bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of eco-innovation and economic growth on carbon emission: Evidence using novel QARDL approach
Authors: Li Li , Zhang YunQian , Hsu Ching-Chi , Vinh Nguyen The , Tran Ky Nguyen , Ngo Thanh Quang
Published: August 2023

High economic growth in fast growing country like China is not without its environmental repercussions and eco- innovations have been promoted as a successful strategy for striking a balance between environmental performance and economic growth. However, there has not been much focus on how eco-innovation affects the performance of carbon emission in China. This study estimates the impact of eco- innovation on CO2 emission under the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis over the 1986–2022 period. To estimate the nexus empirically, we applied Quantile ARDL (QARDL) approach. The results of the research reveal that eco-innovations have significant yet negative effect on CO2 emission at all quantiles (0.05–0.90). Economic growth is linked positively with carbon emission over 0.05 to 0.70 quantiles, whereas its square impacts CO2 emission negatively and significantly at 0.60 to 0.95 quantiles. These findings confirm that EKC hypothesis exists in China. The findings in short run find that eco-innovations had negative impact on carbon emission, whereas in case of economic growth it shows positive connection, however, the GDP sq. shows negative linkage. On the basis of these results, the research recommends Chinese authorities to promote eco-innovations by providing influential incentives to households and business sectors to eliminate the negative trends of economic growth on environment. In addition, the study recommends that “renewable energy law” needs be implemented by institutions to encourage the renewable energy use in all sectors that is proved to have positive environmental impacts for China.
The protective effects of topiramate and spirulina against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats
Authors: Elmorsi Radwa M , El Saadany Amira A , Kabel Ahmed M , Abou El-Seoud Samia H
Published: August 2023

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a widely used chemotherapy drug that can cause significant cardiotoxicity, limiting its clinical application. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of topiramate (TPM) and spirulina (SP), either alone or in combination, in preventing DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Adult Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups, including a normal control group and groups receiving DOX alone, DOX with TPM, DOX with SP, or DOX with a combination of TPM and SP. Cardiotoxicity was induced by administering DOX intraperitoneally at a cumulative dose of 16 mg/kg over 4 weeks. TPM and/or SP administration started 1 week before DOX treatment and continued for 35 days. Body weight, serum markers of cardiac damage, oxidative stress and inflammatory parameters were assessed. Histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations were performed on cardiac tissues. Results showed that TPM and SP monotherapy led to significant improvements in serum levels of cardiac markers, decreased oxidative stress, reduced fibrosis-related growth factor levels, increased antioxidant levels, and improved histopathological features. SP demonstrated more prominent effects in comparison to TPM, and the combination of TPM and SP exhibited even more pronounced effects. In conclusion, TPM and SP, either alone or in combination, hold promise as therapeutic interventions for mitigating DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.
Multiple imputation for non-monotone missing not at random data using the no self-censoring model
Authors: Ren Boyu , Lipsitz Stuart R , Weiss Roger D , Fitzmaurice Garrett M
Published: August 2023

Although approaches for handling missing data from longitudinal studies are well-developed when the patterns of missingness are monotone, fewer methods are available for non-monotone missingness. Moreover, the conventional missing at random assumption—a natural benchmark for monotone missingness—does not model realistic beliefs about the non-monotone missingness processes (Robins and Gill, 1997). This has provided the impetus for alternative non-monotone missing not at random mechanisms. The “no self-censoring” model is such a mechanism and assumes the probability an outcome variable is missing is independent of its value when conditioning on all other possibly missing outcome variables and their missingness indicators. As an alternative to “weighting” methods that become computationally demanding with increasing number of outcome variables, we propose a multiple imputation approach under no self-censoring. We focus on the case of binary outcomes and present results of simulation and asymptotic studies to investigate the performance of the proposed imputation approach. We describe a related approach to sensitivity analysis to departure from no self-censoring. We discuss the relationship between missing at random and no self-censoring and prove that one is not a special case of the other. Finally, we discuss extensions to non-binary data settings. The proposed methods are illustrated with application to a substance use disorder clinical trial.
Weighted mean difference statistics for paired data in the presence of missing values
Authors: Li Yuntong , Shelton Brent J , St Clair William , Weiss Heidi L , Villano John L , Stromberg Arnold J , Wang Chi , Chen Li
Published: August 2023

