bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiencias adolescentes de violencia de género digital en relaciones sexoafectivas
Authors: Frezzotti Yanina
Published: August 2024

(analytical)Scientific literature evidences the role of romantic love myths in the normalization of digital violence within sex-affective relationships. As part of this examination of adolescent experiences in Argentina, 18 mixed gender focus groups were conducted in high schools in Junín, Buenos Aires, with the total participation of 199 students aged between 13 and 19 years old. The results indicate that even though the practice of monitoring the social media activity of romantic partners on social media is widespread, it is widely considered to be "toxic" behavior by students. The study found that girls suffer the most incidents of direct aggression online harassment, extortion and non-consensual dissemination. This shows that digital violence in dating is a form of gender-based violence. However, its normalization is beginning to be questioned by young people, and is the subject of debates in classroom whenever the topic is discussed.
Perfil epidemiológico dos encaminhamentos para a cirurgia geral de um hospital do município de Laranjeiras do Sul – PR
Authors: Krisiaki Kaoany , Rodrigues Aline Weber , Didoné Filho Celso Nilo
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The Unified Health System ensures referrals for general surgery when necessary. Accordingly, prioritization of care is based on the severity of the disease. Objective: To evaluate the clinical-epidemiological profile of referrals for general surgery at a hospital in the municipality of Laranjeiras do Sul-PR. Methods: This is a cross-sectional, quantitative, descriptive, and individualized study conducted through the analysis of medical records. It examines variables related to sex, age group, municipality of origin, reason for referral, diagnostic examination, and waiting time until the procedure is performed. The aim is to recognize these profiles, compare them with Brazilian data, and assess whether the waiting times align with recommendations in the literature. Results: The predominant gender in the study was male, accounting for 52% of the cases. Regarding age, 72.5% were adults. Concerning the municipality of origin, 51.5% were from Laranjeiras do Sul. The most commonly used diagnostic tool was ultrasonography. The most frequently performed surgical procedure in the study was hernioplasty. Conclusion: The study showed that the epidemiological data regarding acute appendicitis differ from the available literature. Additionally, 1.5% of the cases did not use the recommended diagnostic test for the disease, and only 8.5% of the cases did not follow the recommended waiting time according to the protocols.
Memória e história democrática: Carta às Brasileiras e aos Brasileiros em defesa do Estado Democrático de Direito, uma análise semiótica
Authors: Akabane Heloisa Virnes
Published: August 2024

We propose a semiotic analysis of the Carta às Brasileiras e aos Brasileiros em defesa do Estado Democrático de Direito from 2022, a manifesto issued by the legal community in response to the context of threats to democratic institutions, particularly heightened at the conclusion of the Bolsonaro government (2019-2022) in Brazil, in view of the prospect of forthcoming presidential elections. The semiotic approach is centered on the categories of figurativization, specifically space, time, and actors, with the objective of deepening the comprehension of the narrative developments embedded within the letter and examining them as discursive strategies. Additionally, we underscore the significance of historical context, communicative memory, and the concept of a "site of memory" in the formation of the collective actant, formed through adherence to a shared project and common values. The article also explores the intricate strata of meaning inherent in this letter and understands how it plays a fundamental role in upholding and advancing democratic principles within an ever-evolving society.
Enhancing Guidewire Efficacy for Transradial Access: The EAGER Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bland Adam C. , Meere William , Mikhail Philopatir , Chuah Eunice , Redwood Eleanor , Ferreira David , Howden Nicklas , Perkovic Adam , Saunders Samantha L. , Kelty Amy , Kull Tony , Hill Andrew , Spina Roberto , Sarathy Kiran , May Austin , Parkinson Michael , Ishak Mark , Collins Nicholas , Boyle Andrew , William Maged , Jeyaprakash Prajith , Ford Tom J.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

The 1.5 mm Baby J hydrophilic narrow J-tipped wire is a development of the standard 0.035” 3-mm J-tipped peripheral guidewire, designed to improve efficiency of transradial coronary procedures by safely navigating small caliber radial arteries to the aorta. There is currently a lack of evidence comparing the procedural success and safety of different peripheral guidewires used in transradial cardiac procedures. We compared the efficacy and safety of a narrow J-tipped hydrophilic 0.035” wire (intervention, Radifocus Baby J guidewire; TERUMO Co, Tokyo, Japan) versus a standard fixed-core 0.035” J wire (control).

METHODS:

Investigator-initiated, blinded, Australian, multicenter randomized trial in patients undergoing clinically indicated coronary angiography or percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients were randomized 1:1 to use either the control guidewire or the intervention guidewire. The primary end point (technical success) was defined as gaining aortic root access with the randomized guidewire.

RESULTS:

In all, 330 patients were randomized between October 2022 and June 2023 (median age was 69 years, 36% were female, and body mass index was 29 kg/m
2
). The primary end point was achieved more frequently in the intervention group (96% versus 84%; absolute risk reduction 12% [95% CI, 5.7–18.3];
P
<0.001). Women assigned to the control wire experienced a higher failure rate compared with men (31% versus 8% in men;
P
<0.001). Fluoroscopy time was significantly lower in the Baby J group (median, 344 versus 491 seconds;
P
=0.024). The main mechanisms of failure using the control wire were radial artery spasm (15/26; 57%) and subclavian tortuosity (5/26; 19.2%). There were no differences in overall procedure times, major adverse cardiovascular events, or vascular complications between guidewires.

