bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to Reconcile Water and Fire: Social Media Logic and Journalistic Independence
Authors: Nowak-Teter Ewa
Published: July 2024

This study explores how social media logic combined with mass media logic challenges the practice of news journalism. By operationalizing different media logics through the relevant sets of news factors and using in-depth expert interviews with journalists (social media editors, SMEs; 24) on Facebook, we examine the practical side of applying social media logic principles in news journalism. The findings highlight a conflict between professional independence and the need to practice news journalism according to Facebook’s principles, arising from editorial ambitions for original reporting, and the pressure to deliver metrics-driven stories.
Relational Education Design: Three Case Studies and a Discussion for Aspirational Design and Education Futures
Authors: Roy Radhika , Harris Daniel X. , Haslem Neal
Published: July 2024

Relational education design advocates for whole-person exchange between teachers, students, facilitators, and participants. In this essay, we discuss what an emphasis on the relational allows and provide suggestions for its conditions including, space, time, authenticity, trust, dialogic development, and institutional support. The co-authors demonstrate how relational education experiences are highly situational, and conclude by suggesting that a relational education design is capable of providing an orientation to education design suitable for our highly complex contemporary socio-political conditions, one that has the capacity to engage all parties in the educational space in dialogic, authentic, and, necessarily, relational experiences.
Specialist Financial Counseling for Women Affected by Domestic and Family Violence: Staff and Client Perspectives on an Australian Initiative
Authors: Cortis Natasha , Smyth Ciara
Published: July 2024

This article examines staff and client perspectives on an initiative providing co-located specialist Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) financial counseling in women's legal services. An exploratory mixed-method study in five service locations captured perspectives via a client survey ( n = 42), online interviews with staff ( n = 15), and a review of services’ progress reports. For staff and clients, integrating financial counseling into women's legal services contributed to a more comprehensive model of support which helped address the economic harms associated with violence. Findings highlight the benefits of service integration and co-location, which enabled staff to share knowledge and build capacity, and helped improve outcomes for women following violence.
Hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, and hyponatremia are associated with acute kidney injury in patients treated with cisplatin
Authors: Pinard Louis , Adam Jean-Philippe , Chagnon Miguel , Bollée Guillaume , Soulières Denis
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Cisplatin-associated acute kidney injury (C-AKI) is common. Predictive factors include age >60 years, hypertension, cisplatin dose, diabetes, and serum albumin < 3.5 g/L. The association between C-AKI and hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia or hyponatremia has not been well characterized.

Methods

Data from a previous retrospective observational study was obtained. Patients were separated into three groups with similar cisplatin doses and schedules. Group A received cisplatin 60–100 mg/m2 every three weeks with laboratory assessments before treatment, group B received cisplatin 60–75 mg/m2 every three weeks with laboratory assessments before days 1 and 8 and group C had weekly cisplatin 40 mg/m2 with weekly laboratories assessments. The association between hypomagnesemia, hypokalemia, hyponatremia, and risk of AKI was determined using a counting process specification of Cox's regression models.

Results

A total of 1301 patients were separated into groups A ( n = 713), B ( n = 204), and C ( n = 384). The proportion of patients with at least one event of hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, or hyponatremia was lower in group A (29.2%, 57.6%, 36.2%) compared to groups B (43.6%, 67.2%, 59.8%) and C (49.0%, 78.7%, 51.0%). The incidence of all grade C-AKI was 35.6% (group A), 46.6% (group B), and 18.2% (group C). In group A, the risk of AKI doubled with hyponatremia or hypomagnesemia and tripled with hypokalemia. This association was not seen with other groups.

Conclusion

Among patients with the highest doses of cisplatin, the presence of one electrolyte disorder was associated with an increased risk of C-AKI. Other studies are needed to characterize the presence of an electrolyte disorder as a predictive risk factor of C-AKI in this subpopulation.
Trend analysis of pharmacist involvement in cancer care in Japan from 2015 to 2020: A nationwide survey study on hospital pharmacy practice
Authors: Tsuchiya Masami , Kikuchi Daisuke , Hatakeyama Shiro , Tasaka Yuichi , Uchikura Takeshi , Funakoshi Ryohkan , Obara Taku
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Pharmacists are needed as members of oncology teams. The Japanese Society of Hospital Pharmacists (JSHP) conducts a nationwide survey annually to analyze the actual situation and generate fundamental information about hospital pharmacy practice in Japan. Using data from this large-scale survey, we described pharmacists’ involvement in cancer chemotherapy. We explored the factors related to the acceleration of pharmacists’ tasks or involvement in clinical practice, primarily in oncology.

Methods

Data were obtained from annual surveys conducted by JSHP from 2015 to 2020. All variables were expressed as categorical variables and tabulated. The Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare the categorical variables. The Cochran–Armitage trend test was used to identify significant trends.

