bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Median Separation Facilities on Drivers’ Shy-Away Effects: Why Are Median Separation Facilities Widely Used in China?
Authors: Chen Ying , Du Zhigang , Wan Hongliang
Published: September 2024

In recent years, China has begun introducing readily installable median separation facilities into its urban road network. Although some studies have recognized the benefits of using median separation, few have investigated the effects of different types of facilities on driver behavior. This driving simulator study aims to determine whether different types of medians on urban arterial roads in China affect driving behavior, and to provide new insights for designing more effective and safer forms of median separation. A driving simulator study was conducted, with 50 participants. The scenario exactly reproduced an existing six-lane urban arterial road in China, and four different median separation types were tested: (1) double yellow line; (2) raised pavement markers; (3) reboundable traffic cylinders; (4) traffic separator railing. Their effects were statistically analyzed using data on driver eye movements, trajectories, and speeds collected from simulation tests. The results showed that the median separation facilities significantly improved drivers’ access to road information, corrected drivers’ attention, and suppressed driving speeds. Although median separation facilities can be an effective solution to the current problem of chaotic vehicular traffic on China’s urban roads, their setup still needs to be optimized. This study demonstrates the calculation method for optimal median facility setup. The resulting 1.21-m-high median facility, paired with a 1.17-m-wide median strip and a certain lane-width compression, more effectively addresses driver factors, the driving task, and the spatial right-of-way. The study’s calculations can also be used to improve other types of roads that can take a median separation facility.
Virtual Reality Study on Pedestrians’ Perceived Trust in Interactions with Automated Vehicles
Authors: Ilic Mario , Lindner Johannes , Vollmer Marie , Bogenberger Klaus
Published: September 2024

This paper investigates the impact of different automated vehicle (AV) communication concepts on pedestrians' perceived trust when interacting with the AV in an urban intersection setting. For this, two virtual reality (VR) studies were conducted. The first examined the influence of vehicle automation on how pedestrians interpret driving behavior, while the second analyzed the effects of explicit communication concepts on pedestrians' perceived trust. The results show that AV driving behavior evokes similar associations as manually driven vehicles, with overall perceived trust scores not differing considerably (with driver: 4.7, without driver: 4.6). However, qualitative interviews revealed that pedestrians ultimately interpret AV behavior differently, yielding insights into the applicability of driving behavior of manually driven vehicles as a model for AV driving behavior. The second study showed an increase in pedestrians' perceived trust when vehicle-based explicit communication was present (mean: 4.9). In contrast, infrastructure-based communication showed no difference compared to implicit communication (mean: 4.6). The investigation of the influence of the traffic infrastructure (presence of traffic lights) has shown different results for implicit and explicit communication of AVs. For implicit communication, pedestrians' perceived trust increased with traffic lights (mean: 4.8) compared to scenarios without them (mean: 4.4). However, for explicit communication, the perceived trust decreased with traffic lights (vehicle-based: 4.7, infrastructure-based: 4.6) compared to scenarios without traffic lights (mean: 5.1). One reason for this is possible cognitive overload caused by the perception of multiple visual aids that are not always in the same field of view.
Transfer Learning for Cross-City Traffic Prediction to Solve Data Scarcity
Authors: Zhang Xijun , Wan Guangyu , Zhang Hong
Published: September 2024

Deep learning models have demonstrated significant achievements in traffic prediction. However, their predictive performance substantially declines when faced with the scarcity of urban traffic data. Addressing the challenges of data scarcity and heterogeneity between cities, cross-city transfer learning has emerged as a promising solution. This paper proposes a domain adaptation cross-city model, which integrates traffic data with auxiliary urban data for domain adaptation in cross-city transfer learning. Specifically, we designed a domain fusion module to measure the differences between cities. Firstly, the knowledge extractor within the domain fusion module learns the knowledge from urban auxiliary data, such as road networks and points of interest, and calculates transferable knowledge. Then, dynamic time warping is used to measure the similarity of traffic time series. By combining these two aspects, we derive the domain differences between cities. Finally, the spatiotemporal network undergoes pre-learning using abundant data from the source city. According to the differences between cities, the model is fine-tuned to improve the adaptability of the model to the target domain. Experimental results on real-world data validate the effectiveness of the proposed model.
Comparison of the incidence of clinically significant prostate cancer in patients with isolated peripheral versus transitional zone PIRADS 3 lesions
Authors: Malshy Kamil , Ochsner Anna , Ortiz Rebecca , Ahn Benjamin , Glebocki Richard , Liu Matthew , Golijanin Borivoj , Eaton Samuel , Pareek Gyan , Hyams Elias , Golijanin Dragan , Khaleel Sari
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

We sought to investigate the association between isolated PIRADS 3 lesions of the transitional zone (TZ) versus the peripheral zone (PZ) and the incidence of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) on systematic and targeted prostate biopsy (SB, TB).

