bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Daily dyadic coping: Associations with postpartum sexual desire and sexual and relationship satisfaction
Authors: Schwenck Gracielle C , Dawson Samantha J , Allsop David B , Rosen Natalie O
Published: June 2022

The transition to parenthood involves numerous stressors. Consequently, many new parents report negative changes to their sexual desire, sexual satisfaction, and relationship satisfaction relative to pre-pregnancy, with the most disruption reported at 3-months postpartum. While prior research suggests that dyadic coping—a couple’s capacity to deal with stress effectively and mutually—is positively linked with relationship satisfaction, little is known about how it relates to sexual and relational outcomes in new parents’ daily lives. This study examined how common and negative dyadic coping were associated with new parents’ own and their partner’s daily sexual desire, sexual satisfaction, and relationship satisfaction. New parent couples ( N = 120) completed a baseline survey and 21 days of daily diaries between 3- and 4-months postpartum. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. After controlling for mood, for both women who gave birth and their partners, on days that they reported higher common dyadic coping, they reported greater sexual desire, and sexual and relationship satisfaction. On days when women reported lower negative dyadic coping, both they and their partner reported greater relationship satisfaction. When women reported higher common dyadic coping, their partners reported greater sexual desire. When women reported lower negative dyadic coping, they reported greater sexual desire. When partners reported lower negative dyadic coping, they reported greater relationship satisfaction. Focusing on strategies to encourage common and reduce negative daily dyadic coping may be beneficial for sexual and relationship well-being early in the postpartum when couples report experiencing a peak in sexual and relationship challenges.
Feasibility trial of a telehealth support group intervention to reduce anxiety in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Kever Anne , Aguerre Ines M , Vargas Wendy , Straus Farber Rebecca , Levine Libby , Riley Claire S , Vasquez Minnelly , Leavitt Victoria M
Published: June 2022

Objective

Anxiety is common among persons with MS (PwMS), but widely accepted treatments are lacking. Group-based interventions delivered via telehealth are an accessible treatment option requiring clinical trial evidence to support feasibility and initial efficacy. We conducted a pilot feasibility trial of an online support group intervention to reduce anxiety in PwMS.

Methods

A non-randomized, parallel arm clinical trial was conducted. A total of 31 PwMS were enrolled: 20 completed a 12-week telehealth-delivered support group intervention and 11 were assigned to a survey-only control group. Primary feasibility outcomes were adherence and completion rates. Primary efficacy outcome was anxiety, secondary outcomes were depression, loneliness, distress, self-efficacy, stress, and quality of life.

Results

Twenty-six participants completed the study. Intervention group adherence (75%) and completion (85%) rates were acceptable. Results indicated a medium size between-group effect, suggesting a greater reduction in anxiety in the intervention group compared to the control group [ U = 39.50, p = 0.045, r = 0.39]. No group differences in other outcomes were observed.

Conclusion

A telehealth-delivered support group intervention appears feasible for further study and shows initial efficacy for the reduction of anxiety in PwMS.
The power of professional ideals: Understanding and handling victims’ emotions in criminal cases
Authors: Johansen Louise Victoria , Adrian Lin , Asmussen Ida Helene , Holmberg Lars
Published: June 2022

This article explores how criminal justice actors interpret and process victims’ emotional expressions. On the basis of a qualitative study on the interactions between legal institutions and victims of violence in Denmark, the article demonstrates how police officers, prosecutors, victims’ counsel and judges each separately understand and evaluate victims’ emotional reactions. These actors interpret victims’ feelings according to their own professional roles and motivations so as to gain an overview of a case and the actions required of them in relation to it, resulting in quite different perceptions of victims’ needs and degree of trustworthiness. At the same time, professionals also interact across institutions by writing and exchanging case files, and in so doing police officers’ perceptions of victim reactions are often disclosed to both prosecutors and judges. This article contributes to existing knowledge of how different professional ideals specifically influence the handling of victims and their emotional needs, while the more general consensus on ‘appropriate emotions’ simultaneously generates knowledge across professions and institutional settings.
Nodal T-zone lymphoma and T-zone hyperplasia in dogs
Authors: Kojima Kazuhiro , Chambers James K. , Mizuno Takuya , Uchida Kazuyuki
Published: June 2022