Results

From 2015 to 2020, 22,362 responses were recorded. After applying the exclusion criteria, 20,906 were analyzed. The proportion of hospitals enrolling pharmacists with oncology-related certifications significantly increased in all hospitals providing cancer care. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that a smaller number of beds per pharmacist significantly correlated with additional fees for outpatient pharmacy services ( p = 0.0002 for trend).

Conclusion

Hospitals charging increased fees for outpatient oncology pharmacy services were associated with a smaller number of beds per pharmacist, regardless of hospital size. A balance between the number of beds and pharmacists, particularly certified oncology pharmacists, is crucial for safe and high-quality cancer treatment.
Hello World! Building Computational Models to Represent Social and Organizational Theory
Authors: Grand James A. , Braun Michael T. , Kuljanin Goran
Published: July 2024

Computational modeling holds significant promise as a tool for improving how theory is developed, expressed, and used to inform empirical research and evaluation efforts. However, the knowledge and skillsets needed to build computational models are rarely developed in the training received by social and organizational scientists. The purpose of this manuscript is to provide an accessible introduction to and reference for building computational models to represent theory. We first discuss important principles and recommendations for “thinking about” theory and developing explanatory accounts in ways that facilitate translating their core assumptions, specifications, and ideas into a computational model. Next, we address some frequently asked questions related to building computational models that introduce several fundamental tasks/concepts involved in building models to represent theory and demonstrate how they can be implemented in the R programming language to produce executable model code. The accompanying supplemental materials describes additional considerations relevant to building and using computational models, provides multiple examples of complete computational model code written in R, and an interactive application offering guided practice on key model-building tasks/concepts in R.
Variation of retinal and choroidal microvascularization after an exercise stress test in patients with effort angina
Authors: Ben Aoun Safa , Sassi Hela , Mzoughi Khadija , Saidane Syrine , Ferchichi Moka , Fekih Khawla , Cheour Monia
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To describe retinal and choroidal vascular changes following an exercise stress test (ET) in patients with effort angina and to determine whether optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) could play a role in the prediction of ischemic cardiac events.

Methods

Prospective comparative study including patients with effort angina. All patients underwent OCT-A before and after an ET was performed. Blood flow, intercapillary spaces, and vessel density were analyzed in the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and the deep capillary plexus (DCP). Vessel density in the choriocapillaris and the parameters of the central avascular zone (CAZ) were also analyzed.

Results

Of the 38 eyes included in the study, a decrease in blood flow was found in 39.5% in the large SCP vessels, in 50% in the capillaris of the SCP, and in 81.6% in the DCP. An increase in intercapillary spaces was observed in the SCP in 68.4% of eyes and in the DCP in 55.3% of eyes. A statistically significant decrease in the DCP density was observed after an ET ( p = 0.03). There were no significant modifications in the CAZ parameters, the SCP density, nor the choriocapillaris density. Patients with a positive ET had a decreased DCP density in 83.3%. Among patients with an increased DCP density, 92.85% had a negatif ET.

Conclusion

This pilot study suggests that DCP density significantly decreases after an ET. The DCP appears to be most affected in patients with effort angina. A larger trial is needed to further investigate these hypotheses.
Research on bifurcation and chaos characteristics of planet gear transmission system with thermal deformation
Authors: Wang Jingyue , Wu Zhijian , Wang Haotian , Ding Jianming , Yi Cai
Published: July 2024

A computational model is proposed for the calculation of thermal deformation in ring gear, and the ANSYS Workbench platform is utilized to simulate the steady-state temperature field and thermal deformation in a planetary gear system. The simulation results are utilized to validate the accuracy of the ring gear thermal deformation calculation model. Furthermore, based on the data obtained from the steady-state temperature field, this research investigates variations in gear backlash and coupling stiffness within planetary gear systems caused by thermal deformation under variable speed and torque conditions. Additionally, a nonlinear dynamic model incorporating thermal deformation factors is established for a planetary gear system. By employing the 4-5 order Runge-Kutta numerical method, bifurcation diagrams and Largest Lyapunov exponents of the system under different operating conditions are obtained. Combining Poincaré maps, phase diagram, and spectral diagrams, an analysis is conducted on tooth impact states as well as nonlinear dynamic characteristics of the system influenced by thermal deformation.
The effect of chewing gum on the rate of en-masse space closure: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Murugan Chandnee , Kailasam Vignesh
Published: July 2024

Aim:

To evaluate the effect of chewing gum on the rate of space closure, oral hygiene, pain during space closure and appliance breakage in patients undergoing fixed appliance therapy.

Design:

A prospective, single-centre, two-arm, parallel, double-blinded randomised controlled trial.

Setting:

Orthodontic unit of a privately funded hospital, Chennai, India.

Participants:

In total, 28 participants were randomly allocated into a chewing gum group (CGG) (n = 14) or a control group (CG) (n = 14).