Missing data is a common issue in many biomedical studies. Under a paired design, some subjects may have missing values in either one or both of the conditions due to loss of follow-up, insufficient biological samples, etc. Such partially paired data complicate statistical comparison of the distribution of the variable of interest between the two conditions. In this article, we propose a general class of test statistics based on the difference in weighted sample means without imposing any distributional or model assumption. An optimal weight is derived from this class of tests. Simulation studies show that our proposed test with the optimal weight performs well and outperforms existing methods in practical situations. Two cancer biomarker studies are provided for illustration.
Mild Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease Improves Outcomes After HLA-Haploidentical-Related Donor Transplantation Using Posttransplant Cyclophosphamide and Cord Blood Transplantation
Authors: Wada Fumiya , Kanda Junya , Kamijo Kimimori , Nishikubo Masashi , Yoshioka Satoshi , Ishikawa Takayuki , Ueda Yasunori , Akasaka Takashi , Arai Yasuyuki , Izumi Kiyotaka , Hirata Hirokazu , Ikeda Takashi , Yonezawa Akihito , Anzai Naoyuki , Watanabe Mitsumasa , Imada Kazunori , Yago Kazuhiro , Tamura Naoki , Itoh Mitsuru , Masuo Yuki , Kunitomi Akane , Takeoka Tomoharu , Kitano Toshiyuki , Arima Nobuyoshi , Hishizawa Masakatsu , Asagoe Kohsuke , Kondo Tadakazu , Takaori-Kondo Akifumi
Published: August 2023

Haploidentical-related donor transplantation using posttransplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy-haplo) and cord blood transplantation (CBT) are valid alternatives for patients with hematological malignancies when HLA-matched donor transplantation (MDT) is unavailable. However, the effects of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) on outcomes after these transplants have not been fully elucidated. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of acute and chronic GVHD on transplant outcomes after PTCy-haplo transplants and compared them with CBT and MDT. We included a total of 914 adult patients with hematological malignancies in the Kyoto Stem Cell Transplantation Group registry who received PTCy-haplo (N = 120), CBT (N = 402), and MDT (N = 392), and achieved neutrophil engraftment. A multivariate analysis revealed that grade I–II acute GVHD improved of overall survival (OS) after PTCy-haplo [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.39, P = 0.018] and CBT (HR = 0.48, P < 0.001), but not after MDT (HR = 0.80, P = 0.267) compared with patients without acute GVHD. Grade I–II acute GVHD had a trend toward reducing the risk of nonrelapse mortality (NRM) after PTCy-haplo (HR = 0.13, P = 0.060) and this positive effect was significant after CBT (HR = 0.39, P = 0.003). A negative impact of grade III–IV acute GVHD on NRM was observed after CBT and MDT, but not after PTCy-haplo. Limited chronic GVHD had a positive impact on OS after CBT and MDT, but not after PTCy-haplo. In conclusion, mild acute GVHD improved outcomes after PTCy-haplo and CBT, and limited chronic GVHD improved outcomes after CBT and MDT. These data indicated that the effects of GVHD on transplant outcomes depended on transplant platforms.
Comparative Analysis of the Results of Stroke Treatment With Multiple Administrations of Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells–Derived HE-ATMP and Standard Conservative Treatment: Case Series Study
Authors: Milczarek Olga , Swadźba Jakub , Swadźba Patrycja , Starowicz-Filip Anna , Krzyżewski Roger M. , Kwiatkowski Stanisław , Majka Marcin
Published: August 2023

Stroke remains still the leading cause of long-term disability worldwide. Although interventions such as early reperfusion, intravenous thrombolysis, and endovascular revascularization have shown neurological benefit in stroke patients, there is still lack of effective treatment enabling regeneration of nervous tissue after cerebral ischemic episodes. Cell therapy is an evolving opportunity for stroke survivors with residual neurological deficits. The purpose of this study was to evaluate safety and potential efficacy of multiple administration of Hospital Exemption—Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product (HE-ATMP) comprising 3 × 107 Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJMSCs). A study group was composed of six patients—three women and three men. The patients were qualified to the treatment with diagnosis of chronic stroke (2–24 months after cerebral ischemic episode), during 2 years. All the patients undergone repeated rounds of HE-ATMP administration to the CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) via lumbar puncture. The control group consisted of six patients (two women and four men) who experienced stroke, treated at the same time (follow-up period: 24 months) using standard treatment methods, without endovascular treatment. To evaluate the results of the therapy, we used both impairment scales [National Institutes of Health Stroke Score (NIHSS)] and functional outcomes scales [Modified Rankin Scale (MRS) and Barthel Index (BI)]. In four patients, who received at least three repeated rounds of HE-ATMP, we reported neurological improvement and reduction of functional neurodeficiency. The biggest improvement concerned the reduction of speech disorders in two cases; significant improvement in the field of motor skills in three patients and reduction of apraxia and improvement of logical communication skills in two patients were also reported. All the patients became more independent. Significant improvement of the neurological condition using the same scales was registered only in two patients from the control group. We did not report any adverse events in the treated group during follow-up. At 1-year follow-up, we demonstrate safety and beneficial effect of WJMSC transplantation including neurological improvement and reduction of functional neurodeficiency. We are aware that the samples size of this study is relatively small. The treatment regimen needs to be further tested in larger group of patients.
Violence, Misrecognition, and Place: Legal Envelopment and Colonial Governmentality in the Upper Skeena River, British Columbia, 1888
Authors: Unger Matthew P.
Published: August 2023

