mengesha Meresa Berwo
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine magnitude and associated factors of maternal near miss among women seeking obstetric and gynecologic care. A hospital based cross-sectional study design was implemented in selected public hospitals of Tigrai. Systematic random sampling method was used to select study participants. Data were entered to epi data manager version 4.1 and exported to Statistical Package for social science version 20 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with maternal near miss. The magnitude of maternal near miss was found to be 7.3%. Regression analysis showed that, mothers who reside in rural area, had distance of greater than 10 km, referred from low level health institution, and mothers had no antenatal care follow up were significantly associated with maternal near miss. Therefore, promoting antenatal care and increasing awareness in rural areas related with maternal health care services is recommended.
Correlates of College Women's Sexual Assault Resistance Self-Efficacy
Authors: Kiefer Reina , Peterson Roselyn , Orchowski Lindsay M.
Published: December 2023

Studies suggest that actively fighting back against an attacker is effective in decreasing the severity and completion of a sexual assault, yet little is known about the factors that contribute to women's confidence in fighting back. Accordingly, the present study examines correlates of college women's self-efficacy in resisting unwanted sexual advances ( N = 650). Results suggest that fewer psychological barriers to resistance, greater sexual communication, increased use of dating self-protective behaviors, and greater sexual assertiveness were associated with increased sexual resistance self-efficacy. Findings underscore the importance of developing sexual assault prevention programs that increase women's confidence in fighting back.
Monitored Anesthesia Care for Axillary Impella 5.5 Placement: A Feasible Option for Patients With Severe Cardiogenic Shock With Relative Contraindication to Intubation
Authors: Iyer Manoj H. , Kumar Nicolas , Stein Erica , Whitson Bryan A. , Essandoh Michael
Published: December 2023

The Impella 5.5 left ventricular assist device (LVAD) is typically placed in a hybrid operating room with fluoroscopic and echocardiographic guidance under general anesthesia. In this case report, we describe a patient with severe cardiopulmonary failure necessitating an Impella 5.5 as a bridge to heart/lung transplant. Here, we describe the successful placement of the Impella 5.5 with sedation and local anesthesia in order to avoid general anesthesia and the sequelae of positive pressure ventilation in a fragile patient. Impella placement was confirmed with transesophageal echocardiography. This case report demonstrates a novel strategy for placing the Impella 5.5 and, more importantly, opens the possibility to future prospective studies of this technique.
The Costs of Grooming: Bodily Scrutiny and White-collar Masculinities in Japan
Authors: Tso Christopher
Published: December 2023

This article explores the everyday policing processes surrounding men’s bodily grooming and white-collar masculinities in Japan. Amidst increasing scrutiny of men’s bodies, research has highlighted how men understand their grooming in relation to masculinities privileged by class, race, and sexuality. Less is understood, however, about men’s experiences of everyday policing processes surrounding grooming. Japanese white-collar cultures where good grooming stands for professionalism provide fruitful contexts to address these gaps. Interviews with 33 socially privileged white-collar men in Tokyo demonstrate how participants understand grooming vis-à-vis masculine ideals of professional competency. Participants are particularly conscious of scrutiny from superiors, colleagues, and subordinates. While past scholarship has often overlooked the vulnerability of privileged men’s positions, for white-collar men in Japan, being subject to often cruel policing processes threatens their place on gendered hierarchies. Thus, I argue that even for privileged men, policing of their grooming presents real costs to their hegemonic status.
Cancer-Associated Thrombosis: Epidemiology, Pathophysiological Mechanisms, Treatment, and Risk Assessment
Authors: Pavlovic Dragica , Niciforovic Danijela , Markovic Marina , Papic Dragana
Published: December 2023

