bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How do different management control configurations influence construction safety professionals' work attitudes
Authors: Ju Chuanjing , Ning Yan , Shen Yuzhong
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Safety professionals' primary job is to execute safety control measures towards frontline personnel, and previous studies focus on the effectiveness of such controls. Rare research efforts, however, have been devoted to the effectiveness of management control measures towards safety professionals themselves. This study aimed to fill up this knowledge gap by examining whether safety professionals under differing management control configurations differ in their work attitudes, including affective commitment, job satisfaction, career commitment and intention to quit.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on a holistic view of control, five forms of management control, i.e. outcome control, process control, capability control, professional control and reinforcement, were investigated. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey targeting at construction safety professionals was conducted. The latent profile analysis approach was employed to identify how the five forms of management control are configured, i.e. identifying the distinctive patterns of control profiles. The Bolck–Croon–Hagenaars method was then used to examine whether safety professionals' work attitudes were different across the identified control profiles.

Findings

Seven distinct control profiles were extracted from the sample of 475 construction safety professionals. The overall test of outcome means showed that mean levels of affective commitment, job satisfaction and intentions to quit were significantly different across the seven profiles. The largest that was also the most desirable subgroup was the high control profile (n = 161, 33.9%). The least desirable subgroups included the low control profile (n = 75, 15.8%) and the low capability and professional control profile (n = 12, 2.5%). Pairwise comparison suggested that capability, professional and process controls were more effective than outcome control and reinforcement.

Originality/value

In theory, this study contributes to the burgeoning literature on how to improve the effectiveness of control measures targeted at safety professionals. The results suggested that effective management controls involve a fine combination of formal, informal, process and output controls. In practice, this study uncovers the ways in which managers leverage the efforts of safety professionals in achieving safety goals. Particularly, it informs managers that the control configurations, instead of isolated controls, should be executed to motivate safety professionals.
Philosophy of science and research paradigm for business research in the transformative age of automation, digitalization, hyperconnectivity, obligations, globalization and sustainability
Authors: Lim Weng Marc
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This article aims to explain the role of philosophical anchors and research paradigms in business research, and how they can be extrapolated in the transformative era of automation, digitalization, hyperconnectivity, obligations, globalization and sustainability (ADHOGS) in the midst of disruption, volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (DVUCA).

Design/methodology/approach

This article entails a general review based on the 3Es of exposure, expertise and experience, delving into the ontological, epistemological, methodological, axiological and rhetorical aspects of the major research paradigms—i.e. positivism, post-positivism, constructivism, interpretivism and pragmatism—and their interplay with the emergent trends shaping business research.

Findings

This article underscores the multifaceted nature of business research in the modern day, with an increasing need for blending, or shifting between, research paradigms to address the complex issues arising from automation, digitalization, hyperconnectivity, obligations, globalization and sustainability (ADHOGS). This article also highlights the nuanced interplay between research paradigms and theoretical perspectives, demonstrating the rich, diverse potential of business research inquiries.

Research limitations/implications

While this article provides a broad overview of the interplay between research paradigms and emerging trends, future research could explore each of these interplays in greater detail, conducting empirical studies or utilizing specific case studies.

Practical implications

Researchers and practitioners should be open to adopting, combining or switching between different paradigms according to the demands of their research questions, context and trends shaping the business landscape, thereby underscoring the need for methodological flexibility and reflexivity in business research.

Social implications

The shift toward embracing digital transformations and integrating sustainability in business research holds significant implications, driving socially responsible and sustainable business practices at the micro-level, and by extension, industrial revolution and sustainable development at the macro-level.

Originality/value

This article offers a holistic and contextualized view of the philosophy of science and research paradigms for business research, bridging the gap between philosophical foundations and contemporary research trends.
Abusive supervision and psychological well-being: the mediating role of self-determination and moderating role of perceived person-organization fit
Authors: Wang Wenxian , Kang Seung-Wan , Choi Suk Bong , Jeung Wonho
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Today, psychological well-being is increasingly valued by organizations because it is integral to employee performance. The style of leaders supervising their subordinates is an important influence on their psychological well-being. Abusive supervision can lead to a depletion of resources among their subordinates by inducing psychological stress, leading to a decline in psychological well-being. In this research, the authors use the conservation of resources (COR) theory and self-determination theory to examine the mechanism between abusive supervision and psychological well-being. This study can contribute to previous research by applying the COR theory and self-determination theory, which were not discussed, to explain the relationship between leader's leadership behavior and psychological well-being of organizational members.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct a multi-time data collection method of two waves with six-week intervals. The authors received 322 samples and conducted a confirmatory factor analysis to test result validity and used multiple regression to examine the direct and moderating effects. Additionally, the authors used the bootstrapping method to test mediating effects.

Findings

The results show that abusive supervision is negatively related to psychological well-being and self-determination plays the mediating role between them, while perceived person-organization fit is the moderator between self-determination and psychological well-being.