This paper is concerned with exploring legal atmospheres during colonial expansionism and the early period of confederation of British Columbia. By describing the theatrical and performative aspects of legal colonialism, the archival documents from this time represent interesting, yet oft-overlooked, significances that attention to sensory and affective experiences captures. Examining “affective atmospheres” disclosed in such colonial settings reveals ways that the colonial regime promulgated its influence in non-rational, non-legal manners. As well, drawing out the material conditions of topography shows how the environment acts more than just a backdrop for the staging of legal expansionism, as it acts also as a constitutive force in the development of colonial legal arrangements. At the same time, the colonial regime was forgetful of these same contextual, topographical, and atmospheric origins of law insofar as it promulgated myths of the universality, objectivity, and superiority of English law.
From coworking to competing? Business models and strategies of UK coworking spaces beyond the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Yates Edward , Charnock Greig , Pitts Frederick Harry , Johns Jennifer , Bozkurt Ödül
Published: August 2023

This paper examines the growth of the UK coworking space (CWS) sector in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing on data from a multi-year study comprising 44 interviews with CWS owners, managers, and other key economic actors. The paper offers a novel contribution by drawing on critical political economy to conceptualise CWS as capitalist enterprises providing fixed capital of an independent kind in competitive markets increasingly shaped by changing urban commercial real estate dynamics which necessitate that CWS adapt their business models to remain economically viable. The paper finds the entry of large corporate actors in the CWS sector is forcing smaller independent CWS to diversify to remain competitive. This pressure inhibits the ability of CWS to adhere to – and offer services matching – the aims of early CWS, namely the cultivation of a community of like-minded individuals who cowork to reduce rental costs and social isolation. These findings are theoretically and empirically significant as they illustrate how rapid sectoral shifts are driven by business decisions with structural causes, rather than being due to the actions of individual users of CWS or the communities they serve. These findings have implications for understanding the future of coworking and provide new insights into how competition shapes and changes the business models and competitive strategies of enterprises.
Adjusting Parenting Roles and Work Expectations Among Women With Children During COVID-19
Authors: Childress Saltanat , LaBrenz Catherine A. , Findley Erin , Baiden Philip
Published: August 2023

This study explores mothers’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic with a focus on stressors, parenting roles, and work expectations. Qualitative analysis of open-ended interviews with a diverse group of 44 mothers in the United States generated two main themes: adjusting parenting roles and career concerns for mothers. Findings reveal that mothers have internalized strong intrafamily expectations to shoulder the primary responsibility for domestic labor and child care in addition to completing their work obligations and experienced institutional gender bias in the expectations that employers have for female employees. The interviews highlight lower expectations for fathers’ contributions to parenting under pandemic conditions. Implications for research and policy are discussed with a particular focus on critiquing structures that may perpetuate gender disparities.
Community-Based Intervention for Sexual and Gender Minority Youth in Central Texas
Authors: Jeon Jay S. , Christensen M. Candace
Published: August 2023

This study evaluated the psychosocial outcomes of sexual and gender minorities (SGM) youth attending a community social support group in Central Texas from October 2019 to October 2020. SGM youth are at an increased risk of experiencing depression and social challenges due to hetero and cis-normative social norms. This study examined the efficacy of a group intervention for addressing the challenges of 128 SGM youth who participated in this study. Data collection included levels of social support and depression. Analysis between three groups, newcomers ( n = 67), <6 months attendance ( n = 30), and >6 months attendance ( n = 29), found significant differences among Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale 10 total scores, peer support, significant other support, and overall support with greater support seen in participants with greater attendance. We provide recommendations for community-based organizations to better serve SGM youth per our findings.
Benevolent Transgressive Play in Dungeons & Dragons [D&D]
Authors: Sidhu Premeet , Carter Marcus
Published: August 2023

Background

Research into transgressive play experiences in games has grown in recent years. In this article, we explore the potential for transgressive play to be constructive in multiplayer settings—something we conceptualize as “benevolent transgression.”

Aim

This article describes the presence and appeal of benevolent transgressive play experiences in the tabletop role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons [D&D].

Research Methods

In 2021, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted focus group discussions (3 groups, 14 participants, aged 24–55) and an online survey (354 participants, aged 18–63) with current D&D players to better understand what play experiences were meaningful and appealing for them—in consideration of the game’s contemporary resurgence.

