bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lane-changing policy offline reinforcement learning of autonomous vehicles based on BEAR algorithm with support set constraints
Authors: Huang Caixia , Wang Yuxiang , Zhang Zhiyong , Feng Wenming , Huang Dayang
Published: August 2024

Imitation learning struggles to learn an optimal policy from datasets containing both expert and non-expert samples due to its inability to discern the quality differences between these samples. Furthermore, standard online reinforcement learning (RL) methodologies face significant exploration costs and safety risks during environmental interactions. Addressing these challenges, this study develops a lane-changing model for autonomous vehicles using the bootstrapping error accumulation reduction (BEAR) algorithm. The model initially examines the distributional shifts between behavioral and target policies in offline RL. It then incorporates the BEAR algorithm, enhanced with support set constraints, to mitigate this issue. The study subsequently proposes a lane-changing policy learning method based on the BEAR algorithm in offline RL. This method involves designing the state space, action set, and reward function. The reward function is tailored to guide the autonomous vehicle in executing lane changes while balancing safety, ride comfort, and traffic efficiency. In the final stage, the lane-changing policy is learned using a dataset of both expert and non-expert samples. Test results indicate that the lane-changing policy developed through this method shows higher success rates and safety levels compared to policies derived via imitation learning.
Guardianship Law in India: Examining the Principle of ‘Best Interests’ of Minors and the Rights of Single Mothers as Sole Guardians
Authors: Nigam Shalu
Published: August 2024

Motherhood is glorified in history, literature, mythology and the media. Yet, despite the tenets of equality promised by the Constitution of India, the guardianship law upholds the rights of fathers, not mothers, as the natural guardians of minors. However, these rights are not absolute. This essay analyses the case law over decades, wherein single mothers have used their agency to knock on the courts’ doors to claim their rights based on the principle of ‘the best interests of the minor’, and in the process have compelled the courts to interpret the law in such a way that mothers are appointed as the sole guardians of minor children while the claims of ‘unfit’ fathers are rejected. It also examines the parameters used by the courts to determine which parent is ‘fit’, the courts’ reasoning behind this and how the process has led the courts to acknowledge diverse family forms. This suggests that the state needs to recognise the rights of single mothers as equal citizens and do away with the outdated concept of heterosexual families and the binary of legitimate versus illegitimate child. The law needs to conceive reform alongside changing socio-legal and technological advancements.
Managing the risk of program failure: Propositional Evaluation as a tool for risk management
Authors: Hawkins Andrew J , Bayley Scott
Published: August 2024

Public policy and programs fail for a range of reasons, some preventable and some much harder to treat. Program administrators require methods for managing risk. This article argues that evaluation can be a useful tool for identifying and managing risk. It offers Propositional Evaluation as a cost-effective, risk-based approach to the evaluation of any policy, program, initiative, or simply, plan of action for the public good. Propositional Evaluation treats programs as propositions for action and focuses on developing sound, that is, valid and well-grounded propositions. It begins in the design phase and continues through delivery to provide a means for identifying and managing risks to achieving intended outcomes. This article situates Propositional Evaluation approach in the evaluation theory literature. It reflects on common causes of program failure and identifies those evaluators may help program administrators identify and mitigate. It provides a description of five critical and five residual risks that derive from the propositional approach. Evaluating these risks provides a structure for evaluation and adaptive management. The intended audience is program administrators, and evaluators working to support them who require prospective evaluation and adaptive management or rapid and cost-effective evaluation for program design and re-design.
Is Adult Education Related to Community Development? An Exploratory Study in Ghana
Authors: Biney Isaac Kofi
Published: August 2024

This paper draws on Freire’s social philosophy arguing that adult education (AE) relates to community development (CD). The provision of AE opportunities serves as bait for community members (CMs) to participate in CD projects. This exploratory study undertaken in Ghana, interviewed 9 PhD students on how AE relates to CD, and how adult educators revive waning self-help spirit for CD projects, and networking to sustain communities. Data was analyzed using thematic, narrative and interpretivist approaches. The results revealed that AE create awareness in CMs to participate in self-help CD projects; yet, more inclusive and transformational dialogue and education among CMs are broadly required. The study recommends that adult educators’ leverage group learning and networking in CD projects to improve communities in Ghana.
Validity and Reliability of the Chinese Version of Digital Hoarding Scale
Authors: Mu Wenlong , Cui Shiyang , Deng FengFeng , Liu Tianyuan
Published: August 2024

Objectives: To facilitate research on digital hoarding in China, this study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Digital Hoarding Scale (DHS). Methods: A total of 618 participants were recruited through an online survey. The factorial structure, measurement invariance (MI), reliability, and validity of the DHS were tested. Results: The Chinese version of DHS was best represented by a bifactor exploratory structural equation modeling representation, which contains one general factor and three specific factors. The MI of the DHS was established across gender and age groups. Reliabilities of the specific and general factors were demonstrated by high values of omega coefficients. Moreover, the criterion validity was supported by the positive associations between DHS and physical hoarding disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and anxiety. Conclusions: The DHS is a reliable tool for future studies investigating digital hoarding in Chinese.
“A Retrospective Evaluation of the Impact of Prenatal Diagnosis of Facial Clefts. Does Prenatal Diagnosis Matter?”
Authors: Valenti Alyssa , Fan Weijia , Asadourian Paul , Modi Vikash , Imahiyerobo Thomas A.
Published: August 2024

Background

With the advent of improved prenatal detection, some patients with facial clefting are diagnosed prenatally while others are diagnosed postnatally. There is limited data regarding the utility of prenatal diagnosis and how this affects care of patients with facial clefts.

