bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unidirectional rating scales overestimate the illusory causation phenomenon
Authors: Ng David W , Lee Jessica C , Lovibond Peter F
Published: April 2023

Illusory causation is a phenomenon in which people mistakenly perceive a causal relationship between a cue and outcome even though the contingency between them is actually zero. Illusory causation studies typically use a unidirectional causal rating scale, where one endpoint refers to no relationship and the other to a strongly positive causal relationship. This procedure may bias mean causal ratings in a positive direction, either by censoring negative ratings or by discouraging participants from giving the normative rating of zero which is at the bottom extreme of the scale. To test this possibility, we ran two experiments that directly compared the magnitude of causal illusions when assessed with a unidirectional (zero—positive) versus a bidirectional (negative—zero—positive) rating scale. Experiment 1 used high cue and outcome densities (both 75%), whereas Experiment 2 used neutral cue and outcome densities (both 50%). Across both experiments, we observed a larger illusory causation effect in the unidirectional group compared with the bidirectional group, despite both groups experiencing the same training trials. The causal illusions in Experiment 2 were observed despite participants accurately learning the conditional probabilities of the outcome occurring in both the presence and absence of the cue, suggesting that the illusion is driven by the inability to accurately integrate conditional probabilities to infer causal relationships. Our results indicate that although illusory causation is a genuine phenomenon that is observable with either a undirectional or a bidirectional rating scale, its magnitude may be overestimated when unidirectional rating scales are used.
Characteristics, clinical practice patterns, and outcomes of strokes in India: INSPIRE—A multicentre prospective study
Authors: Xavier Denis , Murphy Robert , Pais Prem , Pandian Jeyaraj , Gosala Sarma , Mathur Nandini , Khurana Dheeraj , Sundararajan R , Gupta Rajeev , Joshi Rajnish , Vanchilingam Somesh , Venkatarathanamma PN , Desai Soaham , Reddin Catriona , O’Donnell Martin , Yusuf Salim
Published: April 2023

Background:

India has a high burden of stroke, but there are limited data available on the characteristics of patients presenting with stroke in India.

Aims:

We aimed to document the clinical characteristics, practice patterns, and outcomes of patients presenting with acute stroke to Indian hospitals.

Methods:

A prospective registry study of patients admitted with acute clinical stroke was conducted in 62 centers across different regions in India between 2009 and 2013.

Results:

Of the 10,329 patients included in the prescribed registry, 71.4% had ischemic stroke, 25.2% had intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and 3.4% had an undetermined stroke subtype. Mean age was 60 years (SD = 14) with 19.9% younger than 50 years; 65% were male. A severe stroke at admission (modified-Rankin score 4–5) was seen in 62%, with 38.4% of patients having severe disability at discharge or dying during hospitalization. Cumulative mortality was 25% at 6 months. Neuroimaging was completed in 98%, 76% received physiotherapy, 17% speech and language therapy (SLT), 7.6% occupational therapy (OT), with variability among sites; 3.7% of ischemic stroke patients received thrombolysis. Receipt of physiotherapy (odds ratio (OR) = 0.41, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.33–0.52) and SLT (OR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.32–0.65) was associated with lower mortality, while a history of atrial fibrillation (OR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.37–3.58) and ICH (OR = 2.00, 95% CI: 1.66–2.40) were associated with higher mortality.

Conclusion:

In the INSPIRE (In Hospital Prospective Stroke Registry) study, one-in-five patients with acute stroke was under 50 years of age, and one-quarter of stroke was ICH. There was a low provision of thrombolysis and poor access to multidisciplinary rehabilitation highlighting how improvements are needed to reduce morbidity and mortality from stroke in India.
Cinematic Virtual Reality for Educating Health Care Providers About Type 2 Diabetes, Disability, and Elder Abuse and Neglect: A Pilot Study
Authors: Beverly Elizabeth A. , Love Carrie , Love Matthew , Lammert Lori , Bowditch John
Published: April 2023

Background:

Diabetes care for older adults is complex and must consider geriatric syndromes, disability, and elder abuse and neglect. Health care providers would benefit from professional training programs that emphasize these risks. One new educational approach is cinematic virtual reality (cine-VR). We conducted a pilot study to evaluate a cine-VR training program based on an older patient with type 2 diabetes and multiple geriatric syndromes who is at risk for elder abuse and neglect.

Methods:

We employed a single-arm, pre-post-test study to assess changes in attitudes to disability and self-efficacy in identifying and managing elder abuse and neglect.

Results:

Thirty health care providers completed the pilot study (83.3% women, 86.7% white, 56.7% physicians, 43.4% practiced in outpatient clinics). We observed change in attitudes toward discrimination ( Z = −2.628, P = .009, Cohen’s d = .62). In addition, we observed changes in six of the eight self-efficacy items, including how participants would ask questions about abuse ( Z = −3.221, P = .001, Cohen’s d = .59) and helping an older patient make a report to the police or social services ( Z = −2.087, P = .037, Cohen’s d = .52). In addition, we observed positive changes in understanding the documentation needed to complete whether a patient reports abuse ( Z = −3.598, P < .001) as well as the legal knowledge for how to report elder abuse and neglect ( Z = −2.556, P = .011).