Key Finding and Discussion

Our qualitative analysis focuses on participant responses that described the presence and appeal of transgressive play that knowingly challenges player boundaries or game boundaries, what we term benevolent transgression. We propose two key factors that we believe enable it—1) player agency and 2) collaborative negotiation—and briefly discuss benevolent transgression in consideration of game-based learning [GBL].
Hybrid Learning Modality Did Not Reduce the Risk of COVID-19 Among Colorado Students
Authors: Erly Brian , Jackson Parker , Pilonetti Therese
Published: August 2023

During the 2020–2021 school year, many schools adopted remote learning or a part-time in-person learning (“hybrid”) approach to reduce the risk of in-school transmission of COVID-19. The purpose of this work is to describe case rates of COVID-19 in schools practicing different learning modalities on rates of COVID-19 to support risk-benefit decisions in the context of respiratory disease outbreaks. We conducted a person-time-at-risk analysis of rates of COVID-19, as well as testing and test positivity rates among Colorado students. Schools practicing remote learning had a lower adjusted rate of COVID-19 cases compared to either hybrid or in-person learning modalities. Students attending a school with remote learning had fewer reported tests, and test positivity was higher for remote learning. Our analysis found that both case rate and test positivity were similar in hybrid and in-person learning modalities, indicating that hybrid learning modalities may not reduce the risk of respiratory disease transmission.
A Mixed Methods Exploration of Texas School Nurses’ Involvement in Addressing Substance Use and Sexual/Reproductive Health Among Students in Alternative High Schools
Authors: Johnson Karen E. , Thurman Whitney A. , Hoskote Ashwini R. , Maughan Erin D.
Published: August 2023

Students in alternative high schools (AHSs) have higher levels of substance use and risky sexual behaviors than students in traditional high schools. In this mixed methods study, we examine school nurses’ efforts in Texas AHSs to address substance use and sexual/reproductive health. The nurses addressed substance use and sexual reproductive health mostly at the individual level, after students initiated risky behaviors. Nurses’ efforts were influenced by district, school, and community factors (e.g., understaffing, outdated programs that weren’t evidence-based or tailored to AHS students’ behaviors, and family involvement). Usually, nurses were not practicing to their full scope as outlined by the National Association of School Nurses Framework. Substance use was a common reason for AHS placement and could contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline, and AHSs did not always have Narcan on campus to address drug overdoses. Our findings suggest implications for providing equitable health services to this underserved, understudied student population.
Evaluating a Multicomponent e-Cigarette Prevention Program in the Rural Northwest: Teacher and Parent/Guardian Program Outcomes
Authors: Yaugher Ashley C. , Pay Christina C. , Hawks Jenna , Meier Cristian L.
Published: August 2023

There are effective prevention strategies to combat increasing rates of youth e-cigarette use. This study assessed the outcomes of an e-cigarette prevention program with teachers and parents/guardians across a three-county rural area. Researchers assessed teachers’ and parent/guardians’ increased knowledge and confidence in implementing vape prevention after receiving evidence-based trainings. Pre- and post-surveys demonstrated that teachers had a statistically significant increase in knowledge gain across all eight vape-specific domains assessed as expected. The parent/guardian pre- and post-survey results also show that knowledge and confidence increased significantly across seven domains. Findings suggest that multicomponent e-cigarette education and prevention programs better prepare teachers and parents/guardians to intervene with youth e-cigarette use and initiation, including being more likely to talk to youth about the risks of tobacco and vaping. Recommendations for school nurses are discussed and include educating youth, families, and staff for positive impacts.
Outcomes of Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor of the Foot and Ankle
Authors: Barnett James Robert , Rudran Branavan , Khan Amir , O’Reilly-Harbidge Sarah , Patel Shelain , Malhotra Karan , Cullen Nicholas , Welck Matthew , Aston William
Published: August 2023

Background:

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TGCT) is a benign proliferative disease affecting synovial membranes. There are 2 forms, localized (L-TGCT) and diffuse (D-TGCT), which although histologically similar behave differently. It is locally invasive and is treated in most cases by operative excision. The aim of this study was to assess current practice, how the patients’ presentation affected their outcome, as well as review the recurrence rates and complications.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of 123 cases was performed in patients treated between 2003 and 2019 with TGCT of the foot and/or ankle. Data were collected on age at presentation, radiologic pattern of disease, location of disease, treatment provided, and recurrence rates. The minimum follow-up was 2 years with a mean of 7.7 years.

Results:

There were 61.7% female patients with a mean age of 39 (range, 11-76) years. L-TGCT accounted for 85 (69.1%) cases and D-TGCT for 38 (30.9%). The most prevalent preoperative symptoms were a palpable mass (78/123) and pain (65/123). Radiologically confirmed recurrence in the operative group was noted in 14.5% (16/110) cases. This comprised 4% (3/75) of operatively treated L-TGCT and 37% (13/35) of operatively treated D-TGCT. Patients with pain on presentation and those with erosive changes on presenting magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were more likely to have persistent postoperative pain ( P < .001 for both). Where patients had both preoperative pain and erosive changes, 57.1% had postoperative pain. Thirteen cases were managed nonoperatively where symptoms were minimal, with 1 case requiring surgery at a later date.

