bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The people versus the grandees: The paradox of Claude Lefort’s ‘populism’
Authors: Zicman de Barros Thomás
Published: October 2024

In recent decades, Claude Lefort has become a recurring reference point for mainstream authors hostile to populism. This article delves into the paradoxical character of Lefort’s own ‘populism’ to challenge these anti-populist approaches. It explores Lefort’s nuanced stance in which, despite his explicit rejection of populism, he nevertheless embraced social division and the empowerment of the people against the grandees. The analysis is divided into three parts. First, it presents Lefort’s objections to populism, echoed by scholars such as Marilena Chaui, Andrew Arato, Nadia Urbinati, Pierre Rosanvallon and Stefan Rummens, who often associate populism with Carl Schmitt’s political theology. The second part highlights latent ‘populist’ elements in Lefort’s work, as examined through his study of Machiavelli and his reflections on a wild democracy. The third part critically assesses the supposed rupture between Lefort and populist thinkers such as Ernesto Laclau and Chantal Mouffe, identifying moments of consistent theoretical alignment and even shared political engagement rather than stark disagreement. The conclusion challenges the prevailing narrative by positing a sophisticated theory of populism in Lefort’s work. It emphasises the inclusive and emancipatory aspects of appeals to the ‘people’ without overlooking potentially undemocratic expressions. Ultimately, the article argues for a nuanced understanding of populism from Lefort’s work, emphasising the need for a delicate balance in navigating between populism’s democratic and tyrannical manifestations.
Psychometric Properties of the Brief COPE Among Sexual Minority Adults
Authors: Solberg Marvin A. , Shukla Meghna
Published: October 2024

Background:

The Brief COPE is a widely used coping instrument, but there is a paucity of research regarding its ability to measure coping among sexual minority (SM) persons.

Objective:

This study determined the psychometric properties of the Brief COPE and identified coping domains among a sample of SM individuals.

Methods:

An online survey was conducted with 530 SM persons in the United States. Participants completed the dispositional version of the Brief COPE. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) determined construct validity. Cronbach’s alpha examined the reliability of resulting domains. Exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) was employed to identify coping domains and criterion-related validity was assessed by examining the relationship of the domains with substance use measures (alcohol, cannabis, and drug use).

Results:

CFA replicated the original 14-factor structure. ESEM identified 3 second-order domains with acceptable fit (chi-square [χ2] = 905.81; degrees of freedom [d f] = 334, P < .001; comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.90; root mean square error of approximation = 0.06; 90% confidence interval = 0.05-0.06; and standardized root mean residual = 0.08). The 3 second-order domains demonstrated good reliability: adaptive (ω = 0.84), support (ω = 0.85), and disengaged coping (ω = 0.84). Disengaged coping exhibited the strongest correlations with substance use outcomes.

Conclusions:

Findings provide evidence to support the reliability and validity of the Brief COPE and validates its use with SM persons.
Hindi Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of Modified Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS-M): A Cross-Sectional Study from the Metabolic Surgery Clinic in North India
Authors: Rina Kumari , Bhoi Rosali , Vindal Anubhav , Lal Pawanindra
Published: October 2024

Background:

The lack of culturally-sensitive tool masks the epidemiology of weight-bias and internalized-stigma. This study aimed to translate, adapt, and validate the Modified Weight-Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS-M) into Hindi.

Methods:

The translation and adaptation process followed the World Health Organization guidelines. Three psychiatrists translated the original WBIS-M into Hindi. The bilingual panel comprised four psychiatrists, two laparoscopic bariatric surgeons, a professor of English, and an individual with severe obesity (with an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of Band 8.5) who was familiar with Western culture. The panel identified and resolved inadequate expressions of translations or discrepancies. An independent translator, whose mother tongue was English, back-translated it into the English language. Focused group discussions with individuals with severe obesity were conducted. The final H-WBIS-M was administered to undergraduates ( n = 120) after seven days. Test–retest reliability was assessed. The original WBIS-M, Eating Disorder Diagnostic Screen, and Fat Phobia Scale-Short Form were administered to 120 undergraduates and 55 individuals with severe obesity ( n = 175)]. Reliability and validity of H-WBIS-M were analyzed.

Results:

Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin measure of sampling adequacy was 0.788, and Bartlett’s test of sphericity was χ2 = 1381.892, p = 0.000. The exploratory factor analysis extracted three components. Spearman-Brown coefficient for H-WBIS-M was 0.875. The internal consistency was α = 0.875 ( p = 0.000), intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.857 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.812–0.893) ( p = 0.000), and Pearson correlation ranged from 0.869 to 0.989 ( p = 0.000). Cross-language concordance revealed a significant intraclass correlation coefficient (0.877–0.986) ( p = 0.000) and Pearson correlation ranging from 0.781 to 0.972 ( p = 0.000).

