bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Book review: Werner Menski and Muneeb Yousuf (Eds), Kashmir after 2019: Completing the Partition
Authors: Hussain Zahid
Published: May 2024

Werner Menski and Muneeb Yousuf (Eds), Kashmir after 2019: Completing the Partition (New Delhi: Sage Publications, 2022), xii + 380 pp.
Pelvic vein thrombosis in patients with pelvic venous disorders
Authors: Gavrilov Sergey G , Moskalenko Yekaterina P , Karalkin Anatoly V , Alenichev Alexander V
Published: May 2024

Objective

To assess the incidence of pelvic vein thrombosis (PVT) and outcomes of anticoagulant therapy for PVT in patients with pelvic venous disorders (PeVDs).

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 588 female patients with PeVDs underwent clinical examination followed by duplex ultrasound of the pelvic veins in 2021-2023. Patients with PVT were administered with anticoagulant therapy in an outpatient setting using low molecular weight heparins at a therapeutic dose.

Results

PVT was detected in 7.6% of patients with PeVDs and was symptomatic in 28.8% of them. The majority of asymptomatic patients had thrombosis in only one of the parametrial veins (90.6%). Anticoagulant therapy resulted in the PVT symptoms relief in all patients within 10 days and recanalization of the pelvic veins in 1-3 months.

Conclusion

In our study, PVT was diagnosed in 7.6% of patients with PeVDs. Anticoagulant therapy is effective and safe in resolving PVT symptoms.
Time estimates in prognostic discussions: A conversation analytic study of hospice multidisciplinary team meetings
Authors: Bruun Andrea , White Nicola , Oostendorp Linda , Stone Patrick , Bloch Steven
Published: May 2024

Background:

Recommendations state that multidisciplinary team expertise should be utilised for more accurate survival predictions. How the multidisciplinary team discusses prognoses during meetings and how they reference time, is yet to be explored.

Aim:

To explore how temporality is conveyed in relation to patients’ prognoses during hospice multidisciplinary team meetings.

Design:

Video-recordings of 24 hospice multidisciplinary team meetings were transcribed and analysed using Conversation Analysis.

Setting/participants:

A total of 65 staff participating in multidisciplinary team meetings in a UK hospice from May to December 2021.

Results:

Team members conveyed temporality in three different ways. (i) Staff stated that a patient was dying as part of the patient’s current health status. These formulations did not include a time reference per se but described the patient’s current situation (as dying) instead. (ii) Staff used specific time period references where another specific reference had been provided previously that somehow constrained the timeframe. In these cases, the prognosis would conflict with other proposed care plans. (iii) Staff members used unspecific time period references where the reference appeared vague and there was greater uncertainty about when the patient was expected to die.

Conclusions:

Unspecific time period references are sufficient for achieving meaningful prognostic talk in multidisciplinary teams. In-depth discussion and accurate prediction of patient prognoses are not deemed a priority nor a necessity of these meetings. Providing precise predictions may be too difficult due to uncertainty and accountability. The lack of staff pursuing more specific time references implies shared knowledge between staff and a context-specific use of prognostic estimates.
Innovative On-Demand Transit for First-Mile Trips: A Cutting-Edge Approach
Authors: Meshkani Seyed Mehdi , Farazmand Siavash , Bouguila Nizar , Patterson Zachary
Published: May 2024

As a result of the lack of access to efficient public transit in suburban areas, residents often have to use their own vehicles to commute either within the area, to neighboring regions, or to a public transit hub (PTH). Thanks to information and communication technologies, on-demand transit (ODT) is a potential solution being proposed and considered by transit agencies. Although ODT has shown the potential to enhance transit level of service, its efficiency depends on different parameters such as demand spatial and temporal distribution or the configuration of the service. In this study, we propose a novel configuration for an ODT service and apply it to the first part of a commuter’s trip, or the commuter’s “first mile.” The proposed configuration depends on the availability of smart devices installed at bus stops. Passengers request their rides via smart devices and receive real-time and personalized information about their ride requests to travel to a PTH. The proposed ODT service is modeled with the Simulation of Urban Mobility or SUMO simulation framework. To evaluate the performance of the ODT service, it is applied to the city of Terrebonne in Quebec, Canada. The proposed service is compared with existing bus transit operating in the area as well as a door-to-PTH service. The results of the comparison analysis reveal that the proposed ODT service may result in a significant 36% reduction in total travel time as well as a 41% reduction in detour time compared with the existing bus transit service. A detailed sensitivity analysis is also conducted to capture the impacts of different parameters, variables, and dispatching algorithms on the service performance.
Impact response characteristics and damage mechanism of continuous carbon-fiber-reinforced magnesium matrix composite materials
Authors: Zhang Hongji , Zhao Pan , Li Jiangjiang , Cao Jingwei
Published: May 2024

