bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Fifth Generation of Revolution Studies. Part I: When, Why, and How Did It Emerge
Authors: Korotayev Andrey , Grinin Leonid , Ustyuzhanin Vadim , Fain Egor
Published: November 2024

There are grounds for claiming that a new (‘fifth’) generation of revolution studies has emerged in the 21st century. It can be noted that the characteristics of this generation are as follows: a tendency toward a macro-level outlook, encompassing both historical and geographical dimensions, coupled with a propensity toward a systemic approach; study of distinct types of revolutionary processes, such as Mark Beissinger’s ‘urban civic revolutions’, and the pivotal revolutionary innovations, including the impact of new information technologies in recent revolutions; innovations regarding the factors and causes of revolutions and innovations in the analysis of the factors influencing the choice of revolutionary strategy and revolution outcomes; a special interest in the topic of revolutionary waves/‘the diffusion of revolution’; a strong understanding that armed and unarmed revolutionary events are characterized by significantly different factors, structure, and consequences; a focus on the study of unarmed revolutionary episodes/‘non-violent maximalist campaigns’; the use of global databases of revolutionary events; extensive use of modern methods of quantitative analysis.
Multi-objective optimization shift strategy for vehicle based on adaptive linear weighted sum method
Authors: Wang Liyong , Huang Xiaozan , Wu Jianpeng , Zhang Jinle , Yang Chengbing
Published: November 2024

The shift strategy plays a pivotal role in influencing the power and economy performance of vehicles. In order to improve the adaptability of shift to dynamic driving conditions, this paper proposes a comprehensive shift strategy. This study employs the FMRLS algorithm to establish a model for identifying vehicle mass and road slope and presents a model for altitude identification based on SVM. The comprehensive shift strategy is formulated by using the NSGA-II algorithm to calculate the Pareto front of the shift speeds and determine the power and economy weights for different driving conditions based on the linear weighted sum method in an adaptive manner. The simulation results show that the energy consumption of the comprehensive shift strategy is close to the economy shift strategy under the CHTC-HT condition. Significantly, the maximum difference is 2.97% in acceleration time between the comprehensive and the power shift strategy under plateau condition. Additionally, the comprehensive shift strategy can eliminate cyclic shift on upslope and provide braking force in response to the driver intention to decelerate on downslope, improving vehicle safety, and dynamic adaptability.
Evaluating the impact of post-processing on the wear and friction properties of polyamide 6 carbon fiber composites produced by fused deposition modeling
Authors: Soundararajan R , Kaviyarasan K , Sathishkumar A , Muthiya Solomon Jenoris
Published: November 2024

The current research addresses the challenges encountered in polyamide 6 carbon fiber composites synthesized by fused deposition modeling. It specifically investigates issues such as inadequate interlaminar bonding and increased void content compared to conventionally manufactured composite components and as-built printed parts. The study focuses on printing pin samples via fused deposition modeling and explores various thermal post-processing methods to reduce void content while preserving dimensional accuracy. To evaluate wear and friction behavior, a pin-on-disc tester was used to test both as-built samples and samples post-heat-treated at 70 °C, 140 °C, and 210 °C. The results indicate that as the applied load increases from 5 to 20 N, both wear rates and friction coefficients increase across all speeds (1–5 m/s). Heating the samples to 70 °C and 140 °C strengthens the interlayer bonding. This significantly improves the maximum wear rates and friction coefficients compared to the as-built samples. However, samples heated to 210 °C do not show much of a change in wear rates or friction coefficients. Samples heated to 210 °C exhibit a decrease in wear rate of 16.87%, 15.82%, and 15.73% for loads ranging from 5 to 20 N, at speeds of 1, 3, and 5 m/s, respectively. This is likely due to pores sealing off and structures binding tightly. The worn surfaces were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope and measured the Shore D hardness of the samples before and after wear testing and documented the results for further analysis. In a scanning electron microscope, samples treated at 210 °C displayed smoother, less worn surfaces. Shore D hardness tests revealed a slightly higher hardness in samples heated to higher temperatures, followed by higher loads and sliding speeds in tribometer tests. This showed that the material was more stable. These post-processing methods significantly advance the development of functional composite elements for superior structural or dynamic performance.
A wavelet and local binary pattern-based feature descriptor for the detection of chronic infection through thoracic X-ray images
Authors: Verma Amar Kumar , Saurabh Prerna , Shah Deep Madhukant , Inturi Vamsi , Sudha Radhika , Rajasekharan Sabareesh Geetha , Soundrapandiyan Rajkumar
Published: November 2024

