bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Species With Dermatological Relevance Used in Traditional Mayan Medicine
Authors: Escobar-Chan Zurisadai , Fernández-Concha Germán Carnevali , Rodríguez-García Cecilia Mónica , Ortiz-Vázquez Elizabeth , Peraza-Sánchez Sergio R. , Vera-Ku Blanca Marina
Published: February 2024

This ethnobotanical study highlights the significant knowledge of the Maya Yucatecan healers about medicinal plants used to treat skin diseases and the importance of studying the ancient knowledge inherited from generation to generation. Historically, the Maya people have relied on the use of medicinal plants to treat various ailments, including skin diseases. The study focuses on identifying the plants that have been traditionally employed for these purposes. By comparing historical sources with contemporary ethnobotanical data gathered from the field, this research uncovers the evolving patterns of plant usage over time. It also underscores the significance of considering sociopolitical circumstances in understanding changes in local knowledge. The data indicated that Rutaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Lamiaceae, and Asteraceae were the most represented families. The ethnohistoric record also showed gaps linked to the local knowledge developed by the Mayans over time. The principal component analysis technique applied to our ethnobotanical data simplifies the complexity of information on the use of medicinal flora to treat skin conditions, resulting in a new predictive model for pooling herbal knowledge. Correlations indicated that more than 50% of the listed species are used to treat fungal infections. This historical perspective enriches our understanding of the dynamic relationship between the Maya people and their use of medicinal plants for skin-related ailments.
Multi-average high-acceleration modified volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination (VIBE) for free-breathing multiphase contrast-enhanced liver MRI: a comparative study with breath-hold VIBE
Authors: Chang Ming-Hwa , Wang Wei-Teng , Teng Hui-Chung , Wang Shu-Chin , Cheng Hsiu-Wen , Huang Jer-Shyung , Wu Ming-Ting
Published: February 2024

Background

Breath-hold volumetric interpolated breath-hold examination (BH-VIBE) of multiphase contrast-enhanced liver magnetic resonance imaging (MPCE-LMRI) requires good cooperative individuals to comply with multiple breath-holds.

Purpose

To develop a free-breathing modified VIBE (FB-mVIBE) as a substitute of BH-VIBE in MPCE-LMRI.

Material and Methods

We modified VIBE with a high acceleration factor (2 × 2) and four averages to produce the mVIBE scan. A total of 90 individuals (40 men; mean age = 54.6 ± 10.0 years) who had received MPCE-LMRI as part of a voluntary health check-up for oncology survey were enrolled. Each participant was scanned in four phases (pre-contrast, arterial phase, venous phase, and delay phase), and each phase had two sequential scans. To encounter the timing effect of contrast enhancement, three scan orders were designed: BH-VIBE and FB-mVIBE (group A, n = 30); BH-VIBE and FB-VIBE (group B, n = 30); and FB-mVIBE and BH-VIBE (group C, n = 30). The comparisons included the objective measurements and 25 visual-score by two abdominal radiologists independently.

Results

Consistency between raters was observed for all three sequences (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.741–0.829). For rater 1, the mean scores of FB-mVIBE (23.67 ± 1.32) were equal to those of BH-VIBE (23.83 ± 1.98) in groups C and B (P = 0.852). The mean scores of FB-mVIBE (22.07 ± 3.02), but significantly higher than those of FB-VIBE (14.7 ± 3.41) in groups A and B ( P <0.001). Similar scores were found for rater 2. The objective measurement of FB-mVIBE were equal to or higher than BH-VIBE and markedly superior to FB-VIBE.

Conclusion

FB-mVIBE is a practical alternative to BH-VIBE for individuals who cannot cooperate with multiple breath-holds for MPCE-LMRI.
CT-guided percutaneous transthoracic needle biopsy for anterior mediastinal lymphoma: the role of PET/CT
Authors: Ahn Yura , Lee Sang Min , Choe Jooae , Kim Nayoung , Oh Sang Young , Do Kyung-Hyun , Seo Joon Beom
Published: February 2024

Background

Computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous transthoracic needle biopsy (PTNB) is not recommended as the diagnostic modality of choice for anterior mediastinal lymphoma, despite its advantages of minimal invasiveness and easy accessibility.

Purpose

To identify the modifiable risk factors for non-diagnostic results from CT-guided PTNB for anterior mediastinal lymphoma.

Material and Methods

This retrospective study identified CT-guided PTNB for anterior mediastinal lesions diagnosed as lymphoma between May 2007 and December 2021. The diagnostic sensitivity and complications were investigated. The appropriateness of PTNB targeting was evaluated using positron emission tomography (PET)/CT and images from intra-procedural CT-guided PTNB. Targeting was considered inappropriate when the supposed trajectory of the cutting needle was within a region of abnormally low metabolism. The risk factors for non-diagnostic results were determined using logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 67 PTNBs in 60 patients were included. The diagnostic sensitivity for lymphoma was 76.1% (51/67), with an immediate complication rate of 4.5% (3/67). According to the PET/CT images, PTNB targeting was inappropriate in 10/14 (71.4%) of the non-diagnostic PTNBs but appropriate in all diagnostic PTNBs ( P <0.001). Inappropriate targeting was the only significant risk factor for non-diagnostic results (odds ratio = 203.69; 95% confidence interval = 8.17–999.99; P = 0.001). The number of specimen acquisitions was not associated with non-diagnostic results ( P = 0.40).