Methods:

Baseline data were collected at the start of retraction (T0), at 4 weeks (T1), 8 weeks (T2) and 12 weeks (T3) after the start of retraction. Rate of space closure, pain, oral hygiene and appliance breakage were assessed at T1, T2 and T3. Data were analysed using an independent t-test with P < 0.05 considered to be statistically significant.

Results:

The mean rate of space closure in the CGG was 0.9 ± 0.2 mm/month and 0.8 ± 0.2 mm/month in the CG (mean difference 0.1mm/month ± 0.16; 95% confidence interval −0.055−0.26). In both the groups, oral hygiene became worse between T0 and T3. At T0 and T1, participants in the CGG reported less pain at 24 h and 7 days when compared to the CG ( P < 0.05). At T2 and T3, participants in the CGG reported less pain at 0 h, 24 h and 7 days when compared to the CG ( P < 0.05). Appliance breakage in both groups was minimal, with an odds ratio of 0.7 (95% CI 0.1–3.8) and was similar ( P = 0.66)

Conclusion:

There was a minimal increase that was clinically not significant in the rate of space closure with chewing gum. Chewing gum ensured better oral hygiene, helped alleviate pain and had no effect on appliance breakage during space closure.
Position and root resorption of the incisors following anterior segment retraction using friction versus frictionless mechanics: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Bakhit Dorra MHD Izzat , Tawfik Monica Guirguis Youssif , Dehis Heba Mohamed , Mostafa Yehya A , El Sharaby Fouad A
Published: July 2024

Aim:

To evaluate the three-dimensional position and root resorption of incisors after anterior segment retraction (ASR) using friction versus frictionless mechanics.

Participants and methods:

Thirty female patients (13-18 years) with bimaxillary protrusion were randomly allocated into two groups. In the intervention group, ASR was undertaken using an elastomeric chain rendering 160 g/side extending between mini-screw implant and a hook crimped on 0.017 × 0.025-inch stainless-steel wire distal to the lateral incisor. In the comparison group, ASR was undertaken using closing T-loops fabricated from 0.017 × 0.025-inch titanium molybdenum alloy (TMA) wire rendering comparable retraction force. In both groups, the canine brackets were ligated after retraction to the mini-screw implants that were inserted in both the upper and lower arches bilaterally. The primary outcome was the three-dimensional changes in the position of the incisors. The secondary outcome was root resorption. These were measured from cone-beam computed tomography scans.

Results:

Statistically significant decreases in the upper (UI) and lower incisors (LI) crown torque were seen in both groups; however, the difference between groups was not statistically or clinically significant (UI MD −2.04°; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −8.02–3.95; LI MD −0.49°; 95% CI = −7.06–6.08). Significant tipping of upper (MD −1.17°; 95% CI = −2.06–−0.27) and lower (MD −1.13°; 95% CI = −1.66–−0.60) incisors was found in the friction, but not the frictionless group after retraction; however, the changes were not clinically significant. Significant lower incisor intrusion was found in both groups after retraction; however, the difference between groups was not statistically or clinically significant (MD −0.61°; 95% CI = −1.99–0.77). Statistically significant decreases in the UI and LI root length were seen in both groups. The difference between groups for UI changes was statistically significant (MD 0.54 mm; 95% CI = −0.02–1.07) but probably not clinically significant.

Conclusion:

Considering the limitations in the current study, there was no advantage of either mechanics over the other regarding the final position of incisors. The likelihood of root resorption should be considered when frictionless mechanics are used for retraction of incisors.

Registry:

Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04878939).
Beyond a ‘paradigm cold war’, or: How to explore the new in cross-cultural management research
Authors: Busch Dominic
Published: July 2024

Cross-cultural management seeks to develop new and alternative perspectives on management studies. The multi-paradigm approach has proven to be an important and necessary step in this direction. It is particularly important in overcoming a purely positivist perspective. In a broader perspective, however, paradigm-based thinking may also be a hindrance in the search for the new, especially when real-world issues are paramount and an open view of practice would be more important. Post qualitative inquiry argues that the coherence of an academic study is ensured by an internal coherence of epistemology, ontology and method, which is often lacking even within paradigms. Certainly, post qualitative inquiry can also be described as a paradigm, but it primarily aims to achieve radical openness while maintaining its internal coherence. Using Anna Tsing’s study ‘The Mushroom at the End of the World’ as an example, this paper shows how the field of cross-cultural management can generate even more radically different insights into its research object. As a result, this paper explores ways of thinking about cross-cultural management that go beyond paradigms.
Conventions of skilling: The plural and prospective worlds of higher vocational education
Authors: Ye Rebecca , Nylander Erik
Published: July 2024