Methods and Materials

A retrospective chart review was performed. Children with incomplete demographic data and those with syndromic conditions were excluded. The data were analyzed via Fisher's exact tests and Kruskal-Wallis tests (p < 0.05).

Results

106 patients met inclusion criteria. Facial clefting was diagnosed prenatally at different frequencies depending on type of facial cleft- patients with cleft palate alone were less likely to be identified prenatally (p < 0.0001). Patients diagnosed prenatally were seen by craniofacial specialists at an earlier age compared to those diagnosed after birth (0.27 months vs 0.7 months, p < 0.001). Similarly, those with prenatal diagnosis underwent surgery at a younger age compared to those who were diagnosed postnatally (median: 3.6 months vs 10.67 months, p < 0.001) and experienced shorter lag time (median: 3.4 months vs 8.4 months, p = 0.027) from consultation to surgery. Importantly, prenatal diagnosis resulted in pre-surgical therapy more often than in children diagnosed postnatally (86% vs 22.2%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our data suggests that patients with prenatal diagnosis of facial clefts were more likely to undergo pre-surgical therapy, presented to a craniofacial specialist at an earlier age, underwent surgery at an earlier age, and experienced less lag time between initial visit and surgery. More study is warranted to improve protocols for prenatal diagnoses to improve surgical outcomes.
Prostate Type Malignancies Arising in Ovarian Teratomas – A Report of Two Patients
Authors: Indulkar Shreeya , Matoso Andres
Published: August 2024

The identification of benign prostatic tissue within ovarian and testicular mature teratomas is an unusual occurrence. While a few documented reports exist in the literature regarding the emergence of benign prostatic tissue within teratomas, the occurrence of prostatic-type adenocarcinoma in a mature ovarian teratoma is an exceptionally rare phenomenon. To date, only two prior reports have documented such instances, and no tumors have been previously reported with prostate-type tissue with morphologically two different malignancies. We outline our experience with two tumors involving prostatic-type carcinoma, both arising in ovarian mature teratomas. Microscopic examination of the first tumor revealed small areas of infiltrative atypical glandular proliferation within the mature teratoma. In the second tumor, prostate-type tissue exhibited a low-grade basal cell carcinoma. Additionally, adjacent minute foci of adenocarcinoma of the prostate (Gleason score 3 + 4 = 7, <5% pattern 4) were identified. Goblet cell adenocarcinoma of appendiceal type was also evident in the latter tumor. In both tumors, immunostains (NKX3.1, PSA) were performed to establish the prostatic origin of these atypical glands and PIN4 was performed to document the absence of basal cell in the atypical glands. On clinical follow-up, both patients have no signs of recurrence at 14 and 11 months after the surgery. Further reports on such neoplasms would contribute to a better understanding of the prognosis and management of such occurrences.
Mechanical Ankle Joint Axis Point on a Hip-to-Calcaneus Long Leg View Correlates Significantly With SPECT/CT Activation in Symptomatic Asymmetric Ankle Osteoarthritis
Authors: Spierenburg Willemijn , de Vries Astrid , van der Wel Hylke , Kraeima Joep , Dal Muhammed , van Raaij Tom
Published: August 2024

Background:

Asymmetric joint load is the main cause of development of ankle osteoarthritis (OA). Realignment surgery aims to transfer ankle joint load from the degenerative area toward the uninvolved area. Determination of the optimal shift is still challenging. When the degenerative area is correlated to the ankle joint mechanical axis establishing an optimal target angle for corrective surgery may become more feasible. The primary aim of our study was to investigate if the area of ankle joint activation on single-photon emission computed tomography and conventional computed tomography (SPECT/CT) imaging correlates with the mechanical ankle joint axis point (MAJAP).

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, patients 18 years or older with symptomatic asymmetric ankle OA and a hip-to-calcaneus long leg view with SPECT/CT of the affected ankle were eligible for inclusion. Primary outcome was MAJAP divided into 3 alignment categories (medial shift, neutral, lateral shift). SPECT/CT activation was determined in 8 different areas of the ankle joint. A Spearman rho correlation coefficient was calculated to investigate the relationship between the alignment categories and SPECT/CT activation in the 8 areas.

Results:

Forty-nine patients (mean age 58.8 [SD 10.0] years) with 52 ankles with moderate to severe asymmetric OA were included. A significantly (Spearman rho −0.379 [ P = .006] and Spearman rho −0.279 [ P = .045]) higher proportion of ankles with radioisotope uptake in the anteromedial ankle joint areas (zones 1 and 5) was seen in the medial shift category. A significantly (Spearman rho .312 ( P = .025)) higher proportion of ankles with radioisotope uptake in the anterolateral ankle joint area (zone 8) was seen in the lateral shift category.

