bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feminist flashpoints and the burning question of accountability
Authors: Moro Sabrina
Published: August 2024

The media coverage of the Rubiales/Hermoso non-consensual kiss reveals the ongoing difficulties of holding powerful men accountable, despite decades of feminist mobilisation around sexual violence. This essay builds on Sarah Banet-Weiser’s concept of the ‘feminist flashpoint’ as spectacular media events which can help problematise cultural understandings of ‘accountability’ beyond ‘cancel culture’ and carceral feminist politics. Analysing the Rubiales/Hermoso non-consensual kiss in relation to another feminist flashpoint, the contested interpretation of the photograph V-J Day in Times Square, initiates an epistemological shift that focuses on the spectators of the kiss instead of its protagonists. This critical shift locates a feminist practice of accountability in processes of historicization and thinks of responsibility in collective rather than invidividual terms. This piece is part of a special themed issue on the Rubiales/Hermoso non-consensual kiss.
Thai creative labour solidarity, (post)-pandemic precarity, and directions of production studies in the Global South
Authors: Promkhuntong Wikanda
Published: August 2024

This paper offers an overview of the creative labour solidarity that took place in Thailand during the pandemic by young film graduates and political-conscious workers. A dialogic reflection with research on creative labour studies largely based in the Global North is discussed. In addition to tracing the development of this local ‘turn to labour,’ the paper offers a closer look at the lives of below-the-line film crews based on ‘solidarity dialogues’ during and post-pandemic. The paper explores precarity gaps based on the type of production, age, family, and social relation, as well as micro-practices adopted by workers to navigate different shades of precarity. Adopting ‘South-South citations’ and a feminist approach to production studies, aspects of local class systems, the paradoxical nature of workers’ solidarity, and the persistent structural inequality between large-scale international productions and local film sets are examined with reflections on other countries in the Global South.
Alcohol purchases through online stores and mobile applications in the late phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland
Authors: Bujalski Michał , Rowicka Magdalena
Published: August 2024

Aim: Online alcohol sales have grown rapidly, but their impact on alcohol consumption and harms is not well understood. This study explores the association between online alcohol purchasing and drinking behaviours during the late phase of COVID-19 pandemic in Poland. Design: A nationally representative survey was conducted in May 2022 of 2000 Polish residents aged 18–50 years selected from a probability-based web panel. Measures included past-year alcohol purchasing through e-stores, food/delivery apps and retail apps. Alcohol consumption was quantified using the Beverage-Specific Quantity-Frequency method. Logistic regression was used to identify sociodemographic and behavioural correlates of online alcohol purchasing. Results: Of the study respondents, 19% purchased alcohol through e-stores, 17% via delivery apps and 15% with retail apps. Spirits were commonly purchased in e-stores (57%), while beer was purchased via apps (58%–60%). Most online buyers took advantage of price promotions (69%–75%) and reported some kind of age verification (67%–68%). Higher odds of online purchasing were found among men (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.38–1.54), younger drinkers (aOR 1.65–2.04) and to some extent university graduates (aOR 1.75 for e-stores purchases). Compared to moderate drinkers, risky (aOR 2.32–3.02) and harmful drinkers (aOR 5.06–6.61) showed substantially increased odds of buying alcohol online. Conclusion: Results suggest online alcohol purchasing, especially through mobile apps, is linked to more excessive drinking. Apps enable easy access to alcohol anytime anywhere, circumventing policies restricting sales to minors and intoxicated persons. With youth drinking declining globally, online sales are an emerging issue for public health. Restricting mobile app-based alcohol delivery could be an important policy measure to curb excessive drinking enabled by digital sales.
Fiscal extraction by sovereignty: Calculative bordering and differential entanglement in the Eurozone crisis
Authors: Streinzer Andreas
Published: August 2024

The article analyses the relationship between sovereignty and capitalist extraction using assemblage theory. It discusses dialectical variants of assemblage theory as tools to think about the entangled relations that make economic actors. The article proposes two concepts, calculative bordering and differential entanglement, to make sense of processes that responsibilised the Greek government for the 2010s Eurozone crisis and invoked its sovereignty as a tool for extraction value for financial markets. The article contributes to anthropological theorisations of sovereignty by showing how, as a political concept, sovereignty can serve to responsibilize governments to secure accumulation and ensure capitalist extraction. The article thus aims for a refined understanding of the changing relation between extraction and sovereignty and processes of fiscal responsibilization as a performance of sovereignty.
The camp, the zone, and sovereign sediments: Querying paradigms through the politics of Made-in-Italy agribusiness operations
Authors: Peano Irene
Published: August 2024

