bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Antecedent Winter Soil Moisture Carryover on Spring Runoff Predictability in Snow-Influenced Western U.S. Catchments
Authors: Alam Sarfaraz , Kaenel Manon von , Su Lu , Lettenmaier Dennis P.
Published: August 2024

Spring runoff is critical to agricultural, industrial, and municipal water supply as well as environmental uses in the western United States. Although spring runoff in this region has long been predicted based on late winter and early spring montane snow water storage, the role of soil moisture carryover from the previous winter is less understood and utilized in forecasts. We quantify the relationship between antecedent winter soil moisture and spring runoff for 85 unmanaged catchments in the western United States. Using a regression-based approach, we estimate the proportional reduction in error in seasonal runoff forecasts associated with soil moisture. We classify the catchments into two regimes: interior (cold and relatively dry) and maritime (warmer and wetter), based on seasonal variations in soil moisture. Soil moisture generally is relatively unchanged through the winter period in interior catchments, whereas it increases (mostly gradually, but occasionally rapidly) in maritime catchments. We find that winter temperature dominates soil moisture variability in both types of catchments. We find two patterns in the predictability of spring runoff. First, including antecedent winter soil moisture as a predictor enhances forecast accuracy and variance explanation in spring runoff for both interior and maritime catchments, particularly and with greater significance in interior catchments. Second, spring runoff prediction skill from antecedent winter soil moisture increases with elevation. Overall, we find strong evidence that the use of antecedent soil moisture can improve spring runoff forecast skill for catchments in the western United States.

Significance Statement

Spring runoff forecasts are crucial for water supply in the western United States, but typically exclude information about soil moisture despite its key role in the water balance. Our study explores how and why incorporating information about winter’s soil moisture levels affects spring runoff forecasts across 85 catchments in the western United States. We find that doing so can produce modest improvements in the prediction skill of spring runoff for both interior and maritime catchments but is particularly noticeable in interior catchments and at higher elevations where temperatures are lower. Overall, our research strongly supports the idea that using information about soil moisture from the previous winter can improve accuracy in spring runoff forecasts for the western United States.
Application of a Two-Step Space–Time EOF Statistical Postprocessing Algorithm to Mitigate Subseasonal 200-hPa Geopotential Height Forecast Error
Authors: Stikeleather William D. , Roundy Paul E.
Published: August 2024

The time-extended empirical orthogonal function (EEOF) patterns of error developed in a companion paper are applied in this study for model data postprocessing. Projecting forecast anomalies from the model seasonal cycle from GEFSv12 outputs onto these EEOF patterns reconstructs the error principal components (PCs) in a manner that can be applied in real time. When these reconstructed error anomalies are compared with the original GEFSv12 200-hPa geopotential height (Z200) reforecast error anomalies, the projected and validation error signals tend to align temporally. When distributed globally, projection and validation error anomalies have statistically significant positive Pearson correlation coefficients with each other at most grid points outside of the tropics. Categorical Heidke skill score (HSS) analysis reaffirms that by lead day 16 of a forecast, the algorithm skillfully predicts systematic errors for locations outside of the tropics. Hemispheric winter demonstrates that the highest magnitude HSS values are in the high latitudes, illustrating the underlying seasonality of Z200 behavior and predictability. On average, wintertime HSS values hover around 20%, with high-latitude locations exceeding mean values of 40%. Comparatively, summertime values generally exceed 10% improvement outside of the tropics. High-latitude storm-track regions, such as the North Atlantic, North Pacific, and South Pacific, contain the most Z200 variance in the globe and the highest HSS values. This algorithm will be applied to real-time forecasts and additional variables in future work, with the end goal of implementation into the NOAA-CPC subseasonal forecasts.
Red-Wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus): A Traditional Rain Forecaster for Tribal Farmers of Southwestern Rajasthan
Authors: Bhardwaj R. L. , Verma M. P. , Vyas L. , Sharma Anita , Jakhar D. S. , Choudhary Kapil , Meena Jaideep
Published: August 2024

