bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Supply Chain Disruptions on Economic Growth: Insights From a Major Public Health Crisis
Authors: Jin Hui , Xue Jiamin , Lin Kuen-Lin , Yang Haochuan , Zhu Zhenyu
Published: August 2024

Supply chain disruptions caused by major public health crises will severely impact the economic growth. The main purpose of this paper is to examine the above proposition, taking the strict lockdown policy and supply chain disruption in Hubei Province at the beginning of the COVID-19 epidemic as a case, to provide decision-making reference for the government in supply chain management under major public health crisis. To achieve this goal, this paper firstly measures the supply chain network of Hubei province via the multi-region and multi-sector value-added model; then empirically studies the impact of lockdown policy and supply chain disruption on provincial economic growth, with the monthly data of 31 provinces covering January 2018 to December 2022, by the Difference in Difference method. The results show that: the lockdown policy and supply chain disruption under the Covid-19 epidemic negatively affected provincial economic growth; moreover, supply chain disruptions make provinces closer to Hubei more vulnerable to economic shocks. The results are significant in the placebo test, and are further supported in the robustness test of alternative variables and data. We further discussed the Business Cycle Co-movement between Hubei and other provinces, and the probable impact mechanism of supply chain interruption on economic growth in the Covid-19 epidemic. This study shows that supply chain network plays an important role in the transmission of interregional economic shocks, as well as its importance for economic growth, especially in major public health crises.
Breaking the borders: Gender dynamics in STEM portrayals in Turkish Netflix series
Authors: Gürkan Hasan , Biga Nur Tuğçe , Ege Övünç
Published: August 2024

This study discusses the intricate relationship between science, technology, engineering and mathematics field representation by the media and the science, technology, engineering and mathematics field in reality, centring on two pivotal inquiries: (i) How is gender within science, technology, engineering and mathematics portrayed in visual culture? (ii) How do gendered representations in visual culture impact science, technology, engineering and mathematics professionals? By scrutinizing two Turkish TV series featuring science, technology, engineering and mathematics characters, namely, Sıcak Kafa ( Hot Skull, 2022, by Mert Baykal) and Yakamoz S-245 ( Into the Deep, 2022, by Tolga Karaçelik and Umut Aral), we assert that recent Netflix productions in Turkey showcase science, technology, engineering and mathematics characters in a less marginalized manner compared to mainstream series content. The study explores the intersection of science, technology, engineering and mathematics portrayals with actual gender experiences in the Turkish context. Findings show science, technology, engineering and mathematics professionals, particularly women, to be rendered invisible in being confined to gender-based definitions. Despite portraying male and female science, technology, engineering and mathematics professionals as equal and non-marginalized, male characters predominate in decision-making and implementation processes within many series. Furthermore, science, technology, engineering and mathematics professionals do not identify with their own character representations in media content, as they express through interviews. The study underscores there is room to challenge patriarchal norms, fostering more equitable depictions of science, technology, engineering and mathematics professionals, including women, to dismantle gender biases and foster inclusivity within science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields.
Hierarchical estimator-based fixed-time and prescribed-time bipartite consensus of multiple Euler-Lagrange systems with a directed signed graph
Authors: Gu Ren-Jie , Han Tao , Xiao Bo , Zhan Xi-Sheng , Yan Huaicheng
Published: August 2024

This article addresses the fixed-time and prescribed-time bipartite consensus problem of Euler-Lagrange systems (ELSs) under a directed sign graph, taking into consideration both the parametric uncertainties and external disturbances. Novel hierarchical control algorithms employing estimator approaches are proposed to tackle the aforementioned challenges. More specifically, the control protocol is first designed to accomplish fixed-time bipartite consensus (Fix-TBC). The settling time obtained by using fixed-time control algorithm is restricted to its upper bound, but it may result in a conservative estimation of the bound. Consequently, it indicates the need for designing another control protocol to address the prescribed-time bipartite consensus (Pre-TBC) problem. By invoking Lyapunov stability theory, some sufficient conditions for achieving fixed-time and prescribed-time bipartite consensus of the ELSs are derived. Numerical examples are ultimately provided to demonstrate results.
Cascade MFAC-based data-driven control for aircraft in 4D trajectory tracking
Authors: Jiang Gaoyang , Zhao Yuandi , Hou Zhongsheng
Published: August 2024

This study aims to explore a trajectory tracking control approach in four-dimensional (4D) trajectory operation by employing cascade model-free adaptive control (MFAC) technique. The primary objective is to tackle the complexities associated with modeling aircraft mechanisms in the context of tracking control. By utilizing measurable input and output data, an equivalent dynamic linearized data model of the aircraft is constructed. Subsequently, position and speed controllers are developed based on MIMO-CFDL-MFAC and SISO-CFDL-MFAC, respectively. These controllers are then integrated to form an active-follower control system. Finally, a numerical simulation was conducted to track the entire 4D trajectory, encompassing climb, cruise, and descent stages, using historical data from flight CX8176 as a reference trajectory. Unlike previous researches, the proposed method eliminates the requirement for an aircraft mechanism model in the controller design, and it is verified using real flight data as a reference trajectory. The findings demonstrate that the cascade MFAC method can effectively minimize trajectory tracking errors, while also offering advantages in terms of energy conservation and emission reduction.
Observer-based control of uncertain nonlinear Markovian jump systems with time-varying delay and actuator failures via sliding mode technique
Authors: Gao Yiran , Zhou Juan
Published: August 2024

