bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Residual Stroke Risk Among Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Prescribed Oral Anticoagulants: A Patient‐Level Meta‐Analysis From COMBINE AF
Authors: Johnson Linda S. , Benz Alexander P. , Shoamanesh Ashkan , Eikelboom John W. , Ezekowitz Michael , Giugliano Robert P. , Wallentin Lars , Ruff Christian T. , Lopes Renato D. , Jolly Sanjit , Whitlock Richard , Granger Christopher B. , Connolly Stuart , Healey Jeffrey S.
Published: August 2024

Background

Despite oral anticoagulation, patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) remain at risk of ischemic stroke and systemic embolism (SE) events. For patients whose residual risk is sufficiently high, additional therapies might be useful to mitigate stroke risk.

Methods and Results

Individual patient data from 5 landmark trials testing oral anticoagulation in AF were pooled in A Collaboration Between Multiple Institutions to Better Investigate Non‐Vitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulant Use in AF (COMBINE AF). We calculated the rate of ischemic stroke/SE among oral anticoagulation–treated patients with a CHA
2
DS
2
‐VASc score≥2, across strata of CHA
2
DS
2
‐VASc score, stroke history, and AF type, as either paroxysmal or nonparoxysmal. We included 71 794 patients with AF (median age 72 years, interquartile range, 13 years, 61.3% male) randomized to a direct oral anticoagulant or vitamin K antagonist, and followed for a mean of 2.1 (±0.8) years. The median CHA
2
DS
2
‐VASc score was 4 (interquartile range, 3–5), 18.8% had a prior stroke, and 76.4% had nonparoxysmal AF. The overall rate of stroke/SE was 1.33%/y (95% CI, 1.27–1.39); 1.38%/y (95% CI, 1.31–1.45) for nonparoxysmal AF, and 1.15%/y (95% CI, 1.05–1.27) for paroxysmal AF. The rate of ischemic stroke/SE increased by a rate ratio of 1.36 (95% CI, 1.32–1.41) per 1‐point increase in CHA
2
DS
2
‐VASc, reaching 1.67%/y (95% CI, 1.59–1.75) ≥4 CHA
2
DS
2
‐VASc points. Patients with both nonparoxysmal AF and CHA
2
DS
2
‐VASc ≥4 had a stroke/SE rate of 1.75%/y (95% CI, 1.66–1.85). In patients with a prior stroke, the risk was 2.51%/y (95% CI, 2.33–2.71).

Conclusions

AF type, CHA
2
DS
2
‐VASc score, and stroke history can identify patients with AF, who despite oral anticoagulation have a residual stroke/SE risk of 1.5% to 2.5% per year. Evaluation of additional stroke/SE prevention strategies in high‐risk patients is warranted.
Evaluation of Cost‐Effectiveness of a Virtual Multidisciplinary Stroke Care Clinic for Community‐Dwelling Survivors of Stroke
Authors: Lam Simon Kwun Yu , Chau Janita Pak Chun , Lo Suzanne Hoi Shan , Choi Kai Chow , Siow Elaine Kee Chen , Shum Edward Wai Ching , Lee Vivian Wing Yan , Hung Sheung Sheung , Mok Vincent Chung Tong , Ching Jessica Yuet Ling , Lau Alexander Yuk Lun
Published: August 2024

Background

A technologically integrated, multidisciplinary approach to stroke rehabilitation service was delivered and embedded into conventional health care practice. This article reports an evaluation of cost‐effectiveness analysis of a new Virtual Multidisciplinary Stroke Care Clinic (VMSCC) service for community‐dwelling survivors of stroke.

Methods and Results

A randomized controlled trial was conducted. Adults with a first/recurrent ischemic/hemorrhagic stroke were recruited from 10 hospitals. Eligible participants were randomly assigned to receive the VMSCC service (individual virtual consultations with a registered nurse, home blood pressure telemonitoring, and unlimited access to an online resource platform) plus usual care or usual care alone. Cost‐effectiveness analyses were performed based on incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios expressed as incremental cost per emergency admission reduced, and day of hospitalization reduced over the study period. A total of 256 participants (intervention group n=141 versus control group n=115) with complete cost and health care use data were included in the cost‐effectiveness analyses. The VMSCC service, on average, resulted in a greater reduction in the number of emergency admission (−0.06 [95% bootstrapped CI, −0.14 to 0.01]) and fewer days of hospitalization (−0.08, [95% bootstrapped CI −0.40 to 0.24]) but incurred a higher total cost of HK$375 (95% bootstrapped CI, −2103 to 2743) compared with the usual care. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios of the VMSCC service compared with the usual care were HK$6070 and HK$4826 per an emergency admission and a day of hospital stay reduced respectively.

Conclusions

The study provides preliminary but not confirmative evidence that the VMSCC service could be more effective but more costly than usual care in reducing health service use.

Registration

URL:
https://www.chictr.org.cn
. Unique identifier: ChiCTR1800016101.
Use of Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers Is Associated With a Reduced Risk of Poststroke Epilepsy in Patients With Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Chang Kuo‐Cheng , Lin Ching‐Heng , Huang Jin‐An
Published: August 2024

Background

Poststroke epilepsy (PSE) is a common complication after ischemic stroke. This study investigates the association between the use of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and the risk of PSE in patients with ischemic stroke.

