bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stochastic Games with Synchronization Objectives
Authors: Doyen Laurent
Published: March 2023

We consider two-player stochastic games played on a finite graph for infinitely many rounds. Stochastic games generalize both Markov decision processes (MDP) by adding an adversary player, and two-player deterministic games by adding stochasticity. The outcome of the game is a sequence of distributions over the graph states, representing the evolution of a population consisting of a continuum number of identical copies of a process modeled by the game graph. We consider synchronization objectives, which require the probability mass to accumulate in a set of target states, either always, once, infinitely often, or always after some point in the outcome sequence; and the winning modes of sure winning (if the accumulated probability is equal to 1) and almost-sure winning (if the accumulated probability is arbitrarily close to 1).

We present algorithms to compute the set of winning distributions for each of these synchronization modes, showing that the corresponding decision problem is PSPACE-complete for synchronizing once and infinitely often and PTIME-complete for synchronizing always and always after some point. These bounds are remarkably in line with the special case of MDPs, while the algorithmic solution and proof technique are considerably more involved, even for deterministic games. This is because those games have a flavor of imperfect information, in particular they are not determined and randomized strategies need to be considered, even if there is no stochastic choice in the game graph. Moreover, in combination with stochasticity in the game graph, finite-memory strategies are not sufficient in general.
Baroreflex resetting of human sympathetic action potential subpopulations during exercise
Authors: Klassen Stephen A. , Badrov Mark B. , Moir M. Erin , Shoemaker J. Kevin
Published: March 2023

This study provides new insight to baroreflex resetting of MSNA during exercise in humans. Both fatiguing IHG and PECO reset baroreflex control of sympathetic APs to higher blood pressures and greater MSNA. However, only PECO increased baroreflex threshold gain of medium-sized sympathetic APs, an effect that was concealed when focusing on the integrated MSNA neurogram to quantify baroreflex gain. These data suggest that descending central versus ascending muscle metaboreflex mechanisms differentially affect baroreflex resetting of sympathetic APs.
Biocompatibility, Degradation Behavior, and Mechanical Properties of Magnesium Alloy Plates In Vivo
Authors: Wang Yongping , Qin Qingqing , Liu Xiaorong , Li Qiangqiang , Zhang Huaibin , Yang Dubin , Jiang Yao
Published: March 2023

The magnesium alloy was made into orthopedic steel plates to repair tibial fractures of New Zealand white rabbits and to explore the biocompatibility, degradation behavior, and mechanical properties of the magnesium alloy plates in repairing fractures in vivo. Fifty-four rabbits were randomly divided into experimental, control, and sham-operated groups. Tibial fractures in the experimental and the control groups were fixed with magnesium alloy and titanium alloy plates, respectively, and only bone tunnels were established without any implants in the sham-operated group. The concentrations of serum alanine transaminase, creatinine (CREA), creatine kinase (CK), and magnesium ion were measured before and 1 day, 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 weeks after operation, respectively, to evaluate the biocompatibility of magnesium alloy plates. The corrosion products and components were observed using a scanning electron microscope with an energy-dispersive spectroscopy system, and the corrosion rate was observed by weight loss testing. Then the degradation behavior of magnesium alloy plate was analyzed. Analysis of mechanical properties of magnesium alloy plates was done by four-point bending tests. There were no statistically significant differences in serum alanine transaminase, CREA, or CK at each time point among the three groups (

P
>
0.05

). The degradation behavior of the magnesium alloy plates increased with the longer implantation time. The four-point bending test results indicated that the mechanical properties of magnesium alloy plates decreased gradually during the degradation. The results showed that magnesium alloy plates implanted into rabbit tibias degrade gradually with the implantation time, and the mechanical properties of the magnesium alloy weaken gradually during the degradation. Meanwhile, the magnesium alloy plate had excellent biocompatibility and biosafety in the process of degradation in vivo.
Acupuncture in the Treatment of Abnormal Muscle Tone in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yuanjie Yan , Jianyi Xue , Jinyan Xu , Mao Huang , Siyang Yan , Zhenjin Yin
Published: March 2023

Objective. To analyse the clinical efficacy of acupuncture and routine treatment in improving dystonia in children with cerebral palsy. Method. The randomized controlled trials published from the establishment of the databases to August 2022 on acupuncture in the treatment of dystonia in children with cerebral palsy were collected and comprehensively searched in China national knowledge infrastructure (CNKI), weipu (VIP), Wanfang, SinoMed, PubMed, Excerpta medica database (EMBASE), and Cochrane Library. The literature was selected according to the established standards, the quality of the included studies was evaluated, the heterogeneity of the included studies was evaluated with the I2 test, and the appropriate model was selected for analysis. Sensitivity analysis was used to evaluate the reliability of the results, and a funnel plot was used to evaluate the publication bias. Results. Fifteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. The control group was treated with routine treatment and acupuncture combined with routine treatment. The outcome index showed that the effect in the treatment group was better: Modified Ashworth Scale score: −0.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) (−0.62 to −0.41),

p
<
0.01

. The treatment group showed reduced muscle tension to a greater extent (integral eletromyographic (iEMG) score: standard mean square deviation = −2.97, 95% CI (−4.87 to −1.06),

p
<
0.01

). The effective rate in the control group was 74.2% and that in the treatment group was 91.5%, odds ratio = 3.70, 95% CI (2.02–6.78),

p
<
0.01

. The funnel plot showed publication bias. Conclusion. Acupuncture combined with routine training could improve muscle tension abnormalities and improve the efficiency of clinical treatment.
Using a Synthetic Borehole Model to Determine the Pore Aspect Ratio Dependence of Velocities from Acoustic Well-Logging Data
Authors: Feng Xiao , Li Tianyang , Du Bingrui , Kong Wenxin
Published: March 2023