Conclusion:

Outcomes of TGCT management are dependent on the disease type, extent of preoperative erosive changes, and presence of preoperative pain. These data are useful for counseling patients regarding the outcomes of surgical intervention and help guide the timing of intervention.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Role of Lateral Ankle Ligaments in Vertical Stability of the Fibula: A Cadaveric Model
Authors: Filippi Jorge , Gutiérrez Paulina , Quezada José , Massri-Pugin Jafet , Bastías Gonzalo F. , Melo Rodrigo , Vidal Catalina , Silvestre Rony
Published: August 2023

Background:

In unstable ankle fractures, the role of the deltoid and syndesmosis ligaments has been widely studied. However, it is uncertain what the importance of the lateral ankle ligament complex (LALC) is in the vertical stability of the fibula. Given its anatomical position, it should prevent the proximal translation of the fibula. This study aims to evaluate the role of the LALC in stabilizing the fibula in the vertical plane.

Methods:

Eleven below-knee cadaveric specimens were used in this study. Proximal traction of the fibula was performed by applying 50 N in the intact state and after sequential transection of the syndesmotic ligaments, anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), and the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL). At each stage, the proximal displacement of the fibula was measured. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance with post hoc Bonferroni correction was carried out to determine any significant differences between the groups. A P value <.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The vertical displacement of the fibula in the intact state, and after sequential transection of syndesmotic ligaments, ATFL, and CFL was 1.96 ± 1.19 mm, 3.96 ± 1.33 mm, 5.9 ± 1.73 mm, and 10.22 ± 2.76 mm, respectively. There was no significant difference in the proximal displacement of the fibula between the intact and the syndesmotic ligaments groups ( P < .05). However, when the syndesmotic ligaments were transected in conjunction with ATFL ± CFL, a significant difference was observed compared to the intact state ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

The complete disruption of syndesmotic ligaments did not significantly increase the proximal displacement of the fibula. However, when the ATFL ± CFL were additionally disrupted, there was a significant increase in the vertical translation of the fibula.

Clinical Relevance:

To our knowledge, this is the first study describing that LALC plays a paramount role in the vertical stability of the fibula. Concomitant syndesmosis and LALC should be suspected in an axially unstable fibular fracture with a significant proximal displacement.
Sequential Targeted Therapy for Advanced, Metastatic, and Recurrent Cervical Cancer: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of the Patient Journey
Authors: Richardson Michael T. , Attwood Kristopher , Smith Gabriella , Liang Su-Ying , LaVigne Mager Katherine , Tewari Krishnansu S. , Coleman Robert L. , Kapp Daniel S. , Chan John K. , Monk Bradley J.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To evaluate outcomes and cost-effectiveness of targeted therapy sequencing for metastatic and recurrent cervical cancer.

Method

Models were simulated based on phase II and III trials on bevacizumab (bev) from GOG-240, cemiplimab (cemi) from GOG 3016, pembrolizumab (pembro) from KEYNOTE-826, and tisotumab vedotin (tiso) from GOG 3023. Costs were based on IBM Micromedex RED BOOK™ and company listed costs.

Results

For [chemo + bev → chemo], total cost was $125,918.04, with median overall survival (mOS) of 21.8 months, and cost-effectiveness ratio (CER) of $119,835.79. For [chemo + bev → cemi], total cost was $187,562.99 with mOS of 28.5 months and CER of $162,039.16. For [chemo + bev + pembro → chemo], total cost was $319,963.78 with mOS 32.9 months and CER of $249,930.10. For [chemo + bev + pembro → tiso], total cost was $455,204.45, with mOS 36.5 months and CER of $320,072.99.

Conclusion

The combination of immunotherapies and biologics have significantly increased overall survival, but with associated higher costs, primarily related to drug costs.
Parameters identification of closely spaced modes with the covariance-drivern stochastic subspace and damping ratio dispersion method
Authors: Zhang XiaoLi , Xia Yong
Published: August 2023

Electromechanical equipment with quasi-symmetric and partially symmetrical structures is widespread in the industry, which not only makes the dynamic characteristics of the system more complex but also leads to severe closely spaced modes. The existence of closely spaced modes can lead to more confusion, because severe closely spaced modes have similar frequency eigenvalues and some singular eigenvalues are prone to generate spurious modes in matrix computations. In this paper, the covariance-drivern stochastic subspace and damping ratio dispersion (SSI-COV-DRD) method is proposed, which in comparison with previous methods, identification process directly is performed in the stochastic subspace by solving the system matrix of the time domain signal to overcome modal aliasing of the frequency-based method. Firstly, a Toeplitz matrix is constructed with a time series signal and then the system modal parameters are gained from the system matrix after performing singular value decomposition (SVD) to the Toeplitz matrix. Subsequently, the poles of the continuous model order are classified by a hierarchical clustering algorithm to obtain stabilization diagram and the real physical modes are automatically extracted from the stabilization diagram according to the choice criteria. Finally, the damping ratio dispersion index is calculated to express the nonlinear distribution characteristic of the damping ratio. Numerical examples for the five-order free vibration simulation signals with noise-free and noise indicate that the proposed method can simultaneously identify the modal frequency and damping ratio with high accuracy in severe closely spaced modes, especially for the repeated frequency modes. Since the bolt connection rotor of the aero-engine usually produces severe closely spaced modes in vibration due to the structural symmetry, the frequency and damping ratio are extracted and the damping ratio dispersion index is calculated from different bolt loosening states, which is helpful for the bolt loosening detection of aviation safety assurance and maintenance.
Telemedicine Homecare Among the Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus Risk Elderly Group in Indonesian Primary Healthcare: A Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Ratna Wulan Widya , Widianawati Evina , Pantiawati Ika , Wulandari Fitria
Published: August 2023

