bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison between the impact of dynamic envelope control strategies on the buildings’ smart readiness indicator and modelled performance
Authors: Paydar Meysam Akbari , Robertson Craig , Burman Esfandiar , Mumovic Dejan
Published: December 2024

The Smart Readiness Indicator (SRI) was introduced in the revised EPBD (2018) to indicate how suitable a building is for smart operation. This study evaluates how varying functionality levels of dynamic envelope smart services, including movable shading control and window opening/closing control, impact the buildings’ SRI score and building performance. An office building located in London underwent both SRI assessment and performance simulation. Results revealed that changing the functionality levels of dynamic envelope services from the lowest to the highest resulted in only a 4.1% increase in the SRI score. Overall, the findings suggest a lack of significant correlation between the SRI score and the building’s projected performance. The variation in energy performance can be notably more pronounced than the alteration in the SRI score, or the adjustment in the SRI score may not necessarily induce a change in the building’s performance. Therefore, when undertaking the building design process, it is advisable to concurrently consider the SRI alongside the evaluation of building performance as well as the interaction between smart services and building design. This holistic approach is crucial for achieving an optimal design outcome.

Practical application

Significant efforts have been made to develop smart building assessment schemes, which can be highly beneficial in promoting the integration of smart services into buildings, and comparing the smartness levels of different buildings. Typically, these assessment schemes use a qualitative approach, evaluating buildings based on the presence of various smart services and their corresponding control strategies. However, to achieve optimal performance, it is essential to coordinate both building design and smart services by considering the building’s quantitative performance in addition to the qualitative assessment methods. This holistic approach enables a better understanding of the mutual impact between building design and smart services, facilitating well-informed decision-making.
Bearly Recognizable: Facial Recognition and the Wild
Authors: Wanderer Emily
Published: December 2024

While big tech companies are growing more circumspect about the use of facial recognition for humans, interest in nonhuman facial recognition is surging. The identification of animals at the level of the individual, rather than the species, has long been of interest for ecologists and others. Drawing on research with scientists and computer programmers working on computer vision tools for ecology, this paper examines the development of a facial recognition tool for bears, highlighting the contingent social, material, and technical processes involved in new practices of digitally monitoring wildlife. Making animal facial recognition entails the creative repurposing of computer vision tools like object detection systems and reflects the social processes that shape the accumulation of data about animal life (and make biometric identification possible). By bringing together science and technology studies (STS) research on algorithms and artificial intelligence with studies of the environment and wildlife, the article also addresses how machinic processes of identification relate to longstanding debates over what the human relationship with wildlife and wilderness should be. Facial recognition tools promise to individualize bears at scale: these new forms of individuation and identification produce new affective between humans and wild animals that unsettle boundaries and categorizations like wild or domestic.
Readiness for the Next Pandemic: A Nurse Practitioner-Driven COVID-19 Management Model for Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Yoo Jongwon , Patel Sima , Clevy-Schneller Ted , Akkina Sanjeev , Desai Amishi
Published: December 2024

Background:

With the rise of virulent pathogens, the transplant community faces unprecedented challenges in caring for immunocompromised patients. Effective diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up are essential, with prompt immunosuppression adjustment and hospitalization for decompensated patients being critical for survival.

Objective:

Our study aimed to determine if a nurse practitioner-driven care model improves outcomes for kidney transplant recipients who contracted COVID-19.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective study of kidney transplant patients who contracted COVID-19 (N = 101) from April 1, 2020 to April 30, 2021. Patients were classified into 2 groups: those presenting to the emergency department with COVID-19 symptoms and those diagnosed with COVID-19 and followed by nurse practitioners. Nurse practitioners monitored this second group daily via telephone and/or video call. They provided symptom assessment, immunosuppression adjustment, health counseling, and emotional support.

Results:

Patients who were identified as decompensating had admissions arranged to the nearest hospital or our transplant center. In the intervention group (n = 66), immunosuppression was adjusted more rapidly (4.5 days vs 7 days), leading to shorter illness duration (17 days vs 26 days), fewer acute kidney injuries (50.0% vs 68.6%), lower readmission rates (5.0% vs 20%), and better survival (97.0% vs 77.1%).

