bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IT'S REALLY NOT THE NOW—IT'S THE HOW!
Authors: Bisk Tsvi
Published: September 2022

In this contribution to the World Affairs 2022 Special Issue, I engage Alon Ben‐Meir's proposal for an Israeli–Palestinian–Jordanian Confederation previously published in this journal and discussed in depth by scholars, diplomats, and policy practitioners in a panel at the March 2022 Policy Studies Organization Middle East Dialog conference in Washington, DC. Given that achieving such a confederation has been sabotaged over and again to date, a critical question is how do we get from here to there without upsetting the irrational passions of both sides? I suggest various practical steps and policies that might mitigate the conflict in ways that could inexorably lead to the final destination of Ben‐Meir's confederation.
Optimal architecture artificial neural network model design with exploitative alpha gray wolf optimization for soft calibration of CO concentration measurements in electronic nose applications
Authors: Simsek Ozlem Imik , Alagoz Baris Baykant
Published: September 2022

The low-cost and small size solid-state sensor arrays are suitable to implement a wide-area electronic nose (e-nose) for real-time air quality monitoring. However, accuracy of these low-cost sensors is not adequate for precise measurements of pollutant concentrations. Artificial neural network (ANN) estimation models are used for the soft calibration of low-cost sensor array measurements and significantly improve the accuracy of low-cost multi-sensor measurements. However, optimality of neural architecture affects the performance of ANN estimation models, and optimization of the ANN architecture for a training data set is essential to improve data-driven modeling performance of ANNs to reach optimal neural complexity and improved generalization. In this study, an optimal architecture ANN estimator design scheme is suggested to improve the estimation performance of ANN models for e-nose applications. To this end, a gray wolf optimization (GWO) algorithm is modified, and an exploitative alpha gray wolf optimization (EA-GWO) algorithm is suggested. This modification enhances local exploitation skill of the best alpha gray wolf search agent, and thus allows the fine-tuning of ANN architectures by minimizing a multi-objective cost function that implements mean error search policy. Experimental study demonstrates the effectiveness of optimal architecture ANN models to estimate CO concentration from the low-cost multi-sensor data.
Sociocultural Moderators of Emotion Regulation in Family Members of the Critically Ill
Authors: Pignatiello Grant A. , Griggs Stephanie , Hickman Ronald L.
Published: September 2022

Coping with a loved one’s critical illness as a surrogate decision-maker (SDM) elicits intense psychological distress. Emotion regulation (ER) may mitigate psychological distress. However, ER tendencies and their effects on psychological distress vary by racial and gender identity, which can inform the tailoring of ER-focused interventions. For this study, we examined between-group differences and the moderating effects of race and gender on ER (reappraisal and suppression) and psychological distress. We recruited 274 SDMs from a Midwestern academic medical center. Men reported a greater tendency to use suppression than women, and SDMs identifying as non-White reported a greater tendency to use reappraisal and suppression. Reappraisal resulted in greater psychological distress for non-White men and less psychological distress for White women. Incorporating tailored ER skill building into supportive interventions may improve the short- and long-term psychological well-being of SDMs, which may improve their ability to make value-concordant decisions and fulfill other informal caregiving responsibilities.
The Constructed Meaning of Suicide: A Relational Dialectics Theory Analysis of Online Suicide Chats
Authors: Conrad Jordan B. , Coohey Carol
Published: September 2022

Examining synchronous chats from an online suicide crisis intervention, we used contrapuntal analysis to identify competing discourses of meaning among online suicide chat users. Contrapuntal analysis revealed two emergent discourses in competition to make meaning of suicide among crisis chat users: Discourses of the Precious Life (DPL) and Discourses of Life as a Thing (DLT). The results provide a nuanced understanding of the cultural meaning of suicide presented in chat visitors’ discourse. Aside from the theoretical implications for RDT 2.0 focused research, this study extends a growing body of suicide research that foregrounds culture as a basis for understanding the meaning of suicide from the perspective of the lived experience.
Concordance of Gifted Education Policy and Practices at the State, District, and Local Levels
Authors: Brodersen Annalissa V. , Hemmler Vonna L. , Callahan Carolyn M. , McCoach D. Betsy
Published: September 2022

Gifted education policies vary across the United States. Previous studies have demonstrated a disconnect between these policies at state and district levels, but alignment of school-level practices with state and/or district policies is unknown. To further examine these relationships, we examined via qualitative document analysis state and district-level gifted policies and district and school-level reported practices in two states’ gifted services. Although state and district policies reflected fairly close alignment with recommended practices, district and school reported practices reflected only partial alignment. We discuss implications of these findings for gifted programs and policy at the state and local levels.
‘Mum, I think we might ring the ambulance, okay?’ A qualitative exploration of bereaved family members’ experiences of emergency ambulance care at the end of life
Authors: Anderson Natalie Elizabeth , Robinson Jackie , Goodwin Hetty , Gott Merryn
Published: September 2022

Background:

In the context of a sudden or unexpected event, people with a life-limiting illness and their family caregivers may be dependent on emergency ambulance services

Aim:

To explore bereaved family members’ experiences of emergency ambulance care at the end of life.

