bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toward Developing and Validating a Measure to Appraise Progress Monitoring Ability
Authors: Shepley Collin , Duncan Amanda Leigh , Setari Anthony P.
Published: March 2024

The provision of progress monitoring within publicly funded early childhood classrooms is legally required, supported by empirical research, and recommended by early childhood professional organizations, for teachers providing Part B services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Despite the widespread recognition of progress monitoring as an essential tool to support child development in early childhood classrooms, clear guidance on what constitutes high-quality progress monitoring is unclear. Therefore, we sought to develop and validate a new teacher quality measure specific to progress monitoring. Such a measure may assist school districts and early childhood programs in understanding the ability of their teachers for engaging in progress monitoring and supporting children with or at risk for disability or delay. Rasch analyses suggest that additional items of greater difficulty are needed within the measure, prior to public release (osf.io/28bz6/).
Persuading Skeptics and Fans in the Presence of Additional Information
Authors: Boyaci Tamer , Chakraborty Soudipta , Gurkan Huseyin
Published: March 2024

We consider the information design problem of a demand-maximizing firm launching a product of unknown quality to a market consisting of customers who have heterogeneous prior beliefs about quality. The firm publicly discloses information about quality to all customers. These customers can subsequently opt to acquire additional information about the product at a cost from sources beyond the firm’s control. Our study is motivated by the common practice of firms conducting public pilot tests or soliciting reviews from opinion leaders before launching a new product to inform potential customers about its quality. To analyze this problem, we construct a game-theoretic model of Bayesian persuasion between the firm and its customers. We characterize the firm’s optimal information policy and show that it can range from fully disclosing quality to exaggerating or downplaying quality to not disclosing quality at all depending on market characteristics. We delineate the impact of market heterogeneity and access to additional information on the optimal information disclosure policy of the firm. Our analysis provides managerial guidance for firms in designing information provision strategies and operationalizing them for different market characteristics.
Carbon Emissions and the Search for Renewable Energy Technology: Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Firms’ Environmental Responsibility
Authors: Kim Hyunsoo , Jung Hyun Ju , Lee Chul Ho
Published: March 2024

The literature in sustainability has emphasized external pressures as a main driver of firms’ environmental responsibility. However, under similar external pressures, some firms search for environmental technology, while others do not. By focusing on information and communication technology (ICT) firms, we try to answer the question of when firms are motivated to search for renewable energy technology. Drawing on the framework of the behavioral theory of the firm, we propose that a mismatch between ICT firms’ CO2 emissions performance and their aspiration to a certain level of emissions induce firms to evaluate their environmental performance status—whether they are aligned well with environmental requirements and their peer firms—and their technology status—whether they possess sufficient technologies to reduce emissions—which in turn affects their search for renewable energy technology. We corroborate our hypotheses using data on CO2 emissions and renewable energy patents of U.S. ICT firms from 2010 to 2018. When we compare two groups of firms—one group whose emissions performance is poor and the other group whose emissions performance is good compared to their own past emissions—we find that the former is more likely to search for renewable energy technology compared to the latter. When we focus on each of the two groups, we find that firms decrease their search for renewable energy technology as the degree of poor emissions performance exacerbates (firms’ emissions increase above aspiration) or the degree of good emissions performance increases (firms’ emissions decrease below aspiration). Our findings have implications for public policy as well as firms’ environmentally sustainable operations.
Are In-the-Moment Resilience Processes Predicted by Questionnaire-Based Measures of Resilience?
Authors: Ventus Daniel , Söderberg Patrik
Published: March 2024

Research on resilience is a growing field, and resilience has been conceptualized and operationalized in multiple ways. The aim of this study was to compare the Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS), a conventional measure of resilience, with within-person process indicators derived from experience sampling method (ESM). A sample of 177 teachers from southern Finland participated in the study, commencing with a startup session followed by an 8-day ESM period. Through twice-daily prompts, participants reported their immediate positive and negative affect as well as recent stressors encountered, such as workload and challenging social interactions. As expected, within-person variation in affect was predicted by stressors. However, contrary to expectations, individual differences in affective reactivity to stressors were not predicted by BRCS (βpositive affect [95% CI] = −.20, [−.51, .11]; βnegative affect = .33, [−.07, .69]). Item response theory analyses of the BRCS revealed problems with precision. The results call into question the validity of measuring resilience using single administrations of retrospective self-report questionnaires such as the BRCS.
Crossbow Injuries: Predictors of Mortality
Authors: Julian Joshua W. , Todd Maxwell L. , Marcheschi Benjamin J. , Buchanan Paula M. , Spencer Angela J. , Bitter Cindy C.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Crossbow injuries are rare but carry significant morbidity and mortality, and there is limited evidence in the medical literature to guide care. This paper reviews the case reports and case series of crossbow injuries and looks for trends regarding morbidity and mortality based on the type of arrow, anatomic location of injury, and intent of injury.

