bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sample size calculation for mixture cure model with restricted mean survival time as a primary endpoint
Authors: Li Zhaojin , Geng Xiang , Hou Yawen , Chen Zheng
Published: August 2024

It is not uncommon for a substantial proportion of patients to be cured (or survive long-term) in clinical trials with time-to-event endpoints, such as the endometrial cancer trial. When designing a clinical trial, a mixture cure model should be used to fully consider the cure fraction. Previously, mixture cure model sample size calculations were based on the proportional hazards assumption of latency distribution between groups, and the log-rank test was used for deriving sample size formulas. In real studies, the latency distributions of the two groups often do not satisfy the proportional hazards assumptions. This article has derived a sample size calculation formula for a mixture cure model with restricted mean survival time as the primary endpoint, and did simulation and example studies. The restricted mean survival time test is not subject to proportional hazards assumptions, and the difference in treatment effect obtained can be quantified as the number of years (or months) increased or decreased in survival time, making it very convenient for clinical patient-physician communication. The simulation results showed that the sample sizes estimated by the restricted mean survival time test for the mixture cure model were accurate regardless of whether the proportional hazards assumptions were satisfied and were smaller than the sample sizes estimated by the log-rank test in most cases for the scenarios in which the proportional hazards assumptions were violated.
Improving estimation efficiency of case-cohort studies with interval-censored failure time data
Authors: Zhou Qingning , Wong Kin Yau
Published: August 2024

The case-cohort design is a commonly used cost-effective sampling strategy for large cohort studies, where some covariates are expensive to measure or obtain. In this paper, we consider regression analysis under a case-cohort study with interval-censored failure time data, where the failure time is only known to fall within an interval instead of being exactly observed. A common approach to analyzing data from a case-cohort study is the inverse probability weighting approach, where only subjects in the case-cohort sample are used in estimation, and the subjects are weighted based on the probability of inclusion into the case-cohort sample. This approach, though consistent, is generally inefficient as it does not incorporate information outside the case-cohort sample. To improve efficiency, we first develop a sieve maximum weighted likelihood estimator under the Cox model based on the case-cohort sample and then propose a procedure to update this estimator by using information in the full cohort. We show that the update estimator is consistent, asymptotically normal, and at least as efficient as the original estimator. The proposed method can flexibly incorporate auxiliary variables to improve estimation efficiency. A weighted bootstrap procedure is employed for variance estimation. Simulation results indicate that the proposed method works well in practical situations. An application to a Phase 3 HIV vaccine efficacy trial is provided for illustration.
Examining breast cancer screening recommendations in Canada: The projected resource impact of screening among women aged 40–49
Authors: Basmadjian Robert B , Ruan Yibing , Hutchinson John M , Warkentin Matthew T , Alagoz Oguzhan , Coldman Andrew , Brenner Darren R
Published: August 2024

Objective

To quantify the resource use of revising breast cancer screening guidelines to include average-risk women aged 40–49 years across Canada from 2024 to 2043 using a validated microsimulation model.

Setting

OncoSim-Breast microsimulation platform was used to simulate the entire Canadian population in 2015–2051.

Methods

We compared resource use between current screening guidelines (biennial screening ages 50–74) and alternate screening scenarios, which included annual and biennial screening for ages 40–49 and ages 45–49, followed by biennial screening ages 50–74. We estimated absolute and relative differences in number of screens, abnormal screening recalls without cancer, total and negative biopsies, screen-detected cancers, stage of diagnosis, and breast cancer deaths averted.

Results

Compared with current guidelines in Canada, the most intensive screening scenario (annual screening ages 40–49) would result in 13.3% increases in the number of screens and abnormal screening recalls without cancer whereas the least intensive scenario (biennial screening ages 45–49) would result in a 3.4% increase in number of screens and 3.8% increase in number of abnormal screening recalls without cancer. More intensive screening would be associated with fewer stage II, III, and IV diagnoses, and more breast cancer deaths averted.

Conclusions

Revising breast cancer screening in Canada to include average-risk women aged 40–49 would detect cancers earlier leading to fewer breast cancer deaths. To realize this potential clinical benefit, a considerable increase in screening resources would be required in terms of number of screens and screen follow-ups. Further economic analyses are required to fully understand cost and budget implications.
Moral sensitivity, moral courage, and ethical behaviour among clinical nurses
Authors: Chen Qihui , Chen Qin , Ma Chenxiao , Zhang Yanan , Gou Mengyu , Yang Weiyu
Published: August 2024

Background: Ethical behaviour in nursing practice is integral to establishing a harmonious nurse-patient relationship and improving the quality of care. A multitude of factors shapes such behaviour. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the interplay between these factors.

Research objectives: This study aimed to explore the mechanisms underlying the influence of moral sensitivity on nurses’ ethical behaviour and clarify the mediating role of moral courage.

Research design: This cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted between July and August 2023.