Conclusion:

As we have more preventive and treatment options for COVID-19, prompt interventions and close monitoring as demonstrated in our model may be key to achieving health outcomes including graft and patient survival. Our strategies can be applicable in instances of future outbreaks of virulent pathogens and help protect and save lives within our kidney transplant patient population.
A precision immuno-oncology turn? Hybridizing cancer genomics and immunotherapy through neoantigens-based adoptive cell therapies
Authors: Chiapperino Luca , Graber Nils , Panese Francesco
Published: December 2024

This article explores the development of T cell-based therapies in Switzerland. These therapies, which elicit the immunological potential of each patient to respond to tumor development, constitute a major promise for so-called ‘precision oncology’. We document how immunological concepts, technologies, and practices are articulated given the centrality of genomics in ‘precision oncology’. We consider ‘precision immunotherapies’ to probe whether and how change ensues in these established sociotechnical regimes of biomedicine. The case of genomics and immunology in oncology offers a unique insight into the conditions of possibility for change in such regimes. How does the present new wave of cancer immunotherapies challenge, integrate, and complement the centrality of genomics in ‘precision oncology’? What are the specific processes that make possible the convergence, competition, or co-existence of distinct conceptions, infrastructures, and programs of innovative cancer medicine? Drawing from observations and interviews with researchers and clinicians, we qualify these sociotechnical processes as hybridizations. Bringing together different sociotechnical regimes of biomedical research is conditional to the articulation of core concepts, technologies, and translational practices of genomics and immunology. Pivotal to this objective are neoantigens, cell surface proteins originating from the somatic genetic mutations of tumors and which activate a patient’s immune response. While neoantigens are an unstable entity in experimentation, they offer a conceptual and material substrate to renegotiate the dominance of cancer genomics, and initiate the production of a new, hybrid regime of ‘immunogenomic precision’ in oncology.
Communicational and demographic influences on M&A abandonments: Informal institutional perspective and evidences from US cross-border M&A deals
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Sengupta Keya , Bhattacharya Mousumi
Published: December 2024

This study analyses the impact of bilateral differences in institutions on M&A abandonments. Cross-border M&As involve firms headquartered in two different countries, and the institutions of both countries impact the negotiations. The study uses an institutional framework focusing upon informal institutions (communicational and demographic) and analyzing their impact on country-level M&A abandonment rates. Counterintuitively, the results reveal a proportional decrease in M&A abandonments for greater communicational distance. Cultural differences and social openness should cause difficulties in communicating during negotiations. The results suggest otherwise, higher cultural and connectedness distances lead to lower abandonment ratio. Acquirers may accept greater autonomy of the target in case of higher communication differences making the negotiations more friendly and acceptable to the target firms. The results remain robust when the analysis is done for inbound M&As. Concerns regarding misuse and theft of innovations contribute to increased M&A inbound abandonments, with countries having weaker knowledge institutions. Demographic institutions affect the strategic decision regarding labor and markets, and larger age demographic distances cause increased abandonments of outbound M&As. Informal institutions play a vital role in M&A outcomes and may have different impacts on pre-completion negotiation and post-completion integration phases. The study draws attention to the role of familiarity between acquirer and target country and the tussle during negotiations. The findings imply that potential issues of conflict may go unnoticed in the presence of large communication distances and may lead to future problems. Communication differences may lead to deal completion of potential bad deals. The study suggests greater involvement of internal negotiators along with advisors during the negotiation period.

JEL Classification: F21, G34, O43
Development of an active-control foot press trainer and comparison of lower limb muscle activity by exercise type and intensity
Authors: Ko Byung-Woo , Bae Young-Hyeon , Yoon BumChul , Yoon Hyun-Soo , Shin Joon-Ho
Published: December 2024

Background

Addressing lower limb disabilities in stroke survivors is crucial for enhancing gait patterns and overall mobility.

Objective

This study aimed to develop an active-control foot press trainer (AFPT) to strengthen lower extremity muscles to improve rehabilitation outcomes.

Methods

This study utilized AFPT to examine the effects of different exercise types (forefoot exercise, FFE; Rearfoot Exercise, RFE) and intensities (30 and 15 repetition maxima) on lower limb muscle activity. Ten healthy women participated in the evaluation of muscle activation during ankle exercises in the standing position.

Results

The FFE primarily activated the Tibialis Anterior (TA), Gastrocnemius Medialis (GM), and Gastrocnemius Lateralis (GL), whereas the RFE engaged the Rectus Femoris (RF). Increased exercise intensity led to higher activity in the GM and GL in the FFE and TA in the RFE, indicating the potential for tailored exercise protocols.

