bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Segmental Membranous Glomerulopathy in Adults
Authors: Zhu Shuangshuang , Liu Xiaoting , Yue Shuling , Luo Bei , Song Zhen , Xu Xiaomeng , Wang Lin , Hou Xiaotao , Li Kongshan , Liang Qiming , Zhou Zheya , Chen Wenfang , Zheng Lei
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The clinicopathological features of segmental membranous glomerulopathy (SMGN) have not been well characterized. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and clinicopathological features of SMGN in adults. Methods: Adult patients with biopsy-confirmed SMGN in the native kidney at our center between January 2017 to September 2020 were identified. The clinicopathological features of SMGN were collected. The glomerular deposition of IgG subclasses, M-type phospholipase A2 receptor 1 (PLA2R), thrombospondin type 1 domain-containing 7A (THSD7A), and neural epidermal growth factor-like 1 protein (NELL1) were tested. Clinical and pathologic features were comparable between NELL1-positive and NELL1-negative SMGN. Results: A total of 167 patients with biopsy-proven SMGN were enrolled. During the same period, 32,640 (33.0%) out of 98,939 renal biopsies were diagnosed with membranous nephropathy (MN) in adults. SMGN accounted for 0.17% of total kidney biopsies and 0.51% of MN in adults. One hundred and fifty (89.8%) cases were isolated SMGN, and 17 (10.2%) cases were complicated with other kidney disease. Clinically, the median age of isolated SMGN patients was 41.5 years, with female (74%) predominance, and 33.1% had full nephrotic syndrome. Pathologically, IgG1 was the dominant subclass (92.5%), followed by IgG4 (45.0%). PLA2R and THSD7A staining were done in 142 and 136 isolated SMGN cases, respectively, in which, all the cases showed negative. NELL1 staining was done in 135 isolated SMGN cases; 58 cases (43.0%) showed positive. Fifty-eight patients (41.1%) had diffuse (≥90%) foot process effacement, and 119 patients (83.8%) had either stage I (38.0%) or stage II (45.8%) membranous alterations in patients with SMGN. Most patients with NELL1-positive SMGN were female. Patients with NELL1-positive SMGN were more likely with lower prevalence of full nephrotic syndrome than NELL1-negative SMGN. Conclusions: SMGN is a relatively rare pathological type. Majority of patients with isolated SMGN were female, with a median age of 41.5 years, 33.1% had full nephrotic syndrome, absence of PLA2R and THSD7A, 43.0% with NELL1-positive, and mainly stage I or II MN (83.8%). NELL1 is the major target antigen of SMGN in adults.
How Could Different Obesity Scenarios Alter the Burden of Type 2 Diabetes and Liver Disease in Saudi Arabia?
Authors: Coker Timothy , Saxton Jennifer , Retat Lise , Guzek John , Card-Gowers Joshua , BinDhim Nasser F. , Althumiri Nora A. , Aldubayan Khalid , Razack Habeeb I.A. , Webber Laura , Alqahtani Saleh A.
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and liver disease, and obesity-attributable liver disease is a common indication for liver transplant. Obesity prevalence in Saudi Arabia (SA) has increased in recent decades. SA has committed to the WHO “halt obesity” target to shift prevalence to 2010 levels by 2025. We estimated the future benefits of reducing obesity in SA on incidence and costs of T2DM and liver disease under two policy scenarios: (1) SA meets the “halt obesity” target; (2) population body mass index (BMI) is reduced by 1% annually from 2020 to 2040. Methods: We developed a dynamic microsimulation of working-age people (20–59 years) in SA between 2010 and 2040. Model inputs included population demographic, disease and healthcare cost data, and relative risks of diseases associated with obesity. In our two policy scenarios, we manipulated population BMI and compared predicted disease incidence and associated healthcare costs to a baseline “no change” scenario. Results: Adults <35 years are expected to meet the “halt obesity” target, but those ≥35 years are not. Obesity is set to decline for females, but to increase amongst males 35–59 years. If SA’s working-age population achieved either scenario, >1.15 million combined cases of T2DM, liver disease, and liver cancer could be avoided by 2040. Healthcare cost savings for the “halt obesity” and 1% reduction scenarios are 46.7 and 32.8 billion USD, respectively. Conclusion: SA’s younger working-age population is set to meet the “halt obesity” target, but those aged 35–59 are off track. Even a modest annual 1% BMI reduction could result in substantial future health and economic benefits. Our findings strongly support universal initiatives to reduce population-level obesity, with targeted initiatives for working-age people ≥35 years of age.
When Is the Optimum Radiological Response to Proton Beam Therapy in Uveal Melanoma?
Authors: Gillam Matthew , Fenech Glenn Ace , Chadwick Oliver , Nairn Jonathan , Chadha Vikas , Connolly Julie , Cram Oliver , Kincaid Wilma , Cauchi Paul
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Proton beam therapy (PBT) is an effective treatment option for uveal melanomas. Following treatment, it may take many months for the tumour to respond and it may initially enlarge. We reviewed our PBT patients to determine when they showed a radiological response to treatment. Methods: Patients undergoing PBT for ciliary body or choroidal melanomas between 2008 and 2018 were included. Data were collected on patient demographics, treatments before and after PBT and survival. All ultrasound investigations prior and since PBT were reviewed and tumour volume calculated using a validated formula for a half-ellipsoid shape. Results: 193 patients were analysed, 169 with choroidal and 24 with ciliary body melanomas. 31.6% patients had other treatment prior to PBT. At a mean of 8 months post-PBT, 64.7% of patients had a reduced tumour volume with 20.2% having larger tumours. At a mean of 15 months post-treatment, these figures were 67.8% and 10.3%. 18.1% of patients had an enucleation during the study period. The earliest responses were seen at 2 months, the latest at 32 months post-treatment. 5-year melanoma-specific survival was 82.3%. Conclusions: In our study, by 6 months post-PBT, a majority of patients show a reduction in tumour volume. Of those that do not, many respond in the next 6 months and a response may be seen up to 32 months after treatment. Patients may need to be monitored for up to 32 months to see a final response to PBT treatment.
Telling Personal Narratives: Comparing Stories Told by 10-Year-Old Speakers of Cypriot Greek Dialect and of Standard Modern Greek
Authors: Theodorou Elena , Vogindroukas Ioannis , Giannakou Eleni , Tsouti Lamprini , Phinikettos Ioannis
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Cypriot Greek is the variety of Greek language used for oral communication by the Greek Cypriot people, while Standard Modern Greek is the official language. Cypriot Greek differs from Standard Modern Greek in various aspects, including lexicon, phonetics, phonology, morphosyntax, and pragmatics. This study examines whether there are differences between children who are native speakers of the Cypriot Greek dialect and those who are native speakers of Standard Modern Greek in narrative measurements obtained in a personal narrative context. Methods: Thirty-nine ten-year-old children (19 Cypriot Greek speakers and 20 Standard Modern Greek speakers) participated in the study. The Global TALES protocol was used to elicit personal narratives across 6 emotion-based prompts. Measures of microstructure (mean length of utterance, number of different words) and macrostructure (plot elements) are examined. Results: Analysis showed no differences in macrostructure between Cypriots Greek speakers and Standard Modern Greek speakers in response to the prompts. In contrast, group differences were found in syntactic complexity, with the Standard Modern Greek speakers producing longer sentences. Conclusion: This is the first study to compare the characteristics of personal narratives spoken by 10-year-old children who are speakers of Cypriot Greek and Standard Modern Greek. The results from this initial comparison highlight that children who are speakers of two varieties of the same language share similar narrative elements. However, they may differ in their linguistic profiles, such as in syntax. Understanding these differences is important for researchers, educators, and speech therapists. A detailed understanding of developmental milestones and a clear understanding of each variety’s characteristics are crucial from a research, pedagogical, and speech therapy perspective.
Virtual Multidisciplinary Stroke Care Clinic for Community-Dwelling Stroke Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lo Suzanne Hoi Shan , Chau Janita Pak Chun , Lau Alexander Yuk Lun , Choi Kai Chow , Shum Edward Wai Ching , Lee Vivian Wing Yan , Hung Sheung Sheung , Mok Vincent Chung Tong , Siow Elaine Kee Chen , Ching Jessica Yuet Ling , Mirchandani Kashika , Lam Simon Kwun Yu
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

