bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orographic Controls on Extreme Precipitation Associated with a Mei-Yu Front
Authors: Cornejo Ian C. , Rowe Angela K. , Rasmussen Kristen L. , DeHart Jennifer C.
Published: January 2024

Taiwan regularly receives extreme rainfall due to seasonal mei-yu fronts that are modified by Taiwan’s complex topography. One such case occurred between 1 and 3 June 2017 when a mei-yu front contributed to flooding and landslides from over 600 mm of rainfall in 12 h near the Taipei basin, and over 1500 mm of rainfall in 2 days near the Central Mountain Range (CMR). This mei-yu event is simulated using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model with halved terrain as a sensitivity test to investigate the orographic mechanisms that modify the intensity, duration, and location of extreme rainfall. The reduction in WRF terrain height produced a decrease in rainfall duration and accumulation in northern Taiwan and a decrease in rainfall duration, intensity, and accumulation over the CMR. The reductions in northern Taiwan are linked to a weaker orographic barrier jet resulting from a lowered terrain height. The reductions in rainfall intensity and duration over the CMR are partially explained by a lack of orographic enhancements to mei-yu frontal convergence near the terrain. A prominent feature missing with the reduced terrain is a redirection of postfrontal westerly winds attributed to orographic deformation, i.e., the redirection of flow due to upstream topography. Orographically deforming winds converge with prefrontal flow to maintain the mei-yu front. In both regions, the decrease in mei-yu front propagation speed is linked to increased rainfall duration. These orographic features will be further explored using observations captured during the 2022 Prediction of Rainfall Extremes Campaign in the Pacific (PRECIP) field campaign.

Significance Statement

This study examines the impact of terrain on rainfall intensity, duration, and location. A mei-yu front, an East Asian weather front known for producing heavy, long-lasting rainfall, was simulated for an extreme rain event in Taiwan with mountain heights halved as a sensitivity test. Reducing terrain decreased rainfall duration in northern and central Taiwan. Decreases in rainfall duration for both regions is attributed to increased mei-yu front propagation speed. This increase in northern Taiwan is attributed to a weakened barrier jet, a low-level jet induced by flow blocked by the steep mountains of Taiwan. A unique finding of this work is a change in winds north of the front controlling movement of the front near the mountains in central Taiwan.
Association Between the Frequency of Tooth Brushing and the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Yifang , Wang Chao , Zhang Pu , Fu Wenning , Zhang Jun , Zhang Zeyu , Mao Jing , Yang Yang , Zou Li
Published: January 2024

Several epidemiological studies suggested that frequency of tooth brushing may be associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, but the results remain inconclusive. Therefore, the aim of this study was to synthesize frequency of tooth brushing and CVD risk using meta-analysis. Science Direct, PubMed, CINAHL, and OVID were searched through October 15, 2022. The random-effects model was used to quantitatively assess the combined risk estimation. In addition, we performed the sensitivity analysis to evaluate the robustness of the study results by excluding the included studies one by one. A total of 9 cohort studies containing 10 reports with 803,019 individuals were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled results showed that compared with the lowest brushing frequency, the highest brushing frequency (relative risk = 0.85, 95% confidence interval: 0.80–0.90) significantly reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease. There was moderate heterogeneity among included studies ( P = .002, I2 = 65.4%). The exclusion of any one study did not materially change the combined risk estimates. Our meta-analysis supported the hypothesis that higher frequency of tooth brushing can reduce the risk of CVD, which may have important implications for conducting research on the prevention strategies of CVD.
No Causal Association Between Inguinal Hernia and Aortic Aneurysm Using Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Yao Sicheng , Ci Hongbo
Published: January 2024

Aortic aneurysm (AA) is a serious disease that affects the aging population worldwide. Potential risk or associated factors, such as inguinal hernia, have been suggested by conventional studies. In the present study, summary statistics data for the associations of inguinal hernia were derived from a large genome-wide association study including 18,791 inguinal hernia cases and 93,955 controls in the UK Biobank. Corresponding data of AA were extracted from FinnGen, comprising 7603 cases and 317,899 controls in Finland. The causal association was assessed using Mendelian Randomization-Egger, weighted median, and inverse variance weighting methods, and compared with observational estimates previously published. Our analysis found no convincing causal effect between genetically predicted inguinal hernia and the risk of AA (odds ratio [OR] = 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.85–1.31, P = .65), abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA, OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 0.92-1.46, P = .22), and thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA, OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.85–1.30, P = .67). The results are in contrast to previous observational evidence suggesting a potentially common causal association between inguinal hernia and AA. Further research is needed to better understand the interplay between risk factors and their impact on aneurysm development.
Multiple mobile robots motion control based on screw theory for aircraft panel assembly
Authors: Li Rupeng , Xue Lei , Zhao Xingwei , Ge En-de , Tao Bo
Published: January 2024