Conclusion:

Findings from this pilot study suggest that cine-VR training may increase health care providers’ awareness of discrimination and improve self-efficacy toward identifying and managing elder abuse and neglect. Research with a proper control condition is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
The Birth Companions’ Experience of the Birthing Room and How It Influences the Supportive Role: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Nilvér Helena , Berg Marie
Published: April 2023

Aim:

To explore birth companions’ experience of the birthing room and how it influences their role supporting the woman during labor and birth.

Background:

Although support from a birth companion positively affects the outcome of labor and birth, limited research explores how the birthing room influences the companion. This study identifies elements of the birthing room essential for the birth companion to offer optimal support to the woman during labor and birth.

Methods:

Fifteen birth companions were individually interviewed 2 weeks to 6 months after birth using a semi-structured interview guide. Transcribed interviews were analyzed based on reflexive thematic analysis.

Results:

The findings are captured by one overall theme: creating a supportive birth space in an unfamiliar environment. This creation process is further described by three subthemes: not being in the way, finding one's role, and being close to the birthing woman.

Conclusions:

The findings illustrate how the birthing room was an unfamiliar environment for the birth companions, but one that they needed in order to give the required support. With slight changes in physical design, the birthing room can become calmer and more private and better help the birth companion fulfill the supportive role.
Association of Symptomatic Venous Thromboembolism and BMI in Patients Undergoing Sports Medicine Knee Procedures: A Retrospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Looney Austin M. , Chopra Aman , Elkadi Seleem H. , Chau Justin , Childers Daniel F. , Chung Joon , Postma William F.
Published: April 2023

Background:

The purpose of this study was to characterize the prevalence of venous thromboembolism (VTE; including deep vein thrombosis [DVT] and pulmonary embolism [PE]) after sports medicine knee procedures by a single surgeon at an academic institution, identify factors associated with increased risk of VTE, and determine risk factor thresholds for beyond which VTE risk is elevated.

Hypothesis:

We hypothesized that the prevalence of VTE after sports medicine knee procedures is low, but that increasing weight and body mass index (BMI) would be associated with elevated risk.

Study Design:

Retrospective case-control study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

A retrospective case-control study analyzing sports medicine knee surgeries from 2017 to 2020 was conducted using current procedural terminology codes to identify cases. Optimal cutoff points for specific continuous patient characteristics were calculated to determine elevated risk of postoperative VTE. Overall VTE-free survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard regression models.

Results:

Among the 724 eligible patients, there were 13 postoperative VTE events (1.79% prevalence; 12 DVTs, 1 DVT/PE). Increasing weight and BMI were significant risk factors for postoperative VTE ( P = 0.03 and P = 0.04, respectively), with weight >94.7 kg and BMI >27.9 kg/m2 associated with elevated risk in male patients and weight >79.1 kg and BMI >28.1 kg/m2 associated with elevated risk for female patients. Cox regression demonstrated a significantly increased risk of postoperative VTE for male patients with BMI ≥27.9 kg/m2.

Conclusion:

Patients who undergo sports medicine knee surgery with increased weight and BMI are at an elevated risk of postoperative VTE. An individualized approach should be considered for chemoprophylaxis in patients with these risk factors.

Clinical Relevance:

Consider chemoprophylaxis in patients with increased weight and BMI who undergo sports medicine knee surgery since they are at an elevated risk of postoperative VTE.
The National Academy of School Nursing Fellows (FNASN)
Authors: Johnson Kathleen , Davis-Alldritt Linda , Delack Sandra , Duff Carolyn L. , Hlinomaz Joan
Published: April 2023

The National Association of School Nurses honors school nurses who have made extraordinary, unique, and enduring contributions to school nursing and the National Association of School Nurses with recognition in the National Academy of School Nursing Fellows (FNASN). The following article outlines the value of FNASNs, how they contribute, and how a school nurse can apply for Fellowship. The time is now for mid-career school nurses to prepare for the opportunity that an NASN Fellow represents!
Adult diffuse gliomas: What the neuroradiologist needs to know
Authors: Sukumar Rohit , Ko Allen , Dueck Nicholas P , Patel Sohil H
Published: April 2023

Diffuse gliomas are the most common primary malignant brain tumors in adults. Advancements in the molecular profiling of diffuse gliomas in recent years have led to a far better understanding of their biology and clinical outcomes. The fifth edition of the World Health Organization Classification of Central Nervous System Tumors, published in 2021, incorporates this genomic information to a much greater degree than prior editions. It is important for radiologists to understand the new glioma classification system and the characteristic neuroimaging features associated with each entity. This review aims to provide an overview of the diffuse gliomas that can present in adults, with an emphasis on their molecular features and associated imaging findings.
Rationale and design of the SenseWhy project: A passive sensing and ecological momentary assessment study on characteristics of overeating episodes
Authors: Alshurafa Nabil I. , Stump Tammy K. , Romano Christopher S. , F. Pfammatter Angela , Lin Annie W. , Hester Josiah , Hedeker Donald , Forman Evan , Spring Bonnie
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Overeating interventions and research often focus on single determinants and use subjective or nonpersonalized measures. We aim to (1) identify automatically detectable features that predict overeating and (2) build clusters of eating episodes that identify theoretically meaningful and clinically known problematic overeating behaviors (e.g., stress eating), as well as new phenotypes based on social and psychological features.

