bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cleansing Frames: How Digital ‘Consumer Reports’ of Cannabis and Psychedelics Normalise Drug-Taking and Neutralise its Counter-Cultural Potential
Authors: Ladegaard Isak
Published: March 2023

Electronic drug markets enable calculative, impersonal trade between faceless strangers, but also intimate interaction between pseudonymous users. In this space, do people treat banned drugs as ordinary consumer products that can be purchased from anyone? Or do drug-takers frame their consumption as a counter-cultural activity? To answer these questions, I use qualitative and computational research methods to analyse 3788 electronically published consumer reports of cannabis and psychedelic drugs from the period 2011–2017. I find that report writers emphasise product quality, customer service and transaction value, and devote less attention to the social and political sides of drug-taking. Discussions about legality, morality and counter-cultural ideas are completely absent from the texts, even in psychedelic reports, which detail profound effects. These findings suggest that drug e-commerce is primarily a normalising force, and that widening access to banned drugs is unlikely to disseminate counter-cultural perspectives.
The Quality of Life of Students With Difficulties Accessing Support
Authors: Omodaka Yusaku , Sato Takeshi
Published: March 2023

In recent years, the number of students enrolling in universities for higher education has increased, and these students are more diverse than ever before. Moreover, the number of students with disabilities in higher educational institutions is also increasing. Therefore, their support needs are becoming more diverse and specialized. To examine how best to provide support to students who are unable to locate it, this study conducted a survey in which details were collected from students who were involved with university student support organizations, analyze the relationship between subjective adjustment and objective adjustment, and examine the trends in subjective quality of life (QOL). In total, 156 university students (age: mean = 22.14, standard deviation = 2.86, range = 18-7) were surveyed between April 2018 and March 2020. The Japanese version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life, Brief Version, was used to analyze trends in subjective QOL. The average QOL of students who were less likely to receive support was lower than that of the general population. The results also indicated that QOL decreased as the level of disability and health status increased. Furthermore, the results of the analysis of the relationship between the overall domain QOL and the domain-specific QOL suggested that the psychological and environmental domains contributed the most to the overall QOL. Accordingly, students at universities require assistance in a number of areas. Furthermore, it is essential to adjust the content and combination of support according to the objective level of adjustment.
Global Incidence of Surgical Site Infection Among Patients: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mengistu Dechasa Adare , Alemu Addisu , Abdukadir Abdi Amin , Mohammed Husen Ahmed , Ahmed Fila , Mohammed Baredin , Musa Ibsa
Published: March 2023

Healthcare-associated infections pose one of the most severe threats to patients’ health and remain a major challenge for healthcare providers globally. Among healthcare-associated infections, surgical site infection is one of the most commonly reported infections. It remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality across the world. The aim of this study was to provide a pooled incidence of surgical site infection among patients on a regional and global scale. This study was conducted under the PRISMA guidelines developed for systematic review and meta-analysis. The studies were searched using electronic databases (SCOPUS, PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Google Scholar, DOAJ, and MedNar) from June 1st, 2022 to August 4th, 2022, using Boolean logic operators (AND, OR, and NOT), Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), and keywords. The quality of the study was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Assessment tool to determine the relevance of each included article to the study. A comprehensive meta-analysis version 3 was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of surgical site infections among the patients. A total of 2124 articles were retrieved from the included electronic databases. Finally, after applying inclusion criteria, 43 articles conducted in 39 countries were included in the current study. The global pooled incidence of SSI was found to be 2.5% (95% CI: 1.6, 3.7). Based on the subgroup analysis by WHO region and survey period, the incidence of SSI was 2.7% (95% CI: 2.2, 3.3%) and 2.5% (95% CI: 1.8, 3.5%), respectively. The highest incidence was reported in the African Region (7.2% [95% CI: 4.3, 11.8%]) and among studies conducted between 1996 and 2001 (2.9% [95% CI: 0.9%, 8.8%]). This study revealed that the overall pooled incidence of SSI was 2.5%. SSI estimates varied among the WHO regions of the world. However, the highest incidence (2.7%) was observed in the African region. This indicates that there is a need to implement safety measures, including interventions for SSI prevention to reduce SSI and improve patient safety.
Knowledge, Moral Attitude, and Practice of Nursing Students Toward Abortion
Authors: Uaamnuichai Sutira , Chuchot Rattiya , Phutrakool Phanupong , Rongkapich Ratthapong , Poolkumlung Rada , Santibenchakul Somsook , Jaisamrarn Unnop
Published: March 2023