Participants and Research Context: The sample comprised 465 clinical nurses from three tertiary hospitals in Zhengzhou City, Henan Province, China. Data were collected using the Chinese version of the Moral Sensitivity Questionnaire-Revised Version, Nurses’ Moral Courage Scale, and Ethical Behaviour Scale for Nurses. Data analysis was performed with SPSS 26.0 and AMOS 24.0, using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation analysis, structural equation modelling, and bootstrapping methods.

Ethical considerations: This study was approved by the Ethical Review Committee of Life Sciences of Zhengzhou University, China.

Results: The participants were predominantly female (95.1%), with a mean age of 31.9 years. Moral courage and moral sensitivity were positively correlated with ethical behaviour. Moral sensitivity was positively associated with moral courage. Moral courage partially mediates the relationship between moral sensitivity and ethical behaviour. The indirect effect of nurses’ moral sensitivity on ethical behaviour was quantified through moral courage (indirect effect = 0.290).

Conclusion: Moral courage intermediates nurses’ moral sensitivity and ethical behaviour. This conclusion provides nursing administrators with the insight that improving clinical nurses’ moral sensitivity and courage can contribute to ensuring appropriate ethical behaviour.
Examining Sigma and Beta Convergence in Emerging Market Economies
Authors: Sharma Prakarti , Sharma Nidhi
Published: August 2024

This study examines convergence among the select emerging market economies (EMEs) over two decades, from 2000 to 2020. The coefficient of variation was used to measure sigma convergence. Cross-sectional and panel regression analyses were performed to examine unconditional and conditional beta convergence, respectively. The macroeconomic variables chosen for the panel regression analysis were gross fixed capital formation, current account balance, inflation, research and development expenditure, world governance index and life expectancy index. The results supported the presence of convergence (both sigma and beta) among the EMEs over the selected period. In addition, it was found that, except for the current account balance, all selected variables contributed significantly to the growth process of EMEs.
Borderline personality disorder and parenting capacity: Understanding child protection population characteristics
Authors: Finan Samantha , Bartsch Dianna R , Kong Tessa , Beall Jacqui
Published: August 2024

Objective

This paper describes an audit of borderline symptoms, risk factors for maltreatment and types of abuse among parents who completed a parenting capacity assessment at a South Australian health-based child protection service.

Method

A retrospective case note audit within a 28-month period was conducted and included parents ( n = 107) who had completed a Mclean’s screening instrument for borderline personality disorder and/or had a psychiatric review with a formal diagnosis. Parents who had a borderline personality disorder diagnosis or endorsed five or more symptoms were categorised into the ‘high’ borderline symptom group. Rates of parental risk factors for maltreatment and type of abuse were compared between parents with low or high borderline symptoms.

Results

Forty percent of parents endorsed at least five borderline symptoms on the screening tool. On average, parents high in borderline symptoms had a greater number of parental risk factors.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the importance of screening for personality pathology among parents presenting to child protection services. Foundational training for staff and making evidence-based interventions available should be considered in such settings.
Effects of a Brief Self-Compassion Online Intervention on Complex Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms Among Chinese University Students With Trauma History: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Huang Liuyue , Fan Jialin , LeMoult Joelle , Chi Peilian , Zhao Yue , Chi Xinli
Published: August 2024

Purpose: The present study aimed to investigate the efficacy of a brief 10-day online self-compassion intervention, lasting around 25 min per day, in reducing complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) symptoms among university students with trauma history. Method: We adopted a 2 (intervention group vs. control group) × 3 (pre-test vs. post-test vs. one-month follow-up) randomized controlled trial (RCT) design. Results: Seventy-seven participants completed the study; repeated measures analysis of variance revealed a reduction in total CPTSD scores post-intervention. There was medium effect size of the intervention on disturbances in self-organization symptoms. Network analysis of CPTSD symptom changes and intervention conditions showed that changes in avoidance of external trauma cues, worthlessness, emotion dysregulation, feelings of isolation, and nightmare symptoms were directly associated with the intervention condition. Conclusions: The pilot RCT suggests the feasibility and potential effectiveness of the online self-compassion intervention for CPTSD symptoms among university students.
How Mobile Health Can Change the Contexts of Living With HIV and Engaging With Treatment and Care in Iran: A Realist-Informed Qualitative Study
Authors: Ameli Vira , Wong Geoffrey , Barlow Jane , Mohraz Minoo , Meinck Franziska , Taj Leila , Amiri Tayebeh , Boosiraz Abbas , Sabin Lora , Haberer Jessica E.
Published: August 2024