Conclusions

Only inappropriate targeting of the non-viable portion according to PET/CT was an independent risk factor for non-diagnostic results. Acquiring PET/CT scans before biopsy and targeting the viable portion on PET/CT may help improve the diagnostic sensitivity of PTNB.
Deep learning-accelerated T2-weighted imaging versus conventional T2-weighted imaging in the female pelvic cavity: image quality and diagnostic performance
Authors: Kim Hokun , Choi Moon Hyung , Lee Young Joon , Han Dongyeob , Mostapha Mahmoud , Nickel Dominik
Published: February 2024

Background

The deep learning (DL)-based reconstruction algorithm reduces noise in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), thereby enabling faster MRI acquisition.

Purpose

To compare the image quality and diagnostic performance of conventional turbo spin-echo (TSE) T2-weighted (T2W) imaging with DL-accelerated sagittal T2W imaging in the female pelvic cavity.

Methods

This study evaluated 149 consecutive female pelvic MRI examinations, including conventional T2W imaging with TSE (acquisition time = 2:59) and DL-accelerated T2W imaging with breath hold (DL-BH) (1:05 [0:14 × 3 breath-holds]) in the sagittal plane. In 294 randomly ordered sagittal T2W images, two radiologists independently assessed image quality (sharpness, subjective noise, artifacts, and overall image quality), made a diagnosis for uterine leiomyomas, and scored diagnostic confidence. For the uterus and piriformis muscle, quantitative imaging analysis was also performed. Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to compare the two sets of T2W images.

Results

In the qualitative analysis, DL-BH showed similar or significantly higher scores for all features than conventional T2W imaging ( P <0.05). In the quantitative analysis, the noise in the uterus was lower in DL-BH, but the noise in the muscle was lower in conventional T2W imaging. In the uterus and muscle, the signal-to-noise ratio was significantly lower in DL-BH than in conventional T2W imaging ( P <0.001). The diagnostic performance of the two sets of T2W images was not different for uterine leiomyoma.

Conclusions

DL-accelerated sagittal T2W imaging obtained with three breath-holds demonstrated superior or comparable image quality to conventional T2W imaging with no significant difference in diagnostic performance for uterine leiomyomas.
High-mortality epizootic Mycobacterium ulcerans ecovar Liflandii in a colony of Zaire Dwarf Clawed Frogs (Hymenochirus boettgeri)
Authors: Boulanger Matthew , Crim Marcus J. , Keller Jill , Hoenerhoff Mark J.
Published: February 2024

Mycobacterium ulcerans ecovar Liflandii ( MuLiflandii) was identified as the causative agent of mycobacteriosis in a research colony of Zaire dwarf clawed frogs ( Hymenochirus boettgeri) at the University of Michigan. Clinical presentation included lethargy, generalized septicemia, cutaneous granulomas, coelomic effusion, and acute mortality. Identification of the mycobacterial species was based on molecular, microbiological, and histopathologic characteristics. These findings indicate that MuLiflandii is a primary cause of morbidity and mortality in Zaire dwarf clawed frogs and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of sepsis and coelomic effusion in amphibians. Mycobacterial speciation is important given the variability in pathogenesis within the family Mycobacteriaceae and the implications for both animal and human health as potential zoonoses. The Zaire dwarf clawed frog is a species common in the pet trade, and these findings provide consideration for this pathogen as a potentially important public health concern. This is the first report of MuLiflandii infection in the genus Hymenochirus and illustrates the diagnostic challenges of differentiating among both mycolactone-producing mycobacteria and Mycobacterium marinum. Furthermore, we demonstrate the utility of environmental sampling for this pathogen within the tank system, suggesting this mode of sampling could replace the need for direct frog surveillance.
Self-efficacy and music performance: A meta-analysis
Authors: Zelenak Michael S
Published: February 2024

While self-efficacy is known to play an important role in music performance, the magnitudes of reported effect sizes are inconsistent. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to estimate the population effect size for (a) the relationship between self-efficacy and achievement, (b) the relationship between self-efficacy and music performance anxiety (MPA), and (c) the influence of self-efficacy interventions. A literature search identified 220 self-efficacy studies with 46 meeting the inclusion criteria. Heterogeneity among findings required the use of a random-effects model. The results revealed a medium positive effect size between self-efficacy and achievement. Moderator analysis based on age identified a significant difference between secondary school and collegiate participants, while a comparison of instrumentalists and vocalists failed to reject the null. The relationship between self-efficacy and MPA exhibited a medium negative effect size with a significant difference between secondary school and collegiate participants. Self-efficacy interventions demonstrated a substantial impact on self-efficacy beliefs. Multiple contrasts identified differences in intervention effectiveness between K-12, collegiate, and older adult participants. The absence of vocal studies limited comparisons between instrumentalists and vocalists. This study establishes benchmarks for understanding self-efficacy’s role in music performance and makes recommendations for future research to improve achievement and the well-being of musicians.
Attention to alliances: The role of attention, relational embeddedness, and concentrated governance in the success of U.S. venture capital syndicates
Authors: Makarevich Alex
Published: February 2024