Originality/value

The authors identified self-determination as the mediator between abusive supervision and psychological well-being and perceived person-organization fit plays the moderating role between self-determination and psychological well-being.
Should SMEs diversify their global destinations? The role of market insights and digital transformation
Authors: Luu Tien Dung
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between geographic diversification (GD) and export performance (EP) by analysing a sample of small exporters in an emerging market.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample comprised 96 small and medium-sized exporting enterprises (SMEs) in Vietnam. The data is analysed using multiple regression analysis (MRA), Hayes' process model and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA).

Findings

The results indicate that GD significantly negatively affects EP. In this dilemma, the export market orientation (EMO) and digital transformation positively moderated the relationship between GD and EP, such that the negative effect of GD on EP was weaker when EMO and digital were stronger.

Originality/value

This initial study contributes significantly to international business theories and practices, which reveal the role of GD via firm digital capacity and EMO in thriving SMEs’ EP. This study might grant new insight into international business and a critical approach to addressing the new insights small firms may face in a fragile but technologically advanced world.
Domain‐general and reading‐specific cognitive flexibility and its relation with other executive functions: Contributions to science text reading comprehension
Authors: Escobar José‐Pablo , Meneses Alejandra , Hugo Evelyn , Barber Ana Taboada , Montenegro Maximiliano
Published: January 2024

Background

Cognitive and linguistic factors have been incorporated into models to explain reading comprehension beyond classical models of reading. This study explores the contribution of executive functions, mainly domain‐general and reading‐specific cognitive flexibility, in reading comprehension of science texts in monolingual Spanish speaking upper elementary students.

Methods

A total of 275 Chilean students from fourth to sixth grade participated in this study. They were evaluated in working memory, inhibition, reading fluency, domain‐general and reading‐specific cognitive flexibility, academic vocabulary and science reading comprehension.

Results

The results show that cognitive flexibility is a variable that explains performance in science reading comprehension across elementary grades. Furthermore, reading domain‐specific cognitive flexibility was found to be the variable that explains additional performance in science reading comprehension above inhibition, reading fluency, academic vocabulary and domain‐general cognitive flexibility in Grade 4 and Grade 5, but not in Grade 6.

Conclusions

These results suggest the contribution of cognitive variables such as cognitive flexibility in explaining performance in reading comprehension of science texts. The need to develop cognitive tests specific to reading domain is also discussed.
Circular RNA expression profile and functional analysis of circUvrag in light‐induced photoreceptor degeneration
Authors: Kong Kangjie , Ding Xinyi , Wang Yingchao , Xu Sisi , Li Gang , Wang Xin , Zhang Meng , Ni Yingqin , Xu Gezhi
Published: January 2024

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are implicated in retinal pathophysiology; however, their expression profiles and functions in photoreceptor apoptosis are largely unknown. We explored circRNA‐expression profiles and circUvrag (host gene: Uvrag, ultraviolet radiation resistance associated gene) function in light‐induced photoreceptor apoptosis.

Methods

Sprague–Dawley rats and 661 W photoreceptor cells were exposed to blue light to establish light‐induced photoreceptor degeneration. Differentially expressed circRNAs were identified using microarrays. Potential functions of dysregulated circRNAs were analysed using Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses. CircUvrag expression and localization were evaluated using quantitative RT‐PCR and fluorescence in situ hybridization, respectively. CircUvrag overexpression and knockdown were induced using a plasmid and a small interfering RNA, respectively, and retinal function and structure were assessed using scotopic electroretinography, haematoxylin–eosin staining, and TUNEL staining. Microglial migration was assessed using IBA1 immunostaining. The apoptosis ratio of photoreceptor cells in vitro was detected using flow cytometry.

Results

We identified 764 differentially expressed circRNAs, which were potentially related with the development of retinal structures, including neurons, dendrites, and synapses, and might participate in nervous‐system pathophysiology. Light exposure enriched circUvrag in the cytoplasm of photoreceptors in the outer nuclear layer (ONL). CircUvrag knockdown decreased photoreceptor apoptosis and microglial migration to the ONL after light exposure, preserving ONL thickness and a‐wave amplitude. In vitro, circUvrag knockdown inhibited photoreceptor apoptosis, although circUvrag overexpression slightly promoted photoreceptor apoptosis.

Conclusions

CircUvrag knockdown attenuated light‐induced photoreceptor apoptosis, and might be a potential target in retinal degeneration.
How do the dimensions of peri‐implant mucosa affect marginal bone loss in equicrestal and subcrestal position of implants? A 1‐year clinical trial
Authors: Quispe‐López Norberto , Gómez‐Polo Cristina , Zubizarreta‐Macho Álvaro , Montero Javier
Published: January 2024

Introduction

There is evidence that the apico‐coronal implant position and the mucosal phenotype can affect the extent of peri‐implant bone loss. This clinical trial analyzes the bone remodeling and marginal bone loss that occur around conical‐connection implants placed equicrestally and subcrestally, assessing the effect of the peri‐implant soft‐tissue phenotype.

