bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between extreme species richness and Holocene persistence of forest-steppe grasslands in Transylvania, Romania
Authors: Novák Jan , Šamonil Pavel , Roleček Jan
Published: July 2024

The most species-rich grasslands worldwide are known from the Carpathian Mts and their periphery in East-Central Europe. They occur in forest-steppe regions, transitional between temperate forest and arid steppe biomes. Their climate, largely suitable for forests, raises questions about the origin of these grasslands. Have they been forested in the past, or locally maintained through a disturbance regime? We addressed these questions to contribute to the broader understanding of Holocene dynamics of open habitats in temperate Europe. We employed soil charcoal analysis and soil morphology to reconstruct past representation of woody species with fine spatial resolution. Our study area was Romanian Transylvania, a region renowned for a well-developed forest-steppe. Six soil profiles along a climatic gradient were assessed: four in forest-steppe grasslands, two in grasslands in adjacent forest region (forest grasslands). The results revealed profound differences between forest-steppe and forest grasslands. Forest-steppe profiles showed Phaeozems with low specific anthracomass of woody species and continuous dominance by Juniperus, suggesting a long-term presence of grasslands. Forest grasslands showed Luvisols with higher anthracomass and abundant charcoal of broad-leaved trees, indicating establishment after deforestation. The high radiocarbon ages of charcoals in basal soil horizons point to a glacial origin of soils and the link of forest-steppe grasslands to glacial forests. Siberian hemiboreal forests and related grasslands may be modern analogues of the reconstructed ecosystems, sharing many species with present day forest-steppe. We suggest that disturbances such as fire, herbivore grazing, and human activities have played an important role in shaping the forest-steppe over time, contributing to the formation of today’s richest grasslands.
Who is at risk of bias? Examining dispositional differences in motivated science reception
Authors: Altenmüller Marlene Sophie , Poppe Laura Amelie
Published: July 2024

The motivated reception of science in line with one’s preexisting convictions is a well-documented, pervasive phenomenon. In two studies ( N = 743), we investigated whether this bias might be stronger in some people than others due to dispositional differences. Building on the assumptions that motivated science reception is driven by perceived threat and suspicion and higher under perceived ambiguity and uncertainty, we focused on traits associated with such perceptions. In particular, we tested the impact of conspiracy mentality and victim sensitivity on motivated science reception (as indicated by ascriptions of researchers’ trustworthiness and evidence credibility). In addition, we explored the role of broader personality traits (generalized mistrust and ambiguity intolerance) in this context. None of the investigated dispositions modulated the motivated science reception effect. This demonstrates once again, that motivated science reception is a ubiquitous challenge for the effective dissemination of science and everyone seems to be at risk of it.
A Comparative Study on Antibacterial Activities of Alcohol Disinfectants and α-Mangostin Extract
Authors: Meah Mohammed Sohel , Panichayupakaranant Pharkphoom , Silvano Kris John , Ugli Rakhimov Abdurakhim Ramazon , Kim Min Gab
Published: July 2024

Background

A green and efficient process, free from toxic solvents, was employed to prepare an α-mangostin-rich extract. Conventional techniques like maceration and heat reflux extraction are recognized for their time-intensive nature, as well as the requirement for significant quantities of organic solvents. This innovative process not only reduces energy consumption but also streamlines production steps, providing a more sustainable alternative in herbal medicine preparation.

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to compare the antibacterial activities of alcohol disinfectants and α-mangostin extract-containing disinfectants against tested microorganisms.

Materials and Methods

The α-mangostin-rich extract was obtained from dried powders of Garcinia mangostana pericarps utilizing the microwave-assisted extraction method with polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400). The α-mangostin content in the resultant extract was determined through the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. Additionally, a broth microdilution method was utilized to investigate the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of each compound against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius.

Results

According to a microdilution method, the disinfectant comprising isopropanol (50% and 70%) with 1% α-mangostin extract demonstrated antibacterial effectiveness against both MRSA and S. pseudintermedius. The MICs and MBCs were observed within dilutions ranging from 1:64 to 1:512 and 1:64 to 1:256, respectively. Ethanol (50% and 70%) plus 1% α-mangostin extract disinfectant exhibited antibacterial activity with MICs and MBCs at dilutions of 1:32–1:512 and 1:16–1:128, respectively. Moreover, isopropanol and ethanol (30%) with 1% α-mangostin extract disinfectant demonstrated antibacterial activity with MICs and MBCs at dilutions of 1:16–1:256 and 1:4–1:128, respectively. However, isopropanol (50% and 70%) and ethanol (50% and 70%) disinfectants showed weaker antibacterial activity than α-mangostin extract-containing alcohol solutions. Although isopropanol (30%) disinfectant demonstrated antibacterial activity (MICs and MBCs at dilutions of 1:16–1:32), the 30% ethanol solution did not show any activity against either bacterium. In addition, α-mangostin extract exhibited stronger antibacterial activity (MICs and MBCs at dilutions of 1:625–1:5,000) than all alcohol solutions.