Methods and Results

A population‐based retrospective cohort study was conducted using Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database between 2000 and 2015. Patients with hypertension with a history of ischemic stroke were classified into prevalent, new, and nonusers according to their use of ACEIs/ARBs. Prevalent ACEI/ARB users were further classified into continuing or discontinued users, based on their poststroke medication adherence. We used multivariate Cox regression models, adjusted for demographics and comorbidities, to assess the risk of PSE among different ACEI/ARB user groups. There were 182 983 ACEI/ARB users and 38 365 nonusers included. There were 7387 patients diagnosed with PSE, whereas 213 961 were not. Nonusers exhibited a higher risk of PSE (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.72 [95% CI, 1.63–1.82]). Both prevalent and nonusers had higher risks compared with new ACEI/ARB users, with respective aHRs of 1.33 (95% CI, 1.25–1.41) and 2.00 (95% CI, 1.87–2.14). Discontinued ACEI/ARB users showed the highest risk of PSE (aHR, 2.34 [95% CI, 2.15–2.54]), suggesting the importance of continuing ACEI/ARB use after stroke. Treatment‐by‐age interaction was significant among patients with or without ACEI/ARB use before stroke (
P
value for interaction 0.004 and <0.001, respectively), suggesting a stronger beneficial association in younger patients.

Conclusions

The use of ACEIs/ARBs after ischemic stroke in patients with hypertension is associated with a reduced risk of PSE, especially among younger patients.
Anticoagulation in Patients With Device‐Detected Atrial Fibrillation With and Without a Prior Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack: The NOAH‐AFNET 6 Trial
Authors: Diener Hans Christoph , Becher Nina , Sehner Susanne , Toennis Tobias , Bertaglia Emanuele , Blomstrom‐Lundqvist Carina , Brandes Axel , Beuger Vincent , Calvert Melanie , Camm A. John , Chlouverakis Gregory , Dan Gheorghe‐Andrei , Dichtl Wolfgang , Fierenz Alexander , Goette Andreas , de Groot Joris R. , Hermans Astrid , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Lubinski Andrzej , Marijon Eloi , Merkely Béla , Mont Lluís , Nikorowitsch Julius , Ozga Ann‐Kathrin , Rajappan Kim , Sarkozy Andrea , Scherr Daniel , Schnabel Renate B. , Schotten Ulrich , Simantirakis Emmanuel , Vardas Panos , Wichterle Dan , Zapf Antonia , Kirchhof Paulus ,   the NOAH‐AFNET 6 investigators
Published: August 2024

Background

Short and rare episodes of atrial fibrillation (AF) are commonly detected using implanted devices (device‐detected AF) in patients with prior stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). The effectiveness and safety of oral anticoagulation in patients with prior stroke or TIA and device‐detected AF but with no ECG‐documented AF is unclear.

Methods and Results

This prespecified analysis of the NOAH‐AFNET 6 (Non‐Vitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulants in Patients With Atrial High Rate Episodes) trial with post hoc elements assessed the effect of oral anticoagulation in patients with device‐detected AF with and without a prior stroke or TIA in the randomized, double‐blind, double‐dummy NOAH‐AFNET 6 trial. Outcomes were stroke, systemic embolism, and cardiovascular death (primary outcome) and major bleeding and death (safety outcome). A prior stroke or TIA was found in 253 patients with device‐detected AF randomized in the NOAH‐AFNET 6 (mean age, 78 years; 36.4% women). There was no treatment interaction with prior stroke or TIA for any of the primary and secondary time‐to‐event outcomes. In patients with a prior stroke or TIA, 14 out of 122 patients experienced a primary outcome event with anticoagulation (5.7% per patient‐year). Without anticoagulation, there were 16 out of 131 patients with an event (6.3% per patient‐year). The rate of stroke was lower than expected (anticoagulation: 4 out of 122 [1.6% per patient‐year]; no anticoagulation: 6 out of 131 [2.3% per patient‐year]). Numerically, there were more major bleeding events with anticoagulation in patients with prior stroke or TIA (8 out of 122 patients) than without anticoagulation (2 out of 131 patients).

Conclusions

Anticoagulation appears to have ambiguous effects in patients with device‐detected AF and a prior stroke or TIA in this hypothesis‐generating analysis of the NOAH‐AFNET 6 in the absence of ECG‐documented AF, partially due to a low rate of stroke without anticoagulation.
Relationship Between Baseline Infarct and Clinical Outcome in Pediatric Large‐Vessel Occlusion Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Bhatia Kartik D. , Parra‐Farinas Carmen , Pulcine Elizabeth , Dlamini Nomazulu , Andrews Ian , Gupta Sachin , Webster Richard , Troedson Christopher , Dale Russell C. , Worthington John , Tastula Kylie , Ang Timothy , Cheung Andrew , Manning Nathan , Miteff Ferdinand , Miteff Christina , Muthusami Prakash
Published: August 2024

Background

In adults with large‐vessel occlusion stroke, the extent of the baseline infarct measured using the Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (ASPECTS) predicts outcome and is used during patient selection for mechanical thrombectomy. The relationship between ASPECTS and clinical outcome is unknown in pediatric large‐vessel occlusion stroke.