As a crucial component of large aircraft, the assembly efficiency of aircraft skins directly impacts production efficiency. To achieve efficient manufacturing of aircraft skins, this paper proposes a multiple mobile robot control algorithm based on screw theory. The robot arm is integrated into a rail or AGV to increase its motion space, creating a mobile robot assembly system. To address the redundant degrees of freedom problem caused by the mobile manipulator, this paper adopts the screw theory to describe the motion of multiple robots. Furthermore, to ensure the constraint of the motion between multiple robots, this paper proposes a multi-robot control method based on screw constraint. Rigid body constraints are assigned to the end of each mobile manipulator, and the motion is decomposed to the mobile platform and the robot arm. Finally, the cooperative motion control of multiple mobile manipulators is realized. The proposed algorithm is applied in the multi-mobile manipulator cooperative aircraft panel assembly task, achieving efficient assembly of aircraft panel and long truss.
Multi-scale analysis of the mechanical behaviour of a flax fibre reinforced composite under low-velocity impact
Authors: Haggui Mondher , Jendli Zouhaier , El Mahi Abderrahim , Akrout Ali , Haddar Mohamed
Published: January 2024

The use of biocomposite materials in different fields requires enhanced knowledge of the nonlinear phenomena related to their complex mechanical behaviour. Namely, nonelastic mechanisms such as damage, plasticity, and rupture, potentially coupled with viscosity incidence, affect the structure’s lifetime. In this context, the aim of this paper is to propose a simplified and accessible approach that leads to modelling the overall mechanical behaviour of the composite material. The studied laminate composites were made of thermoplastic Elium resin reinforced with flax plies. Experimental quasistatic and dynamic characterisations were conducted via tensile and cyclic tensile tests to investigate the structure’s mechanical properties and corresponding failure mechanisms. The test results clearly demonstrated the presence of significant nonlinear specific coupling effects due to both flax fibre and Elium resin. The proposed multi-scale modelling analysis assumes two principal entities: the ply constituted by one or more layers of unidirectional fibres and the fibre-matrix interface considered as a surface layer of resin. Each entity was characterized by specific damage variables that were determined by mechanical tests. Model parameters were experimentally identified and expressed in the behaviour model to simulate the composite structure subjected to low-velocity impact using the Pam-Crash F.E. numerical code.
Effect of gradual thermoforming pressure on the mechanical properties of jute/polypropylene commingled composites
Authors: Asghar Muhammad Ayub , Nawab Yasir , Imad Abdellatif , Saouab Abdelghani , Hussain Muzzamal , Herbelot Christophe
Published: January 2024

The present work presents a new approach to the parameters of the thermoforming process for jute fiber commingled thermoplastic composites based on pressure control. Effect of gradual pressure on the microstructures of jute fiber and their mechanical properties has been investigated. The singeing of Jute yarn and subsequent co-twisting with Polypropylene (PP) was done to make reinforcement. Jute/PP composites were developed using Jute/PP commingled reinforcement. Flexural and Charpy impact tests were conducted to analyze the mechanical performance of composites made using gradual and instant loading on the compression hot press. It is found that application of gradual pressure not only decreases fiber damages, but also increase flexural strength by 82%, impact strength by 43% and impact energy by 93% as compared to composite fabricated using instant pressure. Further, the complete analysis of microstructure of fibers of both type of composites is done to compare the effect of both fabrication techniques.
Who is in, for How Long and What for. Exploring the Social Dimension of Cannabis Social Clubs in Barcelona, 2017-2020
Authors: Obradors-Pineda Anna , Bouso José Carlos , Colom Joan , Manthey Jakob
Published: January 2024

Analyzing the activity data of 2007 Cannabis Social Clubs (CSCs) members in Barcelona between 2017 and 2020 we describe the demographics, the amounts of cannabis collected (.46 g/day amongst men; .37 for woman) and the relationships established with the CSCs: frequency of procurement (every 15.4 days for woman; 11.6 days for men); and membership length (mean 657.3 days). An 80% of members were men (mean 36.1 years old). Women, older adults, and those registered as medical users had generally longer memberships than the average despite the frequencies and the amounts procured by them tended to be lower compared to young recreational male members. The daily amount used rose from an estimated general average of .44 g, to an estimated 1.41–4.76 g collected by a 5% of CSC members. Beyond providing small amounts of cannabis, CSCs are mainly used as socializing spaces for people who use cannabis.
Using Call Annie as a Generative Artificial Intelligence Speaking Partner for Language Learners
Authors: Wan Yuwei , Moorhouse Benjamin Luke
Published: January 2024

Developing English speaking skills can be challenging for many English language learners. The advent of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) has prompted the emergence of a growing number of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered chatbots designed to tackle these challenges. One popular tool is ‘Call Annie,’ a GAI video chatbot that can act as a virtual assistant, enabling users to engage in immersive video calls with AI avatars. This technology review discusses its functionality, how it can be used in supporting learners’ language development, how teachers can collaborate with it in class and its potential limitations.
Barriers to the Healthcare System Faced by Ultra-Orthodox Religious Disaffiliates
Authors: Pinchas-Mizrachi Ronit , Orr Zvika , Zalcman Beth G. , Romem Anat
Published: January 2024