The continuous carbon-fiber-reinforced magnesium matrix composite (C_f/Mg) is a new type of composite material made of a magnesium alloy sheet and carbon-fiber-reinforced composite material with alternating layers. It has the advantages of high damage tolerance, light weight, and corrosion resistance, and has become the first choice of lightweight materials in aerospace, transportation, and other fields. Because impact-resistance serves as an important index for its structural design and performance stability, a continuous carbon-fiber-reinforced magnesium matrix composite with indirect bonding using a modified epoxy resin was designed in this study. Moreover, C_f/Mg was chosen to be the object of research through the selection of constituent materials such as magnesium alloys, carbon fibers, resins, and other properties, which matched the aim of realizing a lightweight material. With the help of hot-compression molding technology, dynamic impact mechanical behavior, and damage analysis technology, the structural design and preparation process optimization of epoxy resin carbon-fiber prepregs and magnesium alloy layer materials, as well as the dynamic impact mechanical response characteristics and damage evolution process under different impact energy conditions, were studied. Accordingly, through a combination of low-velocity impact experiments and numerical simulations, the effects of continuous multiple impacts at the same location with the same impact energy, as well as impacts with the same impact energy and different punch diameters, on the low-velocity impact damage behavior and dynamic impact response characteristics of C_f/Mg were investigated. The results of this study show that when the 5J impact is applied four times consecutively, the peak impact load gradually increases with the increasing number of impacts. Moreover, the peak impact loads of the second, third, and fourth impacts increase by 6.09%, 10.7%, and 14.5%, respectively, compared with the results of the first impact.
Green sound-absorbing material prepared by using natural fiber for building acoustics
Authors: Tripathi Ashutosh , Jha N. K. , Hota R. N. , Kumar Ajay , Tyagi Rashi
Published: May 2024

Natural fibers are recently seen as a replacement for synthetic fibers as core material to produce sound-absorbent materials. These are biodegradable and renewable, and using them as sound-absorbent material brings many environmental benefits as it is much greener compared to existing inorganic and synthetic fibers. Present exploration serves the purpose of investigation and comparison of the acoustic absorption characteristics of individual and mixed natural fibers; jute, coconut coir, and bamboo. Each fiber is reinforced with natural rubber in a certain weight ratio during the fabricating stage. The fibers are then compressed with the help of mould and ram piston in a hydraulic press. The compression is done in the form of cylindrical samples of 40 mm diameter. Each specimen is kept 36 mm thick, according to the given standards. The impedance tube technique is used to evaluate acoustical performances. Multilayered composites made of layers of coir, jute, and bamboo performed better in all the frequency ranges than composites made of individual fibers. Results establish that these fibers are promising and a viable option for light and environment-friendly sound absorption materials.
Analysis of Barriers to the Successful Implementation of Digitalization in South Africa Using the Interpretive Structural Modelling Approach
Authors: Rakgoale Thabiso Isaac , Bag Surajit , Pretorius Jan Harm C
Published: May 2024

Many digitalization programmes fail in the implementation phase due to unforeseen obstacles. This study examines the barriers that affect the successful implementation of digitalization using the interpretive structural model and also evaluates the interrelationships among the barriers in the implementation of digitalization. Previous articles in the discipline of digitalization were used in the literature to mainly draw barriers found during the implementation phase of digitalization. Interpretive Structural Modelling results helped to find different levels of barriers and their influence on the system. The high cost of digital technologies and political instability were identified as the leading barriers affecting the successful implementation of digital systems in South Africa. The findings will aid in decision-making for problem-solving to eliminate the most critical barriers to improve the implementation process.
Social Determinants of Health Inequities for Older LGBT Adults: A Scoping Review
Authors: Srithumsuk Werayuth , Thummapol Onouma , Bhatarasakoon Patraporn
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Despite the research on a health-disparate population, less is known about the social determinants of health (SDOH) inequities among older lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) adults. This scoping review aimed to explore and summarize what is known in the literature regarding the SDOH among older LGBT adults.

Methods:

The Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI) approach guided this scoping review, which examined 31 articles that included quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies. Data were analyzed by three independent reviewers through a predesigned process of data charting, descriptive summary, and thematic analysis.

Results:

Older participants were primarily LGBT and LGB. The findings identified four intersecting dimensions of individuals, social, economic, and health care system, contributing to health inequities and poor health outcomes.