Mobile health (mHealth) interventions are increasingly used to address the challenges of living with HIV and engaging with antiretroviral therapy. A wealth of evidence supports the efficacy of mHealth in supporting living with HIV. Yet, there is a dearth of evidence on how mHealth improves outcomes, which features are effective, and why these work in a particular setting. This study uses stakeholder views, including patients, providers, peer supporters, counsellors, and program directors, to conceptualize how specific mHealth features could interact with contexts of living with HIV and mechanisms that shape engagement with treatment. The study is part of an ongoing research project on engagement with HIV care in Iran. We draw on the perspectives of recently diagnosed and more treatment-experienced patients and their providers, using purposive sampling, conducting 9 focus group discussions with a total of 66 participants, in addition to 17 interviews. Our findings suggest that mHealth designs that feature provider connection, proactive care, and privacy and personalization are expected to dilute the harsh contexts of living with HIV. We build on previously identified socioecological pathways that disrupt antiretroviral therapy in Iran and find that mHealth can enhance the relation between the health system and patients. Our findings suggest that personalized mHealth features and provisions can partially mitigate the compounded impacts of harsh socioecological pathways that impede treatment success in Iran. Our social constructivist study was augmented with realist-informed analysis and could have transferability to similar contexts that trigger similar mechanisms of treatment disruption.
TeleCleft: Development and Evaluation of a Mobile Application for Monitoring Cleft Patients
Authors: Carvalho Livian Isabel de Medeiros , Araújo Eduarda Gomes Onofre de , de Souza Breno Estevam Silva , Martins Hélder Domiciano Dantas , Tanikawa Daniela Yukie Sakai , Valença Ana Maria Gondim , Mélo Cláudia Batista , de Lucena Edson Hilan Gomes , Lacerda Rosa Helena Wanderley , Bonan Paulo Rogério Ferreti
Published: August 2024

Objective

Development and evaluation of a mobile application for remote monitoring and guidance of pediatric patients diagnosed with cleft lip and/or palate (CL ± P) and their caregivers.

Design

This is a pilot cross-sectional, applied, and quantitative study.

Setting

The study was conducted in two tertiary care treatment centers in Brazil.

Participants

The participants included 20 caregivers and infants undergoing treatment with nasoalveolar molding (NAM) for CL ± P.

Interventions

The intervention involved using the TeleCleft mobile application for remote monitoring and guidance of caregivers and infants during NAM treatment.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

The main outcome measures included usability and satisfaction of users with the TeleCleft application.

Results

The results showed high usability and satisfaction ratings among users of the TeleCleft application. Most participants found remote monitoring to be effective and expressed positive opinions about its convenience and usefulness.

Conclusion

TeleCleft could be a viable tool for remote monitoring and guidance, reducing the need for patients and caregivers to travel to treatment centers, which could potentially alleviate the burden of care faced by families during the journey of CL ± P treatment.
Chilly Reception: A Content Analysis of Comments on a Reformed Climate Skeptic’s Confession
Authors: Strydhorst Natasha
Published: August 2024

While analyses of climate change news stories have documented how climate science practitioners and communicators convey knowledge, how audiences receive stories documenting an author’s changed perspective on climate change science is virtually unexplored. This preliminary study qualitatively investigates the content of comments on a New York Times column documenting its author’s conversion from climate change agnostic to acknowledger. Findings suggest this conversion’s reception tends cold—commenters express disapproval of the author’s free-market-solution approach and criticize his tardiness in acknowledging climate change science.
“I’ll Try and Make Myself as Small as Possible”: Women and Gender-Diverse People's Safety Work on Public Transport
Authors: Ison Jessica , Forsdike Kirsty , Henry Nicola , Hooker Leesa , Taft Angela
Published: August 2024

Public transport is a known hotspot for sexual violence and harassment. Through 41 interviews with women and gender-diverse people who have experienced sexual violence and harassment on public transport, we found that women and gender-diverse people engage in extensive “safety work,” such as changing their behavior, strategizing, and planning. Safety work takes considerable time and effort, often leaving participants feeling stressed. However, participants advocated for changes to public transport to reduce the work they do to stay safe. We argue that significant changes, including primary prevention of gender-based violence, are needed to reduce their safety work.
Exploring the Impacts of Transit-Oriented Development Housing Stock and Built Environments on Housing Costs in Twenty-Six U.S. Metropolitan Areas
Authors: Singer Matan E.
Published: August 2024

There is general agreement that high housing costs in transit-oriented developments (TODs) largely stem from housing supply shortages. However, the debate persists on whether supply-side efforts could reduce housing costs in TODs. This paper contributes to this debate by examining the impacts of TOD housing stock and built environments on housing costs. The block groups of twenty-six U.S. metropolitan areas were classified into six categories based on proximity to rail, housing density, and walkability. The studied metropolitan areas were grouped into three clusters based on housing and transit characteristics. Results from multilevel regressions partly support supply-side efforts, including “missing-middle” housing, showing that in two of the clusters, a larger share of metropolitan TOD housing units is associated with lower TOD rents. However, the results also show the limits of supply-side efforts to lower costs in metropolitan areas where housing in TODs is more expensive than the metropolitan average.
The Relevance of Hypersexuality and Impulsivity in Different Groups of Treatment-Seekers With and Without (Exclusive) Pedophilia
Authors: Bergner-Koether Ralf , Peschka Lasse , Pastukhov Alexander , Carbon Claus-Christian , Steins-Loeber Sabine , Hajak Göran , Rettenberger Martin
Published: August 2024