This paper focuses on the discussion of asynchronous sliding mode control (SMC) design for uncertain Markovian jump systems (MJSs) in which nonlinearities, time-varying delays, and actuator failures are considered. At first, the study establishes an asynchronous observer and correspondingly constructs a sliding mode switching function in which the controller gain operates asynchronously with the original system. Then the observer-based SMC law is designed through Lyapunov stability theory to achieve reachability of the specified sliding surface, resulting in mean-square stability of the closed-loop system. In addition, we extend the aforementioned findings to a more practical case where the conditional probability is only partially known. Eventually, numerical examples and tunnel-diode-circuit examples are provided to demonstrate the merits of the summarized results.
Electronic Newsletters as a Professional Development Tool for Rural Educators
Authors: Atwood Julie , Heiniger Sarah , Hott Brittany L.
Published: August 2024

Rural educators need access to evidence-based instructional practices and technologies that meet the needs of our communities. Difficulty accessing quality professional development due to geographic isolation, limited access to specialists, cost constraints, staffing shortages, lack of access to resources and technology, and less time to participate in meaningful professional development are common barriers facing rural teachers. One way to disseminate evidence-based practices is through an electronic newsletter. This article shares how a behavior analyst developed an online newsletter to build relationships, offer resources, highlight staff achievement, provide instruction, and model evidence-based behavior interventions for school staff.
Physician-Led Synchronous Telemedicine Compared to Face-To-Face Care in Primary Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bracken Keyna , Salerno Jennifer , Yang Ling
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 crisis rapidly introduced telemedicine as the predominate modality to deliver healthcare however this change has not received attention in primary care settings and the health-related impacts are unknown. The study’s objective was to explore the effects of physician-led synchronous telemedicine compared to face-to-face care delivered in the primary care setting on healthcare system use and attributes of primary care as reported in recent studies. We performed a comprehensive literature search in five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycInfo) and critical appraisal using the Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Of 6,247 studies identified, 157 studies underwent full text review, and 19 studies were included. Most studies were conducted in the U.S. (78.9%) and used video and telephone telemedicine (57.9%). An outcome-based qualitative description and narrative synthesis showed similar or fewer emergency department visits, hospital visits, and prescribing, and fewer diagnostic tests and imaging for telemedicine visits compared to face-to-face care. Our systematic review fills a gap in the literature on telemedicine in primary care settings however our results need to be interpreted cautiously given studies’ susceptibility to selection bias, confounding, and limited applicability to other health systems and time periods.
Resituating the deep history of the Chesapeake
Authors: Gallivan Martin , Jenkins Jessica A
Published: August 2024

This themed issue of North American Archaeologist reexamines the deep history of the Chesapeake region's Native societies through five papers. The articles describe collaborative approaches that challenge traditional narratives, focusing on climate change, community dynamics, reassessment of a key archaeological site, and decolonization efforts.
Suicide and Socio-demography: An Ecological Study from India
Authors: Kar Sujita Kumar , Naskar Chandrima , Marthoenis Marthoenis , Tomer Shivank , Menon Vikas , Arafat S. M. Yasir
Published: August 2024

Background:

Recent studies are coming out assessing the relationship between suicide rates and various ecological variables. However, information on the association between suicide rate and ecological variables in India has been limited. We aimed to measure the association of suicide rate with religion, literacy, gross domestic product, human development index, life expectancy, fertility, urbanization, and unemployment in India.

Methods:

We extracted 36 states or union territories of India and their suicide rate, the proportion of Hindu and Muslim populations, literacy rate, per capita gross domestic product (GDP), Human Development Index (HDI), life expectancy, fertility rate, urbanization, and unemployment rate. We assessed the association with rate and other ecological variables mentioned.

Results:

Suicide rates were positively correlated with the percentage of Hindu population in the state (rs = 0.38, p = .022), literacy rate (rs = 0.368, p = .027), and GDP (rs = 0.61, p = .001), whereas they were negatively correlated with fertility (rs = –0.442, p = .039) and unemployment rate (rs = –0.4, p = .015). We did not find any significant association between suicide rate and Muslim populations, HDI, life expectancy, and urbanization.