Many religious disaffiliates, similar to immigrants, experience health vulnerabilities. Yet, few studies address their ability to access the healthcare system. This article contributes to filling this void by examining the case of Israeli Jewish ultra-Orthodox disaffiliates. The study analyzes the barriers that hinder these disaffiliates’ access to the healthcare system, adversely affecting their well-being. This research is based on 36 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with ultra-Orthodox disaffiliates, analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis. Six barriers were identified: lack of health-related education and knowledge of the healthcare system, poverty and structural determinants of health, lack of respect for authority, communication gaps, lack of belonging, and stigmas, particularly in mental health. We recommend training healthcare providers and students to better understand and address these barriers and disaffiliates’ unique needs when providing care for them. Specifically, we suggest incorporating this overlooked subject in the frameworks of cultural competency and structural competency, encouraging collaboration between healthcare practitioners and religious disaffiliates to promote equitable and inclusive policies. Implications for community organizations include offering courses, simulations, peer guidance, and consultation for disaffiliates on health-related issues, as well as engaging disaffiliates in self-advocacy. We propose that this study is relevant to disaffiliates from varied insular, high-tension religious communities worldwide.
Understanding Analysts’ Use of Macroeconomic News
Authors: Dai Ruiting (Dan) , Ding Hui , Zhang X. Frank
Published: January 2024

Using a comprehensive measure, the Macroeconomic News Index (MNI), we examine how analysts use macroeconomic news in their earnings forecasts. We find that analysts incorporate but underreact to quarterly macroeconomic news. Cross-sectionally, analysts’ reaction to macroeconomic news varies in a predictable way. Analysts incorporate macroeconomic news more efficiently when firms have lower exposure to the macro economy, when macroeconomic uncertainty is low, and when analysts have more industry-specific experience. Finally, we examine the implications of macroeconomic news on earnings formation and stock returns. We find that quarterly MNI is informative about the procyclicality of firms’ sales and costs and analysts underreact only to sales-side information. We also document that quarterly MNI is predictive of subsequent earnings announcement returns, indicating that investors also underreact to macroeconomic news.

JEL Classifications: G12; G14; G24
Toxicologic Pathology Forum: Opinion on Interpretive Challenges for Procedure-Related Effects Associated With Direct Central Nervous System Delivery of Oligonucleotides to Rodents, Dogs, and Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Berman-Booty Lisa D. , Klein Stephanie K. , Mazur Curt , Schroeder Joseph , Korte Sven , Ludwig Florian T. , Romeike Annette , Bolon Brad , Grieves Jessica L.
Published: January 2024

Direct delivery of therapeutics to the central nervous system (CNS) greatly expands opportunities to treat neurological diseases but is technically challenging. This opinion outlines principal technical aspects of direct CNS delivery via intracerebroventricular (ICV) or intrathecal (IT) injection to common nonclinical test species (rodents, dogs, and nonhuman primates) and describes procedure-related clinical and histopathological effects that confound interpretation of test article-related effects. Direct dosing is by ICV injection in mice due to their small body size, while other species are dosed IT in the lumbar cistern. The most frequent procedure-related functional effects are transient absence of lower spinal reflexes after IT injection or death soon after ICV dosing. Common procedure-related microscopic findings in all species include leukocyte infiltrates in CNS meninges or perivascular (Virchow-Robin) spaces; nerve fiber degeneration in the spinal cord white matter (especially dorsal and lateral tracts compressed by dosing needles or indwelling catheters), spinal nerve roots, and sciatic nerve; meningeal fibrosis at or near IT injection sites; hemorrhage; and gliosis. Findings typically are minimal to occasionally mild. Findings tend to be more severe and/or have a higher incidence in the spinal cord segments and spinal nerve roots at or close to the site of administration.
Comparison of enteral immunonutrition and enteral nutrition in patients undergoing gastric cancer surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials
Authors: Li Ji , Xiang Qing-Lin , Zhu Jin-Xian , Zhang Yu-Xin , Li Shi-Qiang
Published: January 2024

Objective

Enteral immunonutrition is a nutritional intervention that has been studied in postoperative patients with gastric cancer, but its effectiveness is controversial. This study aimed to investigate the effects of enteral immunonutrition and enteral nutrition on immune function in patients who undergo gastric cancer surgery.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Knowledge, and ClinicalTrials.gov from the inception of the review until 10 March 2023. Twelve studies were included for qualitative and quantitative analyses.

