bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived Challenges and Online Harms from Social Media Use on a Severity Continuum: A Qualitative Psychological Stakeholder Perspective
Authors: Throuvala Melina A. , Griffiths Mark D. , Rennoldson Mike , Kuss Daria J.
Published: March 2021

Evidence suggests that problematic use of gaming, the internet, and social media among adolescents is on the rise, affecting multiple psycho-emotional domains. However, research providing a comprehensive and triangulated stakeholder perspective of perceived harms is lacking. How are adolescent online harms experienced and conceptualized by students, parents, and teachers? The present study comprised part of a qualitative needs assessment investigation with the use of focus groups and individual interviews among key stakeholder groups assessing perceived impacts with a focus on the negative consequences and perceived harms. The study’s sample consisted of students (N = 42, Mage = 13.5, SD = 2.3), parents (N = 9, Mage = 37, SD = 5.6) and teachers (N = 9, Mage = 34, SD = 4.9) from the UK. Data were analysed with thematic analysis. Findings focused primarily on social media use impacts and indicated that processes underlying impacts experienced by adolescents may be conceptualized on a severity continuum. Stakeholder consensus on perceptions of challenges and perceived harms formed the second theme, with impacts further analysed as relating to time displacement, peer judgement, sensory overload and context of the adolescent with functional (performance, task switching, use of multiple devices), cognitive (loss or deterioration of attentional focus, attention deficit), and emotional consequences (stress, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive/checking behaviours). A third theme formed was individual vulnerabilities predisposing poor mental health outcomes. The final theme related to impacts dependent on context and meaning attached. Findings suggest a consideration of a spectrum approach encompassing a broader range of potential psychological challenges and perceived harms beyond safety concerns and addiction in understanding problematic adolescent online experiences. Understanding perceived harms can aid the objective setting of interventions and consideration of mental health literacy in school curricula.
Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Status and Parental Endorsement Intentions among Undergraduate Student Nurses
Authors: Hollins Ashley , Wardell Diane , Fernandez Maria E. , Markham Christine , Guilamo-Ramos Vincent , Santa Maria Diane
Published: March 2021

We identified factors associated with student nurses’ Human Papillomavirus Vaccine (HPV) vaccination status and their intention to counsel parents on HPV vaccination. Undergraduate student nurses (N = 153) from a large university in the south participated. Descriptive statistics, chi-squared tests, and independent t-tests (p ≤ 0.05) were used to characterize the students’ vaccination status. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with vaccination status. HPV vaccination rates were low. Students who were older and married or living with a partner were less likely to have completed the HPV vaccine series. The most commonly cited reason for non-initiation and non-completion was the lack of provider endorsement. Vaccination status did not differ significantly according to race/ethnicity, religion, skills, or intention to counsel parents. While intentions to counsel parents on HPV vaccination are high among student nurses, interventions to improve vaccination rates among student nurses are needed.
The Impact of War-Related Stress on Coronary Artery Disease Severity in War Survivors: A SYNTAX Study
Authors: Al-Makhamreh Hanna , Alkhulaifat Dana , Al-Ani Abdallah , Mafrachi Baraa , Saadeh Aseel , Al-Ani Hashim , Bani Hani Amjad , AlRyalat Saif Aldeen
Published: March 2021

Background: Due to the strong relationship between stress and heart disease, particularly acute myocardial infarction (MI), this study investigated the complexity of coronary artery disease (CAD) among Syrian refugee patients referred to Jordan University Hospital and its relation to war-related stressors. Methods: This is a retrospective study that utilized the SYNTAX I score in order to evaluate all Syrian refugees that underwent coronary artery catheterization at Jordan University Hospital during the period between May of 2014 and December of 2017. Results: There was a significant association between war-related stressors and high SYNTAX score (SX score), thus indicating a higher complexity of CAD in Syrian war survivors with higher stress scores. The strongest war-related correlation was observed with crossing green-lines, in which Syrian refugee patients who had crossed such lines had significantly higher SYNTAX scores. Regression analysis demonstrated that war stressors were positive predictors of increased SYNTAX scores even when adjusted for conventional CAD risk factors. Surprisingly, none of the CAD risk factors were significantly associated with SYNTAX score. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that exposure to multiple war-related stressors may increase the complexity and severity of CAD in Syrian war survivors. Thus, special attention, efforts, and resources should be allocated to screen for such vulnerable patients in order to provide them with the appropriate healthcare.
Effect of Different Exercise Methods on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression
Authors: Xiong Yingzhe , Peng Qingwen , Cao Chunmei , Xu Zujie , Zhang Bing
Published: March 2021

