bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Different Regions and Dietary Structures on Blood Glucose and Lipid Levels
Authors: Caiping Zhang , Xiaofei Zhang
Published: August 2024

Objective: To explore the effects of different regions and dietary structures on the blood glucose and lipid levels of residents. Method: 1220 examinees from Fenyang City, Shanxi Province were selected as the research subjects and included in the study group. In addition, 1225 examinees from Xinjiang Communist Youth League Farm were selected as the control group 1, and 1200 examinees from Wujiaqu City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (limited to regular physical labor and light diet) were selected as the control group 2. Collect general information such as the regional situation and dietary structure of personnel in each group, and use a fully automated biochemical analyzer to detect blood glucose (GLU) and lipid indicators (including total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG)). Compare the levels of the above indicators and the differences in the abnormal detection rates of each indicator in each group. The results: The levels of GLU, TC, and TG in the study group were significantly higher than those in control group 1 and control group 2 [GLU (mmol/L): 5.30±1.45 compared to 5.03±1.50, 4.18±0.39; TC (mmol/L): 1.67± 1.20 compared to 1.58±1.01, 0.69±0.36; TG (mmol/L): 5.02±1.71 compared to 4.72±1.17, 3.19±0.89], and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.01). The abnormal detection rates of GLU, TC, and TG in the study group were significantly higher than those in the control group 1 and control group 2 (GLU: 18.43% compared to 13.64% and 2.00%, TC: 35.43% compared to 28.42% and 0.00%, TG: 14.05% compared to 5.63% and 0.00%), and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.01). Conclusion: Regional differences and dietary structures are important factors affecting the blood sugar and lipid levels of residents. Balanced diet is beneficial for the stability of blood indicators and physical health of residents.
A Hail Climatology for Canada Using a Lightning Proxy
Authors: Brunet Dominique , Brimelow Julian
Published: August 2024

Hail is a significant weather hazard in Canada, but its spatial and temporal distribution is poorly understood. We compiled a Canadian hail report database for 2005–22, containing 7000 unique entries with estimates of the timing and location of the hail reports and estimated hail diameter. We developed a methodology to construct an estimate of the hail climatology across Canada using manual hail observations at airports and a lightning proxy. First, we estimated the probability of hail occurrence at airport locations across the country at any given hour using Bayesian inference. Next, we interpolated in space the probabilities to obtain smooth prior probabilities of hail occurrence at any location in Canada. Then, we refined these probabilities using lightning flash density as a proxy for the likelihood of hail, severe hail (diameter greater than 20 mm), or significant severe hail (diameter greater than 50 mm). Finally, we aggregated the posterior probabilities of hail, severe hail, and significant severe hail over time and space and compared them with the number of reports found in the 2005–22 Canadian hail database. Our results indicate that the posterior probabilities of hail are not consistent with the observed hail reports and suggest that there are many gaps in hail reporting in Canada.
Observed Variability in Convective Cell Characteristics and Near-Storm Environments across the Sea- and Bay-Breeze Fronts in Southeast Texas
Authors: Sharma Milind , Rapp Anita D. , Nowotarski Christopher J. , Brooks Sarah D.
Published: August 2024

During the DOE Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Tracking Aerosol Convection Interactions Experiment (TRACER) IOP spanning June–September 2022, two fixed ARM sites and a mobile team concurrently sampled the airmass heterogeneity across sea- and bay-breeze fronts around the greater Houston metropolitan region. Here, we quantify the spatiotemporal variability between maritime (coastal/bay side of breeze fronts) and continental (inland side of breeze fronts) air masses over 15 IOP days characterized by strong sea-breeze forcing. We analyze environmental profile data from 177 radiosondes and use S- and C-band radar data to track and quantify the variability in attributes of more than 2300 shallow and transitioning cells across different air masses. The composite analysis of environmental profiles indicates that during the early afternoon, the sea-breeze maritime air mass exhibits lower convective available potential energy (CAPE) than the bay-breeze maritime air mass. As the sea breeze advances inland with time, CAPE within the maritime air mass exceeds that of the continental air mass to the north of the breeze fronts. In general, maritime cells have a larger mean composite reflectivity and cell widths than continental cells; however, the response varies between shallow and transitioning cells. Mean composite 20-dBZ echo-top heights, however, are similar across air masses for both shallow and transitioning cells. The continental and maritime inflow air mass for transitioning cells has significantly different mean values for mixed-layer entrainment CAPE, lifted condensation level, level of free condensation, boundary layer depth, and diluted equilibrium level. For shallow cells, only total precipitable water shows a significant difference.