Conclusions

AFPT is a valuable tool for personalized rehabilitation, allowing variable exercise methods and intensities. Further research is needed to assess the efficacy of AFPT in a broader population, including stroke survivors. Moreover, enhancing AFPT technology and developing diverse training programs are crucial as these advancements will significantly support the rehabilitation of individuals requiring lower limb and gait training, including stroke survivors.
Enhancement of structural and dielectric properties of PVC/CNC nanocomposites as electrical insulation materials
Authors: Badi Nurul Shafiqah Amirah , Makmud Mohamad Zul Hilmey , Jamain Zuhair , Mohd Amin Khairatun Najwa , Illias Hazlee Azil
Published: December 2024

This work aims to introduce bio-based nanocomposite as high voltage electrical insulation material by using cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) isolated from filter paper as a filler of polymer matrix, in this case, polyvinyl chloride (PVC). CNC is obtained via acid hydrolysis treatment and incorporated into PVC by using the casting method at different concentrations. The structural and thermal characterization have been investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The dielectric properties as a function of the alternating current (AC) sinusoidal frequency of PVC/CNC were examined by the electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) test method. Breakdown voltage tests according to the ASTM D149 standard were conducted to determine the dielectric strength of nanocomposites. Hence, the results indicate that the addition of CNC by 1 wt% is the best formulation to improve the base polymer structure, in this case PVC, as well as its dielectric insulation properties.
The Experiences of Midwives in the Management of Obstetric Emergencies: A Phenomenological Study in the Kwahu West Municipality, Ghana
Authors: Dartey Anita Fafa , Konlan Kennedy Diema , Johnson Beatrice Bella , Klutsey Ellen Eyi , Ofori John Yesuohene , Dede Wayo Naomi , Sandra Amoah , Charlotte Agbenyo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Obstetric emergencies are sudden, unexpected life-threatening medical conditions that occur during pregnancy, labour, delivery or puerperium and are challenging moments because of frightening and traumatic experiences. Obstetric emergencies, which threaten the well-being of the woman and the unborn child, account for the majority of causes of maternal death.

Objective

The study sought to explore Midwives’ experiences in obstetric emergencies in the Kwahu West Municipality of Ghana

Methods

A phenomenological study design with a qualitative approach was employed to explore the midwives’ experiences in the management of obstetrics. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. The sample size of 13 was reached upon data saturation. A semi-structured interview guide was used to interview midwives who have experienced and managed obstetric emergencies. The obtained data was transcribed and analysed using a thematic analysis approach.

Results

Overall, five themes and 13 subthemes emerged. The emerging themes encompass factors influencing midwives’ experiences in managing obstetric emergencies, Reactions of midwives during obstetric emergencies, Challenges of midwives in managing obstetric emergencies, Healthcare challenging factors, and Client-centred limitations.

Conclusion

It is evident that midwives play a critical role in addressing obstetric emergencies, often being the frontline healthcare providers in such situations. Their experiences shed light on both the challenges they face and the strategies they employ to provide effective care under demanding circumstances. The findings highlight the need for further investment in training and resources for midwives, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare services may be limited.
Recent Trends in Regional Disparity in India: A State-level Club Convergence Study Using Night-time Light Data
Authors: Saha Jeet , Iqubal Zafar
Published: December 2024

It is a consensus in academic discourse that regional disparity in India is not converging. Nonetheless, some studies argue that conclusions regarding regional convergence are sensitive to the measures employed to define regional disparities. In this study, we use night-time light radiance data from 2012 to 2021 to illustrate the converging pattern of regional disparity in India, specifically employing state-level VIIRS night-time light data for this purpose. Our analysis concludes that there is no regional convergence among all sample states in India. However, the club convergence hypothesis is relevant here, as 12 states form two clubs and exhibit convergence properties. In contrast, 13 major states in India show no signs of convergence. Furthermore, we identify three states that are diverging. Thus, based on night-time light data, we conclude that Indian states have not shown a convergence pattern recently, and regional disparity remains a significant issue in the Indian economy. This finding supports the existing literature in the Indian context, where regional convergence is absent among Indian states.

JEL: O40, O47, R11, R12
Multi-disciplinary and multi-objective optimization problem applied to a morphing blade cascade study
Authors: Abate Giada , Riemenschneider Johannes
Published: December 2024

Multi-disciplinary design optimization (MDO) problems incorporate a number of coupled disciplines that need to be simultaneously solved to achieve a complete solution. Such problems are common in turbomachinery blade design, where MDO usually integrates constraints coming from aerodynamics and structural mechanics. In the present work, a multi-disciplinary and multi-objective optimization problem is formulated and applied to a morphing blade cascade study. An aero-structure coupling strategy is also integrated in the framework to take into account the interactions between aerodynamics and structural mechanics. The morphed blade geometry is obtained by means of a shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator that morphs and adapts the blade leading-edge shape to the inflow conditions in order to improve the aerodynamic flow characteristics, and therefore the overall cascade performance. A surrogate-based optimization strategy is applied to find the Pareto points representing the optimal blade configurations in terms of total pressure loss coefficient at design and off-design conditions. Results show a decrease up to 55% in the total pressure loss coefficient at the off-design condition with a Young’s modulus of about 100 GPa and an actuator length between 30 and 45 mm.
Psychometric validation of the Motivation To Use Digital Tools At Work Scale in a sample of state vocational rehabilitation counselors
Authors: Wu Jia Rung , Iwanaga Kanako , Qisti Dewi A , Bezyak Jill , Chan Fong , Tansey Timothy N
Published: December 2024