Conclusion

The combination of isopropanol and ethanol disinfectants with α-mangostin-rich extract exhibited significant antibacterial effectiveness against MRSA and S. pseudintermedius. The enhancement of efficacy by α-mangostin-rich extract suggests promising opportunities for enhancing disinfection approaches.
Local–Global Cobrand Positioning and Consumer Evaluations in Emerging Markets
Authors: Osmanoglu Onur , Özsomer Ayşegül , Biliciler Gunes
Published: July 2024

Cobranding initiatives between a local and a global brand have become a prominent practice. This research contributes to the cobranding and global branding literatures by investigating the effects of positioning strategy of the cobranded product (global consumer culture positioning vs. local consumer culture positioning) on consumer evaluations in emerging markets. In five experiments, the authors show that using global consumer culture positioning for the cobranded product leads to heightened word-of-mouth intentions and more favorable product valuations. This effect holds for both local and global product categories. Building on signaling theory, the authors show that brand credibility mediates the effect of positioning strategy on word-of-mouth intentions. Further, when the local (vs. global) brand is the announcement source, using a global rather than a local consumer culture positioning leads to enhanced word-of-mouth intentions. Yet, for consumers with stronger ethnocentrism, when the global brand makes the announcement of a cobranded product positioned on local consumer culture, word-of-mouth intentions are higher. Altogether, the findings have nuanced implications for local branding, global branding, and young consumers in emerging markets.
Distance and Preference for Full Versus Shared Control: The Moderating Role of Decision-Maker Self-Construal
Authors: Jung Hyeyoon , Magnusson Peter , Westjohn Stanford A. , Peng Yi , Dow Douglas
Published: July 2024

Previous research on the impact of distance on the choice between full versus shared control international market entry has produced inconsistent results. The authors suggest that the characteristics of the decision-maker may be an important boundary condition, which helps explain this inconsistency. Specifically, the authors examine how differences in decision-maker self-construal influence the effects of distance on entry mode decisions. To investigate the phenomenon, the authors use multiple methods to conduct three separate studies, including two experiments and a meta-analysis. The results offer consistent evidence that the distance–entry mode relationship is stronger for managers with an independent self-construal than for managers with an interdependent self-construal.
Weightbearing Computed Tomography Can Accurately Detect Subtle Lisfranc Injury
Authors: Bhimani Rohan , Thompson J. Daniel , Suh Nina , Kadakia Rishin J. , Bariteau Jason T. , Kerkhoffs Gino M. M. J. , Coleman Michelle M.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Early detection of Lisfranc injury is critical for improving clinical outcomes, but diagnosing subtle injury can be difficult. Weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) allows evaluation of such injuries in 3 dimensions (3D) under physiologic load. This study aimed to assess the utility of 1-, 2-, and 3-dimensional measurements on WBCT to diagnose subtle injury in isolated ligamentous Lisfranc injuries.

Methods:

Ten cadaveric specimens underwent WBCT evaluation of the Lisfranc joint complex in the intact state and subsequently with sequential sectioning of the dorsal Lisfranc ligament and interosseous Lisfranc ligament (IOL) to create subtle Lisfranc injury, and finally after transectioning of plantar Lisfranc ligament (PLL) to create the injury conditions for complete ligamentous Lisfranc injury. Measurements under static vertical tibial load of 80 kg were performed on WBCT images including (1) Lisfranc joint (medial cuneiform–base of second metatarsal) volume, (2) Lisfranc joint area, (3) C1-C2 intercuneiform area, (4) C1-M2 distance, (5) C1-C2 distance, (6) M1-M2 intermetatarsal distance, (7) first tarsometatarsal (TMT1) alignment, (8) second tarsometatarsal (TMT2) alignment, (9) TMT1 dorsal step-off distance, and (10) TMT2 dorsal step-off distance.

Results:

In the subtle Lisfranc injury state, Lisfranc joint volume and area, C1-M2 distance, and M1-M2 distance measurements on WBCT significantly increased, when compared with the intact state ( P values .001 to .014). Additionally, Lisfranc joint volume and area, C1-M2 distance, M1-M2 distance, TMT2 alignment, and TMT2 dorsal step-off measurements were increased in the complete Lisfranc injury state. Of all measurements, C1-M2 distance had the largest area under the curve (AUC) of 0.96 (sensitivity = 90%; specificity = 90%), followed by Lisfranc volume (AUC = 0.90; sensitivity = 80%; specificity = 80%) and Lisfranc area (AUC = 0.89; sensitivity = 80%; specificity = 100%).

Conclusion:

In a cadaveric model we found that WBCT scan can increase the diagnostic accuracy for subtle Lisfranc injury. Among the measurements, C1-M2 distance exhibited the highest level of accuracy. The 2D joint area and 3D joint volume also proved to be accurate, with 3D volume measurements of the Lisfranc joint displaying the most significant absolute difference between the intact state and increasing severity of Lisfranc injury. These findings suggest that 2D joint area and 3D joint volume may have potential as supplementary measurements to more accurately diagnose subtle Lisfranc injuries.

