bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Situation of the Indigenous Polish Population, Ukrainians and Lemkos in the Voivodship of Zielona Góra in 1956–1960 Against the Background of the Nationality Policy of the Authorities
Authors: Słabig Arkadiusz
Published: January 2024

The year 1956 saw a revision of the nationality policy of the Polish state, which brought a change in the situation of the indigenous Polish population and Ukrainian and Lemko displaced persons living in the voivodship of Zielona Góra. The party and state authorities made many tactical concessions with a view to suppressing strong migration tendencies and strengthening social and economic structures. There was an action of economic aid addressed to autochthonous Poles as well as Ukrainians and Lemkos. The development of folk culture was supported and the struggle of indigenous Poles against long-term Germanisation was publicised. The authorities gave permission to establish local structures of the Ukrainian Social and Cultural Association, Ukrainian language teaching centres, Orthodox parishes and Greek Catholic pastoral institutions. This relatively favourable period came to an end in the early 1960s, with the return of conservative and totalitarian tendencies in the politics of Władysław Gomułka and his camp.
Bias Correction of Tropical Cyclone Intensity for Ensemble Forecasts Using the XGBoost Method
Authors: Feng Songjiang , Tan Yan , Kang Junfeng , Zhong Quanjia , Li Yanjie , Ding Ruiqiang
Published: January 2024

In this study, the extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) algorithm is used to correct tropical cyclone (TC) intensity in ensemble forecast data from the Typhoon Ensemble Data Assimilation and Prediction System (TEDAPS) at the Shanghai Typhoon Institute (STI), China Meteorological Administration (CMA). Results show that the forecast accuracy of TC intensity may be improved substantially using the XGBoost algorithm, especially when compared with a simple ensemble average of all members in the ensemble forecast [as depicted by the ensemble average (EnsAve) algorithm in this study]. The forecast errors for maximum wind speed (MWS) and minimum sea level pressure (MSLP) have been reduced by a significant margin, ranging from 6.3% to 18.4% for MWS and from 4% to 14.9% for MSLP, respectively. The performance of the XGBoost algorithm is overall better than that of the EnsAve algorithm, although there are a few samples when it is worse. The bias analysis shows that TEDAPS underpredicts the MWS and overpredicts the MSLP, meaning that the TEDAPS underestimates TC intensity. However, the XGBoost algorithm can reduce the bias to improve the forecast accuracy of TC intensity. Specifically, it achieves a reduction of over 20% in forecast errors for both the MWS and MSLP of typhoons compared to the EnsAve algorithm, indicating the XGBoost algorithm’s particular advantage in forecasting intense TCs. These results indicate that the TC intensity forecast can be substantially improved using the XGBoost algorithm, relative to the EnsAve algorithm.
Threats to Blue Networks: The Effect of Partner Injuries on Police Misconduct
Authors: Zhao Linda , Papachristos Andrew V.
Published: January 2024

Police culture creates an “us versus them” dynamic, which, at its worst, treats threats to the “thin blue line” as worthy of group response. Prior research documents such a group threat process as a possible mechanism for police misconduct, but few studies have analyzed the precise network relationships that serve as the conduit for a misconduct response. Using data on misconduct, officer injuries, and officer networks within the Chicago Police Department (CPD) between 2004 and 2015, this study examines the extent to which injuries officers receive from civilians might elicit a misconduct response from officers’ peers, and especially their direct network associates. Findings demonstrate that network ties to injured officers predict higher levels of subsequent misconduct, especially for officers with stronger ties to the injured officer. Furthermore, the effects of peer injury on subsequent misconduct are contingent on the race of the suspect involved: officers whose peers are injured are linked to more use of excessive force, as well as other types of misconduct, when the suspects involved are Black. These findings support our central hypothesis of a networked group threat response that links peer injuries to police misconduct.
Detection of Chylous Plasma Based on Machine Learning and Hyperspectral Techniques
Authors: Liu Yafei , Lai Jianxiu , Hu Liying , Kang Meiyan , Wei Siqi , Lian Suyun , Huang Haijun , Cheng Hao , Li Mengshan , Guan Lixin
Published: January 2024

Chylous blood is the main cause of unqualified and scrapped blood among volunteer blood donors. Therefore, a diagnostic method that can quickly and accurately identify chylous blood before donation is needed. In this study, the GaiaSorter “Gaia” hyperspectral sorter was used to extract 254 bands of plasma images, ranging from 900 nm to 1700 nm. Four different machine learning algorithms were used, including decision tree, Gaussian Naive Bayes (GaussianNB), perceptron, and stochastic gradient descent models. First, the preliminary classification accuracies were compared with the original data, which showed that the effects of the decision tree and GaussianNB models were better; their average accuracies could reach over 90%. Then, the feature dimension reduction was performed on the original data. The results showed that the effects of the decision tree were better with a classification accuracy of 93.33%. the classification of chylous plasma using different chylous indices suggested that the accuracies of the decision trees model both before and after the feature dimension reductions were the best with over 80% accuracy. The results of feature dimension reduction showed that the characteristic bands corresponded to all kinds of plasma, thereby showing their classification and identification potential. By applying the spectral characteristics of plasma to medical technology, this study suggested a rapid and effective method for the identification of chylous plasma and provided a reference for the blood detection technology to achieve the goal of reducing wasting blood resources and improving the work efficiency of the medical staff.
Assessing a Community-Based Maternal Self-Efficacy Intervention in Rural India using a Quasi-Experimental Design
Authors: Jiwani Zishan
Published: January 2024