Conclusions:

The H-WBIS-M demonstrated good psychometric properties based on standard testing procedures.
Preparation and interdiffusion behaviour of a NiCrAlY coating with high entropy ceramic diffusion barrier
Authors: Liu He , Liang Zi , Jiang Yuchen , Qu Liu , Zhao Hui , Zhang Weiqiang , Guo Cean
Published: October 2024

In order to solve the problem of elemental interdiffusion between the superalloy and coating, the diffusion barrier of (AlCoCrNiRe) and (AlCoCrNiRe)O between the N5 superalloy and NiCrAlY coating was prepared by magnetron sputtering. Isothermal oxidation behaviour of the NiCrAlY coatings with diffusion barrier was evaluated at 1050 °C. The results show that the application of (AlCoCrNiRe) and (AlCoCrNiRe)O diffusion barriers significantly reduced the precipitation of TCP phase in the substrate. (AlCoCrNiRe)O high entropy ceramic diffusion barrier has a better effect of inhibiting interdiffusion because of its own properties and the oxides formed in situ. Furthermore, the NiCrAlY coating with (AlCoCrNiRe)O high entropy ceramic diffusion barrier provides higher resistance to high-temperature oxidation for the substrate.
Machine learning models based on CT radiomics features for distinguishing benign and malignant vertebral compression fractures in patients with malignant tumors
Authors: Wan Yuan , Miao Lei , Zhang HuanHuan , Wang YanMei , Li Xiao , Li Meng , Zhang Li
Published: October 2024

Background

Radiomics has become an important tool for distinguishing benign and malignant vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). It is more clinically significant to concentrate on patients who have malignant tumors and differentiate between benign and malignant VCFs.

Purpose

To explore the value of multiple machine learning (ML) models based on CT radiomics features for differentiating benign and malignant VCFs in patients with malignant tumors.

Material and Methods

This study retrospectively analyzed 78 patients with malignant tumors accompanied by VCFs, 45 patients with benign VCFs, and 33 patients with malignant VCFs. A total of 140 lesions (86 benign lesions, 54 malignant lesions) were ultimately included in this study. All patients were divided into training sets (n = 98) and validation sets (n = 42) according to the 7:3 ratio. The radiomics features were screened and dimensioned, and multiple radiomics ML models were constructed. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to assess the diagnostic performance.

Results

Five radiomics features were included in the model. All the ML models built have good diagnostic efficiency, among which the support vector machine (SVM) model performs better. The area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in the training set were 0.908, 0.816, 0.883, and 0.857, respectively, while those in the validation set were 0.911, 0.647, 0.92, and 0.81, respectively.

Conclusion

A variety of ML models built based on CT radiomics features have good value for differentiating benign and malignant VCFs in malignant tumor patients, and the SVM model has a better performance.
Outcome and treatment of cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy under ultrasound-guided vacuum aspiration
Authors: Abdullah Naz Azad
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to describe cases of cesarean scar pregnancies that were successfully treated with suction curettage under ultrasound guidance and their outcome.

Methods

This retrospective, descriptive case-series study was performed on 17 patients diagnosed with cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy in Sulaimani Maternity Teaching Hospital from May 2022 to April 2023. The patients’ sociodemographic and clinical data were collected. The patients were treated with suction curettage alone or in combination with local injection of methotrexate under ultrasound guidance.

Results

Patients with a viable fetus (n = 4) received local intrinsic methotrexate injection into the gestational sac and suction curettage, while those in whom the fetus had died (n = 13) underwent only suction curettage. Five patients required intrauterine balloon insertion to stop bleeding without further treatment, and only three required a blood transfusion owing to severe bleeding.

Conclusions

Cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy is a dangerous and complex disorder with an increasing occurrence in recent years. Accurate early diagnosis and effective management are essential to reduce maternal mortality and mortality of this type of pregnancy.
Didactical proposal for the study of rigid body kinematics using analytical, video-tracking, and simulated cases of a four-bar mechanism
Authors: Vergara-Puello Ricardo Antonio , Pulido-Mariño Gabriel Fernando , Gallego-Cardenas Daniel Alejandro , Restrepo-Martínez Alejandro
Published: October 2024

This work used three methods (analytical, simulated, and video-tracking) to analyze the kinematics of a four-bar mechanism. The results obtained were shared and implemented in an engineering dynamics course at the university level to assess the impact of this exercise on motivation and understanding of the course topic. A survey was used to evaluate the exercise. The survey results showed that for the students, the implementation of different methods to tackle the same problem improved their understanding of the concepts and gave them other options for analyzing a mechanical system.
Labor Unions, Debt, and Financial Advantage in Young Adulthood in the United States
Authors: Rhodes Alec P. , Dwyer Rachel E.
Published: October 2024

Unionized workers experience significant labor market advantages. Do these advantages transfer to financial markets, including credit and consumer markets? We argue that union coverage facilitates financial advantages in young adulthood by enhancing access to wealth-building credit and avoidance of costly financial coping strategies. We extend a conceptual model of financial advantage based on young adults’ debt holdings to the case of early career union coverage using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth-1997 Cohort. Findings support the importance of labor market institutions in fostering financial advantages and underscore the role of credit and debt for life course inequality processes.
A review on digital transformation in healthcare waste management: Applications, research trends and implications
Authors: Sharma Vaibhav , Jamwal Anbesh , Agrawal Rajeev , Pratap Saurabh
Published: October 2024

