bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Angiotensin II Receptor Type 1 and Endothelin‐1 Receptor Type A Agonistic Autoantibodies With Adverse Remodeling and Cardiovascular Events After Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Tona Francesco , Civieri Giovanni , Vadori Marta , Masiero Giulia , Iop Laura , Marra Martina Perazzolo , Perin Valentina , Cuciz Elisa , Cecere Annagrazia , Bernava Giacomo , Tansella Donatella , Naumova Nataliia , Grewal Simran , Cozzi Emanuele , Iliceto Sabino
Published: February 2024

Background

The left ventricular remodeling (LVR) process has limited the effectiveness of therapies after myocardial infarction. The relationship between autoantibodies activating AT1R‐AAs (angiotensin II receptor type 1‐AAs) and ETAR‐AAs (autoantibodies activating endothelin‐1 receptor type A) with myocardial infarction has been described. Among patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction, we investigated the relationship between these autoantibodies with LVR and subsequent major adverse cardiac events.

Methods and Results

In this prospective observational study, we included 131 patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction (61±11 years of age, 112 men) treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Within 48 hours of admission, 2‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography was performed, and blood samples were obtained. The seropositive threshold for AT1R‐AAs and ETAR‐AAs was >10 U/mL. Patients were followed up at 6 months, when repeat transthoracic echocardiography was performed. The primary end points were LVR, defined as a 20% increase in left ventricular end‐diastolic volume index, and major adverse cardiac event occurrence at follow‐up, defined as cardiac death, nonfatal re‐myocardial infarction, and hospitalization for heart failure. Forty‐one (31%) patients experienced LVR. The prevalence of AT1R‐AAs and ETAR‐AAs seropositivity was higher in patients with versus without LVR (39% versus 11%,
P
<0.001 and 37% versus 12%,
P
=0.001, respectively). In multivariable analysis, AT1R‐AAs seropositivity was significantly associated with LVR (odds ratio [OR], 4.66;
P
=0.002) and represented a risk factor for subsequent major adverse cardiac events (OR, 19.6;
P
=0.002).

Conclusions

AT1R‐AAs and ETAR‐AAs are associated with LVR in patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction. AT1R‐AAs are also significantly associated with recurrent major adverse cardiac events. These initial observations may set the stage for a better pathophysiological understanding of the mechanisms contributing to LVR and ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction prognosis.
Relationships Among Heart Rate Variability, Perceived Social Support, and Hopelessness in Adults With Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Goodyke Madison P. , Bronas Ulf G. , Baynard Tracy , Tintle Nathan , DeVon Holli A. , Collins Eileen , Dunn Susan L.
Published: February 2024

Background

Lower perceived social support is associated with hopelessness in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD). Higher perceived social support is associated with higher heart rate variability (HRV) in adults following a stressful event, but the relationship between HRV and hopelessness has not been examined in patients with IHD. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the relationships among HRV, perceived social support, and hopelessness in patients with IHD.

Methods and Results

Ninety‐four participants were enrolled while hospitalized for an IHD event at a large hospital in the United States. Data collection occurred 2 weeks after hospital discharge and included the State–Trait Hopelessness Scale, ENRICHD Social Support Inventory, Patient Health Questionnaire‐9, a demographic form, and a short‐term HRV measurement taken at rest. Linear models were used to assess associations between variables in unadjusted and adjusted models. Most participants were men (67%), married (75%), and non‐Hispanic White (96%) and underwent coronary artery bypass surgery (57%). There were inverse correlations between high frequency HRV and state hopelessness (
r
=−0.21,
P
=0.008) and root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats HRV and state hopelessness (
r
=−0.20,
P
=0.012) after adjusting for important covariates. High frequency and root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats did not show evidence of mediating the relationship between perceived social support and hopelessness.

Conclusions

There were significant inverse correlations between parasympathetic measures of HRV and hopelessness. Assessing high frequency and root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats during early recovery following an IHD event could provide promising evidence for understanding a possible precursor to hopelessness and targets for future interventions.

Registration Information:
clinicaltrials.gov
. Identifiers: NCT03907891, NCT05003791.
Rising Cardiac Troponin: A Prognostic Biomarker for Mortality After Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Rosso Michela , Ramaswamy Srinath , Mulatu Yohannes , Little Jessica N. , Kvantaliani Nino , Brahmaroutu Ankita , Marczak Izabella , Lewey Jennifer , Deo Rajat , Messé Steven R. , Cucchiara Brett L. , Levine Steven R. , Kasner Scott E.
Published: February 2024

Background

Elevated cardiac troponin (cTn) is detected in 10% to 30% of patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and correlates with poor functional outcomes. Serial cTn measurements differentiate a dynamic cTn pattern (rise/fall >20%), specific for acute myocardial injury, from elevated but stable cTn levels (nondynamic), typically attributed to chronic cardiac/noncardiac conditions. We investigated if the direction of the cTn change (rising versus falling) affects mortality and outcome.