Significance Statement

The greater Houston metropolitan area is a natural laboratory for understanding the individual impacts of background meteorology and aerosols on convective clouds. Due to its proximity to the Gulf Coast and Galveston Bay, the Houston region experiences a diurnal precipitation cycle in the summer, driven by convection triggered from sea- and bay-breeze fronts. These fronts act as a boundary between air masses with distinct thermodynamic and environmental characteristics. Convergence along these fronts and interactions between storm outflow and the fronts facilitate convection initiation in different mesoscale air masses. This study quantifies the heterogeneity among these air masses while investigating their influence on cloud microphysics. We find that the effect of airmass heterogeneity is more pronounced for the bulk microphysical properties in shallow clouds.
Making moral and economic inferior others: Everyday racialization of Asian migrants in South Korea
Authors: Choi Jihyun
Published: August 2024

Recent studies have explored racialization among groups with subtle or no phenotypical differences; however, a crucial connection to racial capitalism remains unexplored. This article investigates the everyday racialization of migrants in Wongok-dong, a multicultural neighbourhood in South Korea, using narratives gathered from research participants through interviews, participant observations, and group discussions. Specifically, the study examines how Asian migrants, including ethnic Korean return migrants, are racialized attached to negative meanings such as fly-tipping, backward, and poor in host Korean residents’ narratives. Furthermore, the study scrutinizes the influence of the hierarchical worldview of ‘seonjinguk’ (developed/advanced country) and ‘hujinguk’ (underdeveloped/backward country) on the host Korean residents’ perceptions, reinforcing the Korean residents’ feeling of superiority over Asian migrants. In analyzing the Koreans’ narratives within the broader political-economic context of Asian labour migration, the author argues that Asian migrants are viewed as morally and economically inferior by the host Koreans in everyday discourse. By linking Asian labour migration as a facet of racial capitalism and developmental worldview and ordinary people’s perceptions of Asian migrants in Korea, this research deepens our understanding of racialization ‘beyond colour and the West’ and its ties to the broader discursive and political economic system.
Solitude Without Loneliness: Understanding Loneliness in Terms of Psychological Separation
Authors: Taylor Steve
Published: August 2024

The reason why fear of loneliness is not ubiquitous is because loneliness is essentially an experience of “ego-separation.” Ego-separation exists on a continuum. While it may be extreme in some people, some people may experience little or no ego-separation, and so be less prone to loneliness. On the contrary, such people embrace and relish solitude and inactivity, with no distressing effects. I refer to Maslow’s concept of self-actualization and my own research on the state of “wakefulness.” I conclude that positive psychological development should involve a healthy relationship to solitude and inactivity.
Religiosity’s Links to Adolescent Wellbeing and the Role of Supportive Networks and Sex
Authors: Zhang Saijun , Lefmann Tess , Lim Younghee , Robbins Christopher Shane , Zhang Lei
Published: August 2024

Research has extensively examined religiosity’s links to youth wellbeing, but it is unclear how the relationship may vary by supportive networks and sex. Analyzing data from the 2015 to 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, the results showed that religious salience was negatively associated with the risk of having a past-year major depressive episode (MDE, OR = 0.65), a substance use disorder ( OR = 0.77), and delinquency ( OR = 0.94). Supportive networks also indicated similar associations. Furthermore, supportive networks and sex appeared to moderate religious salience’s links to having an MDE and delinquency in some aspects. The study concludes that religious salience appears to be a protective factor for adolescents’ mental and behavioral wellbeing, though some of its impact may vary by sex and supportive networks. The findings advance the understanding of religiosity’s role in adolescents’ wellbeing and suggest considering tailored plans for optimized outcomes.
Generative AI: Is Authentic Qualitative Research Data Collection Possible?
Authors: Burleigh Cheryl , Wilson Andrea M.
Published: August 2024

With the advent of readily accessible generative artificial intelligence (GAI), a concern exists within the academic community that research data collected in the context of conducting doctoral dissertation research is authentic. The purpose of the present study was to explore the role of GAI in the production of new research paying particular attention to the use of GAI in collecting new data for a doctoral dissertation. This study employed qualitative methodology examining how GAI, specifically ChatGPT, responded to interview questions from a previously published article by the researchers to determine how closely chatbots mimic responses from the actual study participants. The researchers found that data integrity in qualitative research may be at risk if higher education institutions do not set clear policies and specific parameters for how doctoral research data is obtained and validated in light of GAI.
Prioritized Functions of Family Systems Over Time: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Jensen Todd M. , Duh-Leong Carol , Tamkin Vivian L. , Verbiest Sarah B.
Published: August 2024

There remain gaps in the literature with respect to how individuals perceive, identify, and make sense of the functions of their families over time as social systems. Leveraging a qualitative approach rooted in a contextual constructionist epistemology and life course theory, the prioritized functions of family systems were explored via semi-structured, in-depth interviews among 17 adults in various regions of the United States (50% non-Hispanic White; 40% non-Hispanic Black/African American/African descent) who indicated providing care for at least one child from infancy to legal adulthood. Qualitative analyses foregrounded five prioritized functions, namely, secure and maintain connection, procure resources, bolster development, foster safety and well-being, and support self-actualization. Analyses also highlighted several important contextual factors that influence (a) what functions families prioritize in a given period of time and (b) help or hinder families’ ability to fulfill those functions. Study limitations, practical implications, and directions for future research are discussed.
Folic acid supplement prescribing practice during the protective period and its associated factors among health professionals in selected governmental health centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2023: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Mengist Yaschalew , Lijaemiro Hana , Deressa Jembere Tesfaye
Published: August 2024

