bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of parenting style on malevolent creativity based on Chinese university students: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Cui Xingnan , Zhang Xiang , Zhang Hua
Published: June 2024

Introduction

This study investigated the association between parenting styles and malevolent creativity.

Methods

It used latent profile analysis to compare the differences in malevolent creativity between different combinations of parenting styles with an online sample (N = 620).

Results

The results of the study suggest that a three-profile solution best fits the data, and the three profiles were labelled positive open parenting, undifferentiated parenting and negative limited parenting. Subsequent analyses revealed that there were significant differences in malevolent creativity performance among the three parenting styles, with participants in the positive open parenting having more malevolent creativity. Those with undifferentiated parenting had the lowest scores.

Discussion

The findings provide theoretical guidance for parenting strategies. Future intervention studies on malevolent creativity should also consider the potential impact of parenting style to obtain better results.
Detection of cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers changes of Alzheimer’s disease using a cognitive stress test in persons with subjective cognitive decline and mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Valles-Salgado Maria , Gil-Moreno María José , Curiel Cid Rosie E. , Delgado-Álvarez Alfonso , Ortega-Madueño Isabel , Delgado-Alonso Cristina , Palacios-Sarmiento Marta , López-Carbonero Juan I. , Cárdenas María Cruz , Matías-Guiu Jorge , Díez-Cirarda María , Loewenstein David A. , Matias-Guiu Jordi A.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Timely and accurate diagnosis of the earliest manifestations of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is critically important. Cognitive challenge tests such as the Loewenstein Acevedo Scales for Semantic Interference and Learning (LASSI-L) have shown favorable diagnostic properties in a number of previous investigations using amyloid or FDG PET. However, no studies have examined LASSI-L performance against cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of AD, which can be affected before the distribution of fibrillar amyloid and other changes that can be observed in brain neuroimaging. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between LASSI-L scores and CSF biomarkers and the capacity of the cognitive challenge test to detect the presence of amyloid and tau deposition in patients with subjective cognitive decline and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

One hundred and seventy-nine patients consulting for memory loss without functional impairment were enrolled. Patients were examined using comprehensive neuropsychological assessment, the LASSI-L, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers (Aβ1-42/Aβ1-40 and ptau181). Means comparisons, correlations, effect sizes, and ROC curves were calculated.

Results

LASSI-L scores were significantly associated with CSF biomarkers Aβ1-42/Aβ1-40 in patients diagnosed with MCI and subjective cognitive decline, especially those scores evaluating the capacity to recover from proactive semantic interference effects and delayed recall. A logistic regression model for the entire sample including LASSI-L and age showed an accuracy of 0.749 and an area under the curve of 0.785 to detect abnormal amyloid deposition.

Conclusion

Our study supports the biological validity of the LASSI-L and its semantic interference paradigm in the context of the early stages of AD. These findings emphasize the utility and the convenience of including sensitive cognitive challenge tests in the assessment of patients with suspicion of early stages of AD.
A theoretical review of the Proteus effect: understanding the underlying processes
Authors: Martin Coesel Anna , Biancardi Beatrice , Buisine Stéphanie
Published: June 2024

Humans' inherent fascination for stories can be observed throughout most of our documented history. If, for a long time, narratives were told through paintings, songs, or literature, recent technological advances such as immersive virtual reality have made it possible for us to interact with storylines and characters in a completely new manner. With these new technologies came the need to study how people interact with them and how they affect their users. Notably, research in this area has revealed that users of virtual environments tend to display behaviors/attitudes that are congruent with the appearance of the avatars they embody; a phenomenon termed the Proteus effect. Since its introduction in the literature, many studies have demonstrated the Proteus effect in various contexts, attesting to the robustness of the effect. However, beyond the first articles on the subject, very few studies have sought to investigate the social, affective, and cognitive mechanisms underlying the effect. Furthermore, the current literature appears somewhat disjointed with different schools of thought, using different methodologies, contributing to this research topic. Therefore, this work aims to give an overview of the current state of the literature and its shortcomings. It also presents a critical analysis of multiple theoretical frameworks that may help explain the Proteus effect. Notably, this work challenges the use of self-perception theory to explain the Proteus effect and considers other approaches from social psychology. Finally, we present new perspectives for upcoming research that seeks to investigate the effect of avatars on user behavior. All in all, this work aims to bring more clarity to an increasingly popular research subject and, more generally, to contribute to a better understanding of the interactions between humans and virtual environments.
Differentiating the relationships between traditional and new media use and sleep quality during the COVID-19 pandemic: roles of psychological distress and age
Authors: Xu Tong , Zhu Dongmei , Yu Zhaoliang , Dang Junhua , Schiöth Helgi
Published: June 2024

Background

Numerous studies have consistently demonstrated a decline in sleep quality during the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary objective of this study is to explore the impact of engaging with pertinent epidemic information through the media amid the COVID-19 crisis on individuals’ sleep quality and the underlying mechanisms through which this influence operates.