Methods

Multiple databases were searched for cases of crossbow injuries and data were abstracted into a spreadsheet. Statistics were done in SPSS.

Results

358 manuscripts were returned in the search. After deduplication and removal of nonclinical articles, 101 manuscripts remained. Seventy-one articles describing 90 incidents met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 36.5 years. There were 10 female and 79 male victims. Fatality was 36% for injuries by field tip arrows and 71% for broadhead arrows, p  =  .024. Assaults were fatal in 84% of cases, suicides in 29%, and accidental injuries in 17%, p < .001. Mortality was similar for wounds to the head and neck (41%), chest (42%), abdomen (33%), extremities (50%), and multiple regions, p  =  .618.

Conclusions

Crossbows are potentially lethal weapons sold with fewer restrictions than firearms. Injuries caused by broadhead arrows are more likely to be fatal than injuries from field tip arrows. The anatomic location of injury does not correlate with fatality. More than half of crossbow injuries are due to attempted suicide, with a high case-fatality rate.
ResUNet involved generative adversarial network-based topology optimization for design of 2D microstructure with extreme material properties
Authors: Li Jicheng , Ye Hongling , Wei Nan , Zhang Xingyu
Published: March 2024

Topology optimization is one of the most common methods for design of material distribution in mechanical metamaterials, but resulting in expensive computational cost due to iterative simulation of finite element method. In this work, a novel deep learning-based topology optimization method is proposed to design mechanical microstructure efficiently for metamaterials with extreme material properties, such as maximum bulk modulus, maximum shear modulus, or negative Poisson’s ratio. Large numbers of microstructures with various configurations are first simulated by modified solid isotropic material with penalization (SIMP), to construct the microstructure data set. Subsequently, the ResUNet involved generative and adversarial network (ResUNet-GAN) is developed for high-dimensional mapping between optimization parameters and corresponding microstructures to improve the design accuracy of ResUNet. By given optimization parameters, the well-trained ResUNet-GAN is successfully applied to the microstructure design of metamaterials with different optimization objectives under proper configurations. According to the simulation results, the proposed ResUNet-GAN-based topology optimization not only significantly reduces the computational duration for the optimization process, but also improves the structure precise and mechanical performance.
On the role of the invariant “I4” in conventional couple-stress hyperelasticity
Authors: Soldatos Kostas P
Published: March 2024

This short communication rectifies an issue that may cause controversy in a recent publication and thus removes some doubt recorded in the same regarding its ability to determine the spherical part of the couple-stress in the case of large elastic deformations of isotropic polar materials.
Making Sustainable Places Through Spaces: Role Identity Expansion and Imagination in a Swiss Urban Planning Committee
Authors: Fohim Emamdeen , Cartel Mélodie , Kella Chintan
Published: March 2024

The transition toward sustainable cities has garnered significant attention from governments, policymakers, and researchers. Mirroring these developments in the academic world, organizational researchers are investigating sustainable placemaking and identifying the conditions that favor such a vital process. Building on a case study of an urban planning committee in the Swiss town of St. Gallen, this research studies how spaces (temporary social settings that enable the negotiation of new ideas) can initiate sustainable placemaking. The interplay between the expansion of space members’ role identities and their imagination of sustainable places is essential to sustainable placemaking. Generalizing these findings, our process model sheds light on the mutual constitution between imagination and role identity expansion inside spaces. The model makes two contributions to the organizational literature: (i) it highlights the importance of role identity expansion in sustainable placemaking processes through spaces and (ii) it discloses the interplay of imagination and identity expansion in spaces.
Whether and How Prepurchase Word of Mouth Affects Postpurchase Word of Mouth
Authors: Dao Hung M. , Bhoumik Kshitij , Igarashi Reika
Published: March 2024

Consumers often purchase new products based on online reviews and recommendations from both friends and strangers. Previous studies have extensively explored the effects of word of mouth (WOM) on the prepurchase stage, but little is known about whether WOM from friends or strangers can alter consumers’ postpurchase behavior. The authors propose that positive WOM from distant (vs. close) others increases consumers’ intention to share negative WOM when the product/service fails to perform to their satisfaction due to two distinctive motivations. First, consumers perceive that positive WOM from distant others might mislead more people, and, consequently, consumers expect their negative WOM to have a greater impact on helping others. Second, when receiving positive WOM from close others, they are less willing to publicly contradict the close others’ WOM even though they believe the WOM is misleading. Studies 1a and 1b demonstrate the main effect of interpersonal closeness on negative WOM intention, while Study 2 reveals the dual mediating effects of anticipated impact and relationship norm. Studies 3 and 4 validate these mechanisms by showing the moderating role of the self-construal level while ruling out the role of impression management. This research offers practical implications for WOM management across different social ties.
MRI spectrum of avascular necrosis of femoral head in patients treated for COVID-19
Authors: Akhtar Ali Khan , He Lingxiao , Li Jianwen , Zhang Weikai , Tasiken Bahebieergan , Huang Hui
Published: March 2024

Background and purpose:

This prospective observational study aimed to investigate the occurrence of avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head in COVID-19 patients through MRI scans. The study examined the patterns of AVN in 110 individuals who had undergone conventional COVID-19 therapy and reported hip discomfort. This study highlights the importance of considering AVN as a potential complication of COVID-19 therapy, particularly in younger patients who experience hip discomfort.

