bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Prognostic Number Concentrations of Snow and Graupel on the Simulated Precipitation over the Korean Peninsula
Authors: Kwon Juhee , Lim Kyo-Sun Sunny , Park Sun-Young , Kim Kwonil , Lee Gyuwon
Published: October 2023

A new version of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) double-moment 6-class (WDM6) microphysics scheme was developed based on the existing WDM6 scheme by predicting snow and graupel number concentrations. The new WDM6 scheme was tested for summer rainfall and winter snowfall cases to evaluate the effects of prognostic number concentration of snow and graupel on the simulated precipitation. The number concentration of snow decreases at the upper layers and the one of graupel also decreases at all layers in the new WDM6 scheme compared to the diagnosed ones in the original WDM6 scheme. Rain number concentration is remarkably reduced in the new WDM6 scheme due to the newly added and modified sink processes. Therefore, the new scheme produces a larger size of raindrops with a reduced number concentration than the original scheme, which hinders raindrop evaporation and produces more surface rain. Even though the enhanced surface rainfall in the new scheme deteriorates the bias score, the new scheme improves the statistical skill of the equitable threat score and probability of detection in most cases. These scores all improved for warm-type summer cases in the new scheme. The new scheme also shows more comparable features to the observation for the probability density functions of simulated liquid equivalent precipitation rates by alleviating the overprediction problem of precipitation frequencies belonging to heavy precipitation categories. Therefore, the new scheme improves the precipitation forecast for warm-type summer cases, which occur most frequently during the summer season over the Korean Peninsula.
Fluoroquinolone Use Preceding Visceral Artery Dissection: A Case Series
Authors: Wang Louise Z. , Oehmichen Boris , Pariente Benjamin , Mohamedi Nassim , Cheng Charles , Detriche Grégoire , Galloula Alexandre , Lilo Le Louet Agnès , Messas Emmanuel , Amar Laurence , Goudot Guillaume , Mirault Tristan
Published: October 2023

Fluoroquinolones (FQ), commonly prescribed antibiotics, may trigger aortic and carotid dissections. We report three successive cases of visceral artery dissection: one patient with celiac trunk dissection and two with dissection of the superior mesenteric artery. These events occurred up to 4 months after 7 to 14 days of FQ treatment (2 cases of ofloxacin, 1 of norfloxacin). There was no other apparent cause of dissection. These dissections were isolated, apart from a minimal aortic dissection separate from the visceral arterial dissection in one case. A case series cannot certify the relationship between dissection and FQ, but it can be hypothesized. The association between fluoroquinolone use and higher occurrence of aneurysm and dissection remains discussed in aortic syndrome. The potential link between FQ and visceral artery dissection is even less described but should be reported in the absence of previous cases in the literature. The pathophysiological theory is the induction of overexpression of some matrix metalloproteinases and a decrease of their inhibitors, provoking a dysregulation in collagen synthesis and degradation of the extracellular matrix.
Taking it to the Next Level: Multilevel Modeling and the Effect of School-Level Differences in Moral Neutralization on Individual-Level Delinquency Growth in Early Adolescence
Authors: Walters Glenn D.
Published: October 2023

Based on previous research and a theoretical model which states moral neutralization is learned through interaction with others, it was hypothesized that moral neutralization would promote an accelerated rate of delinquent growth during the middle school years, while a related concept, cognitive impulsivity, would not. Using multilevel modeling with 3,166 youth (1,538 boys, 1,628 girls) from the Gang Reduction Education and Training (GREAT) study, the effects of school level moral neutralization and cognitive impulsivity on delinquent growth were evaluated over a period of 18 to 21 months. Multilevel modeling produced results consistent with the conclusion that only moral neutralization moderated the temporal rise in delinquency once age, sex, race, treatment condition, and individual-level measures of moral neutralization and cognitive impulsivity were controlled.
Educational Leaders and Their Impact on African American Alternatively Certified Male Teacher’s Educational Self-Efficacy
Authors: Antonetti Sean , Sauers Nicholas J.
Published: October 2023

This study examined the impact school leaders had on the self-efficacy of African American Male (AAM) teachers who matriculated through an alternative certification program. Purposeful sampling was used in this study with four inclusion criteria. The study occurred at a large urban Title 1 school district in the Southeast. The district was selected based on its implementation of an alternative certification program and relative success in recruiting and maintaining a diverse teaching staff. Tschannen-Moran and Hoy’s 12-item teacher self-efficacy survey was administered to select teachers who scored high on their self-efficacy scale. Eleven AAM teachers from various urban school sites participated in this study. Data were collected through one-on-one and focus group interviews. Findings revealed three themes that captured the ways school leaders impacted teacher self-efficacy. Study results can help provide leaders and policymakers with guidance as they seek to address the teaching shortage and develop a more diverse teaching workforce through alternative certification programs.
Four Years of Goods and Services Tax in India: Road Ahead
Authors: Jain Parul
Published: October 2023