Conclusion:

We found in this patient group that the area of SPECT/CT uptake in asymmetric ankle OA was associated to MAJAP measured on hip-to-calcaneus weightbearing views, although the strength of the correlation is weak to moderate. Consequently, nonweightbearing metabolic SPECT/CT radiotracer uptake has the potential to help determine the area to unload in ankle joint-preserving alignment surgery.
Endoscopic Calcaneoplasty in Haglund Disease: Surgical Technique, Clinical and Subjective Outcomes
Authors: Cardone Guillermo , Bilbao Facundo , Verbner Jonathan M. , Cafruni Virginia M. , Carrasco Marina N.
Published: August 2024

Background:

During the last decade, arthroscopic procedures have been replacing open techniques in Haglund disease treatment because of their considerable advantages. Endoscopic calcaneoplasty is a technique that allows resection of posterosuperior calcaneal exostosis and retrocalcaneal bursitis. The objective of this article was to describe this technique and report its clinical and subjective outcome.

Methods:

A retrospective study was performed of consecutive patients undergoing endoscopic Haglund resection surgery between July 2014 and March 2020 at a single academic institution. All patients were surveyed in person about the level of pain (visual analog scale), its location (central, lateral, medial or diffuse), its relation with rest, or physical activity. Clinical evaluation was assessed using the hindfoot scale designed by the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS).

Results:

In this study, 14 endoscopic calcaneoplasties were performed in 14 patients, with an average follow-up of 40 months. The visual analog scale score improved from a preoperative average value of 9.07 to 1.8 after surgery ( P > .0001). The AOFAS scale rose from 38.7 before surgery to 94.6 postoperative ( P > .0001). Good subjective results were observed in 12 patients (85.7%), and all of them would have surgery again. There were no wound complications or infections. No patient required reoperation.

Conclusion:

In this relatively small cohort, we found that endoscopic calcaneoplasty was associated with good clinical and subjective results with few complications.
Characteristics of myelinated retinal nerve fibres in associated straatsma syndrome
Authors: Choudhary Ayushi , Kathare Rupal , Gandhi Priyanka , Yadav Naresh Kumar , Prabhu Vishma , Bavaskar Snehal , Chhablani Jay , Venkatesh Ramesh
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To study cases diagnosed of myelinated retinal nerve fibres (MRNF) continuous with the optic disc and describe the plausible pathogenic mechanism for the ocular features in Straatsma syndrome

Methods

This retrospective observational study includes clinically diagnosed MRNF cases. MRNF, myopia, and amblyopia defined Straatsma syndrome. MRNF were classified into three types based on location: type 1 in the superior retina, type 2 in the superior and inferior retina, and type 3 in the inferior retina. MRNF size was measured on Optomap® (Optos, Daytona, UK) images and posterior staphyloma location was noted. Demographics and best-corrected refractive error in logMAR units was recorded. Descriptive statistics and Spearman's corelation test were used to analyse MRNF size's relationship to refractive error and logMAR visual acuity.

Results

The study included a total of 19 MRNF eyes from 18 patients. Seventeen (89%) eyes had Straatsma syndrome. Median age was 23.50 [range: 4–75] years. One (6%) patient exhibited bilateral presentation. The median logMAR visual acuity was 0.4 log units (interquartile range: 0.18–1.20) and mean refractive error was −7.21 ± 5.32. Type 2 MRNF ( n = 14,74%) was the commonest. Average MRNF size was 34.37 ± 40.73 sq.mm. Posterior staphyloma was noted in 17 eyes, all in close MRNF association. Significant positive corelation was noted between logMAR visual acuity and MRNF size ( r = 0.5, p = 0.028).

Conclusion

Large size MRNF corelated with poor visual acuity in the study. The paper explains the possible pathogenetic mechanisms for the ocular findings seen in MRNF.
The Medical Complexity of Newly Admitted Long-Term Care Residents Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta: A Serial Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Al-Sharkawi Razan , Turcotte Luke A , Hirdes John P , Heckman George , McArthur Caitlin
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic had profound effects on the long-term care (LTC) setting worldwide, including changes in admission practices. We aimed to describe the characteristics and medical complexity of newly admitted LTC residents before (March 1, 2019 to February 29, 2020) and during (March 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021) the COVID-19 pandemic via a population-based serial cross-sectional study in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia, Canada. With data from the Minimum Data Set 2.0 we characterize the medical complexity of newly admitted LTC residents via the Geriatric 5Ms framework (mind, mobility, medication, multicomplexity, matters most) through descriptive statistics (counts, percentages), stratified by pandemic wave, month, and province. We included 45 756 residents admitted in the year prior to and 35 744 during the first year of the pandemic. We found an increased proportion of residents with depression, requiring extensive assistance with activities of daily living, hip fractures, antipsychotic use, expected to live <6 months, with pneumonia, low social engagement, and admitted from acute care. Our study confirms an increase in medical complexity of residents admitted to LTC during the pandemic and can be used to plan services and interventions and as a baseline for continued monitoring in changes in population characteristics over time.
Assessing acoustic performance of building material: A finite element model for 3D printed multilayer micro-perforated panels with compressed earth blocks
Authors: Bainamndi Joseph Daliwa , Siryabe Emmanuel , Ntamack Guy-Edgar , Yamigno Serge Doka , Maréchal Pierre
Published: August 2024