Cancer patients represent a growing population with drastically difficult care and a lowered quality of life, especially due to the heightened risk of vast complications. Thus, it is well established so far that one of the most prominent complications in individuals with cancer is venous thromboembolism. Since there are various improved methods for screening and diagnosing cancer and its complications, the incidence of cancer-associated thrombosis has been on the rise in recent years. Therefore, the high mortality and morbidity rates among these patients are not a surprise. Consequently, there is an excruciating need for understanding the mechanisms behind this complex process, as well as the imperative for adequate analysis and application of the most suitable steps for cancer-associated thrombosis prevention. There are various and numerous mechanisms offering potential answers to cancer-associated thrombosis, some of which have already been elucidated in various preclinical and clinical scenarios, yet further and more elaborate studies are crucial to understanding and preventing this complex and harsh clinical entity. This article elaborates on the growing incidence, mortality, morbidity, and risk factors of cancer-associated thrombosis while emphasizing the pathophysiological mechanisms in the light of various types of cancer in patients and summarizes the most novel therapy and prevention guidelines recommendations.
Formative and shared assessment: Literature review on the main contributions in physical education and physical education teacher education
Authors: Herrero-González Diego , López-Pastor Víctor Manuel , Manrique-Arribas Juan Carlos , Moura André
Published: December 2023

Assessment is a key element in the teaching–learning process in physical education (PE). In 2020, the Association Internationale des Écoles Supérieures d’Éducation Physique (AIESEP) published a position statement on PE assessment, in which it reviews the current state of the field and establishes the current yet forward-looking main lines of research on this topic. The most widely used approach, which this article reviews in depth, is assessment for learning (AfL). In Spain, the most widespread approach employed in PE throughout primary and secondary education in the last 25 years has been formative and shared assessment, which clearly aligns with the AIESEP position statement. The objective of this study was to gain an understanding of the main contributions of the formative and shared assessment model in PE and PE teacher education (PETE). Four databases (ERIC, SCOPUS, WOS and DIALNET) were explored, and 51 documents were selected on which an inductive thematic analysis was conducted. The evidence obtained at different educational levels and contexts seems to show a positive influence of formative and shared assessment on learning outcomes, which has favoured the expansion of the model, especially in PETE. Research on the transfer of PETE to educational practice has indicated that adequate continuing professional development seems necessary to help teachers integrate formative and shared assessment in their PE classroom. In conclusion, this model can provide an answer to some of the current questions being raised at an international level about PE assessment, especially in relation to students’ involvement in the assessment process and its role in PETE.
A novel magnetorheological anti-swing system for offshore crane: System modeling and controller design
Authors: Deng Chenxu , Li Yunlong , Han Guangdong , Wang Shenghai , Chen Haiquan , Sun Yuqing
Published: December 2023

Constrained by the unique operational conditions and the swinging motion of the payload, offshore cranes exhibit low lifting efficiency and positioning accuracy during operation. In this paper, magnetorheological (MR) technology is applied in the realm of payload anti-swing and positioning of offshore cranes for the first time. The anti-swing system adopts a parallel mechanical configuration design, offering a simple structure that does not encroach upon the crane's working space and exhibits high levels of robustness. Based on the principle of robotics, the kinematic and dynamic model of anti-swing system is derived. Co-simulation analysis is conducted to assess the swing response of the crane's payload throughout the lifting and transfer process amidst irregular ocean waves. The findings demonstrate that the MR anti-swing system effectively mitigates payload swing, achieving an anti-swing effect of over 80%. With a similar anti-swing effect, the MR anti-swing system with time-varying current reduces energy consumption by 54% compared to the system with fixed current. Subsequently, experimental results from the physical prototype reveal that the anti-swing system can suppress payload swing by over 80% during cargo transfer processes. This underscores the capability of the MR anti-swing system to enhance payload transfer efficiency and positioning accuracy.
Development of a Food Security Assessment Tool for Pregnant Women to Integrate Into Antenatal Care in the Health System: Protocol of a Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Bagheri Maryam , Lamyian Minoor , Sadighi Jila , Ahmadi Fazlollah , Mohammadi-Nasrabadi Fatemeh
Published: December 2023