When comparing lifelong learning systems in Europe, Swedish vocational education has been characterised as a statist, school-based ideal type, with strong emphasis on egalitarianism and social citizenship. However, the popularisation and expansion of higher vocational education (HVE), a post-secondary training form that has a mandate to train people to meet local labour market needs, complicates these composite descriptions. Building on conventions theory and pragmatic sociology, our analysis probes the plural worlds of HVE participation, beyond simplistic understandings of human capital accumulation or universalistic welfare. Drawing on interviews with participants and archival material, we analyse forms of justifications evoked by those engaged in this transforming skilling regime. Our analysis reveals that participants do not enrol merely for getting work or getting ahead. Rather, participation is described as a response to constraints, a means to challenge difficult circumstances encountered in the labour market, or related to contingencies. Taken together, HVE emerges as a flexible mode of governing vocational knowledge to match local labour market needs, with rivalling conventions of worth. We discuss the increasing significance of projection and anticipation for individuals and organisations involved in skilling regimes, and propose a prospective convention that underscores expectancy and promise.
Multicase structural damage classification based on semisupervised generative adversarial network
Authors: Zhang Feng-Liang , Li Xiao , Kim Chul-Woo , Mu He-Qing
Published: July 2024

With the rapid development of computer science and the need for structural safety assessment, structural health monitoring (SHM) systems are widely used in structures. SHM systems primarily rely on sensor systems to collect data related to structural safety conditions, which are then analyzed and assessed for performance evaluation. However, structures in real world are often affected by many uncertain factors, making damage detection based on pattern recognition still difficult to apply. In recent years, research on damage recognition based on machine learning has gained considerable attention. One of the research directions is to use machine learning algorithms to extract features from the dynamic response of structures. Aiming at the problem of inaccurate recognition by machine learning in the case of fewer label samples, this paper proposes a structural state classification method based on semisupervised deep learning. The method is verified on the vibration data of a steel truss bridge and a three-story framework structure to realize the classification of structural states under different working conditions. Unlike the general semisupervised learning method, this paper introduces the mean square error (MS) loss function in the loss function of generative adversarial networks (GANs), thereby enhancing the model training effect (mean square error-generative adversarial networks, MS-GAN). The semisupervised learning uses a small amount of supervised information to guide GAN and then sorts and screens unsupervised data through joint probability, which can reduce labeling costs and improve model accuracy. Compared with the general semisupervised GAN, the algorithm proposed in this paper makes full use of some labeled samples to enable the state recognition and classification of semisupervised learning. By properly utilizing labeled data, the accuracy of state recognition is significantly improved. Finally, a range of training tasks are implemented in order to enhance the classification capability of the proposed MS-GAN through the establishment of varying supervised ratios.
Enhancing rubber rupture detection in rubber bearing through generative adversarial network and feature-bagging zero-shot methodology
Authors: Zeng Yi , Deng Chubing , Xiong Feng
Published: July 2024

Base isolation technology is a design strategy developed to protect buildings from the direct impact of seismic forces, utilizing base isolation devices, with rubber bearings being the most commonly used type. After an earthquake, manually inspecting rubber bearings for damage is inefficient, unable to reveal internal damages, and carries significant risks. Consequently, there is a pressing need for an innovative damage detection method. The difficulty of obtaining and labeling data related to rubber rupture damage makes it hard to apply supervised learning methods to construct damage detection models. In response to this, this study combined the active sensing method with unsupervised learning based on feature bagging, establishing a robust rubber damage detection model that successfully addressed the zero-shot problem faced in rubber damage detection processes. To increase the proportion of data on rubber damage, a generative adversarial network based data augmentation methods were applied. The research findings demonstrated that the developed model achieved an average precision of 0.9216 and an area under the ROC curve (Receiver Operating Characteristic curve) of 0.9788 for rupture damage detection, outperforming other machine learning models.
The Role of Emergency Medicine in Intimate Partner Violence: A Scoping Review of Screening, Survivor Resources, and Barriers
Authors: Ziola Elizabeth A. , Gimenez Michelle A. , Stevenson Ashley P. , Newberry Jennifer A.
Published: July 2024

At the front line of our medical system and population health, emergency medicine (EM) settings serve as a commonly perceived place for safety. Survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) may present to the emergency department (ED) with injuries, illness, or specifically to seek help for IPV. In 2018, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended screening women of reproductive age for IPV across all healthcare settings. Our objective was to examine the application of IPV interventions, resource allocation, and persistent barriers for screening within the EM setting following the USPSTF recommendation. This scoping review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P). Our initial search of two major databases, PubMed and CINAHL, found 259 articles. After screening for inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15 articles met the full study criteria. Inconsistencies in screening women for IPV in EM are still prevalent. No study used the same validated IPV screening tool and four did not specify the tool. Significant barriers to screening included time constraints, patient acuity, language barriers, staff education, and inability to connect patients to resources. There is a need for more consistent IPV screening in the EM setting, which may include the development of a standardized, inclusive screening tool, as well as additional research and sharing of best practices. Advancement of IPV identification must go beyond a recommendation with greater awareness and education changes at all levels: personal, institutional, and policy.
Examining the Association Between the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Rate of Diagnostic Tests for Breast, Cervical, and Colorectal Cancer in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Decker Kathleen M. , Musto Grace , Bucher Oliver , Czaykowski Piotr , Hebbard Pamela , Kim Julian O. , Singh Harminder , Thiessen Maclean , Feely Allison , Galloway Katie , Lambert Pascal
Published: July 2024