Stroke survivors constantly feel helpless and unprepared after discharge from hospitals. More flexible and pragmatic support are needed for their optimized recovery. We examined the effects of a virtual multidisciplinary stroke care clinic on survivors’ health and self-management outcomes.

METHODS:

A randomized controlled trial was conducted. Survivors were recruited from 10 hospitals and randomized at 1:1 ratio into the intervention or the control groups. Intervention group participants received the Virtual Multidisciplinary Stroke Care Clinic service (monthly online consultations with a nurse, follow-up phone calls, and access to an online platform). Control group participants received the usual care. Outcomes of self-efficacy (stroke self-efficacy questionnaire; primary), self-management behaviors (Stroke Self-Management Behaviors Performance Scale), social participation (reintegration to normal living index), and depression (Geriatric Depression Scale; secondary) were measured at baseline, and 3 and 6 months after commencing the intervention (post-randomization). A generalized estimating equations model was used to compare the differential changes in outcomes at 3 and 6 months with respect to baseline between 2 groups.

RESULTS:

Between July 2019 and June 2022, 335 eligible participants were enrolled in the study. Participants (intervention group; n=166) showed significantly greater improvements in outcomes of self-efficacy (group-by-time interaction regression coefficient, B=4.60 [95% CI, 0.16 to 9.05]), social participation (B=5.07 [95% CI, 0.61 to 9.53]), and depression (B=−2.33 [95% CI, −4.06 to −0.61]), and no significant improvement in performance of self-management behaviors (B=3.45, [95% CI, −0.87 to 7.77]), compared with the control group (n=169) right after the intervention (6 months after its commencement). Hedges’ g effect sizes of the intervention on outcomes: 0.19 to 0.36.