Method

Up to 60 adults with obesity in the Chicagoland area will be recruited for a 14-day free-living observational study. Participants will complete ecological momentary assessments and wear 3 sensors designed to capture features of overeating episodes (e.g., chews) that can be visually confirmed. Participants will also complete daily dietitian-administered 24-hour recalls of all food and beverages consumed.

Analysis

Overeating is defined as caloric consumption exceeding 1 standard deviation of an individual's mean consumption per eating episode. To identify features that predict overeating, we will apply 2 complementary machine learning methods: correlation-based feature selection and wrapper-based feature selection. We will then generate clusters of overeating types and assess how they align with clinically meaningful overeating phenotypes.

Conclusions

This study will be the first to assess characteristics of eating episodes in situ over a multiweek period with visual confirmation of eating behaviors. An additional strength of this study is the assessment of predictors of problematic eating during periods when individuals are not on a structured diet and/or engaged in a weight loss intervention. Our assessment of overeating episodes in real-world settings is likely to yield new insights regarding determinants of overeating that may translate into novel interventions.
Venous Thromboembolism Rates Have Not Decreased in Elective Lumbar Fusion Surgery from 2011 to 2020
Authors: Ngan Alex , Song Junho , Katz Austen D. , Jung Bongseok , Zappia Luke , Trent Sarah , Silber Jeff , Virk Sohrab , Essig David
Published: April 2023

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives

This study aimed to (1) evaluate for any temporal trends in the rates of VTE, deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and mortality from 2011 to 2020 and (2) identify the predictors of VTE following lumbar fusion surgery.

Methods

Annual incidences of 30-day VTE, DVT, PE, and mortality were calculated for each of the operation year groups from 2011 to 2020. Multivariable Poisson regression was utilized to test the association between operation year and primary outcomes, as well as to identify significant predictors of VTE.

Results

A total of 121,205 patients were included. There were no statistically significant differences in VTE, DVT, PE, or mortality rates among the operation year groups. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that compared to 2011, operation year 2019 was associated with significantly lower rates of DVT. Age, BMI, prolonged operation time, prolonged length of stay, non-home discharge, anterior fusion, smoking status, functional dependence, and chronic steroid use were identified as independent predictors of VTE following lumbar fusion. Female sex, Hispanic ethnicity, and outpatient surgery setting were identified as protective factors from VTE in this cohort.

Conclusions

Rates of VTE after lumbar fusion have remained mostly unchanged between 2011 and 2020. Older age, higher BMI, longer operation time, prolonged length of stay, non-home discharge, anterior fusion, smoking, functional dependence, and steroid use were independent predictors of VTE after lumbar fusion, while female sex, Hispanic ethnicity, and outpatient surgery were the protective factors.
Microentrepreneurs as Socially Responsible Leaders
Authors: Simunaniemi Anna-Mari , Valkjärvi Mira , Franzén Riikka , Liikala Sari , Tähtinen Jaana , Suomi Kati , Jeminen Jaana
Published: April 2023

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) refers to the voluntary integration of social and environmental concerns into companies’ operations. This qualitative case study investigates microentrepreneurs’ values and business activities related to CSR, particularly the elements of social responsibility (SR) via the responsible leadership (RL) approach. We investigate how entrepreneurs perceive the concept of SR, how SR is related to values and through which leadership activities they plan to implement SR. The case is a CSR training programme with 30 Finnish microentrepreneurs as attendants. The results show that entrepreneurs perceive SR on two levels: philosophical and practice-oriented levels. At the philosophical level, RL is being truthful to one’s own values and taking a long-term, holistic view, and the practical SR includes customer focus, staff equality, or community and network activity. Being true to one’s personal values and having a holistic long-term view of SR are the ground-building elements guiding leadership decisions in microenterprises. The practical level of RL is not limited to the microenterprise but, rather, extends to, for example, customers and business partners. The theoretical contribution to the RL literature is that the groundwork for SR in microenterprises is based on strategically sustainable businesses that are in line with entrepreneurs’ values but also simultaneously pursue a greater, more long-term purpose than a short-term profit-seeking. This study adds to the RL literature, indicating that, regardless of their owner-centricity and the focus on practically relevant leadership activities in the here and now, microenterprises pursue larger impacts on the community by adopting a holistic, future-oriented view. Although microenterprises are owner-centric and individual motivations play a significant role in RL, this study shows that, in socially and economically sustainable microenterprises, entrepreneurs’ personal values are integrated with those of the customers.
Influence of Family Social Support on Employee Engagement: Influence of Moderator and Mediator
Authors: Uddin Md. Kafil , Azim Mohammad Tahlil , Uddin Md. Aftab , Akther Sharmin
Published: April 2023