Methods and Results

We retrospectively screened consecutive patients with AIS admitted to 5 stroke centers for elevated cTn at admission and at least 1 additional cTn measurement within 48 hours. The pattern of cTn was defined as rising if >20% increase from baseline, falling if >20% decrease, or nondynamic if ≤20% change in either direction. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association of cTn patterns and 7‐day mortality and unfavorable discharge disposition. Of 3789 patients with AIS screened, 300 were included. Seventy‐two had a rising pattern, 66 falling, and 162 nondynamic. In patients with AIS with rising cTn, acute ischemic myocardial infarction was present in 54%, compared with 33% in those with falling cTn (
P
<0.01). Twenty‐two percent of patients with a rising pattern had an isolated dynamic cTn in the absence of any ECG or echocardiogram changes, compared with 53% with falling cTn. A rising pattern was associated with higher risk of 7‐day mortality (adjusted odds ratio [OR]=32 [95% CI, 2.5–415.0] rising versus aOR=1.3 [95% CI, 0.1–38.0] falling versus nondynamic as reference) and unfavorable discharge disposition (aOR=2.5 [95% CI, 1.2–5.2] rising versus aOR=0.6 [95% CI, 0.2–1.5] versus falling).

Conclusions

Rising cTn is independently associated with increased mortality and unfavorable discharge disposition in patients with AIS.
Minocycline in Severe Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy: A Single‐Center Cohort Study
Authors: Bax Francesco , Warren Andrew , Fouks Avia Abramovitz , van den Brink Hilde , van Veluw Susanne J. , Kozberg Mariel G. , Greenberg Steven M.
Published: February 2024

Background

Evidence from animal studies suggests that minocycline may reduce lobar intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) recurrence in cerebral amyloid angiopathy, possibly by inhibiting perivascular extracellular matrix degradation in cerebral small vessels. There is currently no evidence of its safety or efficacy in humans with cerebral amyloid angiopathy.

Methods and Results

To provide preliminary data to support future studies of minocycline's efficacy, the authors performed a retrospective single‐center cohort study to assess the incidence of recurrent ICH in patients with an aggressive clinical course of probable cerebral amyloid angiopathy who had been prescribed minocycline off‐label via shared decision‐making. Crude incidence rate ratios were calculated to compare incidence rates before versus after treatment. Sixteen patients (mean age at minocycline initiation, 66.3±3.5 years; women 62.5%; median of 3 lobar ICHs [range, 1–6]) were initiated on minocycline and followed for a median of 12.4 months (range, 1.8–61.4 months). Adverse events were reported in 4 of 16 patients (gastroenteric, n=3; dizziness, n=1) and were considered mild. ICH incidence sharply increased the year before minocycline initiation compared with the preceding years (2.18 [95% CI, 1.50–3.07] versus 0.40 [95% CI, 0.25–0.60] events per patient‐year) and fell to 0.46 (95% CI, 0.23–0.83) events per patient‐year afterwards. Incidence rate ratios of recurrent ICH after minocycline was lower (0.21 [95% CI, 0.11–0.42],
P
<0.0001) compared with the year before initiation.

Conclusions

Minocycline appeared safe and generally tolerated in a small group of patients with clinically aggressive cerebral amyloid angiopathy and was associated with reduced ICH recurrence. Determining whether this reduction represents a biological response to minocycline rather than a regression to the mean, however, will require a future controlled treatment trial.
Poverty and Prejudice: Assembling a Picture of the Oral Health of Convicts Sent to Van Diemen’s Land
Authors: Shaw Kim , Bettiol Silvana , Crocombe Leonard
Published: February 2024

The correlation between poor oral health and social and economic disadvantage is a global concern that continues to afflict vulnerable populations. Poverty and its related stresses were also significant factors in the poor oral health experienced by British convicts in the nineteenth century. This article presents an analysis of incidental descriptions of teeth, observed in physical accounts of convicts transported to the penal colonies of Van Diemen’s Land, now known as Tasmania, between the years 1803 and 1853. Coding of these descriptions found a significant disparity in the recorded tooth loss of female convicts when compared to their male counterparts. To interpret these findings and build a better understanding of the oral health status of this cohort, the current study draws on modern medical knowledge, relevant bioarchaeological studies and documented archaeological findings, as well as history of the time. Nutritional deficiencies, smoking, unsanitary living conditions and increased susceptibility to disease are common themes, which we know today, impact on oral disease and tooth loss. A less-expected narrative to emerge from the data reviewed, suggests a gender bias involving the close scrutiny of female appearance. Possible evidence of an historically acknowledged racial bias against those of Irish descent is also suggested in our analysis.
Studies on Eumastacoid grasshoppers: Paralethus montanus n. sp. (Orthoptera: Episactidae) from Chiapas, Mexico
Authors: CADENA-CASTAÑEDA OSCAR J. , CHAMÉ-VÁZQUEZ EDUARDO RAFAEL
Published: February 2024