Methods

Fifty‐one patients received 56 implants of distinct diameters (3.5 mm Ø n = 6; 4.3 mm Ø n = 41; 5 mm Ø n = 9) in the posterior part of the maxilla or mandible. The implants were placed equicrestally, 1 mm subcrestally and >1 mm subcrestally, depending on the initial supracrestal tissue height (STH). After 3 months of non‐submerged healing, single metal‐ceramic screw‐retained implant‐supported crowns were placed. Longitudinal measurements of STH, mucosal thickness and keratinized mucosa width (KMW) were made at the time of implant placement (T0), crown placement (T1), and after 3 (T2) and 6 months (T3) of prosthetic loading. At each of these points, a radiographic evaluation of bone remodeling and marginal bone loss was also performed.

Results

STH was significantly greater for implants placed >1 mm subcrestally than for those placed 1 mm subcrestally. After 12 months of follow‐up, a very significant (p < 0.001) loss of KMW was observed, in addition to a marginal bone loss of 0.08 ± 0.1, 0.15 ± 0.2, and 0.14 ± 0.2 mm in the groups placed equicrestally, 1 mm subcrestally and >1 mm subcrestally, respectively. After the multiple linear regression, marginal bone loss was found to depend primarily on KMW (β = −0.43), while also being affected by STH (β = 0.32) and implant diameter (β = −0.28).

Conclusions

Marginal bone loss may be influenced by the position with respect to the bone crest, as well as the KMW, STH, and implant diameter. However, more well‐controlled studies are needed to verify these above‐mentioned findings with different implant designs and connections.
“Belief” and Belief
Authors: Marcus Eric
Published: January 2024

Our interest in understanding belief stems partly from our being creatures who think. However, the term ‘belief’ is used to refer to many states: from the fully conscious rational state that partly constitutes knowledge to the fanciful states of alarm clocks. Which of the many ‘belief’ states must a theory of belief be answerable to? This is the scope question. I begin my answer with a reply to a recent argument that belief is invariably weak, i.e., that the evidential standards that are required for belief are low. Although one state we refer to using the term ‘belief’ fits this profile, other ‘belief’ states do not. Crucially, when ‘belief’ is heard in a weak sense, it attributes a state that only a rational creature can be in. I will use this observation as a starting point for an argument that the study of (our) belief should not be constrained by the requirement that the illuminated state be held in common with any non‐rational being. This lends support to the Transformative Theory of Rationality, according to which rationality does not merely add powers or complexity to the animal mind, but transforms it into a different kind of mind altogether.
Validation of a novel algorithm with a high specificity in ruling out MDS
Authors: Schulz Felicitas , Nachtkamp Kathrin , Oster Howard S. , Mittelman Moshe , Gattermann Norbert , Schweier Sarah , Barthuber Carmen , Germing Ulrich
Published: January 2024

Introduction

A previously published web‐based App using Gradient‐boosted models (GBMs) of eight laboratory parameters was established by Oster et al. to facilitate diagnosis or exclusion of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) in patients.

Methods

To validate their algorithm, we compared 175 anemic patients with MDS diagnosis from our German MDS Registry with 1378 non‐MDS anemic patients who consulted various specialties in the Düsseldorf university hospital.

Results

Based on hemoglobin level, leukocyte and platelet count, mean corpuscular volume, absolute neutrophil count, absolute monocyte count, glucose and creatinine, plus the patients' gender and age, we could not reproduce a high negative predictive value (NPV), but confirmed a useful specificity of 90.9% and a positive predictive value (PPV) of 77.1%. 1192 of 1378 controls were correctly categorized as “probably not MDS (pnMDS)” patients. A total of 65 patients were wrongly classified as “probable MDS (pMDS),” of whom 48 had alternative explanations for their altered laboratory results. In a second analysis, we included 29 patients with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) resulting in only one label as possible MDS, suggesting that highly proliferative bone marrow disorders are correctly excluded.

Conclusion

The possibility of reliably excluding MDS from differential diagnosis based on peripheral blood lab work appears to be attractive for patients and physicians alike while the confirmation of MDS diagnosis still requires a bone marrow biopsy.
Low‐temperature sintered 0.5Pb(Ni1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.16PbZrO3–0.34PbTiO3 piezoelectric textured ceramics by Li2CO3 addition
Authors: Cho Seong Wook , Na Yong‐Hyeon , Baik Jeong Min , Park Hyeon Jun , Park Kwi‐Il , Jeong Young Hun
Published: January 2024