T-zone lymphoma (TZL) is an indolent, nodal lymphoma that has been clinically characterized in detail in dogs, and T-zone hyperplasia (TZH) is a hyperplastic change in lymph nodes associated with antigen processing. In some cases, histopathological features of TZL and TZH are similar, and are difficult to differentiate by morphology alone. Since there have been few publications characterizing their immunohistochemical profiles, histological, immunohistochemical, and clonality examinations were performed using formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples of canine lymph nodes with TZL (14 cases) and canine lymph nodes with TZH associated with nonlymphocytic tumors (10 cases). Immunohistochemically, small- to medium-sized lymphocytes of TZL were immunopositive for CD3, CD5, and HLA-DR, and negative for CD45, FOXP3, and granzyme B (GRB) in all cases. Among these 14 cases, 11 were immunopositive for CD8 and 1 was CD20 positive. Paracortical lymphocytes in TZH were diffusely immunopositive for CD3, CD5, and CD45, with scattered immunopositivity for CD8, HLA-DR, FOXP3, and GRB, and negative for CD20 in all cases. A clonal TCR gene rearrangement was detected in 13/14 TZL and none of the TZH cases. The present study revealed that TZL is a clonal proliferation of monomorphic CD8+CD45-GRB- T cells, while TZH consists of an immunophenotypically heterogenous population of CD45+ T cells that are variably positive for CD8 and FOXP3. These results suggest that canine TZL is a clonal proliferation of naïve or premature cytotoxic T cells. Regarding TZH, variable immunopositivity for cytotoxic and regulatory T-cell antigens may reflect immune responses to a variety of regional neoplastic lesions.
Burnout Among Probation Officers: The Importance of Resilience
Authors: Gladfelter Andrew S. , Haggis William A.
Published: June 2022

Like many human service professionals, probation officers are subject to a great deal of stress as part of their occupational duties. This study examines occupational stress and burnout among probation officers through the lens of the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model. This model suggests that organizational characteristics have implications for individual outcomes related to stress. However, the model largely neglects the role of individual factors, such as dispositional resilience. This study tests a refined model using cross-sectional surveys from 289 members of a probation officer union in the eastern United States. Results from structural equation modeling support the general predictions of the JD-R model in that job demands and job resources are correlated with burnout and engagement, which in turn predict health issues and intention to quit. Moreover, resilience significantly predicts every latent variable in the model, both directly and indirectly through its effect on intervening factors. Implications for workplace policy and practice are discussed.
Systematic Aggression Registration in Forensic Psychiatric Care: A Qualitative Study on Preconditions for Successful Implementation
Authors: Cappon Leen , Heyndrickx Manon , Rowaert Sara , Grootaert Nathalie , de Decker An , Tremmery Sabine , Vandevelde Stijn , De Varé Jan
Published: June 2022

Available research emphasizes the importance of getting a systematic overview of inpatient aggression in forensic psychiatric care. However, the same research does not focus on how systematic aggression registration should be introduced in clinical practice. To facilitate the use of systematic aggression registration instruments, it is very relevant to gain insight into the perspective of staff members on the introduction of these instruments in daily clinical practice. Additionally, preconditions for achieving a successful implementation can be considered. Therefore, this study aims to gain insight into the perspective of the staff members on the implementation of a systematic aggression registration instrument—that is, the MOAS—in a forensic psychiatric unit. Interviews ( n = 8) and a focus group with staff members were carried out. Three main themes: (1) creating the most appropriate context for introduction, (2) choice for the MOAS as relevant instrument, and (3) perpetuating the use of the MOAS in clinical practice are scrutinized. The mentioned preconditions can be used as guidelines when implementing systematic aggression registration in clinical practice. We hope that this paper can inspire other forensic psychiatric facilities to introduce systematic registration of aggressive incidents.
Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of a Roadside Cooperative Perception System
Authors: Zhang Rusheng , Zou Zhengxia , Shen Shengyin , Liu Henry X.
Published: June 2022

Recently, with the advancement in autonomous driving, artificial intelligence, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications, cooperative perception between roadway infrastructure and connected and automated vehicles via V2X communications has attracted increasing attention. However, most of the systems and prototypes reported are still at an initial stage. This paper introduces a newly developed and deployed roadside cooperative perception system with an edge-cloud structure and multiple kinds of sensors, including fisheye cameras, thermal cameras, and long-distance radars. The system is deployed at a roundabout at the intersection of State St. and W. Ellsworth Rd. in Ann Arbor, Michigan, U.S. With an edge-cloud structure, it can execute high-performance detection algorithms on edge devices at the field and collect data and analyze it on the cloud. The performance, in relation to detection rate, localization accuracy, and latency, is analyzed using the data collected from the field. These results show that the system has high potential for a wide range of applications, including infrastructure-vehicle cooperative perception, traffic data collection, and road safety studies. Two example applications—traffic volume monitoring and road safety warning—are introduced in the latter part of the paper to demonstrate the system’s capability.
Investigating Spatial Correlations Between Land Use and Pedestrian Injury Severity in Crashes Occurring Away From Intersections in Northwest Florida
Authors: Koloushani Mohammadreza , Karaer Alican , Erman Ozguven Eren , Sando Thobias , Dulebenets Maxim A. , Moses Ren
Published: June 2022