Background

Digital tools can be important in the state vocational rehabilitation (VR) system. These tools can help rehabilitation counselors improve productivity and customer experience, make it possible for counselors to work from home or across multiple devices, improve communication, help make the VR process more straightforward, and improve work-life balance leading to high level of job satisfaction. However, there are factors that influence rehabilitation counselors’ motivation to use digital tools in their clinical practice, and as a result, there is a need to develop and validate a clinical assessment instrument to assess rehabilitation counselors’ motivation to use digital tools in the workplace.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Motivation to Use Digital Tools at Work Scale in a sample of VR counselors.

Methods

This study included 416 state VR counselors as participants. The sample was randomly split into two samples, with 197 participants used for the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and 219 participants used for the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Zero-order correlations were utilized to examine the relationships between the Motivation to Use Digital Tools at Work Scale constructs and related constructs in the nomological model.

Results

EFA identified a two-factor measurement structure that was confirmed by CFA: Intrinsic motivation and external motivation to use digital tools at work with strong internal consistency reliability for both subscales.

Conclusion

The Motivation to Use Digital Tools at Work Scale is a valid and reliable scale for assessing motivation among VR counselors and confirms the impact of intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation on technology interaction.
Cathepsin L in Lung Adenocarcinoma: Prognostic Significance and Immunotherapy Response Through a Multi Omics Perspective
Authors: Lu Jianming , Liang Jiaqi , Xiao Gang , He Zitao , Yu Guifang , Zhang Le , Cai Chao , Yi Gao , Xie Jianjiang
Published: December 2024

Objectives:

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), a predominant form of lung cancer, is characterized by a high rate of metastasis and recurrence, leading to a poor prognosis for LUAD patients. This study aimed to identify and rigorously validate a highly precise biomarker, Cathepsin L (CTSL), for the prognostic prediction of lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods:

We employed a multicenter and omics-based approach, analyzing RNA sequencing data and mutation information from public databases such as The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). The DepMap portal with Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR/Cas9) technology was used to assess the functional impact of CTSL. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was conducted on a local cohort to validate the prognostic significance of CTSL at the protein expression level.

Results:

Our findings revealed a significant correlation between elevated CTSL expression and advanced disease stage in LUAD patients. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and Cox regression modeling revealed that high CTSL expression is associated with poor overall survival. The in vitro studies corroborated these findings, revealing notable suppression of tumor proliferation following CTSL knockout in cell lines, particularly in LUAD. Functional enrichment revealed that CTSL activated pathways associated with tumor progression, such as angiogenesis and Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) signaling, and inhibited pathways such as apoptosis and DNA repair. Mutation analysis revealed distinct variations in the CTSL expression groups.

Conclusion:

This study highlights the crucial role of CTSL as a prognostic biomarker in LUAD. This combined multicenter and omics-based analysis provides comprehensive insights into the biological role of CTSL, supporting its potential as a target for therapeutic intervention and a marker for prognosis in patients with LUAD.
Economic valuation of sustainable tourism policies: A meta-regression analysis of discrete choice experiments
Authors: Blázquez V Jaime , Diaz-Farina Eugenio , De León Javier L , León Carmelo J
Published: December 2024

The economic valuation of sustainable policies is necessary for undertaking socially optimal decisions that reduce the adverse impacts of tourism across society and the environment. This paper focuses on the economic valuation of sustainable tourism policies based on the evidence found in the literature of discrete choice experiments (DCE). The methodology involves both a systematic critical literature review and a meta-regression analysis of tourists’ preferences and willingness to pay (WTP) for sustainable policy attributes. The findings show that tourists value policies that contribute to sustainability. However, preferences are higher for those features related to nature, the environment, and local communities and lower for those policies concerning sustainable accommodation, infrastructures, and facilities. The results show critical gaps both in terms of the available evidence of sustainable policies and the methodological pitfalls across study results. Based on this assessment, a guiding protocol is proposed for future research.
Modulational instability and associated low-frequency dust-acoustic waves in a degenerate Thomas-Fermi plasma: Envelope solitons and rogue waves
Authors: Wahed Fazal , Rahman Ata-ur , Alyousef Hiafa A , El-Sherif Lamiaa S , El-Tantawy Samir A
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the modulational instability (MI) of low-frequency dust-acoustic waves in a dusty quantum plasma that contains inertial dust particles and inertialess Thomas-Fermi distributed ions and electrons. In this model, the ions and electrons are assumed to be in a degenerate quantum state. By using a reductive perturbation technique, the fluid governing equations are reduced to an evolutionary equation (say, a nonlinear Schrödinger equation that governs this phenomenon). A detailed investigation is carried out on the dispersion relation, group dispersion coefficient, nonlinearity coefficient, and the regions of the MI. Regions of stability and instability are precisely determined based on the MI criteria and the pertinent physical parameters of the model under examination. We also examine some nonlinear modulated phenomena (localized envelope structures), such as dark, bright envelope solitons, rogue waves, and breathers that can propagate in stable and unstable regions.
Home-based end-of-life care for people with dementia: A systematic review of quantitative and qualitative evidence
Authors: Yin Guo , Macaden Leah , Sivaramakrishnan Divya , Wang Yajing , Zhu Lian , Chong Huimin
Published: December 2024