This article aims to unearth the association between family social support (FSS) and employee engagement (EE) with the moderating effect of work social support (WSS) and the mediating effect of family interfering work (FIW). This study used a quantitative approach to perform the research and collected 277 replies from a variety of organizations in Saudi Arabia’s Western region using a multi-item questionnaire and analyzed data using IBM SPSS 25 and IBM AMOS 24. The findings show that FIW plays a partial mediating role in the relationship between FSS and EE. However, WSS is found to have no significant moderating effect. The study provides important learning for practicing professionals and policymakers to adopt family-friendly policies and facilities for enhancing the work–life balance of the employees so as to strengthen the engagement of the employees in the organization. Former studies have emphasized the role of social support in buffering work–family conflict, but there is a dearth of studies linking FSS and EE in a moderated mediation. Thus, the present study endeavors to address the above-mentioned gap. Moreover, the notes for future research are also highlighted in the limitations section.
An Empirical Study of the Impact of Accounting Conservatism and Ownership Structure on Firm Performance in Indonesia
Authors: Widati Listyorini Wahyu , Sudiyatno Bambang , Suwarti Titiek , Indriyaningrum Kis
Published: April 2023

This study aims to investigate the impact of accounting conservatism and ownership structure on the firm performance of Indonesian active manufacturing companies. To achieve this goal, 44 qualified manufacturing companies were used as a sample of the 153 manufacturing companies in Indonesia. The data collection method was preceded by conducting surveys and observations to determine the purposive sampling method as the method used for data collection and data analysis using multiple regression. The company’s ability to use asset resources and equity to generate net income is used as a measure of firm performance. The results of the analysis using the multiple regression method in regression Equation 1 show that accounting conservatism and foreign ownership have a positive effect on return on assets, while managerial ownership and institutional ownership have no effect on return on assets. Similarly, the analysis result of Equation 2 shows that accounting conservativeness and foreign ownership have a positive effect on the return on equity, while managerial ownership and institutional ownership have no effect on the return on equity.
Effect of Quadriceps and Hamstring Strength Relative to Body Weight on Risk of a Second ACL Injury: A Cohort Study of 835 Patients Who Returned to Sport After ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Simonson Rebecca , Piussi Ramana , Högberg Johan , Senorski Carl , Thomeé Roland , Samuelsson Kristian , Senorski Eric Hamrin
Published: April 2023

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common sports-related injuries with a high risk of reinjury after return to sport (RTS). Rehabilitation aims to regain symmetrical knee strength and function to minimize the risk of a second ACL injury after RTS.

Purpose:

To determine the effect of absolute quadriceps and hamstring strength, normalized by body weight, on the risk of a second ACL injury during the first 2 years after RTS in patients who have undergone ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Data from patients after index ACLR at the time of RTS were extracted from a rehabilitation registry—Project ACL. Patients who had performed isokinetic tests for quadriceps and hamstring strength and hop tests before RTS were included. The endpoint was a second ACL injury or a follow-up of 2 years after RTS after ACLR.

Results:

A total of 835 patients (46% women), with a mean age of 23.9 ± 7.7 years, were included. During the study period, 69 (8.3%) second ACL injuries (ipsilateral and contralateral) occurred. Greater relative quadriceps strength in the injured leg increased the risk of a second ACL injury (relative risk [RR], 1.69 [95% CI, 1.05-2.74]; P = .032). In patients who had recovered symmetrical quadriceps strength (limb symmetry index ≥90%), there was no effect of quadriceps strength on the risk of second ACL injury (RR, 1.33 [95% CI, 0.69-2.56]; P = .39). Quadriceps strength on the healthy side or hamstring strength, regardless of side, had no effect on the risk of a second ACL injury.

Conclusion:

Greater relative quadriceps strength in the injured leg at the time of RTS after ACLR was associated with an increased risk of a second ACL injury. There was no effect of relative quadriceps strength on the risk of a second ACL injury in patients who had recovered symmetrical quadriceps strength.
Unjust Income Inequality Prevails Across 29 Countries
Authors: Moya Cristóbal , Adriaans Jule , Sauer Carsten
Published: April 2023

The aim of this visualization is to describe justice evaluations of income inequality from a cross-country perspective for more than 72,000 respondents in 29 countries. The analyses were based on data from two large, cross-country survey programs. The International Social Survey Programme (ISSP) asked for an evaluation of the overall income distribution, and the European Social Survey (ESS) asked for justice evaluations of both bottom and top incomes. The authors find that injustice of the income distribution prevails in all studied countries except Denmark and that injustice of bottom incomes prevails in all countries. Moreover, in the countries included in both the ISSP and ESS, the share of respondents evaluating the overall income distribution as just always falls between the share evaluating bottom and top incomes as just. These results suggest that depending on the country context, different parts of the distribution (top and bottom incomes) influence its overall evaluation.
Gardenia blue is not carcinogenic in the rasH2 mouse
Authors: Maronpot Robert R , Koyanagi Mihoko , Hayashi Shim-mo , Mahapatra Debabrata , Nishino Masayuki , Iniwa Minoru
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Gardenia blue is currently being considered as a naturally derived food colorant for use in the global marketplace.

Methods

To assess its carcinogenic potential, 100 female and 100 male CByB6F1-Tg (HRAS)2Jic (rasH2) mice were allocated to four dose groups and exposed to gardenia blue in the diet for 26 weeks at dose levels of 0.0% (control), 0.5%, 2.5%, or 5.0% (corresponding to 0.0, 664.8, 3341.0, and 6623.2 mg/kg/day in male mice and 0.0, 1182.7, 5561.1, and 10,440.3 mg/kg/day in female mice, respectively). An additional group of 10 males and 10 females was administered intraperitoneal N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) as a positive control. Clinical observations, body and organ weights, clinical chemistry, hematology, and hormone analyses were performed in addition to urinalysis and histopathology.