Roadway crashes are an increasing concern worldwide, and pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users because of several special characteristics, including their fragility. While focusing on pedestrian-involved crashes that occurred far away from intersections, a more systematic investigation is needed to determine whether there is a relationship between the severity of these crashes and the land use types surrounding the crash locations. To investigate this issue, a network-based logistic regression model was employed to assess the impact of the distance between pedestrian-involved crash locations and the centroid of an associated land use of various types. In addition, a set of logistic models was developed to assess the effect of traffic- and environment-related factors, such as daylight and the average annual daily traffic (AADT), on the severity of crashes occurring around each land use. Several types of land use appeared to be influential in predicting pedestrian-involved crash severity. The probability of a severe pedestrian-involved crash increased around commercial land use types including retail stores or night clubs whereas it decreased around university campuses. Moreover, among the crash attributes, daylight contributed to the severity of pedestrian-involved crashes regardless of the surrounding land use type while average traffic was found to be a statistically significant factor for the crashes that occurred particularly around parking lots and office buildings. Pedestrian-involved crashes mostly occurred in the vicinity of office buildings during daylight hours, and the pedestrians were less likely to be severely injured. The findings provided valuable insight into the measurements concerning pedestrian safety with respect to various types of land use.
A Comparison of Pediatric- and Adult-Onset Aquaporin-4 Immunoglobulin G–Positive Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder: A Review of Clinical and Radiographic Characteristics
Authors: Tarhan Bedirhan , Rempe Torge , Rahman Sydur , Rodriguez Elsa , Sladky John , Tuna Ibrahim Sacit , Rees John
Published: June 2022

Background

The identification of immunoglobulin G antibodies against the aquaporin-4 channel (AQP-IgG) in the majority of adult patients differentiates neuromyelitis optica as a distinct disease entity. The high specificity of AQP4-IgG for neuromyelitis optica has allowed the identification of seropositive patients with atypical presentations of this disease. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder has been increasingly recognized in children who demonstrate patterns of clinical involvement beyond the traditional boundaries of the optic pathways and spinal cord.

Methods

This is a single-center, retrospective review comparing demographic, clinical/paraclinical, and laboratory features of children and adults with a serologically confirmed diagnosis of AQP4-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

Results

Of 151 reviewed patient charts, 12 pediatric-onset and 31 adult-onset patients had AQP4-IgG-positive  neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. The mean age of pediatric-onset neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder was 12 ± 3.58 years with a female predilection (3:1). Pediatric patients showed more frequent involvement of the brainstem (6/12 [50%]); P = .008) and diencephalon (3/12 [25%]; P = .018). A preceding infection was identifiable in only 3 of 12 (25%) pediatric-onset patients. Moreover, disability as calculated on the expanded disability status scale was less severe in pediatric-onset cases compared to adult-onset cases in their most recent assessment (0 [0-9]) vs 6.5 [0-10]; P = .005). Pediatric-onset patients were also more likely to respond to treatment of acute episodes with corticosteroids ± intravenous immunoglobulin and/or plasmapheresis (Clinical Global Impression–Change scale: 2.5 [1-4] vs 4 [1-6], P = .009).

Interpretation

This retrospective study was able to compare and contrast pediatric- and adult-onset neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Relative to their adult counterparts, pediatric-onset neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients were more likely to respond to treatment and less likely to be disabled from their disease at follow-up. Therefore, pediatric-onset disease may represent a less virulent form of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.
Trajectories of Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress, and Chronic Pain Among Women Who Have Separated From an Abusive Partner: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Ford-Gilboe Marilyn , Varcoe Colleen , Wuest Judith , Campbell Jacquelyn , Pajot Michelle , Heslop Lisa , Perrin Nancy
Published: June 2022

This longitudinal study explored changes in women's health after separation from an abusive partner by characterizing the trajectories of their mental health (depression and post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD]) and physical health (chronic pain) over a 4-year period. We examined how the severity of intimate partner violence (IPV) affected these trajectories, controlling for selected baseline factors using 5 waves of data collected from a community sample of 309 English-speaking, Canadian women. IPV severity was measured using the Index of Spouse Abuse where women were asked to consider the entire period of their partner relationship up to present at wave 1 and to rate their IPV experiences in the previous 12 months at waves 2-5. Mental health was measured using established self-report measures of depression (CESD) and PTSD (Davidson Trauma Scale), while chronic pain was measured using the Chronic Pain Grade Scale. Trajectories were estimated using MLM techniques with severity of IPV and selected co-variates (time since separation, age, financial strain) included. Our results show that women's health improved significantly over time, although significant levels of depression, PTSD symptoms and disabling chronic pain remained at the end of wave 5. Regardless of time since separation, more severe IPV was associated with higher levels of depression, PTSD, and disabling chronic pain, with IPV having a stronger effect on these health outcomes over time, suggesting cumulative effects of IPV on health. The results of this study contribute to quantifying the continuing mental and physical health burdens experienced by women after separation from an abusive partner. Increased attention to the long-term effects of violence on women's health beyond the crisis of leaving is critically needed to strengthen health and social services and better support women's recovery and healing.
Using Double Machine Learning to Understand Nonresponse in the Recruitment of a Mixed-Mode Online Panel
Authors: Felderer Barbara , Kueck Jannis , Spindler Martin
Published: June 2022