An intensive survey was carried out over the past 8 years in tribal-dominated areas of southwestern Rajasthan to document red-wattled lapwing (Vanellus indicus) behavior as a rain forecaster, relevant to farm planning and better crop production. The present study included tribal farmers, agriculture scientists, extension workers, ornithologists, and farm workers. The precision of their observations was compared with a contemporaneous study of 10–15 red-wattled lapwing nests across the 46-ha operational area of the Agricultural Research Sub-Station (ARSS) and Adaptive Trial Center (ATC), Sumerpur, Pali, Rajasthan (25.1526°N latitude, 73.0823°E longitude). Local knowledge was gathered through surveys and focus group discussions with the respondents to discuss lapwing behavior as a rain prediction indicator. Meteorological data were gathered from the ATC farm observatory. The findings revealed that the older tribal farmers have an assortment of knowledge about the behavior of red-wattled lapwing as rain prediction indicators such as nesting sites, egg position, egg arrangement, nesting material, numbers of eggs, and egg-laying patterns. These predictions have a direct correlation with modern meteorological observations. It was also noted that the elder tribal farmers planned their farms using lapwing indicators in order to increase crop production, whereas younger generations overlook the traditional rain prediction indicators and have significant knowledge about meteorological data-based weather forecasting. Both the elder and younger tribal farmers were equally interested in meteorological weather forecast announcements, but due to network connectivity challenges, residents in some remote places were unable to access modern meteorological information. Long-term accurate rain forecasting is needed for better agricultural planning and to secure crop production. Rain forecasting can be improved by blending modern meteorological information with traditional proven indications. Farmers who have considerable traditional knowledge along with modern technological updates are capable of using both sources of information in suitable and successful farm planning for better crop production.

Significance Statement

The purpose of this study is to examine red-wattled lapwing behavior as rain measurements and compare its reliability with modern rain forecasting methods. We also develop a theoretical framework for understanding traditional and modern rain forecasting methods for disaster management in remote and accessible areas, to assist resource management and to minimize costs of cultivation. Our results provide a guideline for blending both types of knowledge and for providing relevant information to remote tribal areas at appropriate times for better farm planning and crop production.
Spanish Speakers in the United States Report Differing Levels of Weather Salience Based on Their Ethnocultural Background
Authors: Trujillo-Falcón Joseph E. , Montgomery-Vestecka Gretchen , Dunham Vanessa
Published: August 2024

Weather profoundly shapes our daily lives, yet its psychological impact varies distinctly among different cultural and ethnic groups. In a comprehensive analysis of 974 Spanish-speaking individuals in the United States, our research delves into three dimensions of weather salience—a measure of the psychological importance attributed to weather. Contrary to expectations, geographic location within the United States does not significantly influence weather salience dimensions among Spanish-speaking populations. Rather, differences in weather salience emerge based on the nativity and origin country of a Spanish speaker. Foreign-born Spanish speakers exhibit higher weather salience compared to their U.S.-born counterparts, with notable differences in daily attention to weather and severe weather events. Additionally, the degree of psychological attunement to weather distinctly varies among different Hispanic and Latino ethnic groups within Spanish-speaking communities. These findings help explain why weather salience may be lower among Spanish-speaking groups and highlight the variability across different cultural groups. Tailoring messages to the unique experiences and backgrounds of diverse Spanish-speaking communities is essential, moving beyond simple language translation to embrace the rich cultural tapestry of these groups.

Significance Statement

Our research explored how different Spanish-speaking groups in the United States conceptualize weather in their daily lives. Surprisingly, where they live in the United States does not change their views much. Instead, whether they were born in the United States or elsewhere, and their specific cultural background, really matters. People born outside the United States generally apply more significance to the weather and its changes. This shows us that when communicating about weather to these groups, it is important to understand and respect the diverse cultures of Spanish-speaking communities, going beyond just translating messages into Spanish.
Why Populism is the Sugar, Salt, and Fat of Our Politics. . . with Variations: A Reflection
Authors: Corrales Javier
Published: August 2024

Populism is hard to contain in democracies because it is the sugar, salt, and fat of contemporary politics. I borrow from research on ultraprocessed foods to develop this metaphor. The modern food industry creates ultraprocessed foods by oversupplying naturally occurring macronutrients (sugar, salt, and fat) and recombining them to create new foods that are distortions of the real thing. These new pretend foods are both addictive and toxic. Likewise, I argue that authoritarian-populist leaders take natural tenets of democracy—for example, policies to help the voiceless (sugar), competition against opponents (salt), and reform agenda saturation (fat)—and supply them in combinations and quantities that end up distorting democracy. The result is a new regime that veers easily into authoritarianism (toxicity) while in the process generating hard-core followership (addictiveness). I also discuss the way authoritarian populists from both the left and the right have emulated each other since the 1980s, while introducing their own tweaks to their steals. In the end, despite important differences, both left and right-wing populism are far more similar to each other than they each care to recognize.
Improving the Use of Parallel Analysis by Accounting for Sampling Variability of the Observed Correlation Matrix
Authors: Xia Yan , Zhou Xinchang
Published: August 2024

Parallel analysis has been considered one of the most accurate methods for determining the number of factors in factor analysis. One major advantage of parallel analysis over traditional factor retention methods (e.g., Kaiser’s rule) is that it addresses the sampling variability of eigenvalues obtained from the identity matrix, representing the correlation matrix for a zero-factor model. This study argues that we should also address the sampling variability of eigenvalues obtained from the observed data, such that the results would inform practitioners of the variability of the number of factors across random samples. Thus, this study proposes to revise the parallel analysis to provide the proportion of random samples that suggest k factors ( k = 0, 1, 2, . . .) rather than a single suggested number. Simulation results support the use of the proposed strategy, especially for research scenarios with limited sample sizes where sampling fluctuation is concerning.
Judgments of Difficulty (JODs) While Observing an Automated System Support the Media Equation and Unique Agent Hypotheses
Authors: Driggs Jade , Vangsness Lisa
Published: August 2024

Objective

We investigated how people used cues to make Judgments of Difficulty (JODs) while observing automation perform a task and when performing this task themselves.