Background: Supplementing folic acid (FA) before and in the first month of conception is an essential preventive factor, especially for neural tube defects (NTDs) and other congenital anomalies. Aim: The research aimed to assess FA supplement prescribing practice during the protective period and its associated factors among health professionals in selected governmental health centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2023. Methods: An institutionalized cross-sectional survey was carried out in Addis Ababa public health centers with a total sample size of 396 in February 2023. Systematic random sampling methods were used, and after each respondent's signed consent, a row of data was gathered using pretested self-administered questionnaires. The data was coded, interred to Epi Data 4.6.0.6 and transferred to Statistical Package for Social Sciences 27 software. Then a binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis method was used to show the associated variables with FA prescribing practice using a confidence interval (CI) of 95% and a significance value < 0.05. Results: The total prevalence of FA prescribing practice during the periconceptional period was 64.4% [95% CI (59.68–69.12)]. But those prescribed during the protective period were 26.7%. Ever since the birth of a neonate with NTDs, not prescribing a dose of 4 mg of FA for women with NTD, the type of women for whom FA was prescribed were associated with FA prescribing practice during the protective period. Conclusion: The healthcare professional's prescribing practice during the protective period was still low and needs more attention to strengthen FA supplements.
Electropulsing-induced recrystallization of cold-rolled SUS304 and effects of duration on mechanical properties
Authors: Wang Zeyue , He Guoqiu , Liu Xiaoshan , Zhou Zhiqiang , Liao Yiping , Liu Yinfu , Zhou Yuejian , Li Ruoyun , Wu Yangfan , Meng Qing
Published: August 2024

A cold rolled SUS304 stainless steel was treated by electropulsing treatment (EPT) with different time and duration, and then, microstructural evolution and texture development was studied by electron backscattering diffraction (EBSD) technique. EPT enhances the recrystallization process of cold rolled SUS304 stainless steel and the completed recrystallization state of sample can be obtained at low temperature below 530 K for a short time of 100 s. The best strength-ductility combination can be obtained when 210 μs of pulse duration applying. Pulse duration has been found to have a significant impact on the microstructure and tensile properties of SUS304. EPT is not a simple heat treatment process and electrical effects should be responsible for the recrystallization of the EPT samples.
Achieving bimodal microstructure and enhanced tensile properties of Mg-6Sn-3Al-1Zn alloy by tailoring deformation amount during pack rolling
Authors: Li Zhilan , Wei Fuan , Wang Jinhui , Zhu Huihui , Shi Bo , Ding Yong
Published: August 2024

The Mg-6Sn-3Al-1Zn alloys were pack-rolled with various amounts of deformation at 400°C. The results indicated that a bimodal microstructure formed after pack-rolling. With the increase in the amounts of deformation, the average grain size of the small grains increased first and then decreased, while the average grain size of the big grains decreased. Both the volume fraction of twins and the average grain size of the alloy decreased with the increasing amounts of deformation, resulting in the improvement of the tensile properties of the alloy. When the amount of deformation was 65%, the mechanical properties of the alloys were optimal; the tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation-to-failure were 288 MPa, 188 MPa, and 15.7%, respectively.
How do Social Achievement Goals Affect Early Adolescents’ Academic Engagement? The Role of Feeling Stressed and Lonely
Authors: Shim Sungok Serena , Cho Yoonjung , Helsper C. Addison , Kiefer Sarah M. , Wang Cen
Published: August 2024

Research has established the significance of social achievement goals in shaping adolescents’ academic engagement. However, the precise mechanisms underpinning this connection remain incomplete. In two studies involving U.S. middle school students (Study 1  N = 212, Study 2  N = 318), we explored the relationship between social achievement goals, academic adjustment, and the mediating role of social distress and loneliness. High social development goals related to reduced social stress and loneliness, leading to enhanced classroom engagement. In contrast, social demonstration-avoidance goals were linked to elevated loneliness and stress, resulting in diminished classroom engagement. While the mediation effect was unclear for social demonstration-approach goals, they exhibited direct associations with unfavorable classroom engagement indicators. These findings illuminate the intricate dynamics between social achievement goals and academic engagement among early adolescents, emphasizing the role of social distress and loneliness in shaping their classroom experience.
Virtual non-contrast images in photon-counting computed tomography: impact of different contrast phases
Authors: Gadsbøll Eva Laurin , Aurumskjöld Marie-Louise , Holmquist Fredrik , Baubeta Erik
Published: August 2024

Background

Photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) enables new ways of image reconstruction, e.g. material decomposition and creation of virtual non-contrast (VNC) series with higher resolution and lower radiation dose than standard computed tomography (CT). Clinical experiences of this are limited.