The article questions the paradigmatic nature ascribed to “the zone”—and the concomitant dismissal of the camp's—by some analyses of the politics of capital's operations, and problematizes the very notion of the paradigm. Elaborating on previous reflections concerning contemporary agro-industrial zones in Italy, the article rethinks camps against state-centric and exceptionalist readings that consider them purely as sites of exclusion. At the same time, it retains a stress on the symbolic dimension of forms of containment and extraction, going beyond a narrow political-economic approach. The zone and the camp, it is argued, are mutually imbricated “infrastructure spaces” of present-day agro-capital's operations, which, however, result from the sedimentation of spatialized techniques for labor disciplining, reproduction, and containment that have developed alongside capitalist forms of agriculture throughout the contemporary period. The camp is thus defined as a function of the political, sovereign dimensions of extraction, that may operate within but also beyond the state. Furthermore, it is underlain by differential attributions of humanness, and therefore by a specific biopolitical anthropology. Engaging in a genealogy of the (humanitarian and/as labor) camps that today proliferate in agro-industrial zones, I argue that to understand the spatial formations emerging from and sustaining the politics of contemporary capital operations a recursive analytics is necessary, that thus questions the purchase of paradigms on the grounds of their atemporality and complicates the positing of mere historical continuities.
The effect of nano-zinc oxide on the mechanical properties of the cured ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber with a semi-efficient vulcanisation system
Authors: Abgorg Hanyeh Khoshravesh , Movahed Saeed Ostad
Published: August 2024

The present investigation is dedicated to the impact of replacing conventional zinc oxide (ZnO) with nano-zinc oxide (nZnO) in ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) rubber compounds. Multiple rubber compounds were prepared utilising conventional and nano-zinc oxides, followed by vulcanisation employing a semi-efficient vulcanisation system (SEV). Results indicate that nZnO promotes a more uniform dispersion within the rubber matrix compared to ZnO. Moreover, the incorporation of nZnO enhances the vulcanisation process, yielding a notable 27% increase in crosslink density. Nevertheless, the mechanical properties of the cured rubber, encompassing tear strength, hardness, tensile strength and elongation at break, remained either unaffected or exhibited slight deterioration. This observed discrepancy is ascribed to the inherent tendency of nZnO particles to self-aggregate, thereby disrupting the homogeneous distribution of the activator within the rubber matrix and fostering the formation of localised crosslink networks around the nano-particles. To overcome this challenge, the study proposes potential strategies, including nano-particle surface modification, optimisation of mixing parameters, and integration of compatibilisers, aiming to enhance the interaction between nZnO and rubber chains, mitigate agglomeration and facilitate a more even dispersion. The study suggests the potential of nZnO in augmenting the crosslinking efficiency of rubber compounds while emphasising the imperative need to address nano-particle agglomeration to optimise overall mechanical properties.
Revaluing and devaluing higher education beyond neoliberalism: Elitist, productivist, and populist policy and rhetoric in a field of conflict
Authors: Turnbull Nick , Wilson Shaun , Agoston Greg
Published: August 2024

The transformation of higher education provision by neoliberal values has been well documented. However, recent criticisms and even attacks upon higher education indicate a new politics extending beyond neoliberalism. This article draws on the sociology of conventions to unpick the distinctions at work in these new criticisms of universities. By distinguishing between values based in the market world, industrial world and civic world, we elaborate the political basis of recent value controversies around higher education (HE), reflected in policy and rhetoric. Looking to reject aspects of the neoliberal HE model, some critics have sought to revalue higher education upon productivist values, attacking universities for failing to generate ‘use’ value for students and society. Populist actors have launched stronger criticisms, aiming to revalue higher education on nationalistic and traditional values. This has generated the devaluation of higher education in national public spheres. As higher education has expanded globally, this new politics emerges from conflicts within and between conservative and liberal elites. Trends in Hungary and Brazil indicate the successes and failures of populist attacks on universities. Trends in the United Kingdom and Australia reflect productivist revaluations of market-based HE. Elite revaluation and devaluation is producing an emerging new global politics of HE.
A comparison of tonal-broadband decomposition algorithms for propeller noise
Authors: Bonomo Lucas A , Cordioli Julio A , Colaciti Alysson K , Fonseca João Victor N , Simões Leandro GC
Published: August 2024

The usage of propellers is increasing as an alternative to traditional aircraft and has become the primary option for new urban mobility vehicles. However, noise emissions from rotating blades can be a challenge for the certification of these new vehicles. The acoustic sources from a propeller can be decomposed into deterministic and random components. Therefore, academic research has focused on developing methods to separate these components. This study compares the performance of several methods available in the literature to decompose propeller noise signals into tonal and broadband components. Initially, the methods were applied to synthetic data that represents the main characteristics of rotating blade noise. Later, the methods were tested on realistic acoustic data collected from an isolated propeller test rig. The results showed that methods based on phase-averaging recorded signals satisfactorily detected harmonic components. The method based on cross-correlation between data blocks effectively extracted the broadband spectra, but it performed poorly on harmonic detection. Additionally, the wavelet transform and Proper Orthogonal Decomposition methods were capable of reconstructing time series related to both deterministic and random parts. However, further investigation is required regarding the separation of POD modes, as unexpected trends were observed with the wavelet-based method.
Zn–Al with NO2− as a corrosion inhibitor epoxy-coated carbon steel under artificial atmospheric conditions
Authors: Seniski Anelize , Sotiles Anne Raquel , Vieira Carlos Henrique da Silva , Bragança Mariana D'Orey Gaivão Portella , Marino Claudia E.B. , Portella Kleber Franke
Published: August 2024