Hypersexuality and impulsivity are regarded as risk factors for sexual offending against children. Studies exploring these factors in undetected men who offended or are at risk of offending are rare. This study aims to investigate hypersexuality and impulsivity in treatment-seeking men with and without a diagnosis of (exclusive) pedophilia who committed child sexual abuse (CSA), consumed child sexual abuse images (CSAI), or feel at risk of offending sexually. Data were obtained from three child abuse prevention projects in Bamberg, Germany. We employed self-report (BIS-11, HBI), objective measures (TSO), and risk assessment tools (STABLE-2007). We computed Bayesian ordinal logit and binomial generalized linear models to explore differences between groups and to predict lifetime CSA and CSAI. Hypersexuality scores were particularly pronounced in patients with exclusive and non-exclusive pedophilia. Patients without pedophilia scored similarly to nonclinical samples. Impulsivity measures did not consistently differ between groups. We could not predict lifetime CSA and CSAI using impulsivity and hypersexuality measures. Sexual rather than general impulsivity seems to be an issue in men with pedophilia. The motivation to offend in patients without pedophilia is discussed.
The 4D Model of American Political Conservatism: Disgust, Disorder Aversion, Deontology, and (Social) Dominance
Authors: Xu Xiaowen , Plaks Jason E.
Published: August 2024

Over the decades, numerous researchers have identified psychological predictors of conservative and liberal political orientation. However, most research teams have focused on a single predictor at a time, occasionally two. Moreover, most researchers have tended to stay within the theoretical and methodological confines of their subdiscipline (e.g., social psychology vs. personality psychology). Here, we review and integrate evidence across different subdisciplines to propose a constellation of four psychological constructs (disgust sensitivity, preference for order, deontological morality, and social dominance orientation) that, working together, form a more nuanced and fine-grained account of why people are attracted to different ends of the political spectrum. In doing so, we demonstrate the usefulness of moving beyond operationalizing political orientation in a single-dimensional (left-to-right) manner. We suggest that the proposed “4D Model” represents an incremental advance that makes more specific predictions about who will be attracted to which strands of political conservatism.
Cushioning property and structure optimization of double-arrow sandwich composite based on modified genetic algorithm
Authors: Zhang Jian , Jiang Qian , Zhao Feng , Zhou Kanghui , Lu Zhenqian , Liu Shengkai , Wu Liwei
Published: August 2024

Owing to the ability of negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) structures in enhancing the stiffening effectof shear stiffening gels (SSG), combining the two in cushioning applications has attracted much attention. This paper presents the design of NPR flexible cushioning sandwich composites featuring a double-arrow structure (DAS). The DAS is optimized using a modified genetic algorithm, and the cohesive property is leveraged to reinforce the stiffening effect of SSG, thereby improving the material’s cushioning efficiency. The synergistic effect of the DAS and SSG and the law of SSG arrangement on the energy absorption efficiency of cushioning were revealed using the finite element method and experiment. It can be found that the size effect of the DAS significantly contributed to the enhancement of the energy-absorption efficiency of the SSG stiffening. In double-arrow sandwich composite (DASC), the larger reversed-triangle deformation and the increased number of reversed-triangle configurations, amplified the shear stiffening of the SSG, improving the impact load dissipation and energy absorption efficiency of sandwich composite. The energy absorption efficiency of the DASC was improved owing to the synergistic effect of the DAS cohesive effect and the SSG stiffening properties, with the energy absorption ratio and mass specific energy absorption increased by 83.02% and 136% compared to neat polyurethane. The DASC optimized in this study has good flexibility and energy absorption capacity and is promising for application in the field of flexible protection.
Narrowing ‘Bathtub Volunteerism’ in Singapore and Beyond Through High-quality Adolescent and Young Adult Volunteer Experiences
Authors: Kwan Jin Yao , Wray-Lake Laura
Published: August 2024

High-quality volunteerism experiences in adolescence are associated with higher volunteerism later in life, yet less is understood about contextualized features of these experiences, especially when school-based programmes are mandatory. Relatedly, narrowing ‘bathtub volunteerism’ (i.e., increasing postgraduation youth volunteerism and shortening the period between volunteer disengagement and resumption) remains a research gap. Therefore, using in-depth retrospective qualitative interviews with 50 young Singaporeans, we aimed to understand features of high-quality volunteer experiences in schools (among adolescents) and communities (among young adults). Findings indicated that within a national context of compulsory school-based volunteerism, ‘bathtub volunteerism’ was narrowed efficaciously when adolescents and young adults were exposed to high-quality school- and community-based volunteer experiences, respectively. High-quality school-based experiences granted student autonomy and facilitated empathy development. Community-based ones combined cause selectivity, personal meaning and close interpersonal relationships. Our findings offer insights to raise volunteerism rates by developing and propagating high-quality volunteer experiences.
Comparison of topical 5% NaCl versus 10% Mannitol for the treatment of corneal edema after phacoemulsification
Authors: Sabur Huri , Kabatas Emrah Utku
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of topical 5% Sodium Chloride (NaCl) and 10% Mannitol agents in managing corneal edema following uncomplicated cataract surgery.