CONCLUSIONS:

The results provide some positive evidence on the usefulness of the Virtual Multidisciplinary Stroke Care Clinic service. The effect sizes are regarded as small to medium, which may not be of clinical relevance. The baseline levels in outcomes were in favor of the control group, the intervention effects might be overestimated. The service must be tested further to determine its effectiveness.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.chictr.org.cn
; Unique identifier: ChiCTR1800016101.
Thrombectomy Use in the United States for Basilar Artery Occlusion in the Era of Neutral Clinical Trials: 2018 to 2020 Analysis of the National Inpatient Sample
Authors: Siegler James E. , Patel Karan , Taneja Kamil , Obusan Matthew B. , Koneru Manisha , Yaghi Shadi , Al‐Mufti Fawaz , Kass‐Hout Tareq , Nguyen Thanh N.
Published: August 2023

Background

In 2019 and 2020, 2 randomized trials of basilar artery occlusion (BAO) thrombectomy reported no improvement in functional outcomes with thrombectomy, despite observational evidence. The objective of this study was to assess whether neutral clinical trials may have influenced BAO thrombectomy practice.

Methods

The National Inpatient Sample (2018–2020) was queried for US patients with BAO, and comparisons were made between patients admitted in 2020 versus 2018 to 2019 for the primary outcome of thrombectomy. Unadjusted and adjusted multivariable regression was used, accounting for demographic and clinical covariates, with propensity‐score matching to balance clinical and hospital‐level characteristics between years.

Results

Of the 14 945 patients with BAO, 3,605 (24.1%) underwent thrombectomy,with an increase in the unadjusted rate of thrombectomy between 2020 and 2018–2019 (26.9% vs 22.9%,P= 0.04). Following multivariable adjustment, BAO thrombectomy was not independently associated with a year of treatment (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.95–1.54,P= 0.12). Thrombectomy was independently associated with having a NIHSS of 10–19 (OR: 3.67, 95% CI: 2.79–4.83,P< 0.01) or >19 (OR: 5.80, 95% CI: 4.41–7.64) versus a NIHSS of 10, while uinsured patiends hadal owe likelihood of receiving a thombectomy (OR: 0.49, 95% C: 0.26–0.92). These relationships were preserved in the PSM cohort, and admission year lacked association with thrombectomy for BAO (aOR: 1.10, 95% CI: 0.83–1.45,P= 0.52).

Conclusion

Following publication of neutral BAO randomized clinical trials in late 2019 and 2020, there was no significant change in thrombectomy rate among US patients with BAO. The latest trials support thrombectomy for select patients with moderate‐to‐severe BAO symptoms, and this appears consistent with the practice of US clinicians before these trials.
Dynamic object–fruit combinations by introduced Tanimbar corellas (Cacatua goffiniana) in Singapore
Authors: Mioduszewska Berenika , O’Hara Mark , Rheindt Frank E. , Auersperg Alice M.I.
Published: August 2023

Tanimbar corellas, an important model in comparative cognition research, are endemic to the Tanimbar Islands, Indonesia, but were also introduced to several other locations with a tropical climate. Introduced psittacines offer valuable opportunities to test hypotheses at large temporal and spatial scales, such as geographic distribution of behaviours. Here, we report two opportunistic observations of Tanimbar corellas combining small wooden fragments with two types of tropical fruit (Ketapang and Pong-pong) in Singapore. The observations were recorded and uploaded to YouTube by a local bird-watcher. We analyse the behavioural similarities and differences between object combinations with the Pong-pong fruit in Singapore and extractive tool use on the Wawai fruit in Indonesia. Repeated insertions of the wooden fragment into the fruit and visible ingestion suggest that the combinatory behaviours were most likely related to foraging. This report provides first insights into the presence of advanced technical abilities in geographically separated Tanimbar corellas.
Ocean-based Climate Action and Human Rights Implications under the International Climate Change Regime
Authors: Morgera Elisa , Lennan Mitchell , Kulovesi Kati , La Bianca Giulia , Niner Holly J. , Harrould-Kolieb Ellycia , Recio Piva Eugenia , Hills Jeremy , Ntona Mara , Lancaster Alana Malinde SN , Strand Mia , Snow Bernadette , Erwin Kira , Shannon Lynne , Rees Sian , Hyder Kieran , Engelhard Georg , Howell Kerry
Published: August 2023

After drawing attention to the crucial role of marine biodiversity, including that of deep-sea ecosystems, in current scientific understanding of the ocean-climate nexus, this article highlights the limited extent to which the international climate change regime has so far addressed the ocean. The focus then shifts to how the international climate change regime could contribute to the protection of marine biodiversity as part of mitigation, adaptation and finance, taking into account human rights impacts and standards, drawing a comparison with REDD+. The article concludes with an original proposal, inspired by the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, to develop urgent, synergistic approaches to ocean- and human rights-based climate action through a multi-actor coalition, including different international treaties and United Nations bodies, to ‘protect and restore the ocean’s contributions to climate regulation, human well-being and planetary health’.
Tillandsia alcatrazensis (Bromeliaceae), a new endemic species from Alcatrazes Island in southeastern Brazil
Authors: SABINO GABRIEL PAVAN , LEODEGARIO MARCIO DE MELO , MARCUSSO GABRIEL MENDES , SHIMIZU GUSTAVO HIROAKI , KOCH INGRID , TAVARES DANILO ULBRICH , PINHEIRO FÁBIO
Published: August 2023