Conclusion:

This study’s findings identified several associations between ecological variables and suicide rates. However, based on the nature of the analysis, a cautious interpretation and further investigations are warranted.
Book review: Pallavi Chakravarty, Boundaries and Belonging: Rehabilitating Refugees in India, 1947–71
Authors: Menski Werner
Published: August 2024

Pallavi Chakravarty, Boundaries and Belonging: Rehabilitating Refugees in India, 1947–71 (Delhi: Primus Books, 2022), xvi + 412 pp.
The role of equity capital in speeding cleantechs across the ‘Valley of Death’
Authors: O’Reilly Seán , Mac an Bhaird Ciarán , Greene Francis J
Published: August 2024

This study advances the understanding of cleantech commercialisation by adopting a market validation approach to analyse equity capital’s role in navigating the ‘Valley of Death’. Focusing on the three core financial milestones – revenue generation, profitability and retained earnings – we investigate 354 UK cleantech firms over 10 years and employ Cox proportional hazard models to explore whether equity capital speeds or slows the achievement of these three financial milestones. We conclude that equity capital-backed firms are slower across the Valley of Death. We discuss the implications of our findings for cleantech firms and those seeking to support the financing of cleantechs.
Research progress in the study of textured piezoelectric ceramics
Authors: Liu Hongyu , Li Xuewu , Xing Zhiguo , Mi Qingbo , Shi Tian , Zhou Xinyuan , Guo Weiling
Published: August 2024

Piezoelectric ceramics have the advantages of uniform composition, excellent performance, good electromechanical coupling performance, and high cost performance. They are currently one of the important materials for manufacturing sensors and semiconductor components on the market. Although piezoelectric ceramic materials are widely used because of their many advantages, how to improve their piezoelectric properties is still a hot and difficult research spot. Previously, the piezoelectric properties of piezoelectric ceramics were affected by adjusting the grain size, but due to its limited enhancement effect, researchers hope to find other ways to improve the piezoelectric properties of ceramics more efficiently. Research has found that texture process can enable isotropic ceramics to obtain similar characteristics to single crystals that exhibit anisotropy. This greatly improves the piezoelectric properties of ceramics. During the texture process, the type and content of the template, texture degree and texture orientation, and other factors will significantly affect the piezoelectric properties of textured ceramics. With the continuous development of texture technology and process, the piezoelectric properties of textured ceramics have been significantly improved, but the practical application is less. Based on this, this article expounds the design principles of textured ceramics, summarizes the progress in the preparation of textured piezoelectric ceramics, and systematically explains the importance of template and texture orientation selection in texture processing. Finally, this paper also analyses the application of textured ceramics, and looks forward to the optimization methods and development prospects of piezoelectric ceramics. It is hoped to help the application and development of piezoelectric ceramics.
Micro-structural, electrical, and tribological properties of SiC/DLC composite coating grown by PLD on steel
Authors: Yang Chunlai , Pan Jiabao , Xu Manman , Xi Lin , Lu Yimin
Published: August 2024

Protective diamond-like carbon (DLC) composite coating was grown on cylindrical steel surface in a simple inclined pulsed laser deposition (PLD) process. Based on this kind of flexible film-synthesis method, mixed deposition was used to generate the gradient interface that could enhance adhesive strength in Ti/SiC interface, and periodic SiC/DLC layers were grown to reduce residual stress of the pure DLC film. This kind of PLD-grown SiC/DLC composite coating on the curved thin steel that was imitated as piston cylinder showed excellent adhesive property and toughness. Compared with the bare steel, DLC-filmed steel strip had a much lower friction coefficient, higher nano-hardness, and enhanced elastic modulus. Raman spectroscopies showed transform of the micro-structure in DLC layers during friction process, revealing the important reason for reducing friction coefficient. Electrical conductivity test displayed the DLC-filmed steel strip was in high resistance state, although its thickness was only 1.27 μm. Further on, good adhesive strength, excellent toughness and high resistance state of SiC/DLC composite coating could be applied in the MEMS advices.
The role and accountability of the state as a news media owner in the contemporary media landscape
Authors: Milosavljević Marko , Poler Melita
Published: August 2024

Drawing on critical capitalism theory and the social responsibility theory of media, this paper explores the role of the state as a news media owner in contemporary European media systems and the capitalist context. It focuses on accountability and the relationships between the state, state-owned media outlets, and the public. Academic research to date has predominantly examined public service media (PSM) and the dichotomy of private versus public media, thereby overlooking other models of state ownership. The lack of clear regulations on the state's accountability as a media owner outside PSM at the EU level, along with uncertainties in national regulatory frameworks (such as those seen in Slovenia, and the recent reinstatement of state ownership of media in Serbia) raise concerns about the potential for abuse of power. These issues are particularly relevant in the current context of illiberal and authoritarian tendencies within modern European capitalist societies.
‘Influencers are just mannequins’: Decoding teenagers’ perception about advertising content creators
Authors: Vizcaíno-Verdú Arantxa , Feijoo Beatriz , Sádaba Charo
Published: August 2024

