bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Alzheimer’s Disease with Interpretable Machine Learning
Authors: Jia Maoni , Wu Yafei , Xiang Chaoyi , Fang Ya
Published: July 2023

Introduction: This study aimed to develop novel machine learning models for predicting Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and identify key factors for targeted prevention. Methods: We included 1,219, 863, and 482 participants aged 60+ years with only sociodemographic, both sociodemographic and self-reported health, both the former two and blood biomarkers information from Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database. Machine learning models were constructed for predicting the risk of AD for the above three populations. Model performance was evaluated by discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness. SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) was applied to identify key predictors of optimal models. Results: The mean age was 73.49, 74.52, and 74.29 years for the three populations, respectively. Models with sociodemographic information and models with both sociodemographic and self-reported health information showed modest performance. For models with sociodemographic, self-reported health, and blood biomarker information, their overall performance improved substantially, specifically, logistic regression performed best, with an AUC value of 0.818. Blood biomarkers of ptau protein and plasma neurofilament light, age, blood tau protein, and education level were top five significant predictors. In addition, taurine, inosine, xanthine, marital status, and L.Glutamine also showed importance to AD prediction. Conclusion: Interpretable machine learning showed promise in screening high-risk AD individual and could further identify key predictors for targeted prevention.
Impact of “Black Race” Coefficient in Estimation of Glomerular Filtration Rate on Our Community and Medical Education
Authors: Kanungo Shibani , Lorber Amy R. , Schmitt Christine , VanRiper Kaitlyn , Billian Joseph
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The use of race in estimation of glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) started a critical national conversation on numerous areas of medicine touched by racism; with a call for removal of race from calculation of eGFR. We scrutinized use of “Black race” coefficient in Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) eGFR calculation and consequence of its use on our local community in SW Michigan. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of de-identified electronic health record data from routine outpatient primary care visits, from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2019, included variables such as age, race, gender, serum creatinine levels, and calculated eGFRs (if any), using χ2 tests for association and Wald-approximation 95% confidence interval. During the data collection period in 2019, both hospital systems and the outpatient clinic site were all using MDRD. Results: eGFR and associated CKD stage were calculated for 131,863 patients. χ2 tests found significant differences in rates of CKD stages 3, 4, and 5 between “Black” and “not Black.” And, the 95% confidence interval for the proportion of Black patients who would advance to the next stage of CKD upon ignoring “Black race” (using Wald-approximated confidence interval for binomial proportion) is between 41.1% and 43.0%. Discussion: The eGFR calculations which place Black patients in lower CKD stages initially may deprive them of important treatment and referral early in their disease course. Removal of the Black race coefficient allows for referral to a nephrologist, Medicare coverage, and the potential need for transplant and/or dialysis. Conclusion: Our analysis demonstrates the impact removal of “black race” coefficient from MDRD eGFR calculation could have on our community.
Efficacy and Safety of Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide Compared with Sevelamer Carbonate in Chinese Dialysis Patients with Hyperphosphataemia: A Randomised, Open-Label, Multicentre, 12-Week Phase III Study
Authors: Liu Jun , Zuo Li , Walpen Sebastian , Bernard Laurence , Marty Matthieu , Enoiu Milica
Published: July 2023

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of sucroferric oxyhydroxide (SFOH) versus sevelamer carbonate in controlling serum phosphorus (sP) in adult Chinese dialysis patients with hyperphosphataemia (sP >1.78 mmol/L). Methods: Open-label, randomised (1:1), active-controlled, parallel group, multicentre, phase III study of SFOH and sevelamer at starting doses corresponding to 1,500 mg iron/day and 2.4 g/day, respectively, with 8-week dose titration and 4-week maintenance (NCT03644264). Primary endpoint was non-inferiority analysis of change in sP from baseline to week 12. Secondary endpoints included sP over time and safety. Results: 415 patients were screened; 286 were enrolled and randomised (142 and 144 to SFOH and sevelamer, respectively). Mean (SD) baseline sP: 2.38 (0.57) and 2.38 (0.52) mmol/L, respectively. Mean (SD) change in sP from baseline to week 12: – 0.71 (0.60) versus −0.63 (0.52) mmol/L, respectively; difference (sevelamer minus SFOH) in least squares means (95% CI): 0.08 mmol/L (−0.02, 0.18) with the lower limit of 95% CI above the non-inferiority margin of −0.34 mmol/L. The SFOH group achieved target sP (1.13–1.78 mmol/L) earlier than the sevelamer group (56.5% vs. 32.8% at week 4) and with a lower pill burden (mean 3.7 vs. 9.1 tablets/day over 4 weeks of maintenance, respectively). Safety and tolerability of SFOH was consistent with previous studies, and no new safety signals were observed. Conclusion: SFOH effectively reduced sP from baseline and was non-inferior to sevelamer after 12 weeks of treatment but had a lower pill burden in Chinese dialysis patients with hyperphosphataemia; SFOH benefit-risk profile is favourable in Chinese patients.
Georroteiro e website como ferramenta de geocomunicação e divulgação da geodiversidade e do patrimônio cultural da Ponta das Campanhas, sul da Ilha de Santa Catarina, SC, Brasil
Authors: Ottmann Gabriella Avellar , Florisbal Luana Moreira
Published: July 2023