This study evaluated Zn–Al–NO2− layered double hydroxide as a corrosion inhibitor in a high-thickness epoxy resin coating (200 µm). The layered double hydroxide was tested in a NaCl solution, using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The formed oxides were analysed by X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The corrosion resistance of the epoxy coating (with and without layered double hydroxide) was analysed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy after exposure to a NaCl solution, salt spray, or a weather-O-meter chamber in a simulated atmospheric environment. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements for the free layered double hydroxide in a NaCl solution revealed that layered double hydroxide prompted the formation of a compact, protective, and insoluble oxide layer on the carbon steel surface. The Cl− permeability through the epoxy resin film was 5.88 times lower for the film containing layered double hydroxide than for the control. The layered double hydroxide was added to the epoxy coating at a 5 wt-% to evaluate the behaviour of the coating in aggressive environments. The entry of aggressive ions was controlled by the ability of the layered double hydroxide to capture them and release the corrosion inhibitors. Thus, the layered double hydroxide worked as a trap for these aggressive ions and enhanced the performance of the coating. Therefore, a layered double hydroxide addition could benefit a high-thickness coating exposed to an aggressive environment and UV radiation.
Development of flexible packaging sheet from aluminium foil laminated jute web
Authors: Sengupta Surajit , Mirdha Nilimesh , Ghosh Papai , Mustafa Izhar
Published: August 2024

This study develops an impermeable and flexible sheet for food packaging using aluminium foil and jute web. A hot melt sheet is used for laminating foil with a jute web. A simple manufacturing process has been suggested. The effect of different process parameters has been studied and optimized. The optimized calendaring temperature (top/bottom), pressure, and speed are 150/120°C, 15 kPa, and 1 m/min, respectively. Preheating and three consecutive runs show higher tenacity. This hybrid sheet uses around 88% or 78% jute (by weight) in one and both side laminated sheets, respectively. The failure mechanism shows the role of fibre-to-foil bonding. The developed fabric is lighter and more cost-effective than jute woven laminated fabric. The packet from hybrid fabric is sufficiently strong and pliable with excellent barrier properties to use as a hygienic sheet for food packaging.
Optimization and experimental validation of reinforcing fibers winding pattern for carbon/carbon composite crucible preform
Authors: Dong Jiuzhi , Zhao Jiafei , Li Rui , Jiang Xiuming
Published: August 2024

In order to address the problem of transition slip between the cylindrical segment and the ellipsoidal head segment of the carbon/carbon composite crucible preform with asymmetrical structure during the winding process, a winding pattern combining geodesic and non-geodesic is presented innovatively. Firstly, the formulae for the winding angle and the winding central rotation angle of the crucible cylindrical segment and the ellipsoidal head segment are established, and the fourth-order Runge-Kutta numerical method is employed for parametrical design. The two-tangent point winding path is determined by analyzing the effect of the cylindrical segment’s winding pitch, different ellipsoidal head segment heights, and slip coefficient on the winding angle. Secondly, the needle disk winding method is proposed to address the slight winding angle at the open end of the cylinder, making it easier to hang the yarn. Finally, the experiment on dry yarn winding of 3k carbon fiber (linear density: 198 g/km) is carried out. The results indicate that the relative error rate between the actual winding angle and the theoretical design angle differs by no more than 1.66%, demonstrating that carbon fibers can be stably and uniformly wound onto the surface of the carbon/carbon composite crucible preform. Compared to the traditional manual winding method, the winding pattern enhances winding efficiency, ensures carbon fibers’ uniformity and structural stability, and provides a new technological approach to producing high-performance composite materials.
Easily scalable and highly flexible machine knitted resistive pressure sensor for smart textile applications
Authors: Hosen Md. Mohaddesh , Ferdous Ahmadul , Ahmed Safi
Published: August 2024