This investigation attempts to propose a novel Wavelet and Local Binary Pattern-based Xception feature Descriptor (WLBPXD) framework, which uses a deep-learning model for classifying chronic infection amongst other infections. Chronic infection (COVID-19 in this study) is identified via RT-PCR test, which is time-consuming and requires a dedicated laboratory (materials, equipment, etc.) to complete the clinical results. X-rays and computed tomography images from chest scans offer an alternative method for identifying chronic infections. It has been demonstrated that chronic infection can be diagnosed from X-ray images acquired in a real-world setting. The images are transformed using the discrete wavelet transform (DWT), combined with the local binary pattern (LBP) technique. Pre-trained deep-learning models, such as AlexNet, Xception, VGG-16 and Inception Resnet50, extract the features. Subsequently, the extracted features are fused using feature-fusion approaches and subjected to classification. The AlexNet, in conjunction with the DWT model, produced 99.7% accurate results, whereas the AlexNet and the LBP model produced 99.6% accurate results. Therefore, the proposed method is efficient as it offers a better detection accuracy and eventually enhances the scope of early detection, thus assisting the clinical perspectives.
Duration of kissing in different intimate positions among men who have sex with men: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Tran Julien , Fairley Christopher K , Ong Jason J , Bradshaw Catriona S , Aung Ei T , Maddaford Kate , Chen Marcus Y , Hocking Jane S , Chow Eric PF
Published: November 2024

Background

Despite mounting evidence showing that kissing (tongue-kissing) may transmit gonorrhoea between men who have sex with men (MSM), little data exists on factors influencing the duration of kissing while they are above and/or lying underneath a partner for this population group.

Methods

Between May 2019 and March 2020, we invited MSM aged ≥18 years who attended the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC) to participate in a survey about the duration of their kissing (minutes) and intimate position while kissing (i.e., kissing while above, or while lying underneath) their most recent partner. Univariable and multivariable negative binomial regressions were performed to examine the associations between the duration of kissing in different intimate positions, and demographic and behavioural characteristics (including age, region of birth, HIV status or PrEP use, and role in anal sex).

Results

Of the 965 men with a recent male kissing partner, 89.0% ( n = 859) also had sex with that partner. Of the 166 men with a recent female kissing partner, 71.7% ( n = 119) also had sex with that partner. Our adjusted analyses showed that, on average, men born in Asia (mean 8.52 vs 11.69 min, p < .001) and South America or the Caribbean (mean 8.61 vs 11.69 min, p = .022) spent less time kissing compared to men born in Oceania, and the same was also observed for kissing while above or lying underneath. Men who had only receptive anal sex spent less time kissing while above than those who only had insertive anal sex (mean 3.04 vs 5.86 min, p < .001).

Conclusion

Our study is the first to examine factors that influence duration of kissing in different intimate positions. These factors could be associated with oropharyngeal gonorrhoea if saliva transmitted gonorrhoea and if gravity played a role.
Mental health service utilization among patients followed up in tertiary HIV/AIDS clinics in Turkey: A need for integrated care
Authors: Ince Guliyev Ezgi , Yıldız Sevgi Dilek , Gündüz Alper , Mete Bilgül , Büyükgök Deniz , Kumbasar Karaosmanoğlu Hayat , Altuntaş Aydın Ozlem , Ceyhan Fatma , Bilge Bilge Nur , Polat Irmak , Tabak Fehmi
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Mental health (MH) care for people living with HIV (PLWH) emerges as an important unmet need, yet there are no integrated HIV-MH clinics in Turkey. Our aim is to determine MH service use and its associated factors in PLWH followed up in the HIV/AIDS outpatient clinics in Istanbul/Turkey.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at the HIV/AIDS outpatient clinics of the Infectious Diseases (ID) departments in hospitals affiliated with the ACTHIV-IST Study Group. Structured interviews were performed using questionnaires that covered psychiatric state, medical history, and help-seeking behavior.

Results

Out of 172 outpatients, 121 (70.3%) reported MH complaints after infection, and 65.6% felt a need to see MH professionals. Among those, 59% shared their MH distress with the ID team. However, only 20.7% applied to an MH service, and 16.5% received psychiatric treatment. Previous MH diagnoses (AOR = 4.11; 95%CI = 1.26–13.39), sharing the disease with the ID team (AOR = 4.18; 95%CI = 1.24–14.11), and being hospitalized due to HIV (AOR = 6.54; 95%CI = 1.21–35.39) emerged as the predictors of MH service use among those who would like to see an MH professional in logistic regression.

Conclusions

Closer contact with the healthcare system may increase the chances of PLWH receiving MH care. Thus, integrating MH services in HIV/AIDS care would help reach more PLWH who are distressed.
Documenting the research experiences and employer support needs of library and information science practitioners
Authors: Partridge Helen , Given Lisa M , Murphy Angela
Published: November 2024