Background

Task difficulty is a factor affecting trust in automation; however, no research has explored how individuals make JODs when watching automation or whether these judgments are similar to or different from those made while watching humans. Lastly, it is unclear how cue use when observing automation differs as a function of experience.

Method

The study involved a visual search task. Some participants performed the task first, then watched automation complete it. Others watched and then performed, and a third group alternated between performing and watching. After each trial, participants made a JOD by indicating if the task was easier or harder than before. Task difficulty randomly changed every five trials.

Results

A Bayesian regression suggested that cue use is similar to and different from cue use while observing humans. For central cues, support for the UAH was bounded by experience: those who performed the task first underweighted central cues when making JODs, relative to their counterparts in a previous study involving humans. For peripheral cues, support for the MEH was unequivocal and participants weighted cues similarly across observation sources.

Conclusion

People weighted cues similar to and different from when they watched automation perform a task relative to when they watched humans, supporting the Media Equation and Unique Agent Hypotheses.

Application

This study adds to a growing understanding of judgments in human–human and human–automation interactions.
Russia and the challenges of global leadership
Authors: Stoner Kathryn
Published: August 2024

Are we, in 2024, navigating a world without American leadership or a world with contested leadership? Regardless of the winner in the US elections this autumn, contested leadership for influence in international affairs is sure to continue. If the United States fails to lead, little will stand in the way of Putin's vision of a new multipolar world where Russia, as an exceptional power pursues the domination of a natural sphere of geographic influence that extends beyond Ukraine, well into Europe.
Introducing the Proscription of Armed Actors Dataset
Authors: Lundgren Magnus , Janson Emma , Lundqvist Martin
Published: August 2024

States and international organizations have become increasingly willing to proscribe armed groups, labelling them terrorists and imposing legal, economic and political sanctions. To enable investigation into terror-listing and its effects, this paper introduces the Proscribed Armed Actors Dataset. The dataset records information on the proscription regimes maintained by 18 governments and multilateral organizations, including the European Union, all the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and several regional powers in the Global South. Covering the 1979–2022 period, it records the proscription of 386 unique groups, including 93 groups listed as armed actors in Uppsala Conflict Data Program/Peace Research Institute Oslo conflict data, with information on listings, targeted groups and imposed sanctions. This paper introduces the dataset, provides descriptive patterns and discusses possible applications. To illustrate the utility of the data, we perform a quantitative analysis of the impact of terrorist designations on conflict intensity in civil wars, showing that both the source and characteristics of proscriptions shape belligerent behaviour.
Ditching the norm: Using alternative distributions for biological data analysis
Authors: Lazic Stanley E
Published: August 2024

Most classical statistical tests assume data are normally distributed. If this assumption is not met, researchers often turn to non-parametric methods. These methods have some drawbacks, and if no suitable non-parametric test exists, a normal distribution may be used inappropriately instead. A better option is to select a distribution appropriate for the data from dozens available in modern software packages. Selecting a distribution that represents the data generating process is a crucial but overlooked step in analysing data. This paper discusses several alternative distributions and the types of data that they are suitable for.
Spontaneous type II cell-derived bronchioloalveolar adenoma in a young ICR mouse
Authors: Sung Minkyoung , Sung Soo-Eun , Choi Joo-Hee , Lee Yujeong , Kang Kyung-Ku , Park SunHee , Kim Duyeol , Lee Sijoon
Published: August 2024

Although pulmonary adenomas have been reported in ICR mice, spontaneous adenomas have not been reported in mice aged ≤10 weeks. Here, we report a well-circumscribed nodule (1 mm × 1 mm) in the peripheral lesion of the left lateral lobe of a 10-week-old male ICR mouse. Histopathologic evaluation revealed a well-demarcated nodule compressing the surrounding tissue. The neoplastic cells were polygonal with indistinct cellular borders, round/oval nuclei and abundant cytoplasm. These characteristics led to the diagnosis of type II cell-derived bronchioloalveolar adenoma. Given that they are generally observed in aged laboratory animals, this case represents a rare manifestation of a spontaneous tumor in young laboratory mice before puberty.
The legal rights of the fetus: Nepali perspective
Authors: Atreya Alok , Menezes Ritesh G , Adhikari Sagar
Published: August 2024