A região sul da Ilha de Santa Catarina é definida por uma geomorfologia peculiar, com costões rochosos entrecortados e recobertos por sistemas sedimentares recentes, que delineiam uma geodiversidade não apenas de beleza cênica ímpar, mas também importante do ponto de vista científico e educacional. A Ponta das Campanhas é um geossítio muito visitado por turistas interessados em turismo de natureza e surfe, constitui uma importante região de pesca, incluindo a pesca artesanal, e é um dos pontos de partida de passeios de barco para a Ilha do Campeche. Esta região, foco do presente estudo, constitui uma ilha, e as rochas que delineiam os costões servem de suporte aos serviços ecossistêmicos de vida marinha e de provisão. Os costões são constituídos de rochas vulcânicas piroclásticas de idade neoproterozoica relacionadas à Suíte Cambirela (590 Ma) e seccionadas por diques básicos da Província Magmática Paraná-Etendeka (134 Ma). Com intuito de divulgar a geodiversidade local e o patrimônio cultural da região, foi confeccionado um georroteiro em website, que inclui seis pontos de interesse, contendo locais acessíveis diretamente relacionados ao geossítio, patrimônio cultural e  construído. A metodologia de classificação foi realizada com critérios multivalores e também com uso da plataforma Geossit, que permitiu a classificação do geossítio como de relevância nacional. Após o levantamento e tratamento dos dados, estes foram espacializados e disponibilizados em um website em que os interessados encontram informações textuais e gráficas sobre o patrimônio geológico, arqueológico, cultural e construído, bem como mapas e georroteiro.
Low‐Field Portable Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Post‐Thrombectomy Assessment of Ongoing Brain Injury
Authors: Sujijantarat Nanthiya , Koo Andrew B. , Jambor Ivan , Malhotra Ajay , Mazurek Mercy H. , Parasuram Nethra , Yadlapalli Vineetha , Chavva Isha R. , Lalwani Dheeraj , Zabinska Julia , Roy Joanna M. , Antonios Joseph P. , Elsamadicy Aladine A. , Renedo Daniela , Hebert Ryan M. , Schindler Joseph L. , Gilmore Emily J. , Sansing Lauren H. , de Havenon Adam , Olexa Madelynne , Schiff Steven J. , Iglesias Juan Eugenio , Rosen Matthew , Kimberly William Taylor , Petersen Nils H. , Sheth Kevin N. , Matouk Charles C.
Published: July 2023

Background

Timely imaging is essential for patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Our objective was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of low‐field portable magnetic resonance imaging (pMRI) for bedside evaluation following MT.

Methods

Patients with suspected large‐vessel occlusion undergoing MT were screened for eligibility. All pMRI examinations were conducted in the standard ferromagnetic environment of the interventional radiology suite. Clinical characteristics, procedural details, and pMRI features were collected. Subsequent high‐field conventional MRI within 72±12 hours was analyzed. If a conventional MRI was not available for comparison, computed tomography within the same time frame was used for validation.

Results

Twenty‐four patients were included (63% women; median age, 76 years [interquartile range, 69–84 years]). MT was performed with a median access to revascularization time of 15 minutes (interquartile range, 8–19 minutes), and with a successful outcome as defined by a thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score of ≥2B in 90% of patients. The median time from the end of the procedure to pMRI was 22 minutes (interquartile range, 16–32 minutes). The median pMRI examination time was 30 minutes (interquartile range, 17–33 minutes). Of 23 patients with available subsequent imaging, 9 had infarct progression compared with immediate post‐MT pMRI and 14 patients did not have progression of their infarct volume. There was no adverse event related to the examination.

Conclusion

Low‐field pMRI is safe and feasible in a post‐MT environment and enables timely identification of ischemic changes in the interventional radiology suite. This approach can facilitate the assessment of baseline infarct burden and may help guide physiological interventions following MT.
Augmented Reality Based on Apollo Lunar Imagery: Searching for Stars and Adding Virtual Objects
Authors: Pustynski Vladislav-Veniamin
Published: July 2023

Based on photogrammetric models of the first three Apollo landing sites, we have created a method to project virtual objects onto photos taken on the lunar surface. We have applied this method to search for stars in high-resolution scans of Apollo lunar photos and to restore views of the starry sky in some iconic images. Our method can be used to incorporate computer-generated 3D graphics, such as constellation boundaries, and coordinate and contour lines, into lunar images. This research has several applications, including the visualization of digital terrain models, the creation of a virtual planetarium based on lunar photos, and demonstration of object motion in lunar gravity for educational purposes.
Influence of Visual Augmented Feedback on Walking Speed Perception in Immersive Virtual Reality
Authors: Wilson Elizabeth B. , Canete Santiago , Wright W. Geoffrey , Jacobs Daniel A.
Published: July 2023