More than 175 million people in India live below the poverty line and are concentrated in rural areas. Families in rural Indian communities may benefit from interventions that support long-term well-being. Maternal self-efficacy (MSE) may be an important target for interventions given prior associations with positive maternal and child outcomes. The present study examined MSE in a pilot community-based group intervention delivered in rural North India. Using convenience sampling recruitment and a quasi-experimental design, 97 mothers (79 self-identified as low-caste) with at least one child between 0–24 months who engaged in the intervention were compared with a matched control group ( n = 219; 114 low-caste). Findings suggest that participation in the intervention was associated with higher MSE (ß = .294, p = .020) and the positive association was stronger amongst mothers from low-caste groups who participated in the intervention (ß = .390, p = .008). MSE may be malleable with the right approach and could be an important target for public health interventions, particularly for low-caste groups in rural India.
The Effectiveness of Diverse Designs of Chinese Stem-Deriving Instruction for Chinese Children With Dyslexia
Authors: Wang Li-Chih , Liu Duo , Lin He-Hsiu , Chung Kevin Kien-Hoa , Xu Zhengye
Published: January 2024

One of the most well-known instructional methods used to enhance Chinese character reading (CCR) is Chinese stem-deriving instruction (CSDI). In this method, CCR is taught via a group of characters (e.g., 清, 情, and 靚) that share the same stem (e.g., 青). However, the effectiveness of CSDI on the CCR of Chinese children with dyslexia remains inconsistent, and the reason may be the diverse designs of this method across studies. Thus, this study aimed to use a quasiexperiment-design study to compare the effects of various forms of CSDI based on the (in)consistency of the extending characters’ sounds, their appearances, and their amount (i.e., how many of them). In total, 122 Chinese third to sixth graders with dyslexia were recruited from primary schools, and they were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (a) visuospatially controlled CSDI ( n = 37; all taught characters shared the same pronunciation), (b) verbally controlled CSDI ( n = 45; all taught characters shared the same structure), and (c) noncontrolled CSDI ( n = 40; all taught characters selected only on the basis of their frequencies). They were tested by CCR and dictation before and after the instruction. We found that CCR was significantly improved in all three CSDI groups, whereas only the verbally controlled CSDI group showed significant improvements in dictation. Furthermore, verbally and visuospatially controlled CSDI earned the greatest benefits in decreasing the visual errors and phonetic errors in CCR and decreasing the radical errors and homophone errors in dictation. Our findings shed light on the effectiveness of CSDI in terms of diverse designs, and frontline practitioners should take our findings into consideration when using CSDI.
Revisiting Earnings Differentials across Socio-religious Groups in the Regular Salaried Employment in India
Authors: Bera Manasi , Dubey Amaresh , Malhotra Surbhi
Published: January 2024

In India, the differences in a range of development indicators, including wages and earnings, along the spatial, caste, religious and ethnicity lines have been a serious concern. This article revisits the wage disparities and discrimination among regular salaried male workers across five categories of socio-religious groups. Using nationally representative Periodic Labour Force Survey (2018–2019) data, we examine the pattern of disparity and the associated endowment and institutional factors leading to unequal labour market outcomes. Our findings suggest that all the groups—Scheduled Tribes (STs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Muslims continue to earn significantly lower wages than ‘Others’—the non-ST/SC/OBC/Muslim group. On decomposing the wage gap using the Blinder–Oaxaca decomposition method, we observe that the share of unexplained components reflecting discriminatory treatment continues to be significant. While the wage gap is highest for Muslims and SCs, discrimination is high against SCs and OBCs and lowest against Muslims. Higher education and institutional factors explain a significant proportion of the wage gap for these groups. For STs, urban location and higher education explain most of the differences. In addition, quantile regression results indicate a wider gap at the bottom and a narrower gap at the top of the wage distribution, signalling a ‘sticky-floor’ phenomenon for ST, SC and OBC workers.