Methods:

Individuals who had corticosteroid treatment for COVID-19 and experienced hip discomfort during 6 months between January 2022 and August 2022 were included in this study, and an MRI scan was done to observe changes in the hip joint.

Results:

The results were classified using the Ficat and Arlet classification system. The analysis revealed that AVN was not present in 91.81% of cases. However, Stage I AVN was detected in 4.54% of cases, Stage II AVN in 2.72% of cases, and Stage III AVN in 1.1% of cases. No cases of Stage IV AVN were observed.

Conclusions:

The study concludes that AVN occurred in 6% of individuals who underwent conventional therapy for COVID-19 and experienced hip discomfort. In these settings (post COVID-19), normal MRI results were more typical, and mild AVN (Stage I) was a frequent finding in MRI scans that were positive.
Expert opinion on the use of contraception in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Hillert Jan , Bove Riley , Haddad Lisa B , Hellwig Kerstin , Houtchens Maria , Magyari Melinda , Merki-Feld Gabriele S , Montgomery Scott , Nappi Rossella E , Stenager Egon , Thompson Heidi , Tulek Zeliha , Verdun Di Cantogno Elisabetta , Simoni Manuela
Published: March 2024

Background:

Current guidance on the selection of appropriate contraception for people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) is lacking.

Objective:

To address this gap, an expert-led consensus program developed recommendations to support clinicians in discussing family planning and contraception with women and men with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods:

A multidisciplinary steering committee (SC) of 13 international clinical experts led the program, supported by an extended faculty of 32 experts representing 18 countries. A modified Delphi methodology was used for decision-making and consensus-building. The SC drafted 15 clinical questions focused on patient-centered care, selection of contraception, and timing of stopping/starting contraception and disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). Statements addressing each question were drafted based on evaluation of published evidence and the experts’ clinical experience. Consensus was reached if ⩾75% of respondents agreed (scoring 7–9 on a 9-point scale) with each recommendation.

Results:

Consensus was reached on 24 of 25 proposed recommendations, including how and when to discuss contraception, types and safety of contraceptives, and how to evaluate the most appropriate contraceptive options for specific patient groups, including those with significant disability or being treated with DMTs.

Conclusion:

These expert recommendations provide the first practical, relevant, and comprehensive guidance for clinicians on the selection of contraception in PwMS.
Impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy and fetal outcomes in women with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Aprea Maria Grazia , Schiavetti Irene , Portaccio Emilio , Ballerini Chiara , Bonavita Simona , Buscarinu Maria , Calabrese Massimiliano , Cavalla Paola , Cellerino Maria , Cordioli Cinzia , Dattola Vincenzo , De Biase Stefano , De Meo Ermelinda , Fantozzi Roberta , Gallo Antonio , Iasevoli Luigi , Karabudak Rana , Landi Doriana , Lorefice Lorena , Moiola Lucia , Ragonese Paolo , Ruscica Francesca , Sen Sedat , Sinisi Leonardo , Signoriello Elisabetta , Toscano Simona , Verrengia Elena , Siva Aksel , Masciulli Camilla , Sormani Maria Pia , Amato Maria Pia
Published: March 2024

Background:

In the general population, maternal COVID-19 is associated with worse maternal and fetal outcomes. Two previous studies have assessed COVID-19 clinical outcomes in pregnant women with multiple sclerosis (MS), but there are no data about maternal and fetal outcomes.

Objectives:

In this multicenter study, we aimed to assess maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnant women with MS and COVID-19 infection.

Methods:

We recruited pregnant patients with MS who contracted COVID-19 and were followed up in Italian and Turkish Centers, during 2020–2022. A control group was extracted from a previous Italian cohort. Associations between group (COVID-19 or healthy patients) and clinical outcomes (maternal complications, fetal malformations, and spontaneous abortion) were investigated with a weighted logistic regression where propensity score–based inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) approach was applied for adjusting for difference in baseline confounders.

Results:

In the multivariable analysis, COVID-19 during pregnancy was associated with a higher risk of maternal complications (odd ratio (OR) = 2.12; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.32–3.48; p = 0.002), while it was not associated with higher risk of spontaneous abortion and fetal malformations.