Design:

A qualitative study using reflexive thematic analysis of data collected from semi-structured phone interviews.

Setting/Participants:

A purposive sample of 38 family caregivers identified from a database of deaths in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Results:

Emergency ambulance personnel assist, inform and reassure patients and family caregivers managing distressing symptoms, falls, infections, unexpected events and death itself. Family members and patients are aware of the pressure on emergency services and sometimes hesitate to call an ambulance. Associating ambulances with unwanted transport to hospital is also a source of reluctance.

Conclusions:

The generalist palliative care provided by emergency ambulance personnel is a vital service for patients in the last year of life, and their caregivers. This must be acknowledged in palliative care policy and supported with training, specialist consultation and adequate resources.
The trauma of exploitation: Emotional geographies of temporary migration and workplace unfreedom
Authors: Collins Francis L , Stringer Christina
Published: September 2022

This paper advances a focus on emotions as a key dimension of the actualisation of workplace exploitation experienced by temporary migrants. In doing so, we extend understandings of forced labour, unfreedom and migration and their concern for the operation of coercion in employment relations. While political-economic and legal accounts of work and oppression can tell us much about systems that underpin the occurrence of exploitation, we argue that the fluidity of unfreedoms in labour exploitation are fundamentally embodied and shaped by emotional experiences and manipulation. In order to advance this emotional account, we draw on interviews with people holding work and study visas who have experienced workplace exploitation in Aotearoa New Zealand, a context where the rapid growth in temporary migration has been associated with growing evidence of labour market abuse. Our paper addresses three key emotional dimensions of workplace exploitation that emerged in this research: inducement into exploitation, entrapment and the emotional sustenance of exploitation. Through this account we demonstrate how unfreedom is felt in the lives of temporary migrants and point towards the need to rethink both scholarly accounts of forced labour and policy responses to the workplace exploitation of temporary migrants.
Innovating urban governance: A research agenda
Authors: McGuirk Pauline , Baker Tom , Sisson Alistair , Dowling Robyn , Maalsen Sophia
Published: September 2022

Urban governance innovation is being framed as an imperative to address complex urban and global challenges, triggering the adoption of novel institutional forms, approaches and techniques. Urban political geographers are still some way off fully apprehending the dynamics of these innovations and their potential to reconfigure the composition and politics of urban governance. This paper suggests dialogue between urban political geography and public sector innovation literatures as a productive way forward. We build from this engagement to suggest a critical research agenda to drive systematic analysis of innovatory urban governance, its heterogeneous formation, politics and possibilities.
Development of reduced Graphene oxide modified Ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (rGO/UHMWPE) based Nanocomposites for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Singh Devendra Kumar , Verma Rajesh Kumar
Published: September 2022

Ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) are widely used as a biomaterial for manufacturing of prostheses, implants and other biomedical components with complex geometry and shapes. Continuous loading of these components subject to heavy stress and deformation resistance should have enhanced mechanical and chemical properties. This paper aims to improve the mechanical and thermal aspects of the conventional UHMWPE by supplementing reduced Graphene oxide (rGO) in varying weight percentages to develop polymer bio nanocomposite samples. The effect of green synthesized GO nanoparticles in the UHMWPE polymer was investigated for biomedical application. The rGO was distributed in a UHMWPE matrix using a unique and optimized technique to create high-performance nanocomposites. The proposed UHMWPE filled with different loading (0, 0.5, 1.0,1.5, 2.0, and 3.0 wt.%) of rGO was produced by Ultrasonication in an acetone medium. The findings suggest that evenly distributed rGO layers were present throughout the polymer matrix. This, in turn, indicates a good connection between the fillers and matrix by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDAX), resulting in better composite capabilities. The layers of rGO-aided lamellar arrangements and microfibers between the crystals were observed in the results. The Microhardness of the bio nanocomposite (1 Wt.% rGO/UHMWPE) with 1wt.% rGO in the UHMWPE matrix increased by 2.8% compared to an unfilled polymer. At the same rGO concentration, the bio nanocomposite had a crystallization degree of 46.96%. To achieve optimal performance, rGO content of 1wt.% was added to the sample, which is ideal in many situations where good mechanical and thermal qualities are required during operation. The outcomes reveal that the rGO supplement primarily boosts the thermo-mechanical performances of the modified bio-nano composites for orthopedic products.
Loneliness Exacerbates the Association Between Bodily Pain and Depressive Symptoms Among Middle-Aged and Older Latinx Adults
Authors: Gutiérrez Ángela , Bravo Rosana L. , Tobin Courtney Thomas
Published: September 2022