The food security status of pregnant women not only affects their current health status and that of their newborn, but also plays an important role in the health status of children and adults in the future. Food security is a complicated and multidimensional concept. In pregnant women, it is the result of several complex individuals, family, social, cultural, economic, and political factors such as lack of health services, gender inequality, and lack of resources. Public instruments that mainly measure food insecurity at the household level have been used to investigate the food security status of pregnant women. Therefore, we aimed to define the concept of food security based on the experience of both pregnant women and experts, and then develop and validate the assessment tool for assessing food security in pregnant women. In this article, only the protocol of this study is discussed. This research is a mixed-method study with a sequential-exploratory approach, which will be conducted in two phases. In the qualitative phase, the concepts and dimensions of food security will be explained based on the experiences of pregnant women by using inductive content analysis. Data integrity will be guaranteed with five criteria of validity, verifiability, reliability, transferability, and authenticity. In the second phase, the primary tool will be developed based on Waltz and Basel's approach, and then it will be validated. The design of a specific tool for pregnant women, taking into account the cultural, economic, and social conditions of Iran, can be a practical solution to scientifically assess the food security status of pregnant women, so that the country’s policymakers and planners can take accurate and long-term steps towards improving the food security of Iran pregnant women, their health and that of the future generations by implementing basic policies.
Comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis on physical health conditions in lesbian- and bisexual-identified women compared with heterosexual-identified women
Authors: Haarmann Lena , Folkerts Ann-Kristin , Lieker Emma , Eichert Kai , Neidlinger Marlene , Monsef Ina , Skoetz Nicole , Träuble Birgit , Kalbe Elke
Published: December 2023

Background:

Sexual minority individuals experience discrimination, leading to mental health disparities. Physical health disparities have not been examined to the same extent in systematic reviews so far.

Objectives:

To provide a systematic review and, where possible, meta-analyses on the prevalence of physical health conditions in sexual minority women (i.e. lesbian- and bisexual-identified women) compared to heterosexual-identified women.

Design:

The study design is a systematic review with meta-analyses.

Data Sources and Methods:

A systematic literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases was conducted on epidemiologic studies on physical health conditions, classified in the Global Burden of Disease project, published between 2000 and 2021. Meta-analyses pooling odds ratios were calculated.

Results:

In total, 23,649 abstracts were screened and 44 studies were included in the systematic review. Meta-analyses were run for arthritis, asthma, back pain, cancer, chronic kidney diseases, diabetes, headache disorders, heart attacks, hepatitis, hypertension, and stroke. Most significant differences in prevalence by sexual identity were found for chronic respiratory conditions, especially asthma. Overall, sexual minority women were significantly 1.5–2 times more likely to have asthma than heterosexual women. Furthermore, evidence of higher prevalence in sexual minority compared to heterosexual women was found for back pain, headaches/migraines, hepatitis B/C, periodontitis, urinary tract infections, and acne. In contrast, bisexual women had lower cancer rates. Overall, sexual minority women had lower odds of heart attacks, diabetes, and hypertension than heterosexual women (in terms of diabetes and hypertension possibly due to non-consideration of pregnancy-related conditions).

Conclusion:

We found evidence for physical health disparities by sexual identity. Since some of these findings rely on few comparisons only, this review emphasizes the need for routinely including sexual identity assessment in health research and clinical practice. Providing a more detailed picture of the prevalence of physical health conditions in sexual minority women may ultimately contribute to reducing health disparities.
Evaluating the role of ChatGPT in gastroenterology: a comprehensive systematic review of applications, benefits, and limitations
Authors: Klang Eyal , Sourosh Ali , Nadkarni Girish N. , Sharif Kassem , Lahat Adi
Published: December 2023

Background:

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare has opened new avenues for enhancing patient care and clinical research. In gastroenterology, the potential of AI tools, specifically large language models like ChatGPT, is being explored to understand their utility and effectiveness.

Objectives:

The primary goal of this systematic review is to assess the various applications, ascertain the benefits, and identify the limitations of utilizing ChatGPT within the realm of gastroenterology.

Design:

Through a systematic approach, this review aggregates findings from multiple studies to evaluate the impact of ChatGPT on the field.

Data sources and methods:

The review was based on a detailed literature search of the PubMed database, targeting research that delves into the use of ChatGPT for gastroenterological purposes. It incorporated six selected studies, which were meticulously evaluated for quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal instruments. The data were then synthesized narratively to encapsulate the roles, advantages, and drawbacks of ChatGPT in gastroenterology.