Methods

An online cross-sectional study design was employed. A total of 1,063 British adults (36.2% males; Mage = 38.85, SDage = 13.36, ranging from 18 to 77 years old) participated in the study and completed our questionnaires, which included media usage frequency during the pandemic, the 10-item Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and the Ten-item Personality Inventory (TIPI).

Results

Pearson’s correlation analyses indicated that there was no significant correlation between COVID-19-related traditional media use (television, radio, newspaper) and psychological distress or sleep quality. However, exposure to information related to COVID-19 through new media use (Facebook, Tik Tok, Twitter) was correlated with greater psychological distress and poorer sleep quality. A moderated mediation analysis showed that psychological distress fully mediated the relationship between new media use and poor sleep, which was moderated by age, with the association between psychological distress and poor sleep quality being stronger among older adults.

Conclusion

Exposure to information of COVID-19 via new (but not traditional) media use deteriorated sleep quality through greater psychological distress, and this relationship was stronger among older adults.
The role of psychological resilience and aggression in injury prevention among martial arts athletes
Authors: Patenteu Ionuț , Gawrych Roman , Bratu Mircea , Vasile Luciela , Makarowski Ryszard , Bitang Andrei , Nica Sarah Adriana
Published: June 2024

Introduction

For martial artists, the ability to manage reactions in the face of adversity and bounce back after a stressful event can have major impact on performance. The scope of the research is to investigate martial artists’ level of resilience and aggression (Go-ahead, Foul play, and Assertiveness factors), what is specific to athletes and who have suffered from moderate and/or severe injuries (in terms of resilience and three factors of aggression examined), and test the possibility that a psychological variable under investigation can predict athletes’ injury severity.

Materials and methods

A total sample of 154 athletes from striking combat sports—SC (karate, taekwondo, kickboxing, and boxing), grappling combat sports—GC (judo and BJJ), and mixed martial artists (MMA) participated in the research. For assessing resilience, the Romanian adaptation of the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) was used, and for aggression, the Romanian adaptation of Makarowski’s Sports Aggression Questionnaire was used. An injury report form was also created and applied to athletes.

Results

The post-hoc tests (after running a single-factor multivariate analysis of variance) revealed significant differences for resilience and Foul (violent) play between the sports disciplines analyzed. A significant positive correlation was found between athletes’ injury severity and assertiveness in SC and between injury severity and resilience in GC. Through the t-test for independent samples, it was highlighted that the average value for Foul (violent) play is significantly higher in athletes who have suffered mild, moderate, and/or severe injuries compared with martial arts athletes who have suffered from only mild/minor injuries. A binomial logistic regression was also performed to verify to what extent Foul play predicts athletes’ injury severity.

Conclusion

A low level of Foul (violent) play is linked with a decreased likelihood of moderate and/or severe injuries in martial arts athletes. The study findings suggest that resilience, foul play, and assertiveness have an important role in injury prevention among martial artists.
Measuring mental wellbeing in clinical and non-clinical adolescents using the COMPAS-W Wellbeing Scale
Authors: Lam Janine R. , Park Haeme R. P. , Gatt Justine M.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Adolescence is a key period of vulnerability for poor mental health as the brain is still developing and may be more sensitive to the negative impacts of stress and adversity. Unfortunately, few measures comprehensively assess wellbeing in adolescents.

Methods

The 26-item COMPAS-W Wellbeing Scale for adults was validated in a sample of 1,078 adolescents aged 13–17 years old (51.67% male, 79.13% non-clinical vs 20.87% psychiatric or developmental clinical cases). The six COMPAS-W sub-scales and total scale were examined in this sample using second-order confirmatory factor analysis, and psychometric testing.

Results

The 23-item COMPAS-W demonstrated the best fit for this sample according to goodness-of-fit indices (χ2 (220, 1078) = 1439.395, p < 0.001, CFI = 0.893, TLI = 0.877, RMSEA = 0.070, SRMR = 0.095). Internal reliability for the confirmed 23-item COMPAS-W model was run for the total scale (α = 0.912) and sub-scales (Composure, α = 0.735; Own-worth, α = 0.601; Mastery, α = 0.757; Positivity, α = 0.721; Achievement, α = 0.827; and Satisfaction, α = 0.867). Test-retest reliability over 6 weeks was also good for the total scale at r = 0.845 and the sub-scales: Composure (r = 0.754), Own-worth (r = 0.743), Mastery (r = 0.715), Positivity (r = 0.750), Achievement (r = 0.750), and Satisfaction (r = 0.812). Compared with non-clinical participants’ wellbeing (M = 90.375, SE = 0.400), those with clinical diagnoses reported lower wellbeing, both for those with developmental diagnoses (M = 85.088, SE = 1.188), or psychiatric diagnoses (M = 78.189, SE = 1.758), or combined developmental and psychiatric diagnoses (M = 77.079, SE = 2.116). Yet, when wellbeing category scores were considered by diagnosis group, both non-clinical and clinical groups demonstrated incidence across all three categories of languishing, moderate and flourishing wellbeing, in support of the dual-continua model of mental health. On average, younger adolescents’ (13–14 years) wellbeing did not differ from older adolescents’ (15–17 years) wellbeing; however, for sex, males scored 1.731 points significantly higher in wellbeing compared with females (p = 0.028); and American participants scored 3.042 points significantly higher in wellbeing compared with Australian participants (p < 0.001).