Background: Integrating home-based end-of-life care for people with dementia will become increasingly important as the population ages. Therefore, it is timely and necessary to evaluate the evidence of home-based end-of-life care for people living with dementia. Aim: This review aims to identify the characteristics of home-based end-of-life care interventions for people living with dementia and review the existing evidence on implementation outcomes. Design: Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to assess study quality. Data sources: A comprehensive search was conducted across five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE CINAHL and Scopus) from June to August 2023, and the citations to the included studies were tracked through citation tracking in Google Scholar to identify potentially relevant studies. Results: Of the 2022 articles retrieved, 12 were included in this review. The included studies were geographically diverse, with four from the United States, three from Singapore, two from the United Kingdom, and one each from the Netherlands, Belgium, and Israel. Additionally, due to the difference of focus and nature of the studies, only seven of these studies provided information on home-based end-of-life care interventions for people living with dementia. The interventions identified in this review align closely with the essential components of optimal palliative care for dementia outlined in the European Association for Palliative Care white paper. However, the evidence supporting these home-based end-of-life care interventions for people living with dementia is constrained by the number of studies and methodological limitations. Nevertheless, this systematic review still identifies some evidence supporting home-based end-of-life care for people living with dementia, including reduced healthcare utilization and costs, as well as help people living with dementia realize their wish to die at home. Conclusions: Whilst current evidence highlights benefits of home-based end-of-life care for people living with dementia, the relatively limited number, methodology of studies, the heterogeneity of study focus and outcome measures hinder the formation of definitive conclusions. Therefore, further research is needed to develop and evaluate home end-of-life care services for people living with dementia.
Cost-effectiveness of nivolumab combined with chemotherapy as a first-line therapy for patients with unresectable or metastatic urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Lin Jingwen , Song Xiaobing , Fu Wu , You Caicong , Li Na , Liu Maobai , Cai Hongfu
Published: December 2024

Background:

Urothelial carcinoma is a significant health concern in the United States (US), with high mortality and economic burdens. The CheckMate-901 trial showed promising survival benefits for nivolumab combined with gemcitabine and cisplatin followed by nivolumab maintenance therapy (nivolumab-combination) as first-line treatment of unresectable or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC), but its cost-effectiveness is unclear.

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the nivolumab-combination versus standard chemotherapy (gemcitabine–cisplatin) for advanced UC from the perspective of healthcare payers in the US.

Design:

A model-based pharmacoeconomic evaluation.

Methods:

Based on the CheckMate-901 study, a three-state Markov model (progression-free, progression, and death) was developed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of nivolumab-combination versus gemcitabine–cisplatin as a first-line treatment for unresectable or metastatic UC. The model’s outputs included quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and costs and were used to calculate the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). Costs included drug prices, adverse event management, and healthcare resource utilization from a US healthcare payer’s perspective. State utilities were derived from published literature. One-way sensitivity analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were used to test model robustness. Scenario analyses for drug costs in the UK and Australian health systems were performed.

Results:

Compared with gemcitabine–cisplatin, the nivolumab-combination resulted in an additional 0.416 QALYs at an incremental cost of $90,523, yielding an ICER of $217,527 per QALY. Sensitivity analyses indicated significant impacts from the cost of nivolumab maintenance therapy.

Conclusion:

Compared with gemcitabine–cisplatin, nivolumab-combination therapy is not cost-effective for unresectable or metastatic UC at a $100,000 per QALY threshold. High drug prices in the US significantly impact cost-effectiveness, highlighting the need for price negotiations and healthcare policy adjustments to balance innovation incentives and patient affordability.
Large language models outperform general practitioners in identifying complex cases of childhood anxiety
Authors: Levkovich Inbar , Rabin Eyal , Brann Michal , Elyoseph Zohar
Published: December 2024

Objective

Anxiety is prevalent in childhood but often remains undiagnosed due to its physical manifestations and significant comorbidity. Despite the availability of effective treatments, including medication and psychotherapy, research indicates that physicians struggle to identify childhood anxiety, particularly in complex and challenging cases. This study aims to explore the potential effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI) language models in diagnosing childhood anxiety compared to general practitioners (GPs).