CONCLUSIONS:

A narrow 1.5 mm J-tipped hydrophilic guidewire resulted in greater technical success and reduced fluoroscopy time compared with the standard 3-mm J-tipped nonhydrophilic guidewire. The guidewire is safe and demonstrated key incremental benefits for the transradial approach, particularly in women.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.anzctr.org.au/
; Unique identifier: ACTRN12622001557729.
Open access in Ukraine: Characteristics and evolution from 2012 to 2021
Authors: Kaliuzhna Nataliia , Hauschke Christian
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the development of open access (OA) to publications produced by authors affiliated with Ukrainian universities and research organizations in the period 2012–2021. To get a comprehensive overview we assembled data from three databases: Dimensions, Web of Science (WoS), and Scopus. Our final data set consisted of 186,000 unique records. To determine the OA status of each article, this study utilized Unpaywall data, which was obtained via API. It was determined that 71.5% of all considered articles during the observed period were openly available at the time of analysis. Notably, 60.9% of the OA papers were disseminated through national journals. Furthermore, our findings indicate that the rate of OA papers was highest in the Humanities, at 89.7%, with 74.8% of papers disseminated through national communication channels. The share of OA papers published in national journals surpassed OA papers in foreign journals across all research areas except Natural Sciences. Another noteworthy finding was that Gold OA emerged as the predominant type of OA over the 10-year period of analysis. We underscore the critical importance of ensuring the FAIRness of national scholarly communication infrastructure for monitoring OA uptake and state support of national publishers.
Who thinks ideologically about welfare state reform? Partisanship and attitude consistency in politicians’ and mass public perceptions about the consequences of welfare service privatization in Sweden
Authors: Goossen Mikael
Published: August 2024

When studying attitudes toward the welfare state or evaluations of welfare reforms, research has tended to focus on what people think rather than how they think about specific issues. Moreover, the effects of the mobilizing efforts of political parties on attitudes and belief systems are often theorized separately from the normative institutional feedback effects common to the welfare state literature. In this paper, I propose that elite political rhetoric and institutional norms may exert dual pressures leading to partisan differences in the propensity to think ideologically among the mass public, defined as a positive relationship between holding internally consistent attitudes and taking a partisan issue position. Drawing on the case of welfare service privatization in Sweden, I point out how the rhetoric of the right – emphasizing choice and private property – frequently contradicts norms about universality long espoused by the Swedish welfare state, while the rhetoric of the left – emphasizing equality of access and outcomes – is better aligned with such institutional norms. The analysis of survey data demonstrated that centre-right sympathizers, the prime receivers of conflicting elite versus institutional messages, frequently took a middling position, being neither positive nor negative, to the consequences of welfare service privatization, and that, unlike centre-right politicians and sympathizers and politicians of left parties, this position did not differ according to attitude consistency. Furthermore, political interest enhanced this relationship among right sympathizers but was of little consequence to left sympathizers, implying that in the case of a conflict between institutional norms and political rhetoric, only the most attentive sympathizers are likely to engage in ideological thinking on the basis of partisanship.
Variation in patient-sharing network characteristics of health care professionals treating different mental and substance use disorder patient sub-groups in primary care
Authors: Elovainio Marko , Hietapakka Laura , Gutvilig Mai , Niemi Ripsa , Komulainen Kaisla , Pulkki-Råback Laura , Väisänen Visa , Sinervo Timo , Hakulinen Christian
Published: August 2024

Background:

Providing efficient and targeted services for patients with mental health problems requires efficient collaboration and coordination within healthcare providers, but measuring collaboration using traditional methods is challenging.

Aims:

To explore the patient-sharing networks of professionals taking care of different groups of patients with mental or substance use disorders.

Method:

We used data that covered adult patients’ visits to the primary care service providers of seven municipalities in Finland during year 2021. Data included 8,217 patients (147,430 visits) with mental or substance use disorders who were treated by 1,566 health care professionals. We calculated descriptive network metrics to examine the connectivity of professionals in three different patient groups (patients with substance use disorders, psychotic disorders, and depressive disorders) and compared these characteristics to a network based on all patients. We also analyzed whether patient sharing was associated with the health care professionals’ attributes (occupational group, municipality) using Exponential Random Graph Models (ERGM).

Results:

Diagnosis-specific networks were denser and more connected compared to the all-patients network. Nurses were the most central occupation in all the diagnosis-specific networks and especially in the substance use disorder patients network. When examining all patients, two professionals were more likely to share patients when they belonged to the same occupational group. However, in the network with depressive disorder patients we found the opposite: professionals were more likely to share patients if they were of different occupational groups.