Paralethus montanus n. sp. is described from Chiapas, Mexico. This new species constitutes the first record of the genus for Mexico, previously known only for El Salvador and Guatemala, and it is the first episactid species collected at higher elevations (above 3000 m). A standardization for the abbreviations of the genital structures of episactids is proposed, which could apply to other groups of eumastacoids. A key for the identification of Paralethus species is also provided. Finally, the taxonomy of the genus and the spatial and altitudinal distribution of Central American taxa are discussed.
A new Acanthotetilla sponge from the Southwest Atlantic (Tetillidae, Spirophorina, Tetractinellida, Demospongiae), with an updated discussion on the diversity, distribution and morphologic characters of Acanthotetilla spp.
Authors: FERNANDEZ JULIO C.C. , HAJDU EDUARDO
Published: February 2024

Acanthotetilla is a genus of tetillid sponges diagnosed by the presence of medium-sized, heavily spined oxeas, which are known as “megacanthoxeas” (or simply acanthoxeas). Currently, seven species are known worldwide: three from the Western Atlantic (A. gorgonosclera, A. rocasensis and A. walteri), three from the Western Indian (A. hemisphaerica, A. enigmatica and A. seychellensis) and one from the Western Pacific (A. celebensis). A megacanthoxea-bearing specimen was obtained from the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Southwest Atlantic, in 2016. It is described here as a new Acanthotetilla, namely, A. noronhensis sp. nov. This new species has two categories of megacanthoxeas, like A. celebensis from Celebes/Sulawesi Sea, Indonesia. However, the former differs from the latter, as well as from other congeners, by the combination of endolithic habit and spiculation. Acanthotetilla noronhensis sp. nov. is known on the basis of a single specimen from a large collection of sponges from Fernando de Noronha. Besides, the species was not found in other sponge collections from different areas of Brazil, including oceanic areas. Thus, the new species has probably a low abundance and restricted distribution, alike all other known Acanthotetilla species, aside A. celebensis, which (regardless its low abundance) occurs in a large sector of the western Pacific. Despite A. noronhensis sp. nov. and A. celebensis being separated by a wide geographic distance, the unique occurrence of two categories of megacanthoxeas might suggest closer phylogenetic relationship and biogeographic history as well. A wider discussion on the diversity, distribution and morphologic characters of Acanthotetilla spp. is supplied in this study. A comparative taxonomic table and a taxonomic identification key to Acanthotetilla spp. is supplied as well.
Missing Argo Float Profiles in Highly Stratified Waters of the Amazon River Plume
Authors: Reverdin Gilles , Olivier Léa , Cabanes Cécile , Boutin Jacqueline , Thouvenin-Masson Clovis , Vergely Jean-Luc , Kolodziejczyk Nicolas , Thierry Virginie , Khvorostyanov Dmitry , Jouanno Julien
Published: February 2024

In the western tropical Atlantic Ocean close to the Amazon plume, a large loss rate of Argo-float profiles took place, that is, instances of profiles that should have happened but were not transmitted. We find that APEX and SOLO floats were not ascending to the surface in the presence of low surface practical salinity, typically on the order of 32.5 or less, because of limitations on the surface buoyancy range for those floats. This results in an overall loss of profiles from these floats that is on the order of 6% averaged over the year, with a peak of 12% in July. We also find aborted descents/incorrect grounding detections for ARVOR/PROVOR floats when surface salinity is low and the descending float reaches a strong halocline (2.6% of all the profiles in the June–August season). Altogether, the whole Argo set includes a maximum loss rate of roughly 6% in July. We find a pattern of loss that fits the surface salinity seasonal cycle and the occurrence of low surface salinity investigated from a high-resolution daily satellite salinity product in 2010–21. The agreement is even better when considering surface density instead of surface salinity, with the temperature contribution to density inducing a shift in the maximum occurrence of these events by 1 month relative to the cycle of very low salinity events. Because of changes in the float technology, the loss rate that targets the lowest surface salinities was very large until 2010, with an overall decrease afterward.

Significance Statement

In the western tropical Atlantic Ocean, some Argo floats were not able to ascend or descend with very low surface salinity, because of buoyancy limitations for some float types and false bottom detection on others. In this region, for surface practical salinity smaller than 32.5, this resulted in a loss of close to one-half of the Argo profiles during the last 20 years. Altogether, this undersampling of the lowest surface salinities by Argo floats modifies the upper-ocean salinity seasonal cycle, as well as longer-term trends portrayed in Argo data–based products. Furthermore, in this region, care must be taken when validating satellite salinity data with Argo data or when adjusting satellite sea surface salinity data to in situ data products.
Map-Based Ensemble Forecasts for Maritime Operations: An Interactive Usability Assessment with Decision Scenarios
Authors: Jeuring Jelmer , Samuelsen Eirik Mikal , Lamers Machiel , Müller Malte , Hjøllo Bjørn Åge , Bertino Laurent , Hagen Berit
Published: February 2024