Methods

Secondary analysis of a retrospective multicenter case–control study assessing mechanical thrombectomy versus medical management alone for pediatric large‐vessel occlusion stroke across 5 centers in Australia and Canada from 2011 to 2022. ASPECTS was measured on baseline computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging–diffusion‐weighted imaging while blinded to clinical outcome and treatment status. The relationship between ASPECTS and pediatric modified Rankin scale scores at 3 months following stroke was assessed using ordinal logistic regression.

Results

In total, n = 24 thrombectomy patients (F = 10, mean age, 11.3 years [SD, 4.36]) and n = 24 control patients (F = 10, mean age, 10.2 years [SD, 4.32) were included. Mean ASPECTS was 6.3 (SD, 2.37) in the thrombectomy group and 6.1 (SD, 2.64) in the control group. In patients undergoing thrombectomy, baseline ASPECTS significantly correlated with pediatric modified Rankin scale scores at 3 months (odds ratio, 1.58 [95% CI, 1.10–2.27];
P
 = 0.013). In control patients, there was no significant correlation (odds ratio, 1.17 [95% CI, 0.87–1.55];
P
 = 0.298). Six of 7 thrombectomy patients with a large baseline infarct (ASPECTS <6) had a pediatric modified Rankin scale score of 0 to 2 at final follow‐up.

Conclusion

Baseline ASPECTS was significantly associated with clinical outcome in pediatric patients with large‐vessel occlusion stroke who received mechanical thrombectomy. Thrombectomy patients with low ASPECTS demonstrated favorable long‐term outcomes, suggesting ASPECTS alone should not be used to exclude pediatric patients from receiving thrombectomy.
Quod se emisse diceret: Überlegungen zu einer Urkunde aus dem antiken London
Authors: Jakab Éva
Published: August 2024

In 1996, Roger Tomlin published a document from ancient London (rib ii 2443.19), which contains a professional Latin legal text. It mentions a purchase transaction, but it is not a deed of sale. The expressions used (cum ventum esset, in rem praesentem, se emisse dicetur, testatus est se) rather indicate an extrajudicial, pre-trial context. The interpretation proposed here builds on the results of recent research in Roman law of procedure. Several indications suggest that the tabula records a preparatory act for future trial between the protagonists: Bellicus (the pursuer) bindingly declares that he is ready to take an extrajudicial oath concerning a contract of sale with his opponent, about this he can produce no other evidence.
Donationem non facit? Donations to people in potestate of the donor in Roman law
Authors: Curir Daniele
Published: August 2024

The paper focuses on the phenomenon of donation to people in potestate of the donor. Even though this kind of donation was an old practice in Roman society, classical jurisprudence considered it void due to the lack of legal capacity of the people alieni iuris. However, we can see that beginning from the Severian age, the jurists and then the imperial chancery gradually stated the validity of these acts of liberality, contingent upon certain conditions primarily based on the donor’s voluntas. The analysis of responsa and rescripta related to this subject highlights how this concessio worked under a juridical point of view, along with its progression. Finally, it is highlighted how this interpretatio was part of a broader phenomenon occurring in the 3rd century a.d. and aimed to value the donor’s voluntas.
What is the Relation between Chemosensory Perception and Chemosensory Mental Imagery?
Authors: Spence Charles
Published: August 2024

The study of chemosensory mental imagery is undoubtedly made more difficult because of the profound individual differences that have been reported in the vividness of (e.g.) olfactory mental imagery. At the same time, the majority of those researchers who have attempted to study people’s mental imagery abilities for taste (gustation) have actually mostly been studying flavour mental imagery. Nevertheless, there exists a body of human psychophysical research showing that chemosensory mental imagery exhibits a number of similarities with chemosensory perception. Furthermore, the two systems have frequently been shown to interact with one another, the similarities and differences between chemosensory perception and chemosensory mental imagery at the introspective, behavioural, psychophysical, and cognitive neuroscience levels in humans are considered in this narrative historical review. The latest neuroimaging evidence show that many of the same brain areas are engaged by chemosensory mental imagery as have previously been documented to be involved in chemosensory perception. That said, the pattern of neural connectively is reversed between the ‘top-down’ control of chemosensory mental imagery and the ‘bottom-up’ control seen in the case of chemosensory perception. At the same time, however, there remain a number of intriguing questions as to whether it is even possible to distinguish between orthonasal and retronasal olfactory mental imagery, and the extent to which mental imagery for flavour, which most people not only describe as, but also perceive to be, the ‘taste’ of food and drink, is capable of reactivating the entire flavour network in the human brain.
The Omani Mosques and the Mosque Unearthed by the Italian Archaeological Mission at Ẓafār/al-Balīd, in the Dhofar Region
Authors: Giunta Roberta
Published: August 2024