The ideology behind GST was to reduce the multiplicity of existing indirect taxes and implement a uniform taxation structure across the nation. A perfect GST would have been wherein the GSTs are taxed at a single tax rate, subject to minimal or no exceptions. However, for a country like India, a tiered tax rate structure becomes inevitable to take into account the larger social agenda. GST is in the interest of trade and industry as it would do away with multiplicity of taxes and their cascading impacts. It will lead to the creation of a unified market for facilitating seamless movement of goods across the states. By subsuming a large number of Central and State taxes into a single tax, it would mitigate cascading effects or double taxation in a major way and pave the way for a national common market. However, we need to keep in mind that taxation policy has to be transparent, predictable and inclusive. This alone can maximise the favourable impact of GST on investment and growth. There is a strong case for phasing out a lot of exemptions. The GST council should seriously work on strengthening the GST system.
Barriers to the Use of Recombinant Bacterial Endotoxins Test Methods in Parenteral Drug, Vaccine and Device Safety Testing
Authors: Baker Elizabeth , Ponder Jessica , Oberdorfer Johannes , Spreitzer Ingo , Bolden Jay , Marius Marine , Bonnevay Thierry , Sullivan Kristie
Published: October 2023

The Bacterial Endotoxins Test (BET) is a critical safety test that is used to detect bacterial endotoxins, which are the major contributor to fever-inducing contamination risks known as pyrogens. All parenteral therapies, including every lot of injected drugs, vaccines, medical devices, must be tested for pyrogens to ensure patient safety. Bacterial endotoxins test methods were developed as a highly sensitive detection method for bacterial endotoxins, after the discovery of a clotting cascade in horseshoe crab blood. However, horseshoe crab species are limited to some inshore coastal habitats along the Atlantic coast of the USA and others throughout Asia. Fully functional horseshoe crab clotting factors can be manufactured via recombinant protein production, and several BET methods featuring recombinant horseshoe crab proteins have now been developed for commercial use. Recombinant Bacterial Endotoxins Test (rBET) methods based on the use of recombinant Factor C (rFC) were established in the European Pharmacopoeia — however, these methods have not yet been granted compendial status in the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP). In order to facilitate dialogue between stakeholders, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine hosted two virtual roundtable discussions on the perceived barriers to the use of rBET methods for US FDA requirements. Stakeholders agreed that multiple rFC-based methods have been demonstrated to have suitable analytical performance, as described in ICH Q2 on the Validation of Analytical Procedures and USP <1225> on the Validation of Compendial Procedures. United States Pharmacopoeia compendial inclusion of the rFC-based and other rBET methods was favoured, in order to reduce the additional burdens created by a lack of global harmonisation on BET testing requirements.
Explicating a comprehensive model of post-dissolution distress
Authors: Dailey René M. , Zhong Lingzi , Varga Sarah , Zhang Zhengyu , Kearns Kyle
Published: October 2023

Building on the extant research, the current work outlines a comprehensive model of post-dissolution distress (CMPDD). The model integrates the previous research and includes both distal (static; e.g., controllability of breakup, relational anxiety) and proximal (dynamic; e.g., desiring reconciliation, coping, quality of alternatives) factors in predicting both initial distress and change in distress over time. Potential mediating mechanisms are also proposed. We conclude with a discussion of several ways the model could be potentially refined with empirical research to generate a more specific and parsimonious theory of PDD. Ultimately, testing and refining the model will provide insights on identifying those who will be more distressed following a breakup and highlight the factors that could be altered (e.g., contact with the partners, coping strategies) to best alleviate distress.
Biases, concerns and the erosion of rights: Addressing digital issues with adopted and fostered children in a policy vacuum
Authors: Phippen Andy , Bond Emma
Published: October 2023

Online harms and the resultant safeguarding approaches are a key challenge for those working in the children’s workforce. However, safety narratives and a wish to prevent harm, rather than mitigate risk, have arguably caused a safeguarding environment that is neither mindful of children’s rights nor in their best interests. When supporting adopted and looked after children, there are some specific challenges that can result in further caution in supporting children in their use of digital technology. Empirical data presents observations on a professional environment where, with a dearth of training or policy direction, professionals are left to bring their own biases and beliefs into safeguarding judgements and, in the rush to protect, often forget the importance of working across stakeholders rather than trying to resolve issues independently.
The rapid development of a virtual Children’s Hearings System in Scotland: A realist-inspired synthesis assessing the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the participation and rights of children
Authors: Nixon Catherine , Kurlus Indiya , Hunt Melissa , Deacon Kirsty , McGarrol Sarah , Lamb Donald , Etchells Helen , McNaughton Lorna , Henderson Gillian
Published: October 2023

