bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Posture and Pain: Beliefs and Attitudes of Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Maier Carolina dos Reis , de Avila Carolina Silva , de Souza Jaqueline , Meziat‐Filho Ney , Koerich Micheline Henrique Araujo da Luz 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackground and ObjectivesPosture is often associated with pain by patients, professionals, and health information channels. However, the extent to which patients perceive the relationship between posture and chronic pain is not well understood. This study aimed to investigate and understand the beliefs and attitudes related to posture among patients with chronic low back pain.MethodsThis is a qualitative descriptive study that investigated individuals with chronic low back pain, who were on the waiting list for physiotherapy. Data were collected through individual and semi‐structured interviews. Thematic content analysis was used to analyse the data.ResultsFifteen adults (11 women and 4 men) were interviewed. Three themes were identified and mapped within the dimensions proposed by the Common Sense Model: (1) Identity, (2) Cause and (3) Control. Participants' statements about posture predominantly followed the biomedical model, with participants holding a mental representation of a ‘correct’ posture necessary for maintaining a healthy spine. They associated perceived incorrect postures or positions with the cause or worsening of pain. To control symptoms, participants believed that constant care and monitoring of posture in various situations were necessary.ConclusionMisconceptions about ideal posture and its relationship to chronic pain can lead individuals with low back pain to engage in constant monitoring and avoid certain movements and positions in daily activities. These beliefs may negatively impact prognosis, contribute to the maintenance of symptoms, and affect adherence to treatments.
Weathering the Storm: What Did It Take for Pennsylvania Economic Development Organizations to Overcome the COVID‐19 Pandemic?
Authors: Tantardini Michele , Levine Eli J. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe COVID‐19 pandemic had profound impacts that significantly rippled through economies, vulnerable communities, and nations globally. In this study, we aim to investigate what combination of network‐level factors, network and organizational social capital, and other organizational factors helped Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania overcome the effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic in their respective jurisdictions. We surveyed 46 EDOs Executive Director‐equivalent officials and conducted a Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) to answer our empirical questions with a sample of 14 EDOs. Results show that network‐level factors such as the positioning of EDOs within their network of partner organizations, organizational social capital, and organizational diversity in the EDOs' workforce all contributed to positive economic development outcomes measured in terms of the average county GDP per capita from before and after the pandemic. The article concludes by discussing the findings, limitations of the study, and by presenting our conclusions.
Biomedical Potential of Cellulose: Current Trends and Future Directions
Authors: Jafari Aliakbar , Al‐Ostaz Ahmed , Nouranian Sasan 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe exploration of cellulose, a natural polysaccharide derived from renewable biomass, has seen significant advancements in recent years due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and versatility. This review paper comprehensively covers the latest developments in cellulose and its derivatives as functional biomaterials for various biomedical applications. Emphasis is placed on the intrinsic properties of cellulose, such as its mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical modifiability, which enable its wide‐ranging use in drug delivery systems, wound dressings, tissue engineering, and biosensors. The article further delves into the modification techniques—such as oxidation, esterification, and etherification—that enhance cellulose's performance, allowing it to be fine‐tuned for specialized medical applications, including the creation of scaffolds for tissue regeneration and smart materials for responsive drug release. Additionally, the hybridization of cellulose with inorganic materials offers potential in developing materials with superior antimicrobial properties and improved mechanical characteristics. This review also addresses the challenges in cellulose processing, particularly concerning optimizing its structure for specific applications, while highlighting future opportunities in the field of personalized medicine and intelligent healthcare devices. By examining both the current innovations and future trends, this review highlights the growing importance of cellulose as a sustainable and versatile resource in the biomedical industry.
A study of epoxy based polymer composites: Tailoring mechanical and piezoelectric characteristics
Authors: Yasar Miray , Sanay Berran , Duffy Cormac , Thai Michael , Murphy Neal , Burns Barry , Ivankovic Alojz 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIn this study, epoxy based piezoelectric polymer composites were fabricated using two different curing agents and varying compositions of poly(vinylidene) fluoride (PVDF), barium titanate (BaTiO3), and conductive silver nanoparticles. The effect of piezoelectric ceramic and conductive nanofillers on enhancing the PVDF β phase within the composite structure was investigated. Structural, thermal, and morphological characterizations of the polymer composites were performed using x‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of mechanical properties and fracture toughness was conducted in addition to the piezoelectric behavior. A voltage output of 1.35 V was generated by a polymer composite containing 20 wt% BaTiO3, with a Young's modulus of 2 GPa and a fracture energy of 2.3 kJ/m2. The findings of this study contribute to expanding the knowledge and understanding of piezoelectric polymer composites, enabling their potential utilization in various scientific and technological applications.Highlights
Enhancing mechanical and piezoelectric properties of epoxy based piezoelectric composites.