Purpose

To compare true non-contrast (TNC) series with VNC series derived from non-enhanced (VNCu), arterial phase (VNCa) and portal venous phase (VNCv) in clinically approved PCCT.

Material and Methods

A total of 45 clinical, tri-phasic abdominal CT scans from the PCCT Naetom Alpha, between February 2022 and November 2022, were retrospectively assessed. Placing a region of interest in six different locations in each VNC series – right liver parenchyma, left liver parenchyma, spleen, aorta, erector spinae muscle, and in the subcutaneous fat – absolute Hounsfield values (HU) and standard deviations (SD) were collected. Differences in HU (ΔHU) were compared and statistically analyzed.

Results

Statistically significant differences between VNC and TNC were seen in all measurements, with the largest difference in the subcutaneous fat and the smallest difference in the erector spinae muscle. Only small differences were seen between VNCa and VNCv, where the largest differences were seen in the left and right liver lobes.

Conclusion

VNC images from the first-generation clinically approved PCCT showed a significant difference between VNC and TNC images. The differences vary with the type of tissue. Only small differences were seen depending from which contrast phase the VNC was derived.
Study on the effect of Al-La composite deoxidation on the modification behaviors of TiN and sulfide inclusions in 20CrMnTi gear steel
Authors: Zheng Jie , Liu Lixia , Liu Shuang , Tang Hao , Yang Fan , Peng Jun , Zhang Fang , An Shengli
Published: August 2024

This article uses experimental and thermodynamic calculations to study the directional modification behavior of TiN and sulfides in 20CrMnTi steel before and after the addition of rare earth La element. The morphologies (SEM) and elemental distributions (EDS) of TiN and sulfide inclusions in steel are characterized using scanning electron microscopy, and the sizes of the inclusions are statistically analyzed. With the addition of rare earth La, the average sizes of TiN and sulfide inclusions in steel decrease, and the proportions of TiN and sulfide inclusions in all inclusions of the steel decrease. The results show that the addition of La element can promote the formation of LaAlO3 in steel, which can be used as the nucleation core of TiN and MnS inclusions in steel, and then form LaAlO3-TiN and LaAlO3-MnS-TiN composite inclusions, which are smaller in size and more uniform in distribution than TiN and sulfide in steel before La element is added. When La is added alone, the average size of TiN inclusion in steel is 2.2 μm. After the deoxidation of Al-La alloy, the average size of TiN inclusion in the steel is 1.9 μm. After Al-La composite deoxidation, the TiN containing inclusions in the steel will be transformed into smaller LaAlO3-TiN composite inclusions. When adding La alone, the average size of sulfide inclusions in the steel is 2.1 μm. When Al-La composite deoxygenation is used, the average size of sulfide inclusions in steel is 1.1 μm, indicating that the Al-La composite deoxygenation has a better improvement effect on sulfide inclusions in steel than the improvement effect of adding La alone.
Test Review: Tests of Dyslexia–Comprehensive (TOD-C)
Authors: Peña Laura M. , Villarreal Victor
Published: August 2024

This article reviews the administrative and psychometric properties of the Tests of Dyslexia–Comprehensive (TOD-C). The TOD-C is part of the multi-battery Tests of Dyslexia (TOD), which also includes a screener and separate test for young children. The TOD-C measures reading, spelling, and linguistic characteristics of dyslexia. The TOD-C also includes tests of vocabulary and reasoning.
Psychometric Properties and Factorial Structure of General Mattering Scale, Anti-Mattering Scale, and Fear of Not Mattering Inventory Within the Palestinian Context
Authors: Mahamid Fayez , Flett Gordon L. , Zangeneh Masood , Bdier Dana
Published: August 2024

The current study examined the psychometric properties and correlates of three measures assessing individual differences in mattering among people from Palestine assessed in January, 2024. This study uniquely considers mattering as a resource and feelings of not mattering as a risk factor among people experiencing traumatizing life circumstances. Our sample consisted of 950 Palestinian adults (305 men and 645 women). They completed the General Mattering Scale, the Anti-Mattering Scale, the Fear of Not Mattering Inventory, and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21). Extensive psychometric tests supported these measures as each having one factor with adequate reliability and validity. Examination of means indicated significantly elevated levels of fear of not mattering, anxiety, depression, and stress. Regression analyses further established that each measure predicted significant unique variance in anxiety, depression, and stress. The findings attest to the further use of these measures and how feelings of mattering can be vital resource as the need for resilience and adaptability escalates due to traumatizing events.
A Systematic Review of Mathematics Vocabulary Interventions for Students With or At-Risk for Mathematics Difficulty
Authors: Stevens Elizabeth A. , Tanner Emily , Mowbray Megan H.
Published: August 2024