Extending the Attention-based View (ABV) to firms’ alliances, this study examines the relationship between the degree of attention to a focal alliance by alliance members and its success. We also examine how two contextual factors of collaboration, relational embeddedness and concentration of governance, affect this relationship in the context of U.S. venture capital syndicates. We find that attention increases the chances of syndicate success, that relational embeddedness of partners enhances the positive effect of attention, and that concentrated syndicate governance negatively moderates the effect of attention. This study joins the nascent stream of literature that emphasizes the importance of organizational factors in outcomes of inter-firm alliances and contributes to the integration of insights from the ABV and alliance research traditions to build a more comprehensive understanding of alliance success factors.
Comparison of serum uric acid levels between localised prostate cancer patients and a control group
Authors: Singh Satyaveer , Jaiswal Sanjeev , Faujdar Gaurav , Priyadarshi Shivam
Published: February 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study is to find out whether serum uric acid levels in patients with localised prostate cancer differ from patients with lower urinary tract symptoms without carcinoma prostate.

Material and methods:

We performed a prospective observational study of 60 patients having age ⩾ 50 years with c/o lower urinary tract symptoms( LUTS) evaluated by digital rectal examination (DRE), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level and ultrasonography kidney, ureter, bladder (USG KUB) prostate and patients who were suspicious for carcinoma prostate underwent trans rectal ultrasonography (TRUS) biopsy of prostate. Patients with biopsy s/o prostate cancer were evaluated for metastasis and localised cancer patients were considered as CASE group. Patients with negative biopsy and other patients having LUTS were considered as CONTROL group. The age, serum uric acid level, PSA value, C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and white blood cell (WBC) count were measured. Serum uric acid level was compared in both the groups.

Results:

The mean serum uric acid level was lower in prostate cancer group (4.77 mg/dl) than control group (6.22 mg/dl) that was statistically significant ( p < 0.001). The mean PSA value was 7.43 ng/dl in cancer group and 2.72 ng/dl in control group. ( p < 0.001). The mean C-reactive protein (CRP) values were 1.32 and 0.45 respectively ( p < 0.001), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were found 21 and 10.5 respectively ( p < 0.001)and total leucocyte counts (TLC) were found 6.450 and 5.120 respectively ( p < 0.001). All were statistically significant ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The serum uric acid levels measured in localised prostate cancer patients were found to be reduced compared to the control group and inflammatory markers were found to be increased. Decreased levels of serum uric acid and increased levels of inflammatory markers were determined as risk factors for prostate cancer.
Group polyphony and sexuality
Authors: Anderson Daniel
Published: February 2024

This article explores the intersection between group analysis, feminism, and queer understandings of sexuality, aiming to initiate a dialogue and generate new insights in these fields. I examine key concepts from group analysis, such as the ‘group matrix’ and the ‘social unconscious’, to explore how therapeutic groups can generate openness to others and differences. The article presents group analysis as a historically grounded psychosocial theory capable of bridging gaps between discourses to generate new ways of understanding social identities.

The term ‘figuration’ borrowed from feminist and group analytic theory serves as a framework to synthesise conflicting perspectives, with the analytic group serving as a dynamic space of creative tension. By exploring this shared term, previously unconnected subjects can find potential common ground. Elizabeth Freeman’s exploration of queer temporalities and spaces is then considered, followed by an examination of symmetric and asymmetric logic by psychoanalyst Ignatio Matte Blanco. These concepts shed light on conscious and unconscious modes of thought. By juxtaposing the histories of figuration alongside symmetric and asymmetric logic, the article elucidates the consequences for group analysis in understanding sexuality and gender. The group analytic concept of the location of disturbance and the processes involving logic and counter-logic within the analytic group matrix are instrumental in delineating these consequences.

