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What if all kinds of work were considered ‘real jobs,’ and everyone who worked had a job? : Using imaginary thinking in the context of Swedish municipal activation services
No full textThis article explores active labor market policies through a utopian lens, focusing on Swedish municipal activation services. Users of such services participated in visionary workshops and were invited to dream about what could be different in their (working) lives. In the analysis of the participants’ dreams, a tension between the internalization of and resistance to employability narratives, market logics, and capitalist structures emerges. By examining these dynamics, the article demonstrates how utopian thinking, rooted in experiences from the margins of the labor market, can inspire critiques of current labor systems and help in envisioning possible futures.Lokala arbetsmarknadsprogram – Utmaningar av och för en inkluderande arbetsmarkna
Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) among elementary school children in Stockholm : Associations with asthma, allergies, and home and school environment
No full textObjective: Few studies have investigated links between fraction exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), the home and the school environment. FeNO is a biomarker of T helper 2 (Th2) airway inflammation. We investigated associations between FeNO and airway symptoms, allergies, household and classroom exposure among pupils in ten primary schools in Stockholm (N = 415). Methods: Information on health and household environment was obtained by a questionnaire. FeNO was measured at school. Particle mass (PM1, PM2.5, PM10), carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature, and relative air humidity (RH) were measured in the classrooms. Microbial DNA and 3-hydroxy fatty acids (3-OHs) from endotoxin in Gram-negative bacteria were analysed in vacuumed dust from floors and upper surfaces. Three-level linear mixed models were used to analyse associations. Results: In total, 9.7 % of the pupils had elevated FeNO (>20 ppb), 15.2 % doctor diagnosed asthma, 10.7 % current asthma, 17.8 % reported allergy and 9.6 % doctor diagnosed allergy. Reported allergy (p = 0.02), diagnosed allergy (p = 0.002), and current asthma (p = 0.007) were associated with elevated FeNO. Children living in single-family houses with basement had higher FeNO than those in self-owned apartments (p = 0.001). In the classrooms, PM10 (p = 0.008), RH (p = 0.004) and DNA copies from Gram-negative bacteria in vacuumed floor dust (p = 0.008) were associated with higher FeNO. C16 3-OH in floor dust (p = 0.046) and C10 (p = 0.02) and C11 3-OHs (p = 0.04) in upper surface dust were associated with higher FeNO. The association between Gram-negative bacteria at school and FeNO was stronger among girls. Children with parental asthma and allergy, and among those with dampness and mould at home and in single-family houses with basement. Conclusions: FeNO is associated with reported asthma and allergy. In the school environment, PM10 and exposure to some subpopulations of Gram-negative bacteria can increase FeNO. Sex, parental asthma or allergy, dampness at home and type of housing can modify associations between classroom exposure and FeNO.
Perceptions of AI in higher education: affordances and risks for students with swedish as a second language in developing academic literacy
No full textNavigating Rural Care Transitions : A Qualitative Study of Nursing Leaders’ Unit‐Focused Approaches
No full textBackground: Leadership is vital for well-coordinated healthcare and affects the quality of care and patient safety. Nursing leaders are crucial in creating appropriate structures and processes to enhance patient outcomes during care transitions in a rural context. Despite their importance to care transitions, there is limited research on nursing leaders’ perspectives in rural settings. This study explored nursing leaders’ concerns regarding the provision of quality care during transitions from hospital care to home healthcare in rural areas and their experiences in improving these processes. Methods: A qualitative study using constructivist grounded theory methodology was conducted. Twenty nursing leaders in hospital and rural municipal care in Sweden were interviewed. All were educated in social care or healthcare, most in nursing, and most had a master’s degree. Data were analyzed using constant comparative analysis. Results: Nursing leaders’ main concern about creating quality care in transitions was a lack of clearly defined, shared goals for a high-quality care transition. The core category explaining their approach was minding one’s unit by working within organizational unit borders. Three categories further explained this: (I) promoting nursing competence by recruiting and training nurses, emphasizing patient involvement, (II) ensuring continuous care flow by collaborating within one’s organization and clarifying rights and obligations, and (III) evaluating collaboration within each unit. Conclusions: Seamless care transitions are challenging when nursing leaders lack clear, mutually shared quality goals for care transitions. Implications for nursing management include improving collaborative routines, establishing common platforms, and integrating patient input throughout the process, as these measures are essential for enhancing interorganizational collaboration in rural care transitions