Discussion

In conclusion, the 23-item COMPAS-W is a reliable measure of wellbeing for adolescents, both for those with and without developmental and psychiatric diagnoses.
Randomized trial on the effects of an EMDR intervention on traumatic and obsessive symptoms during the COVID-19 quarantine: a psychometric study
Authors: Miccoli Mario , Poli Andrea
Published: June 2024

Introduction

It has been suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic was a potentially traumatic occurrence that may have induced generalized anxiety and discomfort, particularly in susceptible populations like individuals with mental illnesses. The therapeutic approach known as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) has been shown to be successful in helping patients process traumatic events and restore wellbeing. Nevertheless, little is known about the precise processes through which EMDR fosters symptom recovery.

Methods

In order to disentangle these issues, we conducted a randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT06110702) with 107 participants who were selected from university hospitals as a sample of investigation. Random assignments were applied to the participants in order to assign them to the experimental and control groups. The experimental group, but not the control group, underwent an 8-week EMDR intervention. Body perception, disgust, and emotions of guilt and shame, as well as mental contamination and posttraumatic and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, were investigated before and after the EMDR intervention.

Results

The EMDR intervention was able to improve all of the variables investigated. Path analysis showed that body perception was able to predict both disgust and emotions of guilt and shame. Disgust was able to predict both mental contamination and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, while guilt and shame were able to predict post-traumatic symptoms.

Conclusions

EMDR is an effective therapy for the treatment of post-traumatic and obsessive symptoms that acts through the promotion of improvement of the emotions of guilt/shame and disgust, respectively. Implications for clinical practice are examined.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT06110702.
Lifestyle factors modified the mediation role of liver fibrosis in the association between occupational physical activity and blood pressure
Authors: Zhang Shangyi , Chen Zhenlong , Jiang Xinman , Zhou Shenglan , Liu Yanru , Liu Mingsheng , Dai Xiayun , Lu Bifeng , Yi Guilin , Yin Wenjun
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The study aimed to estimate the role of liver fibrosis in the association between occupational physical activity (OPA) and blood pressure (BP), which is modified by lifestyle factors.

Methods

The questionnaire survey and physical examination were completed among 992 construction workers in Wuhan, China. Associations between OPA or lifestyle factors and liver fibrosis indices and blood pressure were assessed using generalized additive models. The mediation analysis was used to evaluate the role of liver fibrosis in the association between OPA and lifestyle factors and BP.

Results

Moderate/high OPA group workers had an increased risk of liver fibrosis [odds ratio (OR) = 1.69, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.16–2.47, P < 0.05] compared with low OPA group workers. Smoking or drinking alcohol was related to liver fibrosis (aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index: OR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.07–4.62 or OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.00–4.15; P < 0.05). Compared with non-drinkers, drinkers were related to a 2.35-mmHg increase in systolic blood pressure (95% CI: 0.09–4.61), and a 1.60-mmHg increase in diastolic blood pressure (95% CI: 0.08–3.13; P < 0.05). We found a significant pathway, “OPA → liver fibrosis → blood pressure elevation,” and lifestyle factors played a regulatory role in the pathway.

Conclusion

OPA or lifestyle factors were associated with liver fibrosis indices or BP in construction workers. Furthermore, the association between OPA and BP may be partially mediated by liver fibrosis; lifestyle factors strengthen the relationship between OPA and BP and the mediation role of liver fibrosis in the relationship.
A 12-week Taijiquan practice improves balance control and functional fitness in fall-prone postmenopausal women
Authors: Bai Xiaorong , Xiao Wensheng , Soh Kim Geok , Zhang Yang
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Falls are the leading cause of accidental death among older persons, with postmenopausal women facing a greater hazard of falling due to osteoporosis. This study aimed to examine the effects of Taijiquan practice on balance control and functional fitness in at-risk females.

Methods

Chinese women who self-reported a tendency to fall and had a baseline one-leg stand test time (4.1 s in the Taijiquan group) below the national average for their age group (60–64 years: 10.9 s, 65–69 years: 9.9 s) were assigned to either a control group (n = 26, mean age = 63.9 years) or a Taijiquan group (n = 24, mean age = 63.9 years). The Taijiquan group participated in a 12-week supervised intervention, while the control group maintained their daily activities. The average duration of each exercise session was 52 min. Static balance and functional fitness were assessed at the beginning and end of the intervention.