A clear and comprehensive description of the experimental procedures employed.
Comparative analysis methods: structural, thermal, mechanical, fracture, and piezoelectric property analyses.
Bayesian Solutions for Assessing Differential Effects in Biomarker Positive and Negative Subgroups
Authors: Jackson Dan , Zhang Fanni , Burman Carl‐Fredrik , Sharples Linda 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe number of clinical trials that include a binary biomarker in design and analysis has risen due to the advent of personalised medicine. This presents challenges for medical decision makers because a drug may confer a stronger effect in the biomarker positive group, and so be approved either in this subgroup alone or in the all‐comer population. We develop and evaluate Bayesian methods that can be used to assess this. All our methods are based on the same statistical model for the observed data but we propose different prior specifications to express differing degrees of knowledge about the extent to which the treatment may be more effective in one subgroup than the other. We illustrate our methods using some real examples. We also show how our methodology is useful when designing trials where the size of the biomarker negative subgroup is to be determined. We conclude that our Bayesian framework is a natural tool for making decisions, for example, whether to recommend using the treatment in the biomarker negative subgroup where the treatment is less likely to be efficacious, or determining the number of biomarker positive and negative patients to include when designing a trial.
Overview of Terrain Traversability Evaluation for Autonomous Robots
Authors: Shu Yongjie , Dong Linwei , Liu Jianfeng , Liu Cheng , Wei Wei 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTTraversability evaluation is the foundation and core of unmanned platforms for scene understanding and autonomous navigation, whose successful completion relies on the analysis of the platform's characteristics and the semantic and geometric features of the surrounding environment. This topic has been reviewed by many literatures, which are characterized by a single perspective and lack comprehensive evaluation frameworks. Thus, the concept and developmental trajectory of traversability evaluation are initially outlined in this paper, distinguishing it from other issues, while constructing an evaluation framework based on two categories: direct assessment and downstream task assessment. Subsequently, traversability evaluation methods are classified based on multiple dimensions, including sensor types, robot types, usage scenarios, and learning approaches. On the basis of the constructed evaluation framework, comparisons are made among existing algorithms in terms of performance and runtime. Subsequently, a summary is provided on commonly used features and their mainstream computation methods in terrain evaluation. Additionally, open‐source data sets in this field and projects for scene construction and algorithm validation are compiled and organized. Finally, an analysis is conducted on the development direction and trends, emphasizing the urgent need to establish standardized evaluation systems and comparison baselines. Furthermore, it is imperative that various environmental and platform information be comprehensively integrated into algorithms, while also ensuring that simulation, demonstration, and exploration are incorporated into a unified framework to enhance the robot's learning capability.
Design and Implementation of a Multimodal Tilt‐Rotor Unmanned Aerial‐Aquatic Vehicle
Authors: Wang Zhenjiang , Jiang Yunhua , Zou Zhihui , Zhen Zikun 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe unmanned aerial‐aquatic vehicle (UAAV) can be operated in both air and water for scientific and engineering applications. However, the endurance and maneuverability of the UAAV are challenged by the complex multi‐domain tasks. Inspired by the locomotion modes of the tilt‐rotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and the hybrid underwater glider (HUG), the design and implementation of a multimodal tilt‐rotor UAAV are presented in this paper. This UAAV can repeat trans‐domain and move in both air and underwater. To minimize configuration redundancy and weight of the vehicle, the amphibious structures are implemented, which include a waterproof air tilt‐rotor to provide vector pull for underwater propulsion, a movable buoyant tailplane to adjust the pitch angle for underwater gliding, a distributed variable buoyancy system (DVBS) to control buoyancy, and the hollow wings with a 10° dihedral angle to assist water exit. The vehicle prototype was fabricated, and tested in ocean environments, lakes, and high‐visibility pools. The results demonstrate that the vehicle can perform controllably and repeatedly trans‐domain under disturbed conditions, and the combination of efficient and flexible locomotion modes can enhance the endurance and maneuverability of the vehicle in multidomain environments. In particular, the underwater endurance of over 12 h, and the underwater attitude response rates improve by over 100%. Moreover, the vehicle's weight is decreased by over 39% owing to the implementation of amphibious structures.