At present, both emerging and developed economies have faced the challenge of higher healthcare waste generation. Developed countries are using these technologies to manage healthcare waste and cope with the challenge. Emerging economies are still struggling to understand and implement digital technologies in healthcare waste management, posing a danger to partners handling toxic and hazardous waste. The proper handling of healthcare waste is essential for social and environmental sustainability. Digital technologies that drive digital transformation in the healthcare sector impact the traditional way of managing healthcare waste. Digital technologies include artificial intelligence, blockchain, the Internet of Things, sensors, data analytics and radio frequency identification. These technologies can potentially address vehicle route planning and scheduling problems, resource optimisation, real-time tracking and the visibility of healthcare waste management. Apart from economic and environmental concerns, the operational workforce also takes care of societal well-being and implements waste management strategies and policies. Past research has focused on integrating blockchain technology to enhance traceability and transparency in waste collection and disposal activities. However, the application and impact of these technologies for managing different operations of healthcare management with sustainability is a gap bridged by the present study. This study adopts a systematic literature review to identify research trends, applications and implications of digital transformation. It proposes a digital technology-driven framework for healthcare waste management for further research.
Tire tread detection based on fusion of spatial and frequency domain features
Authors: Chen Qiyao , Dong Yude , Wang Jinbiao , Yuan Zhonghang
Published: October 2024

Tire tread, as a primary feature of tires, presents a formidable challenge in reliable detection due to the vast variety of treads available and the scarcity of publicly available datasets. To address this issue, this paper introduces DCT-ResNet, a neural network designed for adaptive fusion of spatial and frequency domain features. This method overcomes dataset limitations through the use of generative networks and image enhancement techniques. Initially, the network captures spatial features using down-sampling layers and hidden layers. Concurrently, frequency domain features are extracted through the integration of Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) and a specialized frequency domain network. The final step involves the use of a multi-head self-attention layer to achieve adaptive feature fusion, ensuring the reliable extraction of tire tread features. Experimental results highlight the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The DCT-ResNet network achieves impressive classification accuracies of 99% on the tire tread dataset and 97% on the CIFAR-10 dataset. Additionally, the network demonstrates a level of pattern similarity detection comparable to expert judgments. In adversarial testing, the data augmentation significantly enhances the network’s robustness, allowing DCT-ResNet to outperform other methods in resistance to interference. Consequently, the method presented in this paper holds substantial practical significance for the high-reliability detection of tire treads.
UAV path planning based on improved dung beetle algorithm with multiple strategy integration
Authors: Chang Baoshuai , Xi Wanqiang , Lin Junzhi , Shao Ziyan
Published: October 2024

This research presents a multi-strategy augmented dung beetle algorithm (CDBO) for UAV path planning in intricate 3D environments. Its main objective is to address the path planning challenge by formulating an integrated cost function model and environment representation that aligns the optimisation task with the navigation prerequisites and safety constraints of the UAV. Firstly, the algorithm initialises the particle population based on the Lévy flight principle to improve the species diversity and adequately search the solution space. Subsequently, an exponentially decreasing inertia weighting strategy is introduced to improve the convergence speed of the algorithm. In addition, the algorithm uses an adaptive [Formula: see text]-distribution with perturbed variation of the updated positions so that the algorithm avoids falling into a local optimum. Finally, to enhance the robustness of the system, the algorithm incorporates an elite retention strategy based on the Pareto principle. In this study, rigorous tests using 12 CEC2022 test functions and Wilcoxon rank sum test are conducted as benchmarks for the performance of the algorithm. The results show that the enhanced dung beetle algorithm outperforms the traditional algorithm, highlighting its efficiency and robustness. In addition, the efficacy of the enhanced dung beetle algorithm was validated in a variety of complex 3D environments, affirming its ability to generate optimal paths. This study further highlights the importance of effective algorithms in UAV path planning, addressing the key issue of optimising flight operations in intricate spatial scenarios.
Taboo language in a sample of Egyptian op-eds: A corpus-based socio-cognitive study
Authors: Abdel-Raheem Ahmed , Goubaa Mouna
Published: October 2024