In 2021, Thailand decriminalized abortions to allow for legal abortions on request up to 12 weeks’ gestation and conditionally up to 20 weeks’ gestation, or in the case of sexual assault, maternal mental or physical harm, or fetal abnormality. We intend to say that healthcare practitioners’ positive attitudes toward abortion will destigmatize abortion for both themselves and their patients. We explored the knowledge, attitudes, and intended practices of nursing students toward safe abortion practices in light of the recent law reform. This was a cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of 4 parts: a demographic information questionnaire; and measures to assess their knowledge, moral attitudes, and intended practice regarding safe abortion care. Questionnaires were sent to 206 nursing students who had completed the Midwifery and Maternal-Newborn Nursing rotation in Bangkok, Thailand. The survey response rate was 90.8%. Mean (standard deviation) knowledge score was 6.72 (1.86) out of 10. Buddhist students were more likely to have a positive attitude toward abortions. Most students intended to practice safe abortions in pregnancies that affect maternal physical or mental health, or in pregnancies that resulted from unlawful sexual contact. Students were more ambivalent toward abortion practices for socioeconomic reasons. Better knowledge of abortion legislation was associated with a more positive attitude toward abortions and safe abortion practice intention. Approximately 1 year after the abortion law reform in Thailand, nursing students had incomplete knowledge of the amendment. Most students were inclined to provide abortion care services for certain conditions.
Is someone’s mercenary another’s contractor? American, British, and Russian private security companies in US and UK parliamentary debates
Authors: Casiraghi Matteo C M , Cusumano Eugenio
Published: March 2023

Scholars disagree on whether an anti-mercenary norm exists, whether today’s private military and security companies (PMSCs) fall under its scope, and whether the privatization of security erode parliamentary control over the use of force. We contribute to these debates by conducting a content analysis of parliamentary debates on PMSCs in the UK and US (2001–2019). Our results show that American and British politicians engage in a vehement, bipartisan criticism of Russian PMSCs, whose employees are consistently stigmatized as ruthless mercenaries irrespective of the activities they perform. Criticism of their own government’s use of PMSCs, by contrast, is more nuanced and largely made by liberal and social democratic politicians only. These findings support the argument that an anti-mercenary norm narrowly focused on for-profit providers of combat still exists, but also highlights that its interpretation is biased by nationalism and politico-economic preferences, which shape the frequency and nature of politicians’ stigmatization of private security providers
Survivors’ Paths Toward Forgiveness in Restorative Justice Following Sexual Violence
Authors: Hadar Natalie , Gal Tali
Published: March 2023

Sexual violence (SV) yields complex justice and therapeutic needs among its survivors. Restorative justice (RJ), conducted in addition to or instead of the criminal justice process following SV, provides a platform to address these needs and repair the harm. This study describes the dynamics of RJ processes following SV, leading to the emergence of dialogic forgiveness. Dialogic forgiveness refers to a reduction in negative thoughts, feelings, and motivations toward the responsible person (RP), and the emergence of positive ones within a process of mutual communication between the survivor, RP, and supporters. Focusing on survivors’ experiences, this study, conducted in Israel, is based on 16 semi-structured in-depth interviews with SV survivors who participated in RJ encounters, their five supporters, and five RJ facilitators. Gestures of accountability, humanization, and gratitude were identified as crucial elements of implicit and explicit dialogic forgiveness, demonstrating the healing power of RJ following SV.
Comparative study of three vulcanization kinetic models for natural rubber/leather wastes composites
Authors: Urrego William , Guzmán Sánchez Manuel A , Giraldo Diego Hernán , Posada Correa Juan C , Rodríguez Ledezma Carlos Mario
Published: March 2023

In this article, the effect of leather residues from chrome tanning on the vulcanization kinetics and rheometric properties of a natural rubber composite was evaluated using three kinetic models proposed in the literature. Leather wastes were classified according to their size as fine (smaller than 0.6 mm) or coarse (between 0.84 and 2 mm). Subsequently, they were chemically treated with a sodium bicarbonate solution to neutralize their acidic nature derived from the tanning processes. The composites studied in this paper were obtained using a torque rheometer. Fine and coarse leather wastes were added to a natural rubber matrix in proportions of 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 phr. The rheometric properties of all the composites were monitored during the curing process using a moving die rheometer. The addition of leather wastes increased the vulcanization time and stiffness of the composites; however, materials with fine leather wastes achieved lower vulcanization times than materials with coarse residues. The curves obtained during vulcanization rheometry were fitted to the three kinetic models, which made it possible to determine the kinetic parameters k and n. The fits for the three models were satisfactory based on the R-squared results. The values and trends of the kinetic parameters of each model were analyzed and related to the vulcanization phenomenon of each composite.
Conservatism reduction in robust control of Markov jump delay systems
Authors: Zou Yuling , Ni Yuchen , Wen Jiwei , Luan Xiaoli , Liu Fei
Published: March 2023

A new method is developed for the robust stabilization of a Markov jump system with general discrete state time-delay and partly unknown transition probabilities. In contrast to most existing literature, a set of numerical testable conditions, rather than a huge matrix inequality, are established for the resulting closed-loop system in order to justify the stochastic stability and disturbance attenuation capability with the aid of a non-monotonic design approach. To be specific, by constructing a stochastic Lyapunov function via the application of an n-samples variation, sufficient conditions for the existence of a dissipative state feedback controller are derived with less conservativeness, that is, with larger stochastic stable region and better attenuation level. Three examples including a numerical example, a pest’s structured population model and an F-404 test aircraft model are presented to demonstrate the advantage and practical potential of the proposed methodology.
A novel cyber intrusion detection model based on improved hybrid sampling
Authors: Qian Hong , Zhang Xiantao , Zhang Chaofan , Jiang Cheng
Published: March 2023