Methods

During February 2024, we evaluated the ability of several large language models (LLMs; ChatGPT-3.5 and ChatGPT-4, Claude.AI, Gemini) to identify cases childhood anxiety disorder, compared with reports of GPs.

Results

AI tools exhibited significantly higher rates of identifying anxiety than GPs. Each AI tool accurately identified anxiety in at least one case: Claude.AI and Gemini identified at least four cases, ChatGPT-3 identified three cases, and ChatGPT-4 identified one or two cases. Additionally, 40% of GPs preferred to manage the cases within their practice, often with the help of a practice nurse, whereas AI tools generally recommended referral to specialized mental or somatic health services.

Conclusion

Preliminary findings indicate that LLMs, specifically Claude.AI and Gemini, exhibit notable diagnostic capabilities in identifying child anxiety, demonstrating a comparative advantage over GPs.
Anti-Feminism and Self-Improvement: Hegemonic Femininity in the Manosphere
Authors: Pieters Sanne , Trottier Daniel
Published: December 2024

The Red Pill adherents believe “feminist doctrines” in society deprive men and women of being their natural selves, disrupting heterosexual relationships in consequence. Research on manosphere groups generally focuses on men’s involvement, but women participate in these movements too. One such form of participation is the RedPillWomen subreddit (“r/RPW” in reddit jargon). Hegemonic femininity remains an understudied component of the manosphere. Using a qualitative critical thematic analysis, 127 texts are analyzed to establish what constitutes hegemonic femininity on the r/RPW according to moderators and how this is enacted and maintained by Subreddit members. It is found that moderator texts use discourses of evolutionary psychology, neoliberalism, and anti-feminism to construct a local postfeminist femininity that is both subordinate to men as well as highly entrepreneurial. Subreddit-member posts showed how this femininity is enacted and maintained, demonstrating the responsibility women feel in transforming both the physical and psychological. Peer-surveillance served to reach consent on group norms, correct those who deviate from these norms, and create boundaries between RedPillWomen and other women. This research demonstrated how postfeminist sensibilities in the manosphere shape the articulation of various local hegemonic femininities that both contrast and parallel each other.
Assessing the Determinants of Bank Interest Rate Spread: Evidence From Western Balkan Countries
Authors: Nuhiu Artor , Aliu Florin , Hoti Arbër
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the effect of macroeconomic and bank-specific factors on the bank interest rate spread (IRS) of six Western Balkan countries (referred to as WB6). We applied the Panel Vector Autoregression (Panel VAR) model to separately analyze the impact of these two sets of factors for 2005 to 2022 using two-panel datasets from 110 banks. The results from the two models show that the IRS is significantly influenced by GDP per capita and the unemployment rate, while other factors, such as bank concentration, performance indicators, and non-performing loans, show limited direct effects. The study identifies a notable gap in the existing literature by emphasizing how macroeconomic and bank-specific variables, particularly in transition economies, can simultaneously affect the IRS. The research highlights the distinctive financial dynamics within the WB6 countries and the relevance of comprehending the region’s banking sector characteristics. It contributes to academic and policy discussions on the significance of financial stability and market competitiveness in determining the bank IRS. The findings can be helpful for banking regulators and policymakers in the Western Balkans seeking to foster an efficient and competitive banking environment.

JEL Classification: C33, E43, G21.
Chinese EFL Students’ Awareness of English Epicene Pronouns: Towards a More Gender-Inclusive Language
Authors: Yang Hengwen , Zhang Xiufeng
Published: December 2024

This paper explores the understanding and application of epicene pronouns in English among Chinese EFL learners. Thirty-three Chinese college students took part in a questionnaire to gauge their perceptions and usage of English epicene pronouns. A content analysis of 10 English grammar textbooks was also undertaken to discover current vernacular norms and their implications for gender-inclusivity. The findings reveal that he or she is the most commonly used epicene pronoun but that there has been an increase in the use of the singular they and a decrease in the use of he as epicene pronouns. Content analysis of books showed that guidelines for epicene pronouns were often provided. These pronouns are predominantly used with indefinite pronouns. Informal writing frequently employed the singular they, while formal writing leaned towards he or she. He was used as an unmarked epicene pronoun, but its usage style varied. These findings hold significant implications for EFL language teaching and learning.
Traditional Classroom Management to Virtual Classroom Management: A Study on Physical Education Teachers’ Competencies
Authors: Işıkgöz Mustafa Enes
Published: December 2024