Background: Strategies to minimize the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic led to a reduction in diagnostic testing. It is important to assess the magnitude and duration of this impact to plan ongoing care and avoid long-lasting impacts of the pandemic. Objective: We examined the association between the COVID-19 pandemic and the rate of diagnostic tests for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer in Manitoba, Canada. Design and Participants: A population-based, cross-sectional study design with an interrupted time series analysis was used that included diagnostic tests from January 1, 2015 until August 31, 2022. Setting: Manitoba, Canada. Main Outcomes: Outcomes included mammogram, breast ultrasound, colposcopy, and colonoscopy rates per 100,000. Cumulative and percent cumulative differences between the fitted and counterfactual number of tests were estimated. Mean, median, and 90th percentile number of days from referral to colonoscopy date by referral type (elective, semiurgent, urgent) were determined. Results: In April 2020, following the declaration of the COVID-19 public health emergency, bilateral mammograms decreased by 77%, unilateral mammograms by 70%, breast ultrasounds by 53%, colposcopies by 63%, and colonoscopies by 75%. In Winnipeg (the largest urban center in the province), elective and semiurgent colonoscopies decreased by 76% and 39%, respectively. There was no decrease in urgent colonoscopies. As of August 2022, there were an estimated 7270 (10.7%) fewer bilateral mammograms, 2722 (14.8%) fewer breast ultrasounds, 836 (3.3%) fewer colposcopies, and 11 600 (13.8%) fewer colonoscopies than expected in the absence of COVID-19. As of December 2022, in Winnipeg, there were an estimated 6030 (23.9%) fewer elective colonoscopies, 313 (2.6%) fewer semiurgent colonoscopies, and 438 (27.3%) more urgent colonoscopies. Conclusions: In Manitoba, the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with sizable decreases in diagnostic tests for breast, colorectal, and cervical cancer. Two and a half years later, there remained large cumulative deficits in bilateral mammograms, breast ultrasounds, and colonoscopies.
Two-step analysis of hierarchical data
Authors: Giesecke Johannes , Kohler Ulrich
Published: July 2024

In this article, we describe the package twostep, a bundle of programs to perform analyses of hierarchical data applying the two-step approach. We consider a two-level data setup in which “microlevel” units are nested within “macrolevel” units. One-step models (which can be fit using, for example, mixed) are the most common approach to modeling two-level data. The two-step approach is an alternative in which parameters associated with microlevel and macrolevel predictors are estimated separately for each level. It can be used as an alternative to one-step models if the estimand is a cross-level interaction. We also show how the two-step approach usefully complements one-step approaches by providing exploratory data analysis, descriptive graphs, and regression diagnostics.
Paying More Than Money: Exploring the Reality of Legal Financial Obligations for Women in Georgia and Minnesota
Authors: Martin Brittany T. , Edgemon Timothy G. , Horowitz Veronica L.
Published: July 2024

The current study explores the role of legal financial obligations in the lives of women in Georgia and Minnesota. Using a feminist perspective, we investigate women’s lived experiences with owing criminal legal debt and the consequences that are accrued because of this debt. Through interviews with 50 women, the study reveals the profound impact of LFOs, underscoring the socio-economic and emotional strain these obligations impose. Women’s narratives illustrate a cycle of debt and fear of nonpayment sanctions, highlighting the pervasiveness of criminal legal debt in their everyday lives, including material hardship, continued legal impacts, and issues with family roles.
Analysis of the multi-filament high-performance yarns’ dynamic failure for impact resistance enhancement
Authors: El Messiry Magdi , Eltahan Eman , Fathy Shereen
Published: July 2024

The dynamic failure behavior of multifilament high-performance yarns plays a crucial role in determining the impact resistance of advanced materials used in diverse applications such as aerospace, automotive, and protective textiles. The falling tower setup was designed to investigate the impact behavior of high-performance yarns. These models offer valuable insights into the fundamental mechanisms governing yarn failure. The force-time curves of different yarn samples under various impact energies show that Kevlar and Vectran® have the highest values of impact-resisting force, 21.9 and 21.6 N, respectively. The resisting impact energy reaches between 3.5 and 4 mJ. Enhancement of the multifilament yarn’s impact resistance was achieved through applications of silicone finishes or hybrid yarns, in which the impact resistance force and time to failure exhibited an increase across various yarn types. The ratio of impact yarn resisting force to yarn tenacity was determined to be 6.73%, 6.05%, 11.29%, and 1.71% for Vectran, Kevlar 29, polyester, and carbon yarns, respectively. Additionally, their specific yarn impact toughness was measured at 2.69, 1.32, 0.54, and 0.16 mJ/tex. The application of a 20% silicon coating increased their specific yarn impact toughness to 11.81, 5.79, 3.58, and 0.51 mJ/tex, respectively. Hybrid continuous fibers are composite materials that blend various fiber types, including carbon, Kevlar, Vectran®, or polyester, to form a material with enhanced impact absorption energy, such as in the case of Kevlar/PET or Carbon-PET. The outcomes of these investigations substantially contribute to enhancing multi-filament high-performance yarns in various practical applications in systems subjected to dynamic loads.
Metacarpal Stress Fractures in Athletes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shaari Ariana L. , Fano Adam N. , Ferraro Joseph , Ahmed Irfan
Published: July 2024

