bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Diagnosis on Utilities Assigned to States of Illness
Authors: Rabin Rosalind , Rosser Rachel M , Butler Carole
Published: July 2022

This paper addresses some of the fundamental issues surrounding the measurement of quality of life in relation to health care and highlights the need for continuous and careful review. Healthy volunteers were used to study the effect of diagnosis on the utilities placed on three dimensions of health-related quality of life encompassing 17 states of disability, distress, and discomfort including pain. The standard gamble (SG) was used to elicit values for appropriate levels of each dimension for selected diagnostic conditions. It was shown that clinical diagnosis affects the utilities that people assign to different states of ill-health. Mental conditions were consistently assigned lower utilities with subjects attributing their decisions to the social unacceptability and intractability associated with these conditions. These findings suggest that the comprehensiveness of the descriptive system for health indicators and profiles is important and should be kept under review. Furthermore, these data have implications for the role of the Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY) estimates which assume that utility is uniform across various conditions. Finally, the study may have implications for mental health services if other population samples were to accord such high priority to the relief of mental conditions.
Observer-based guaranteed cost control for networked control systems with packet dropout and nonlinear disturbance
Authors: Qu Hongchun , Wei Na , Li Mengyue , Li Yu
Published: July 2022

In this article, the observer-based guaranteed cost control method is investigated for the networked control systems (NCSs) with packet dropout and nonlinear disturbance involving event-triggered mechanism (ETM). The packet dropout processes, which appear in both the sensor-to-controller and the controller-to-actuator links, are represented by two mutually independent Bernoulli distributions, and the nonlinear disturbance is supposed to satisfy the Lipschitz condition. Since the systems states are unmeasurable, a state observer is designed to estimate the values of system state. The sufficient condition for the stability of the closed-loop system is addressed by applying the Lyapunov theorem, and a guaranteed cost controller is obtained based on the stability condition with the satisfaction of some given specified value of cost function. Furthermore, the controller design issue can be formulated as a convex optimization problem that is addressed by the linear matrix inequality (LMI) technique using the cone complementarity linearization algorithm. Finally, the availability of above method is proved by a simulation example.
Comparison of two surgical approaches in the management of cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea in the lateral recess of sphenoid sinus: A retrospective study
Authors: Xu Min , Wang Jian , Chen Xiao-dong , Xue Tao , Chen Fu-quan
Published: July 2022

Background

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage from the lateral recess of the sphenoid sinus (LRSS) is usually repaired using endoscopic endonasal approaches, which can be challenging. Various surgical techniques have been developed for the disease.

Objective

To report our experience with repairing CSF leak from the LRSS via transethmoid sphenoidotomy approach (TESA) and transprelacrimal recess pterygoid root approach (TPLRA), to assess the efficiency of TPLRA by comparing it with TESA.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with LRSS CSF rhinorrhea who underwent TESA (n = 10) or TPLRA (n = 5) from January 2011 to December 2020. Demographic characteristics and operation-related parameters were recorded.

Results

The mean operation time was 169.5 and 225.0 mins in the TESA and TPLRA groups, respectively, with a mean blood loss of 65 mL and 68 mL, respectively. Histopathological examinations confirmed encephalocele in 11 (73.33%) and 4 (26.67%) cases with meningocele, respectively. CSF rhinorrhea was successfully repaired in the first attempt in both groups during the mean follow-up time of 54 months. Postoperative permanent numbness of the cheek was observed in two patients in the TESA group. No cases of lacrimal overflow or subjective dry eye were observed.

Conclusions

The TPLRA, which could be an alternative procedure to treat CSF rhinorrhea in the LRSS, provides a straight-line trajectory and effective maneuverability. We also found that CSF rhinorrhea in the LRSS was accompanied by encephalocele or meningocele, with encephalocele presenting more commonly.
Effects of Occupational Stress, Self-Efficacy and Mental Health During the Pandemic on Hospital Sanitation Workers in Malaysia
Authors: Nawal Ayesha , Shoaib Muhammad , Zámečník Roman , Rehman Asad Ur
Published: July 2022

COVID-19 rapidly spread across the world, constituting a public health disaster unlike any other experienced in decades. The impact exerted on workplaces and their employees was dramatic, and an immense burden fell on healthcare provision globally. Along with “front-line” healthcare staff, sanitation workers at hospitals also had to cope with additional workloads, making them vulnerable to psychological trauma and affecting their quality of life at establishments. This study investigated how the factors of occupational stress, self-efficacy (belief in the capacity to carry out a task well) and mental health altered the WRQoL (Work-Related Quality of Life) of employees carrying out sanitation duties at hospitals in Malaysia. To this end, a survey translated into the Malay language was conducted among 449 such workers during a so-called “recovery movement control order”, i.e. quarantine and control measures pertaining to an outbreak of Coronavirus disease. Research involved co-variance-based structural equation modeling, performed in IBM-AMOS-26 software, in order to discern the causal relationship of the aforementioned factors on WRQoL. Results revealed a high level of occupational stress, diminished self-efficacy and poor mental health among the employees surveyed. Such stress directly impacted the WRQoL of the second factor alongside an indirect effect on that of the third, i.e. anxiety stemming from potentially catching the virus and the experience of having to disinfect facilities for treating patients, undertake cleaning duties, and move corpses.
Consequences of income concentration for democratic processes in contemporary Western and comparable societies: Evidence for OECD countries, 2017–2019
Authors: Zafirovski Milan
Published: July 2022