Exercise could alleviate non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), but it was not clear which exercise methods could effectively treat NAFLD. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of different exercise patterns on eight indicators in patients with NAFLD. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and the Wanfang Data from its inception to 30 June 2020. This review includes all randomized controlled trials (RCT) that assessed and compared the effects of different exercise on eight indicator parameters in patients with NAFLD. The results indicate that aerobic exercises could significantly improve the eight indicators in patients with NAFLD including triglycerides (TG, weighted mean difference (WMD) = −0.53, 95%CI: −0.68~−0.39, Z = 7.37, p < 0.01), total cholesterol (TC, WMD = −0.39, 95%CI: −0.55~−0.23, Z = 4.76, p < 0.01), low density lipoprotein (LDL, WMD = −0.47, 95%CI: −0.68~−0.26, Z = 4.33, p < 0.01), high density lipoprotein (HDL, WMD = 0.12, 95%CI: 0.05~0.18, Z = 3.56, p < 0.01), alanine aminotransferase (ALT, WMD = −6.14, 95%CI: −10.99~−1.29, Z = 2.48, p < 0.05), aspartate aminotransferase (AST, WMD = −5.73, 95%CI: −9.08~−2.38, Z = 3.36, p < 0.01), and body mass index (BMI, WMD = −0.85, 95%CI: −1.19~−0.51, Z = 4.92, p < 0.01). Resistance exercises could significantly reduce the levels of TG (WMD = −0.56, 95%CI: −0.85~−0.28, Z = 3.86, p < 0.01) and AST (WMD = −2.58, 95%CI: −4.79~−0.36, Z = 2.28, p < 0.05) in the patients. High-intensity interval training could significantly improve the level of ALT (WMD = −6.20, 95%CI: −9.34~−3.06, Z = 3.87, p < 0.01) in patients with NAFLD. These three exercise methods had different effects on the eight indexes of NAFLD in our present meta-analysis, providing some reference for the establishment of exercise prescription for patients with NAFLD.
Segmented School Physical Activity and Weight Status in Children: Application of Compositional Data Analysis
Authors: Burns Ryan Donald , Brusseau Timothy A. , Bai Yang , Byun Wonwoo
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to apply compositional data analysis (CoDA) for the analysis of segmented school step counts and associate the school step count composition to body mass index (BMI) z-scores in a sample of children. Participants were 855 (51.8% female) children recruited from the fourth and fifth grades from four schools following a 7-h school schedule. Using piezoelectric pedometers, step count data were collected during physical education, recess, lunch, and during academic class time. A multi-level mixed effects model associated the step count composition with BMI z-scores. Compositional isotemporal substitution determined changes in BMI z-scores per reallocation of steps between pairs of school segments. A higher percentage of steps accrued during physical education (b = −0.34, 95%CI: −0.65–−0.03, p = 0.036) and recess (b = −0.47, 95%CI: −0.83–−0.11, p = 0.012), relative to other segments, was associated with lower BMI z-scores. Specifically, a 5% to 15% reallocation of steps accrued during lunchtime to either physical education or recess was associated with lower BMI z-scores, ranging from −0.07 to −0.25 standard deviation units. Focusing school-based promotion of physical activity during physical education and recess may have greater relative importance if targeted outcomes are weight-related.
The Determinants of Health-Related Quality of Life in a Sample of Primary School Children: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Masini Alice , Gori Davide , Marini Sofia , Lanari Marcello , Scrimaglia Susan , Esposito Francesco , Campa Francesco , Grigoletto Alessia , Ceciliani Andrea , Toselli Stefania , Dallolio Laura
Published: March 2021

Background: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in childhood is a multidimensional construct with many sub dimensions of subjective experience, including physical activity (PA), psychological well-being, social interaction, and school performance, that represents a fundamental health outcome to assess a child’s physical and psycho-social functioning. Our study aims to explore the potential predictors of children’s health-related quality of life, using a convenience sample from the Imola Active Break Study (I-MOVE), considering demographic, anthropometric measures, PA level measured by Actigraph accelerometers, parent-reported/self-reported HRQoL, and body image. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted among 151 primary school children in Italy. HRQoL was assessed using the Italian version 4.0 of the Paediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL) questionnaire. Results: Children who spent more time partaking in moderate PA were associated with a higher total PedsQL score (p < 0.03). Mother’s body mass index (BMI) was the only variable statistically significant associated with the physical health domain of PedsQL. Parent’s proxy-report perception concerning children’s psychosocial health was statistically relevant. The children’s gender, age, and BMI had no association with any of the HRQoL outcomes. Discussion: Parent proxy-report psychosocial health and mother’s BMI should be considered as predictors of HRQoL for the psychosocial and physical domain. PA should be implemented in order to improve the HRQoL of primary school children.
First Detection of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 on the Surfaces of Tourist-Recreational Facilities in Italy
Authors: Montagna Maria Teresa , De Giglio Osvalda , Calia Carla , Pousis Chrysovalentinos , Apollonio Francesca , Campanale Carmen , Diella Giusy , Lopuzzo Marco , Marzella Angelo , Triggiano Francesco , Marcotrigiano Vincenzo , Sorrenti Domenico Pio , Sorrenti Giovanni Trifone , Magarelli Pantaleo , Caggiano Giuseppina
Published: March 2021

A Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by a new virus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), spreads via direct contact through droplets produced by infected individuals. The transmission of this virus can also occur via indirect contact if objects and surfaces are contaminated by secretions from individuals with COVID-19 or asymptomatic carriers. Environmental contamination with SARS-CoV-2 is high in hospital settings; on the contrary, surface contamination in non-healthcare settings is still poorly studied. In this study, the presence of SARS-CoV-2 on the surfaces of 20 tourist-recreational facilities was investigated by performing a total of 100 swabs on surfaces, including refrigerator handles, handrails, counters, tables, and bathroom access doors. Six (6%) swabs from four (20%) tourist-recreational facilities tested positive for SARS-CoV-2; the surfaces that were involved were toilet door handles, refrigerator handles, handrails, and bar counters. This study highlights that SARS-CoV-2 is also present in non-healthcare environments; therefore, in order to limit this worrying pandemic, compliance with behavioral rules and the adoption of preventive and protective measures are of fundamental importance not only in healthcare or work environments but also in life environments.
Reliability and Repeatability of Pressure Center Analysis with Low-Dye Taping Using Force Platform Podiatry Sensors in Feet with Excessive Pronation
Authors: Madruga-Armada Óscar , Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo Ricardo , Losa-Iglesias Marta Elena , Calvo-Lobo Cesar , Rodriguez-Sanz David , Martínez-Jiménez Eva María , Mazoteras-Pardo Victoria , San-Antolín Marta
Published: March 2021

Background: The analysis of the center of pressure (COP) is a method used to assess the foot function, but its reliability and repeatability have not been evaluated. COP can be altered by diverse conditions, like an excessive foot pronation. Low-Dye taping is commonly used for the treatment of symptoms related to an excessive pronation. To date, no study has evaluated the effects of the Low-Dye taping on COP and the duration of its effects. Thus, the main purpose of this manuscript was to assess the reliability and repeatability of the percentage of center of pressure locus area (%CLA) in feet with an excessive pronation, and secondarily, to assess that the Low-Dye taping modifies the %CLA during the immediate 48 h. Methods: An observational study of the reliability and repeatability of the %CLA variable with the Low-Dye taping in feet with excessive pronation was carried out. We used the EPS-Platform to evaluate the results of the variable in 6 conditions in a first session to evaluate the reliability of the results. We compared the results of the first session with the results in a second session to evaluate the repeatability of the results. We also carried out an ANOVA test to evaluate the changes that the taping produced in the variable between without taping with the rest of the 6 conditions. Results: For the %CLA, we observed a reliability greater than 0.80, measured by the interclass ratio index, both in the first session before taping, and in the second session before taping, thus being a repeatability variable. In the following times, with taping, at 10 min with tape, at 20 min with tape, at 24 h with tape and at 48 h with tape; an interclass ratio coefficient (ICC) higher than 0.80 was again obtained, thus being a reliable variable in all measurements made. The Low-Dye taping did not change %CLA from the time the tape was put in until 48 h (p-value = 1.000). Conclusions: The %CLA variable, in feet with excessive pronation, proved to be a reliable variable in all the measurements obtained before putting on the tape and during the following 48 h with the tape, and a repeatable variable. The Low-Dye taping did not change the %CLA from the time the tape was put in until 48 h.
Optimization of the ASPIRE Spherical Parallel Rehabilitation Robot Based on Its Clinical Evaluation
Authors: Tucan Paul , Vaida Calin , Ulinici Ionut , Banica Alexandru , Burz Alin , Pop Nicoleta , Birlescu Iosif , Gherman Bogdan , Plitea Nicolae , Antal Tiberiu , Carbone Giuseppe , Pisla Doina
Published: March 2021

The paper presents the design optimization of the ASPIRE spherical parallel robot for shoulder rehabilitation following clinical evaluation and clinicians’ feedback. After the development of the robotic structure and the implementation of the control system, ASPIRE was prepared for clinical evaluation. A set of clinical trials was performed on 24 patients with different neurological disorders to obtain the patient and clinician acceptance of the rehabilitation system. During the clinical trials, the behavior of the robotic system was closely monitored and analyzed in order to improve its reliability and overall efficiency. Along with its reliability and efficiency, special attention was given to the safety characteristics during the rehabilitation task.
The Jump Shot Performance in Youth Basketball: A Systematic Review
Authors: França Cíntia , Gomes Beatriz B. , Gouveia Élvio Rúbio , Ihle Andreas , Coelho-E-Silva Manuel J.
Published: March 2021

Background: The basketball jump shot (JS) is consensually considered as a high-complexity specific motor skill, with a complex teaching and learning processes involved. The aim of this paper was to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the JS performance among youth basketball players. Methods: The data search was made according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) in the Institute for Scientific Information (ISI) Web of Knowledge, PubMed, Scopus and Sportdiscus databases until March 2021. Results: The results suggest that JS performance of youth basketball players is influenced by (i) distance to the basket, (ii) fatigue, (iii) presence of a defender and (iv) visual information available. Conclusion: This research emphasizes the crucial need for players and coaches to promote training situations matching the game reality to develop successful shooting performance of youth basketball players.
Health Risks, Preventive Behaviours and Respiratory Illnesses at the 2019 Arbaeen: Implications for COVID-19 and Other Pandemics
Authors: Al-Ansari Farah , Mirzaei Masoud , Al-Ansari Basma , Al-Ansari Mohammad Basim , Abdulzahra Mohammed Saeed , Rashid Harunor , Hill-Cawthorne Grant A. , Al Ansari Mustafa , Negin Joel , Conigrave Katherine
Published: March 2021