Conclusion:

Our data indicate that COVID-19 during pregnancy increases the risk of maternal complications, while it seems to have no significant impact on fetal outcomes.
A novel two-stage combination model for tourism demand forecasting
Authors: Hu Mingming , Yang Haifeng , Wu Doris Chenguang , Ma Shuai
Published: March 2024

The tourism literature has shown that a combination of tourism forecasting models can provide better performance than individual models. In the literature, the models to be combined are usually subjectively selected and authors focus on the combination method. In this study, a new direction is represented by the integration of forecasts from several models using a two-stage forecasting system. In stage I, a subset of the best available models is objectively selected according to their performance. Then, in stage II, linear and nonlinear combination methods are utilized to integrate the forecast values of the optimal subset. The empirical study using tourist arrivals in Hong Kong from five major source markets indicates that the proposed two-stage tourism forecasting system with linear combination substantially improves forecasting performance compared with benchmarks. This study also finds that when combining forecasts from different models, the linear combination method is more suitable than nonlinear AI models.
Applying the Non-adoption, Abandonment, Scale-up, Spread and Sustainability (NASSS) framework to evaluate automated evidence synthesis in health behaviour change
Authors: Branney Peter , Marques Marta M , Norris Emma
Published: March 2024

Automated tools to speed up the process of evidence synthesis are increasingly apparent within health behaviour research. This brief review explores the potential of the Non-adoption, Abandonment, Scale-up, Spread and Sustainability framework for supporting automated evidence synthesis in health behaviour change by applying it to the ongoing Human Behaviour-Change Project, which aims to revolutionize evidence synthesis within behaviour change intervention research. To increase the relevance of NASSS for health behaviour change, we recommend i) terminology changes (‘condition’ to ‘behaviour’ and ‘patient’ to ‘end user’) and ii) that it is used prospectively address complexities iteratively. We draw conclusions about i) the need to specify the organizations that will use the technology, ii) identifying what to do if interdependencies fail and iii) even though we have focused on automated evidence synthesis, NASSS would arguably be beneficial for technology developments in health behaviour change more generally, particularly for invention development.
Developmental associations between motor and communication outcomes in Fragile X syndrome: Variation in the context of co-occurring autism
Authors: Will Elizabeth A , Hills Kimberly J , Smith Kayla , McQuillin Samuel , Roberts Jane E
Published: March 2024

Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the leading heritable cause of intellectual disability, has a co-occurrence rate of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) estimated at ~60%. The onset and rates of motor development in FXS are slower relative to neurotypical development, and even more so in the context of co-occurring FXS + ASD. Extant evidence suggests these differences are likely to affect communication, yet this developmental process or how it varies in the context of co-occurring ASD remains unknown in FXS. We aimed to delineate developmental associations between early motor abilities and their rate of development from 9 to 60 months of age on communication outcomes in 51 children with FXS, 28 of whom had co-occurring ASD. We also aimed to identify variation in these developmental associations in the context of co-occurring ASD. Results captured within-syndrome variability in these developmental associations as a function of co-occurring ASD. Fine motor proved to be a robust predictor of receptive communication regardless of co-occurring ASD, but we identified differences between FXS with and without ASD in the association between aspects of motor development and expressive outcomes. Findings provide evidence for differential developmental processes in the context of co-occurring ASD with implications for timely developmental intervention.

Lay abstract

Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the leading heritable cause of intellectual disability, has a co-occurrence rate of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) estimated at ~60%. Children with FXS experience delayed achievement and slower development of key motor abilities, which happens to an even greater extent for children with both FXS and ASD. A multitude of studies have demonstrated that motor abilities are foundational skills related to later communication outcomes in neurotypical development, as well as in the context of ASD. However, these associations remain unexamined in FXS, or FXS + ASD. In this study, we aimed to determine the associations between early motor skills and their rate of development on communication outcomes in FXS. Furthermore, we investigated whether these associations varied in the context of co-occurring FXS + ASD. Results revealed within-FXS variation in the context of co-occurring ASD between some aspects of motor development and communication outcomes, yet within-FXS consistency between others. Findings provide evidence for variability in developmental processes and outcomes in FXS in the context of co-occurring ASD and offer implications for intervention.
‘Send Nudes?’: Teens’ perspectives of education around sexting, an argument for a balanced approach
Authors: Woodley Giselle Natassia , Green Lelia , Jacques Carmen
Published: March 2024

This paper explores teens’ perceptions of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) around sexting (the exchange of sexually explicit imagery). Adopting a ‘sex-positive’ balanced approach to adolescents’ digital expressions of sexuality may be a more beneficial response than censure since fear-based narratives fail to recognise sexting as part of an array of sexual behaviours enacted by teens. Prohibition, rather than educating for safe sexting practices, fails to protect young people. This qualitative study uses thematic analysis of interviews with teens, and social constructionism, to interpret their perspectives thereby contributing teens’ perspectives to debates around adolescent sexting and RSE.
Shushing the press shortens lives: cross-national evidence of the impact of press freedom on life expectancy
Authors: Li Qiang , Loh Chung-Ping A. , Ye Yuli
Published: March 2024

Aims:

Press freedom around the globe has deteriorated over the past decade, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper explores the effect of press freedom, as a cornerstone of democracy, on life expectancy.