The article provides a brief overview of the Omani mosques that the Italian archaeologist P.M. Costa classified into two groups in the 1970s based on their floor plans, architectural features, and decorative elements: those from the northern inland regions and those situated along the Indian Ocean coast. A new mosque recently brought to light by the Italian Archaeological Mission to al-Balīd of the University of Naples L’Orientale belongs to this second group.
Years of Untying Knots
Authors: Shukaitis Stevphen
Published: August 2024

This article explores the work of Gee Vaucher. Vaucher is best known for her work with the band Crass but has an extensive range of work from the 1960s until the present. The article delves into Vaucher’s relationship with surrealism, through her project A Week of Knots (2013–2022). In this project, Vaucher uses the psychoanalytic insights of R.D. Laing to rewrite Max Ernst’s collage novel, Une semaine de bonté. Doing so provides a space for Vaucher to explore the nature of violence, power, and care, among many other aspects. What can we learn from Vaucher’s collaging practice that combines influences from Ernst and Laing? And what can this way of using that backdrop as a kind of collective psychoanalytic tool tell us about the family’s changing nature?
On the Neotropical Brincadorus: redescription, new species, taxonomic key and description of a related new genus (Insecta: Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae)
Authors: CAMISÃO BEATRIZ M. , ZAHNISER JAMES N. , TAKIYA DANIELA M.
Published: August 2024

The Neotropical genus Brincadorus Oman, 1938 is redescribed, and five new species are described and illustrated. Brincadorus cruceno sp. nov., from Bolivia and Peru, can be differentiated by the long and slender aedeagus, with a pre-apical dorsal spine and apex curved downwards. Brincadorus gracilis sp. nov., from Ecuador and Peru, can be distinguished by the slender subgenital plates, aedeagus with slender shaft and basidorsal processes without a preapical tooth. Brincadorus limoncocha sp. nov. from Ecuador, can be differentiated by the robust aedeagus shaft, and bifurcate basidorsal processes. Brincadorus quincemil sp. nov., from Peru, can be distinguished by the bifurcate apex of the subgenital plates, and aedeagus basidorsal process with a preapical dorsal tooth. Brincadorus yanayacu sp. nov., from Ecuador, can be distinguished by the thorn-like apex of the subgenital plates, and short aedeagus, without processes. A key to species is provided, and a female is illustrated and described for the first time. New records for Ecuador and Peru are provided. A new genus that shares similarities with Brincadorus is described. Saltadorus gen. nov. can be distinguished by the smaller size, male pygofer with a pair of long inner lateral processes arising sub-basally on the dorsal region and extending beyond the pygofer apex, widely separated and elongated subgenital plates, and robust aedeagus with a conspicuous sclerotized gonoduct protruding from the atrium. Saltadorus blahniki sp. nov., from Peru, can be identified by the elongated male pygofer, and aedeagus without processes. Saltadorus dietrichi sp. nov., from Peru, can be distinguished by the shorter male pygofer, and aedeagus with a pair of subapical dorsal teeth. Based on the results of recent phylogenomic analyses, Brincadorus is removed from Bahitini and, along with Saltadorus, is considered unplaced to tribe in Deltocephalinae, pending further study.
The Development of Simulated Dust-Devil-Like Vortices
Authors: Dahl Johannes M. L.
Published: August 2024

In this study, the cause of rotation in simulated dust-devil-like vortices is investigated. The analysis uses a numerical simulation of an initially resting, dry, atmosphere, in which uniform surface heating leads to the development of a growing convective boundary layer (CBL). As soon as convective mixing sets in, regions of weak vertical vorticity develop at the lowest model level. Using forward trajectories, this vorticity is shown to originate from horizontal baroclinic production and simultaneous reorientation into the vertical within the descending branches of the convective cells. The requirement for vertical vorticity production in the downdraft cells is shown to be a nonaxisymmetric horizontal footprint of the downdraft regions. The resulting vertical vorticity is not initially associated with rotation. However, as the CBL matures, like-signed vortex patches merge, the vertical vorticity magnitude increases due to stretching, and deformation in the vortex patch decreases, leading to the development of vortices. The ultimate origin of the vortices is thus initially horizontal vorticity that has been produced baroclinically and that has subsequently been reoriented into the vertical in sinking air.

Significance Statement

Dust devils are concentrated vortices consisting of rapidly rising buoyant air, which may pose a risk to small aircraft and light structures on the ground. Although these vortices are a common occurrence in convective boundary layers, the origin of the vorticity within these vortices has not yet been fully established. The present study uses a numerical simulation of an evolving convective boundary layer and analyzes air parcel trajectories to identify the origin of vertical vorticity at the surface during dust-devil formation. The work contributes an answer to the long-standing question of what causes dust devils to spin.
Soil Moisture Dominates the Land Surface Feedback in the Development of Compound Drought–Heat Extremes in Tropical South America
Authors: Jiang Yelin , Wang Guiling
Published: August 2024