Conclusions:

Patient-sharing networks within patients with a specific mental or substance use disorders are denser and more connected than networks based on all patients with mental or substance use disorders. In the substance use disorder patients network particularly, nurses were the most central occupation. Multi-professional connections were more likely in depressive disorder networks than in the all-patients network.
Finding a Compromise: A Criminal Law Defence for Regulating Medical Assistance in Dying
Authors: Fakonti Chrystala
Published: August 2024

The legal discourse surrounding euthanasia and assisted suicide continues to evolve, with a growing demand for comprehensive regulation. However, in England and Wales, assistance in dying remains prohibited. This article draws on criminal law theory to propose a compromising approach to cases of medical assistance in dying by creating a new criminal law defence. This defence will be available to a physician assisting a patient to die on the conditions of autonomy and beneficence. If this defence is successful, it will completely remove the physician's criminal liability.
Zinc oxide nanoparticles intercalated with porous carbon as a separator coating for improving the stability of lithium metal anodes
Authors: Li Lei , Hu Chunhong , Li Juanjuan , Shen Anwei , Tan Shijiang
Published: August 2024

Metal lithium negative electrodes are considered the “holy grail” of lithium battery negative electrodes due to their ultra-high energy density and low overpotential. However, the arbitrary growth of lithium dendrites during the cycling process hindered its industrialization process. We prepared porous carbon doped with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZNC-MOF-5) by high-temperature carbonization of MOF-5, and coated ZNC-MOF-5 on the surface of commercial membranes (ZNC-MOF-5@PP). Used to improve the cycling stability of metal lithium negative electrodes. Zinc oxide nanoparticles in ZNC-MOF-5 have good lithium affinity and can promote Li+ deposition. The porous structure with a high specific surface area endows the electrode with high lithium loading capacity, reduces local current density, and obtains a dendrite-free metal lithium negative electrode. The electrochemical cycling performance of Li/Cu batteries indicates that, ZNC-MOF-5@PP. The separator can prevent the growth of dendrites and improve cycling stability, proving that ZNC-MOF-5 can effectively guide the deposition of Li and solve dendrite problems.
Book review: Subhash Sharma and Kshipra Sharma, Environment and Society: Climate Change and Sustainable Development
Authors: Mitra Susmita
Published: August 2024

Subhash Sharma and Kshipra Sharma, Environment and Society: Climate Change and Sustainable Development, Routledge, 2023, 406 pp., ₹1,795, ISBN 978-1-032-60733-7 (Hardcover).
Quality of life and psychosocial impact on patients with blood disorders: An empirical study from patients’ perspectives in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alanzi Turki M , Alharthi Abdulaziz , Alessa Abdullah , Alhajri Ahlam Saleh , Abanmi Sobhia , Khalifah Abdulrahman , Althanayan Fatimah H , AlRubaya Sarah , Almahaish Mariam , Alrefai Wedyan , Madan Manal , Allahyani Taif , Alsulami Reyouf , Saadah Amjad , Alanzi Nouf
Published: August 2024

Study purpose: this study aims to analyze QOL and psychosocial impact on patients with blood disorders. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design is adopted in this study. The survey questionnaire included SF-36 form for measuring quality of life (QOL), along with psychosocial impact assessment scale. Adult patients with different types of blood disorders were recruited for the survey. Out of the 417 responses received, 389 were considered for data analysis and the remaining were avoided due to incomplete data. Results: In terms of psychosocial impact scales, the highest mean is observed for financial stress (4.09 ± 1.22), followed by social exclusion (3.76 ± 1.19) and relationship challenges (3.31 ± 1.18). Among the QOL scales, the highest mean was observed for pain (3.81 ± 1.17), followed by physical functioning (3.68 ± 1.12). Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed among the participants groups characterized by age and type of disorder. Strong positive correlations between social exclusion and general health (r = 0.513), as well as pain and relationship challenges (r = 0.735) were observed. Conclusion: Given the existing challenges in social exclusion, poor awareness, and support there is a need to develop comprehensive and personalized treatment plans integrating physical and mental support, awareness creation, and financial support.
Leftist Dynamics in Post-370 Kulgam of Kashmir: Contours of Change
Authors: Bhat Waseem Ahmad
Published: August 2024

Following the revocation of Article 370 and re-organisation of the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) into a Union Territory of India in August 2019, many questions arose about how democratic processes would work under the new dispensation. Within the context of the 2020 District Development Council elections, this article critically examines the surprisingly successful performance of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), the CPI(M), in the district of Kulgam, a constituency well-known for its historical ties with leftist politics. Investigating the factors contributing to the party’s success, the article identifies the strategic approach by the CPI(M) to emphasise developmental issues, thereby challenging the traditional role of religion as a tool for mobilisation. Despite the strong local presence of the Jamaat-e-Islami, the left-leaning party, as part of a multi-party alliance, succeeded in gaining substantial electoral support in the seats that they contested. This study relies on primary data collected through extensive field surveys to highlight the unique electoral dynamics witnessed within this specific region, which gain added relevance in view of future electoral contests.
Making a Permanent Deacon: Theorising Recruitment, Selection, Formation, and Deployment in the Catholic Archdiocese of Liverpool
Authors: Bódi Mátyás , McGrail Peter
Published: August 2024