National data showed that the majority of deaths due to COVID-19 are elderly people with comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and kidney failure who have a 3.5-fold risk of dying compared to non-elderly people. With an increasing number of elderly and a high prevalence of chronic diseases, home healthcare is important to enable people to be in their own homes rather than hospitals by taking advantage of telemedicine within limited distances. A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted with 157 elderly respondents of the Chronic Disease Management Program (Prolanis) at Primary Healthcare Facilities participants in Semarang Regency by a validated questionnaire. Analyzed by SPSS version 21 and a chi-square test. The respondent knowledge level with fewer telemedicine-related categories is about 47.1%. The attitude regarding the development of telemedicine in Prolanis was positive (79.0%), and positively perceived the development of telemedicine by 58.3%. Age ( p = .035; OR = 0.502) and gender ( p = .010; OR = 2.605) were significantly related to respondents’ knowledge. The educational background is significantly related to respondents’ attitudes ( p = .025; OR = 3.080). Health information technology (telemedicine) needs to be developed among elderly users, especially participants in the Prolanis (hypertension and diabetes mellitus type 2) in Health Service Facilities.
Destination Advertising on YouTube: Effects of Native Advertising and Comment Management on Tourist Perception
Authors: Shin Seunghun , Kim Taekyung , Hlee Sunyoung , Koo Chulmo
Published: August 2023

This research aims to understand the unique aspects of social media that should be considered by a destination marketing organization (DMO) to create advertisements that attract the interests of tourists on YouTube. It examines the effectiveness of two YouTube-specific practices—native advertising and comment management. Two studies with a multi-method approach examined the effects of such practices on tourists’ perceptions regarding DMOs’ YouTube advertisements and destinations. The results showed that tourists positively perceived the advertisements and the destinations when DMOs’ YouTube advertisements were recognized as non-advertising content, and when native advertising was emphasized in the comment section of the YouTube advertisements. By delving into the necessary adaptations within the current video marketing communication framework for social media platforms, this study contributes to the field of destination advertising. Moreover, it provides practical insights into effective video advertising strategies for social media platforms that DMOs can implement.
Epiretinal membrane formation and optic disc vascularisation in type 2A macular telangiectasia (MacTel)
Authors: Venkatesh Ramesh , Mangla Rubble , Handa Ashit , Parmar Yash , Sangoram Rohini , Chhablani Jay
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To describe a rare clinical finding of epiretinal membrane (ERM) and abnormal optic disc vascularisation in type 2A macular telangiectasia (MacTel).

Case description

A 52-year-old asymptomatic healthy male was examined in the retina clinic. In both eyes, corrected visual acuity was 20/20, N6. Anterior segment examination and intraocular pressure were both normal in both eyes.

Results

The right eye's dilated fundus examination revealed loss of retinal transparency and superficial intraretinal crystals. A thick ERM extending from the optic disc to the macula obscured the details of the underlying perifoveal region in the left eye fundus. The diagnosis of bilateral type 2 MacTel was confirmed by confocal blue reflectance imaging, fluorescein angiography (FA), and macular optical coherence tomography (OCT). The left eye macular OCT scan also revealed a thick ERM without causing significant retinal traction. Furthermore, FA of the left eye revealed early hyperfluorescence with intense late leakage at the inferior aspect of the optic disc, giving the impression of abnormal optic disc vascularisation. No other cause for the disc vascularisation could be identified. OCT scan through the area with the optic disc leakage revealed a tuft of irregular hyperreflective tissue lying over the ERM. OCT angiography imaging confirmed the vascularity within the tuft of hyperreflective tissue over the ERM. Over a two-year period, no changes in clinical or imaging features were observed.

Conclusion

In type 2A MacTel eyes, ERM formation and abnormal disc vascularisation are uncommon findings. More histopathologic research is needed to characterise these membranes.
Dupilumab induced ocular surface disease: A prospective case series
Authors: Pradhan Sayali Prakash , Sadiq Salman Naveed , Cartes Cristian , Babakinejad Parastoo , Ball Stephanie , Reynolds Nick J , Meggitt Simon , Figueiredo Francisco C
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To identify the incidence, risk factors, demographics, and clinical profile of dupilumab-induced ocular surface disease (DIOSD) in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), propose a standardised treatment protocol (STP) and evaluate the response.

Methods

Prospective case series of AD patients treated in the Dermatology Department, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK developing ocular symptoms after commencing Dupilumab between September 2018 and February 2020. A standard history and examination protocol were used including subjective symptom severity grading and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire on each visit. Standard treatment was prescribed, and response evaluated.