This study investigates teenagers’ skepticism toward influencer trust and its implications for their perceptions of and receptiveness to social media advertising. Employing a mixed-methods approach, we surveyed 1055 teenagers to gauge their perceptions of influencers’ advertising intensity. Additionally, qualitative focus groups involving 55 participants explored a range of perceptions, addressing their distrust toward influencers and the breakdown of parasocial relationships with these profiles. Findings suggest that teenagers perceive influencers as mannequins aimed at entertainment and attention capture, lacking humanity and credibility as advertising vessels. This perception influences consumption habits, favoring advertising intensity over authenticity. The emergence of influencers as vacuous entities underscores the tangible repercussions associated with monetizing their image over human value.
Analysis of the efficacy of angiojet percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy combined with catheter-directed thrombolysis versus catheter-directed thrombolysis alone in the treatment of subacute iliofemoral deep venous thrombosis in elderly patients
Authors: Cong Luyi , Huang Lihua , Fan Benfang , Hong Xin , Ma Lingyu , Huang Tianan
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To analysis the clinical efficacy of Angiojet percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) combined with Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis (CDT) compared to CDT in treatment of subacute iliofemoral deep venous thrombosis (IFDVT) in elderly patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of the clinical data of 117 elderly patients hospitalized for subacute IFDVT was conducted. The patients’basic perioperative data and 2-years follow-up data were compared.

Results

Group A (PMT + CDT) had a more patients reaching Grade III thrombus clearance, and a lower thrombolysis time, dosage of thrombolytic drugs, hospital stay, and bleeding incidence compared to Group B (CDT). There was a statistically significant difference in the occurrence rate of severe PTS within 2 years ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In treating elderly patients with subacute IFDVT, PMT + CDT effectively reduces the thrombus burden and the dosage of thrombolytic drugs, shortens the hospital stay, and importantly, reduces the occurrence rate of severe PTS within 2 years.
Iodine concentration, HU accuracy, and metal artifacts evaluation on second-generation dual-layer spectral detector CT images with metal implants: a phantom study
Authors: Zhang Xinming , Li Hanwei , Wang Haowen , Liu Xiaomin , Deng Weiwei , Zhong Jianqiu , Fan Litian , Ling Qingqing , Hu Debin , Qi Hongliang , Chen Hongwen
Published: August 2024

Background

Metal implants may affect the image quality, iodine concentration (IC), and CT Hounsfield unit (HU) quantification accuracy.

Purpose

To investigate the quantitative accuracy of IC and HU from dual-layer spectral detector (DLCT) in the presence of metal artifacts.

Material and Methods

An experimental cylindrical phantom containing eight iodine inserts and two metal inserts was designed. The phantom underwent scanning at three radiation dose levels and two tube voltage settings. A set of conventional images (CIs), virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs), and iodine concentration maps (ICMs) were generated and measured for all the eight iodine inserts. Quantitative indicators of mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), artifact index (AI), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and standard deviation (SD) on CIs and VMIs were calculated for IC and HU. Subjective score evaluation was also conducted.

Results

The MAPEiodine values of all regions of interest across different scanning configurations were all <5%. Almost all APEiodine values were <5%, indicating that metal artifacts had little impact on IC measurements. When the tube voltage was fixed, the SD value of attenuation decreased with the increase of the tube current; this is also true when the tube current was fixed. The middle energy reconstructions seemed to give a good balance between reducing artifacts and improving contrast.

Conclusion

VMIs from DLCT can reduce metal artifacts, the accuracy of IC quantification is not sensitive to imaging parameters. In summary, metal implants exhibit minimal impact on image quality and IC quantification accuracy in reconstructed images from DLCT.
Development and application of closed-loop-oriented intelligent control system for blast furnace air volume addition or reduction
Authors: Mu Yuanjin , Wu Zongyang , Yan Bingji , Liang Helan , He Huabin , Guo Hongwei
Published: August 2024

Adjusting the upper and lower parts is an important means to ensure stable operation of blast furnaces. It is a common operation method to adjust the smelting state of the blast furnace by adjusting the air volume. Most of the domestic blast furnace air volume increase and decrease operations are confirmed by manual experience, and it is difficult to realize intelligent automatic control. This paper presents an intelligent control system for regulating air volume in blast furnaces, based on operational logic, expert knowledge, fundamental theories, and other relevant information. The system enables automatic analysis of the blast furnace's state and intelligent reasoning of the foreman's operational methods, laying the foundation for achieving closed-loop control. The system unifies the control philosophy and stabilizes the control methods for regulating air volume in blast furnaces. This achieves standardization of operation and proceduralization of cause analysis. The system enhances adaptability by creating an information feedback mechanism, increasing acceptance among blast furnace operators, and continuously resolving various anomalies in practical applications. The system currently maintains a true hit rate of over 95%, enabling effective reduction of operational misjudgments, intelligent control of airflow adjustment, and promotion of stable and smooth blast furnace operation.
Fresh Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation of the Capitellum for the Treatment of Osteochondritis Dissecans
Authors: Mirzayan Raffy , Ragheb Jonathan M. , Jeshion-Nelson Kian , DeWitt David O. , Cruz Christian A.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the humeral capitellum is a rare and challenging condition to treat. Several surgical options exist, but in the last few years, the pendulum has swung from debridement and microfracture to restoration of the articular surface. Osteochondral autografts from the rib and knee have been described, but donor-site morbidity is a concern.