COVID-19 poses grave challenges for mass gatherings. One of the world’s largest annual gatherings, Arbaeen, occurs in Iraq. We studied respiratory symptoms and risk and protective factors using representative sampling of Arbaeen pilgrims in 2019 to inform prevention of COVID-19 transmission. Structured sampling was used to recruit walking pilgrims. A questionnaire asked about respiratory symptoms, risk, and preventive factors, including hygiene-related resources of toilet facilities. The commonest symptom reported by the 1842 participants (63.3% male, 36.7% female) was cough (25.6%). Eating in mawkibs (rest areas) with indoor kitchens and drinking only packaged water were associated with lower risk of cough (AOR = 0.72, CI = 0.56–0.94; AOR = 0.60; CI = 0.45–0.78, p < 0.05). Facemask use was associated with increased risk of cough (AOR = 2.71, CI = 2.08–3.53, p < 0.05). Handwashing was not protective against cough, or against (one or more of) cough, fever, or breathlessness in multivariate analysis. Toilet facilities often lacked running water (32.1%) and soap (26.1%), and had shared hand towels (17%). To reduce risk of respiratory infections including COVID-19 during Arbaeen or other mass gatherings, needs include running water, soap, and hygienic hand drying options or hand sanitiser. Education on proper handwashing and facemask approaches and monitoring around food preparation and eating spaces are needed.
Authoritative Parents and Dominant Children as the Center of Communication for Sustainable Healthy Aging
Authors: Wianto Elizabeth , Sarvia Elty , Chen Chien-Hsu
Published: March 2021

The aging population significantly is shifting the center of gravity of the people toward older ages and median age. Indonesia, as one of the most populous countries, needs to prepare for this situation. This study tries to explain whether the elderly’s sedentary lifestyle is the consequence of intergenerational interaction patterns. Filial piety was arguably implemented, as the interaction baseline within a family member affects how the intergeneration communicates. This study uses thematic analysis based on the opinions from 16 respondents’ experiences and values with respect to behavior toward the older generation with a specific inclusion criterion. Sampling structures represented younger-generation adults who interacted daily with the elderly older generation, divided by their marital status, residencies, and living area in Indonesia. Through emerging themes, was is found out that the dominant figure in the family is the communication center in the family. The dominant figure might be an authoritative parent or dominant child. This targeted approach is useful to enhance connectivity within family members, potentially implementing the Internet of Healthy Things (IoHT) for the younger elderly to reduce undesirable sedentary lifestyles and to deliver sustainable healthy aging in Indonesian society.
Inferring Mixed Use of Buildings with Multisource Data Based on Tensor Decomposition
Authors: Zhang Chenyang , Shi Qingli , Zhuo Li , Wang Fang , Tao Haiyan
Published: March 2021

Information on the mixed use of buildings helps understand the status of mixed-use urban vertical land and assists in urban planning decisions. Although a few studies have focused on this topic, the methods they used are quite complex and require manual intervention in extracting different function patterns of buildings, while building recognition rates remain unsatisfying. In this paper, we propose a new method to infer the mixed use of buildings based on a tensor decomposition algorithm, which integrates information from both high-resolution remote sensing images and social sensing data. We selected the Tianhe District of Guangzhou, China to validate our method. The results show that the recognition rate of buildings can reach 98.67%, with an average recognition accuracy of 84%. Our study proves that the tensor decomposition algorithm can extract different function patterns of buildings unsupervised, while remote sensing data can provide key information for inferring building functions. The tensor decomposition-based method can serve as an effective and efficient way to infer the mixed use of buildings, which can achieve better results with simpler steps.
The Role of Additives in Soil-Cement Subjected to Wetting-Drying Cycles
Authors: Arifin Yulian Firmana , Agustina Eka , Andhi Fransius , Agus Setianto Samingan
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to explore the use of additives in soil–cement mixtures that have undergone a wetting-drying cycle. In total, two types of soil were used, granitic and lateritic, which are widely used in road base construction in the Katingan area, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. The cement used was the ordinary Portland type I, while the additive utilized was for commercial purposes, and predominantly contained CaCl2. This research was conducted by testing the optimum cement content for each soil to determine the shear strength according to Indonesian standards (i.e., minimum Unconfined Compressive Strength of 2400 kPa). The optimum cement contents of granitic and lateritic soils were deduced to be 5.5% and 5% on a dry weight basis, respectively. The utilization of 0.8% additive resulted in a 0.5% reduction in the optimum cement content of granite-like soil. The results showed that the optimum additive content for granitic soil was higher than that without supplementation, while for lateritic, no changes occurred. The advantage of using supplements, however, was more pronounced in the samples when they had been subjected to wetting–drying cycles. Additionally, at the optimum additive level, the moisture content and soil-cement loss during wetting was always lower than without supplements.
Photoluminescent Coordination Polymers Based on Group 12 Metals and 1H-Indazole-6-Carboxylic Acid
Authors: García-Valdivia Antonio A. , Echenique-Errandonea Estitxu , Ramírez-Rodríguez Gloria B. , Delgado-López José M. , Fernández Belén , Rojas Sara , Cepeda Javier , Rodríguez-Diéguez Antonio
Published: March 2021