By bridging the gaps between fields and encouraging creative engagement, the article contributes to expanding the understanding of sexuality and gender within the context of group analytic theory.
Dynamic tensile properties of flax fiber reinforced polymer composites
Authors: Yan Zhi-Wei , Bai Yu-Lei , Zhou Qing-Chang
Published: February 2024

Flax fibers have been widely used as reinforcing materials due to the growing demand for the development of sustainable materials. They are cost-effective and have excellent mechanical properties. In this study, the dynamic tensile properties of flax FRP coupons were tested using an Instron VHS high rate testing system. The effect of strain rate on the failure process, failure modes, tensile strength, failure strain, and Young’s modulus of flax FRP coupons were discussed and analyzed within the strain rate less than 164.2 s−1. The failure process at different strain rates were captured by a high-speed camera. It was observed that the specimen failed with only one cross-sectional fracture at a relatively low strain rate. At a relatively high strain rate, more than one fracture was observed. The experimental results indicated that the dynamic tensile strength increased, failure strain decreased, and Young’s modulus remained almost unchanged when the strain rate was less than 41.3 s−1. As it was over 41.3 s−1, the dynamic tensile strength, failure strain, and Young’s modulus had a prominent rise. To describe the dynamic tensile strength, failure strain, and Young’s modulus at a certain strain rate, empirical equations based on the experimental data were proposed for reference.
Joining in With Leadership? A Survey of Leadership Behaviour and Identity of Non-Managerial Employees in Public Organizations
Authors: van der Hoek Marieke
Published: February 2024

Although non-managerial employees are increasingly seen as valuable sources of leadership in public organizations, their leadership behavior is rarely studied. This study zooms in on the leadership behavior of non-managerial employees and assesses whether leadership identity and previous experience in formal leadership positions affect their engagement in leadership. According to identity theory, seeing oneself as a leader may be a crucial component in behaving as one. Survey data collected among public servants ( n = 976) in The Netherlands show that non-managerial employees with a more central leadership identity use all types of leadership behavior from the repertoire more often, which can partially be explained by their experience. This demonstrates that leadership identity is a meaningful lens to explain why this group engages in leadership behavior. Leadership development can be stimulated by helping non-managerial employees identify with a leadership role.
Imaging Features of Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Chen Anni , Pietris James , Bacchi Stephen , Chan WengOnn , Psaltis Alkis J. , Selva Dinesh , Lim WanYin
Published: February 2024

Fungal rhinosinusitis (FRS) includes non-invasive and invasive subtypes with the latter having significant morbidity and mortality. This systematic review aims to identify the imaging features most correlated with invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (IFRS) and present a checklist of these features to aid diagnosis. PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, and Science Direct were searched from inception to May 2023, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. Primary research articles published in English describing the imaging features of IFRS were included. The systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Forty-eight articles were identified for inclusion. Six studies examined radiological features in acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFRS), and 9 studies of chronic invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (CIFRS). A majority of studies did not specify whether IFRS cases were acute or chronic. On CT, bony erosion and mucosal thickening were the most common features. Other features include nasal soft tissue thickening, nasal cavity opacification, opacification of the affected sinus, and perisinus soft tissue infiltration. Extra-sinus extension was commonly observed on MRI, most often invading intraorbitally and intracranially. Other sites of extra-sinus extension included the cavernous sinus, pterygopalatine fossa, infratemporal fossa, masticator space, and facial soft tissue. IFRS is a condition with potential for high morbidity and mortality. Several radiological features are highly suggestive of IFRS. Early identification of high-risk radiological features using a checklist may aid prompt diagnosis and early treatment. Future research investigating the radiological differentiation between IFRS and other significant pathology including bacterial orbital cellulitis would be beneficial.
Precollege Risk Markers for College Rape and Verbal Sexual Coercion: Same or Different?
Authors: Sell Nichole M. , Testa Maria
Published: February 2024

Verbal sexual coercion (VSC) and rape are common experiences among college women. Although they have been theorized to involve different risk markers, few prospective studies have examined predictors of VSC and rape separately. The present prospective study was designed to identify precollege risk markers for VSC and rape in first-year college women, with the goal of considering the degree to which they overlap or differ. Women ( N = 449) recruited from the community just prior to high school graduation completed measures of sexual victimization (SV) since age 14 but prior to college, sexual refusal assertiveness, high school heavy episodic drinking (HED), college drinking intentions, and sociosexuality. Follow-up surveys at the end of the first and second college semesters assessed VSC and rape. Using the Sexual Experiences Survey’s severity scoring method, women were classified into one of three groups according to the most severe type of SV reported in the first year of college: neither VSC nor rape (71%), VSC (16%), and rape (13%). Most women who experienced rape (73%) also experienced VSC. Precollege SV and college drinking intentions predicted both rape and VSC. Sexual refusal assertiveness and high school HED did not independently predict either form of victimization. Sociosexuality predicted rape but not VSC. Findings suggest a substantial overlap in the predictors of VSC and rape and support the severity continuum underlying many conceptualizations of SV.
Engagement With Remote Delivery Channels in a Physical Activity Intervention for Senior Women in the US
Authors: Mendoza-Vasconez Andrea S. , King Abby C. , Chandler Gabriel , Mackey Sally , Follis Shawna , Stefanick Marcia L.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Identify the effects of engagement with different intervention delivery channels on physical activity (PA), and the participant subgroups engaging with the different channels, among Women’s Health Initiative Strong and Healthy ( WHISH) PA trial participants.

Design

Secondary analysis of data from WHISH, a pragmatic trial that used passive randomized consent.