This study investigated physical education teachers’ competencies in virtual classroom management. The study was designed as a cross-sectional study using quantitative research methods and included 726 physical education teachers working in different secondary and high schools in Turkey. The study data were collected using the “Teachers’ Virtual Classroom Management Competence Scale.” The research found that physical education teachers were still deciding about their competence in managing relationships with students in the virtual classroom. Still, they were competent in the dimensions of virtual classroom activities and virtual classroom management. Further research analyzed the effects of some sociodemographic variables on teachers’ competencies in transitioning from traditional classroom management to virtual classroom management. The analysis showed that gender and work experience had a medium effect, virtual classrooms had a significant impact, and school level had a weak effect on teachers’ virtual classroom competencies. The educational level variable did not significantly impact teachers’ online classroom management competencies. In conclusion, in modern classrooms with a shift from traditional classrooms to online classrooms, physical education teachers are expected to be more effective in their relationships with students in online classrooms.
An Economic Assessment of Electric Two-wheeler and Impact of Policy Instruments in Indian Sub-nationals
Authors: Sunanda B.V. , Parchure Rajas
Published: December 2024

Conventional fuel-based vehicles are one of the major sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Transport sector, therefore, has a huge negative impact on the environment. Electric vehicles (EVs) are perceived as highly promising innovations in environmentally conscious transportation solutions to address pollution and energy demand in the transport sector. The present study focused on carrying out an in-depth economic assessment of EVs across sub-national regions in India. It aims to assess the efficacy of the already implemented policy measures, including subsidies and incentives, while looking at those factors that promote the successful integration of EVs into the various regional frameworks. An analysis of this nature is very important because it will give the practical and financial feasibility of EVs in a country characterised by enormous regional economic disparities. A prime approach of this research is the total cost of ownership method, which fully works out the cost per kilometre for EVs vis-à-vis conventional fuel-based two-wheelers over a 15-year life cycle. The analysis includes initial purchase cost, operating and maintenance (O&M) costs and the cost of battery replacement which are calculated at the present value.

Additionally, the authors incorporate sensitivity analysis to understand the impact of government’s incentive to promote EVs demand. The sensitivity analysis presents that due to differences in fuel prices, tax structure and subsidy rates, there is a high disparity in cost-effectiveness of electric scooter ownership. Notably, cost per kilometre of EVs is less expensive than petrol variants in most of the tested scenarios which entails the lack of subsidies. This analysis can aid policymakers in developing more tailor-made policies that enhance the economic viability of the EV option, considering regional factors and existing fiscal tools.
Canadian Pediatric Oncology Nurses’ Perspectives on Implementation of the Children's Oncology Group KidsCare Customized App
Authors: Zupanec Sue , Hamilton Rachel , Petropolous Alia , Campbell Chantal , Punnett Angela , Riggs Cailey , Rahim Meera , Landier Wendy , Mills Denise
Published: December 2024

Background: Canada represents half of the Children's Oncology Group (COG) sites that have opted to customize content for families within the COG KidsCare app. It was unclear how many sites proceeded with developing and inputting customized content and how well the app and customized content were implemented into practice. This raised concerns that Canadian families were unaware of this new digital resource and did not have equitable access to customized content. This qualitative study aimed to understand nursing site leads’ experiences including perspectives on facilitators and barriers to customization and implementation of the COG's KidsCare app. Method: Semi-structured interviews with clinicians who self-reported expertise in patient and family education local practices were conducted. Transcripts were independently coded by two team members using an iterative hybrid inductive/deductive approach, and analyzed using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), to summarize results. Results: The facilitators and barriers to implementing the COG KidsCare app with customization were categorized by five overarching CFIR-related themes: (a) features of the customized COG KidsCare app, (b) external environment, (c) institutional environment, (d) implementation team, and (e) the process of implementing and customizing the COG KidsCare app. Discussion: Nurses expressed feelings of tension between support and perceived value of the COG KidsCare app with customization, and their ability to successfully create, refine, implement content and disseminate to families. Using our RoadMap of recommended implementation strategies to integrate use of the app into practice may provide opportunity for successful implementation in a variety of contexts.
Cutting Force Modeling Considering Wiper Edge Cutting Effect During Face Milling of 316H Stainless Steel and Experimental Verification
Authors: Li Xiuru , Yang Quanwei , Liu Yu , Wei Zhaocheng , Guo Jiang , Wang Minjie , Liu Shengxian
Published: December 2024