The restoration of the permanent diaconate was one of the major changes introduced by the Second Vatican Council. Despite considerable scholarly attention to this Roman Catholic sacred order, no empirically-based study has yet aimed to theorise the process of becoming a permanent deacon. This paper addresses that gap by introducing a substantive theory, which elucidates the dominant behavioural patterns underlying the recruitment, selection, formation, and deployment of suitable candidates from the perspective of decision-makers. Employing classic grounded theory methodology in its entirety, this study draws upon interview, focus group, and textual data collected from the Liverpool Archdiocese in the United Kingdom. The article presents the resulting theory and its components, including the concepts of awakening sense of calling, assessing potentiality, enabling actuality, and facilitating discernment. While the study’s focus is specific to the context of the Liverpool Archdiocese, its insights hold broad relevance for decision-makers involved in Catholic dioceses worldwide.
Genocide in Esther: A response to a recent attempt to defend Haman
Authors: Himes Paul A.
Published: August 2024

A 2021 article in HTS Teologiese Studies advances the thesis that in the book of Esther ‘lawlessness by the Jewish diaspora community triggered genocide in the Persian Empire’ and that ‘Jews provoked the Persian authorities by disobeying the laws of the land’. Much of that article is devoted to a defense of Haman in responding to what the author portrays as the ‘lawlessness’ of the Jewish diaspora community. This article offers a three-fold response: (1) a critical analysis of both Haman and his accusation of ‘lawlessness’ against the Jewish diaspora minority, along with that article’s affirmation of that lawlessness; (2) a critique of that article’s accusation of ‘genocide’ against the Jewish diaspora community along with a discussion of the alleged violent vengeance of that same community vis-à-vis Esther 8–9; (3) a warning that the attempted vindication of Haman is nothing new, but possesses a disturbing Wirkungsgeschichte.
Social media and urology: The good, the bad and the ugly
Authors: Juliebø-Jones Patrick , Gauhar Vineet , Keller Etienne Xavier , Coninck Vincent De , Talyshinskii Ali , Sierra Alba , Ventimiglia Eugenio , Tzelves Lazaros , Corrales Mariela , Emiliani Esteban , Beisland Christian , Somani Bhaskar K
Published: August 2024

Social media (SoMe) is now a core part of modern-day life with increased use among both patients and urologists. The interplay of SoMe between these two parties is complex. From a patient perspective, SoMe platforms can serve as educational tools as well as communication portals to support networks and patient communities. However, studies report the educational value of content online is often poor and may contain misinformation. For urologists, SoMe can lead to research collaborations, networking and educational content but areas of concern include the potential negative impact SoMe can have on mental health and sharing of patient images without appropriate consent. This review serves to provide an overview of the interaction between SoMe and urology practice and provide practical guidance to navigating it.
Reduction of peritoneal dialysis associated infections using a novel exit-site care practice
Authors: Soetendorp Hila , Grupper Ayelet , Hazan Eyal , Wasserman Asaf , Schwartz Doron , Kliuk-Ben Bassat Orit
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) related infections are a significant obstacle leading to PD discontinuation. Since catheter related infections (CRI), defined as exit site infections and/or tunnel infection, can progress to peritonitis, vigorous efforts are implemented in CRI prevention. Following an increased CRI rate in our institution, partially related to environmental organisms found in water distribution systems, we hypothesized that exit site care that includes prevention of water exposure-related pathogens may reduce CRI.

Methods

In this prospective single center study, we compared a contemporary cohort consisting of PD patients who implemented the modified exit-site care protocol, mainly including water avoidance during shower with stoma bag usage and local Mupirocin ointment against a historical control group before the protocol implementation. The historical cohort was allowed water exposure and used local gentamicin ointment. The primary outcome was the development of a CRI. Secondary outcomes were PD associated peritonitis and infection related outcomes.

Results

There were 55 patients in contemporary cohort and 58 in historical group. The CRI rate was significantly lower in study group (0.11/episodes per patient year [EPP]) compared to control group (0.71 EPP), p < 0.001. A multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated a protective effect of being in the contemporary cohort compared to historical group (HR for first CRI = 12.0 95%CI: 4.0–35.7, p < 0.001). Peritonitis rate was significantly lower in contemporary cohort (0.19/EPP) compared to the historical group (0.40/EPP), p = 0.011. Transfer to hemodialysis was significantly lower in contemporary cohort than historical group (7.3% vs 31.0% in contemporary and historical group respectively, HR = 0.2, 95%CI; 0.05–0.6, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

An exit site care protocol that includes water avoidance and local Mupirocin use reduced substantially both CRI and peritonitis rate in patients treated with PD.
A Grounded Theory Approach to Understanding Men Confronting Infertility
Authors: Abdullahzadeh Mehrdad , Vanaki Zohreh , Mohammadi Eesa , Mohtashami Jamileh
Published: August 2024