Based on recent field work on an insular granitic outcrop in southeast Brazil, a new Tillandsia species was collected and described here. Tillandsia alcatrazensis belongs to T. subg. Anoplophytum and is morphologically similar to T. geminiflora, from which it differs by the larger size of the whole plant in flower, larger floral bracts and longer flowers with reddish-salmon sepals and white petals, and longer styles. We present a diagnosis, description, color photographs, illustration, ecological, and phenotypical variation comments, and compares it with the morphologically related species. Tillandsia alcatrazensis is preliminarily classified as Critically Endangered (CR) due to its small and restricted distribution, although the Alcatrazes Island is part of a national protected area.
Supermodeling: Improving Predictions with an Ensemble of Interacting Models
Authors: Schevenhoven Francine , Keenlyside Noel , Counillon François , Carrassi Alberto , Chapman William E. , Devilliers Marion , Gupta Alok , Koseki Shunya , Selten Frank , Shen Mao-Lin , Wang Shuo , Weiss Jeffrey B. , Wiegerinck Wim , Duane Gregory S.
Published: August 2023

The modeling of weather and climate has been a success story. The skill of forecasts continues to improve and model biases continue to decrease. Combining the output of multiple models has further improved forecast skill and reduced biases. But are we exploiting the full capacity of state-of-the-art models in making forecasts and projections? Supermodeling is a recent step forward in the multimodel ensemble approach. Instead of combining model output after the simulations are completed, in a supermodel individual models exchange state information as they run, influencing each other’s behavior. By learning the optimal parameters that determine how models influence each other based on past observations, model errors are reduced at an early stage before they propagate into larger scales and affect other regions and variables. The models synchronize on a common solution that through learning remains closer to the observed evolution. Effectively a new dynamical system has been created, a supermodel, that optimally combines the strengths of the constituent models. The supermodel approach has the potential to rapidly improve current state-of-the-art weather forecasts and climate predictions. In this paper we introduce supermodeling, demonstrate its potential in examples of various complexity, and discuss learning strategies. We conclude with a discussion of remaining challenges for a successful application of supermodeling in the context of state-of-the-art models. The supermodeling approach is not limited to the modeling of weather and climate, but can be applied to improve the prediction capabilities of any complex system, for which a set of different models exists.
The Effect of an Exponentially Decaying Upper-Ocean Vertical Mixing on the Pacific Tropical Sea Surface Temperature
Authors: Wang Zhuoqun , Liu Yonggang , Yin Xunqiang , Zhang Ming , Zhang Jian , Qiao Fangli
Published: August 2023

We investigate the mechanisms with which the sea surface temperature (SST) in the tropical Pacific responds to the perturbation of an exponential form to the background vertical mixing of the upper ocean. For a surface value of 0.005 m2 s−1 and a scale depth of 10 m (as typically used in the so-called nonbreaking wave parameterization), it is found that only ocean temperature within the equatorial eastern Pacific (EEP) is directly impacted; surface cooling and thermocline warming anomalies are produced. These signals propagate poleward as coastal Kelvin waves and then westward as equatorial Rossby waves. The surface cooling is severely damped while the thermocline warming is able to reach the western coast. This warm anomaly is brought up to the surface by equatorial upwelling more strongly around 110°W than at other places. In the coupled model, such equatorial warming induces an El Niño–like large-scale warming through Bjerknes feedback. Increasing the surface value of vertical mixing by a factor of 10 does not increase the equatorial surface warming while increasing the scale depth to 20 m does. Increasing the scale depth generates thermocline warming also in the subtropical region, which then propagates to the equatorial thermocline and enhances the warming there. Moreover, the off-equatorial cooling is enhanced, which makes the final warming anomaly narrower meridionally compared to an El Niño pattern.
Politics with objects? On the affective materiality of contentious politics
Authors: Rogenhofer Julius M , da Silva Filipe C
Published: August 2023

How does material culture shape contentious politics? Things, we argue, influence political contention in ways that are reducible neither to struggles over meaning nor to the thingly aspect of things. The article combines pragmatic semiotics with insights on ritual practice and collective experience. By bringing together three often separate literatures – contentious politics, material culture, and affect – we suggest a thicker understanding of agency. Agency, this article contends, is distributed between primary human actors and objects, which exercise a degree of secondary agency. Our aim is to explore how affect is stored in and channelled through seemingly ordinary objects. Political actors use these affectively charged symbol-index-icons in pursuit of various objectives; specifically, material things are shown to enable and constrain episodes of contention. As a result, our understanding of contentious politics involves not only ideas, texts, and opportunity structures but also the objects that help make social and political change possible.
The Reach of the State
Authors: Chang Charles , Wang Yuhua
Published: August 2023