This paper presents results of a survey of library and information science (LIS) practitioners, which explored their research activities and the support needed from employers for research collaborations and dissemination of results. Findings show that while LIS practitioners are actively engaged in research, there are significant gaps in the available supports offered by LIS employers across different library sectors. Dedicated time for research is limited, particularly in public libraries, for example, but when practitioners receive dedicated time, their research engagement and dissemination activities increase. The study also found that the type of LIS service significantly affects practitioners’ dissemination activities, with those working in national, state and territory libraries and special libraries, disseminating significantly more research results than practitioners working in other types of libraries. The findings point to a potential risk of a research dissemination divide in the Australian LIS sector, where the study was conducted. The study recommends enhancing the value placed on both conducting and sharing research related to employment or professional practice, to have a positive impact on library services and local communities. Encouraging presentations at conferences was identified as a valuable first step towards increasing LIS practitioners’ engagement with sharing research results, generally and writing up results for publication. Overall, these findings highlight the need for greater employer support and more targeted efforts to promote research engagement and dissemination among LIS practitioners.
Debunking Three Myths About Misinformation
Authors: Gawronski Bertram , Nahon Lea S. , Ng Nyx L.
Published: November 2024

Recent years have seen a surge in research on why people fall for misinformation and what can be done about it. Drawing on a framework that conceptualizes truth judgments of true and false information as a signal-detection problem, the current article identifies three inaccurate assumptions in the public and scientific discourse about misinformation: (1) People are bad at discerning true from false information, (2) partisan bias is not a driving force in judgments of misinformation, and (3) gullibility to false information is the main factor underlying inaccurate beliefs. Counter to these assumptions, we argue that (1) people are quite good at discerning true from false information, (2) partisan bias in responses to true and false information is pervasive and strong, and (3) skepticism against belief-incongruent true information is much more pronounced than gullibility to belief-congruent false information. These conclusions have significant implications for person-centered misinformation interventions to tackle inaccurate beliefs.
Decision Behaviour Analysis of Entrepreneurial Financing in Venture Capital Investments Using the Crowdlending Platform
Authors: Das Kishore Krishna
Published: November 2024

A sound investment selection is even more crucial since substantial information asymmetries enable managers to act advantageously after the investment is made. Crowdfunding has become one of the main ways that entrepreneurs may raise money in recent years. As a result of the growth of Internet platforms, business owners may now communicate directly with possible investors and avoid using conventional fundraising methods. But there are obstacles to overcome and no assurances of success while navigating the world of crowdfunding. In light of this, an increasing amount of research has been done to identify the elements of effective crowdfunding campaigns. The influence of an enterprise’s ethical and environmental emphasis on its performance on crowdfunding platforms is one area that has drawn more attention. To shed light on this subject, this research compares the performance of businesses that emphasize social and environmental issues against those that do not. Through an analysis of the decision-making processes and venture attributes of these endeavours, researchers aim to pinpoint the critical elements that lead to prosperous crowdsourcing campaigns. The study’s conclusions have significant ramifications for investors, crowdfunding platforms and business owners. They also provide insightful information on how to maximize participation in this expanding sector. Notwithstanding the significance of this expanding phenomenon, little is known about the mechanics of profitable lending-based prosocial crowdfunding and its consequences for the literature on business ethics. The results also have applications for other stakeholders in the realm of entrepreneurship funding. Only predictive entrepreneurs should collaborate with investors who are aiming for exceptionally robust growth.
Impact of Environmental Knowledge, Past Sustainable Behavior and Social Influence on Sustainable Apparel Purchase Intention with Price Consciousness as Moderating Variable
Authors: Pardeshi Vaishali , Pardeshi Hemant , Khanna Vandana T.
Published: November 2024

This empirical study delves into the connections among consumer environmental awareness, social pressures, and prior sustainable practices in relation to intentions to purchase sustainable apparel in India. Drawing from a sample of 518 respondents, the research explores how price consciousness moderates these intentions. Employing Structural Equation Modeling and Regression analysis, the study reveals that environmental knowledge (EK) and past sustainable behavior significantly influence consumers’ intentions. Notably, price consciousness positively moderates the relationship between past sustainable behavior, EK, and purchase intentions. However, social influence was not found to be moderated by price in its impact on sustainable apparel purchase intentions (SAPI). These findings contribute theoretical and practical insights into understanding consumer behavior in sustainable apparel purchases, potentially informing policy development for promoting sustainability in the apparel industry.
Navigating Capital Budgeting Dilemmas: Theory Versus Practice at Clarence Infra Projects Ltd
Authors: Thomas Robin
Published: November 2024

The case study explores the capital budgeting challenges faced by Clarence Infra Projects Ltd, a company deeply committed to maximising shareholder value while navigating the complex world of capital investments. Despite their dedication to value maximisation, the company sometimes made decisions that contradicted this principle due to practical considerations. These contradictions highlight the real-world complexities of decision-making and the need to balance theory with pragmatism. The study presents three investment choices: solar power expansion, wind farm development, and hydroelectric power plant, each with distinct cash flow patterns. The managers traditionally used the payback period method, but they also employed the discounted cash flow methods, including net present value and internal rate of return, to evaluate the projects. Sensitivity analysis under various reduction scenarios is conducted to assess the resilience of the projects. Ultimately, the case highlights the importance of aligning financial theory with real-world complexities to make informed investment decisions.
Implementation and Evaluation of Cultural Safety Initiatives in Australian Hospital Settings: A Scoping Review
Authors: Clough Belinda , Fraser Jennifer , Flemington Tara , Power Tamara
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

The aim of this scoping review was to synthesize and summarize existing evidence for implementing and evaluating Cultural Safety initiatives in Australian hospitals for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The rationale for this work was to establish guidelines for best practice in providing culturally safe care across hospital and health services.