Conclusion:

Given the importance of SDOH for older LGBT adults, stakeholders including health care providers need to better understand the multiple intersecting influences, provide culturally congruent health care, and integrate sources of support into the care of these sexual- and gender-minority older adults.
Workplace Injury Compensation and Mental Health and Self-Harm Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wadhwa Sanya , Taouk Yamna , Spittal Matthew J. , King Tania
Published: May 2024

Workers’ compensation systems aim to financially support injured workers. However, seeking compensation often leads to poorer physical and mental health outcomes. This review examines previous studies to investigate the relationship between workers’ compensation and mental health and self-harm outcomes. A three-tiered search strategy across five databases identified studies that examined workers’ compensation claims as an exposure or risk factor, with outcomes related to mental health, self-harm and suicidality. Nine full-text studies were included; however, heterogeneity limited generalizability. Most studies supported an association between pursuing compensation and poorer mental health and self-harm outcomes. Some studies attributed this to specific aspects of the system such as justice perception and navigation of the claims system. Findings suggest an association between workers’ compensation and mental health or self-harm outcomes. Inconclusive findings highlight the need for further research. Understanding the psychiatric impacts of pursuing compensation is crucial to help formulate a more accessible compensation system.
Exploring Differences in Intraoperative Medication Use Between African American and Non-Hispanic White Patients During General Anesthesia: Retrospective Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Tsumura Hideyo , Pan Wei , Brandon Debra
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to explore whether differences exist in anesthesia care providers’ use of intraoperative medication between African American and non-Hispanic White patients in adult surgical patients who underwent noncardiothoracic nonobstetric surgeries with general anesthesia. A retrospective observational cohort study used electronic health records between January 1, 2018 and August 31, 2019 at a large academic health system in the southeastern United States. To evaluate the isolated impact of race on intraoperative medication use, inverse probability of treatment weighting using the propensity scores was used to balance the covariates between African American and non-Hispanic White patients. Regression analyses were then performed to evaluate the impact of race on the total dose of opioid analgesia administered, and the use of midazolam, sugammadex, antihypotensive drugs, and antihypertensive drugs. Of the 31,790 patients included in the sample, 58.9% were non-Hispanic Whites and 13.6% were African American patients. After adjusting for significant covariates, African American patients were more likely to receive midazolam premedication ( p < .0001; adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.17, 99.9% CI [1.06, 1.30]), and antihypertensive drugs ( p = .0002; aOR = 1.15, 99.9% CI [1.02, 1.30]), and less likely to receive antihypotensive drugs ( p < .0001; aOR = 0.85, 99.9% CI [0.76, 0.95]) than non-Hispanic White patients. However, we did not find significant differences in the total dose of opioid analgesia administered, or sugammadex. This study identified differences in intraoperative anesthesia care delivery between African American and non-Hispanic White patients; however, future research is needed to understand mechanisms that contribute to these differences and whether these differences are associated with patient outcomes.
Impact of Inventory Levels and Product Variety on Consumers’ Perceptions of Brands
Authors: Rajavi Koushyar , Golara Sina , Modaresi Sajad
Published: May 2024

Past research in operations management and marketing on inventory levels and product variety has predominantly focused on their effects on brand performance indicators, such as sales and market share while overlooking the influence on consumers’ perceptions of brands. Brand perceptions, encompassing reputation, quality, credibility, and emotional associations, go beyond typical revenue metrics and offer foresight into a brand’s future performance. Hence, understanding the effects of inventory and product variety on brand perceptions is crucial, and that constitutes the main contribution of this paper. Through a consumer-facing automobile search platform, we collect data on new cars’ inventories of more than 20,000 dealerships in the United States from August 2020 to March 2021. We measure brand perceptions using 273,991 responses by in-market consumers collected by YouGov. To address endogeneity concerns, we model the effects of inventory and variety on perceived brand strength using three different empirical approaches: (1) High-dimensional fixed effects, (2) instrumental variables, and (3) causal forest. Across all analyses, we find that inventory has a positive effect on perceived brand strength but the main effect of product variety is not significant. Our second contribution is related to the fact that past research on inventory and variety does not, for the most part, investigate systematic heterogeneity due to brand- or consumer-specific factors that impact the effectiveness of inventory or variety; to help fill this gap in the literature, we investigate the role of two important and theoretically motivated moderators: Consumer income and luxury status of the brand. We find that consumers’ income levels and brands’ luxury status negatively (positively) moderate the effects of product inventory (variety) on perceived brand strength. Our results have managerial implications for effective assortment planning under scarcity, determining the right range of product offerings for luxury versus nonluxury brands, optimizing the customer’s online browsing experience, and targeting advertisements based on brand and consumer characteristics.
Pulmonary Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Post-Hodgkin Lymphoma Completely Resolved With Vinblastine in a Heavy Smoker: Coincidence or Causation?
Authors: Shaker Nada , Shaker Nuha , Abu Shakra Rafat , Yenwongafi Leonard , Pradhan Dinesh , Sangueza Omar P.
Published: May 2024