A systematic method to integrate co‐produced causal loop diagrams based on feedback stories
Authors: Rajah Jefferson K. , Kopainsky Birgit 
Published: November 2024

AbstractWithin participatory systems dynamics, more practitioners are compiling co‐produced causal loop diagrams (CLDs) to analyse and report workshop outputs. Though not formalized, existing documented techniques have been limited to analyses of representations in single‐group diagrams predicated on, at times, untraceable subjective judgements. This paper addresses the need for a systematic method to guide and justify the subjective decisions made in the integration process. We propose a multistep, three‐stage process that synthesizes feedback stories from representations in diagrams (i.e. what is represented) and transcripts of the participatory process (i.e. what is said). This approach enables practitioners to report the interpretive scheme through which qualitative data are analysed and, thus, support the subjective decisions they made during the integration process. Using a case study, we demonstrate the application of this method and its potential for narrowing the semantic distance between participants, practitioners and external audience for interpreting and analysing an integrated diagram. © 2024 The Author(s). System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.
Kingdom or fandom? YouTube and the changing role of gatekeeping in digital cultural markets
Authors: Malik Sumeet , Rathee Chandrika , Alexy Oliver , Wang Taiyuan 
Published: November 2024

AbstractResearch SummaryHow should novelty‐driven entrepreneurs best position themselves in digital cultural markets? On platforms like YouTube, cultural entrepreneurs may bypass classic gatekeepers to reach novelty‐seeking audiences through algorithms that search and recommend. However, this positive view of disintermediation ignores that novelty often needs curation by and consecration from professional audiences. We explore what these potentially conflicting dynamics imply for cultural entrepreneurs in the arena of YouTubers nominated for acclaimed Streamy Awards. Merging fine‐grained datasets and qualitative evidence, we find that general audiences value novelty they grasp well, that professional audiences undervalue novelty they should easily spot, and that cross‐audience spillovers prove negative. We discuss the implications of our results for theories toward markets serving fragmented audiences, cultural markets going online, and digital platforms.Managerial SummaryHow can novelty‐driven cultural entrepreneurs effectively establish themselves in digital markets like YouTube? This study guides them by highlighting that while these platforms enable bypassing traditional gatekeepers and reaching consumers directly through recommendation algorithms, recognition from professional circles may remain crucial. The research focuses on YouTube creators nominated for Streamy Awards, based on detailed data from YouTube and interviews. Key findings include that general audiences prefer novel content that is easy to curate, while professionals may overlook novel content when curation is easy. Additionally, popularity in one audience group does not guarantee acceptance in another. The study's insights are vital for understanding market dynamics in fragmented audiences, the shift of cultural markets online, and the functioning of digital cultural platforms.
Effect of Temperature on CH4/CO Carburization Process of Hydrogen‐Based Direct Reduced Iron Pellets
Authors: Liu Zhengjian , Hu Yiqi , Zhang Jianliang , Cheng Qiang , Conejo Alberto N. , Wang YaoZu 
Published: November 2024

Cementite (Fe3C) has a high combined‐carbon content, which not only increases the carbon content but also provides a heat source and shortens the smelting time. Besides, the CO generated by carbon oxidation can stir the molten pool. It is beneficial to the formation of foaming slag and the removal of inclusions. To study the formation behavior of cementite and surface‐deposited carbon during the carburizing process of hydrogen‐reduction pellets under different conditions, the effects of temperature and carburizing gas composition on the carburizing rate of hydrogen‐reduction pellets are studied. The results show that the carburization rate of CH4 gas is proportional to the carburization temperature. The carburization rate of CO gas is inversely proportional to the temperature, and almost no carburization occurs at 900 °C. The contents of cementite and deposited carbon in different weight gain samples are compared by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) refinement and high‐pressure air gun injection. The analysis revealed that CH4 gas is easier to form deposited carbon in the later stage of carburizing at 900 °C. It provides a theoretical basis for the control of the carburization behavior of hydrogen‐based pellets.
Dynamic strength criterion of concrete utilizing dynamic coordinates
Authors: Hu Jing , Yao Yangping , Zhang Zitao , Zhang Xuedong 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe effects of strain rate on the strength of concrete should be considered when analyzing the dynamic responses of concrete structures subjected to earthquakes or explosions. This paper shows that the effect of strain rate on strength characteristics can be attributed to an increase in cohesion. Notably, the effects of friction, hydrostatic pressure, and intermediate principal stress tend to remain rate‐independent under the appropriate reference system. Consequently, a dynamic coordinate system is established to account for the effects of strain rate on isotropic tensile strength. In this dynamic coordinate system, the strength envelopes for concrete closely resemble those in quasi‐static conditions under varying strain rates, as defined in the unified strength criterion. Using this proposed dynamic strength criterion, this paper explores the dynamic characteristics of different stress paths, including uniaxial, biaxial, and triaxial compression and tension. The predictions, both in terms of tendencies and magnitudes, are consistent with test results. The proposed method enables the extension of most strength criteria to dynamic scenarios by introducing two additional parameters with clear physical interpretations. This advancement enhances the current understanding of dynamic strength characteristics and provides a theoretical foundation for dynamic response analysis.