Previous research indicates that forecast uncertainty can, in certain formats and decision contexts, provide actionable insights that help users in their decision-making. However, how to best disseminate forecast uncertainty, which factors affect successful uptake, and how forecast uncertainty transforms into better decision-making remains an ongoing topic for discussion in both academic and operational contexts. Interpreting and using visualizations of forecast uncertainty are not straightforward, and choosing how to represent uncertainty in forecast products should be dependent on the specific audience in mind. We present findings from an interactive stakeholder workshop that aimed to advance context-based insights on the usability of graphical representations of forecast uncertainty in the field of maritime operations. The workshop involved participants from various maritime sectors, including cruise tourism, fisheries, government, private forecast service providers, and research/academia. Geographically situated in Norway, the workshop employed sea spray icing as a use case for various decision scenario exercises, using both fixed probability and fixed threshold formats, supplemented with temporal ensemble diagrams. Accumulated operational expertise and characteristics of the forecast information itself, such as color coding and different forms of forecast uncertainty visualizations, were found to affect perceptions of decision-making quality. Findings can inform codesign processes of translating ensemble forecasts into usable and useful public and commercial forecast information services. The collaborative nature of the workshop facilitated knowledge sharing and coproduction between forecast providers and users. Overall, the study highlights the importance of incorporating methodological approaches that consider the complex and dynamic operational contexts of ensemble-based forecast provision, communication, and use.

Significance Statement

We wanted to understand how maps showing uncertainty in weather forecasts can help maritime users in their operational decisions. We organized a workshop with Norwegian maritime stakeholders and forecasters, who interpreted maps that combined layers of maritime operational activities and the likelihood of sea spray icing (an important hazard for ships operating on higher latitudes). The results show that contextual knowledge, and the use visual formats such as traffic light colors may help users to understand the maps. The results will help to better communicate weather forecasts to maritime users and gives suggestions about how to involve users in codesigning forecast products. Follow-up research could use our approach to investigate other hazardous conditions, such as wind, waves and sea ice.
Multiple Factors Drive the Development of Scientific Thinking in Urban Primary School Students of China: FsQCA Analysis Based on the Ecological Systems Theory
Authors: Lin Lin , Zhou Danhua , Hu Xinyi , Wang Jingying , Wang Yu
Published: February 2024

With the introduction and implementation of core literacy, scientific thinking (ST) has become an essential goal and key dimension of science teaching. At present, there is no agreement on how to cultivate students’ ST. This study took 238 sixth grade students from a public primary school in urban China as research sample, built a theoretical model of scientific thinking development based on the theory of the Bronfenbrenner’ ecological systems theory, and used multiple data to explore and analyze the impact path of ST development of primary school students using the fuzzy sets of qualitative comparative analysis method (fsQCA). The development of urban primary school students’ ST is the result of multiple factors at the level of individual drive, family environment, school teaching, and social resources. The result of data analysis showed that the influence path of ST development of urban primary school students driven by multiple factors includes three paths: parent participation leading, scientific practice leading, and home-school-community integration. We have interpreted the influence mechanism of each path in detail and put forward the enlightenment for science education policy and practice.
What have 16- to 18-year-olds in England learnt about reproductive health? A survey of school students
Authors: Maslowski Katherine , Biswakarma Rina , Reiss Michael J , Harper Joyce C
Published: February 2024

Objective:

Most countries teach limited information about sex and reproductive health education, often concentrating on how not to get pregnant. In this study, we examine what 16- to 18-year-olds in England have learnt and their views about reproductive health education.

Design:

This is a mixed-methods study. An anonymous, online survey was conducted on Qualtrics software using multiple-choice and open-ended questions. Schools were recruited via the Biotutors forum, and they distributed the survey to students aged 16–18 years.

Setting:

Data collection took place across England.

Methods:

A total of 931 students completed the survey, of whom 636 were girls, 250 were boys, 31 as other genders, and 14 did not disclose their gender. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, and associations were explored using Chi-square tests. Qualitative data were analysed thematically.

Results:

Over half (65%) of the students rated the sex education they had received as adequate or below. Over half (74%) reported that they do not, or only sometimes, talk to their parents/guardians about these topics. Half (49%) did not know when a woman is most fertile. Students showed a better knowledge of female fertility than male fertility. There was no relationship between how much teaching respondents said they had received and their knowledge of reproductive health topics. From the free text question ‘How do you think we can improve sex and fertility education in schools?’, five themes were identified: inclusivity for all students; comprehensive with relevant topic variety; logistical improvements needed to teaching; the need for honest, transparent and non-judgemental teaching; and sex positivity.