Methodology:

A systematic search guided by PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews was conducted across five databases: CINAHL, Scopus, MEDLINE, Embase, and Informit. Reference lists and citations of eligible studies were also examined. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they were in English and discussed the implementation and/or evaluation of Cultural Safety initiatives in Australian hospitals. Evaluations assessing both health care staff and patient perspectives were included. Studies were excluded if they presented future implementation protocols or initiatives among health care students. No date limiters were applied due to the small body of available literature.

Results:

Nine studies met the criteria and were included in this review. Five themes emerged: (a) process of implementation; (b) process of evaluation; (c) change in health professional’s behavior; (d) change in patient behavior; and (e) future recommendations.

Discussion and Conclusions:

Validated implementation frameworks and evaluation tools are needed for integrating Cultural Safety initiatives into Australian hospital settings. This review has highlighted that despite the availability of evidence-based tools, their use was lacking. This scoping review also highlighted that evaluation of Cultural Safety initiatives is primarily focused on the attitudes and knowledge of health professionals, rather than patient experience. As Cultural Safety is determined by recipients of care, future evaluation of initiatives should prioritize patient perspectives.
Association of Palliative Care With Readmission and Resource Utilization in Patients With Ovarian Cancer: A National Perspective
Authors: Francoeur Alex A. , Chervu Nikhil , Mardock Alexandra L. , Solaru Samantha , Sakowitz Sara , Benharash Peyman , Lai Tiffany S.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Palliative care (PC) utilization in cancer care has been shown to alleviate symptoms, increase goals of care discussions, and reduce invasive end of life measures. This study examined the association of inpatient PC consultation with readmission and hospitalization costs among patients with ovarian cancer.

Methods

All records for women (≥18 years) hospitalized with a diagnosis of ovarian cancer were tabulated from the 2010-2020 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Multivariable logistic, Poisson, and linear regressions were used to evaluate the association of PC consultation during index hospitalization with length of stay, rates of 30-day non-elective readmission, time to readmission, as well as overall number of readmissions and hospitalization costs.

Results

Of an estimated 285,487 patients included, 25,957 (9.0%) received a PC consultation, with an increase from 5.1 to 11.7% ( P < 0.001) across the period. Factors associated with use of PC included: increasing age (AOR 1.03/yr, 95% CI 1.03-1.03, P < 0.001) and Elixhauser comorbidity index (AOR 1.19/point, 95% CI 1.17-1.21). PC was associated with lower risk adjusted rates of 30 day (11.63%, 95% CI 11.0-12.3 vs 20.25%, 95% CI 20.0-20.6) non-elective readmission ( P < 0.001). The adjusted incident rate ratio of readmission after PC consultation was 0.41 [0.38-0.43], P < 0.001. Patients receiving PC additionally had less cost associated with their index hospital stay; −$2,407 [−$2,669.86- −$2,144.43], P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Inpatient PC consults appear to be associated with reduced medical readmissions for patients with ovarian cancer, as well as decreased hospital resource use, however disparities exist. Continued increase in access and early PC referral should be considered.
Teaching Physical Education Online in Schools: Challenges and Recommendations from the Preservice PEMAC Teachers in Fiji
Authors: Shirotriya Awadhesh Kumar , Smith Nicole J.
Published: November 2024

Teacher preparation programs in institutions of higher learning serve as an incubator for the professional development of teachers and leaders in the education sector. It is imperative for these programs to deliver high-quality instruction, even when circumstances are extraordinary. To this end, during the COVID-19 pandemic, teacher preparation programs worldwide were forced to move programs online with little preparation. This study aimed to learn about barriers to teaching online physical education (PE) in Fiji using an Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach. Data were collected from preservice PE, Music, and Arts (PEMAC) teachers enrolled in the second or third year of the PEMAC teacher preparation program in Fiji. Five focus group discussions were conducted with a total of twenty participants (14 males and 6 females). Sixty percent of the participants did not think the digital infrastructure for teaching online PE was adequate. Seventy percent thought online PE could potentially make an impact. Four superordinate themes were identified as a result of the IPA including: (a) the development of pedagogical skills; (b) program design; (c) instructional delivery; and (d) advocacy, branding & marketing for PE. The findings imply that greater investment in digital infrastructure is needed and also suggest that preservice teachers can benefit from professional development aiming to build teacher confidence and competency for teaching online PE effectively in Fiji.
Usefulness of Suture-Tape Augmentation Based on Intraoperative Ankle Stress Radiographs During Anatomical Ligament Repair for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability
Authors: Cho Byung-Ki , Kim Sung-Hoo , Choi Seung-Myung , Hwang Eun-Taek
Published: November 2024

Background:

During the modified Broström procedure for chronic ankle instability, surgeons often experience cases with insufficiently restored mechanical stability even after anatomical ligament repair. In these cases, longer postoperative immobilization and delayed rehabilitation can be required, and a risk for recurrence of instability may persist. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical usefulness of suture-tape augmentation based on intraoperative stress radiographs during anatomical ligament repair for chronic ankle instability.