The study focuses on the relation of economic inequality and political democracy, specifically exploring the democratic consequences of income concentration. It places income concentration among a composite of factors of democracy and considers democracy within a set of results of economic inequality. The study first surveys how the relationship of income and other economic inequality to democracy is theorized and researched in sociology and economics. It then outlines a conceptual framework for analyzing economic inequality’s relationship with and especially net balance of consequences for democracy. It collects and analyzes cross-national data by empirical analyses and reports and discusses the results. Its key result is that income inequality is consequential mostly in an adverse way for political democracy and social freedom. The article’s intended contribution is to better understanding and explaining the relations of economic inequality to democracy among contemporary societies.
Impaired neuronal integrity in traumatic brain injury detected by 123I-iomazenil single photon emission computed tomography and MRI
Authors: Kato Hiroki , Nakagawara Jyoji , Hachisuka Kenji , Hatazawa Jun , Ikoma Katsunori , Suehiro Eiichi , Iida Hidehiko , Ogasawara Kuniaki , Iizuka Osamu , Ishiai Sumio , Ichikawa Tadashi , Nariai Tadashi , Okazaki Tetsuya , Shiga Tohru , Mori Etsuro
Published: July 2022

This study was aiming at investigating the extent of neuronal damage in cases of traumatic brain injury (TBI) with diffuse axonal injury (DAI) using 123I-iomazenil(IMZ) SPECT and MRI. We compared the findings in 31 patients with TBI without any major focal brain lesions and 25 age-matched normal controls. Subjects underwent 123I-IMZ SPECT and MRI, and also assessment by cognitive function tests. The partial volume effect of 123I-IMZ SPECT was corrected using MRI. In the patients with TBI, decreased spatial concentration of 123I-IMZ binding was detected in the medial frontal/orbitofrontal cortex, posterior cingulate gyrus, cuneus, precuneus, and superior region of the cerebellum. ROC analysis of 123I-IMZ SPECT for the detection of neuronal injury showed a high diagnostic ability of 123I-IMZ binding density for TBI in these areas. The decreased 123I-IMZ uptake density in the cuneus and precuneus was associated with cognitive decline after the injury. In the patients with TBI, brain atrophy was detected in the frontal lobe, anterior temporal and parietal cortex, corpus callosum, and posterior part of the cerebellum. Evaluation of the neuronal integrity by 123I-IMZ SPECT and MRI provides important information for the diagnosis and pathological interpretation in cases of TBI with DAI.
More than a feeling: Tactile exploration informs relative size perception
Authors: Stevens Jennifer
Published: July 2022

Esref Armagan is a blind painter. Cognitive and neural scientists have described his use of line structure when drawing and his visual cortex activation during tactile exploration. But what remains unknown is how Esref, without ever having sight, may be able to understand the use of depth cues such as relative size in a picture. To examine whether tactile experience provides information about relative size, we blindfolded sighted individuals and asked them to haptically explore a set of objects in either near or far locations before drawing the objects on paper. Objects explored with an arms extended position were drawn significantly smaller than those explored just in front of the face. Our results provide the first evidence that haptic object interaction can provide information about relative size, akin to that garnered visually. It can be used to inform spatial layout or, in Esref's case, to artistically render objects in three dimensions.
Wake reduction in horizontal axis wind turbine: A review of advancements in techniques
Authors: Awan Osama Ali Ahmed , Sarosh Ali
Published: July 2022

Renewable energy systems have experienced exponential growth toward producing zero-carbon energy. In this context, wind turbines continue to play a significant role. To extract maximum power, wind turbines are installed in array-like formation in wind farms. This arrangement though beneficial, also leads to detrimental wind-wakes effects. The wakes reduce wind speed and induce undesirable turbulence of flow field in downstream direction. To address this issue, several innovative techniques have been proposed. This paper surveys the best methods by classifying these into passive and active techniques. The passive techniques affect the wake flow by modifying only the geometrical or operating characteristics of wind turbines such as adjustment of forward and backward sweeps, etc. The active techniques use additional surfaces/devices for wake handling such as vortex generators, leading edge protuberances, dual-rotors, and cross-axis wind turbines etc. Additionally, this paper also reviews various wake measurement methods and recommends the best suited technique.
Personal view: Modelling pain mechanisms of migraine without aura
Authors: Olesen Jes
Published: July 2022

Introduction:

This review aims to model migraine nociception.