Objectives: To investigate the associations between three bodily pain dimensions (intensity, frequency, severity) and depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older Latinxs ages 40–94 and to determine whether loneliness conditioned the pain-depressive symptoms associations. Methods: Data are from a community-based study of community-dwelling residents in Florida ( N = 527). Multivariable linear regression models assessed the impact of each pain dimension on depressive symptoms, controlling for sociodemographic factors. Interactions determined whether loneliness moderated the pain-depressive symptoms relationships. Results: Each pain dimension was positively associated with depressive symptoms ( p < .01). Loneliness modified the impact of pain frequency and pain severity on depressive symptoms. Those with moderate and high loneliness levels experienced an amplified pain-depressive symptoms association. Discussion: Findings underscore the synergistic effects of pain and loneliness in exacerbating depressive symptomatology among middle-aged and older Latinx adults. Loneliness is an important point of intervention to improve mental health among aging Latinxs.
A literature review on Al-Si alloy matrix based in situ Al-Mg2Si FG-composites: Synthesis, microstructure features, and mechanical characteristics
Authors: Ram Subhash Chandra , Chattopadhyay Kausik , Bhushan Awani
Published: September 2022

The current study examined a comprehensive review of the literature on functionally graded composites, particularly Al-Mg2Si in situ metal matrix composites. Functionally graded Al-Si-Mg2Si in situ metal matrix composites are potential materials for meeting a variety of property demands in various components of automotive engines. The in situ formed intermetallic compound Mg2Si in Al-Si matrix exhibits a high melting temperature, low density, high hardness, a low thermal expansion coefficient, and a reasonably high elastic modulus. Due to all of aforementioned characteristics, Mg2Si is an attractive form of reinforcement that can be created in situ using a simple melt reaction approach. However, the coarse size of primary Mg2Si reinforcement in cast composites is a demerit which reduces the strength and ductility of the ultimate composite. Hence several researches have been attempted to refine the primary Mg2Si particles as well as to change the morphology of the eutectic structure. Apart from the monolithic in situ cast composites, attempts have been made to develop functionally graded (FG) composites in which the volume% of segregation of reinforcements are intentionally varied from one surface to another. These types of FG composites are economically developed by centrifugal casting technique in which Mg2Si reinforcements are segregated to inner the surface due to lower relative density with respect to the molten Al matrix. This type of graded microstructure results in higher strength, hardness and wears resistance at the inner surface of the tubular products. The as-cast microstructure and properties are significantly improved by solution treatment and aging. In the last, some of the most recent manufacturing techniques for FG-composites are addressed, along with their benefits, drawbacks, and applications. In general, all cutting-edge and detailed surveys of the present state of knowledge are included in this article.
Research on movement and deposition of snow particles with different shapes in the bogie region
Authors: Lan Hong , Cai Lu , Zhang Jiye , He Peiheng
Published: September 2022

Natural snow particles come in various complex shapes and have different forces acting on them. The forces acting on snow particles of various shapes are customised in this study based on the shape correction coefficients and sphericity theories. The wind and snow flow at the bottom of the train are solved by coupling the unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulation with the discrete phase model to explore the snow accumulation problem of high-speed train bogies more realistically. The findings reveal that changing the morphology of snow particles impacts their resistance to movement in the bogie region, affecting their mobility in the bogie region. Snow particles with higher resistance will stay in the low-speed zone of the bogie region, increasing snow particle concentration and accumulation, whereas snow particles with lower resistance follow airflow movement and gather fewer in the low-speed zone. Different shapes of snow particles accumulate in different amounts on the bogie components, with the most accumulation by spherical snow particles in the braking system and suspension system surface. Therefore, using spherical snow particles to simulate wind and snow flow phenomenon at the bottom of the train can indicate the worst case.
Opportunity Neglect: An Aversion to Low-Probability Gains
Authors: Prinsloo Emily , Barasz Kate , John Leslie K. , Norton Michael I.
Published: September 2022

Seven preregistered studies ( N = 2,890, adult participants) conducted in the field, in the lab, and online documented opportunity neglect: a tendency to reject opportunities with low probability of success even when they come with little or no objective cost (e.g., time, money, reputation). Participants rejected a low-probability opportunity in an everyday context (Study 1). Participants also rejected incentive-compatible gambles with positive expected value—for both goods (Study 2) and money (Studies 3–7)—even with no possibility of monetary loss and nontrivial rewards (e.g., a 1% chance at $99). Participants rejected low-probability opportunities more frequently than high-probability opportunities with equal expected value (Study 3). Although taking some real-life opportunities comes with costs, we show that people are even willing to incur costs to opt out of low-probability opportunities (Study 4). Opportunity neglect can be mitigated by highlighting that rejecting an opportunity is equivalent to choosing a zero probability of success (Studies 6–7).
The effects of acrylamide-mediated dorsal root ganglion neurons injury on ferroptosis
Authors: An Shuai , Shi Jingfei , Li Zheng , Feng Mingli , Cao Guanglei
Published: September 2022