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed our tertiary institutional database of patients who underwent mpMRI-fusion followed by TB + SB between 2016 and 2021. We compared the incidence of csPCa (Gleason Grade Group ⩾ 2) in patients with solitary TZ-only PIRADS 3 and PZ-only PIRADS 3 on SB and TB. We excluded patients with (1)known PCa, (2)PIRADS 4–5 and/or (3)lesions in both TZ and PZ. T-tests, Chi-square tests, were conducted to compare between the groups.

Results:

Of 1913 patients, we identified 110 with PZ-only and 38 with TZ-only PIRADS 3 lesions. 73 patients in PZ-only and 19 in TZ-only met inclusion criteria. No statistically significant differences were observed between PZ and TZ groups in terms of age, median prostate-specific antigen (PSA), prostate volume, median PSA-density, or median number of targeted cores obtained, all with p > 0.05. On SB, the incidence of csPCA was higher in patients with PZ rather than TZ PIRADS-3 lesions (10/73 vs 1/19, p = 0.28). Similarly, csPCA was more common in TB of PZ versus TZ PIRADS 3 lesions (7/73 vs 0/19, p = 0.33). Based on these results, the positive predictive values of PIRADS3 as a marker of csPCA were 5.3% and 0% for TZ lesions on SB versus TB, respectively, compared to 17.7% and 9.6% in the PZ.

Conclusions:

PIRADS 3 lesions are rarely associated with csPCA on SB and TB, particularly when located in the TZ, which is an important factor to consider when deciding on a biopsy in patients with isolated TZ lesions.
(In)Credibly Inclusive? A Panel Study on Inclusive Leadership, Leader Credibility, and Inclusive Climate
Authors: van Luttervelt Mads Pieter
Published: September 2024

Cultivating an inclusive climate is an important concern for many public organizations, and it can be approached through various means. Research suggests that by exercising inclusive leadership, public managers may be able to support an inclusive climate. However, we still know little about the extent to which and under what conditions inclusive leadership is effective in promoting an inclusive climate. This study contributes to the existing research by examining the importance of inclusive leadership on inclusive climate utilizing a representative panel of 705 Danish high school teachers. Additionally, the study argues that leader credibility may be an important moderator. Testing the preregistered hypotheses, the study finds support for a statistically significant effect of changes in inclusive leadership on changes in inclusive climate. Contrary to expectations, leader credibility does not appear to moderate the relationship. The study suggests that inclusive leadership is relevant to promote inclusive climates across different contexts.
The Association Between Timely Documentation of Advance Care Planning, Hospital Care Consumption and Place of Death: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Burghout Carolien , Nahar-van Venrooij Lenny M. W. , van der Rijt Carin C. D. , Bolt Sascha R. , Smilde Tineke J. , Wouters Eveline J. M.
Published: September 2024

Objectives: (1) To describe ACPT implementation frequency in practice. (2) To assess associations of ACPT documentation with a) hospital care consumption, including systemic anti-tumor treatment in the last month(s) of life, and b) match between preferred and actual place of death, among oncology patients. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed. Data concerning ACPT documentation, hospital care consumption, and preferred and actual place of death were extracted from electronic patient records. Patients with completely documented ACPT (cACPT) and no ACPT were compared using multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results: ACPT was implemented in 64.5% (n = 793) of all deceased patients (n = 1230). In 17.6% (n = 216), preferred place of care or death was documented at least three months before death (cACPT). A cACPT was not associated with systemic anti-tumor treatment (Adjusted OR (AOR): 0.976; 95% CI: 0.642-1.483), but patients with cACPT had fewer diagnostic tests (AOR: 0.518; CI: 0.298-0.903) and less contacts with hospital disciplines (AOR: 0.545; CI: 0.338-0.877). In patients with cACPT, a match between preferred and actual place of death was found for 83% of the patients for whom the relevant information was available (n = 117/n = 141). In patients without ACPT, this information was mostly missing. Conclusion: Although the ACPT was implemented in two thirds of patients, timely documentation of preferred place of care or death is often missing. Yet, timely documentation of these preferences may promote out-hospital-death and save hospital care consumption.
Considerations for Research Focused on Minoritized Students in School Psychology
Authors: La Salle-Finley Tamika , Norman Gina , Adams Jhanelle
Published: September 2024

There continues to be a call for research focused on better understanding and supporting the needs of students with minoritized identities. A review of school psychology research reveals that while the field has made strides, there still is an underrepresentation of research in this area. The trend toward centering diversity in research demonstrate efforts within the field to include more representation of minoritized groups despite the lack of diversity plaguing the profession. It is, therefore, vital for researchers to determine whether their practices cause undue harm to students in ways that fail to understand their strengths, muting their voices, and de-centering their experiences. As such, researchers must intentionally and iteratively examine their research aims and methodology to more equitably incorporate diverse student groups in their studies. In this paper, we discuss the significance of how minoritized groups are included (e.g., aggregated) and methodological considerations for advancing singular research methods. We propose the integration of mixed methods research to mitigate the shortcomings of a single method and obtain a more holistic view of students. Together, this is a call of action for researchers to intentionally and more consistently include minoritized students in research in ways that authentically affirm their identities.
First-Drug Efficacy and Drug-Resistant Epilepsy Rates in Children With New-Onset Epilepsies: A Multicenter Large Cohort Study
Authors: Gencpinar Pinar , Arican Pinar , Olgac Dündar Nihal , Kilic Betül , Sarigecili Esra , Okuyaz Cetin , Aydin Kursad , Tekgul Hasan
Published: September 2024