JEL Codes: E24, J71, J49
Effects of Cervical Mobilization on Balance and Gait Parameters in Individuals With Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Dengiz Aziz , Baskan Emre
Published: January 2024

Stroke is a significant health problem that may result in long-term functional deficits. Balance and walking problems are among the most common post-stroke deficits, and they may negatively affect quality of life. Our aim in this study was to investigate the effects of cervical mobilization on balance and gait parameters after stroke. Participants were 24 adults (aged 30–65 years), who scored 24 or above on the Standardized Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) and no more than 3 on the Modified Rankin scale. Participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental Bobath therapy and cervical mobilization group ( n = 12) or a control group who received Bobath therapy and a sham application ( n = 12). Both groups received 60 minutes of Bobath therapy three times a week for four weeks; additionally, the experimental group received 15 minutes of cervical mobilization in each session, while the control group received 15 minutes of spinal sham mobilization each session. Pre and post treatment, we assessed all participants’ demographic characteristics, gait parameters, balance parameters, and forward head posture values using a clinical data assessment form, spatiotemporal gait analysis (LEGSystm), portable computerized kinesthetic balance device (SportKAT 550), and craniovertebral angle (CVA), respectively. The groups showed no significant differences in their initial demographic and clinical characteristics (age, sex, stroke duration and disability levels.). In comparing changes on variables of interest, we observed significant experimental versus control group improvements in balance parameters except for their left side balance score (right side, left side, forward, backward and total balance scores were significant at p = .003, p = .089, p < .001, p = .022, p < .001, respectively), gait parameters (stride number, stride length, stride time, stride velocity, cadance at p = .007, p = .019, p = .013, p = .005, p = .001, respectively) and CVA ( p < .001). Also, there were findings in favor of the experimental group on the modified timed up and go test on walk out, mid turn, walk back and total times ( p = .028, p = .001, p = .016, and p = .001, respectively),but not for sit-to-stand time or stand-to-sit time. Clinicians involved in stroke rehabilitation should assess and treat the cervical region to enhance rehabilitation effectiveness.
Virtual Rehabilitation and COVID-19: Varied Adoption and Satisfaction Among Patients and Providers Participating in a Multi-Site Survey Study
Authors: Manes Mindi R. , Burnfield Judith M. , Boersma Kelsey , Peoples Jason , Davis Anita , Beneciuk Jason M. , Bialosky Joel , Jordan Katelyn , Osborne Raine
Published: January 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic compelled rapid healthcare adaptations including increased use of telehealth (TH) and virtual care (VC) to provide rehabilitation services. This multi-site cross-sectional survey study examined rehabilitation patients’ and providers’ experiences with service delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the use of TH/VC. Patients and providers who received or provided rehabilitation services were recruited from 1 of 3 large, post-acute rehabilitation systems located in the Southeastern and Midwestern United States during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants rated personal satisfaction with rehabilitation services received or rendered during the pandemic and willingness to use TH/VC in the future. Questions also addressed accessibility, ease of use, and perceived barriers to TH/VC use. The adoption and personal satisfaction of TH/VC for rehabilitation care varied between patients and providers. Patients reported higher levels of satisfaction compared to providers ( P < .001). Patients who did not use TH/VC had higher satisfaction than those who did ( P < .05). Patients were less willing than providers to use TH/VC ( P < .001). Those who used TH/VC prior to the pandemic were more willing to use post-pandemic ( P < .001). Patients reported TH/VC was useful in increasing health services accessibility yet were neutral as to the ability of TH/VC to improve outcomes. Patients and providers agreed that TH/VC was easy to learn and use. Medical providers found TH/VC more useful than therapy providers. Participants who used TH/VC during the pandemic are more willing to use the service again in the future. Understanding patient and provider preferences and perspectives is key to the continued use of TH/VC in rehabilitation care.
Treatment Court Staffs’ Perceptions in Support of the Use of Virtual Services in Court Post-Pandemic
Authors: O’Neil Meghan M. , Andraka-Christou Barbara , Kunkel Tara , Bryant Kristina , Huynh Phil , Ray Bradley
Published: January 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional courthouse operations, resulting in the abrupt and extensive adoption of virtual court proceedings. To date, limited empirical research has evaluated virtual treatment courts. Utilizing a novel national survey administered to 358 treatment court team members, we examine support for and barriers to virtual courts. Tested barriers include (a) access to technology, (b) Wi-Fi/internet, (c) private space to use technology, (d) technological skill level, and (e) attitudes toward virtual services. Staff most commonly reported “high support” for the continuation of virtual court proceedings including both hearings and pre-court meetings, and few staff reported “low support.” Treatment court team members expressing technological barriers—faced by themselves or clients—were less likely to support ongoing virtual services. Our analysis offers timely insights into how treatment courts have been transformed by the pandemic and an appreciation of barriers to and support for virtual continuation post-pandemic.
Robust adaptive analysis of extreme dynamic responses of wave energy converters
Authors: Wang Yingguang
Published: January 2024