Results

After 12 weeks, the Taijiquan group significantly outperformed the control group in terms of balance, flexibility, and muscular fitness (all p < 0.05). Participants in the Taijiquan group improved their one-leg stand by 61.0% (+2.5 s, Hedge’s g = 0.85), arm curl by 8.3% (+1.7 repetitions, g = 0.53), handgrip strength by 8.3% (+1.9 kg, g = 0.65), and sit-and-reach by 163.2% (+6.2 cm, g = 1.17).

Conclusion

The improvement in balance, coupled with other functional fitness benefits, suggests that Taijiquan could serve as a useful exercise for older women with an elevated risk of falling.
Using Twitter to investigate discourse on immigration: the role of values in expressing polarized attitudes toward asylum seekers during the closure of Roxham Road
Authors: French Bourgeois Laura , Esses Victoria M.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The world is witnessing an escalating migration crisis, and Canada, with its historically high immigration rates, is experiencing a rise in the number of asylum seekers entering the country as well. Despite generally positive Canadian attitudes toward newcomers, there is a notable division in opinions about welcoming them. Past studies suggest personal values significantly shape these attitudes, particularly conservation (resistance to change) and self-transcendence (concern for others). However, little research has examined if these values manifest in social media discussions about immigration, especially at times when policies change. This study examines how the discourse on immigration changes following the announcement of the closure of Roxham Road, a debated irregular border crossing between the US and Canada used by asylum seekers.

Method

In total, 33,459 Tweets referencing Roxham Road were collected over the course of 1 week (before, during, and after the closure). We used the Personal Values Dictionary to automatically assess references to personal values (i.e., conservation and self-transcendence) in the Tweets.

Results

The results indicate that expression of the values of conservation and self-transcendence were prevalent in discourse surrounding the closure of Roxham Road. Tweets expressing conservation had a negative tone, whereas Tweets expressing self-transcendence had a positive tone. Analyzing sentiment over time, Tweets reflecting conservation became less negative immediately after the closure, whereas Tweets reflecting self-transcendence values became more positive.

Discussion

The research highlights the interplay between personal values and policy change on immigration discourse and emphasizes the need for more analyses on how personal values are expressed in the public domain.
Spatial distributions of 13CO and CS in a carbon-rich AGB star IRC+10216
Authors: Tuo Juan , Yang Xiaofeng , Sun Jixian
Published: June 2024

IRC+10216 is the typical carbon-rich asymptotic giant branch star, and more than 100 species have been observed in its circumstellar envelope so far. The use of interferometric arrays to map molecular emission in this source has been widely reported, but to study the angular extent of molecular emission, single-dish mapping must be employed. We report here the mapping of the 13CO J = 1–0 and CS J = 2–1 lines towards IRC+10216 using the 13.7 m mm-wave radio telescope at Purple Mountain Observatory. As far as we know, these maps are the largest published 13CO J = 2–1 and CS J = 2–1 images to date. Both molecules have roughly spherically symmetric distribution, with 13CO having an emission radius of over 80″and CS extending up to ∼50″. Assuming that the two molecules are in local thermodynamic equilibrium, the column density and fractional abundance relative to H2 for 13CO and the lower limits for CS are obtained. They are 4.35 × 1016 cm−2 and > 4.72 × 1014 cm−2, and 5.25 × 10−5 and > 2.56 × 10−7 for 13CO and CS, respectively.
Evaluation of surface type and time of day on agility course performance
Authors: Pechette Markley Arielle , Kieves Nina R. , Rivas Linda Blake , Shoben Abigail B.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Canine agility competitions are performed on a variety of surfaces. In the equine and human literature, surface type has been associated with speed, performance, and injury risk. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of general surface type and time of day on calculated speed (yards per second over a measured course distance) and course performance during the UKI Agility International (UKI) U.S. Open. We hypothesized that surface type would affect calculated speed, with sand being the slowest.

Materials and methods

Data on course performance from the 2021 and 2022 events were obtained directly from UKI. The officiating judge measured course length, automatic timers recorded dogs’ course times, and speeds were calculated from these values. Three surfaces (dirt, grass, and sand) were compared across three categories of courses (jumpers, standard, and speedstakes). Differences in calculated speeds and qualifying rates were estimated using generalized estimating equations (GEE) to account for multiple runs by the same handler.

Results

Among jumpers courses, those run on sand in 2021 were markedly slower than those run on dirt. Grass and dirt were more similar in terms of average calculated speed, though some courses run on grass were significantly faster than courses run on dirt and vice versa. Time of day effects observed were inconsistent, with more variability observed for dirt and sand than for grass.