Scotland’s Children’s Hearings System is a unique statutory system that makes decisions about the need for compulsory professional involvement in the lives of children who are maltreated, in conflict with the law or displaying alarming behaviours. It was designed to facilitate in-person, child-centred discussions about the measures needed to ensure the care and protection of children. The Covid-19 pandemic challenged the ability of the Hearings System to fulfil this role due to the physical closure of Hearings Centres and the need to rapidly develop a virtual system. In this paper we present a realist-influenced synthesis exploring how contextual factors such as public health guidelines, emergency legislation, technological challenges and wider structural inequalities interacted with the delivery of virtual hearings to affect the participation and rights of children during the pandemic. We also describe how learning from the experiences of the participants of hearings was critical to understanding how virtual technologies could be adapted to provide a more rights-respecting approach to participation. We conclude by arguing that there is a need to ensure that the voices of children, which are largely absent from discussions around the use of virtual technologies, are incorporated into decisions made about their continued use within Children’s Hearings.
Treatment of dabigatran intoxication in critically ill patients with Acute Kidney Injury: The role of Sustained Low-Efficiency Dialysis
Authors: Pacchiarini Maria Chiara , Regolisti Giuseppe , Greco Paolo , Di Motta Tommaso , Benigno Giuseppe Daniele , Delsante Marco , Fiaccadori Enrico , Di Mario Francesca
Published: October 2023

The use of dabigatran in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) has widely increased in the last decades, due to its positive effects in terms of safety/efficacy. However, because of the risk of major bleeding, a great degree of attention has been suggested in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities. Notably, dabigatran mainly undergoes renal elimination and dose adjustment is recommended in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). In this regard, the onset of an abrupt decrease of kidney function may further affect dabigatran pharmacokinetic profile, increasing the risk of acute intoxication. Idarucizumab is the approved antagonist in the case of dabigatran-associated major bleeding or concomitant need of urgent surgery, but its clinical use is limited by the lack of data in patients with Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). Thus, the early start of Extracorporeal Kidney Replacement Therapy (EKRT) could be indicated to remove the drug and to reverse the associated excess anticoagulation. Sustained Low-Efficiency Dialysis (SLED) could represent an effective therapeutic option to reduce the dabigatran plasma levels rapidly while avoiding post-treatment rebound. We present here a case series of three AKI patients with acute dabigatran intoxication, effectively and safely resolved with a single SLED session.
The Impact of Tax Increment Financing on Business Entries and Exits in Iowa
Authors: Choi Yoon-Jung , Nguyen-Hoang Phuong
Published: October 2023

One of the economic development objectives of tax increment financing (TIF) is to increase business entries and decrease exits in designated areas. The authors use data on sales and use tax permit registrations in Iowa for two of the largest counties, Johnson and Polk, during the period 1990 through 2017 to estimate the effects of TIF on business establishments, entries, and exits. Using an event-study design, the analysis of pooled data suggests that TIF has no significant effect on total establishments or business entries, and significantly reduces business exits. TIF seems to increase establishments in Johnson County and to reduce business exits in Polk County. Of the industries examined, retail stands to benefit the most from TIF. The authors also find limited evidence of spatial spillover effects of TIF.
Caregiving Time of Unpaid Family Caregivers Assisting Older Adults With Hearing Difficulty
Authors: Zhang Wuyang , Powell Danielle S. , Garcia Morales Emmanuel E. , Deal Jennifer A. , Reed Nicholas S.
Published: October 2023

Objectives: We aimed to investigate the association of older adults’ hearing difficulty status with caregiving time. Methods: We used data from two linked surveys of Medicare beneficiaries and family caregivers. Hearing difficulty was defined by hearing aid use and hearing capacity in functional settings. Weighted multivariable linear regression examined the association between hearing difficulty and caregiving time. Stratified analyses were conducted to investigate the moderation effects of caregiving networks and care recipient’s dementia status. Results: Among 3003 caregivers, those who assisted older adults with hearing difficulty were observed to spend greater time providing care (β = 1.18, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.04, 1.32). Stronger associations in magnitude were observed among caregivers without caregiving networks (β = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.13, 1.56) and assisting older adults without dementia (β = 1.22; 95% CI = 1.06, 1.37). Discussion: Hearing difficulty may contribute to greater caregiving time and remains a potential target for caregiver support programs.
Financial decentralization and third-Mission outputs: A comparative study of Higher Education contexts in Brazil and the United States
Authors: Tonelli Dany Flavio , Gibson David
Published: October 2023

Third Mission (TM) drives universities to a purpose beyond their traditional role, especially in local socioeconomic and innovation ecosystems. To investigate the issue, we consider an exploratory and comparative study of two different governance systems of public universities (Southeast Brazil-region 1 and Texas-US-region 2). The comparison took into account data from international universities' rankings performance to address TM and the structure of financial sources to address financial decentralization. The available evidence seems to suggest a positive association between the level of financial decentralization and the capability of the system of HE to deliver TM outputs. Universities under decentralized governance structures, which permit more autonomy to manage their resources, presented better results in most selected TM indicators. These findings reinforce the general belief that the governance arrangements that allow exploring synergies within local business ecosystems are more appropriate for ensuring organizational changes in the direction of entrepreneurial action.
Preventing Homelessness Among Youth Aging Out of Foster Care: Formative Evaluation Results of a Coach-Like Engagement Model
Authors: Davis Lanae , Thibodeau Hilary
Published: October 2023