Setting

United States (remote intervention in all 50 states).

Sample

18,080 U.S. women, aged 68-99 years, assigned to the WHISH PA intervention arm.

Measures

6 dichotomous variables operationalized engagement: Engagement with Targeted Inserts, Email (opened), Email (clicked links), Website (logging in), Website (tracking), Interactive Voice Response (IVR). PA was measured using the CHAMPS PA questionnaire.

Analysis

Linear regressions evaluated effects of engagement on PA. Conditional Inference Trees identified subgroups of participants engaging with different channels based on demographic and psychosocial variables.

Results

Engagement with each channel, except IVR, was associated with significantly more hours/week of PA (square root coefficients .29 - .13, P values <.001). Consistently across channels, features that identified subgroups of participants with higher engagement included younger age, and higher levels of PA and physical function. Subgroups with the highest engagement differed from those with the lowest in most participant characteristics.

Conclusions

For equitable population-level impact via large-scale remotely-delivered PA programs, it may be necessary to identify strategies to engage and target harder to reach subgroups more precisely.

Clinical Trial Registration

The WHISH trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (No. NCT02425345).
Examining interindividual differences in unemployment-related changes in subjective well-being: The role of psychological well-being and re-employment expectations
Authors: Lawes Mario , Hetschko Clemens , Schöb Ronnie , Stephan Gesine , Eid Michael
Published: February 2024

This study examined whether the six trait-like dimensions of psychological well-being (e.g., autonomy and environmental mastery) moderate the effects of unemployment on various facets of subjective well-being (i.e., life satisfaction, satisfaction with life domains, and experienced mood). Further, re-employment expectations during unemployment were investigated as a moderator in this context. The study is based on monthly panel data ( Nobservations > 23,000) of two samples of initially employed German jobseekers, who either registered as jobseekers due to (i) mass layoffs or plant closures ( N = 552) or (ii) other reasons ( N = 988). The results indicate substantial interindividual differences in unemployment-related changes across all examined subjective well-being facets. However, dimensions of psychological well-being did generally not moderate these changes. Only in one unemployment context, environmental mastery was positively related to unemployment-related mood changes. Good re-employment expectations were related to increases in several well-being facets (e.g., leisure satisfaction) compared to being employed, whereas poor re-employment expectations were associated with particularly detrimental effects of unemployment in terms of life satisfaction. Overall, the study provides further evidence that (perceived) contextual features of unemployment seem to be particularly relevant for how individuals experience unemployment, whereas internal (coping) resources only seem to play a negligible role.
Establishment of the dynamic BTAP model and load-sharing analysis of herringbone gear planetary system with cracks
Authors: Hao Dong , Yue Bi , Bing-Xing Ren , Yue Li , Zhen-Bin Liu , Xiao-Long Zhao
Published: February 2024

To reveal the influence of component cracks on the dynamic load-sharing characteristics of the herringbone gear planetary system (HGPS), a 55-DOF bending-torsional-axial-pendular (BTAP) nonlinear dynamic model of the system was constructed, taking into account parameters of different crack degrees (depth, angle, length), as well as factors such as manufacturing error (ME) and installation error (IE), time-varying mesh stiffness (TVMS), time-varying support stiffness, damping, and friction. The TVMS model of components with cracks was established using the cumulative potential energy method, and the mathematical quantification relationship between different crack parameters and TVMS was studied. Based on the theory of elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL), calculate the time-varying friction coefficient and friction force of each gear pair. Using the nonlinear elastic theory of rolling elements and raceways, the time-varying support stiffness of each component is obtained. Using the Runge-Kutta numerical integration method to solve the dynamic differential equations, and analyzed the load-sharing characteristics and sensitivity influence law of the system when the sun gear, planetary gear, and internal gear ring contain cracks respectively. Built a vibration test bench for the HGPS with cracks, and the experimental results were compared with the theoretical results. The results show that as the crack intensifies, the TVMS value decreases at the crack tooth. When the sun gear contains cracks, there will be obvious protruding excitation in the system’s load-sharing curve, and the internal meshing load-sharing characteristics are better than the external meshing load-sharing characteristics. At the same time, as the degree of cracks increases, the system load-sharing characteristics first improve and then deteriorate. At the same crack, as manufacturing and installation errors increase, the load-sharing characteristics of the internal and external meshing pairs deteriorate. When the internal gear ring contains cracks, the dynamic load-sharing coefficients of the internal and external meshing pairs of the system are 7.96 and 4.10, respectively, which have the highest impact on the dynamic load-sharing coefficient and sensitivity of the internal and external meshing pairs of the system. The experimental results are consistent with the theoretical results, verifying the correctness of the model.
Comparative analysis of adaptability of open TBM small curve turning radius
Authors: Lijie Du , Xiaoyong Wang , Liying Deng , Yongwei Quan , Xiangbo Zhao
Published: February 2024