In virtual reality (VR), established perception–action relationships break down because of conflicting and ambiguous sensorimotor inputs, inducing walking velocity underestimations. Here, we explore the effects of realigning perceptual sensory experiences with physical movements via augmented feedback on the estimation of virtual speed. We hypothesized that providing feedback about speed would lead to concurrent perceptual improvements and that these alterations would persist once the speedometer was removed. Ten young adults used immersive VR to view a virtual hallway translating at a series of fixed speeds. Participants were tasked with matching their walking speed on a self-paced treadmill to the optic flow in the environment. Information regarding walking speed accuracy was provided during augmented feedback trials via a real-time speedometer. We measured resulting walking velocity errors, as well as kinematic gait parameters. We found that the concordance between the virtual environment and gait speeds was higher when augmented feedback was provided during the trial. Furthermore, we observed retention effects beyond the intervention period via demonstrated smaller errors in speed perception accuracy and stronger concordance between perceived and actual speeds. Together, these results highlight a potential role for augmented feedback in guiding gait strategies that deviate away from predefined internal models of locomotion.
Unannihilable – Zygmunt Bauman as Analyst and Ambassador of Ambivalence
Authors: Jacobsen Michael Hviid
Published: July 2023

In Zygmunt Bauman’s work, ambivalence was a topic that recurred explicitly several times in his analyses of modernity and later liquid modernity. This was particularly evident in his book Modernity and Ambivalence (1991). But ambivalence also appears as an underlying theme in later books on life in liquid-modern society. Moreover, Bauman’s sociological perspective itself oozes ambivalence, and many of the topics he explored and embraced throughout his career – such as freedom, morality, immortality and utopia – are themselves fundamental expressions of ambivalence. In addition, Bauman always insisted that the world is not fixed once and for all, but that humans can challenge and change it, and in this way ambivalence is not an ailment to be cured but rather a fact to be accepted. This article explores the theme and leitmotif of ambivalence in the writings of Bauman. The article seeks to provide a concise presentation and discussion of Bauman’s continuous engagement with ambivalence in order to show that sociology perhaps ought to take the topic of ambivalence more seriously than is currently the case.
Zygmunt Bauman’s “Modernity and the Holocaust” and the Unexplored Research Perspectives in Studies about the Holocaust in Polish Lands
Authors: Kijek Kamil
Published: July 2023

By reading Zygmunt Bauman’s famous study critically, this text attempts to show how both the brilliant analyses, observations, and intuitions contained in Modernity and the Holocaust and its errors and distortions can still serve as important guideposts for further studies of the Holocaust in Polish lands and in Central and Eastern Europe even today, some thirty years after publication. What remains absent from our understanding of the Holocaust in this region is a broader and deepened historical perspective, taking into account the preceding decades as well as the challenges of peripheral modernity in this part of Europe and its impact on relations between Christians and Jews both before and during the Holocaust.
Uncertainty Calibration of Passive Microwave Brightness Temperatures Predicted by Bayesian Deep Learning Models
Authors: Ortiz Pedro , Casas Eleanor , Orescanin Marko , Powell Scott W. , Petkovic Veljko , Hall Micky
Published: July 2023

Visible and infrared radiance products of geostationary orbiting platforms provide virtually continuous observations of Earth. In contrast, low-Earth orbiters observe passive microwave (PMW) radiances at any location much less frequently. Prior literature demonstrates the ability of a machine learning (ML) approach to build a link between these two complementary radiance spectra by predicting PMW observations using infrared and visible products collected from geostationary instruments, which could potentially deliver a highly desirable synthetic PMW product with nearly continuous spatiotemporal coverage. However, current ML models lack the ability to provide a measure of uncertainty of such a product, significantly limiting its applications. In this work, Bayesian deep learning is employed to generate synthetic Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Microwave Imager (GMI) data from Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) observations with attached uncertainties over the ocean. The study first uses deterministic residual networks (ResNets) to generate synthetic GMI brightness temperatures with as little mean absolute error as 1.72 K at the ABI spatiotemporal resolution. Then, for the same task, we use three Bayesian ResNet models to produce a comparable amount of error while providing previously unavailable predictive variance (i.e., uncertainty) for each synthetic data point. We find that the Flipout configuration provides the most robust calibration between uncertainty and error across GMI frequencies, and then demonstrate how this additional information is useful for discarding high-error synthetic data points prior to use by downstream applications.
Impacts of April Stratosphere–Troposphere Coupling on the South Asian Premonsoon Circulation
Authors: Zhang Chengyang , Tian Wenshou , Zhang Jiankai , Zhang Tuantuan , Yu Wei , Yang Song , Wang Tao
Published: July 2023