Pathways to Success (Pathways) is a youth-driven intervention designed to prevent homelessness among youth with foster care experience as they approach early adulthood. This formative evaluation measures the feasibility of implementing this intervention and its potential for improving outcomes in several key areas. One hundred twenty-eight youth at risk of homelessness were provided Pathways, and outcomes were measured using pre- and post-survey data. Fidelity measures were established to ensure services were delivered as designed and rates of homelessness significantly decreased, from 37% at pretest to 10% following engagement with Pathways. This formative evaluation builds evidence for Pathways and lays the foundation for future research on homelessness prevention for youth with foster care experience.
Bartholin Duct Cyst and Nodular Hyperplasia: A Clinicopathological Study of 32 Patients
Authors: Akbarzadeh-Jahromi Mojgan , Taheri Negar , Mohajerani Sadaf , Taheri Nasim , Abiri Fatemeh
Published: October 2023

Background: Inflammatory lesions and cysts are the most common Bartholin glands pathologic diagnoses. There have been very few reports of benign solid lesions of Bartholin glands such as nodular hyperplasia. Materials and methods: Thirty-two lesions diagnosed as Bartholin duct cyst in the gynecologic specialized institute were reviewed by two expert gynecological pathologists. Results: Using specific criteria, 7 qualified as nodular hyperplasia, 25 as Bartholin duct cyst. The average age of the patients with nodular hyperplasia was 31 years (range, 24 to 43). These lesions were solid, solid and cystic or purely cystic, had a mean maximal dimension of 3.3 cm, and were frequently thought to be Bartholin cysts on clinical examination. Four lesions were diagnosed as Bartholin duct cysts, while in the review they were considered as nodular hyperplasia. Conclusion: Nodular hyperplasia of Bartholin gland may be more common than is reported in the literature. This study showed that the diagnosis of nodular hyperplasia has been overlooked due to limited literature sources.
Comparative study of damage modeling techniques for beam-like structures and their application in vehicle-bridge-interaction-based structural health monitoring
Authors: Zhou Junyong , Zhou Zunian , Jin Zeren , Liu Siying , Lu Zelin
Published: October 2023

Damage modeling techniques are essential tools for revealing the impact pattern of damage on structural responses. Currently, different damage level parameters are defined for different damage modeling techniques, but there is no established equivalence among them. This might plague researchers in their selection of damage modeling techniques for theoretical and numerical studies. To address this challenge, comparative studies of different damage modeling techniques for beam-like structures were conducted, and their impact on vehicle-bridge-interaction (VBI)-based structural health monitoring was analyzed. First, the theoretical basis of four damage modeling techniques, that is, element stiffness loss, element mass increase, cracked beam element, and crack spring element, were analyzed, and equivalent damage level relationships were established based on beam frequencies. Then, a finite element simulation of the VBI system consisting of a two-axle vehicle and a beam-like structure with damage was formulated and verified. Finally, the impacts of different damage modeling techniques with unified damage levels on the dynamic responses were studied, and the feasibilities of damage identification using vehicle and bridge responses under different damage modeling techniques were compared. The results indicated that the dynamic responses generated by different damage modeling techniques varied under the same damage level. The damage modeling technique using the crack spring element posed the most significant impact on the VBI responses, the cracked beam element and element stiffness loss techniques had the equivalent impact, but the element mass increase technique showed a negligible impact. Damage location and severity could be well detected by the cracked beam element and element stiffness loss techniques. However, the dynamic responses generated by the element mass increase technique could not be used to identify the damage. Vehicle responses were more useful than bridge responses for damage identification, demonstrating the advancement of indirect monitoring of bridge health conditions using an instrumented passing vehicle.
An Observational Study of the Implementation of the Tobacco-Free Film and Television Policy in India
Authors: Negi Nalin Singh , Gill Vineet Munish , Maharjan Meena , Sinha Praveen , Puri Pallavi , Mallik Vaishakhi , Mullin Sandra , Tullu Fikru , Murukutla Nandita
Published: October 2023

Background

Positive portrayals of tobacco use in entertainment media can normalize and perpetuate use. In 2012, the Government of India implemented the Tobacco-Free Film and Television Rules, a first-of-its-kind comprehensive regulation to restrict tobacco depiction in films and television programs. Two complementary studies were undertaken to assess the implementation of the film rules on television and in movie theaters.