Critical Discourse Analysis of News Articles : How Language is Used to Persuade Readers in Coverage related to the Israel-Palestine Conflict
No full text“Fri lek är när barnen själva får bestämma vad de vill leka. Det är inte en vuxenstyrd lek” : En kvalitativ studie om barns fria lek i förskolan och förskollärares roll i barns utveckling och lärande
No full textLek är en viktig del av barns utveckling, eftersom den ger dem möjlighet att skapa sin egen värld, förstå sin omgivning och forma sin identitet. I förskolan spelar den fria leken en särskilt betydelsefull roll men det finns tecken på att den mer styrda leken dominerar inom förskolan. Syftet med föreliggande studie var att undersöka hur förskollärare uppfattar den fria lekens betydelse för barns lärande och utveckling. Studien utgick från ett sociokulturellt perspektiv med särskilt fokus på begreppen den proximala utvecklingszonen, scaffolding (stöttning) samt fantasi och lek. Studien var en kvalitativ intervjustudie baserad på semistrukturerade intervjuer med sju förskollärare från två olika förskolor. Det insamlade materialet analyserades med hjälp av tematisk innehållsanalys, vilket resulterade i tre teman: 1) Fri lek handlar om att barnen själva får välja vad de vill leka, 2) Att främja barns utveckling genom fri lek, och 3) Förskollärares roll i att utveckla barns relationer genom fri lek. De viktigaste fynden visade att förskollärare erkänner den fria lekens betydelse för kreativitet och social utveckling. Samtidigt upplever svårigheter med att ge den tillräckligt med utrymme i en miljö där styrda aktiviteter ofta prioriteras. Förskollärarna framhöll vikten av att ge barnen möjlighet att själva leda leken, samtidigt som de erbjöd stöd när det behövdes för att främja barnens lärande och utveckling. En slutsats är att förskollärare upplever att fri lek inte bara handlar om självständighet, utan även om att bygga relationer och utveckla sociala färdigheter. Förskollärare ser sin roll som stödjande i barnens lek, där de främjar utforskande och utveckling utan att styra.Betyg i Ladok 250317.</p
A Modified Nearest Level Control Scheme for Improved Submodule Current Sharing in a CHB Converter with Integrated EDLCs
No full textThis study investigates a Cascaded H-Bridge converter with Electric Double-Layer Capacitors as integrated energy storage components. As the DC-link voltages are variable, the modulation index and number of submodules contributing to the active power delivery vary according to state of charge. The nearest level control algorithm for this application is studied, and expressions for the duty cycle of conventional Nearest Level Modulation are derived. A modification of the sort and select algorithm to determine which submodule is to be inserted and bypassed when using the Nearest Level Control algorithm is proposed to distribute the activation time and the experienced RMS current of the submodules. Expressions for the duty cycle of each inserted submodule for the proposed algorithm is presented and compared to the conventional. Simulation experiments of current sharing between submodules under active power delivery for the conventional and proposed Nearest Level Control is conducted for an 11- level, 41-level and 61-level converter. Simulation experiments show a reduction in RMS current for the submodule experiencing the highest thermal stress. Over the course of power delivery and increasing modulation index, the peak RMS current increase for the conventional nearest level modulation while it is kept constant for the proposed modulation scheme.
On the Optimization of Carob Seed Peel Extraction Using Aqueous-Based Acidic Systems
No full textCarob fruit utilization remains limited, with most of their commercial value derived from locust bean gum, which is obtained from seed endosperm. Efficient extraction requires dehusking, which is traditionally performed under harsh conditions. This study aims to develop and optimize a milder, more sustainable dehusking method while preserving seed quality for industrial applications. Various aqueous-based solvents were tested, leading to the selection of metanesulfonic acid (CH4O3S). A Box–Behnken design with response surface methodology optimized the process, using husk removal efficiency as the response variable. The optimized conditions were 24.5 g of seeds treated in 50 mL of a solvent mixture (41% CH4O3S and 59% H2SO4) at 90 °C for 10 min, followed by washing by 5 min with water (87 mL). The treated seeds were analyzed using colorimetry assays and diffusive reflectance spectroscopy and benchmarked against both pristine and dehusked seeds from a local company. The resulting seeds remained morphologically intact and exhibited appealing color characteristics comparable to commercial samples. The optimized method ensured intact seed morphology and color characteristics comparable to commercial standards, offering a viable alternative to conventional H2SO4-based dehusking. Furthermore, this study also highlights for the first time the effectiveness of diffusive reflectance spectroscopy as a rapid and straightforward tool for assessing the dehusking process.