Survey scientists increasingly face the problem of high-dimensionality in their research as digitization makes it much easier to construct high-dimensional (or “big”) data sets through tools such as online surveys and mobile applications. Machine learning methods are able to handle such data, and they have been successfully applied to solve predictive problems. However, in many situations, survey statisticians want to learn about causal relationships to draw conclusions and be able to transfer the findings of one survey to another. Standard machine learning methods provide biased estimates of such relationships. We introduce into survey statistics the double machine learning approach, which gives approximately unbiased estimators of parameters of interest, and show how it can be used to analyze survey nonresponse in a high-dimensional panel setting. The double machine learning approach here assumes unconfoundedness of variables as its identification strategy. In high-dimensional settings, where the number of potential confounders to include in the model is too large, the double machine learning approach secures valid inference by selecting the relevant confounding variables.
Conceptualizing Organizational Advocacy Across the Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector: Goals, Tactics, and Motivation
Authors: Mosley Jennifer E. , Suárez David F. , Hwang Hokyu
Published: June 2022

Advocacy, essential to the unique role of the nonprofit sector, is a term that suffers from a definitional morass that is both crowded and inconsistent, undermining research progress. This problem has been exacerbated by changes in our understanding of the wide variety of nonprofit and voluntary organizations involved in advocacy. To address construct clarity and help research bridge disciplinary silos, we present a framework that, while drawing clearer boundaries around the construct’s peripheries, integrates three major dimensions of organizational advocacy among nonprofits: goals, tactics, and motivations. This integrative framework focuses on the targets, contexts, and types of nonprofit actors associated with these dimensions, pointing to avenues for new lines of comparative research. We demonstrate how this framework can elucidate institutional change and advance the field by promoting new understandings of advocacy that better matches changing empirical reality.
Does NGO Origin Influence Moral Judgment? A Study of the Attitudes of Algerian Participants Toward Foreign NGOs
Authors: Dib-Slamani Hind , Grolleau Gilles , Mzoughi Naoufel
Published: June 2022

Building on previous literature on corporate behavior, we examine the impact of an nongovernmental organization’s (NGO) foreign status on the moral judgment of its actions in a host country. Individuals in Algeria ( N = 450) rated the ethicality of analogous ethical and unethical actions of domestic (Algerian) and foreign NGOs (European). For ethical actions, a foreign NGO was considered less positively than a local NGO for two scenarios out of three. For unethical actions, a foreign NGO was judged more severely in one scenario only. These results suggest that foreign status can influence moral judgment in a way that is consistent with liability-of-foreignness effect predictions. A foreign-sounding denomination can put an NGO at a relative disadvantage compared with its domestic counterpart. Consequently, the denomination choice should be carefully examined.
Improve the accuracy of vehicle velocity estimation based on low-cost GPS/IMU by GPS course angle
Authors: Yuan Liangxin , Wang Yuan , Du Peng , Lian Xiaomin
Published: June 2022

Vehicle velocity is an important parameter for vehicle dynamics control. Global Positioning System (GPS) and inertial measurement unit (IMU) information can be used for velocity estimation by taking advantage of each other through fusion. However, if GPS velocity is used as the only measurement like classic GPS/INS, it will cause a large velocity estimation error or even divergence. This paper, from the perspective of system observability, proves that the GPS course angle (GCA) plays an important role in vehicle velocity estimation based on low-cost GPS/IMU. Firstly, construct the velocity estimation algorithm in the vehicle coordinate system directly. Then, according to the characteristics of different working conditions, the observability of the system without GCA is fully analyzed from the Lie derivative-based observability proof and the observability basic definition. The results show that the weak observability of the yaw angle is the most serious threat in vehicle velocity estimation. After fusing the GCA, the yaw angle potential divergence can be suppressed and the estimation accuracy of velocity will be improved. Even though roll and pitch are still unobservable under some conditions after augmenting GCA, the error propagation analysis shows that their estimation errors have little effect on velocity estimation, so the accurate estimation of velocity can be guaranteed. Finally, the indispensable of GCA in velocity estimation based on low-cost GPS/IMU is verified by Carsim-Simulink joint simulations and vehicle tests.
Optimization of automotive battery pack casing based on equilibrium response surface model and multi-objective particle swarm algorithm
Authors: Liu Fei , Xu Yalong , Li Meng , Guo Jiale , Han Bing
Published: June 2022