Results

The positive control elicited expected responses specific to rasH2 mice. There were sporadic background non-dose-related findings in clinical pathology parameters and anatomic pathology common to rasH2 mice in the absence of any gardenia blue induced dose-related changes.

Discussion

Under these study conditions, the no-observed-adverse-effect level was 5% gardenia blue (6623.2 mg/kg/day in male mice and 10,440.3 mg/kg/day in female mice).

Conclusions

Based on this study a high dietary level of gardenia blue was negative for carcinogenicity in the rasH2 mouse test system.
Bandhan Bank’s Strategic CSR: Building Knowledge and Experience of Rural Microfinance
Authors: Palo Sasmita , Chaudhari Shrirang Ramdas
Published: April 2023

The current study looks at the case of Bandhan Bank as a case of strategic corporate social responsibility (CSR). Bandhan Bank Ltd.’s five flagship CSR programmes (THP, BHP, BEP, EUP and BFLP) target the diverse needs of communities in the poorest of poor and underprivileged segments and give them a valuable experience of an improved lifestyle are discussed in detail. The three significant strategic forces, viz., embedded culture of risk-taking, more robust connection with stakeholders and regular honing of internal capabilities, further shape the experiences of CSR stakeholders. These eventually became responsible and loyal customers of the bank.
Need of CSR in SMEs and Their Structure
Authors: Thombare Nivedeeta D.
Published: April 2023

In developed countries, a significant amount of research on corporate social responsibility (CSR) has taken. Since the concept of CSR has evolved in developed countries, the organisations in these countries were the earliest to be aware of the CSR relevance to sustainable development. Nowadays CSR has gained significance for organization globally. On the other hand, there needs to be more research on CSR in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), especially in India. Literature lags behind the social reality and diversity, specifically in the case of CSR in SMEs. The author has tried to understand the need for CSR within SMEs and engagement in CSR by taking in-depth interviews with SMEs. It includes the structure of CSR conducted by SMEs, the formal and informal structure of CSR by SMEs, whether they assess the need of the community, causes they support, identifying beneficiaries, funding of CSR initiatives and stakeholders.
The Arc of Industry 5.0 Bends Towards a Social Purpose
Authors: Venkatesh Sudheesh
Published: April 2023

The article argues that industry is coming alive to its social purpose, with considerations like equity, environmental impact and ethics. It starts with the history of industrial revolutions from 0.0 to 4.0, detailing their impact on society. It goes on to introduce the concept of Industry 5.0, which is built on the principles of human centricity, sustainability and resilience. The author explains the implications of Industry 5.0 to society, leadership, and HR. He argues that Industry 5.0 is not a revolution but an evolution of the manufacturing process, which is characterized by the integration of various technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and robotics. He concludes by discussing how individuals can adapt to the requirements of Industry 5.0. The article points to Industry 5.0 becoming more humane with greater responsibility for equity, justice, and sustainability.
Spectral acceleration basin amplification factors for interface Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquakes in Canada’s 2020 national seismic hazard model
Authors: Kakoty Preetish , Molina Hutt Carlos , Ghofrani Hadi , Molnar Sheri
Published: April 2023

Canada’s 2020 national seismic hazard model (CSHM 2020) provides hazard estimates for interface Cascadia Subduction Zone (CSZ) earthquakes in southwestern Canada using four ground motion models (GMMs) with equal weights. Two out of the four GMMs were derived using data primarily from subduction earthquakes in Japan so their use in CSHM 2020 includes a “Japan-to-Cascadia” factor to account for local site conditions. Despite this regional factor, the GMMs do not explicitly consider the amplification effects from the Georgia sedimentary basin below Metro Vancouver. This study benchmarks ground motion shaking from a suite of 30 physics-based simulations of M9 CSZ earthquakes, which explicitly account for basin effects for periods exceeding 1 s, to corresponding estimates from interface GMMs in CSHM 2020. Using this comparison, this study proposes site-specific and period-dependent basin amplification factors for a range of sites located within the Georgia sedimentary basin. The average basin amplification factors at the deepest basin location reach values as high as 2.24 and 6.29 at a 2 s period with respect to basin-edge and outside-basin reference locations, respectively. We evaluate the proposed factors by comparing them against long-period amplifications observed in empirical strong motion recordings from the 2001 M6.8 Nisqually earthquake. A framework to incorporate the proposed basin amplification factors in the calculation of CSHM 2020 uniform hazard spectra (UHS) is also proposed. The modified UHS ordinates at the deepest basin location reach values that are 58% to 271% higher, at a 2 s period, than non-basin UHS estimates when amplification factors are calculated with respect to basin-edge and outside-basin reference locations, respectively.
Merging and diverging operations: benchmark of three European microscopic simulation tools and comparison with analytical formulations
Authors: Boukhellouf Mathis , Buisson Christine , Chiabaut Nicolas
Published: April 2023

Purpose

We benchmark three European microscopic simulation software’s ability to reproduce congested patterns at merges and diverges by comparing their macroscopic outputs to validated analytical formulations. The capacity drop and, in the specific case of merges, the priority ratio are assessed. At the microscopic scale, the spatial distribution of lane changes at merges is examined.