Methods

In the first part, movie theater observations and exit surveys were conducted from Feb. 3 to March 24, 2015. In total, 308 movie theaters were selected for the observation of films. A total of 3080 exit surveys were conducted to assess moviegoers’ reactions toward the film rule. The second part comprised the systematic observation of 424 prerecorded television programs that aired from Nov. 20 to Dec. 30, 2015.

Results

Compliance with the Tobacco-Free Film and Television Rules policy was lower on television than in movie theaters. While 66% of television programs with tobacco scenes implemented at least 1 of the 3 elements of the film rule, not a single program executed all required elements correctly. In movie theaters, 99% of films that contained tobacco scenes implemented at least one element of the film rule. However, all elements of the film rules were implemented correctly during 27% of the films observed. Exit surveys showed that among moviegoers who recalled viewing at least one element of the film rule, there was increased concern about tobacco’s harms and intentions to quit.

Conclusion

Implementation of the film rules was higher in movie theaters than on television, though there were gaps in implementation for both. Despite inconsistent application, audience reactions to the anti-tobacco messages were favorable, with increased concern about tobacco’s harms and intention to quit. Overall, the film rules offer a strong tool for countering tobacco promotion, reaching hundreds of millions with anti-tobacco messaging.
Lessons Learned From COVID-19 Lockdown: An ASPED/MENA Study on Lifestyle Changes and Quality of Life During Ramadan Fasting in Children and Adolescents Living With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Babiker Amir , Elbarbary Nancy Samir , Alaqeel Bothainah , Al Noaim Khalid , Al Yaarubi Saif , Al-Abdulrazzaq Dalia , Al-Kandari Hessa , Alkhayyat Haya , Odeh Rasha , Babiker Omer , Abu-Libdeh Abdulsalam , Aljohani Amal , Al Abdul Salam Noof , Al-Juailla Fatima , Masuadi Emad , Deeb Asma , Weissberg-Benchell Jill , Gregory Alice M. , Hassanein Mohamed , Al Alwan Ibrahim
Published: October 2023

Background:

Lockdown was a unique experience that affected many aspects of life, particularly during the challenge of Ramadan fasting (RF). Studying this can increase understanding of the effects of lifestyle changes on quality of life (QoL) for children with type 1 diabetes (T1D) during RF.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study that assessed the effect of lockdown on lifestyle and QoL on fasting children living with T1D during Ramadan in the Middle East and North Africa region (2020-2021). We compared the child (self) and parent (proxy) reports using PEDQoL v3.0 disease specific questionnaire during lockdown and non-lockdown periods, and assessed correlations with lifestyle changes using regression and gap analyses.

Results:

A total of 998 reports from 499 children with T1D aged 8 to 18 years (study = 276, control = 223), and their parents during RF in lockdown and non-lockdown periods. Fathers were more involved in their children’s care during lockdown ( P = .019). Patients had better compliance with treatment ( P = .002), a reversed sleep pattern ( P = .033), increased food intake ( P ⩽ .001), and less exercise ( P < .001). Children and parents perceived better QoL during lockdown ( P ⩽.001) with no differences between their reports in “Diabetes Symptoms”, “Treatment Adherence,” and “Communication” domains. Self and proxy reports were different in all domains during non-lockdown ( P = <.001-.009). In gap analysis, although not statistically significant, the gap was approximated between children’s and parents’ perceptions in all domains during lockdown.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 lockdown had a positive impact on QoL of children living with T1D during RF, possibly due to lifestyle changes and superior psychosocial family dynamics.
Evaluating the Role of Morphological Parameters in the Prostate Transition Zone in PHI-Based Predictive Models for Detecting Gray Zone Prostate Cancer
Authors: Qian Yu-Hang , Shi Yun-Tian , Sheng Xu-Jun , Liao Hai-Hong , Chen Hao-Jie , Shi Bo-Wen , Yu Yong-Jiang
Published: October 2023

Background:

The early detection of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) through the integration of multidimensional parameters presents a promising avenue for improving survival outcomes for this fatal disease. This study aimed to assess the contribution of prostate transition zone (TZ) to predictive models based on the prostate health index (PHI), with the goal of enhancing early detection of csPCa in the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) gray zone.

Methods:

In this observational cross-sectional study, a total of 177 PSA gray zone patients (total prostate-specific antigen [tPSA] level ranging from 4.0 to 10.0 ng/mL) were recruited and received PHI detections from August 2020 to March 2022. Prostatic morphologies especially the TZ morphological parameters were measured by transrectal ultrasound (TRUS).

Results:

Univariable logistic regression indicated prostatic morphological parameters including total prostate volume (PV) indexes and transitional zone volume indexes were all associated with csPCa ( P < .05), while the multivariable analysis demonstrated that C-reactive protein (CRP), PHI, PHI density (PHID), and PHI transition zone density (PHI-TZD) were the 4 independent risk factors. The receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis suggested that integrated predictive models (PHID, PHI-TZD) yield area under the curves (AUCs) of 0.9135 and 0.9105 in csPCa prediction, which shows a relatively satisfactory predictive capability compared with other predictors. Moreover, the PHI-TZD outperformed PHID by avoiding 30 patients’ unnecessary biopsies while maintaining 74.36% specificity at a sensitivity of 90%. Decision-curve analysis (DCA) confirmed the comparable performance of the multivariable full-risk prediction models, without the inclusion of the net benefit, thereby highlighting the superior diagnostic efficacy of PHID and PHI-TZD in comparison with other diagnostic models, in both univariable and multivariable models.