Results:

The investigation unearthed various roles of ChatGPT, including its use in patient education, diagnostic self-assessment, disease management, and the formulation of research queries. Notable benefits were its capability to provide pertinent recommendations, enhance communication between patients and physicians, and prompt valuable research inquiries. Nonetheless, it encountered obstacles in decoding intricate medical questions, yielded inconsistent responses at times, and exhibited limitations in generating novel content. The review also considered ethical implications.

Conclusion:

ChatGPT has demonstrated significant potential in the field of gastroenterology, especially in facilitating patient–physician interactions and managing diseases. Despite these advancements, the review underscores the necessity for ongoing refinement, customization, and ethical regulation of AI tools. These findings serve to enrich the dialog concerning AI’s role in healthcare, with a specific focus on ChatGPT’s application in gastroenterology.
Surgical treatment of pelvic lipomatosis: a systematic review of 231 cases
Authors: Xia Mancheng , Xiong Shengwei , Li Zhihua , Fan Shubo , Chen Yuke , Zhou Liqun , Zhang Kai , Li Xuesong
Published: December 2023

Background:

Pelvic lipomatosis (PL) is a rare condition that is characterized by excessive growth of fat in the pelvic cavity. Studies have yet to systematically review surgical treatments for PL.

Objectives:

To provide a reference for selecting reasonable surgical treatments for PL patients according to previous literature on the surgical treatment of PL.

Design and methods:

We conducted this systematic review in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) of Individual Participant Data guidelines. Literature on PL published from 1968 to 2022 was retrieved from the PubMed and EMBASE databases. Data were collected and analyzed independently by two independent investigators.

Results:

A total of 42 studies, involving 231 patients with PL, were included in the analysis. The surgical treatments included transurethral resection (TUR) (48.5%), ureteral stent placement (11.7%), percutaneous nephrostomy (1.3%), ureterocutaneostomy (1.3%), ureteral reimplantation (10.4%), ileal conduit (13%), and allograft kidney transplantation (0.4%). After excluding patients with unclear prognoses, 42.9% of patients showed improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) after TUR. Ureteral stent placement provided relief of hydronephrosis in 62.5% of PL patients. Percutaneous nephrostomy resulted in stable renal function in 33.3% of PL patients, while ureterocutaneostomy led to remission of postoperative hydronephrosis in 33.3% of PL patients. After ureteral reimplantation, 70.8% of patients experienced relief of hydronephrosis or had stable renal function. Ileal conduit led to remission of hydronephrosis, alleviation of symptoms, or maintenance of stable renal function in 83.3% of PL patients. One patient with PL had stable renal function after allograft renal transplantation.

Conclusion:

The surgical treatments for PL include TUR, ureteral stent placement, urinary diversion, and allograft renal transplantation. However, the choice of surgical method should be determined after comprehensive consideration of the patient’s condition.
Respiratory morbidity in Schistosoma mansoni infection: a rapid review of literature
Authors: Baluku Joseph Baruch , Olum Ronald , Sanya Richard E. , Ocama Ponsiano
Published: December 2023

Background:

Schistosomiasis contributes to 2.5 million disability-adjusted life years globally. Acute and chronic respiratory morbidity of Schistosoma mansoni ( S. mansoni) is poorly documented in the literature. We conducted a rapid literature review of the burden of respiratory symptoms and lung function abnormalities among patients with S. mansoni. We also report the immunologic and lung imaging findings from the studies reviewed.

Methods:

We carried out a comprehensive literature search in Embase and MEDLINE from the inception of the databases to 13th March 2023.

Results:

A total of 2243 patients with S. mansoni were reported from 24 case reports, 11 cross-sectional studies, 7 case series, 2 cohort studies and 2 randomized controlled trials. The prevalence of any respiratory symptom was 13.3–63.3% (total number of patients studied, n = 149). The prevalence of the individual symptoms among patients with S. mansoni in whom respiratory symptoms were sought for was as follows: cough (8.3–80.6%, n = 338), dyspnea (1.7–100.0%, n = 200), chest pain (9.0–57.1%, n = 86), sputum production (20.0–23.3%, n = 30) and wheezing (0.0 – 20.0%, n = 1396). The frequency of the symptoms tended to be higher in acute schistosomiasis. Restrictive lung disease was prevalent in 29.0% (9/31). The commonest chest imaging findings reported were nodules (20–90%, n = 103) and interstitial infiltrates (12.5–23.0%, n = 89). Peripheral blood eosinophilia was prevalent in 72.0–100.0% of patients ( n = 130) with acute schistosomiasis and correlated with symptoms and imaging abnormalities. Three case reports in chronic S. mansoni reported elevated C-reactive protein, leucocyte, neutrophil and absolute eosinophil counts, eosinophil percentage, IgE and IgG4.