Results

32 of 113 included patients (28.31%) developed DIOSD, of which 20 (62.5%) were referred to the Cornea Service. Median age was 38.0 years (IQR 26.8; range 19–74). Male to female ratio was 1:1. Average time to onset of ocular symptoms from starting dupilumab was 9.2 weeks (IQR 8.8; range 0.1-40). 90% patients had bilateral conjunctival inflammation and blepharitis at presentation. Significant improvement in the subjective severity scale and the median OSDI score (from 34.0 to 10.2) was noted in response to topical eye treatment. Dupilumab was discontinued in none.

Conclusions

DIOSD is not uncommon although, with timely referral and appropriate topical treatment better clinical outcome and patient satisfaction can be achieved without the need to discontinue Dupilumab. Prior allergic conjunctivitis did not affect the incidence or severity of DIOSD. Further prospective studies with longer follow-up and more focus on possible disease mechanism such as goblet cell related changes and immune response are needed.
Whistleblower as activist and exile: The case of Edward Snowden
Authors: Munro Iain , Kenny Kate
Published: August 2023

Whistleblowing is an important form of radical political activism, influencing social reform by fundamentally changing the way we see our world. This article contributes to understandings of whistleblower-activism in cases of wrongdoing on the part of state institutions. Extant theorizations of organizational whistleblowing fall short in explaining such instances. In contrast, this article develops four key dynamics of state whistleblower-activism: disclosures radically outside both organization and state, extreme dependence on supporters, democratic activism through alternative loyalties, and parrhesia revealing a crisis in Western democracy. These insights are elaborated through in-depth exploration of the exemplar case of U.S. national security whistleblower Edward Snowden. We argue that the emergent concept of “exilic whistleblowing,” inspired by Hannah Arendt’s work on exile, offers novel insights. Contributions extend understandings of whistleblowing theory and practice highlighting critical aspects of exilic whistleblowing as activist resistance: how it can be used strategically as part of activist critique aimed at changing the status quo, and how the exiled whistleblower acts as a vanguard helping to bring about a new political consciousness concerning the state of modern democracy and its capacity to uphold constitutional and international human rights.
Why vote for an independent? The relevance of negative identity, independent identity, and dealignment in a pro-independent political environment
Authors: Titelman Noam , Sajuria Javier
Published: August 2023

We know that political parties play a crucial role in the electoral processes of established democracies. However, we know much less about how this role fades away. In this paper, we study the case of Chile, a country that, until a few years ago, was cited as an example of a stable and institutionalized party system. We study how the phenomenon of independent candidates has shaken the national party system. We use two separate strategies to study this phenomenon. First, we measure the marginal effect of the independent label, compared to other party labels, using a conjoint experiment. Our findings show that candidates who are presented as independents have a significant increase in their probability of being chosen. Second, we measure whether this electoral effect relates to party identification. We find that respondents show low animosity towards independent candidates and high animosity towards traditional parties. Furthermore, a majority of the studied population can be classified as negative partisans. These findings suggest that the recent emergence of independent candidates is a result of negative views on parties.
What does it mean to be pro-European? The case of the European centre-left and centre-right in Austria, Germany and the UK
Authors: Luke Stephanie
Published: August 2023

Europhilism has traditionally been associated with centre-left and centre-right parties, those parties that contributed to the development of the EU. However, centrist parties vary in their support of European integration. Yet, we know comparatively little about the extent to which these parties support European integration. Should they be classified as Eurosceptic, or do they continue to support European integration? A comparative analysis of national and European manifestos of centre-left and centre-right parties in Austria, Germany and the UK between 1990 and 2019 shows that pro-European attitudes can be split into three patterns: enthusiast, equivocal and critical Europhiles. These patterns are combined with Vasilopoulou’s patterns of Euroscepticism to create a continuum from support for to opposition to European integration, thereby recognising that centre-left and centre-right party attitudes can change across time. These findings have implications for research on centre-left and centre-right parties’ EU attitudes by identifying the nuances of the pro-European position.
Impact of different domestic source markets on tourist behaviour
Authors: McKercher Bob , Thompson Michelle , Prideaux Bruce
Published: August 2023

This paper examines the impact of different domestic markets on tourist behaviour in the popular tropical destination of Cairns, Australia. The study is based on a survey of 969 domestic tourists conducted in Cairns Airport. While it is appreciated that domestic markets are heterogeneous, little research has been conducted segmenting them by their different geographic origins. This study revealed that the demographic profile of visitors from four different Australian states was similar. However substantial differences were noted in trip profile, motive and subsequent in-destination behaviour. These findings add to our understanding of segmentation by adding a new variable to the current toolbox of segmentation methods. Using this approach to market segmentation, different marketing strategies targeted at different domestic source markets may prove efficacious. The findings suggest that geographic segmentation can be a valuable tool to complement other segmentation strategies adopted in domestic tourism.
Maternal control and eating styles in children: The mediating role of emotion differentiation
Authors: Scotto Rosato Marco , Cipriano Annarosa , Napolano Rosanna , Cella Stefania
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Theoretical accounts and empirical research suggest that mother-child interactions significantly influence the child’s eating styles (emotional, external, and restrained eating). However, little or no research has explored the association between maternal psychological control and eating styles and whether other mechanisms may be involved in such association. To address this shortcoming, the present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of difficulties in differentiating emotions between maternal control and eating styles.