Clinical Relevance:

WBCT may help surgeons detect subtle Lisfranc injuries.
Standing Up to the Maskless: Antecedents of Norm Enforcement Behavior and Meta-Norm Misperception During COVID-19 at a College Campus
Authors: Song Hwanseok , Ju Ilwoo , Wright Temi
Published: July 2024

Extending theorization on bystander intervention, this study examined antecedents of upstanding, a communication practice in which bystanders communicate disapproval to norm violators, using the context of mask wearing during COVID-19. Survey findings from undergraduate students revealed that perceived legitimacy of intervention played a key role in decisions to stand up to mask norm violators. In addition, anticipation of hostile responses from the confronted party and bystander indifference discouraged upstanding behavior or intentions. Participants also expected to receive less support from bystanders in a hypothetical episode as an upstander than what they intended to offer an upstander as a bystander.
The Influence of Race on Detected and Undetected Sexual Offense Histories: A Comparison of White and Black Men Committed as Sexually Violent Persons
Authors: Kelley Sharon M. , Kahn Rachel E. , Zaw Gangaw
Published: July 2024

Understanding the difference between the proportion of sexual offenses that are officially detected versus the total number of sexual crimes that occur has been of interest to decision makers for some time. Previous studies have not considered possible racial differences. More aggressive responses by police and the criminal justice system as well as cultural differences in victim type/reporting rates may result in differences between detection rates of Black versus White men. In the current study ( N = 190), we examined the difference between Black ( n = 51) and White ( n = 139) men committed to a forensic hospital as a Sexually Violent Person on factors that could impact the detected rate. Overall, we found that White men had significantly more total victims, undetected victims, undetected and detected child victims, total male victims, undetected male victims, undetected acquaintance victims, and total (detected and undetected) acquaintance victims than Black men. Black men had significantly more detected adult victims, but this difference did not remain when accounting for undetected victims. We explore reasons for these differences as well as provide recommendations for practice.
Validation of the Revised Screening Scale for Pedophilic Interests (SSPI-2) in Portugal
Authors: Gouveia Cláudia , Sousa Marta , Cunha Olga , Seto Michael , de Castro-Rodrigues Andreia , Gonçalves Rui Abrunhosa
Published: July 2024

The accurate assessment of pedophilic sexual interests is crucial for the treatment and management of individuals who have sexually offended children. This study aimed to validate the Revised Screening Scale for Pedophilic Interests (SSPI-2) in a Portuguese sample of 170 men convicted of sexual offenses against children, 104 serving sentences in the community, and 66 in prison. The findings indicated that SSPI-2 demonstrated good convergent validity, as evidenced by its significant and positive associations with the “sexual deviance” item of SVR-20, the number of previous convictions for sexual crimes against children, and having 3 or more child victims, which is associated with high sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing men who show greater sexual arousal to children than to adults. Furthermore, the SSPI-2 exhibited good divergent validity, with no significant correlations observed with a self-report measure of psychopathy or with a nonsexual criminal history.
Nonlinear elastic general integral equations in micromechanics of random structure composites
Authors: Buryachenko Valeriy A
Published: July 2024

We consider static problems for composite materials (CMs) with either locally elastic or peridynamic constitutive properties. The general integral equation (GIE) is the exact integral equationWe consider static problems for composite materials connecting the random fields at the point being considered and the surrounding points. There is a very long and colored history of the development of GIE which goes back to Lord Rayleigh. Owing to the new GIE (forming the second background of micromechanics also called the computational analytical micromechanics, CAM), one proved that local micromechanics (LM) and peridynamic micromechanics (PM) are formally similar to each other for CM of random structures. By now, the GIEs are generalized to CMs (of statistically homogeneous and inhomogeneous structures) with the phases described by local models, strongly nonlocal models (strain type and displacement type, peridynamics), and weakly nonlocal models (strain-gradient theories, stress-gradient theories, and higher-order models). However, a fundamental restriction of all mentioned GIEs is their linearity with respect to a primary unknown variable. The goal of this study is obtaining nonlinear GIEs for PM, and, in a particular case, for LM. For the presentation of PM as a unified theory, we describe PM as the formalized schemes of blocked (or modular) structures so that the experts developing one block need not be experts in the underlying another block (this is a good background for effective collaborations of different teams in so many multidisciplinary areas as PM). The opportunity for the creation of this blocked structure of the PM is supported by a critical generalization of CAM which is extremely flexible, robust, and general.
Contributors to Underdiagnosis of ADHD among Asian Americans: A Narrative Review
Authors: Feng Ashley , O’Neill Sarah , Rostain Anthony L.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Rates of ADHD are lowest among Asian American children (1–6.1%) compared to all other major ethnic and racial groups in the US, but there is limited literature on reasons for the disparity in estimated prevalence rates.

Method:

We conducted a narrative review to integrate the literature on ADHD in children in Asian countries with that on ADHD among Asian American youth to highlight potential explanations for disparities in ADHD diagnosis and treatment among Asian American children relative to other racial and ethnic groups.