Background:

Stress fractures in general are common injuries; however, there is limited literature on metacarpal stress fractures in athletes. Our objective is to contribute the first systematic review of metacarpal stress fractures in athletes, with a particular focus on epidemiology, presentation, and outcomes.

Methods:

A systematic review regarding metacarpal stress fractures in athletes was performed via PubMed, EMBASE, MedLine, Cochrane, and Web of Science. Inclusion criteria consisted of case reports and case series of metacarpal stress fractures in athletes. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed.

Results:

A total of 11 studies (29 cases) were included. The mean patient age was 17 years, with 12 men and 15 women. The most common sports were tennis and badminton. The most common presentation was pain in the dorsal aspect of the hand related to activity. All patients underwent successful nonoperative management, with mean return to play of 9 weeks.

Conclusions:

Metacarpal stress fractures can present with significant pain and impact performance in athletes who perform sports involving repetitive movements of the hand and wrist. Nonoperative treatment, consisting of abstinence from sport until the patient was pain free combined with gradual return to play, was successful for all patients. The addition of proper technique and training load can result in satisfactory return to play. For patients who present with hand pain related to exercise, particularly a young racquet sport player, metacarpal stress fractures are a “can’t miss” diagnosis associated with significant functional impairment.
Numerical and experimental analysis of building walls thermal performance
Authors: Al Fakhoury Joelle , Sassine Emilio , Cherif Yassine , Dgheim Joseph , Antczak Emmanuel
Published: July 2024

The building sector represents a significant proportion of the world’s energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. One of the possible contributions to reducing this problem is to improve the energy performance of buildings by acting on their envelope and systems. Consequently, the aim of this work is to develop an experimental and numerical methods for characterizing the thermal performance of a concrete masonry hollow wall, in order to propose a new configuration that can be used to improve its thermal performance. First, this study focuses on the thermal performance of different wall configurations. Then, each case studied at wall scale, was modeled, and simulated in 3D using COMSOL Multiphysics® software under the same conditions, properties and dimensions as the one tested experimentally. Finally, this analysis was applied to a real building in Lebanon, consisting of hollow concrete masonry walls, to study its energy and thermal requirements. The conclusions showed that the numerical and experimental results proposed for the hollow masonry block wall confirm a good match. This validates the value of this method in the construction sector by proposing new methods for improving its thermal and energy performance.
Looking at Ukrainian technical and vocational education and training before the war: Consequences of a meritocratic orientation
Authors: Braun Vera
Published: July 2024

The paper theoretically examines the standing of Ukrainian educational qualifications, especially technical and vocational education and training (TVET). It assumes that the existing low social standing of TVET is related to the meritocratic principle. In this sense, this study does not examine the case of Ukraine as an example to illustrate meritocracy but rather examines the case of Ukraine using the concept of meritocracy. It briefly shows how, on the ideal typical level, the merit principle in education-based meritocracies acts as a driver for the dysfunctional devaluation of TVET. After an overview of the Ukrainian education system, the paper examines the shift towards meritocratic logic in Ukraine. It then analyses how this shift influences the Ukrainian education system, educational aspirations, and recruitment strategies in the business world. The paper concludes that the widespread belief in meritocratic principles is an important influencing factor regarding the social devaluation of TVET in Ukraine.
‘There’s always opportunities to learn’: Immigrant-origin youth’s use and understanding of social media for civic education in the year 2020
Authors: Castro Elena Maker , Wilf Sara , Guzman Jaime Garcia , Wray-Lake Laura
Published: July 2024

Immigrant-origin youth are a large and growing segment of the US population. As immigrant-origin youth engage in critical civic issues within and beyond the United States, they may use social media to educate themselves and their communities while drawing upon a transnational context and experiences resisting xenophobic rhetoric and policy. Using a multi-method qualitative approach, we conducted thematic analysis to explore over 2200 Twitter (now known as ‘X’) posts and 11 interviews from a racially/ethnically diverse cohort of 37 immigrant-origin young adults in the United States who posted about political and social issues between January and November of 2020. Guided by Allen and Kidd’s framework for civic education, we identified ways in which immigrant-origin youth built agency and a justice-orientation online in 2020, while combating misinformation and the limitations of social media. Youth practitioners can further consider social media as a key developmental context for civic education for immigrant-origin youth.
Multiple stresses optimization design of constant-stress accelerated degradation test based on Wiener process
Authors: Nianhuan Li , Dongwei Gu , Zhiqiong Wang , Juncheng Wang , Shuailin Li , Bingkun Chen , Pengfei Chen
Published: July 2024