Objective: This study aimed to assess the first-drug efficacy rate in newly diagnosed children with epilepsies treated with antiseizure medications. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 1003 children (age range: 3-10 years, and the mean duration of follow-up: 22 ± 13 months) with newly diagnosed epilepsy. The following parameters were evaluated: first-drug efficacy rate, first-drug-failure rate, and drug resistance rate in the cohort. Results: The first-drug-failure rate was defined in 335/1003 (33%) of the patients, no seizure control in 315 (31%), and drug withdrawal in 20 (2%). There was no significant difference between the group with focal-onset seizures and the group with generalized onset seizures. The first-drug efficacy rate was 67% in children with focal-onset seizures and 66% in children with generalized-onset seizures. Adjunctive antiseizure medication therapy was initiated in 335 patients—dual therapy with 180 patients (18%) and polytherapy with 155 (15%). Drug-resistant epilepsy was defined as 15% in the follow-up period. Etiology-specific diagnoses of the cohort were structural (n = 165, 17%), genetic (n = 25, 3%), metabolic (n = 15%), immune-infectious (n = 17 (2%), and unknown (n = 781, 77%). With a comparison of the 2 most common etiology subgroups (structural versus unknown), a first-drug efficacy rate of 53% and a higher prevalence of drug-resistant epilepsy at 30% were observed in children with structural etiology. First-drug efficacy was statistically lower in children without well-defined epilepsy syndromes (65%) compared with the rate of those with well-defined epilepsy syndrome (79%). Conclusion: This study revealed a first-drug failure rate (33%) in the presented cohort with a drug-resistance epilepsy rate (15%).
An Empirical Investigation of Disability-Related Interpersonal Violence Through an Intersectional Research Paradigm: Methodological Considerations and Implications
Authors: Liasidou Anastasia , Gregoriou Andros
Published: September 2024

The study uses an econometric approach to disaggregate data on disability-related violence reported in Accident and Emergency departments in London to investigate the extent to which the intersections of gender, ethnicity, and age characteristics of disabled people increase their risk of experiencing interpersonal violence. Our empirical findings suggest that females and older individuals are generally more likely to be interpersonal violence victims. The disability dummy is positive and significant, irrespective of gender or ethnicity. This implies that persons with disabilities are more likely to be victims of interpersonal violence than individuals without disabilities, regardless of gender and ethnicity. The most important discovery concerns the magnitude of the dummy coefficient regarding the disability of individuals. The coefficient is the largest for females of Black origin with disabilities, followed by Asians, with white origin exhibiting the smallest coefficient. This suggests that people with disabilities of Black origin are more likely to experience interpersonal violence than the Asian or white community. The study outcomes provide novel and rigorous empirically validated knowledge of the intersectional vectors of power that impact the risk of experiencing disability-related interpersonal violence while informing the development of intersectionality-based policy approaches to tackling disability-related interpersonal violence.
The Aggrieved Entitlement Scale: A New Measure for an Old Problem
Authors: Karasavva Vasileia , Stewart Jayme , Reynolds Jaimie , Forth Adelle
Published: September 2024

Aggrieved entitlement (AE) refers to the defensiveness and hostility majority-group members feel toward the outgroup in response to a perceived threat of lost privileges. Over the last couple of years, AE has garnered a great deal of attention in the media as well as in the empirical literature because of its connection with extremism and violence against minority groups. Yet, to date, research quantifying and measuring the construct of AE is scant. In this paper, we aim to bridge this gap. Across two studies ( N1 = 813; N2 = 1,100) we explore the factor structure of the Aggrieved Entitlement Scale (AES) and examine its concurrent and divergent validity with related demographic, attitudinal, and personality factors. We found that the AES was positively correlated with racist attitudes, fear-based xenophobia, authoritarianism, sexism, transphobia, and sexual entitlement. We further found that it was negatively correlated with feminist attitudes, honesty-humility, and compassionate love. In both samples, scores were higher among men (vs. women) and heterosexual (vs. sexual minority) individuals. Finally, in contrast to our expectations, racial and ethnic minority participants scored higher in AE than White participants. Results from this work offer initial support for the use of the AES and call for more research into the topic.
Preserved fertility of a young woman with bilateral peritoneal dialysis catheter fimbrial adhesions, a priority to consider
Authors: Elshabrwy Nehal , Rakab Mohamed Saad , Shetiwy Mohamed , Elghrieb Ahmed
Published: September 2024