There is an extensive body of work on taboo language, including metaphor and metonymy, but particular attention needs to be paid to (i) serious genres (and especially op-eds) and (ii) non-English speaking (or non-western) cultures. The present study uses the Sketch Engine search tool on a corpus of 1844 op-ed articles (967,715 words) by columnist Dandrawi El-Hawari of Egypt’s private pro-government newspaper Youm el-Saba. Questions about how taboo words are used in Arabic op-eds (or the selected corpus as a sample of the Egyptian population) thus arise. Other questions include: How frequently do vulgar, profane, discriminatory, threatening or potentially libellous words, cases where impoliteness (or rather hate speech) is genuine or presumably intended, occur in this serious discourse genre? Which taboo words feature more prominently in Egyptian opinion articles (and especially in the op-eds under investigation)? And what implications do our findings have for cross-cultural understanding and impoliteness research? The analysis of taboo words in this discourse genre can make a useful contribution not only to socio-cognitive and cross-cultural pragmatics, but also to forensic linguistics. We found frequent breaches of the expected conduct by the op-ed columnist in question, because private newspapers define different contexts. A general taxonomy of seven practices has been proposed.
Critical realism, psychology, and the crisis of replication: A reply to Haig; Derksen & Morawski; and Trafimow
Authors: Archer Robert
Published: October 2024

The commentaries provided by Haig; Derksen and Morawski; and Trafimow vary considerably in how they address critical realism and its implications for replication. Haig’s preference for Kaidesoja’s “naturalised” version of critical realism and Lipton’s inference to the best explanation is deeply problematic. While Derksen and Morawski concede that they deal only indirectly with critical realism, their endorsement of “performativity” negates it. In Trafimow’s case, ontology’s regulative role is untenably diminished and ultimately supplanted by classic methodologism. I conclude that replication should be replaced by exploratory stratified contextualism.
Future of Hygieia Health Private Limited
Authors: Gupta Monika , Malya Sapna , Paul Samit
Published: October 2024

The case revolves around the dilemma faced by the existing co-founders of Hygieia Health Private Limited (hereafter, Hygieia) in managing a potential startup with an amazing product but declining investor confidence due to the sudden exit of one of the co-founders. Hygieia, a tech services company that started in September 2016, represented the medical healthcare sector that served the niche customer segment—pregnant women. The startup was considered to be one of the promising businesses by early-stage tech funders. However, one of the co-founders suddenly announced that he would leave the company without parting with his stake in it. This created a major problem for the other founder members in moving ahead. The case examines the factors contributing to the crises and dilemmas faced by Hygieia’s co-founders, which led them to devise a strategic plan to overcome these challenges. It emphasizes the difficulties encountered by a growing startup and highlights the importance of having a strong team to sustain and expand the business. Additionally, the case explores relevant valuation concepts in a startup context. It provides insights into the significance of human capital in a tech startup using the people, opportunity, context and deal (POCD) framework, explores various financing options available for startups and outlines key valuation methods.
A Chart Review for Epidemiology and Outcome of Fungal Bloodstream Infections Among Neonates in a Tertiary Care Hospital at North India
Authors: Gupta Priyanka , Bir Raunak , Kushwaha Surendra Kumar , Garg Divya
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

The risk of fungal bloodstream infection (BSI) and accompanying mortality in neonates varies widely in between centres depending on the region, the population characteristics and the risk factors.

Methods

This chart review of neonatal cases with fungal BSI admitted in a tertiary care teaching hospital in North India aimed to comprehensively investigate the epidemiology, profile of fungal species (and their susceptibility to various antifungal agents), risk factors, clinical profile and outcomes in these neonates. The study spanned over a one-year period, from September 2022 to August 2023, included all symptomatic neonates with positive blood cultures for fungal pathogen.

Results

Over one year, 24 out of 1,174 neonates at risk were diagnosed with fungal BSI, with a cumulative risk of 2.0 per 100 neonates. A peak in cases occurred in February. Candida pelliculosa was the predominant species (75% of isolates), while Candida albicans constituted 4.2%. Most isolates were sensitive to fluconazole, except for some fluconazole-resistant Candida pelliculosa (5.5%) and Candida tropicalis (25.0%), which remained susceptible to amphotericin-B and voriconazole. Around 60% of neonates were preterm, 40% had very low birth weight and 37% were small for gestational age. Nearly all had received prior broad-spectrum antibiotics, with 92% receiving prolonged courses over five days. Respiratory support, including intubation and mechanical ventilation, was used in 83% before onset of fungal sepsis. Intriguingly, all neonates had some invasive device in place for more than seven days. Mortality rate of 25% was observed, with preterm birth and gastrointestinal anomalies contributing to adverse outcomes.

Conclusions

This study confirms the ongoing shift in trend from albicans to non-albicans Candida infections in our region as well. A seasonal peak of fungal sepsis noted in the month of February hinted at potential seasonal variation or lapses in infection control practices during colder months. The analysis of trends in fungal BSI might hold a significance within neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) for the prompt detection of outbreaks. Simultaneously, understanding and analysing risk factors associated with fungal BSI are essential for targeted prevention.
From Phenotype to Genotype: A Collodion Baby Case Linked to CERS3 Mutation
Authors: Amaresh Puneeth , Teotia Shubham , Garg Ajoy Kumar , Kondaparthy Nandhitha
Published: October 2024