Wiper tools are revered for their capacity to simultaneously achieve high-quality and high-efficient machining. Nonetheless, the cutting mechanism of wiper tools remains unclear, and the cutting force prediction model of wiper tools has not been reported, leading to severe wear of the bottom wiper edge and unstable cutting in machining processes. In this study, the cutting mechanism of wiper tools is systematically analyzed, and the mechanistic cutting force model considering the wiper edge cutting effect was established. The cutting force coefficients were calibrated by the cutting force separation method, which can quickly calibrate the cutting force coefficients for the flank cutting region dominated by the shear effect, the bottom cutting region dominated by the shear effect, and the bottom wiper region dominated by plough effect. Compared with measured cutting forces, the maximum average absolute errors in the predicted forces are 9.2 %, 7.6 %, and 9.3 % in the x, y, and z directions, respectively. Furthermore, the feed rate and the length of the wiper edge were primary determinants of the bottom-edge cutting forces. This study provides theoretical guidance and technical support for the wear mechanism and design of wiper tools.
Review on Control Strategies for Cable-Driven Parallel Robots with Model Uncertainties
Authors: Jin Xiang , Zhang Haifeng , Wang Liqing , Li Qinchuan
Published: December 2024

Cable-driven parallel robots (CDPRs) use cables instead of the rigid limbs of traditional parallel robots, thus processing a large potential workspace, easy to assemble and disassemble characteristics, and with applications in numerous fields. However, owing to the influence of cable flexibility and nonlinear friction, model uncertainties are difficult to eliminate from the control design. Hence, in this study, the model uncertainties of CDPRs are first analyzed based on a brief introduction to related research. Control strategies for CDPRs with model uncertainties are then reviewed. The advantages and disadvantages of several control strategies for CDPRS are discussed through traditional control strategies with kinematic and dynamic uncertainties. Compared with these traditional control strategies, deep reinforcement learning and model predictive control have received widespread attention in recent years owing to their model independence and recursive feasibility with constraint limits. A comprehensive review and brief analysis of current advances in these two control strategies for CDPRs with model uncertainties are presented, concluding with discussions regarding development directions.
Hybrid Robotic Arm for Autonomous Aerial Refueling
Authors: Li Kaixuan , Liu Gangfeng , Gao Yongsheng , Zhao Jie
Published: December 2024

Autonomous aerial refueling technology is gaining increasing attention to enhance aircraft combat capabilities. Current research on autonomous refueling focuses mainly on flight control laws, with little attention to the automation of refueling pipes. This leads to high demands on control law performance and navigation accuracy, making it difficult to ensure reliability. To address this, we propose a robotic arm system capable of automatic docking during the flexible aerial refueling process. The system uses a conical kinematic space configuration, offering enhanced stability and impact resistance. The frame-type structure achieves a lightweight design. Additionally, we establish a single-objective optimization model for the connecting rod dimensions and apply a genetic algorithm (GA) for their optimization. We also propose a trajectory-fitting calibration theory based on the robotic arm’s special configuration and complete its movement accuracy calibration using a laser tracker. This calibration method reduces the robotic arm’s motion error by 71%, achieving an absolute positioning accuracy better than 3.5 mm, which meets the requirements for autonomous aerial refueling. In summary, this research presents a hybrid robotic arm that meets automatic docking requirements, offering a new approach to autonomous aerial refueling.
Needleless graft preparation for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with 4-strand semitendinosus autograft: a biomechanical in vitro study using a porcine model
Authors: Melcher Peter , Schleifenbaum Stefan , Youssef Yasmin , Rolzhäuser Philipp , Hepp Pierre , Theopold Jan
Published: December 2024

Background

Ruptures of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are common injuries. Reconstruction using autologous grafts is recommended to prevent further damage and functional impairment. Grafts are usually prepared with stabilizing sutures. The aim of this study was to evaluate if a 4-strand semitendinosus autograft preparation technique is non-inferior to conventional preparation techniques with regard to maximum tensile strength threshold.

Methods

Fresh porcine flexor tendons were used as specimens in this study. Four different preparation techniques for quadruple-folded tendons were compared. Group 1 three suture FiberWire® (n = 20) and Group 2 one suture FiberWire® (n = 20) using Krakow stitches, Group 3 (n = 10) using SPEEDTRAP® and piercing the autograft and 4 (n = 9) using SPEEDTRAP® without piercing the autograft for preparation. Biomechanical tensile testing included 50 sinusoidal cycles of preloading between 50 and 150 N at 1 Hz and load-to-failure was measured at 20 mm/min.

Results

Failure at the maximum load occurred at the filament for all samples, whereas failure of the suture/tendon interface was not observed. Load-to-failure was significantly higher in Group 1 (711 ± 91 N) than in all other groups. When comparing groups 2–4 load-to-failure was significantly higher in Group 2 (347 ± 24 N) than in Group 3 (258 ± 25 N, p < 0.02) but not than in Group 4 (325 ± 26N).

Conclusion

In all 4 Groups the load to failure was higher than the maximum tension force on the construct that will be applied by hand (182N). Therefore, the needleless preparation technique seems to be a valuable alternative to conventional techniques for the insertion of the graft into the joint during joint-near tibial fixation technique.