Conclusion:

There is a high prevalence of respiratory morbidity among patients with S. mansoni, particularly in the acute stage of the infection, although the studies are relatively small. Larger studies are needed to characterize respiratory morbidity in chronic schistosomiasis and determine the underlying clinical and immunological mechanisms.
Horner’s syndrome in thyroidectomy patient: Case report
Authors: Rauniyar Neeraj
Published: December 2023

A 30-year-old female patient with no previous chronic illness underwent hemithyroidectomy unusually complaint of ptosis on first postoperative day. On examination, she also had miosis. Thus, diagnosis of Horner’s syndrome was made on ground of ruling out other complication. As it is caused by nerve insult, with a prolonged observation under close follow-up, the patient is fully recovered. Horner’s syndrome after thyroidectomy is a rare entity. In textbook also, it is not mentioned as complication after thyroidectomy.
How pro- and anti-abortion activists use encrypted messaging apps in post-Roe America
Authors: Martin Zelly C , Riedl Martin Johannes , Woolley Samuel C
Published: December 2023

In a post- Roe America, abortion-rights activists are scrambling to protect reproductive rights. Communication on open social media platforms like Facebook can now be used to prosecute those seeking an illegal abortion in a frightening entanglement of technology corporations and the state. Building on surveillance studies and feminist scholarship, we analyze 22 interviews with pro- and anti-abortion activists and pro-encryption activists to answer: How will encrypted messaging apps be relevant for pro- and anti-abortion activists post- Roe? We find that while encrypted messaging apps are used by activists on either side of the abortion debate, their motivations for use range from mere convenience to supplanting state and corporate surveillance. We thus argue that encryption can act as a feminist tool to usurp patriarchal surveillance but must be used in combination with a holistic privacy framework. This framework may include care-motivated, community-centered, relational surveillance.
Positive psychology interventions for family caregivers coping with cancer: Who will use them?
Authors: F Hoodin , V Gupta , A Mazzoli , T Braun , SW Choi
Published: December 2023

Background

Positive psychology-based (PPB) activities have been under-researched in cancer caregiving.

Objective

This study investigated caregiver: (1) attitudes toward using PPB activities while caregiving; and (2) characteristics associated with these attitudes.

Methods

Secondary analyses of a cross-sectional survey were conducted in a national caregiver sample of hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) patients. Survey items assessed caregivers’ likelihood of engaging in six PPB activities. Hierarchical regression was performed and potential predictors of PPB activity use (e.g., technology familiarity, coping style, caregiving duration) were examined.

Results

Most of the N = 948 respondents were White (78.9%), female (65.5%), married (86.7%), employed (78.4%), and college-educated (79.8%). Caregivers favorably disposed to positive activities were younger and female, provided care for 6–12 months and >40 h/week, and used coping styles involving religion and social support.

Conclusions

Our findings provide guidance for development and testing of PPB activities for cancer caregivers.
A Comprehensive Study of Students’ Challenges and Perceptions of Emergency Remote Education During the Early COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Ahmad Shazli Irdina Farzana , Che Lah Noor Hidayah , Hashim Mashitoh , Mailok Ramlah , Saad Aslina , Hamid Suraya
Published: December 2023