Discussion

There was a notable variation in calculate speed based on surface with sand being slowest, likely due to the increased energy cost required to run on sand due to its high compliance. Calculated speeds on grass and dirt appeared generally similar, but there was substantial variability of calculated speed among various courses, making comparison of surface effects challenging. Variables within the surface itself (such as compaction level and moisture content) likely play a role in the effects of surface on speed and performance. This study provides insight into the complexity of surface effects on performance in agility dogs and highlights the need for canine-specific surface studies on the effect of surface variables and how these relate to risk of development of musculoskeletal injuries.
A suitable sampling strategy for the detection of African swine fever virus in living and deceased pigs in the field: a retrospective study
Authors: Li Xiaowen , Hu Zhiqiang , Tian Xiaogang , Fan Mingyu , Liu Qingyuan , Wang Xinglong
Published: June 2024

African swine fever (ASF) is a fatal disease that threatens the health status of the swine population and thus can impact the economic outcome of the global pig industry. Monitoring the ASF virus (ASFV) is of utmost concern to prevent and control its distribution. This study aims to identify a suitable sampling strategy for ASFV detection in living and deceased pigs under field conditions. A range of samples, comprising tissues obtained from deceased pigs, as well as serum and tonsil swab samples from live pigs, were gathered and subjected to detection using the qPCR method. The findings revealed that the mandibular lymph nodes demonstrated the highest viral loads among superficial tissues, thereby indicating their potential suitability for detecting ASFV in deceased pigs. Additionally, the correlations between virus loads in various tissues have demonstrated that tonsil swab samples are a viable specimen for monitoring live pigs, given the strong associations observed with other tissues. These findings indicated two dependable sample types for the detection of ASFV: mandibular lymph nodes for deceased pigs and tonsil swabs for live pigs, which supply some references for the development of efficacious preventive measures against ASFV.
Long-Term Outcome in Adult Patients with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy Submitted to Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Authors: Santi Samuele , Fuggetta Filomena , Colicchio Gabriella , D’Ercole Manuela , Izzo Alessandro , D’Alessandris Quintino Giorgio , Burattini Benedetta , Martinelli Renata , Montano Nicola
Published: June 2024

Epilepsy treatment primarily involves antiseizure medications (ASMs) to eliminate seizures and improve the quality of life, but many patients develop drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), necessitating alternative interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in managing DRE. We retrospectively analyzed data from 105 adult patients treated at Agostino Gemelli Hospital from 1994 to 2022. Among the 73 patients with follow-up data, 80.8% were responders, experiencing significant reductions in seizure frequency over an average follow-up period of 9.4 years. Although 19.2% were non-responders, many of these patients still opted for generator replacements due to improvements in quality of life, such as fewer falls and shorter post-ictal periods. The overall complication rate was 12.3%, with most complications being mild and manageable. These findings suggest that VNS offers substantial long-term benefits for patients with DRE, improving seizure control and quality of life. This study underscores the importance of VNS as a viable long-term treatment option for DRE, highlighting its potential to significantly enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.
Temperature Effect of Composite Girders with Corrugated Steel Webs Considering Local Longitudinal Stiffness of Webs
Authors: Cai Minghao , Liu Shizhong , Wang Fangxu
Published: June 2024

The theoretical calculation formula for the temperature effect of composite box beams with corrugated steel webs and arbitrary temperature gradient distribution is derived based on the structural characteristics of such beams. This is achieved by considering the deformation coordination condition of the steel and concrete interface, as well as taking into account the longitudinal constraint effect of the web. An analysis is conducted to compare the results obtained from a fine finite element numerical example with those from the theoretical formula. This study also investigates the height of the common flexural zone of corrugated steel web and concrete, confirming the correctness of the theoretical formula. The findings indicate that, when 10% of the height of the corrugated steel web is considered as the common flexural area, there is optimal agreement between the theoretical values and finite element values, resulting in calculated results that are more consistent with actual stress states in this type of box girder bridge. Furthermore, it is observed that the interfacial shear force and interface slip between the steel and concrete in composite beams are not uniformly distributed along their longitudinal axis. Specifically, the interfacial shear force follows a hyperbolic cosine function along this axis, reaching its maximum value at mid-span while being zero at both ends. On the other hand, the interface slip follows a hyperbolic sine function along this axis, reaching its maximum value at the beam end while being zero within the span. It should be noted that factors such as the interface slip stiffness, temperature difference, and linear expansion coefficient have a significant influence on the temperature effects in composite beams. In addition to these factors, a reasonable arrangement of shear nails on steel plates has been identified as an effective method for mitigating adverse effects.
A Case Study of Integrating Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) in Heritage Bridge Documentation: The Edmund Pettus Bridge
Authors: Willkens Danielle S. , Liu Junshan , Alathamneh Shadi
Published: June 2024