The premonsoon circulation over South Asia in May shows remarkable interannual variations, and it can modulate the onset of the Asian summer monsoon. The present study derives two dominant stratosphere–troposphere modes over the North Atlantic in April via applying principal component (PC) analysis to regional geopotential height during 1979–2015. Both of the modes reflect the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO)-like circulation at the midtroposphere, but the circulation patterns and planetary wave activity between the two modes are quite different. The first mode represents a stratosphere–troposphere-coupled mode. Further analysis indicates that during the years with a positive phase of the first mode, the low-level anomalous southerlies over the northern Barents Sea (BS) lead to a reduction in local sea ice, which could persist into May through the ice-albedo feedback. The BS sea ice anomalies in May could generate a southeastward propagating Rossby wave train, producing an anomalous anticyclonic circulation to the west of Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. This anomalous anticyclone induces increases in local air temperature and the meridional temperature gradient, resulting in a strengthened premonsoon circulation. Given that prediction of the premonsoon circulation over South Asia remains a challenging issue, the stratosphere–troposphere-coupling modes in April provide another potential predictability source. On the other hand, ENSO has a significant effect on the South Asian premonsoon circulations in May, and can also lead to the NAO-like circulation by influencing atmospheric Rossby waves. Such an NAO-like circulation is closely related to the second mode.
Early Urinary Catheter Removal After Colectomy for Colovesical Fistula is Not Associated With Increased Postoperative Complications
Authors: Stapler Stevie-Jay , Colom Sara M , Rajkumar Dixy , Cleary Robert K
Published: July 2023

Background

Management of the bladder defect during colectomy for colovesical fistula (CVF) and recommendations for duration of urinary catheter drainage are inconsistent. This study aimed to determine if urinary catheter drainage duration was associated with postoperative complications.

Methods

Retrospective single institution cohort study of patients undergoing resection for diverticular CVF from 2015 through 2021. Urinary catheter drainage was defined as Early (≤7 days postoperative and then subdivided into 1-2 days, 3-5 days, 6-7 days), and Late (>7 days postoperative). Primary outcome was a composite measure of postoperative bladder leak, surgical site infection-III, sepsis, reoperation, and postoperative length-of-stay ≥7 days.

Results

There were 73 patients—64 Early group and 9 Late group. Composite measure between groups (Early 25% vs Late 33.33%, P = .688) was not significantly different. The Late group had more patients with large bladder defects (33.3% vs 7.8%, P = .054), significantly more patients who underwent suture repair (55.6% vs 14.1%, P = .01), and significantly more patients that had an intraoperative pelvic drain (66.7% vs 15.6%, P = .003). After propensity score inverse weighting, the Late group had significantly more cystogram-detected postoperative bladder leaks ( P = .002) and ileus ( P = .042) than the Early group. There were no bladder leaks or ileus in those who had urinary catheter removal on postoperative days 1-2.

Conclusions

Early urinary catheter removal was associated with no increase in bladder leaks and fewer postoperative complications after definitive management of CVF. Further investigation is required to determine if intraoperative bladder leak testing and postoperative cystograms are useful adjuncts in decision making.
Artefactually low creatinine by Beckman Coulter enzymatic method due to immunoglobulin M paraprotein interference
Authors: Li Bobby , Thompson Simon , Igot Kareen , King Richard , Doogue Matthew , Florkowski Chris
Published: July 2023

An 81-year-old man was admitted to hospital with symptomatic coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection. He had a background of progressive chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy associated with Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinaemia. His plasma creatinine on four separate samples was inconceivably low (all ≤13 μmol/L), as measured by a Beckman Coulter enzymatic assay) after being 72 μmol/L 3 months earlier. On further investigation, his serum immunoglobulin M (IgM) was 15.4 g/L and his plasma creatinine measured by Roche enzymatic and Roche Jaffe methods was 62 μmol/L and 64 μmol/L, respectively. This was consistent with results post dilution studies and polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation on the Beckman Coulter assay. There was no evidence of similar interference when reviewing creatinine results from 10 other patients with IgM paraproteinaemia who had been tested in our laboratory. Clinicians and laboratorians are reminded that enzymatic creatinine is not free from interferences. IgM paraprotein negative interference of enzymatic creatinine is rare and specific to a patient’s IgM and assay combination, but should be considered in patients with an unexplained low enzymatic creatinine result. Useful investigations to identify an interference include dilution studies, PEG precipitation and measuring creatinine on an alternative method such as Jaffe, mass spectrometry or an enzymatic method from a different platform.
Recidivism risk in male adult sex offenders with psychopathic traits assessed by PCL-R: A systematic review
Authors: Moretti Giulia , Flutti Emma , Colanino Miriana , Ferlito Danila , Amoresano Livio , Travaini Guido
Published: July 2023

Psychopathy has been empirically associated with various forms of antisocial behavior including sexual assault. In fact, the lack of empathy characterizing psychopathic offenders may facilitate the perpetration of more extreme violence. This systematic review aims to explore the relationship between psychopathy traits in male adult sex offenders and the increase in recidivism risk for any type of reoffence, with a special focus on sexual recidivism. From an initial sample of 757 articles related to the topic, only 14 were selected from the current literature at the end of the inclusion process. Each of these assessed the relation between psychopathy traits (measured by PCL-R) and recidivism risk in male sex offenders (age > 18), providing an effect size (quantitative findings). The results of their analysis agree with the currently available literature: the presence of psychopathic traits in sex offenders would seem to correlate with an increased risk of recidivism of general but non-sexual. Furthermore, almost half of the included works highlighted a positive relationship between psychopathy and violent reoffences. However, the limited availability of studies and the unevenness in their results indicate the need to expand future research in this direction.
Biased Processing and Opinion Polarization: Experimental Refinement of Argument Communication Theory in the Context of the Energy Debate
Authors: Banisch Sven , Shamon Hawal
Published: July 2023