Conclusion:

Schools should teach a wider range of issues relevant to sexual and reproductive health. Data from this study have assisted the creation of a teachers’ education resource which is being developed in partnership with the International Reproductive Health Education Collaboration (IRHEC).
Exploring the Performance of and the Citizens’ Trust in Local Government Institutions (LGIs) at the Grassroots: Views from Bangladesh
Authors: Ferdous Jannatul , Bhuiyan Md Imran Hossain , Khan Niaz Ahmed
Published: February 2024

Considering the dearth of research on the performance of and the citizen’s trust in local government institutions (LGIs) in Bangladesh, this study focuses on Union Parishad (UP)—the lowest tier of LGIs at grassroots. By combining both quantitative and qualitative methods of investigation, primary data through questionnaire survey among service recipients and through key informants’ interviews with service providers have been collected, triangulated and analysed. The study, by evaluating institutional performance of the UPs against several variables, unveils a low level of citizen’s trust in UPs resulting from a low level of satisfaction regarding its performance. While the citizens identify the lack of timeliness, unfair practices and disrespectful behaviour during service delivery among key reasons behind the lack of trust, the institutional actors criticise the lack of institutional autonomy and resources for the poor performance and failures in satisfying local demands at the grassroots.
Pathways to Cooperation: A Relational Theory of Rebel Alliance Formation
Authors: Topal Sedef A.
Published: February 2024

Why do some rebel organizations form a united front when others confine themselves to a loose partnership? Existing research on rebel movements reveals that insurgents should quickly leave cooperative agreements if doing so will provide particular advantages in a post-conflict setting. Still, rebel groups may build diverse alliances, from joint attacks to shared command structures. If rebels are indeed purely pragmatic, why would they tie themselves to partnerships that hinder their ability to defect easily? In this article, I argue that three relational factors shape how armed groups cooperate: rebel-civilian relations (civilian support), inter-rebel relations (partners), and rebel-sponsor relations (external patrons). Groups connected through these social networks will be more likely to join a united opposition with their shared channels of trust. Developing a new dyadic dataset, I find that sharing allies or civilian support is positively associated with forming united fronts. Yet, state sponsorship does not produce similar results.
Demonstrating the expertise of an expert witness in the civil court: Use of a concise CV after the judgment in Re C
Authors: Todd Nicholas
Published: February 2024

The suitability of an unregistered expert psychologist to give evidence to the Family Court was considered in Re C [2023] EWHC 345 (Fam). An important part of the judgment focused on the need for an expert witness to demonstrate, in a short, concise and relevant CV, why they have the expertise to give opinion evidence in the case. The judgment has important implications for experts in civil litigation, where the same issues arise. The case of Re C is reviewed and recommendations for a new format for part of expert reports provided in civil litigation are discussed.
Back from the Cold? Progressive Politics and Social Policy Paradigms in Southern Europe after the Great Recession
Authors: Branco Rui , Miró Joan , Natili Marcello
Published: February 2024

This article examines the programmatic evolution of social democratic parties in Italy, Portugal, and Spain, three countries in which the center-left has governed in the last decade. To do so, the article develops an analytical framework for mapping social and labor market policy reforms and assessing their liberalizing, regularizing, or recalibrating character. In explanatory terms, the article studies the coalitional politics behind social democratic reforms as being conditional upon the relationships between organized interests, electoral social blocs, and party system dynamics. The comparative analysis shows both commonalities and differences: the cases range from postindustrial recalibration (Italy) to inclusive egalitarianism (Spain), with Portugal taking a middling path, closer to that of Spain. Overall, in these countries a move away from both traditional “social protectionism” and crisis-era internal devaluation has taken place, but it has taken different forms depending on country-specific coalitional dynamics within the left and trade union camps.
Fertility Fails to Predict Voter Preference for the 2020 Election: A Pre-Registered Replication of Navarrete et al. (2010)
Authors: Engelbrecht Jessica L. , Duell Matthew , Edlund John E.
Published: February 2024

As part of the Systematizing Confidence in Open Research and Evidence (SCORE) program, the present study reassesses the claim made in Navarrete et al. (2010) Study 1, that women’s voter preference for male candidates who demonstrate cues of strong genetic fitness increases across the reproductive cycle as a function of conception risk. We report an attempt to conceptually replicate these findings, modifying the outcome variables for voter preference to reflect the 2020 election rather than the 2008 election, while maintaining fidelity to the original study by including Barack Obama as a candidate. Contrary to the original findings, conception risk did not predict greater voter support for Obama as a younger, more attractive alternative to Donald J. Trump, nor was conception risk a significant factor in other matchups we presented to participants. Candidate intelligence and participant psychopathy scores on the Dark Triad were found to be factors in preference for Obama/Biden or Trump, respectively. We discuss these results in the context of evolutionary and political psychology, suggesting the need for further research that takes political factors into account.
The Predictive Validity of the Risk Screener Violence (RS-V) for Adults in Prison Regarding Postrelease Violent Recidivism: A File-Based Study
Authors: Smeekens Marjam V. , De Vries Robbé Michiel , Popma Arne , Kempes Maaike M.
Published: February 2024