Acrylamide (ACR) is a water-soluble chemical applied in industrial and laboratory processes. The neurotoxicity induced by acrylamide involves both peripheral and central nervous system. Hence, there is a growing urgency to investigate the mechanisms of acrylamide-induced neurotoxicity and search novel therapeutic target for the nerve repair. The effects of ACR on the proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and iron production of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons and Schwann cells were determined. 5-Ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EDU) staining and transwell assay were applied to detect the proliferation and migration capacity of DRG cells. Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) was used to suppress ferroptosis induced by ACR. RT-PCR analysis was performed to examine the expression of neurotrophic factors including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factor (NGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). Moreover, Iron, ROS, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) contents were measured to reveal the regulation of ferroptosis in ACR-related nerve injury. ACR inhibited the proliferation and migration of DRG neurons and the supplementation of Fer-1 reversed the effects induced by ACR. Besides, the treatment of Fer-1 effectively increased the expression of NGF, BDNF, VEGF and GDNF. Furthermore, ACR increased the iron level, MDA and ROS contents while inhibited the level of GSH. It was unveiled that ACR attenuated the proliferation, migration and neuron repair of DRG neurons through regulating ferroptosis. The modulation of ferroptosis might be a promising therapeutic strategy and provide references for future treatment of acrylamide-induced nerve damage.
Becoming “intimate” with the present moment: Mindfulness and the question of temporality
Authors: Primdahl Nis L
Published: September 2022

Being in the present moment is a key element in most widespread definitions of modern mindfulness. A claim about temporality can thus be said to lie at the core of mindfulness, in which some ways of relating to time are considered subordinate to others; being in the present moment is ascribed higher value than being elsewhere in time. However, although the significance of the present moment is clear, its content and meaning are ambiguous; what temporal states are promoted through mindfulness? This article seeks to theorize this ambiguity by focusing on the specific context of school-based mindfulness as a case in which temporality and education intertwine. Whereas educational research on issues related to time and temporality typically construes time as a condition or resource for educational practices, I argue that school-based mindfulness represents a particular method of making temporality—specifically, the relation between the student self and the present moment—into an object of education. I identify three dimensions of what it means to be in the present moment through empirical examples drawn from a broader study on the educational purposes of school-based mindfulness. The article concludes with a discussion of the implications of the complexity of the notion of the present moment in school-based mindfulness for future research in this field.
Alexander Ure MD, FRCS (1808-1866), and the beginning of drug metabolism studies
Authors: Mitchell SC , Waring RH
Published: September 2022

Although many fields of endeavour emerge owing to the coalescence of the work and observations of numerous individuals, there is usually one seminal event that unites and acts as a catalyst to stimulate and advance the process. Such was the case with Alexander Ure. Up to this point it had been speculated that chemicals taken into the body may undergo bio-transformation, akin to the digestion of nutrients, but no unequivocal and quantitative experiments had been performed before those of Ure. Following his observations the subject began to flourish; to him may be attributed the beginnings of xenobiochemistry and the field now known as drug metabolism.
Managing Emergencies for the Safeguarding of Cities of Art in Corrado Ricci's Correspondence: Ravenna, ‘Open City’ without Air Defences (1916–1918)
Authors: Stella Eleonora Maria
Published: September 2022

This paper examines the dramatic events which involved Ravenna and its historical pinewood from 1916, during the First World War. In that terrible year, the centre of the monumental city was for the first time targeted by Austrian bombs, which also threw civilian life into disorder. The emergency also affected Ravenna's ancient pinewood – a unique piece of natural heritage, rich with history – whose survival was threatened because of the decisions and military priorities of the Italian Supreme Command. These events must be seen in the completely new context of the operation to safeguard the Italian artistic and monumental heritage conducted by the state, with the support of the army.
Book review: Syed Akbaruddin, India vs UK: The Story of an Unprecedented Diplomatic Win
Authors: Shah Mubashir Ahmad
Published: September 2022

Syed Akbaruddin, India vs UK: The Story of an Unprecedented Diplomatic Win. Harper Collins, 2021, pp. 240, ₹599 (hardback), ISBN 9789354892035.
Factors Influencing Use–diversity of Urban Parks: A Cross-cultural Study Between Chengdu (China) and Perth (Australia)
Authors: Swapan Mohammad Shahidul Hasan , Iftekhar Md. Sayed , Li Xiyuan
Published: September 2022