Results

We studied 1124 patients, including 565 patients in the enteral immunonutrition group and 559 in the enteral nutrition (controls) group. All included randomized, controlled trials were high quality. CD4+ levels, lymphocytes, transferrin concentrations, and systemic inflammatory response syndrome were not significantly different between the enteral immunonutrition and enteral nutrition groups. However, CD8+, immunoglobulins G and M, and proalbumin concentrations, CD4+/CD8+, and infectious complications were significantly higher in the enteral immunonutrition group than in the enteral nutrition group. A sensitivity analysis showed consistent results after excluding each study. Begg’s test showed no publication bias.

Conclusions

Enteral immunonutrition is an effective nutritional intervention that improves immune function in patients who have undergone gastric cancer surgery.
Assessing physical literacy with school-aged children in occupational therapy practice: An exploratory qualitative study
Authors: Clark Emma , Elliott Amber , Jerebine Alethea , Barnett Lisa M
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Physical literacy (the physical, psychological, social and cognitive capacities needed for movement and physical activity) is arguably important to occupational therapy yet is not explicit within current practice. This study aimed to understand how occupational therapists can engage with the physical literacy concept.

Method:

Eight paediatric occupational therapists were recruited by purposive sampling. Participants completed up to three semi-structured interviews to understand perspectives on physical literacy, introduce a novel pictorial assessment and to seek feedback on the assessment after trialling. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results:

Sixteen interviews were conducted. Four themes were identified: ‘Foreign tongue’ (occupational therapists have an understanding of physical literacy but used different terminology); ‘Sounds very OT oriented’ (illustrating the connection between physical literacy and occupational therapy); ‘We need the child’s voice’ (measure highlights the child’s perspective); and ‘Contemporary, useful BUT not for all’ (measure had utility for some children but was dependant on child’s condition).

Conclusion:

Occupational therapists can apply the physical literacy construct to traditional models and core concepts. The assessment can be used in paediatric occupational therapy practice supported by clinical reasoning, although future tool iterations may need to accommodate some children with disability.
Unsupervised Learning for Public Transport Delay Pattern Analysis
Authors: Cheng Yuxing , Krishnakumari Panchamy
Published: January 2024

To analyze inherent and diverse patterns within line-based public transport daily delay occurrences, we introduce a data-driven exploratory analysis focused on the spatial-temporal distribution of these delays. Our approach relies on the utilization of the image pattern recognition technique and k-means clustering algorithm. We extract daily punctuality information from the automatic vehicle location data for a singular public transport route. This information is then translated into a visual representation through aggregated daily delay distribution profile images, offering insights into the spatial and temporal distribution of delays. The delay distribution finds expression in the arrangement of pixels within these profile images. The essence of these images is further distilled through image pattern recognition using the neural network architecture of ResNet50. Employing the k-means algorithm, we cluster these images based on their similarity, revealing five distinct daily delay patterns. The analysis of these patterns offers insight into their unique characteristics, yielding noteworthy outcomes. These findings hold the potential to provide public transport operators with an enriched comprehension of the dynamics of delays occurring on a specific line.
Superior Capsular Reconstruction Versus Middle Trapezius Tendon Transfer for Isolated Irreparable Supraspinatus Tendon Tears: Static Versus Dynamic Reconstruction
Authors: Kim Jung Gon , Lim Chaemoon , Kim Bo Taek , Baek Chang Hee
Published: January 2024

Background:

Both superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) and middle trapezius tendon (MTT) transfer can be performed in nonarthritic young and active patients with isolated irreparable supraspinatus tendon tears (IISTTs). However, to our knowledge, no comparative clinical studies have been conducted on these procedures.

Purpose:

To evaluate and compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of SCR and arthroscopic-assisted MTT transfer in patients with IISTTs.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 60 patients with IISTTs were categorized into 2 groups according to the surgical procedure—Group S underwent SCR (n = 34); Group M underwent MTT transfer (n = 26). The clinical outcomes included the visual analog scale score for pain, active shoulder range of motion, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and University of California, Los Angeles, shoulder score. Radiological outcomes included the assessment of the acromiohumeral distance, progression of cuff tear arthropathy (Hamada grade), subacromial bone erosion, and graft failure.

Results:

The mean follow-up time was 39.3 ± 5.2 months (range, 26-59 months) and 37.6 ± 9.8 months (range, 27-54 months) in Group S and Group M, respectively. Significant improvements in clinical outcomes were observed in both groups, while the active forward flexion (148.2°± 24.1° vs 165.9°± 8.7°; P = .003) and abduction (131°± 37.3° vs 152.5°± 17.9°; P = .035) were significantly higher in Group M at the final follow-up. No significant differences were found in the postoperative Constant, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, and University of California, Los Angeles, shoulder scores between the 2 groups. Radiologically, although no difference was found in the Hamada grade at the final follow-up between the 2 groups ( P = .143), the rates of acromial wear (58.8% vs 15.4%; P < .001) and graft retear (47.1% vs 7.7%; P < .001) were significantly higher in Group S than in Group M.