The association among Langerhans cell histiocytosis, hematolymphoid malignancies, and heavy smoking has been addressed in medical literature to identify a possible potential link. Such occurrence can pose diagnostic challenges, as well as important clinical implications for disease progression and treatment approaches. We present pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis instance in a 35-year-old male patient, with a 34-pack-year smoking history and nodular sclerosing Hodgkin lymphoma stage IIB who developed multiple bilateral lung nodules. The patient completed 6 cycles of doxorubicin (Adriamycin), bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine chemotherapy and radiotherapy 2 years earlier. CT chest scans revealed numerous micronodules scattered randomly throughout the upper and lower left lung lobes. Subsequent wedge resection exhibited cellular proliferation with grooved nuclei, eosinophilic cytoplasm, and surrounding inflammatory components. Immunohistochemical staining showed positive staining for S100 and CD1a confirming a diagnosis of pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis. The patient responded to a 6-week treatment with vinblastine and prednisolone. A subsequent CT scan of the lungs revealed complete resolution after 3 years. This report underscores the importance of identifying pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis in heavy smokers with Hodgkin lymphoma presenting with multiple nodular pulmonary lesions. For patients with Hodgkin lymphoma and a possible genetic predisposition, smoking may contribute to the overt development of pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis. Therefore, smoking cessation and careful follow-up examinations are required. Further research is recommended to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of this intriguing association.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Exercises Effectively Improve Chronic Cough After Surgery for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Luo Nanzhi , Dai Fuqiang , Wang Xintian , Hu Binbin , Zhang Lin , Zhao Kejia
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Cough is a major complication after lung cancer surgery, potentially impacting lung function and quality of life. However, effective treatments for managing long-term persistent postoperative cough remain elusive. In this study, we investigated the potential of a pulmonary rehabilitation training program to effectively address this issue.

Methods

Between January 2019 and December 2022, a retrospective review was conducted on patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who underwent lobectomy and lymph node dissection via video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) at Daping hospital. Based on their postoperative rehabilitation methods, the patients were categorized into 2 groups: the traditional rehabilitation group and the pulmonary rehabilitation group. All patients underwent assessment using the Leicester cough questionnaire (LCQ) on the third postoperative day. Additionally, at the 6-month follow-up, patients’ LCQ scores and lung function were re-evaluated to assess the long-term effects of the pulmonary rehabilitation training programs.

Results

Among the 276 patients meeting the inclusion criteria, 195 (70.7%) were in the traditional rehabilitation group, while 81 (29.3%) participated in the pulmonary rehabilitation group. The pulmonary rehabilitation group showed a significantly lower incidence of cough on the third postoperative day (16.0% vs 29.7%, P = .018) and higher LCQ scores in the somatic dimension (5.09 ± .81 vs 4.15 ± 1.22, P = .007) as well as in the total score (16.44 ± 2.86 vs 15.11 ± 2.51, P = .018, whereas there were no significant differences in psychiatric and sociological dimensions. At the 6-month follow-up, the pulmonary rehabilitation group continued to have a lower cough incidence (3.7% vs 12.8%, P = .022) and higher LCQ scores across all dimensions: somatic (6.19 ± .11 vs 5.75 ± 1.20, P = .035), mental (6.37 ± 1.19 vs 5.85 ± 1.22, P = .002), sociological (6.76 ± 1.22 vs 5.62 ± 1.08, P < .001), and total (18.22 ± 2.37 vs 16.21 ± 2.53, P < .001). Additionally, lung function parameters including FVC, FVC%, FEV1, FEV1%, MVV, MVV%, DLCO SB, and DLCO% were all significantly higher in the pulmonary rehabilitation group compared to the traditional group.

Conclusion

Pulmonary rehabilitation exercises significantly reduced the incidence of postoperative cough and improved cough-related quality of life in patients undergoing lobectomy, with sustained benefits observed at the 6-month follow-up. Additionally, these exercises demonstrated superior lung function outcomes compared to traditional rehabilitation methods.
Construction and Validation of a Nomogram to Predict the Postoperative Venous Thromboembolism Risk in Patients with HGSOC
Authors: Huang Zhen , Li Ling , Gong Zhengxin , Tang Liangdan
Published: May 2024

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication in patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) after surgery. This study aims to establish a comprehensive risk assessment model to better identify the potential risk of postoperative VTE in HGSOC. Clinical data from 587 HGSOC patients who underwent surgical treatment were retrospectively collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent factors influencing the occurrence of postoperative VTE in HGSOC. A nomogram model was constructed in the training set and further validated in the verification set. Logistic regression identified age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.063, P = .002), tumor size (OR = 3.815, P < .001), postoperative transfusion (OR = 5.646, P = .001), and postoperative D-dimer (OR = 1.246, P = .003) as independent risk factors for postoperative VTE in HGSOC patients. A nomogram was constructed using these factors. The receiver operating characteristic curve showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.840 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.782, 0.898) in the training set and 0.793 (95% CI: 0.704, 0.882) in the validation set. The calibration curve demonstrated a good consistency between model predictions and actual results. The decision curve analysis indicated the model benefits at a threshold probability of less than 70%. A nomogram predicting postoperative VTE in HGSOC was established and validated. This model will assist clinicians in the early identification of high-risk patients, enabling the implementation of appropriate preventive measures.
Empathy Amplified: Exploring the Transformative Potential of Understanding Auditory Hallucinations Through Staff Training
Authors: Zold Amanda Lynn , Jourdain Melissa K.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Stigmatization of individuals diagnosed with psychosis, especially those who experience auditory hallucinations, is a well-documented issue with negative outcomes on provision of care. Existing research has predominantly concentrated on experiential training for students, leaving a significant gap in knowledge regarding the training’s impact on practicing psychiatric nurses and technicians.