Methods:

Twenty-four patients who underwent additional suture-tape reinforcement because of residual mechanical instability on intraoperative stress radiographs were followed up ≥3 years. Clinical assessment was performed using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Changes in mechanical stability were analyzed through periodic stress radiographs, and postural control ability was evaluated with the modified Romberg test.

Results:

FAOS and FAAM scores improved significantly from preoperative mean 55.1 and 52.4 points to 92.3 and 90.2 points at final follow-up, respectively ( P < .001). Talar tilt angle and anterior talar translation improved significantly from preoperative mean 15.8 degrees and 13.6 mm to 2.9 degrees and 4.2 mm, respectively ( P < .001). Balance retention time improved significantly from preoperative mean 3.6 to 6.4 seconds ( P < .001). Although 9 patients experienced sprain injury after surgery, no patient showed recurrence of mechanical and subjective instability, and 21 patients (87.5%) were able to return to preinjury level of sports activity.

Conclusion:

Evaluation of residual mechanical instability through intraoperative stress view and additional suture-tape augmentation showed satisfactory clinical outcomes at midterm follow-up. Suture-tape augmentation based on intraoperative stress radiographs seems to be a useful surgical option for patients with insufficiently restored mechanical stability even after anatomical ligament repair. This combined procedure can provide a reliable mechanical stability that can be performed after recognition of residual instability during the index surgery.
Risk Factors for Chronic Syndesmotic Instability After the First Episode of Acute Ankle Sprain: A Cross-Sectional Study of 356 Cases
Authors: Fu Ke , Jia Shenghong , Lin Shiwei , Xu Chenyu , Fang Zhenhua
Published: November 2024

Background:

Chronic syndesmotic instability (CSI) can be associated with severe long-term pain and disability. This study aimed to investigate the risk factors associated with the development of CSI in patients who underwent conservative treatment after the first episode of acute ankle sprain (AAS) that did not result in a satisfactory outcome.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of patients who underwent ankle arthroscopy for suspected CSI between January 2020 and September 2023. The patients were divided into the instability and stability groups based on the syndesmotic space width measured under arthroscopy, with 3 mm as the critical value. Demographic, arthroscopic, and imaging information such as the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), calcaneofibular ligament, posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL), anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL), posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (PITFL), deltoid ligament (DL), interosseous membrane, height of the syndesmotic fluid, injuries of the talus, calcaneus, tibia, and fibula, effusion of the tibiotalar and talocalcaneal joints, fibular morphology, and fibular incisura features, were recorded. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed successively to identify the risk factors.

Results:

Of the 356 patients, 102 developed CSI after the first episode of AAS. In the multivariate analysis, development of CSI was associated with 5 clinical factors: DL injury (odds ratio [OR] 7.453, 95% CI 3.007-18.471; P < .001), positive bandage-binding test (OR 7.196, 95% CI 2.942-17.599; P < .001), grade 2 to 3 injury of the PITFL (OR 2.727, 95% CI 1.044-7.124; P = .041), positive squeeze test (OR 2.455, 95% CI 1.045-5.770; P = .039), and body mass index (BMI) (OR 1.306, 95% CI 1.121-1.522; P < .001).

Conclusion:

Five key factors were associated with CSI development in patients who underwent conservative treatment after the first episode of AAS that did not result in a satisfactory outcome: DL injury, positive bandage-binding test, grade 2 to 3 injury of the PITFL, positive squeeze test, and BMI.
Establishment of Minimum Clinically Important Difference and Patient Acceptable Symptom State Thresholds for Foot and Ankle Ability Measure and Visual Analog Scale Scores After Hallux Valgus Surgery
Authors: Pasqualini Ignacio , Teplensky Jason R. , Turan Oguz , Poirier Sarah E. , Cantrell William A. , Mueller James , Chawla Sagar , Miniaci-Coxhead Sara Lyn
Published: November 2024

Background:

Although clinically relevant thresholds such as minimal clinically important difference (MCID) and patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) have been widely described across orthopaedics, their application in hallux valgus surgery remains scarce. The purpose of this study was to determine the MCID and PASS thresholds for the visual analog scale (VAS) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores after hallux valgus surgery.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed in patients undergoing hallux valgus surgery at a single institution from January 2021 through December 2022. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were collected preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively. The specific PROMs used were the FAAM–activities of daily living (FAAM-ADL), Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and VAS scale. Two methods were used to calculate MCID and PASS thresholds: a distribution-based approach for MCID and an anchor-based approach using responses to a 1-year postoperative satisfaction question for PASS. The analysis identified optimal cutoff points that maximized sensitivity and specificity based on the Youden index. Overall, 86% (136/158) completed baseline PROMs, and 73% (99/136) completed 1-year PROMs.