This study presents textile based resistive pressure sensor that incorporates off-the-shelf PES/stainless steel conductive yarn and nonconductive acrylic yarn. The fabrication process involves integrating the resistive pressure sensors directly into the base fabric during one knitting operation through computerized machine knitting technology with little human involvement. This work also explores opportunities for manufacturing of soft, highly flexible, and easily controllable double-layered out-of-plane sensors in an easily scalable way. A custom resistance measuring circuit was built to characterize the sensors and the resulting equivalent resistance under various loads, i.e., (0 g–900 g). Reproducibility was confirmed by developing and testing several sensors with the same structural characteristics. The results obtained from the experiments showed that the conductive yarn types and the design parameters significantly affect the sensing properties of knitted sensors. It has been found that sensor types 2, 5, and 6 show better stability, repeatability, high response and recovery time, dynamic ranges, and sensitivity when subjected to various loadings, compared to other developed sensors in this work. As a proof of concept, this sensor demonstrates various smart textile applications, including interactive sleeves for wearable user interface, soft controllable switch, and human movement detection.
Taylor Swift as a Potential Celebrity Political Endorser
Authors: Jackson David J. , Nownes Anthony J. , Norton Thomas
Published: August 2024

In this research note we examine the effect of Taylor Swift’s hypothetical endorsement of a Public policy position. We examine this in the context of the expanding literature on the effects of celebrity endorsements. Through a post-test only experimental survey design we test Swift’s hypothetical endorsement of a policy position. We begin and conclude with analysis of why Swift’s value as an endorser, as well as the value of other similarly situated endorsers may be particularly high.
The Predictive Role of Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients With Larynx Cancer Undergoing Definitive Radiotherapy
Authors: Koca Timur , Cetmi Durmus Ali , Aksoy Rahmi Atil , Korcum Aylin Fidan
Published: August 2024

Inflammation plays an important role in the process of cancer development. The number of studies evaluating the ability of inflammatory biomarkers to predict survival has increased in recent years. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the predictive role of inflammatory biomarkers in patients with larynx cancer undergoing definitive radiotherapy. A total of 101 patients who underwent definitive radiotherapy for larynx cancer at our center were retrospectively examined. Blood samples were taken from the patients before radiotherapy to obtain biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), pan-immune inflammatory value (PIV), hemo-eosinophil inflammation index (HEI), albumin, and Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The study examined the predictive value of parameters for progression-free survival (PFS), local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), and overall survival (OS) using both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis. In the univariate analysis, the biomarkers that predicted PFS were SII, PIV, CRP, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS). According to the multivariate analysis, only CRP was found to be a significant predictor of PFS. In the univariate analysis, the following biomarkers were found to predict OS: NLR, PLR, MLR, SII, PIV, CRP, HEI, stage, and ECOG PS. In the multivariate analysis, NLR and ECOG PS were found to be predictors of OS. A significant difference was found in MLR, PIV, and CRP values based on the presence of lymphatic metastasis. The current study is the first to comprehensively examine the relationship between larynx cancer and several inflammatory biomarkers. Many of these biomarkers have been shown to predict both PFS and OS in patients with larynx cancer undergoing definitive radiotherapy. It has been shown that PIV and CRP may predict the presence of lymphatic metastases in addition to PFS and OS.
Anxiety Management in Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria within Integrated Primary Care
Authors: Phillips Jennifer E. , O’Brien Kate , Fritz Vicki , Incorvati Ciara
Published: August 2024

We report a case of a patient seen within Integrated Primary Care at a collegiate health center for treatment of comorbid idiopathic urticaria and anxiety. Following medical consultation within Primary Care, Emergency services, and Asthma and Allergy Specialists, Primary Care Behavioral Health services were consulted. Here, we describe the Behavioral Health Consultant (BHC) model within primary care and the collaborative nature of the model. The benefits of this collaboration allowed the patient’s primary care provider (PCP) to use appointment times efficiently and to rely on the BHC to address the complexities of the patient’s underlying stress and anxiety. We detail the ways in which the BHC model contributed to significant decreases in the patient’s symptoms of anxiety and depression. Finally, we recommend expansion of programs providing opportunities for training in the integrated primary care model.
Sonographic Appearance of Hemodialysis Reliable Outflow Graft (HeRO Graft)
Authors: Lim Chancy
Published: August 2024

HeRO Graft (Hemodialysis Reliable Outflow Graft) consists of 3 components; an arterial graft component, a titanium connector and a venous outflow component. It is implanted under the skin of end-stage renal failure patients as a subcutaneous permanent access. It is a vascular graft that traverses central venous stenosis and has no venous anastomosis, thus providing blood flow from an artery direct into the central venous system. Ultrasound imaging of the 3 components of the HeRO graft is performed and described in this article. Equipment used include Phillips ultrasound machines CX-50, iU22, and EPIQ 7 with linear transducers of frequency 3 to 15 MHz and curvilinear transducers of frequency 1 to 5 MHz. HeRO graft is often the last hemodialysis access available for patients on long-term dialysis who would have typically exhausted all other hemodialysis options like the native arterio-venous fistula (AVF) and arterio-venous graft (AVG). As long-term dialysis patients run out of typical AVF/AVG accesses coupled with the increasing longevity of persons in countries where advanced medical technology is available, subcutaneously implanted grafts such as the HeRO graft may become more commonplace. Description of the sonographic appearance of the various components of the HeRO graft may help sonographers who are not familiar with the graft to image the components.
Deep venous outflow as a surrogate for collaterals in late-window patients with successful revascularization from the DEFUSE 3 cohort
Authors: Adusumilli Gautam , Faizy Tobias D. , Christensen Soren , Mlynash Michael , Loh Yince , Albers Gregory W. , Lansberg Maarten G. , Fiehler Jens , Heit Jeremy J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Deep venous outflow (VO) may be an important surrogate marker of collateral blood flow in acute ischemic stroke patients with a large vessel occlusion (AIS-LVO). Researchers have yet to determine the relationship between deep VO status in late-window patients and imaging measures of collaterals, which are key in preserving tissue.