BaTiO3(BT)‐templated 0.5Pb(Ni1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.16PbZrO3–0.34PbTiO3 with 0.2 wt% Li2CO3 (PNN‐PZT + LC) ceramics were successfully sintered at temperatures less than 1050°C. Their structural, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties were systematically investigated as a function of amount of BT, which ranged from 2 to 10 vol%. The PNN‐PZT + LC ceramics sintered at 1000°C showed highly textured morphologies with preferred (0 0 1) orientation, having Lotgering factors (fL) of 85% and higher. When sintering temperature exceeded 1000°C, the epitaxial grain growth of PNN‐PZT + LC rhombohedral phase, driven by BT templates, was hindered by dramatically enlarged matrix grains. In situ X‐ray diffractometry analyses are performed to identify phase transition behavior depending on temperature. Properties of d33 (1180 pC/N) and kp (80.3%) were obtained for the 2 vol% BT‐templated PNN‐PZT + LC ceramic sintered at 1000°C, along with ferroelectric properties of 2Pr (56.1 μC/cm2) and 2Ec (1.26 kV/mm) at 3.5 kV/mm. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy and piezo‐response force microscopy were utilized to investigate domain structure and epitaxial grain growth between templated BaTiO3 and matrix ceramics. The low‐temperature sintered specimen showed an extremely large electrostrain characteristic (d33*) of 1215 pm/V at 1 kV/mm. Furthermore, textured multilayer piezoelectric actuators exhibited higher actuator performance and lower energy loss compared to untextured multilayer piezoelectric actuators, indicating their potential for use in piezoelectric actuator devices.
Synthesis of new rare earth containing MAX phases Sc2AC (A = Ga, In) by spark plasma sintering
Authors: Zhang Qiqiang , Luo Jia , Wen Bo , Zhou Yanchun , San Xingyuan , Chen Hui , Feng Qingguo , Hu Chunfeng
Published: January 2024

In this paper, two new ternary layered MAX phase ceramics, Sc2GaC and Sc2InC, were successfully synthesized by spark plasma sintering. The crystal structures of two new compounds were determined by X‐ray diffraction. The lattice parameters were a = 3.3609(0) Å and c = 14.5849(9) Å for Sc2GaC, and a = 3.3453(6) Å and c = 15.2236(3) Å for Sc2InC, wherein the Sc atoms were located at (1/3, 2/3, 0.07330[Ga]/0.08268[In]), the A atoms were located at (1/3, 2/3, 3/4), and the C atoms were located at (0, 0, 0). Scanning electron microscopy images of two new MAX phase ceramics were also given in this paper, showing obvious layered characteristics.
Is human height based on a Lucas sequence relationship between the foot height, tibial length, femur length and upper body length?
Authors: Paley Dror , Sutaria Sahra , Pinsky Daelan , Roberts Darin , Robbins Craig
Published: January 2024

This is a retrospective chart and radiographic review of 145 patients who underwent full‐body EOS imaging; 109 males and 36 females. The mean ages of the female and male subsets are 28.8 (SD = 11.6) years and 29.5 (SD = 11.8) years, respectively. The sum of the foot height (Ft) and the tibial length (T) for each subject was compared to their femur length (Fe). Subsequently, the sum of the tibial (T) and femoral lengths (Fe) were compared to their respective upper body lengths (UB), as measured from the tops of the femoral heads. A linear regression test was performed to determine whether a Lucas sequence‐based relationship exists between Ft + T and Fe, and between T + Fe and UB. The regression for the relationship between Ft + T and Fe for the entire cohort (R = 0.82, R2 = 0.70), the female subset (R = 0.94, R2 = 0.88) and the male subset (R = 0.75, R2 = 0.57), all demonstrated a strong positive correlation between Ft + T and Fe and showed that Ft + T is a likely predictor of Fe. The regression test for the entire cohort demonstrated a moderately positive correlation between T + Fe and UB (R = 0.41, R2 = 0.17, F(1, 145) = 29.42, p = 2.4E‐07). A stronger correlation was found for the relationship between T + Fe and UB (R = 0.57, R2 = 0.32, F(1, 35) = 16.64, p = 2.5E‐05) for the female subset relative to the male subset (R = 0.20, R2 = 0.038, F(1, 35) = 4.37, p = 0.04). There appears to be a Lucas sequence relationship between the lengths of the foot height, tibial length, femoral length and upper body length, which together make up standing height. This mathematical proportion relationship is stronger in females than males.
Association of the neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio with outcome in sick hospitalized neonatal foals
Authors: Samuels Amanda N. , Kamr Ahmed M. , Reed Stephen M. , Slovis Nathan M. , Hostnik Laura D. , Burns Teresa A. , Toribio Ramiro E.
Published: January 2024

Background

The neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in human medicine is an objective biomarker that reflects prognosis. The NLR as an independent biomarker to help predict nonsurvival in hospitalized neonatal foals has not been thoroughly interrogated.

Objectives/Hypothesis

Retrospectively evaluate if the NLR at admission is associated with nonsurvival in sick hospitalized foals <4 days old. We hypothesized that a lower NLR will be associated with nonsurvival.

Animals

One thousand one hundred ninety‐six client‐owned foals <4 days old of any breed and sex: 993 hospitalized foals and 203 healthy foals.

Methods

Retrospective multicenter study. Medical records of foals presenting to 3 equine referral hospitals were reviewed. Foals were included if they had complete CBCs, sepsis scores, and outcome data. The NLR was calculated by dividing the absolute neutrophil count by the absolute lymphocyte count. Data were analyzed by nonparametric methods and univariate analysis.