In the current study, a new adaptive binned kernel density estimation method has been introduced. In the proposed new method, Fourier transforms have been utilized to accomplish the convolution rather than performing the convolution by hand. By utilizing the fast Fourier transform, direct and inverse Fourier transforms have been found in a relatively short amount of time when implementing the new method. Upon analyzing the computed results, it has been observed that the newly proposed adaptive binned kernel density estimation distribution curve exhibits a high level of smoothness in the tail region. Furthermore, it demonstrates a strong alignment with the histogram derived from the recorded ocean wave dataset obtained at the NDBC station 46053. These are the major advantages of the proposed new method comparing with other existing methods such as the parametric method, the ordinary KDE method, and Abramson's adaptive KDE method. The specific research gap identified in the field is that none of the existing methods can predict the sea state parameter probability distribution tails both accurately and efficiently, and the proposed new method has successfully addressed this research gap. Upon careful examination of the calculation results, it becomes evident that the projected 50-year extreme power-take-off heaving force value, derived using the newly proposed method, is 1989300N. This value significantly surpasses (by more than 9.5%) the forecasted value of 1816200N obtained through the application of the Rosenblatt-I-SORM contour method. The findings of this study suggest that the newly proposed adaptive binned kernel density estimation method exhibits robustness and demonstrates accurate forecasting capabilities for the 50-year extreme dynamic responses of wave energy converters.
Habermas and the mutations of the public sphere
Authors: Kellner Douglas
Published: January 2024

In this article, I argue that concern with the public sphere and the necessary conditions for a genuine democracy can be seen as a central theme of Jurgen Habermas's work that deserves respect and critical scrutiny in the contemporary moment, when throughout the world liberal democracies are in crisis. My study intends to point to the continuing importance of Habermas' problematic of the public sphere and its relevance for debates over democratic politics and social and cultural life in the present age, in an era in which the Occupy Movements, Black Lives Matter, #MeToo, the Trump Resistance Movement, and Ukraine and Palestine Solidarity groups use social media to struggle against multiple forms of oppression. At stake is delineating a concept of the public sphere which facilitates maximum public participation and debate over the key issues of the contemporary era and which consequently promotes the cause of radical democracy and social transformation.
Potential Risks of Artificial Intelligence Integration into School Education: A Systematic Review
Authors: Karan Bablu , Angadi G. R.
Published: January 2024

Currently, artificial intelligence (AI) is being rapidly incorporated into K-12 education because of its increasing social and pedagogical importance. The integration of AI in K-12 education is likely to have a profound influence on the lives and learning styles of learners, teaching approaches of teachers, and the whole mechanism of school management systems. As AI technologies are new to K-12 school curriculum, the research on AI for K-12 classrooms is under explored. In this study, the current state of AI integration in school education and risks associated with it were explored. The study using a systematic review method attempted to explore the findings, observations, and results of recent research regarding the possible risk factors of AI integration in K-12 education. At initial search using predefined key terms, 390 articles were recorded. Using inclusion and exclusion criteria, 71 articles covering 34 journals and other publications were selected for final analysis. Selected 71 articles reported that AI innovation incorporation into K-12 education is associated with certain risks and challenges. Through a systematic review technique, we categorized them into major 6 risk areas namely Privacy and Autonomy Risks, AI Biases, Accuracy and Functional Risks, Deepfakes and FATE Risks, Social Knowledge and Skill Building Risks, and Risk in Shifting Teacher's Role. The study also explored these risk areas to provide an overview of how these are connected with teaching and learning process of K-12 education.
Quantifying the impact of sensor precision on power output of a wind turbine: A sensitivity analysis via Monte Carlo simulation study
Authors: Sarbandi Moein , Khaloozadeh Hamid
Published: January 2024

Wind turbines (WTs) are complex systems with multiple interacting components, posing challenges in identifying factors affecting power output (PO). Sensors play an important role; however, sensor precision can result in measured values differing from actual values. Analyzing the impact of sensor precision on PO is essential. In this study, we employ sensitivity analysis (SA) via Monte Carlo (MC) simulation, offering a novel approach to quantify the influence of sensor precision on the PO of a 4.8 MW WT. We focus on evaluations under 5–20 m/s wind profiles, representing partial and full load regions that portray normal operation. Based on mean squared error (MSE) and parameter sensitivity (PS) index analyses, findings show the generator speed sensor’s precision significantly impacts PO. Therefore, designers should prioritize high-impact sensors like the generator speed, while sensorless strategies may be considered as alternatives to low-impact sensors like the blade pitch angle sensor, where appropriate.
Self-Reported Level of Sports Compared With Objective Data in Athletes With Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome
Authors: Lindman Ida , Lagerlöf Nils , Karlsson Louise , Öhlin Axel , Abrahamson Josefin
Published: January 2024

Background:

Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) is common among ice hockey and soccer players. To evaluate the prevalence of return to sports after hip arthroscopy or level of sports before surgery, self-reported questionnaires such as the Hip Sports Activity Scale (HSAS) are frequently used. There is a risk of self-reporting bias when using these tools.

Purpose:

To evaluate how self-reported levels of sports using HSAS correspond to objective data.

Study Design:

Cohort study, Level of evidence: 3.

Method:

Ice hockey and soccer players undergoing hip arthroscopy for FAIS between 2011 and 2019 and included in the local hip arthroscopy registry in Gothenburg, Sweden, aged ≥18 years at the time of surgery, with a self-reported HSAS level of 7 or 8 before onset of symptoms, were included. Objective data on level of sports were collected through sports-specific sources ( https://football.instatscout.com , https://hockey.instatscout.com , https://www.eliteprospects.com , and Swedish Football Association). Objective data were collected for the corresponding season when the athletes reported their symptom onset. Agreement between subjective and objective data was described using descriptive statistics, and comparison between subgroups was made.