Observational evidence has demonstrated that heat extremes consistently coincide with droughts in tropical South America. However, the underlying causes and associated physical mechanisms remain relatively unexplored. In this study, we employ numerical experiments using Community Earth System Model, version 2 (CESM2), with prescribed oceanic forcing to assess how extreme soil temperature and moisture affect subsequent hydrometeorological conditions during the premonsoon season in tropical South America, a season when land can play an important role in regional climate. The results reveal a different diurnal pattern in the strength of the surface air temperature response, with a stronger response at night to soil temperature anomalies and a stronger response at noon to soil moisture anomalies. Elevated initial soil temperature or reduced initial soil moisture tends to yield warmer and drier hydrometeorological conditions and increase the occurrence of both drought and heat extremes, with stronger and longer-lasting responses to soil moisture anomalies (than soil temperature anomalies). The simulated responses to initial soil moisture anomalies alone closely resemble those in the experiment with combined soil temperature and moisture anomalies. These findings underscore the dominant role of soil moisture feedback in shaping compound drought–heat extremes, in regions where evaporation plays a significant role, highlighting its importance in the modeling and prediction of hydrometeorological extremes.
Situational Awareness and Safety: Using Weather Information to Inform Decision-Making in Antarctic Environments
Authors: Heinrich Victoria J. , Norris Kimberley
Published: August 2024

To avoid hazards, manage risks, and successfully conduct their outdoor activities, people in Antarctica make weather-related decisions every day. Research on Antarctic weather information use and related decision-making, services, and user needs is limited. In a mixed-methods study, we explored how people use weather information to manage activities and weather in Antarctic regions. Survey (n = 62) and interview (n = 35) participants were deployed with the national Antarctic programs and tourism operators across a range of roles, activities, and locations. How and when weather information was used depended on people’s decision contexts, location, activities, previous experience, and knowledge. Experienced participants used weather information, their experience, and local knowledge to form and maintain their situation awareness. Situation awareness influenced participant’s decision-making, risk assessment, and planning processes and enabled people’s adaptation to changing circumstances, hazards, and weather conditions. As a part of these processes, forecasts were used primarily for preactivity planning and scheduling decisions. Tasks were prioritized and planned based on suitable weather conditions, experience, and safety. During activities, real-time weather data, personal observations, and experience were important for updating situation awareness, risk judgments, decision-making, and maintaining safety. Levels of weather service provision and training varied and were often not fit-for-purpose, which may adversely impact people’s safety in Antarctic regions. Results contribute to our understanding of polar weather user needs and how we may support people to develop the experience, knowledge, and nontechnical skills necessary for identifying and avoiding hazards and safe, efficient, and successful outdoor activities.

Significance Statement

This study examines weather information use and decision-making processes in Antarctica. Weather information informed people’s situation awareness and along with contingency planning, experience, and local knowledge helped people plan their activities, assess risk, and cope with unexpected situations. People—including colleagues, supervisors, and forecasters from local weather services—were important information sources and a part of people decision-making and advice networks. Training and tailored weather services are needed to help people better understand weather information and make safer decisions. Improved training may help people develop essential nontechnical skills like situation awareness and managing weather hazards and activity risks. Findings may inform service provision, training, and education and support wellbeing, preparedness, and more effective weather-hazard decision-making in Antarctica and globally.
Leadership Experience, Cosponsor Cues, and the Floor Agenda in State Legislatures
Authors: Makse Todd
Published: August 2024

Output from state legislatures is influenced in many ways by member experience, but while many studies have considered collective levels of experience due to term limits or turnover, little research has focused on leadership change. Leader continuity varies tremendously across legislatures, from leaders who serve for decades to chambers with change every session. In this paper, I ask whether leadership experience influences floor agendas and the linkage between cosponsor cues and bill consideration. Looking at 26 legislatures from 2012 to 2020, I find no evidence that new and continuing leaders use cues differently, indicating that leaders quickly learn to use cosponsor cues.
Using Virtual Video Modeling Multicomponent Intervention to Improve Mathematical Skills of an Autistic High School Student: Findings From a Two-Experiment Study
Authors: Yakubova Gulnoza , Defayette Melissa A. , Gupta Stuti , Proulx Anthony L. , Lee Yewon
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this two-experiment study was to examine the effectiveness of an online, synchronous video modeling multicomponent intervention (guided practice, self-monitoring checklist, and prompting) when teaching secondary level mathematical and geometry skills to an autistic high school student. We used a multiple probe baseline across behaviors design of single-case experimental methodology. The project consisted of two studies: Initial experiment to examine the effects of the online multicomponent intervention with three skills related to secondary level fraction and long division topics and a follow-up experiment in which we refined the intervention based on the experiences of the participant and focused on teaching three geometry skills. There was a functional relation between the intervention and students’ acquisition of mathematics and geometry skills. These findings add to emerging evidence on instructional strategies in teaching secondary level mathematics and geometry skills to autistic secondary school students and virtual interventions in supporting students’ mathematics learning.
Is Mistrust in Early Adolescence Referent-specific? Looking at the Validity of Different Mistrust Referents in Sixth Graders
Authors: Mo Jiajun , Roorda Debora L. , van der Ark L. Andries , Orobio de Castro Bram
Published: August 2024