This study deals with 3D printing multilayered micro-perforated panels (M-MPPs) coupled with buildings materials as compressed earth block for noise reduction applications. The sound absorption coefficient α is utilized as a metric to assess the sound insulation capabilities across a frequency range spanning from 10 to 3000 Hz, then evaluated and validated by numerical and experimental methods. The FEM model developed makes it possible to predict the acoustic absorption of M-MPPs by tuning the frequency range and varying optimized acoustics parameters, considering hole-hole interaction and taking into account visco-thermal effects that are present in compressed earth blocks. It is shown that the shape of perforations and material properties including the porosity rate, arrangement in the design of multilayer micro-perforated structures are identified to play a significant role in the sound performance of the entire structure. In addition, the application of MPP coupled with compressed earth blocks improve the sound absorption capacity of the composite structure. The developed FEM leads to accurate prediction of performance, efficient optimization, and cost effectiveness. Finally, the present study reveals the importance of M-MPPs combined with compressed earth blocks (CEBs) as viable noise reduction materials, particularly relevant for engineering applications and development initiatives in emerging economies.
A walking aid selection, training, and education program (ADSTEP) to prevent falls in multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Cameron Michelle H , Hildebrand Andrea , Hugos Cinda , Wooliscroft Lindsey
Published: August 2024

Background:

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) fall frequently. Poor walking aid selection, fit, and use contribute to falls in those who use walking aids.

Objectives:

To determine if the Assistive Device Selection, Training, and Education Program (ADSTEP), with six weekly one-on-one virtual sessions with a physical therapist prevents falls and improves other outcomes in people with MS who use walking aids but still fall.

Methods:

A total of 78 people were randomized to ADSTEP or control. Participants recorded falls daily through 6 months post-intervention. Other outcomes were assessed at baseline, intervention completion, and 6 months later. Outcomes were compared between groups.

Results:

The ADSTEP group’s mean fall rate (falls/person/month) decreased from baseline to intervention completion (ADSTEP = −0.75, control = +0.90, p < 0.001) and to 6 months later (ADSTEP = −1.02, control = +0.03, p = 0.017) compared to controls. At 6 months, the ADSTEP group had improved physical activity (days/week walking ⩾ 10 minutes at a time: ADSTEP = +0.69, control = −0.58, p = 0.007; minutes/day sitting: ADSTEP = −57, control = +56, p = 0.009) and walking aid fit (proportion with good fit: ADSTEP = +25%, control = −13%, p = 0.018) compared to controls.

Conclusions:

ADSTEP likely reduces falls, increases physical activity, and improves walking aid fit in people with MS who use walking aids and fell in the past year.
Neighborhood disadvantage, race, and clinical outcomes in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Abbatemarco JR , Aboseif A , Swetlik C , Widmar J , Harvey T , Kunchok A , O’Mahony J , Miller DM , Conway DS
Published: August 2024

Background:

Little is known about the relationship between neighborhood disadvantage and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) outcomes.

Objective:

The objective is to determine the impact of neighborhood disadvantage on time from symptom onset to diagnosis and annualized relapse rate (ARR).

Methods:

Neighborhood disadvantage were captured with the Area Deprivation Index (ADI), a validated measure of neighborhood-level disadvantage. Negative binomial regression models assessed the impact of ADI on diagnostic delay (⩾3 months between symptom onset and diagnosis) and ARR.

Results:

A total of 158 NMOSD patients were identified, a majority of whom were White (56.3%) and female (89.9%) with a mean age of 46 years at diagnosis. The ADI did not significantly affect odds of diagnostic delay (odds ratio (OR) = 0.99, p = 0.26). In univariable models, the ADI was not significantly associated with ARR (OR = 1.004, p = 0.29), but non-White race (OR = 1.541, p = 0.02) and time on immunosuppressive therapies (ISTs; OR = 0.994, p = 0.03) were. White patients used IST for an average of 81% of the follow-up period, compared to an average of 65% for non-White patients ( p < 0.01).