Aiming at the problems of difficult operation and low excavation accuracy of open TBM in the process of small curve cornering, the structural mechanism, and motion characteristics of the traditional Horizontal main beam type TBM and the new 8-SPS V-type TBM mainframe were compared and studied. Based on the drainage channel project of a pumped storage power station, the factors affecting the minimum turning radius of TBM were analyzed by establishing two TBM main engine turning direction models. Secondly, the design of two open TBM mainframes with a diameter of ϕ3530 mm is improved. Finally, the relationship between the displacement and velocity change between the cutterhead and the propulsion cylinder under the straight-line boring condition and the small curve turning boring condition of TBM was analyzed by ADAMS software. The results show that when the tunnel design axis has a large turning radius and is dominated by straight segments, the TBM propulsion system with horizontal main beam type has higher excavation efficiency. The 8-SPS V-type TBM cutterhead attitude change is more flexible, which is more suitable for complex and changeable small curve corner boring. Moreover, the 8-SPS propulsion system is symmetrical, and the speed of each cylinder changes more gently during the turning process, the cylinder attitude of TBM is easy to control during the small curve turning and propulsion, the boring accuracy is higher, and the propulsion system compliance is better.
Millennial-scale variability of vegetation and fire activity in a northern Cerrado driven by an east-west rainfall gradient during the Holocene
Authors: Xavier Sergio Augusto Santos , Ledru Marie-Pierre , Bremond Laurent , Favier Charly , de Araújo Francisca Soares
Published: February 2024

This paleoecological study investigates vegetation variability and fire regimes in Northeastern Brazil (NEB)’s Cerrado. We present high-resolution pollen and charcoal records from a palm swamp located in a Cerrado in Chapada das Mesas National Park, in the southwest of Maranhão State. The Vereda do Dodó sedimentary core is 187 cm deep and covers the past 6000 years. Our results show first the presence of an open cerrado between 6000 and 5200 cal yr BP with no fire activity and a gradual expansion of the palm Mauritia and woody cerrado after 5000 cal yr BP. This is synchronous with other studies of northeastern and central Brazil. At c. 4300 cal yr BP, sterile samples suggest a strong dry event, also recorded in other eastern NEB records. Frequent burnings lasted until 2600 cal yr BP, when fires stopped and Mauritia, arboreal cerrado, and gallery forest taxa expanded under increased moisture rates. The increase of southern hemisphere summer insolation and the warmer tropical Atlantic Ocean enhanced the monsoon system over eastern Amazonia and western NEB in agreement with speleothem records. Our study reveals that northern Cerrado biodiversity was very sensitive to SASM dynamics, a different pattern from eastern NEB vegetation and climate.
A decision-making guide for online content regulation
Authors: Svantesson Dan
Published: February 2024

This article examines the seven standard questions that must be confronted in nearly all decisions in the online content regulation field. By mapping out and discussing those standard questions, the article may hopefully aid both legislators and judges engaged in online content regulation. The checklist of questions canvassed here may also be used as a tool to evaluate laws aimed at online content regulation as well as judgments made within this field.
Mental Health Social Work Practitioner Research: A Narrative Review of Papers Published From One Academic Program
Authors: Webber Martin , Moran Nicola , Naughton-Doe Ruth
Published: February 2024

Purpose: This narrative review explores papers published in peer-reviewed journals reporting research from a practice research module of a qualifying program to examine their potential contribution to knowledge in mental health social work. Methods: A narrative review was undertaken according to the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews of papers published by the first three cohorts of a practice research module. Results: Eleven papers were included in the review which found, for example, some deficits in practitioners’ knowledge, confidence and understanding. The studies were modest and had some common limitations, but a high number of online views indicate that the papers have the potential to impact on practice. Conclusion: This review found that it is possible to use a practice research module of a qualifying program to train social workers to undertake and publish high-quality research which has the potential to influence policy or practice beyond a students’ own learning.
The Perceived Informal Support Questionnaire: Validation and Clinical Correlates in People with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms
Authors: Fung Hong Wang , Chau Anson Kai Chun , Yuan Guangzhe Frank , Liu Caimeng , Lee Vincent Wan Ping
Published: February 2024

Purpose: This study developed and validated a novel measure that captures the diverse positive experiences related to perceived informal support. We also examined its cross-sectional and longitudinal correlates in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Method: We analyzed data from an international clinical trial. Participants with PTSD symptoms completed assessments at baseline (N = 230) and after 1 month (N = 80). Results: The 34-item Perceived Informal Support Questionnaire (PISQ) had a two-factor structure, was internally consistent, and showed convergent validity with a general measure of social support. Additionally, baseline emotional support predicted fewer depressive symptoms (β = -.356, p = .015) and lower levels of impairments (β = -.271, p = .018) at 1-month follow-up. Discussion: This study offers a novel measure that captures the diverse experiences related to perceived informal support. It also highlights the importance of involving and supporting caregivers of individuals with mental health struggles, specifically PTSD symptoms.
“It Started With a Nude”: Gangs & Technology-Facilitated Sexual Violence
Authors: Lyttle Storrod Michelle
Published: February 2024