Within the prison system, it is often not feasible to administer comprehensive risk assessment for all incarcerated persons because of limited time and resources. To enhance prison safety and facilitate the structured evaluation of concerns about violence risk for all individuals, the Risk Screener Violence (RS-V) was developed. The goal of this study was to evaluate whether the RS-V ( N = 571) is able to retrospectively predict postrelease violent (re)offending for males (81%) and females (19%). The RS-V was scored with excellent interrater reliability and demonstrated medium to large predictive validity for all follow-up periods. Surprisingly, the predictive validity for females was even stronger than for males. This study demonstrates that the RS-V offers a promising new method for the efficient screening of concerns regarding violent behavior among incarcerated males and females. Further prospective studies in prison practice will have to consolidate these findings.
The Urban Question in the Age of Innocence and Convergence
Authors: Ultramari Clovis , José Firmino Rodrigo , dos Santos Daher Ariadne
Published: February 2024

This is a discussion of how the “urban question” became a topic of general interest in the media, based on a bibliometric analysis of newspapers from the mid-nineteenth century to the early twentieth century, targeting a specific process of urbanization in the United States, hinting at how the public perception of urban studies came to attract different fields of research and how new responsibilities were added to urban management. Sources used were the historic newspaper databases of Chronicling America and the New York Times, via ProQuest Historical Newspapers. Preliminary conclusions indicate directions for further multidisciplinary debate, summarized as follows: understanding of the city may have originally proceeded somewhat naïvely, disregarding central features of the urban phenomena; early methodological instruments were more frequently based on limited observation than on deeper surveys; and there is a continuing period of innocence and convergence in the understanding of the urban question.
Confounding by Indication, Confounding Variables, Covariates, and Independent Variables: Knowing What These Terms Mean and When to Use Which Term
Authors: Andrade Chittaranjan
Published: February 2024

The terms independent variables, covariates, confounding variables, and confounding by indication are often imprecisely used in the context of regression. Independent variables are the full set of variables whose influence on the outcome is studied. Covariates are the independent variables that are included not because they are of interest but because their influence on the outcome can be adjusted for, leaving a more precise understanding of how the single remaining independent variable influences the outcome. Confounding variables are variables that are associated with both independent variables and outcomes; so, the relationship identified between independent variables and outcomes may be due to the confounding variable rather than to the independent variable. Potential confounders should be identified, measured, and adjusted for in regression, just as other covariates are. Confounding by indication occurs when the presence of the independent variable is driven by the confounding variable. Confounding by indication is a special kind of confounding; a confounding variable is a special kind of covariate; and a covariate is a special kind of independent variable in regression analysis. These terms and concepts are explained with the help of examples.
A model of personal relationships and cyberbullying perpetration among adolescents: A person*environment model
Authors: Doty Jennifer L. , Barlett Christopher P. , Gabrielli Joy , Yourell Jacqlyn L. , Su Yi-Wen , Waasdorp Tracy E.
Published: February 2024

Although cyberbullying is relational by nature, prior models focused on individual explanations for cyberbullying rather than integrating contextual processes. We present the Relational Model of Cyberbullying Motivation and Regulation (RMC). This model applies the concepts of proximal processes (e.g., interactions with parents, teachers, peers) from ecological systems theory and the concepts of psychological resources (e.g., autonomy, competency, and relatedness) from self determination theory to explain youth motivation and self-regulation of cyberbullying. First, we review theoretical foundations for the theories involved and outline postulates for youths’ proximal influences, motivations for, and regulation against cyberbullying perpetration. Then, we present a pathway by which the most proximal social influences on youth impact the development of psychological resources, which then may impact cyberbullying. We also present pathways by which autonomy, competence, and relatedness have an indirect impact on cyberbullying via motivation and self-regulation. The RMC informs intervention efforts by identifying proximal contexts and leverage points to disrupt processes that lead to competence and/or autonomy to cyberbully others.
Connecting through touch: Attitudes toward touch in pregnancy are associated with couples’ sexual and affectionate behaviors across the transition to parenthood
Authors: Tavares Inês M. , Brandelli Yvonne N. , Dawson Samantha J. , Impett Emily , Debrot Anik , Rosen Natalie O.
Published: February 2024

Touch is a universal nonverbal action often used by romantic partners to demonstrate affection and care for each other. Attitudes toward touch might be particularly relevant across periods of relational strain—such as the transition to parenthood—when couples face many novel stressors and shifting priorities which can interfere with their sexual and affectionate experiences. New parent couples ( N = 203) completed self-report measures online across six time-points (two prenatal). We tested whether couples’ attitudes toward touch (touch aversion, touch for affection, touch for emotion regulation) at baseline (20 weeks mid-pregnancy) predicted their frequency of sexual and affectionate behaviors from mid-pregnancy through 12-month postpartum. Both partners’ more positive attitudes toward touch (i.e., for affection and emotion regulation) and lower aversive attitudes toward touch, as measured in mid-pregnancy, predicted couples’ higher frequency and variety of sexual and affectionate behaviors at 3-month postpartum. Touch attitudes generally did not predict the degree of change in the frequency or variety of sexual or affectionate behaviors, with one exception: non-birthing parents’ more positive attitudes toward touch for emotion regulation in mid-pregnancy predicted a slower decline in couples’ affectionate behaviors across pregnancy. Findings underscore a link between new parents’ attitudes toward touch and their subsequent sexual and affectionate behaviors, particularly in the early postpartum period. New parents need to navigate novel sexual changes and a nonverbal strategy such as touch might be useful to promote intimacy and care.
Adolescents’ experiences of discrimination, disclosure of discrimination, and well-being
Authors: Dotterer Aryn M. , Ferguson Melissa , Whiteman Shawn D.
Published: February 2024