Lightweight research based on battery pack structural strength can improve the endurance and safety of electric vehicles. Based on the adaptive response surface and multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm, this paper proposes an optimization design method for lightweight of battery pack shell. The thickness of the battery pack shell is the optimization parameter. The stress, strain, and frequency of the battery pack shell under typical working conditions are used as boundary conditions. The response surface model is established according to the criterion of cross terms in adaptive response surface method, and the multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm is used for iterative solution. The optimization results show that the maximum stress of the battery pack is reduced to the appropriate range, the first-order frequency is increased by 41% to reduce resonance, the maximum deformation is reduced from 2.7 to 1.12 mm, and the total mass is reduced by 26.8%. The battery pack optimization design method proposed in this paper can achieve lightweighting while meeting safety performance.
Grief Symptoms Promote Inflammation During Acute Stress Among Bereaved Spouses
Authors: Brown Ryan L. , LeRoy Angie S. , Chen Michelle A. , Suchting Robert , Jaremka Lisa M. , Liu Jia , Heijnen Cobi , Fagundes Christopher P.
Published: June 2022

The death of a spouse is associated with maladaptive immune alterations; grief severity may exacerbate this link. We investigated whether high grief symptoms were associated with an amplified inflammatory response to subsequent stress among 111 recently bereaved older adults. Participants completed a standardized psychological stressor and underwent a blood draw before, 45 min after, and 2 hr after the stressor. Those experiencing high grief symptoms (i.e., scoring > 25 on the Inventory of Complicated Grief) experienced a 45% increase in interleukin-6 (IL-6; a proinflammatory cytokine) per hour, whereas those experiencing low grief symptoms demonstrated a 26% increase. In other words, high grief was related to a 19% increase in IL-6 per hour relative to low grief. The grief levels of recently bereaved people were associated with the rate of change in IL-6 following a subsequent stressor, above and beyond depressive symptoms. This is the first study to demonstrate that high grief symptoms promote inflammation following acute stress.
Impact and performance efficiency analysis of grid-tied solar photovoltaic system based on installation site environmental factors
Authors: Iqbal Saeed , Khan Shahid Nawaz , Sajid Muhammad , Khan Jawad , Ayaz Yasar , Waqas Adeel
Published: June 2022

The performance of solar photovoltaic systems tends to decline if the operating conditions change from the nominal operating cell temperature due to environmental factors. The major factors include temperature and humidity variations, which cause thermal losses and open-circuit voltage drops in photovoltaic panels. This study investigates the correlations between solar photovoltaic performance and environmental factors by quantifying the real-time variables including temperature, humidity, dewpoint temperature, and heat index. Furthermore, the study investigates the difference between real-time measured and theoretically calculated temperature values with the help of weather station data to investigate the impact of temperature difference on the overall percentage power loss of the systems. The panels were installed at three distinct sites (rooftop, parking shed, and ground-mounted) connected to the same grid-tied system. Results reveal that the photovoltaic panel temperature has an inverse relation with the dew temperature and the humidity of the surrounding environment. The heat index value was found slightly less at the peak solar hours during the 24 h cycle of the measurement. The difference and relationship between temperature and humidity are measured and losses are highlighted based on the instantaneous occurrence of variables. Based on a difference between measured and calculated temperature values, results reveal that PV systems faced 27.95%, 5.41%, and 0.82% power losses for ground, roof, and parking installed PV systems, respectively.
Multi-scale asynchronous fusion algorithm for multi-sensor integrated navigation system
Authors: Lin Xueyuan , Pan Xinlong , Sun Weiwei , Liu Lining , Chen Xiangguang
Published: June 2022

The asynchronous fusion method is the key technology of multi-sensor integrated navigation system which is independently observed by multiple auxiliary navigation sensors with different data output rates. The multi-scale asynchronous fusion can effectively increase the accuracy of integrated navigation system, but the existing multi-scale asynchronous fusion algorithm has the characteristic of heavy computational burden and requires the data output rates of auxiliary navigation sensors to meet unrealistic special requirements. To solve this problem, a multi-scale asynchronous fusion algorithm for the multi-sensor integrated navigation system is presented based on state block vector and wavelet transform. This algorithm first converts the system’s original state equation into the relationship between the state block vector and the state point vector to obtain the state equation of the multi-scale dynamic system, and expresses the original measurement equation as the relationship with the state block vector to obtain the measurement equation of the multi-scale dynamic system. Then, the special implementation process of this algorithm is studied and expressed in details, on the basis of the matrix operator with scale and wavelet property. Finally, a multi-sensor integrated navigation system composed of strapdown inertial navigation system, celestial navigation system, global navigation satellite system, and air data system is designed and experimented validation analysis. Experiment results show that this algorithm can significantly reduce the average root mean square error and improve the accuracy of navigation parameters, compared with asynchronous preprocessing Kalman filter and asynchronous direct Kalman filter. It would have a wide prospect in multi-sensor integrated navigation systems.
Biodiversity and ecology of plants and arthropods on the last preserved glacier of the Apennines mountain chain (Italy)
Authors: Valle Barbara , di Musciano Michele , Gobbi Mauro , Bonelli Marco , Colonnelli Enzo , Gardini Giulio , Migliorini Massimo , Pantini Paolo , Zanetti Adriano , Berrilli Emanuele , Frattaroli Anna Rita , Fugazza Davide , Invernizzi Anna , Caccianiga Marco
Published: June 2022