Methods:

Exploring cross-country data, we use the ordinary least square method to estimate the association between press freedom and life expectancy. In addition, we adopt three novel instrumental variables to explore the causal relationship.

Results:

Our estimations indicate that a freer press leads to higher life expectancy, and the effect exists independently of the level of democracy. In addition, the effect of continuous exposure to press freedom is stronger than sporadic free press status. The results are robust to measurement errors, influential outliers, and country-specific heterogeneity.

Conclusions:

This study reveals the fundamental role of press freedom in promoting public health that was previously underexplored. Therefore, enhancing freedom of expression can be an effective tool to address three of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, that is, reduce under-five mortality, improve maternal health, and combat HIV/AIDS. JEL:I1 H7 D02
Preparation and characterization of biomass-ash composites derived from incinerated sewage sludge fly ash after hydrothermal treatment
Authors: Shi Yunqing , Wei Lingjun , Sun Hao , Li Yiming , Cui Jieyu , Zhang Wanlu
Published: March 2024

With the increasing prominence of global environmental issues and the growing demand for sustainable development, biomass composites have attracted widespread attention as candidates for environmentally friendly and renewable construction materials. In this study, environmentally friendly biomass-ash composites (BACs) were fabricated using hydrothermally activated incinerated sewage sludge ash (HT-ISSA) as filler and straw powder with waste sawdust as the biomass matrix for hot pressing. An investigation was conducted into the effect of HT-ISSA on the physical properties of the composite, including the bending strength, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity. The composite prepared with 15 wt% HT-ISSA demonstrated an exceptionally high bending strength (30.60 MPa), compressive strength (44.76 MPa), and low thermal conductivity (0.2380 W/m·K). The enhanced physical properties of the BAC material are attributable to the change caused by hydrothermal treatment of the filler phase. Due to the introduction of hydrated calcium silicate, the cohesion performance of the filler significantly improved, thus leading to strong adhesion and penetration within the matrix. The obtained BAC is applicable for packaging and insulation materials, thus providing an effective solution for the economical and environmentally friendly recycling of incinerated sewage sludge ash and other bulk solid waste. Additionally, it contributes novel insights into alleviating the current shortage of forest resources.
Outcomes of Late Partial Conversion With Graft Replacement for Sac Enlargement After Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Mikami Takuma , Numaguchi Ryosuke , Shiiku Chikara
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

Outcomes of late open conversion with graft replacement for enlargement after endovascular aortic repair remain unclear. Here, we report the outcomes of graft replacement after endovascular aortic repair.

Materials and methods:

Fourteen patients who underwent graft replacement after endovascular aneurysm repair between November 2016 and October 2022 were included. Graft replacement was indicated in cases of rupture and enlargement of the aneurysm sac and when reintervention with endovascular therapy could not be performed.

Results:

The mean age at graft replacement was 80 ± 7 years. The follow-up period from endovascular aortic repair to graft replacement was 73 ± 41 months. The endoleaks that caused enlargement of the aneurysm sac were type I in 8 patients and type II in 6 patients. Ruptures were observed in 5 patients. One patient had paraplegia as a postoperative complication, and 2 patients died within 30 days. Morbidity and mortality were observed in cases of rupture, and no morbidity or mortality was observed in any elective surgery cases.

Conclusion:

Late open conversion with graft replacement after endovascular aortic repair is a feasible elective surgery. However, morbidity and mortality have been observed in cases of rupture.

Clinical Impact

In elective surgery, postoperative outcomes are good for late open conversion with graft replacement after endovascular aortic repair. On the other hand, morbidity and mortality were observed in case of rupture. Therefore, it is important to perform elective surgical reintervention at the appropriate time.
Self-management of Risk for the Prevention of Traffic Accidents from a Health Perspective: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Hernández-Gamboa Adriana Elena , Barceló-Prats Josep , Villamizar Osorio Magda Liliana , Martorell-Poveda María-Antonia
Published: March 2024