We combine empirical experimental research on biased argument processing with a computational theory of group deliberation to overcome the micro–macro problem of sociology and to clarify the role of biased processing in debates around energy. We integrate biased processing into the framework of argument communication theory in which agents exchange arguments about a certain topic and adapt opinions accordingly. Our derived mathematical model fits significantly better to the experimentally observed attitude changes than the neutral argument processing assumption made in previous models. Our approach provides new insight into the relationship between biased processing and opinion polarization. Our analysis reveals a sharp qualitative transition from attitude moderation to polarization at the individual level. At the collective level, we find that weak biased processing significantly accelerates group decision processes, whereas strong biased processing leads to a meta-stable conflictual state of bi-polarization that becomes persistent as the bias increases.
Nefarious and Disconcerting Motivations for Choosing a Correctional Officer Position: A Deviant Case Analysis
Authors: Burton Alexander L. , Jonson Cheryl Lero , M. Petrich Damon , Miller William T.
Published: July 2023

Most research finds that individuals are drawn to the correctional officer occupation for the pay and benefits or because it provides a new and exciting opportunity. However, these are not the only interests for choosing a correctional officer position. The current study draws on a sample of pre-service correctional officers surveyed prior to beginning their jobs ( N = 673). In the spirit of the deviant case method, we focus on a subset of our sample who provided problematic motivations for becoming officers ( n = 38). Using a thematic analytic approach, we identified five broad themes within this nefariously/disconcertingly motivated sample: use of force, punitive focus, power and control, cavalier ulterior motives, and problematic social boundaries. We theorize, based on prior research, that these individuals could constitute a meaningful minority that may contribute to the detriment of both their organizations and those they are overseeing. Future research should explore this possibility.
Between “Victims” and Their “Saviors”: Process-Based Leadership and Trust Building in Civil–Military Relations in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Aina Folahanmi
Published: July 2023

Northern Nigeria has been plagued by the nefarious activities of terrorist groups, including Boko Haram, its affiliates, and armed bandits. Beyond its kinetic operations, the military has since deployed several strategies toward trust building across the region. This article contributes to the literature, by adopting process-based leadership as a social psychology conceptual and analytical lens. As a departure from traditional conceptualizations of civil–military relations, process-based leadership identifies where influence exists and how it is being exchanged toward the attainment of mutually linked security goals and objectives, between the military and society, in conflict settings. A central argument of the article is that improving civil–military relations in conflict settings is largely dependent on trust building, and achieving this is a function of the exchange of influence and the establishment of mutuality between the military and society.
Reflections on the multi-sectoral response to COVID-19 in Bangladesh’s Rohingya refugee camps
Authors: Palattiyil George , Limon Md. Tariqul Islam , Jubayer Md. Fahad , Rahman Habibur , Sultana Irin , Ahmed Mesbha Uddin , Sidhva Dina , Nair Harish
Published: July 2023

While the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact people globally, refugees comprise a vulnerable population, particularly those living in densely populated areas. In Bangladesh, Cox’s Bazar is currently home to almost a million Rohingya refugees. Because of the lack of healthcare, sanitation and water, as well as overcrowding, refugees were at high risk of becoming ill during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Moreover, superstitions and lack of trust in the healthcare system threaten to put the community at further risk. To prevent tragic consequences, national and international attention and action are required to strengthen the health system for Rohingya refugees. The community will require surveillance and testing, infection prevention and control measures, adequate food supplies, and access to improved healthcare services. This paper calls for a multi-sectoral approach to developing an action plan and implementation strategy to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on this vulnerable population.
Risk Assessment of Hazardous Materials Transportation for Small and Tribal Communities in Nebraska
Authors: Khattak Aemal J. , Redepenning Harrison H. , Haque Mm Shakiul
Published: July 2023

Small communities (population < 5,000) and Native American communities in Nebraska, U.S., often lack the means to deal with highway-based crashes involving hazardous materials (HazMat). This research focused on assessing the vulnerability of small and tribal communities in Nebraska to the impacts of highway HazMat crashes. To do so, this paper estimated the expected number and type of HazMat crashes per population in each community. This study statistically analyzed reported HazMat crashes in Nebraska to determine if small and Native American communities experienced a higher crash rate per population and per HazMat vehicle miles traveled (VMT) than large communities and other small communities. Mean HazMat crash rate per population statistically significantly differed between small and large communities, while the mean crash rate comparison between the Native American and other small communities was not statistically significant. For the mean HazMat crash rate per HazMat VMT, neither comparison was statistically significant. For HazMat crashes per population, and per HazMat VMT, small communities had higher mean values than larger communities. Communities on Native American reservation land experienced a lower HazMat crash rate per population than other small communities but HazMat crashes per VMT in Native American communities were higher than in other small communities. Overall, this research provided a widely applicable risk assessment method not only for communities in Nebraska but also across the U.S. without appreciable loss of generality.
Case Study on the Traffic Collision Patterns of E-Scooter Riders
Authors: Das Subasish , Hossain Ahmed , Rahman M. Ashifur , Sheykhfard Abbas , Kutela Boniphace
Published: July 2023