Purpose:

To expand the results of fresh osteochondral allograft transplantation (FOCAT) in a previously published report with inclusion of additional patients and a longer follow-up period.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

After institutional review board approval, the charts of patients who underwent FOCAT for OCD of the capitellum between 2006 and 2022 by a single surgeon were reviewed. The majority of cases (94%) had unstable lesions (Minami grades 2 and 3). A trial of nonoperative treatment had failed in all. All patients underwent diagnostic arthroscopy, followed by a mini-open, ligament-sparing approach with grafting using commercially available guides and instruments.

Results:

A total of 35 patients were identified, of whom 25 were male. The mean age was 16 ± 3.9 years (range, 11-32 years). There were 24 baseball players (19 pitchers and 5 position players), 5 gymnasts, 3 cheerleaders/tumblers, 1 tennis player, 1 student (who did not participate in athletics), and 1 patient with avascular necrosis from chemotherapy. Eighteen patients had a mean flexion contracture of 14.1°± 11.9°. A single osteochondral allograft plug was used in 23 patients (mean diameter, 11.3 ± 2.8 mm), and 12 patients required 2 plugs (Mastercard technique). The mean follow-up was 92.6 ± 54.5 months (range, 24-204 months). There was significant improvement in Oxford (from 25.5 ± 4.9 to 46.7 ± 3.5; P < .00001) and visual analog scale for pain (from 7.5 ± 2 to 0.3 ± 1.0; P < .0001) scores. The mean Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score at the time of follow-up was 90.6 ± 10.8 (range, 60-100). In overhead athletes, there was significant improvement in the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic score (from 40.8 ± 11.8 to 90.6 ± 10.8; P < .00001). A postoperative magnetic resonance imaging scan was obtained in 16 (46%) patients at a mean of 32.6 months. In all cases, the graft was incorporated. All overhead athletes were able to return to their sport and perform at the same level or higher for >2 years. Two elbows required a subsequent arthroscopy for loose-body removal; otherwise, there were no other complications.

Conclusion:

FOCAT is an excellent option for treating OCD lesions of the humeral capitellum. Excellent outcomes and high return-to-sport rates were observed, with midterm follow-up showing no graft failures. FOCAT eliminates donor-site morbidity.
Tuberostemonine may alleviates proliferation of lung fibroblasts caused by pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Tang Amei , Liu Yang , Ding Qian , Huang Gao , Sha Zongge , Yang Changfu , Cao Feng
Published: August 2024

Objectives: Tuberostemonine has several biological activity, the aim of study examined the impact of tuberostemonine on the proliferation of TGF-β1 induced cell model, and its ability to alleviate pulmonary fibrosis stimulated by bleomycin in mice. Methods: In vitro, we assessed the effect of tuberostemonine (350, 550 and 750 µM) on the proliferation of cells stimulated by TGF-β1 (10 μg/L), as well as on parameters such as α-SMA vitality, human fibronectin, collagen, and hydroxyproline levels in cells. In vivo, we analyzed inflammation, hydroxyproline, collagen activity and metabolomics in the lungs of mice. Additionally, a comprehensive investigation into the TGF-β/smad signaling pathway was undertaken, targeting lung tissue as well as HFL cells. Results: Within the confines of an in vitro setup, the tuberostemonine manifested a discerned IC50 of 1.9 mM. Furthermore, a significant reduction of over fifty percent was ascertained in the secretion levels of hydroxyproline, fibronectin, collagen type I, collagen type III and α-SMA. In vivo, tuberostemonine obviously improved the respiratory function percentage over 50% of animal model and decreased the hydroxyproline, lung inflammation and collagen deposition. A prominent decline in TGF-β/smad pathway functioning was identified within both the internal and external cellular contexts. Conclusions: Tuberostemonine is considered as a modulator to alleviate fibrosis and may become a new renovation for pulmonary fibrosis.
Police Misconduct Investigation Processes: Police Officer Perceptions of Fundamental Fairness
Authors: Shea Thomas , Gonzalez Manuel F. , Jones Bernard , Verry Robert
Published: August 2024

Police misconduct has historically garnered much research attention. Internal affairs (IA) processes exist within police departments to investigate such cases of misconduct. Yet, sworn officers may distrust IA processes, potentially hampering its effectiveness and its amenability for reform. The purpose of this study was to examine police officers’ perceptions of the IA process in its current state and their amenability to various types of IA reforms (e.g., civilian oversight committees, independent investigators). We collected survey data from a sample of 115 police officers from various police departments in New Jersey, USA. The results indicated that police officers vary in their perceptions of IA processes, such as the fairness of IA processes, their amenability to reforming IA systems, and what reforms were perceivably appropriate. Findings also indicated greater amenability for revisions to the current IA process, primarily among lower-ranking police officers and Black officers. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
Adoption of assistive technologies in long-term care homes: What the pandemic has taught us
Authors: Nejat Goldie , Zehavi Amos , Getson Cristina , Shoef-Kollwitz Hila
Published: August 2024