This study examined whether social mistrust in early adolescence was general or referent-specific. We used a multi-trait multi-method approach to examine the validity of mistrust measures across social referents (mistrust toward people in general, toward peers, and toward teachers), using questionnaires and an online task. Sixth graders ( N = 1243, ca. 11–13 years) in southern China reported about mistrust (i.e., general, teacher and peer), their social anxiety and aggression. Part of the students ( N = 262) played an online trust game against a virtual, unfamiliar peer. Confirmatory factor analyses showed that mistrust was distinguishable across referents. All referents of mistrust were significantly associated with social anxiety and aggression, whereas only peer mistrust was associated with peer-trust behavior in the online game. As such, our findings may underscore the referent-specificity of mistrust in early adolescence. Insights for promoting healthy school adjustment were discussed.
Splenic rupture in dairy cattle: Report of 24 cases
Authors: Horn Vitor W. , Perosa Fernanda F. , Gris Anderson H. , Piva Manoela M. , Stilz C. Robert , Boldori Érica , Gabriel Mateus E. , Pelisser Giovana , Pavarini Saulo P. , Gomes Teane M. A. , Mendes Ricardo E.
Published: August 2024

Splenic rupture in cattle is scarcely described in the literature. The aim of this work was to report the occurrence of splenic rupture in cattle in southern Brazil as well as to describe the causes of the condition. Between 2013 and 2022, 24 of the 1769 bovine necropsies performed in southern Brazil were due to splenic rupture, accounting for 1.36% of the diagnoses. Animals died due to hemoperitoneum caused by a rupture in the splenic capsule, typically associated with marked splenomegaly and a large hematoma between the capsule and the parenchyma. Clinical signs were described in a subset of cases (11 of 24 cases, 46%) and included apathy, abdominal pain, mucosal pallor, tachycardia, and respiratory distress. However, the majority (13 of 24 cases, 54%) presented as sudden death. The underlying cause of splenic rupture was established as follows: 16 cases (67%) secondary to babesiosis, 4 cases (17%) due to lymphoma, 1 case (4%) due to a thrombus, 1 case (4%) due to external trauma, 1 case due to a ruptured nodular lymphoid hyperplasia (4%), and 1 case of undetermined cause (4%). Hypovolemic shock caused by splenic rupture is an important cause of death of dairy cattle, and babesiosis and bovine leukemia virus–associated lymphoma are among the most common etiologic diagnoses (84% of cases). The description of the causes of this condition is important to clarify the pathogenesis and occurrence of splenic rupture in dairy cattle.
Composite Accessibility Index: A Novel and Holistic Measure for Evaluating Transit Accessibility
Authors: Rathod Rohit , Joshi Gaurang , Arkatkar Shriniwas
Published: August 2024

The accessibility of public transport is a vital factor for the overall success of transit operations. It determines whether people choose to use and rely on public transport by assessing the ease of accessing opportunities. Accessibility, as a measure of the system’s performance, encompasses various travel segments and can be evaluated from different perspectives. Evaluating transit accessibility in data-constrained environments, particularly in developing countries, requires an optimal framework. The present study proposed a framework by modifying available accessibility measurement indices and trying to encompass all affecting variables in a single composite index. The integrated transit system comprising the bus rapid transit system and city bus in Surat city, India, is selected to demonstrate the proposed framework. The results of the ranked-based correlation coefficient test exhibit the comprehensive assessment capabilities of the proposed composite index in evaluating transit performance. Surat city’s transit network shows better coverage based on the gravity model theory, that is, moderate performance in local coverage offered capacity per population. However, it exhibits poor accessibility with respect to reaching destinations, resulting in below-average transit accessibility. Except for the city center and eastern part, 65% of the city area experiences inadequate accessibility of public transport. These findings align with the city’s low transit mode share of 2.5% and stagnant daily ridership of 0.25–0.28 million passengers in the last half decade. The composite index map serves as a planning tool for optimizing the utilization of available resources and guiding future policy implementations.
The Mediating Role of Problematic Alcohol Consumption on the Association Between Pandemic-Related Strains and Domestic Violence Across Six Countries
Authors: Leal Wanda E. , Iesue Laura , Moscrop-Blake Kelsi , Regalado Jullianne , Timmer Anastasiia , González Jenifer
Published: August 2024

Research has documented that domestic violence increased worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies have also suggested that alcohol use, which also increased during COVID-19, is a risk factor for domestic violence victimization. However, research has yet to examine whether alcohol consumption mediated the relationship between pandemic-related stressful events and domestic violence. Using structural equation modeling, the current study examines the impact of three types of pandemic-related strains (financial problems, familial problems, and work problems) on individual assessments about whether their drinking became problematic during the pandemic and then whether problematic alcohol use increases the risk of psychological and physical domestic violence. This model was analyzed across six countries: Ukraine, The Netherlands, Pakistan, Denmark, Guatemala, and the United States. Results indicate that the associations between pandemic-related strains and self-assessed problematic drinking varied by country. However, across all countries, problematic alcohol consumption was associated with increased physical and psychological domestic violence victimization. Overall, the findings of the current study support the use of programs that aim to reduce problematic consumption of alcohol with the hopes that they may, in turn, reduce psychological and physical domestic violence victimization.
Enhancing perception of vehicle motion by objective positioning of the longitudinal axis of rotation in driving simulators
Authors: Hvitfeldt Henrik , Drugge Lars , Jerrelind Jenny
Published: August 2024