This systematic review synthesizes the effects of mathematics vocabulary interventions on the mathematics outcomes of students with mathematics difficulty (MD) in Grades K through 12. We evaluated methodological rigor using three indicators: research design, implementation fidelity, and instruction in the counterfactual. Six peer-reviewed studies and three unpublished dissertations between 1990 and 2022 met inclusion criteria. Results showed mathematics vocabulary interventions improved students’ vocabulary knowledge, particularly when instruction was explicit with multiple opportunities to practice. Findings were less conclusive on whether improved mathematics vocabulary knowledge led to improved performance on related mathematics content. Results suggest mathematics vocabulary intervention is beneficial for higher-level mathematics reasoning, such as word-problem solving. The seven group design studies received an M rating of at least acceptable for methodological rigor, and one of two single-case studies met What Works Clearinghouse design standards without reservations. We highlight promising instructional practices implemented across studies that resulted in improved vocabulary outcomes.
Thyroid-disrupting effects of bisphenol S in male Wistar albino rats: Histopathological lesions, follicle cell proliferation and apoptosis, and biochemical changes
Authors: Bostancı Müşerref , Kaptaner Burak , Doğan Abdulahad
Published: August 2024

In this presented study, the aim was to investigate the toxic effects of bisphenol S (BPS), one of the bisphenol A analogues, on the thyroid glands of male Wistar albino rats. Toward this aim, the rats ( n = 28) were given a vehicle (control) or BPS at 3 different doses, comprising 20, 100, and 500 mg/kg of body weight (bw) via oral gavage for 28 days. According to the results, BPS led to numerous histopathological changes in the thyroid tissue. The average proliferation index values among the thyroid follicular cells (TFCs) displayed increases in all of the BPS groups, and significant differences were observed in the BPS-20 and BPS-100 groups. The average apoptotic index values in the TFCs were increased significantly in the BPS-500 group. The serum thyroid-stimulating hormone and serum free thyroxine levels did not show significant changes after exposure to BPS; however, the serum free triiodothyronine levels displayed significant decreases in all 3 of the BPS groups. BPS was determined to cause significant increases in the antioxidant enzyme activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, as well as a significantly decreased content of reduced glutathione. The malondialdehyde level in the thyroid tissue was elevated significantly in the BPS-500 group. The data obtained herein revealed that BPS has thyroid-disrupting potential based on structural changes, follicle cell responses, and biochemical alterations including a decreased serum free triiodothyronine level and increased oxidative stress.
Confronting the challenges faced by senior high school mid-level academic managers
Authors: Hipona Jyka Reego S.
Published: August 2024

Middle leadership has become increasingly important in the growth and development of educational institutions. However, as the demand of mid-level managers increase, so do their development needs, specifically their professional and leadership development. This study, focused on basic education, identifies the challenges faced by senior high school mid-level academic managers (MLAMs) and their coping strategies. This study used a phenomenological qualitative design, where 11 senior high school academic coordinators were interviewed. The results from the interview showed three challenges that MLAMs have encountered, namely: transition to MLAM position, management, and personal challenges. MLAMs cope with these challenges by relying on their support system, gaining assistance from their institution, establishing self-discipline, and embracing their call as mid-level managers. Despite these challenges, they gain personal and professional growth, institutional recognition, and fulfillment from their pivotal leadership roles. These results can serve as a reference for a professional development plan for MLAMs in the basic education.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates resistant to extended spectrum cephalosporins and macrolides isolated from symptomatic men in western Kenya
Authors: Agingu Walter , Otieno Fredrick , Dibondo Ezekiel , Wambua Patriciah , Le Van Adriana , Jerse Ann , Garges Eric , Mehta Supriya D
Published: August 2024

Background

We characterized the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles of Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) isolated from symptomatic men at a sexually transmitted infection clinic in Kisumu, Kenya.

Methods

Two urethral swabs were obtained from symptomatic men between 2020 and 2022, one for Gram’s stain and the other inoculated directly onto modified Thayer-Martin media containing 1% VCNT and 1% IsoVitaleX enrichment. Culture results were confirmed by colony morphology, Gram’s stain and oxidase test. Duplicate isolates were shipped to Uniformed Services University for confirmation and characterization. Susceptibility to eight drugs was assessed by E-test. Agar dilution confirmed resistance to ceftriaxone, cefixime, and azithromycin. Susceptibility, intermediate resistance (IR), and resistance (R) were determined according to published criteria.

Results

Of 154 enrolled participants, 112 were culture-positive for NG. Agar dilution results in 110 (98.2%) showed the following: azithromycin-R (1.8%), and 4.5% R or IR to ceftriaxone or cefixime: ceftriaxone-R (0.9%), ceftriaxone-IR (2.7%), and cefixime-IR (2.7%). By E-test, most isolates were IR or R to tetracycline (97.2%), penicillin (90.9%), and ciprofloxacin (95.4%).