Results:

Factors possibly contributing to the low estimated prevalence rates of ADHD among Asian American children include: a higher proportion of Inattentive ADHD presentation among Chinese, Malaysian, and Indian children; racial bias and the influence of the Model Minority Myth; cultural differences in classroom identification; mental health stigma in Asian American communities; parent perception of ADHD as misbehavior rather than a neurodevelopmental disorder; and parent support for children’s academic activities that may mask impairment.

Conclusion:

We offer recommendations to inform individual and community-level psychoeducation, and new directions for research to address this health disparity.
Absence of Causal Relationship Between Levels of Unsaturated Fatty Acids and ADHD: Evidence From Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Wang Zuxing , Zhu Hongru , Chen Lili , Gan Chenyu , Min Wenjiao , Xiao Jun , Zou Zhili , He Ying
Published: July 2024

Objective:

Previous research suggests a potential link between unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) and ADHD, but the causal relationship remains uncertain. This study aims to investigate the causal association between ADHD and UFAs using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

Methods:

Summary data from genome-wide association studies were used to estimate the concentration of circulating UFAs, including Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFAs), Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs), Omega-3 PUFAs, Omega-6 PUFAs, Linoleic Acid (LA), and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). Data from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium, including both childhood and adult ADHD, were respectively used to examine the relationship between genetically predicted UFAs levels and ADHD. Various MR methods, including Inverse-variance weighted (IVW), MR Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier, MR-Egger, weighted median, and weighted mode, were employed to assess heterogeneity and pleiotropy.

Results:

The IVW revealed only nominal evidence suggesting a potential causal relationship between genetically predicted PUFAs (OR = 0.92, 95% CI [0.85, 0.99], p = .031), Omega-6 PUFAs (OR = 0.90, 95% CI [0.83, 0.98], p = .020), and LA levels (OR = 0.90, 95% CI [0.82, 0.98], p = .021) with childhood ADHD risk. However, after false discovery rate correction, the p-values for PUFAs, Omega-6 PUFAs, and LA levels all exceeded the threshold for significance. For adult ADHD, we did not find any significant associations between the six circulating UFA levels and adult ADHD.

Conclusion:

Our findings do not support a causal relationship between UFAs levels and ADHD. This suggests that UFAs supplements may not be effective in improving ADHD symptoms and importantly, it appears that UFAs levels may not have a long-term effect on ADHD.
Rethink Recovery: A Qualitative Approach to Exploring Messaging for Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAR)
Authors: Jackson Dawnyéa D. , Wagner Dana E. , Norman Penny , Abarca Gray , Zambole Kim
Published: July 2024

Similar to national trends, in Illinois, fatal opioid overdoses have risen. Black men (35+) outrank all other racial subgroups for the highest rate of fatal opioid overdoses in the state. To address this, Prevention First and the Illinois Department of Human Services developed a public health education campaign to support increasing enrollment in recovery services, with a focus on Black men (35+). Self-reported Black participants with opioid use disorder (OUD) made up the analytic sample. Study goals were to understand lived experiences of the campaign audience; investigate knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding OUD and treatment; explore perceived barriers and facilitators to treatment; and evaluate messaging that showcased medication-assisted recovery (MAR) as a viable tool for treatment and recovery. Interviews were recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis. Participants shared long and cyclical journeys of use and recovery. Participants had low levels of knowledge of available treatment options and struggled to imagine themselves in recovery because of the fear of cravings and withdrawal. Messaging that was realistic about the cyclical nature of recovery, showed the varying options for MAR, and addressed cravings and withdrawals were well received. These findings illustrate the importance of understanding an audience and involving them in campaign development to create messaging that promotes behavior change and sustained health. Through the Decision Blocks strategic framework, we discovered information gaps, barriers to treatment, and practical solutions to increase access to treatment for Black men with OUD that has been limited due to inequities caused by structural racism.
Optimism Bias Among Gun Owners: Associations With Firearm Injury Prevention Practices and Policy Support
Authors: Aubel Amanda J. , Wintemute Garen J. , Shev Aaron B. , Kravitz-Wirtz Nicole
Published: July 2024

Optimism bias is common across health risk assessments, including firearm injury risk, and can have behavioral consequences. Using data from the 2018 California Safety and Wellbeing Survey, we examine whether optimism bias influences firearm injury prevention practices and policy support by comparing the characteristics, behaviors, and opinions of gun owners who believed having a gun at home is comparatively safer for themselves than for similar others ( Optimism Bias group) with (1) those who unequivocally believe guns increase safety for themselves and others ( Always Safer group), and (2) those who said they “don’t know” or “it depends” in both the self and other scenarios ( Uncertain group). Weighted multinomial logistic regression results indicated that gun owners in the Optimism Bias group were more often female, members of minoritized racial or ethnic groups, and new gun owners than the Always Safer and Uncertain groups; they also demonstrated greater support for 4 of 5 firearm injury prevention policies/interventions. Despite similar prevalence of owning a gun for protection, gun owners in the Optimism Bias group less often carried a loaded firearm or stored a gun in an unsecure way compared with the Always Safer group. Findings suggest that gun owners characterized by optimism bias, who acknowledged some risk associated with firearms, even if only or more so for others than for themselves, may represent a “movable middle” that is more receptive to firearm injury prevention efforts. Public health messages emphasizing other-oriented (vs. personal) risk and collective responsibility may be perceived as less threatening to the symbolic significance of guns to individual identity, thus enhancing effectiveness.
Interferon γ Expressing Mucosal Cells in Pediatric Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Terry Jefferson
Published: July 2024