Aims:

This study aims to address this gap by investigating the efficacy of a concise, 1-hour educational activity designed to improve empathy, confidence, competence, and knowledge in psychiatric professionals.

Methods:

Participants engaged in a 1-hour training session that included simulated activities while listening to distressing voices and completed pretraining and posttraining assessments.

Results:

Results demonstrated a notable increase in empathy toward individuals who hear voices, suggesting that the training had a positive effect. Furthermore, significant differences were observed in the participants’ perceptions of the level of difficulty as well as increased levels of confidence and perceived competence in their ability to provide care.

Conclusions:

The results underscore the practicality and effectiveness of brief hearing voices simulations as a means to enhance the skills of existing health care providers. This approach allows professionals to better express empathy and gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of voice hearers.
Immediate response to intravitreal treatment for macular edema due to diabetes and retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Ratra Dhanashree , Murari Swetha , Dalan Daleena , Agarwal Vishvesh
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To objectively assess the immediate response to intravitreal treatment for macular edema and compare it across different agents.

Methods

This retrospective, comparative study included patients with macular edema due to diabetic retinopathy (DME) or vein occlusion who were treated with intravitreal injections of either steroids (triamcinolone acetonide or dexamethasone sustained release implant) or anti-vascular endothelial growth factor antibodies (VEGF). The central retinal thickness (CRT) and the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were measured 1 day after the injection and compared with immediate pre-injection values.

Results

There were 79 eyes (57 patients) including 51 eyes with DME, 18 with branch retinal vein occlusion edema (BRVO-ME), and 10 eyes with central retinal vein occlusion edema (CRVO-ME). The intravitreal agents were triamcinolone acetonide (TA)( n = 15), dexamethasone sustained release implant (DEX)( n = 22), ranibizumab ( n = 19), and bevacizumab ( n = 23). Statistically significant improvement in CRT was seen in all injection groups ( p < 0.05) while improvement in mean BCVA was significant only in the TA group ( p = 0.009). The mean change in CRT was maximum with steroids than with anti-VEGFs; viz. 159.47 µ in TA, 115.45 µ in DEX, 86.10 µ in ranibizumab, and 78.78 µ in bevacizumab group. Least amount of change was noted in the spongy type of macular edema (18.73 µ) while improvement in mean BCVA was statistically significant only in the cystoid group ( p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Comparatively, steroid agents showed better immediate response to therapy than anti-VEGFs. Maximum reduction in central retinal thickness was seen following triamcinolone acetonide injection. Cystoid edema showed better immediate response than spongy retinal thickening.
Impact of the cost-of-living crisis on patient preferences towards virtual consultations
Authors: Lunova Tetiana , Hurndall Katherine-Helen , Crespo Roberto , Howitt Peter , Leis Melanie , Grailey Kate , Darzi Ara , Neves Ana Luisa
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Since 2021, the world has been facing a cost-of-living crisis which has negatively affected population health. Meanwhile, little is known about its impact on patients’ preferences to access care. We aimed to analyse public preference for the modality of consultation (virtual vs face-to-face) before and after the onset of crisis and factors associated with these preferences.

Methods

An online cross-sectional survey was administered to the public in the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy and Sweden. McNemar tests were conducted to analyse pre- and post-crisis differences in preferences; logistic regression was used to examine the demographic factors associated with public preferences.

Results

Since the onset of crisis, the number of people choosing virtual consultations has increased in the United Kingdom (7.0% vs 9.5% P < 0.001), Germany (6.6% vs 8.6%, P < 0.008) and Italy (6.0% vs 9.8%, P < 0.001). Before the crisis, a stronger preference for virtual consultations was observed in people from urban areas (OR 1.28, 95% CI 1.05–1.56), while increasing age was associated with a lower preference for virtual care (OR 0.966, 95% CI 0.961–0.972). Younger people were more likely to switch to virtual care, while change to face-to-face was associated with younger age and lower income (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.12–1.62). Older adults were less likely to change preference.