This article provides an analysis of the legal rights and protection accorded to fetuses under the Nepali law and the comparative common statues. It also analyses the abortion law in Nepal, which aims to balance the needs of women seeking abortion with limited protections for late-term fetuses. The article considers the case, “Lakshmi Dhikta v. the Government of Nepal,” which held that access to abortion was a constitutionally formed right. However, barriers to this right still exist, especially among disadvantaged women. Globally, the debate continues between those who advocate for the rights of the fetus and those who put the autonomy of the women first. While some countries grant the fetus limited legal rights, others grant the fetus personhood rights. It is therefore pertinent to discuss the ethics of prenatal harm, sex-selective abortion, and the possible conflict between maternal and fetal interests. The multifaceted law should regulate maternal health, the interest of the fetus, and discrimination while ensuring feasible and affordable abortion.
Vitriol attack on a young woman in Greece: The story of Ioanna’s response
Authors: Kontoangelos Konstantinos , Kalofonou Maria , Bethanis Panagiotis , Papageorgiou Charalabos
Published: August 2024

An acid attack is a deliberate act of violence. Sulphuric acid is thrown at a person’s face and body with the intention of harming and disfiguring the victim. Sulphuric acid is a dangerous weapon which can cause very serious injuries including severe skin damage, blindness, significant disfigurement and/or permanent disability. We report the case of Ioanna, a 34-year-old woman who was attacked with vitriol by a jealous woman in May 2020. Following her admission to hospital, where Ioanna was an inpatient for 85 days, she underwent nine operations. Since her discharge she has undergone ten more, with further interventions likely in the future. In addition, she has undergone various treatments and procedures to restore her skin. Ioanna’s courage and strength has inspired thousands of young children and adults who cope with a variety of health problems.
The Internalization of Stigma and the Shaping of the Grief Experience for Peers Bereaved by a Drug-Related Death
Authors: O’Callaghan Daniel , Lambert Sharon
Published: August 2024

People who use drugs form a significant part of the community who are impacted by drug-related deaths, but their stigmatized positioning in society yields implications for their access to support and the social recognition of their grief. This project explores how the internalization of drug-related stigmas shapes the grief experience for peers bereaved by a DRD. Six individuals who experienced the drug death of a peer during their own time in active addiction participated in semi-structured interviews, analyzed by interpretative phenomenological analysis. Three superordinate themes are reported in this paper: (i) Forged Connections; (ii) The Condemnation Script; and (iii) Nowhere Left to Turn. Participants reported grief responses such as survivor’s guilt, shame, and increased drug use against the wider social invalidation of their close peer bonds. This paper appeals for a more health-based approach to supporting people in active addiction that recognizes and validates their grief experiences.
Deciphering the crux of women's empowerment in agricultural value chains – A scoping review
Authors: Prithika C , Anjugam M , Sivasankari B
Published: August 2024

This review paper highlights the essential requirement of women in agricultural practices and emphasizes gender equality and their contribution to household productivity and food security. The paper discusses the various stages of the value chain and identifies entry points for interventions aimed at enhancing women's participation and benefits and also evaluates the efforts meant to empower women within the agriculture sector, especially to determine women's involvement in the Agricultural Value Chain (AVC). Evaluation of women's empowerment using diverse approaches such as the REBT Framework, and WEAI in various countries was analyzed by using the PRISMA framework and concluded with the emerging new methodology of PRO-WEAI developed by IFPRI to focus on the empowerment of women relevant to the value chain. WEAI-type tools allow for direct comparison between men and women in the same households. This approach offers additional advantages, such as having an explicit link to empowerment theory and using both qualitative and quantitative data to develop and validate the Index. The paper concludes that the emergence of pro-WEAI offers a streamlined and improved tool for analyzing intrahousehold characteristics. It incorporates a gender parity index, enhancing the measurement process. This index is also utilized for calculating GDP per capita, providing a more accurate assessment of economic conditions. Overall, pro-WEAI's concise structure and comprehensive approach make it a superior choice for measuring women's empowerment in the agricultural sector.
“Take a Deep Breath and Re-Center the Student's Perspective”: Partnering Instructors and Disabled Students for Accessible Teaching
Authors: Sievers Julie , Mata Ryan A. , Cawthon Stephanie W. , Vielma Ana Guadalupe , Yan Yiqiu , Lama Desiree , Ge Eric , Ramesh Gayathri , Aldaco Soren
Published: August 2024

Background

Because accessible and anti-ableist teaching is rarely prioritized in instructional development programs, a new initiative was developed at a large, public university. Launched in January 2022, it piloted strategies for shifting instructors’ mindsets about and pedagogical approaches to accessibility. Using a professional learning community model, disabled students served as course consultants to instructors, working closely together in a semester-long partnership.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to research the program's effects on the participating instructors.

Method

Multiple raters coded qualitative data collected over a period of five months from meeting notes spanning 30 instructor–student partnership meetings, four all-team meetings, two student focus groups, three instructor focus groups, and six online discussion boards.