Methods:

Personal experience and litterature.

Results:

Genetic and environmental factors in combination decide whether a person suffers from migraine. Endogenous and/or exogenous factors precipitate the individual attacks. Nociception takes place around blood vessels. There is a growing understanding of the molecular pathophysiological mechanisms of migraine from human provocation studies. Rodent models of migraine are necessary to understand the complex interrelation between the many putatively involved molecules and tissues but their relevance for human migraine is uncertain. The crucial element in migraine nociception is a unit consisting of endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, perivascular nerve fibers (trigeminal, parasympathetic and sympathetic) and mast cells. Attacks may start outside the brain by humoral or neurogenic activity releasing nociceptive substances around blood vessels. They may also (perhaps more often) start by the brain generating efferent activity in autonomic and somatic nerves.

Conclusion:

Human and rodent studies can quickly uncover the “mystery of migraine”.
What’s in a Pinch: A Closer Look at Lower Eyelid Pinch Blepharoplasty
Authors: Roelofs Kelsey A. , Soriano Teresa , Smart Chandra , Cohen Liza M. , Diniz Stefania B. , Chen Teresa , Goodyear Kendall , Karlin Justin N. , Goldberg Robert A. , Rootman Daniel B.
Published: July 2022

Introduction:

The skin pinch technique is generally thought to excise a skin-only specimen, with minimal damage to the underlying orbicularis oculi muscle. The purpose of this study was to assess for the presence and quantity of muscle excised during routine lower eyelid pinch blepharoplasty.

Methods and Materials:

Horizontal tissue sectioning (Mohs technique) with histologic circumferential peripheral and deep margin assessment was employed to allow for evaluation of the entire deep margin of the pinch specimen. Hematoxylin and eosin slides were examined. The presence of and total surface area of skeletal muscle were calculated.

Results:

Ten pinch blepharoplasty specimens with a mean surface area of 70.6 ± 29.0 mm2 were evaluated. Overall, 90% (9/10) of specimens had at least 1 quadrant with muscle. On average, 3 ± 3% (range 0%-9%) of the total pinch specimen surface area contained muscle. There was a strong positive correlation between the size of skin excision and the percentage of surface area with muscle (Pearson correlation: 0.942; P < .001).

Discussion:

In the majority of cases, the amount of muscle excised during pinch blepharoplasty is negligible; however, larger skin excisions may be expected to result in disproportionately greater muscle resection.

Conclusions:

The lower eyelid pinch blepharoplasty technique is an effective method of excising redundant skin with minimal resection of orbicularis muscle.
Personality and limitations in instrumental activities of daily living in old age: Reciprocal associations across 12 years
Authors: Chereches Flavia S. , Brehmer Yvonne , Olaru Gabriel
Published: July 2022

Personality traits have been reported to predict difficulties in performing instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) in old age, such as preparing meals or shopping. However, little is known about the reciprocal effects on personality. In this study, we examined bidirectional relationships between personality traits and the capacity to perform IADL using four waves of longitudinal data from 3540 older adults (aged 65 years and older) from the Health and Retirement Study. We applied a random-intercept cross-lagged panel model to separate between- and within-person effects across time and compared it to a traditional cross-lagged panel model. At the between-person level, higher neuroticism and lower conscientiousness were associated with more IADL limitations. Within individuals across time, increases in neuroticism and decreases in conscientiousness and extraversion were associated with increases in IADL limitations 4 years later. In contrast, increases in IADL limitations only predicted increases in neuroticism and decreases in extraversion. These results indicate that some personality traits affect and are affected by limitations in functional capacities in old age. Results of the within-person model build a strong foundation for future personality interventions as a pathway to maintain high functioning in old age.
Successful Co-Lactation by a Queer Couple: A Case Study
Authors: Schnell Alyssa
Published: July 2022

Introduction:

With cultural and social evolution and improvements in reproductive technology, an increasing number of babies are born to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and/or questioning, and asexual and/or ally parents. As parental roles and gender expression become more expansive, the role of breastfeeding a baby must naturally also expand to include the option of sharing of breastfeeding among parents, called co-lactation (Bamberger & Farrow, 2021). In most cases, co-lactation involves a gestational parent and a non-gestational parent. If a non-gestational parent desires to produce milk for the purpose of breastfeeding, they do so by inducing lactation. While interest in and research about induced lactation are developing quickly, little information is currently available about co-lactation.

Main Issue:

A couple identifying as queer presented with concerns about inducing lactation in the non-gestational parent, as well as seeking assistance in managing a successful sharing of the breastfeeding relationship.