Urban parks are an essential component of city infrastructure providing multiple ecosystem services. While there are many studies exploring the usage of urban parks within a country, cross-country comparisons are rare. Comparative studies of use–diversity of urban parks between developing and developed countries are almost absent. To address this research gap, we have compared use–diversity of two major urban parks in China (Dufu Cottage in Chengdu—DC) and in Australia (Kings Park in Perth—KP). Using a post-occupancy survey questionnaire, we addressed two key questions: (a) is there any difference in use–diversity between these urban parks? And (b) which demographic and socio-economic factors influence use pattern of urban parks the most? We observed that, in general, use frequency is lower in DC when compared to KP. In both parks, the opportunity of physical activity is the most important motive for visitation. Most of the usage is concentrated during the weekends in DC; KP was used more consistently throughout the week. Various socio-demographic factors, such as gender, age, income level and frequency of visits, have some influence on frequency and diversity of usage. The impact of socio-demographic factors on the extent of use highlights the importance of understanding users’ profiles to adopt more targeted measures to address local demands. The study identified some common patterns and differences in use–diversity between the two parks, underscoring the potential for managers of these parks in both countries, for mutual learning and adopting best management practices.
Australian Journal of Career Development: A 30-year perspective
Authors: Athanasou James A
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to analyse 593 articles from 1120 authors published in the Australian Journal of Career Development between 1992 and 2001. The analysis focused on authorship, type of article, setting/participants and career development theory across three decades as well as across the first five editors during that period. The results revealed that (a) there was an increase in international career articles; (b) the majority of articles were empirical; (c) the most common samples comprised college/university students and adult workers; (d) over the last 30 years constructivist-narrative approaches and person-environment fit theories attracted the most research attention; and (e) the editorial policies of the journals have varied across time.
Who Gets (and Who Should Get) a Serious Illness Conversation in the Hospital? An Analysis of Readmission Risk Score in an Electronic Health Record
Authors: Serna Myrna K. , Fiskio Julie , Yoon Catherine , Plombon Savanna , Lakin Joshua R. , Schnipper Jeffrey L. , Dalal Anuj K.
Published: September 2022

Serious Illness Conversations (SICs) explore patients’ prognostic awareness, hopes, and worries, and can help establish priorities for their care during and after hospitalization. While identifying patients who benefit from an SIC remains a challenge, this task may be facilitated by use of validated prediction scores available in most commercial electronic health records (EHRs), such as Epic’s Readmission Risk Score (RRS). We identified the RRS on admission for all hospital encounters from October 2018 to August 2019 and measured the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve to determine whether RRS could accurately discriminate post discharge 6-month mortality. For encounters with standardized SIC documentation matched in a 1:3 ratio to controls by sex and age (±5 years), we constructed a multivariable, paired logistic regression model and measured the odds of SIC documentation per every 10% absolute increase in RRS. RRS was predictive of 6-month mortality with acceptable discrimination (AUROC .71) and was significantly associated with SIC documentation (adjusted OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.24-1.63). An RRS >28% used to identify patients with post discharge 6-month mortality had a high specificity (89.0%) and negative predictive value (NPV) (97.0%), but low sensitivity (25.2%) and positive predictive value (PPV) (7.9%). RRS may serve as a practical EHR-based screen to exclude patients not requiring an SIC, thereby leaving a smaller cohort to be further evaluated for SIC needs using other validated tools and clinical assessment.
Impact of Piperacillin-Tazobactam Dosing in Septic Shock Patients Using Real-World Evidence: An Observational, Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Allen John M. , Surajbali Devi , Q. Nguyen Dalena , Kuczek Jolanta , Tran Maithi , Hachey Brianna , Feild Carinda , Shoulders Bethany R. , Smith Steven M. , Voils Stacy A.
Published: September 2022

Background:

Sepsis and septic shock are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Rapid initiation of appropriate antibiotic therapy is essential, as inadequate therapy early during septic shock has been shown to increase the risk of mortality. However, despite the importance of appropriate antibiotic initiation, in clinical practice, concerns for renal dysfunction frequently lead to antibiotic dose reduction, with scant evidence on the impact of this practice in septic shock patients.

Objective:

The purpose if this article is to investigate the rate and impact of piperacillin-tazobactam dose adjustment in early phase septic shock patients using real-world electronic health record (EHR) data.

Methods:

A multicenter, observational, retrospective cohort study was conducted of septic shock patients who received at least 48 hours of piperacillin-tazobactam therapy and concomitant receipt of norepinephrine. Subjects were stratified into 2 groups according to their cumulative 48-hour piperacillin-tazobactam dose: low piperacillin-tazobactam dosing (LOW; <27 g) group and normal piperacillin-tazobactam dosing (NORM; ≥27 g) group. To account for potential confounding variables, propensity score matching was used. The primary study outcome was 28-day norepinephrine-free days (NFD).

Results:

In all, 1279 patients met study criteria. After propensity score matching (n = 608), the NORM group had more median NFD (23.9 days [interquartile range, IQR: 0-27] vs 13.6 days [IQR: 0-27], P = 0.021). The NORM group also had lower rates of in-hospital mortality/hospice disposition (25.9% [n = 79] vs 35.5% [n = 108]), P = 0.014). Other secondary outcomes were similar between the treatment groups.