Revealing the elastic wave properties of carbonate rocks with complex pore structures and improving the reliability of carbonate reservoir descriptions have always been a global challenge in the field of carbonate geophysical exploration. In this study, we established a synthetic borehole model by selecting different particle sizes of cement, carbonate cuttings, and micro-silicon as the matrix, and silicon disks as the pores in carbonate rocks. We conducted four sets of low-porosity (0-3%) borehole models with different pore aspect ratios (ARs) and measured the P- and S-wave velocities (

V

P

and

V

S

) at the well-logging scale obtained from an acoustic logging system with one source and two receivers. The results indicate that the relationship between velocities and porosities in these borehole models follows a linear relation, with the pore AR significantly influencing the velocities at any given porosity. The velocity variation caused by pore AR reaches 560 m/s and 410 m/s at 3% porosity for the P-wave and S-wave within the AR range of 0.017-0.13. The theoretical DEM models provide a high and broad estimation of

V

P

and

V

S

at the well-logging scale in our measurement. They could perform better in fractured formation than in dissolved porous formation in carbonate reservoirs. The linear relation of

V

P

and

V

S

is independent of the pore AR and is effective for both fractured and dissolved porous formations. The change of

V

P

/

V

S

in different pore AR is more responsive to porosity and nonlinear dependent on the pore AR. The relationship between the defined normalized

V

P

and

V

S

indicates the pore AR has a more significant effect on

V

S

than

V

P

in our model. The constructed borehole models provide a unique opportunity for evaluating the availability of rock physics models at an acoustic logging scale. The study’s findings have significant implications for improving the reliability of carbonate reservoir descriptions and enhancing the accuracy of geophysical exploration in carbonate rocks with complex pore structures.
Utilization of Wastewater as a Nutritional Source for the Production of Algal Biomass
Authors: Rather Sami-ullah , Davoodbasha MubarakAli , Bamufleh Hisham S. , Alhumade Hesham , Saeed Usman , Taimoor Aqeel Ahmad , Sulaimon Aliyu Adebayo , Al-Alaya Walid , Shariff Azim M.
Published: March 2023

In general, sludge wastewater treatments from plants are often disposed of in landfills (60%) rather than recycled, and this eventually affects the environment. Microalgae cultivation in wastewater has recently emerged as an alternate method for successfully treating wastewater in an ecofriendly way. The present study explores the possibility of growing microalgae in sludge effluent derived from industries. Industrial sludge acts as the only nutritional supplement for algal growth. The amount of organic carbon might increase the amount of protein and carbohydrates used for the production of lipids. The batch culture of different ratios of sludge wastewater was compared. The features of algal growth and biodiesel generation were studied, as well as the nitrogen and phosphate removal rates. The lipid levels of Chlorella sp. produced in this medium were clearly superior to those grown on the BG11 medium. Furthermore, this study indicated that the removal of industrial sludge and wastewater, in the absence of other nutritional supplies, allows for an efficient culture of Chlorella sp., followed by biodiesel generation. This has significant research and industrial implications since it will enable Chlorella sp. production in a mixed waste culture medium without the need for additional nutritional sources.
Whole-genome and Epigenomic Landscapes of Malignant Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors HarboringKITExon 11 557–558 Deletion Mutations
Authors: Ohshima Keiichi , Nagashima Takeshi , Fujiya Keiichi , Hatakeyama Keiichi , Watanabe Yuko , Morimoto Kimiko , Kamada Fukumi , Shimoda Yuji , Ohnami Sumiko , Naruoka Akane , Serizawa Masakuni , Ohnami Shumpei , Kenmotsu Hirotsugu , Shiomi Akio , Tsubosa Yasuhiro , Bando Etsuro , Sugiura Teiichi , Sugino Takashi , Terashima Masanori , Uesaka Katsuhiko , Urakami Kenichi , Akiyama Yasuto , Yamaguchi Ken
Published: March 2023