The term “Collodion baby” is used to describe a newborn appearing with a tight, shiny, and parchment like film covering the entire body. The collodion baby is not a distinct condition but a presentation shared by various disorders. This phenotype may evolve into a range of abnormalities, such as lamellar ichthyosis, Harlequin ichthyosis, non-bullous congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma, and intermediate phenotypes. We report a case of a collodion baby who was found to have a rare mutation in CERS3 gene. Despite the potential for numerous complications arising from impaired skin barrier function, the patient experienced a remarkable recovery following meticulous management and was subsequently discharged home.
Assessment of Awareness and Knowledge of Proton Pump Inhibitors Among the General Population in Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Kalsoom Nimra , Riaz Hamza , Ajmal Washma , Ali Zain , Akram Urooj , Baig Mirza Rafi , Ahmad Shaaf , Khan Tahir Mehmood , Bukhsh Allah
Published: October 2024

Background

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are used for various conditions and are generally considered safe drugs; however, there has been a surge in their usage over time, partially related to their safety and overprescription.

Purpose

This study is aimed to assess how much the public of Lahore knows about PPI, and how they use it, and if they follow their physician’s instructions or not.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was planned to attain the objective of the study. Respondents visiting various community pharmacies were inquired about their willingness to participate in this study. Chi-square was used to find the association between sociodemographic parameters and awareness of PPIs. p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

There were mostly university students (73.7%), with 82.2% having heard of PPIs. Prevalent use (86.85%) is observed, often after a medical condition. Notably, 60.1% use PPIs as needed, but only 52.3% complete the prescribed course. PPIs were taken before meals only by 69.3% of participants. Associations exist between having heard of PPIs, and age with younger participants ( p < 0.001) exhibiting less awareness. Females also have heard lesser of PPIs ( p = 0.011). Education correlates with unawareness ( p < 0.001), and many participants are unaware of PPI side effects (51.04%).

Conclusion

The study contributes valuable insights to the understanding of PPI usage perspectives, offering implications for healthcare practices and public health awareness campaigns. Overall, the public shows signs of awareness but those are not enough to eliminate the misuse of PPIs in Lahore.
Health and Well-being of Family (ʻOhana) Caregivers of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Adults Living with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias
Authors: Jackson Alexandra Malia , Muller Clemma Jacobsen , Okamoto Scott K. , Weaver Raven H. , Kim Steffi M. , Haakenstad Magdalena , Pfeaster Cortney , Cachola Zowey , Oshiro Ashley , Ideue Kacyn , Schoenberg Nancy , Sinclair Ka’imi
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

We aimed to describe the health and well-being of family caregivers of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) adults living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), explore cultural values related to caregiving, and characterize barriers and facilitators to their health and well-being.

Methodology:

Caregivers of NHPIs living with ADRD were recruited from across the United States to complete a multimethod study including a survey followed by an interview about their health and well-being.

Results:

Eleven participants completed surveys, six of whom completed an interview. Themes included caring as a community, lōkahi (balance), and the importance of sleep, food, and physical activity. Cultural values included connection to cultural practices, kūpuna (elders) as cultural knowledge holders, and the kuleana (responsibility) of caregiving.

Discussion:

Caregiving for an NHPI adult living with ADRD occurs beyond the dyad, and is a matter of family and community. Culturally-based interventions offered through community and healthcare organizations may be critical to promoting caregiver health.
Research Challenges: Unmentionables?
Authors: Gambrill Eileen
Published: October 2024

Unmentioned challenges to conducting valuable research in social work include the politicization of education and weakened educational standards at all levels. Discovery of what helps clients requires free speech and free inquiry, always a threat to those who prefer authoritarian approaches.
Racial Diversity Influences Community Leadership Identity Development: Homogeneity as a Baseline for Measurement
Authors: Yang John
Published: October 2024

This study uses multilevel regression modeling to explore how racial diversity and other campus climate variables influence the development of community leadership identity on college campuses. Pulling from a longitudinal sample of students ( n = 7,829) over a 4-year period, findings show that attending a college campus with more racially similar peers (i.e., racial homogeneity) played a positive indirect role in predicting community leadership goals. This study's findings contribute to the existing literature on the influence of race and diversity on leadership development and provide insights that shape the development of community leaders.
Artificial Intelligence in Human Growth and Development: Applications Through the Lifespan
Authors: Fulmer Russell , Zhai Yusen
Published: October 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) applications influence human growth and development across the lifespan. This article provides a conceptual model that shows significant AI applications and their influence from prenatal to maturity using Erikson's psychosocial stages as a framework. AI influences development through diverse avenues, encompassing diagnosis, attachment formation, social skill acquisition, relationship dynamics, and caregiver support. The effects of AI interventions can be perceived as advantageous, contentious, and as raising a multitude of ethical considerations. Consequently, we propose avenues for future research endeavors to further investigate the intersection of AI and human growth and development within counseling contexts.
Medical Students’ Impression of Surgical Pathology as a Career in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hanbazazh Mehenaz , Altoukhi Samar M. , Aldawsari Lama S. , Alghamdi Maysaa A. , Ameen Nada K. , Khashab Raneem M. , Samargandy Saad , Zakariyah Abeer
Published: October 2024