Conclusions and Relevance:

In the propensity score–matched cohort, the NORM group had significantly more 28-day NFD. Piperacillin-tazobactam dose reduction in early phase septic shock is associated with worsened clinical outcomes. Clinicians should be vigilant to avoid piperacillin-tazobactam dose reduction in early phase septic shock.
Assessment of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Practices Among Households, 2019 − Sierra Leone: A Community-based Cluster Survey
Authors: Sesay Bockarie Pompay , Hakizimana Jean Leonard , Elduma Adel Hussein , Gebru Gebrekrstos Negash
Published: September 2022

Introduction:

In Sierra Leone, diseases related to water, sanitation, and hygiene remain among the leading cause of morbidity and account for 20% of all death. This study assessed the water, sanitation, and hygiene services and practices at household level in Sierra Leone.

Methods:

A cluster survey was conducted among 1002 households in 4 districts of Sierra Leone. Data was collected on water, sanitation, and hygiene indicators, occurrence of diarrhoeal diseases at household level within 14-day prior to the survey. Chi-square test at 95% significant level was computed to compare the difference in accessing improved water sources, sanitation, and hygiene in urban and rural areas.

Result:

Of the 1002 households surveyed, 650 (65%) had access to improved drinking water sources. In the urban areas, 432 (88%) out of 486 households had improved drinking water source, which is higher as compared to rural areas. Only 218 (42%) out of 516 households had improved drinking water ( P < .001). Of the total households surveyed, 167 (17%) had improved sanitation with 45 (5%) having a handwashing facility. There were 173 households reporting diarrhoeal disease within 2 weeks prior to the survey, with prevalence of 17%.

Conclusion:

Majority of households in rural areas do not have access to improved water sources, sanitation, and handwashing facilities. This study found a high prevalence of diarrhoeal disease at the household level. It is recommended that The Ministry of Health and Sanitation work with relevant sectors to increase access to improved drinking water, sanitation, and handwashing facilities in rural areas.
Characteristics of House-Tree-Person Drawing Test in Junior High School Students with Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Guo Qianting , Yu Guilin , Wang Jun , Qin Yang , Zhang Liyuan
Published: September 2022

Objective

This study aims to explore the drawing characteristics of the house-tree-person drawing test (HTP) in junior high school students with depressive symptoms.

Methods

A total of 167 junior high school students were recruited and completed HTP and questionnaires. 12 drawing characteristics of HTP were extracted and compared to explore the potential drawing characteristics of depressive symptoms.

Results

Among 12 drawing characteristics, eight drawing characteristics appeared more frequently in the depressed group (CES-D ≥ 20) than in the non-depressed group (CES-D < 20), while one drawing characteristic appeared with a lower frequency. Further, controlling for the risk perception of COVID-19, seven drawing characteristics, not suggestive of movement, lacking details, blackening the paper, drawing in an only dark color, drawing a detailed crown, hands behind the back, and omitting expression, emerged as predictors of depressive symptoms (CES-D ≥ 20) in junior high school students.

Conclusion

Seven drawing characteristics of HTP are significantly associated with depressive symptoms in junior high school students. HTP is insightful for early screening for junior high school students with depressive symptoms.
Routine dynamics: Toward a critical conversation
Authors: Feldman Martha S , Pentland Brian T
Published: September 2022

In this essay, we suggest new research directions for the study of routines that intersect with and draw upon conversations about the reproduction of privilege and oppression as a strategic issue in organizations. We focus on how social inequality is reproduced and normalized by routines. We describe and illustrate how analyzing the dynamics of organizational routines can help us understand the production and reproduction of social inequality and the possibility of amelioration.
To Report or Not to Report? A Systematic Review of Sex Workers’ Willingness to Report Violence and Victimization to Police
Authors: Struyf Pia
Published: September 2022

Sex workers face high risks of violence both during and after the performance of their job, yet the prevalence and willingness to report victimization to the police is extremely low. International research on the motives of sex workers not to report violent crimes to police is scarce and fragmented. To address this knowledge gap, a systematic review was conducted to answer the following question: What reasons do sex workers articulate to explain their reluctance to report victimization to the police? After searching for peer-reviewed and grey literature in various databases, using systematic search terms, nine studies met the inclusion criteria. After thematic analysis, four main motivations for not reporting victimization emerged: (i) fear of punishment, (ii) fear of maltreatment, (iii) fear of exposure, and (iv) fear of impunity. The impact of intersectional and personal characteristics of sex workers (i.e., gender, migration status, type of sex work, etc.) were explored. The findings show that sex workers experience low levels of trust in the police which results in unwillingness to report victimization. The article argues that decriminalization of the sex industry, and action to improve procedural justice, are likely to increase the inclination of sex workers to report a crime to police.
Caring for People Who Use Drugs: Best Practices for EMS Providers
Authors: Murray Stephen , Walley Alexander Y. , Reilly Brittni
Published: September 2022