Small Patients, Big Challenges : Exploring Child-Centred Approaches in Prehospital Emergency Care
No full textBackground: Children require special attention in healthcare because of their unique developmental requirements. As such, ambulance nurses can perceive calls regarding children as challenging and difficult to handle. At the same time, ambulance nurses also often need to contend with a child’s anxious parent, an experience that can seem like having to deal with multiple patients instead of just one. Regardless, nurses are expected to be sensitive and attentive to the child patient's wishes and allow them to participate in their own care. According to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, children are entitled to be heard in matters concerning them. This is also expressed in child-centred care, which emphasises the importance of a child's perspective in care. It is, therefore, of interest to explore the care of children in a prehospital context. Aim: This research sought to contribute to knowledge that can support the development of child-centred approaches in prehospital emergency care. The overall aim was to gain a deeper insight into how care encounters between ambulance personnel and children are perceived by both ambulance personnel and parents, as well as to explore the strategies used by ambulance personnel to manage these situations. Method: To achieve a deeper understanding of the research topic, a qualitative design was chosen, with data being collected through interviews. Studies I and II were both conducted in three regions and included 17 ambulance nurses. Data was analysed using qualitative content analysis for Study I and reflective thematic analysis in Study II. Study III covered five regions and included 12 parents, with the resultant data being analysed using deductive content analysis. Study IV was carried out in five regions and included 10 child representatives. Phenomenography was used to analyse the collected data. Findings: The overarching findings of the studies were that there is a need for a child-centred approach in prehospital care, wherein children’s emotional and developmental needs are met. Such an approach can develop a sense of participation in the children and foster trust between them and ambulance personnel. True caring requires ambulance personnel to use empathy, adaptability and teamwork. They also have to deal with challenges such as emotional stress and insecurity among ambulance personnel, particularly when they lack experience with children. Strictly following protocols without considering children’s needs may hinder child-centred care, risking unequal care and a failure to meet legislative demands. However, creativity in the care encounter with adaptability towards the children’s developmental levels—through play, honest communication and other strategies—can foster safety and participation. Allowing children to be heard and considered creates a sense of autonomy in them and fosters trust between them and ambulance personnel, strengthening care quality. The physical design of ambulances often presents limitations but can be overcome with minor adjustments. Even in emergencies, maintaining clear, empathetic communication ensures dignity and support for children and families. Conclusion: These studies underscore the importance of a holistic, child-centred approach in the prehospital setting, but organisation and/or individual barriers pose challenges to their implementation. Professional, sensitised preparedness is essential for ambulance personnel, and it must be supported by additional education involving hands-on training. The ability to adapt is crucial when caring for children. Empathetic, candid communication by ambulance personnel can address children's medical and emotional needs, encouraging their participation in the care process. Such a compassionate, child-centred approach begets trust from the children and their families while also upholding their dignity, even during emergencies. When supported, children are more likely to be able to participate in their care.Bakgrund: Barn är individer som kräver särskild hänsyn inom hälso- och sjukvården på grund av deras utvecklingsmässiga skillnader. Ambulanspersonal kan uppfatta uppdrag som rör barn som utmanande och svåra att hantera. Samtidigt tenderar ambulanspersonal ofta att ha oroliga föräldrar närvarande med barnet, vilket ofta upplevs som att ha flera patienter istället för en enda. Trots detta finns det förväntningar på att vara lyhörd för barns önskemål och att göra dem delaktiga i sin vård. Enligt