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) with KIT exon 11 deletions involving in codons 557–558 (KIT Δ557–558) exhibit higher proliferation rates and shorter disease-free survival times compared with GISTs with other KIT exon 11 mutations. We analyzed 30 GIST cases and observed genomic instability and global DNA hypomethylation only in high-risk malignant GISTs with KIT Δ557–558. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that the high-risk malignant GISTs with KIT Δ557–558 (12 cases) had more structural variations (SV), single-nucleotide variants, and insertions and deletions compared with the low-risk, less malignant GISTs with KIT Δ557–558 (six cases) and the high-risk (six cases) or low-risk (6 cases) GISTs with other KIT exon 11 mutations. The malignant GISTs with KIT Δ557–558 showed higher frequency and significance in copy number (CN) reduction on chromosome arms 9p and 22q, and 50% of them had LOH or CN-dependent expression reduction in CDKN2A. In addition, SVs with driver potential were detected in 75% of them, in which AKT3 and MGMT were recurrently identified. Genome-wide DNA methylation and gene expression analyses showed global intergenic DNA hypomethylation, SNAI2 upregulation, and higher expression signatures, including p53 inactivation and chromosomal instability, as characteristics of malignant GISTs with KIT Δ557–558 that distinguished them from other GISTs. These genomic and epigenomic profiling results revealed that KIT Δ557–558 mutations are associated with increased genomic instability in malignant GISTs.

Significance:

We present genomic and epigenomic insights into the malignant progression of GISTs with KIT exon 11 deletions involving in 557–558, demonstrating their unique chromosomal instability and global intergenic DNA hypomethylation.
Systemic LRG1 Expression in Melanoma is Associated with Disease Progression and Recurrence
Authors: Hoefsmit Esmee P. , Völlmy Franziska , Rozeman Elisa A. , Reijers Irene L.M. , Versluis Judith M. , Hoekman Liesbeth , van Akkooi Alexander C.J. , Long Georgina V. , Schadendorf Dirk , Dummer Reinhard , Altelaar Maarten , Blank Christian U.
Published: March 2023

The response rates upon neoadjuvant immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) in stage III melanoma are higher as compared with stage IV disease. Given that successful ICB depends on systemic immune response, we hypothesized that systemic immune suppression might be a mechanism responsible for lower response rates in late-stage disease, and also potentially with disease recurrence in early-stage disease. Plasma and serum samples of cohorts of patients with melanoma were analyzed for circulating proteins using mass spectrometry proteomic profiling and Olink proteomic assay. A cohort of paired samples of patients with stage III that progressed to stage IV disease (n = 64) was used to identify markers associated with higher tumor burden. Baseline patient samples from the OpACIN-neo study (n = 83) and PRADO study (n = 49; NCT02977052) were used as two independent cohorts to analyze whether the potential identified markers are also associated with disease recurrence after neoadjuvant ICB therapy. When comparing baseline proteins overlapping between patients with progressive disease and patients with recurrent disease, we found leucine-rich alpha-2-glycoprotein 1 (LRG1) to be associated with worse prognosis. Especially nonresponder patients to neoadjuvant ICB (OpACIN-neo) with high LRG1 expression had a poor outcome with an estimated 36-month event-free survival of 14% as compared with 83% for nonresponders with a low LRG1 expression (P = 0.014). This finding was validated in an independent cohort (P = 0.0021). LRG1 can be used as a biomarker to identify patients with high risk for disease progression and recurrence, and might be a target to be combined with neoadjuvant ICB.

Significance:

LRG1 could serve as a potential target and as a biomarker to identify patients with high risk for disease recurrence, and consequently benefit from additional therapies and intensive follow-up.
Poor Correlation between Fetal Tissue Doppler Imaging and Pulsed Wave Myocardial Performance Indices
Authors: Avnet Hagai , Thomas Samantha , Beirne Geraldene , Alphonse Jennifer , Welsh Alec
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Both tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and pulsed wave Doppler (PWD) Myocardial Performance Indices (MPIs) have been proposed as tools for functional fetal cardiology. We wished to determine if there was any correlation between TDI-MPI and PWD-MPI. Methods: A cohort of uncomplicated women with morphologically normal singleton fetuses between 22 and 39 weeks of gestation was recruited. A single sonologist acquired Doppler waveforms for evaluation of both left and right TDI-MPI and PWD-MPI. The PWD-MPI values were calculated using a previously published algorithm and the TDI-MPI time intervals were measured manually by a single operator. Results: Achievability and repeatability were high for both modalities. TDI produced significantly lower right MPI values yet significantly higher left MPI values, potentially reflecting their evaluation of physiologically different events, blood flow versus myocardial contraction. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that MPIs measured from PWD and TDI have a weak correlation and cannot be used interchangeably, even with the exclusion of suboptimal TDI-MPI scans from the analysis. Given the lack of correlation between the two methods, the high variation in TDI waveform, and the lack of unified approach to TDI analysis, we feel further research is needed before adoption of this technique.
Role of Interleukin-6 Family Cytokines in Organ Fibrosis
Authors: Chen Ying , Zhou Jiaxin , Xu Shihui , Nie Jing
Published: March 2023