The pathogenesis of Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) is multifactorial and includes aberrations in the composition of gastrointestinal mucosal inflammatory cells. Accurate identification of CD and UC is important as treatment and prognosis differs; however, CD and UC may be difficult to differentiate. Interferon γ (IFNγ) expression appears to be increased in ileal mucosa from CD patients, implying that IFNγ could be a diagnostically useful marker to differentiate CD from UC. This study uses automated assessment of IFNγ immunohistochemical expression in archival GI mucosal biopsies from stomach, duodenum, terminal ileum, and colon in a pediatric population to address this possibility. IFNγ positive mucosal cells are increased in the colon in both CD and UC compared to normal colon and in the ileum of CD compared to normal and UC. The abundance of IFNγ positive cells is not correlated with the presence of active inflammation, indicating that active inflammation is not responsible for the variance in abundance of IFNγ positive cells between cohorts and sites. Overlap between CD, UC, and normal suggests that IFNγ immunohistochemistry may only be clinically useful in select situations such as undetermined inflammatory bowel disease and additional study in these areas is warranted.
Humor in Online Brand-to-Brand Dialogues: Unveiling the Difference Between Top Dog and Underdog Brands
Authors: Béal Mathieu , Lécuyer Charlotte , Guitart Ivan
Published: July 2024

Many brands periodically respond humorously to the content that other brands and celebrities post on social media. Drawing on three scenario-based experiments and a content analysis of humorous X posts based on their likes and reposts, the authors use the benign violation theory to understand whether using humor constitutes a benign (i.e., translating into amusement) or malign (i.e., translating into ulterior motives) violation. The success of a humorous brand-to-brand interaction (i.e., brand attitudes and purchase intentions) depends on its ability to generate amusement without causing customers to suspect ulterior motives. Study 1's results reveal that customers respond more favorably when brands use affiliative humor rather than aggressive humor. Affiliative humor constitutes a benign violation that generates amusement, while aggressive humor constitutes a malign violation that leads customers to infer that brands have ulterior motives. Study 2 shows that aggressive humor partially compensates for its weaknesses over affiliative humor when brands target competing brands. Studies 3a and 3b reveal a reversed effect depending on brand positioning (top dogs vs. underdogs). While underdog brands should always use affiliative humor, top dog brands could perform better by favoring aggressive humor (i.e., such brands could receive more likes and reposts without lowering customers’ purchase intentions).
The Importance of Listening in Police-Community Dialogue: Insights From the Hearts and Minds Initiative in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Maguire Edward R. , Adams Ericka , Harry Casandra
Published: July 2024

Community policing relies on communication and dialogue to break down barriers between police and communities. Community policing is implicitly premised on the notion that for relationships between police and communities to improve, both sides need to find ways to accommodate one another. These ideas are consistent with Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT), which focuses on the communicative mechanisms through which people accommodate or fail to accommodate one another. Genuine listening is a key mechanism for accommodating others. Drawing on CAT, we explore a community policing initiative called Hearts and Minds that was developed and implemented in Trinidad and Tobago, a Caribbean nation that has experienced a significant outbreak of violence over the past two decades. Our qualitative analysis relies on interviews with police officers. Based on this analysis, we discuss the importance of listening in police-community dialogue. We also discuss the implications of this research for theory, research, and practice.
The Capacitated Maximal Covering Location Problem Improves Access to Stroke Treatment: A Cross-Sectional Simulation Study
Authors: Bando Kyohei , Ohashi Kazuki , Fujiwara Kensuke , Osanai Toshiya , Morii Yasuhiro , Tanikawa Takumi , Fujimura Miki , Ogasawara Katsuhiko
Published: July 2024

Disparities in accessing advanced stroke treatment have been recognized as a policy challenge in multiple countries, including Japan, necessitating priority solutions. Nevertheless, more practical healthcare policies must be implemented due to the limited availability of healthcare staff and financial resources in most nations. This study aimed to evaluate the supply and demand balance of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) and identify areas with high priority for enhancing stroke centers. The target area of this study was Hokkaido, Japan. We adopted the capacitated maximal covering location problem (CMCLP) to propose an optimal allocation without increasing the number of medical facilities. Four realistic scenarios with varying levels of total MT supply capacity for Primary stroke centers and assuming a range of 90 minutes by car from the center were created and simulated. From scenarios 1 to 4, the coverage increased by approximately 53% to 85%, scenarios 2 and 3 had 5% oversupply, and scenario 4 had an oversupply of approximately 20%. When the supply capacity cap was eliminated and 8 PSCs received 31 or more patients, they became priority enhancement targets. The CMCLP estimates demand coverage considering the supply and demand balance and indicates areas and facilities where MT supply capacity enhancement is a priority.
Data-driven axial bearing capacity analysis of steel tubes infilled with rubberized alkali-activated concrete
Authors: Zhou Chang , Tan Xiao , Zheng Yuzhou , Wang Yuan , Mahjoubi Soroush
Published: July 2024