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) has become an established treatment modality for end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) in recent years, though catheter dysfunction remains a common issue, often due to adhesions or migration. Laparoscopic surgery is an effective method for addressing these problems with precision and minimal trauma. A rare cause of catheter dysfunction is fimbriae adhesions, where the fimbriae of the fallopian tubes obstruct the catheter. We present a case of a 23-year-old woman with ESKD who transitioned to PD, complicated by catheter blockage within days. Radiographs suggested adhesions and diagnostic laparoscopy revealed fimbriae entangling the catheter. Laparoscopic adhesiolysis and catheter replacement were performed, with the fallopian tubes secured to the ipsilateral ovary to prevent recurrence. Post-surgery, catheter function was restored, and an 18-month follow-up showed no complications. This case highlights the importance of considering fertility preservation in cases of fimbrial adhesions and underscores the value of laparoscopic intervention.
Design and experimentation of width tapered meandered array structure for low frequency broadband vibration energy harvesting
Authors: Sivakumar Arutselvi , Deenadayalan Ezhilarasi
Published: September 2024

A novel 6DoF Tapered beam energy harvester, capable of operating across a broad and low frequency range, is proposed in this work. The hybrid structure incorporates regular beam array and zig-zag sections, enhancing deformation and bending. Width tapering with constant thickness optimizes the structural performance and energy harvesting capabilities of the beam. Tapering ensures even strain distribution, reducing the risk of structural failure. The proposed structure demonstrates wide band characteristics at low frequencies, delivering higher power output compared to an array of cantilevers for a given area. FEM analysis is conducted to optimize proof mass, aiming for closely spaced resonance frequencies and high-power output. Experimental validation on a prototype confirms the accuracy of the frequency response predicted by the models. Under harmonic base excitation of 0.4 g, the harvester yields an average DC power of 2497 μW, accounting for signal conditioning losses, within the frequency range of 9–20 Hz. The suggested structure offers excellent design flexibility, allowing adjustment of resonant frequencies by varying the number of beams, the slope and the proof mass of individual beams. The geometry of the proposed structure provides versatility, mechanical resilience, uniform strain distribution make it suitable for developing MEMS energy harvesters.
Aerodynamic development of the BYD SEAL – Part 2: Overview
Authors: Wang Wenjiang , Zhang Fengli , Luo Qiuli , Zhu Zhicheng , Zhang Rongrong , Liu Hongmei
Published: September 2024

BYD SEAL is a new developed A+ class sedan by BYD Auto, based on third generation high-performance and high-safety electric platform for EVs. SEAL gives full play to the advantages of electric vehicles in terms of space, handling, NVH, etc., while striving to reach the same level of fuel vehicles in terms of cost and recharge mileage. Therefore it has been dedicated to minimizing energy consumption from all components since its inception, and an important one is to reduce the aerodynamic drag effectively. However, the “ocean aesthetics” styling design based on the original concept model and platform with short overhangs must be kept on this car, which brings great challenge to aerodynamic development. An adaptable aerodynamic development process is set up and correlation between CFD simulation and wind tunnel test are established. This paper depicts the features of the flow field determined in the aerodynamic development process of the BYD SEAL, and describes the key factors in aerodynamic drag reduction as a full model change in detail. Effective rear roofline angle, tail design, front bumper corners, underbody, wheel, detail management such as sealing loss are studied and optimized by Powerflow and Star-CCM+ simulation softwares, and verified in wind tunnel tests of full-scale clay models and prototype vehicles. Design fusion and development tool/efficiency improvement around the vehicle are established, and the inherent drag reduction mechanism is revealed. These findings are of great significance to the aerodynamic optimization with diverse aesthetic and engineering requirements under the background of EV platformization.
Efficient nonlinear model predictive and active disturbance rejection control for trajectory tracking of unmanned vehicles
Authors: Wang Hongwei , Liu Chenyu , Zhang Qingqing , Wang Liqiang
Published: September 2024

This article proposes an efficient trajectory tracking control strategy of unmanned vehicles. The method is based on nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) and active disturbance reject control (ADRC). The designed control algorithm considers three challenges including nonlinear characteristics, multiple constraints, and external disturbance. First, NMPC method is presented for the nonlinear vehicle model with multiple constraints. To relax inequality constraints and reduce the heavy calculation burden, the penalty term with the variable factor is added to the cost function, an improved continuous/generalized minimum residual method is proposed to solve NMPC online optimization problem. Then, an ADRC scheme is designed to estimate the unknown disturbance via extended state observer, and compensate them by feedback control law in real time, the corresponding parameters are obtained by a novel particle swarm optimization algorithm to further improve the control precision. It ensures the stability to a certain extent. Finally, the results indicate the designed algorithm can raise the calculation efficiency and meet the real-time requirements, and obviously increase the tracking accuracy and robustness performance.
A study of powertrain parameter optimization based on performance requirements of a vehicle platform
Authors: Wang Puxi , Du Wei , Zeng Dong , Li Song , Lv Yicheng
Published: September 2024