Methods

Patients with postoperative corneal edema were enrolled, and they were divided into three groups for comparison. Anterior chamber depth (ACD), axial length (AL), intraocular lens (IOL) power, cumulative dissipated energy (CDE), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central corneal thickness (CCT), and endothelial cell count (ECC) were assessed among the groups.

Results

Fifty-eight eyes of 58 patients were included. The study comprised the NaCl group (using topical 5% NaCl, n = 21), Mannitol group (using topical 10% Mannitol, n = 17), and a control group without osmotic agent use (n = 20). Age, gender, ACD, AL, IOL power, and CDE were similar across groups. Postoperative day-1 CCT values showed no significant difference between groups. Additionally, at postoperative 1 week, CCT values were [663.4 ± 100.2] microns in the NaCl group, [640.4 ± 68.9] microns in the Mannitol group, and [760.3 ± 76.7] microns in the Control group. Although CCT and BCVA values were better in the Mannitol group at postoperative 1 week, no statistically significant difference was found between the groups at 1 week and 1 month postoperatively. Furthermore, corneal edema positively correlated with CDE and negatively correlated with AL.

Conclusion

Topical 5% NaCl and 10% Mannitol agents are effective and reliable agents that showed faster recovery of corneal edema during the early postoperative period after uncomplicated cataract surgery. The choice between these agents may depend on factors such as patient tolerability, cost, and availability.
Reproduction of Awassi and Hamdani Sheep Is Associated With a Novel Missense SNP (p.24Ile>Thr) of the GnIH Gene
Authors: Al-Jabar Waleed A Abd , Al-Thuwaini Tahreer M
Published: August 2024

Objectives:

Litter size is a crucial economic factor in the sheep industry. Several factors and genes influence litter size, making the identification of genes or loci involved a genetic challenge. Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone ( GnIH) is one of several genes that influence sheep’s reproductive traits. Thus, this study aimed to investigate whether variations in the GnIH gene affect the reproductive performance of Awassi and Hamdani ewes.

Methods:

DNA was extracted from 99 single-progeny ewes and 101 twin ewes. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) produced amplicons of 262 bp, 275 bp, and 284 bp from exons 1, 2, and 3 of the GnIH gene. Single-strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP) technique was used for genotyping experiments. Sequencing and in silico analysis were performed on each set of SSCP-resolved bands.

Results:

Two genotypes of 262 bp amplicons were found: TT and TC. Sequence analysis revealed a novel missense mutation in the TC genotype at position c.122T>C. Five in silico tools were used to assess the impact of this mutation on GnIH protein structure, function, and stability, all of them demonstrated a deleterious effect. An analysis of statistical data revealed a strong correlation between the c.122T>C single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and reproductive performance. Ewes with the SNP 122T>C exhibited a significant increase in litter size, twinning rates, lambing rates, and days to lambing when compared with ewes with the TT genotype. A lower number of lambs were born to ewes with the TT genotype than those with the TC genotype.

Conclusion:

These results concluded that the c.122T>C SNP variant positively influences the reproductive performance of Awassi and Hamdani sheep. Sheep that carry the c.122T>C SNP show higher litter size and increased productivity.
Associations of Smoking Behaviors and Body Mass Index Among American Participants of a Clinical Tobacco Cessation Program: A Pilot Study
Authors: Min Jihyun Jane , Kaplan Bekir , Ellison-Barnes Alejandra , Galiatsatos Panagis
Published: August 2024

Background

Tobacco usage and obesity remain critical public health issues in the United States. This study examined the relationship between smoking behaviors, specifically—cigarettes per day (CPD) and motivations to smoke—and body mass index (BMI). We hypothesized that motivations related to food or stress, as well as a higher CPD, will be positively associated with BMI.

Methodology

We analyzed the electronic medical records of 204 patients from the Johns Hopkins' Tobacco Treatment and Cancer Screening Clinic (TTCSC) between January and April 2022. Demographic information, smoking behavior, CPD, and motivations to smoke were recorded. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed.