Purpose: This study aims to delve into the process of men confronting infertility. Design: This research employed the Straussian grounded theory approach. Methods: The study encompassed interviews with 16 participants from a private fertility center in Isfahan, Iran, between March 2023 and March 2024. The interviews were semistructured. Data analysis was carried out concurrently using constant comparative methods and standard grounded theory techniques. the participants’ main concerns were identified, culminating in developing a substantive theory centered around a core category. Findings: The primary category for men struggling with infertility was “forced concealment.” This was exhibited through the suppression of emotions, maintaining secrecy about infertility, hiding treatment, and attributing infertility to their wives to counteract threats to their masculinity. Factors such as partners, family, societal surroundings, care providers, and beliefs influenced the adopting of the “forced concealment” strategy. Conclusions: The “forced concealment” theory offers insights into the experiences of men struggling with infertility. The study highlights the necessity of formulating culturally sensitive strategies that enable healthcare providers, nurses, and health system managers to effectively fulfill their roles and address the challenges and needs of couples confronting male infertility. This can be realized through a comprehensive approach that integrates nursing skills and competencies.
Estimating vehicle sideslip angle through kinematic and dynamic contributions: Theory and experimental results
Authors: Tristano Mariagrazia , Lenzo Basilio
Published: August 2024

Vehicle lateral stability plays an important role within vehicle passenger safety. The study of lateral stability is typically related to investigating the dynamics of relevant vehicle states: among these, the vehicle sideslip angle ([Formula: see text]) emerges as a prominent candidate. Sideslip angle measurement is expensive and impractical, hence estimation techniques are often used, typically based on Kalman filters or neural networks, both with their issues. This work presents an alternative estimation method based on the idea of splitting sideslip angle into kinematic and dynamic contributions, and by observing that the kinematic contribution is straightforward to estimate. Therefore, efforts are devoted into estimating dynamic sideslip angle, which is herein obtained through a parametric interpolation harnessing lateral acceleration. Only data available from traditional vehicle onboard sensors are used in the process. Experimental results are presented along several manoeuvres on a full-scale vehicle, with the estimator running online within a dSPACE unit, ultimately supporting the efficacy and real-time feasibility of the proposed approach.
Modeling of wear performance and surface roughness of AA6061-T6/B4C composite under dry sliding conditions by RSM
Authors: Abdelhady Saleh S , Nabhan Ahmed , Zoalfakar Said H , Elbadawi Rehab E
Published: August 2024

The present study is an attempt to investigate the tribological behavior of friction stir processing (FSP) AA6061-T6 alloy reinforced with boron carbide (B4C) particles. The surface composites were developed to investigate wear performance and surface roughness under dry sliding conditions. The experiments were conducted using response surface methodology (RSM) to examine the effects of various B4C volume fractions, applied loads, and sliding distances. All combinations of reinforcements in AA6061-T6 hybrid composites show a good improvement in the wear properties. The results show that the wear behavior of composites is significantly impacted by the incorporation of B4C particles. This is mostly owing to the uniformity that the B4C particles developed when they distributed the reinforcements evenly in the AA 6061-T6 matrix. Analysis of variance, main effect and three-dimensional plots were used to quantify the effects of dry sliding parameters on tribological properties. The findings showed that the optimal parameters for the effective reduction of specific wear rate and coefficient of friction were a volume fraction of 10%, an applied load of 20 N, and a sliding distance of 500 m. To minimize surface roughness, the optimal test conditions were found to be 10% volume fraction, 40 N applied load, and 2500 m sliding distance. The wear surface was analyzed using energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that oxide layer formation was present on the wear surface and adhesive wear was the primary wear mechanism.
Procalcitonin Does Not Differentiate Between Bacterial Infections Versus Disease Flare in Children with Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis— A Diagnostic Accuracy Study Using Area-Under-Curve Analysis
Authors: Kanumuri Rajesh , Balan Suma , Marwaha Vishal , Krishnan Sajitha , Chickermane Pranav , Pradeep Manu
Published: August 2024

Background:

We compared the diagnostic accuracy of procalcitonin, C-reactive protein (CRP), and ferritin in differentiating an infectious aetiology versus disease flare in children with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA).

Methods:

This prospective diagnostic accuracy study included 52 consecutive hospitalisations of 25 children diagnosed with sJIA (International League of Associations for Rheumatology 2001) presenting with a fever to the rheumatology department of a quaternary care centre. We categorised children post-discharge as infectious versus sJIA flare, depending on the clinical course. A subset of sJIA flare developed macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). We compared the area-under-curve (AUC) with its 95% confidence interval (95%CI) of the three biomarkers.