Conclusion:

Our data confirmed the value of prostate TZ morphological parameters and suggested a significant advantage for the TZ-adjusted PHI predictive model (PHI-TZD) compared with PHI and PHID in the early detection of gray zone csPCa under specific conditions.
A rational design of a carbon black percolation network glass fibers for modeling an in situ self-reporting composite
Authors: David Amos Gamaleal , Vimal Samsingh Ramalingam , Esther Florence Sundarsingh
Published: October 2023

The study proposed in this manuscript is aimed at developing a novel real-time monitoring system using carbon black (CB) as the primary sensing material which is nontoxic, highly sensitive, easily synthesizable, and durable at harsh environments. The percolation network characteristics are studied in order to determine a better approach to the existing prototypal model. Varying percentages of CB such as 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt% were added to a 10 wt% of surfactant solution. The solution is coated on a glass fiber (GF) strand and embedded in GF laminate to form a self-monitoring composite. A novel approach is developed where a pre-programmed setup is used to read out electrical resistance directly. The average resistance is found to be 227, 390, 589, and 842 kΩ for varying percentages of CB. 5wt% CB exhibits a higher gauge factor compared to the remaining proportions. It is characterized by studying the percolation network where many of the conductive pathways seemed to become disconnected on the application of load. The XRD characteristics confirmed the phase change in the material at (100) and (101/111) at 2θ = 24.45o and 2θ = 44.47o. A mathematical model is established using which stress in computed using the electrical resistance values obtained from the data acquisition module. This is used to continuously monitor the in situ behavior of any model subjected to external disturbances by self-reporting the data that is necessary for fault diagnosis.
Securing non-domination in the social republic: A social republican theory of rights
Authors: Coleman Michael
Published: October 2023

Recently, some scholars have sought to cast Marx and other socialists as participants in the republican tradition, expanding ideas such as non-domination and self-rule beyond what they had been typically conceived of as by many of the instigators of the revival of republican thought in recent decades. The ramifications of such an expansion, however, have not yet been fully grappled with in the area of rights. This article aims to remedy this by building a theory of social republican rights by drawing on both prongs of this framework. I argue that (1) rights ought to function primarily as instruments to overcome domination and that Marxist and socialist analysis identifies novel forms of domination missed by other republicans, (2) certain liberal rights are themselves vectors of domination, (3) rights are realised through active will formation in politics and the public sphere rather than being pre-political claims against these things, (4) rights should be based on a social ontology that is relational rather than individualist and (5) rights are powers that are struggled for and operate as zones of contestation rather than trans-historical principles.
Investigation of the daylight spectrum in an indoor environment using CIE S 026 melanopic metrics
Authors: Englezou M , Michael A
Published: October 2023

Since discovering the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) and their impact on the circadian rhythm, many disciplines have been researching the physiological and psychological effects of light on humans. However, not much research has been conducted on how the spatial configuration of a room (orientation and gaze direction) changes the light quality and quantity. This research examines the variability of the natural lighting spectrum, focusing on light intensity, the spectrum itself, as well as variations across seasons and hours. The metrics examined are the CIE S 026 melanopic equivalent daylight illuminance (melanopic EDI) and melanopic daylight efficacy ratio (melanopic DER). Field measurements were taken in a room with a south orientation located in Cyprus, using a spectrometer. The main parameters under study were eight gaze directions, four seasons (June, September, December and March) and four different hours each day (09:00, 12:00, 15:00 and 18:00) for 20 positions in the test room. The results show the impact of season, time and gaze direction on the melanopic DER and melanopic EDI. Overall, due to the low sun angle and direct sunlight exposure in the winter, the melanopic EDI was much higher compared to the other three seasons, whereas the melanopic DER had the lowest values. For all seasons and times, most of the cases achieved the minimum recommendation for daytime light exposure of melanopic EDI of more than 250 lx.
The Futures Triangle in the Workplace - Using Strategic Foresight to Anticipate, Plan for and Respond to New Challenges in Business
Authors: Mulligan Victoria
Published: October 2023

The future of work is constantly evolving and changing, making it increasingly challenging for businesses to anticipate and respond to these changes. Strategic foresight, the process of systematically exploring the future to identify and understand potential opportunities and threats, has become an essential tool for organisations that want to remain competitive and adapt to the changing nature of work. This paper focuses on the futures triangle tool, a widely used strategic foresight tool, and provides examples of how it can be used by organisations to prepare for the future of work.
Digital technology usage among older adults with cognitive frailty: A survey during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Md Fadzil Nurul Hidayah , Shahar Suzana , Singh Devinder Kaur Ajit , Rajikan Roslee , Vanoh Divya , Mohamad Ali Nazlena , Mohd Noah Shahrul Azman
Published: October 2023

Objective

The research aimed to study digital divide by determining the usage of digital technology among older adults with cognitive frailty (CF) in Malaysia.

