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Extreme weather shocks and state-level inflation of the United States
No full textThis study investigates the impact of a metric of extreme weather shocks on 32 state-level inflation rates of the United States (US) over the quarterly period of 1989:01 to 2017:04. In this regard, we first utilize a dynamic factor model with stochastic volatility (DFM-SV) to filter out the national factor from the local components of overall, non-tradable and tradable inflation rates, to ensure that the effect of regional climate risks is not underestimated, given the derived sizeable common component. Second, using impulse responses derived from linear and nonlinear local projections models, we find statistically significant increases in the state (and national) factor of overall inflation rates, with the aggregate effect being driven by the tradable sector relative to the non-tradable one, particularly across the agricultural states in comparison to the non (less)-agricultural ones. Our findings have important policy implications.</p
National prevalence of atopic dermatitis in Korean adolescents from 2009 to 2022
No full textPrevious studies have examined the prevalence of allergic diseases in adolescents 1–2 years after the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, more data is needed to understand the long-term impact of COVID-19 on allergic diseases. Thus, we aimed to examine the trend of the atopic dermatitis prevalence in Korean adolescents before and during the COVID-19 pandemic across 14 years. Additionally, we analyze the risk factors of atopic dermatitis (AD) based on the results. The Korean Disease Control and Prevention Agency conducted the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey from 2009 to 2022, from which the data for this study were obtained. Prevalence trends were compared across subgroups, and the β difference (βdiff) was calculated. We computed odds ratios to examine changes in the disease prevalence before and during the pandemic. This study included a total of 917,461 participants from 2009 to 2022. The prevalence of atopic dermatitis increased from 6.79% (95% CI 6.66–6.91) in 2009–2011 to 6.89% (95% CI 6.72–7.05) in 2018–2019, then decreased slightly to 5.82% (95% CI 5.60–6.04) in 2022. Across the 14 years, middle school student status, low parent’s highest education level, low household income, non-alcohol consumption, non-smoker smoking status, no suicidal thoughts, and no suicide attempts were associated with increased risk of atopic dermatitis, while female sex, rural residence, high BMI, low school performance, low household income, and no feelings of sadness and despair was associated with a small increase. This study examined the prevalence of atopic dermatitis across an 18-year, and found that the prevalence increased in the pre-pandemic then decreased during the start of the pandemic and remained constant throughout the pandemic. This trend could be explained mainly by the large scale social and political changes that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. </p
What is it like to be a vocational student today? A phenomenological study of the vocational student experience in school sixth form education
No full textVocational education has a long history within the UK education system. Despite the various descriptions and guises, it remains an important part of the education to work transition. Within the traditionally academic setting of school sixth form education, vocational education is a relatively new phenomenon and therefore understandings of it are underdeveloped. A gap in knowledge identified through the study of relevant literature inspires this research to gain insights into the lived experience of the school sixth form vocational student.An Interpretive Phenomenological Interpretation (IPA) approach was adopted to develop understandings of the meanings participants gave to their lived experiences of school sixth form vocational education. A reflexive researcher stance enabled close consideration of how data was gathered, enabling participants to contribute on their own terms in a natural environment. A novel data collection method was developed which utilised a self-governing focus group whereby participants contributed in a data collection space distanced from the interviewer. A methodologically congruent process of analysing focus group data was also developed and refined which attended to the individual account while acknowledging group social interactions.The participants of this research experienced a greater degree of uncertainty in their vocational studies than in their academic studies. The uncertainty led to heightened experiences of flux, risk and compromise within their school lives. Vocational education within their sixth form setting provided nuanced opportunities to explore career options, ambitions and interests but required increased skills in tenacity for participants to navigate successfully to their career goals. Experiences of flux, risk and compromise drove participants to advance their wider skills beyond that those that are taught in the classroom. While participants negotiated the complex world of vocational education, they formed a new, tenacious identity as the school sixth form vocational student.New understandings of vocational education in sixth form settings show there is a conflict in rhetoric between academically experienced teachers as guides and other influences such as peers, media and university which must be resolved by the participants themselves. Opportunities now arise in sixth forms to challenge current understandings and practice thereby facilitating improvements with positive outcomes for all stakeholders.</p
Algorithmic Discrimination in Latin American Welfare States
No full textThis paper explores the phenomenon of algorithmic discrimination within the digital welfare states of Latin America. It examines how automated decision-making processes, driven by algorithms, can perpetuate and exacerbate existing social inequalities. The study delves into the political economy of Latin American welfare states, highlighting the transition influenced by global economic frameworks such as the Washington Consensus and the emerging "Silicon Valley Consensus."