This study aims to employ machine learning algorithms to analyze the axial bearing capacity of rubberized alkali-activated concrete filled steel tubes. A dataset encompassing 327 synthesized instances and seven input features is adopted for training and testing six machine learning models, including Decision Tree, Random Forest, Extremely Randomized Trees, Adaptive Boosting, Gradient Boosting Decision Trees (GBDT), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting Trees (XGBoost). The SHapley Additive exPlanation algorithm is employed to elucidate the prediction process of machine learning models and to analyze the influence of each parameter on axial bearing capacity. Comparison of evaluating metrics shows that GBDT and XGBoost models achieve highest accuracy and generalization capabilities when their Coefficient of Determination values surpassing 0.98 and Mean Absolute Percent Error remaining below 3%. Moreover, the explanation analysis of machine learning models reveals that diameter/width of the cross section, rubber content, yielding strength and thickness of steel tubes are critical variables that affect the axial bearing capacity, while compressive strength of alkali-activated concrete, specimen height, and shape of cross section show negligible impact. Besides, GBDT model overemphasizes the effect of specimen height and might lead a conservative prediction for specimens with smaller heights. Finally, compressive strength of alkali-activated concrete and diameter/width, thickness, and yielding strength of steel tubes are positively correlated with axial bearing capacity, and the increase of rubber content in alkali-activated concrete leads to the decrease of capacity.
Acoustic emission source localization in complex pipe structure using multi-task deep learning models
Authors: Zhang Tonghao , Xu Chenxi , Ozevin Didem
Published: July 2024

Localizing defects in long-range pipelines is essential to reduce the inspection time and develop timely repair strategies. The acoustic emission (AE) method is employed to pinpoint the position of defects in pipelines. The conventional 1-D localization algorithm requires time of arrival differences between two sensors, which may not be accurately captured due to the dispersive nature of the pipe structures. The geometric variations such as elbows and welds can influence the propagating elastic waves and, consequently, arrival time. In this study, an AE source localization approach using a deep learning model is developed to tackle the influences of sensor-source distance and geometric variables. The multi-task learning model first identifies the impact of the elbow and subsequently integrates this information when predicting the source location. The proposed model is evaluated on a complex piping system, which features welded elbows in its connections. Incorporating the elbow effect into the model shows a notable improvement in overall accuracy, rising from 53% (conventional method) to 94% (proposed multi-task learning method).
New insights into the paradox between smoking and the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19): Insufficient evidence for a causal association
Authors: Kramer Iris , Zhu Yinjie , Van Westen-Lagerweij Naomi A. , Dekker Louise H. , Mierau Jochen O. , Croes Esther A.
Published: July 2024

Aims:

Previous studies have reported a ‘smoker’s paradox’, where people who smoke appear to be protected against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection (COVID-19). This conflicts with well-established evidence that people who smoke are generally more vulnerable to respiratory infections. In this study, we aimed to validate the association between smoking and SARS-CoV-2 infection in a general Dutch population, and to evaluate the evidence underlying the possible causal relationship between smoking and SARS-CoV-2 infection by applying a modern adaptation of the Bradford Hill criteria.

Methods:

In total, 57,833 participants from the Lifelines Cohort Study were included in the analysis. Smoking status, including never smoker, current smoker, and former smoker, was derived from the Lifelines general assessment between 2014 and 2017, while SARS-CoV-2 infection status was derived from an additional COVID-19 questionnaire from 2021 to 2022. Logistic regressions were used for the association between smoking status and infection status. The adapted Bradford Hill’s criteria, including the strength of association (including an analysis of plausible confounding), plausibility, temporality and study design suitability, were applied to evaluate the existing literature.

Results:

We found, compared with never smokers, an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection for former smokers (odds ratio (OR)=1.07, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.01–1.13), but a reduced risk for current smokers (OR=0.85, 95% CI=0.79–0.92), after adjusting for several relevant covariates. However, we discerned a possible explanation of the smoker’s paradox since we observed that current smokers were more likely to be non-responders to the COVID-19 questions and, more importantly, these non-responders were more likely to have other established risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Conclusions:

There is insufficient evidence to suggest that smoking protects against SARS-CoV-2 infection. According to the adapted Bradford Hill’s criteria, we observed a high inconsistency between study results, a high possibility for residual confounding and no clear evidence for biological plausibility. Future studies should include linkage with the confirmed testing results from national healthcare registries to mitigate avoidable bias.
The effects of thematic tour groups and wanderlust on travel risk perceptions
Authors: Schibik Aaron , Shields Peggy , Schibik Tim
Published: July 2024