Results:

A total of 483 athletes met the inclusion criteria: 80 ice hockey and 403 soccer players. The majority were men (90%). The mean age was 26.5 years (SD, 8.3 years). When comparing HSAS level with objective data, 112 athletes (23%) had a correct self-reported HSAS level. Of 251 athletes with a self-reported HSAS level of 8, 76 (30%) had a matching objective HSAS level, and 36 of 232 (16%) athletes with a self-reported HSAS level of 7 had a matching objective HSAS level. Of the erroneous subjective ratings, 98% were higher than the objective data. Athletes reporting a correct HSAS level were younger (24.6 vs 26.4 years; P = .04) and had a shorter symptom duration (18 vs 24 months; P < .001). Ice hockey players scored themselves correctly more often than soccer players ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Only 23% of athletes undergoing hip arthroscopy for FAIS self-reported an HSAS level before onset of symptoms that was accurate according to the objectively recorded data. The majority self-reported an HSAS level above their correct level of sports. Ice hockey players, younger age, and shorter symptom duration were associated with correct self-assessment.
Burr constitution analysis in ultrasonic-assisted drilling of CFRP/nano-graphene via experimental and data-driven methodologies
Authors: Baraheni Mohammad , Soudmand Behzad Hashemi , Amini Saeid , Bayat Masoud , Ebrahimi Ali
Published: January 2024

In this study, a comprehensive investigation was undertaken to analyze the impact of various factors on thrust force and burr damage in carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminates during drilling operations. The factors examined included the incorporation of nano-graphene, the application of ultrasonic vibration, the type of cutting tool, and the feed rate. Statistical and machine learning techniques were employed to analyze the data, and image processing was utilized to illustrate the extent of burr damage surrounding the drilled holes. The developed model exhibited satisfactory prediction accuracy with minimal error rates. Statistical analysis revealed that the feed rate exerted the greatest influence on thrust force and facilitated the burr generation. Likewise, the addition of nano-graphene resulted in an increased thrust force due to improved rupture limits, consequently leading to cleaner holes with minimal burr damage. Furthermore, the implementation of ultrasonic vibration and the use of high-cobalt cutting tools were found to enhance drilling performance by reducing thrust force and minimizing the burr formation. The best hole quality was achieved at the lowest feed rate, in combination with a cutting tool containing 8% cobalt and the utilization of ultrasonic vibration.
Reconsidering the Problem of Common-Method Variance in Organizational Communication Research
Authors: Manata Brian , Boster Franklin J.
Published: January 2024

This manuscript details the different attributes associated with the problem of common-method variance. First, upon defining validity, we review the two primary ways by which scholars attempt to control for common-method variance, and in doing so discuss their merits. Second, we provide two alternative explanations that may also account for the appearance of disparate correlations, neither of which have to do with common-method variance. Finally, we offer a set of parsimonious solutions for the problem of common-method variance, namely CFA without correlated residuals or modeled method factors. Overall, the purpose of this manuscript is to provide guidance for organizational communication scholars when dealing with this problem.
Comparative performance evaluation between ta-C and TiAlCrN coated tools during milling of additively manufactured CFRP composite
Authors: Das Anshuman , Barrenkala Dineshwar , Das Sudhansu Ranjan , Patel Saroj Kumar , Somani Nalin , Kumar Ch Sateesh
Published: January 2024

Due to the excellent strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance properties, the application of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) composites is rising among various industries day-by-day. This research addresses the performance evaluation of tetrahedral amorphous hard carbon (ta-C) and TiAlCrN coated carbide tools during milling of additively manufactured CFRP composite under dry environment. Tool rotational (spindle) speed, feed and depth of cut are considered as the variable factors in order to evaluate the machining performance characteristics in milling operation concerning surface roughness (Ra), cutting force (Fc) and cutting temperature (T). Taguchi's L16 orthogonal array design of experiments was adopted to conduct the machining trials under various settings of process variables. The relative influence of the different types of coatings and different operating parameters on machined surface morphology in milling was analysed by scanning electron microscope. From the experimental results, a promising machining performance is noticed for TiAlCrN coated carbide end milling tool accomplished by physical vapour deposition technique in terms of all machining attributes compared to ta-C coated end milling tool due to superior wear resistance, surface hardness and bonding strength of coating material. Among the tools used, TiAlCrN coated carbide tools for CFRP milling application promises excellent machinability performances in terms of reduced cutting force, enhanced machined surface morphology as well as surface finish, and minimum cutting temperature. The mean value ratios for Ra ta-C/RaTiAlCrN, Fc ta-C/FcTiAlCrN and T ta-C/TTiAlCrN are 1.44, 1.24 and 1.21, respectively.
Defect monitoring in additive manufacturing through OpenCV-based remote video access
Authors: Pathinettampadian Gurusamy , Ponnuswamy Pradeep Castro , Browne Micheal Agnelo , Vijayalakshmi Rahul Anandha Krishnan , Subramaniyan Mohan Kumar
Published: January 2024