Management:

Breast massage, milk expression, acupuncture, hormone therapy, and galactagogues, including domperidone, goat’s rue, and malunggay ( moringa oleifera) were used to initiate and establish lactation by the non-gestational parent. Parents shared the breastfeeding relationship equally and carefully managed milk expression when the other parent was breastfeeding to maintain or increase lactation.

Conclusion:

With professional lactation support, commitment to a lactation plan, responsive parenting, and strong communication and cooperation between parents, two parents were able to successfully co-lactate for more than a year. Breastfeeding was shared equally and supplementation of breastfeeds was rarely needed.
Business-Like and Still Serving Society? Investigating the Relationship Between NPOs Being Business-Like and Their Societal Roles
Authors: Suykens Ben , Maier Florentine , Meyer Michael , Verschuere Bram
Published: July 2022

Nonprofit organizations (NPOs) becoming business-like is a contested issue. Some understand the adoption of business-like practices by NPOs as a case of adopting rational myths through institutional isomorphism and thus potentially dangerous for NPOs’ ability to fulfill their unique societal roles. Others are more optimistic, arguing that technical rationality is possible in the adoption of business-like practices, and that such practices can therefore support NPOs in fulfilling a wide range of societal roles. Drawing on survey data of NPOs in Flanders, we examine the relationship between the extent to which NPOs use business-like practices, and the extent to which they engage in various societal roles. We find that business-like practices are weakly related to NPOs’ societal roles. All roles are positively related to nonprofit managerialism and unrelated to NPOs’ reliance on commercial funding. Our results suggest that a certain optimism regarding the rational use of business-like approaches is justified.
Nano-enhanced sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone) composite membranes and their characterization
Authors: Venkatachalam Kaarthick Raaja , Gautham Sachin M.B , Anegondi Nateri Achyuth , Nambi Krishnan Jegatha
Published: July 2022

Chlorine is a widely used oxidizing agent in desalination to control bacteria that cause biofouling. The lack of chlorine resistance in commercial desalination membranes urged the development of an alternate polymer material. In this study, commercially available copolymer (SES0005, AquafoneTM), resistant to dissolved chlorine in water, has theoretical IEC of 2.08 meq.g-1 is blended with 0.5-15 %(w/w) TiO2 nanoparticles of <25 nm diameter and 45-55 m2.g-1 surface area by using ball milling device. SEM-EDS (Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy) result supports TiO2 content and uniform distribution. The chlorine stability of membranes was evaluated in sodium hypochlorite solution from 100 to 2000 ppm (pH 9). TGA and FT-IR analysis were performed for these membranes. The 1.5 %(w/w) TiO2 nano-enhanced membrane water retention is 23 % which is ∼53 % higher than that of pristine (15 %) membrane. Tensile strength of pristine and 0.5 %(w/w) TiO2 nano-enhanced membrane is 23, and 44 MPa, respectively. TiO2 nanoparticle addition improved dimensional and mechanical properties. This study attempts to correlate the SES polymer-TiO2 interactions with the characterization techniques.
Numerical analysis of non-isothermal warm deep drawing of an Al-Mg alloy using different yield criteria and experimental validation
Authors: Prakash Ved , Ravi Kumar D
Published: July 2022

Finite element analysis of non-isothermal warm deep drawing of AA5083-O aluminum alloy sheets has been carried out using a coupled thermomechanical numerical model. Two different yield criteria, namely Hill's and Barlat's criteria have been used to define the yielding behavior in the simulations. Using cold punch in combination with hot dies significantly improved the drawability of the sheet material but at the same time resulted in a large thermal gradient and strain rate variation during the process. Therefore, for a better predictive accuracy, the effect of strain rate and temperature has been incorporated into the simulations by defining the stress–strain curves at various temperatures and strain rates. Numerical simulations have also been carried out at different initial blank temperatures and punch speeds to study the influence of temperature and speed on drawability, thinning, and drawing load. The predicted drawability, thinning, and drawing load are found to be in good agreement with the experiments.
Upending the medical duty to advise: Legislating the standard of care in Singapore
Authors: Amirthalingam Kumaralingam
Published: July 2022

The standard of care to which doctors are held in medical practice is based on the peer professional standard in most common law jurisdictions. However, when it comes to the duty to inform the patient of risks in proposed treatment, courts across the common law world have adopted a prudent patient standard to strike a better balance between beneficence and autonomy. Instead of allowing doctors to control the information provided, courts assess what risks are material to a reasonable patient. Singapore is the most recent jurisdiction to follow suit, but the common law development may be short-lived following legislative intervention. This article critically analyses the law on the standard of care in medical negligence, arguing that the legislative reform was based on a misconception of the law. It highlights some of the potential difficulties in implementing the legislative framework.
B. R. Ambedkar on the Practice of Public Conscience: A Critical Reappraisal
Authors: Yadav Vivek Kumar , Dasgupta Shomik , Kumar Bharath
Published: July 2022