Powertrain top down design is a vital process for vehicle platformization and performance development. To obtain the optimal component size of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) platform, this study proposes an optimization framework with the goal of minimizing performance redundancy. First, we analyze the characteristics of the powertrain architecture, and propose the indicators through performance gradient planning of the vehicle platform. Then we establish the mathematical model of the powertrain, and formulate the optimization problem. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is used to solve the problem and a platform optimization problem with eight vehicle models is performed. Optimization results show that compared to traditional single vehicle powertrain optimization, platform based powertrain optimization can greatly reduce the number of components and save development costs through the sharing of components. With only three electric machines, two engines, two generators, and two sets of transmissions, the performance requirements of the entire platform can be met, and the maximum performance redundancy of different vehicle models is only 0.205. It can be seen that platform based powertrain optimization can greatly reduce vehicle costs and improve profit margins.
Multi-objective energy management strategy for a dual-stack fuel cell heavy-duty truck via deep reinforcement learning
Authors: Zhou Jianhao , Zhou Huanyong , Wang Chunyan , Zhao Wanzhong
Published: September 2024

The Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) system, as an efficient, zero-pollution emission, and high-efficiency energy conversion device, is particularly suitable for heavy-duty transportation. Considering the limited power of the current PEMFC system, this study focuses on a hybrid fuel cell heavy-duty truck with dual stacks. Considering the optimal operating range of the PEMFC system and the health status of the lithium-ion battery pack, an energy management strategy (EMS) based on the Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) algorithm is established. This strategy optimizes the hydrogen consumption cost, degradation costs of lithium-ion battery and fuel cells. Additionally, a dynamic programming (DP) and an equivalent consumption minimization strategy (ECMS) based EMSs are established. The power allocation and overall transportation costs under the CSC driving cycle are compared and verified for the three EMSs. The results show that the DDPG algorithm provides a more optimal power allocation for the dual-stack fuel cells, improving the overall system efficiency, enhancing the lifecycle of heavy-duty trucks, and significantly reducing overall travel costs.
Design and parameter optimization of solid-surface antenna parallel mechanism constructed by multi-loop spatial coupling units
Authors: Wang Chunhui , Hao Lianjing , Hou Yingjiang , Cong Qiang , Su Zhou , Sun Chaoyang
Published: September 2024

The optimization of design and structural parameters of solid-surface antennas is crucial for the development of aerospace satellites. In this paper, the study explores an innovative parallel solid-surface antenna mechanism, inspired by the daisy bloom pattern, which realizes the characteristics of Fewer input-More output (Fi-Mo). A single-DOF deployable/foldable spatial multi-loop coupled mechanism model of the bionic daisy solid-surface antenna is established based on the single-axis tilting hinge, RSSR mechanism, and Bennett mechanism. The motion characteristics of the antenna mechanism are analyzed using the topology, position and orientation characteristic (POC) and inverse screw theory. The error transfer law of multi-loop mechanism is derived by the low-layer-loop sequence. The optimal configuration parameter set of the antenna deployment mechanism is determined using the NSGA-II genetic algorithm. Finally, the optimized antenna mechanism is subjected to physical simulation analysis to verify its stability and the accuracy of its deployment path.
Climate-driven versus anthropogenic induced erosion of the last 3000 years from an ancient lake in the Southern Phokis Plain (Desfina), Greece
Authors: Polymeris Georgios S. , Geraga Maria , Papatheodorou George , Iliopoulos Ioannis , Pluháček Tomáš , Lemr Karel , Qin Zhen , Sergiou Spyros , Dimas Xenophon , Liritzis Ioannis
Published: September 2024

The timing and causes for erosional events at the Kastrouli (Greece) archeological site – a Late Myceneaen with reuse in later periods – are presented. Two borehole sediment cores (max 6 m depth), collected from the footsteps of the settlement hill plain, were studied. Sedimentary analysis and luminescence dating techniques investigate and identify periods of soil aggradation in this record. Moreover, optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating confirmed the concept of an ancient lake during Kastrouli settlement times. Macroscopic overview of the stratigraphic structure for each core, included lithological and textural evaluation of the core sediments, assessments of grain size, and determination of the geochemical and mineralogical composition of the sediments. X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) techniques were applied for the mineralogical and geochemical analysis. OSL ages from seven sediment horizons spanned from the Ottoman period to archaic times. All lithological findings correlate with the results of the electrical tomography survey conducted in same area. Extrapolation of the Logarithmic fitting of the data back in time of prehistoric Late Mycenaean era of Kastrouli verifies a lake deeper than 10 m, with a considerable enhancement in soil aggradation of 1.2 cm/year. Attempts to dry out the area are evidenced by the hydraulic works found in two engineering sinkholes. Sedimentation changes had occurred in the local environment over the last 2500 years, and soil aggradation underwent significant fluctuations in the two studied cores. The Roman period (a wet period) and the Byzantine period experienced high aggradation rates. By contrast, soil aggradation rates in southern Phokis (Kastrouli region) have remained exceedingly low from the Ottoman era (circa 13th century) to the present. In the context of the Phokis case study, it appears that the sedimentation rates, driven by climate, have strengthened anthropogenic activities.
How generative artificial intelligence portrays science: Interviewing ChatGPT from the perspective of different audience segments
Authors: Volk Sophia Charlotte , Schäfer Mike S. , Lombardi Damiano , Mahl Daniela , Yan Xiaoyue
Published: September 2024