Background: Organ fibrosis remains an important cause of high incidence rate and mortality worldwide. The prominent role of interleukin-6 (IL-6) family members represented by IL-6 in inflammation has been extensively studied, and drugs targeting IL-6 have been used clinically. Because of the close relationship between inflammation and fibrosis, researches on the role of IL-6 family members in organ fibrosis are also gradually emerging. Summary: In this review, we systematically reviewed the role of IL-6 family members in fibrosis and their possible mechanisms. We listed the role of IL-6 family members in organ fibrosis and drew two diagrams to illustrate the downstream signal transductions of IL-6 family members. We also summarized the effect of some IL-6 family members' antagonists in a table. Key Messages: Fibrosis contributes to organ structure damage, organ dysfunction, and eventually organ failure. Although IL-6 family cytokines have similar downstream signal pathways, different members play various roles in an organ-specific manner which might be partly due to their different target cell populations. The pathogenic role of individual member in various diseases needs to be deciphered carefully.
Batman Despertar
Authors: Pacheco Mariana Seminati , Silva José Maurício Conrado Moreira da
Published: March 2023

Apresenta uma análise a respeito da adaptação da história do personagem de Histórias em Quadrinhos Batman para o formato de áudio-série na plataforma Spotify, para se compreender como as novas tecnologias e relações hipermidiáticas entre os diversos meios são trabalhadas para atender ao consumo de narrativas em uma sociedade do cansaço e de desempenho, de forma clara e simples, mas ainda assim desafiadora em atiçar novas sensações de um símbolo presente na memória popular e reconhecido dentro da cultura Pop.
Musicoterapia como intervenção não-farmacológica na doença de Alzheimer: uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Cosmo Beatriz Gonçalves , Vervloet Giulia de Menezes , Rocha João Pedro Machado , Klein Mylena Pimentel , Silva Raquel Santos , Campos Valdir Ribeiro
Published: March 2023

Objetivo: Analisar a importância e os efeitos benéficos do uso da musicoterapia no tratamento de pessoas com DA. Métodos: Consiste em uma revisão integrativa da literatura a partir de critérios de inclusão que abrangeram artigos escritos em inglês, português e espanhol, no período entre 2016 e 2021, totalizando 26 artigos. Resultados: Após análise com base nos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, foram selecionados 26 artigos, os quais evidenciaram que a musicoterapia como tratamento não medicamentoso no manejo da doença de Alzheimer é mais eficaz que a leitura de letras e seu impacto se torna ainda maior quando introduzida em intervenções em grupo. Além disso, possui benefícios cognitivos e neuropsicóticos, apesar de não ser a melhor opção de tratamento não medicamentoso para tais sintomas, visto que estes respondem melhor ao treino cognitivo. Conclusão: A musicoterapia para pessoas com doença de Alzheimer demonstrou benefícios cognitivos, bem como reduziu a necessidade do uso de medicações antipsicóticas e ansiolíticas.
Up in Smoke: Public Attitudes Toward the Implementation of Recreational Marijuana Legislation (RML)
Authors: Mancini Christina
Published: March 2023

Several states have adopted recreational marijuana legislation (RML). While the public favors RML, open questions remain concerning the specific implementation of legalization. Specifically, how do Americans feel the revenue from such sales should be spent? Relatedly, what justice reforms should be considered? Not least, what proportion of the public remains uncertain about these facets of regulation and how does this uncertainty impact policy preferences for investment and reform? These are important questions to examine given the public’s influence in the emergence of RML. Drawing on a 2022 national poll ( N = 1,003), this study examines public attitudes toward investment strategies (e.g., public schools) and justice system responses due to legalization (e.g., expungement). Results suggest that most of the public approves of these measures. However, divides in favoring specific initiatives are evident. Implications are discussed.
Pro-Environmental Behavior Triggers Moral Inference, Not Licensing by Observers
Authors: Urban Jan , Bahník Štěpán , Braun Kohlová Markéta
Published: March 2023

Several studies have shown that moral licensing by observers makes observers more lenient in their judgment of subsequent immoral behaviors committed by a person. Environmental behavior is generally perceived as moral behavior, but it is not known whether it can trigger moral licensing by observers. In two pre-registered experimental laboratory studies ( N1 = 198, N2 = 501), we have tested whether prior engagement in pro-environmental behavior triggers licensing by observers and thus makes observers judge more positively actors’ subsequent immoral behavior (Study 1) and their subsequent anti- and pro-environmental behaviors (Study 2). We found that people engaging in pro-environmental behavior were subsequently rated as more pro-environmental and moral, and their subsequent pro- and anti-environmental behaviors (but not outright immoral behavior) were rated as more moral by observers. As these effects also concern subsequent pro-environmental behaviors, they are broader than what licensing theory suggests.
A Quasi-Experimental Exploration of Activity-Based Flexible Office Design and Demographic Differences in Employee Absenteeism
Authors: Lauterbach Ann S. , Kunze Florian
Published: March 2023