The automotive industry is heading towards a more objective approach to vehicle testing, but subjective evaluation is still an important part of the development process. Subjective evaluation in physical testing has environmental implications and is dependent on ambient conditions. A more repeatable, faster, safer and more cost-effective tool for subjective evaluation is to use moving base driving simulators. The motion cueing algorithms (MCA) maps the movement of the vehicle into the limited space of the simulator. The choice of reference point, that is, where on the vehicle to sample the motion to feed to the MCA and the alignment of the axis of rotation of the simulator cabin is still an open topic. This paper investigates the choice of reference point and corresponding simulator longitudinal axis of rotation in roll using two methods. The first method uses a linearised model of the combined system of vehicle, simulator and vestibular models. The second method, to position the cabin longitudinal axis of rotation, is based on offline optimisation. The linear model can capture important characteristics of the specific forces and rotations that are fed to the driver through the motion cueing algorithms and offers a method to objectively analyse and potentially tune the motion cueing. The analysis is further complemented with a subjective evaluation of corresponding settings. The results from the linear model, the offline optimisation and the subjective evaluation shows that a reference point at the driver’s head has a clear advantage over the full frequency range compared to a reference point in the chassis roll axis and that the positioning of the cabin longitudinal axis of rotation has a significant effect on the perceived vehicle characteristics.
Analytical, computational, and experimental investigations on the impact of side outlet on the simple expansion chamber with axial outlet
Authors: Vishwakarma Sandeep Kumar , Pawar Suryappa Jayappa
Published: August 2024

In this study, an investigation on the acoustic performance of a simple expansion chamber muffler with side outlet has been presented. The investigation for the muffler is done in the 10–2400 Hz frequency range. The muffler is analyzed analytically, computationally, and experimentally. The computational and analytical modellings of the muffler have been done by using the finite element and transfer matrix methods, respectively for the determination of transmission loss. As the transfer matrix method is unable to capture the higher order modes above the cut-off frequency of the muffler, the finite element method has been adopted as the computational method. Additionally, the accuracy in the analytical and computational modelling of the muffler is checked with the experimental investigation. The two-load method is used in this study for muffler to determine the transmission loss and band power. The side outlet of the muffler introduces an extra impedance due to the shunt element and hence the effectiveness of the muffler can be improved. This muffler shows an overall improvement of 24.73 dB in the transmission loss when compared with the transmission loss of the simple expansion chamber muffler with an axial outlet in 10–2400 Hz frequency range. Specifically, the simple expansion chamber muffler with side outlet is more effective than the simple expansion chamber muffler with an axial outlet in 350–680 Hz, 1040–1350 Hz, 1570–1590 Hz, and 1850–2400 Hz frequency ranges. The comparison among the different techniques shows a fair agreement in the results. The transmission loss, variation of the band power in the 1/3rd octave band, and sound pressure level contours for the muffler at the selected frequencies have been presented. This study offers an advantage in the design of the automotive mufflers.
Non-linear machine learning coupled near infrared spectroscopy enhanced model performance and insights for coffee origin traceability
Authors: Sim Joy , McGoverin Cushla , Oey Indrawati , Frew Russell , Kebede Biniam
Published: August 2024

Over the past decade, there has been overwhelming interest in rapid and routine origin tracing and authentication methods, such as near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. In a systematic and comprehensive approach, this study coupled NIR with advanced machine learning models to explore the origin classification of coffee at various scales (continental to regional level). Speciality green coffee beans were sourced from three continents, eight countries, and 22 regions. The dispersive bulk NIR spectra were used for spectral registration in the reflectance mode, and the obtained spectra were preprocessed with extended multiplicative scatter correction and mean centering. The classical linear partial least squares-discriminant analysis adequately predicted origin at the continental and country level, and showed promise at the regional level. Non-linear machine learning models improved predictions further, with the best accuracy found using random forest with accuracies up to 0.99. Discriminating wavelength regions and constituents were identified at each origin scale, with more minor wavelength regions selected by random forest. This proof of concept work demonstrated the potential of NIR spectroscopy coupled with machine learning for rapid origin classification of coffee from the continental to the regional level.
Emerging Patterns of Foot and Ankle Injuries in Pickleball Players: A Short Report
Authors: Kingston Kiera , Parker Emily B. , Higgins Alexander , Smith Jeremy T.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Pickleball’s surging popularity has driven an increase in injuries presenting to medical providers. This study seeks to describe the epidemiology of pickleball foot and ankle injuries including patient demographics, diagnoses, and mechanism of injury.

Methods:

A retrospective review from our institutional database identified patients treated in the foot and ankle clinic whose medical records included the search terms “pickleball” and “pickle ball.” Only injuries sustained while playing pickleball were included. Patient demographics, diagnosis, mechanism of injury, and treatment were collected. Injury incidence and descriptive analyses were calculated.