Background and objectives

Surgical/anatomical pathologists study diseases to provide accurate diagnoses, identify pathogens, and participate in treatment. However, there is a need for more surgical pathologists worldwide due to low recruitment rates. One contributing factor is the medical students’ interest and knowledge about surgical pathology as a career option. Understanding medical students’ knowledge and perceptions about surgical pathologist jobs is crucial for future physicians, as it influences collaboration with pathologists and impacts patient care outcomes. This study aims to evaluate medical students’ knowledge of surgical pathologists’ jobs in Saudi Arabian medical colleges, which will help identify gaps in knowledge and develop targeted interventions to promote interest in surgical pathology as a career. For simplicity, in this study, we refer to anatomical/surgical pathology as “pathology”.

Methods and results

A cross-sectional study was done in Saudi Arabia with a total of 478 medical students examining their perception of pathologist's job using a validated questionnaire distributed through social media platforms. The study revealed that 322 (67%) had no interest and did not consider becoming pathologists in the future, and 194 (40%) chose lack of patient contact as the main reason for not joining this field. However, 15% of the students think that pathologists have flexible lifestyle.

Conclusion

Our study shows that many students are not interested in pathology as a career, with varied responses revealing uncertainty about pathologists’ roles. To spark interest, universities should involve students in laboratories and decision-making processes, prioritize understanding pathologists’ roles, and emphasize their impact on patients’ lives.
Cooperative control of multi-vehicle formation based on cooperative game
Authors: Sun Hui , Yang Renming
Published: October 2024

In this paper, an optimization decision-making method of vehicle fleet queue based on game theory is proposed. By adopting the upper and lower controller structure, the longitudinal motion stability problem of the vehicle fleet is solved. The upper controller utilizes a game control algorithm specially developed for this study. The game payoff function is constructed by considering real-time vehicle information and comprehensively evaluating factors such as expected distance, vehicle safety, and stability. The optimal expected acceleration of the vehicle is determined. Subsequently, the lower controller adjusts the engine throttle opening or brake pressure to regulate the vehicle operation according to the desired acceleration. Simulation results show that the designed game strategy can effectively reduce vehicle spacing and speed errors, thus significantly improving the stability as well as safety of fleet operation.
Maude Abbott: “A Feminine Misfit in an Exclusive Male Environment” and Her Strategies for Success
Authors: Wright James R.
Published: October 2024

Maude Abbott was a pioneering female Canadian physician who became a world authority on medical museums and congenital heart disease. Abbott spent almost all her career in highly sexist, discriminatory work environments. This paper reviews Abbott’s life and accomplishments, but, more importantly, analyzes her pathway to success in the masculine world of early 20th-century academic pathology. Abbott, though well-trained as a pathologist, never provided clinical service, but instead worked as museum curator at McGill University. She established the International Association of Medical Museums (predecessor to the International Academy of Pathology), edited its journal, and essentially ran the organization. Abbott, surrounded by influential males, dealt differently with each. In general, she recognized that male doctors believed women lacked the gravitas to lead major initiatives but that she could circumnavigate this supposed impediment by co-leading projects with male counterparts, preferably ones too busy to get in her way. She repeatedly used this approach, and by doing most of the work but sharing credit, succeeded in gaining reputation, accomplishment, and advancement. Abbott’s pioneering work on congenital heart disease established her as one of the founders of pediatric pathology, and, overall, her career promoted the entry of women physicians into the pathology profession.
Smoking Status and Premature Death Among Japanese Rural Community-Dwelling Persons
Authors: Kawamoto Ryuichi , Kikuchi Asuka , Ninomiya Daisuke , Abe Masanori , Kumagi Teru
Published: October 2024

Background: Smoking status is known to be an independent and significant predictor of health outcomes related to aging and plays a crucial role in overall mortality rates. This cohort study investigated the relationship between smoking status and survival outcomes over follow-up periods of 9 and 21 years. Methods: The sample consisted of 3526 participants with a mean age of 64 ± 12 years, 44.1% of whom were male. The median follow-up duration was 6315 days, with an interquartile range of 3441 to 7727 days. Smoking status [i.e., Brinkmann index (BI)] was calculated by multiplying the number of years smoked by the number of cigarettes smoked daily. Based on this, participants were categorized into non-smokers, former smokers, and current smokers. The data were analyzed using Cox regression, employing age as the time variable and accounting for various risk factors. Results: A total of 1111 participants (49.2%) were confirmed to have died. Among these, 564 were male (36.2% of all male participants), and 547 were female (27.8% of all female participants). The multivariate-adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for all-cause mortality compared with never-smokers was 1.51 (1.17-1.96) for former smokers with BI > 800, 1.61 (1.20-2.17) for current smokers with BI of 400-799 and 1.62 (95% CI, 1.24-2.10) with BI of ≥800 ( P for trend <0.001). Participants who died within three years of follow-up were excluded to avoid the possibility of reverse causation, but the results were essentially unchanged. Conclusion: We found that the BI is a valid predictor of future mortality risk and that BI 800 for former smokers and BI 400 for current smokers were useful cutoff values. Efforts to control smoking should focus not only on current smokers but also on former smokers to reduce the risk of premature death associated with smoking.
Classification of Infiltrative Heart Diseases MORAL-STAGE System
Authors: Reznik Elena V , Nguyen Thanh Luan , Semyachkina Alla N , Shkolnikova Maria A
Published: October 2024