Generative artificial intelligence in general and ChatGPT in particular have risen in importance. ChatGPT is widely known and used increasingly as an information source for different topics, including science. It is therefore relevant to examine how ChatGPT portrays science and science-related issues. Research on this question is lacking, however. Hence, we simulate “interviews” with ChatGPT and reconstruct how it presents science, science communication, scientific misbehavior, and controversial scientific issues. Combining qualitative and quantitative content analysis, we find that, generally, ChatGPT portrays science largely as the STEM disciplines, in a positivist-empiricist way and a positive light. When comparing ChatGPT’s responses to different simulated user profiles and responses from the GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 versions, we find similarities in that the scientific consensus on questions such as climate change, COVID-19 vaccinations, or astrology is consistently conveyed across them. Beyond these similarities in substance, however, pronounced differences are found in the personalization of responses to different user profiles and between GPT-3.5 and GPT-4.
Chaim Sheba (1908–1971) and the Israeli health system
Authors: Kirsh Nurit , Barell Ari
Published: September 2024

Chaim Sheba was one of Israel's most influential medical figures. An internist by training, Sheba was among the founding fathers of the Israeli military medical system and took part in shaping its unique local model. Between 1950 and 1952, he was the Health Ministry's Director General, and soon after was appointed Head of Tel-Hashomer Hospital. In addition, Sheba played an important part in establishing Barzilai Hospital, in Israel's southern region, and was also one of the chief founders of Tel-Aviv University's School of Medicine. Alongside his work as a doctor and hospital manager and his many public obligations and activities, Sheba conducted research on the genetics of different Jewish ethnic communities who emigrated to the nascent State of Israel. In this article, we focus on Sheba's biography and explore how his vision and relentless activity shaped Israel's health system. While Sheba's achievements are our focal point, we also discuss his professional disappointments and unfulfilled visions.
Usefulness of Platelet-rich Fibrin in Open Fractures of Tibia: A Randomised Comparative Pilot Study
Authors: Sural Sumit , Mandal Subhashis
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims:

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), rich in growth factors and cytokines, found useful for bone healing in animal studies, has paucity of literature on open fractures in humans. This randomised comparative interventional study aimed to find out the role of PRF in wound healing and fracture union in open fractures of tibia.

Material and Methods:

Random computerised allocation of 14 open tibial shaft fractures managed with an external fixator were done into PRF and non-PRF groups. Autologous PRF injected at fracture site, with PRF gel over open wounds in the PRF group, was compared with conventional standard treatment in the non-PRF group. Wound assessment on day 3, day 7 and weekly till complete wound healing and radiographs for fracture union at 3, 6, and 12 months were done in both groups. The statistical analysis was done using an unpaired t-test (wound size assessment) and chi-squared test (fracture union), using SPSS version 25.

Results:

Fractures union in PRF group 7/8 (87.5%) was better than 3/6 (50%) in non-PRF group. External fixators were removed 4 weeks earlier in PRF group. Wound healing time, though not statistically significant, was faster in PRF group (36.25±3.03 days) compared to non-PRF (42±7 days), even with larger wound size in PRF group (7.87±1.43 cm 2 ) than non-PRF group (7.5±1.5 cm 2 ).

Conclusions:

Results of injectable PRF at fracture site and PRF gel over the wound are encouraging, found to be safe, with faster wound healing and better fracture union in the small sample size of this pilot study.
Correlation of Hypothyroidism with Age and Comorbidities Among Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ifthikhar Mufida Begum , Dhamotharaswamy Kumudha
Published: September 2024

Background

Hypothyroidism, an endocrine disorder caused by thyroid dysfunction found to be more prevalent globally in females than in males. Young females are more prone to subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH). The study aimed to estimate the different types of hypothyroidism based on the clinical profile of thyroid hormone and to detect various comorbidities in correlation with age in women. In female patients with hypothyroidism, there is a significant association between age groups and the type of hypothyroidism (subclinical, clinical, overt), with younger age groups showing a higher prevalence of SCH. Additionally, comorbidities, such as polycystic ovarian disorder (PCOD), are more prevalent in hypothyroidism patients, particularly in those with SCH.

Materials and Methods

A prospective cross-sectional study executed in a tertiary care hospital for one year with an inclusion of female hypothyroid patients above 18 years of age. An informed written consent form was received from each patient with clarification of the protocol.

Results

A total of 44.6% women were in the 18–28 years of age group (young females) and 42.8% of women with SCH. PCOD (38.2%) was a predominant comorbid condition among hypothyroidism women. In the age group of 18–28 years, there were significantly more patients 114 (81.4%) with SCH ( p < 0.01) than those with clinical 22 (18.4%) and overt hypothyroidism 10 (14.7%). The hypothyroidism of women with PCOD 95 (67.8%) was significantly ( p < 0.01) more in subclinical than clinical 28 (23.5%) and overt hypothyroidism 2 (2.9%).