Discrimination because of one’s stigmatized identities and personal characteristics can thwart healthy adolescent development. Little is known about the role of disclosure, including whether adolescents talk about their discrimination experiences with close relational partners (i.e., parents, siblings, friends) and whether disclosure mitigates the negative effects of discrimination. Addressing this gap, this study investigated links between adolescents’ perceptions of discrimination in multiple settings (from teachers at school, from peers at school, and online) and indicators of adolescent well-being (i.e., depressive symptoms, positive identity/values, school trouble, and school bonding), and tested whether disclosure of discrimination experiences moderated these associations. Survey data from 395 parent-adolescent dyads (33% African American/Black, Hispanic/Latinx, and White, respectively) were analyzed using mixed model ANOVAs and multiple regression. Perceived discrimination was generally associated with less positive identity/values, more trouble at school and less school bonding; however, disclosure of discrimination mitigated some of these deleterious links. Adolescents’ close relationships that promote disclosure therefore represent an important context that can provide protective benefits and ensure youth garner the resources and support they need for optimal development.
Development of transactive memory systems in new venture teams
Authors: Georgiadou Eleni , Steinmo Marianne Terese , Lauvås Thomas
Published: February 2024

This article examines how new venture teams (NVTs) develop transactive memory systems (TMSs) to integrate and coordinate their member’s collective expertise. Applying a longitudinal case study of five Norwegian NVTs in their first year, we find that the development of TMSs in NVTs unfolds in three stages. At the pre-formation stage, NVTs undergo a TMS enabling process that includes member motivation, self-declaration and member expectations, which lead to initial specialisation in NVTs. Subsequently, at the formation and collaboration stages, NVTs proceed with TMS processes of encoding, storage and retrieval that encompass self-assessment, assessment of co-members, shared understanding, role formalisation, decision-making and task performance, which enhance specialisation and result in the gradual development of credibility and coordination in NVTs. Furthermore – through member motivation, trust and shared ownership – NVTs engage in a TMS-reinforcing process that helps NVTs to strengthen their TMSs over time, enabling them to increase their ability to integrate and coordinate NVT collective expertise.
Ecosystem pipelines: Collective action in entrepreneurial ecosystems
Authors: Hruskova Michaela
Published: February 2024

Entrepreneurial ecosystems comprise a range of different actors, structures and processes that support entrepreneurs in starting and growing their ventures. They are governed through collective action, which helps ecosystem actors achieve common goals that otherwise would be beyond the scope of their individual abilities. However, we have a limited understanding of the key mechanisms through which they organise their interactions. This article explores how ecosystem actors engage in collective action based on a case study of the Scottish entrepreneurial ecosystem. The main contribution is the introduction of a novel ecosystem governance mechanism coined ‘ecosystem pipelines’, which are logical pathways between ecosystem actors through which entrepreneurs can access support and resources as they progress their ventures. This article highlights that entrepreneurial ecosystems are purpose-driven networks based on horizontal relationship building among actors – as opposed to top-down or bottom-up organising – in pursuit of a common purpose to promote entrepreneurship.
It all starts with a story: Questioning dominant entrepreneurial identities through collective narrative practices
Authors: Solbreux Julie , Hermans Julie , Pondeville Sophie , Dufays Frédéric
Published: February 2024

Taking a multiple-practitioner perspective on entrepreneurial identity construction, we explore how identities can be co-constructed through social interactions. In the context of a social entrepreneurship course at a Belgian business school, we stress the role of collective narratives in breaking free of dominant frames of reference and shaping emancipatory ones. As the stories unfold, collective narratives provide opportunities to perform and negotiate dominant identities as discursive resources: to ‘thin’ certain parts and ‘thicken’ other preferred traits. Through collective narrative practices, practitioners can disrupt the dominant individual heroic entrepreneur myth and develop new entrepreneurial identities reflecting an understanding of entrepreneurship as collective action. Our original intervention method, scaffolding conversations, shows how narratives can be collected and analysed at the individual and group levels, providing members with opportunities to reflect on their shared experiences, struggles and hopes.
Evaluating E-court systems in regional governments in developing countries using technology acceptance model
Authors: Ahmed Mohammed Abubakr , Kaya Tugberk , Karanfiller Tolgay
Published: February 2024