Conclusion:

No significant relationship between neighborhood-level disadvantage and diagnostic delay or ARR in NMOSD patients was observed. Non-White patients had a higher ARR, which may be related to less IST use.
Tourists’ ethically responsible participation in animal-based tourism: A configurational impact assessment
Authors: Chi Xiaoting , Kim Seongseop (Sam) , Chiriko Amare Yaekob , Han Heesup , Cheng Xin , Meng Bo , Kim Jinkyung Jenny
Published: August 2024

Ethical concerns about animal-based tourism are raising ongoing attention from the international community, and investigation of tourists’ ethically responsible behaviors in animal eco-tourism is limited. This study investigated the formation of ethically responsible behaviors by integrating constituents from the value-belief-norm (VBN) theory, the norm-activation model (NAM), and the theory of planned behavior (TPB), including biospheric value, altruistic value, ethical beliefs, awareness of ethical issues, ascribed responsibility, personal norm, attitude, social norm, and behavioral intentions with regard to animal-based tourism. The cultural involvement of Confucian harmony and media coverage were found to positively influence awareness of ethical issues. The proposed research framework was further optimized by identifying a moderator, described as perceptions of animal protection. Methodologically, along with structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis, this study also used fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to evaluate asymmetric configurations (causal recipes) and necessary conditions for predicting different levels of behavioral intentions in animal-based tourism.
Leveraging gamification for tourism marketing activities: Toward a comprehensive conceptual model
Authors: Malik Garima , Sharma Piyush , Pradhan Debasis
Published: August 2024

Gamification has become one of the most effective ways to generate customer engagement. However, there needs to be more structured research on the drivers of the adoption and sustained use of gamification in travel and tourism research. Drawing upon the uses and gratifications theory and the technology acceptance model, this research examines the individual motivational drivers for adopting gamification in the context of tourism services. We employed a combination of partial least squares—structural equation modeling and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis on the data gathered from 680 users of various online travel agencies. Our findings show that individual motivational dimensions of uses and gratifications significantly influence perceived usefulness and ease of use in gamified marketing activities. Our analysis demonstrates five configurations leading to a high level of adoption of gamified marketing activities. This study extends the use of gamification in the tourism industry, offering insights into enhancing customer motivations for adopting and effectively utilizing game mechanics and dynamics in marketing activities. Furthermore, through a novel framework, this study advances the uses and gratification theory at the intersection of gamification research and tourism literature.
Value of a quality label and European healthcare professionals’ willingness to recommend health apps: An experimental vignette study
Authors: Biliunaite Ieva , van Gestel Laurens , Hoogendoorn Petra , Adriaanse Marieke
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to evaluate healthcare professionals’ (HCPs’) willingness to recommend health apps presented with versus without the CEN-ISO/TS 82304-2 health app quality label. The study was an experimental vignette study describing 12 short hypothetical scenarios, with Label (absent vs present) as a between and Type of App (prevention vs self-monitoring vs healthcare) and Patient Socioeconomic Status (low vs high) as within-subjects factors. The main outcome measure was HCPs’ willingness to recommend apps. A total of 116 HCPs took part in the study. A significant main effect of the label was found. Further, HCPs were most willing to recommend self-management apps and more willing to recommend apps to high as opposed to low SES patients. However, the effect of the label did not differ between apps or according to patients’ SES. Results confirm that the quality label has potential for increasing willingness to changing HCPs’ recommendation behavior.
Products of time: Matchboxes as scientific containers and the social lives of archaeological ephemera
Authors: Williams Charlotte M
Published: August 2024

Archaeological work leaves material histories, from archival notes to containers that used to store artifacts. Rarely, however, are these containers preserved or valued as technologies that codified and organized archaeological information. This paper analyzes a collection of matchboxes that were formerly used as artifact containers in a 1940s excavation in Coahuila, Mexico. The matchboxes, never formally accessioned and yet still saved by collections staff, are housed In the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) Museum Support Center. By tracing the labor regimes the matchboxes passed through, the specimens they once contained, and the hands that used them in a multitude of ways, this project uses the matchboxes’ microhistories to reveal how archaeological containers influenced archaeological science. This research argues for a treatment of the matchboxes as artifacts themselves, worthy of formal accession and of value for their role in the history of archaeological science.
Growing up bilingual through a pandemic: Children’s language exposure, proficiency, social identities, and competences pre- and post-lockdowns
Authors: Husain Layal , Lam Virginia , Pinder Martin
Published: August 2024

Aims and objectives:

There were already calls for more longitudinal research on younger bilinguals before the COVID-19 pandemic, which added another layer of complexity to their development. This study followed the language and social-developmental outcomes of primary-school pupils before and after the pandemic lockdowns, specifically examining changes in language exposure and proficiency and social identities and competences.

Design and methodology:

Eighty-eight mostly British-born English-dominant pupils (initial ages 4–9), including a subset ( N = 19) who attended heritage language (HL) complementary schools (CS), were assessed in 2019 (Time1), and reassessed in 2021 (Time2) after a 2020 time point was interrupted by school closures.

Data and analysis:

Individual interviews, at each time point, used measures for perceived language proficiency and exposure, ethnic/heritage and British/national identities, social competences and family affluence (FA), for exploring changes over the pandemic. At Time2, measures on pandemic-period learning engagement were included to explore their possible effects.

Findings and conclusions:

Controlling for age and FA, children reported lower social competences at Time2 compared with Time1. At both time points, CS-attendees reported higher HL proficiency than did non-attendees, who reported a larger Time1–Time2 decline in HL exposure. Pandemic-period HL learning hours were associated with change in cognitive competence. Hierarchical regression models showed that Time1–Time2 change in heritage identification was individually explained by change in HL proficiency, and change in British identification by change in English proficiency, which also contributed to changes across all social competences.