We conceptualize the reach of the state by examining how the physical presence of the state helps the state project its power by signaling state interests and strength. We present a new measurement strategy to capture the territorial reach of the state using points-of-interest data provided by location-based service companies. Our measure exhibits several advantages: (1) it draws on firm-produced or crowd-sourced (rather than government-produced) data, (2) it includes highly precise, geo-referenced location information, which can be aggregated to any geographical or administrative level, (3) it traces temporal changes, and (4) it covers different types of state agencies. We illustrate its features using original databases that we compiled on state agencies in China and other countries. We demonstrate how researchers can use our measure by examining the locations and effects of coercive organizations and provide our data, code, and a tutorial to help researchers explore new avenues of inquiry.
Exploring the negative impacts of artificial intelligence in government: the dark side of intelligent algorithms and cognitive machines
Authors: Valle-Cruz David , García-Contreras Rigoberto , Gil-Garcia J. Ramon
Published: August 2023

This research proposes a framework for the negative impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) in government by classifying 14 topics of its dark side into five socio technical categories. The framework is based on a systematic literature review and highlights that the dark side is predominantly driven by political, legal, and institutional aspects, but it is also influenced by data and technology. Lack of understanding of AI outcomes, biases, and errors, as well as manipulation of intelligent algorithms and cognitive machines are contributing factors. The public sector should create knowledge about AI from an ethical, inclusive, and strategic perspective, involving experts from different areas.

Points for practitioners

Government officials and other decision-makers should be aware of the potential benefits of artificial intelligence, but also of the dark side, and try to avoid those potential negative consequences.
Ants Along the Street: Street Vending as a Lifeblood of the Urban Poor in Dilla Town, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Anja Alemayehu , Zhang Dunfu
Published: August 2023

This article investigates the perspectives and experiences of street vendors in Dilla Town, Southern Ethiopia, focusing on their motivations for engaging in business and social mobility. The study used a descriptive survey design and gathered data through a questionnaire survey, in-depth interviews, and non-participant observations. A time-location sampling technique was applied to select 250 vendors, and an additional 15 were interviewed using a convenience sampling procedure. The data were analyzed using a combination of quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques. The results revealed that vendors chose street vending due to unemployment, the aspiration for unbridled autonomy, low entry barriers, minimal initial investment requirements, social connections, and the necessity to bolster meager salaries. Most street vendors reported a better standard of living since embarking on their vending venture. The study recommends that local government authorities should acknowledge the socio-economic significance of street vending business for economically disadvantaged urban populations.
The union difference: Experiences of five-star hotel workers in Cambodia during COVID-19
Authors: Ford Michele , Im Soksamphoas
Published: August 2023

This article examines unions’ role in mitigating the impact of COVID-19 on hotel workers in Siem Reap, Cambodia's most popular tourist destination. The article analyses the experiences of unionised and non-unionised hotel workers before and during the pandemic, drawing on data collected from one non-unionised and three unionised hotels. Data was collected through in-depth qualitative interviews with management, workers, workplace union officials, as well as with national federation leaders and government officials. Our analysis of that data revealed that unionised hotel workers received far better support from their employers and the government than non-unionised hotel workers, and that their unions played an important role in securing these benefits. This suggests that, in the absence of union power, international reputation was not enough to protect workers during COVID-19.
Dual Branding by National Brand Manufacturers: Drivers and Outcomes
Authors: Ma Yu , Ailawadi Kusum L. , Martos-Partal Mercedes , González-Benito Óscar
Published: August 2023

This article is the first generalizable empirical analysis of dual branding, that is, the supply of private labels (PLs) by national brand (NB) manufacturers. The authors compile a unique data set combining the identity of PL suppliers in over 260 packaged goods categories with multiple years of scanner data in the Spanish grocery market to offer several contributions. First, they provide new descriptive insights on the prevalence of dual branding in categories where the manufacturer does and does not have NBs, the longevity of PL supply arrangements, and the differences in PL sourcing across retailers. Second, they integrate the literature on motivators and dissuaders of dual branding and test the impact of relevant manufacturer, retailer, and dyad characteristics on PL supply in NB and non-NB categories. The results reveal a more nuanced empirical reality than is evident from prior research regarding the role of multicategory scope, fighter brands, NB differentiation, and size and positioning of the retailer's PL. Third, they examine the outcomes of PL supply for the NBs of dual branders and find that starting (terminating) PL supply to a retailer significantly benefits (hurts) the relative distribution depth but not the relative share of the dual brander's NBs at that retailer.
Affording Disposal Control: The Effect of Circular Take-Back Programs on Psychological Ownership and Valuation
Authors: Tari Anna , Trudel Remi
Published: August 2023

A circular economy is a “closed-loop” system designed so that products flow back into the production cycle after use. With many companies implementing take-back programs as part of their sustainability strategy, a fundamental shift in consumption has occurred, with consumers considering disposal during and even before purchase decision making. Eight experiments reveal that consumers indicate a greater willingness to pay for circular program products. An increase in psychological ownership underlies the difference in product valuation. Specifically, the additional disposal control uniquely afforded by circular products increases the capacity of circular take-back program products to evoke psychological ownership. The process explanation is directly tested through mediation. Experimentally manipulating antecedents of psychological ownership (i.e., disposal control and psychological ownership) provides further support for the conceptual framework.
Predictors of Stigma, Guilt, and Shame among Adults Bereaved by Fatal Overdose
Authors: Bottomley Jamison S. , Campbell Kevin W. , Titlestad Kristine B. , Feigelman William , Rheingold Alyssa A.
Published: August 2023