Methods: Participants were 324 elementary school children (Girls = 172, 53.1%) aged between 8 and 11 years (Mage = 9.13, SD = .89) assessed through self-report measures. Parents provided information about weight and height.

Results: Path analysis model showed an acceptable fit to the data (χ2 (3) = 3.966, p = .256; RMSEA = .032; CFI = .990; TLI = .911; SRMR = .018). Difficulties in differentiating emotions significantly mediated the relationship between maternal control and emotional eating (β = −.071, 95%CI [−.094, −.052]; p < .001). The model was invariant across genders.

Conclusions: Our findings support the importance of dyadic interaction in enhancing the risk for dysfunctional eating style during infancy, showing that emotion differentiation deficits may be particularly salient in such relationship. Clinical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Sexuality and sexual violence: A qualitative study exploring the perspectives of sexuality educators and sexual violence professionals
Authors: Schmidt Franziska , Christmann Bernd , Lamour Mona , Wazlawik Martin , Dekker Arne
Published: August 2023

There has been an increase in discussion concerning the integration of sexuality education and the prevention of sexual violence. Furthermore, this is a concern at the level of different pedagogical professions in Germany, since sexuality education and sexual violence prevention have developed as largely separate fields. Both sexuality educators and sexual violence professionals work with a broad target group to prevent sexual violence, including children, young people, as well as parents and professionals working in social work or education. They collaborate at times, but they also engage in debates about their respective pedagogical approaches. Based on group discussions with 12 teams specializing in the two fields, this article analyzes how their tacitly shared knowledge (collective orientation) underpins their different pedagogical strategies. This should be considered to improve their long-term inter-professional cooperation.
Disrupting Brazilian television: Streaming and the decline of Globo's hegemony in video cultures
Authors: Meimaridis Melina
Published: August 2023

The Brazilian audiovisual landscape has been monopolized by the Grupo Globo conglomerate and its commercial broadcast network, TV Globo, which established a common video experience centered on the telenovela. Although cable and the internet sowed seeds of discontent in the 2000s, it was only with the advent of video streaming services in the 2010s that Brazil's video landscape was transformed. This led to the multiplication of video cultures and greater access to transnational audiovisual flows. This article frames streaming as a competitive force that has compelled Grupo Globo to diversify its storytelling and representation, highlighting its potential to disrupt Brazil's video cultures and exposing the limits of cultural proximity. It examines how streaming services affect Brazilian video cultures and how preexisting conditions in Brazil provide opportunities and limitations to underline streaming's disruptive potential for Brazil's video cultures and Globo's declining hegemony and ability to adapt to the digital era.
Between information campaign and controversy: a quantitative newspaper content analysis about COVID-19 vaccination in Switzerland and Austria
Authors: Zimmermann Bettina M. , Paul Katharina T. , Janny Anna , Butt Zarah
Published: August 2023

Aims:

Because media portrayal reflects and shapes public opinion and health policy, investigating news coverage of public health issues is highly relevant for public health research and practice. Addressing a topical issue, this study investigated how newspaper coverage framed COVID-19 vaccines in Austria and German-speaking Switzerland and how it developed over time.

Methods:

A quantitative newspaper content analysis of six newspapers from Austria and German-speaking Switzerland published between January 1 and 31, 2022 was conducted. Frames were identified for each country separately through hierarchical cluster analysis (Ward’s method) based on frame elements.

Results:

Four frames were identified in both countries: (1) Evaluating new vaccines, (2) Discussing mandates, (3) Promoting vaccination, (4) Mentioning vaccines. In Frames 1 (Switzerland 86.4%, Austria 93.3%) and 3 (Switzerland 92.7%, Austria 98.9%), most articles included vaccine-endorsing statements, with Swiss coverage including additional negative statements more often than Austrian coverage (43.2%/44.6% vs 4.0%/3.3%). Frame 2 was closely linked to vaccine skepticism only in Austria and contained more evaluative statements in Austrian newspapers (25.4% endorsing, 35.4% rejecting; in Switzerland 14.5%/18.1%). The Austrian tabloid Kronen Zeitung published most articles (497/1091, 45.6%).

Conclusions:

The commercialized and comparatively high share of tabloid news coverage in Austria may have contributed to oversimplified and polarizing COVID-19 vaccine debates in this context. Insufficiently balanced and adequate information may contribute to a loss of public trust in vaccination and may therefore affect vaccination uptake. Authorities and public health professionals should consider this effect when designing information campaigns.