Materials and Methods

We performed a multicenter retrospective cohort study on a subset of DEFUSE 3 patients recruited across 38 centers between May 2016 and May 2017 who underwent successful thrombectomy revascularization. Internal cerebral vein opacification was scored on a scale of 0–2. This metric was added to the cortical vein opacification score to derive the comprehensive VO (CVO) score from 0 to 8. Patients were stratified by favorable (ICV+) and unfavorable (ICV−) ICV scores, and similarly CVO+ and CVO−. Analyses comparing outcomes were primarily conducted by Mann–Whitney U and χ2 tests.

Results

Forty-five patients from DEFUSE 3 were scored and dichotomized into CVO+, CVO−, ICV+, and ICV− categories, with comparable demographics. Hypoperfusion intensity ratio, a marker of tissue level collaterals, was significantly worse in the ICV− and CVO− groups (p = 0.005). ICV− alone was also associated with a larger perfusion lesion (138 ml vs 87 ml; p = 0.023). No significant differences were noted in functional and safety outcomes.

Conclusions

Impaired deep venous drainage alone may be a marker of poor tissue level collaterals and a greater degree of affected tissue in AIS-LVO patients presenting in the late-window who subsequently undergo successful revascularization.
The technical-tactical profile of soccer goalkeepers: The impact of age and competitive level
Authors: Kielkopf Felix , Keiner Michael
Published: August 2024

The aim of the study was to evaluate the technical-tactical requirements profile of goalkeepers and to assess the influence of age and performance level. Therefore, 213 league matches involving elite youth soccer players (under 17 years old [U17], U19), semi-professional (U23, Germany's 4th league), and professional teams (Germany's 1st and 2nd league) were analyzed. Goalkeeper actions related to distribution, space defense, and goal defense were qualitatively recorded using a predefined categorization system by two independent raters, ensuring rigorous examination. The distribution of actions across offensive play, space defense, and goal defense was consistent, indicating robust patterns regardless of age or competitive level. Specifically, offensive play actions constituted about 73–77% of all actions, space defense accounted for 13–15%, and goal defense comprised 10–12%. This uniformity suggests that despite variations in age and competitive levels, the technical requirements profiles of U17, U19, U23, and professional goalkeepers largely coincide. Consequently, goalkeepers should be introduced to building play under pressure as early as possible. Training focused on playing with the feet under pressure should hold a high priority in goalkeeper training.
Unveiling the tribological and corrosion characteristics of Ti20-Al16-V16-Fe16-Ni16-Cr16 high-entropy alloy developed via spark plasma sintering
Authors: Uyor Uwa O. , Popoola Abimbola P. I. , Popoola Olawale M. , Ujah Chika O.
Published: August 2024

This research explores the corrosion resistance and anti-wear property of near-equimolar Ti20-Al16-V16-Fe16-Ni16-Cr16 High Entropy Alloys (HEAs), fabricated at varying temperatures through spark plasma sintering (SPS) procedure. The alloy powders were processed and sintered at temperatures ranging from 700°C to 1100°C, and the resulting HEAs underwent comprehensive characterization. The tribological behavior of these sintered HEAs and their corrosion response in sulfuric and chloride environments were systematically investigated. Microstructural analyses were conducted before and after exposure to corrosive media using a scanning electron microscope. Notably, the assessments in both acid and salt media revealed that HEAs sintered at 1100°C exhibited the highest corrosion resistance, whereas those sintered at 700°C displayed the least resistance. The wear rate is improved by 130% over Inconel 718 alloy in the created HEA. This research signifies the potential of Ti20-Al16-V16-Fe16-Ni16-Cr16 HEA prepared through tailored SPS procedures, as corrosion and wear resistance alternatives surpass the performance of Ti6AlV4 and traditional alloys.
Effect of pv factor on carbo-graphite and copper impregnated carbo-graphite material under dry conditions
Authors: Mahto Nitish Kumar , Tyagi Rajnesh , Mishra Shashank
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the tribological behaviour of copper-impregnated carbo-graphite (ICG) compared to plain carbo-graphite (CG) under various parameter-product (PV) values and temperatures. Impregnation significantly enhanced ICG's hardness (70%) and reduced porosity (98.6%) compared to CG. The CoF for CG was lower than that for ICG attributed to the formation of a lubricating graphite-rich tribo-film that facilitated easy shearing at the contact interface. The wear mechanisms for CG at elevated temperatures were identified as adhesion, oxidation and delamination, likely exacerbated by the material's softening. In contrast, ICG exhibited superior wear resistance, attributed to its higher hardness and the formation of a protective tribo-layer containing copper and graphite. This tribo-layer offered a low-shear interface at lower PV values, reducing friction. However, at higher PV values, ICG wear increased due to abrasion and adhesion. Overall, copper impregnation offers a promising strategy to improve the wear resistance of carbo-graphite, particularly at elevated temperatures.
Initial management of pediatric Gustilo–Anderson type I upper limb open fractures: Are antibiotics enough?
Authors: Olatigbe Olufemi , Hussain Sabba , Bridgens Anna , Umarji Shamim , Hing Caroline , Monsell Fergal , Gelfer Yael
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