This article discusses the importance of ‘public conscience’ in B. R. Ambedkar’s political thought. Ambedkar consistently defended public conscience as a democratic value in his writings and speeches. Public conscience referred to collective responsibility, social justice and the public deliberation of what constitutes the social good. Ambedkar consistently expressed the unequivocal belief that public conscience would bring about a moral transformation in Indian society through a collective ethical stance against all forms of social oppression. He conceptualized public conscience as a method by which a democratic and ethical Indian society could come about and flourish. This article interrogates his ideas concerning public conscience through a detailed reading of his works, focusing particularly on his 1943 speech, Ranade, Gandhi and Jinnah.
Augmenting Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation and Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate with Particulate Cartilage Extracellular Matrix Is Associated With Improved Outcomes
Authors: Drakos Mark C. , Hansen Oliver B. , Eble Stephanie K. , Kukadia Saanchi , Cabe Taylor N. , Kumar Prashanth , Patel Karan A. , Sofka Carolyn M. , Deland Jonathan T.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Osteochondral autograft transplant (OAT) is often used to treat large osteochondral lesions of the talus and is generally associated with good outcomes. The addition of adjuncts such as cartilage extracellular matrix with bone marrow aspirate concentrate (ECM-BMAC) may further improve the OAT procedure but have not been thoroughly studied. We hypothesized that the placement of ECM-BMAC around the OAT graft would improve radiographic and patient-reported outcomes following OAT.

Methods:

Patients who received OAT, with ECM-BMAC or BMAC alone, were screened and their charts were reviewed. For patients who did receive ECM-BMAC, the mixture was spread around the edges of the OAT plug and into any surrounding areas of cartilage damage. Survey and radiographic data were collected. Average follow-up in both groups was over 2 years. Magnetic resonance imaging scans were scored using the Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Tissue (MOCART) system. Outcomes were compared statistically between groups.

Results:

Patients treated with ECM-BMAC (n = 34) demonstrated significantly greater improvement of scores in the FAOS categories Symptoms (17 vs −3; P = .02) and Sports Activities (40 vs 7; P = .02), and the MOCART category Subchondral Lamina ( P = .008) compared to those treated with BMAC alone (n = 30). They also experienced significantly lower rates of postoperative cysts (53% vs 18%, P = .04) and edema (94% vs 59%, P = .02).

Conclusion:

The addition of ECM-BMAC to OAT was associated with improved imaging and clinical outcomes compared to OAT with BMAC alone.
Restorative Revitalization in Inner-Ring Suburban Communities: Lessons from Maple Heights, OH
Authors: Lebovits Hannah
Published: July 2022

Suburban revitalization efforts can remain ineffective when they do not adequately address the historic harm done to minority, low-income communities via economic, housing, public finance, banking, and urban planning practices. To determine an alternative approach, I use a process tracing method to study the efforts of a Midwestern inner-ring, minority-majority suburban community, returning from the edge of collapse after decades of disinvestment and crises. The findings reveal a significant change in revitalization efforts following the election of the first Black and first woman mayor; driven by justice-centered partnerships and justice-centered language. In my analysis, I argue that though the policy efforts do not vary significantly from standard redevelopment practices, the administration’s emphasis on resolving historic harm added an important restorative justice lens, making the effort more fruitful and far-reaching. I conclude with recommendations to enhance the study and application of restorative justice themes in urban research.
On shear motions in nonlinear transverse isotropic elastodynamics
Authors: Amendola Ada , Saccomandi Giuseppe , Speranzini Emanuela
Published: July 2022

We study the propagation of shear waves in an anisotropic incompressible medium composed of an elastic fiber-reinforced material. We first derive the general determining equations of such motions when the fibers are arbitrarily arranged with respect to the direction of propagation of the waves. Then, we examine the “standard reinforced model” so as to root the nonlinearity of the dynamic problem directly to the presence of the reinforcing fibers, and finally, we consider an asymptotic model in terms of the limit of finite but small amplitude of the waves. Clearly, if the fibers are arranged along the direction of propagation of the waves, the mechanical behavior of the material will be isotropic. When the fibers are tilted an amount of the same order of the amplitude of the wave with respect to this direction, the asymptotic first-order reduced system is characterized by a peculiar mixed second-/third-order nonlinearity. This contrasts to what occurs for larger tilting angles where only quadratic nonlinearities must be considered. In the latter case, as we may expect, in the asymptotic limit, we reduce the system to an inviscid classical Burger’s equation. Our results are fundamental to the study of the dynamics of fiber-reinforced materials and equally when we consider dissipative and/or dispersive effects.
Qualification of non-pediatric ophthalmologists in examining children
Authors: Mezad-Koursh Dapha , Skaat Alon , Davidov Bar , Manaim Tova , Leshno Ari
Published: July 2022

Background

This study is aimed to evaluate the clinical approach of non-pediatric ophthalmologists, working in community-based clinics towards Pediatric Patients and their management including referral rates to Pediatric Ophthalmologists and Orthoptists.