Results:

The median age of the children was 7 ± 7 years. We categorised 12 hospitalisations (23.1%) as infectious and 40 hospitalisations (76.9%) as sJIA flare. Thirteen hospitalisations (32.5%) with sJIA flare developed MAS. Neither procalcitonin (AUC = 0.584 ± 0.101, 95% CI: 0.387–0.782) nor CRP (AUC = 0.363 ± 0.096, 95% CI: 0.174–0.551) nor ferritin (AUC = 0.419 ± 0.093, 95% CI: 0.236–0.602) discriminated infectious aetiology from sJIA flare adequately. Both serum procalcitonin (AUC = 0.828, 95% CI: 0.694–0.961) and ferritin (AUC = 0.937, 95% CI: 0.862–1) demonstrated higher diagnostic accuracy in ascertaining MAS in sJIA flares, compared to CRP (AUC = 0.709, 95% CI: 0.543–0.876).

Conclusion:

Procalcitonin can be elevated in children in sJIA flare with MAS, even without an infectious aetiology. Clinicians should continue to rely on clinical history and examinations to discern infectious versus non-infectious fevers in children with sJIA.
Body Mass Index as a Determinant of Lower Limb Function and Community Well-Being in Older Adults: Analysis of 2020 National Older Korean Survey Data
Authors: Lee Joonyoung , Robinson James , Huh Jung Hoon , Kim Eun Seong
Published: August 2024

This epidemiological research investigated the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and lower limb function and community well-being among the older population (≥65 years old) in South Korea. Using the 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans (N = 10 097; Mage = 73.6 ± 6.63; MBMI = 23.6 ± 2.61), the study identified underweight (2.3%), normal (72.8%), and obese (24.9%) groups. Findings revealed significant associations between BMI and lower limb function, with underweight individuals facing greater physical challenges ( P < .05–.01). Underweight participants were also found to live farther from key community locations, possibly reflecting social and environmental factors ( P < .01) and expressed higher dissatisfaction with community environments ( Ps < .05–.01). The study emphasizes the need for tailored community planning and health care strategies, focusing on the unique needs of the underweight older adults, considering South Korea’s rapidly increasing older population.
Black Family Members’ Experiences and Interpretations of Supportive Resources for Them and Their Relatives With Substance Use Disorders: A Focused Ethnography
Authors: Monari Esther N. , Booth Richard , Forchuk Cheryl , Csiernik Rick
Published: August 2024

While previous research explored the utilization of culturally supportive resources in multiethnic communities, there is a paucity of information regarding culturally relevant resources for Black Canadian family members. The study explored Black family members’ experiences and interpretations regarding access to culturally supportive resources for family members and their relatives who suffer from substance use disorders. Black family members are defined as African Canadians, Caribbean Canadians, or Caribbean Blacks. A focused ethnography was conducted with a purposive sample of 26 Black family members in Ontario, Canada. The interviews were conducted from June to September 2021. Seventeen participants originated from parts of Africa, and nine were from different parts of the Caribbean. The participants comprised mothers ( n = 5), fathers ( n = 2), step-fathers ( n = 1), husbands ( n = 1), wives ( n = 2), uncles ( n = 5), aunties ( n = 2), siblings ( n = 5), in-laws ( n = 2), and guardians ( n = 1). Leininger’s four Phases of Ethnonursing Qualitative Data Analysis were used for data analysis. Three themes were generated: (1) Navigating Existing Options and Resources for Families and Their Relatives; (2) Drawing upon Religion and Spirituality as Perceived Resources; and (3) Call for Culturally Relevant Programs for Substance Use Disorders Harm Reduction. Participants described experiencing a lack of culturally relevant resources and subsequently opting to navigate other resources. One such option was to send their relatives back to their country of origin to access cultural rehabilitation treatment options. There is a significant need for guidelines and policies regarding creating timely access to culturally relevant resources in Canada that support families and their relatives towards harm reduction and recovery outcomes.
Hunting from Elevated Tree Stands: Hunters’ Safety Practices and Attitudes Regarding the Use of Personal Fall Arrest Systems - Update
Authors: Vigilante William J. , Lim Raymond W.
Published: August 2024

This study sought to identify hunters’ attitudes and practices with respect to the use of personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) when hunting from elevated (tree) stands. Hunting is a popular recreational activity in the United States (US) and the use of elevated stands (e.g., tree stands) provides hunters with several advantages in hunting large game animals, such as deer. However, hunting from an elevated position creates a hazard and the potential for serious injury or death should the hunter fall while climbing into or out of the stand or while positioned in the stand. Hunters were surveyed regarding their hunting practices, their attitudes regarding the use of Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) when hunting with elevated stands, reasons why they do not use a PFAS when hunting with an elevated stand, and their prior experience with falls from elevated hunting stands. Although the results varied based upon the hunter’s activity with the stand, a majority of the hunters surveyed reported not always using PFAS and that a significant percentage of hunters never use a PFAS when hunting from an elevated stand. Respondents reported several reasons for not always using a PFAS, including: time, cumbersome, hinders movement, do not think about it, and difficult to use. Discussion of the results as they relate to an earlier survey and well as approaches to increase compliance of using a PFAS will be discussed.
Human Performance Modeling Architecture with HC-130J Mission Application
Authors: Slimp Stephanie , Miller Michael E.
Published: August 2024