In recent years, nonmotorized transportation and micromobility have become increasingly popular in urban areas, and bike sharing and e-scooter usage are more affordable and accessible than ever before. However, users of these modes face several significant challenges, including risky riding behavior and the danger of being involved in collisions or near collisions with other motorists. Because of a lack of relevant data sets, it is difficult to comprehend the underlying causes of e-scooter collisions. This study collected narrative descriptions of 24 e-scooter collisions that occurred in Texas in 2021. The perceptual cycle model (PCM) was applied to these narrative crash reports to analyze the causation patterns of the crash occurrences. The PCM mechanism was applied independently to fatal and injury collisions, and the results were then compared with Haddon’s matrix to develop policy recommendations. The novel approach proposed in this study can be widely utilized by road safety professionals to understand the causal relationships behind other key road safety issues.
Healthcare waste management practice and associated factors among healthcare workers in public healthcare facilities of Southwest Shewa Zone, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia
Authors: Dengela Takele Achalu , Sorato Mende Mensa
Published: July 2023

Poor management of waste can cause serious disease to healthcare personnel, cleaners, waste handlers, patients and the public. An observation-supported cross-sectional study was conducted to assess healthcare waste (HCW) management practice and professional, management and resource availability-associated factors among healthcare workers of 23 public health facilities in Southwest Shewa Zone, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia, 2021. A total of 424 health workers participated in this study. The level of proper healthcare waste management (HCWM) practice was 38.4%. Lack of knowledge on different methods of healthcare waste treatment (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.101, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.042, 0.242, p < 0.05)), lack of knowledge about the types of healthcare waste (AOR: 0.136, 95% CI (0.039, 0.481, p < 0.05)), lack of knowledge on the use of different colour-coded waste bin and safety box (AOR: 0.145, 95% CI (0.040, 0.520, p < 0.05)), and healthcare workers who had no training/orientation on HCWM practice (AOR: 0.396, 95% CI (0.245, 0.639, p < 0.05)) were less likely to practice effective HCWM compared to their counterparts. The current HCWM practices in studied health facilities was inadequate. Professional knowledge and availability of training were independently associated with HCWM practice. Therefore, regular orientation during employment and on-job training on HCWM practice, regular monitoring and supervision of HCWM are important. Further research should be conducted on the area of HCWM, and its associated environmental impacts by using more strong methods and wider health facilities.
Can we ‘Nudge’ people to better waste separation behaviours? Policy interventions mediated by habit, sense of separation efficiency and external environmental perceptions
Authors: Liang Yuchao , Li Zixiao , Feng Shiyu , Zhang Yue
Published: July 2023

This article studies the impact of intervention measures with nudge characteristics on residents’ waste separation behaviours under the background of new ‘Beijing Municipal Regulation on Domestic Waste Management’. We analyse whether and how nudge interventions affect residents’ waste separation behaviours through the Ordered Logit model and mediation analysis. Our research results show that three nudge tools, namely, the timing and fixed-point separation system, the cleaning staff guidance system and the uniform clothing and styling, can effectively promote residents from low classification levels to high classification levels. In the process of nudging interventions, factors such as residents’ waste separation habit, external environmental perception and the sense of separation efficiency play a mediating role. Our study’s findings suggest that effective nudge tools are helpful in cultivating residents’ separation habits and hence we recommend that policy makers promote and popularise them in their attempt to improve domestic waste management behaviours.
Psychometric Properties of the Brief Resilience Scale Among Alternative Sexuality Community Members
Authors: Kaniuka Andréa R. , Bowling Jessamyn , Wright Susan , Dahl Alicia A. , Basinger Erin D. , Benson J. Kevin , Stambaugh Russell , Cramer Robert J.
Published: July 2023

Assessing resilience among alternative sexuality (alt-sex; e.g., kink, polyamory) community members is imperative as alt-sex individuals often face discrimination and possess intersecting marginalized identities. The Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) has extensive psychometric support; however, prior research indicates both a one- and two-factor (i.e., succumbing and resilience) structure. Further, the psychometric properties of the BRS have not been examined among alt-sex community members. As such, the current study examined the BRS factor structure among alt-sex individuals and measurement invariance across demographic groups (i.e., sexual orientation, gender identity, and sexual assault history). Confirmatory factor analyses and multi-groups invariance analyses were conducted. The two-factor BRS model demonstrated better fit to the data. Model fit did not differ by sexual orientation or gender identity. Measurement invariance was observed by lifetime sexual assault history, with higher factor loadings on succumbing items among alt-sex community members with a lifetime history of sexual assault. Our findings support use of the BRS to measure resilience among alt-sex individuals. Succumbing, or weakened resilience, is a salient factor for alt-sex community members who are sexual assault survivors, warranting further attention.
Improvement of weathering and thermal resistance of wood-plastic composites with iron oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Durmaz Sefa , Ozgenc Keles Ozlem , Aras Uğur , Avci Erkan , Atar Ilkay
Published: July 2023