Methods

an online survey was sent to all community ophthalmologists through national society and social media platforms. The questionnaire included questions regarding the responders’ professional experience as well as regarding the responders’ approach to children younger than 8 years, and the level of confidence in 4 main aspects of children’s management and referral rates.

Results

93 physicians working as general ophthalmologists completed the questionnaire. Most respondents have been in practice for over 10 years (64/93, 68.8%) and over two-thirds were also hospital affiliated (65/93, 69.1%). The responders estimated on average that 35.1 ± 29.6% of patients under 8 years of age are referred for a consult to a pediatric ophthalmologist The level of confidence of three aspects unique to Pediatric Ophthalmology; cycloplegic refraction, strabismus evaluation, and prescribing glasses were significantly lower ( p < 0.01) than confidence in performing a basic eye exam.

Conclusions

many Ophthalmologists do not feel fully capable or experienced to perform the appropriate tests for the pediatric population, especially during the critical timeframe, before 8 years of age. The very high rate of referrals stands in contradiction to the reported low rate of eye pathologies in the pediatric population. These findings suggest that more pediatric-specific training is needed to improve the physician’s skills to perform a comprehensive evaluation of pediatric patients in order to reduce the referral burden.
Decolonization as practice: returning land to Indigenous control
Authors: McDonnell Siobhan , Regenvanu Ralph
Published: July 2022

Across Oceania land is the mother. At its core, the practice of decolonial research and activism involves a commitment to the principles of Indigenous self-determination and repatriation of Indigenous land. Beginning with our understanding of decolonial practice and the meanings of land in Vanuatu, in this article we explore decolonization as practice: our collaborative practice of working to reform land laws to end the large-scale leasing of customary land without the consent of Indigenous landowning groups. We are commonly viewed as an Indigenous leader, Ralph Regenvanu, and a non-Indigenous legal advisor, Siobhan McDonnell. While we acknowledge these positions, we also share backgrounds in anthropology, law and a commitment to core principles around returning land to Indigenous control. We conclude this article by discussing our shared commitment to a practice of reciprocity between the researcher and the community engaged in the research.
Antecedents and outcomes of use experience of airport service robot: The stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) framework
Authors: Chen Ching-Fu , V.G. Girish
Published: July 2022

This study empirically explores passengers’ emotional experience of using airport service robots from the perspective of the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) framework. Our proposed model hypothesizes that stimuli, which is the functional value and coolness of using the airport service robots, leads to satisfaction and influences responses such as perceived smartness and word-of-mouth of the airport. A survey sample of 321 respondents with use experience of airport service robot were employed for the analysis. The result reveals that only perceived coolness of service robot is positively related to satisfaction. Satisfaction demonstrated positive and significant effects on perceived smartness and word-of-mouth of the airport. Engagement of service robots in airport service activities is found to contribute to positive emotional experiences and favorable perspectives of the airport. Empirical implications are discussed and provided.
Explicit and implicit attachment representations in cognitively able school-age children with autism spectrum disorder: A window to their inner world
Authors: Giannotti Michele , Bentenuto Arianna , Venuti Paola , de Falco Simona
Published: July 2022

The few studies available on quality of attachment in school-age children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exclusively used questionnaires assessing explicit attachment representations. Thus, in the current study we assessed both explicit and implicit attachment representations in 23 children with ASD (without intellectual disability), 22 with learning disabilities and 27 with typical development aged from 7 to 13 years. A self-reported measure on the quality of attachment to parents and a semi-structured interview were administered to the children. In addition, a developmental assessment of the child including measures of intelligence and social-communication impairment was conducted. Despite the lack of group differences on explicit attachment representations, we found that children with ASD showed higher rates of at-risk self-protective strategies and psychological trauma compared to the TD group. Children with SLD also showed a high level of at-risk implicit attachment representations than TD, albeit to a lesser extent compared to children with ASD. These results may be related to several factors associated with ASD impairment and developmental pathways, such as the atypical learning process which occur at interpersonal level, the difficulties in social information processing and reflective functioning. Our findings suggested that children with ASD may experience difficulties in the construction of balanced implicit attachment representations. Thus, a more comprehensive assessment of attachment including both implicit and explicit representations is recommended.
Integrated disaster matrix and vulnerability index analyze the seismic performance of typical structures in rural villages in historical earthquakes
Authors: Yao Xinqiang , Liang Bin , Sun Baitao , Wang Dongming , Gao Wuping
Published: July 2022