The class imbalance of samples of network traffic will cause the poor classification performance of intrusion detection models based on machine learning. To solve this problem, this paper researches sampling algorithm and deep learning for intrusion detection in imbalanced network traffic. This paper proposes a deep recurrent neural network (delayed long short-term memory (DLSTM)) intrusion detection model based on the balanced samples. First, an improved hybrid sampling (IHS) method based on chaotic particle swarm optimization (CPSO) algorithm is proposed as the sampling algorithm to balance the imbalanced samples. Next, a DLSTM with long short-term memory (LSTM) function is proposed to realize high-precision classification of intrusion behaviours. Finally, the method is validated on the standard network traffic dataset. The experimental results show that the DLSTM intrusion detection model based on the IHS method outperforms other comparative models at accuracy. The model is available to the computer network information security defence system.
Adaptive fast smooth super-twisting observer–based robust fault diagnosis for nonlinear systems
Authors: Gao Sheng , Zhang Zhaowei , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2023

This study investigates the problem of robust fault diagnosis for nonlinear systems subjected to actuator faults and unknown input disturbances. A novel adaptive fast smooth super-twisting observer based on the super-twisting and adaptive dual-layer algorithms is presented, and a robust fault-diagnosis scheme based on an adaptive threshold is proposed to take the estimation error generated by the observer as the residual. In the adaptive fast smooth super-twisting observer, additional fractional powers less than 1 and linear terms are added to improve the smoothness and rapidity of the observer. The finite-time stability of the adaptive fast smooth super-twisting observer is then analyzed based on the Moreno–Lyapunov function algorithm, and rigorous proof confirms that the estimation-error dynamic is robust to unknown input disturbances and can converge to a region of zero in finite time. Finally, simulations of the rigid spacecraft attitude kinematics and dynamics are used to validate the effectiveness of the developed adaptive fast smooth super-twisting observer and the designed robust fault-diagnosis scheme.
Teaching Students With a Mild Intellectual Disability to Respond to Strangers Using Computer-Based Video Instruction
Authors: Simmons Chelsey R. , Miller Rhonda D. , Uphold Nicole M. , Horn Suzanne E.
Published: March 2023

Computer-based video instruction (CBVI) has been effective in teaching students with disabilities various health, community, and safety skills. Research suggests that CBVI is often used in conjunction with community-based instruction (CBI). Frequently, students with severe disabilities or students who are of high school age participate in CBI and/or CBVI and its accompanying research. This study investigated the effectiveness of CBVI to teach students with a mild ID, ages 11–13, appropriate responses to lures from strangers. A single-case, multiple probe across participants design was used to examine the impact of CBVI on one dependent variable, a correct two-step response (verbal and motor) to a lure from a stranger. The two-step response was adapted from the Akmanoglu & Tekin-Iftar (2011) study investigating responses to strangers. Data indicated that CBVI had a positive impact on all four participants. Participants also maintained the skill (up to 5 weeks) and generalized to a novel setting. Parents and teachers involved in the study also reported positive opinions regarding the aim and outcomes of the study. Implications for practice and for future research are provided.
Application of Instrumental Variable Analysis in Pediatric End-of-Life Research: A Case Study
Authors: Svynarenko Radion , Cozad Melanie J. , Mack Jennifer W. , Keim-Malpass Jessica , Hinds Pamela S. , Lindley Lisa C.
Published: March 2023

Instrumental variable analysis (IVA) has been widely used in many fields, including health care, to determine the comparative effectiveness of a treatment, intervention, or policy. However, its application in pediatric end-of-life care research has been limited. This article provides a brief overview of IVA and its assumptions. It illustrates the use of IVA by investigating the comparative effectiveness of concurrent versus standard hospice care for reducing 1-day hospice enrollments. Concurrent hospice care is a relatively recent type of care enabled by the Affordable Care Act in 2010 for children enrolled in the Medicaid program and allows for receiving life-prolonging medical treatment concurrently with hospice care. The IVA was conducted using observational data from 18,152 pediatric patients enrolled in hospice between 2011 and 2013. The results indicated that enrollment in concurrent hospice care reduced 1-day enrollment by 19.3%.
Measuring the development of general language skills in English as a foreign language—Longitudinal invariance of the C-test
Authors: Schnoor Birger , Hartig Johannes , Klinger Thorsten , Naumann Alexander , Usanova Irina
Published: March 2023