This study comprehensively investigated the effect of iron-oxide nanoparticles (NPs) on weathering durability and thermal resistance of wood-plastic composites (WPCs). The hydrophobic nature of NPs improved the dimensional stability of WPCs. The small size of NPs deposits the voids in the matrix, which helps to increase the mechanical properties, even after weathering test. The decrease of modulus of rupture (MOR) reached up to 16% for control samples, while it was 2% for IO40-1. Despite the intensive weathering conditions, NPs cover the surface of materials like a UV shield, improving WPCs' UV resistance. Moreover, the increase in the wood and NPs content limited the UV degradation, which resulted in lower color changes. The attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) analysis also proved that there were nearly no changes in the characteristic bands of polymer (2916 and 2846 cm−1) and wood (1512 cm−1). The microscopic investigation, however, revealed the deterioration on the surface of WPCs after weathering exposure. Even though UV degradation is inevitable, iron oxide NPs significantly preserved the WPCs surface. However, there were also crack formations, which were also inhibited. On the other hand, NPs decelerated the thermal degradation by acting as a heat barrier. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) analysis revealed an increase in the degradation temperature. Limit oxygen index (LOI) values also increased up to 27.6%, which demonstrated an improvement against flammability.
Neighborhood Walkability, Walking Difficulties, and Participation in Leisure Activities Among Older People: A Cross-Sectional Study and 4-Year Follow-Up of a Subsample
Authors: Tuomola Essi-Mari , Keskinen Kirsi E. , Viljanen Anne , Rantanen Taina , Portegijs Erja
Published: July 2023

Objectives: To study cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between objectively assessed neighborhood walkability, walking difficulties, and participation in leisure activities among older people. Methods: Self-reported 2 km walking difficulty (intact, modifications, difficulties) at baseline and participating in organized group, outdoor recreation and cultural activities at baseline and follow-up were studied in community-dwelling persons ( N = 848) aged 75–90. A walkability index, calculated using a geographic information system, was categorized into tertiles (lowest, middle, highest). Results: Residence in the highest walkability areas was associated with higher participation in cultural activities and lower participation in outdoor recreation, while the latter was most frequently reported by residents in the lowest walkability areas. Those reporting no difficulties were more likely than those reporting difficulties to participate in all studied activities. Residence in the middle or highest walkability areas predicted higher participation in cultural activities at follow-up. Discussion: Older persons activity profiles associate with neighborhood walkability and walking difficulties.
Values, Performance, or Both? How Values-Focused Work Can Benefit From Results-Based Management
Authors: Speckbacher Gerhard
Published: July 2023

While results-based performance measurement has become a common practice in governing relationships with external stakeholders, many nonprofits are struggling with severe tensions when implementing results-based management practices inside the organization. This article draws on performance management research in accounting and management to analyze why results-based management poses particular challenges for nonprofits. As its first contribution, the article conceptualizes dedication to values as a particular characteristic of nonprofit organizations that involves high role ambiguity among nonprofit staff. Second, it specifies a particular tension associated with results-based management practices in values-focused work: Results-based management helps to reduce role ambiguity, but by doing so it creates role conflict. Third, the article proposes the interactive use of results-based information as an approach to how organizations with a high dedication to values can increase role clarity for nonprofit staff, while avoiding role conflict.
Investigation of the flat clinch–rivet process with different blank holder structures
Authors: Chen Chao , Zhang Xingang
Published: July 2023

The increasing application of novel and high-performance metallic materials poses new challenges to the problem of joining sheets. Clinching technology has become the common means of green joining in the automotive industry. The application of conventional clinching to visible surfaces in automobiles is limited by the external protrusion of the clinched joint. It cannot be ignored the important role of the blank holder in controlling the material flow in the clinching process. In this study, the joint quality of Al5052 sheets for the flat clinch-rivet process was investigated by experimental methods. A flat bottom die and rivets were used to form joints under different blank holder structures. Geometric parameters, static strength, failure modes, and energy absorption were analyzed. The results indicate the flat clinch-riveted joints created by the conical stepped blank holder have the advantages of no indentation, high energy absorption, and high joint strength. The flat clinch-rivet process should preferably use a conical stepped blank holder.
Influence of creep force modelling on the non-linear stability of a rail vehicle on tangent and curved tracks
Authors: Zhang Baoan , Liu Binbin , Di Gialleonardo Egidio , Li Haitao , Zheng Jing , Shi Yunqi , Bruni Stefano
Published: July 2023