Originality:

There has been little systematic research on how the pandemic impacted HL, with most studies focusing on English skills or family language practice. This research indicates the longitudinal trajectories of bilingual children’s social development over a period of unprecedented education and homelife disruptions.

Significance and implications:

While the pandemic variables did not directly contribute to outcomes, findings implicate challenges in maintaining HL exposure, which supports proficiency and identity formation. Recommendations for school-based practice with educators and communities are discussed.
An investigation into the buckling behaviour of hybrid fibre reinforced polymer-timber thin-walled C-section columns
Authors: Wen Ye , Fernando Dilum , Gilbert Benoit P , Bailleres Henri , Hu Rongrong , Bisby Luke , Roy Dipa
Published: August 2024

Hybrid fibre reinforced polymer (FRP)-timber (HFT) thin-walled structural members are a novel technology developed recently as a sustainable alternative to thin-walled steel and aluminium structures. HFT structures are made by forming thin timber veneers and FRP laminates into efficient cross-sectional geometries. While existing studies have demonstrated the potential of HFT thin-walled members to be used as structural elements, a systematic study to investigate the behaviour of HFT thin-walled structures is yet to be carried out. This paper presents a study aimed at investigating the behaviour of HFT C-section columns under concentric axial loading. In total five HFT C-section specimens each from 700 mm to 2000 mm lengths were fabricated and tested. It was found that shorter HFT C-section columns failed due to local buckling while increase in length changed the failure mode to global buckling. Effect of GF orientation and density on load carrying capacity of the HFT C-section columns was investigated numerically. It was found that it’s necessary to provide adequate GF volume in transverse to axis direction, but further increase in GF volume in transverse direction did not significantly increase the load carrying capacity. Increase in GF density in parallel to axis direction increased the load carrying capacity.
Improving uptake of population health management through scalable analysis of linked electronic health data
Authors: Varady Andras B , Wood Richard M
Published: August 2024

Population Health Management – often abbreviated to PHM – is a relatively new approach for healthcare planning, requiring the application of analytical techniques to linked patient level data. Despite expectations for greater uptake of PHM, there is a deficit of available solutions to help health services embed it into routine use. This paper concerns the development, application and use of an interactive tool which can be linked to a healthcare system’s data warehouse and employed to readily perform key PHM tasks such as population segmentation, risk stratification, and deriving various performance metrics and descriptive summaries. Developed through open-source code in a large healthcare system in South West England, and used by others around the country, this paper demonstrates the importance of a scalable, purpose-built solution for improving the uptake of PHM in health services.
Investigation of open air and under water laser surface texturing on surface roughness and wettability of Al-Mg alloy
Authors: Kaushik Prashant , Prakash Shashi
Published: August 2024

Aluminum-Magnesium (Al-Mg) alloy is widely used in aerospace and marine related applications due to its high corrosion resistance, tensile strength and ductility properties. However, due to hydrophilic nature, its applications are restricted in areas where water absorption may cause problems like corrosion. In this research work, high speed laser texturing was carried out on Al-Mg alloy (AA5754) to improve hydrophobic properties of the material surface. Four different types of pattern, namely lines, grids, concentric circles and concentric rectangles were created on the material surface using a nanosecond fiber laser. Scanning speed was varied at two levels i.e., 500 mm/s and 1000 mm/s. Line density of texture designs was also varied at two levels of 10 lines per mm and 15 lines per mm. The texturing process was carried out in two different processing environment namely open air and in underwater condition. Distilled water with 1 mm thickness above the surface was used during underwater texturing condition. Surface morphology, surface roughness and wettability of all the surfaces were studied for all the experimental conditions. It was observed that lower scanning speed of 500 mm/s resulted in higher values of surface roughness and contact angles. Also, larger texture density leads to lower surface roughness and contact angles for all the pattern designs. Among all the studied texture patterns, grid structures, textured at 500 mm/s of scanning speed resulted in largest surface roughness and surface hydrophobicity.
Investigation on the lean-combustion characteristics of non-uniform orifice pre-chamber spark plug in low engine speed working conditions compared with high energy spark ignition
Authors: Tang Yuanzhi , Lou Diming , Fang Liang , Wu Xijiang , Wang Zhiyu , Zhang Yunhua
Published: August 2024

For a long time, pre-chamber jet ignition has been an effective method to achieve stable lean-combustion of the engine. However, due to the lack of an additional fuel injector, the passive pre-chamber easily leads to unstable combustion and even misfires during the engine’s low-speed working conditions. This study used simulation and optical single-cylinder engine visualization experiments to investigate the ignition and combustion performance of the pre-chamber spark plug (PCSP) ignition system and different orientations of the scavenging jet nozzle in the cylinder. The results indicate that the PCSP at low speed (1200 r/min) can improve the lean-combustion load performance by up to 6.7% compared with traditional high-energy spark ignition but cannot significantly improve the lean combustion limit and stability. In addition, under each λ condition, the scavenging jet nozzle face toward one of the intake valves (IV2) is most advantageous. The effect of lean combustion on reducing NO began to manifest after λ > 1.3 and achieved the best at 1.6. This kind of jet ignition pre-chamber provides a more stable ignition solution than high-energy spark ignition for low speed and medium/low load aspects.
Two-layer visual analytics of truckers’ risk-coping social network
Authors: Huang Qi , Huang Mao Lin , Li Yi-Na
Published: August 2024