Conclusions

Since the onset of the cost-of-living crisis, public preference for virtual consultations has increased, particularly in younger population. This contrasts with older adults and people with lower-than-average incomes. The rationale behind patients’ preferences should be investigated to ensure patients can access their preferred modality of care.
Feasibility and preliminary efficacy of behavioral activation for treatment of depression in autistic adolescents
Authors: Menezes Michelle , Burroughs Christina , Pappagianopoulos Jessica , Sadikova Eleonora , Fuhrmann Emily , Bohac Genevieve , Cross Robert , Witte Lauren , Brinkmann Gabrielle , Lemley Rachel , Sukhodolsky Denis G , Mazurek Micah O
Published: May 2024

Depression is common among autistic youth and is associated with worse quality of life in this group. Despite significant need for high-quality efficacious treatments, there has been very limited research on interventions for depression in autistic youth. This single-arm pilot study examined the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a novel, behavior-based approach for treatment of depression symptoms in autistic adolescents without intellectual disability (i.e. Behavioral Activation for Autistic Adolescents, BA-A). BA-A is an individually delivered manualized 12-session treatment that utilizes established BA strategies and incorporates common mental health treatment adaptations for autistic young people. Of the 18 youth (11–16 years old) who enrolled, 15 completed all 12 treatment sessions, as well as pre-treatment, post-treatment, and follow-up assessment visits. Clinician treatment fidelity was quite high. Paired sample t-tests found that depression symptoms decreased pre- to post-BA-A according to multiple informants (i.e. self, caregiver, and independent evaluator), and treatment gains were maintained at 1-month follow-up. Paired sample t-tests also found that caregiver-reported anxiety symptoms and social skills improved pre-treatment to post-treatment. The results, although preliminary, indicate that BA-A may improve depression symptoms in autistic youth without intellectual disability. Furthermore, these promising findings suggest that a randomized controlled trial of BA-A is warranted.

This trial was pre-registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05018169).

Lay Abstract

Depression is common among autistic youth and has a significant negative impact on quality of life and day-to-day functioning. Despite great need for efficacious treatments, there are currently limited research-supported interventions for depression symptoms in autistic young people. This study tested a novel, behavior-based approach or psychotherapy for treatment of depression symptoms in autistic adolescents without intellectual disability (i.e. Behavioral Activation for Autistic Adolescents, BA-A) with 15 youth (11–16 years old). BA-A is an individually delivered 12-session therapy that was developed for and to meet the needs of autistic youth with depression. Results found that autistic youth and their caregivers were able to participate in BA-A therapy sessions, and clinicians were able to deliver BA-A in accordance with the treatment manual. Notably, results demonstrated that autistic youth depression symptoms significantly improved after participating in BA-A. Furthermore, anxiety symptoms and social skills significantly improved following BA-A.
What variables predict stigmatizing attitudes toward people with mental disorders and their treatment in Filipinos and Americans?
Authors: Ramos Noah , McNally Richard J.
Published: May 2024

In the United States, Asian Americans express greater stigma toward those with mental disorders and report lower rates of seeking mental health treatment than do White Americans. However, research on these topics in Filipino cultural groups, especially Filipinos living in the Philippines (i.e., Filipino nationals), is sparse. To support the design of interventions to decrease stigma and improve rates of seeking treatment, we assessed attitudes toward mental disorders and help-seeking in Filipinos. U.S. national (i.e., American) and Filipino national participants completed an online survey containing the Mental Illness Stigma Scale, a Theory of Planned Behavior questionnaire measuring attitudes toward seeking treatment, and queries regarding demographic and psychosocial factors. Filipinos expressed significantly more stigma regarding relationship disruption, interpersonal anxiety, and poor hygiene, alongside increased perceived subjective norms opposing seeking treatment and decreased perceived behavioral control over getting treatment if necessary. We ran a linear mixed effects regression on each nationality separately to identify relationships between stigma and psychosocial factors. For Filipinos, increased parental education predicted decreased perceived relationship disruption and interpersonal anxiety; urbanization was associated with greater trust in mental health professionals, and having a close relative with a disorder led to decreased belief in patient recoverability. For Americans, increased participant education predicted decreased interpersonal anxiety, increased perceived recoverability, and improved perceived behavioral control over getting treatment if necessary, and having a close relative with a disorder predicted improved perceived treatability. The results guide programs for decreasing stigma and increasing treatment-seeking behavior. Limitations, future research directions, and possible interventions are discussed.
Comparing outcomes of psychiatric rehabilitation between ethnic-religious groups in Israel
Authors: Gal Gilad , Lourie Joseph , Roe David , Gelkopf Marc , Khatib Anwar , Shadmi Efrat
Published: May 2024

Psychiatric rehabilitation for people with severe mental illness (SMI) has many documented benefits, but less is known about cultural related aspects. To date, no comparison of psychiatric rehabilitation outcomes between Israeli Jews and Israeli Arabs has been carried out. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to compare the outcome measures of Israeli Arabs and Israeli Jews consuming psychiatric rehabilitation services. As part of the Israeli Psychiatric Rehabilitation Reported Outcome Measurement project (PR-ROM), a cross-sectional study comparing different ethnic-religious groups was performed. Data is based on 6,751 pairs of psychiatric rehabilitation consumers and their service providers. The consumers filled questionnaires on quality of life (QoL) and functioning, and their providers completed mirroring instruments. The findings revealed that QoL and functioning ratings were lower among Muslim Arabs compared to Jews on both consumers’ and providers’ ratings. Among Muslim Arabs, differences in outcomes according to the service's location were indicated. The observed differences between Israeli Arabs and Israeli Jews with SMI in the PR-ROM point to the need for culturally adapted rehabilitation services that take into account how cultural differences may affect the benefits of such services.
The patriarchal Western gaze and the discursive policing of fandom: “Koreaboo” as stigma
Authors: Oh David C.
Published: May 2024