Results

Of the 993 sick hospitalized foals, 686 were sick nonseptic and 307 were septic. The median NLR was lower in sick hospitalized foals (median [95% confidence interval], 3.55 [0.5‐13.9]) compared with healthy foals (6.61 [3.06‐18.1]). Septic foals had the lowest NLR (2.00 [0.20‐9.71]). The NLR was lower in nonsurviving (1.97 [1.67‐2.45]) compared with surviving foals (4.10 [3.76‐4.33]). Nonsurviving septic foals had the lowest NLR (1.47 [1.70‐3.01]). Foals with a NLR of <3.06 or <1.6 at admission had odds ratio of 3.21 (2.24‐4.29) and 4.03 (2.86‐5.67) for nonsurvival, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

A NLR < 3.06 at admission in sick hospitalized foals is readily available and clinically useful variable to provide prognostic information.
Functional promiscuity of small multidrug resistance transporters from Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Francisella tularensis
Authors: Spreacker Peyton J. , Wegrzynowicz Andrea K. , Porter Colin J. , Beeninga Will F. , Demas Sydnye , Powers Emma N. , Henzler‐Wildman Katherine A.
Published: January 2024

Small multidrug resistance transporters efflux toxic compounds from bacteria and are a minimal system to understand multidrug transport. Most previous studies have focused on EmrE, the model SMR from Escherichia coli, finding that EmrE has a broader substrate profile than previously thought and that EmrE may perform multiple types of transport, resulting in substrate‐dependent resistance or susceptibility. Here, we performed a broad screen to identify potential substrates of three other SMRs: PAsmr from Pseudomonas aeruginosa; FTsmr from Francisella tularensis; and SAsmr from Staphylococcus aureus. This screen tested metabolic differences in E. coli expressing each transporter versus an inactive mutant, for a clean comparison of sequence and substrate‐specific differences in transporter function, and identified many substrates for each transporter. In general, resistance compounds were charged, and susceptibility substrates were uncharged, but hydrophobicity was not correlated with phenotype. Two resistance hits and two susceptibility hits were validated via growth assays and IC50 calculations. Susceptibility is proposed to occur via substrate‐gated proton leak, and the addition of bicarbonate antagonizes the susceptibility phenotype, consistent with this hypothesis.
Effectiveness of sublingual immunotherapy in pediatric cedar pollinosis: A real‐world database study
Authors: Matsushita Rie , Tanaka‐Mizuno Sachiko , Takeuchi Masato , Kawakami Koji
Published: January 2024

Background

Pediatric allergic rhinitis (AR), including cedar pollinosis (CP), is increasing in Japan. We investigated the effects of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), which has limited studies of its effectiveness in real‐world settings, on children with CP.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used a claim database in 2018–2021. Children aged ≤15 years with CP records in 2019 were eligible and were followed up through 2021. We included 2962 CP children undergoing SLIT and 547 who were not. The medication score was used to evaluate SLIT effectiveness in the cedar pollen dispersal season each year. Adverse events and the occurrence of allergic diseases were also evaluated.

Results

Medication score was higher in the SLIT group during the index period but lower in 2021 compared to the non‐SLIT group (mean ± standard deviation: 5.17 ± 2.39 and 4.74 ± 2.38 in 2019, 3.13 ± 2.30 and 3.55 ± 2.48 in 2021, respectively). The adjusted mean difference between groups from 2019 to 2021 was −0.62 (95% confidence interval: −0.86 to −0.39, p < .0001), and the medication score was reduced in the SLIT group (risk ratio: 1.2: 1.1 to 1.3). The occurrence of adverse events involving abdominal disorders (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.64: 0.51 to 0.81), asthma exacerbation (aOR: 0.37: 0.24 to 0.57), and allergic diseases involving hay fever unrelated to CP (aOR: 0.60: 0.45 to 0.80) or asthma (aOR: 0.71: 0.58 to 0.86) was lower in the SLIT group.

Conclusion

In children with CP, SLIT is effective, well tolerated, and could decrease the occurrence of other allergic diseases.
Association of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program participation duration with cost‐related medication non‐adherence and emergency department visits
Authors: Sanjeevi Namrata , Monsivais Pablo
Published: January 2024

Objective

Administrative requirements could disrupt sustained Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation among income‐eligible individuals. To meet their food needs, low‐income individuals without consistent SNAP benefits may compromise on medication use, posing a risk to their health. The objective of this study is to examine the association of SNAP participation duration in a given year with cost‐related medication nonadherence (CRN) and emergency department (ED) use in income‐eligible individuals.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Sample

Non‐elderly and elderly adults who used prescription medications and participated in SNAP the previous year in 2016–2018 National Health Interview Survey. Subsamples included individuals with specific chronic conditions.

Measurements

CRN and ED usage.

Results

SNAP participation for <12 months in the previous year was related to increased CRN and ED use in nonelderly adults taking prescription medication, as well as in those with hypertension, cardiovascular disease and asthma. Further, <12‐month SNAP participation was associated with greater odds of having at least one ED visit in nonelderly and elderly adults.