Results:

The distribution-based MCID for FAAM-ADL, SANE, and VAS were calculated to be 10.8, 14.1, and 1.2, respectively. The percentage of patients who achieved MCID thresholds was 54% for FAAM-ADL, 42% for SANE, and 96% for VAS. The PASS threshold for FAAM-ADL, SANE, and VAS were ≥78.5, ≥85, and ≤ 2, respectively. The percentage of patients who achieved PASS thresholds was 78% for FAAM-ADL, 72% for SANE, and 69% for VAS.

Conclusion:

This study identified useful values for the MCID and PASS thresholds of FAAM-ADL, SANE, and VAS scores at 1-year follow-up for patients undergoing hallux valgus surgery. Overall, despite not meeting the MCID thresholds, patients undergoing hallux valgus surgery were still likely to be satisfied with their surgery.
Validation of the 10-Item Social Provision Scale (SPS-10): Evaluating Factor Structure, Reliability, Measurement Invariance, and Nomological Network Across 38 Countries
Authors: Sischka Philipp E. , Albert Isabelle , Kornadt Anna E.
Published: November 2024

The 24-item Social Provision Scale is among the most frequently used self-report scales to assess perceived social support. A shortened 10-item version (SPS-10) with promising psychometric properties has been proposed. However, so far only a few studies in specific cultural contexts investigated its psychometric properties. Thus, the aim of the current study was an extensive investigation of the psychometric properties of the SPS-10 among 38 countries ( N = 88,857 respondents) using the COVIDiSTRESS Global Survey data. Item response theory bifactor analysis revealed that the general factor accounts for the largest part of the covariance among the items in all countries (explained common variance ≥ .75) and that the mean/sum score of the SPS-10 can be used as a total score of perceived general social support. Reliability was high for all countries (ρunidimensional GRM ≥ .89). Measurement invariance and differential item/test functioning analysis of the unidimensional graded response model indicated negligible differential test functioning across countries. The association with the external criteria mainly supported its construct validity. The SPS-10 is a psychometrically sound measure of perceived social support for large-scale cross-cultural studies.
Identification of the rotor dynamic coefficient of a squeeze film damper with dilatant fluid
Authors: Yamada Takahiro , Yabui Shota , Inoue Tsuyoshi , Azemachi Hiroya
Published: November 2024

Dilatant fluids exhibit a sudden increase in viscosity when the shear rate increases. This characteristic can be used in the design of bearings that can suppress vibrations in the event of a sudden increase in shear rate, such as in rotating machinery. The bearings for rotating machines are designed based on a model that uses dynamic coefficients of the rotor. Therefore, in this study, the bearing coefficients of a squeeze film damper (SFD) using a dilatant fluid were experimentally determined. These characteristics were compared with those of a typical SFD using oil.
Effects of Nursing Home Closures on Occupancy and Finances of Nearby Nursing Homes
Authors: Xu Lili , Sharma Hari , Wehby George L.
Published: November 2024

This study estimates the effect of nursing home closure on occupancy, net profit margin, and operating margin of nearby nursing homes. We use national nursing home data from 2009 to 2019 from Medicare cost reports, Medicare Provider of Services (POS), and LTCfocus.org data. Using the Callaway and Sant’Anna difference-in-differences model, we compare the changes in occupancy, net profit margin, and operating margin between incumbent nursing homes in markets with any closure and nursing homes in markets without a closure, overall, and across rurality. Our findings suggest that nursing home closure improves the occupancy rates of remaining nursing homes in the same market in rural areas but there is little evidence of effects in metropolitan and micropolitan areas. Nursing home regulators and local officials should consider the long-term care market heterogeneity when considering interventions targeted at nursing home closure.
Overweight and obesity in domestic cats: epidemiological risk factors and associated pathologies
Authors: Saavedra Claudia , Pérez Consuelo , Oyarzún Carlos , Torres-Arévalo Ángelo
Published: November 2024

The domestic cat has evolved in various aspects in its journey from original domestication to the present day. Many domestic cats today lead a sedentary indoor lifestyle with low environmental stimulation. In addition, cats have changed their eating habits, transitioning from being carnivorous hunters to animals that eat commercial processed foods. Eating patterns have also changed since cats no longer need to hunt for food but instead have access to several portions throughout the day. All these variables, known as extrinsic epidemiological factors, added to animal-specific or intrinsic epidemiological factors (genetics, sex and breed, among others), predispose cats to the development of overweight and obesity (O&O). The prevalence of O&O has significantly increased in the global cat population, making them a growing clinical concern for companion animals. In turn, O&O contribute to the onset of other pathologies by either increasing susceptibility or creating conditions that allow existing or incipient pathologies to manifest or worsen. Some of these diseases correspond to changes in the musculoskeletal tissue, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, skin disorders, and kidney and urinary tract diseases, among others. Therefore, the aim of this review was to analyze the epidemiological variables and diseases associated with O&O in the domestic cat.
Linking death with marriage: Seeing death through a different lens
Authors: Singh Renuka
Published: November 2024