With the spectacular rise of US overdose deaths, bereavement for these affected families has become a matter of increasing concern. Qualitative research has highlighted the role of stigmatization as well as guilt and shame among this population. However, the magnitude and pre-death predictors of stigmatization, guilt, and shame have yet to be assessed quantitatively. In the current study, we assess the magnitude of stigmatization, guilt, and shame among 115 adults bereaved by overdose by drawing comparisons with 185 adults bereaved by suicide. Results revealed no significant differences regarding overall levels of stigmatization, guilt, and shame between the overdose and suicide bereaved. Among the overdose bereaved, regression models indicated a number of pre-death factors associated with stigmatization, guilt, and shame, such as the frequency of the decedent’s drug use, family drug use severity, and interpersonal conflict between the bereaved and the decedent. Implications and future directions for research are discussed.
Feasibility Analysis and Surgical Details of Vestibular Schwannoma Resection via Retrolabyrinthine Approach With Preservation of Endolymphatic Sac
Authors: Lu Xiaoling , Mei Honglin , Zhao Weidong , Ni Yusu
Published: August 2023

Objectives: To study the feasibility of reserving the endolymphatic sac in the cerebellopontine angle (CPA) and the fundus of the internal auditory canal (IAC) by the retrolabyrinthine approach. Design: Single-center retrospective study. Methods: Through 3-dimensional preoperative computed tomography reconstruction, vestibular schwannoma (VS) resection was performed using a retrolabyrinthine approach with preservation of the endolymphatic sac in selected patients, and hearing and facial nerve functions were followed to assess the feasibility of this operation and the effectiveness of function preservation. Results: VS was completely removed in all cases and the postoperative detectable hearing retention rate (AAO-HNS hearing rating grade A, B, and C) was 80% (4/5). Postoperative facial nerve function was well preserved (HB grade I), no leakage of cerebrospinal fluid or other cranial complications was observed in all patients, and no recurrence was observed during follow-up. Conclusions: With less trauma and a promising route for hearing preservation and facial nerve functions, the retrolabyrinthine approach is a potential choice for the treatment of VS located in the IAC-CPA.
Out-of-Wedlock Adolescent Motherhood and Intimate Partner Violence in Kenya
Authors: Muchiri Steve
Published: August 2023

This study investigates trends and prevalence of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) among out-of-wedlock adolescent mothers and their likelihood of being IPV victims later in a marriage. We address possible selection bias using a propensity score matching technique. The study uses the Kenyan DHS and finds that the prevalence of IPV (a composite measure of emotional, physical, and sexual violence) was 43%, but 28%, 12%, 34%, and 13% for emotional, severe physical, less-severe physical, and sexual IPV, respectively. Overall, out-of-wedlock adolescent mothers are associated with approximately 14% higher likelihood of IPV later in marriage than non-adolescent mothers. Policy and intervention plans for out-of-wedlock adolescent motherhood are clear strategies for abating IPV. This could be addressed by advocating for improved human capital among girls, laws to combat domestic violence and rape, and managing cultural practices like acceptance of “wife-beating.”
Stakeholders in the acquisition, preservation, and dissemination of indigenous knowledge projects
Authors: Chigwada Josiline , Ngulube Patrick
Published: August 2023

Indigenous knowledge preservation can lead to sustainable development and the protection of the environment, facilitating the achievement of one of the United Nations’ sustainable development goals, number 15, which seeks to protect the sustainable use of ecosystems to avoid desertification and land degradation. This article reports on a study aimed at identifying the stakeholders to be involved in the acquisition, preservation, and dissemination of IK in the digital era. The study considered the Ulwazi and Mukurtu projects, which are documented in the literature and representing the contexts of developing and developed countries, respectively. A qualitative approach triangulating data collection techniques was employed by doing a systematic literature review on four databases, i.e., Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Dimensions, followed by a web content analysis of the websites and official social media platforms of the two projects. Content analysis was used to select the relevant documents, followed by online interviews to collect data from two project administrators to validate the findings. The data were thematically analysed using the NVIVO software. The findings provided valuable information about the role and functions of stakeholders in the context of the model that is being designed for IK projects. It was noted that all stakeholders should be involved so that no one is left behind.
Toward a Theory of Identity Performance in Unsettled Digital Work: The Becoming of ‘Digital Nomads’
Authors: Prester Julian , Cecez-Kecmanovic Dubravka , Schlagwein Daniel
Published: August 2023