This study examines whether transitioning from cellular offices to an activity-based flexible office (A-FO) impacts employee absenteeism over time. Based on privacy theory, we hypothesized that changing from cell offices to an A-FO setting would lead to increased employee absenteeism. We further assumed that longer-tenured and female employees would experience greater difficulty with the transition, leading to more absenteeism among these groups. Using a sample of 2,017 white-collar workers tracked over 8 years, we quasi-experimentally investigated if absenteeism in the group with the office design intervention (1,035 individuals) differed from the control group (982 individuals). In the difference-in-difference (DiD) framework, nested negative binomial regression showed no difference in absenteeism between the intervention and control groups. However, a three-way interaction revealed that long-term employees showed higher absenteeism when switching to an A-FO. We discuss our contributions and the implications for corporate leadership, human resources, and change management.
“The cleanest, neatest, most effectively operating piece of social machinery I’ve ever seen”: On the reception of Fascist corporatism in the USA
Authors: Pasetti Matteo
Published: March 2023

In the era between the two world wars, the spread of corporatist laws and institutions in many countries, flourishing mostly in the 1930s, was marked by a transnational hybridization of projects and experiences. Against this background, the Italian corporatist state became a milestone for many intellectuals and politicians not only in Europe but also on the American continent. This article deals with the transatlantic influence of the corporatist Fascist laboratory, focusing on the reception of this political option and the debate about it in New Deal's United States. In particular, some case studies will be considered to observe how corporatism was a key factor in legitimizing Fascism even in democratic circles, despite the criticisms of the Italian regime from anti-fascists in exile. In USA, in fact, the impact of the Great Depression increased the popularity of this alternative, partly because Italy seemed less affected by the economic crisis than other states. While in the 1920s the Fascist corporatist experiment had drawn the attention of some secondary intellectuals, in the 1930s it became a matter of reflection even within President Franklin Roosevelt's progressive entourage. For example, economist Rexford Tugwell wrote in his diary that Italian corporatist order was “The cleanest, neatest, most effectively operating piece of social machinery I’ve ever seen. It makes me envious.”
Asymmetric Exchange Rate Pass Through to Consumer Prices: Evidence from Zambia
Authors: Fandamu Humphrey , Ndulo Manenga , Mudenda Dale , Fandamu Mercy
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the asymmetric exchange rate pass through (ERPT) to consumer price inflation in Zambia. We examined ERPT to consumer price inflation arising from kwacha depreciation and appreciation for the period between the first quarter of 1985 to the fourth quarter of 2017. We employed the structural vector autoregressive model. The results showed that ERPT to consumer price inflation is incomplete and asymmetric. Consumer prices in Zambia are more responsive to kwacha depreciation than to appreciation. The depreciation of the kwacha has a greater significant impact on consumer prices than the appreciation of the kwacha. The impulse response function analysis showed that the shock to kwacha depreciation is very persistent than that of kwacha appreciation. Finally, the forecast error variance decomposition showed that a depreciation shock explains a bigger portion of the variance in consumer price inflation than an appreciation shock. These findings show that kwacha depreciation and appreciation have different effects on consumer price inflation, thereby confirming the presence of asymmetries in the ERPT. The study also accounted for the effect of commodity price booms in influencing ERPT. However, results of ERPT did not change much with the inclusion of commodity price booms.

JEL Codes: E31, F31
From Teams to Teamness: Future Directions in the Science of Team Cognition
Authors: Cooke Nancy J. , Cohen Myke C. , Fazio Walter C. , Inderberg Laura H. , Johnson Craig J. , Lematta Glenn J. , Peel Matthew , Teo Aaron
Published: March 2023

Objective

We review the current state-of-the-art in team cognition research, but more importantly describe the limitations of existing theories, laboratory paradigms, and measures considering the increasing complexities of modern teams and the study of team cognition.

Background

Research on, and applications of, team cognition has led to theories, data, and measures over the last several decades.

Method

This article is based on research questions generated in a spring 2022 seminar on team cognition at Arizona State University led by the first author.

Results

Future research directions are proposed for extending the conceptualization of teams and team cognition by examining dimensions of teamness; extending laboratory paradigms to attain more realistic teaming, including nonhuman teammates; and advancing measures of team cognition in a direction such that data can be collected unobtrusively, in real time, and automatically.

Conclusion

The future of team cognition is one of the new discoveries, new research paradigms, and new measures.

Application

Extending the concepts of teams and team cognition can also extend the potential applications of these concepts.
Risk Factors Associated with Simultaneous Use of Alcohol and Prescription Opioids Among Young Adults in Michigan
Authors: Lee Guijin , Pasman Emily , Ellis Jennifer D. , Solberg Marvin A. , Hicks Danielle , Agius Elizabeth , Resko Stella M.
Published: March 2023

Purpose: Alcohol can have serious side effects alone and can enhance the side effects of prescription opioids in unpredictable and dangerous ways. This study aims to identify risk factors for simultaneous use of alcohol and prescription opioids among young adults. Methods: Demographic characteristics, substance use, mental well-being, other substance-related factors, and simultaneous use of alcohol and prescription opioids were utilized to run multiple logistic regression analysis ( N = 1751; aged 18–25). Results: Mental well-being ( OR = 0.971, p = .003) and education level ( OR = 0.383, p < .001) were associated with a lower likelihood of simultaneous use. Knowing someone who had a fatal overdose ( OR = 2.443, p < .001), binge drinking ( OR = 1.065, p = .012), and older age ( OR = 1.250, p < .001) were associated with a greater likelihood of simultaneous use. Conclusion: The risk and protective factors identified in the current study point to specific areas for intervention to reduce simultaneous use. Further efforts are needed to minimize the increasing polysubstance-involved overdose mortality among young adults.
Can transparency strengthen the legitimacy of international institutions? Evidence from the UN Security Council
Authors: Tørstad Vegard
Published: March 2023