Although there is no apparent relation between death and marriage, the discourse of death connotes certain overtones of marriage. The relation between marriage and death entails the culturally shared patterns of interpretation. This study aims at foregrounding the parallels between death and marriage primarily in the religio-cultural framework of Hinduism. It focuses specifically on the relationship between death and marriage and on the questions of how do the seemingly unrelated rituals of marriage and death incorporate a pattern of a coherent and meaningful relationship and how does the interplay between death and marriage reflect the philosophical tradition of Hinduism? This article sets the relation between death and marriage within the realm of existing philosophies of death and shows how we can engage with the discourse of death through such joyous events as marriage. Further, this study reflects on this esoteric association in order to engage with the discourse of relationship between death and marriage not as an individual but as a well-crafted socio-cultural construction in the context of Hinduism. This onto-religious approach represents attitudes toward death and marriage and offers an in-depth understanding of and fresh insights into its esoteric knowledge.
Study on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Fe35Co14Ni17Cr15Nb19 and Fe33Co14Ni15Cr12Nb26 high-entropy alloy coatings prepared by TIG
Authors: Zhang Min , Xue Tianqi , Wang Xinbao , Yan Shaoshuai , Cheng Long , Shang Jing
Published: November 2024

In this paper, two groups of high-entropy alloy coatings, Fe35Co14Ni17Cr15Nb19 and Fe33Co14Ni15Cr12Nb26, were prepared on a 304 stainless steel substrate using TIG. Both groups of coatings are composed of FCC + Laves phase and the Laves phase increases with the increase of Nb element content. In the Nb29 coating, a transition from sub-eutectic to fully eutectic structure occurs from the bottom to the top. The average microhardness of the two groups of high-entropy alloy coatings was 508.56 HV0.5 and 617.64 HV0.5, respectively, which was increased by 2.3 and 2.8 times compared with the substrate. The two groups of high-entropy alloy coatings were superior to the 304 substrate in wear and corrosion resistance, and the Nb26 coating had the best performance.
Unveiling missing voices – Lifelong Experiences of fathers parenting autistic sons: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Koltai Borbála Gabriella , Pados Eszter , Rácz József
Published: November 2024

This study addresses the underrepresentation of fathers in autism research, particularly those with adult-aged autistic offspring. The authors explored the lifelong experiences and interpretations of fathers raising their autistic sons. Ten Hungarian fathers participated in a one-time semi-structured interview. Interpretative phenomenological analysis revealed four Group Experience Themes: ‘A revolving cycle around losing and regaining control’, ‘Crossing boundaries: accepting and adapting’, ‘Being in the world as a father: experiences of eternality and liminality’, and ‘Personal growth through pervading experience’. The findings highlight unique fatherhood experiences and offer implications for professionals and service providers.

Lay abstract

Being a father of an autistic son is a profound and complex experience. Fathers adapt to their autistic sons’ unique needs and are always in search of services to ease uncertainties about their sons’ present and future. We interviewed 10 Hungarian fathers who have adult-aged autistic children. We asked them about their experiences raising their autistic sons during childhood and adulthood. Our study focused on fathers of adult-aged sons because most research has studied mothers’ experiences of autistic children under 18 years old. It is also essential to know how to be like a father with adult-aged autistic children. Fathers shared their ongoing struggle with uncertainty, always seeking the best possible solutions for their sons. They also talked about how they understand and adapt to autism and accept their sons with their special, autism-related characteristics. The findings of this research provide a deeper understanding of fathers’ parenting experience, giving suggestions for professionals on supporting them and making their experiences valuable to the community of parents raising autistic children.
“You should smile more”: Population-level sex differences in smiling also exist in autistic people
Authors: Zampella Casey J , Parish-Morris Julia , Foy Jessica , Cola Meredith , Schultz Robert T , Herrington John D
Published: November 2024

Societal expectations for social-emotional behavior differ across sexes; however, diagnostic definitions of autism do not account for this when delineating “typical” versus “atypical.” This study examines sex differences in autism in one behavior associated with strong gender biases: smiling. Computer vision was used to quantify smiling in 60 autistic (20 female) and 67 neurotypical (25 female) youth during conversations. Effects of sex and diagnosis were examined on degree of smiling, smile prototypicality, changes in smiling, and impact of smiling on interaction quality. Sex differences in smiling persisted across diagnosis groups: females smiled more than males, and their smiles were more prototypical. Autistic youth smiled less, and less prototypically, than neurotypical youth, with no sex by diagnosis interactions. In autism, the association between smile activity and interaction quality approached statistical significance, seemingly driven by autistic males but not females. Findings are consistent with population trends for females to smile more during social exchanges and “display rules” requiring more positive expressivity from females. Autism has historically been defined based on differences between autistic and neurotypical males. Failure to acknowledge sex-based differences in social-emotional behavior may leave some females appearing to have fewer autistic traits, increasing their risk of being under-identified and misunderstood.
Attitudes of health and social care professionals towards the use of blended diets for enteral tube feeding for children and young people
Authors: Phillips Gemma , McCullough Fiona , Hemingway Pippa
Published: November 2024