In the current global warming phase, relict glacial areas are one of the most threatened ecosystems in the world. They are “cold-spots” of biodiversity and of great interest both from the ecological and conservation point of view. We investigated the biological communities (plants and arthropods) hosted by one of the southernmost European glaciers: Calderone Glacier, the last preserved glacier of the Apennines mountain chain (Italy). We analyzed supraglacial debris and the nearby moraine and we found a rather diverse and peculiar biodiversity, which includes also new species. Some arthropods, such as the springtail Desoria calderonis, are particularly sensitive to the presence of ice at microtopographic level. Among plants, only Arabis alpina caucasica is able to grow on the supraglacial debris, perhaps because of factors related to the seed germination and seedling survival on this habitat type. Calderone glacier, with its particular biogeographic location, is probably currently acting as one of the last refugia for rare and endemic cryophilic species within the Mediterranean Region during the ongoing warm period.
Motor function and fALFF modulation in convalescent-period ischemic stroke patients after scalp acupuncture therapy: a multi-centre randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhan Yijun , Pei Jian , Wang Jun , Fu Qinhui , Xu Jia , Yan Minghang , Cai Yiwen , Cui Xiao , Ye Wencheng , Fan Mingxia , Yu Qiurong , Jia Jie
Published: June 2022

Background:

Scalp acupuncture has been found to be effective at improving motor function after ischemic stroke, but few studies examining its central mechanisms of action have been carried out. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical effects of scalp acupuncture on motor dysfunction and changes in spontaneous brain activity in patients with ischemic stroke.

Methods:

This was an evaluator- and analyst-blinded, multi-center randomized controlled trial. A total of 108 convalescent-stage ischemic stroke patients with motor dysfunction were allocated to receive either scalp acupuncture combined with rehabilitation treatment (SR group) or rehabilitation treatment alone (RE group). Patients in both groups received treatment 5 times per week for 8 weeks. The primary outcome measure was the Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA). Secondary outcome measures included the modified Barthel index (mBI), modified Rankin scale (mRS) and values of fractional amplitude of low frequency fluctuation (fALFF) acquired using a resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) technique.

Results:

Both groups showed significant improvements in motor function, daily life ability and degree of disability, as measured by FMA, mRS and mBI ( p < 0.05), and the SR group showed a significantly greater improvement ( p < 0.05). Compared with the RE group, the areas where the fALFF values increased in the SR group were located in the cerebellum, praecuneus, precentral gyrus, superior frontal gyrus and parietal lobe. The improvement in FMA scores had the strongest correlation with the baseline fALFF values of the ipsilateral precentral gyrus.

Conclusion:

Scalp acupuncture improved motor function in convalescent-period ischemic stroke patients, and effects were correlated with regulation of motor-relevant brain regions. The fALFF value of the ipsilateral precentral and postcentral gyri could be potential clinical indices for prognostication of motor dysfunction.

Trial registration number:

NCT03120650 ( http://www.clinicaltrials.gov ).
Setting the Future After the COVID-19 Pandemic Through Digital Marketing Platforms and Purchasing Decisions: Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Kankam George
Published: June 2022

Businesses have been altered by digital marketing platforms, which have prompted them to use technology that allows them to give high-quality service at a cheap cost. This is the first study of this type to investigate how digital marketing platforms impact purchase decisions among students during the COVID-19 era. The study was to look at a variety of digital marketing platforms in Ghana. A simple sampling strategy was used to select participants for the study while standard surveys or questionnaires were used to collect data. With the exception of missing surveys, 500 questionnaires were sent and 389 available responses were returned, indicating 77.8% response rate for all participants. Partially least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the proposed model. The findings revealed that a number of significant digital media outlets influence students buying decisions in Ghana. Customers use digital media platforms to purchase a variety of items, and digital marketing influences their shopping habits.
A Meta-analysis of Mobile Learning Adoption in Higher Education Based on Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 3 (UTAUT3)
Authors: Khan Farheen Mujeeb , Singh Nidhi , Gupta Yuvika , Kaur Jaspreet , Banik Sandhya , Gupta Sangeeta
Published: June 2022