The Edmund Pettus Bridge, Selma, Alabama, a symbol of the American Civil Rights Movement and an exemplar of early 20th-century engineering, stands as a testament to the progress and challenges of its era. The bridge, recognized for its pivotal role in the 1965 “Bloody Sunday” conflict and the following Selma to Montgomery marches for voting rights, also represents significant engineering achievements with its distinctive design and construction methodology. In this study, the research team presents a comprehensive framework for documenting heritage bridges by utilizing Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) technology, supplemented by other Reality Capture (RC) techniques, including Structure from Motion (SfM), 360-degree photography, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), and integrating the data within a Building Information Modeling (BIM) environment. The focus on the Edmund Pettus Bridge case study demonstrates how this novel approach can capture the intricate details of its structural and architectural features while preserving its historical narratives. The documentation outcomes, including a detailed BIM model and a set of Historic American Engineering Record (HAER) drawings, highlight the effectiveness of combining TLS and BIM in conserving unconventional heritage structures like bridges. This paper also discusses the technological challenges encountered, such as dealing with heavy traffic and environmental constraints during data acquisition and developing the BIM model and drawings. It outlines the strategies implemented to address these issues. This research contributes to preserving a severely under-represented American National Historic Landmark (NHL). It sets a precedent for documenting other non-building heritage structures, balancing technological advancements with historical integrity.
Examination of Damage Evolution in Slurry Masonry Schist Subjected to Biaxial Compressive Stresses
Authors: Dong Jie , Cheng Siwu , Chen Hongyun , Zhang Hongfeng , Zhao Yadong , Zhang Guoxiang , Gong Fengwu
Published: June 2024

This study used a static bidirectional multifunctional loading system. The system conducted bidirectional compression tests on scaled specimens of slurry masonry schist under freeze–thaw cycling conditions. This study aimed to investigate the influence of bidirectional stress coupling with freeze–thaw cycles on the mechanical properties of slurry masonry schist. The results indicate that lateral pressure can increase the peak stress of slurry masonry schist, while freeze–thaw cycles have an adverse effect on the material’s internal pore structure, counteracting the gain effect of lateral pressure. This study also employed acoustic emission (AE) technology to analyze the evolution of slurry masonry schist failure characteristics. The findings reveal that freeze–thaw cycles accelerate the failure of slurry masonry schist during loading, and lateral pressure to some extent mitigates the damage development of slurry masonry schist. The synergistic effect of lateral pressure and freeze–thaw cycles alters the fracture mode of slurry masonry schist. Acoustic emission signal localization demonstrates numerous AE localization points in the interface transition zone, forming a coherent signal band where cracks propagate toward complete interface penetration. The crack extension process of the slurry masonry schist was investigated using the digital image correlation (DIC) method. The results indicated that macroscopic cracks formed in the strain localization zone, resulting in fracture damage to the specimens, with interfacial debonding identified as the primary failure mode for slurry masonry schist structures.
Displacement and Internal Force Response of Mechanically Connected Precast Piles Subjected to Horizontal Load Based on the m-Method
Authors: Gao Li , Zhuang Mei-Ling , Zhang Qunqun , Bao Guangdong , Yu Xiaoyang , Du Jiahao , Zhou Shengbo , Wang Mingsen
Published: June 2024

Mechanically connected precast piles are a type of precast piles that utilise snap-type mechanical connectors to restrain the pile ends of two identical or different precast piles at the top and bottom so as to quickly realise the purpose of the connection. However, the gap problem in the connectors of mechanically connected piles can lead to uneven and uniform deformation of the piles under horizontal loading, resulting in additional displacements and rotation angles of the piles at the connection. Solving the problem of calculating the internal force response of discontinuous deformed piles is a prerequisite for promoting and applying mechanically connected precast piles. Firstly, the theoretical derivation of mechanically connected piles with fixed constraints at the pile bottom is carried out. Secondly, the pile response equations of mechanically connected piles are established, and the theoretical solutions of pile displacement and internal force response of mechanically connected piles under horizontal loading are derived. Thirdly, the pile-soil model of the test pile is established using ABAQUS software (ABAQUS 2016) in combination with the design data of the test pile. The numerical simulation displacements and angles of rotation are compared with the test results. Finally, the theoretical and numerical simulation displacements and internal forces of the ordinary pile and the mechanically connected pile are compared. The relative errors of the displacements and angles of rotation of the established pile-soil model are less than 10%, indicating that the established model has good accuracy. The relative errors of the theoretical and numerical simulation displacements and internal forces of the mechanically connected pile are less than 10%, proving the correctness of the theoretical calculation by the m-method. This study can provide effective theoretical support and methodological guidance for the displacement and internal force response of discontinuous piles.
The Annual Effect of Landscapes on the Indoor Thermal Environment in Residential Areas—A Case Study in Southern Hunan
Authors: Li Jiayu , Zheng Bohong , Chen Xiao , Wang Lan
Published: June 2024

Landscape elements are crucial to the quality of the built environment. Thermal comfort is one of the important paths through which landscape elements affect the quality of the built environment. Most studies investigate the impacts of the landscape on the outdoor thermal environment, while ignoring the impacts on the indoor environment. A residential area in Chenzhou, a typical city having a hot summer and cold winter climate, was taken as an example to reveal the effect on the indoor thermal environment of landscapes. The annual distribution of the indoor thermal environment was analyzed with the “Envi-met+IDW” model, which was created to evaluate the annual thermal impact. Analytical results show that, from the perspective of the annual cycle, the camphor tree has the best performance in regulating the indoor thermal environment, followed by water and the palm. Manila grass has a very weak impact on indoor thermal comfort throughout the year. Camphor trees, water, and palm extend the “acceptable temperature” by 523 h, 416 h, and 388 h respectively. However, the camphor tree also has the strongest cooling effect on indoor environments during winter, increasing the “heating demand temperature” by 289 h.
Insight into Olfactory Learning, Memory, and Mortality of Apis mellifera jemenitica after Exposure to Acetamiprid Insecticide
Authors: Abuagla Mohamedazim I. B. , Iqbal Javaid , Raweh Hael S. A. , Alqarni Abdulaziz S.
Published: June 2024