Results

The results showed the mindset shifts and teaching strategies that emerged through this semester-long initiative. They also revealed the program elements that had the greatest impact on instructors.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the role that disabled students can play in helping instructors learn about accessibility and how learning community models support substantive changes in teaching.

Teaching Implications

The results of this study should help psychology teachers and departments improve their courses and engage in ongoing development to improve access and equity in their courses.
Calculation of coal cleats spacing for methane degassing by image processing
Authors: Taheri Adel , Sereshki Farhang , Rohani Fatemeh Sadat
Published: August 2024

Coal bed methane is one of the clean energy sources in the world. Methane molecules are confined inside the pores of coals and when the gas drainage wells are drilled into the coal seams, due to the resulted pressure difference. Coal cleats are spread all over the coal seam as face and butt cleats and play an essential role in the methane gas drainage operation from coal mines. Calculating the coal cleats spacing makes great help in modeling the amount of emitted gas followed by calculating the spacing of gas suction wells. Furthermore, the time required for gas drainage will be determined. Computer-based image processing technique has been utilized to identify the cleats spacing. In this study, three-dimensional computed tomography scan images were prepared for coal samples from Tabas Coal Mine in Iran. Computer-based image processing technology was conducted to determine the coal cleats. Their spacing was then calculated. Based on the results obtained using image processing with computer, the average distance between face cleats was 20 to 30 mm and the distance between butt cleats was 15 to 25 mm. The results of this study are used to modeling the amount of methane gas in the coal cleats. Based on this modeling, the amount of released gas and the distance between the wells can be designed.
Predictive Value of the Nomogram Model Based on Multimodal Ultrasound Features for Benign and Malignant Thyroid Nodules of C-TIRADS Category 4
Authors: Wu Siru , Shu Linfeng , Tian Zhaoyu , Li Jiajia , Wu Yunfeng , Lou Xiaoxia , Wu Zuohui
Published: August 2024

To explore the predictive value of the nomogram model based on multimodal ultrasound features for benign and malignant thyroid nodules of C-TIRADS category 4. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the general conditions and ultrasound features of patients who underwent thyroid ultrasound examination and fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNA) or thyroidectomy at the Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University from April 2020 to April 2023. Predictive signs for benign and malignant nodules of thyroid C-TIRADS category 4 were screened through LASSO regression and multivariate logistic regression analysis to construct a nomogram prediction model. The predictive efficiency and accuracy of the model were assessed through ROC curves and calibration curves. Seven independent risk factors in the predictive model for benign and malignant thyroid nodules of C-TIRADS category 4 were growth pattern, morphology, microcalcifications, SR, arterial phase enhancement intensity, initial perfusion time, and PE [%]. Based on these features, the area under the curve (AUC) of the constructed prediction model was 0.971 (p ＜ .001, 95% CI: 0.952–0.989), with a prediction accuracy of 93.1%. Internal validation showed that the nomogram calibration curve was consistent with reality, and the decision curve analysis indicated that the model has high clinical application value. The nomogram prediction model constructed based on the multimodal ultrasound features of thyroid nodules of C-TIRADS category 4 has high clinical application value.
The Quality of Maternal Care and Family Functioning in Single-Mother Versus Biparental Families With Preschool Children: A Comparative Study
Authors: Dadkhah Somaye , Khosravan Shahla , Mohammadzadeh Fatemeh , Noori Reza
Published: August 2024

Maternal care and family functioning are major factors in controlling childhood disorders. The present study aimed to compare the quality of maternal care and family functioning in single-parent versus biparental families with preschool children. The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 213 single-mother (divorced or widowed) and biparental families with 3- to 6-year-old children in Gonabad County. The data were collected using the maternal care quality questionnaire and the family assessment device (FAD). The mean maternal care quality scores in the single-parent and biparental groups were 116.36 (Standard deviation (SD) = 19.33) and 130.53(SD = 5.70), respectively. The total family functioning scores in the single-parent and biparental groups were 2.70 (SD = 0.18) and 3.02 (SD = 0.11), respectively. Statistically significant differences were observed in the quality of maternal care and family functioning and their respective subscales between single-parent and biparental families ( ps < 0.001). The quality of maternal care and family functioning in single-mother group was significantly lower than the biparental group.
The Outcome Evaluation and Impact of Tele-mentoring Prison Medical Officers in Primary Care Psychiatry: A Model from Bihar, India
Authors: Kumar Naveen C. , Reddy B. Sai Chaitanya , Nirisha P. Laxmi , Kumari Shivanee , Subramaniyan Sivakami Sundari , Manjunatha Narayana , Math Suresh Bada
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

As compared to the general population, prison inmates have a high prevalence of mental illness and substance use disorders. The authors designed and implemented a digitally driven, one-year primary care psychiatry program for medical officers in prison and correctional settings to address this need in Bihar, India.