Constant-stress accelerated degradation test (CSADT) is an effective means of evaluating the reliability of products, to ensure accurate assessment of reliability-related indicators under limited funds. The optimized design of CSADT has been widely applied. The advantage of Wiener process in capturing the random nature of non-monotonic degradation paths caused by inherent uncertainties in products has also been widely used in the application of accelerated degradation tests (ADT). To address the drawback of traditional Wiener process with constant diffusion coefficients leading to low accuracy in test evaluation, a multi-stress coupled constant acceleration degradation model with stress-related diffusion coefficients is proposed. This includes the construction of a D-optimization criterion that minimizes the variance of model parameter estimation as the optimization target, and a scheme optimization method based on Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) with cost constraints. Through the analysis of a case study of ADT for LED lamps, comparison and parameter sensitivity analysis of four accelerated degradation models with or without considering stress-related diffusion coefficients, the effectiveness, and robustness of the model in the paper are validated.
Extrafine single inhaler triple therapy effectiveness in COPD patients previously treated with multiple-inhaler triple therapy: the TRIWIN study
Authors: Steiropoulos Paschalis , Georgatou Niki , Krommidas George , Bartziokas Konstantinos , Korkontzelou Aliki , Katerelos Panos , Efstathopoulos Petros , Papapetrou Dimosthenis , Theodorakis Stavros , Porpodis Konstantinos
Published: July 2024

Background:

The extrafine single inhaler triple therapy (efSITT) containing beclomethasone dipropionate/formoterol fumarate/glycopyrronium 87/5/9 μg has proved to be efficacious in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in randomized control trials.

Objective:

TRIWIN study evaluated the effectiveness of efSITT delivering beclomethasone dipropionate/formoterol fumarate/glycopyrronium 87/5/9 μg in COPD patients previously treated with multiple-inhaler triple therapy (MITT) in a real-world study in Greece.

Design:

Prospective, multicenter, observational, non-interventional study was conducted over 24 weeks.

Methods:

A total of 475 eligible patients had moderate-to-severe COPD, an indication for treatment with efSITT, and were symptomatic despite receiving MITT. COPD Assessment Test (CAT) score, pulmonary function parameters, use of rescue medication, and adherence to inhaler use were recorded at baseline (Visit 1), 3 (Visit 2), and 6 months (Visit 3) after treatment.

Results:

Mean CAT score decreased from 21.4 points at Visit 1, to 16.6 at Visit 2 and 15.1 at Visit 3 ( p < 0.001 for all pair comparisons). At Visit 3, 79.8% of patients reached a CAT improvement exceeding minimal clinically important difference (⩾2), compared to baseline. Mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s (%pred.) increased from 55.4% at Visit 1 to 63.5% at the end of study period ( p < 0.001), while mean forced vital capacity (%pred.) increased from 71.1% at Visit 1, to 76.7% at Visit 3 ( p < 0.001). The mean Test of Adherence to Inhalers score increased from 42.5 to 45.3 and 46.3 points, for the three visits, respectively ( p < 0.001 comparing Visits 1/2 and Visits 1/3; p = 0.006 comparing Visits 2/3). The percentage of patients showing good adherence rose from 33.7% at baseline to 58.3% at Visit 3. The percentage of patients using rescue medication during the last month dropped from 16.2% to 7.4% at the end of study period ( p < 0.001). Pulmonary function parameters also improved.

Conclusion:

The TRIWIN results suggest that extrafine beclomethasone dipropionate/formoterol fumarate/glycopyrronium is effective in improving health status, pulmonary function, and adherence and in reducing rescue medication use in COPD patients previously treated with MITT, in a real-world setting in Greece.
Innovation and Determination: How Local American TV Journalists Told the COVID-19 “Story of a Lifetime”
Authors: Roman Nataliya , Beasley Berrin
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a rare opportunity for analysis of local American television news reporting during a global health crisis. Using Diffusion of Innovations as the theoretical framework of their study, researchers conducted 20 in-depth interviews in summer 2021 with local television reporters from small, medium, and large markets across the United States about their work conditions during the pandemic. Thematic analysis revealed time-saving, cost-saving, and health-saving measures adopted under difficult and confusing circumstances.
Transition to Parenthood: The Association Between Expectations and Family-Life Satisfaction
Authors: Tran Chau , Ivanova Katya , Reitz Anne K. , Stavrova Olga
Published: July 2024