Conclusion:

Both SCR and MTT transfer improved the overall clinical outcomes of IISTTs postoperatively, whereas MTT transfer was superior to SCR in terms of active forward flexion and abduction range of motion. Although higher rates of graft failure and subacromial bone erosion were observed in Group S, no difference was found in the clinical scores between the 2 groups at the short-term follow-up. However, further well-structured, prolonged comparative trials should be conducted in the future.
A Retrospective Cohort Analysis of Mental Health-Related Emergency Department Visits Among Veterans and Non-Veterans Residing in Ontario, Canada: Une analyse de cohorte rétrospective des visites au service d’urgence liées à la santé mentale parmi les vétérans et non-vétérans résidant en Ontario, Canada
Authors: St. Cyr Kate , Smith Peter , Kurdyak Paul , Cramm Heidi , Aiken Alice B. , Mahar Alyson
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Emergency departments (EDs) are a vital part of healthcare systems, at times acting as a gateway to community-based mental health (MH) services. This may be particularly true for veterans of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police who were released prior to 2013 and the Canadian Armed Forces, as these individuals transition from federal to provincial healthcare coverage on release and may use EDs because of delays in obtaining a primary care provider. We aimed to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) of MH-related ED visits between veterans and non-veterans residing in Ontario, Canada: (1) overall; and by (2) sex; and (3) length of service.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used administrative healthcare data from 18,837 veterans and 75,348 age-, sex-, geography-, and income-matched non-veterans residing in Ontario, Canada between April 1, 2002, and March 31, 2020. Anderson–Gill regression models were used to estimate the HR of recurrent MH-related ED visits during the period of follow-up. Sex and length of service were used as stratification variables in the models.

Results

Veterans had a higher adjusted HR (aHR) of MH-related ED visits than non-veterans (aHR, 1.97, 95% CI, 1.70 to 2.29). A stronger effect was observed among females (aHR, 3.29; 95% CI, 1.96 to 5.53) than males (aHR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.57 to 2.01). Veterans who served for 5–9 years had a higher rate of use than non-veterans (aHR, 3.76; 95% CI, 2.34 to 6.02) while veterans who served for 30+ years had a lower rate compared to non-veterans (aHR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.42 à 0.84).

Conclusions

Rates of MH-related ED visits are higher among veterans overall compared to members of the Ontario general population, but usage is influenced by sex and length of service. These findings indicate that certain subpopulations of veterans, including females and those with fewer years of service, may have greater acute mental healthcare needs and/or reduced access to primary mental healthcare.
Positionality in the Politics of Education: Mapping the Strategies and Constraints of Education Reformers
Authors: Trinidad Jose Eos
Published: January 2024

The success and failure of education reform policies often depend on the strategies of reformers. This article suggests a framework to understand the positionality of reformers, as they vary in their strategy (i.e., technical vs. relational) and focus for change (i.e., process- vs. outcomes-focused). Using the case of individuals who initiated new data systems in Chicago, Philadelphia, and New York City, the study discusses four groups of reformers: Engineers privilege efficient technical fixes that may be resisted by people on the ground. Capacity-builders focus on empowering schools but may lead to variable successes. Framers research and disseminate ideas to reframe policy and political discourses. Table-setters leverage their social networks and financial resources but may challenge democratic decision-making. As schools continue to be sites of political debates and challenges, the concept of positionality can clarify how reformers promote particular changes and can suggest possibilities for positions to constructively complement each other.
The Perspective of Cancer Patients in Palliative Care on Unmet Needs: A Qualitative Synthesis Using Meta-Ethnography
Authors: Basile Ilaria , Consolo Letteria , Rusconi Daniele , Arba Laura , Rampichini Flavia , Caraceni Augusto , Lusignani Maura
Published: January 2024

Background

As cancer patients approach the end of life, their needs become more complex, increasing the demand for palliative care. Advanced-stage cancer patients encounter increasing unmet psychological, physical, autonomy, and communication needs, reflecting the difference between patients’ perceived requirements and the support from health care professionals. The objective of this study was to synthesize qualitative evidence on unmet needs in palliative cancer care among inpatient and outpatient adults.

Methods

We conducted a meta-ethnographic review according to Noblit and Hare’s framework and the operationalized guidelines developed by Sattar. The eMERGe Reporting Guidance was followed. A literature search was conducted in Cinahl, Embase, Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO and Google Scholar for gray literature. For all the studies, direct quotes from the participants and authors’ results were identified, coded and analyzed in NVivo 1.7.1 and extracted as I and II order constructs from which higher third-order themes originated.

Results

Eight studies were included. Four new themes emerged, representing areas where palliative cancer care patients expressed a need for help: the need for comprehensive, patient-centered care, the need for maintaining a sense of autonomy and dignity, the need for attentive support to patients’ soul and the need for accessible and timely care.