Using a blended diet as an alternative to commercial formula is becoming more popular amongst parents and carers of children and young people (CYP) requiring long-term enteral tube feeding (ETF). Emerging evidence has demonstrated physiological and social benefits; however, families report feeling unsupported to use a blended diet in settings outside the home. This study aimed to explore the attitudes of health and social care staff towards the use of blended diets for CYP. Health and social care professionals with experience of blended diets were invited to partake in an online semi-structured qualitative interview. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes. Five participants from health, education and social care settings were interviewed. Online interviews worked effectively for data collection to allow flexibility to accommodate participants’ care roles and avoid face-to-face contact necessary with Coronavirus disease 2019 restrictions. Three themes were identified in the data:

• Change from medicalised enteral tube feeding practice.

• Individual, person-centred approach.

• Open support networks and responsibility.

Findings showed that blended diets can be accommodated; however, barriers to implementation remain. Medicalisation of ETF continues to impair acceptance of blended diets whilst effective multi-disciplinary team communication and support facilitates its use in settings outside the home.
Synthesis and evaluation of tribo-mechanical and corrosion properties of electroless Ni-P coating on AZ91D Mg alloy with stannate conversion underlayer
Authors: Kumar Sunny , Banerjee Tushar , Patel Dharmendra
Published: November 2024

The work reports on synthesis and comprehensive evaluation of different properties of a bilayer protective coating on Mg alloy of AZ91D grade. Initially the alloy substrates were treated in stannate bath for 15, 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 min for synthesizing an MgSnO3.3H2O layer. Electroless Ni-P was then deposited for 30 and 60 min, on the stannate layer synthesized for 60 min. A time-dependent cyclic growth behaviour was observed for stannate layers, characterized by formation and dissolution of MgSnO3.3H2O globules. The stannate coatings displayed polycrystalline structure. Hardness and scratch resistance were strongly influenced by uniformity of the coatings. While the uncoated alloy exhibited hardness of only 93 HV0.05, a remarkable improvement in hardness to 484 HV0.05 was obtained after 60 min of stannate treatment. High critical load of adhesion (Lc3) of 29 N was also obtained for the same. The stannate layers exhibited coefficient of friction (CoF) of 0.4–0.6 as compared to 0.7–0.8 for bare alloy. The wear loss also notably reduced. In tribo-test, hard and well-adherent coating restricted surface deformation under action of normal load. This in-turn, reduced mechanical engaging at interface, leading to low CoF and wear loss. The dense stannate coating also reduced corrosion rate by 19 times by hindering penetration of corrosive medium. Electroless deposition for 30 min on stannate conversion layer yielded only sporadic growth of Ni-P, which improved to a dense, uniform layer after 60 min of deposition. The Ni-P top coating aided the stannate underlayer in furthering the tribo-mechanical and corrosion characteristics.
Applications of machine learning techniques to broaden operating envelope of biodiesel-fueled HCCI engines
Authors: Bukkarapu Kiran Raj , Krishnasamy Anand
Published: November 2024

A significant shortcoming of Homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engines is their narrow operating envelope, particularly with high-reactivity fuels like biodiesel. Additionally, the compositional variability of biodiesels, reflected in cetane number variations based on different source feedstocks, poses another challenge. While various strategies have successfully extended the maximum load limit in diesel-HCCI engines, they have not been adequately explored in biodiesel-fueled HCCI engines. This study is the first to comprehensively investigate the interplay of biodiesel composition, cetane number, engine compression ratio, and charge dilution strategy for extending the operating envelope of a light-duty HCCI engine. Given the impracticality of controlling multiple variables experimentally, this work focuses on the potential of machine learning (ML) algorithms to predict the operational limits of an HCCI engine using neat biodiesels derived from diverse sources. Among the ML models explored, artificial neural networks were the most accurate in predicting the minimum stable load, with prediction errors of 3.5% (calibration) and 3.9% (validation). Support vector machine models predicted the maximum load (with and without dilution) with errors below 5%. Notably, biodiesel produced from a blend of linseed, karanja, coconut, and mustard oils in specific proportions (42%, 3%, 25%, and 30% mass, respectively) yielded a wide HCCI operating range from 0.4 to 3.25 bar (without dilution) and up to 3.67 bar BMEP with charge dilution. This study highlights the novelty and practicality of using ML to predict and extend the operating envelope for biodiesel-fueled HCCI engines, demonstrating their suitability for future applications.