The Department of Defense emphasizes digital engineering using Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), which includes systems modeling language (SysML)-based models. Analysis of system impacts on human operators and their performance typically occurs through non-MBSE approaches. One current process evaluates human performance and workload using IMPRINT, a discrete event simulation tool. IMPRINT primarily exists as a standalone tool with limited built-in functionality to integrate with an MBSE tool. This research develops a generalizable and updateable human performance modeling architecture that combines SysML-based model development with a new To-Be process. The To-Be process creates traceability from the SysML-based model to IMPRINT, using a custom Excel tool that organizes the data from the model into an importable format for IMPRINT. Comparisons of the current and To-Be process determined that the To-Be process supports alternative model development with minimal manual rework by the modeler, while maintaining the SysML-based model as the authoritative source of truth.
Pathfinder Networks: Evaluating Injury and Safety Using Restaurant Workers’ Mental Models
Authors: Iyer Hari , Reynolds Joel , Nam Chang S. , Jeong Heejin
Published: August 2024

Safety is essential in the fast-paced and potentially hazardous environments of restaurant kitchens. This study explored the mental models that chefs and managers have regarding safety protocols. Pathfinder networking was employed to analyze participants’ perceptions of safety. The findings suggest a positive correlation between expertise and the quality of mental models: individuals with more skills or experience demonstrated superior mental models. The study also confirmed that greater skills or experience correlated with increased network coherence, similarity, and mental models. Notable differences in network coherence between chefs and managers were revealed, highlighting diverse expertise levels within these groups. The study underscores the critical role of comprehensive safety training and continual skill development in enhancing kitchen safety and efficiency. Understanding mental models and network coherence can enable restaurant workers to effectively manage complex tasks and uphold safety standards in dynamic environments.
Preferences of Individuals With Different Levels of Visual Impairment for Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Beran Robert , Wu Yueh-Hsun , Lei Quan
Published: August 2024

Autonomous vehicles hold promise for enabling independent travel for individuals with visual impairment. This study examined the relationship between severity of visual impairment and preferences for autonomous vehicles. Individuals with visual impairment completed an online survey with questions about their visual status, their trust and acceptance for vehicles of different automation levels, and their preferred modes of interaction with the vehicles. The results showed a general preference for vehicles with full automation. However, individuals with less severe impairment showed considerable trust and acceptance for lower levels of automation. While most individuals prefer the auditory/speech as the modality of interaction with autonomous vehicles, those with less severe impairment still wish to use the visual modality of interaction. Our findings suggest that preferences for autonomous vehicles vary depending on the severity of visual impairment, which should be considered during the design of the vehicles.
Safety Incidents and Situation Awareness Amongst Maintenance Personnel in the Food Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Wilson Griffin , Mgaedeh Fatima , Stone Richard
Published: August 2024

Enabling high levels of situation awareness (SA) represents an essential design element of a human-centered work environment. SA has been studied extensively in the fields of aviation, power transmission, and transportation but has received much less attention in the manufacturing work environment. In this article, 52 maintenance safety investigations resulting from recordable injuries occurring over a 72-week period in a multinational food manufacturing company are analyzed from a SA perspective. It was found that 20 of these incidents were the result of SA errors while 18 were not; a total of 14 incident investigations did not provide enough detail allowing for an appropriate determination of the incident’s SA-relatedness. We argue that this analysis contributes to a better understanding of the causal factors involved in maintenance safety incidents and subsequently aids researchers and organizations in developing more effective procedural, design, and training modifications.
Forensic Footwear: A Retrospective of the Development of the MANTIS Shoe Scanning System
Authors: Stone Richard , Westby Braden , Jaskowiak Nell , Fales Colten
Published: August 2024

There currently are no shoe-scanning devices developed in the United States that can operate in a real-world, variable-weather environment in real-time. Forensics-focused groups, including the NIJ, expressed the need for such a system. To accomplish this, there was first a need to collect a large amount of sample data to train a first-of-its-kind machine-learning model. The work aimed to develop a system to collect shoe scans of a populace in real-time as they walk without committing privacy violations. This system would be able to identify specific traits found on the soles of the shoes, enabling insight into the origins of the shoes, where and how they are worn, as well as the people who wear them. The primary question of this research is if we could develop a prototype of such a system and what challenges would have to be overcome to make this possible.
Toward Integrated Takeover Performance Measurement: Validation of Fréchet Distance as a Takeover Performance Metric
Authors: Han Doo Won , Liu Jundi , Yang X. Jessie , Romo Alicia , Horrey William , Tilbury Dawn , Zhou Feng , Robert Lionel , Molnar Lisa
Published: August 2024

This study introduces and validates a new metric for assessing takeover performance in conditionally automated driving, using Fréchet Distance. Fréchet Distance is a measurement that measures the similarity between two separate curves. Thirty-two participants took part in a simulated driving experiment. Employing a 2 × 2 within-subjects design, the study compared traditional takeover performance metrics, including takeover time, time to collision, and resulting acceleration, with Fréchet Distance. Analysis results revealed similar trends between traditional metrics and Fréchet Distance. These findings suggest that Fréchet Distance can effectively measure takeover performance by integrating spatial and temporal aspects.
P-curving the Evidence: P-values Published in Human Factors (2017–2023)
Authors: Moussaoui Jannah R. , Hyk Alina , Kuhn Kali , Johnson Jeremy , Fischer Sophia , Hoxha Briana , Munoz Gomez Andrade Fernando , Smart-Zimmerman Macy , Do Andrew , Gutierrez Boone , Gallik Caitlin , McCarley Jason S.
Published: August 2024