Aim:

The study aimed to assess the outcome of training given to prison medical officers deputed by the Government of Bihar.

Materials and Method:

Five medical officers completed training out of the seven deputed. The training contained brief onsite (three-day) training in “Clinical Schedules for Primary Care Psychiatry” and three online (one-year) modules containing tele-psychiatric on-consultation training (tele-OCT), virtual classroom (VCR) sessions, and a public health module. We measured the outcome using translational quotient (TQ) and primary care psychiatry quotient (PCPQ), which were carried out 6 and 12 months after the onset of training.

Results:

The TQ scores in the first and second tele-OCT evaluations were 64% and 75.2% at 6 and 12 months of the course, suggesting adequate skill retention. Out of 33,565 consultations over 12 months, medical officers identified 2,947 psychiatric disorders requiring treatment, resulting in a PCPQ of 8.7%.

Conclusion:

Over a year, the training demonstrated efficacy in acquiring primary care psychiatry skills, and these competencies were applied in providing care for those with psychiatric disorders.
Lived experiences of students with blindness in Orientation and Mobility (O&M) skills at Haramaya University, Ethiopia: A phenomenological study
Authors: Kana Fituma Yadasa , Regassa Tesema
Published: August 2024

Orientation involves understanding or comprehending the location of the desired destination, while mobility pertains to safe and efficient movement within the environment. This study examines the life experiences of students with blindness at Haramaya University, Ethiopia, in learning and using Orientation and Mobility (O&M) skills. The research used a descriptive phenomenological design, with five participants purposively chosen based on their severity of vision loss and willingness. Based on the findings, three main themes emerged: formal learning and use, informal learning and use, and absence of learning and non-use. The study recommends appropriate teaching aids and techniques to improve O&M skills for individuals with blindness and to enhance the lives of individuals with blindness.
Mate selection barriers, facilitators, and strategies in visually impaired males: A multi-stakeholder perspective
Authors: Malekitabar Alireza , Khodabakhshi-Koolaee Anahita , Falsafinejad Mohammad Reza , Yengimolki Soheila
Published: August 2024

Mate selection is one of the most crucial decisions an individual makes in their lifetime, which can bring social, economic, and emotional benefits to their life partner. Exposure to negative attitudes from family members and significant people can lead to the internalization of negative self-esteem in visually impaired people and restrict their social activities and mate selection. To this end, this study sought to investigate mate selection barriers, facilitators, and strategies from the perspective of visually impaired men (beneficiaries), specialists of the welfare department (experts), and managers (authorities). This study was conducted using a qualitative and grounded theory approach. The research sample was selected using purposive sampling in 2023 in Arak, Markazi Province, Iran. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews with the participants. The participants in this study were visually impaired men (beneficiaries) who were members of the Blind Association and were supported by the welfare department, the specialists of the welfare department (experts), and managers (authorities). Data saturation was achieved after interviewing 17 visually impaired men, 8 experts, and 8 authorities. The collected data were analyzed using the method by Corbin and Strauss. The data analysis revealed mate selection barriers, facilitators, and strategies through 10 axial codes: poor economic conditions (causal condition), unbalanced and disturbed relationships with others and feelings of isolation and social exclusion (intervening conditions), provision of supportive facilities and hesitation in choosing a partner (strategies), endless fear of the future marital life, lack of financial and support resources, lack of adaptability of the environment, individual and social empowerment (contextual conditions), and the tendency to develop independence (mate selection consequence). Finally, a paradigmatic model was developed. The economic and financial conditions play an important role in mate selection. In the Iranian community with high inflation and unemployment rates, healthy people who do not have any physical problems like disabilities do not dare to choose a partner. Thus, visually impaired people face substantial challenges when planning for marriage. Given the restrictions associated with visual impairment (VI) and the negative public attitudes about the marriage of visually impaired people, providing training to families and educating them on how to treat visually impaired individuals can play a vital role in enhancing the self-esteem of these individuals. Besides, raising public awareness about the marital issues faced by visually impaired individuals and planning to create employment opportunities can help these individuals in the mate selection process.
Effect of WC content on the microstructure and wear resistance of Laser-cladded WC/Ni60A composite coatings
Authors: Tian Li , Lv Dongli , Li Yongdu , Tang Peng , Zhang Yilong
Published: August 2024

In this study, WC/Ni60A composite coatings with various WC contents were prepared on the surface of the TC4 titanium alloy using laser cladding. SEM, EDS, XRD, microhardness testing, and friction-wear performance testing were performed to characterize the coatings. The results revealed that an increase in the WC content reduced the coating dilution rate and increased its porosity. The microstructure of the composite coating included WC, Ni3Ti, Ni17W3, and TixW1−x species as well as carbides and borides. With increasing WC content, the wear rate decreased, and the wear mechanism changed from microabrasion and adhesive wear to localized adhesive wear. The coating with 45 wt.% WC showed the best wear resistance for the denser and more uniform distribution of its hard phase.
Oxygen extraction fraction change in M1-M6 brain regions of patients with unilateral or bilateral middle cerebral artery occlusion
Authors: Xiao Yu , Liu Zhenghua , Wan Xinghua
Published: August 2024