Research on assessing English as a foreign language (EFL) development has been growing recently. However, empirical evidence from longitudinal analyses based on substantial samples is still needed. In such settings, tests for measuring language development must meet high standards of test quality such as validity, reliability, and objectivity, as well as allow for valid interpretations of change scores, requiring longitudinal measurement invariance. The current study has a methodological focus and aims to examine the measurement invariance of a C-test used to assess EFL development in monolingual and bilingual secondary school students ( n = 1956) in Germany. We apply longitudinal confirmatory factor analysis to test invariance hypotheses and obtain proficiency estimates comparable over time. As a result, we achieve residual longitudinal measurement invariance. Furthermore, our analyses support the appropriateness of altering texts in a longitudinal C-test design, which allows for the anchoring of texts between waves to establish comparability of the measurements over time using the information of the repeated texts to estimate the change in the test scores. If used in such a design, a C-test provides reliable, valid, and efficient measures for EFL development in secondary education in bilingual and monolingual students in Germany.
Do enterprise education competitions have gendered outcomes amongst STEM early-career researchers?
Authors: Achtzehn Sahattaya , Treanor Lorna , Amess Kevin
Published: March 2023

This article examines whether an enterprise education competition is gendered and so, may have unintended gendered outcomes for male and female Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) early-career researcher participants. Sex-based differences in entrepreneurial intentions (EI) and entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) are examined and, drawing on Social Cognitive Career Theory, we explore perceived gender-barriers to entrepreneurship and their influence upon ESE and EI. Employing pre- and post-survey data from 120 STEM early-career researchers participating in the competition, we undertook t-tests, difference-in-differences and hierarchical-regression analyses. We found no significant sex-based differences in EI and ESE. Participation in the competition had a significant impact upon perceived gender-barriers for both sexes; perceptions of stereotype threat and childcare-work conflict barriers were reduced for women post-participation, while their perceived lack of role models increased. Gender-barriers were found to have a significant negative influence on ESE and EI. We contribute to developing intention-based analysis beyond traditional gender-blind measures through incorporating gendered structural barriers which demonstrably influence EI.
Advancing biomarker development for diagnostics and therapeutics using solid tumour cancer stem cell models
Authors: Wang Samuel Sherng Young
Published: March 2023

The cancer stem cell model hopes to explain solid tumour carcinogenesis, tumour progression and treatment failure in cancers. However, the cancer stem cell model has led to minimal clinical translation to cancer stem cell biomarkers and targeted therapies in solid tumours. Many reasons underlie the challenges, one being the imperfect understanding of the cancer stem cell model. This review hopes to spur further research into clinically translatable cancer stem cell biomarkers through first defining cancer stem cells and their associated models. With a better understanding of these models there would be a development of more accurate biomarkers. Making the clinical translation of biomarkers into diagnostic tools and therapeutic agents more feasible.
Treating secondary malignant neoplasms: A burden of childhood cancer survivors
Authors: Podda Marta G , Meazza Cristina , Gattuso Giovanna , Sironi Giovanna , Nigro Olga , Bergamaschi Luca , Biassoni Veronica , Casanova Michela , Chiaravalli Stefano , Ferrari Andrea , Luksch Roberto , Puma Nadia , Schiavello Elisabetta , Spreafico Filippo , Grampa Paolo , Manoukian Siranoush , Vennarini Sabina , Collini Paola , Daolio Primo A , Gennaro Massimiliano , Guzzo Marco , Morosi Carlo , Biasoni Davide , Massimino Maura , Terenziani Monica
Published: March 2023

Each year approximately 35,000 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer in Europe. Five-year survival rates have improved and now reach 80% in most European countries, thanks to a combination of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. To date, there are more than 44,000 Italians still living several years after being diagnosed with cancer in developmental age. The risk of premature morbidity and mortality for cancer survivors is well known and documented. Approximately 60% of survivors of cancer in childhood and adolescence have at least one chronic health condition in later life, and more than one in four develop severe or life-threatening disorders. Among the various long-term iatrogenic sequelae of cancer treatments, the most worrisome are second malignant neoplasms. We reported on our mono-institutional experiences of screening and treating secondary breast cancer, secondary thyroid cancer and secondary osteosarcoma. Recommendations on the surveillance needed for cancer survivors because of the risk of late effects of their disease or its treatment suggest that discussing the potential problems early on can be crucial to a patient’s future health. These considerations and our consolidated experience strengthen our conviction that survivors of cancer in childhood and adolescence who develop second malignant neoplasms should be treated at highly-specialized centers. Multidisciplinary care requires close communications and high levels of up-to-date professional expertise. This challenging area of health care is also changing rapidly because cancer survivorship is a work in progress, but we cannot wait for definitive conclusions on many aspects because this will take decades, especially for pediatric patients.
Freight Operational Characteristics Mined from Anonymous Mobile Sensor Data
Authors: Akter Taslima , Hernandez Sarah , Camargo Pedro V.
Published: March 2023