Publication bias and questionable research practices can inflate the perceived credibility of reported scientific findings and lead to low replicability. This preregistered study aimed to estimate the evidentiary value of empirical findings published in the journal Human Factors (2017–2023) using two meta-analytic methods: p-curve analysis to examine the distribution of significant p-values and Bayesian mixture modeling of p-value distributions to gauge the degree of contamination from the null hypothesis. Empirical findings from 62 articles were included in the analyses. P-curve results indicated evidential value, ruling out high levels of selective reporting as an explanation for significant results. Mixture modeling estimated a 25% contamination rate by the null hypothesis among significant p-values. Results document the quality of empirical evidence reported in Human Factors.
Transforming Learning: Assessing the Efficacy of a Retrieval-Augmented Generation System as a Tutor for Introductory Psychology
Authors: Slade Joseph J. , Hyk Alina , Gurung Regan A. R.
Published: August 2024

The introduction of Large Language Models (LLMs) have captured public imagination and represent a marked improvement in AI in Education (AIED) capabilities. But there is concern that student reliance on automated tools to complete written assignments may lead to a decline in learning. This study investigated whether participant use of LLMs to complete a writing assignment affected retention of learning content. Undergraduate participants ( N = 109) were randomly assigned to complete a writing assignment under one of three conditions: (1), with the assistance of a Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG)-based AI psychology tutor; (2) with the assistance of unmodified GPT-4 Turbo; (3) with no AI assistance. After completing the writing task, students completed a posttest quiz to assess their retention of learning material. The control condition had the lowest mean quiz score (M = 9.22, SD = 3.90), followed by the RAG AI tutor condition (M = 10.81, SD = 4.12), and unmodified GPT-4Turbo (M = 11.31, SD = 3.88), with significant differences between the AI tutor condition and the control condition (p = .036); and between the GPT-4 Turbo condition and control (p = .003); but not between the AI tutor and GPT-4 Turbo conditions (p = .283).
Strategic Attention Guidance: The Impact of Dual and Single Cues in Wide Field of View Searches
Authors: Warden Amelia C.
Published: August 2024

Visual search tasks occur in real-world situations, like soldiers in the battlefield identifying hostile targets, where information may fall outside the immediate field of view (FOV). This experiment assessed the effectiveness of attention cues in a wide FOV search task, comparing single versus dual cues that were either perfectly or imperfectly reliable. Participants searched for routine targets and an occasional high-priority target. Results showed that perfect cues improved performance more than an unaided search, with dual cues outperforming single cues. However, when cues were imperfect and automation failed, performance suffered. The notable increase in errors during automation failures suggests a level of automation bias, which was greatest with the dual cues. These findings highlight the benefits of dual cues in wide FOV scenes where critical information may be outside the immediate FOV. However, in high-stakes situations, like detecting explosive devices, caution is advised when cues are imperfect.
Usability and Acceptance of Check-In Kiosks: An Illustration of Nimble Evaluation Methods and Recommendations for Health Kiosk Deployments
Authors: Tan Yi Rong , Lin Hung-Yeh , Pfafman Rachel , Cornet Victor P.
Published: August 2024

First impressions often shape user experience. Check-in kiosks at outpatient locations can significantly impact patient experience and staff workflows. Studying them in live environments is, however, challenging. We used nimble evaluation methods to assess the usability and acceptance of check-in kiosks piloted at an outpatient lab to inform future deployments. Despite high kiosk usability, multiple factors impacted patient and staff experience, including person (e.g., habits, language), environment (e.g., suboptimal placement due to electrical sockets), and organizational (limited staff training) factors. We conducted four observations and interacted with 28 patients and 12 staff members through interviews and observations. We also collected front desk and kiosk check-in timings. We reflect on the use of nimble evaluation methods and provide recommendations for health kiosk deployments.
Leveraging AI to Improve Task-specific Biomechanical Safety Instructions
Authors: Rawlings Greg , Montalvo Fernando , Thai Phuoc , Stephens Promise , Guillén Itzel , Mehta Yash
Published: August 2024

The quality of safety procedures in generative AI-enhanced work instructions was empirically assessed against established work instruction authoring criteria. Three operational tasks from manufacturing, baggage handling, and spaceflight operations were selected. The generative AI was then provided with a set of 75 biomechanical safety requirements common for these settings and prompted to produce work instructions which provided safety requirements and recommendations for each step. Four expert evaluators then rated the improved work instructions against common criteria for their adherence to safety standards, clarity, and practical applicability. Results show that generative AI can significantly improve safety procedures in work instruction by identifying potential hazards and recommending protective equipment or other mitigation approaches. However, the quality of these safety procedures can still be improved significantly.