The British Orthopaedic Association Standards for Trauma-4 includes pediatric Gustilo–Anderson type I upper limb open fractures and recommends surgical debridement as the preferred method of treatment. The reported incidence of fracture-related infection is low in patients with this injury pattern and the evidence supporting debridement is therefore weak. The aim of this systematic review is to compare infection rates between non-operative management and operative debridement in children with Gustilo I upper limb fractures who did not require surgical fixation.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Eligibility criteria included patients <18 years with Gustilo–Anderson type I upper limb fractures managed with either antibiotics alone or with operative debridement. Patients in whom the fracture was stabilized were excluded, and the Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies—of Interventions tool was used to evaluate bias.

Results:

Eleven, predominantly retrospective studies were identified, involving 537 patients with fractures including 466 forearm, 70 wrist, and one humerus. A non-operative management strategy was used in 293 patients with one superficial infection (0.3%). Operative debridement was used in 244 patients with one superficial infection (0.4%).

Conclusion:

The optimal management of Gustilo–Anderson type I pediatric upper limb fractures is unclear. Based on the current evidence base, surgical debridement does not appear to reduce the rate of infection. The decision to manage these injuries aggressively should therefore be individualized to consider patient age, mechanism, and clinical extent of injury.

Level of evidence:

level II.
The Extracellular Metallometabolome: Metallophores, Metal Ionophores, and Other Chelating Agents as Natural Products
Authors: Maret Wolfgang
Published: August 2024

Natural products include inorganic as well as organic compounds. Living organisms face constant challenges in acquiring essential metal ions and getting rid of non-essential ones with toxic actions. They employ an extracellular biochemistry in these tasks and use it to engage in a chemical warfare against invaders and competitors by either increasing or decreasing the availability of metal ions for maintaining their welfare in aquatic or terrestrial ecological niches. To control mutualistic, cambialistic or parasitic symbiosis with other organisms they use a remarkably rich suite of secreted bioactive molecules with ligand donor atoms for metal binding. This overview discusses the interactions of these extracellular natural products with a multitude of metal ions in the periodic system of the elements. It focuses mainly on metallophores and metal ionophores secreted from bacteria, fungi, and plants, but metal-carrying cofactors and other chelating agents will also be mentioned in the context of related functions and with an intent to categorize. The intracellular fate of the metal ions and the controlled pathways for the biosynthesis, secretion, uptake, biodegradation or recycling of the secreted natural products that interact with metal ions will not be covered. Metallophores make extracellular metal ions available via delivery to specific transporters and unavailable to competing organisms, especially pathogens, though some invaders have developed ways to compete efficiently for metal ions. The classic concept of siderophores, carriers of iron(III) ions, is extended here to specific and broad-band metallophores for metal ions such as copper (chalkophores), zinc (zincophores), and yet others. Metal ionophores, in contrast, transport metal ions through biological membranes. There is a wide variety of chemical structures for either metallophores or metal ionophores. Together with physicochemical investigations of metal complexation und conditions mimicking the natural environment, “omics” mining and mapping the diversity of chemotypes is an on-going effort with analytic, genetic, and bioinformatic tools and comes together in defining the metallometabolome, which combines the metabolome and the metallome. Investigations are highly multidisciplinary, include an important, but academically infrequently crossed bridge between the biosciences (biochemistry) and the earth sciences (geochemistry), define significant applications in the pharmaceutical/medical sciences regarding immune modulation and the control of virulence at the host-pathogen interface, and have implications for the nutritional/toxicological and environmental/ecological sciences.
Cultural Humility in Veteran Research and Practice
Authors: Kroenlein Sarah W. , Wilson David L.
Published: August 2024