Due to the rise of digital transformations, the integration of advanced technologies in law courts globally is accelerating. This technological adoption enhances the efficiency and reach of justice administration, encompassing case registration, decision-making, and execution. This study investigates the acceptance and usage of e-court systems by regional governments in developing countries, utilizing the technology acceptance model (TAM) as the evaluative framework. As e-court systems become increasingly crucial in enhancing the efficiency and transparency of judicial proceedings, understanding their acceptance within developing countries becomes significant. It examines the role of perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) in shaping attitudes toward using (ATU) in these systems, ultimately influencing the behavioral intention to use (BIU). Primary data collected from several regional governments employing e-court systems are analyzed. The findings indicate varying acceptance levels, predominantly influenced by the perceived usefulness of the systems in streamlining court processes. However, the perceived ease of use is less influential, indicating a potential area of improvement for system developers. This research contributes to the discourse on the digital transformation of judicial systems in developing regions, providing insights that could guide effective policy formulation and implementation.
The study on the relationship between venous ulcer and ankle joint range of motion using ultrasound
Authors: Liao Jianyu , Wu Zhoupeng
Published: February 2024

Background

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) often leads to venous ulcers. The relationship between ankle joint range of motion (ROM) and venous ulcers remains under-investigated. This study aims to clarify this relationship using ultrasound imaging.

Methods

We conducted a study on 20 patients with unilateral venous ulcers. Ankle ROM and popliteal vein blood flow were measured using a goniometer and ultrasound, respectively. The measurements were compared between the affected and unaffected limbs.

Results

A significant reduction in ROM and popliteal vein blood flow was observed in the limbs with venous ulcers compared to the unaffected limbs. The data suggest a correlation between reduced ankle mobility and the development of venous ulcers.

Conclusion

The study underscores the importance of maintaining ankle mobility in patients with CVI to prevent venous ulcers. A multifactorial approach is essential for managing these conditions effectively.
Spatial Neglect: An Exploration of Clinical Assessment Behaviour in Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Fisher Georgia , Quel de Oliveira Camila , Stubbs Peter W. , Power Emma , Checketts Matthew , Porter-Armstrong Alison , Kennedy David S.
Published: February 2024

Objective

There is a large gap between evidence-based recommendations for spatial neglect assessment and clinical practice in stroke rehabilitation. We aimed to describe factors that may contribute to this gap, clinician perceptions of an ideal assessment tool, and potential implementation strategies to change clinical practice in this area.

Design

Qualitative focus group investigation. Focus group questions were mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework and asked participants to describe their experiences and perceptions of spatial neglect assessment.

Setting

Online stroke rehabilitation educational bootcamp.

Participants

A sample of 23 occupational therapists, three physiotherapists, and one orthoptist that attended the bootcamp.

Intervention

Prior to their focus group, participants watched an hour-long educational session about spatial neglect.

Main measures

A deductive analysis with the Theoretical Domains Framework was used to describe perceived determinants of clinical spatial neglect assessment. An inductive thematic analysis was used to describe perceptions of an ideal assessment tool and practice-change strategies in this area.

Results

Participants reported that their choice of spatial neglect assessment was influenced by a belief that it would positively impact the function of people with stroke. However, a lack of knowledge about spatial neglect assessment appeared to drive low clinical use of standardised functional assessments. Participants recommended open-source online education involving a multidisciplinary team, with live-skill practice for the implementation of spatial neglect assessment tools.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that clinicians prefer functional assessments of spatial neglect, but multiple factors such as knowledge, training, and policy change are required to enable their translation to clinical practice.
A Tutorial on Net Benefit Regression for Real-World Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Using Censored Data from Randomized or Observational Studies
Authors: Chen Shuai , Bang Heejung , Hoch Jeffrey S.
Published: February 2024

Given the increasing popularity of person-level cost-effectiveness analysis using “real-world” data, there is a clear need to understand and use methods for observational data. When the cost-effectiveness data are subject to censoring, ignoring censoring is especially error prone for heavily censored data. We summarize best practice and provide a hands-on example of applying the net benefit regression framework for cost-effectiveness analysis, which works for both observational and randomized studies with possibly censored data. Many existing methods are special cases within this framework. We provide step-by-step guidance, user-friendly R programs, and examples to illustrate 1) fitting net benefit regressions for possibly censored cost-effectiveness data; 2) implementing doubly robust methods combining net benefit regressions and propensity scores, which may increase the chances to obtain consistent estimates in observational studies; 3) constructing cost-effectiveness acceptability curves; and 4) interpreting the results. The methods in this tutorial are easy to use and lead to more reliable and robust results using typical administrative data, thus providing an attractive option for real-world cost-effectiveness analysis using possibly censored observational data sets.

Highlights

We illustrate the steps involved in carrying out cost-effectiveness analysis using net benefit regressions with possibly censored demo data by providing step-by-step guidance and code applied to a data set. We demonstrate the importance of these new methods by illustrating how naïve methods for handling censoring can lead to biased cost-effectiveness results.