This study investigated and classified typical structures in rural village and analyzed the vulnerability. Based on the statistics of earthquake damages with magnitudes above 5 from 1996 to 2013 in China, the damage matrixes of types of structures in rural village are obtained. The vulnerability index and equation of structure are crucial to assess the earthquake losses of typical structures under different magnitudes earthquakes. According to the seismic loss of different types of structures under different earthquake magnitudes, there are possible to improve the seismic resilience of the buildings in rural village. Moreover, the regional vulnerability is analyzed by β probability distribution function. The comprehensive seismic vulnerability index of different types of structures in rural villages is obtained. The main research is to predict the loss of different types of structures under different earthquake magnitudes in the future, and to provide technical support for types of buildings in rural village reinforcement.
Niche climate news sites and the changing context of covering catastrophe
Authors: Russell Adrienne , Kangas Jarkko , Kunelius Risto , Painter James
Published: July 2022

One of the most significant and understudied changes in climate journalism in recent years, and the focus us this study, is the establishment of new niche sites. These sites, which are dedicated exclusively to covering climate-related issues, are now some of the most important sources of climate information. Drawing on interviews with site founders and editors, we explore the experiences and knowledge of these climate journalism innovators to glean their perspective on the state of climate coverage in general and changes to the field, including an emerging interplay between climate journalism and other actors in the broader information environment. Our conversations suggest that in response to changing circumstances—including heightened urgency due to the physical realities of the climate catastrophe and the hybridity of the media environment—journalists are reshaping how climate news is being produced as well as blurring institutional boundaries between journalism, science, and advocacy. In doing so, we argue, they are forging a path toward stronger public interest journalism.
Child protection investigations by private consultants or municipally employed social workers: What are the differences for children?
Authors: Bergman Ann-Sofie , Arnesson Kerstin , Berggren Ulrika Järkestig
Published: July 2022

In Sweden, a practice has developed where the social services have started to hire private consultants in child protection investigations. This article analyses and compares the handling of child protection investigations carried out by private consultants and municipally employed social workers with regard to the reasons for the reports, the investigations, the assessments, and the decisions taken about interventions. The concepts funnel and filtering and children's participation are used in the analysis. The study has a mixed-methods design, where qualitative and quantitative data and analysis are combined and integrated. Data consists of 120 case files regarding the social service's handling of investigations as well as interviews with managers of social service departments.

Findings

The results show several differences in the handling of child protection investigations carried out by social workers and private consultants in the municipalities studied. The private consultants worked to a greater extent with investigations that were initiated due to concerns about violence. Investigations conducted by consultants contained less information and specifically concerning children's perspective. These children also received interventions to a lesser extent than children assessed by the municipal social workers.

Application

The study indicates that from a child’s perspective, it matters whether a municipally employed social worker or a private consultant performs an investigation. Consultants generally work temporarily in a workplace, and it may therefore be more difficult to establish a trusting relationship with the children, which can be a barrier to children's participation and the implementation of a child’s perspective.
Reliability of Assessing Distal Radius Fractures on a Smartphone Versus PACS
Authors: Adams Alexander J. , Miller Andrew , Tan Emily , Shin Eon K. , Tosti Rick
Published: July 2022

Background:

Communication between health care providers is becoming more intertwined with technology. During the pandemic, telehealth strategies grew exponentially. Remote viewing of imaging on a smartphone may offer efficient communication; however, the reliability of injury assessment when compared with traditional methods is not known. The purpose of this study was to evaluate intraobserver and interobserver reliability of distal radius fracture radiograph review for smartphone versus traditional Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS).

Methods:

Eight evaluators (3 attending hand surgeons, 3 hand surgery fellows, 2 orthopedic residents) evaluated 26 distal radius fracture radiographs on 2 different viewers: smartphone or PACS. The reviewers were asked to record: (1) operative or nonoperative preference; (2) fracture classification (based on Fernandez and Jupiter); and (3) treatment strategy (volar plate, dorsal plate, pins, cast, bridge plate, or fragment-specific fixation). The percentage of intraobserver agreement was recorded for each observer. Reliability was calculated using Fleiss’ kappa coefficient for intraobserver and interobserver agreement and graded by strength of correlation.

Results:

Intraobserver agreement averaged 97% when deciding between operative and nonoperative treatment, 76% for classification, and 84% for treatment. Kappa scores were graded as “excellent” for operative decision and “substantial” for classification and treatment. Attendings and fellows generally had higher agreement than that of residents. Interobserver agreement was graded as “substantial” for all categories for both PACS and smartphone.