Results

We found no statistical significance between motivations to smoke, CPD, and BMI. However, the age at a patient’s first visit to the TTCSC was negatively associated with BMI ( B = −0.152, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Smoking behaviors were not significantly related to BMI in our sample. It is advisable for clinicians working in tobacco cessation clinics to consider the BMI of individuals who present for cessation services, especially for younger individuals who smoke. They may be more likely to have an elevated BMI at presentation.
Sociable desires and gendered commitments: Video gaming and food in everyday life
Authors: Jensen Kristian H , Skelly Thomas AM
Published: August 2024

Food consumption in video gaming culture has been linked to convenience, nutritionally poor food, and unconventional eating norms. However, little attention has been given to video gaming and food interactions in mundane settings. This article explores how video gaming and food practices compete for time and attention in everyday life. We use theories of practice approach and data from a qualitative study on young Danish adults who frequently play video games. The findings suggest the competition between video gaming and food is decided by the practice that best realizes the desire to be sociable and gendered commitments to healthiness and housekeeping. We discuss the sociable appeal of video gaming over extensive performances of cooking and eating in relation to the individualization of daily social encounters and interrogate the conventional perceptions of food in video gaming culture in the context of inattention to gender differentiation.
Streaming diversity: Studying screen diversity in the streaming era
Authors: Edmond Maura , Khoo Olivia , Perkins Claire , Trott Verity
Published: August 2024

The unprecedented growth of video-on-demand (VOD) streaming platforms has brought both new optimism and new complications to concerns around screen ‘diversity’. To what extent have major global and smaller regional VOD platforms invested in screen diversity, at the level of genres, languages, country-of-origin, social representation or creative labour? Just how ‘diverse’ are the catalogues of VOD services? How is this content represented to audiences and made discoverable through platform interfaces and recommendation systems? How might this vary across the major US-based services, compared with smaller and more niche platforms, or with local broadcaster VODs, or with national public service VODs? This introduction to a special collection on diversity in the streaming era surveys recent developments in screen and media studies scholarship that attempt to address these questions. In doing so, we examine how streaming platforms are addressing diversity at the levels of industry, policy, texts, technologies and audiences. At each level, we observe different definitions, operationalisations, and practices of ‘diversity’ that are informed by a range of disciplinary theorisations, policy histories and priorities, and national and regional contexts, all of which come to intersect with each other in new and challenging ways in the VOD era. In conclusion, we argue that to properly respond to the problem of ‘diversity’, research on screen diversity and on VODs must engage with these diverse dimensions of ‘diversity’.
Direct to psychology for sleep disorders: Innovating models of care in the hospital and health service
Authors: Winter Sara , Crocker Sara , Rolls Tricia , Curtin Deanne , Haratsis Jessica , Szollosi Irene
Published: August 2024

A ‘Direct to Psychology Insomnia’ pathway was developed for implementation within a multidisciplinary sleep disorders service in a tertiary hospital in Brisbane, Australia. The project was informed by implementation science principles and methodology to re-design the model of care (MoC). A consensus group workshop using the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) with 12 multidisciplinary staff was undertaken to develop the new MoC. The workshop explored inclusion and exclusion criteria for a Direct to Psychology pathway including patient flow and enablers. The team endorsed a MoC that was acceptable to stakeholders and addressed service-level imperatives. The findings highlighted that patient inclusion or exclusion should be overseen by the Sleep Physician team and an Advanced Psychologist with behavioural sleep medicine expertise. Continuum of care for patients referred via primary care providers was considered. Barriers and risks to the MoC changes were identified which informed the refinement of the MoC.
Unemployment insurance for platform workers: Challenges and approaches from a comparative perspective
Authors: Barrio Alberto
Published: August 2024

This contribution presents an overview of the challenges involved in ensuring that persons performing platform work (as either employees, self-employed, or in a third category) are able to effectively access unemployment insurance protection. It also addresses the specific approaches taken by European countries to tackle these challenges, relying especially on the contributions to this special issue on unemployment protection for the self-employed and platform workers.

After presenting a brief definition of platform work, the contribution provides an overview of the main challenges linked to unemployment protection insurance posed by the features of platform work; we use primarily the Council Recommendation on access to social protection for workers and the self-employed as an evaluative framework. These challenges relate to both formal exclusion (due to classification as self-employed or marginal work) and effective exclusion (due to difficulties meeting minimum work requirements and lack of transparency on algorithmic management and platform work). The contribution then analyses some of the main approaches taken by European countries to address such challenges. Actions targeting platform work comprise (a) employment status reclassification; (b) establishment of a presumption of an employment relationship; (c) the setting of requirements to inform on the use of algorithmic management; (d) facilitation of transparency on platform work information; and (e) exemption from formal social security coverage of some forms of (marginal) platform work. General approaches with consequences for the unemployment insurance protection of platform workers include the application of the same criteria for access to unemployment benefits across employment statuses, as well as greater leniency on these criteria for certain forms of non-standard work. The contribution ends with a conclusion, which highlights the main gaps in unemployment insurance protection for platform work, and discusses avenues for action regarding platform work.
Microwave-assisted fabrication of high-strength natural fiber hybrid composites for sustainable applications: An experimental and computational study
Authors: Sevak Ravi Vijaykumar , Burela Ramesh Gupta , Arora Gaurav , Gupta Ankit
Published: August 2024