Veterans Studies is an increasing area of study. Central to the field of veteran studies is the transition from military to civilian life. Research in this domain focuses on the challenges veterans face in navigating civilian norms, securing employment, and redefining their identities. Research findings contribute to the development of more effective policies and programs for veterans. Engaging with or conducting research with veteran populations, however, necessitates special ethical considerations. We advocate for a cultural humility approach, which emphasizes openness, self-reflection, and an understanding of historical and cultural contexts. We encourage researchers, educators, and practitioners to recognize the unique aspects of military culture, acknowledge past injustices, and address power imbalances that could affect research outcomes and service provider relationships. By integrating cultural humility, professionals can enhance veteran support while fostering respectful and effective approaches in both research and practice. This article outlines the principles of cultural humility, provides historical context of U.S. veteran integration efforts, and discusses ethical considerations for research involving veterans. The discussion also includes practical resources for researchers, educators, and HRD professionals when working with, and alongside, veteran populations.
Updated Framework for School Nurse Self-Reflection and Evaluation
Authors: Wallin Robin Landes , Rothman Susan
Published: August 2024

This article shares an updated structure for school nurse evaluation using the School Nursing Practice Framework and the fourth edition of the School Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice. This evaluation structure is modeled on work originally published in the January 2020 issue of NASN School Nurse. The original linking of the Framework for 21st Century School Nursing Practice and the 3rd edition of the School Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice allowed the school nurse and their evaluators to understand the complex roles and responsibilities of the school nurse. This updated version incorporates the growing understanding of social issues and complex health concerns impacting school nursing practice. The School Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice (4th ed.) competencies recognize issues including emerging technologies, structural barriers to health, and the complex health needs of students in an environment of inequities, violence, and underfunding, as well as the impact of natural disasters, public health crises, human migration, and social media on students. The updated School Nursing Practice Framework (Framework) likewise incorporates an understanding of the foundational aspect of the standards and the interconnectedness of the key principles. Our revised evaluation tool accomplishes the integration of the revised Framework with the updated standards of school nursing practice.
Navigating the crossroads of aging, caregiving and technology: Insights from southern Spain about video-based technology in the care context
Authors: Mujirishvili Tamara , Cabrero-García Julio , Flórez-Revuelta Francisco , Richart-Martínez Miguel
Published: August 2024

Objective

As the world faces an aging population, the complexities of care management become increasingly pronounced. While technological solutions hold promise in addressing the dynamic demands of care, many nuances are to be considered in the design and implementation of active and assisted living technologies (AAL) for older adult care. This qualitative study, set in southern Spain, is positioned at the crossroads of healthcare challenges, as seen by the different actors involved in the care process and the technological solutions developed in response to these challenges. By investigating the complex landscape of caregiving and by examining the experiences and challenges faced by caregivers, healthcare professionals, and older adults, we aim to guide the development of vision-based AAL technologies that are responsive to the genuine needs of older adults and those requiring care.

Methods

A qualitative research methodology was used in the study. In total15 in-depth interviews and five focus groups were conducted with a diverse group of stakeholders involved in the process of care provision and reception.

Results

While the results demonstrate that there is a readiness for technological solutions, concerns over privacy and trust highlight the need for a carefully integrated, human-centric approach to technology in caregiving.

Conclusion

This research serves as a compass, guiding future discussions on the intersection of aging, technology, and care, with the ultimate goal of transforming caregiving into a collaborative and enriching journey for all stakeholders involved.
Mobile health technologies in the prevention and management of hypertension: A scoping review
Authors: Babatunde Abdulhammed Opeyemi , Ogundijo Deborah Abisola , Afolayan Abdul-Gafar Olayemi , Awosiku Olutola Vivian , Aderohunmu Zainab Opeyemi , Oguntade Mayowa Sefiu , Alao Uthman Hassan , Oseni Abdulrahman Ololade , Akintola Abdulqudus Abimbola , Amusat Olanrewaju Adams
Published: August 2024

Introduction

An estimated one billion people globally are currently suffering from hypertension. Prevention and management of hypertension are suboptimal especially in low- and middle-income countries leading to increased complications and deaths. With increased mobile phone coverage globally, this study aims to review mobile health technologies used for the prevention and management of hypertension.

Methods

We conducted a literature search on electronic databases using identified keywords involving “hypertension”, “mobile health technology” and their synonyms. Snowballing technique was also used. Papers were screened at two levels by independent reviewers. The targets were studies published in peer-reviewed journals reporting mobile health interventions for hypertension prevention and management. Only primary research studies published in English from January 2017 to April 2024 were included. Google Forms were used to extract the data along with other characteristics, and selected articles were categorised into: mobile application, web-based solutions, and Short Message Service (SMS) and other offline solutions.