The honey bee, a significant crop pollinator, encounters pesticides through various routes of exposure during foraging and flower visitation. Considering the potential threat of pesticide poisoning, the indigenous Saudi bee Apis mellifera jemenitica is susceptible to the risks associated with acetamiprid, a neonicotinoid insecticide. This study investigates the acetamiprid-induced effects on the survival, olfactory learning, and memory formation of A. m. jemenitica through two exposure routes: topical application and oral ingestion. Field-realistic and serially diluted concentrations (100, 50, 25, and 10 ppm) of acetamiprid led to notable mortality at 4, 12, 24, and 48 h after treatment, with peak mortality observed at 24 h and 48 h for both exposure routes. Bee mortality was concentration-dependent, increasing with the rising concentration of acetamiprid at the tested time intervals. Food consumption following oral exposure exhibited a concentration-dependent pattern, steadily decreasing with increasing concentrations of acetamiprid. Oral exposure resulted in a substantially higher cumulative mortality (55%) compared to topical exposure (15%), indicating a significant disparity in bee mortality between the two exposure routes. The 24 h post-treatment LC50 values for acetamiprid were 160.33 and 12.76 ppm for topical application and oral ingestion, respectively. The sublethal concentrations (LC10, LC20, and LC30) of acetamiprid were 15.23, 34.18, and 61.20 ppm, respectively, following topical exposure, and 2.85, 4.77, and 6.91 ppm, respectively, following oral exposure. The sublethal concentrations of acetamiprid significantly decreased learning during the 2nd–3rd conditioning trials and impaired memory formation at 2, 12, and 24 h following both topical and oral exposure routes, compared to the control bees. Notably, the sublethal concentrations were equally effective in impairing bee learning and memory. Taken together, acetamiprid exposure adversely affected bee survival, hindered learning, and impaired the memory retention of learned tasks.
How Climate Warming Influences the Phenology of Grapholita molesta (Busck, 1916) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in China: Insight from Long-Term Historical Data
Authors: Bian Haotian , Li Wenzhuo , Yu Shengjun , Mao Jianxiang , Hong Yongcong , Song Yunzhe , Cai Pumo
Published: June 2024

Grapholita molesta (Busck, 1916), a significant pest affecting various fruits such as pears, apples, peaches, etc., is highly adaptable to changing temperatures. However, the phenological response mechanism of this pest to climate warming remains unclear. To address this issue, we collected population dynamics data of G. molesta in China over the years along with corresponding climate data. We analyzed five phenological indexes: the first, end, and peak occurrence dates of contemporary adults as well as the first and peak occurrence dates of overwintering adults in China. Results revealed an upward trend in the annual average temperature and average temperature of the four seasons in regions infested by G. molesta in eastern, northeastern, northwestern, northern, and southwestern China from 1980 to 2020. Notably, the population peak date of overwintering adults in northeastern and eastern China significantly advanced along with the first occurrence date and the population peak date of overwintering adults in northern China. Additionally, the population peak date of contemporary adults in northwestern China significantly advanced. However, the end occurrence date of contemporary adults in northern China was significantly delayed, as was the first occurrence date of overwintering adults in northwestern China. Furthermore, our study demonstrated spatial heterogeneity in the phenological response of G. molesta to climate warming across China. This study elucidates the phenological response of G. molesta to climate warming, offering valuable insights for predicting future pest infestations and informing adaptive pest management strategies in fruit tree cultivation.
Unconventional Strategies for Aphid Management in Sorghum
Authors: Grijalva Ivan , Kang Qing , Flippo Daniel , Sharda Ajay , McCornack Brian
Published: June 2024

Since the invasion of the sorghum aphid Melanaphis sorghi (Theobald), farmers in the sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) production region in the Great Plains of the U.S. have faced significant crop damage and reduced yields. One widely used practice to aid in managing sorghum aphids is pest monitoring, which often results in field-level insecticide applications when an economic threshold is reached. However, relying on this traditional management practice includes the application of insecticides to non-infested plants. To reduce insecticide usage in sorghum, we proposed spraying individual plants when aphids are present or absent compared to traditional spraying based on a standard economic threshold using field replicate plots over two summer seasons. The experimental results of this study indicated fewer aphids in plots managed with an economic threshold, followed by randomly sprayed and plant-specific treatments compared with the untreated control treatment. Therefore, compared with traditional management, those treatments can be alternative strategies for managing aphids on sorghum within our field plot study.
Current Status of Ovarian and Endometrial Biomarkers in Predicting ART Outcomes
Authors: Volovsky Michelle , Seifer David B.
Published: June 2024