Infiltrative heart disease (InHD) is a group of diseases characterized by the deposition of abnormal substances in the heart tissue, causing diastolic, less often systolic, dysfunction of the ventricle(s). Their classification still does not exist. In 2013, the MOGE(S) classification of cardiomyopathies was published, taking into account, along with the morphological and functional characteristics of the heart, damage to other organs, the presence of genetic mutations, acquired causes (e.g., myocardial inflammation, autoimmune diseases, storage diseases, amyloidosis), etc. By analogy with it we offer the MORAL-STAGE classification for InHD. It includes ten features: morphofunctional characteristics (M), organ damage (O), risk of cardiac death (R), age of clinical presentation, age of disease-specific therapy initiation (A), localization of the infiltrative process (inside or outside the cell, L), information about the functional class heart failure and stage of infiltrative heart disease (S), treatment (T), abnormal rhythm or conduction (A), genetic or familial nature of inheritance (G), etiology of the process (E). This article summarizes the cornerstones of the MORAL-STAGE classification and its clinical relevance. In addition, new issues are discussed that can be considered in future versions of the MORAL-STAGE classification.
Health care providers’ perceptions of burnout and moral distress during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study from Saskatchewan, Canada
Authors: Alhassan Jacob Albin Korem , Rohatinsky Noelle , Peru Taylor , Levandoski Carmen , Kendel Dennis , Dmytrowich Jeff , Lafontaine Tenille , Cardinal Matthew , Peña-Sánchez Juan Nicolás
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study sought to describe feelings and perceptions of burnout and moral distress experienced by health care providers in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This study was part of a larger mixed methods project, and we here report on the qualitative results relating to burnout and moral distress experienced by medical doctors, registered nurses and respiratory therapists. We used an exploratory, qualitative descriptive design involving one-one-one interviews with 24 health care providers. Interview data were analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis approach.

Results

We identified three overarching themes each for health care provider burnout and moral distress. Interviews revealed that providers experienced burnout through (i) increased expectations and (ii) unfavourable work environments, which led most of them to recognise (iii) a need to step back. Regarding moral distress, key themes were: (i) a sense of compromised care, (ii) feelings of bumping heads with authorities and patient families, and (iii) seeing patients make difficult decisions.

Conclusion

Our study found that medical doctors, registered nurses and respiratory therapists working during the COVID-19 pandemic experienced and continue to experience significant burnout and moral distress. This was often driven by both institution- and system-level factors. There is a need for sustained investment to build and support a motivated health care workforce to prepare for future pandemics and health emergencies.
Assessment of anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents: Italian validation of the short version of the spence children’s anxiety scale for parents
Authors: De Caro Elide Francesca , Delvecchio Elisa , Garofalo Carlo , Mazzeschi Claudia
Published: October 2024

The assessment of anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents requires a valid and reliable single instrument able to detect various anxiety symptoms early and systematically collect data from other informant such as parents. The present study aimed to test the one-factor structure of the SCAS-P-8 and to examine its psychometric properties and invariance across sex and age in an Italian sample of 769 parents of children and adolescents aged 3–18 years (50.8% females). Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the one-factor structure of the SCAS-P-8, which showed good reliability and invariance by sex and age. When examining mean differences by sex and age, results showed that female schoolchildren had higher anxiety scores than males and other age groups. A strong correlation with emotional problems demonstrated convergent validity, while discriminant validity resulted from the weak correlations with externalizing symptoms and relationship problems with peers. Overall, findings support the SCAS-P-8 as a valid brief instrument to assess anxiety symptoms in children and adolescents for clinical and research purposes and demonstrate its invariance across sex and age.
Weldability of new Ni-based superalloy G27: Effect of pre-weld solution annealing on the hot cracking susceptibility
Authors: Ariaseta Achmad , Andersson Joel , Ojo Olanrewaju
Published: October 2024

The hot cracking susceptibility of a new superalloy G27 was investigated by Varestraint weldability testing. The influence of pre-weld solution annealing conditions recommended by the alloy manufacturer to obtain different grain sizes (1010 °C/1 h, 1066 °C/0.5 h, and 1110 °C/1 h) for specific applications was studied. The fusion zone solidification cracking was independent of pre-weld solution annealing, and they are associated with the γ/Laves eutectic constituents. The solution-annealed material at 1010 °C/1 h showed the lowest extent of liquation cracking, while the 1110 °C/1 h condition was the most susceptible. The increased level of liquation cracking was primarily attributed to an increased grain size of pre-weld solution-annealed material. The heat-affected zone liquation cracking was identified to be caused by constitutional liquation of NbC and supersolidus melting.
Experimental and numerical study on polypropylene fibers reinforced concrete slabs with corroded reinforcement under monotonic loading
Authors: Liu Qiang , Song Yuanqi , Wang Xing , Zhang Fei , Zhang Yongshan , Wang Dayang
Published: October 2024