Can transparency enhance the legitimacy of international institutions? As transparency has become a widely applied procedural standard in international politics, a range of institutions have implemented transparency reforms under the presumption that increased transparency can elicit support among relevant audiences. This article evaluates whether increased transparency in the UN Security Council leads to enhanced legitimacy perceptions among UN member-states. The article first traces the history of Security Council reform since 1990 and draws on interviews with diplomats and observers to describe a transparency reform the Council enacted in 2006. Next, the article uses longitudinal content analysis to empirically probe the legitimation effects of that transparency reform. The empirical analysis is based on an original dataset of 4,303 legitimacy statements made by UN member-states in annual UN General Assembly debates over the periods 1990–2006 and 2006–18. The findings cast doubt over the potential of transparency reform to improve the Council’s legitimacy; instead they suggest that increasing the direct participation of the wider UN membership may be a more viable legitimation strategy. This article contributes to existing international legitimacy literature by providing empirical evidence on the relationship between transparency and legitimacy, and by demonstrating which institutional features that affect the perceived legitimacy of the Security Council.
The Effects of Trunk Impairment on Fatigue and Balance in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Duray Mehmet , Dengiz Aziz , Kavlak Erdogan , Tutar Serife
Published: March 2023

Cerebral palsy (CP) involves trunk impairment, leading to decreased postural control that is an important contributor to problems maintaining daily activities without undue fatigue. Our aim in this research was to determine the effects of trunk impairment on fatigue and balance in children with hemiplegic CP. We included 65 ambulatory children with CP in this cross-sectional study, and we grouped them into those with greater trunk impairment (Group 1, n = 33) and lesser trunk impairment (Group 2, n = 32) according to their scores on the Trunk Imparment Scale (TIS). We assessed their fatique level using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ Version 4.0 Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (PedsQL-MFS), and their balance ability using the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS). We found that the PedsQL-MFS parameters, except the general and cognitive fatigue scores, were significantly better for participants in Group 2 than in Group 1; however Group 2 showed significantly higher scores for balance ability than did Group 1 ( p < .001). All of the TIS parameters were significantly correlated with sleep/rest fatigue, and PBS scores and trunk coordination were also significantly correlated with general fatigue ( p = .013) and cognitive fatigue ( p = .003) which are subparameters of the PedsQL-MFS and PBS ( p < .001). However static balance was highly and negatively correlated with cognitive fatigue ( p < .037).Increased trunk impairment contributed to the exacerbation of fatigue and balance problems in children with hemiplegic CP. Inadequate trunk control was associated with poor sleep and poor resting quality rather than perceived general and cognitive fatigue.
Technology-enhanced Reflection and Teacher Development: A Student Teacher's Journey
Authors: Li Yanna , Walsh Steve
Published: March 2023

This article reports on the findings from a technology-enhanced teacher learning project where the SETTVEO app (Self Evaluation of Teacher Talk through Video Enhanced Observation) was used to support teachers’ reflective practices and professional development. Participants in the project were a group of 40 student teachers (ST) from Hong Kong, who took part in a teaching practicum taught online owing to COVID-19 restrictions. They formed online professional learning communities (PLCs) with peers and tutors, shared their class recordings (tagged using the on SETTVEO app), and reflected on their teaching through weekly discussions. This study aims to characterize teacher learning mediated by video technology and dialogue, and to evaluate the impact of the app on STs’ reflective practices and emerging Classroom Interactional Competence (CIC, Walsh 2013). In this article, we focus on an individual ST's development over a period of eight weeks. Two sources of data are transcribed and analysed using an applied Conversation Analysis (CA) method: the first records the teacher's interactions while teaching, the second their dialogic reflections based on observations of these class recordings. Findings from the study enhance our understandings of the role of technology in influencing classroom practice and highlight its importance in promoting teacher noticing and professional development.
Burnout and patient safety perceptions among surgeons in the United Kingdom during the early phases of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: A two-wave survey
Authors: Al-Ghunaim Tmam , Johnson Judith , Biyani Chandra S , Yiasemidou Marina , O’Connor Daryl B
Published: March 2023

Background

Surgeons in the UK report high burnout levels. Burnout has been found to be associated with adverse patient outcomes but there are few studies that have examined this association in surgeons and even fewer which have examined this relationship over time.

Purpose

The main aim was to examine the relationships between surgeon burnout and surgeons’ perceptions of patient safety cross-sectionally and longitudinally. The secondary aim was to test whether surgeons’ burnout levels varied over the first six months of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

Methods

This paper reports data from a two-wave survey (first wave from 5 May and 30 June 2020, the second wave 5 January to 30 February 2021). The dataset was divided into a longitudinal group (for surgeons who responded at both the time points) and two cross-sectional groups (for surgeons who responded at a one-time point, but not the other).