Two new coordination polymers (CPs) based on Zn(II) and Cd(II) and 1H-indazole-6-carboxylic acid (H2L) of general formulae [Zn(L)(H2O)]n (1) and [Cd2(HL)4]n (2) have been synthesized and fully characterized by elemental analyses, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The results indicate that compound 1 possesses double chains in its structure whereas 2 exhibits a 3D network. The intermolecular interactions, including hydrogen bonds, C–H···π and π···π stacking interactions, stabilize both crystal structures. Photoluminescence (PL) properties have shown that compounds 1 and 2 present similar emission spectra compared to the free-ligand. The emission spectra are also studied from the theoretical point of view by means of time-dependent density-functional theory (TD-DFT) calculations to confirm that ligand-centred π-π* electronic transitions govern emission of compound 1 and 2. Finally, the PL properties are also studied in aqueous solution to explore the stability and emission capacity of the compounds.
Within-Season Changes in Land-Use Impact Pest Abundance in Smallholder African Cassava Production Systems
Authors: Kalyebi Andrew , Macfadyen Sarina , Hulthen Andrew , Ocitti Patrick , Jacomb Frances , Tay Wee Tek , Colvin John , De Barro Paul
Published: March 2021

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz), an important commercial and food security crop in East and Central Africa, continues to be adversely affected by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci. In Uganda, changes in smallholder farming landscapes due to crop rotations can impact pest populations but how these changes affect pest outbreak risk is unknown. We investigated how seasonal changes in land-use have affected B. tabaci population dynamics and its parasitoids. We used a large-scale field experiment to standardize the focal field in terms of cassava age and cultivar, then measured how Bemisia populations responded to surrounding land-use change. Bemisia tabaci Sub-Saharan Africa 1 (SSA1) was identified using molecular diagnostics as the most prevalent species and the same species was also found on surrounding soybean, groundnut, and sesame crops. We found that an increase in the area of cassava in the 3–7-month age range in the landscape resulted in an increase in the abundance of the B. tabaci SSA1 on cassava. There was a negative relationship between the extent of non-crop vegetation in the landscape and parasitism of nymphs suggesting that these parasitoids do not rely on resources in the non-crop patches. The highest abundance of B. tabaci SSA1 nymphs in cassava fields occurred at times when landscapes had large areas of weeds, low to moderate areas of maize, and low areas of banana. Our results can guide the development of land-use strategies that smallholder farmers can employ to manage these pests.
Design and Construction of a Novel Simple and Low-Cost Test Bench Point-Absorber Wave Energy Converter Emulator System
Authors: Agyekum Ephraim Bonah , PraveenKumar Seepana , Eliseev Aleksei , Velkin Vladimir Ivanovich
Published: March 2021

This paper proposed a test bench device to emulate or simulate the electrical impulses of a wave energy converter (WEC). The objective of the study is to reconstruct under laboratory conditions the dynamics of a WEC in the form of an emulator to assess the performance, which, in this case, is the output power. The designed emulator device is programmable, which makes it possible to create under laboratory conditions the operating mode of the wave generator, identical to how the wave generator would work under real sea conditions. Any control algorithm can be executed in the designed emulator. In order to test the performance of the constructed WEC emulator, an experiment was conducted to test its power output against that of a real point-absorber WEC. The results indicate that, although the power output for that of the real WEC was higher than the WEC emulator, the emulator performed perfectly well. The relatively low power output of the emulator was because of the type of algorithm that was written for the emulator, therefore increasing the speed of the motor in the algorithm (code) would result in higher output for the proposed WEC emulator.
Hypoperfusion Index Ratio as a Surrogate of Collateral Scoring on CT Angiogram in Large Vessel Stroke
Authors: Wang Chun-Min , Chang Yu-Ming , Sung Pi-Shan , Chen Chih-Hung
Published: March 2021

Background: This study was to evaluate the correlation of the hypoperfusion intensity ratio (HIR) with the collateral score from multiphase computed tomography angiography (mCTA) among patients with large vessel stroke. Method: From February 2019 to May 2020, we retrospectively reviewed the patients with large vessel strokes (intracranial carotid artery or proximal middle cerebral artery occlusion). HIR was defined as a Tmax > 10 s lesion volume divided by a Tmax > 6 s lesion volume, which was calculated by automatic software (Syngo.via, Siemens). The correlation between the HIR and mCTA score was evaluated by Pearson’s correlation. The cutoff value predicting the mCTA score was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic analysis. Result: Ninety-four patients were enrolled in the final analysis. The patients with good collaterals had a smaller core volume (37.3 ± 24.7 vs. 116.5 ± 70 mL, p < 0.001) and lower HIR (0.51 ± 0.2 vs. 0.73 ± 0.13, p < 0.001) than those with poor collaterals. A higher HIR was correlated with a poorer collateral score by Pearson’s correlation. (r = −0.64, p < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis suggested that the best HIR value for predicting a good collateral score was 0.68 (area under curve: 0.82). Conclusion: HIR is a good surrogate of collateral circulation in patients with acute large artery occlusion.
Efficacy of Cannabidiol for Δ-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol-Induced Psychotic Symptoms, Schizophrenia, and Cannabis Use Disorders: A Narrative Review
Authors: Bartoli Francesco , Riboldi Ilaria , Bachi Bianca , Calabrese Angela , Moretti Federico , Crocamo Cristina , Carrà Giuseppe
Published: March 2021