The present study deals with the fabrication of hybrid composites using biodegradable and ecologically friendly natural fibers and a recyclable thermoplastic matrix. Pure and hybrid natural fiber composites of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with Kenaf and Ramie fiber, 20 wt%, were fabricated using microwave-assisted compression molding. The composite's mechanical characterization was performed using tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness tests. X-ray diffraction was done to investigate the crystallinity percentage, and scanning electron microscopy of fractured surfaces was performed to determine failure mechanisms. The hybrid composite of HDPE/Ramie and Kenaf exhibited the highest ultimate tensile strength (UTS) at 29.3 ± 1.2 MPa, surpassing HDPE/Kenaf (21.6 ± 1.1 MPa) and HDPE/Ramie (24.3 ± 1.4 MPa) composites. In terms of flexural strength, HDPE/Ramie demonstrated the highest at 19.9 ± 1.5 MPa, while HDPE/Kenaf had the lowest at 18 ± 1.1 MPa. The hybrid composite's flexural strength was intermediate at 19 ± 1.3 MPa. Impact strength followed a similar trend, with the hybrid composite leading at 40.2 KJ/m2, followed by HDPE/Ramie (26.9 KJ/m2) and HDPE/Kenaf (12.3 KJ/m2). Hardness tests revealed the highest hardness in the hybrid composite and the lowest in HDPE/Kenaf. A computational study has been performed to develop a model for predicting the hybrid composites. A strong agreement between both studies has been observed. The developed composite is deemed suitable for various light-duty applications, such as roofing, car interior panels, and mobile covers, offering potential benefits in reducing carbon footprint.
A comparative study on mechanical properties between linear and zigzag pattern holes reinforced with tialite particles during FSW of AA6082 alloy
Authors: Shiva Kumar GN , Raja murugan G
Published: August 2024

In this study, a comparison between linear and zigzag patterned holes is carried out where the holes in the pattern are incorporated with tialite/aluminium titanate (Al2TiO5) particles at the weldment region during friction stir welding of AA6082-T6 aluminium alloy. Different values of tool rotational speed (TRS: 1000, 1200 and 1400 rpm) and welding speed (WS: 35, 40 and 45 mm/min) are considered for the fabrication of joints by both patterns. Visually, no defects are found in all the welded samples. Microstructural analysis has proven that the uniform distribution of particles along the weld region can be obtained by using a zigzag pattern. Maximum hardness is found in the stir zone (SZ), whereas minimum hardness is found in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) for all the samples. The maximum ultimate tensile strength (UTS: 268 MPa), maximum yield strength (YS: 200 MPa) and relatively higher elongation (EL: 7.89%) are exhibited by the Z5 sample, whereas minimum UTS (206 MPa) and minimum YS (142 MPa) was exhibited by L3 and Z7 samples, respectively.
Unveiling journalistic resilience: A blueprint for future crises
Authors: Shah Syed Mubashar Hussain , Shah Babar Hussain
Published: August 2024

This research article presents an examination of the findings and recommendations drawn from a series of focus group discussions (FGDs) with senior journalists. The main aim was to develop a strategy to safeguard the skills and well-being of journalists in the face of potential future pandemics or crises. The FGDs were attended by experienced journalists whose focus was on rigorous reporting during the COVID-19 pandemic. They represented press clubs from across Pakistan, including Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). In these discussions, participants presented the challenges they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and the strategies they used to overcome these hurdles. In addition, the deliberations resulted in recommendations aimed at creating a safe environment for journalists to work, especially in crises. Using the analytical capabilities of the NVivo software, a thematic analysis was conducted to decipher the core themes of the FGDs. These themes have now been summarized in a set of consolidated recommendations that form the cornerstone of this research project. The recommendations advocate for improvements that include strengthening safety measures, prioritizing mental health and well-being, ensuring unimpeded access to important information, increasing legal protections, cultivating capacity-building opportunities, strengthening networks and collaborations, and introducing specialized training in health reporting. By implementing these recommendations, a framework can be created that strengthens journalists’ resilience in the face of crises. This article sees these findings not only as a blueprint for journalistic safety but also as evidence of the strength and adaptability of the journalistic community in the face of unprecedented challenges.
A 3D CFD-FEA co-simulation study of low thermal effusivity TBCs applied to the piston and valves of an SI engine
Authors: Motwani Rahul , Gandolfo John , Gainey Brian , Filipi Zoran , Lawler Benjamin
Published: August 2024