Conclusion

Thyroid dysfunction is uncertain in females, bulges to complications of maternal and fetal outcomes, and is associated with other comorbidities, leading to an increase in the mortality rate. Hypothyroidism is a growing burden for other comorbidities. Pharmaceutical care by healthcare professionals is to be adopted with prompt diagnostic and screening techniques.
From league champion to community champion: Institutional entrepreneurship in Belgian soccer
Authors: De Bock Thomas , Scheerder Jeroen , Theeboom Marc , Schyvinck Cleo , De Clerck Tom , Willem Annick
Published: September 2024

Sport clubs traditionally focus on essential tasks such as organising local competitions, facilitating youth sport, and managing their volunteers. This primary focus can sometimes make it challenging to prioritise additional social initiatives such as developing more inclusive sports programs for disadvantaged communities. Despite the inherent difficulties, expanding the scope of sport clubs to embrace social inclusivity can significantly enhance their impact on both members and their local neighbourhoods. Central to addressing this social challenge are institutional entrepreneurs, who serve as exemplary sports clubs advocating the integration of both traditional responsibilities and social values within the sports sector. Recognising the pivotal role played by institutional entrepreneurs, this study aimed to delve deeper into the specific environmental characteristics and actions that trigger sport clubs to become an institutional entrepreneur. For this purpose, we applied the entrepreneurial model of Battilana, Leca & Boxenbaum (2009) . Employing a single-case study design, we focused on a Belgian amateur soccer club, conducting a comprehensive investigation through 22 semi-structured interviews. The findings yielded multiple interesting insights such as the role of the external environment (i.e., the competitive dynamics of soccer and the demographic shift in the club's neighbourhood) in initiating entrepreneurial initiatives. Furthermore, the role of an intrapreneur emerged from the data and proved to be a decisive characteristic in catalysing the call for advocating social values within the club. Consequently, this study contributes to the discussion on how entrepreneurial actions, initiated by the intrapreneur, can bring about social change in the field of sport clubs.
Potential promises and perils of artificial intelligence in psychotherapy –The AI Psychotherapist (APT)
Authors: Jurblum Marc , Selzer Rob
Published: September 2024

Objective

Since the release of ChatGPT, popular demand has driven the use of social chatbots as pseudo-AI psychotherapists. With time, it is inevitable that these technologies will be deployed in some form as dedicated psychotherapy interventions. Here, we attempt to forecast the implications for psychotherapy including the unique benefits to distributive justice as well as concerns for the quality of the therapy and its societal impact.

Conclusion

An AI psychotherapist (APT) has the potential to provide engaging clinical interactions given its capacity for highly realistic interaction as well as its high level cognitive and emotional capabilities. Moreover, it can potentially address financial and workforce limitations on access to therapy. However, an APT may cause significant iatrogenic harm if released without adequate quality control and oversight by trained psychotherapists. If not appropriately designed and regulated, APTs have potential to mislead and reinforce maladaptive coping behaviours. Given societal drivers and possible benefits, these technologies will inevitably be deployed; thus, it is incumbent upon us as a professional body to consider their regulation.
Critical Consciousness Scale and Career Contexts: Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Properties of the Brazilian Version
Authors: Pedruzzi Pâmela Fardin , de Andrade Alexsandro Luiz
Published: September 2024

According to the Brazilian pedagogue Paulo Freire, Critical Consciousness aims to understand people’s ability to critically analyze social and structural inequities and their role in social power relations, while also promoting political and social engagement, both individually and collectively. In career studies, the Psychology of Working Theory views Critical Consciousness as an individual moderator of variables that predict perception and access to decent work. This article presents the cross-cultural adaptation procedures and psychometric properties of the Brazilian version of the Critical Consciousness Scale. The sample consisted of 554 Brazilian workers, with women making up the majority (62.5%), and an average age of 35.8 years (SD = 14.3). The analysis of the internal structure (exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses) revealed a 24-item measure with three factors: critical reflection ( α = 0.93; ω = 0.93), critical responsibility ( α = 0.73; ω = 0.77), and critical action ( α = 0.84; ω = 0.85). The instrument showed partial invariance between groups based on gender, subjective social class, and education. Further investigations into the construct in the career field with different groups of workers are discussed, along with the need for caution when interpreting the Freirean conception of consciousness based on psychometric models.
Gender-Neutral HPV Vaccine in India; Requisite for a Healthy Community: A Review
Authors: Kaur Karuna Nidhi , Niazi Farah , Nandi Dhruva , Taneja Neha
Published: September 2024