Effective transportation performance measurement (TPM) benefits from ubiquitous transportation system monitoring both spatially and temporally. In the context of freight-oriented TPM, traditional devices such as inductive loops, cameras, manual counts, and so forth, may fail to provide comprehensive and high-resolution coverage, providing, for example, only volume counts for a small subset of links across a large network with no indication of trip linkages. New sources of big data from mobile sensors including on-board global positioning system (GPS) devices allow more comprehensive network coverage and insights into trip chaining behaviors. However, to gain actionable insights into system performance from large and noisy streams of mobile sensor data, it is necessary to mine it for relevant operational characteristics of the trucks it represents. Such characteristics include stop locations, stop duration, stop time of day, trip length, and trip duration. To address this methodological need, this paper presents three heuristic algorithms: “stop identification,”“path identification,” and “trip identification.” To address the issue of determining relevant operational characteristics, a multinomial logit (MNL) model approach is applied to determine the commodity carried based on the outputs of the heuristic algorithms. The MNL model is novel in that it relates operational characteristics to commodity carried thus filling a critical data gap that currently limits the development of advanced freight forecasting models. The set of models developed in this paper allow large-scale GPS data to be used for freight planning while maintaining levels of data anonymity that allow such data to be shared with public agencies.
Motor evoked potentials recorded from muscles versus nerves after lumbar stimulation in healthy subjects and patients with disc-root conflicts
Authors: Garasz Anna , Huber Juliusz , Grajek Magdalena , Daroszewski Przemysław
Published: March 2023

Objective:

The study aimed to describe properties and to prove diagnostic usefulness of motor evoked potentials (MEPs) recordings from muscles versus nerves of lower extremities when induced at lumbar levels with magnetic field.

Methods:

Methodologically similar MEPs recordings from muscles and nerves of lower extremities were performed once in healthy volunteers ( N = 43) and patients with disc-root conflicts at lumbar spine levels ( N = 43, proven in MRI studies). Simultaneous electroneurographic (ENG) recordings following stimulation of peroneal nerves verified neural impulses transmission in motor fibers peripherally and at L5 ventral roots.

Results:

ENG studies in patients proven only moderate axonal type of peroneal nerves injury. The mean values of MEPs amplitudes recorded from nerves were significantly different from those recorded in anatomically related muscles, both in controls (1179.6 ± 451.2 vs 1718.3 ± 481.3) and patients (495.6 ± 275.9 vs 1218.2 ± 465.5) ( p = 0.0009–0.0000012); they are about 30% and 51% smaller, respectively. In both groups of subjects, latencies of MEPs recorded from nerves were shorter at about 3.0 ms and characterized by a slightly longer duration (3.0–5.0 ms) than those recorded from muscles. Results revealed positive correlations between decrease of amplitudes in sEMG and MEPs recordings from lower extremities muscles indicating consequences of pathology in neural transmission from spinal centers.

Conclusions:

Results of this study point to clear-cut characteristics of MEPs induced oververtebrally with the magnetic field in parameters recorded in healthy subjects and patients with consequences of chronic L4-L5 low back pain, which can be easily implemented in clinical practice. Non-invasive method of MEPs recorded from nerves can be helpful for diagnosing of patients with visible atrophic changes in muscles and simultaneous symptoms of only slight pathology in transmission of nerve impulses peripherally.
The application of hemoadsorption for hyperbilirubinemia and its impact on bilirubin removal kinetics in critically ill children
Authors: Hui Wun Fung , Cheung Wing Lum , Hon Kam Lun , Ku Shu Wing
Published: March 2023

Extracorporeal blood purification (EBP) is increasingly applied for bilirubin removal in critical care setting. We retrospectively reviewed the clinical features of children aged 1 month to 18 years old who received EBP for hyperbilirubinemia and explored the bilirubin removal kinetics by hemoadsorption (HA) in the pediatric intensive care unit of Hong Kong Children’s Hospital from 3/2019 to 7/2022. Among the 14 episodes of EBP from six patients with a median age (interquartile range [IQR]) of 9.3(5.5) years old, 57.1% of them received HA, 33.3% received single-pass albumin dialysis (SPAD), and 7.1% received combined SPAD and HA. All HA episodes employed the Cytosorb® column. The median (IQR) pre-HA peak total bilirubin level was 406 (254) μmol/L. The saturation duration per HA episode was significantly shorter than the corresponding total treatment duration (8 vs 24 h, p = 0.012), and the median total and effective HA doses were 9.8(6.8) L/kg and 300.0 (163.4) mL/kg/h respectively. The overall bilirubin removal ratio by HA was 44.6 (14.5)%. A higher HA effective dose and a higher pre-HA bilirubin level were both associated with better bilirubin removal. No major EBP-specific complication was encountered. The liver enzymes showed improvement in all children. No patients required liver transplantation. There was no EBP-related mortality, but the overall PICU mortality of the cohort was 50%. HA was a safe and effective modality for bilirubin removal among children. Future studies should investigate the impact of bilirubin removal on clinical outcomes and explore the factors responsible for better removal efficacy.
Municipal solid waste management with recyclable potential in developing countries: Current scenario and future perspectives
Authors: Fidelis Reginaldo , Guerreiro Erico Daniel Ricardi , Horst Diogo José , Ramos Gabriela Muller , de Oliveira Bianca Romam , de Andrade Junior Pedro Paulo
Published: March 2023