Förenta Nationernas konvention om barns rättigheter har barn rätt att bli hörda i frågor som berör dem. Detta uttrycks också i barncentrerad vård, som betonar vikten av barnets perspektiv i vården. Det är därför av intresse att utforska vården av barn i en prehospital kontext. Syfte: Denna forskning syftade till att bidra med kunskap som kan stödja utvecklingen av barncentrerade arbetssätt inom den prehospitala akutsjukvården. Det övergripande målet var att få en djupare förståelse för hur vårdmöten mellan ambulanspersonal och barn upplevs av både ambulanspersonal och föräldrar, samt att utforska de strategier som ambulanspersonal använder för att hantera dessa situationer. Metod: För att nå en djupare förståelse valdes en kvalitativ design och data samlades in genom intervjuer. Studie I och II genomfördes i tre regioner och inkluderade 17 ambulanssjuksköterskor. Studie I analyserades med kvalitativ innehållsanalys och Studie II med reflexiv tematisk analys. Studie III genomfördes i fem regioner och inkluderade 12 föräldrar. Denna studie analyserades med deduktiv kvalitativ innehållsanalys. Studie IV genomfördes i fem regioner och inkluderade tio barnombud och analyserades med fenomenografi. Resultat: Det övergripande resultatet från studierna visar att det finns ett behov av ett barncentrerat förhållningssätt i prehospital vård där barns emotionella och utvecklingsmässiga behov tillgodoses. Ett sådant förhållningssätt kan skapa en känsla av delaktighet hos barnen och skapa tillit mellan barnen och ambulanspersonalen. Sant vårdande kräver att ambulanspersonal använder empati, anpassningsförmåga och teamarbete. Det finns utmaningar, såsom emotionell stress och osäkerhet bland ambulanspersonal, särskilt när de saknar erfarenhet av att vårda barn. Strikt följande av protokoll utan att beakta barns behov kan försvåra barncentrerad vård, vilket riskerar ojämlik vård och bristande efterlevnad av lagstadgade krav. Anpassningsförmåga och kreativitet i vårdmötet utifrån barns utvecklingsnivåer – genom lek, ärlig kommunikation och andra strategier – kan skapa trygghet och delaktighet. Att låta barn bli hörda och tagna i beaktande skapar en känsla av autonomi och tillit, vilket stärker vårdkvaliteten. Den fysiska utformningen av ambulanser begränsar ofta vårdmöjligheterna, men dessa hinder kan övervinnas med små åtgärder. Även i akuta situationer kan tydlig kommunikation och empati säkerställa värdighet och stöd för barn och familjer. Slutsats: Dessa studier betonar vikten av en holistisk och barncentrerad vård i den prehospitala miljön men organisatoriska och/eller individuella barriärer utgör barriärer för dess implementering. För ambulanspersonal är emotionell och professionell beredskap avgörande, vilket behöver stödjas genom ytterligare utbildning och praktisk träning. Förmågan att anpassa sig vid vård av barn är viktig. Genom att använda empati och ärlig kommunikation kan ambulanspersonal tillgodose både barnens medicinska och emotionella behov, och uppmuntra deras delaktighet i vårdprocessen. Detta medkännande och barncentrerade tillvägagångssätt säkerställer att barn och deras familjer upplever förtroende och värdighet, även under akuta situationer. När barn får stöd är de mer benägna att ha möjlighet att delta i sin vård.Vid tidpunkten för disputationen var följande delarbeten opublicerade: delarbete 3 och 4 manuskript.At the time of the doctoral defence the following papers were unpublished: paper 3 and 4 manuscript.</p
Predicting handsheet properties and enhancing refiner control using fiber analyzer data and latent variable modeling
No full textThis study focuses on the development of a compact model with improved interpretability compared to similar approaches, relating thermomechanical pulp (TMP) properties, quantified using a fiber analyzer, to Canadian standard freeness and handsheet properties. The data used in this study are obtained from TMP produced by a conical disc refiner. Utilizing the LASSO-regularized Latent Variable Regression (LASSO-LVR) model, we identified three key latent variables – representing shives content, fibrillation, and slender fines content – that accurately predict eight distinct handsheet properties. In a subsequent analysis, we investigated the linkage between refiner settings and Specific Refining Energy (SRE) to these key analyzer readings and, consequently, to handsheet properties. The inclusion of SRE as an internal state variable in the model significantly enhanced predictive accuracy, providing a foundation for more precise and energy-efficient control strategies in refining processes.