COVID-19 increased the use of technology in everyday life and highlighted critical applications for assistive technologies. This comparative research study explores how assistive technologies, including socially assistive robots, can be adopted by long-term care homes to mitigate the lasting effects of the pandemic. In particular, we investigated the types of assistive technologies used by long-term care facilities to help with the care of older residents and for what tasks. Furthermore, we identified barriers to adoption and proposed policy measures that encourage technology adoption.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Intensive Care Unit-acquired Weakness in Patients With COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Chuang Ya-Chi , Shiu Sz-Iuan , Lee Yu-Chun , Tsai Yu-Lin , Cheng Yuan-Yang
Published: August 2024

Background

Intensive care unit acquired weakness (ICUAW) is a common neuromuscular complication of critical illness, impacting patients’ recovery and long-term outcomes. However, limited evidence is available on pooled prevalence and risk factors of ICUAW specifically in the COVID-19-infected population.

Methods

We searched on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PEDro, and EBSCOhost/CINAHL up to January 31, 2024. Data synthesis was conducted using the Freeman-Tukey double-arcsine transformation model for the pooled prevalence rate and odds ratios with corresponding 95% confidence intervals was used to identify risk factors.

Results

The pooled prevalence of ICUAW in COVID-19 patients was 55% in eight studies on 868 patients. Risk factors for developing ICUAW in these patients were: old age (WMD 4.78, 95% CI, 1.06-8.49), pre-existing hypertension (OR = 1.63, 95% CI, 1.02-2.61), medical intervention of prone position (OR = 5.21, 95% CI, 2.72-9.98), use of neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBA) (OR = 12.04, 95% CI, 6.20-23.39), needed tracheostomy (OR = 18.07, 95% CI, 5.64-57.92) and renal replacement therapy (RRT) (OR = 5.24, 95% CI = 2.36-11.63).

Conclusions

The prevalence of ICUAW in patients with COVID-19 was considered relatively high. Older age, pre-existing hypertension, medical intervention of prone position, NMBA use, needed tracheostomy and RRT were likely risk factors. In the future, interdisciplinary medical team should pay attention to high-risk groups for ICUAW prevention and early treatments.
Supporting the Living Laboratory: A Literature Review of Montreal Sound-Related Research
Authors: Bild Edda , Steele Daniel , Guastavino Catherine
Published: August 2024

Sound and noise play a critical role in the experience of urban environments. We review the literature on sound environments in Montreal and their effects on city users, including public sector reports from the City of Montreal and Montreal’s public health agency in addition to academic research, published between 2010 and 2020. 73 studies were analyzed according to scale, methodologies, methods, settings, sound sources covered, and domains of findings. This review summarizes the main findings at city level, paving the way for more integrated urban sound and noise policies tailored to local realities while staying informed of international best practices.
Provisions Related to Health, Nutrition, and Healthy Beverage Promotion in University Pouring Rights Contracts: A Content Analysis
Authors: Greenthal Eva , Marx Katherine , Grossman Elyse R. , Ruffin Martha , Lucas Stephanie A. , Benjamin-Neelon Sara E.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Many universities maintain pouring rights contracts (PRCs) with beverage companies wherein one company exchanges sponsorship payments for exclusive beverage marketing rights. Separately, universities may have healthy beverage initiatives (HBIs) to encourage healthier choices on campus. This study aimed to assess how and how frequently PRCs included provisions related to health and nutrition to examine how PRCs may support or undermine HBIs.

Design

Cross-sectional.

Setting

U.S. public universities with >20,000 students.

Sample

131 PRCs obtained from 124 of 143 universities in 2019-2020.

Measures

Primary outcomes were the presence of provisions that could encourage or discourage promotion of healthy beverages (water, diet soda, unsweetened coffee or tea, and 100% juice), and any other provisions explicitly or implicitly referencing health or nutrition.

Analysis

Descriptive statistics.

Results

Twelve contracts (9%) had explicit commitments from the company or university to promote healthy beverages or adhere to nutrition standards, including five committing to support HBIs, four committing to healthy vending policies, and three describing activities to promote healthy beverage brands. Ten (8%) had provisions explicitly inhibiting water promotion and 55 (42%) had provisions that could be interpreted that way. Eleven (8%) included other health and nutrition provisions, such as funding for unspecified wellness activities.