The degradation of structural performance due to reinforcement corrosion in reinforced concrete (RC) structures and the subsequent measures to improve the mechanical properties of corroded RC structures have garnered significant interest. This study investigates the structural performance of corroded polypropylene fiber RC slabs through both experimental and numerical approaches. Specimens were subjected to accelerated corrosion via electrochemical methods to simulate rebar corrosion. Key experimental parameters include polypropylene fiber volume fractions of 0% and 3%, design corrosion levels of 0%, 5%, and 10%, and both one-way and two-way constraints. The Digital Image Correlation (DIC) technique was employed for data acquisition. Load, deflection, strain, and crack morphology data were collected during loading. Results indicate that reinforcement corrosion increases the maximum crack width during loading, while a 3% polypropylene fiber volume fraction reduces this width by 20% to 48% at the same load level. Polypropylene fibers also enhance the peak loads and corresponding deflections of unidirectional and bidirectional specimens, with a more pronounced increase in unidirectional specimens of 11.3% and 15.4%, respectively. Although corrosion reduces the load-carrying capacity of the specimens, the inclusion of 3% polypropylene fibers significantly mitigates this reduction. A numerical model, incorporating rebar corrosion and polypropylene fibers through appropriate material constitutive models, was developed and validated against experimental results. The model accurately simulates the mechanical behavior of polypropylene fiber RC slabs with corroded reinforcement.
Reducing COVID-19-Induced Educational Slumps—Training Preservice Teachers to Be Children Coaches: An Evaluation of Effects in Elementary Schools
Authors: Lukas Sarah , Götz Kristina , Schmider Jonas , Diehm Daniela , Grassinger Robert
Published: October 2024

The school closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic have had significant side effects, particularly on the psychological well-being of pupils. This situation poses great challenges for teachers in schools. At the same time, teacher education students have to be prepared for this situation by being trained to deal with difficult situations and pupils with symptoms of psychological disorders. Furthermore, they need to adequately address the increasing heterogeneity in terms of their pupils’ learning standards. To meet these challenges, the teaching project “CaBire” was called into being. As part of this project, teacher education students first receive theoretical input to act as socio-psychological coaches for children. After the training phase, students offer support to pupils at schools. This practical phase is accompanied by coaching-supervision seminars led by psychology teachers at the university. Both the practical phase, as well as the accompanying seminars at the university can be credited to teacher education students’ studies. Here we report a good-practice example and an evaluation of this teaching concept based on data of a mixed-method design. The results are promising and point towards a beneficial program for both teacher education students and pupils.
Compatibilisation of Polymer Blends
Authors: Ajji Abdellah , Utracki L.A.
Published: October 2024

Polymer blends are mixtures of two or more polymers and/or copolymers, containing at least two weight percent of the macromolecular species. Most blends are immiscible and need to be compatibilised. The compatibilisation must: (1) ascertain the optimum degree of dispersion, (2) stabilize the morphology against the possible damage during the subsequent processing stage, and (3) secure good interfacial interactions between phases in the solid state.

Block copolymers, especially the di-block type, play a special role as model substances to study the mechanisms of compatibilisation. For this reason, their types, properties, and structure are discussed from the theoretical and experimental points of view. Next, blends of a copolymer with one, then two homopolymers are presented. Properties such as the interfacial tension, morphology, mechanical, and rheological properties are considered. Then, compatibilisation of polymer blends by either addition of a third component or by reactive blending, as well as the resulting properties, are reviewed. Finally, to provide illustration to the discussed principles, several commercial blends are described.
Iberian Vistas: Franco, Salazar, and American Conservatives
Authors: Zúquete José Pedro , Hawley George
Published: October 2024

The article takes both a historical and a present-oriented look at the influence of the twentieth-century authoritarian Iberian regimes—including their leaders, Franco and Salazar—on the American conservative movement. It explores the political and religious motivations and major narratives driving Hispanophilia and Lusophilia, and their main advocates. Furthermore, and with a comparative approach, the text analyzes the past and current arguments—in magazines, books, and social media—favoring both regimes, especially in the light of the revival within American conservatism of Catholic Integralism and the defense of alternative representative systems, such as corporatism, that could usher in a new postliberal political regime. The article further explores the potential impact—and inherent limitations—of such strategies and projects, and shows that the revival of interest in figures such as Franco and Salazar is significant not only in terms of a reinvigorated criticism of the political and moral philosophy of liberalism but also regarding the search for new political forms and regimes.