Methods

The dataset was obtained from the AGELESS trial screening phase conducted from October 2021 to March 2022, involving 476 community-dwelling Malaysian older adults (67.7 years old ± 6.1). Digital technology usage was assessed and CF was determined using Fried's criteria and Clinical Dementia Rating. A binary logistic regression was used to determine the sociodemographic factors associated with digital technology use among older adults with CF.

Results

The findings suggest a digital divide between older adults with CF and robust in Malaysia. CF individuals (72.1%) were less likely to utilise digital technology, mainly smartphone than robust older adults (89.6%). More than 70% of older people owned social media on their smartphones, namely, WhatsApp. The most frequent online activities in both groups were family interaction and obtaining current news. CF older adults were less likely to play games on their smart devices. Usage of digital technology was more common among male, younger age, attained formal education more than 6 years, had a higher monthly household income, and robust participants.

Conclusions

The usage of digital technology was inversely related to CF status. CF older adults were less likely to integrate digital technology into their daily living compared to robust even though they were familiar with it. The use of digital technology should be reinforced among female, advanced age, widowers/divorcees without formal education and those from lower- or middle-income statuses, and cognitively frail older people.
SMiShing Attack Vector: Surveying End-User Behavior, Experience, and Knowledge
Authors: Edwards Morgan , Morris Thomas , Chen Jing , Still Jeremiah
Published: October 2023

Phishing attacks steal sensitive and valuable information from end-users. Human Factors researchers have extensively studied Phishing over decades, revealing numerous psychological vulnerabilities. A greater understanding of the interaction between attackers and end-users has produced more effective: policies, models, training, and defensive mechanisms. The Human Factors literature lacks information about non-technical users’ knowledge, experience, and behaviors in response to SMiShing. The current survey collected pilot data from college students with average cyber hygiene scores. Our results suggest that while users do not clearly understand the term SMiShing, they report knowing the danger. While all participants reported that using links within text messages from unknown senders can lead to security vulnerabilities, most reported using the links anyway. Users vet messages based on the sender’s phone number and typos, rather than delivery time and other message recipients. These descriptive findings can be used to support future work attempting to defend against SMiShing attacks.
People with high self-control have increased performance and neural efficiency in temporally uncertain vigilance tasks
Authors: Mouloua Salim A. , Shaw Tyler H.
Published: October 2023

The vigilance decrement, the decline in behavioral adaptability seen after sustaining attention over time, has been a monumental problem in the applied sciences for the past 70 years. Trait selfcontrol is a measure of the general capability to regulate one’s own cognitive resources. In the present study, participants performed a 24-minute vigilance task that was either synchronous (temporally regular) or asynchronous (temporally irregular). We empirically investigated the effects of self-control, watch period, and event asynchrony on performance and neural resource expenditure through functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Here we demonstrate that trait self-control indexes an operator’s capability to prevent making false alarms. Additionally, we elaborate on the functional role of self-control in optimizing right parietal resource usage and subsequently, resilience against the vigilance decrement. Finally, we discuss theoretical and practical implications for Neuroergonomics practitioners.
Evaluating Avatar Designs for On-Person Screening in Aviation Security
Authors: Zish Kevin , Roldan Stephanie , McKnight Simone , Band David , Gish Ken
Published: October 2023

In aviation security, on-person screening quality is dependent on security screeners accurately translating the location of a digital 2D alarm to a 3D passenger using mental spatial scaling. Currently, security screeners are shown an alarm on a generic human figure (avatar) designed to protect passenger privacy. The problem is that the avatar may be overly generic and it can be challenging for security screeners to quickly and confidently locate the threat. To compensate, security screeners may increase their search area to guarantee that the threat is found. In prior work, an avatar design with relevant landmarks improved location accuracy. For this study, we compared the redesigned avatar to three other avatar designs that are used by on-person screening vendors. The results of the study showed that screeners had significantly smaller search areas (30% smaller) and were closer to the true target location (15% closer) when using the redesigned avatar.
A Systematic Literature Review for Measure, Estimation, and Mitigation of Motion Sickness in Vehicle Environment
Authors: Song Yein , Yoon Byeolyi , Park Jungyeon , Bae Jaehoo , Seu Donghoon , Yang Jaesik , Kim Seonghyeon , Yun Myung Hwan
Published: October 2023