Errors in additive manufacturing are a significant obstacle to its widespread adoption in various application. The developments of 3D printed parts are prone to various types of defects, which are difficult to monitor in real-time through human vision. The use of 3D printers has increased in diverse fields, leading to a significant rise in the need of continuous monitoring during the manufacturing process. Prompt action should be taken to stop or correct errors immediately to prevent a defective part. However, continuous monitoring of 3D printer through human vision is impractical for longer tasks and cannot be accurate. Human inspection is not infallible and could introduce its own errors. Given the multitude of application, continuous defect monitoring is extremely challenging, particularly for longer tasks. Based on these constraints a suitable remote monitoring system through open-source computer vision has been proposed. Incorporating the concept of Internet of things, the video of printing process could be viewed by a user or controller from a remote location enabling to monitor the printing process. With the use of Haar classifier in the program, the printing defects that occur in the 3D printed part could be identified immediately through contours drawn over the defective part. Depending upon the severity of defect indicated, the user could take respective action to control the defect formation. With Industry 4.0 in the implementation stages, this method of video monitoring of defects in 3D printers could be an effective method for widespread use of additive manufacturing systems in industries.
Toward integrative triangulation in discourse-historical approach
Authors: Tang Xuri , Li Jing
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes a novel mode of Discourse-Historical Approach that features integrative triangulation of quantitative and qualitative analyses. The integrative triangulation is achieved by following a rule-bound and systematic discourse analytic procedure with rules derived from a diachronic discourse model that is constructed by explicating premises in the Discourse-Historical Approach, and by using data-driven inductive inference with three supra-lexical quantifiable components – propositions, sinsign topics, and discursive strategies. The case study with American identity construction as the macro-topic and the U.S. presidential inaugural addresses as the discourse corpus shows that the integrative mode produces explicit and sufficient evidence that not only complements, validates, and expands existent findings, but also reveals novel insights on the macro-topic, proving that integrative triangulation of quantitative and qualitative analyses promotes credibility, explicitness, transparency, and replicability in the Discourse-Historical Approach.
China’s Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI) in South Asia and Its Policy Challenges to India in the Region
Authors: Bharti Mukesh Shankar
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this article is to describe China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in South Asia. This study also assesses China’s deeper economic cooperation with India’s neighbouring countries in light of BRI projects in the region. Further, this article looks towards India’s position with South Asian countries to counter China’s aggressiveness towards the region. India had refused to join as a partner country of China’s BRI initiative from South Asia. Similarly, India launched the ‘Neighbourhood-First Policy’ to strengthen its political and economic cooperation with South Asian countries to counter China’s geopolitical and geostrategic agenda. China’s policy ‘encircling India’ and ‘Strings of Pearls’ theory working in the South Asia region have been threatening India in the context of BRI expansion in the region. India has deep observations against China’s BRI project that is crossing from the disputed territory of India between Pakistan from Kashmir’s Gilgit–Baltistan region (Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir). In light of the abovementioned causes, this article elucidates principal conflict zones between India and China in the context of South Asia for economic and political connectivity with the subcontinent countries.
Comparison of Ultrasound Assisted Versus Palpation Method for Diagnostic Lumbar Puncture in Neonates: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Chandu Pradeep , Jain Ashish , Jain Nidhi , Gupta Swati , Gupta Natasha
Published: January 2024

Background

Our purpose was to determine the beneficial effect of ultrasound (US) assisted lumbar puncture (UALP) to increase lumbar puncture (LP) success compared with the clinical conventional palpation (CCP) method.

Methods

This parallel randomized controlled single-center trial was conducted in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in a tertiary care Hospital. Neonates >28 weeks requiring LP were enrolled and stratified into two groups ≥34 and <34 weeks gestational age. Prior to study initiation, training under the supervision of a qualified radiologist was undertaken. The primary outcome was successful LP (defined as no dry tap and cerebrospinal fluid RBC <1,000/mm3). Secondary outcomes were time taken for the procedure, US estimation of the point of formation of conus.

Results

A total of 55 cases were randomized after exclusion out of which 29 cases were assigned to UALP and 26 cases to CCP. There was no difference in the primary outcome of LP success between the UALP group and the CCP group [89.7% vs. 84.6%; difference: 5.1% (95% confidence interval: −12.7% to 22.7%)], p = .57. There was a statistically significant difference in time taken for procedure 81.46 ± 65.21 seconds (mean ± SD) in CCP versus 327.93 ± 128.07 seconds in UALP ( p < .001). Results were similar in both groups (<34 and ≥34 weeks gestational age) if analyzed separately.