Conclusions

Sustained SNAP participation could help income‐eligible individuals better adhere to their prescribed medications and reduce health complications requiring ED visits. Findings suggest the importance of addressing SNAP participation gaps among income‐eligible individuals in health care settings.
Computed tomographic appearance of canine hepatic alveolar echinococcosis
Authors: Reuter Adina , Wennemuth Jan
Published: January 2024

Alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is caused by Echinococcus multilocularis, affecting dogs as accidental intermediate hosts. CT is increasingly used for abdominal imaging in small animals, providing valuable information, particularly for large masses and limited ultrasound accessibility. This study describes CT findings of hepatic lesions in 13 dogs with AE. All cases displayed well‐defined cavitary lesions in the liver. Lesions showed minimal to no contrast uptake in the periphery, no uptake centrally, irregular internal walls, and soft tissue septa. Eight of 13 cases exhibited large cavitary masses (mean diameter 18.7 cm) with thick walls and feathery mineralization. Three of 13 cases had multiple smaller cavitary lesions with thin walls and without mineralization (mean diameter 8.4 cm). Two of 13 cases presented with both lesion types. These findings suggest two typical CT appearances correlated with AE: large thick‐walled‐ and smaller thin‐walled lesions. These groups may represent different stages of AE, with smaller lesions merging and progressing into larger ones. In conclusion, CT provides valuable information in evaluating hepatic lesions in dogs with AE. Large cavitary, thick‐walled liver lesions with feathery wall mineralization, irregular inner margination, septation, and no central contrast uptake strongly indicate hepatic AE in dogs, differentiating it from other masses.
Development of Biomechanical Response Curves for the Calibration of Biofidelic Measuring Devices Used in Robot Collision Testing
Authors: Behrens Roland , Zimmermann Jan , Wang Zechang , Herbster Sebastian , Elkmann Norbert
Published: January 2024

Collaborative robots (cobots) can be employed in close proximity to human workers without safety fences. The operation mode Power and Force Limiting requires that cobots not exceed the biomechanical limits of ISO/TS 15066 to ensure protection against injuries caused by collisions with them. Collision tests must be performed to prove that cobots cannot exceed the biomechanical limits. Such tests are performed with a biofidelic measuring device that measures contact forces and replicates the biomechanics of the human body. Biomechanical response curves serve as a reference for the calibration of such devices. In order to be able to compare measurements and limits correctly and reliably, the limits and response curves for calibration must be obtained from the same data with the same methodology. In this article, we present a new technique for developing biomechanical response curves, which employs a statistical model we used to calculate biomechanical limits for cobots in a previous study. This technique's development process entails normalizing the data over force, resampling them and then fitting the newly obtained samples to a log-normal distribution. The statistical model makes it possible to produce response curves for the same quantile we used for the limits. Our technique adds a confidence region around each response curve to express the sufficiency of the available data. We have produced response curves for 24 different body locations for which we have calculated limits. These curves will enable manufacturers of cobot testing equipment to calibrate their measuring devices precisely.
Development, reproduction and survival Protogamasellopsis rhizoglyphusi and Gaeolaelaps aculeifer (Mesostigmata: Rhodacaridae, Laelapidae) feeding on two astigmatine mite prey and notes on the behavior of P. rhizoglyphusi

Authors: Amin Mohammad Reza , Khanjani Mohammad
Published: January 2024

The members of the families Rhodacaridae and Laelapidae are free-living mites, found mainly in litter and the first few centimeters of the soil surface, and sometimes near plant roots, where they feed on insect larvae, springtails, nematodes, and phytophagous mites. At present some members of these families have been considered for use in biological control programs of Rhizoglyphus mite species (Acari: Acaridae). The development and fecundity of Gaeolaelaps aculeifer (Canestrini) and Protogamasellopsis rhizoglyphusi Amin & Khanjani, feeding on the astigmatic mites Rhizoglyphus echinopus (Fumouze & Robin) (Acaridae) and Carpoglyphus lactis (L.) (Carpoglyphidae) were studied at 25 ± 1 ºC, 60 ± 10%, and in the darkness. The results showed that both predatory mites can feed and thrive on the two preys. Each predator species had a similar duration of the immature phase on both preys, and the duration was slightly longer for G. aculeifer (11.1–12.1 days) than for P. rhizoglyphusi (9.1–9.2). The oviposition time and life span were also similar for both species on both prey (respectively 17.7–19.8 and 35.9–39.8). However, the mean daily oviposition per female G. acullifer increased from about 2.9 eggs on R. echinopus to about 4.0 eggs on C. lactis. Also, the mean daily oviposition per female P. rhizoglyphusi decreased from about 3.8 eggs on R. echinopus to about 3.6 eggs on C. lactis. The net reproductive rate (R0) ranged between 29.9 and 36.3 ♀/♀, except for G. aculeifer on R. echinopus, only 19.0 ♀/♀. The values of intrinsic rate of increase (rm) ranged from about 0.136 ♀/♀/day (G. aculeifer feeding on R. echinopus) to about 0.230 (P. rhizoglyphusi feeding on C. lactis). Stage duration increased in starved specimens, G. aculeifer and P. rhizoglyphus adult females survived without food for a mean of 18 and 16.5 days, respectively. The results showed that mass rearing of both predators can be performed using C. lactis as prey, and also, both predators are able to develop and reproduce on R. ehinopus, a serious pest species in different countries, as prey. These data provide significant information for the practical application of predatory soil mites in the management of agricultural pests.
Magnetic Eigenmodes in Chains of Coupled φ0-Josephson Junctions with Ferromagnetic Weak Links
Authors: Bobkov G. A. , Bobkova I. V. , Bobkov A. M.
Published: January 2024