Where past literature has studied the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model to a large extent, the research in the domain of UTAUT3 is limited. Further, different studies on m-learning acceptance in the higher education sector report different values of correlation among constructs of the model. This study fills this gap by conducting a meta-analysis to estimate the magnitude of relationships of the constructs of the UTAUT3 model from the past 20 years of study. Further, the study tries to explore the moderation effect variables, such as the influence of country, user type, data collection mode, sampling technique, sample size and publication date on the causal relationships of the constructs of UTAUT3. For the study, 39 articles reported an effect size of the five core constructs in UTAUT (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions and behavioural intentions) and four extended constructs (hedonic motivation, personal innovativeness, price value and habit) have been studied and the results of the same have been consolidated. The results show a high impact of personal innovativeness, habit and performance expectancy on behavioural intention. Furthermore, a habit was found to be the strongest predictor of user adoption. The heterogeneity in data was examined by the moderator analysis. The moderators were found to have an influential impact on the relationships of the constructs of UTAUT3.The study will be crucial in bringing in new inputs to help governmental entities, education administrators and managers to formulate policies for the higher education sector that can assist in the proper and proactive adoption of innovative m-learning technologies.
Frequency of porcine circovirus 3 detection and histologic lesions in clinical samples from swine in the United States
Authors: Yang Zhen , Marthaler Douglas G. , Rovira Albert
Published: June 2022

Porcine circovirus 3 (PCV3) is widespread in pigs worldwide. Diverse clinical signs and lesions have been associated with PCV3, but the role of PCV3 as a cause of disease in swine remains unclear. We investigated the association of PCV3 with clinical signs and histologic lesions in 730 diagnostic swine cases between February 2016 and January 2018. The cases contained 2,177 samples submitted from 474 sites located in 21 states in the United States. PCR assay results were positive for PCV3 for 577 of 2,177 (27%) samples, 255 of 730 (35%) cases, 181 of 474 (38%) sites, and 17 of 21 (81%) states. We detected PCV3 in 19 of 28 specimen types and in pigs of all ages and clinical presentations, including healthy pigs, with the highest detection rate in adult pigs. PCV3 detection was not associated with respiratory, gastrointestinal, or CNS signs, weight loss, or sudden death. Of 58 types of histologic lesions evaluated, PCV3 detection was associated with myocarditis, cardiac vasculitis, and interstitial pneumonia in growing pigs. A high PCV3 detection rate was observed in aborted fetuses.
Paenibacillus amylolyticus osteomyelitis in a Poodle dog: case report and literature review
Authors: Rampacci Elisa , Sforna Monica , Dentini Alfredo , Di Matteo Irene , Lidano Plinio , Capucci Cristiana , Passamonti Fabrizio
Published: June 2022

Paenibacilli are gram-variable, endospore-forming bacteria that occupy various ecologic niches. These microorganisms have been known to infect humans occasionally at various anatomic sites. However, in humans, as well as in other vertebrate animals, the relationship between disease and isolation of Paenibacillus spp. remains poorly understood. We report here a case of infection in an adult Poodle dog. The animal had nodules in the lungs and multifocal osteolytic expansile bone lesions. From bone, Paenibacillus amylolyticus was recovered by culture and identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectroscopy and 16S rDNA sequencing; pyogranulomatous inflammation was observed in lung and bone specimens. The microorganism was resistant to clindamycin and imipenem. Four-month treatment with amoxicillin–clavulanate resulted in clinical resolution of disease in this dog. Nevertheless, therapy for more prolonged periods should be considered because recurrent infections can occur as a result of the transition of Paenibacillus spores to vegetative cells. Disease caused by a Paenibacillus species has not been reported previously in dogs, to our knowledge.
Pandemic Depression: COVID-19 and the Mental Health of the Self-Employed
Authors: Caliendo Marco , Graeber Daniel , Kritikos Alexander S. , Seebauer Johannes
Published: June 2022

We investigate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on self-employed people’s mental health. Using representative longitudinal survey data from Germany, we reveal differential effects by gender: whereas self-employed women experienced a substantial deterioration in their mental health, self-employed men displayed no significant changes up to early 2021. Financial losses are important in explaining these differences. In addition, we find larger mental health responses among self-employed women who were directly affected by government-imposed restrictions and bore an increased childcare burden due to school and daycare closures. We also find that self-employed individuals who are more resilient coped better with the crisis.
A multi-pole magnetorheological clutch powered by permanent magnets and excitation coils
Authors: Wu Jie , Deng Bingbing , Huang Yuming , Zhang Hui , Tang Shaoyu
Published: June 2022

This article presents a new design of a multi-pole magnetorheological (MR) clutch, with a hybrid magnetization using several permanent magnets and several excitation coils. The permanent magnets are used as the first source of generating the magnetic field, and the excitation coils are used to adjust the magnetic field to the required value. Firstly, a detailed illustration of the mechanical design of the MR clutch is presented. The principal design parameters of the proposed clutch are determined to achieve maximum torque according to the magnetic circuit. After that, the torque model is established, and simulations are conducted to evaluate the magnetic circuit design. Subsequently, an experimental set-up is established, and the proposed MR clutch is designed and manufactured, and a series of experiments are carried out. The results clearly show that different torque output can be obtained by controlling the current magnitude and direction of each coil. Finally, to achieve a precise feedback torque control, the design of a current controller is carried out using conventional proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control scheme. The results demonstrate that the designed PID controller can be used to obtain the desired torque.
Review of Ruxolitinib in the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Mohney Lindsey A , Singh Rohan , Feldman Steven R.
Published: June 2022

Objective

To review the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of a newly approved topical Janus kinase 1 (JAK) inhibitor, ruxolitinib (RUX), in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Data Sources

A literature search was completed May 1, 2022. The term RUX and AD was queried in MEDLINE (PubMed) and EMBASE databases.