The derogatory label “Koreaboo,” used to stigmatize Korean popular culture fans, suggests Korean media's movements are treated as a contaminant rather than a welcome presence. In this research project, I conducted focus group research and analyses of Reddit threads to understand the ways women fans of color in this study interpret and navigate taste hierarchies that mock women's interests in celebrities and texts from a racialized Asian nation. Korean popular culture fans of color reject “Koreaboo” for themselves, but they project the label onto “bad” White fans, who are perceived as having inappropriate fannish interests that deviate from popularly held standards of intercultural and interracial fan interest. The self-disciplining within fandom distances itself from the Western patriarchal gaze by re-directing its focus. Even when fans of color seek Korean media to escape White hegemony and heteronormative patriarchy, they internalize and react to its gaze in their fan practice.
A fractal modification of the tropical algebra for noise removal and optimal control
Authors: Li Hong-yi , Gong Chun-mei
Published: May 2024

This paper proposes a fractal modification of tropical algebra for noise removal and optimal control. Fractal addition, fractal multiplication, and fractal dot product are defined and explained in a fractal space. A fractal tropical polynomials function can model a coastline at any scale, providing a new tool for fractal analysis of any irregular curve. An example is given to solve an optimal control subject to a fractal tropical polynomials function. This paper provides a new window for tropical algebra, combining fractal geometry and algebra.
Say what you want: Evaluation and engagement with YouTube broadcasts on ChatGPT
Authors: Dynel Marta
Published: May 2024

ChatGPT caused a worldwide sensation upon its launch, as evidenced by the extensive coverage across traditional and new media. This paper delves into the diverse evaluative discourses about this AI chatbot both in YouTube news videos (originally, television broadcasts) and in user comments facilitated by YouTube’s interactivity. The qualitative-quantitative discourse analysis probes diversified evaluations within YouTube broadcast talk, together with their impact on viewers’ perceptions of the broadcasts’ stance and viewers’ evaluations of ChatGPT and the broadcasts, as reflected by user comments. The findings present balanced effects, speaking to polarised opinions and mixed feelings about this AI development, but point to a potential boomerang effect in users’ evaluation of the new AI bot relative to the broadcasts considered to be biased. The study also reports low user engagement with the broadcasts. This challenges the notion of user engagement with broadcast content as lying at the heart of user interactivity on YouTube.
Sound contour map of absorber panels from industrial spinning and weaving wastes
Authors: El Messiry Magdi , Eid Elshiamaa , Ayman Yasmin
Published: May 2024

Recycled fibers obtained from pre-textile waste present advantages and challenges in acoustic absorber design. This study examines the potential of incorporating textile waste into acoustic absorption systems, with a focus on pre-used waste, to increase the percentage of recycled fibers in the textile industry using the quantitative method Used to evaluate the efficiency of panels manufactured in different sound frequencies, from up to 2000 Hz, and, in some cases, up to 3000 Hz Observations indicate that surface cleaning products, pneumafil waste a twist, comb bat residue and waste grinders exhibit the highest sound absorption coefficients in and using waste samples In addition, a procedure has been developed to evaluate the sound absorption reduction coefficient, which exposes high correlations with values obtained by other methods Sound contour mapping further confirms the homogeneity of the sample and reveals the effectiveness of specific sound absorption systems, such as air condition station filters, spinning pneumafil waste, and weaving waste (samples 18, 20, 21, and 23). Nevertheless, the study of integration emphasizes the ability to reuse waste fibers for sound insulation that can absorb adequate sound, reduce reflected sound, and offer a promising solution for dealing with noise pollution. A thorough examination of sound contour maps across absorber surfaces is undertaken to account for the material structure of the absorber, ensuring an accurate representation of how sound is absorbed and distributed within the designated area.
The Rule of Law in Red and Blue: Affective Polarization and Support for Legal Institutions in the United States
Authors: Masood Ali S. , Strickler Ryan , Zilis Michael A.
Published: May 2024

A defining feature of democracies is an independent legal system, where elites and the public alike accept the broader legitimacy of its actions, even if they run counter to political preferences. Existing scholarship suggests that public support for rule of law institutions is rooted in perceptions of procedural fairness. However, amid increasing levels of affective polarization, we posit a partisan presidential heuristic wherein citizens’ views of legal institutions are influenced by their partisanship and signals from the president. Through multiple experiments, we demonstrate that support for two key institutions—the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice—is substantially derived from the intersection of one’s partisan identity and their partisan proximity to the president. These effects are strongest among respondents exhibiting high levels of affective partisanship. Our results suggest that in forming perceptions of the rule of law, partisan politics is increasingly competing with perceptions of procedural fairness, thereby subverting support for legal institutions in the United States.
Why Making Voting Easier Isn’t Enough: Early Voting, Campaigns, and Voter Turnout
Authors: Hamel Brian T. , Leighley Jan , Stein Robert M.
Published: May 2024