Result

The search yielded 184 articles, and 44 studies were included in the review. Most (n = 26) were randomised control trials. Twenty-two studies (22) focused only on mobile applications solutions, 12 on SMS and other offline mHealth, 5 web-based solutions, and 5 combined more than one type of mobile health technology. The United States of America had the majority of studies (n = 17), with 6 studies from other American countries, 11 from Asia and nine from Europe, while only one from Africa. A total of 36 studies reported that mobile health technology significantly improved hypertension care through reduced blood pressure, improved adherence to follow-up visits and medications, and lifestyle changes. SMS and offline mHealth strategies have also demonstrated effectiveness in promoting self-management and reducing racial disparities in hypertension care.

Conclusion

Mobile health technology has the potential to play a significant role in the prevention and management of hypertension. However, there is a need for mobile health solutions for hypertension prevention and management in African countries and other developing countries. Integrating mHealth into primary healthcare delivery would also go a long way in strengthening patient care and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.
Monitoring muscle activity in pediatric SCI: Insights from sensorized rocking chairs and machine-learning
Authors: George Johnathan J , Behrman Andrea L , Roussel Thomas J
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Activity-based therapy is effective at improving trunk control in children with spinal cord injury. A prototype sensorized rocking chair was developed and confirmed as an activity that activates trunk muscles. This study uses data collected from the chair to predict muscle use during rocking. Methods: The prototype rocking chair included sensors to detect forces, accelerations, as well child and chair movement. Children with spinal cord injury and typically developing children (2–12 years), recruited under an approved IRB protocol, were observed rocking while sensor and electromyography data were collected from arm, leg, and trunk muscles. Features from sensor data were used to predict muscle activation using multiple linear regression, regression learning, and neural network modeling. Correlation analysis examined individual sensor contributions to predictions. Results: Neural network models outperformed regression models. Multiple linear regression predictions significantly correlated ( p < 0.05) with targets for four of eleven children with SCI, while decision tree regression predictions correlated for five children. Neural network predictions correlated for all children. Conclusions: Embedded sensors capture useful information about muscle activation, and machine learning techniques can be used to inform therapists. Further work is warranted to refine prediction models and to investigate how well results can be generalized.
Green is the New Black in the Hotel Industry: Optimizing Revenue Through Promoting Sustainability
Authors: Kruesi Michael A. , Remy Detlev
Published: August 2024

This case study examines the challenges and opportunities faced by hoteliers in leveraging their sustainability to optimize their revenue. Although it has been shown that sustainability has several positive effects and is demanded by customers, it is not clear how it affects a hotel’s profit margins. This raises the question of how sustainability can positively impact revenue if hoteliers must, by definition, make significant investments to operate more sustainably. The solution may lie in effectively measuring and benchmarking their sustainability against their competition, and then using that information in the hotel’s marketing efforts. If done correctly, these strategies will allow hoteliers use the sustainability of their operations as a point of differentiation that could be used to achieve competitive advantage. In other words, raising the reputation of the hotel in the customers’ minds, could directly lead to increased revenue.
An Update in Complication Rates Associated With Anterior Lumbar Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Issa Tariq Z. , Ezeonu Teeto , Sellig Mason , Donnally Chester J. , Narayanan Rajkishen , Karamian Brian A. , Patel Parthik D. , Divi Srikanth N. , Robinson William A. , Shenoy Kartik , Kepler Christopher K. , Vaccaro Alexander R. , Canseco Jose A.
Published: August 2024

Study Design

Systematic Review and meta-analysis.

Objective

To conduct an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of complications associated with different anterior fusion techniques/approaches and adjuvant resources (i.e., computed tomography angiography (CTA), rhBMP-2, and access surgeons).

Methods

A systematic review was conducted from 1/1/2014-4/1/2024 for studies evaluating the incidence of complications associated with anterior lumbar procedures. Comparisons of complications were made between surgical approach, use of CTA, rhBMP-2, and access surgeons. Meta-analyses were conducted using a generalized linear mixed model.

Results

54 studies were included in the final analysis with 8066 patients and an average follow-up of 31.2 months. The overall complication rate associated with anterior lumbar surgery was 13.1%, including an intraoperative complication rate of 3.8%, postoperative complication rate of 7.4%, infection rate of 1.5%, and reoperation rate of 1.7%. Forest plot analysis showed no significant difference in overall complication rates between open and mini-open techniques, although mini-open techniques were associated with lower overall reoperation rates. The use of CTA was associated with an increase in intraoperative and overall complications, and the use of an access surgeon was associated with a decreased risk of reoperation. The use of rhBMP-2 was not associated with overall complication risk.

Conclusions

While anterior lumbar surgery provides numerous benefits, surgeons and patients alike should be aware of the complication and safety profile prior to surgery. High quality studies are warranted to help elucidate the true benefit of certain techniques and adjuvant resources in reducing complications.