Although cannabis’ major psychoactive component, Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been linked to both earlier onset and poorer outcomes of psychotic disorders, Cannabidiol (CBD) seems to have different pharmacological mechanisms and potential therapeutic properties. However, no clinical study has investigated CBD for the treatment of co-occurring psychotic and cannabis use disorders so far, even though its utility seems grounded in a plausible biological basis. The aim of this work is thus to provide an overview of available clinical studies evaluating the efficacy of CBD for psychotic symptoms induced by THC, schizophrenia, and cannabis use disorders. After searching for relevant studies in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov, we included 10 clinical studies. Available evidence suggests that CBD may attenuate both psychotic-like symptoms induced by THC in healthy volunteers and positive symptoms in individuals with schizophrenia. In addition, preliminary data on the efficacy of CBD for cannabis use disorders show mixed findings. Evidence from ongoing clinical studies will provide insight into the possible role of CBD for treating psychotic and cannabis use disorders.
Enhancing Machine Learning Prediction in Cybersecurity Using Dynamic Feature Selector
Authors: Ahsan Mostofa , Gomes Rahul , Chowdhury Md. Minhaz , Nygard Kendall E.
Published: March 2021

Machine learning algorithms are becoming very efficient in intrusion detection systems with their real time response and adaptive learning process. A robust machine learning model can be deployed for anomaly detection by using a comprehensive dataset with multiple attack types. Nowadays datasets contain many attributes. Such high dimensionality of datasets poses a significant challenge to information extraction in terms of time and space complexity. Moreover, having so many attributes may be a hindrance towards creation of a decision boundary due to noise in the dataset. Large scale data with redundant or insignificant features increases the computational time and often decreases goodness of fit which is a critical issue in cybersecurity. In this research, we have proposed and implemented an efficient feature selection algorithm to filter insignificant variables. Our proposed Dynamic Feature Selector (DFS) uses statistical analysis and feature importance tests to reduce model complexity and improve prediction accuracy. To evaluate DFS, we conducted experiments on two datasets used for cybersecurity research namely Network Security Laboratory (NSL-KDD) and University of New South Wales (UNSW-NB15). In the meta-learning stage, four algorithms were compared namely Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM), Gated Recurrent Units, Random Forest and a proposed Convolutional Neural Network and Long Short-Term Memory (CNN-LSTM) for accuracy estimation. For NSL-KDD, experiments revealed an increment in accuracy from 99.54% to 99.64% while reducing feature size of one-hot encoded features from 123 to 50. In UNSW-NB15 we observed an increase in accuracy from 90.98% to 92.46% while reducing feature size from 196 to 47. The proposed approach is thus able to achieve higher accuracy while significantly lowering number of features required for processing.
Determination of Quantum Capacitance of Niobium Nitrides Nb2N and Nb4N3 for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Bharti  , Ahmed Gulzar , Kumar Yogesh , Bocchetta Patrizia , Sharma Shatendra
Published: March 2021

The density of states and quantum capacitance of pure and doped Nb2N and Nb4N3 single-layer and multi-layer bulk structures are investigated using density functional theory calculations. The calculated value of quantum capacitance is quite high for pristine Nb2N and decent for Nb4N3 structures. However for cobalt-doped unpolarized structures, significant increase in quantum capacitance at Fermi level is observed in the case of Nb4N3 as compared to minor increase in case of Nb2N. These results show that pristine and doped Nb2N and Nb4N3 can be preferred over graphene as the electrode material for supercapacitors. The spin and temperature dependences of quantum capacitance for these structures are also investigated.
Laser Spot Welding and Electric Contact Points Using Copper/Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposite Synthesized by Laser Surface Implanting
Authors: Tu Jay F. , Rajule Nilesh , Mun Sang Don
Published: March 2021

In our previous studies, we have developed a wet process, denoted as laser surface implanting (LSI), to synthesize a copper/single-walled carbon nanotube (Cu–SWCNT) metal nanocomposite. The nanostructure of this Cu–SWCNT composite was shown to contain discernable SWCNT clusters in nanosizes inside the copper matrix. Its hardness could achieve up to three times that of pure copper, verified by micro-hardness and nano-hardness tests. A focus ion beam bombardment test and a plane strain compression test show 2.5 times toughness improvement for the Cu-SWCNT composite. Based on these strength improvements, two potential applications for the Cu-SWCNT nanocomposite are proposed and their feasibilities are verified using specially design test rigs. The first application is related to creating long lasting electric contacts. The result shows that the Cu-SWCNT nanocomposite is highly wear-resistant. The contact area of the simulated electric contacts increases after repeated impact loading, which potentially could lower the contact resistance. The second application is to use the Cu-SWCNT implants as high strength spot weld for joining copper foils. A smaller weld with a higher strength reduces the power requirement of the laser and, consequently, the thermal distortion for higher-dimensional precision. The specially designed test rig for the weld strength characterization is a new contribution, providing a new testing capability for small and non-homogeneous samples not suitable for a standard tensile test machine.
Relationships between Workload, Heart Rate Variability, and Performance in a Recreational Endurance Runner
Authors: Boullosa Daniel , Medeiros André R. , Flatt Andrew A. , Esco Michael R. , Nakamura Fabio Y. , Foster Carl
Published: March 2021