Introduction: In the world, deaths and injuries caused by traffic collisions have been considered a public health problem. In Colombia, 7.238 fatalities were recorded in 2021, with motorcycle riders representing the largest group of victims at 59.7%. Methods: The aim of this qualitative phenomenological study is to describe the risky experiences and deliberate actions of diverse road users that influence the self-management of the risk of traffic collisions. Results: Data were obtained from 22 participants: motorists, pedestrians and drivers. The content analysis describes various human conditions that affect self-management of the risk of traffic accidents, such as unsafe behaviors, non-compliance with traffic regulations by the different road actors, competitive culture among drivers, eagerness, among others. Additionally, factors related to care were determined: healthy recreational activities, promoting the value of one’s own life and that of others, adequate time management and preventive behaviors by some road users. Conclusion: This research provides information on social and cultural aspects, experiences and risky behaviors of different road actors that influence the incidence of traffic accidents in Colombia.
Applying complex adaptive systems research results to combat simulations of the generation-after-next
Authors: Koehler Matthew T K , Bricio-Neto Jose L , Page Ernest H , Tolk Andreas
Published: March 2024

Combat has seen fundamental changes over the past century—with new domains of warfighting (e.g., cyber, space); the introduction of nuclear and precision weapons; ubiquitous, all source intelligence; mixes of national, coalition, and private forces operating; and numerous other examples. Over this same period, combat simulations, and the attendant training, experimentation, and analyses they support, have increased in scale, scope, and resolution. But with respect to their fundamental effectiveness, have they substantively moved beyond the foundation created by Lanchester in the early 20th century? Differential equations of mean field approximations have been complemented by discrete-event simulations at many scales; however, the underlying conceptual framework of force-on-force conflict and tightly constrained, potentially fragile, service-specific command and control remains. In this position paper, we argue that new conceptualizations, better aligned with the modern warfighting landscape, are needed across all applications of military modeling. We examine the potential role of complex adaptive systems in this endeavor.
Toward Centering Indigenous Knowledge in Museum Collections Management Systems
Authors: Lewis Kara
Published: March 2024

Museums still struggle with colonial data legacies within collections management systems, building mechanisms to be “inclusive” but challenged by how to model more expansive post-colonial ways of thinking. Although it anticipated a need to be “inclusive” of Native knowledge in the original design of its CMS, the National Museum of the American Indian is still challenged by the processes for how knowledge is entered into the system and by which information is seemingly “centered” within the system. Following on the release of the Smithsonian’s new Shared Stewardship and Ethical Returns policy, the NMAI is rethinking documentation structures within its CMS based on its dialogue with Native communities, conversations with other Smithsonian museums, and discussions with CMS colleagues. The museum is questioning why certain knowledge seems prioritized over others. Is this a fault of the system classification methods or our own practices? Can we re-envision CMS relationships to center Native knowledge?
University Club Sport Student-Athlete Concussion Profiles Differ by Sport and Sex
Authors: Shirley Heather L. , Walker Benjamin , Reneker Jennifer C.
Published: March 2024

Athletes’ history of concussions is an important indicator of risk potential in organized sports. The purpose of this project was to explore differences by sport classification (contact vs. noncontact) and sex on concussion history among university club sports participants. This was a cross-sectional quality improvement study ( n  =  593). The outcomes were self-reported answers to: (1) How many times have you been diagnosed with a concussion? and (2) How many times have you had your “bell rung”/“dinged”? Multivariable logistic regression models examined the association of contact club sport participation and sex on the history of concussion and prior experience of having their bell rung. Models were adjusted for age, race, participation in multiple sports, and years of participation in sports, and years in college. When compared to those in non-contact club sports, the adjusted odds of reporting ever having a concussion were 2.29 times higher for those participating in contact club sports (OR = 2.29; 95% CI: 1.49, 3.53). In the model for having a bell rung, those participating in a contact sport had 1.90 times greater odds of reporting having their bell rung in the past compared to those in noncontact sports (OR = 1.90; 95% CI: 1.25, 2.88). Whereas males and females did not differ in their self-reported concussion history, females had significantly lower odds of reporting having their bell rung in the past than males (OR = 0.46; 95% CI: 0.30, 0.69). Female athletes have a higher reporting of concussion incidence than that of male athletes. The use of terminology and variance in slang versus medical terms has the potential to affect reporting outcomes. Reporting of concussion incidents has the potential to be influenced by the nature of sport culture and sport participation in contact versus noncontact sports. Club sport athletes could benefit from tailored education related to concussions based on these results.
Eclipse balloon-assisted straight sinus thrombectomy: A novel technique
Authors: Papadimitriou Kyriakos , Mehta Shyle H , Golub Danielle , White Timothy , Shah Kevin , Patsalides Athos
Published: March 2024

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis comprises 0.5% of all strokes and usually affects young adults. Straight sinus involvement is relatively rare, and it is associated with poor prognosis. Intravenous anticoagulation is considered the first line of treatment. Endovascular approaches such as direct catheter thrombolysis, balloon-assisted thrombolysis, and mechanical thrombectomy may be more efficient and should be considered in cases in which there is involvement of the deep venous system, declining neurological status, or less invasive treatment options have failed. In this work, we describe a novel technique of ECLIPSE 2L balloon (Balt, Irvine, CA) assisted mechanical thrombectomy for straight sinus thrombosis and a review of dural sinus thrombosis management.
International student experience of employment integration in Finland
Authors: Lu Wei , Everson Härkälä Tayla
Published: March 2024