Conclusion

Most university beverage contracts did not expressly aim to support healthy choices, and more than half had provisions potentially limiting universities’ ability to implement HBIs. When present, nutrition standards were weak.
The impact of glycol water exposure on PA6/GF30 properties
Authors: Ksouri Imen , Almeida Olivier De , Haddar Nader
Published: August 2024

The current paper aims to study the behavior of Polyamide 6 (PA6) and Polyamide 6 reinforced with 30% of short glass fibers (PA6GF30) under glycol water (GW) mixture used for cars as coolant fluid. Samples were fully immersed in the mixture of GW (20:80) at 50°C, 70°C and 90°C for up to 80 days and periodically weighted. Results gathered revealed the occurrence of substantial changes especially for PA6 samples aged at 90°C. The long term ageing leads to the formation of ester species due to thermo-oxidation as pointed out by Infrared spectroscopy analysis. Moreover, dynamic mechanical analysis measurements showed that glycol water acted as an effective plasticizer in lowering the Tg of the polyamide 6. This plasticizer effect was confirmed by the gain of ductility at early stage of ageing for both materials (PA6 and PA6GF30). Nevertheless, after 80 days of ageing the effect of glycol water ageing is no longer physical in nature and an overall loss of mechanical properties was noticed. Indeed, an embrittlement of PA6 was measured that can be attributed to a decrease of the level of entanglements within the polymer. Nevertheless, for PA6GF30 material, the loss of strength and stiffness was the result of the interfacial debonding between the fibers and the matrix.
Longitudinal Associations Between Cognition and Grip Strength, Differentiated by Sex and Physical Activity: A Population-Based Study in Older Adults From 17 European Countries
Authors: Nascimento Marcelo de Maio , Marques Adilson , Ferrari Gerson , Gouveia Élvio Rúbio , Ihle Andreas
Published: August 2024

Objectives (1) To investigate longitudinal associations between grip strength (GS) and cognition over 4 years in European older adults, (2) to examine differences in temporal associations between men and women and between levels of physical activity, (3) to explore in each year 2015 and 2019 associations between GS quartiles and cognitive performance, and (4) to explore longitudinal associations between GS quartiles (year 2015) and cognitive performance (year 2019). Methods: 25,281 individuals (14,200 women) from 17 European countries aged ≥50 years responded to waves 6th and 8th of the SHARE project. We analyzed GS, a general cognition index, and physical activity level. Results: Panel analyses revealed a bidirectional relationship over 4 years between GS and cognition, with differences between sex, as well as between participants with moderate-to-vigorous and low physical activity levels. Conclusion: Women and participants with low physical activity were more likely to experience cognitive performance deficits 4 years later.
The Emotion in Early Buddhist Psychology of Human Values
Authors: Prakash Gyan
Published: August 2024

Discourse on the nature of the emotions and their role in moral life has been at the vortex of discussion in both Indian and Western philosophy for a long time. The concept of emotion has taken the centre stage in recent debates, connecting it with morality. In Indian philosophy, emotion plays a vital role in moral judgement and desire. The main aim of this article is to analyse whether there is any possibility of intentional intervention in an emotional state or are we simply slaves to our emotions, which control our physical and mental activities. The main aim of this article is to analyse the concept of emotion in Vasubandhu’s text, Abhidharmakos´abhāyam.
Linking the UN SDGs and Sustainable Development Progress: The Case of China
Authors: Kang Sung Jin , Lee Seon Ju , Cao Shijun
Published: August 2024

This study examines China’s progress in sustainable development (SD) from 1990 to 2019 toward the 2030 Agenda and 2030 carbon peak target. Through extended factor analysis with principal component analysis, the sustainable development index (SDI), including each economy, society, and environment subclass SDI, was derived, and the contribution and weight of each Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) to the SDI calculated. The main findings are: (a) A progressively improving SDI is derived, supporting the considerate achievement of China’s SD policies; (b) the SDI trend aligns with per capita GDP, implying that the state of economic development measured by per capita GDP well approximates the degree of SD; (c) most goals, especially those in the economy and society subclasses, show sustained improvement and contribute to the improvement of China’s SDI. However, it is still relatively fragile in the environment subclass and requires further strengthening. Therefore, China should continue strengthening ecological civilization construction to achieve the 2030 Agenda and 2030 carbon peak target.

JEL Classification C43, O10, O53
Unravelling the Dynamics of Landscape Changes and Climate-sensitive Diseases in Kuttanad Wetland Ecosystem, India
Authors: Raju Bejo Jacob , Manasi S.
Published: August 2024

The article attempts to understand the occurrence of climate-sensitive diseases in the Kuttanad Wetland Ecosystem, considering the backdrop of landscape changes. The study analysed the changes in the environmental landscapes of Kuttanad, which presumably had contributed to the disease epidemiology. The changes in the landscapes in terms of water bodies, land utilization, agricultural practices and other anthropogenic interventions were comprehended by employing the geographic information system and remote sensing approaches. Further, through oral histories, the perceptions of the local inhabitants about the changes in the ecosystem and disease epidemiology were captured. In the study, substantial spatial changes were observed in the wetland during the period 1990–2017. The development initiatives have created serious environmental damage and pushed the wetland into a state of ecological fatigue. The narratives from the field survey attribute the changes in the environmental landscapes as factors that contributed to the epidemiology of climate-sensitive diseases. Infectious diseases, mostly fever-type, assume epidemic proportions during the monsoon and create a feeling of trepidation among people due to their fatal and contagious characteristics.
Navigating the Silver Seas of Ageing: A Phenomenological Study on Life Course Impacts on Older Adults in Senior Living Facilities
Authors: Chee Shi Yin
Published: August 2024