Since year 2020, researchers have conducted research on challenges and perceptions of emergency remote teaching and learning (ERTL) during the COVID-19 pandemic on students. Many studies were conducted on the effectiveness of online learning, but there is a lack of studies on ERTL where online learning differs from ERTL. Thus, this study aims to identify the challenges and perceptions of students on ERTL during the early COVID-19. The methodology employed in this study are systematic literature review which used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA), synthesis analysis and quality appraisal to review 51 selected articles. These articles are from two publishers (ScienceDirect and IEEE) and two databases (ERIC and Scopus). This study revealed that students experienced four types of challenges during the early period of ERTL namely technological, pedagogical, personal, and social issues. However, students have positive perceptions toward ERTL to pursue their studies during the difficult period. This study highlighted the students’ challenges and perceptions of ERTL during the COVID-19 pandemic in higher education. It is believed that this study will help future researchers to develop a strategic ERTL specifically for implementation during any crises in the future.
Optimal Strategies of the Online-to-Offline Instant Delivery Service of Grocery Retailers
Authors: Qin Wan , Yuhan Peng , Cuiting Yu , Yu Huang , Danping Liu
Published: December 2023

The advantages of an O2O instant delivery service over the traditional retail model for grocery retailers in the local market lie in the ability to increase sales by expanding consumer channels. This study aims to explore how merchants can optimize their pricing and delivery service decisions, including order delivery fees, range, and starting price, to maximize profit with the adoption of instant delivery services. Using the Stackelberg game model, the research examines the retailers’ optimal decision-making within the classical Hotelling linear city model while considering a more realistic cost differentiation between online and offline services. The analysis incorporates variations in the number of consumer purchases and geographic locations. The study finds that increasing product prices while maintaining zero delivery fees consistently outperforms charging delivery fees while keeping prices constant in terms of their impact on retailers. Additionally, rarely-discussed aspects like starting delivery price and delivery range are also considered. Comparing parameter variations between the traditional retail model and the O2O instant delivery model leads to three primary conclusions. Firstly, the cost disparity between online and offline services significantly affects the optimal price and profit for the retailer. Secondly, when the cost of online service is slightly higher, setting a starting delivery price can enhance retailers’ profits compared to not having a starting price. Finally, the study outlines three strategies for implementing the O2O instant delivery model and suggests that defining a reasonable delivery range can help merchants reduce costs, improve delivery efficiency, and ultimately increase profits.
Getting in the Loops: Using Adaptive Design Methods for Fall Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Mitigation in Kenya, Nepal, and Bangladesh
Authors: Bello-Bravo Julia , Pittendrigh Barry Robert
Published: December 2023

Efforts worldwide have sought to lessen the agricultural and societal impact of the fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) mitigation in Kenya, Nepal, and Bangladesh by safeguarding affected regions’ food crops and livelihoods while preventing the spread of FAW to nearby areas. However, efforts to communicate and gain support for FAW control methods among local populations can have limited impacts. This study qualitatively explores “design looping” as part of three Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D) campaigns in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Kenya for increasing community support for FAW mitigation. Such an approach not only potentially extends the reach and scalability of FAW control methods but also contributes to meeting Sustainable Development Goals for food security and community well-being. Findings of productive advantages for “design looping” in this study include (1) increased participatory access by project stakeholders and beneficiaries, (2) flexibility, as cost-effective and potentially continuous opportunities to refine ICT4D messaging to meet project goals, and (3) bi-directional learning between project producers and message recipients for improved message deployment. Limitations and directions for future research are also discussed.
Advantages and Disadvantages, Concerns, and Solutions for Emergency Remote Teaching During COVID-19: Portuguese Lecturers’ Perspectives
Authors: dos Santos José Paulo Marques , Serrão Carla , Amorim-Lopes Teresa Sofia , Rodrigues Ana Rita , Marina Silvia , Teixeira Andreia , Castro Luísa , Duarte Ivone
Published: December 2023