Method

A single reference state is built for all three simulation tools. A point-based diverge and an extended merge are reproduced in the simulation tools. Under traffic conditions ranging from free-flow to congestion, vehicles counts and vehicles trajectories are collected to compute the selected indicators, which help to conclude for the considered reference state.

Results

The considered simulation tools correctly reproduce the merges and diverges elementary behaviors. However, their default configuration does not, entirely or partially, reproduce the traffic conditions induced by insertions and desertions as predicted by the analytical models.

Discussion

The study could be enriched by including the benchmark of other simulation tools. In addition, the networks studied are elementary and may not reflect completely the traffic situations encountered on the highways.
Association between albumin corrected anion gap and 30-day all-cause mortality of critically ill patients with acute myocardial infarction: a retrospective analysis based on the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Jian Linhao , Zhang Zhixiang , Zhou Quan , Duan Xiangjie , Xu Haiqin , Ge Liangqing
Published: April 2023

Background

The anion gap (AG) has been linked to the prognosis of many cardiovascular disorders. However, the correlation between albumin-corrected anion gap (ACAG) and 30 d all-cause mortality of intensive care patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is unclear. Furthermore, owing to the lack of studies, it is also unknown whether ACAG is more accurate than AG in predicting the mortality of AMI.

Methods

The Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC IV) dataset was used to provide patient data in this retrospective cohort study. ACAG is computed using the formulae: [4.4—{albumin (g/dl)}] × 2.5 + AG. The primary outcome was 30 d all-cause mortality intensive care patients with AMI. To explore the prognostic worthiness of ACAG, the receiver operating characteristic curve, smooth curve fitting, Cox regression model, and Kaplan survival analysis was performed.

Results

We enrolled 2,160 patients in this study. ACAG had a better predictive value for 30 d all-cause mortality than AG, with an area under the curve of 0.66. The association between ACAG levels and overall mortality was nonlinear. In our model, after correcting for confounding factors, the ACAG was the independent predictor for 30 d all-cause mortality (HR 1.75, 95%CI 1.24, 2.47). ACAG K-M estimator curve analyses revealed that the group with ACAG ≥ 21.75 mmol/l had poor survival rate than the other group.

Conclusions

High serum ACAG levels were a significant risk factor for 30 d all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with AMI. ACAG concentration and 30 d all-cause mortality had a nonlinear relationship. ACAG had better predictive value in identifying 30 d all-cause mortality of patients with AMI in ICU than the AG.
Cerebrovascular Disorders
Authors: Granata Alessandra , Harshfield Eric L , Moxon Joseph V
Published: April 2023

Cerebrovascular disorders pose a global health concern. Advances in basic and clinical research, including induced pluripotent stem cell models and multi-omic approaches, have improved our understanding and management of these disorders. However, gaps in our knowledge remain. BMC Cardiovascular Disorders invites authors to submit articles investigating what drives and affects Cerebrovascular disorders to improve patient care.
A nomogram based on endothelial function and conventional risk factors predicts coronary artery disease in hypertensives
Authors: Huang Xiao-Dong , Lin Ji-Yan , Huang Xian-Wei , Zhou Ting-Ting , Xie Liang-Di
Published: April 2023

Background

There is currently a lack of a precise, concise, and practical clinical prediction model for predicting coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with essential hypertension (EH). This study aimed to construct a nomogram to predict CAD in patients with EH based on flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of brachial artery and traditional risk factors.

Methods

Clinical data of 1752 patients with EH were retrospectively collected. High-resolution vascular ultrasound was used to detect FMD in all patients at the Fujian Hypertension Research Institute, China. Patients were divided into two groups, i.e. training group (n = 1204, from August 2000 to December 2013) and validation group (n = 548, from January 2014 to May 2016) according to the time of enrollment. Independent predictors of CAD were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression in the training group, and a nomogram was constructed accordingly. Finally, we evaluated the discrimination, calibration, and clinical applicability of the model using the area under curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic analysis, calibration curve combined with Hosmer-Lemeshow test, and decision curve, respectively.

Results

There were 263 (21.8%) cases of EH combined with CAD in the training group. Multivariate logistic regression showed that FMD, age, duration of EH, waist circumference, and diabetes mellitus were independent influencing factors for CAD in EH patients. Smoking which was close to statistical significance (P = 0.062) was also included in the regression model to increase the accuracy. Ultimately, the nomogram for predicting CAD in EH patients was constructed according to above predictors after proper transformation. The AUC values of the training group and the validation group were 0.799 (95%CI 0.770–0.829) and 0.836 (95%CI 0.787–0.886), respectively. Calibration curve and Hosmer-Lemeshow test showed that the model had good calibration (training group: χ2 = 0.55, P = 0.759; validation group: χ2 = 1.62, P = 0.446). The decision curve also verified the clinical applicability of the nomogram.