Conclusions:

Evaluation of radiographs on a smartphone for the purpose of treating distal radius fractures does not appear to be significantly different from an evaluation on traditional PACS.
An exploration of how district leaders organize to support principal supervisors for underperforming schools in mid-sized districts
Authors: Meyers Coby V , Thessin Rebecca A , Stosich Elizabeth L
Published: July 2022

The role of principal supervisor has been shifting from a focus on management to one that emphasizes support for principals. External partners can sometimes help with redesigning the role and other aspects of district organization. However, most research focuses on large urban districts with role conceptions and organizational structures that are not easily applied to midsized districts. In this study, we leverage contingency theory as a way to consider how contextual difference might matter in the use of principal supervisors to support and develop principals of underperforming schools. We interviewed district superintendents, principal supervisors, and principals in five mid-sized districts partnered with USSP, an in-service educational systems leadership provider with research evidence of impact on student achievement outcomes. We found that mid-sized districts commonly prioritized characteristics and traits regularly associated with good principal supervisors, but they were limited by district size and context in how they could initiate change. Despite some differences in how districts established the principal supervisor role, participants across levels described how principal supervisors were supported and, in turn, supported principals in intensive ways. Study results suggest that reorienting the principal supervisor's role, even in mid-sized districts, can build leadership capacity of principals leading underperforming schools.
A fluorescent chemosensor based on β-N-glycosyl and coumarin for sensing of Hg(II) ions in acetonitrile
Authors: Gu Xiaomin , Huang Bin , Xu Cuixia , Jiang Dawei , Zhao Qiang
Published: July 2022

A novel fluorescent chemosensor containing a coumarin–thiourea unit and a β- N-glycosyl moiety is designed, synthesized, and characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and elemental analysis. The chemosensor can selectively and efficiently detect Hg2+ in CH3CN with a detection limit of 2.6 μM.
Acceptance of robots as co-workers: Hotel employees’ perspective
Authors: Sadangharn Pornrat
Published: July 2022

This study aims to develop a model for the acceptance of robots as co-workers from the perspective of hotel employees and uses empirical model testing to validate the findings. Mixed-methods research was conducted by employing a sequential exploratory strategy, whereas qualitative research was conducted using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The key informants were executives, HR managers, reception managers, and some staff of three hotels in Thailand. Five main themes were uncovered from the IPA: human, robot, organization, human–robot collaboration (HRC), and robot acceptance. Relationships between the themes were established and were promoted as the premise for an initial robot acceptance model. Thereafter, the survey questionnaire was drafted using the instrumental development approach. The model is a good fit with the empirical data. Human, robot, and organizational factors significantly affect robot acceptance and HRC. Meanwhile, HRC plays a mediator role in the relationship of human, robot, and organizational factors with robot acceptance, but in a negative direction. This implies that the respondents generally accept robots. However, the level of acceptance decreases when HRC is involved.
Exercise interventions to reduce anxiety in mid-life and late-life anxiety disorders and subthreshold anxiety disorder: a systematic review
Authors: Chong Terence W.H. , Kootar Scherazad , Wilding Helen , Berriman Sarah , Curran Eleanor , Cox Kay L. , Bahar-Fuchs Alex , Peters Ruth , Anstey Kaarin J. , Bryant Christina , Lautenschlager Nicola T.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Anxiety disorders are highly prevalent and cause significant distress, disability, and cost. Medication adverse effects and interactions increase in mid-life and late-life, highlighting the need for effective non-pharmacological interventions.

Objectives:

We aimed to evaluate the extent of evidence supporting exercise interventions for anxiety and subthreshold anxiety disorders in mid-life and late-life.

Design:

Systematic review.

Data Sources and Methods:

We searched MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, Emcare, Ovid Nursing, CINAHL Plus, Cochrane Library, Health Collection, Humanities & Social Sciences Collection, and https://clinicaltrials.gov databases for trials published January 1994–May 2019. Randomised controlled trials of exercise interventions involving aerobic exercise or resistance training for adults aged 40 years and above with anxiety or subthreshold anxiety disorders in residential or health settings were identified. The primary outcome was change in anxiety. We excluded trials including participants aged below 40 years, participants with diagnosis of separation anxiety, selective mutism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, and head-to-head comparisons of interventions. Trial quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and evidence synthesised in narrative form.

Results:

Four trials totalling 132 participants met inclusion criteria, although some had methodological limitations. Interventions included a home-based resistance training intervention, supervised group-based aerobic intervention, Tai Chi intervention, and supervised group-based aerobic and strength intervention. Three trials included late-life participants and the fourth mid-life. Three trials demonstrated greater reductions in anxiety in the intervention group compared with control. The fourth trial showed pre–post reductions in anxiety in both groups, with between-group difference not reaching statistical significance.

Conclusion:

There is limited supportive evidence suggesting that exercise interventions have potential to be effective, feasible and safe non-pharmacological interventions for anxiety and subthreshold anxiety disorders in mid-life and late-life. The heterogeneity, limited number and high risk of bias of some trials meant that we were not able to conduct a meta-analysis. Tailoring of interventions may improve uptake and reduce dropout. The paucity of research in this area with only four included trials demonstrates the urgent need for future and larger trials to provide proof of concept, data about effective types and doses of exercise interventions, and guidance to community, clinical, and public health services.