Providing consumers with safe travel and tourism offerings is of the utmost importance to marketers of travel/vacation destinations. Thus, understanding and finding new ways to entice consumers to take the plunge and book a trip is essential, especially for marketers looking to attract consumers with unique interests. This research examines an intersection between two travel and tourism offerings: packaged tours and special interest tourism. Specifically, this research looks at the effect of thematic tour group offerings on consumers’ travel intentions. It explores whether giving consumers the option of a thematic tour group might lower risk perceptions, enticing them to travel. This research also proposes that thematic tour groups reduce risk perceptions by stimulating an individual’s wanderlust.
A new model for multi-port berth allocation problem based on an improved genetic algorithm
Authors: Tang Shuang , Xu Sudong , Yin Kai , Zhang Nini , Mao Liuyan , Chen Xiangtong
Published: July 2024

Port integration can enhance operational efficiency and service level in response to heightened competition among container ports. Nevertheless, container ports are still considered independent systems separately in formulating scheduling plans. This research explores a new multi-port berth allocation problem (MPBAP) with continuous berth layout considering the mutual influence between ports. The MPBAP is compared with the single port berth allocation, and effects of different numbers of vessels continuously berthing at all ports on a single route on the MPBAP are discussed through vessel operation rate. The problem is formulated by a mixed integer programming model by minimising the total port stay time of all vessels. The quay is highly discretised and a GA coupled with parallel computing is applied to accelerate the search for the optimal model solution. A case study is conducted on two adjacent container ports located along the Yangtze River. Results show that multi-port coordinated scheduling is efficiency and the total port stay time of all vessels reduces by an average of 2.63% under the MPBAP. With more than four vessels berthing continuously at two ports on a single route, the MPBAP shows a higher vessel operation rate and the rate gap between the two models exceeds 2%. The approach suggested in this study can enhance the port system’s efficiency and provide a new idea for coordinated scheduling in other port groups.
Parenting Interventions During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review of the Rationales, Process, Feasibility, Acceptability, and Impacts of Adaptation
Authors: Fang Zuyi , Martin Mackenzie , Copeland Lauren , Evans Rhiannon , Shenderovich Yulia
Published: July 2024

Evidence shows that parenting interventions are an effective method of reducing caregiver-perpetrated child maltreatment. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has changed the provision of parenting interventions worldwide, with many interventions adapting to continue providing services during the crisis. This global systematic review examined how parenting interventions targeting child maltreatment and its risk and protective factors were adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic. We searched for studies published between 2020 and 2022 and identified 31 eligible studies. The data on the rationale, process, feasibility, acceptability, and impacts of adaptations were narratively synthesized in accordance with the Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications to Evidence-Based Interventions. Results showed that most adaptations were proactive and focused on delivery methods, predominantly digitalization. While feasibility and acceptability were generally observed, the impacts of adapted programs were inconclusive. Inadequate reporting, especially regarding rationale, fidelity, facilitator capacity building, stakeholder involvement, and decision-making processes, was noted. The review recommends enhanced planning, documentation, and reporting of program adaptations using established guidelines, as well as process and impact evaluations.
Endovascular Treatment for Renal Vein Embolism by a Renal Calculus After Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy
Authors: Riguetti-Pinto Cristina Ribeiro , Virgini-Magalhães Carlos Eduardo , Carvalho Marchon Lívia Ramos , de Araujo Fernando Augusto Peixoto , Alves Machado Henrique , Rodrigues Neto Eduardo de Oliveira , de Araújo-Gomes Cristiane Ferreira , Fagundes Felipe Borges
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

This report presents the endovascular strategies adopted to treat a kidney calculus venous embolism after percutaneous nephrolithotomy and the versatility of endovascular techniques to manage even the most unexpected renovascular complications after urological intervention. According to the literature available in PubMed, Cochrane, SciELO, and Science.gov repositories, this is the first case to our knowledge of renal vein calculus embolism as a complication of percutaneous treatment of kidney stones.

Case Report:

A 62-year-old woman underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy to treat a left kidney 2.8-cm staghorn calculi. The stone cracked, leaving a residual fragment in the ureteropelvic junction. Abdominal computed tomography revealed a 0.9-mm extrarenal calculus located inside the left retroaortic renal vein. Calculus was captured using a basket catheter system through a 6F 45-cm sheath positioned in the left common femoral vein (CFV) and accessed by dissection to safely conclude the calculus extraction by venous cut down. The patient was asymptomatically discharged 48 hours after the endovascular procedure, under a rivaroxaban anticoagulation regimen, with no symptoms or renal function impairment until the 6 months of follow-up.

Conclusion:

The endovascular strategy proposed in this case was effective for calculus rescue and venous flow restoration.