Conclusions

Palliative care patients require a secure, suffering-free end-of-life journey with informed decision-making and team support. Ensuring continuity of care, validating their suffering, and allocating sufficient time are crucial aspects of care. This involves maintaining a consistent care plan, respecting patients’ emotions and experiences, and providing services tailored to individual needs.
Opening Minds for a Career with Impact
Authors: De Vos Ans , Jacobs Sofie , Vangronsvelt Kathleen , Wouters Karen , Beyne Jan
Published: January 2024

This article provides an overview of the Global Leadership course, a 6-credit course integrated within the curriculum of all advanced master programs of Antwerp Management School and designed to align with the school’s overarching mission. The course challenges and facilitates students in developing their leadership as a basis for making career choices, explicitly framing it within a global perspective and focusing on sustainability. The course is built on the belief that career development should not occur in isolation. Rather, it should be interwoven within the societal context in which careers unfold, bringing opportunities and challenges. Concretely, students work in diverse cross-program groups on an Action Learning Project addressing one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Further, students follow a track within their program focused on personal development, culminating in the submission of a Personal Development Paper in which they integrate all course experiences as a basis for developing a vision of their career. Through this holistic approach, students develop career competencies beyond considering the “why, what, and how” of work but are stimulated to consider the broader societal context.
Easing the Burden on Caregivers- Applications of Artificial Intelligence for Physicians and Caregivers of Children with Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Chaker Sara C , Hung Ya-Ching , Saad Mariam , Golinko Michael S , Galdyn Izabela A
Published: January 2024

Objective

Many caregivers of children with cleft lip and palate experience a high level of anxiety throughout their child's medical and surgical care. We aim to evaluate artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool to mitigate these feelings and can aid clinicians in the development of robust pediatric educational materials for caregivers and families.

Design

Thirteen of the most common postoperative questions following cleft lip and/or palate repair were developed by an expert panel of senior Pediatric Plastic Surgeons and were posed to ChatGPT. Professional answers from the expert panel were provided and compared to responses from ChatGPT. A literature review was also conducted to generate a new support model for caregivers with children undergoing a surgical procedure.

Setting

Department of Pediatric Plastic Surgery at a metropolitan Children's Hospital.

Participants

Senior Pediatric Plastic Surgeons at a metropolitan Children's Hospital.

Interventions

None.

Main Outcome Measure

The primary outcome was to determine the ability of ChatGPT to respond to common postoperative questions and to develop a model for AI assistance in family-centered perioperative care.

Results

ChatGPT had a postoperative question response accuracy rate of 69% when compared with subject matter expert responses, with its greatest errors being information errors. An extensive literature search revealed that AI can assist in multiple traditional perioperative strategies to reduce caregivers and patient anxiety.

Conclusions

Artificial Intelligence can help to reduce the burden of generating patient education materials as well as support caregivers in multiple aspects and perioperative care.
APPS-S: A Tool for Measuring the Attitudes Toward Prostitution and Women in Prostitution in the Spanish Population
Authors: Terol-Cantero M. C. , Martin-Aragón Gelabert M. , Vázquez Rodríguez C. , Velikova Dimitrova M. , Navarro Ríos M. J. , Manchón López J.
Published: January 2024

This study was designed with the purpose of testing the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Attitudes toward Prostitution and Prostitutes Scale through three studies with different samples. The first one explores the test's dimensional structure or constructs validity through confirmatory factor analysis, as well as internal consistency and test-retest reliability. The second one focuses on discriminant and criteria validity. Finally, the third one examines the scale's convergent validity and its sensitivity to detecting changes. The results support two subscales with an optimal index of internal consistency, structural stability over time, and discriminative power between groups of participants. It is, therefore, an adequate tool for adults as well as young people and teenagers, and for detecting changes in the context of intervention or awareness workshops.
Green Human Resource Management and Green Culture: An Integrative Sustainable Competing Values Framework and Future Research Directions
Authors: Maheshwari Sudhanshu , Kaur Ashneet , Renwick Douglas W. S.
Published: January 2024

This study aims to analyze the association between green human resource management practices and green culture and proposes a green competing values framework that entails four green cultures: green clan, green adhocracy, green market, and green hierarchy culture, adopted from Cameron & Quinn’s (2011) competing values framework. We elucidate that each green culture is shaped through ability-motivation-opportunity enhancing green human resource management practices in alignment with desired green beliefs, values, and symbols to achieve organizational sustainability goals. Thus, our model acts as a diagnostic toolkit for identifying the organization’s dominant green culture and how a specific green culture can be generated that assimilates with the organization’s green objectives. Our theoretical contributions include extending sustainable Human Resource Management (HRM) studies by employing a green competing values framework to enhance organizational and staff green behaviors, and critically appraising such outcomes to negate the adoption of standardized practices as descriptive, prescriptive solutions in green HRM studies. We provide implications for practice and elucidate future research directions in organizational sustainability and green HRM.
Mixed Friendships in the Classroom: Perspectives of Neurotypical Children on Their Friends With ASD
Authors: Kali Anat , Scheiner Esther Y.
Published: January 2024