Municipal solid waste (MSW) is a complex challenge to be solved worldwide, intensified in developing countries since in addition to economic and environmental aspects there is also the social aspect represented by the collector individual. From an integrative bibliographic review this study longitudinally analyses the socio-productive inclusion of collectors in the municipal solid waste management (MSWM) at an international level. Aiming: (a) to identify relevant articles describing/studies on MSWM with social inclusion of scavengers around the world; (b) to analyse these articles in order to present its main characteristics; (c) to describe municipal solid waste management with recyclable potential (MSWRP) with socio-productive inclusion of collectors; (d) the study provides a more detailed summary of MSWRP management in some developing countries: Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Nigeria and Pakistan; and (e) to provide a framework indicating the future practices and perspectives of MSWRP. As result, this study presents the paradigms and future questions for an effective improvement of WSWM, such as: Professional Training of Scavengers, Cultural Issues, Empowerment of Scavenger, Recycling Cooperatives and Cooperativism, Policy Issues and Recycling Chain, Management Systems and Process Improvement, Quality of Services Provided, Circular Economy and Informal Sector, Health Quality and Safety at Work, Barriers and Solutions for the Inclusion of the Informal Sector, Environmental, Economic and Social Benefits.
Men Who Wear Make-up: Young Korean Men’s Masculinity Management in the Neoliberal Korea
Authors: Jung Gowoon
Published: March 2023

Scholars have debated whether hybrid masculinities perpetuate or challenge male dominance and power. This study advances such dialogue by unveiling the kernel of hybrid masculinities through careful examination of young Korean men’s narratives on how to manage appearance and dressing up, especially on wearing make-up. Findings suggest that young men narrate three approaches, namely, expressive, instrumental, and meritocratic, as a means to explain their perspectives on such practices. A close look into their statements on the rationales of dressing-up and wearing make-up—seemingly a social act of hybrid masculinities—shows that such behaviors are pathways to fortify masculine power whose roots intersect with the local socioeconomic structure. This study theoretically contributes to unveiling how the basis of male dominance and power intersects with the normative and pervasive ideal of the neoliberal self, suggesting traditional masculinities are concealed in the complex indigenous assemblage of neoliberalism and lookism.
Cooperative adaptive cruise control system for electric vehicles through a predictive deep reinforcement learning approach
Authors: Moghaddam Iman Tahbaz-zadeh , Ayati Moosa , Taghavipour Amir
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a predictive deep reinforcement learning-based control algorithm is introduced for the cooperative adaptive cruise control (CACC) system. The proposed control algorithm achieves an optimal response in the interaction of the host vehicle with the leading vehicles. For this purpose, at first, a new algorithm based on deep neural networks is proposed for modeling and predicting the driving behavior of the leading vehicle, according to the traffic behavior of its surrounding vehicles. Then, the outputs of the predictive model are used as additional states for the upper-level controller of the CACC system, which is designed based on a deep reinforcement learning approach. Therefore, the proposed controller uses conventional states such as relative distance and speed of the host vehicle along with the leading vehicles and employs the speed profile of the leading vehicle in the future time horizons to train the reinforcement learning agent. Thus, the upper-level controller learning process is improved. In addition, for regulating the lower-level controller of CACC system against parametric uncertainties in electric vehicle dynamics, a deep reinforcement learning-based controller is proposed, which can be retuned according to the real-time estimated parameters of vehicle mass and road grade. Simulation results represent the promising performance of the proposed control algorithm for maintaining a balance between travel safety, passenger comfort, and reducing vehicle energy consumption.
A novel semi-active suspension algorithm based on a high-precision frequency selector
Authors: Shi Xiaotian , Li He , Fu Ke
Published: March 2023

This study proposes a novel semi-active suspension control algorithm based on a high-precision frequency selector. The algorithm focuses on the phenomenon of redundant switching in frequency domain judgment. Furthermore, the working principle of realizing high-precision selection is explained. The behavior of window sample number N is analyzed theoretically, and the gray prediction theory is used, together with a formerly sampled signal, to predict and obtain advanced output. This can compromise time delay in the control strategy and improve the accuracy of the selector. Using the combined sky-hook and acceleration-driven damper control algorithm and the MIX algorithm as the benchmark, the improved frequency selector is verified under sweep road environments. The results demonstrate that the improved algorithm significantly reduces the number of switches that occur while driving the vehicle, without deteriorating the comfort, thus improving the energy efficiency and service life of the damper.
Does it pay to say ‘I do’? Marriage bonuses and penalties across the EU
Authors: Christl Michael , De Poli Silvia , Ivaškaitė-Tamošiūnė Viginta
Published: March 2023