Conclusions

We detected NG with resistance to azithromycin and ceftriaxone, indicating a growing threat to the current Kenyan dual syndromic treatment of urethritis with cephalosporin plus macrolides. Ongoing AMR surveillance is essential for effective drug choices.
HIV-related knowledge, risk perception, and minority stressors among South Asian sexual minority men in the United States
Authors: Sharma Akshay , Gebrezgi Feaven , Hamilton April , Boyd Sara , Sallabank Gregory
Published: August 2024

Background

South Asian gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) in the United States have been persistently overlooked in HIV research and programming. To address this limitation, this article describes their HIV-related knowledge, risk perception, and minority stressors, with a focus on identifying variations between American-born individuals and immigrants.

Methods

Participants were recruited from April-July 2022 through social media advertising and peer referral and surveyed about their sociodemographic and HIV-related behavioral characteristics. Previously validated scales were used to assess their HIV-related knowledge, risk perception, disclosure of sexual identity, experienced homophobia, and perceived racism within the sexual and gender minority community. Mann-Whitney-Wilcoxon tests were conducted to compare those born in the United States and those born abroad.

Results

Of the 112 participants, 26 (23.21%) were American-born individuals and 86 (76.79%) were immigrants. Despite similar levels of sexual risk behaviors, such as having multiple male sex partners, engaging in condomless anal sex, and using alcohol or drugs immediately before or during sex, immigrants had lower levels of HIV-related knowledge ( p = .0480) and risk perception ( p = .0114) compared to American-born individuals. Immigrants were also less likely to have disclosed their sexual identity to family, friends, and society compared to American-born individuals ( p = .0004). No differences were identified with respect to experiences of homophobia ( p = .2303) or perceptions of racism ( p = .4011).

Conclusion

Comprehensive HIV prevention efforts that address the social and cultural norms of South Asian GBM in the United States are needed.
Lest we forget: Johann Alexander Vogelsang—a pioneer in maxillofacial surgery in East Germany
Authors: Marschner Felix
Published: August 2024

Johann Alexander Vogelsang, a pioneering figure in maxillofacial surgery, played an important role in developing this field in East Germany, particularly in Dresden. Born in 1890, Vogelsang pursued dentistry against his family's wishes, studying at several German universities before his education was interrupted by the First World War. His experiences treating facial injuries during the war significantly influenced his professional focus. After the war, he worked in Dresden, advancing maxillofacial surgery and overcoming significant challenges posed by the rise of National Socialism. Despite political repression, he continued his work, later contributing to the war effort in the Second World War. Postwar, Vogelsang was instrumental in rebuilding Dresden's dental medical infrastructure and establishing educational programs. His legacy endures through the institutions he helped build and the advancements he made in the field. This article chronicles his life, highlighting his contributions to dental and maxillofacial surgery and his lasting impact on medical practice and education in Dresden.
Ethical risks in robot health education: A qualitative study
Authors: Mei ZiQi , Jin ShengJi , Li WeiTong , Zhang SuJu , Cheng XiRong , Li YiTing , Wang Meng , Song YuLei , Tu WenJing , Yin HaiYan , Wang Qing , Bai YaMei , Xu GuiHua
Published: August 2024

Background

As health education robots may potentially become a significant support force in nursing practice in the future, it is imperative to adhere to the European Union’s concept of “Responsible Research and Innovation” (RRI) and deeply reflect on the ethical risks hidden in the process of intelligent robotic health education.

Aim

This study explores the perceptions of professional nursing professionals regarding the potential ethical risks associated with the clinical practice of intelligent robotic health education.

Research design

This study adopts a descriptive phenomenological approach, employing Colaizzi’s seven-step method for data analysis.

Participants and research context

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 17 nursing professionals from tertiary comprehensive hospitals in China.

Ethical considerations

This study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Provincial Second Chinese Medicine Hospital.

Findings

Nursing personnel, adhering to the principles of RRI and the concept of “person-centered” care, have critically reflected on the potential ethical risks inherent in robotic health education. This reflection has primarily identified six themes: (a) threats to human dignity, (b) concerns about patient safety, (c) apprehensions about privacy disclosure, (d) worries about implicit burdens, (e) concerns about responsibility attribution, and (f) expectations for social support.

Conclusions

This study focuses on health education robots, which are perceived to have minimal ethical risks, and provides rich and detailed insights into the ethical risks associated with robotic health education. Even seemingly safe health education robots elicit significant concerns among professionals regarding their safety and ethics in clinical practice. As we move forward, it is essential to remain attentive to the potential negative impacts of robots and actively address them.
Role of COVID-19 Caller Tune and Intention to Get Vaccinated: An Application of the Health Belief Model
Authors: Mishra Oly , Girija Smitha , Mallela Jyothsna
Published: August 2024