This case study of an inclusive classroom examined neurotypical (NT) children’s perspectives on their relationships with their classmates with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Data were collected through observations and interviews. Findings showed that social relationships between NT children and their classmates with ASD in integrated classrooms presented in two distinct forms, either as friendships or as instrumental partnerships. We also examined four naturally occurring mixed friendships between young children with and without disabilities. In these mixed dyads, several factors influenced the quality of the friendships, including the opportunity to engage in similar activities, the social status of the NT child, and the social skills of both children. Educational implications and suggestions for further research are included.
Bilateral retrobulbar optic neuritis combined with optic perineuritis associated with atezolizumab treatment for small cell lung carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Jing , Wang Lian , Zhang Luyin , Liu Hongjuan , Yang Bentao , Jiang Libin
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Ocular immune-related adverse events (OirAEs) associated with novel cancer therapies of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are emerging. Retrobulbar optic neuritis (ON) combined with optic perineuritis (OPN), associated with atezolizumab, has been rarely reported and has a unique clinical manifestation.

Case Description

A 67-year-old woman was diagnosed with small-cell lung cancer. As maintenance therapy, atezolizumab was administered continuously for 10 cycles for approximately 14 months. One week after the administration of the tenth dose of atezolizumab, the patient experienced a bilateral, successive painless visual decline. The fundus and the retinal nerve fiber layer revealed no abnormalities, but the ganglion cell of the macula disappeared loss. The concentric shrinking of the peripheral visual field of the left eye was noticed. Orbital MRI revealed bilateral optic nerve thickening and peripheral optic nerve sheath enhancement (“tram-track” and “doughnut” signs). Serology, cerebrospinal fluid results, and image examination ruled out common causes of vision decline, and the condition was identified as bilateral retrobulbar ON combined with OPN as a probable atezolizumab-related immune adverse event. Thereafter, atezolizumab was discontinued, and intravenous methylprednisolone pulse (IVMP) (160 mg/day for 5 days) plus intravenous immunoglobulin (20 g/day for 3 days) was administered. The patient's visual function considerably improved after three weeks.

Conclusions

Retrobulbar ON and OPN associated with atezolizumab are rare side effects that are easily overlooked. Immune-related ON has unique features and requires early identification. The primary treatment for optic nerve irAEs is corticosteroids, but this is not standardized and should be used with caution.
Fulminant keratomycosis caused by Cylindrocarpon lichenicola- A case report
Authors: Anitha Venugopal , Madkaikar Aditee , Patwardhan Veena , Ravindran Meenakshi
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To report the clinical features, phylogenetic characteristics, microbiological characteristics, and the management of the rare emerging fungal species Cylindrocarpon lichenicola.

Methods

A 55-year-old male farmer presented with a history of pain, redness, and defective vision. The corneal scrapings revealed septate hyphae macroconidia and multi-celled chlamydospores with lactophenol cotton blue mount. In addition, the culture revealed velvety to floccose, white growth with a pinkish-brown rim on the Sabouraud's dextrose agar. The growth was suggestive of the rare fungus Cylindrocarpon lichenicola.

Results

The course of the infection was rapidly progressive, involving the entire cornea with descemetocele and impending perforation. Reinfection with the rapid spread of disease to the sclera was noted; finally, evisceration with scleral frill excision was done.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first case report of Fulminant Sclero Keratomycosis caused by Cylindrocarpon lichenicola.
Prognostic Value of Neutrophils-to-Lymphocytes Ratio and Platelets-to-Lymphocytes Ratio in Sepsis Patients With Lymphopenia
Authors: Qiu Xianming , Wang Quanzhen , Zhang Yuke , Zhao Qiannan , Jiang Zhiming , Zhou Lei
Published: January 2024

Background:

Inflammation plays a critical role in sepsis. The integration of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelets-to-lymphocytes ratio (PLR) from multiple cell types offers a novel approach to rapidly assess inflammation status. However, the predictive role of NLR and PLR in sepsis with lymphopenia remains uncertain.

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to explore the prognostic value of NLR and PLR in sepsis patients with lymphopenia.

Design and methods:

In this observational retrospective study, we included 172 sepsis patients with lymphopenia and collected clinical characteristics for analysis. Through binary logistic regression analysis, we identified independent factors. Receiver-operating characteristic curves (ROC) and areas under the curves (AUC) were employed to assess the ability to predict hospital mortality risk.

Results:

Our results showed a total hospital mortality rate of 53.49%. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that NLR (OR = 1.11, P < .001) and PLR (OR = 1.01, P = .003) were independent predictors associated with hospital mortality in sepsis patients with lymphopenia. The AUCs of NLR and PLR were 0.750 (95% CI: 0.634-0.788, P < .001) and 0.662 (95% CI: 0.580-0.743, P < .001), respectively. Notably, an optimal cut-off value of 18.93 for NLR displayed a sensitivity of 75.0% and specificity of 63.0% in discriminating hospital mortality in sepsis patients with lymphopenia, while the optimal cut-off value for PLR was 377.50, with a sensitivity of 67.5% and specificity of 64.1%.