Conclusion

UALP did not improve the successful LP when compared with the CCP method. Time taken for procedure is higher in the UALP group.
Long-Term Impact of the End-of-Life Care Nursing Education Consortium on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice (KAP) of Indian Nurses Working in Non-Palliative Care Settings: A KAP-GAP Analysis
Authors: Gupta Mayank , Pruthi Gegal , Singh Karamjot
Published: January 2024

Background: The End-of-life Care Nursing Education Consortium (ELNEC) program aims to equip nurses with knowledge and skills in palliative and end-of-life care. While this program improves knowledge and attitudes of Indian nurses regarding palliative care and end-of-life care, its long-term impact on their knowledge, attitude, and clinical practice remains unknown. This study aims to assess ELNEC’s long-term impact on knowledge, attitude, and practice of Indian nurses. Methods: A 18-month follow-up survey of practicing nurses at a tertiary care institute who completed ELNEC in September 2021. Data was collected between April-June 2023 via a questionnaire covering demographics, Palliative Care Quiz for Nurses (PCQN), Frommelt Attitude Toward Care of the Dying Scale Form B (FATCOD-B) and a clinical practice questionnaire developed and validated to access impact of ELNEC on clinical practice. Quantitative and qualitative data were assessed using Statistical package for social sciences and thematic analysis respectively. The 18-month follow-up PCQN and FATCOD-B scores were compared with the pre-ELNEC (baseline) and immediate post-ELNEC scores. Results: Out of 108 nurses, 69 responded with a response rate of 63.8%. The mean follow-up PCQN score was 9.03 ± 2.58; significantly higher than the pre-ELNEC (8.45 ± 1.88) but lower than the immediate post-ELNEC scores (10.2 ± 1.88). Attitudes toward end-of-life care declined over time but remained positive in the end-of-life care value and care of the dying. Thematic analysis of responses to open questions revealed that ELNEC motivated nurses to work in palliative care and care for patients with chronic life-limiting illnesses (n = 52, 75.3%), improved their nursing practice (n = 60, 86.9%), and helped enhance their communication skills (n = 51, 73.9%). Participants (n = 55, 79.7%) emphasized on regular palliative care training to reinforce their knowledge and skills. Conclusion: Compared with baseline, ELNEC leads to long-term improvement in practicing nurses’ palliative care knowledge, clinical practice, communication skills and motivates them to work in palliative care.
Predicting Failure of Conservative Airway Management in Infants with Robin Sequence: The EARN Factors
Authors: McGrath Jennifer L. , Mantilla-Rivas Esperanza , Aivaz Marudeen , Manrique Monica , Rana Md Sohel , Crowder Hannah R. , Oh Nathanael S. , Rogers Gary F. , Oh Albert K.
Published: January 2024

Objective

Evaluate infants with Robin Sequence (RS) who were successfully treated with conservative airway measures alone vs. those who failed and eventually underwent surgical airway intervention after a protracted course of conservative management.

Design

Retrospective review of prospectively gathered database.

Setting

Large tertiary care institution.

Patients

Infants diagnosed with RS (n = 122) who underwent primary airway management at a single institution from 1994–2020.

Main Outcome Measure

Patient demographics, nutritional and respiratory status, laboratory values, and polysomnographic results were compared between patients who were discharged after successful conservative airway management (Group 1, n = 61) and patients that underwent surgical airway intervention after failing a prolonged course of conservative management (Group 2, n = 61). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was done to assess continuous variables that may predict failure of conservative airway management.

Results

122 infants with RS were investigated. While several variables were significantly different between groups, the following polysomnographic EARN factors, with cut points, were identified as most predictive of failed conservative airway management: ETCO2 (max) > 49 mmHg, AHI > 16.9 events/hour, OAHI REM >25.9 events/hour, OAHI Non-REM > 23.6 events/hour.

Conclusions

We identified factors in infants with RS that were associated with severe UAO that failed to improve despite weeks of conservative airway management. Our results may expedite earlier definitive treatment of these critical patients and reduce risks for known complications of prolonged UAO.
A Deepening/Widening Tradeoff? Evidence from the GATT and WTO
Authors: Bearce David H. , Eldredge Cody D.
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes that the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and its successor, the World Trade Organization (WTO), experienced a deepening/widening tradeoff: as their membership increased (greater width), their effectiveness in promoting trade between members/participants declined (lesser de facto depth). This proposition is tested using gravity models of bilateral trade, first separating the GATT and WTO, which are usually combined into a single variable, and then adding a width variable corresponding to each institution. The results show that (1) both regimes were the deepest, or the most trade effective, when they had the fewest member-states and (2) their trade effectiveness declined, eventually becoming statistically insignificant, as more countries joined. As a quantitative case study, this paper provides some of the first evidence consistent with a tradeoff between depth and width within international institutions.
The Impact of Family Relationship Quality on Youth's Career Decision-Making Self-Efficacy: The Mediating Role of Youth's Positive Decision-Making Skills
Authors: Park Cheolwoo , Harris Victor W.
Published: January 2024