Results

The first key finding was that burnout was associated with patient safety outcomes measured at the same time point (Group 1 = 108, r = 0.309 , p < 0.05 and Group 2 = 84, r = 0.238, p < 0.05). Second, burnout predicted poor patients’ safety perceptions over time, and poor patient safety predicted burnout over time (Group 3 = 39, p < 0.05). Third, burnout increased between the first and second surveys ( t = -4.034, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Burnout in surgeons may have serious implications for patient safety. Interventions to support surgeons should be prioritised, and healthcare organisations, surgeons and psychological specialists should collaborate on their development.
Can automated CT body composition analysis predict high-grade Clavien–Dindo complications in patients with RCC undergoing partial and radical nephrectomy?
Authors: Demirel Emin , Dilek Okan
Published: March 2023

Introduction

This study investigated the relationship between body tissue composition analysis and complications according to the Clavien–Dindo classification in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) who underwent partial (PN) or radical nephrectomies (RN).

Methods

We obtained all data of 210 patients with RCC from the 2019 Kidney and Kidney Tumor Segmentation Challenge (C4KC-KiTS) dataset and obtained radiological images from the cancer image archive. Body composition was assessed with automated artificial intelligence software using the convolutional network segmentation technique from abdominal computed tomography images. We included 125 PN and 63 RN in the study. The relationship between body fat and muscle tissue distribution and complications according to the Clavien–Dindo classification was evaluated between these two groups.

Results

Clavien–Dindo 3A and higher (high grade) complications were developed in 9 of 125 patients who underwent PN and 7 of 63 patients who underwent RN. There was no significant difference between all body composition values between patients with and without high-grade complications.

Conclusion

This study showed that body muscle-fat tissue distribution did not affect patients with 3A and above complications according to the Clavien–Dindo classification in patients who underwent nephrectomy due to RCC.
Student-Led Transition Planning Using the Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction
Authors: Matusevich Hunter A. , Shogren Karrie A. , Raley Sheida K. , Matusevich Dale W.
Published: March 2023

All students go through a variety of transitions throughout their life (i.e., middle school to high school, high school to the workforce). However, students with disabilities tend to experience disparities compared to their peers without disabilities in regard to in-school and postschool outcomes. One way to enhance outcomes for students with disabilities is providing opportunities for students to enhance their self-determination. One evidence-based practice to enhance self-determination is the Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction (SDLMI). To support self-determination in transition planning, teachers can use the SDLMI to enable students to direct their own learning and work towards self-selected transition goals related to enhanced in-school and postschool outcomes, such as goal attainment, competitive integrated employment, and community participation. This article describes how teachers can support students in setting and working towards goals while also supporting progress in their IEP to enhance student voice and student-directed transition planning
Compostability of wool textiles by soil burial
Authors: Hodgson Alexandra , Leighs Samuel James , van Koten Chikako
Published: March 2023

Chemical processing has the potential to impact the composting of wool fabrics, influencing potential end of life options. The aim of this study was to investigate the comparative composting behaviors of a range of knitted and woven merino apparel fabrics. The range included scoured only control fabrics and variants which had undergone different chemical processes during manufacturing, including dyeing, bleaching, stain-repellence and various shrink-resist treatments. Biodegradation by composting was elicited by a soil-burial process incorporating three sets of randomized samples buried to a depth of 10 cm. Replicates were removed at regular intervals up to a maximum of 15 weeks burial. The dyes present in the fabric showed the greatest impact on composting. Chrome dyed samples exhibited only 60% mass loss over the trial period, whereas the other 10 fabrics all lost on average over 95%. When assessing easy care treatments, chlorine–Hercosett provided consistent initial resistance to decomposition. Soil burial test results suggested that chemical processing does impact the composting of wool fabrics, under the conditions of soil burial. Statistically significant longer-term effects were only observed for the chrome dyed sample.

 • Chemical processing of wool fabrics influences the onset of composting as a result of soil burial.

 • Dyeing fabrics had the greatest impact on the onset of composting as a result of soil burial.

 • Machine-washable wool has initial resistance to decomposition, compared with untreated wool, as a result of soil burial.
Cooperative target search and tracking for multi-UAVs based on control barrier functions
Authors: Wang Weizhen , Chen Xin , Li Li , Zhang Min
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (multi-UAVs) cooperative target search and tracking strategy with collision avoidance and flocking constraints are presented applying the control barrier functions (CBFs). First, the constraints of collision avoidance and flocking maintenance are designed based on CBF. Second, the information map and Lyapunov guidance vector field (LGVF) are used to design the corresponding nominal controllers in search mode and tracking mode, respectively. To minimize the difference between the actual controller and the nominal controller, the controller based on quadratic programming (QP) is proposed to achieve the target search and tracking on the premise of security. Finally, the simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Do Experimental Manipulations of Pathogen Avoidance Motivations Influence Conformity?
Authors: van Leeuwen Florian , Jaeger Bastian , Sleegers Willem W.A. , Petersen Michael Bang
Published: March 2023