We analyse the different fiscal treatment of married and cohabiting couples across all EU Member States using microsimulation methods. Our article highlights important differences across EU countries’ tax–benefit systems, where seven countries show substantial bonuses for married couples and four exhibit marriage penalties. On a micro level, we find that these marriage bonuses/penalties differ substantially across household types and income. From a policy point of view, our results suggest that the abolishment of marriage-related tax–benefit components in countries with marriage bonuses would leave some households financially worse off but would increase governments revenues that could be spent to targeted support of specific groups. From both an equity and efficiency point of view, this abolishment would be desirable.
“There’s Something to Remind You that Everything Is Okay”: Australian Trans Young People and the Presence of Animals in Interactions With Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Riggs Damien W. , Rosenberg Shoshana , Fraser Heather , Taylor Nik
Published: March 2023

While animals have long been a focus in therapeutic spaces for young people via approaches such as animal-assisted therapies, there is a sense in which such approaches overlook the broader contribution that animals play by being present in young people’s lives. In this article, we explore how the presence of animals (both physical and psychological) in interactions with healthcare professionals may hold specific meaning for trans young people living in Australia. Participants were recruited through Parents of Gender Diverse Children. Interviews were conducted in November 2021 with 17 trans young people and one of each of their parents living in Australia. All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Two main themes were developed: (1) how healthcare professionals respond to conversations about animals and (2) the beneficial role of the presence of animals. The article concludes by discussing the importance of thinking about the presence of animals beyond existing frameworks and recognizing the value placed on the presence of animals by trans young people.
Effectiveness of Subcutaneous Administration of Antibiotics to Control Infections in Elder Palliative Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sánchez-Cárdenas Miguel Antonio , Vargas-Escobar Lina María , Correa-Morales Juan Esteban , Michelsen-Andrade Mariana , González-Salazar Laura , Muñoz-Olivar Carolina , López Alba Julian Alberto , León-Delgado Marta Ximena
Published: March 2023

Background: Infections are common in patients with advanced illnesses for whom the intravenous or oral route is not possible. The subcutaneous administration of antibiotics is a promising alternative, but there is not enough theoretical support for its use. This study aims to explore the effectiveness and safety of subcutaneous antibiotic therapy in the context of palliative care in elderly patients. Methods: A systematic review was conducted using PubMed and Embase, without time or language limits. Seven articles were selected on the effectiveness of subcutaneous antibiotic therapy in adult patients with chronic progressive diseases. The quality of the articles was assessed with the Newcastle Ottawa Scale and relevant data was extracted using a selection capture file. Results: Seven quasi-experimental studies evaluated 865 elderly patients with advanced diseases, comorbidities, and infections (ie, urinary tract, respiratory system, and bone joint) who received subcutaneous antibiotic therapy (ie, Ceftriaxone, Ertapenem, and Teicoplanin). The pooled success rate of subcutaneous antibiotics for the 7 studies was 71%, the therapy failure rate was 22%, its withdrawal mean was 8%, and the mean mortality rate was 7%. The studies were of low quality and were heterogeneous in the types of infections, types of antibiotics, time of follow-up, and outcomes assessed. Conclusions: Pilot studies have found a limited number of antibiotics that can be safely used to treat specific infections. Nevertheless, the data isn´t robust enough to recommend their use.
Fostering Social Support and Professional Learning for Special Educators: Building a Community of Practice
Authors: Hirsch Shanna E. , Mathews Hannah Morris , Griffith Catherine , Carlson Alex , Walker Alexis
Published: March 2023

Special educators working with students with emotional and behavioral disorders often report experiencing collegial isolation, exclusion from school communities, and high levels of burnout and stress. At the same time, many special educators have limited professional development and networking opportunities, which could mitigate these negative experiences. In response, we adapted Project Extension Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) to connect and support special educators who work with students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD). The ECHO model creates a learning loop between a team of specialists and educators. Through participation in the ECHO, educators and specialists engaged in case-based learning and shared best practices for supporting students with EBD. We used a pre–post group design to examine how the ECHO model can address issues related to educator stress and emotional exhaustion while building a community of practice. Though participants agreed that ECHO creates a community of practice and experienced the program as beneficial, we found no statistically significant differences in participants’ stress and emotional exhaustion between the pre/post survey. Our findings suggest that brief interventions are insufficient for addressing the complexities of teacher burnout.
From Advocacy to Activism: A Multi-Dimensional Scale of Communicative, Collective, and Combative Behaviors
Authors: McKeever Brooke W. , McKeever Robert , Choi Minhee , Huang Shudan
Published: March 2023

Although advocacy and activism have been discussed in communication literature, are important in society, and often aid in organizational success, conceptual definitions and valid measurement of the concepts are lacking. By searching the literature, seeking two rounds of expert feedback, and employing two surveys ( N = 1,300) for scale development, this study advances a new measurement model of behavior that may be useful for future research and practice. The findings support six distinct factors of behavioral advocacy and activism, three representing advocacy and three representing activism. The behaviors are communicative, collective, and combative in nature. Implications are discussed, along with suggestions for future research.
The Ethics of Naming in Forced Displacement Research: Critical Work and Policy Labels
Authors: Dhillon Karamjeet K. , Ulmer Jasmine B.
Published: March 2023