COVID-19 pandemic impacted the world dramatically and how communities and societies behaved. The purpose of this study was to explore lecturers’ perspectives on emergency remote teaching, not only from technology-prone lecturers but encompassing contributions from disparate academic fields, which brought assorted experiences into the data. The qualitative study analyses the perspectives of 344 lecturers from 35 higher education institutions in Portugal instigated by the COVID-19 outbreak. The thematic analysis revealed three themes related to the advantages and disadvantages: the lecturing process, learning process, and life and society. Regarding the concerns, four themes emerged: learning process, self-regulation and compromising the future, resources, the assessment process, and well-being. Finally, solutions encompass three themes: pedagogy and innovation, normative framework, and digital literacy. With a special focus on the solutions, all these themes contribute to designing the structure of a training program for the 21st-century higher education lecturer, emphasizing the digital domain. The themes cluster in digital-based innovative pedagogies (mastering digital education software, active pedagogies for digital environments, lecturer posture in digital environments, “for-digital” studying material production, e-proctoring, and transferable competences besides the digital), and digital competences (transgenerational digital-base communication, webcam behavior, well-being in digital settings, and general digital competences).
“Parentocracy” is “mothercracy”: The mothers as key factor to the access to primary “key schools” in China
Authors: Lin Jia , Doncel Abad David
Published: December 2023

The Chinese educational system operates on a chain relationship, where primary education acts as a gateway to better secondary education. This, in turn, increases the likelihood of attending a reputable high school, ultimately leading to a higher probability of gaining admission to a prestigious university. Consequently, primary schools, particularly key schools, represent a significant and influential market at the initial stage of the educational journey. The decision and selection process for a primary school are influenced by three types of capital: cultural capital, economic capital, and social capital. And in order to explore the predominant factors influencing access to a key primary school, this quantitative study has been conducted through questionnaires aimed at 1,082 Chinese students hailing from 21 universities across China. The findings of this study indicate that social capital, cultural capital and economic capital play pivotal roles in predicting access to a key primary school. In this sense, influential variables such as extracurricular activities, purchase housing, mother's education and social relationships have been identified. But it is important to note that both parents do not exert equal influence in this regard, with the mother emerging as the primary determining factor. In essence, the mother wields more influence than the father when it comes to selecting a primary school for their children.
Domestic turmoil and diversionary hypothesis: A linear relationship?
Authors: Zhang Weidong
Published: December 2023

Why do individual case studies reveal evidence in favor of diversionary behavior by states, yet quantitative studies often produce many mixed results? In this paper, I help to explain this puzzle by arguing that there is a curvilinear relationship between internal conflict and external diversionary behavior as opposed to a linear one. By looking at contentious issues mainly in the Western Hemisphere from 1962 to 2001 using data from the Issue Correlates of War (ICOW) project, I find that countries with moderate levels of domestic unrest are most likely to initiate a militarized interstate conflict. Furthermore, I find that in times of elite unrest, states are more likely to have diversionary behaviors. In contrast, mass unrest is unlikely to incentivize states to use foreign policy adventures to rally domestic support. Such a finding helps deepen our understanding of the complex conditions leading to diversionary actions.
Clinical and Radiological Features in Poland Syndrome: Report of 3 Cases and Review of Literature
Authors: Chait Fatima , Bahlouli Nourrelhouda , Chehrastane Rachida , Mrani Alaoui Nidal , Boughaleb Fadoua , Zouheir El alami , Tarik El Medhi , Allali Nazik , El Haddad Siham , Chat Latifa
Published: December 2023

Poland syndrome is indeed a rare congenital malformation that can present with various degrees of thoracic and homolateral upper limb anomalies. The classic features of Poland syndrome include agenesis or hypoplasia of the sternocostal head of the pectoralis major muscle, hypoplasia of the nipple, absence of subcutaneous fat, multiple rib abnormalities, and sometimes Sprengel deformity (elevation of the scapula). Additionally, ipsilateral symbrachydactyly (combination of “short fingers” with cutaneous syndactyly [fused fingers]) may also be observed. However, it’s important to note that not all of these findings are always present in every patient, and the combination of features can vary greatly. Surgical treatment for Poland syndrome primarily focuses on improving pulmonary functions resulting from severe thoracic deformities. However, it is frequently performed with the additional goal of enhancing cosmetic appearance. In recent times, the use of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells and fat transfer has shown promising results for correcting chest defects and breast augmentation. In our study, we present a series of 3 cases that were referred to our institution due to thoracic deformities associated with Poland syndrome.
Effects on the Lower Limb Anthropometry in Patients with Unilateral Idiopathic Clubfoot Treated Conservatively with Ponseti Technique
Authors: Dua Mohit
Published: December 2023

Category:

Other; Basic Sciences/Biologics

Introduction/Purpose:

Congenital Talipes Equino-Varus is amongst the most common congenital orthopaedic anomalies. Limb length discrepancy is considered as the commonest complication in patients with unilateral clubfoot despite the best non- operative correction. In the present series of cases we aim to study all the possible effects on the lower limb anthropometry in patients with unilateral idiopathic clubfoot who have been managed conservatively.