People who use drugs (PWUD) face stigmatizing treatment and substandard care during all stages of their health care journey, including in the prehospital setting by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers. Drawing on the professional and lived experience of the authors, we have developed a training with an intended audience of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) and Paramedics in Massachusetts that will orient them to harm reduction philosophy. The training is delivered online through an asynchronous platform housed at Boston University School of Public Health and centers around several themes including the impact of fentanyl on the drug supply, the role of harm reduction in mitigating the impacts of drug criminalization, and ensuring that EMS providers have access to tools and best practices for improving overdose response, pain management, documentation, and respectful language. The training has been approved for Massachusetts Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS) continuing education credit and will be offered for free. We plan to evaluate changes in participant knowledge and attitudes and overall acceptability of the training among EMS providers in Massachusetts.
“Is the Pain a Sign of Healing?”: Cancer Patients’ Experiences of Energy Healing in a Pragmatic Trial
Authors: Agdal Rita
Published: September 2022

The use of complementary and alternative medicine has increased, most markedly among cancer patients. Previous research on energy healing is inconclusive, but qualitative studies have mainly reported positive healing experiences, whereas positive results from trials are scarce. Considering the apparent discrepancy between qualitative and quantitative studies, we aimed to describe the interpretation processes of the patients receiving energy healing. We followed the interpretation processes of a subsection of cancer patients who participated in a pragmatic trial on energy healing, including patients in the control groups. No significant differences between the groups were found in the quantitative part of the trial, but the majority of patients in both the intervention and control groups reported subjective improvements. A subset of 32 patients from the trial was selected for this qualitative sub-study to gain insight into their interpretation processes. These 32 patients recruited from the trial were followed with qualitative interviews before, during, and after the treatment period, using a cultural-phenomenological approach. Most patients who received energy healing changed their perception of bodily experiences, and they perceived a wider variety of signs as indicative of healing than the patients in the control groups. After receiving energy healing, the patients also perceived signs that from a medical perspective are regarded as symptoms, as signs of healing. The changes in perception of illness and healing affected decision-making dynamics and should be considered when producing information and communication strategies for health promotion.
Therapeutic Efficacy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome-Based Formulae to Neuropathic Pain Caused by Chemotherapy
Authors: Liu Yan-Wen , Chen Ying-Jung , Chen Yen-Hao , Tsai Ming-Yen
Published: September 2022

Objective:

Chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain (CINP) is a troublesome complication of anti-cancer treatment. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the effectiveness of classic Chinese herbal formulae (CHF) Huang Qi Gui Zhi Wu Wu Tang (HQGZWWT) and Dang Gui Si Ni Tang (DGSNT) in the treatment of CINP.

Materials and Methods:

Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) questionnaires were rated at baseline and after 3-monthly CHF treatment.

Results:

By searching through our medical records of all the CIPN patients from 2018 to 2019, we identified and enrolled 37 patients with Deficiency-Cold syndrome in the study, for whom the treatment of neuropathic pain by regular pharmacotherapies had failed or intolerable. At the third month evaluation with the DN4 questionnaire, 13 patients had symptomatic remission, 15 patients remained stable, and 9 patients had no response to CHF. The 3-month mean DN4 score was significantly higher than that at the baseline ( P < .001). After CHF treatment, significant differences in quality of life were noted in the physical, social, emotional, and functional well-being subscales, and in the total score, of the FACT-G ( P < .001). No adverse events or instances of disease progression were observed.

Conclusions:

The results of our small study are the first in the literature to show the clinical effectiveness of CHF for CINP. Combination of HQGZWWT and DGSNT is well tolerated and may offer the possibility to ameliorate CINP more than conventional care can. It merits further investigation.
Research on forming technology and experiment of high strength aluminum alloy locomotive traction gearbox
Authors: Xuan Liang , Zhang Chunfei , Qin Meichao , Guan Tianmin , Sun Duo
Published: September 2022

Gearbox is a widely used component in mechanical transmission and plays a vital role in the operation of locomotive. With the development of aluminum alloy materials and molding technology, the monolithic casting gearbox has a widely application prospect. This paper focuses on the manufacturing method of Selective Laser Melting processing for high strength aluminum alloy locomotive traction gearbox. Firstly, the influence factors of laser melting process on the placement angle, support type and support spacing are studied through orthogonal experimental design. It is found that the placement angle has the greatest impact on the forming accuracy, the support spacing takes the second place, and the support type has the least impact on the forming accuracy. When the placement angle is 45°, the support spacing is 1 mm, the steel wire support is added to the support type, which has the least impact on the forming accuracy. Then, the processing ability of the whole box structure is verified by using the Fused Deposition Modeling technology. With using the optimized optimal parameter combination, it can be found that the volume of the printing box is 100 cm3, the mass is 280 g, the surface roughness is 6 μm, and the precision is 0.15 mm. Then the laser melting forming process is carried out in the selected box area. Through experimental analysis, a prototype is developed. At the same time, the process parameters of selective laser melting forming for the whole box structure can be obtained.
From hybrid to fully remote clinical trial amidst the COVID-19 pandemic: Strategies to promote recruitment, retention, and engagement in a randomized mHealth trial
Authors: Simmons Leigh Ann , Phipps Jennifer E , Whipps Mackenzie , Smith Paige , Carbajal Kathryn A , Overstreet Courtney , McLaughlin Jennifer , De Lombaert Koen , Noonan Devon
Published: September 2022