Clinical Impact

This case reinforces the adaptability of endovascular therapy in an unexpected scenario. A potentially life-threatening extremely rare adverse event following a common urological procedure could be treated with minimally invasive hybrid treatment, preserving renal function and maintaining venous vascular patency. This report may add a discussion of procedures to manage similar events and bring to the literature a possible strategy to solve the problem.
The Impact of the New Families Home Visiting Program on Depressive Symptoms Among Norwegian Fathers Postpartum: A Nonrandomized Controlled Study
Authors: Solberg Beate , Hagen Milada , Berg Rigmor C. , Glavin Kari , Brekke Malene , Sæther Kristin Marie , Øygarden Anne-Martha Utne , Olsvold Nina
Published: July 2024

Becoming a parent is a vulnerable life transition and may affect parents’ mental health. Depressive symptoms may occur in fathers, as well as mothers, during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The health service is expected to have a family perspective, aiming to support both parents. Despite this goal, mothers traditionally receive more support than fathers. Home visiting programs may provide enhanced guidance for new fathers and increased mental health support. The aim of this study was therefore to assess possible differences in level of depressive symptom in fathers receiving the New Families home visiting program compared with those receiving standard care from the Norwegian Child Health Service. A prospective nonrandomized controlled study with a parallel group design was performed. The Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to measure depressive symptoms in fathers ( N = 197) at 28 weeks of their partners’ pregnancy (T1), at 6 weeks (T2), and 3 months postpartum (T3), in the intervention and the control group. The results indicate a prevalence of depressive symptoms (EPDS score ≥ 10) in Norwegian fathers of 3.1% at T1, 3.9% at T2, and 2.2% at T3 for the full sample. No significant EPDS score differences were found between the intervention and the control group at six weeks and three months postpartum. This suggests that the intervention had no clear impact on depressive symptoms during this time-period.
iPREDICT: proof-of-concept study to develop a predictive model of changes in asthma control
Authors: Castro Mario , Zavod Merrill , Rutgersson Annika , Jörntén-Karlsson Magnus , Dutta Bhaskar , Hagger Lynn
Published: July 2024

Background:

The individualized PREdiction of DIsease Control using digital sensor Technology (iPREDICT) program was developed for asthma management using digital technology. Devices were integrated into daily lives of patients to establish a predictive model of asthma control by measuring changes from baseline health status with minimal device burden.

Objectives:

To establish baseline disease characteristics of the study participants, detect changes from baseline associated with asthma events, and evaluate algorithms capable of identifying triggers and predicting asthma control changes from baseline data. Patient experience and compliance with the devices were also explored.

Design:

This was a multicenter, observational, 24-week, proof-of-concept study conducted in the United States.

Methods:

Patients (⩾12 years) with severe, uncontrolled asthma engaged with a spirometer, vital sign monitor, sleep monitor, connected inhaler devices, and two mobile applications with embedded patient-reported outcome (PRO) questionnaires. Prospective data were linked to data from electronic health records and transmitted to a secure platform to develop predictive algorithms. The primary endpoint was an asthma event: symptom worsening logged by patients (PRO); peak expiratory flow (PEF) < 65% or forced expiratory volume in 1 s < 80%; increased short-acting β2-agonist (SABA) use (>8 puffs/24 h or >4 puffs/day/48 h). For each endpoint, predictive models were constructed at population, subgroup, and individual levels.

Results:

Overall, 108 patients were selected: 66 (61.1%) completed and 42 (38.9%) were excluded for failure to respond/missing data. Predictive accuracy depended on endpoint selection. Population-level models achieved low accuracy in predicting endpoints such as PEF < 65%. Subgroups related to specific allergies, asthma triggers, asthma types, and exacerbation treatments demonstrated high accuracy, with the most accurate, predictive endpoint being >4 SABA puffs/day/48 h. Individual models, constructed for patients with high endpoint overlap, exhibited significant predictive accuracy, especially for PEF < 65% and >4 SABA puffs/day/48 h.

Conclusion:

This multidimensional dataset enabled population-, subgroup-, and individual-level analyses, providing proof-of-concept evidence for development of predictive models of fluctuating asthma control.
The effect of baseball bat properties and participant ability on youth hit ball speed
Authors: Smith Lloyd , Lyu Bin , Nevins Derek
Published: July 2024

The following describes the results of a batting cage study involving youth batters hitting with three types of baseball bats in two weight classes. Participants were allowed to select a bat length from within each type and weight according to their preference. The bats were then swung in random order. Reflective markers were placed on the bats and balls, allowing infrared cameras to track their motion from which speed was obtained. Given the differing ability of the participants, the study outcomes were normalized to the swing speed of each batter. Bat performance was quantified from the bat-ball coefficient of restitution. Laboratory measures of bat performance were shown to strongly correspond with the peak batting cage results. The ball exit speed of hollow bats exceeded that of traditional solid wood bats by as much as 5%. The ball exit speed was also found to be affected more by players’ ability than the bat type. Batter swing speed correlated strongly with bat inertia and was relatively insensitive to the bat-ball impact location, showing that participant effort was not biased by impact quality. Batter swing speed tended to depend more strongly on bat inertia than has been found in adult studies, which may be due to the smaller size of youth participants.