Visualising Data with Maps
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri 
Published: November 2024

AbstractNVivo offers the researcher a visual tool for the stepwise construction of theoretical models. The step-by-step work is preserved within the project, and the researcher immediately has all the project items at hand when building theoretical models. NVivo includes three visualisations, called Maps: the mind map, the concept map and the project map. Each visualisation has different graphical tools to build a visual representation of the researcher’s work. The Mind Map is a classic brainstorming tool that aims to visualise the development of ideas. The Concept Map allows visualisations from the theoretical developments while working with the data, allowing one to represent the concepts by shapes and connecting these shapes with relationships to the concepts they represent. Third, the Project map (a variant of the Concept Map) is focused exclusively on project items and the internal connection between these items. In other words, the Project Map helps visualise the multiple internal connections among coded data.
Reporting and Exporting Data
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri 
Published: November 2024

AbstractNext to the Matrix Coding Query, Reports help the researcher summarise the data in a project. Users can build predefined reports or create custom-made ones, choosing which project items need to be summarised. In the second part, the chapter discusses the export of data or parts of the data in a project. A Text Report or Extract is a tabular extract of data intended to export the data from your project to external databases (in the form of an Excel file). The chapter closes with conversions of an entire project. Hereby, the chapter shows how NVivo projects can be converted from a Windows format to MAC and vice versa or how project file backups can be made (as no automatic backups are created with NVivo). Also, the export to the FERI-QDA Project format (the Rotterdam Exchange Format Initiative) is discussed to enable the exchange of projects across software programs.
NVivo in Mixed Methods Studies
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis chapter discusses the application of NVivo in mixed methods research, highlighting how the software can integrate both qualitative and quantitative data. Being a qualitative research tool, the possibilities of NVivo to do quantitative analysis are limited if not absent (except for some graphing). However, NVivo allows the coding of open questions from surveys and exports this coded data back to quantitative datasets. As such, NVivo helps to integrate both methodologies. After the discussion on importing surveys, the chapter shows how data in survey databases can be coded (and auto-coded) and queried.
NVivo and AI: (Semi)-Automatic Coding
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis chapter explores the built-in Artificial Intelligence tools in NVivo, focusing on semi-automatic and automatic coding features. It discusses how AI can assist in the initial coding phases, potentially accelerating the analytical process in its early stages. The chapter critically examines the implications of AI in qualitative research, debating the balance between automation and researcher oversight. It shows how AI is only partially integrated into the program, is limited to the built-in language libraries and relies on crude statistical associations. NVivo cannot recognise language variants like sarcasm, double negatives, slang, dialect variations, idioms, or ambiguity, implying the researchers need to remain critical of the result of the AI auto-coding tools.
Getting Started 2: The Workspace and Jargon of NVivo
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis chapter familiarises readers with the workspace and specific jargon of NVivo. The chapter describes the overall layout of the workspace and the navigation around the different tools of the program. Specific attention is devoted to interface components such as the Navigation View, the List View, and the Detail View. The chapter also introduces the basic terminology used within NVivo, preparing readers to navigate and utilise the different tools available in the software.
Coding with Classifications
Authors: Mortelmans Dimitri 
Published: November 2024

AbstractNext to thematic coding, NVivo also allows coding with classifications. Classifications can be considered as a separate database in a project. In such a database, NVivo stores variables (called Attributes) that allow comparisons. Even though the classification tool is programmed in a relatively uniform way in the program, NVivo distinguishes between two types of classifications: file classifications and case classifications. Both types are explained, and their use is shown with analytical examples. Given the extended use of case classifications, the chapter elaborates on creating (twin) cases and storing data inside cases to make comparisons at a later stage possible. The chapter ends with tips on gaining efficiency in using classifications by showing how Excel tables (descriptive matrices) can be converted to classifications, avoiding all preparatory work being done manually.
High Stake Coordination Problems: Do We Need to Reach Beyond Individual Duties to Solve Them?
Authors: Bykvist Krister 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis chapter argues that collectivist duties do not significantly affect our individual obligations in certain important coordination problems. These are moral high stake versions of the so-called Hi-Lo cases. This also means that the conflict between collectivists and individualists, who resist the collectivist move, is not that stark in these cases. Along the way, I will also show that Hi-Lo cases are of interest to all kinds of moral theories, not just consequentialism, for which it is usually seen as a challenge.