This unique qualitative study updates current literature on gangs and sexual violence by incorporating digital practices. This study applies the framework of technology-facilitated sexual violence (TFSV) which combines cyberstalking, coerced sexting, online sexual harassment, and sextortion, to the lived experience of young people in and around gangs in London. Findings are generated from a study that took place January–July 2015, which involved 240 young people taking part in 12 focus groups. Data is triangulated with content analysis of social media sites belonging to local gangs. Exploration of patriarchal and gendered practices that normalize sexual violence in gangs on and offline will be discussed. The link between gangs, TFSV, and criminal exploitation will also be established.
Assessing Crime History as a Predictor: Exploring Hotspots of Violent and Property Crime in Malmö, Sweden
Authors: Doyle Maria Camacho , Gerell Manne
Published: February 2024

Objectives: Assessing the predictive accuracy of using prior crime, place attributes, ambient population, community structural, and social characteristics, in isolation and combined when forecasting different violent and property crimes. Method: Using multilevel negative binomial regression, crime is forecasted into the subsequent year, in 50-m grid-cells. Incidence rate ratio (IRR), Prediction Accuracy Index (PAI), and Prediction Efficacy Index (PEI*) are interpreted for all combined crime generators and community characteristics. This study is partially a test of a crude version of the Risk Terrain Modeling technique. Results: Where crime has been in the past, the risk for future crime is higher. Where characteristics conducive to crime congregate, the risk for crime is higher. Community structural characteristics and ambient population are important for some crime types. Combining variables increases the accuracy for most crime types, looking at the IRR. Taking the geographical area into account, crime history in combination with both place- and neighborhood characteristics reaches similar accuracy as crime history alone for most crime types and most hotspot cutoffs. Conclusions: Crime history, place-, and neighborhood-level attributes are all important when trying to accurately forecast crime, long-term at the micro-place. Only counting past crimes, however, still does a really good job.
Social Networks in the Work-Nonwork Borderland: Developing an Integrative Model of Cross-Domain Multiplex Relationships
Authors: Methot Jessica , Parker Andrew , Hubbard Alondrea
Published: February 2024

Individuals’ networks are multiplex—bundles of roles, interactions, and exchanges—in which the boundaries between work relationships and non-work relationships are often blurred, or integrated. Surprisingly, though, there is a paucity of research that explicitly integrates the work-nonwork literature and the social networks literature. In this paper, we advance theory on cross-domain multiplexity—multifaceted relationships that occupy a blended work–nonwork role space by superimposing work and nonwork interactions, roles, and exchanges. Specifically, we draw from work-family border theory to propose that cross-domain multiplex relationships represent a qualitatively unique form of multiplexity that involve distinct norms, drivers, and tensions. We advance the conversation around social network analytics and work-nonwork boundary research by presenting a theoretical model of cross-domain multiplex relationships that unpacks their components, as well as their unique antecedents, outcomes, and dynamics. We also review three methodological approaches that scholars can employ to analyze our propositions. Given recent theoretical and methodological advancements in both arenas, we propose that employing social network analytic methodology can inform how scholars theorize and design research around the work-nonwork interface, expand the methodological toolkit applied to these research questions, and resolve inconsistencies in whether multiplex relationships are enriching or depleting.
Successful Management of Severe Unresponsive Snake Bite Envenomation Using Plasmapheresis and Corticosteroid at Egyptian National Environmental and Clinical Toxicology Research Center: A Case Report
Authors: Fouad Marwa Mohammed , Zawilla Nermin Hamdy , Abdelsamie Aiesha Ashraf , Manawil Marie , Shehata Rehab Shehata Abdelhady , Mohammed Rateba Said , Khalifa Eman Mahmoud , Abdallah Ramadan Mona , Mourad Basma Hussein
Published: February 2024

Snakebite is a significant public health issue in which venom-induced consumption coagulopathy is a common and serious complication that results from the activation of the coagulation pathway by snake toxins. We report a male patient, 56 y old, who was thought to have been bitten by a snake on his left foot. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he received analgesics and 3 snake polyvalent antivenom vials, and then he was transported to our hospital after 12 h. He presented with 2 small puncture wounds, pain, blistering, and edema of the left foot. On the 2nd day, the patient developed gingival bleeding and hematuria. Laboratory investigations upon admission revealed prothrombin time (PT) of more than 3 min, prothrombin concentration (PC) of less than 2.5%, and an international normalized ratio (INR) of 23.43. Further investigation of urine showed more than 100 RBCs. Despite receiving 16 packs of plasma and 40 snake polyvalent antivenom vials manufactured by VACSERA over 3 days, hemoglobin concentration and platelet count decreased with the appearance of jaundice, lactate dehydrogenase was 520, and reticulocytes were 3.5%. PT was more than 300 s, and INR was still over range. Plasmapheresis and corticosteroids were provided, which improved the patient’s general condition, PT, PC, and INR, and the patient was discharged after 6 days of hospital stay. This case report indicated that plasmapheresis and corticosteroids were clinically efficient approaches in the management of snake envenomation unresponsive to antivenom.
Characteristics of Fatal Accidents due to Exogenous Causes at Ski Resorts in Japan Over the Past 13 Years: A Retrospective Descriptive Study
Authors: Tanaka Shota , Sagisaka Ryo , Nakagawa Koshi , Tanaka Hideharu
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The characteristics of ski- and snowboard-related fatalities at Japanese ski resorts remain unknown. We aimed to analyze the characteristics of this in the current study.