Cerebral blood flow (CBF) and oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) can be measured using arterial spin labeling (ASL) and quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) sequences, respectively. ASL and QSM sequences were performed on 13 healthy participants and 46 patients with unilateral or bilateral Middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion. M1–M3 and M4–M6 correspond to anterior, lateral, and posterior MCA territories within the insular ribbon and centrum semiovale, respectively. In patients with unilateral MCA occlusion, significant decreases in CBF were observed in the lesions in M1, M3, M5 and M6 regions, as well as in the contralateral M3 and M5 regions. The OEF of the lesion in the M1–M4 and M6 regions, and the contralateral M1–M3 regions were significantly higher. Additionally, the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) in the lesions of the M3 and M6 regions, and the contralateral M3 region, were significantly lower compared to the corresponding regions of healthy participants. For patients with bilateral MCA occlusion, the CMRO2 in the left M5 region and the right M3 and M6 regions were significantly lower than that in the corresponding regions of healthy participants. In conclusion, abnormal hemodynamics occur in the contralateral hemisphere of patients with unilateral MCA occlusion.
Beta-lactam-associated hypokalemia
Authors: Jansen Muriel-N. , Safi Wajima , Matyukhin Igor , Stasche Friedrich , Tennigkeit Johanna , Ritter Oliver , Patschan Daniel
Published: August 2024

The aim of this narrative review was to discuss the literature on β-lactam antibiotic-associated hypokalemia, a potentially life-threatening electrolyte disorder. The PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases were searched for articles published between 1965 and 2023, using the following terms: ‘hypokalemia’ OR ‘potassium loss’ OR ‘potassium deficiency’ AND ‘beta-lactams’ OR ‘penicillin’ OR ‘penicillin G’ OR ‘cephalosporins’ OR ‘ceftazidime’ OR ‘ceftriaxone’ OR ‘flucloxacillin’ OR ‘carbapenems’ OR ‘meropenem’ OR ‘imipenem’ OR ‘cefiderocol’ OR ‘azlocillin’ OR ‘ticarcillin’. Additional search terms were ‘hypokalemia’ AND ‘epidemiology’ AND ‘ICU’ OR ‘intensive care unit’ OR ‘ER’ OR ‘emergency department’ OR ‘ambulatory’ OR ‘old’ OR ‘ageing population’, and experimental (animal-based) studies were excluded. A total of eight studies were selected and discussed, in addition to nine case reports and case series. Both older and currently used β-lactam antibiotics (e.g., ticarcillin and flucloxacillin, respectively) have been associated with therapy-related hypokalemia. The incidence of β-lactam antibiotic-associated hypokalemia may be as high as 40%, thus, the issue of β-lactam-associated hypokalemia remains clinically relevant. Although other causes of hypokalemia are likely to be diagnosed more frequently (e.g., due to diuretic therapy or diarrhea), the possibility of β-lactam-induced renal potassium loss should always be considered in individuals with so-called ‘unexplained hypokalemia’.
Periorbital melanosis and its possible association with insulin resistance and vitamin D deficiency: A pilot case-control study
Authors: Taha Sara I. , Salem Lamyaa , Hassan Rasha Mohamad , El-Bassiouny Mahy , Hamdy Marwa , El-Mohamdy Marwa Adham
Published: August 2024

Objective

To investigate the possible association of periorbital melanosis (POM) with insulin resistance (IR) and vitamin D serum levels.

Methods

In this pilot, case-control study, we included 100 adult patients with POM and 100 age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects. Vitamin D levels and IR indices (i.e., homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance [HOMA-IR], triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-c) ratio, adiponectin/leptin (A/L) ratio) were compared between cases and controls.

Results

Compared with controls, POM cases had significantly higher values of HOMA-IR and TG/HDL-c ratio, and significantly lower values of A/L and vitamin D. HOMA-IR and TG/HDL-c ratio were statistically significantly positively correlated with POM severity while Vitamin D and A/L ratio were statistically significantly negatively correlated.