Study Selection and Data Extraction

Peer-reviewed articles written in English and published prior to May 1, 2022 were included.

Data Synthesis

In the phase II clinical trial, more patients treated with 1.5% topical RUX twice a day had a mean percentage improvement in Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) scores from baseline to 4 weeks, when compared to vehicle (71.6% vs 15.5%; P < 0.001). In phase III clinical trials, greater percentage of patients who received 0.75% topical RUX (TRuE-AD1 50.0% and TRuE-AD2 39.0%) or 1.5% topical RUX (TRuE-AD1 53.8% and TRuE-AD2 51.3%) achieved an Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) score of 0 (clear) or 1 (almost clear) and had a ≥2-grade improvement from baseline to 8 weeks, when compared to vehicle (TRuE-AD1 15.1% and TRuE-AD2 7.6%; P < 0.001).

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice

Atopic dermatitis is a highly prevalent long-term inflammatory skin condition. Pruritus is the main contributor of decreased quality of life in patients with AD. Topical RUX inhibits JAK1 and JAK2 producing antiinflammatory and antipruritic effects. Patients experienced a reduction in pruritus within 2 days. This decreased pruritus translated to increased quality of life and less sleep disturbances.

Conclusion

Data from phase II and III clinical trials in adult patients suggest RUX is an effective and safe therapy for AD.
Family Caregiving for People Living With Dementia During COVID-19: A Thematic Analysis
Authors: Flemons Kristin , McGhan Gwen , McCaughey Deirdre
Published: June 2022

This study examines the experiences and needs of family caregivers (FCGs) for people living with dementia (PLWD) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Six focus groups were conducted with 21 FCGs from across the care continuum and thematic analysis was used to illuminate FCGs descriptions of their experiences and needs. Three main themes were identified that highlight the disruption the pandemic caused for FCGs: changes in the caregiving role, information use and needs, and mental and physical health outcomes. To better support FCGs during COVID-19 and future public health emergencies, we recommend that (a) information is accessible, specific, and centralized; (b) resources are tailored to the caregiving dyad (FCG and PLWD) and creatively adapted to public health restrictions; and (c) opportunities for the caregiving dyad to receive physical, social, and emotional engagement and support are maintained.
Experiences of Black American Dementia Caregivers During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Oliver Sloan , Alexander Karah , Bennett Stephanie G. , Hepburn Kenneth , Henry Jenyl , Clevenger Carolyn K. , Epps Fayron
Published: June 2022

Dementia caregivers are responsible for the daily care and management of individuals who are among the most vulnerable to the serious consequences of COVID-19. This qualitative study explores the experience of Black dementia caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. Nineteen Black dementia caregivers were recruited to participate in semi-structured focus groups held in April 2021. Four overarching themes were constructed during analysis: social isolation, decreased well-being, the good and bad of telehealth, and challenges fulfilling health care needs. The results indicate the experience of Black dementia caregivers overlaps with existing literature on the experiences of dementia caregivers of other races during COVID-19. These results can assist in addressing the specific needs and improving the experiences of dementia caregivers in current and future public health crises.
Who Covers the Qualifications of Female Candidates? Examining Gender Bias in News Coverage Across National and Local Newspapers
Authors: Bauer Nichole M.
Published: June 2022

This article examines differences in news coverage of female candidates using a media sociology framework that examines the interplay between organizational, routine, and individual levels of influence. The analyses find that national and local newspapers are more likely to write about the political qualifications of female candidates relative to male candidates, and female journalists at local newspapers are most likely to write about women’s political qualifications. Female candidates receive more feminine stereotypic coverage across newspapers, especially in all-women elections. These results uncover important differences across media organizations that affect how female candidates develop their campaign strategies and voter decision-making.
An Empiricist Manifesto
Authors: Hammersley Martyn
Published: June 2022

A call to empiricists to rise up and reclaim reality.
Marriage Trafficking: Demand, Exploitation, and Conducive Contexts—A Study in China–Vietnam Border Areas
Authors: Liang Xiaochen
Published: June 2022

This study contributes to the marriage trafficking literature by highlighting its demand, unique forms of exploitation, and conducive context through a qualitative study in China–Vietnam border areas. The findings indicate: (a) local demand for marriage constitutes a premise for the emergence and development of a marriage trafficking market, (b) three forms of exploitation distinguish marriage trafficking from other trafficking forms; (c) the local contexts conducive to the formation and facilitation of marriage trafficking also impede trafficked women's agency. In-depth interviews were conducted with marriage trafficked women who have not exited the trafficking situations, and with key local social network actors in the trafficking areas.