A coupled chain of superconductor/ferromagnet/superconductor (S/F/S) with anomalous ground phase shift $${{\varphi }_{0}}$$ represents a system realizing long-range interaction between magnetic moments of the weak links. The interaction is of magnetoelectric origin and is mediated by the condensate phase of superconductors. The system is a paradigmic platform for investigation of collective magnetic states governed by the superconducting phase. Here we study the magnetic eigenmodes of such a system and demonstrate that the eigenfrequencies are determined by the magnetic configuration of the whole system and are controlled by the superconducting phase. Depending on the orientation of the magnetic easy axis the eigenmodes can be very different ranging from individual oscillations of different magnets to highly-cooperative behavior.
Gailitis–Damburg Oscillations in the Three-Body e–e+$$\bar {p}$$ System
Authors: Gradusov V. A. , Yakovlev S. L.
Published: January 2024

We study the near threshold behavior of cross sections of low-energy antiproton scattering off the ground and excited states of positronium with zero total orbital momentum L = 0. In our computational experiment, the existence of singularities called the Gailitis–Damburg oscillations above the thresholds of excited states of positronium and antihydrogen atoms is confirmed. In the future the obtained results can be useful for developing proposals for improving the conditions of experiments with antimatter.
Trajectories and correlates of poor mental health in India over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic: a nationwide survey
Authors: Nichols Emma , Petrosyan Sarah , Khobragade Pranali , Banerjee Joyita , Angrisani Marco , Dey Sharmistha , Bloom David E , Schaner Simone , Dey Aparajit B , Lee Jinkook
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic had large impacts on mental health; however, most existing evidence is focused on the initial lockdown period and high-income contexts. By assessing trajectories of mental health symptoms in India over 2 years, we aim to understand the effect of later time periods and pandemic characteristics on mental health in a lower-middle income context.

Methods

We used data from the Real-Time Insights of COVID-19 in India cohort study (N=3709). We used covariate-adjusted linear regression models with generalised estimating equations to assess associations between mental health (Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4) score; range 0–12) and pandemic periods as well as pandemic characteristics (COVID-19 cases and deaths, government stringency, self-reported financial impact, COVID-19 infection in the household) and explored effect modification by age, gender and rural/urban residence.

Results

Mental health symptoms dropped immediately following the lockdown period but rose again during the delta and omicron waves. Associations between mental health and later pandemic stages were stronger for adults 45 years of age and older (p<0.001). PHQ-4 scores were significantly associated with all pandemic characteristics considered, including estimated COVID-19 deaths (PHQ-4 difference of 0.10 units; 95% CI 0.06 to 0.13), government stringency index (0.14 units; 95% CI 0.11 to 0.18), self-reported major financial impacts (1.20 units; 95% CI 1.09 to 1.32) and COVID-19 infection in the household (0.36 units; 95% CI 0.23 to 0.50).

Conclusion

While the lockdown period and associated financial stress had the largest mental health impacts on Indian adults, the effects of the pandemic on mental health persisted over time, especially among middle-aged and older adults. Results highlight the importance of investments in mental health supports and services to address the consequences of cyclical waves of infections and disease burden due to COVID-19 or other emerging pandemics.
Audit tools for culturally safe and responsive healthcare practices with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: a scoping review
Authors: Muller Jessica , Devine Susan , Geia Lynore , Cairns Alice , Stothers Kylie , Gibson Paul , Murray Donna
Published: January 2024

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia face disparities in accessing culturally safe and appropriate health services. While current cultural safety and responsiveness frameworks set standards for improving healthcare practices, ensuring accountability and sustainability of changes, necessitates robust mechanisms for auditing and monitoring progress. This study examined existing cultural safety audit tools, and facilitators and barriers to implementation, in the context of providing culturally safe and responsive healthcare services with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This will assist organisations, interested in developing tools, to assess culturally responsive practice. A scoping review was undertaken using Medline, Scopus, CINAHL, Informit and PsychInfo databases. Articles were included if they described an audit tool used for healthcare practices with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Selected tools were evaluated based on alignment with the six capabilities of the Indigenous Allied Health Australia (IAHA) Cultural Responsiveness in Action Framework. Implementation barriers and facilitators were identified. 15 papers were included. Audit tools varied in length, terminology, domains assessed and whether they had been validated or evaluated. Seven papers reported strong reliability and validity of the tools, and one reported tool evaluation. Implementation facilitators included: tool comprehensiveness and structure; effective communication; clear organisational responsibility for implementation; commitment to prioritising cultural competence; and established accountability mechanisms. Barriers included: the tool being time-consuming and inflexible; responsibility for implementation falling on a small team or single staff member; deprioritising tool use; and lack of accountability for implementation. Two of the six IAHA capabilities (respect for the centrality of cultures and inclusive engagement) were strongly reflected in the tools. The limited tool evaluation highlights the need for further research to determine implementation effectiveness and sustainability. Action-oriented tools, which comprehensively reflect all cultural responsiveness capabilities, are lacking and further research is needed to progress meaningful change within the healthcare system.
Effect of the gut microbiome in glaucoma risk from the causal perspective
Authors: Wu Yaxuan , Shi Ronghua , Chen He , Zhang Zicheng , Bao Siqi , Qu Jia , Zhou Meng
Published: January 2024