Methods

Using the Ski Resort Injury Report data for the 13-y period between the 2011–12 and 2022–23 seasons, we described the characteristics of fatal accidents due to exogenous causes.

Results

Eighty-four subjects (48 skiers and 36 snowboarders) were analyzed. Males accounted for 73 cases of all 84 fatalities (86.9%), including 44 skiers (91.7%) and 29 snowboarders (80.6%). Skiers aged ≥50 y and snowboarders aged 20–35 y had the highest number of fatal accidents (32 and 18 cases, respectively). Regarding location, 26 fatal accidents occurred on slopes, and 58 occurred out of slopes (skiers, 11 and 37 cases; snowboarders, 15 and 21 cases, respectively). Among skiers, head and neck trauma accounted for the cause of death in 13 cases (27.1%) and asphyxiation in 11 cases (22.9%). Among snowboarders, head and neck trauma accounted for the cause of death in 14 cases (38.9%) and asphyxiation in 14 cases (38.9%).

Conclusions

Males, particularly those aged ≥50 among skiers and 20−35 among snowboarders, should be wary of the potential for injuries to the head, neck, and airway when skiing or snowboarding. In this study, traumatic deaths from crashing into trees and asphyxiation from deep snow immersion accidents accounted for approximately half of fatal ski accidents in Japan.
Wilderness Medical Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for Spinal Cord Protection: 2024 Update
Authors: Hawkins Seth C. , Williams Jason , Bennett Brad L. , Islas Arthur , Quinn Robert
Published: February 2024

The Wilderness Medical Society reconvened an expert panel to update best practice guidelines for spinal cord protection during trauma management. This panel, with membership updated in 2023, was charged with the development of evidence-based guidelines for management of the injured or potentially injured spine in wilderness environments. Recommendations are made regarding several parameters related to spinal cord protection. These recommendations are graded based on the quality of supporting evidence and balance the benefits and risks/burdens for each parameter according to American College of Chest Physicians methodology. Key recommendations include the concept that interventions should be goal-oriented (spinal cord/column protection in the context of overall patient and provider safety) rather than technique-oriented (immobilization). An evidence-based, goal-oriented approach excludes the immobilization of suspected spinal injuries via rigid collars or backboards.
Evaluation of Internet Addiction and Relational Variables Among Nursing Students in Turkey During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Çunkuş Köktaş Nesrin , Keskin Gülseren , Taşdemir Yiğitoğlu Gülay
Published: February 2024

It is known that individuals use the internet more to escape from the psychological problems they encounter in daily life during the pandemic. Besides, it is also known that individuals with personality traits such as neuroticism and extraversion might be prone to internet addiction due to poor communication skills. It is important to determine the relationship between the internet usage characteristics and the mental state of nursing students so that students can provide better quality health services in their education and professional processes. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between internet addiction and personality traits, stress, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms among nursing students during the pandemic. This study includes 528 nursing students. The Young’s Internet Addiction Test (YIAT), the Vancouver Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory (VOCI), the Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) were used for data collection between August and October 2021. It was found that there was a statistically significant and positive correlation between the students’ YIAT mean scores and the EPI neuroticism sub-dimension, VOCI all sub-dimensions, and PSS mean scores ( p < .05). In addition, the mean scores of the PSS and EPI were predictors of the YIAT total score ( R = .550, R2 = .233, p < .05). Considering these results, it is necessary to prevent the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the psychosocial health of individuals. Psychological counseling can be offered to provide protective factors during the pandemic period.
Safety Assessment of Soy-Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Cherian Priya , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Peterson Lisa A. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Fiume Monice , Heldreth Bart
Published: February 2024

The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety (Panel) reviewed the safety of 28 soy-derived ingredients as used in cosmetic products. These ingredients are reported to primarily function as antioxidants, skin protectants, skin-conditioning agents, and hair-conditioning agents. The Panel considered the available data relating to the safety of these ingredients in cosmetic formulations, and concluded that 24 of the 28 soy-derived ingredients are safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration described in this safety assessment. The Panel also concluded that the available data are insufficient to make a determination that Glycine Max (Soybean) Callus Culture, Glycine Max (Soybean) Callus Culture Extract, Glycine Max (Soybean) Callus Extract, and Glycine Max (Soybean) Phytoplacenta Conditioned Media are safe under the intended conditions of use in cosmetic formulations.