Early voting laws intended to increase voter turnout seem to have had little to no effect on turnout. Why? We argue that the effects of early voting on turnout are contingent on campaigns providing citizens with information about the election, their choices, and how to vote early. When campaigns do so, turnout increases because citizens are more likely to vote – and more likely to vote early. Using individual-level panel data, we show that direct campaign contact increases turnout exclusively via the use of early voting. Using county-level data, we show that campaign ad volume also increases turnout via an increase in early voting turnout. Our results affirm our expectation that campaigns facilitate the expected mobilizing effects of early voting. At the same time, the effects of campaigns on early voting are small in magnitude, and emerge only under campaign mobilization conditions that are more the exception than the norm.
Chanwuyi Lifestyle Medicine Program Improves Memory and Executive Functions of Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Cheung Mei-Chun , Sze Sophia L. , Chan Agnes S.
Published: May 2024

The Chanwuyi Lifestyle Medicine Program (CLMP) was found to enhance the memory and executive functions of older adults with or without subjective memory complaints. The present study investigated whether similar beneficial effects can be extended to mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Twenty-four older adults with MCI were randomly assigned to receive the CLMP (the experimental group) or strategic memory training (SMT; the active control group) for 10 weeks. They were assessed by neuropsychological tests at baseline and post-intervention. Older adults showed similar visual and verbal memory improvements after receiving the CLMP and SMT. Yet, only those who received the CLMP showed distinct improvements in planning/organization, working memory, and attention in terms of accuracy, with greater cognitive gains associated with older age and lower levels of education and baseline cognitive functions. This study provides preliminary evidence for the effects of the CLMP on improving memory, attention, and executive functions in MCI.
The Landscape of Research Method Rigor in the Field of Human Resource Development: An Analysis of Empirical Research from 2016 to 2023
Authors: Park Jennifer Jihae , Kim Yujin , Han Heeyoung
Published: May 2024

Using various types of research methods yields breadth and depth in knowledge creation. Replying to calls for more research employing diverse research methods, this study examines research method trends, rigor, and emerging research methods within the field of human resource development (HRD). We created a research method coding scheme to capture the rigor of empirical research among empirical articles published in three specifically selected HRD journals from 2016–2023. Out of 488 selected studies, quantitative ( n = 269) and qualitative ( n = 185) methodologies were dominantly used in empirical studies with only 7.0% being mixed methods research ( n = 34). The study findings provide implications and reflections on (1) the current status of published scholarly research; and (2) the research practices in the field. To move the field of HRD forward as a mature, effective, and evolving discipline, it is imperative to incorporate multiple approaches, including interdisciplinary investigation of emerging research methods, and development of clear guidelines for the rigor of research methods.
Insufflation-Free, Perianal Work Platform
Authors: Buchwald Henry , Menchaca Hector , Michalek Van , Erdman Arthur
Published: May 2024

There is an ever increasing volume of colorectal surgery being performed endoscopically by anal access, as well as greater employment of robotics for these procedures. Intraluminal visualization for perianal operations is today dependent on insufflation of the bowel. When full-thickness resections above the peritoneal reflection become necessary, the peritoneal cavity becomes inflated, facilitating infection and necessitating general anesthesia and patient intubation. Our patented tool was originally envisioned to enable abdominal cavity access via a single 2cm port incision, suitable for insufflation-free laparoscopic surgery, under local anesthesia (e.g., cholecystectomy). On further consideration, this instrument was modified to be used for perianal colorectal surgery.
‘Caring’ Through Translation: A Dialogue on Ethics and Inclusivity in Cross-Language Research
Authors: Mueller Grace , Baniya Aashma
Published: May 2024

Cross-language research involving translation is prevalent in the social sciences yet under-discussed in terms of its ethical impact on participants or the translator her/himself. This paper applies a feminist ethics of ‘care’ to the topic of translation in cross-cultural, cross-language research. We argue for the importance of emotional intelligence and awareness of emotional labor involved in meaningful, ethical translation between the researcher, translator, and participants. The paper itself is a reflexive conversation between a translator and researcher following six months of data collection involving over 120 interviews and 10 work-life histories. We discuss the opportunities and limitations for more emotionally evolved translation in cross-cultural research, discussing specific strategies for caring about, taking care of, caregiving and care receiving through translation. Applying the ‘caring through translation’ framework promotes deeper collaboration and relationality between researchers, translators, and participants, grounded in feminist ideals of equitable, ethical knowledge production.