Human papillomavirus (HPV) affects approximately 80% of individuals, irrespective of gender, and is implicated in various cancers. Existing HPV vaccines, while safe and effective, do not sufficiently protect males when administered solely to females. This review, triggered by the urgent need to address this gap and reduce the associated stigma, aims to evaluate the introduction of a gender-neutral HPV vaccine, GARDASIL-9, in India. The primary objective is to assess the necessity and feasibility of incorporating the gender-neutral HPV vaccine into India’s national immunization program. This integration is crucial to ensure equitable access for all children and to mitigate the substantial burden of HPV. A literature search was conducted using databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, government websites, and relevant publications. Keywords included “gender-neutral vaccine”, “HPV vaccine”, and “Indian population”. The central research question guiding this review is: How necessary and feasible is the inclusion of a gender-neutral HPV vaccine in India’s national immunization schedule to ensure equitable access for all children and reduce the HPV burden? The review inclusion criteria comprised studies addressing the prevalence of HPV infections, HPV vaccination awareness among both genders, the cost-effectiveness of gender-neutral vaccines, current HPV vaccination status, and future perspectives specific to India. Studies not meeting these criteria were excluded. The review highlights that introducing a gender-neutral HPV vaccine in India is imperative. Including males in vaccination efforts significantly reduces the overall disease burden and helps in reducing the stigma associated with HPV. A comprehensive vaccination program, bolstered by education and awareness campaigns, and its inclusion in the national immunization schedule is essential. This approach ensures equitable access to the vaccine for all children, fostering a healthier community, preventing HPV-related cancers, and enhancing public health outcomes in India.
Bluestein–Gulyaev(B-G) waves in a piezo-thermoelastic half-space in the context of modified multi-phase-lag theory
Authors: Santra Soumen , Lakshman Anirban
Published: September 2024

In the years 1968–69, Bluestein and Gulyaev discovered a new kind of surface wave in a piezoelectric material known as B-G wave after their name. Although it was discovered in few decades ago, but till now, no work has been done related to B-G wave propagation based on modified multi-phase-lag theory. In the present work, the authors have investigated the propagation behavior of Bluestein-Gulyaev-type waves in a piezo-thermoelastic half-space in the context of modified multi-phase-lag theory. The normal mode technique is employed to obtain the principal variables, for example, displacements, temperature, electric potential, electric displacements, and thermo-mechanical stresses. The boundary conditions are adopted in such a way that the upper surface of the piezo-thermoelastic half-space is stress free and the half-space is implicated by a perfectly conducting electrode that is grounded (i.e., electrically short conditions at the free surface). Based on these boundary conditions, secular equations are derived for the proposed model. Some special cases have also been discussed, and it is found that the secular equation is in well-agreement with the pre-established thermoelasticity theory. Moreover, some analyses are made to highlight the important peculiarities of the problem. The mathematical framework of the present study is momentous for both theoretical and practical expositions for temperature sensors and piezoelectric surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices. Also present study helps the researchers who are engaged on this domain.
Constructing Sacred Containers for Participatory Action Research: An Embodied Mindfulness Arts-Based Practice
Authors: Lichty Lauren F. , Pedersen Alice
Published: September 2024

College campuses are sites of institutional betrayal and interpersonal harm for too many survivors of gender-based violence. In pursuit of change aligned with empowerment frameworks and feminist epistemologies, many of us create spaces for impacted students to engage in participatory action research and learning. This article describes a mindfulness, arts-based embodied practice for transforming settings and positioning participants as visionaries and experts on safety, power, and well-being. Through intentional dyadic and collective discussion, the Sacred Containers form the foundation for a coconstructed community. This article describes the rationale, process, impact, and recommendations via student and faculty reflections across four cohorts.
Optimizing Stroke Care Transitions: A Patient-Centered Discharge Program for Caregivers
Authors: Bhatt Anshika , Kaur Sukhpal , Dhandapani Manju , Banumathy N , Khurana Dheeraj
Published: September 2024

Inadequate discharge planning can worsen long-term outcomes for patients with stroke, delaying their recovery. Equipping caregivers with the knowledge to manage rehabilitation needs is crucial for facilitating a smooth hospital-to-home transition. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of a “Patient-Centered Discharge Program for Caregivers” on the comprehensiveness and clarity of discharge advice provided to caregivers of stroke survivors. Using a quasi-experimental design, the study compared a control group receiving standard discharge planning and an experimental group receiving the “Patient-Centered Discharge Program for Caregivers.” 62 caregivers of stroke survivors formed the participant pool. The program focused on various comprehensive discharge advice domains delivered to the caregivers. The discharge advice, knowledge, and skills of caregivers regarding stroke care were assessed on the day of discharge through questionnaires and checklists. Compared to the control group, the discharge instructions of the experimental group became more comprehensive and clear, with a significant improvement in knowledge and skills regarding stroke care ( p < .05). The knowledge scores of the caregivers showed a statistically significant difference from the control group, with a mean difference of 8.78. ( p < .05). The experimental group demonstrated good skills in nearly all procedures compared to the control group, including oral care, range of motion exercises, feeding, suctioning, and back care ( p < .05). The “Patient-Centered Discharge Program for Caregivers” led to the delivery of more comprehensive discharge instructions, subsequently increasing caregivers’ knowledge. It highlights the benefits of such programs in equipping caregivers for effective discharge planning, with future research needed to evaluate long-term benefits.

Trial/Protocol Registration: Clinical Trials Registry India (CTRI) CTRI/2023/07/055602 Link: https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/rmaindet.php?trialid=89913&EncHid=35558.64662&modid=1&compid=19