Motion sickness is a significant research topic that can impede the widespread adoption of Internal combustion vehicles (ICV), electric vehicles (EV), and automated vehicles (AV). As the technologies for EVs and AVs continue to advance, Numerous studies have been conducted to investigate motion sickness in vehicle environments considering more detailed driving contexts. Thus, this paper focuses on trends and findings related to methods, strategies, and theories for detecting, preventing, or mitigating motion sickness in vehicles. A total of 52 articles published within the last five years were reviewed to examine the overall trends in motion sickness measurement and evaluation. The results of this study are expected to provide a foundation for the development of motion sickness prevention and mitigation functions, thereby improving the driving experience for users by making it safer and more comfortable.
Validating a Safety Culture Toolkit for Aviation
Authors: Key Kylie N. , Choi Inchul , Hu Peter T. , Schroeder David J.
Published: October 2023

Safety culture has ranked as a top human factors challenge for aviation maintenance, but there is a lack of actionable guidance for properly assessing and improving safety culture. As part of its efforts to promote a positive safety culture in aviation maintenance, the researchers developed and validated a new safety culture toolkit. The toolkit consists of a customizable survey, scoring guidance, and a roadmap for safety culture improvement. The data from n = 987 participants across five participating organizations supported the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model. Safety culture was a significant predictor of both Individual and Organizational Outcomes, with Individual Outcomes partially mediating the impact of safety culture on Organizational Outcomes. These results provided initial evidence of the content and predictive validity.
Proposal of ACT-R cognitive modeling method for Stroop Task based on quantitative prediction of mental workload
Authors: Oh Hyungseok , Yun Yongdeok , Myung Rohae
Published: October 2023

The Stroop task is used to understand human errors in cognitive processing, particularly in the context of ACT-R cognitive architecture. In existing ACT-R models, the Stroop effect is driven by the competition between intuitive and deliberate processes. However, it is difficult to determine criteria for intuition and deliberation. In this study, we propose a new method based on dual process theory for the Stroop task. We represent the switches between intuitive and deliberate processes through the quantitative prediction value of cognitive load based on ACTR. The proposed cognitive model shows a relatively good representation of the Stroop effect, as demonstrated by the validation experiment. This method contributes to the expansion of the ACT-R modeling field by enabling the representation of human errors due to intuitive decisions in the Stroop task.
Using Knowledge Graphs to Explore Perspective Taking in Multi-Person Discussion
Authors: Baber Type Chris , Taal Alexandra
Published: October 2023

Human Factors has long been involved in knowledge engineering, for example to better understand how humans make decisions or to inform the designs of systems that support or emulate human decision making. In this paper, we explore a relatively new technology (Knowledge Graphs) to investigate perspective taking in organizations. The paper demonstrates a process through which Knowledge Graphs can be constructed from Critical Incident Interviews, via Concept Maps, and uploaded to Neo4j. The Knowledge Graphs are constructed from different domain experts and the subsequent analysis shows where similarity and differences between these. It is argued that this can be used to capture the perspective taking of each domain.
An Assessment of the Current State of Human Factors Training Related to Aging and Gerontology
Authors: Williams Kimberly N. , Fausett Crystal M. , Lange Ryan A. , Lazzara Elizabeth H. , Chaparro Alex
Published: October 2023

Human factors is an interdisciplinary field that seeks to understand interactions between humans and other elements of a system. As such, human factors practitioners, researchers, and students should be informed of age-related changes in sensory processing, memory, and attention across the lifespan and their relevance to design. Advancements in healthcare and an aging generation from the mid-20th century baby boom have led to increasingly older populations worldwide. To continue functioning independently, older adults will need to be able to use technology both now and in the future. Product designs must appropriately accommodate and be accepted by the growing aging population. Thus, it is particularly pertinent to understand how the new generations of human factors students are being educated about agingrelated changes that can inform the design of technology. Therefore, the current project seeks to document the prevalence of coursework and courses dedicated to aging and gerontology within human factors programs.
Effect of Motion Feedback on Skill Acquisition: Training Performance using an Excavator Simulator
Authors: Warren Ashley D , Proctor Robert W , Dunston Phillip S.
Published: October 2023

Excavator simulators provide the primary advantage to construction industry workers of allowing safe and cost-effective training to occur, as compared to using physical equipment. Whether training benefits from equipping the simulator with a platform that simulates motion is a subject of interest, but it has been addressed previously mainly within flight and driving simulator research. Because there are unique aspects of the motion feedback in excavator simulators, we studied its inclusion in the present experiment. Novice participants performed Block 1 of a session operating an excavator simulator without the motion platform being activated. Then, half the participants performed Blocks 2 and 3 with motion activated and half without, after which both groups were tested without the motion platform in Block 4. Substantial improvements in productivity and time to complete the task across the four blocks were evident for both groups, with no significant difference between the groups in Blocks 1 and 4 (where both groups had no motion) or Blocks 2 and 3 (in which one group had motion and the other did not). Thus, this study found no evidence that the motion platform had a benefit or cost to improvement of performance in the excavator simulator.