The advent of ‘digital’ ways of working and organising is unequivocally transforming the very fabric of work, leading to an increasingly uncertain, unsettled, and fluid environment. Research has traditionally anchored worker identity in fixed and place-bound concepts. However, in the digital workplace, where work is more akin to a performance, unfolding over time, and processual in nature, our understanding of work and theories of worker identity are called into question. In this paper, we ask the question: how is digital worker identity performed in such fluid and unsettled work settings? To explain digital worker identity performance, we investigate digital nomadism as an extremely fluid and unsettled case of digital work. We study digital nomads, high-skilled professionals who use digital technologies to work remotely and lead a nomadic lifestyle, in a multi-sited ethnographic field study. Based on a process-relational perspective, we are theorising how the identity of digital nomads, their “becoming,” is performed as an ongoing process along lines of identity performance. This is an intermediate “product of theorising,” in accord with the aim of the special issue, but provides a foundation for a novel process-relational theory of identity performance in unsettled digital work.
Evaluation and improvement of student learning experience in the post-COVID world: A lean six-sigma DMAIC study
Authors: Chang Mike C , Faruqui Syed Hasib Akhter , Alaeddini Adel , Wan Hung-da
Published: August 2023

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a shift to remote work-from-home (WFH) setups, including in the education sector. This transition had a significant impact on the interaction between students and instructors. To address this, our study aims to investigate the effects of the sudden transition to online learning on teaching methodology and to propose improvements to enhance its quality. We have developed a scoring system to evaluate teaching quality in the post-COVID-19 world. The scoring function incorporates various metrics, including students’ performance, sentiment towards the course (course material, teaching method, communication, etc.), feedback scores for weekly lectures, and students’ retention scores for recorded/live lecture videos. Following the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) procedure (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control—DMAIC), we assessed the overall quality of online courses. The undergraduate courses demonstrated an increase in overall score from 86.67% during the online transition to 90.0% after implementing the suggested improvements. For graduate courses, the initial face-to-face lecture score was 55.81%, which dropped to 50.28% during the first online transition. However, after a year, the score improved to 61.59%, indicating successful improvement efforts. Upon careful analysis of the data, this paper provides suggestions to enhance students’ online learning experience during situations similar to the COVID-19 pandemic. The outcomes of the study aim to improve the quality of online learning experiences for students.
Trajectory-Based Spatiotemporal Multi-Task Multi-Graph Network for Traffic State Prediction
Authors: Fang Jie , Chen Wentian , Xu Mengyun , Liu Yuxuan , Bi Ting
Published: August 2023

As a critical application in intelligent transportation systems, traffic state prediction still faces various challenges, such as unsatisfactory capability of utilizing multi-source data and modeling spatiotemporal network relevancies. Therefore, we propose a trajectory-based multi-task multi-graph convolutional network (Tr-MTMGN), a novel spatiotemporal deep learning framework for traffic state prediction on a citywide scale. This method firstly mines the underlying information from vehicle trajectories and designs a multi-graph convolution block to investigate spatial correlations. Sequentially, the multi-head self-attention layer is integrated into the multi-task learning framework to capture the temporal dependencies of the traffic state. The proposed model was evaluated on field data collected in Zhangzhou, China, and demonstrated superior performance when compared with existing state-of-the-art baselines.
Microfracture Lateral to the Greater Tuberosity of the Humerus Enhances Tendon-to-Bone Healing in a Rat Rotator Cuff Model
Authors: Wang Haoliang , Guo Yawen , Zhao Yurou , Chen Qingzhong , Gong Yanpei , Jeon In-Ho , Sun Yucheng
Published: August 2023

Background:

Microfracture at the rotator cuff insertion is an established surgical marrow-stimulation technique for enhancing rotator cuff healing. However, the effect of lateralized or medialized microfracture on the insertion is unknown.

Purpose:

To compare the biomechanical and histologic effects of microfracture at 3 different regions for rotator cuff repair in a rat model.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 72 Sprague-Dawley rats with bilateral supraspinatus tendon insertion detachment were allocated into 4 groups with 4 different interventions: no microfracture at the humeral head as a control group (Con), traditional microfracture at the footprint area (MFA), and medialized microfracture to the footprint area (MMFA) on the articular surface of the humerus or lateralized microfracture to the footprint area at the greater tuberosity (LMFA). All underwent immediate repair. Tendon-to-bone healing was assessed by biomechanical and histologic tests 4 and 8 weeks postoperation.

Results:

At 4 weeks, the LMFA group showed a significantly superior failure load compared with the other groups (all P < .05). The LMFA and MFA groups showed significantly superior stiffness compared with the Con and MMFA groups (all P < .01). At 8 weeks, superior failure load and stiffness were observed in the LMFA group compared with the control group (all P < .05). Histologic examination revealed that the LMFA group had superior collagen composition and tendon-to-bone maturation at the interface at 4 and 8 weeks compared with the Con group (all P < .05).

Conclusion:

Lateralized microfracture at the greater tuberosity improved the histologic quality of repair tissue and biomechanical strength at the tendon-to-bone insertion after rotator cuff repair in a rat model.

Clinical Relevance:

Microfracture lateral to the footprint area might be a better way to enhance rotator cuff healing clinically.
The Association of Physical Competence With Psychological Response Among Young Athletes at Time of Return to Sport After ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Zwolski Christin M. , Paterno Mark V. , Magnussen Robert A. , Thomas Staci M. , Goodway Jacqueline D. , Hand Brittany N. , Quatman-Yates Catherine C. , Schmitt Laura C.
Published: August 2023

Background:

The traditional index of return-to-sport (RTS) readiness after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is the achievement of physical competence criteria. Emerging research indicates that psychological response and self-perceptions of physical competence may be critical mechanisms for successful RTS among young athletes.