Objective

Evidence from observational studies has reported possible associations between the gut microbiome (GM) and glaucoma. However, the causal effect of GM on glaucoma risk remains to be determined.

Methods and analysis

We conducted two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomisation (MR) analyses to explore the causal association between GM and glaucoma. Genome-wide association study summary statistics of 196 GM taxa (n=18 340) and glaucoma (18 902 cases and 358 375 controls) were obtained from MiBioGen and FinnGen Consortium. Inverse variance weighted, MR-Egger, weighted median, weighted mode, Mendelian Randomisation Pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outlier, MR-Egger intercept and Cochran’s Q statistical analyses were used to supplement MR results and sensitivity analysis. An independent cohort from the Medical Research Council (MRC) Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol (MRC-IEU) Consortium (1715 cases and 359 479 controls) was used to validate causal effects.

Results

Results of the MR analysis suggested that the familyOxalobacteraceae(OR 0.900, 95% CI 0.843 to 0.961, p=0.002) and the genusEggerthella(OR 0.881, 95% CI 0.811 to 0.957, p=0.003) had a negative effect on glaucoma, whereas the genusBilophila(OR 1.202, 95% CI 1.074 to 1.346, p=0.001),LachnospiraceaeUCG010(OR 1.256, 95% CI 1.109 to 1.423, p=0.0003) andRuminiclostridium 9(OR 1.258, 95% CI 1.083 to 1.461, p=0.003) had a positive effect on glaucoma. Among these, the positive causal effect ofLachnospiraceaeUCG010(OR 1.002, 95% CI 1.000 to 1.004, p=0.033) on glaucoma was replicated in an independent cohort.

Conclusion

This MR analysis from large population studies demonstrated the causal effect of GM on glaucoma risk and supported the role of GM in influencing glaucoma susceptibility.
Virtual reality technology for surgical learning: qualitative outcomes of the first virtual reality training course for emergency and essential surgery delivered by a UK–Uganda partnership
Authors: Please Helen , Narang Karamveer , Bolton William , Nsubuga Mike , Luweesi Henry , Richards Ndiwalana Billy , Dalton John , Tendo Catherine , Khan Mansoor , Jjingo Daudi , Bhutta Mahmood F , Petrakaki Dimitra , Dhanda Jagtar
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The extensive resources needed to train surgeons and maintain skill levels in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) are limited and confined to urban settings. Surgical education of remote/rural doctors is, therefore, paramount. Virtual reality (VR) has the potential to disseminate surgical knowledge and skill development at low costs. This study presents the outcomes of the first VR-enhanced surgical training course, ‘Global Virtual Reality in Medicine and Surgery’, developed through UK-Ugandan collaborations.

Methods

A mixed-method approach (survey and semistructured interviews) evaluated the clinical impact and barriers of VR-enhanced training. Course content focused on essential skills relevant to Uganda (general surgery, obstetrics, trauma); delivered through: (1) hands-on cadaveric training in Brighton (scholarships for LMIC doctors) filmed in 360°; (2) virtual training in Kampala (live-stream via low-cost headsets combined with smartphones) and (3) remote virtual training (live-stream via smartphone/laptop/headset).

Results

High numbers of scholarship applicants (n=130); registrants (Kampala n=80; remote n=1680); and attendees (Kampala n=79; remote n=556, 25 countries), demonstrates widespread appetite for VR-enhanced surgical education. Qualitative analysis identified three key themes: clinical education and skill development limitations in East Africa; the potential of VR to address some of these via 360° visualisation enabling a ‘knowing as seeing’ mechanism; unresolved challenges regarding accessibility and acceptability.

Conclusion

Outcomes from our first global VR-enhanced essential surgical training course demonstrating dissemination of surgical skills resources in an LMIC context where such opportunities are scarce. The benefits identified included environmental improvements, cross-cultural knowledge sharing, scalability and connectivity. Our process of programme design demonstrates that collaboration across high-income and LMICs is vital to provide locally relevant training. Our data add to growing evidence of extended reality technologies transforming surgery, although several barriers remain. We have successfully demonstrated that VR can be used to upscale postgraduate surgical education, affirming its potential in healthcare capacity building throughout Africa, Europe and beyond.