Background: The association between heart rate variability (HRV), training load (TL), and performance is poorly understood. Methods: A middle-aged recreational female runner was monitored during a competitive 20-wk macrocycle divided into first (M1) and second mesocycle (M2) in which best performances over 10 km and 21 km were recorded. Volume (km), session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE), TL, and monotony (mean TL/SD TL) were the workload parameters recorded. The root mean square of the successive differences in R-R intervals (RMSSD), its coefficient of variation (RMSSDcv), and the RMSSD:RR ratio were the HRV parameters monitored. Results: During M2, RMSSD (p = 0.006) and RMSSD:RR (p = 0.002) were significantly increased, while RR was significantly reduced (p = 0.017). Significant correlations were identified between monotony and volume (r = 0.552; p = 0.012), RR (r = 0.447; p = 0.048), and RMSSD:RR (r = −0.458; p = 0.042). A sudden reduction in RMSSD (from 40.31 to 24.34 ms) was observed the day before the first symptoms of an influenza. Conclusions: The current results confirm the practicality of concurrent HRV and sRPE monitoring in recreational runners, with the RMSSD:RR ratio indicative of specific adaptations. Excessive training volume may be associated to both elevated monotony and reduced RMSSD:RR. Identification of mesocycle patterns is recommended for better individualization of the periodization used.
Experimental Study on Development of Mooring Simulator for Multi Floating Cranes
Authors: Bae Junhyeok , Cha Juhwan , Seo Min-Guk , Lee Kangsu , Lee Jaeyong , Ku Namkug
Published: March 2021

In this study, the coupled motion of a mooring system and multifloating cranes were analyzed. For the motion analysis, the combined equations of motions of the mooring line and multifloating cranes were introduced. The multibody equations for floating cranes were derived from the equations of motion. The finite element method (FEM) was used to derive equations to solve the stretchable catenary problem of the mooring line. To verify the function of mooring simulator, calculation results were compared with commercial mooring software. To validate the analysis results, we conducted an experimental test for offshore operation using two floating crane models scaled to 1:40. Two floating crane models and a pile model were established for operation of uprighting flare towers. During the model test, the motion of the floating cranes and tensions of the mooring lines were measured. Through the model test, the accuracy of the mooring analysis program developed in this study was verified. Therefore, if this mooring analysis program is used, it will be possible to perform a mooring analysis simulation at the same time as a maritime work simulation.
Sediment Characteristics and Intertidal Beach Slopes along the Jiangsu Coast, China
Authors: Kuai Yu , Tao Jianfeng , Zhou Zaiyang , Aarninkhof Stefan , Wang Zheng Bing
Published: March 2021

Tidal flats play an important role in promoting coastal biodiversity, defense against flooding, land reclamation and recreation. Many coastal tidal flats, especially the tide-dominant ones, are muddy. However, the number of studies on the profile shape and surficial sediment distribution of muddy tidal flats is small compared to sandy beaches. Based on high spatial-resolution measurements along the tide-dominant Jiangsu Coast, China, we analyzed the morphology and sediment characteristics of the unvegetated intertidal flats along the Jiangsu Coast. The Jiangsu Coast can be divided into an eroding northern part (north coast) and an accreting southern part (south coast). The beach slope of the north coast shows a southward flattening trend, apart from some outliers related to rocky parts of the coastline. We found alternating very fine and coarse sediment (depending on the local clay content) for different locations along the north coast, which can be explained from consolidation and armoring-induced erosion resistance. In the south coast, we found gradual coarsening of bed surface sediment and gradual flattening of beach slopes to the south. This seemingly unexpected pattern is explained by the flood-dominant current causing landward sediment transport, larger tidal range in the south part, sheltering effect of the Radial Sand Ridges, and contribution of different sediment sources, viz. the Abandoned Yellow River Delta and the Radial Sand Ridges. In the cross-shore direction, the sediment grain size decreases landward. Waves are only of secondary importance for the sediment dynamics at the unvegetated tidal flats along the Jiangsu Coast.
Evaluating the Effect of Visitor Presence on Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) Behavior
Authors: Riley Alex , Terry Megan , Freeman Hani , Alba Andrew C. , Soltis Joseph , Leeds Austin
Published: March 2021

Visitor presence has been shown to affect the behavior of animals in zoos. However, studies to date have not included a wide range of taxonomic groupings, and thus, the effect is poorly understood for many species. Here, we compared the behavior of Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) in the presence and absence of visitors for the first time. Data were collected at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® over two months during normal operating conditions and during the same two months the following year when the park was closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, totaling 158 observation hours. Significant differences in crocodile behavior were observed between park operating conditions; however, the direction of change varied by behavior and average differences were generally small. In addition, we found that time of day, temperature and month significantly affected behavior, often with greater magnitude than visitor presence. This highlights the importance of accounting for environmental variables when evaluating and interpreting the behavior, and ultimately welfare, of reptiles in zoos. Collectively, the data suggest the overall effect of visitors on crocodile behavior was small and neutral from a welfare perspective. This study highlights the importance of taxonomic diversity in studying the visitor effect.
Transition Pathways of Agroecological Innovation in Portugal’s Douro Wine Region. A Multi-Level Perspective
Authors: Polita Fabíola Sostmeyer , Madureira Lívia
Published: March 2021