Conclusion:

NLR and PLR serve as independent predictors of hospital mortality in sepsis patients with lymphopenia.
A comparative study of original equipment manufacturer brake pads using tribological testing and hybrid ranking for enhanced decision making and cost effectiveness
Authors: Balaji Parthasarathy , Rajan Balachandran Surya , Sathickbasha Katharbasha , Katiyar Jitendra Kumar , Sethupathi Paramathma Baskara , Ahmed Kottur Asrar
Published: January 2024

Tribological test and hybrid ranking techniques are employed to evaluate brake pads from original equipment manufacturers for Indian passenger cars. The study was conducted for four brake pads designated as OE1, OE2, OE3, and OE4. The assessment integrates the analytical hierarchy process with various ranking methods including Extension Evaluation Method, Complex Proportional Assessment, Preference Selection Index, and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution. Brake pad samples undergo testing according to the standard IS2742 part 1-4 of 1994, generating crucial performance parameters such as performance coefficient of friction, hot coefficient of friction, normal coefficient of friction, fade percentage, recovery percentage, variation in coefficient of friction, wear thickness loss percentage, wear mass loss percentage, and time taken to reach maximum temperature. These performance metrics are technically analyzed and ranked using hybrid ranking techniques to enhance the decision-making process. The results show that OE4, a budget-friendly brake pad ranked first, is the best performer. OE2, a more expensive alternative, is placed second, and OE1 and OE3, which are more affordable possibilities, are ranked third and fourth, respectively. This research serves as a valuable resource for selecting brake pads for Indian passenger cars, especially in scenarios where technical specifications and cost-effectiveness are crucial considerations.
Bilingualism, like other types of brain training, does not produce far transfer: It all fits together
Authors: Paap Kenneth R. , Majoubi John , Balakrishnan Nithyasri , Anders-Jefferson Regina T.
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this review is to integrate an important new synthesis of the literature examining the effects of cognitive training on far transfer tests of cognitive ability with the expansive literature testing for bilingual advantages in executive functioning (EF).

Approach:

The secondary meta-analysis of cognitive training on far transfer reported by Gobet and Sala is compared and contrasted with the many recent meta-analyses for bilingual advantages in EF.

Data and Analysis:

The Gobet and Sala secondary meta-analysis is based on ten independent meta-analyses with a median of 24 samples per analysis. The meta-analyses of the bilingual advantage in EF are partitioned into nine analyses that focus on inhibition, switching, working memory capacity, and general EF.

Findings and Conclusions:

Both cognitive training and bilingualism yield overall effects that are not distinguishable from zero when corrected for publication bias. Furthermore, both clusters of meta-analyses show that study quality moderates performance, but that type of experience/training does not. In the absence of a compelling reason for considering bilingual language-language to have a special status in cognitive training, these two conclusions mesh.

Originality:

Although brain training and the bilingual advantage in EF are both instances of the general hypothesis that practicing cognitive tasks can produce far transfer, they have not been considered as two tests of the same general hypothesis. However, the twin null results resonate and strengthen each other.

Significance:

If bilingualism does not enhance EF in children and young adults (or maintain it in older adults), the argument that bilingualism enhances EF and/or delays the onset of dementia is substantially weakened. However, it is clear and indisputable that, more broadly, there are important advantages to being able to communicate and connect with more people.
The relation between economic stressors and higher education students’ mental health during the initial outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Buffel Veerle , Wouters Edwin , Cullati Stephane , Tancredi Stefano , Van Eeckert Nina , Van De Velde Sarah
Published: January 2024

Aims:

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a large impact on the financial situation of higher education students, disproportionately affecting students with a low socioeconomic status (SES). This raises the question of whether economic stressors related to COVID-19 have aggravated existing socioeconomic inequalities in mental health. This study examined the relationship between economic stressors and students’ depressive symptoms, and the role of students’ SES and countries’ socioeconomic conditions.

Methods:

Data from the COVID-19 International Student Well-being Study was used for multilevel analyses, with depressive symptoms as dependent variable. Three indicators measured SES: educational level of the parents, ability to borrow money from their social network, and struggling with financial resources prior to COVID-19.

Results:

Students with a low SES had more depressive symptoms, and those not able to borrow money and with parents without higher education were more exposed to a deterioration in their financial situation. Both economic stressors (reduction in working hours and a deterioration of their financial situation) were positively related to depressive symptoms. In addition, the positive relationship between a decrease in working hours and depressive symptoms was stronger in countries with a higher unemployment rate.

Conclusions:

We observed socioeconomic inequalities in students’ mental health, which, in part, can be ascribed to a larger exposure to the economic stressors related to COVID-19 among students’ with a low SES. The macroeconomic context also played a role, as the impact of a reduction in working hours on depressive symptoms was stronger in countries with poor economic conditions.