Conclusion

The nomogram based on FMD and traditional risk factors (age, duration of EH disease, smoking, waist circumference and diabetes mellitus) can predict CAD high-risk group among patients with EH.
Association of Troponin T measurements with long-term outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease participating in a secondary prevention trial
Authors: Kaldal Anete , Tonstad Serena , Jortveit Jarle
Published: April 2023

Background and aims

Identification of high-risk patients in secondary cardiovascular prevention may be challenging, although risk stratification tools are available. Cardiac troponins might have predictive value in identification of high-risk patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between cardiac Troponin T (cTnT) levels following a coronary event and long-term outcomes.

Methods

This study was carried out as a subanalysis from a randomized controlled trial conducted at Sørlandet Hospital, Norway, where patients hospitalized with myocardial infarction (MI) or scheduled percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)/coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) were included between 2007 and 2017. Participants were followed-up for up to 10 years after the index event through out-patient consultations. cTnT was assessed at each consultation as well as information regarding new cardiovascular events or death.

Results

A total of 1278 patients (18–80 years) with complete measurements of cTnT were included. cTnT was elevated (≥ 14 ng/L) one year after the primary event in 241 (19%) of participants. Median follow-up was 5.7 [SD 2.7] years. Cox regression analyses showed reduced survival (adjusted HR 0.37, 95% CI 0.19–0.72; p = 0.003) and composite endpoint-free survival (adjusted HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.55–0.98; p = 0.04) in participants with elevated cTnT versus participants with low cTnT after adjustment for risk factors at inclusion and randomization assignment.

Conclusions

Assessment of cTnT after coronary heart events may help identify patients at high risk of poor outcomes and might contribute to more focused secondary preventive treatment.

Trial registration

The study is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00679237).
Effects of cortico-cortical paired associative stimulation based on multisensory integration to brain network connectivity in stroke patients: study protocol for a randomized doubled blind clinical trial
Authors: Zhang Jun-Peng , Xing Xiang-Xin , Zheng Mou-Xiong , Wu Jia-Jia , Xue Xin , Li Yu-Lin , Hua Xu-Yun , Ma Shu-Jie , Xu Jian-Guang
Published: April 2023

Introduction

: Brain has a spontaneous recovery after stroke, reflecting the plasticity of the brain. Currently, TMS is used for studies of single-target brain region modulation, which lacks consideration of brain networks and functional connectivity. Cortico-cortical paired associative stimulation (ccPAS) promotes recovery of motor function. Multisensory effects in primary visual cortex(V1) directly influence behavior and perception, which facilitate motor functional recovery in stroke patients. Therefore, in this study, dual-targeted precise stimulation of V1 and primary motor cortex(M1) on the affected hemisphere of stroke patients will be used for cortical visuomotor multisensory integration to improve motor function.

Method

This study is a randomized, double-blind controlled clinical trial over a 14-week period. 69 stroke subjects will be enrolled and divided into sham stimulation group, ccPAS low frequency group, and ccPAS high frequency group. All groups will receive conventional rehabilitation. The intervention lasted for two weeks, five times a week. Assessments will be performed before the intervention, at the end of the intervention, and followed up at 6 and 14 weeks. The primary assessment indicator is the ‘Fugl-Meyer Assessment of the Upper Extremity ’, secondary outcomes were ‘The line bisection test’, ‘Modified Taylor Complex Figure’, ‘NIHSS’ and neuroimaging assessments. All adverse events will be recorded.

Discussion

Currently, ccPAS is used for the modulation of neural circuits. Based on spike-timing dependent plasticity theory, we can precisely intervene in the connections between different cortices to promote the recovery of functional connectivity on damaged brain networks after stroke. We hope to achieve the modulation of cortical visuomotor interaction by combining ccPAS with the concept of multisensory integration. We will further analyze the correlation between analyzing visual and motor circuits and explore the alteration of neuroplasticity by the interactions between different brain networks. This study will provide us with a new clinical treatment strategy to achieve precise rehabilitation for patient with motor dysfunction after stroke.

Trial registration

This trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry with code ChiCTR2300067422 and was approved on January 16, 2023.
Pathways from childhood trauma to suicidal ideation: mediating through difficulties in emotion regulation and depressive symptoms
Authors: Laghaei Marziyeh , Mehrabizadeh Honarmand Mahnaz , Jobson Laura , Abdollahpour Ranjbar Hamed , Habibi Asgarabad Mojtaba
Published: April 2023

Objective

Suicidal ideation is a clinical exigency heightening the risk of suicide at different levels of suicidal behavior. This study sought to explore crucial correlates of this phenomenon with a structural equation modeling approach. Accordingly, the mediating role of depressive symptoms and difficulties in emotion regulation between childhood trauma and suicidal ideation were explored.

Method

The sample consisted of 372 university students (57.3% females, M = 20.75, SD = 2.25) who completed self-report measures examining experiences of childhood trauma, depressive symptoms, difficulties in emotion regulation, and suicidal ideation. Structural equation modeling was employed, and mediation analysis was conducted. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the measurement model of each construct before evaluating the conceptual mediated model.