Within organizations, managers’ specific responsibilities and domain expertise shape their interests in the output of social network analysis. Our proposed visualization approach is tailored to meet the operation-directed needs and preferences for visual analysis of specific tasks. This method prioritizes an overall geographical map with focal-contextual dynamics within the network. To enable a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of pinpointed focal areas, we customize an analytical framework for analyzing inter-community networks. We extract focal sub-networks from specific nodes to create graph visualization for detailed analysis, represent rich types of domain-specific graphic properties, and provide direct zoom+filtering interactions to allow easy pattern recognition and knowledge discovery. We applied our approach to visualizing the data from interactions among 300 city-based truck communities on the largest occupational platform for truckers in China. We also conduct a case study to demonstrate that our approach is effective in supporting managers’ network analysis and knowledge discovery.
Identification of spectral distributions in light-dosimetry data: Methodology and application to an intervention field study
Authors: Hartmeyer SL , Baldursdottir B , Valdimarsdottir HB , Agustsson G , Gudjonsson I , Andersen M
Published: August 2024

Modern life in predominantly indoor environments has led to a profound alteration in the amount, spectral distribution and pattern of light humans are exposed to daily. Given the role of light in health and well-being, and to understand how modern living can be better aligned with human biology, light-dosimetry plays an important role in characterising personal light exposure across individuals. To consider the spectral distribution in light-dosimetry and evaluate the variability and effects of individual ‘spectral diets’, a sufficient spectral resolution is required. In this paper, we present selected analyses of spectrally resolved light-dosimetry data that were collected during a dynamic lighting intervention study in Iceland. Unsupervised clustering was performed to process the collected data, and clusters were classified using various reference spectra. The results not only show that different spectral types can be sufficiently well discriminated, but they can also be used to verify the experimental conditions effectively experienced by participants and to start evaluating the effect of other factors (e.g. daylength, or impact of time outside experimental conditions). Taken together, our findings highlight the benefits and potential uses of spectrally resolved light-dosimetry, which will hopefully contribute to, first, better understand and, ultimately, improve our contemporary relationship with light.
When Should Patients With Less Than 6 Months Sobriety Be Transplanted?
Authors: Keller Nicky , Lewis Allison , Zogran Carol , Bullock Sheila , Flattery Maureen
Published: August 2024

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and alcohol-induced deaths have increased dramatically over the last 2 decades. Patients are often referred to liver transplant programs critically ill with a life expectancy of less than 6 months. Historically, less than 6 months sobriety has been an absolute contraindication for transplant listing as ALD is stigmatized as a choice, as patients are responsible for their condition because they did not stop drinking. It has been recommended that 6 months of sobriety should not be considered the determining factor for access to transplantation. However, changing years of clinical practice involves developing new protocols, finding available resources, reworking systems, transforming team, and institutional culture. Steps taken by a large, urban, academic liver transplant program to develop a program for patients with end stage ALD with less than 6 months of sobriety are outlined.
Patient Perspectives on the Use of Aging Metrics for Kidney Transplant Decision-Making
Authors: Nalatwad Akanksha , Quint Evelien E. , Fazal Maria , Thompson Valerie , Chen Xiaomeng , Shrestha Prakriti , Van Pilsum Rasmussen Sarah E. , Li Yiting , Segev Dorry L. , Humbyrd Casey Jo , McAdams-DeMarco Mara
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Frailty and cognitive function are often measured during kidney transplant evaluation. However, patient perspectives on the ethical considerations of this practice are unclear.

Research Question

What are patient perspectives on the use of aging metrics in kidney transplant decision-making?

Design

One hundred participants who were evaluated for kidney transplantation and were enrolled in an ongoing prospective cohort study (response rate = 61.3%) were surveyed. Participants were informed of the definitions of frailty and cognitive impairment and then asked survey questions regarding the use of these measures of aging to determine kidney transplant candidacy.

Results

Participants (75.6%) thought it was unfair to prevent older adults from receiving a kidney transplant based on age, but there was less agreement on whether it was fair to deny frail (46.5%) and cognitively impaired (45.9%) patients from accessing kidney transplantation. Compared to older participants, younger participants had 5.36-times (95%CI:1.94-14.81) the odds of choosing a hypothetical younger, frail patient to list for kidney transplantation than an older, non-frail patient; they also had 3.56-times (95%CI:1.33-9.56) the odds of choosing the hypothetical frail patient with social support rather than a non-frail patient without social support. Participants disagreed on the use of patient age as a listing criterion; 19.5% ranked it as the fairest and 28.7% as the least fair.