Clinical trials worldwide were disrupted when the COVID-19 pandemic began in early 2020. Most intervention trials moved to some form of remote implementation due to restrictions on in-person research activities. Although the proportion of remote trials is growing, they remain the vast minority of studies in part due to few successful examples. Our team transitioned Goals for Reaching Optimal Wellness ( GROWell), an NIH-funded (R01NR017659) randomized control trial (RCT; ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT04449432) originally designed as a hybrid intervention, into a fully remote clinical trial. GROWell is a digital dietary intervention for people who enter pregnancy with overweight or obesity. Primary outcomes include gestational weight gain and six-month postpartum weight retention. Strategies that we have tested, refined, and deployed include: (a) use of a HIPAA-compliant, web-based participant recruitment and engagement platform; (b) use of a HIPAA-compliant digital health platform to disseminate GROWell and conduct study visits (c) interconnectivity of these two platforms for seamless recruitment, consent, enrollment, intervention delivery, follow-up, and study team blinding; (d) detailed SMS messages to address initial challenges with protocol adherence; (e) email notifications alerting the study team about missed participant surveys so they can follow-up; (f) remuneration using email gift cards with recipient choice of vendor; and (g) geotargeting social media campaigns to improve participation of Black Indigenous and People of Color Communities. These strategies have resulted in screen failure rates improving by 7%, study task adherence improving by an average of 20–30% across study visits, and study completion rates of 82%. Researchers may consider some or all of these approaches in future remote mHealth trials.
The Role of the Trapezius in Stabilization of the Acromioclavicular Joint: A Biomechanical Evaluation
Authors: Trudeau Maxwell T. , Peters Jonathan J. , Hawthorne Benjamin C. , Wellington Ian J. , LeVasseur Matthew R. , Mancini Michael R. , Obopilwe Elifho , Giacomo Giovanni Di , Cerciello Simone , Mazzocca Augustus D.
Published: September 2022

Background:

Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries are common, and many are adequately treated nonoperatively. Biomechanical studies have mainly focused on static ligamentous stabilizers. Few studies have quantified ACJ stabilization provided by the trapezius.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To elucidate the stabilization provided by the trapezius to the ACJ during scapular internal and external rotation (protraction and retraction). It was hypothesized that sequential trapezial resection would result in increasing ACJ instability.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A biomechanical approach was pursued, with 10 cadaveric shoulders with the trapezius anatomically force loaded to normal. The trapezius was then serially transected over 8 trials, which alternated between clavicular defects (CD) and scapular defects (SD); each sequential defect consisted of 25% of the clavicular or scapular trapezial attachment. After each defect, specimens were tested with angle-controlled scapular internal and external rotation (12°) with rotary torque measurements to evaluate ACJ stability.

Results:

The mean resistance in rotary torque for 12° of scapular internal rotation (protraction) with native specimens was 7.0 ± 2.0 N·m. Overall, internal rotation demonstrated a significant decrease in ACJ stability with trapezial injury ( P < .001). Eight sequential defects resulted in the following significant percentage decreases in rotary torque from native internal rotation: 1.5% (25% CD; 0% SD), 5.6% (25% CD; 25% SD), 5.1% (50% CD; 25% SD), 6.5% (50% CD; 50% SD), 3.8% (75% CD; 50% SD), 7.1% (75% CD; 75% SD), 6.7% (100% CD; 75% SD), and 12.3% (100% CD 100% SD) ( P < .001). The mean resistance in rotary torque for 12° of scapular external rotation (retraction) with native specimens was 7.1 ± 1.7 N·m. External rotation did not demonstrate a significant decrease in ACJ stability with trapezial injury ( P = .596). The 8 sequential defects resulted in decreases in rotary torque from native external rotation of 0%, 3.8%, 4.0%, 3.2%, 3.5%, 3.4%, 4.2%, and 0.7%.

Conclusion:

Trapezial injury resulted in increased instability in the setting of scapular internal rotation (protraction) of the ACJ.

Clinical Relevance:

These findings validate the inclusion of deltotrapezial fascial injury consideration in the modified Rockwood classification system. Repair of the trapezial insertion on the ACJ may provide improved outcomes in the setting of ACJ reconstruction.