Although studies have focused on identifying the association between family-related factors (e.g., family relationship quality) and youth's career decision-making self-efficacy, additional empirical evidence is necessary to clarify the potential factors influencing the connection between family relationship quality and youth's career decision-making self-efficacy. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of youth's perceived levels of family relationship quality on their career decision-making self-efficacy and the mediating role of their positive decision-making skills among 425 youth participants in a southeastern region of the United States. The authors of this study conducted a mediation analysis using longitudinal data at two different time points in order to investigate the mediating effect of youth's positive decision-making skills. Results indicated that family relationship quality did not have a direct association with youth's career decision-making self-efficacy. Instead, youth's positive decision-making skills had a full mediating effect on the association between the quality of youth-family member relationships and their self-efficacy for career decision-making. Implications for family life educators, researchers of youth career development, and family counselors are discussed.
GLI1-Altered Soft Tissue Tumor in the Tongue—A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tse Jenny Lik-Ka , Ng Joshua Hoi-Yan
Published: January 2024

Background: Soft tissue tumors with fusions or amplifications of the GLI1 gene have distinctive molecular characteristics and have recently been considered a unique pathological entity, thus named “ GLI1-altered soft tissue tumors.” It is a rare mesenchymal neoplasm that involves soft tissues at any site. Case presentation: We report an example of this condition in a 13-year-old Chinese male patient who presented with a mass in the tongue. The tumor was multilobulated; the tumor cells were arranged in nests and sheets, had a rich, delicate fibrovascular network, and were separated by a hyalinized fibrous stroma. The tumor cells were epithelioid to ovoid, with variable eosinophilic to pale vacuolated cytoplasm and round to oval nuclei. Immunostaining revealed that the tumor cells were positive for CDK4 and CD56. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for GLI1 translocation was positive, with a high level of amplification of the translocated segment. Literature review: We present a comprehensive literature review of this condition, focusing on its clinical presentation, histological features, immunohistochemical profile, molecular characteristics, and prognosis.
Efficacy and Safety of a Pharmaco-Invasive Strategy Using Half-Dose Recombinant Human Prourokinase in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction During Hospitalization
Authors: Dou Jie , Gao Jie , Yang Huihui , Guo Ruoling , Jiang Chao , Guo Jingtao , Luo Donglei
Published: January 2024

This study investigated the efficacy and safety of pharmaco-invasive strategy with half-dose recombinant human prourokinase (PHDP) during hospitalization for patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) to provide references for the treatment of STEMI. Patients with STEMI who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria and attended Chengde Central Hospital, Hebei Province, China, between September 3, 2019, and December 28, 2021, were included in this study. The experimental group received PHDP and the control group underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). This study enrolled 150 patients with STEMI, 75 in the experimental group and 75 in the control group. Coronary angiography revealed successful thrombolysis in 64 (85.33%) patients. Compared with the control group, the experimental group had shorter first medical contact-reperfusion time ( P < 0.001), less slow flow/no-reflow ( P < 0.001), and a lower utilization rate of Tirofiban ( P < 0.001). Validity endpoints: no statistically significant differences between the two groups. Safety endpoints: no statistically significant differences between bleeding and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs), but the experimental group was more prone to arrhythmias ( P = 0.040), particularly premature ventricular beats (PVB) ( P = 0.008). In conclusion, the efficacy and safety of PHDP in the treatment of patients with STEMI were positive. Complete epicardial and myocardial reperfusion rates, risk for bleeding during hospitalization, and incidence of MACCEs were similar to those of the PPCI strategy. Although the PHDP group has a higher incidence of PVB, it does not increase the incidence of malignant arrhythmia. This study aimed to provide a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of STEMI in hospitals without adequate PPCI resources condition.
Predictive Role of Pre-Thrombolytic Neutrophil-Platelet Ratio on Hemorrhagic Transformation After Intravenous Thrombolysis in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Cheng Xu-Dong , Zhang Chun-Xi , Zhang Qi , Zhou Sen , Jia Li-Jun , Wang Li-Rong , Wang Jian-Hong , Yu Neng-Wei , Li Bing-Hu
Published: January 2024

To investigate the predictive role of the neutrophil-platelet ratio (NPR) before intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) on hemorrhagic transformation (HT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). AIS patients treated with IVT without endovascular therapy between June 2019 and February 2023 were included. Patients were divided into high NPR (>35) and low NPR (≤35) groups according to the optimal threshold NPR value for identifying high-risk patients before IVT. The baseline data and the incidence of HT and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) were compared between the two groups. The predictive role of the NPR and other related factors on HT after IVT was analyzed by multivariate logistic regression. A total of 247 patients were included, with an average age of 67.5 ± 12.4 years. Post-thrombolytic HT was observed in 18.6% of the patients, and post-thrombolytic sICH was observed in 1.2% of the patients. There were 69 patients in the high NPR group and 178 patients in the low NPR group. The incidence of HT in the high NPR group was significantly higher than that in the low NPR group (30.4% vs 16.3%, P < .05). The incidence of sICH was significantly higher in the high NPR group than in the low NPR group (14.5% vs 1.7%, P < .001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that NPR > 35 was positively correlated with HT (odds ratio (OR) = 3.236, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.481-7.068, P = .003) and sICH (OR = 13.644, 95% CI: 2.392-77.833, P = .003). A high NPR (>35) before IVT may be a predictor of HT in AIS patients. This finding may help clinicians make clinical decisions before IVT in AIS patients.