Methods:

This retrospective study included 47 patients with idiopathic, unilateral CTEV who were successfully treated with Ponseti’s technique. Patients with neuromuscular causes, those requiring extensive soft tissue releases or osteotomies and cases with relapsed or recurrent CTEV were excluded. Casting was initiated following maternal manipulation for one to two weeks. Pirani scores were recorded initially and weekly till correction. After deformity correction, anthropometric measurements (femur and tibia length, calf girth and foot length and foot height) were recorded and compared to the opposite normal limb.

Results:

Only four patients showed a difference in their femur length while difference in tibia length was noted in 10 patients which were statistically not significant. A significant difference was found in the calf girth, foot height and foot length affecting 28, 43 and 42 patients respectively.

Conclusion:

Patients with unilateral clubfoot treated with Ponseti’s correction tend to have anthropometric difference between the affected and the unaffected extremity. While there is a relative sparing of femur and tibia length, calf girth, foot height and foot length are consistently less compared to the unaffected side.
Evaluation of Hindfoot Alignment on Lateral Weightbearing x-rays: A Novel Prospective In Vivo Study
Authors: Zhu Mingjie , Far Munib D. , Pham Kenneth , Chiem Gavin , Carpenter Melissa L. , Cephers Candace , Myerson Mark , Li Shuyuan
Published: December 2023

Category:

Hindfoot; Midfoot/Forefoot

Introduction/Purpose:

In clinical practice and research, there are several scenarios when a hindfoot alignment view weightbearing XR is not obtained whether as a result of a lack of resources, technology, in retrospective studies when a hindfoot view was not obtained, as well as in many practices where a hindfoot view XR is not considered a routine examination for foot and ankle disorders. A lateral weightbearing radiograph however is almost routinely obtained, and the goal of this study was to correlate the hindfoot alignment angle with measurements on lateral weightbearing images.

Methods:

Four volunteers (8 feet) with flexible feet and ankles and no symptoms, nor significant trauma & surgical history in their lower limbs were recruited for this study. A portable fluoroscopy machine (Smart C, Turner Imaging, Salt Lake City, USA) was used for imaging. The participant was asked to stand on different custom wooden wedges with the angle changed every 5 degrees from 30 degrees of varus to 30 degrees of valgus and a weightbearing lateral image was taken for each position. The hindfoot alignment was measured using a skin marker which had been drawn prior to initiation of the imaging, and the angular changes of the hindfoot was measured with the placement of each wedge placed. All standardized measurements of the midfoot and hindfoot were obtained on the lateral images.

Results:

With the hindfoot positional changes between 30o of varus to 30o of valgus, there was a gradual measurable change in the subtalar joint, with corresponding changes in the midfoot and hindfoot. There was a significant linear correlation between the hindfoot alignment angle and all radiographic parameters on lateral images. When the hindfoot alignment angle increased by 1 degree in the valgus direction, there was 0.49o decrease in the pitch angle, 0.58o of decrease in the middle vs posterior facet angle, 0.06o of decrease in the proximal cuneiform/cuboid height, 0.40o of decrease in the proximal cuneiform/5th Metatarsal height, 0.40o of increase in the fifth metatarsal/cuboid height, 0.009o of increase in the sinus tarsi/lateral process height, and 0.015o increase in Cuboid/Anterior Process Height. (Figure 1)

Conclusion:

The lateral weightbearing XR can be used to predict the status of the hindfoot alignment, and this study has proven that this can be none not only qualitatively but also quantitatively. This novel research can provide our colleagues with linear regression equations to correlate the lateral imaging metrics with the hindfoot alignment angle. Further study with a larger sample size and participants with different types of hindfoot deformities is needed to help develop an algorithm that would help both clinical practice and research.