This study examined the persuasive healthcare communication of COVID-19 vaccination using mobile phone caller tunes as cues to action in intention to get vaccinated. Results indicate that caller tunes have a significant impact on only two constructs of the health belief model (HBM)—perceived benefits and self-efficacy—which can lead to getting vaccinated. However, the individual’s perception of barriers, severity and susceptibility was not found to be influenced by the caller tunes. The study was conducted with a sample of 334 drawn from India who were in the process of getting vaccinated at the time of the data collection. Our analysis reveals that a well-designed caller tune message by incorporating aspects of all constructs of HBM may have a bigger impact in such an unprecedented crisis. There is a dearth of research focussing on the relevance of cues to action in public health communication, and our study is an attempt to address this gap.
‘Careering’ – toward radicalism in radical times: Links to human security and sustainable livelihoods
Authors: Hopner Veronica , Carr Stuart Colin
Published: August 2024

In this Age of the Anthropocene, the world of work is being radically disrupted by mass precarity, rising wage and income inequality, habitat destruction, and the rise of artificial intelligence. Facing such insecurity, people, we show, are careering toward radical ways of making a living. They range from radical professionals to social media influencing and environmental activism. Human security is fundamentally enhanced by sustainable livelihoods, and we explore ways not only to de-radicalise, but also to accept and embrace radical careering, if and whenever it serves the purpose of making people's livelihoods more sustainable for society, economies, and ecosystems. The article concludes by introducing an Index of Sustainable Livelihoods ( SL-I). Success to the successful. The Sustainable Livelihoods Index ( SL-I) is designed to be a ‘visible hand’ for end-users, including career counsellors, students, and workers undergoing career transitions, by Corporate Responsibility Officers, and by government ministries supporting just workforce transitions into sustainable livelihoods.
“There is Demand, There is a Market”: Implementation of the Prohibitive Chinese Double Reduction Shadow Education Policy—From the Tutors’ Perspective
Authors: Zhu Yu
Published: August 2024

Amidst the growing prominence of shadow education (known as supplementary tutoring) in China and the implementation of the Double Reduction Policy (prohibiting academic tutoring for compulsory schooling stage students), this study presents a comprehensive assessment of tutor responses to the implementation of the Double Reduction Policy and investigates the dynamic landscape of the shadow education sector, considering historical and contemporary developments. Employing a qualitative research approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample of seven tutors, consisting of both institutional and private tutors. Thematic analysis was applied to the interview data to identify and interpret key themes. The findings show that while the Double Reduction Policy exhibits efficacy in certain aspects, the emergence of alternative approaches poses potential challenges to its overall effectiveness. Notably, this research offers a novel perspective by incorporating the viewpoints of tutors, shedding light on the potential trajectories of Chinese shadow education within the context of the Double Reduction Policy. Furthermore, this study contributes valuable insights to the scholarly discourse and serves as a pivotal reference for policymakers and stakeholders involved in the governance of the shadow education industry.
Career Construction Networks Among Junior and Senior High School Students
Authors: Zeng Qing , Song Zhilin , Yang Zhiying , Wang Shiyu , Chen Ping
Published: August 2024

Although career construction theory has been utilized to understand how to construct the career process, it remains unclear how the various factors involved in this process interact comprehensively. In this study, we introduced the career construction network to explore the career development of junior high school students ( N = 372) and senior high school students ( N = 516) and its influencing factors, and investigated the adaptive readiness, adaptability resources, adapting responses, adaptation results and environmental factors within the network. The results showed that hope and proactive personality occupied influential positions in the network of junior high school students; hope exhibited the highest values of strength and closeness in the senior high school student sample; parental career-related behaviors, as the environmental factors, were located in the peripheral clusters of the two networks. In conclusion, this study provides insights and targeted intervention suggestions for adolescent career training methods.
Cancer Awareness, Cause Recognition, and Sources of Information Among Japanese Students: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Nationwide Survey
Authors: Yokoshima Tsuyoshi , Sugisaki Koshu
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Cancer education has been promoted under the Basic Plan for Cancer Education in Japan. We conducted a repeated cross-sectional survey of Japanese students to determine changes in attitudes regarding cancer over time.

Methods

A nationwide survey of fifth-grade elementary students was conducted in February 2013. A repeated cross-sectional survey was conducted following previous studies with second-year high school students in February 2019, as second-year high school students in 2019 corresponded to the generation of fifth-grade students in 2013. The self-administered, multiple-choice questionnaire inquired about the awareness of cancer and its causes and sources of cancer information. Statistical analyses were performed by calculating the percentage of selections and 95% confidence intervals for each question.

Results

The differences between values in 2019 and 2013 were examined. Responses were received from 94 schools (44.1%) in 2013 and 114 schools (52.8%) in 2019. After excluding incomplete responses, valid responses from 2213 and 3822 respondents, respectively, were analyzed. Desirable changes over time were observed in awareness. Increasing age was associated with a rise in misperceptions and a decline in desirable rather than undesirable perceptions of the causes of cancer. The Internet was a common source of information among high school students, followed by health education at school.