This study examined the lived experiences of older adults in senior living facilities, focusing on the impact of their life course on their well-being. In-depth, semi-structured, one-on-one interviews were used to collect data from 28 older adults from six senior living facilities, and the results were thoroughly analysed. Using Moustakas’ transcendental phenomenology and the modified Stevick–Colaizzi–Keen analytical method, five main themes emerged: the influence of the life course on later life, linked lives, attachment through the life course, cultivation of memories and longing for intergenerational relationships. The findings indicated that life course experiences impacted later life in senior living facilities differently for each participant. While some developed meaningful experiences and supportive connections that cushioned the feelings of loss and loneliness, others struggled with a sense of familiarity, identity and security. The findings extend existing knowledge and provide valuable implications for academics, senior living facilitators, government policy, hospitality and healthcare providers.
Being second among the second: Experiences of Indigenous sports among assimilated Sámi
Authors: Skille Eivind , Fahlen Josef , Lehtonen Kati
Published: August 2024

This article reports on a study investigating the struggle for influence in an Indigenous community. With an eye on the potential further subordination on certain subgroups, we studied how Sámi sports club officials outside Sámi core areas perceive their relationship with clubs in core Sámi areas and the federative Sámi sports organization. Methodologically, we performed interviews with representatives of Indigenous sports clubs and employed Bourdieu's concept of symbolic power as a theoretical framework. The results show how Sámi sports club officials outside core areas consider their peers within core Sámi areas as superior and that this relationship is engrained and taken for granted. The perceived superiority is based on the judgment of sports club officials outside the core Sámi areas, showing how the elite is defined as much by its subordinates as by the elite itself, to use Bourdieu's conceptualization of symbolic power. In conclusion, these results show how the struggle for influence in an Indigenous community can create further subordination of subgroups in a group that is already subordinated in society.
Forks in the road to equality: The path for same-sex attracted individuals in Australia and Nigeria
Authors: Ihekwaba Chisom , Hewitt Anne
Published: August 2024

This article will consider the trajectory towards equality for same-sex attracted people in Australia and compare that to the reduction in legal rights in Nigeria over a comparable period. It will set out some of the critical legislative changes in both jurisdictions and consider why these countries are moving in radically different directions in relation to this issue.
Understanding the transition from psychology graduate to post-graduate counselling studies
Authors: Saywell Cassandra , Beel Nathan , du Plessis Carol , McMullen Crystal
Published: August 2024

University graduates have invested significant time, money, and effort into completing their studies, with many discovering that their chosen discipline is not what they were expecting, nor the right fit for their individual values or goals. Transition between disciplines is particularly common in the helping professions, but little is known about the motivation for these transitions. To better understand motivations for transitioning disciplines, we investigated why psychology graduates chose to transition to post-graduate counselling studies. Using semi-structured interviews, we asked the participants ( n  = 8) to describe their perceptions, motivations, and experiences of studying psychology and counselling. Applying reflexive thematic analysis, we identified a meta-theme that the transition to counselling was facilitated by the participants’ desire to have a profession that aligned with their core values; and they viewed counselling as a strength-based, flexible, holistic, and humanistic approach to helping others.
The relationship between living in regional, remote and rural areas and post-school outcomes: A scoping review
Authors: Archer Ben , Russo Kerry , Woodend Jonathan , Pryce Josephine
Published: August 2024

This article provides a review of existing research on youth transitions within regional, remote and rural communities. Results were organised according to the Systems Theory Framework of Career Development, highlighting the importance of geographical location as an environmental influence within the career decision-making process. By deploying a scoping review methodology it was determined that educational institutions, the employment market, socioeconomic status and families are the most significant influences on the career decision-making processes for young people in regional, remote and rural communities. Future research in this area would involve an examination of these four areas.
Exploratory actions as mediators of the association between career exploration self-efficacy and decisional outcomes: Does exploration type matter?
Authors: Nauta Margaret M.
Published: August 2024

This study used a short-term longitudinal design to test the social-cognitive model of career self-management's (CSM) theorized pathway in which exploratory actions mediate the association between career exploration self-efficacy and decisional outcomes. The study clarifies the role of exploratory actions in the decision-making process by distinguishing between self-exploration and environmental exploration. College students ( N = 136; 77% female; mean age = 18.71 years [ SD = 1.19]; 47% with undeclared majors) completed an online survey assessing self-efficacy for self-appraisal and self-efficacy for obtaining occupational information. A month later, they reported the frequency of their engagement in self-exploratory and environment-exploratory actions over the past month and completed measures of two decisional outcomes reflecting readiness to make career decisions (vocational identity and need for additional occupational information). The CSM's mediational pathway was supported with respect to self-exploration but not environmental exploration. I discuss implications for the CSM model and for career-development interventions.