With a pedagogical aim, we offer an overview of some, though certainly not all, of the potential initial framing considerations in forced displacement research. We then engage with several of the key terms currently in use by international agencies before discussing how those terms can be (re)interpreted as they are taken up in transnational contexts. In attending to the ethics of naming throughout, we suggest that terms developed by international policy bodies should be approached situationally in disasters as part of humanitarian aid. Just as document-specific definitions need not go beyond the document, situation-specific terms should not become oppressive labels that have the potential to stigmatize people for the rest of their lives. Thus, we caution against assigning such terms as fixed identity categories, as they have the potential to reduce a person to a situation in which they may have once found themselves.
Policymaking Pragmatics: What’s a Qualitative Researcher—Especially a Critical Qualitative Researcher—to Do?
Authors: Donmoyer Robert
Published: March 2023

Policymakers tend to be suspicious of qualitative research. Distrust of qualitative work is especially acute when a researcher openly embraces critical perspectives and is oriented toward critiquing privilege and providing the sort of knowledge that helps set the stage for challenging the status quo and creating more just and equitable social contexts. The first part of this article uses an adaptation of autoethnographic methodology and the personal essay genre to suggest how all types of qualitative researchers, including those whose research is informed by critical perspectives, can influence state policy. In the second part of the article, the focus shifts to the local level. This part of the article describes a process designed to promote dialogue across differences and generate at least a modicum of consensus about policies that should be adopted and implemented within an organization.
Conducting Case Study Research to Address the Continued Crises: A Process of Learning to Employ Decolonial Perspectives to Produce a Flourishing Academic Lifeworld
Authors: Brown Christopher P.
Published: March 2023

In this article, I rethink the process of training emerging scholars to engage in the act(s) of conducting case study methodology using decolonial orientations within the critical paradigm. Doing so creates the opportunity for me to make obvious the challenges of conducting research in this era of never-ending educational, environmental, and health crises. It also provides me with the opportunity to consider actions that researchers and instructors can take to generate and support critical qualitative practices throughout the research process to produce work that addresses these issues as well as fosters an academic lifeworld that allows such work to flourish.
The Implication of Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Obesity and Diabetes
Authors: Anachad Oumaima , Taouil Amine , Taha Wafaa , Bennis Faiza , Chegdani Fatima
Published: March 2023

Evidence indicates that short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) generated from the gut microbiota play crucial roles in host metabolism. They contribute to metabolic regulation and energy acquisition of the host by influencing the development of metabolic disorders. This review aims to synthesize recent advances from the literature to investigate the implication of SCFAs in the modulation of obesity and diabetes pathologies. For a better understanding of the relationships between SCFAs and host metabolism, we need to answer some questions: What is the biochemistry of SCFAs, and how they are generated by gut microbiota? What are the bacteria producing of SCFAs and from which routes? How SCFAs are absorbed and transported in the gut by different mechanisms and receptors? How SCFAs involved in obesity and diabetes pathologies?
Old Dog, New Tricks: A Review of Identifying and Addressing Youth Cannabis Vaping in the Pediatric Clinical Setting
Authors: Sharma Pravesh , Mathews Doug B , Nguyen Quang Anh , Rossmann Gillian L , A Patten Christi , Hammond Christopher J
Published: March 2023

Cannabis vaping has emerged as a predominant mode of cannabis use among United States (US) adolescents and young adults (AYA) primarily due to the popularity of modifiable designs of vaping devices coupled with changes in cannabis policies and increased availability of cannabinoid products. New methods for cannabis vaping by e-liquid/oil vaping, dry plant vaping, and cannabis concentrate vaping (ie, dabbing) have had high uptake among American youth with unclear long-term health implications. Issues with contamination, mislabeling, and expansion of the vaped cannabis market to include not only delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) but also delta-9-THC analogs (eg, delta-8 and delta-10) sold as hemp-derived “legal highs” further complicated this healthcare space. Recent research suggests that cannabis/THC vaping carries distinct and overlapping risks when compared to cannabis smoking and may be associated with greater risk for acute lung injuries, seizures, and acute psychiatric symptoms. Primary care clinicians providing care for AYA are in an ideal position to identify cannabis misuse and intervene early to address cannabis vaping. To improve public health outcomes, a need exists for pediatric clinicians to be educated about different ways/methods that youth are vaping cannabinoid products and associated risks related to cannabinoid vaping. Further, pediatric clinicians need to be trained how to effectively screen for and discuss cannabis vaping with their youth patients. In the current article, we present a clinically focused review of cannabis vaping among young people with 3 main aims to: (1) identify and describe the cannabis vaping products commonly used by American youth; (2) review the health correlates of youth cannabis vaping; and (3) discuss clinical considerations related to identifying and treating youth who vape cannabis.