International students have the potential to contribute significantly to host countries through cultural enrichment, economic growth, and human capital development. However, their successful integration into the host society is crucial to realise these benefits. By applying the framework of the two-way integration process from acculturation theory, this study examines the employment integration of international students in Finland, a non-native English-speaking country. Our semi-structured, qualitative in-depth interviews identify several key challenges encountered by international students, including limited information about the labour market, unfamiliarity with recruitment practices, a lack of industry connections, communication gaps from recruiting companies, and host country language barriers. We provide recommendations to organisations and recruiters on how to embrace diversity in their recruitment processes, as well as suggestions to universities on how to better support international students’ transition into the workforce of the host country.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Older Adults: What We Know and What We Have Yet to Learn
Authors: Price Catherine , Callahan Kathryn E. , Aloi Joseph A. , Usoh Chinenye O.
Published: March 2024

Objective:

To assess the growing use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems by older adults and explore additional areas integration that could benefit adults with frailty.

Background:

The use of CGM devices has expanded rapidly in the last decade. This has been supported by substantial data showing significant benefit in glycemic metrics: hemoglobin A1c improvements, less hypoglycemia, and improved quality of life. However, sub-populations, such as older persons, exist where available data are limited. Furthermore, frail older adults represent a heterogeneous population with their own unique challenges to the management of diabetes. This group has some of the poorest outcomes related to the sequela of diabetes. For example, hypoglycemia resulting in significant morbidity and mortality is more frequent in older person with diabetes than in younger persons with diabetes.

Method:

We present a concise literature review on CGM use in the older adult as well as expand upon glycemic and nonglycemic benefits of CGM for patients, caregivers, and providers. Retrospective analysis of inpatient glycemic data of 16,935 older adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist indicated those with fraility managed with insulin or sulfonylurea had the highest rates of delirium (4.8%), hypoglycemia (3.5%), cardiovascular complications (20.2%) and ED visits/hospitalizatoins (49%). In addition, we address special consideration of specific situations including inpatient, palliative and long term care settings.

Conclusion:

This review article summarizes the available data for CGM use in older adults, discusses the benefits and obstacles with CGM use in this population, and identifies areas of future research needed for improved delivery of care to older persons with diabetes.
Evaluation of a Protocol Change Promoting Lactated Ringers Over Normal Saline in the Treatment of Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Authors: Johnson Jake , Drincic Andjela , Buddenhagen Emma , Nein Kaitlyn , Samson Kaeli , Langenhan Trek
Published: March 2024

Background:

Current guidelines recommend normal saline (NS) for fluid resuscitation in the management of patients presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). However, previous prospective studies have demonstrated improvement in patient-specific outcomes, including time to DKA resolution, when balanced crystalloid fluids are used.

Methods:

We conducted a single institution, retrospective cohort study of adult patients admitted with DKA before and after a protocol change within our institution, which shifted the default resuscitative and maintenance fluid in our DKA management protocol from NS to lactated Ringer’s solution (LR). The primary outcome was time from DKA clinical presentation until DKA resolution. The secondary outcome was time to discontinuation of DKA protocol insulin drip.

Results:

Of 246 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 119 were in the NS group (preprotocol change, where NS was the default resuscitative fluid) and 127 to the LR group (postprotocol change, where LR was the default resuscitative fluid). Time to DKA resolution was significantly decreased in the LR group (mean = 17.1 hours; standard deviation [ SD] = 11.0) relative to the NS group (mean = 20.6 hours; SD = 12.2; P = .02). Duration of DKA protocol insulin drip was shorter in the LR group (mean = 16.0 hours; SD = 8.7) compared with the NS group (mean = 21.4 hours; SD = 12.5; P < .001).

Conclusions:

In this retrospective cohort study, protocolized DKA intravenous fluid management with LR resulted in shorter time to resolution of DKA and reduced duration of DKA protocol insulin drip.
Biofilm-producing Bacteria and Quality of Life after Endoscopic Sinus Surgery in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyposis
Authors: Milovanović Jovica , Božić Dragana D. , Pavlović Bojan , Jotić Ana , Brkić Snežana , Ćirković Ivana
Published: March 2024

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is one of the most common health disorders in humans and has a major impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Of the many factors contributing to the etiology of CRS, less is known about the correlation between CRS and bacterial biofilms and their impact on HRQoL.

Objective

The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the relationship between biofilm-producing bacteria and patients' objective findings and HRQoL.