Results

Findings indicate that depressive symptoms with difficulties in emotion regulation had the strongest association (r = 0.60, P = 0.001), then depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation (r = 0.58, P = 0.001), suicidal ideation with difficulties in emotion regulation (r = 0.45, P = 0.001) then suicidal ideation with childhood trauma (r = 0.39, P = 0.001), difficulties in emotion regulation with childhood trauma (r = 0.36 P = 0.001) and finally depressive symptoms and childhood trauma (r = 0.35, P = 0.001). Regarding indirect paths, difficulties in emotion regulation and depression function together (in a sequential path) to mediate the association between childhood trauma and suicidal ideation ( χ2(68) = 216.86, P < 0.01, CFI = 0.95, TLI = 0.93, RMSE = 0.077, CI [0.066 to 0.089], SRMR = 0.049).

Conclusion

Results demonstrate that childhood trauma, depressive symptoms, and difficulties in emotion regulation are linked to suicidal ideation, highlighting the necessity of recognizing and addressing suicidal ideation as well as the factors that contribute to suicidal ideation. Emotion regulation interventions can be effective in reducing the negative effects of childhood trauma and lowering the risk of suicide. These interventions can help in reducing depressive symptoms and improve overall mental well-being, leading to a lower risk of suicide.
Measuring recovery in participants with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder: validation of the Individual Recovery Outcomes Counter (I.ROC).
Authors: Sportel B. Esther , Aardema Hettie , Boonstra Nynke , Arends Johannes , Rudd Bridey , Metz Margot J. , Castelein Stynke , Pijnenborg Gerdina H.M.
Published: April 2023

Background

To improve recovery in mental health, validated instruments are needed.

Aims

This study evaluates psychometric properties of the Individual Recovery Outcomes Counter (I.ROC) in a Dutch population of participants with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD).

Methods

326 participants completed the I.ROC at baseline (n = 326), six months (n = 155) and twelve months (n = 84) as part of a routine outcome assessment. Reliability, validity, sensitivity to change, and internal factor structure were examined.

Results

Participants evaluated the I.ROC as comprehensive. Internal consistency of the I.ROC (α = 0.88) and test-retest reliability (r = .85, p < .001) are good. Negative moderate correlations with the total score of the PANSS (r=-.50, p < .001) and the HoNOS (r=-.52, p < .001) were found, and a small negative correlation with the FR tool (r=-.36, p < .001). Moderate positive correlation with the MANSA (r = .55, p < .001) and the RAS (r = .60, p < .001) were found. The mean total I.ROC scores increased significantly between time points (F(2,166) = 6.351, p < .005), although differences were small. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that fit indices for the one-, two-, and four-factor model are comparable.

Conclusions

The I.ROC is a valid and reliable instrument, with sensitivity to change, to map recovery in participants with SSD.
Child and adolescent mortality associated with pesticide toxicity in Cape Town, South Africa, 2010–2019: a retrospective case review
Authors: Davies Bronwen , Hlela Marie Belle Kathrina Mendoza , Rother Hanna-Andrea
Published: April 2023

Background

Poisoning of children after exposure to pesticides is a major public health concern, particularly in countries with poorer urban populations, such as South Africa. This may stem from the illegal distribution and domestic use of street pesticides, which are highly hazardous agricultural pesticides. The aim of this study was to profile paediatric deaths due to acute pesticide poisoning in the west-metropole of Cape Town, South Africa; to identify whether the active ingredients were highly hazardous pesticides according to the FAO and WHO; and to inform policy and public health interventions to prevent future exposures and mortality.

Methods

A retrospective and descriptive analysis of forensic post-mortem records (2010 to 2019) was conducted to identify cases of paediatric deaths (< 18 years old) in the west metropole of Cape Town, involving pesticide poisoning admitted to the Salt River mortuary (one out of 16 mortuaries in the Western Cape province). Demographic, circumstantial, autopsy, and toxicological information was captured. Descriptive statistics, together with chi-square tests, Fisher’s probability tests, and Mann–Whitney U tests were used to analyse the data.

Results

In total, 54 paediatric pesticide deaths were identified, including 22 (40.7%) males and 32 (59.3%) females, out of 5,181 paediatric unnatural deaths admitted over the 10-year period. The median age of the decedents was 8.3 years (range: 1 day to 17.9 years), with the majority under five years (42.6%) or between 15 and 18 years old (40.7%). All incidents occurred in peri-urban areas of Cape Town, with most individuals being admitted to hospital (88.9%) for a median survival time of 4.8 h. Toxicological analysis was requested in 50 cases (92.6%) with the organophosphate pesticides terbufos (n = 29), methamidophos (n = 2) and diazinon (n = 2) detected most frequently. Adolescent (15–18 years) suicides (29.6%) and accidental child deaths (< 4 years) (18.5%) were common.

Conclusions

Terbufos and methamidophos are highly hazardous pesticide (HHP) active ingredients registered in South Africa for agricultural uses, yet commonly sold as street pesticides for domestic use in lower socioeconomic areas. Reducing access and availability of toxic pesticides, especially through the illegal selling of street pesticides, and providing low toxic alternatives to poorer communities, may support mortality reduction initiatives. Mortality and toxicology data provide important, often overlooked, surveillance tools for informing policy and public health interventions to reduce toxic pesticide harm in local communities.