Hypothesis:

Young athletes with higher actual physical competence (APC) and perceived physical competence (PPC) will demonstrate a more positive psychological response at the time of RTS after ACLR.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 41 young athletes after primary ACLR completed testing within 8 weeks of medical clearance to RTS. APC was measured with isokinetic knee extension strength, single-limb crossover hop for distance, and the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score. PPC was measured with the Athletic Competence subscale of the Self-Perception Profile. Criteria for APC and PPC were based on established age- and activity-relevant cutoff scores. Different constructs of psychological response were assessed with the adapted Sport Motivation Scale, Brief Resilience Scale, and Anterior Cruciate Ligament Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) total and subscale scores (Emotions, Confidence, and Risk Appraisal). Multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine differences in measures of psychological response based on achievement of APC and PPC, while adjusting for age and sex.

Results:

Of the 41 participants, 10 (24.4%) met all criteria for APC and 22 (53.7%) met the PPC criteria. The regression models estimating the ACL-RSI score ( P < .001; adjusted R2= 0.331), ACL-RSI Emotions score ( P < .001; adjusted R2= 0.427), and ACL-RSI Risk Appraisal score ( P = .013; adjusted R2= 0.212) were statistically significant. Although APC was not associated with any measure of psychological response, meeting PPC criteria, younger age, and male sex were found to be associated with a more positive psychological readiness to RTS, but not with motivation or resilience.

Conclusion:

Meeting PPC criteria was associated with higher psychological readiness to RTS among young athletes after ACLR, while meeting APC criteria was not associated with any construct of psychological response.
A comparative study of limit diagram of ultrasonic-assisted and conventional hot incremental forming of Ti-6AL-4V alloy
Authors: Amini Saeed , Farzin Mahmoud , Mohammadi Aminollah
Published: August 2023

Electric hot incremental forming (EHIF) technique is a novel sheet metal forming method for low-formability materials like Mg and Ti-6Al-4V alloys. There are some defects in EHIF including low surface quality, unexpected sheet tear, and oxidation of the fabricated workpieces. These defects limit its widespread use. In this article, longitudinal ultrasonic vibrations of forming tools are used for Ti-6Al-4V sheets in the EHIF process. This technique led to a significant reduction of friction coefficient and improvement of workpieces’ surface quality. Also, a combination of mechanical vibrations and heat reduced the phase transformation temperature of α phase (HCP structure) to the more formable β phase (BBC structure) at 600 °C. It improved Ti-6Al-4V sheets’ formability. In this study, various tensile and compressive strains were created by manufacturing different geometries such as cone, frustum, torispherical, and five-lobe. These strains are used to compare the forming limit diagram of the ultrasonic-assisted and conventional hot incremental forming. The design of the experiment and analysis of variance were employed to identify the optimum condition for creating the largest strains. Also, effective parameters were optimized by response surface methodology. Then major and minor strains for both techniques were compared. Achieved strains in all types of geometries for ultrasonic-assisted technique were higher than those achieved by a conventional process.
Densification behaviour of laser powder bed fusion processed Ti6Al4V: Effects of customized heat treatment and build direction
Authors: Pathania Akshay , Subramaniyan Anand Kumar , Bommanahalli Kenchappa Nagesha
Published: August 2023

The present work exploits the customized heat treatment, and laser powder bed fusion process to build direction effects on the densification behaviour and microstructural development in Ti6Al4V alloy. Optical microscopy evaluates the porosity and microstructure in different conditions. Further, the porosities are classified as inter-micropores (size < 10 µm) and super-micropores (size > 10 µm). Classification and quantifications of the porosities of laser powder bed fusion processed Ti6Al4V alloy under both directions due to customized heat treatment. The effect of customized heat treatment, the corresponding pore self-healing mechanism, and microstructure refinement on laser powder bed fusion-processed Ti6Al4V alloy were discussed. Moreover, the X-ray diffraction technique was used to analyse the different phases during laser powder bed fusion and customized heat treatment. The elevated customized heat treatment helps to reduce the overall porosity by two times that of as-printed samples due to the sintering self-healing phenomenon. Interestingly, the super micropores observed in as-printed samples are reduced via customized heat treatment ∼ 44% in a horizontal direction and ∼ 46% in a vertical direction, respectively, which is favourable for enhancing mechanical properties. This is because reducing these micropores leads to improved ductility. The ductility of the customized heat treatment executed sample was ∼ 68% in a horizontal orientation and ∼180% in a vertical orientation. The isotropic index for ductility in as-printed Ti6Al4V in the horizontal and vertical directions is 0.61. In contrast, it is 0.97 for customized heat treatment in both orientations showing high isotropy for customized heat treatment samples compared to as-printed samples. This study reveals that the customized heat treatment technique can be beneficial in introducing isotropic microstructure and densifying the distinctive laser powder bed fusion components.