Methods

Forty-eight patients with CRSwNP were enrolled in a 12-month prospective study. The Lund-Mackay (LM) CT and endoscopic Lund-Kennedy (LK) scores were obtained before endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), and patients completed the HRQoL instruments: the 22-item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT−22), the 36-item Short Questionnaire (SF−36), and the visual analog scale (VAS). A sinus culture was obtained at ESS, bacteria were isolated, and in vitro quantification of the biofilm was performed. The LK score and HRQoL were determined postoperatively at months 1, 3, 6, and 12.

Results

The most common bacterial isolates in patients with CRSwNP were Staphylococcus aureus (28%), coagulase-negative staphylococci (52%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (8%). Preoperatively, the highest LM and LK scores were found in patients with strong biofilm producers . Postoperative LK scores were significantly reduced in all patients. Postoperative VAS scores were significantly reduced from month 1 to month 12 postoperatively. Patients with strong biofilm producers had significantly worse nasal blockage, secretion, headache, facial pressure and pain, and loss of smell preoperatively, compared to patients with low biofilm producers. The most significant reduction in preoperative scores SNOT−22 and SF−36 (excluding physical functioning) was seen in patients with S. aureus and P. aeruginosa.

Conclusions

Patients with strong biofilm producers had higher LK and LM scores preoperatively, and greater improvement in LK and HRQoL scores postoperatively. Microbiologic surveillance of all CRS patients is recommended.
Quantification of Budesonide Retained in the Sinonasal Cavity After High-Volume Saline Irrigation in Post-Operative Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Shipman Paige A. , Yathavan Bhuvanesh , Gill Amarbir S. , Pollard Chelsea E. , Yellepeddi Venkata , Ghandehari Hamidreza , Alt Jeremiah A. , Pulsipher Abigail , Smith Kristine A.
Published: March 2024

Background

Budesonide high-volume saline irrigations (HVSIs) are routinely used to treat chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) due to improved sinonasal delivery and efficacy compared to intranasal corticosteroid sprays. The off-label use of budesonide is assumed to be safe, with several studies suggesting the systemically absorbed dose of budesonide HVSI is low. However, the actual budesonide dose retained in the sinonasal cavity following HVSI is unknown. The objective of this study was to quantify the retained dose of budesonide after HVSI.

Methods

Adult patients diagnosed with CRS who had undergone endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) and were prescribed budesonide HVSI were enrolled into a prospective, observational cohort study. Patients performed budesonide HVSI (0.5 mg dose) under supervision in an outpatient clinic, and irrigation effluent was collected. High-performance liquid chromatography was employed to determine the dose of budesonide retained after HVSI.

Results

Twenty-four patients met inclusion criteria. The average corrected retained dose of budesonide across the cohort was 0.171 ± 0.087 mg (37.9% of administered budesonide). Increased time from ESS significantly impacted the measured retained dose, with those 3 months post-ESS retaining 27.4% of administered budesonide ( P = .0004).

Conclusion

The retained dose of budesonide in patients with CRS after HVSI was found to be significantly higher than previously estimated and decreased with time post-ESS. Given that budesonide HVSI is a cornerstone of care in CRS, defining the retained dose and the potential systemic implications is critical to understanding the safety of budesonide HVSI.
Power Balance and Relationship Quality: An Overstated Link
Authors: Körner Robert , Schütz Astrid
Published: March 2024

Power balance, that is, equal levels of potential influence between relationship partners, has been linked to relationship happiness. This study examined whether power balance is indeed positively related to relationship quality (RQ) for both couple members using dyadic response surface analysis (total N = 879 couples). In Studies 1 to 3, we found linear but no similarity effects of power on RQ. Experiencing power was positively related to both actor’s and partner’s RQ. In Study 4, again, no similarity but actor and partner effects were found on sexual satisfaction. These findings show that the link between power balance and RQ found in previous research does not hold with sophisticated analysis techniques that overcome issues of previous approaches (e.g., difference scores). In fact, the absolute level of experienced power, not power balance, matters for both RQ and sexual satisfaction. Practitioners may target strengthening an individual’s power instead of focusing on issues of power balance.
Penetration mechanics of rigid projectiles impacting metallic and concrete targets—A summary of our work
Authors: Rosenberg Zvi , Dekel Erez , Vayig Yaniv , Kositski Roman , Malka-Markovitz Alon
Published: March 2024

The physical mechanisms operating during the penetration and perforation of metallic and concrete targets by rigid projectiles are reviewed in this paper. The review covers our approach to these phenomena, as detailed in several papers that were published during the last decade. This approach is based on experimental data and their numerical simulations, through which we constructed analytical expressions for the penetration depths and the ballistic limit velocities of the corresponding projectile/target pairs. This review article will benefit researchers in the terminal ballistics community because it presents a full picture of our approach to the subject, and it also outlines the development in our thinking over the years.