The Multi-Level Perspective (MLP) is an analytical framework developed to explain transitions towards sustainability. This article aims to contribute to enhancing the use of the MLP to understand the transitions towards sustainability in agriculture. We propose that MLP is an insightful framework to capture particular micro-level trajectories of adopting innovations. The Douro wine region in Northern Portugal, known worldwide for the wines that are produced there, was the study area of our empirical research. This region has become the stage for developing a complex agroecological innovation, the Ecological Infrastructures (EIs). These consist of a combination of techniques that aim to expand the ecosystem services of the vineyards. The uniqueness of its development at the farm level originates a multiplicity of innovation trajectories, which are the focus of this study. Content analysis of 20 interviews with winegrowers was performed, and the results were analysed through the MLP framework. This allowed us to conclude that a process of transition towards the sustainability of region-level winegrowing is underway, and that it can be explained by the overlapping of different paths of adopting innovation. Our research shows that in-depth analysis of qualitative data, done through content analysis, can be used to amplify the insightfulness of MLP by enabling it to uncover the microscale transition pathways that shape uneven region-level transitions.
Spatial Unevenness of Formation, Remediation and Persistence of Post-Agricultural Brownfields
Authors: Krejčí Tomáš , Navrátil Josef , Martinát Stanislav , Frazier Ryan J. , Klusáček Petr , Pícha Kamil , Škrabal Jaroslav , Osman Robert
Published: March 2021

The fall of the Iron Curtain created a vacuum upon which large-scale collectivized agriculture was largely abandoned. Post-agricultural brownfields emerge in multiple manners across national, regional and local levels. While these sites remain rarely explored, we aimed to better understand the spatial consequences of the formation, persistence and reuse of these sites. The regions of South Bohemia and South Moravia in the Czech Republic are used to show the location of post-agricultural brownfields identified in 2004 through 2018. Using Global Moran’s I test we have found that post-agricultural brownfields existing in 2004, long-term brownfields in 2018 and brownfields established between 2004 and 2018 are spatially clustered, but remediated brownfields between 2004 and 2018 are not. Next, the Anselin’s Local Moran’s I test identified where the spatial clusters exist. The clusters identified were examined for differences in their social, economic and environmental development by the means of logistic regression. The results show that the brownfields initially identified in 2004 are concentrated in regions with lower quality agricultural land while simultaneously located in the hinterlands of regional urban centers. In contrast, peripheral regions most often contained long-term brownfields. Brownfield sites identified after 2004 occurred in regions with higher agricultural quality of land and where corn usually grows.
Navigating the London-French Transnational Space: The Losses and Gains of Language as Embodied and Embedded Symbolic Capital
Authors: Huc-Hepher Saskia
Published: March 2021

In this article, an interdisciplinary lens is applied to French migrants’ reflections on their everyday language practices, investigating how embodied and embedded language, such as accent and London-French translanguaging, serve as both in-group and out-group symbolic markers in different transnational spaces. Key sociological concepts developed by Pierre Bourdieu are deployed, including field, habitus, hysteresis and symbolic capital, to assess the varying symbolic conversion rates of the migrants’ languaging practices across transnational spaces. A mixed-methodological and analytical approach is taken, combining narratives from ethnographic interviews and autobiography. Based on the data gathered, the article posits that the French accent is an embodied symbolic marker, experienced as an internalised dialectic: a barrier to inclusion/belonging in London and an escape from the symbolic weight of the originary accent in France. Subsequently, it argues that the migrants’ translanguaging functions as a spontaneous insider vernacular conducive to community identity construction in the postmigration space, but (mis)interpreted as an exclusionary articulation of symbolic distinction in the premigration context. Finally, the article asks whether participants’ linguistic repertoires, self-identifications and spatialities go beyond the notion of the ‘cleft habitus’, or even hybridity, to a post-structural, translanguaging third space that transcends borders.
A Comparative Study of Electron Radiation Responses of Pu2Zr2O7 and La2Zr2O7: An abinitio Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Zhang Shounuo , Li Menglu , Xiao Haiyan , Liu Zijiang , Zu Xiaotao
Published: March 2021

In this study, the response of Pu2Zr2O7 and La2Zr2O7 to electronic radiation is simulated, employing an ab initio molecular dynamics method. It is shown that Pu2Zr2O7 undergoes a crystalline-to-amorphous structural transition with 0.3% electronic excitation, while for La2Zr2O7, the structural amorphization occurs with 1.2% electronic excitation. During the microstructural evolution, the anion disorder further drives cation disorder and eventually results in the structural amorphization of Pu2Zr2O7 and La2Zr2O7. The difference in responses to electron radiation between Pu2Zr2O7 and La2Zr2O7 mainly results from the strong correlation effects between Pu 5f electrons and the smaller band gap of Pu2Zr2O7. These results suggest that Pu2Zr2O7 is less resistant to amorphization under local ionization rates that produce a low level of electronic excitation, since the level of the concentration of excited electrons is relatively low in Pu2Zr2O7. The presented results will advance the understanding of the radiation damage effects of zirconate pyrochlores.