Conclusion

POM was associated with indices of IR and vitamin D deficiency. However, the exact causal link among POM, IR, and vitamin D needs to be established. However, the results of this pilot study suggest that POM may have potential as a cutaneous non-invasive marker of these metabolic disorders which would assist in detecting and treating them at an early stage.
Substance Use Treatment for Indigenous Offenders: The Effects of Race on Drug Court Treatment Outcomes
Authors: Borseth Jenna L. , Myer Andrew J. , Hunter Brandon
Published: August 2024

With drug offenders making up a large portion of cases in the criminal justice system, efforts to reduce recidivism among this population has been a sizable topic within research. Within this literature, drug courts continue to be shown to be an effective method of dealing with substance use offenders. The current study seeks to examine whether drug courts are similarly effective in treating White and Native American offenders. To do so, a quasi-experimental study with a matched comparison group is used to compare the 1- and 2-year recidivism rates of White and Native drug court participants. Results indicate that there are significant demographic differences between the two groups which lead to higher recidivism rates among Native American participants. However, once demographic and other control variables are accounted for, recidivism rates are not significantly different. Further implications of these findings are discussed in the conclusion.
Using intervention mapping to develop an occupational therapy informed intervention for adolescents experiencing mental health difficulties
Authors: Parsonage-Harrison Jackie , Dawes Helen
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Current interventions provide limited success in managing mental health in adolescents with emerging difficulties. We describe using the Intervention Mapping framework to co-develop a novel occupational therapy theory-informed intervention for adolescents with emerging mental health difficulties, addressing the need for interventions tackling activity-related determinants.

Methods:

We describe a mixed-method, multiphase, sequential study design informed by the six-step Intervention Mapping framework, to develop the Activity Time Use intervention. Involving a systematic scoping review, time-use survey, qualitative focus groups and Delphi consensus process informing the construction of an intervention logic model of the problem, the logic model of change and creation of an intervention programme.

Results:

An eight-session intervention addresses three behavioural change outcomes: improving the balance of daily activities, improving occupational choice making abilities and improving occupational performance. The programme was positively reviewed through Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) consultation against the seven aspects of acceptability (Sekhon et al., 2017). Next steps include exploring the environmental determinants affecting implementation in different intervention delivery settings and full user acceptability.

Conclusions:

This study has provided a real-world example of intervention-mapping, systematically developing an occupational therapy intervention to empower adolescents to adopt healthier time-use behaviours to improve their mental health.
An exploration of a Theraplay® informed group as an intervention for adoptive families
Authors: France Lesley , McIntosh Sarah , Woods Kevin
Published: August 2024

Theraplay® is a relationship-focused intervention based upon attachment theory that involves both adult and child. There is a growing evidence base for Theraplay® as an intervention with children and families although empirical research on its use with adoptive families is currently in its infancy. This research provides an understanding of the reasons for choosing Theraplay® as a support for adoptive families and how the intervention was implemented within a Regional Adoption Agency (RAA) and explores the views of adoptive parents and professionals regarding its effectiveness. The research design was a multiple case study with embedded units of analysis. Semi-structured interviews were used with adoptive parents, and three focus groups were held with professionals to collect qualitative data. The data were analysed thematically resulting in the emergence of four main themes: support, process of intervention, impact of intervention and meeting the needs of adoptive parents. These themes are discussed in relation to existing literature, implications for practice and future research. The limitations of the research are also discussed.
Unionization rates, inequality, and poverty in Canadian provinces 2000–2020
Authors: Das Anupam , Hudson Ian , Hudson Mark
Published: August 2024

Unions can increase the power of workers through both collective bargaining and political avenues, potentially creating less income inequality and poverty. However, this potential may not be realized. Drawing on power resource theory, this study uses panel data to investigate the connection between unionization and two measures of after-tax inequality – the income share of the top 1% and the Gini coefficient – and three measures of poverty – the percentage of the population below the low-income cut-off, the average income of the bottom decile, and the percent of the population below the low-income measure – between Canadian provinces from 2000 to 2020. We find that unionization is negatively associated with income inequality in Canada. This relationship is statistically significant. However, we do not find evidence of any statistical association between unionization and poverty in Canada.
Effects of levcromakalim in patients with migraine aura without headache: An experimental study
Authors: Thomsen Andreas Vinther , Al-Karagholi Mohammad Al-Mahdi , Hougaard Anders , Ostrowski Sisse Rye , Ashina Messoud
Published: August 2024

Background/Hypothesis

Levcromakalim has previously been shown to induce attacks of migraine with aura in certain individuals. In this study, we tested the migraine-inducing effect of levcromakalim in a cohort of participants with migraine aura without headache.

Methods

In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over study, eight adult participants with migraine with aura received intravenous infusions of levcromakalim and saline. Headache, aura and associated symptoms were evaluated for 24 h following administration of the study drug. The primary endpoint was occurrence of migraine-like attacks with or without aura in the 24-h observation period.

Results

Five participants (62.5%) developed migraine of any type following levcromakalim compared with three participants (37.5%) following placebo. No participants developed aura following levcromakalim.

Conclusion/Interpretation

Our findings suggest that the aura-inducing effect of levcromakalim is likely not based on direct induction of cortical spreading depression but may involve activation of the trigeminovascular system. This hypothesis should be further explored in future studies.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier

NCT04905654