Through a comprehensive analysis of 234 public algorithms and case studies from Colombia and Chile, the paper identifies key areas on which algorithmic decision-making impacts social policies. It also evaluates institutional responses and legal frameworks aimed at mitigating algorithmic bias and promoting fairness and inclusiveness. The findings underscore the need for region-specific approaches to algorithmic governance, emphasizing the importance of contextualized legal and regulatory measures to ensure non-discrimination and equitable access to social services in the digital age.</p
#DisabledBodyPositivity: A content analysis of body positive Instagram posts in the disabled community
No full textAccumulating research has supported the potential for body positivity content on Instagram to challenge predominant appearance ideals and promote a healthier body image. However, research in diverse groups is lacking - in particular, individuals with a disability have largely been neglected. Using #Disabled #BodyPositivity, this analysis examined the content of 623 body positive posts on Instagram. Posts were coded for body and appearance-attributes and themes relating to positive body image, appearance ideals, disability, and health. Posts were also examined for contradictory messaging (i.e., body positivity themes alongside the pursuit of appearance ideals). Results demonstrated an inclusion of diverse body and appearance-attributes, however, posts predominantly depicted young, White women. While only 45.06 % of posts contained at least one positive body image theme, our results identified positive themes specific to the disabled community, such as disability pride and activism. Besides the significant relationship between the presence of body positive themes and body and food shame, contradictory messaging was not found. Future research examining the effects of exposure to body positivity messaging on social media among those with a disability is warranted.</p
Brace for impact: facing the AI revolution and geopolitical shifts in a future societal scenario for 2025-2040
No full textThis study investigates the profound and multifaceted impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and geopolitical developments on global dynamics by 2040. Utilising a Delphi process coupled with probabilistic modelling, the research constructs detailed scenarios that reveal the cascading effects of these emerging forces across economic, societal, and security domains. The findings underscore the transformative potential of AI, predicting significant shifts in employment patterns, regulatory challenges, and societal structures. Specifically, the study forecasts a high probability of AI-induced unemployment reaching 40–50%, alongside the rapid evolution of AI technologies, outpacing existing governance frameworks, which could exacerbate economic inequalities and societal fragmentation. Simultaneously, the study examines the critical role of geopolitical developments, identifying increased nationalisation, the expansion of conflicts such as the Russia–Ukraine war, and the strategic manoeuvres of major powers like China and Israel as key factors that will shape the future global landscape. The research highlights a worrying lack of preparedness among governments and societies, with a 10% probability of their being equipped to manage the complex risks posed by these developments. This low level of readiness is further complicated by the short-term orientation prevalent in Western businesses, which prioritise immediate returns over long-term strategic planning, thereby undermining the capacity to respond effectively to these global challenges. The study calls for urgent, forward-looking policies and international cooperation to address the risks and opportunities associated with AI and geopolitical shifts. It emphasises the need for proactive governance, cross-sector collaboration, and robust regulatory frameworks to ensure that the benefits of technological and geopolitical advancements are harnessed without compromising global stability or societal well-being. As the world stands on the brink of unprecedented change, the findings of this study provide a crucial roadmap for navigating the uncertainties of the future. </p
Meta Data Record
No full text“Falling between the cracks”: Investigating the competing challenges experienced by professionals working with people who hoard.Meta data including information about data collection, interview schedule and output data (transcript example).</p
The contribution of artificial intelligence (AI) to disaster response and management
No full textThe main purpose of conducting this study was to investigate the applications of AI technologies to the UAE disaster management and response activities. The justification behind pursuing this topic for research was pushed by the basic fact that the UAE has been facing an increasing level of natural disasters occasioned by climate change, and this has led to the overall pressure to seek alternatives provided by technology to address these pressing concerns to the safety and development of the country. As new forms of natural disasters continue to pose significant threats to public safety in different parts of the world, governments need to continue being innovative on how they can protect the interests and the safety of their citizens during such events. The invention of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and big data analytics provide new possibilities in the management of natural disasters. The UAE was also chosen as one of the regions that have widely adopted the use of AI technologies in the recent past.The research was conducted using a qualitative research approach. The Technology Acceptance Model and Resource Based View & Decision-Making theory were used to build the theoretical foundation of the study and to make a representation of facts for the study. The data collection involved a total of 15 participants in managerial positions within organizations involved with Disaster Management (DM) practices. These organizations were The Red Cross, Red Crescent, Sanid, and the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority. Further secondary data was also collected from existing literature on the topic.The findings of the study reveal that AI technologies have huge potential benefits in helping DM agencies and governments deal with natural disasters. This potential could be achieved mainly by facilitating predictability of natural disasters and in providing warning systems in partnership with communication companies that can help to provide warnings to the public about heightened risks of disaster and, therefore, lead to significant saving of life and property.Based on the study findings, a number of conclusions were drawn which form the vital contributions of this research to the field of study. This study identified the use of top-down and stakeholder-based engagement policies to be incorporated into the adoption of AI in DM as one of the most effective approaches to achieving an integrated adoption of AI in problem solving. This engagement is needed in policy development, technical development, and research processes to ensure that the AI initiatives being adopted are effective. This research also contributes to practice by identifying the various AI technologies and examining the possibility of incorporating them in disaster management and response in the UAE.</p