By conforming to ingroup norms, individuals coordinate with other group members, preserve cohesion, and avoid costs of exclusion. Previous experiments have shown that increased concerns about infectious disease increase conformity. However, coordination with other group members has multiple benefits, most of which exist independent of pathogenic infection. Hence, a strong causal effect of pathogen avoidance motivations on conformity seems unlikely. Results from five experiments ( N = 1,931) showed only limited support for the hypothesis that experimentally increasing pathogen avoidance motivations influences conformity. Overall, our findings are not consistent with the notion that the human mind contains a fast-acting psychological mechanism that regulates conformity as a function of short-term pathogen avoidance motivations.
Attitudes and Feelings Among Married Mothers and Single Mothers by Choice During the Covid-19 Crisis
Authors: Shamir Michal , Shamir Balderman Orit
Published: March 2023

The current study examined how state anxiety is related to social support (formal and informal), work–family conflict, and level of happiness among married mothers and single mothers by choice (SMBC) during the first lockdown of the Covid-19 crisis. The uniqueness of the present study lies in its comparison of married mothers and SMBC, whereas previous studies examined differences between single mothers, who are usually divorced, and married mothers. Moreover, the present research is the first to combine all relevant variables in one coherent study. A sample of 386 SMBC and 293 married mothers filled out a closed online questionnaire sent through social networks. The study findings show negative correlations between the level of social support, level of happiness, and type of support (friends, family, and significant others) and the level of state anxiety. Most women did not turn to formal sources of support such as aid and welfare agencies. Finally, a positive correlation was found between state anxiety and work–family conflict.
Experiences of Filipino Americans with Type 2 Diabetes during COVID-19: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Tolentino Dante Anthony , Roca Rey Paolo Ernesto , Yang Joey , Itchon Josephine , Byrnes Mary E.
Published: March 2023

Little is known about the experiences of Filipino Americans with type 2 diabetes regarding their self-management during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. We conducted a qualitative research study using semistructured interviews. In total, 19 interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed by 4 independent coders. We situated our understanding of these results using three concepts from an indigenous Filipino knowledge system called Sikolohiyang Pilipino: Kapwa (shared identity), Bahala Na (determination), and Pakikibaka (spaces of resistance). The following three main themes emerged: (1) stressors of the pandemic, (2) coping behaviors (with two subthemes: emotional and lifestyle-focused responses), and (3) diabetes self-management outcomes. Participants experienced stresses, anxiety, and loneliness during the pandemic magnified by the complexities of self-management. Although many admitted the pandemic brought challenges, including burnout, they coped by using existing resources—support from family, friends, the use of technology, and various emotional coping mechanisms. Many said that they made few diabetes self-management changes.
Needing more, needing less: unravelling why a prompt dependency cycle forms in neurodiverse relationships
Authors: Wilson Bronwyn Maree , Main Susan , O’Rourke John , Slater Eileen
Published: March 2023

Social interaction is a fundamental component of relationships; however, the key features of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) include marked and lifelong impairments in social interaction that adversely affects abilities to fulfil this essential relationship requirement. Despite the momentum of worldwide research on ASD, there is insufficient empirical study on adults with ASD and their relationships. This research examined the reported social interaction needs of adults when involved in neurodiverse relationships (relationships that include adults with ASD and neurotypical (NT) adults). The use of an advocacy/participatory approach allowed for a detailed investigation of the characteristics of participants’ interpersonal communication. It was identified that a pairing of incompatible social interaction needs caused a sequence of distinctive, competing, and intertwined interactions that formed into interwoven communication cycles. These cycles included compensatory and competing behaviours, which were specific to each group of participants. Prompting, prompt dependency and/or prompt avoidance occurred within a dynamic system.
Different path to happiness: The role of basic psychological need satisfaction in benefiting close and distant others
Authors: Nastina Ekaterina , Deviatko Inna F
Published: March 2023

Numerous studies show that prosocial behavior leads to positive emotional outcomes for the actor, yet does it matter, who the beneficiary is? The present paper explores differential effects of helping acts towards close versus distant recipients on subjective well-being and the role that basic psychological needs play in this relationship. Two studies using event-recall ( N = 127) and interventional ( N = 305) designs in Russian samples were conducted to test our hypotheses. Study 1 showed that performing acts of kindness towards family and friends (compared to a control condition) led to higher satisfaction of the needs for relatedness and morality, while helping strangers increased only the latter. Study 2 failed to unconditionally replicate the prosocial-happiness link; however, when the need for competence was controlled for, helping both types of recipients was shown to provide higher event-level well-being outcomes. The positive effect of prosocial acts toward strong ties was mediated by relatedness and morality satisfaction, while when the recipient was a stranger, the effect was accounted for by fulfilling the needs for morality and autonomy. No significant event-level well-being differences were detected between those helping close versus distant others and no differences in positive affect, negative affect or life satisfaction emerged between the three conditions. The paper provides support for the importance of the self-perceived impact for the success of kindness interventions. We conclude with a discussion of implications for kindness interventions towards different recipients.