This review evaluates the role of ovarian and endometrial biomarkers in predicting outcomes in assisted reproductive technology (ART). It highlights established ovarian biomarkers such as the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), alongside emerging ones like growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15), connexin, and granulosa cell gene profiles. Additionally, the paper explores endometrial biomarkers such as ERA, BCL6, and immune markers, as well as the potential for genomic and proteomic technologies in customizing implantation. It concludes that while many of these biomarkers show promise, their clinical integration requires rigorous research and validation to confirm their safety and utility in ART.
Petrogenesis of the Dalaku’an Mafic–Ultramafic Intrusion in the East Kunlun, Xinjiang: Constraints from the Mineralogy of Amphiboles
Authors: Fan Yazhou , Deng Yali , Xia Zhaode , Ren Minghao , Huang Jianhan
Published: June 2024

The Dalaku’an mafic–ultramafic intrusion, located in the western segment of the East Kunlun, presents conducive conditions for the magmatic Cu-Ni sulfide deposits. According to the detailed petrographic observation, the amphiboles within distinct rock types were analyzed by EPMA analysis. The crystallization conditions, such as temperature, pressure, oxygen fugacity, and water content of the magma, were calculated to explore the genesis of the intrusion. The amphiboles were divided into three types: Amp-I, characterized by low silicon content but enrichment of aluminum, titanium, and alkali, predominantly comprising Tschermakitic hornblende and Magnesio-hornblende with mantle-derived traits; Amp-II, exhibiting elevated silicon content but diminished levels of aluminum, titanium, and alkali, primarily constituted of Magnesio-hornblende; whereas Amp-III manifests as Actinolitic hornblende, indicative of crustal origins. The calculated temperatures of amphiboles ranged between Amp-I (955–880) °C, Amp-II (852–774) °C, and Amp-III (761–760) °C; the pressures ranged between Amp-I (454–274) MPa, Amp-II (194–93) MPa, and Amp-III (101–84) MPa; the oxygen fugacities (△NNO) ranged between Amp-I (0.93–2.17), Amp-II (1.55–2.52), and Amp-III (1.89); and the water contents (H2Omelt) ranged from (6.69–8.67) to (5.90–7.32). The magma experienced multiple stages of crystallization and underwent complex magma evolution at different depths. The high oxygen fugacity and water content could be attributed to the subduction of the oceanic crust. The magma source of the Dalaku’an intrusion was metasomatized by fluids from subducting plates, thereby originating within a post-collision extension.
Raman Spectroscopy Reveals Photobiomodulation-Induced α-Helix to β-Sheet Transition in Tubulins: Potential Implications for Alzheimer’s and Other Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Di Gregorio Elisabetta , Staelens Michael , Hosseinkhah Nazanin , Karimpoor Mahroo , Liburd Janine , Lim Lew , Shankar Karthik , Tuszyński Jack A.
Published: June 2024

In small clinical studies, the application of transcranial photobiomodulation (PBM), which typically delivers low-intensity near-infrared (NIR) to treat the brain, has led to some remarkable results in the treatment of dementia and several neurodegenerative diseases. However, despite the extensive literature detailing the mechanisms of action underlying PBM outcomes, the specific mechanisms affecting neurodegenerative diseases are not entirely clear. While large clinical trials are warranted to validate these findings, evidence of the mechanisms can explain and thus provide credible support for PBM as a potential treatment for these diseases. Tubulin and its polymerized state of microtubules have been known to play important roles in the pathology of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, we investigated the effects of PBM on these cellular structures in the quest for insights into the underlying therapeutic mechanisms. In this study, we employed a Raman spectroscopic analysis of the amide I band of polymerized samples of tubulin exposed to pulsed low-intensity NIR radiation (810 nm, 10 Hz, 22.5 J/cm2 dose). Peaks in the Raman fingerprint region (300–1900 cm−1)—in particular, in the amide I band (1600–1700 cm−1)—were used to quantify the percentage of protein secondary structures. Under this band, hidden signals of C=O stretching, belonging to different structures, are superimposed, producing a complex signal as a result. An accurate decomposition of the amide I band is therefore required for the reliable analysis of the conformation of proteins, which we achieved through a straightforward method employing a Voigt profile. This approach was validated through secondary structure analyses of unexposed control samples, for which comparisons with other values available in the literature could be conducted. Subsequently, using this validated method, we present novel findings of statistically significant alterations in the secondary structures of polymerized NIR-exposed tubulin, characterized by a notable decrease in α-helix content and a concurrent increase in β-sheets compared to the control samples. This PBM-induced α-helix to β-sheet transition connects to reduced microtubule stability and the introduction of dynamism to allow for the remodeling and, consequently, refreshing of microtubule structures. This newly discovered mechanism could have implications for reducing the risks associated with brain aging, including neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, through the introduction of an intervention following this transition.