Results:

A total of 198 patients with pickleball foot and ankle injuries were identified. The incidence of injuries increased 6.5-fold from 2019 to 2023. The mean age of patients was 58.3 years (SD = 12.2). Most patients were male (58.6%) and reported a traumatic injury (77.8%). The most common diagnosis was Achilles tendon rupture (39.4%). The most common mechanisms of injury were running or lunging forward (30.9%), planting the foot (16.5%), and inverting the foot and ankle (15.5%). Most injuries were treated nonoperatively (71.2%); however, 62.8% of Achilles tendon ruptures were treated surgically.

Conclusion:

The incidence of pickleball foot and ankle injuries increased dramatically from 2015 to 2023. Injuries occurred more frequently in older, male patients, with Achilles tendon rupture being the most common diagnosis.
Epidemiology and Economic Cost of Trypanosomosis Among SmallHolder Cattle Herders in Arba Minch and Zuria Districts, Gamo Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Tora Ephrem , Dana Desta
Published: August 2024

A significant limitation to cattle production is animal trypanosomosis, which threatens household food security and livelihoods. In addition to stalling livestock productivity, the disease has a devastating impact on animal health. Besides, halting livestock productivity, the disease has a devastating effect on health. Thus, the objectives this study was to assess the epidemiology, and financial impacts of bovine trypanosomosis on livestock producers’ in Arba Minch and Zuria districts of Gamo zone, Ethiopia, from December 2021 to January 2023. Both repeated survey and cross-sectional study were carried out to assess the economic losses, estimate the prevalence and assess the determinants of bovine trypanosomosis. Direct microscopy was applied using buffy coat method to detect trypanosome parasite. The study included 182 households and 384 bovine species. Bovine trypanosomosis caused substantial economic losses through cattle mortality, drug purchases, and the oxen’s loss of draft power. Also, farmers spent a significantly ( P < .05) higher amount of money treating trypanosomosis than all other diseases combined. The annual losses per household were estimated to be 9528 ± 1754 Ethiopian Birr (ETB) (95% CI: 6065-12 992) (US$ 176.4) which were spent on purchasing trypanocidal drugs per year per household. The overall mortality from bovine trypanosomiasis was 8.8%. Many farmers prioritized draft power losses as the most significant impact of the disease. Analysis of blood samples also showed a 7.8% overall prevalence of bovine trypanosomosis. The disease burden was significantly ( P < .05) higher in the black body coat animals compared to white ones. This study showed that trypanosomosis is an important animal health problem and a potential threat to health and productivity of cattle in Arba Minch and zuria districts of Gamo, Southern Ethiopia. The common trypanocidal drugs were administered by the farmers themselves. Hence, policymakers and professionals should prevent irrational drug use and regularly monitor local trypanocide usage.
The meanings of professional development: Perspectives of Malaysian piano teachers
Authors: Ang Kathryn , Lewis Ryan , Odendaal Albi
Published: August 2024

In Malaysia, the work of music studio teachers outside of schools and in private settings is unregulated and teachers have limited access to professional development opportunities. Globally, research on the professional development of music teachers has mostly focused on classroom music teachers, where professional development is often mandated and official support provided. However, little is known about how music studio teachers view professionalism and how they access professional development in this context, nor what this development means for them. For this interpretative phenomenological analysis, we interviewed 12 piano teachers who work in Malaysia to understand the meanings of professionalism and professional development for them. Individual themes that arose from within-case analysis were conceptually combined to form eight superordinate themes. The first four superordinate themes relate to understandings of professionalism. Participants described a professional pride which involves not only a love and enjoyment of music and of teaching, but also manifests flexibility and responsiveness; it entails both teacher and student performing and understanding music, and demonstrates relationality, communication skills, and a positive character. The remaining four superordinate themes relate to understandings of professional development, including the ideas that professional development requires proactivity, that professional development opportunities are affected by environmental and material factors, that professional connections affect development, and finally that training, experience, and mentorship support professional development. In this article, we posit that the lack of formal structures in Malaysia means that professionalism is self-determined by the teacher, while professional development relies on the individual commitment and motivation of teachers. Teachers need greater access to support systems or learning opportunities, and the move to online teacher support sessions due to the COVID disruptions offers some opportunities for supporting professional development more effectively.
Daylight potential of Swedish residential environments: Visual and beyond-vision effects and the relationship with well-being assessment
Authors: Rastegari E , Adamsson MR , Aries MBC
Published: August 2024

Good lighting is one of the most important comfort factors in residential buildings. In creating a comfortable and restorative living space, the effects of light, both visual and effects beyond vision, play a crucial role. Daylight is considered an essential factor for indoor environments, which can benefit occupants’ health as well as lower energy use. This study investigated the potential daylight exposure for 10 apartments in Sweden, using metrics to quantify both visual effects and effects beyond vision and to understand the relationship between the light situation in the apartments and well-being metrics collected from occupants during a field study. Computational modelling of daylight conditions for visual effects and effects beyond vision was performed. Statistical analysis was utilised to investigate the possible relationship between the apartments’ daylight potential and the self-reported well-being of the occupants. The results show variations of light exposure for apartments in different seasons. Furthermore, possible relationships between well-being metrics and daylight exposure changes were observed despite being possibly influenced by seasonal light level contrasts.