Parenthood is often assumed to profoundly impact well-being. Yet, few studies have explored how the transition to parenthood relates to parent’s family-life satisfaction, and existing research has produced conflicting results. We propose that expected costs and rewards of having children (individual differences in the perceived value of children in one’s life) could explain the mixed findings. Following respondents in a nationally representative panel study from Germany up to 11 years ( N total = 6,850, N parents = 1,196), we found that positive expectations (i.e., higher reward/lower cost) were associated with a higher likelihood of parenthood. Among parents, negative expectations were associated with lower family-life satisfaction as measured by parenting pleasure and family satisfaction; however, expectations did not predict the trajectory post birth. This study underlines the role of expectations about being a parent for the transition to parenthood and for family-life satisfaction once a parent.
Fungal contamination of the water distribution system of a tertiary hospital water supply system in a resource-limited setting
Authors: Olawale Kolapo S. , Oladele Rita O. , Peters Rebecca F. , Ekeng Bassey E. , Ogunsola Folasade T.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Fungal contamination of hospital water distribution systems has been implicated in outbreaks of healthcare-associated infections.

Objectives:

To evaluate the prevalence of fungi in the water distribution system of a tertiary hospital in Nigeria.

Design:

This was a descriptive cross-sectional study.

Methods:

Swabs and water samples were collected from taps and faucets in the hospital categorized into low (Accidents and Emergency Unit, Children Emergency Unit, Acute Stroke Unit and the 24 in-patient hospital wards) and high-risk (Renal Dialysis Unit, Central Sterile Services Department, Theatres and Intensive Care Units (ICUs)) units based on the vulnerability of patients being managed there. The membrane filtration method for water analysis was used. Where possible, isolates cultured were identified to species level. In total, 105 water and 49 swab samples were collected for analysis.

Results:

All analysed water samples grew fungi. A total of 289 (high-risk; n = 178; low-risk; n = 111) and 76 fungi isolates were recorded from water and swab samples, respectively, with 31 different species identified. Aspergillus was the most predominant genus with five different species: Aspergillus niger (9.9%), terreus (4.4%), flavus (3.3%), fumigatus (8.8%) and versicolor (2.20%) isolated. Twenty-five and 18 species of fungi were identified in the low and high-risk units, respectively. The labour ward ( n = 46; 25.8%) and modular theatre ( n = 47; 42.3%) were the most contaminated units. Cladosporium spp. and Paecilomyces spp. were the most frequently isolated fungi in the low and high-risk units, respectively. The dialysis centre ( n = 9; 8.1%) and renal transplant theatre ( n = 7; 6.31%) had the lowest contamination rates in the high-risk units. Aspergillus niger, Cephalosporium curtipes, Penicillium chrysogenum and Penicillium glabrum were each identified in 4/6 units from which swabs were taken. The facility had no documented protocol for its water safety and quality.

Conclusion:

Our data reveal a high rate of contamination of hospital water sources by fungi, some of which are known to cause life-threatening infections. For better water treatment and water tank cleaning and disinfection, a standard protocol is advised. Ensuring that the water distribution systems in hospital settings are free of fungal contaminants is important to prevent the possibility of waterborne mycosis outbreaks.
Challenges and conditions for successfully implementing and adopting the telematics infrastructure in German outpatient healthcare: A qualitative study applying the NASSS framework
Authors: Nordmann Kim , Sauter Stefanie , Redlich Marie-Christin , Möbius-Lerch Patricia , Schaller Michael , Fischer Florian
Published: July 2024

Background

Germany's healthcare system provides high-quality, universal health coverage to almost all residents. However, a major challenge lies in the strong separation of healthcare structures, which hinders efficient interprofessional and intersectoral communication and collaboration. The mandatory nationwide implementation of the telematics infrastructure may offer a solution to enhance healthcare professionals’ communication and collaboration.

Objective

Our study aims to elicit participants’ perceptions of and attitudes towards the implementation and usage of the telematics infrastructure in fostering interprofessional communication and collaboration between home-care nursing services and general practitioner practices.

Methods

We conducted interviews with seven members of general practitioner practices and 10 in home-care nursing services. Using thematic content analysis, we identified five themes, of which four along with 10 subthemes were integrated into Greenhalgh et al.'s ‘nonadoption, abandonment, scale-up, spread and sustainability’ framework.

Results

Participants recognised the potential of digital technology to enhance interprofessional communication and collaboration. However, this potential largely depended on individual healthcare actors’ willingness to seek information, invest and adapt. Attitudes towards the telematics infrastructure varied widely from hopeful confidence to outright rejection. Home-care nursing services generally viewed the telematics infrastructure with optimism, while general practitioners expressed reservations, particularly due to technological disruptions, lack of user-friendliness, and organisational structures.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the potential of digital technology to enhance interprofessional communication. Successful implementation of technological innovations, however, goes beyond technological aspects and involves social, political and organisational processes. Future implementation strategies for such innovations in healthcare should involve users early and ensure clear communication.