Conclusion

The patient views highlighted in this study are an important step toward developing ethical guidelines to ensure fair use of frailty, cognitive function, and chronological age for kidney transplant decision-making.
Two-Step Conservative Surgery for Complicated Forms of Diabetes-Related Foot Osteomyelitis
Authors: Víquez-Molina Gerardo , Rojas-Bonilla José María , Aragón-Sánchez Javier
Published: August 2024

Diabetes-related foot osteomyelitis (DFO) is a common yet complex condition, often complicated by concurrent soft tissue infections (STIs). This study evaluates the efficacy of a two-step conservative surgical approach, hypothesizing that it offers comparable outcomes to a one-step procedure. Conducted on a cohort of 93 patients with DFO, the study categorized cases into two types: OM1 (osteomyelitis without STI) and OM2 (osteomyelitis with STI). OM2 was further subdivided into OM2a (early diagnosis) and OM2b (late diagnosis), with OM2 patients undergoing initial soft tissue debridement followed by elective bone surgery. The results indicated no significant differences in infection recurrence or amputation rates between the two surgical approaches, with recurrence observed in 20.7% of cases and amputations in 10.8%. The two-step procedure was associated with higher inflammatory responses and greater need for antibiotics and hospital admissions. However, these factors did not translate into increased recurrence or amputation compared to the one-step procedure. The study supports the two-step approach as a safe and effective method for managing complicated DFO cases, providing a viable alternative to immediate amputation or single-stage surgery. Despite some limitations, including regional specificity and potential underdiagnosis in late-diagnosed cases, the findings offer valuable insights for clinical management and suggest further research to refine treatment protocols. The study's strengths include confirmed histopathological diagnoses and consistent follow-up, reinforcing the validity of the two-step surgical approach for complex DFO treatment.
Effectiveness of a nurse-led mHealth approach in preventing obesity in adolescents: an intervention study
Authors: Manzano-Felipe María Ángeles , Cruz-Cobo Celia , Bernal-Jiménez María Ángeles , Santi-Cano María José
Published: August 2024

Background:

Obesity prevention in adolescents is a public health priority given its increasing prevalence and health impact of obesity.

Aim:

To evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention in overweight and obesity using a mHealth app in improving nutritional and sports knowledge, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, physical activity and anthropometric measurements in adolescents.

Methods:

A randomised controlled trial with parallel groups that included 305 adolescents. The app includes the use of effective behavioural strategies to achieve habit change. Primary outcome variables were nutritional and sports knowledge score (GeSNK), adherence to a Mediterranean diet (KidMed) and level of physical activity (PAQ-A).

Results:

The study included 154 participants in the mHealth group and 151 in the control group. The level of nutritional and sports knowledge was significantly higher in the mHealth group, 47 points versus 42 points. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet improved in both groups, 9 points in the mHealth group versus 8 points in the control group. Physical activity was statistically higher in the intervention group, 160 minutes/week versus 120 minutes/week.

Conclusions:

The mHealth intervention showed a significant improvement in the level of nutritional and sports knowledge, adherence to the Mediterranean diet and time spent on physical activity.
Hyperacute ischemic stroke care—Current treatment and future directions
Authors: Campbell Bruce CV
Published: August 2024

A decade on from the first positive thrombectomy trials, hyperacute therapies for ischemic stroke continue to rapidly advance. Effective treatments remain limited to reperfusion, although several cytoprotective approaches continue to be investigated. Intravenous fibrinolytics are now demonstrated to be beneficial up to 24 h in patients selected using perfusion imaging, but their role in patients with non-disabling symptoms appears very limited. Tenecteplase is superior to alteplase in meta-analysis of the latest trials, and adjuvant thrombolytics are an area of active investigation. Endovascular thrombectomy is beneficial in a wide range of anterior and posterior circulation large vessel occlusions up to 24 h after onset with the more distal occlusions, mild presentations, and >24 h window being the main frontiers to be tested in ongoing trials. Imaging parameters are prognostic but appear not to modify the relative treatment benefit of thrombectomy versus standard medical care. Therefore, deciding who not to treat with thrombectomy is a key clinical challenge that requires careful but rapid integration of clinical, imaging, and patient preference considerations. Systems of care to accelerate delivery of these highly effective therapies will maximize benefits for the greatest number of patients with stroke.
The role of music in supporting young children’s holistic learning and wellbeing in the context of Froebel’s mother songs
Authors: Tang Fengling , Corrado Evelyn Wandia
Published: August 2024

Researchers have criticised the pragmatic focus on the value of music education for its contribution to the acquisition of children’s academic skills such as literacy and numeracy development in schools across the international contexts driven by neoliberalism. In the context of Froebel’s Mother Songs, this paper via documentary research focuses on a Froebelian approach to music education in early childhood context to counterpart the neoliberal pragmatism in educational landscapes. The Froebelian perspective brings in implications for early childhood practice, research and policy-making by addressing the important role of music in supporting young children’s holistic learning and wellbeing in responding to the neoliberal pressures on children and practitioners in the 21stcentury.