Conclusion

Cancer education in schools should aim to counteract misconceptions and promote positive, evidence-based information. Improving perceptions of cancer screening could increase intentions of undergoing screening. Additionally, presenting cancer information using social networking sites could help promote cancer prevention among junior high and high school students.
Factor Xa Inhibitors Versus Vitamin K Antagonists in Atrial Fibrillation Patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease on Dialysis: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xiong Meimei , Guo Linjuan , Wan Yun
Published: August 2024

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is prevalent among patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) undergoing dialysis, and both conditions are associated with a heightened risk of cardiovascular diseases. Anticoagulation is essential for preventing thromboembolic complications in these patients. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of factor Xa inhibitors compared to vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) for AF patients on dialysis.

Methods

A comprehensive search of PubMed and Embase databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published up to June 2024. Eligible studies compared factor Xa inhibitors (rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban) with VKAs in AF patients on dialysis, with primary outcomes of stroke or systemic embolism(SSE) and major bleeding.

Results

A total of 7 studies (3 randomized controlled trials and 4 observational cohorts) were included. For the RCTs, the use of factor Xa inhibitors was associated with a reduced risk of SSE compared to VKAs (odds ratio [OR] = 0.37, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.15–0.93). There was no significant difference in the risk of major bleeding events between the two groups (OR = 0.65, 95%CI:0.32–1.33). Observational cohort studies yielded similar results with a decreased risk of SSE (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.74, 95%CI:0.57–0.96) and no significant difference in major bleeding (HR = 0.87, 95%CI:0.62–1.22). No differences in treatment effect between apixaban and rivaroxaban were observed for efficacy (p-interaction = 0.44) and safety (p-interaction = 0.21) outcomes.

Conclusion

Factor Xa inhibitors, particularly apixaban and rivaroxaban, were associated with a lower risk of SEE without an increase in major bleeding, which might be convenient alternatives to VKAs in managing AF in patients with ESKD on dialysis.
Convergent and Divergent Validity of the Child Pornography Offender Risk Tool (CPORT) in a Clinical Sample From California
Authors: Azizian Allen , Eke Angela W. , Farmus Linda , Scott Shelby , Seto Michael C.
Published: August 2024

The Child Pornography Offender Risk Tool (CPORT) is a seven-item actuarial risk assessment tool that is used to estimate the potential for sexual recidivism among men convicted of child sexual exploitation material (CSEM; legally referred to as child pornography) offenses. In the current study, we examined the convergent and divergent validity of the CPORT in a clinical sample of 224 men on federal probation in the United States who were convicted of at least one type of CSEM offense. CPORT scores were significantly, moderately, and positively correlated with scores on another sexual offense risk assessment tool, the Risk Matrix 2000 (RM2000/S), showing broad evidence of convergent validity, and was nonsignificantly associated with scores on a general offense risk assessment tool, the Level of Service/Case Management Inventory (LS/CMI), showing evidence of divergent validity. There was also evidence of specific convergent validity; for example, the CPORT item reflecting prior criminal history was most strongly related to the Criminal History domain of the LS/CMI, and CPORT items reflecting sexual interest in children were significantly and strongly associated with self-reported sexual interest in children from the clinical evaluation. We also examined the impact of including clinical information in the scoring of the CPORT. Including this information reduced the amount of missing scores, but the impact on predictive accuracy is not yet known. Implications for clinical practices are discussed.
Too Afraid to Act? How CEO Political Ideological Divergence Influences Environmental Innovation
Authors: Fuchs Florian Emanuel , Franz Christian Andreas , Fischer-Kreer Denise , Greven Andrea , Brettel Malte
Published: August 2024

In their efforts to combat climate change, some firms choose to develop environmental innovations. Given that environmental innovation strategies fall into the politically sensitive area of climate change protection, we theorize that CEO political ideological divergence can substantially impact the chosen strategy. Drawing on threat response theory, we find that CEO ideological divergence from a Republican president negatively affects environmental innovation intensity, while ideological divergence from a Democratic president positively affects it. Moreover, increased communication of sustainability orientation weakens this studied impact. We utilized a longitudinal data set of S&P 500 CEOs (2010–2018) with 916 firm-year observations and 188 unique firms, to present theoretical and managerial implications for environmental innovation, CEO political ideology, and threat response theory.
Can the Federal Budget Process Promote Fiscal Sustainability? Evidence from the Budget Enforcement Act of 1990
Authors: Duncan Denvil R. , Ross Justin M. , Mikesell John L.
Published: August 2024

The Budgetary Enforcement Act of 1990 (BEA90), in effect from 1992 to 2002, is frequently held up as an example of a congressional control that constrained U.S. federal spending. This paper provides a formal test of this conventional wisdom using synthetic control on federal non-defense discretionary expenditures, which is the category of spending BEA90 was considered the most binding. A BEA90-retaining Synthetic United States generated from a lasso regression on a large panel of donors high-income national economic and government finance indicators ultimately reach 2006 at about the same level as the actual United States despite temporarily showing some more restraint immediately upon expiration. We conclude that BEA90 effect on federal non-defense discretionary spending was small, short-lived, statistically likely to have emerged from chance, and more generally did not bend the curve of federal expenditure growth.