When applied on combustion chamber walls, thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) with low thermal effusivity provide a pathway for reducing heat transfer and improving SI engine efficiency. A 3D CFD-1D FEA co-simulation routine was employed to study the effects of a proprietary TBC on SI engine performance under different permutations of coating the piston, exhaust valves, and intake valves. Marginal reductions (<0.1% points) in total heat transfer and improvements to efficiency were observed when all the three components were coated with the proprietary TBC. Two hypothetical TBC materials with ideally low thermal effusivities were formed by modifying the current material properties and their effect on engine performance was similarly studied at three engine loads at the same engine speed. It was found that coating all the three components with the lowest thermal effusivity TBC offers the largest improvements (∼0.5% points) in net fuel conversion efficiency accompanied by largest reduction (∼1.1% points) in total heat transfer, thus establishing expectations from future TBC materials.
Relationship quality perceived by family caregivers of people with dementia in the context of a psychoeducational intervention: A qualitative exploration
Authors: Kipfer Stephanie , Mabire Cedric , Vézina Jean , Koppitz Andrea , Pihet Sandrine
Published: August 2024

Background

Caring for a person with dementia can be a challenging experience, often associated with chronic stress and a heavy burden on family caregivers. Dementia also impacts the relationship between the caregiver and the person with dementia. The quality of this relationship is, in turn, an important factor influencing the well-being of both dyad members. The psychoeducational intervention “Learning to feel better . . . and help better” has shown positive results regarding family caregivers’ subjective burden, psychological distress, and self-efficacy. However, relationship quality has not been addressed in the context of this intervention.

Methods

A longitudinal constructivist grounded theory approach was used to explore relationship quality as perceived by caregivers, possible changes and intervention components facilitating or preventing such changes. Three qualitative, semi-structured interviews (before, during and after the intervention) were performed with 13 family caregivers from three different intervention groups. The resulting 39 interviews were analysed regarding individual caregiver trajectories, per time point for all caregivers and regarding specific caregiver subgroups.

Findings

A model focusing on sustaining relationship quality in dementia was developed. It shows strategies that family caregivers develop and apply to facilitate positive interactions and feelings of connectedness with their family members with dementia. It also indicates that mastering such strategies requires reflective skills based on specific knowledge of dementia and coping strategies, which can be enhanced through active skills training, in which caregivers are guided to work on their individual stressful situations. Factors hampering change included difficulties in accepting dementia-related changes.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that psychoeducation, with active skills training based on caregivers’ current daily life situations, providing systematic procedures to handle daily challenges and specific knowledge about the impact of the disease, could support them in developing and applying supportive strategies to sustain or improve their relationship to their family member with dementia.
A framework to improve causal inferences from visualizations using counterfactual operators
Authors: Wang Arran Zeyu , Borland David , Gotz David
Published: August 2024

Exploratory data analysis of high-dimensional datasets is a crucial task for which visual analytics can be especially useful. However, the ad hoc nature of exploratory analysis can also lead users to draw incorrect causal inferences. Previous studies have demonstrated this risk and shown that integrating counterfactual concepts within visual analytics systems can improve users’ understanding of visualized data. However, effectively leveraging counterfactual concepts can be challenging, with only bespoke implementations found in prior work. Moreover, it can require expertise in both counterfactual subset analysis and visualization to implement the functionalities practically. This paper aims to help address these challenges in two ways. First, we propose an operator-based conceptual model for the use of counterfactuals that is informed by prior work in visualization research. Second, we contribute the Co-op library, an open and extensible reference implementation of this model that can support the integration of counterfactual-based subset computation with visualization systems. To evaluate the effectiveness and generalizability of Co-op, the library was used to construct two different visual analytics systems each supporting a distinct user workflow. In addition, expert interviews were conducted with professional visual analytics researchers and engineers to gain more insights regarding how Co-op could be leveraged. Finally, informed in part by these evaluation results, we distil a set of key design implications for effectively leveraging counterfactuals in future visualization systems.
Fatigue assessment of bridges using interacting filtering approach with sub-structured predictor model based on current health
Authors: Kuncham Eshwar , Sen Subhamoy
Published: August 2024

Fatigue estimation for critical structures necessitates comprehensive monitoring, which, in turn, requires dense instrumentation and models that heavily rely on computational resource. However, the fatigue vulnerability of different segments within the infrastructure can be considered to adopt a cost-effective substructure-based monitoring approach, minimizing the need for extensive instrumentation or complex models. However, estimating or instrumenting the substructure boundary adds to the complexity. In addition, conventional fatigue estimation approaches often assume constant structural health, disregarding the unknown current health status of aging structures. To overcome this limitation, a novel substructure-based fatigue life estimation approach is developed, incorporating an interacting ensemble-particle filter that considers the current health status while remaining robust against boundary forces. Numerical experiments validate the proposed approach on a simulated reinforced concrete box girder bridge, utilizing a 3D beam model that accounts for dynamic interaction with vehicles. A parametric analysis investigates the relationships between fatigue damage and factors such as surface roughness, vehicle speed, vehicle weight, and vehicle category, aiming to identify dominant stimuli. The results demonstrate an accurate estimation of health parameters and remaining useful life (RUL). Furthermore, a novel decomposed approach for RUL estimation is developed, enabling the mapping of traffic information to fatigue damage without requiring costly simulations. A case study highlights the practical applicability of the approach, focusing on a reinforced concrete box girder bridge in Himachal Pradesh, India.