Past works have shown that the application of the non-Hertzian wheel/rail contact in the multibody system simulation may produce non-negligible differences in the results compared to the results obtained using the classical Hertzian approach. As a continuation of this research line, the running stability of a passenger rail vehicle running on tangent and curved tracks has been investigated considering the wheel/rail creep force being determined using Hertzian and non-Hertzian approaches, respectively. The results show that the creep force modelling has varied levels of influence on the estimation of the stability of a rail vehicle on both tangent and curved tracks depending on the non-ellipticity of the contact. The non-Hertzian model is recommended to be used for such kind of applications as the traditional Hertzian approach may misestimate the dynamics behaviour of the vehicle under certain circumstances.
Biomechanics of plate fixation following traditional olecranon osteotomy versus novel proximal ulna osteotomy for visualizing a distal humerus injury
Authors: Daneshvar Parham , Gee Aaron , Brzozowski Pawel , Schemitsch Emil H. , Rasoulinejad Parham , Zdero Radovan
Published: July 2023

After a distal humeral injury, olecranon osteotomy (OO) is a traditional way to visualize the distal humerus for performing fracture fixation. In contrast, the current authors previously showed that novel proximal ulna osteotomy (PUO) allows better access to the distal humerus without ligamentous compromise. Therefore, this study biomechanically compared plating repair following OO versus PUO. The left or right ulna from eight matched pairs of human cadaveric elbows were randomly assigned to receive OO or PUO and repaired using pre-contoured titanium plates. Destructive and non-destructive mechanical tests were performed to assess stability. Mechanical tests on OO versus PUO groups yielded average results for ulna cantilever bending stiffness at a 90° elbow angle (29.6 vs 30.5 N/mm, p = 0.742), triceps tendon pull stiffness at a 90° elbow angle (28.2 vs 24.4 N/mm, p = 0.051), triceps tendon pull stiffness at a 110° elbow angle (61.9 vs 59.5 N/mm, p = 0.640), and triceps tendon pull failure load at a 110° elbow angle (1070.1 vs 1359.7 N, p = 0.078). OO and PUO elbows had similar failure mechanisms, namely, tendon tear or avulsion from the ulna with or without some fracture of the proximal bone fragment, or complete avulsion of the proximal bone fragment from the plate. The similar biomechanical stability (i.e., no statistical difference for 4 of 4 mechanical measurements) and failure mechanisms of OO and PUO plated elbows support the clinical use of PUO as a possible alternative to OO for visualizing the distal humerus.
Clinical efficacy of centrifugal-membranous hybrid double filtration plasmapheresis and membranous double filtration plasmapheresis on severe lupus nephritis
Authors: Dong Jianhua , Huang Li , Li Chuan , WU Bian , Yang Xi , Ge Yongchun
Published: July 2023

Objective

The study delves into the clinical efficacy and safety of centrifugal-membranous hybrid double filtration plasmapheresis (C/M hybrid DFPP) on severe lupus nephritis (LN) by comparing it with membranous DFPP (M DFPP).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in 70 patients who were diagnosed with severe LN and had received DFPP treatment.

Results

A total of 181 DFPPs were performed, including 133 C/M hybrid DFPPs (51 patients) and 48 M DFPPs (19 patients).The ANA, A-dsDNA titer, quantitative urinary protein, and serum creatinine decreased significantly and hemoglobin increased significantly after the DFPP treatment and at third month after treatment. Two patients in the M DFPP group developed bleeding complications, and four patients in the C/M hybrid DFPP group developed perioral numbness.

Conclusion

Although there was no significant difference in clinical efficacy between C/M hybrid DFPP and M DFPP on severe LN, the risk of bleeding complications was significantly lower in the C/M hybrid DFPP group.
Gendered and Racialised Epistemological Injustice in FGM-safeguarding
Authors: Carver Natasha , Karlsen Saffron , Mogilnicka Magda , Pantazis Christina
Published: July 2023

This paper explores FGM-safeguarding in the UK through a decolonial lens. Based on an analysis of the development of law and policy relating to ‘Female Genital Mutilation’ in the UK alongside data collected in focus groups with people of ethnic Somali heritage living in Bristol, we argue that the current legislation and policies, as well as their delivery, are steeped in colonial Othering. We demonstrate that legislative and policy approaches operate through a gendered and generational binary in which non-White mothers are othered as migrants (regardless of citizenship status) for whom anachronistic culture is deemed determinative, whilst their daughters are claimed as British. In this construction, ‘FGM’ operates as the symbolic marker that designates un/belonging: the uncircumcised girl is rescuable and claimed as ‘one of us’, whilst the circumcised mother is considered a mutilated political subject for whom belonging is foreclosed.
Are Special Education Data Ever “Race Neutral”? Reporting Educational Environments Data by Race and Ethnicity
Authors: Ripma Tye A.
Published: July 2023

The U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs collects data on how states implement the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act through the mandated State Performance Plan/Annual Performance Report (SPP/APR). Some indicators in the SPP/APR require state educational agencies (SEAs) to report data by race and ethnicity. These state-level reports consistently show that students of color with disabilities spend the most time in separate educational settings such as resource rooms and special day classes. Despite the racial and ethnic discrepancies in these data, SEAs do not report educational environments for children with disabilities by race and ethnicity at the local level. As a result, the public can only see racialized patterns in educational environments at the state level, not within local educational agencies. Race and ethnicity are important factors in addressing educational inequities. This article describes current special education data reporting requirements related to educational environments and offers policy, practice, and research implications for reporting race and ethnicity with these data.