Experimental study of mixing parameters on graphene-oxide reinforced concrete compressive strength and its applicability to sub-Saharan Africa
No full textThis study is about improving the compressive strength of Graphene oxide-reinforced concrete systems (GORCS). It started with a pilot investigation that promoted Carbon-based nanomaterials reinforced concrete (Cb-NRC) in addressing sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) housing construction sustainability, followed by experimental lab testing of GORCS based on the outcome from the pilot study. Finally, a feedback assessments were conducted to review the experimental lab outcomes with a few of the stakeholders.The pilot study was conducted through a survey questionnaire that involved 25 Housing construction Small and Medium Enterprises (Hc-SMEs) in SSA with outcomes that prioritise innovations using different formworks, reducing constructing time and building a good balance between compressive strength and cost together for adoption of Cb-NRC through GORCS.While the compressive strength of ordinary concrete can be easily predicted using various mix designs and water-cement (w/c) ratios, the compressive strength of GORCS is a unique challenge. Its dependency on the mixing speed and the mixing duration, especially for the optimum weight percentages of Graphene Oxide (GO), has not yet been comprehensively investigated. The unpredictability of GORCS early age strength is a unique aspect in knowing ahead of its standard compressive strength to ensure the success of concrete projects that require using GO as an additive.The experiments were conducted on 900 specimens to study the impact of mixing speed and duration on compressive strength. This lab testing is the largest conducted on this specific subject. It includes tests on the compressive strength of GORCS and ordinary concrete with 0.2 and 0.35 w/c ratios at 2, 7 and 28 curing days. 0.2 and 0.35w/c ratios are workable GORCS optimal ratios, which still fall in the range of 0.2 to 0.5w/c ratio, widely used in housing construction. The experimental tests were conducted using a range of mixing speeds between 800 and 3405 rotations per minute (rpm) and a mixing duration between 9 and 38 minutes. Each test was repeated three times according to the standard. The data analysis was done using the Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) test to assess the relationship between variables, curve fittings to find the parameters from established mixing-compressive strength models applied and simple regression to verify linearity and validate the confidence level of the useful equations.Unlike 140 rpm applied in 3 to 5 minutes, popularly recommended in ordinary concrete-making standards, three non-standardised mixing intensities generally offer between 45-84% improvement in compressive strength for both GORCS 0.2 and 0.35 w/c ratios while the best outcome at 104% improvement was from 1065rpm applied in 9 minutes for 0.2 w/c ratio at 61.03MPa. In general, both the mixing duration significantly influences the compressive strength of GORCS with 0.2 w/c while mixing speed influences the GORCS of higher w/c ratio of 0.35.Out of the eight models tested, only three closely predict the experiment with calculated fitting parameters. The GORCS model mix with a 0.35 w/c ratio showed greater replicability than the mix with a 0.2 w/c ratio with a ± 2 to 5Mpa differences. Two of these applicable prediction models are ideal for HSMEs application in SSA due to the situation, mixing intensity need and delivery method if they produce 20-50% improvement in compressive strength.</p
How Do Social Work Students Develop Skills By Using Practice-Based Virtual Reality (Vr) Simulation? A Uk Higher Education Institution Case Study
No full textThe focus of this research project is the learning process that take place when social work students use virtual reality simulation (herein referred to as VR simulation) for skills education.
The Context and Background for the Study:
The use of technology and innovation in the arena of educating health care professionals has gathered pace in recent years. Though the use of such technology is not new, it is rapidly evolving and incorporates a range of new immersive software. The use of simulation can already be seen in courses such as nursing, paramedic science and medicine, where students can use and interact with hardware such as specialist equipment to train students in their use, ready for the use of the real article in practice, as well as software to develop skills. In addition to this 2D video technology is also well established in a variety of arenas in health, education, medicine and social care training and practice to embellish established teaching and learning practices. Simulation for social work education has traditionally included in-person role play activities to develop practice based skills, and is now moving towards incorporation of more interactive VR simulation for skills.
Research Objectives:
The objective for this study is to uncover rich and thick data from social work students about their learning experiences using VR simulation, by utilising a case study research framework. The distinctiveness of the case, or bounded system will provide illumination as to the research question – How do social work students develop skills by using practice-based virtual reality (VR) simulation? The aim is to create a new understanding as to the learning processes taking place for social work students when using virtual reality simulation.
Methods:
My research used 360-degree photographs of hard to access spaces (a home with extensive adaptions; and a psychiatric assessment environment) and provided an interactive-immersive learning experience by embedding the VR simulation into the social work curriculum.
1) an observed session using the virtual reality simulation; (over video call, requesting that the participant share their screen).
2) the submission of a reflection on the session by the participant (students are asked to use a simple ‘what/so what/what now’ approach to their written reflection between 200-600 words)
3) a semi structured interview (conducted over video call)
Results:
The results indicate that as well as congruence in themes identified in the literature review, the new data also indicated that the use of VR simulation supported learning in additional ways, which included considerations for the practicalities of use of technology, specific skills development, linking to theory, linking to legislation, threshold concepts and support for additional learning needs.</p
Data sources:
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